Cancun is one of the most popular destinations for those cruising the Yucatan Peninsula of Mexico. Once a sacred Mayan city located in Quintana Roo, the last few decades have established Cancun as a mainstay destination for all kinds of travelers. Countless visitors flock to the city each year to enjoy relaxing beaches and majestic sunrises. Other major draws include the nature, water activities, golf, fantastic food, and a bustling nightlife.
Whatever you do once you arrive at the Cancun, Mexico cruise port, you're bound to have the time of your life. While Cancun is best known as a lively destination for beach-side parties, you'll find far more than just that. There's truly something here for everyone. If you're more inclined to quiet, peaceful activities, a visit to a Mayan history museum or a good book on the beach might do. For the adventurous, scuba diving through an underwater art museum or ziplining might be what's needed. Or if you're the life of the party, Cancun's own party scene is ready and waiting. You'll even find Latin America's largest club here!
Another huge reason to visit with a Cancun cruise is the proximity to the USA, Cuba, Jamaica, and the Bahamas. Popular ports of call in the area include the likes of Cozumel, Tulum, and Playa del Carmen. You'll have tons of destinations to choose from before or after your visit to Cancun. To learn more about our current Cancun, Mexico cruise deals, check out our list of cruise below. Or, continue on to learn more about this lively city.
The 4 Regions for Everything on a Cancun Cruise
There are four prime locations in Cancun you will want to visit depending on you preferred points of interest.
- Zona Hotelera (Cancun Hotel Zone), is a long strip of beach where you will find inclusive places to stay and relax with many places to dine. For those with a more active lifestyle you will also enjoy such activities as dancing along with adventurous water sports to include, parasailing, scuba diving and snorkeling.
- Punta Cancun is the Northern part of Zona Hotelera and this is where you want to go to enjoy the night life of Cancun. There are plenty of great clubs and bars for you to visit for night owls that never sleep.
- El Centro (Downtown Cancun) is the center of the city, a residential area where you will experience how the locals live. Here you will find a more authentic atmosphere, traditional Mexican restaurants and charming streets and shopping.
- Puerto Morelos is a separate town within Cancun and it's about a 40 minute drive (half way) from Zona Hotelera to Playa del Carmen and a 25 minute drive from the Cancun Airport. If you are looking to get away from the hustle and bustle of the Hotel Zone you will enjoy Puerto Morelos beautiful beach paradise.
Best Things to Do in Cancun, Mexico
For many of our guests their trip would not be complete without a round of golf. Due to nature conservation regulations and the natural terrine the construction of many of the courses in Cancun were challenging. But you will witness some of the most beautiful sights Cancun has to offer on these unique courses that include mangroves and tropical jungles, sand dunes and ancient Mayan Ruins, lagoons, cenotes and the Caribbean sea. There are several golf courses throughout Cancun and the Yucatan Peninsula for both amateurs and professionals, all designed by some of the worlds best champion golfers.
- Jack Nicklaus– El Manglar Golf Course
- Robert Von Hagge– Playacar Spa & Golf Club
- Greg Norman– El Camaleon Golf Club. The Mayakoba Golf Classic has been held here since 2007.
- Nick Price– Grand Coral Spa & Golf
- Robert Trent Jones Jr.– Cancun Golf Club at Pok Ta Pok. Also the Riviera Maya Golf Club that hosts Mexico’s only PGA Tour,
Places You Can't Miss
Cancun is know for its party atmosphere and luxury hotels. However, the Yucatán Peninsula is also a gateway to some of the most wondrous sights you will ever see - Mayan pyramids in the midst of lush tropical jungles, the tranquil crystal caves of Rio Secreto and perhaps scuba diving off the island paradise of Isla Mujeres.
Spend your days soaking in the sun with a Margarita in hand or make time in the morning to visit one of the amazing Cenotes of the Yucatan Peninsula or explore Chichen Itza and the ancient ruins of Tulum. In the afternoon head downtown (El Centro) for some shopping or perhaps in the evening take in a show featuring Cirque du Soleil in the heart of Riveria Maya.
Spend your days soaking in the sun with a Margarita in hand or make time in the morning to visit one of the amazing Cenotes of the Yucatan Peninsula or explore Chichen Itza and the ancient ruins of Tulum. In the afternoon head downtown (El Centro) for some shopping or perhaps in the evening take in a show featuring Cirque du Soleil in the heart of Riveria Maya.
Museums
The art scene in Cancun is abundant throughout the region. When cruising the Yucatan be sure to visit the magnificent Art Museums in Cancun, including the Underwater Museum.
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Natural Parks
Cancun and the Mayan Riviera are full of Preserves and Ecological Park among its many treasures you will have the opportunity to relax on the beach of perhaps encounter one of the parks many attractions such as Swimming with the Dolphins. Listed below are some of the most popular Natural Parks you will want to visit.
- Xcaret Eco Archaeological Park - One of the most visited attractions in Cancun, Xcaret has many activities from snorkeling in an underground river to Swimming with Dolphins and even night time shows.
- Xel Ha Ecological Park - This natural lagoon is popular among snorkelers and a relaxing way to spend your day. Swim with sea turtles and dozens of amazing fish.
- Sian Ka'an Biosphere Reserve - Home to over 300 species of birds this one million acre reserve is home to crocodiles and Manatees just to name a few.
- Garrafon Natural Park - Only 25 minutes away by boat this tropical paradise is located in Isla Mujeres.
- Chankanaab Eco-Archaeological Park - Considered one of Cozumel's most famous parks you can spend the day snorkeling, sun worshiping and or immerse yourself in the mayan culture and visit some ancient ruins..
- Isla Contoy National Bird Sanctuary - Only 3 hours away from Cancun, Holbox Island is located the north-east of the peninsula Yucatan. Here visitors will witness one of the top bird sanctuaries in the Caribbean, home to over 120 species of birds,
Fishing
Tuna, Marlin and sailfish are some of the big-game species you can catch while deep sea fishing in Cancun. Smaller game fish like dolphin fish and barracuda are also plentiful in these Caribbean waters.
Beach LifeThe beaches in and around the city of Cancun with probably be the highlight of your trip. You will find a good mix of both popular and more secluded beaches along the coast all a beautiful mix of sandy white beaches and vibrant blue water. Be sure to bring a good book, carry lots of sunblock and don't forget your sunglasses.e in the area.
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Archaeological Sites
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- Ek Balam - The El Balam Archaeological site in can be found within the Municipality of Temozon in the Yucatan Peninsula. The ruins are situated in the Northern Maya lowlands north of Valladolid and approximately 35 miles northeast of Valladolid. This sites main attraction is the preserved laster tomb of Ukit Kan Lek Tok, a king that was buried in side of on of the largest pyramids.
- Uxmal - Uxmal was designated UNESCO a World Heritage site in 1996. This ancient Maya city is considered one of the most important archaeological sites of Maya culture and a relevant region of classic architectural style.
- Coba- One of Coba's main attractions is climbing the 130 steps to the top of this Ancient Pyramid.
Night Life
Cancun is a vacation destination like no other. People enjoy their day soaking up all that nature has to offer, but by night this town boasts an active and at times an outrageous night life. Usually the party continues until the wee hours of the morning, until the sun comes up. Many clubs and some bars sell open bar bracelets which allow you to pay one price to enter the club and drink all night. Nightclubs usually open after 10pm. Here's a listing of Cancun most popular night spots.
Recommended for Best Nightlife because: Congo's small open-air venue is great because you can also see what's going on outside in Cancun's Party Zone.
Susan's expert tip: The large nightclubs don't open until at least 10:30 pm. If you want to start the party before then, Congo is a great place to do so.
Recommended for Best Nightlife because: The City often features celebrity DJs and well-known musical acts.
- Carlos n' Charles (Hotel Zone) - Carlos n' Charlie's provides party seekers with an ideal atmosphere to enjoy a night out in Cancun. Live bands and DJs pound out music, drinks are reasonably priced, and the kitchen does a good job of keeping everyone from becoming too famished from all of the fun and dancing. Order guacamole and they'll make it at your table. Be sure to let them know if it's your birthday. Join the waiters when they jump on the dance floor to lead a group dance. Learn how to dance Salsa to a live band on Tuesdays and Friday nights.
- Senor Frog's (Hotel Zone) - is synonymous with fun. This bar and restaurant has sawdust on the floor so you don't have to worry about your children making a mess. Kids can order "virgin" versions of the famous drinks in yard glasses that people love to take home as souvenirs. Around 9 pm this family-friendly restaurant turns bar/nightclub.
- Coco Bongo (Hotel Zone) - Cancun's most famous night club, Coco Bongo, has been featured on many travel programs. Throughout the evening, a variety of performers put on shows. On any given evening at the club, Beetlejuice makes an appearance, Spiderman flies through the air, acrobats perform high above the crowd and a Michael Jackson impersonator lip-syncs MJ's classic songs. The bartenders and wait staff even take the stage to sing and dance throughout the night. When you feel your feet start to move, don't bother looking for the dance floor because there isn't one. People just dance wherever they can find a little space.
- Grand Mambo Cafe (Downtown) - Grand Mambo Cafe is the number one spot to dance Salsa, Merengue and Bachata in Cancun.
- La Vaquita (Hotel Zone) - (The Little Cow) is one of Cancun's newest nightclubs. It sits smack in the middle of Cancun's Party Center at kilometer 9 of Boulevard Kukulcan. This casual open-air bar/nightclub is decorated in red, black and of course, cow print. Sexy go-go dancers abound. Visitors can pay a cover charge and purchase individual drinks or go for the open bar option. The club sells "litros" or liters of beer and other drinks, which is a very popular trend in Cancun. You can also find La Vaquita in Playa del Carmen and Puerto Vallarta.
- Dady'O (Hotel Zone) - The exterior looks like a huge rock, with DADY'O carved into it. The long hallway that leads to the club entrance looks like an underground tunnel. The inside of the actual club resembles a large cave. There is a dance floor in the center of the room and rows of tables line the walls of the multi-level club. Well-known DJs, celebrities, and bands often perform here, or host special parties. Even though this is one of the oldest clubs in Cancun, there is usually still a long line of people waiting to enter the club. Recommended for Best Nightlife because: Dady'O is a Cancun nightlife institution and is still going strong after almost 30 years.
- Congo Bar (Hotel Zone) - This small open-air bar is smack in the middle of all the action in Cancun's Party Center and is always full of fun-loving locals and tourists all night long. Since this is a smaller bar rather than a nightclub, the open bar prices are lower than those charged in larger venues. Also, since it's open on two sides, you can see how wild & crazy the party is before you even enter. There isn't really a dance floor to speak of, but that doesn't stop anyone from dancing. Expect go-go dancers, shot girls and every once in awhile, a strong burst of air and confetti. Grab a balloon and join the conga line at Conga.
Recommended for Best Nightlife because: Congo's small open-air venue is great because you can also see what's going on outside in Cancun's Party Zone.
Susan's expert tip: The large nightclubs don't open until at least 10:30 pm. If you want to start the party before then, Congo is a great place to do so.
- The City - (Hotel Zone) - This gigantic club claims to be the largest nightclub in Latin America, with a capacity for over 5,000 people. It is most definitely the biggest club in Cancun and it's often packed to the brim during Spring Break and in the summer months. The 3-story club often has performances by internationally known artists like Ludacris, Akon, Flo Rida, 50 Cent, Fergi, Snoop Dogg and celebrity DJs. Like Coco Bongo, The City Cancun also has performances by acrobats and other performers during the evening. They play music of all genres on the powerful sound system and 650 square feet of video screens.The City and Mandala - May have long lines of people waiting to get inside, but the party is worth the wait.
Recommended for Best Nightlife because: The City often features celebrity DJs and well-known musical acts.
More for Your Cancun Cruise
Location
Cancún International Airport, Chetumal International Airport, and Cozumel Airport provide international flights to and from Quintana Roo. Also, it's extremely easy to cruise to Cancun from Miami, The Bahamas, Jamaica, and a number of other places. Many cruises to Mexico make visiting Cancun a priority for the wealth of experiences it can offer.
Plant and Animal Life
Cancun and the Riviera Maya are renowned for their tropical plants and exotic animals. Tourists from across the world come to witness this amazing ecosystem .
There are four basic ecosystems natural environments, located within the Yucatan Penincula forests, savanna, mangroves, and reefs.
The forests contain mahogany, cedars, East Indian rosewoods, and palm trees.
Mangroves are tropical evergreen trees that generally grow along the coast and have large, tangled root systems.
Animals found in the mangroves include herons, pelicans, and ducks. Manatees and alligators are also found in the nearby waters.
The limestone reef that lies along the coast is the home of lobsters, shrimp, sea snails, and other fish.
Common animals in this ecosystem are anteaters, spider monkeys, white-tailed deer, and tepezcuintles (a type of dog). Birds found here include turkeys, parrots, doves, and nightingales.
The hallmark of the Riviera Maya is undoubtedly the Toucan! Toucans are tropical birds famous for their big beaks. The latter not only regulate the birds’ temperature, but they are useful for reaching fruit on branches that are too small to support their weight. Toucans are considered to be one of the noisiest jungle birds, with a croak that can be heard a mile away!
There are very few places in the world where you can actually see or even swim with Manatees, and Cancun is one of them! Manatees are aquatic mammals, also known as as “sea cows” because of their completely vegetarian diet (and not because of their physical appearance)! With an upper lip that resembles an elephant’s short trunk, they are an absolute must-see! These 500-pound creatures are genuinely friendly and extremely smart.
Sea Turtles are one of the most fascinating marine creatures in the Riviera Maya. Having lived over 100 million years, they were considered to be a sacred animal for the Mayas. Akumal, (“turtles” in Mayan), is home to many sea turtles and is a great location for diving and snorkeling. Sea turtles are now considered endangered species and are protected under Mexican Federal Law.
The Tapirs of Central America are one of the four species of Tapir that exist worldwide. They are approximately 7 feet long, have a stout body and large head. Since Tapirs have a very low reproductive rate, their population is severely affected. In Mexico, only three zoos have a conservation program for Tapirs, Xcaret being one of them.
Spider monkeys are widespread in the Yucatan region. These amusing primates are very witty and active. They have unusually long limbs, hence the name “spider”. You will find them mostly in large jungle forests. They communicate using postures, and when they see a human approaching, they “bark” loudly, similar to a small dog.
Flamingos are very social birds: they usually live in group communities to protect themselves from environmental threats.Their pink bodies, curved beaks, and pronounced necks make them one of the most interesting and amazing creatures in the Riviera Maya!
There are four basic ecosystems natural environments, located within the Yucatan Penincula forests, savanna, mangroves, and reefs.
The forests contain mahogany, cedars, East Indian rosewoods, and palm trees.
Mangroves are tropical evergreen trees that generally grow along the coast and have large, tangled root systems.
Animals found in the mangroves include herons, pelicans, and ducks. Manatees and alligators are also found in the nearby waters.
The limestone reef that lies along the coast is the home of lobsters, shrimp, sea snails, and other fish.
Common animals in this ecosystem are anteaters, spider monkeys, white-tailed deer, and tepezcuintles (a type of dog). Birds found here include turkeys, parrots, doves, and nightingales.
The hallmark of the Riviera Maya is undoubtedly the Toucan! Toucans are tropical birds famous for their big beaks. The latter not only regulate the birds’ temperature, but they are useful for reaching fruit on branches that are too small to support their weight. Toucans are considered to be one of the noisiest jungle birds, with a croak that can be heard a mile away!
There are very few places in the world where you can actually see or even swim with Manatees, and Cancun is one of them! Manatees are aquatic mammals, also known as as “sea cows” because of their completely vegetarian diet (and not because of their physical appearance)! With an upper lip that resembles an elephant’s short trunk, they are an absolute must-see! These 500-pound creatures are genuinely friendly and extremely smart.
Sea Turtles are one of the most fascinating marine creatures in the Riviera Maya. Having lived over 100 million years, they were considered to be a sacred animal for the Mayas. Akumal, (“turtles” in Mayan), is home to many sea turtles and is a great location for diving and snorkeling. Sea turtles are now considered endangered species and are protected under Mexican Federal Law.
The Tapirs of Central America are one of the four species of Tapir that exist worldwide. They are approximately 7 feet long, have a stout body and large head. Since Tapirs have a very low reproductive rate, their population is severely affected. In Mexico, only three zoos have a conservation program for Tapirs, Xcaret being one of them.
Spider monkeys are widespread in the Yucatan region. These amusing primates are very witty and active. They have unusually long limbs, hence the name “spider”. You will find them mostly in large jungle forests. They communicate using postures, and when they see a human approaching, they “bark” loudly, similar to a small dog.
Flamingos are very social birds: they usually live in group communities to protect themselves from environmental threats.Their pink bodies, curved beaks, and pronounced necks make them one of the most interesting and amazing creatures in the Riviera Maya!