Sun, Snorkel & Savor: The Best Things to Do in Costa Mujeres

Plan your dream Cancun getaway with these Costa Mujeres adventures!

Last updated: August 12, 2026
Woman Looking at the Sea

Dreaming of a Cancun vacation with a twist? Just a quick ride north of the city, Costa Mujeres offers crystal-clear waters, soft white sand and a chill, laid-back vibe that sets it apart from the bustling hotel zone. Whether your vacation style is all about adrenaline-packed adventures or simply soaking up sun and seafood, Costa Mujeres has you covered. From dazzling natural wonders to unforgettable tours and tranquil spa escapes, we’ll help you build a trip that’s anything but ordinary. 

Our favorite things to do in Costa Mujeres include: 

  • ATV, Zipline & Cenote adventure by Extreme Adventuring 
  • Chichen Itza 
  • Columbus Romantic Dinner Cruise by The Dolphin Company 
  • Jungle Speedboat & Snorkeling Tour by Aquaworld 
  • Royal Garrafon Natural Reef Park 
  • Interactive Aquarium 
  • Coco Bongo Beach Party 
  • Exploring Playa Mujeres Beaches 
  • Sunset Dining at Marbella Fish Market & Raw Bar 

ATV, Zipline & Cenote Adventure by Extreme Adventuring  

Adventure seekers, get ready to rev up your vacation! The ATV, Zipline & Cenote Adventure packs the best jungle thrills into one action-fueled half-day trip. Start by tearing through lush jungle trails on your own all-terrain vehicle, splashing through muddy puddles and dodging tropical trees, all with expert guides who know how to balance safety and fun. Feel the rush as you zoom down a series of high-flying ziplines strung through the canopy, each stretch bringing fresh views, shouts of laughter, and, every now and then, a howler monkey up in the branches. 

Once your heart’s pounding, the cenote calls. These calm limestone sinkholes offer crisp, cool water—and after all that adrenaline, nothing feels better than a refreshing dip in a sparkling blue cenote. Many tours include a quick swim, and sometimes snacks, so you can unwind and recharge before heading back. This blend of mud, speed and sparkle is Costa Mujeres’ answer to adventure and a perfect way to get a taste of Mexico’s wilder side—literally! 

Chichen Itza  

No trip to this slice of the Yucatán is complete without soaking up a little ancient history—and there’s nothing more awe-inspiring than a visit to Chichen Itza. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is a sprawling complex of stepped pyramids, intricate temples and mysterious stone carvings, all set amid sun-dappled jungle. Walk among what was once the beating heart of the Mayan world, and picture the clamor and color of ancient ceremonies that once unfolded here. 

Guided tours—often available from resorts and travel outfitters in Costa Mujeres—bring the crumbling ruins to life with tales of feathered serpents, star-gazing priests and ball games that were anything but your average Sunday sport. The Pyramid of Kukulkan at the center is an absolute must-see, especially if you’re hooked on snapping unforgettable photos for your travel album. The site’s size means it never feels crowded, and you’ll come away with a sense of mystery, wonder, and fresh appreciation for the stories hidden under every stone. 

Columbus Romantic Dinner Cruise by The Dolphin Company  

Looking for the perfect date night or anniversary treat? The Columbus Romantic Dinner Cruise sets the mood for a magical evening on the Caribbean. Set sail from the marina as the sun dips toward the horizon, cocktails in hand and a gentle breeze in your hair. With live saxophone music drifting through the air and stars starting to twinkle overhead, this two-hour cruise delivers romance by the boatload. 

The real star of the evening? Dinner, of course—a three-course feast with options like lobster tail, juicy steak or fusion favorites, all served with tropical cocktails or sparkling wine. Tables are set for two, letting you enjoy privacy as the ship glides past tranquil mangroves and the twinkling lights of the Cancun skyline. This is seaside dining at its finest, perfect for popping the question, celebrating, or just indulging in some well-deserved luxury. Every detail adds up to a night you’ll remember long after the last sunset cocktail. 

Jungle Speedboat & Snorkeling Tour by Aquaworld

Couple on Jungle Speedboat Tour

If you crave a little independence with your aquatic adventures, the Jungle Speedboat & Snorkeling Tour through the lush mangroves of the Nichupte Lagoon is a must. This hands-on tour is all about fun and freedom, with just enough speed to get your blood pumping and jaw-dropping scenery around every bend. Follow your guide (and a convoy of other grinning speedboaters) as you zip past wildlife hotspots, with egrets, iguanas and even the occasional crocodile making a guest appearance. 

Once you reach the reef, mask up and slide into the water for some world-class snorkeling. This slice of the Mesoamerican Barrier Reef serves up clouds of colorful fish, waving sea fans, and bright corals as far as the eye can see. The snorkeling spot is usually shallow, making it perfect for beginners and younger adventurers. With minimal fuss and maximum fun, this combo tour packs a punch—speed, scenery and the chance to say, “Yup, I drove the boat myself.” 

Royal Garrafon Natural Reef Park  

For those eager to blend adventure with island chill, hop a quick ferry to Isla Mujeres and head straight for the Royal Garrafon Natural Reef Park. This all-in-one island escape has it all: swaying hammocks, an infinity pool, and knockout ocean views—plus action for anyone who wants to do more than just nap in the shade. Kayak over bright turquoise waters, or strap on a harness and tackle the park’s zipline, flying high above jagged cliffs and the glimmering surf. 

But the real draw here is the park’s spot right next to a lively coral reef perfect for snorkeling. Slip into the water to watch rainbow-colored parrotfish darting through waving fans and sea turtles cruising by. The low-key atmosphere means you never feel rushed, and everything’s designed so you can kick back or amp up the activity level with zero hassle. Sunbathe, snack and swim your way through a perfect island day—this is living the good life, Mexican style. 

Interactive Aquarium  

Sometimes you need a break from the beach, and that’s where the Interactive Aquarium steps in. Located in the nearby La Isla Shopping Village, this family-friendly spot delivers hands-on fun for all ages. The highlight? You’re encouraged to get up close and personal with marine life—think petting starfish, feeding rays, or snapping Insta-worthy selfies with docile nurse sharks. 

Daily animal feedings, guided encounters and touch pools create an environment as educational as it is engaging, making it a great pick for families or anyone craving a splash of ocean magic without leaving dry land. If you’re keen on learning about local marine conservation or just want to tempt a dolphin to splash you, the Interactive Aquarium is the perfect palate cleanser between days spent in the sand. 

Coco Bongo Beach Party

Coco Bongo Beach Party

Costa Mujeres knows how to party, and Coco Bongo Beach Party keeps the energy going from day to night. Set right on soft white sands, this high-energy beach club is pure spectacle—giant screens flash music videos, acrobats soar above the crowd, and bursts of confetti turn every hour into a celebration. It’s bold, over-the-top, and all about nonstop fun. 

The vibe stays upbeat with DJs spinning everything from current hits to throwback anthems, while the menu serves up tacos, burgers, and vibrant cocktails—don’t miss the signature Coco Loco served in a coconut. Whether you’re dancing by the shoreline or relaxing in a shaded cabana, there’s always something happening just a few steps away. With ocean views, high-energy performances, and a crowd-ready atmosphere, it’s a standout stop for sun-soaked revelry in Costa Mujeres. 

Exploring Playa Mujeres Beaches  

For pure relaxation, nothing beats the pristine sands of Playa Mujeres. This stretch of coast is known for its calm, crystal-clear waters and powdery white beaches, ideal for a lazy morning or a full day of doing absolutely nothing. The pace here is laid-back, with far fewer crowds than the main Cancun strip, so you can always find space to spread out your towel or snag a lounger beneath a swaying palm. 

Local vendors offer cold coconuts and fresh ceviche, while the luxe resorts lining the coast serve up umbrella cocktails and spa treatments just steps from the surf. Nearby, beach clubs and water sports kiosks have everything you need if the mood for paddleboarding, kayaking, or jet skiing strikes. Sunrise is especially magical here—bring your camera, gaze out over the turquoise horizon, and soak up that unmistakable Caribbean tranquility. 

Sunset Dining at Marbella Fish Market & Raw Bar  

Foodies, get ready: Marbella Fish Market & Raw Bar is a must for seafood lovers. This casual, stylish spot boasts a menu packed with the freshest catch of the day—everything from briny oysters to zesty ceviche and perfectly grilled whole fish. Their octopus carpaccio is a house specialty, and the shrimp tacos are word-of-mouth famous. Pair your meal with a tangy margarita or an icy michelada for ultimate refreshment. 

What sets Marbella apart is the unbeatable setting. Dine al fresco on a terrace with sweeping sea views, toes in the sand, and watch the sky melt into pastel pinks as the sun sets over the water. The vibe is relaxed and welcoming—ideal for a leisurely lunch after snorkeling, or a romantic dinner to close out a sun-soaked day. Come hungry, stay late, and savor Costa Mujeres’ seafood scene at its relaxed best. 

 

From wild zipline runs and lively dance parties to tranquil beaches and unforgettable bites, Costa Mujeres packs laid-back thrills and hidden pleasures into every sun-drenched corner. Whether you want heart-pumping adventure, pure relaxation, or a taste of authentic Yucatán flavor, there’s always a new reason to wander just a little further from Cancun. One visit, and you’ll see why this is the area everyone’s buzzing about—your Costa Mujeres story is just waiting to begin. 

Enjoyed this? Check out Things to Do in the El Centro Cancun or Things to Do in Cancun in the Morning  

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Friends check out the sights at Chichen Itza
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Why visit Cancun in December?

If the cold dark days of December get you down, look no further than the Mexican beach resort of Cancun. Situated in the country’s subtropical south, on the eastern edge of the Yucatan Peninsula, its days hit a heady 28°C just as other destinations in the northern hemisphere are preparing for snow and ice. Even before the arrival of the festive season, Cancun in December has a lot to say for itself. Some of the coolest temperatures and humidity levels of the year make it a great time to explore the treasures of the Maya, whilst the limited rainfall helps ensure great water visibility. But these are just a couple of reasons to book your trip to Cancun in December right now. For the rest, just keep reading! Discover the world of the Maya Although not the first month in Cancun’s peak period, the start of December remains comparatively quiet, with lower visitor numbers than other months in the dry season. If you’re keen to explore the ancient Mayan city of Chichen Itza without the crowds, now’s the time to do it. Humidity levels are on the lower side too, making it a little easier to discover the wealth of ruins and admire the sheer might of El Castillo pyramid. It’s a structure you’ve probably already seen even if you don’t realize it because it’s such a landmark for the Riviera Maya region. However, to see – and climb – the tallest step pyramid ever constructed by the Maya, you’ll need to head to the abandoned city of Coba. Almost lost to the jungle, its pyramid rises an impressive 42 meters high. Its steps sit at such an angle that many who accept the challenge of climbing to the top do so with the help of a rope before descending again on their backsides. Experience the best of the Caribbean Sea If climbing Coba’s pyramid gets you hot under the collar, the site has another attraction right up your street – a cenote or sinkhole. Just one of tens of thousands that dot the landscape of the Yucatan, and entirely natural in origin, these cave-like chambers are filled with cooling water from underground streams. That at Coba is known as Tankach Ha, or ‘deep water’, and has a depth at some points of 35 meters, although its two wooden platforms welcome swimmers and feet-dippers of all abilities. Snorkel in open water and you’ll lose the freshness Tankach Ha and other cenotes are famous for, but you’ll gain a brightly-colored underwater world teeming with darting tropical fish, anchored by hard and soft corals and visited by sharks, rays and turtles. The location of the largest reef system this side of the international date line, there are plenty of spots to choose between, including Puerto Morelos and Isla Mujeres. One of the most unusual places to explore with snorkel, scuba gear or glass-bottomed boat is the ‘gallery’ of Cancun’s Underwater Museum at Paraiso Nizuc at the southern end of the hotel zone. Part art installation and part coral conservation effort, the museum’s gallery contains 33 concrete sculptures by Mexican and international artists placed between two and four meters down as a new place for the region’s species to inhabit. Take in the festive vibes On the streets of Cancun the coming of the festive season doesn’t go unnoticed. In this majority catholic nation, it remains a significant religious celebration, with churches richly decorated from the start of December. Festivities heighten further with the multi-day Las Posadas celebration on December 16, commemorating the journey the Holy Family had to make from Nazareth to Bethlehem for the birth of Jesus. Candlelit processions take to the streets, symbolizing the search for somewhere to stay, whilst nativity scenes and decorations pop up throughout the city. Even before this, there’s the national holiday of the Day of the Virgin of Guadalupe on December 12, with events including marching band parades. Christmas Day itself is quickly followed by the Day of the Holy Innocents (Dia de los Santos Inocentes) on December 28. A Mexican version of April Fool’s Day, expect plenty of practical jokes! Celebrations come thick and fast, with New Year’s Eve just three days later. As you might expect, fireworks erupt over the hotel zone on the stroke of midnight, whilst elsewhere many of the bars and clubs that have made the main strip famous across the world host special countdowns. Go wild Cancun in December has still more attractions awaiting your attention should you be able to drag yourself away from the gorgeous beaches for a couple of hours. If the sights and sounds of the region’s jungle have intrigued you, there are plenty of ways to explore its canopy cover. One of the most fun has to be at Extreme Adventure Park, where you can take an ATV down jungle tracks before sweeping through the trees attached to a zipline. There’s a similar zip-lining experience to be had at Selvatica Park, which has no fewer than ten zip-line courses, including their zip-line roller coaster and one that hangs so low over the water you’re sure to get wet. For more water-based rides, there’s Wet n’ Wild, one of three worlds at Ventura Park amusement park. Among other rides, you can plunge into the water with a dead drop, enjoy a splash down on an inner tube or float along the lazy river. Alternatively, you could try your hands (or should that be feet?) at another sort of adventure, the Cancun marathon. The 42 kilometer mental and physical challenge starts out at the south of the hotel zone and winds its way to downtown Cancun before doubling back towards Punta Nizuc. Relish Cancun in December With average daily temperatures of 28°C, Cancun in December sees some of its chilliest temperatures of the year – a lovely problem to have! Humidity levels are also low by the standards of the year, making the month a good choice even without taking seasonal celebrations into account. Be sure to make the absolute most of your time by exploring with Go City. We work hard to give you incredible discounts on attraction admission for many of Cancun’s top things to do and see. Plus, with Go City there’s no need to plan your days way ahead of time – so if the weather’s just too good for that museum visit, you won’t find yourself trapped indoors!
Ian Packham
A colorful Cancun sign standing by the ocean
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Great reasons to visit Cancun in September

Lying deep within the low season, September is rarely considered for visits to Cancun. The lack of crowds makes Cancun in September as budget friendly as it comes, with great deals on offer on flights and hotel stays. What’s more, September brings in one of the biggest days in the Mexican calendar, as well as events which only occur two days a year. These are in addition to the usual mix of water sports and beach fun. Join us as we explore the many things to do in Cancun in September! Hit the beaches When it comes to Cancun, it’s sparkling waters are always a good place to start. Located on the Yucatan Peninsula’s east coast, this modern city with an ancient heart faces out into the warmth of the Caribbean Sea. Edged by the world’s second longest coral reef system, its hotel zone is draped with a ribbon of white sand beaches totalling no less than 22 kilometers in length. It catches the gentle breezes to one side and looks out across the jungle around Nichupte Lagoon on the other. Although it’s one of the quieter beaches, Playa Chacmool is still a great example of what you can expect. Beside the sun loungers and parasol rentals there’s plenty of opportunities to enjoy the waves, with swimming and water sports including parasailing possible. The neighboring Playa Gaviota Azul – better known as Playa Forum – is one of the region’s top party beaches, whilst Playa Tortugas (Turtle Beach) on the spit of land connecting the hotel zone with downtown Cancun has a local family vibe that’s hard to resist. Delve into the history Undeniably, the best place to absorb the culture is at the Palacio Municipal (Town Hall) on Avenida Tulum on the evening of September 15 – Mexican Independence Day. Commemorating the start of the fight for liberation against the Spanish in 1810 – taking place with little more than clubs and catapults – the festivities begin with the reenactment of a speech given by Don Miguel Hidalgo, now seen as the father of the country. The celebrations continue with mariachi music, dancing, feasting and a late-night fireworks display. Dating back much further is the abandoned Mayan city of Chichen Itza, founded sometime around AD 600 and home to the magnificent El Castillo pyramid. Although one of the top attractions in the region, we wouldn’t usually recommend a visit at this time of year because some travelers can find the humidity levels in land hard to bear. However, who could resist the chance of seeing the appearance of a snake on the pyramid’s sides during the autumn equinox around September 20, given it’s a phenomenon only occurring a couple of times a year? Cool off in a cenote Likewise, jungle adventures are often avoided at this time of year because of the humidity. Follow this trend and you’ll be missing out on some of Cancun’s other major attractions – its cenotes (flooded naturally-occurring sinkholes). Extending underground for thousands of kilometers by some estimates, they are accessed through the collapse of cave walls and ceilings, resulting in open, semi-open and pit-like cenotes. Sought out at this time of year because of their fresh water, which remains pleasantly cool, cenotes are a unique experience. Surrounded by jungle and held sacred by the Maya, their incredibly clear waters are reached by steps, ladders passed through gaps in the rock and even by plunging several meters. Amongst our favorites are Cenote Yaxmuul beside Jungle Maya Native Park and Gran Cenote, richly decorated with stalactites and stalagmites. Its waters host both fish and small turtles, whilst bats hang out (very literally) around the cave walls. Go turtle spotting The much-larger cousins of Gran Cenote’s reptiles – green, loggerhead and hawksbill turtles – arrive in their hundreds on the protected eastern beaches of Isla Mujeres during the Cancun low season. Egg-laden females push their way across the sands to the tideline most evenings in order to deposit the yet-to-be-born next generation. Males and immature females fill their stomachs amongst the reefs, making them a regular sighting on snorkeling and scuba diving expeditions. But that’s not all! With nesting turtles comes hatching turtles a couple of months later, meaning those eggs laid in June and July will be hatching out right about now. Most hatchings take place towards nightfall, bringing a wonderful end to any day on the island. Do a little window shopping Mention any trip to Cancun in September and the inevitable response will be ‘what about the rain?’ We’re not going to pretend the climate at this time of year is wall to wall sunshine, but nor can we say it’s continuously raining – because it isn’t. Statistically, September is the wettest month of the year, and yet two thirds of its days are entirely rain free. Those days which do see rain generally save it up for a heavy downpour lasting two to three hours in the afternoon. Check the local weather forecast and you can time these moments to coincide with a visit to one of Cancun’s indoor attractions. Join a shopping tour of Cancun and you’ll get to browse the stalls of Mercado (market) 28 as well as the boutique stores located within the Plaza Las Americas shopping mall. Providing two contrasting experiences, Mercado 28 is a great place to pick up local art, decide on a souvenir and eat in authentic restaurants. Plaza Las Americas is where the middle and upper classes shop for the latest brands to make a name internationally. Save in Cancun in September Know what you’re doing and a vacation in Cancun in September can be as epic as one during the high season. Only – you’ll be saving a bunch of cash in the process. Flight and accommodation deals aren’t the only way to stretch your budget either. Check out Cancun’s attractions with Go City, and you’ll get incredible savings on admission costs without having to do much more than turn up whenever you fancy and show your pass on entry.
Ian Packham
Cancun Rain
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Things to Do in Cancun When it Rains

Cancun is known as a beach paradise with endless sunshine and warmth, but every so often you may catch a rainy day. Just in case you are in Cancun when it rains, you might want to have a backup plan. Here are our favorite indoor activities and rainy day trip ideas for Cancun. Interactive Aquarium Cancun Shopping Tours Taco and Beer Tasting Tour Bars and Restaurants Museo Maya de Cancun Interactive Aquarium Cancun Located right in the Isla Vista Shopping Mall, Interactive Aquarium Cancun is the perfect place to take the whole family if the weather isn't all sunshine and beaches. Instead, bring beach life inside and discover Cancun's exciting marine life. You can easily spend the day here, with plenty of touch tanks, fish tanks, and volunteer-led presentations. Watch as dolphins splash around their habitat or get to know the feeling of a sting ray's slimy back as they zip around the tanks. You'll forget you're indoors and not at the beach. Shopping tours While these shopping tours aren't completely out of the rain, you might find it worthwhile to endure a drop or two as you pop in and out of the shops. Shop the streets of Playa del Carmen or peruse the booths at Mercado 28 in Cancun (or do both!) on a guided tour of these two city's shopping districts. What better excuse to spend a couple of hours shopping than rain? Playa del Carmen Hop aboard the bus and head down to Playa del Carmen, another popular resort destination just outside of Cancun. Your tour guide will lead you down Fifth Avenue, the longest stretch of shops and goods in the area. You can shop anything from local-owned boutiques to popular international brands like H&M. Cancun On this guided tour, you'll find other places to shop besides La Isla. Your guide will take you to Mercado 28 and Plaza Las Americas - a shopper's paradise. Mercado 28 is set up just like a flea market, with locally made goods and gifts perfect for friends back home. Plaza Las Americas offers well-known stores like Victoria's Secret, Sears, and Adidas Take your tastebuds on a food tour Immerse yourself in the local cuisine on a Colors of Mexico Taco Tour and Local Beer Tasting. This fantastic foodie tour will keep you out of the rain for an evening whilst you indulge in the best taquerias in town. You'll stop at four local restaurants, all chosen to take you on a journey through Mexico. Feast on tacos de cochinita, tacos coapeñito, tacos de surtido, and tacos al pastor as you explore the best food Cancun has to offer. With a perfectly paired beer (or soft drink) at every stop, you'll never want this tour to end! Your knowledgeable guide will make this unique experience all the better, on-hand to give you a complete history of Mexico's culture, food traditions, and little-known facts about their most delectable secret ingredients. Hit the bars and restaurants  There are plenty of local bars and restaurants in Cancun to explore if your trip to the beach is canceled at the last minute. Find somewhere to settle down for the afternoon to enjoy some delicious seafood and perfectly refreshing drinks. Fred's House is just the place for a bite and a drink. This American-style seafood restaurant offers beautiful views and private cabana seating that keeps you out of the weather's way. Being inside doesn't have to mean missing out on Cancun's views! If you're just stopping in for a quick drink, grab a seat at the bar and use your pass for $20 towards drinks. Will you sip on a piña colada or a beer? Museo Maya de Cancun Check out one of Cancun's best art and anthropological museums: Museo Maya de Cancun. This museum holds one of the most important collections of Mayan artifacts, from jewelry to ceramics and sculptures. There are nearly 400 pieces on display, all showcasing Mayan culture. This museum is definitely worth a visit. You'll head home with a wealth of knowledge – not just a tan! Rainy day savings galore See? You can stay dry all while having plenty of fun indoors in Cancun when it rains. We hope these ideas helped inspire you to create a fun-filled indoorsy itinerary for your trip! It's always good to have a backup plan, just in case. Save up to 50% on Cancun attractions   Discover our full line-up of Cancun attractions, from Xcaret Park to parasailing adventures. 🤩 >> If you want to see and do as much as you can, our All-Inclusive Pass is for you.     😎 >> If you want to pick just a few attractions and visit at your own pace, our Explorer Pass is the perfect option. 
Nicole Muto

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