Cancun Hidden Gems: Off the Beaten Path

Cancun is a beautiful city in Mexico and every year, over 9 million people fly through Cancun International airport. So, it must be a busy city and if you want to roam the peaceful places then these Cancun hidden gems are for you, so get ready to search off the beaten path.

My Cancun City Favorites

• Swim in Cenotes: Various cenotes (natural sink holes) are located in Yucatan. If you love swimming then must visit this place to get an ultimate experience.
• Day Trip to Chichen Itza: I would highly recommend to visit the iconic ruins at Chichen Itza that include platforms, temples, columns and ballcourts.
• Trip to Valladolid: The Romanesque architecture of Valladolid makes it stands out from the rest of places. So, take your time out to visit this place and try their traditional foods such as hake (fish) and lechazo (suckling baby lamb).
• Mayan Museum: This museum is rich in Quintana Roo’s Mayan history and is very close to the hotel zone of Cancun. Moreover, you can also explore the nearby San Miguelito ruins.
• Boat Adventures: You can do this by renting a yacht or sailing through sunset cruise. For the best experience Kayak through the mangroves.
• Beach Hop: Cancun is popular due to its beaches so never miss a chance to explore its mesmerizing and lively beaches.
• Where to Stay: Here are few luxurious and high rated places to stay at Cancun;
  • Oceanview penthouse located at the Nizuc Resort & Spa and provides and facility for private pool. Swim out suite located at beachfront luxury Atelier Playa Mujeres (adults only place).
  • Lagoon view suite located at Casa Tortugas.
  • La Villa du Golf à Cancun, that is a budget friendly option.

10 Unique Things to do in Cancun (Cancun Hidden Gems)

Cancun is always loved by tourists and there are various famous locations that are mostly visited by locals and foreigners but here I am going to introduce some less searched places that are considered as the Cancun hidden gems or off the beaten path. You, will surely enjoy visiting these Cancun hidden gems.

1. Kayaking in the Nichupté Lagoon

Gliding through the serene waters of Nichupt Lagoon, kayakers immerse themselves in a world where nature unfolds its hidden treasures. The lagoon has mangrove islands that provide an environment full of life. As you paddle across the green trees, it’s usual to find playful dolphins over there that will cherish you and your kids.

You will see a beautiful landscape during swimming, sunlight will pass through the canopies and creates an amazing reflection of water. Additionally, you will discover the captivating views and herons, crocodiles, box fishes and other creatures while moving through each channel.

If you travel at a normal speed it will take 2-3 hours to complete your tour, that is very refreshing and you will feel energized at this Cancun hidden gem.

2. Mayan Museum of Cancun (Museo Maya de Cancún)

The Mayan Museum of Cancun, or Museo Maya de Cancún, offers a unique window into the ancient Maya civilization that once thrived in this region. The museum has a vast collection of intricate jewelry and traditional items and is a blend of modern and historical architecture.

Once you come out of the museum you can visit the ruins of the San Miguelito Archeological Site that is situated outside the museum. This is the historical place of the Maya civilization so can relate it to the artifacts of the museum.

The museum is within the Cancun’s Hotel Zone so, you can go there easily and entry ticket to the museum costs 4.66 USD so, in my opinion its worth visiting. Just remember one thing that you will be asked to keep your bags outside so, do not carry valuable items with you and keep a small pouch for cash and mobile phone.

3. Swim with Whale Sharks

Have you ever imagined yourself swimming with sharks and whales? I find it scary but yes, some people love doing this. So, if you want to swim with these giants then visit the Cancun between May and September to get best out of this Cancun hidden gem.

If you want to do this adventure, book a trip with guides, this trip takes a stop for lunch at Mujeres’ beautiful Playa Norte. Along with sharks and dolphins you will also get a chance to see dolphins, manta rays, sea turtles and other creatures.

Caution: if you have the problem of water or sea sickness then must take your medicine with you.

4. El Rey Archaeological Zone (Zona Arqueológica de El Rey)

Tulum and Chichen Itza are the most famous Mayan sites however, few people know about the Mayan sites located in the Cancun like El Rey Mayan ruins.

It is located near the Playa Delfines beach but people usually miss this spot that is why this place seems less crowded yet peaceful. These ruins are not very big but still history lover can enjoy wandering this place.

5. Lagoon Parks, one of my favorite Cancun hidden gems

There are peaceful waterfront parks near the lagoons in Cancun. It is a perfect escape from hustle and bustle of the city and good place for picnic or a quiet walk. If you are fond of nature then you will love seeing sunset there.

The park is located near the Punta Calinda bridge so one sitting there can witness boats coming to the lagoon from ocean. The water is very clear and fish and other water creatures are easily visible.

6. Visit a Public Beach

There are various beaches in the Cancun and that is why it is famous for, so you will definitely not miss the beaches here!

Let me tell you about another Cancun hidden gems or off the beaten path that is the Playa del Niño beach. It is less populated and also less maintained but I found it a good hangout spot.

If you want to get off the beaten path in Cancun, check out one of the lesser known beaches that are popular amongst locals, like Playa del Niño. Keep in mind that this beach is smaller and less maintained than Cancun’s more popular beaches, but it is a completely local hang out spot!

Another famous and busy beach is Playa Delfines, that is also worth visiting.

7. Downtown Cancun; One of the Most Underrated Cancun Hidden Gems

Downtown Cancun is the place where you can actually experience the Cancun life and yes the cost effective food!

Places to visit in the Downtown include:

Parque de las Palapas: It is also a good and crowded place where most of the locals come for Mexican food.

Parque del Artesano: It is a small and well-maintained park that offer variety of local food in the evening. You can explore various meat and vegan options here.

Avenida Tulum: It is the main road in Tulum that has variety of shops and restaurants.

Parque Ecológico Kabah: A beautiful place for walk and enjoy wild life like pizotes, iguanas, turtles, and more.

Malecón Tajamar: You can stroll here for peace and serenity and it is very close to the Cancun lagoon.

Although, downtown is a good place but beware of the drug dealers and those selling the illicit substances and do not come in their trap. You need to be very careful while roaming in the Cancun and Tulum because of these reasons.

Cancun Hidden Gems Day Trips

8. Puerto Morelos

It is a good village for fishing and one of the most liked Cancun hidden gem. You can get there in 40 min from main Cancun and do a lot of fun things there.

Puerto Moreleos beach: People like this beach more than the one located in Cancun, so do not forget to spend a day there.

A day trip to Unico Beach: A good spot for eating, enjoying live music, spa and swimming.

Snorkeling: It is very close to the Mesoamerican Barrier Reef so it is very good place for snorkeling.

Food tour to Puerto Morelos: If you want to experience the best local food, join this guided tour to the Puerto Morelos’s food secrets.

9. Isla Contoy

Let me tell you about another Cancun hidden gem for a day trip and that is Isla Contoy National Park. It is located in the North of Cancun and you can only reach there via boat, so it is still a secret place to visit.

Most of the tour operators do not include day trip to Isla Contoy so search well and find your tour operator carefully, if you really want to visit this place.

10. Valladolid

Valladolid is a great place in Mexico, one of my favorites on the Yucatan peninsula. The place is vibrant having cenotes, Mayan ruins and beautiful streets.

It is a small place but you will find much to do here;

Wander along Calz. de Los Frailes: It is a street ful of cafes, vintage shops, bars and buildings. Take an hour or two to roam around this street and enjoy the Mexican culture.

Cenote hopping: Cenote and Cenote Secreto Maya are my favorites, but they’re also Cenote Saamal, Xcanahaltun, Xkeken and Secreto Maya are the best options for hopping.

Uayma church: This a grand church and located 15 minutes away from the Valladolid so, if you have time try to visit it as well.

Where to Stay in Cancun

Atelier Playa Mujeres: You can get the best beach experience by staying at this luxury resort. It is an all-inclusive place and specially designed for adults only.

Casa Tortugas: It is among the Cancun’s finest boutique hotels and is present in the hotel zone, so very easy to reach out.

Nizuc Resort & Spa: It is a good snorkeling spot and a beautiful place for staying and enjoying the private pool facility.

La Villa du Golf à Cancun: It is an economical place to stay in Cancun and visit the Cancun hidden gems. It has a gorgeous pool and a beautiful garden.

Getting Around Cancun

Private shuttle: Various hotels provide the options for private shuttle so check with your hotel for this service.

Renting a car: It is good if you want to explore various parts of the town in one day. Different local companies provide this facility so check the best one.

Public bus: The bus system in Cancun in very good, efficient, cost-effective ($12 pesos) and safe. So, you can easily travel on bus between Cancun and other areas of Mexico.

Walking: Walking is a good option to travel the short distances.

Guided tours: Local guides is also a good option but check thoroughly and choose the best one such as Viator.

Taxi: Taxi is a convenient option but decide the fare before starting the ride to avoid inconvenience.

Final Words

I hope the guide about Cancun hidden gems; off the beaten path will help you to visit Cancun in the best possible manner. Stay tuned for more tips and let us know about your experiences in the comments section.

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