If it’s been years since your last visit to Cancun or the Riviera Maya, prepare to be amazed. Once a simple beach destination, this tropical paradise has evolved into a luxurious getaway, offering miles of powdery white sand beaches, upscale resorts, and a wealth of unforgettable activities. From ancient ruins to underwater adventures, Cancun has something for everyone, whether you’re seeking thrills, cultural exploration, or total relaxation.
Cancun Reopens: A World of Possibilities
In late 2020, Quintana Roo, the Mexican state where Cancun is located, updated its COVID-19 protocols, allowing restaurants, historic sites, parks, spas, and other attractions to operate at 60% capacity. This reopening has provided travelers with a wide range of safe and exciting options to enjoy during their stay.
Explore Maya Ruins
No visit to Cancun is complete without a day trip to Chichén Itzá, one of the New Seven Wonders of the World. Marvel at El Castillo, the towering pyramid at the heart of this ancient city, and explore other iconic structures like the Temple of Warriors and the Great Ball Court. While climbing the pyramid is no longer allowed, nearby sites like Coba and Ek Balam still offer climbable ruins with panoramic views of the surrounding jungle.
For a picture-perfect experience, head to Tulum, where ancient Maya ruins sit atop cliffs overlooking the turquoise Caribbean Sea. These ruins are both photogenic and accessible, making them a popular choice for visitors looking to combine history with stunning scenery.
Dive into Cenotes
The Yucatan Peninsula is famous for its cenotes—natural sinkholes formed in limestone bedrock. Among the most beautiful is Cenote Azul, a serene spot perfect for swimming and snorkeling. For a more dramatic experience, visit Ik-Kil, also known as the Sacred Blue Cenote. A staircase winds down 85 feet to this jungle oasis, where hanging vines and cascading waterfalls create a magical atmosphere.
See Art Beneath the Waves
For a museum experience like no other, visit the Underwater Museum of Art (MUSA). This unique attraction features over 500 sculptures submerged beneath the Caribbean Sea, designed to promote coral growth and marine life. You can view the artwork from a glass-bottom boat or, for a closer look, dive or snorkel among the installations. The surreal underwater landscape is unforgettable.
Splash, Smile, Repeat
The warm waters of the Caribbean are a playground for aquatic adventures. Take a once-in-a-lifetime excursion to swim with whale sharks, or enjoy the company of playful dolphins. Paddleboarding, sailing, catamaran cruises, and aqua dive tours are just a few of the many ways to explore Cancun’s crystal-clear seas. Whether you’re gliding over calm waters or diving into the depths, you’ll find joy and tranquility in these pristine surroundings.
Indulge in Relaxation
Sometimes, the best activity is no activity at all. Lounge on Cancun’s soft sands with a margarita in hand, or watch your children snorkel in shallow waters. Cancun is home to more than 30 spa resorts offering treatments that combine ancient Mayan healing techniques with modern therapies. For ultimate relaxation, consider staying at a top-tier resort like The Grand at Moon Palace, where luxury and tranquility meet.
Why Visit Cancun Now?
Cancun and the Riviera Maya offer more than just beaches—they provide a rich blend of history, adventure, art, and relaxation. Whether you’re exploring ancient ruins, diving into underwater art, or simply unwinding at a world-class spa, this destination promises a rejuvenating escape from the everyday. Now is the perfect time to rediscover Cancun and create memories that will last a lifetime.