Lonely PlanetJul 22, 2026
19 things to know before visiting Cancún
Make your Cancún trip even better with these tips on health, safety and etiquette.
14 things in this story
- Riviera MayaNeighborhoodarea with ancient ruins and swimming holes
- Isla MujeresNeighborhoodIt is approximately 7 kilometres (4.3 mi) long and 650 metres (2,130 ft) wide.
- Parque de las PalapasMarkettop spots for street food
- Museo Subacuático de Arte (MUSA)Museumincredible underwater sculpture garden
- Punta SamNeighborhoodarea for high-end resorts
- Isla BlancaNeighborhoodsublime peninsula north of downtown
- Mayan MonkeyHostelhotel offering room-only rates
- El CentroNeighborhoodarea for well-priced hotel and hostel options
- ValladolidNeighborhoodcolonial city with a rich Maya history
- Red de Monitoreo de SargazoPlaceNGO posting updates on beach conditions
- ADO busPlaceaffordable transportation from the airport
- Buses R-1 and R-2Placetraverse the hotel zone and El Centro
- Carnaval de CancúnFestivaloutdoor concerts and dancing in the streets
- Isla HolboxNeighborhood
