Romantic Things To Do in Cancun, Mexico
From sunny beaches to sparkling nightlife, there are plenty of romantic things to do in Cancun, Mexico. This vacation destination has been a popular tourist spot for years and caters to all types of couples. Whether you’re a foodie or a beach bum, Cancun offers an affordable romantic getaway that’ll feel like utter paradise.
Looking to take advantage of all the romantic opportunities available in Cancun?
Well, this is your one-stop shop for all things romance! This article takes you through everything you and your true love won’t want to miss during your stay in this tropical paradise. From beaches and watersports to soaking up the rich culture and history, there is something here for any kind of couple. And when you’re hungry, we’ve got the best bites for you too!
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Cancun is famous for its crystal-clear waters and having some of the most beautiful beaches in the world. It’s perfect for love birds looking to work on their tans, and there’s plenty for history buffs, too! With archeological sites and museums, Cancun’s unique history and culture are there to explore.
Hand in hand, you and your sweetie can discover the natural parks and reserves or eat your way from restaurant to restaurant. From water activities to gorgeous resorts with secluded nooks to cuddle up close, here are some of the most romantic things to do in Cancun.
Beaches and Water Sports
Cancun is a water-lovers 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. However, Playa Norte on Isla Mujeres is also a must for a romantic stroll on the beach. Playa Maroma is more secluded, 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 and History
Cancun’s history dates back thousands of years. Originally inhabited by the Maya civilization, you and your love will be able to marvel at the ancient ruins and archaeological sites open to the public. Chichen Itza is a UNESCO World Heritage site about two hours from Cancun and offers ruins of pyramids and temples to explore.
The Coba ruins and the seaside ruins of Tulum are also must-see destinations for history buffs. 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 mosquitos who 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. This is why it is essential to exchange your money for Mexican pesos as soon as you arrive at the Cancun airport.
Exploring Cancun’s Natural Beauty
For adventure-seekers or those just looking to get away from the Hotel Zone, Cancun is surrounded by an abundance of natural beauty. There are various exciting activities available, including zip-lining, cave exploration, swimming with whale sharks, and taking a refreshing dip in a natural lagoon. Any of these experiences is bound to bring you two closer together and create shared memories that’ll last a lifetime.
The Nichupte Lagoon is 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.
In the nearby jungles, zip lining, rappelling, and ATV tours offer plenty for the outdoorsy types. Selvatica is an eco-park offering a variety of adrenaline-pumping activities in a gorgeous jungle setting.
Also home to myriad caves and cenotes, be sure to visit Ik Kil, Dos Ojos, and Gran Cenote to enjoy these natural sinkholes filled with fresh, clear 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 and 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.
If you and your partner are 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 a day of good 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.
For more cultural entertainment, there are plenty of traditional dances and cultural exhibits to enjoy, including Cirque du Soleil’s show Joya at the nearby Riviera Maya. No matter what you and your love decide to do, you’ll finish every night cuddled close, talking about the most exciting parts of the day.
Dining
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 or even American fast food, 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.
If you and your partner are looking for more traditional Mexican cuisine, stop by a busy-looking eatery and order tacos al pastor, mole, barbacoa, or chiles en nogada, where you can indulge in the local flavors. 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.
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.
What month is Cancun the least crowded?
Cancun’s low season is from June to November since there are far fewer international tourists. However, the beaches begin to crowd with domestic tourists over the summer holidays, so August through September is the optimal time for fewer crowds and cheaper prices.
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.
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This article originally appeared on Food Drink Life.
