15 Sites Around Cancun That Are Worth Putting In Your Day Trip Plans

Exploring around Cancun can reveal a side of Mexico that’s rich in culture and natural wonders. It’s about mixing things up without spending hours traveling. If you’re looking for a few ideas to add some variety to your schedule, here are some day tours that bring fresh experiences close to your base.
Visit Chichen Itza Mayan Pyramid

One of Mexico’s most famous landmarks, Chichen Itza, is about two hours away and worth the early start. Walk among the massive El Castillo pyramid that marks the spring and autumn equinox with a serpent shadow. Don’t miss tasting authentic Yucatecan lime soup at Hacienda Chichen just outside the park.
Admire Wildlife At Croco Cun Zoo

A half-hour from Cancun, Croco Cun lets you get close to Morelet’s crocodiles and other native animals. You’ll find guides sporting traditional Guayabera shirts that often discuss habitat threats from hurricanes and development. The zoo supports breeding programs to save reptiles from disappearing in the wild.
Relax On Isla Mujeres Beaches

Hop on a 20-minute ferry departing from Puerto Juarez or Playa Tortugas to Isla Mujeres for sun-soaked relaxation at Playa Norte’s calm, white-sand beach. You might spot sea turtles nearby—summer is nesting season here. Locals wear colorful huipiles during the Isla Mujeres Carnival, showing off Mayan weaving traditions.
Explore The Ancient Ruins Of Tulum

Overlooking the Caribbean is the ancient Mayan city. It’s perched on cliffs with stunning turquoise ocean views. Wander the site that once thrived on obsidian trade, then head to the nearby Gran Cenote for some post-ruin swimming. It is just a 90-minute drive away from Cancun.
See Underwater Art At Museo Subacuatico

Diving or snorkeling off Cancun’s coast reveals over 500 sculptures designed to help coral grow. Created by artist Jason deCaires Taylor, the museum can be enjoyed by non-divers using glass-bottom boat options. Afterward, try fresh Gulf ceviche at Puerto Morelos to taste the coastal fruits of labor.
Walk The Colonial Streets Of Valladolid

Stroll Valladolid’s pastel-painted streets date back to 1543. Here, Spanish colonial architecture meets lively markets. Try to time your visit for the “Hanal Pixan” festival, a Mayan Day of the Dead celebration with processions. Don’t forget to browse for hammocks dyed with natural pigments from local artisans.
Enjoy Nature Trails At Sian Ka’an Reserve

A UNESCO Heritage site, Sian Ka’an is a two-hour trip offering jungle hikes and boat rides to spot rare sightings of jaguars and rare birds. Guides share how locals use medicinal plants, which you can see along the trails. You will also find Muyil’s archaeological site within the reserve.
Check The Ruins Of Coba In The Jungle

Explore Coba’s sprawling ruins hidden in a dense jungle about two hours from Cancun. You get beautiful panoramic views when you climb Nohoch Mul, the tallest pyramid in Yucatan. Then, treat yourself to marquesitas—crispy crepes filled with local cheese—sold at nearby stands that you can reach via Bikes or pedicabs that are made available.
Snorkel At Akumal Bay

Akumal means “Place of Turtles,” and you’ll likely see green sea turtles feeding just a short drive from Cancun. Snorkeling here is easy and family-friendly, with seagrass beds teeming with life. Local favorite, La Cueva Maya, serves fresh fish tacos with fiery habanero salsa nearby.
Admire A Themed Exhibit and Temazcal At Xcaret

Eagle dancers in feathered headdresses perform near adobe homes modeled after pre-Hispanic Yucatan. You can pay to join a traditional temazcal steam ceremony, once used by Mayans to purify warriors. Don’t forget to try cochinita pibil from the on-site eatery Cocina del Pueblo. Local guides wear huipils and linen shirts—fabrics still favored across Quintana Roo villages.
Visit The Archaeological Site Of El Meco

Just north of Cancun’s hotel zone, El Meco hides a 41-foot pyramid. Experts suggest it guided trade to Isla Mujeres for Mayan sea traders around 600–900 AD. You’ll get a full view of Isla Mujeres from its summit. Unlike Chichen Itza, the site rarely sees crowds, which makes it ideal for an unrushed historical detour.
Fort San Felipe In Puerto Morelos

Built in 1776 to fend off pirates, the fort is now a compact history museum with cannons overlooking the Caribbean. After the visit, walk to La Sirena to taste grilled octopus and tamarind margaritas on the rooftop. Puerto Morelos is also home to Mexico’s leaning lighthouse—tilted by Hurricane Beulah in 1967 and never corrected.
Ferry To Isla Contoy Wildlife Refuge

Departures begin early from Punta Sam via licensed eco-boats capped at 200 daily visitors. Isla Contoy shelters over 150 bird species, including frigatebirds and brown pelicans. Snorkeling near Ixlache Reef—Contoy’s southern tip—crosses into the Mesoamerican Barrier Reef. Most tour companies include ceviche lunches served beachside under palm-thatch shelters.
Tour Rio Secreto Caverns

Tour guides lead you through a semi-flooded limestone cave system believed sacred by the Maya, who left sacred offerings in pottery near the oldest chambers. Formed over a few millennia, these caves feature stalactites and crystal-clear underground rivers. Wetsuits, helmets, and headlamps are provided. However, entry is limited to preserve the fragile mineral formations.
Swim In Cenote Ik Kil Near Cancun

Ik Kil is less than two hours from Cancun and perfect for cooling off in crystal-clear waters. This deep, sacred sinkhole has been a Maya ritual site for centuries. After you enjoy your refreshing swim, grab a plate of cochinita pibil nearby—slow-cooked pork bursting with local spices.