Romantic Things to Do in Cancun, Mexico
From crystal-clear waters to an electric nightlife, there are plenty of romantic things to do in Cancun, Mexico. This popular tourist spot caters to all interests — foodies, history buffs, beach lovers, and frugal travelers alike — offering a romantic getaway of pure bliss.
Looking to take advantage of all the romantic opportunities available in Cancun?
This is your one-stop shop for all things romance! We’ll take you through everything you and your true love won’t want to miss during your stay in this tropical paradise. Expect dreamy beaches and exciting watersports, archaeological sites and museums, natural parks, and so much more! And when you’re hungry, we’ve got the best bites for you too!
Ready to turn up the romance? Here are our top picks for romantic things to do in Cancun.
Beaches & Water Sports
Cancun is a water-lover’s paradise located at the tip of the Yucatan Peninsula. Surrounded by gorgeous white-sand beaches, warm, clear waters, and stunning scenery, these one-of-a-kind beaches are home to various exciting watersports that’ll give you and your partner a thrill.
Beaches
Cancun’s romantic beaches are split into two main areas: the hotel zone and downtown Cancun. You’ll find some of the best beaches in the hotel zone. But if you’d like to mix with the locals, head to the beaches closer to downtown. And no need to pack a lunch! Many local restaurants offer a romantic ambiance and tasty dishes like freshly made guacamole.
Playa Delfines is one of the most popular beaches due to its beautiful turquoise waters and panoramic views. For a romantic stroll along the beach, head to Playa Norte on Isla Mujeres. Playa Maroma offers a more secluded experience, but you two will need to hitch a taxi to get to it. Other notable beaches include Playa Tortugas and Playa Forum.
Water Sports
When you and your partner are ready for some action, water sports like scuba diving and snorkeling are popular options. With an abundance of colorful marine life and coral reefs, there’s plenty to see! There’s jet skiing, parasailing, and flyboarding for more adventurous couples.
“Paddleboarding is great for those looking for a slower pace. Kayaking in the Nichupte Lagoon right in Cancun’s hotel zone is a fun and unique experience. There are a few companies offering kayak tours of the lagoon, but you can also rent kayaks and go just the two of you for more one-on-one quality time. Regardless of how you do it, it’ll be a relaxing way to enjoy the flora and fauna of Cancun. And if you’re lucky, you may even spot a dolphin! ” — Kristen Wood, The Wander Bucket.
Booking a boat tour for a day out is made easy for you, with the option to book through your hotel lobby or concierge. You can also enjoy the experience of touring on a catamaran with an open bar. To make your day even better, some packages include lunch and stops at the beautiful beaches of Isla Mujeres for the ultimate romantic excursion.
Culture & History
Cancun’s history dates back thousands of years. Originally inhabited by the Maya civilization, you and your love can marvel at the ancient ruins and archaeological sites, including Chichen Itza, a UNESCO World Heritage site just two hours from Cancun, featuring iconic pyramids and temples.
The nearby Cobá ruins and the seaside ruins of Tulum are also must-visit spots for history enthusiasts. And the museum at the El Rey archeological site is smaller but still impressive. Speaking of museums, there are several in Cancun, including the Maya Museum and the Museum of Popular Mexican Art.
Experiencing historical wonders such as these can transport you and your partner to a fantasy world like no other — it’s the perfect way to ignite some true romance!
Packing Essentials
Bug Spray
This tropical paradise is home to many mosquitoes that find you quite tasty. Bring bug spray or some kind of mosquito repellent to avoid any irritation and discomfort during your trip!
Rain Jacket
The weather in Cancun can get pretty rainy, so be sure you both pack a rain jacket to keep yourselves nice and dry!
Cash
You won’t get far in Cancun without any cash! While credit cards are widely accepted in Mexico, many smaller establishments, such as restaurants and gift shops, will not take them. So, you’ll definitely want to swap some of your cash for Mexican pesos right when you land at the Cancun airport.
Exploring Cancun’s Natural Beauty
Want to get away from the Hotel Zone? Cancun is surrounded by an abundance of natural beauty. You can zip-line, explore caves, swim with whale sharks, or take a refreshing dip in a natural lagoon. These experiences are sure to bring you closer and create lasting memories.
- The Nichupté Lagoon: A large estuary home to crocodiles, manatees, birds, and more. You and your partner can take a boat tour, try stand-up paddleboarding, or go kayaking at this natural preserve. You’ll be in awe of what wildlife you’ll come across and be so happy that you’re experiencing it all together.
- Selvatica: Located in the jungles near Nichupté, Selvatica is an eco-park offering thrilling activities like zip-lining, rappelling, and ATV tours. It’s the perfect spot for adrenaline-pumping activities in a gorgeous jungle setting.
- Natural Sinkholes: Don’t miss the region’s famous cenotes. Visit Ik Kil, Dos Ojos, or Gran Cenote to swim in natural sinkholes filled with clear, fresh water. At the end of your exciting day, you and your beau will leave feeling connected with nature and like you can conquer the world together.
Nightlife & Entertainment
Cancun is also famous for its world-class nightlife. After a relaxing day at the beach, you and your partner can gussy up for each other and check out some of The Hotel Zone’s most popular nightclubs and bars. Places like Coco Bongo, The City, and Mandala feature high-energy dance floors, DJs, and live shows that’ll spice things up and have you reliving the good ol’ days.
Looking for a more low-key night out? There are plenty of bars with drink specials. Or, check out Mercado 28, an open-air market home to an array of charming restaurants and bars. For more cultural entertainment, enjoy traditional dances and cultural exhibits, including Cirque du Soleil’s show JOYÀ at the nearby Riviera Maya.
Looking for a day of old-fashioned fun?
Visit Xcaret Park, a must-visit spot to take in the sights. Have an enchanting swim in the underground river, followed by an exquisite buffet of impeccable cuisine. There’s also Ventura Park, which features a water park, roller coaster, zip lines, and more.
Dining for Two
Cancun is a culinary paradise, with a wide range of dining options that cater to all tastes and budgets. From traditional Mexican cuisine to international flavors, there’s something for everyone here.
Fresh seafood is a regional specialty, and diners can enjoy the fresh catch of the day at many restaurants. From ceviche to grilled fish, some of the best seafood restaurants in Cancun include El Fish Fritanga, Marbella, and Mocambo.
For a taste of traditional Mexican cuisine, stop by a busy-looking eatery and order tacos al pastor, mole, barbacoa, or chiles en nogada. From upscale picks like Harry’s Prime Steakhouse and Raw Bar to Porfirio’s, the area is brimming with upscale dining options for a romantic and special night out.
Over the Moon in Cancun
From beachside adventures and working on your tan to zip-lining through the jungle and enjoying a steamy night out on the town, there’s plenty to eat, drink, see, and do in Cancun as a couple. Cancun is a fabulous vacation destination with something for everyone looking to rekindle love’s flame.
So pack your bags, grab your passport, and have a fabulous romantic getaway in sunny Mexico! You and your better half will leave feeling rejuvenated, reconnected, and more in love than ever.
Have a romantic experience in Cancun that you’d like to share? Let us know in the comments below! And for more exciting getaway ideas, subscribe to our newsletter so you’re always in the loop.
This article originally appeared on Food Drink Life.
Romantic Things to Do in Cancun – FAQ
Is it better to book an all-inclusive to Cancun or not?
This totally depends on the type of vacation you’re looking for! All-inclusive packages in Cancun pack a serious punch when it comes to amenities. Not only will you find gourmet restaurants and top-shelf drinks at your fingertips, but there’s even 24-hour room service for those lazy afternoons. Plus, you won’t have to worry about constantly checking your wallet, as all-inclusive packages are a great value for what you get.
The main reason why couples don’t book an all-inclusive romantic getaway is because they want more of an adventure. While you can still find plenty of excursions with your all-inclusive package, those who want to be out exploring every day might need something a bit different.
How many days in Cancun are enough?
If you want to get the most out of your trip and experience all that Cancun has to offer, we recommend at least three to five days. This way, you can dedicate one or two days to seeing the main attractions (including some of Cancun’s amazing beaches) and spend the remaining time exploring some of the romantic city‘s hidden gems.
