10 ways to explore Cancun this summer

Cancun is widely known as a spring break destination, but there’s more to the city than its party scene. The coastal city doesn’t just boast stunning beaches and enchanting lagoons—it’s also home to ancient Mayan civilization.

If you’re keen to explore Cancun on a budget, summer (between June and September) is when you’ll find the best deals and the least crowds. While some tourists avoid Cancun during hurricane season, the area is actually of low risk. Summer in Cancun tends to bring some rainy days, but storms are typically quick to pass, and you’ll soon see blue skies once more.

Wondering what to pack for a summer trip to Cancun? With a range of beach outfits, light clothing, and walking shoes, you’ll be good to go. Swimwear is a must for you to make the most of the warm waters, where you’ll spot sea turtles and whale sharks from June to August.

Whether you’re here for a wild night out, a history tour, or just a relaxing getaway, Cancun in summer hits all the right spots.

Cancun is home to countless dazzling beaches scattered along the Caribbean Sea. Start your summer in Cancun right at the Playa Delfines, a favorite among locals. This quiet haven feels worlds away from the Hotel Zone’s beach clubs and busy shops. The turquoise waters are best admired from afar as the waves can be too strong for swimming. You won’t find any restaurants here, but there are plenty of vendors selling local treats and cool drinks. Stop by the famous Cancun sign for a postcard-worthy snapshot.

Give your holiday a cultural boost by discovering the rich heritage of the Yucatan Peninsula. The archaeological site of Chichen Itza is less than three hours away from Cancun. From the grand El Castillo pyramid to the intricate carvings in the Temple of the Warriors, it’s not hard to see why Chichen Itza is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the New Seven Wonders of the World.

This all-inclusive tour will also take you to nearby attractions. Dip your toes in the spectacular underground lagoon of Cenote Saamal and explore the colonial city of Valladolid. Plus, you’ll get to learn more about the Yucatan’s vast history from a knowledgeable guide.

Get a panoramic view of the Caribbean Sea from the Torre Escenica, a rotating observation tower that promises the best views in Mexico. Don’t worry about getting dizzy—the 10-minute ride rotates so slowly that you can barely feel it. If the weather’s on your side, you’ll be rewarded with the sight of a pristine aquamarine sea reflecting a perfectly blue sky.

If you’re looking for an incredible night out on the town, look no further than Coco Bongo Cancun. Coco Bongo isn’t your usual nightclub—it’s an extravaganza of flying acrobats, bar-top conga lines, and gymnasts. While the night’s still young, sit back and enjoy the performances. But we’re sure that when the DJ spins the right beat, you’ll be up on your feet and dancing the night away.

Some of the most spectacular sights in Cancun can only be seen underwater. The Mesoamerican Barrier Reef is just off the coast of Cancun and is a wonderland of fish, coral, and manatees. Summer is one of the best times to take a dive here, as the waters will be pleasantly warm.

Snorkeling newbies and nervous swimmers don’t have to miss out on this breathtaking experience. This snorkeling tour was designed with first-timers in mind, and your experienced guides are always ready to step in if you’re overwhelmed. Flap your fins and dive underwater to see a shipwreck, underwater statues, and schools of marine life all around you. If you’re lucky, you’ll get to swim with sea turtles and stingrays.

Known to the locals as Plaza La Isla, La Isla Shopping Village is an outdoor shopping mall with a wide range of stores, restaurants, and even an aquarium. True to its name, La Isla is surrounded by winding water channels that conjure a dreamy Venetian atmosphere. Get your duty-free retail therapy fix at luxury boutiques, or visit the Mayan artisan center to pick up some trinkets and souvenirs.

Once you’re done with shopping, drop by the Entertainment Village section for some fun. Sweeten your day at the Chocolate Factory, where you’ll learn more about the origins of chocolate and sample some tasty treats. Adults, don’t miss out on the Tequila Museum, which ends off with a tasting session. For a hands-on aquatic adventure, visit the Interactive Aquarium, where you might even catch a dolphin show.

Prepare for a thrill of a lifetime at La Ruta de los Cenotes, an adventure park tucked within an overgrown jungle. Hop on an ATV and see Cancun at breakneck speed as you weave through the thick clusters of trees. Then embrace the high elements and get a bird’s eye view of the lush forest on a zip line. Afterward, wash off the mud and sweat with a cooling dip at a variety of cenotes. For a hassle-free visit, this tour will pick you up right from your hotel and even includes lunch at a regional Mayan restaurant.

Celebrate Mexican culture at Xoximilco Cancun, a floating fiesta. Board a gondola in the middle of the Mayan jungle and surround yourself with the natural beauty of mangroves, inlets, and chinampas (floating garden islands). Your tastebuds will be having a party of their own, with a wide range of authentic Mexican food available. Knockback a few tequila shots and groove to the live tunes of a mariachi band. Friends, families, and couples alike will have a great time playing traditional Mexican games together.

Learn more about Mayan culture without traveling out of Cancun or betting on the weather. The Museo Maya de Cancun hosts an impressive collection of ancient relics and artifacts, and you’ll also get access to the San Miguelito Archaeological Zone, a small Mayan ruin in the city.

Sail away from the mainland to Isla Mujeres, a tranquil island paradise that’s only a short ferry ride from Cancun. To make the most of the sublime views and the summer sunshine, we recommend opting for this open-air experience on a catamaran, where you’ll get to take in the sights with the wind in your hair.

Hop off any time to snorkel, swim, and peek at what’s beneath the water’s surface. Or stretch out on the deck and sunbathe while sipping on a tropical cocktail from the open bar. Fuel up with a buffet lunch at a private beach club before exploring the rest of Isla Mujeres. There’s the Travelers’ Choice Playa Norte, one of the top 25 beaches in the world, and Punta Sur, an ecological park where you can watch the tides crash against the cliff and spot local wildlife.