6 Things To Do In Cancun With Kids

At Finest Playa Mujeres, indulge in swim-up suites, family suites, and luxury hotel suites with private pools, even on the roof.
Photo Courtesy: Finest Playa Mujeres

Take a family trip to Mexico to enjoy the best things to do with kids in Cancun! From tranquil beach activities to outdoor thrills, this city nestled in the Riviera Maya will never cease to keep you entertained. Of course, some activities are more kid-friendly than others, which is why we’ve suggested this list. Take little ones to a nearby zoo to hear more about the area’s native wildlife. Plus, learn some incredible fun facts! Carve out a few hours in your itinerary for a day trip to witness the magic of nearby destinations such as Playa del Carmen. Or, explore Cancun by sea with a pirate dinner cruise at sunset! No matter where your family chooses to spend time in Cancun, we hope you return with wonderful memories of your experiences. Without further ado, here’s our parent-approved list of 5 Things To Do In Cancun With Kids!

Relax on a Family-Friendly Beach

A family of five walks along a beach in Cancun. The mom holds a young girl on her shoulders, while the dad holds another small child and the hand of a third child.
Photo Courtesy: Elisa Nicolia Loguercio

It’s no secret Cancun has some stunning beaches! Showcasing warm sand, adventure sports, and crystal clear waters, a vacation in Mexico would be incomplete without a little seaside relaxation. A few beaches are particularly great to visit with kids, though, like Playa Tortugas, located on the city’s main hotel strip. Here, you’ll find calm waves ideal for swimming, restaurants to grab lunch, and even a chance to rent an umbrella or chairs. Further down along the strip, you can also visit Playa Chacmool.

A quieter, more secluded area, it is ideal for avoiding crowds and swimming by yourself. Nearby, there’s also Playa Delfines, which isn’t entirely safe for swimming, but incredible for spotting dolphins in the distance! Playa Norte is another option if you’re looking to escape the hustle and bustle of Cancun’s main tourist area. Take a ferry to Isla Mujeres to reach it and other family-friendly attractions! Cancun with kids isn’t complete without a day at the beach.

Browsing our special offers for later? Act now and enjoy at The Grand at Moon Palace. Let’s go!

Embark On A Pirate Dinner Cruise

A pirate hat and skull rest behind a lobster dinner aboard a Pirate Dinner Cruise, one of the best things to do in Cancun with kids.

Sail the high seas aboard a pirate dinner cruise! Not only is it a great way to commemorate your family vacation to Cancun, but you’ll also get a new perspective on the city in the process. Plus, it’s a ton of fun for kids and adults alike! Offered by a variety of companies, such as Pirate Ship Cancun, Captain Hook, and Pirate Show Cancun, these dinner cruises provide guests with an immersive experience aboard a replica pirate ship. Soar by sightseeing landmarks while you enjoy live entertainment, delicious cuisine, and more. Kids can participate in games, dance to the music, and dig into the all-you-can-eat buffet. Meanwhile, parents will appreciate the amazing view and open bar! Above all, it’s a great place to capture your vacation memories in front of a scenic backdrop. Don’t forget to grab a family photo as the ship embarks at sunset!

9 Tours and Activities to Experience Captain Hook in Cancun.

Visit the Croco Cun Zoo

A young girl and a young boy member hold a small crocodile at the Croco Cun Zoo.
Photo Courtesy: Croco Cun Zoo

Enjoy an amazing animal adventure at the Croco Cun Zoo! Located a short drive outside Cancun near Puerto Morelos, this immersive conservation center claims to be a “different kind of zoo”. A trip here will surely ignite a passion for wildlife in your little one, especially if they’re already an animal lover. Upon arrival, a knowledgeable guide will walk you through the grounds for a quick hour-long tour, explaining more about the area’s wildlife while pointing out a few furry friends along the way. Keep an eye out for native spider monkeys and snakes as you wander the property!

Then, the adventure really starts: the whole family has the opportunity to hold baby crocodiles, feed parrots, and pet reindeer! Adults will have just as much fun as kids during the process too. Plus, it’s a great way to escape the heat in Cancun with kids for the day. Remember to bring bug spray! 

Purchase Croco Cun Zoo Tickets Before You Go.

Enjoy the Aquarium at La Isla Mall

A young couple stand in front of a huge marine life exhibit at The Aquarium at La Isla Mall, one of the best things to do in Cancun with kids.
Photo Courtesy: The Aquarium at La Isla Mall

The Aquarium at La Isla Mall is another favorite on our list of things to do with kids in Cancun. Perfect for escaping the Mexican heat or spending a rainy day inside, this interactive aquarium presents a unique way for children to learn more about ocean life. In fact, while you meander through various exhibits, kids will even get the chance to touch creatures like sea urchins, starfish, and more! Wander through underwater walkways and watch the water illuminate above you. Of course, the main attraction here is swimming with the dolphins – or sharks depending on how brave you are! If that isn’t your style, you can still appreciate the majestic creatures from afar. The Aquarium at La Isla Mall also showcases a special Dolphin Show every day at 7 pm, which you can return to see even after you’ve left the property. Just remember to bring your ticket along! 

Explore The Cancun Underwater Museum of Art

Rusted-car-underwater Underwate
Photo Courtesy: Cancun Underwater Museum of Art

Your family will love a trip to the Cancun Underwater Museum of Art! Located on a small island between Cancun and Isla Mujeres that’s only accessible via ferry, this kid-friendly excursion in Cancun provides a one-of-a-kind adventure. Depending on your skills, you can choose between taking a Glass Bottom Boat Tour, snorkeling, or diving to reach the museum’s underwater collection.

Every experience begins with a boat ride through the mangroves. A certified guide will then walk you through the process to explain what you’ll be seeing, plus a quick backstory on environmental efforts in Cancun. The humungous statues of humans, cars, and other fun concepts made by local artists will amaze kids! Of course, you’ll be passing through gorgeous coral reefs too, so remember to look out for colorful schools of fish. Reservations must be made in advance, as this is one of the best things to do in Cancun with kids. 

Explore the Underwater Museum of Art on this snorkeling tour from Cancun using Viator.

Take a Day Trip to Playa del Carmen

Family with flashlights swimming in Rio Secreto underground cave, perfect while exploring Cancun with kids.
Photo Courtesy: Gunjan Prakash

Take a day trip to nearby Playa del Carmen with your family! Cancun is a great city to visit, but you’re also near other stunning gems in Mexico. Playa del Carmen is accessible via a quick half-hour drive or a trip on an ADO bus from downtown. Once you arrive, you’ll discover plenty to keep you entertained for your visit – you may even want to return for more! Ambitious kids will love exploring the area’s adventure parks, between Xel-Ha, Xcaret, and Xplor, all within close distance.

Or, plunge into an underwater wonderland on an Atlantis Submarine, where you’ll get quick schooling on local marine life! If you prefer to navigate Playa Del Carmen’s underground passages via land, take a tour of the Rio Secreto Caves. Shopping on the famous Quinta Avenida isn’t to be missed either, a Main Street lined with trendy boutiques, souvenir shops, and delicious dining. 

RELATED: Exciting Day Trips From Playa Del Carmen And Cancun For Families

Give a Xcaret Xertificate and visit our parks or tours at the best price and whenever you want!

Where to Stay in Cancun with Kids

Set on a peninsula with pristine virgin beaches and endless sand dunes, this place will have you looking out over the deepest Caribbean blues as you revel in delightful areas created for kids and for adults only.
Photo Courtesy: Finest Playa Mujeres

Searching for kid-friendly accommodations in Cancun? Families who want an all-inclusive stay will love Finest Playa MujeresHyatt Ziva Cancun, or The Grand At Moon Palace Hotel. They all boast beachside settings, amenities for all ages (including a kids club), and outdoor pools. For a more secluded stay, you may prefer Nizuc Resort & Spa, which is surrounded by a mangrove forest in Punta Nizuc. 

Want more information on the best resorts in Cancun for families? Check out our extended article- 5 Best Family Resorts In Cancun.

Happy Travels! 

Family posing in Nohoch Mul Playda del Carmen, an ideal stop while in Cancun with kids.
Photo Courtesy: Kevin Zanes

We hope you’ve enjoyed our list of 5 Things To Do With Kids In Cancun! From sunbathing on shimmering shores to exploring Mexico’s underground gems, there’s surely something for everyone in this magical city. Of course, as parents, we know that traveling with children is about memories more than anything else! Enjoy a fantastic time in Cancun with your kids. 

Visiting Cancun As A Family: Important Information You Need To Know

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*This post may contain affiliate links that may earn us a small commission, at no additional cost to you. Affiliate links in no way inform the hotels, sights, products, or other recommendations included in our articles. All opinions and recommendations expressed here are compiled from submissions submitted by the generous members of our Families Who Love To Travel community.

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The Families Love Travel Team has a zest for life and an even bigger passion for globetrotting! Comprised of real-life travel professionals, we work hard behind the scenes to provide dynamic solutions for adventuring with children. Our enthusiastic team understands the challenges that often accompany traveling with kids and is committed to making Families Love Travel an inclusive space to convey these experiences.