CancuN

What is there to say about Cancun other than PARTY CAPITAL! Cancun has an absolutely phenomenal nightlife and party scene with a strip of electric clubs spilling out onto the streets. It’s hard not to get swept up in the music and energy. 

Often criticised for being “Americanised” or “not real Mexico” which to a degree is true but Cancun is enjoyed differently than other parts of the country. You come to Cancun for a good time and to party in which it excels as one of the best in the world! This is the beauty of Mexico, it offers a bit of everything all over the country. Despite this it still has alot of excellent Mexican food options.  

Things to See & Do

1) PARTY PARTY PARTY

Take a walk down the main strip in the Zona Hotelaria (Hotel Zone) and soak in the energy and rowdy vibes. There are plenty of promoters around offering deals to try to get you into clubs so try a few before you leave. You won’t be disappointed!

2) Playa Delfines 

Despite the name unfortunately I didn’t see any Dolphins. But what I saw was some of the bluest water I’ve ever seen. It is also home to the famous “CANCUN” sign which makes for a perfect Instagram pic.

3) Islas Mujeres Day Trip

This day trip is a MUST! A boat or “Lancha” will take you to this stunning island for only $15USD ($500pesos) which includes: Food, Drinks, Snorkelling & Return trip to Island. Once on the island, it’s recommended to hire a golf cart and go cruising around the island to see it.

This day trip in total, lasts 6 hours and takes you across the stunning blue waters of Cancun to explore to surrounding Island.

4) Chichen Itza

The most famous landmark in Mexico and 1 of the 7 world wonders you must visit is the Mayan pyramid Chichen Itza. This remarkable icon was only built around 600-700 AD and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

wonder of the world pyramid

5) Snorkelling & Diving

The Yucatan peninsula has some of the finest diving in the world, consisting of colourful coral reefs filled with tropical fish, underwater sculptures and shipwrecks. Typical marine life that can be spotted in Cancun dive sites are nurse sharks, sea turtles, tropical fish, whale sharks, manta rays and many more!

Price $85 – $115 USD

Under water museum Cancun
fish in scuba dive cancun
turtle diving cancun mexico

6) Whale Shark Tour

From June to September you will also be fortunate enough to have the opportunity to swim with Whale Sharks. These marine gentle giants will leave you awestruck as you immerse yourself in their world swimming side by side such a majestic creature.

Price: $160 – $200 

 

Where to stay

1) Selina Hostel

A huge and awesome hostel for fun and meeting cool people. The best part is it’s only a 2 min walk from the clubs yet still far enough not to get all the noise. Oh but don’t go for a swim in the lagoon it backs onto as it’s full of crocodiles.

It has beautiful layout equipped with it’s own bar and large pool and many rooms.

Price: $15 – $20 USD   

2) Mayan Monkey Hostel

A great party hostel located about 5 min walk away from the main clubs and strip. It’s an oasis for backpackers and digital nomads alike boasting a social atmosphere nestled beautifully upon the lake.

Price: $15 – $20 USD

 

Where to Eat

1) Los Autenticos tacos DF

Despite being in the heart of the action amongst all the clubs and bars this little taco shop still delivers an authentic and affordable taco experience.

2) The Surfin Burrito

Famous Burrito shop common amongst tourist. You can customise and build your own burrito and regardless how you build it, the taste is always sensational.

 

3) Tacos Rigo

Some the best tacos in Cancun at an affordable price. This taco shop is only a short walk from the main strip of nightlife and offers a delicious range of authentic tacos.

4) Zona de puestos callejeros

This little alleyway street offers a variety of food stalls only a few steps from the main area. You’ll find a variety of Mexican food here and feel like you’ve temporarily escape the touristy parts of Cancun to eat out on the street with a beautiful array of options.

Clubs & Bars

1) Coco Bongo

Best party in Cancun! The Coco Bongo brand is synonymous with fun and wild experiences and the beach club in Cancun is the centrepiece setting the benchmark for the reputation the city carries for parties.

The club is right in the centre of the main street and back out onto a beautiful beach which is accessible from the club. Throughout the day there is live entertainment ranging from, sax performances, dancers, midgets, Cirque du Soleil acrobatics and amazing visuals.

Coco Bongo Beach Club is $40USD entry and includes unlimited free drinks for the entire day.

2) Señor Frogs

 Extremely popular and fun brand of entertainment. Restaurant during the day and nightclub at night which is always certain to go off! Certainly an essential visit when experiencing the nightlife of Cancun.

3) Mandala

Situated in the heart of the Hotel Zone, Mandala offers a unique blend of music, entertainment, and cocktails, drawing in locals and tourists alike. The club features top DJs spinning a mix of electronic, house, and Latin beats, creating an electric ambiance that keeps the dance floor alive until the early hours of the morning. 

4) Congo Bar

Congo bar offers an incredible party experience with some of the best latin music and visual light displays. It’s certainly not short on entertainment as well including fire-breathing acts, acrobatics, and dance routines, creating an engaging and dynamic environment.   

5) Botanero Nacional Zona Hotelera – Bar

 A perfect little bar to get the night started with some pre drinks and cheap tequila. Situated on top on level 2 above a restaurant it offers rooftop views of the Cancun main street and all the flashing lights as you warm up for the night. Music playing and drinks flowing it’s an excellent and more affordable option to kickstart a night out. 

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Cancun was my first stop when I left Australia in January 2022. Having been locked down in a country with harsh rules for 2 years it was time to escape and experience freedom and travel once more. I couldn’t have started my journey in a more beautiful and culturally rich country like Mexico!

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