Cancun, Mexico - Things to Do as an Adventure Loving Family

Planning a family vacation to Cancun?

Family vacations are a great opportunity to spend quality time with your kids and make some lifelong memories. Cancun is the perfect place to enjoy a family vacation and there are plenty of adventurous activities to keep everyone happy.

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When in Cancun, Mexico things to do with kids are endless – from swimming and snorkeling in the crystal clear waters, to exploring ancient Mayan ruins. Plus, there’s always something happening in Cancun so you’ll never be bored.

18 Things to do in Cancun with Kids

With so much to see and do, it can be tough to know where to start planning your trip. That’s why we’ve put together this list of can’t-miss activities and attractions, perfect for any adventure-loving family.

If you and your family are looking for an adventurous vacation destination, look no further than Cancun, Mexico! Cancun offers a variety of activities for thrill-seekers of all ages, making it the perfect place to enjoy an action-packed getaway.

Get ready for some unforgettable experiences with your children as you explore the paradise, which is famous for its beaches and boasts of an incredibly rich Mayan history. Take advantage of the abundance of adventure activities and plan a world-class vacation in Cancun. Let Cancun private transportation services all your needs of travel and transportation with your kids.

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Top Things to See & Do in Cancun

Here is a how-to have a vacation of a lifetime with your kids in Cancun.

Travel Tip: If you are traveling with kids as a solo adult (without your partner and/or the kids’ other parent), you’ll need this Child Travel Consent Form.

All Ritmo Water Park

The family-friendly water park and resort should be at the top of your list as there is plenty to keep you busy here. Those water slides are a must for every member, and towels and locker rentals only add to the convenience. Enjoy unlimited food and drinks as you laze around in those lounge chairs and umbrellas and let the kids have a blast.

Related: Our water park tips are essential for a fun day out

Captain Hook Dinner Cruise

Go for the Captain Hook Pirate Dinner Cruise with your whole family and get ready for an epic adventure when the sun goes down. Those impressive ships are exact replicas of the galleon vessels from the 18-century galleon, but you will find all the modern amenities in the specially adapted and upgraded cruise ships.

Admire the Mexican coastline and views of the Nichpte Lagoon with your kids once you board the ship and let Captain Hook himself share his stories as you sail across the Caribbean Ocean.

Cancun Kids Club at Villa del Palmar

It is a must to visit the Cancun Kids Club, which has been created especially for young children. Watch your kids explore the villa and the club and make new friends. See them play and learn new skills and participate in child-friendly games within the air-conditioned Kids Club room that is fully equipped with all the amenities and features to keep your children safe and entertained for hours.

While the kids are busy at the club, parents can enjoy the many amenities and activities that the resort has to offer. Even if you are not staying at this resort, you can still enjoy its facilities by signing up for a day pass.

Swim with Sharks

You kids are never going to forget this experience, and Cancun is the place where it is possible to swim with whale sharks between July and September. So, plan your trip accordingly and book a swimming tour with whale sharks with one of the reputed companies. Ferries and boats will take you there from Isla Mujeres, Holbox, and Isla Contoy, and the waters and temperatures are just perfect at this time. You can also look at some options for Car rental Cancun.

Review local tour operators and book your family’s whale shark swim online in advance with Viator to avoid disappointment when cruises are booked for the day you want to go.

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Horseback Riding

If your children love horse riding, you can plan a tranquil journey through the Mayan jungle on horseback. The trip includes not just horse riding but other adrenaline adventures such as riding the all-terrain vehicle (ATV), and ziplining. This is the best way to unwind, relax and have a bit of adventure with your whole family. Enjoy a Mexican meal after the jungle adventure.

Interactive Aquarium

Another great spot to visit is the Interactive Aquarium, which is located in La Isla Shopping Village. Although the aquarium is small and can be covered within an hour, it is a great optional activity that keeps the kids enthralled. For example, they can feed a shark or swim with dolphins or get the chance to touch the sleek manta rays and the beautiful sea turtles. It will be an entertaining as well as an educational experience for your little ones.

Note: The GoCity Pass is an all-inclusive money saving pass with over 30 attractions and activities including the Interactive Aquarium. You can choose 1-5 and 7 day passes valid for a period of 2 weeks.

Nature and History of the Yucatan

Nothing could be more exciting and fun than the Tulum and Cenotes Tour, which is highly recommended by most families traveling to Cancun. The full-day tour transports you within the history of the Tulum ruins. You can spend some relaxing time at Cenote Kin Ha and admire the nature and history of the Yucatan. If you have more time, you can take a quick swim.

Playas Tortugas Beach

Spend a whole day at the beach, and Playas Tortugas beach is one of the most popular among families. Explore the beach with your kids and let them enjoy the small waves and shallow waters, which are just perfect for them to enjoy. Spend some quality time with your kids making sandcastles and enjoy the beautiful sunsets from the comfort of lounge chairs.

Take a Dip in One of Cancun’s Cenotes

Cancun is a beautiful place with plenty of activities to keep you busy. There’s something for everyone, whether you’re looking for a relaxing day on the beach or an adventure-filled day exploring everything the city has to offer. All the above activities are highly recommended for those on a family trip to Cancun and who are looking for some adventure and fun.

A Private Fishing Charter

Why not hire a private fishing charter for your whole family and let them have the most memorable experience? One can pick a half-day or full-day charter based on their interests and budget. The private fishing charter boat comes complete with experienced staff and safety equipment. Soft drinks are served for free, but the fishing licenses are at your own expense.

Teach your children the nitty-gritty of rods baits, and introduce them to the fun and charm of fishing and Cancun is the right place with the big stuff such as sailfish, barracuda, tuna, and more.

Speedboat Adventure

Another signature experience of Cancun is driving a speedboat through the Nichupte Lagoon. Even if you are a complete beginner, there is no need to worry as there are excerpt guides who will provide all the help and instructions you need.

You can look for wildlife during the speedboat adventure, and once that is over, you can take a snorkel tour of scenic Punta Nizuc with your family. Enjoy looking at the colorful marine life and the corals in the area, and the clear and calm waters are just perfect for snorkeling for young kids.

Panoramic Parasailing Experience

It would be a mistake to come back without enjoying a parasailing combo tour along the coast of Cancun. It is an ideal choice for families, and the small-group adventure tour offers you a thrilling jet ski ride while the parasailing offers you a bird’s eye view of the Nichupté Lagoon and Isla Mujeres. Admire the crystal-clear waters from above. So, take advantage of the parasailing combo tour for a thrilling experience with your family!

Visit Chichen Itza

If you are up for a day trip, head to Chichen Itza to explore one of the Seven Wonders of the World. The ancient Mayan ruins here are an awe-inspiring sight, and you can learn all about the culture and history of the area. Be sure to bring your camera, as there are plenty of photo opportunities.

Spend a day at Xcaret Theme Park

Xcaret Theme Park is an eco-archaeological park with something for everyone in the family. There are underground rivers to float through, an aviary, butterfly pavilion, dolphin pools, and so much more. You can even take a walk through a replica of a Mayan village, or take part in a traditional Mexican fiesta. Xcaret is truly a one-of-a-kind experience that the whole family will enjoy.

Take a Cooking Class

One activity that the whole family can enjoy is a cooking class. Everyone has to eat after all the adventure and what better way to do it than by learning to cook some traditional Mexican dishes. You can find cooking classes that focus on different regions of Mexico, so you can learn about the different cuisine from all over the country.

After the class, you can sit down and enjoy your meal together. This is a great activity for foodies of all ages. You can find family-friendly cooking classes at the Ritz Carlton Resort and via Cancun Food Tours.

Explore Isla Mujeres on a Family-friendly Catamaran Tour

Isla Mujeres is a beautiful island jus off the coast of Cancun. Here you can find stunning beaches, crystal-clear waters, and plenty of activities to keep you busy. There are snorkeling tours, scooter rentals, and much more. You can even swim with dolphins at the Dolphin Discovery center.

The best way to explore the island is on a catamaran tour, where you can sit back, relax, and take in the stunning scenery. This is a great activity for families with kids of all ages.

Mayan Ruins of Coba

Coba is one of the largest archaeological sites in Mexico and it should be on your list of places to visit with your kids. Take them on an unforgettable journey through time as you explore the ancient Mayan ruins and learn about the culture and history of the area.

Climb to the top of the Nohoch Mul pyramid for a breathtaking view of the surrounding jungle. This is an activity that the whole family can enjoy and it is sure to be a highlight of your trip. Note – Coba is about a 2-hour drive from Cancun.

Visit Playa del Carmen

This is a beautiful place located just south of Cancun, and it is worth taking a day trip with your family to explore. Stroll around the town, visit the shops and art galleries, and enjoy the laid-back atmosphere.

Playa del Carmen is also a great place to find some delicious food. Be sure to try the fresh seafood dishes and the famous cochinita pibil (Yucatan style barbecue pork).

After a busy day of exploring, relax on one of the many beaches or take a dip in the clear blue waters.

Best Time to Visit Cancun with Kids

The best time to visit Cancun with kids is during the months of December to April. These months have the best weather, with less rain and lower humidity. However, this is also the peak season, so be sure to book your accommodations and activities in advance.

If you want to save a little money, September thru November is considered the “shoulder season” and can also be a great time to visit. The weather is still beautiful and there are fewer tourists.

Family-Friendly Resorts

Cancun is filled with resorts that offer activities for all ages kids thru adults. Many families visiting the area opt for all-inclusive resorts, which can be a great option if you want to have everything taken care of in one place.

Some of the best resorts for families in Cancun include the Grand Fiesta Americana, Dreams Riviera Cancun, and the JW Marriott Cancun. These resorts offer plenty of activities to keep everyone happy, from kids clubs and pools to water parks and spa treatments.

There are also many smaller boutique hotels, home rentals, and condos that can be a great option for families. Just be sure to do your research in advance so you know what to expect.

No matter where you stay, be sure to check out the property’s daily activities and amenities. Many resorts offer kids clubs, babysitting services, and family-friendly activities that can make your trip even more enjoyable.

In Conclusion

No matter what time of year you visit, Cancun is sure to be a hit with the whole family. There are so many fun things to do, from exploring ancient ruins to swimming with dolphins. With its beautiful beaches and crystal-clear waters, there is something for everyone in Cancun. So pack your bags and get ready for an unforgettable family adventure.

Cancun, Mexico – Things to Do as an Adventure Loving Family

18 Things to do in Cancun with Kids