10 Free Things to Do in Cancun

Who Says Heaven Comes With A Hefty Price Tag? From Ancient Ruins To Pristine Beaches, Cancun Offers Plenty Of Free Things To Do In Cancun!

Cancun is all about luxury resorts, but did you know there are many free things to do in Cancun that won’t break the bank? Whether you’re a beach bum, history buff, or art lover, Cancun has something for everyone – for free. How about lounging at Playa Delfines, one of the most beautiful beaches in the Hotel Zone? Or visiting the ancient Mayan ruins at El Rey where entry is less than your morning coffee? If you’re into street art, take a walk around downtown to spot the vibrant murals including the famous Boy, Jaguar, and Eagle. And for nature lovers, Kabah Urban Park is perfect for a peaceful walk surrounded by local wildlife. From Mercado 28’s quirky shopping to the views at El Meco Archaeological Site, Cancun’s best-kept secrets don’t have to cost a thing! Ready to explore? Let's start!

Cancun’s native population is passionate about street art that celebrates its Mexican and Mayan heritage. Go for a stroll through central Cancun’s north zone to explore beautiful murals created by talented Mexican and Brazilian artists. A standout piece is the Jaguar, Boy, and Eagle mural, situated just one km south of the famous Playa El Niño Beach. Many of the murals also highlight worldwide marine issues, with outstanding images like dolphins whirling in a gumball machine and a translucent whale shark.

Playa Tortugas is a cozy little beach located about 6 km northeast of Zona Hotelera in Cancun. This place is free to visit year-round, with calm, shallow waters perfect for kids to splash around in. Don't miss the pier, where adrenaline junkies can take the plunge with bungee jumping from a 25-meter-high tower. Plus, ferries to Isla Mujeres set sail from Playa Tortugas daily, making it a great starting point for your island adventure!

Playa Delfines is a peaceful beach situated on the southern side of Zona Hotelera in Cancun. While you won’t find facilities like eateries or public showers, the beach is adorned with soft white sand, and turquoise blue waters, and enhanced by rock formations. Lifeguards are on duty throughout the day, but if you are planning to swim, stick near the shore. Surfing here is a bit wilder than at other Cancun beaches, making it a favorite spot for surfers seeking some action!

Cancun has a vibrant arts scene and is a top stop for local and international acts on tour. Parque Las Palapas, a big park in the center of Cancun, has a large central platform and plaza where cultural festivals, plays, and concerts happen. On weekend nights, you can catch street performances and live theater. Even when there’s no show, the park is alive with joggers, cyclists, and locals playing sports and having picnics throughout the daytime.

Playa Langosta, 6 km south of the center of Cancun, is a local favorite beach along the stunning Nichupté Lagoon. You can rent paddleboards and kayaks, and stroll through the street vendors throughout the day. Don’t forget to snap a photo with the colorful ‘Cancun’ sign! Families love the football field and a big playground, while couples can wander through Jardín del Arte, a beautiful garden filled with sculptures by local artists.

One of the best Cancun attractions is Kabah Urban Park, located in the downtown area of Cancun, and is a favorite among joggers because it houses a pathway that runs through a 410,000 sq m forest reserve. The park has local wildlife such as spider monkeys, birds, coatis, and iguanas, and you might be able to spot them during your exploration. There are many playgrounds and picnic areas so it’s a great place to relax. The best part? Kabah Urban Park has no entrance fee and is open all year round so you can have a peaceful escape from the busy beaches of Cancun.

Mercado 28 is a lively native crafts marketplace with approximately 100 stalls along Avenida Sunyaxchen within central Cancun. Here, you can shop for gorgeous handicrafts crafted from silver, leather, and glass, along with quirky souvenirs like sunglasses and touristy T-shirts. For some pesos, you can also get a henna tattoo or have your hair braided. Don’t miss the center of the market, where you'll find restaurants offering classic Mexican fare. Be sure to try cochinita pibil (slow-cooked pork), papadzules (Mayan-inspired enchiladas), and Panuchos Yucatecos (tostadas paired with fried beans).

Even though you don’t plan to visit Avenida Kukulkan, you will probably pass by it at least once during your Cancun trip. This street runs through the center of the hotel zone from central Cancun to the airport. It’s lined with shops, restaurants, hotels, and resorts and serves as a great place to stroll or board the bus as this is the main street for the tourist buses.

Avenida Tulum is the central thoroughfare through downtown Cancun, offering a lively, less touristy environment compared to the Hotel Zone. The avenue is lined with eateries, hotels, and shops, and features landmarks like the Fuente del Ceviche and Monumento a la Historia de México, both popular photo spots. The Palacio Municipal, Cancun's government headquarters, is placed along the avenue, surrounded by a sculpture garden and a public park.

One of the best things to do in Cancun is visiting the Akumal Beach! Situated 110 km south of the famous Zona Hotelera, Akumal offers a peaceful escape from Cancun’s crowded beaches. The pristine sands are worth the 2-hour long drive, but the real highlight is diving and snorkeling in a private cove. The main village is home to plenty of eateries and dive stores where you may rent gear. Akumal Beach is also a famous nesting site for sea turtles from May to November. If you are fortunate enough, you might swim alongside these threatened creatures; just remember not to touch them.