Cancun is a perfect destination for couples seeking a romantic and adventurous getaway.
With crystal-clear waters, beautiful beaches, private cruises and snorkeling, there is no shortage of fun and romantic things to do in both Cancun, and the whole coastline along the Yucatan Peninsula.
Whether you’re on your honeymoon or simply looking for a romantic escape, there’s no better place to be.
From snorkeling with sea turtles, to lagoon dinner cruises, to taco tours and ancient Mayan ceremonies, this guide covers the best excursions, tours and the most romantic experiences for an unforgettable couples trip to Cancun.
Here’s what to do on your honeymoon or romantic getaway, including both classic and unique hidden gem experiences.
This post contains affiliate links, meaning if you click through and make a purchase I may make a small commission. I only share information about things I know, love and trust!
Salsa Lovers Dancing Experience
Salsa dancing in Mexico is the perfect romantic activity for couples on vacation.
It’s deeply ingrained in Mexican culture and offers a passionate and intimate experience where you can show off your new moves back at the resort!
Why couples choose this tour:
- Take this at the beginning of your vacation and then show off your moves all week!
- Hotel pickup included
- Fun activity for older couples or couples not into the nightclub scene
- Perfect for complete beginners to experienced dancers
Romantic Lagoon Dinner Cruise
Board a Spanish-style ship and glide across the paradisiacal Nichupte Lagoon as the sky lights up at sunset.
Why you’ll love this tour:
- Enjoy live music on board
- 3-course dinner choices include lobster, steak or vegetarian options
- Alcoholic beverages, including wine, are included
- Includes hotel pickup
Luxury Catamaran and Snorkel to Isla Mujeres
At Isla Mujeres you can relax on the beach, explore the island on a golf cart or scooter, and visit the underwater museum.
Isla Mujeres is a romantic spot for couples due to its serene atmosphere, pristine beaches, crystal-clear waters, and stunning sunsets.
The island offers a perfect getaway for couples seeking a quiet and intimate getaway away from the chaos of the Cancun hotel zone.
Why couples choose this tour:
- Sail along Cancun’s Caribbean coastline
- Snorkel in crystal-clear waters and enjoy a gourmet lunch on board the catamaran
- Explore Isla Mujeres’ must-see spots on a guided tour or on your own
- Sip on complimentary beverages on the way back to port
- Open bar and hotel pickup and drop-off included
Private Isla Mujeres Catamaran Tour From Cancun with Open Bar
Take a break from crowded tour groups and hop aboard your own private 32-foot catamaran with your partner.
With the flexibility to customize your itinerary, your captain can take you to Isla Mujeres or other hidden gems around the bay.
Dive into the crystal-clear waters and discover the vibrant coral reefs with the included snorkel equipment.
Relax on the spacious deck with unlimited drinks while soaking up the sun and enjoying the stunning views of the coastline.
This private half-day tour is perfect for couples looking for a luxurious and intimate sailing experience.
Are you getting married in Cancun or the Riviera Maya?
Many couples book this private catamaran to celebrate with the wedding party (room for 10 guests).
Also perfect for bachelorette parties!
Why couples choose this tour:
- Expect to be treated like royalty
- 100% customizable for your interests
- Snorkel at coral reefs, lounge at secluded beaches, etc.
- You’ll get more time at Isla Mujeres compared to shared group tours
Read more about booking this private Isla Mujeres catamaran here
Sunrise Chichen Itza & Cenote Tour
Be the first group of the day to explore the ancient ruins of Chichen Itza before the crowds arrive.
On this day trip, you’ll learn about the important role this sacred Mayan played thousands of years ago.
You’ll also visit various temples and the untouched archaeological site of Yaxunah with a local Mayan guide, followed by a delicious Mexican buffet and a swim in a sacred cenote.
Why couples choose this tour:
- Exclusive, direct admission ticket lets you enter Chichen Itza archaeological site before anyone else
- Swim in the underground Cenote Chichikan
- Buffet lunch included
- Mix of guided sightseeing and free time to explore at your own pace
- Early start means you’re back at your hotel by 4pm to enjoy pool time, happy hour and dinner
Off the Beaten Path Cenote Tour of the Dreamy Underworld
Exploring the crystal clear freshwater cenotes are one of the most popular things to do around Cancun and the Riviera Maya.
But the popular cenotes can become so crowded and overrun by other tourists.
If you want a more romantic way to explore cenotes, consider booking this private off the beaten path cenote tour that will take you to an underwater cave system for swimming and snorkeling.
Cancun Taco Tour with Local Beer and a Night Market
Take a break from the all-inclusive resort food and room service and enjoy a night out dining on authentic Mexican cuisine, as local as it gets.
Taste your way through the city’s best tacos with a guide who has found only the best local spots in town.
Why couples choose this tour:
- Visit top taco spots where you’ll skip the line
- Try all kinds of street style tacos like: al pastor, surtido, pibil and Mexico City style tacos
- Includes 4 beers and churros!
- No waiting in line; everything is pre-arranged
- Live Mariachi music
- Includes Roundtrip transportation and English speaking guides
- The tour runs rain or shine (this is the perfect excursion if the weather isn’t great)
- More than 450 5-star ratings
Playa del Carmen Walking Food Tour
Go deep into the heart of Playa del Carmen and off the beaten path to find some of the city’s best east and flavorful, authentic Mexican food (far better than what’s served at the resorts).
On this 3-hour tour, your guide will share insider perspectives about PDC’s culinary scene.
Why I think you’ll love this tour:
- Try foods like tacos al pastor, mole exotic fruits, quesadillas and more
- Perfect 5.0 star rating from 600+ reviews
- Runs daily at either 10am or 5pm
Snorkeling with Sea Turtles and Cenotes Swim
On this tour you’ll visit Akumal Beach to snorkel and swim with sea turtles, exotic fish and other marine life among the turquoise Caribbean water.
You’ll also get to swim in a cenote cave with the most out-of-this-world rock formations.
Why you’ll love this tour:
- If you’ve been to other cenotes, this tour takes you to some cenotes on a whole new level that you wouldn’t be able to find on your own
- Swimming among the giant sea turtles is a bucket list experience
- The water at Akumal Beach is shallow, so it’s very easy to swim and find the sea turtles
- Lunch & cocktails on the beach are included
- 5-star rating from 500+ reviews
Participate in a Traditional Temazcal Ceremony
Gain a deeper spiritual connection with your partner by experiencing the ancient Temazcal – a traditional sweat lodge ceremony started by the Mayans thousands of years ago.
Here, within the Yucatan jungle, you will be brought to a small village to detox and heal your spirit.
Many say this is truly a life changing and awakening experience.
Here’s why you should book this experience:
- Adds a chill day to your itinerary if you need a break from the busy resort
- Visit a traditional Mayan village, deep in jungle beyond where any tourists go
- Take part in purification and meditation ceremonies
- Enter the sweat lodge for the steam ceremony with medicinal herbs
- Transportation can be arranged for you
- One of the best off the beaten path excursions from Cancun
White Sand Islands Tour: Isla Contoy and Isla Mujeres
Two of the best places you should visit on an excursion from Cancun are Isla Contoy and Isla Mujeres. This boat tour is the best way to see them both.
First you’ll discover Isla Contoy National Park (Contoy Island), known for its clear blue water and white-sand beaches.
Hang out and enjoy this small, secluded island and snorkel among the turquoise waters and coral reef.
After lunch you’ll check out Isla Mujeres and have free time to stroll the colorful streets or hang out on the beach.
Why you’ll love this tour:
- Breakfast and lunch are included
- If your all inclusive resort has too much sargassum, this is the best way to get to experience white sand beaches and crystal clear Caribbean water
- You won’t believe how turquoise the water is!
- 5-star rating from more than 450 reviews
Visit the Akumal Monkey Sanctuary
If you’re an animal lover, a visit to the Akumal Monkey Sanctuary is a must-visit.
It’s located just south of Playa del Carmen, and this sanctuary features many different species of monkeys and other animals and creatures, too (like boa constrictors).
You’ll learn about the rehabilitation work that goes on to reintroduce these animals back into the wild as well as have the opportunity to get close to the animals, even getting to hold a monkey!
Cancun Street Art Tour
If you need a break from the beach, a tour of Cancun’s vibrant street art scene is a must-do for something different.
Why couples choose this tour:
- Visit colorful murals and have photos taken by your guide
- See a different side of Cancun that most visitors miss, including interesting facts about its history
- Explore 10-12 blocks of colorful and unique street art
- Enjoy the small group setting with a maximum of 10 people
- Bilingual guide to provide insight and information on the street art scene in Cancun.
More Cancun-Related Posts:
10 Must-visit cenotes near Playa del Carmen and Tulum
20 Things to Pack for an All Inclusive Vacation
55 Best Drinks to Order at An All Inclusive Resort (Mexico & Caribbean)
How to Get the Most Out of an All Inclusive Resort: Tips, Tricks & Hacks