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

By Nicole Muto
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 in: Royal 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 in: Columbus 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 in: Royal 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

drone-photo-parasail-playa-ballenas-cancun

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 in: Parasailing 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 in: Snorkel 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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A couple enjoy the sea on a pier in Cancun
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Discover Cancun in August

August is the last opportunity you have to experience Cancun’s big three animal encounters – nesting turtles, hatching turtles and whale sharks. A variety of cultural events bring even more color and frivolity to its streets than normal, and balmy evenings mean ‘pack light’ can become your new vacation mantra. So although August in Cancun is considered part of the destination’s low season, with some chance of rain and growing levels of humidity, you can still enjoy the long list of things to do in Cancun in August. Don’t miss any of them with our guide to the best of the summer. Cancun weather in August August is the school vacation period, and yet Cancun’s Caribbean shores, beachside lagoon and cooling jungle cenotes (sinkholes) are generally much less busy than at other times of year. US and Canadian citizens tend to enjoy the August weather back home. Others can be put off by August’s ‘wet season’ tag. Don’t be. Cancun in August is dominated by hot and humid weather, with average daily temperatures of 29°C. But nestled on the coast of the Yucatan Peninsula, this should hardly come as a surprise. The ‘wet’ is also quite misleading, with just six days seeing any rain at all, divided relatively evenly across the month’s 30 days, though heightening in the latter half of the month. Grab your swimwear... The rest of the time visits to Cancun in August will be a mix of sun and cloud. The long ribbons of white sand see enough of the sun to make renting a lounger and parasol a must. There’s even a festival of the beaches – Fiesta de la Playa en Cancún. At the same time, you shouldn’t miss the opportunity to discover the secrets and solitude of the region’s cenotes. These naturally-occurring phenomena are found nowhere else in the world and provide a very different swimming and bathing spot to the Caribbean Sea. Several degrees below the Caribbean’s 30°C, many have intriguing histories dating back to Mayan times, such as Tankach Ha close to Coba pyramid. Even more have dramatic stalactite and stalagmite formations. And don’t forget your snorkel Whilst some cenotes are home to fish, the undisputed giants of the deep – whale sharks – couldn’t even fit in many at up to 18 meters long. They can however be admired from both above and below the water on dedicated swimming and snorkeling tours. They continue into August from Cancun as the whale sharks gather to feed for the summer in large numbers. Other species of shark, most notably bull sharks, can be found swimming amongst the corals and tropical fish of the region’s Grand Mayan Reef at any time of year. Its 14 species of hard coral provide innumerable habitats for around 500 different types of fish, including eagle rays and barracudas. Despite their fearful reputation, they’re generally very welcoming of both scuba divers and snorkelers keen to explore the reef. Greet turtles on the beaches The Grand Mayan Reef drifts for almost 1200 kilometers from Isla Contoy down to Honduras. Set sail for Contoy island in August and you’ll come ashore as mature turtles from several endangered species drag their heavy shells up the beaches to lay their soft-shelled eggs, an event which can be witnessed most nights. Eggs laid in the sands earlier in the season are also hatching, making August one of just a couple of months when it’s possible to encounter two generations in the same place. Turtles nest and hatch on Isla Mujeres too. It can be reached by both ferry, and more romantically, by private catamaran charter. Only seven kilometers long, the island celebrates its founding in 1850 with special celebrations around August 17, encompassing exhibitions, music and culinary demonstrations. Admire incredible views Another feast to look out for is August 15’s Feast of the Assumption of the Virgin Mary. Although primarily a religious festival, mariachi bands and festive food and drink all make an appearance. The warm evenings – temperatures rarely drop below 24°C – make it a great time of year for dining out. Given Mexico’s culinary brilliance, there’s plenty of options whatever your budget, with a multi-course dinner on board ship as the sun sets surely high on the list. You could instead settle for the romance of a gondola rising above the main strip on the Gran Rueda Cancun Ferris wheel. Over 50 m high – equivalent to a 16 story building – air-conditioning ensures you’ll never feel the heat as you check out 360° views that stretch as far as Isla Mujeres. Stop by the museums August humidity levels means it’s not the best time to leave the coast for day trips to colonial Valladolid and the Mayan masterpiece of Chichen Itza. However, Cancun’s museums are another option. Occupying a modern state-of-the-art building, the Museo Maya takes visitors on a whistle-stop tour of Mayan art and culture through a dazzling array of sacred and everyday objects. Just a few steps away you’ll also find the remains of San Miguelito, complete with temples, pyramids and an inquisitive population of semi-wild iguanas. Sticking with the sea theme, Interactive Aquarium Cancun allows the whole family to explore the Yucatan’s underwater worlds without getting their feet wet. Its impressive tanks and displays contain somewhere in the region of 2000 individual species, of which around a quarter are reef favorites. You’ll also come face to face with reptiles including crocodiles, as well as sea lions and dolphins. How to budget for Cancun in August It might not be the usual month to head to the Yucatan Peninsula but Cancun in August has a lot to recommend it. The sea is as warm as a bath, the beaches less crowded than at other times of year, plus there’s the chance for turtle and whale shark encounters. Forget any worries about August being hurricane season – it’s highly unlikely you’ll be negatively affected – and explore with Go City. We give you incredible discounts on admission to a huge array of attractions in Cancun whilst giving you the flexibility to pick and choose what you want to do each day of your vacation.
Ian Packham
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
Couple on the Beach in Cancun
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