Best Things to Do in the Yucatán Peninsula: 30 Attractions & Hidden Gems

The best things to do in the Yucatán Peninsula offer a perfect mix of adventure, relaxation, and culture. Whether you're exploring ancient ruins, lounging on beautiful beaches, or sampling delicious local cuisine, this tropical paradise has something for everyone. 

From vibrant cities to hidden gems, the Yucatán is a region where you could easily spend weeks—or even months—immersing yourself in all its offerings.

We spent an entire month exploring the Yucatán Peninsula and found that there’s no shortage of incredible experiences. With perfect weather year-round and a variety of activities for every kind of traveler, it’s a place that keeps giving.

In this guide we're going to share with you 30 of the best things to do in the Yucatán Peninsula, for your most epic getaway!

The Best Things to Do in the Yucatan Peninsula: History & Culture

1. Chichen Itza

Chichen Itza is one of the 7 wonders of the world! Along with Machu Picchu, the Great Wall of China, and the Colosseum, this is a place you'll want to add to your bucket list. Not only is this area huge, but it is full of history. Check out the incredibly well designed pyramids, and experience the magical vibe in the air.

Because it's one of the highlights of the country, it's hard not to recommend this as a spot to see in the Yucatán Península! Since we always aim for unique things, we believe this archeological spot can't be missed out on. 

The Best Things to Do in the Yucatan Peninsula: Cenotes

2. Hacienda Mucuyche

No trip to the Yucatán Peninsula in Mexico is complete without checking out at least one cenote. Our absolute favorite cenote was near Merida. Located at Hacienda Mucuyche, the cenote is just an hour away from the city.

The Hacienda is an ancient residence, and takes reservations for tours that last two hours. The guide will take you through the ruins, and tell you about the history of the hacienda. Then they will then will take you to a series of cenotes, connected with caves, and even a waterfall at the end!

The ticket is 480 pesos (about $24 USD), and tours go each hour from 9 am to 3 pm. Additionally, there is a restaurant on site, a pool, showers, fitting rooms, and a shop full of local crafts and jewelry. To get here it is best to rent a car, and to call in advance for a reservation.

3. Cenote Suytun

Around 40 minutes east from the city center of Valladolid lies a very unique cenote. Suytun is a "younger" cenote than others. However, don't be fooled, as it is still very old! Actually, it is still a few million years old. You can notice this because its ceiling remains almost completely closed.

There's only one small hole where light goes in, and that is what is so beautiful about this place. Years ago, a platform was built from the side going into the middle of the cenote. The round platform is located right under the opening. So when the light goes in, a halo of light illuminates the platform, creating a magical spot that looks straight out of a fairy tale.

However, be aware that things are constantly changing. We visited right after a tropical storm that overflowed the cenote, leaving the platform 9 feet under water! Also, we found out that the halo of light only matches the platform during the months of June, July and August (we went in October). 

Due to these factors, make sure to be prepared. You'll want to keep all of this in mind if you want that special photo. Nevertheless, this is a truly special place, and will leave you speechless.

4. Cenote Calavera

We love this spot because it is actually walking distance from downtown Tulum! (about a half hour exactly). The cenote features a rope swing, ladder, and two holes to jump in. Due to it's unique features, it has become one of the most popular spots for tourists!

The entrance is 250 pesos (about $12 USD), and it is open from 9am to 5 pm. Keep in mind that tripods, professional cameras, and Go Pros all have an extra charge of 100-200 pesos each.

5. Gran Cenote

This cenote is one of the most popular swimming spots in all of Tulum. We aren't a fan of the way it is managed. However, we have to say that the cenote is pretty gorgeous, and a cool place to check out in the Yucatan Peninsula in Mexico.

At Gran Cenote there are two large areas of the cenote, that are connected by a large cave. The one to the right is (in our opinion) the more beautiful of the two, and usually less crowded. Swim on over through the cave to the other side and you will experience beautiful turquoise waters, turtles swimming around, and a small cave on the other side.

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Gran cenote is just a few minute drive up the road passing Cenote Calavera. Please note that you cannot bring tripods, professional cameras, or drones here. Although they have lockers for rental, they will not even allow you to use them to store those particular belongings. Unfortunately, because of this, they will simply not let you in if you have any of these.

Another thing to know before you go is that when you enter you must shower and wash your hair.

This is because they do not want any harmful oils from products that could be in your hair or on your body. Then after that, you will see the area with lockers to store your belongings after for an extra charge, The cenote entrance itself is 300 pesos or $15 USD.

6. Izamal

Located just an hour outside the center of Merida is a truly unique town. Despite many cities in the Yucat´an Península in Mexico being colorful, Izamal is different. This is because it is almost completely yellow!

Wander the streets of houses, shops, and churches completely painted in yellow. Also, don't miss out on the main attraction of Convento de San Antonio. 

To get here from Merida there is a small bus station on Calle 50 and the number is 521. For a reference you can look for the yellow arch, and it is just a few doorways down. The cost of the bus is 31 pesos, which is only about $1.50 USD each way. Make sure to ask for times, as the last bus going back for us was at 4:30.

7. Las Coloradas

Have you ever seen a pink lake? Well, an hour and a half north from Valladolid you will find Río Lagartos. This is a town by the shore from where you can go visit the famous 'Las Coloradas'.

Due to the high concentration of salt and microorganisms living in it, the waters of the lakes are a bright pink hue. It is definitely a fascinating experience in the Yucatán Península in Mexico.

The Best Things to Do in the Yucatan Peninsula: Beautiful Islands

8. Holbox

This cute island is just two hours north of Cancún. Believe or not, it has some breathtaking experiences that will make you seriously consider visiting. From swimming with whale sharks, to experiencing bioluminescence, this is definitely a place to add to your bucket list for the Yucatán Península in Mexico.

Want to learn more about the cool things to do in Holbox? Click Here!

9. Isla Mujeres

Unlike Holbox, Isla Mujeres is much easier to reach from Cancún. The port of Cancún in less than 20 minutes from the city center. Then from there, you're just a short ferry away from the island.

Not only does Isla Mujeres have some of the most beautiful beaches, but also it's fun to travel through. We love renting a golf cart so that we can just drive next to the water, and enjoy the good vibes of the island.

Another great thing to do here is the MUSA. This is an underwater museum with 500 statues which was created to promote coral life. Tourism took over, and now it is one of the best things to do in Cancún & Isla Mujeres. Want to learn more about this island? Click Here!

10. Cozumel

This not-so-little island is 45 minutes away from Playa del Carmen. Just take the ferry from the main port and it will take you straight into downtown Cozumel. Visited by several cruise ships each day, Cozumel is one of the cruise industry's most popular stops. 

Due to its crystal clear waters, delicious food, & tropical vibes, this is a great Caribbean destination. Also, this small island has so much more to offer than just the beach! 

Cozumel is also world known for being a great spot for divers. So don't miss out on experiencing the vibrant marine life. If you want to know more about what to do on this island, check out the full article we wrote for you.

The Best Things to Do in the Yucatan Peninsula: Unique Experiences

11. Experience Bioluminescence

If you have ever created a bucket list and this is not on it, this is the best time to add it. Bioluminescence is a phenomenon that comes from microorganisms like plankton. Due to a chemical reaction, light shines from them when they’re moved or touched, and this can be experienced in Holbox.

Just like in the movie “Avatar”, it looks like everything has energy and connects to the sea. But the best part? It happens almost every single day! The only thing that needs to happen is that there has to be complete darkness (not even moon light). So the best time to experience this is from approximately 4:00 to 6:00 in the morning.

To do this activity, we strongly recommend you to book a tour or bargain with a local. Bioluminescence cannot be found in every area of the island. So unless you have a boat to move around, it will be hard for you to actually find this on your own (at least on a large scale).

Because this is such a unique experience, this is definitely one of the best things to do in the Yucatán Península in Mexico.

12. Save the Turtles

Right on the island of Cozumel, between the months of April and November, is one of the sweetest experiences we have ever encountered.

On this excursion you will be taken in a small group to a local beach, where you will dig in the sand to find baby turtles who need help being saved.  This is usually done through some cruise ships, but can also be set up separately.

Once you get all of the turtles you will release them into the sea to begin their life. There are only a few spots in the world where you can experience this, and the Yucatán Península in Mexico is one of them!

13. Swim with Whale Sharks

For those of you who are more daring, get ready- because this is a great opportunity for a rush of adrenaline. Every year, many whale sharks visit various areas in the Yucatán península in Mexico, and you can dive with them.

So get an oxygen tank and a mask. and get ready to experience one heck of a day. Get ready to dive into the sea to meet your new gigantic-sized friends!

14. Sail on a Catamaran

What could be more fun than going with your group on a private boat? Catamaran trips can be found in Cancún, Playa del Carmen, and Cozumel. They usually run around 4 hours, and there are all types and sizes. Catamarans typically include food, unlimited drinks, snorkeling, and a stop at a beautiful beach. What could be more perfect?

Expect to pay between $60-80/person. If you have a small group there are shared catamaran. However, if you have a big group you can rent your own private charter! Try to find a contact in advance, as getting them the day of can be a little more difficult.

15. Kaan Luum Lagoon

Located just a half hour from the center of Tulum, is an amazing lagoon to check out. While seen from a birds eye perspective, Kaan Luum shows a large round area of water in which the color completely changes.

They have swings and hammocks that sit in the water, a long pier, and lounge chairs for relaxing. Want to get an awesome panorama? They even have stairs to a platform for a great view of the lagoon.

They are open from 9 am to 5 pm and the cost is just 100 pesos ($5 USD) to enter. Drones are allowed but there is an extra charge of 150 pesos for using them.

16. Tulum Hotel Zone

Tulum is an Instagrammer's dream! The chic atmosphere is shown in every corner of this city, so grab your camera and get ready for some beautiful photo opportunities! Tulum is a must-visit for those on their first trip to the Yucatán Península in Mexico.

Want to know some of the best spots to stop at? Then you should check out our full article below!

17. Faro de Cancún

One of the top destinations for tourists in the Yucatán Península in Mexico is Cancún. But Cancún isn't just a place for an all-inclusive getaway or partying with your friends. On the North Western tip of Cancún you can find a beautiful red and white lighthouse.

The lighthouse is actually located on a resort. However, if you would like to visit you can walk around on the beach to access it. Head there for sunrise or sunset for an extra magical experience.

18. Cancún Street Art

Head over to downtown Cancún to find some more vibrant and local vibes, Here you can find plenty of street art from local artists, and get a taste of what it's like outside of the large resorts of the hotel zone.

This particular piece you can find located right next to Fiesta Party Hostel on Calle 5 Alcatraces. Want more? Additionally, there is a square nearby called Jardin del Arte (Garden of Art), with plenty of other fun pieces.

19. Playa Delfines, Cancún

One of the main things that people think of when they think of the Yucatán Península in Mexico, is without-a-doubt the pristine beaches. One of our personal favorites is in Cancún! Despite the majority of the best beaches being taken over by the big all-inclusive resorts, Playa Delfines is actually a public beach.

This beach features the most turquoise waters you will ever see and silky smooth sand. And the best part? It is free of charge!

20. Puerto Morelos

This adorable town is located just halfway between Cancún and Playa del Carmen. Because it is just a half hour from both major cities, it is the perfect day trip to check out.

Puerto Morelos isn't big, but it does have a lot to offer! Head over to "La Ruta de Los Cenotes" for a string of off-the-beaten-path cenotes. Or you can head over to the beach to see the tilted lighthouse.

21. Cenotes Kin-Ha

We love this spot because it is far enough to be a hidden gem, but close enough that it can be easily reached (by car).

Kin-Ha features two main cenotes. There is one that is open and has several jumping platforms and ziplines. Meanwhile, the other one is located inside of a cave, that you can jump into from the top! Click Here for more info about these awesome cenotes!

22. Cenote La Noria

Located right across from Cenotes Kin-Ha, you can also find this beautiful hidden gem. Cenote La Noria is pretty off-the-beaten-path, but surely does not disappoint!

This cenote features three entrances into an open cave. You can rent a kayak to row and explore the peacefulness. Additionally, there are two swings for some extra fun. Not to mention- some super Instagrammable shots!

23. Valladolid City

Valladolid is one of the most underrated cities in the Yucatan Peninsula in Mexico. This colorful Pueblo Mágico is located right in the center of the península, making it a great home point. Also, It's location makes it well connected to many nearby cities and touristic points.

Valladolid is known for it's colorful buildings, delicious food, and cheap prices! It's also great because you can visit Chichen Itza most easily from here, while also being just an hour from Merida, Playa del Carmen, and Tulum.

24. Cenote Zaci

This cenote is so great because of just how convenient it is! Cenote Zaci is found right inside the center of Valladolid, and only costs 30 pesos ($1.50 USD). It may be underrated, but it's a great spot to add to your list for the Yucatán Península in Mexico.

25. Cenote San Lorenzo Oxman

This is one of our favorite cenotes in all of the Yucatán Península. Cenote San Lorenzo Oxman is just 15 minutes outside of Valladolid. It features an hacienda with a pool, and a deep open-topped cenote. But what makes this cenote unique is the fun rope swing inside!

26. Ex-Convento de Santo Domingo

This is another one of those hidden gems in the Yucatán Península in Mexico. Located on the outskirts of Valladolid, this Ex-convent is extremely photogenic. Because of its beautiful white design, on the brightly red colored building, it's a really unique place to check out.

27. Hacienda Kaan-AC

This is not just one of the most unique hotels in the Yucatán Península, but in all of Mexico. Hacienda Kaan AC was previously a castle, and is now a five-star hotel right outside the center of Valladolid.

The hotel features elaborately royal rooms, a pool, and an entire property to explore. Additonally, they even host art workshops!

28. Monumento a La Patria

This iconic spot is located in Merida,  which is the safest city in Mexico. El Monumento a la Patria is found inside of a roundabout in the center of the city.

This truly remarkable monument wraps around the entire circle of Paseo de Montejo. Take a walk over and admire the stunning architecture that the monument has to offer. But just be careful of the traffic!

29. Mahahual

This small fishing village is located in what is also known as "Costa Maya". If you have been on a Caribbean cruise, chances are that you may have been here or heard of this place. The beautiful beaches run along the village, and feature plenty of bars, restaurants, shops, and hotels.

Click Here to read more about Costa Maya, and the town of Mahahual.

30. Bacalar

This is one of those spots in Mexico that really isn't visited as much as it should be. Bacalar is a little further south of the Yucatán Pen´insula, but is just a few hours away from Tulum! This Pueblo Mágico is famed for its seven colored lagoon, as well as some of the beautiful cenotes around it.

Want to learn more about all of the fun things to do in Bacalar? Click Here!

The Yucatán Península in Mexico is extremely popular, and now you know why! There is so much to do and see in this small corner of the country. That's why we've written plenty of articles about all of the great spots. Also wondering what the best places to stay are? Click Here.

Ready to start planning an epic trip? Let us help! Sit back and relax while we take care of the long process of finding the best flight deals, or creating the perfect itinerary. Now with Scratch Your Mapa Travel Planning you can worry less and save during the process. Want to learn more? Just click here to get started!

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