Famous Cancun Landmarks & the Most Instagrammable Places to Take Pictures in Cancun

Published: July 18, 2024

If you didn't Instagram it, did it even happen? Whether you want to show off your vacation photos or not, you most definitely will want to take pictures to remember all of the incredible things you did in Cancun. Cancun is a popular vacation destination because of its bright blue oceans, gorgeous beaches and warm weather. From days of relaxation pool or beach side to adventures at Chichén Itzá, there's something for everyone to enjoy (and photograph!). This is why we’ve had our team of city insider’s put together a list of some popular places to take pictures in Cancun.

Best Ways to See Famous Cancun Landmarks

There’s plenty of great places to snap the perfect Instagram photo of famous Cancun landmarks during your trip. Getting around Cancun is easy, especially when tons of attractions on the Go Cancun Card offer free round trip transportation. See all included attractions here. Many of the photo opps we listed below are located near some of the top attractions in the city – so you can combine the best sights with the best things to do. See all available passes, attractions & prices – Learn more.

Best Places to Take Photos in Cancun

1. Dolphin Discovery Cancun

dolphin-tursiops-aduncus-swimming

A post shared by Kelly ? (@kellyccollin) on Jun 22, 2018 at 11:23am PDT

Dolphin Discovery is located on Isla Mujeres, a small island off the coast of Cancun. There's tons to do at Dolphin Discovery, but one of the most exciting and unique experiences is the chance to swim with dolphins. Hop in the water and allow the dolphins to perform tricks with you. You can hang onto their dorsal fins as they swim across the pool. They'll jump, flip and perform with a final dolphin kiss to finish off your day spent enjoying their show. After a day spent with your new aquatic friends, relax poolside or explore all that the park has to offer. Getting inRoyal Swim VIP Plus at Royal Garrafon Park tickets are included on Go Cancun Card as a premium option. Address: Camino Sac Bajo Lote 26, Fraccionamiento Paraíso Laguna Mar, 77400 Isla Mujeres, Q.R., Mexico

2. Chichén Itzá

temple-kukulcan-yucatan-mexico-chichén-itzá

A post shared by Claire Pritchard (@clairempritch) on Jun 25, 2018 at 4:04pm PDT

Chichén Itzá is a pre-Colombian city built by the Mayan people. It is one of the most famous archaeological sites in all of Mexico and is home to many different temples and structures built in traditional Mayan fashion. During its time, Chichén Itzá was the largest city and is believed to be one of the mythical great cities often referred to in Mesoamerican literature. Make sure you have your camera at the ready as you explore the site. There's tons of historical things to see and learn about during your time here. As one of the 7 Wonders of the New World, Chichén Itzá is truly a can't-miss. Getting in: Chichén Itzá At Your Own Pace tickets are included on Go Cancun Card. Address: Yucatan, Mexico

3. Xplor Park

spiral-tower-xplor-mexico

A post shared by Lucas Nader (@lucasnaderm) on Jun 24, 2018 at 8:43am PDT

Xplor Park is an adventure park where you can fly across the skies on ziplines, commandeer your own amphibious vehicle and explore underground rivers. For the best experience, head there after dark for Xplor Fuego. When the sun goes down, the park is illuminated with tiki torches and lights strung up to guide you as you continue your adventures. Explore the caves, fly through the trees and ride down the river as night falls on Cancun. Getting in: Xplor Fuego Park All-Inclusive Admission tickets are included on Go Cancun Card as premium option. Address: Carretera Cancún -Tulum Km 282, Puerto Juarez, Solidaridad, 77710 Playa del Carmen, Q.R., Mexico

4. Cruise the waters of Cancun

A post shared by Dancer Cruise Cancun (@dancercancun) on Mar 10, 2018 at 7:27am PST

One of the reasons Cancun is such a popular destination is because of the beauty of its oceans and beaches. The turquoise waters are something you have to see for yourself, and the best way to do so is aboard a cruise. Whether you hop on a sail boat or a catamaran, we guarantee you'll come across some of the most picturesque views you've ever seen. Keep your camera out! You can choose for a relaxed night on a dinner cruise or try the lively and upbeat Dancer Cruise, complete with a diving board and water slide on deck. Getting inColumbus Sunset Dinner Cruise tickets, Isla Mujeres Discovery Cruise tickets and Dancer Cruise Cancun tickets are included on Go Cancun Card.

5. Garrafon Park

park-garrafon-isla-mujeres-cancun

A post shared by Traveller • O Mundo Num Giro (@karinrozendo) on May 15, 2018 at 6:23pm PDT

It may seem like there are a lot of natural parks and eco-adventures in Cancun, but we promise you this - visiting as many as you can is totally worth it! At this natural reef park you'll find colorful fish, tons of coral and unique sculptures under the water. Don't miss the opportunity to snorkel here. You'll come face to face with the locals, like sea turtles, African surgeonfish, spotted blowfish and more. Zipline up above or relax at the infinity pool that overlooks the Caribbean Sea. From swinging in hammocks to swinging through the tree tops, a day at Garrafon Park will be unforgettable. Getting inRoyal Garrafon Natural Reef Park Adventure tickets and Royal Swim VIP Plus at Royal Garrafon Park tickets are included on Go Cancun Card. Address: Carretera Garrafón Lote 9 Km. 6, SM 9, 77400 Isla Mujeres, Q.R., Mexico

6. Parasail above Cancun

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A post shared by @andreiaflorduardo on Apr 20, 2018 at 10:13am PDT

One of the best ways to see Cancun is by floating above it. Strap yourself into a harness and fly above the clouds on a parasail trip over Cancun. If you've never been before, don't worry - there will be guides and operators to help you with a seamless ride. Bring a waterproof or disposable camera with you to snap photos as you glide over the bright blue water and white sand beaches. You can even have your captain dip you into the water at the end of your journey! Getting inParasailing Adventure in Cancun tickets are included on Go Cancun Card.

7. Explore a cenote

ikkil-cenote-sinkhole-lovely-yucatan-peninsulla

A post shared by JoAnna? (@joannariker) on Jun 10, 2018 at 10:16am PDT

For those that don't know, a cenote is a natural sinkhole created from the collapse of limestone or rock. The collapse reveals an underground oasis of crystal clear waters and sand. Cenotes are a peculiar thing because you still get the feeling of being underground even as sunlight pours through the large opening at the top of the rock. The chance to swim and swing around the cenotes of Cancun and Tulum are absolute can't-miss stops on your vacation. When else will you be able to relax in a natural pit? Make sure you bring a waterproof camera to capture the beauty of it all! Getting in: Tulum-Tankha Cenotes Eco-Adventure Park tickets are included on Go Cancun Card.

8. Snorkel Puerto Morelos

reef-front-puerto-morelos

A post shared by Brad Chrisman (@chad.brisman) on Oct 15, 2017 at 9:58am PDT

Journey below sea level and meet the aquatic life that calls Puerto Morelos home. The reef off of Puerto Morelos is the second largest greatest barrier reef in the world and is full of sea turtles, colorful fishes and unique families of coral. Diving into the water to explore for yourself is one of the best ways to learn more about the oceans that surround Mexico. Getting inSnorkel in Puerto Morelos Plus Meal tickets included on Go Cancun Card.

9. La Isla Shopping Village in Cancun

A post shared by Elaine Resende (@elaineresende_) on Jun 5, 2018 at 8:05am PDT

It may be called a shopping village, but La Isla Shopping Village is way more than that. The indoor-outdoor shopping mall is also home to attractions and rides. No matter what you're looking for, you're sure to find it here. You can peruse the racks at your favorite stores, like H&M and Victoria's Secret, or explore the souvenir shops owned by the locals. If shopping isn't your ideal vacation activity, not to worry - you can visit the aquarium, dine on authentic cuisine or catch a movie here too. Getting in: Shopping in Cancun tickets and Interactive Aquarium Cancun tickets are included on Go Cancun Card. Address: Blvd. Kukulcan km 12.5, La Isla, Zona Hotelera, 77500 Cancún, Q.R., Mexico

Let’s Recap

While this list is by no means exhaustive, it does contain a bunch of our favorite places to take pictures in Cancun. From the most popular attractions to natural caves to snorkeling, there’s something to suit every taste when it comes to Cancun photo opportunities. Remember, a number of these famous Cancun sights and attractions are available with the Go Cancun Card, where you can save on combined admission prices vs. paying at the gate. If you have recommendations for other places to get the best photos in Cancun, feel free to comment below!

Nicole Muto
Go City Travel Expert

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Things to do at Night in Cancun
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Things to do at Night in Cancun - Evening Activities

Looking for the best things to do in Cancun at night? You've found them! Below, we'll cover all the best experiences you'll find when the sun goes down. So have a nap, settle down, and strap in, because we're pulling an all-nighter! Including: Romantic dinner cruises Great views of Cancun's skyline Bar hopping fun Night time snorkeling and more! Columbus Romantic Dinner Cruise Ahoy there, lovers! If you've never boarded a Spanish Galleon and sailed the seven seas while having a romantic dinner for two, then this one's for you! Because that's exactly what this is! Soak in the breathtaking views of Cancun's glistening shoreline while gorging on a mouthwatering multi-course dinner. From succulent steak to veggie delights, your veggie/meaty need will be more than met. And with an open bar, you can keep the drinks flowing as you toast to the good life. But wait, there's more! There's even a live saxophone band onboard, so you can boogie the night away while sparks fly. And, if you want to capture the magic of the moment, you can get commemorative snaps for just $20. You can even get a lift to and from your hotel for a few bucks. And if you're celebrating a special occasion like your birthday or anniversary, just give them a heads up, and they'll add some extra sparkle to your night. If your trip to Cancun is a romantic one, this dinner cruise is easily one of the best things to do at night in the city! Sky Wheel Cancun Take a late-night ride through the sky and watch the sunset over the gorgeous ocean and beaches aboard the Sky Wheel. This colossal 177-foot-tall observation wheel offers a 20-minute breezy ride with some of the best views of the city. Each gondola is spacious enough to comfortably accommodate six to eight people, so there's plenty of room for your friends or family. These cozy capsules boast 360-degree crystal windows and air conditioning that keep you cool as a cucumber while you ride. As you rise to the top, feast your eyes on the serene lagoon on one side and the seemingly infinite, crystal-blue ocean on the other. Take a chill pill and enjoy the peaceful loop with your entourage as you complete four or five rotations on the wheel. And don't worry; that'll give you ample time to capture the ultimate Instagram-worthy shot! Drinks at Fred's House Take a break from the hustle and bustle of life and get your chill on at Fred's House. This hip and modern American seafood restaurant and oyster bar is situated on the lagoon side of Cancun's Hotel Zone, making it the perfect place to relax after a day of adventure. With Go City, your pass unlocks $20 to splurge on drinks from their fully stocked bar, where you'll find a plethora of tantalizing options. From refreshing cocktails to fine wines, you'll find something to take the edge off on your oh-so-strenuous vacation. They even do signature drinks that'll make you feel like a VIP, and their delicious local beer will quench your thirst like nothing else. Whether you're hanging out with your pals or having a chill night with the fam, this happening hotspot is definitely worth a visit. Go crazy at Congo Bar Cancun Located smack dab in the heart of Cancun's party central, Congo Bar Cancun is a mecca for the wild and crazy crowd. This open-air bar is always jam-packed with locals and tourists who are out to have a good time. Go-go dancers are on hand to entertain the crowd while DJs spin and scratch on the decks to keep your head bobbing. And, every now and then, get ready for a massive ballo n and confetti shower that will make you feel like you're living your best life. Get your conga line game face on, grab your party props, and get ready for an epic night of fun and entertainment. Plus, the cherry on top, your ticket includes a complimentary domestic bar from 9PM until 3.30AM, so you don't have to break the bank for a drink. Beers, spirits, and cocktails are all available, so really, you've no excuse! Moonlight Bioluminescence Snorkeling Tour Ever snorkeled with the devil in the pale moonlight? Dive into the shallow waters of the Great Mayan Reef and prepare to be amazed by the vibrant sea life of Cancun. Snorkeling at night is a once-in-a-lifetime experience that will blow your mind! Your Moonlight Bioluminescence Snorkeling trip will take around 90 minutes in total and includes a briefing before you start, and then three stops at three unique reefs. The first reef is a coral reef, where you'll find octo us, moray eels, squid, lobsters, and crabs swimming around the unique reef formations. Reef two is where you have your best shot at swimming with a sea turtle or two. Most snorkelers consider this their favorite part of the Moonlight Snorkel Tour. And at the third, you'll switch off all lights and see the 'Tinkerbell Experience'; hundreds of tiny bioluminescent particles will provide all the wonderful, natural light you'll need! You'll be given a briefing prior to entering the water, so there's no need to worry if you're a newbie. And, when you're done, you'll get a free souvenir photo included in your trip to commemorate your undersea adventure. Easily one of the best things to do at Night in Cancun for nature lovers! Lucha Libre, Tacos, and Beer Witness the true power and key strength of Mexican wrestling! AKA Lucha Libre! Join the enthusiastic locals as you cheer on your wrestler of choice in an edge-of-your-seat match that will leave you breathless. But before the action-packed show, you'll need some fuel. How do five tacos sound? Juicy, melt-in-your-mouth slow-cooked pork, marinated in a heavenly blend of spices and achiote paste and served in freshly made corn tortillas with all the trimmings. That'll do nicely. And, to wash it all down, enjoy a selection of refreshing Mexican beers. Once you're fueled up, your guide will take you straight to the skip-the-line entrance for the Lucha Libre show. Brace yourself for flying attacks, acrobatics, and larger-than-life displays of showmanship, as the técnicos (goodies) and rudos (baddies) face off in the ring, garbed in their iconic colorful masks and skin-tight spandex suits. For a perfect evening of entertainment, this Lucha Libre show is one of the best things to do in Cancun at night! And those are our picks of the best things to do in Cancun at night! Looking for some daytime distractions? Check out Go City. With our All-Inclusive Pass and Explorer Pass, you can see all of Cancun's hottest attractions for one low price!
Dom Bewley

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