Things To Do in Mexico Caribbean Coast

We offer a range of experiences in Cancun – from catamaran cruises to tours of ancient Mayan ruins. Take a look at what’s on offer, and see what takes your fancy. View experiences >

Once the capital of Mexico’s Mayan civilisation, this ancient city rises up from the jungle like a lost world. Its star turn is its massive pyramid which, with 365 steps and 52 base panels, represents the solar year. There’s also a Mayan take on a netball court, where the hoop-and-ball games often ended in human sacrifice.

Flying acrobats, bar-top conga lines and live bands are all in a night’s work for the Coco Bongo nightclub, which has branches in both Cancun and Playa del Carmen. No two nights are the same here. One evening you can be watching a feather-filled samba show, the next showering in confetti as you dance to the latest DJs.

The island of Cozumel is just off the east coast of Mexico, about half an hour’s boat ride from Playa del Carmen. The whole place is belted by a band of bright white sand, and is home to the largest coral reef system in the Americas. Scuba divers can swim with 250 different varieties of tropical fish here. It’s really easy to explore the island – taxis will pick you up at the port and take you anywhere you want to go.

Xcaret flies the flag for all things Mexican. This unique attraction, 15 minutes’ drive from Playacar, is a type of eco-friendly fun park. While you’re here you can visit underground rivers, make friends with manatees and flamingos, and swim in ancient cenotes. You can also explore Mayan ruins, taste Mexican wine and watch cultural shows where dancers perform in brightly-coloured body paint.

Named after Spain’s former capital, this colonial town, a couple hours south-west of Cancun, offers several excuses for taking a break from the coast. You can wander round the cloisters of the ancient San Bernardino convent, ferret for souvenirs in the open-air markets, or head to Cenote Zaci. This natural pool feels bottomless because it reaches deep into the earth’s crust.

This beach on Isla Mujeres’ north-west coast is one of Mexico’s finest. The sand is soft and milky white, the sea is shallow and crystal-clear, and the setting is just right for sunset. There are a few bars and restaurants dotted around, which will deliver drinks and snacks right to your beach towel.

Measuring just 650 metres wide, Isla Mujeres is a small island with a lot to offer. Its beach, Playa Norte, is considered to be one of the best in the Caribbean. And it’s safe to say the dive sites here are unlike any others in the world. The waters off the island’s coast are filled with thousands of underwater sculptures, designed by artist Jason de Caires Taylor. It’s easy to get here – the ferry from Cancun takes just 20 minutes.

The ancient settlement of Tulum was one of the last Mayan cities to be taken over by the Spanish. Its residents managed to resist the foreigners for 70 years before surrendering, and it’s easy to see why they were reluctant to let their city go. It’s set on a headland commands spectacular views of the Caribbean Sea.