From Mayan ruins and vibrant coral reefs to markets and local cafes tucked away in narrow streets, this romantic city will delight couples seeking adventure. So, we begin our list of the best romantic spots in Cancun.
If you’re spending the day in the Hotel Zone, head to kilometer 18, where you’ll find El Mirador, Cancún’s best viewpoint. Its spacious terrace overlooks Dolphin Beach and the now-famous CANCÚN letters, perfect for a couple’s photo. Then, head down the hill to a place most tourists don’t know about: the Mayan ruins of El Rey. This centuries-old city is full of small temples. Since it’s not very well-known, you’re likely to find yourself alone.
At the southern end of Cancún’s hotel zone is Ventura Park, a large water park with zip lines, roller coasters, and more. While this park may seem more family-friendly, lovers will enjoy spending the day at its luxurious beach club or ziplining under the starry sky.
The more adventurous can book Aquaworld’s Jungle Tour and cruise among the lagoon’s mangrove islands in a two-person speedboat before snorkeling among the crystal-clear reefs of Punta Nizuc.
To admire the city from afar, there’s nothing like a dinner cruise aboard an authentic pirate ship , the ideal setting for a romantic getaway. Aboard this Spanish galleon, you’ll enjoy breathtaking views of the city while enjoying a delicious dinner accompanied by a spectacular show.
During your vacation in Cancun, take a day off from the hotel zone and enjoy a romantic moment as if you lived there. Café Con Gracia has become one of the most popular cafes among Cancun residents. It serves coffee, botanicals, and delicious desserts in a charming atmosphere. After enjoying a mint chocolate ice cream, head down Tankah Avenue to Mercado 28, a huge market with street vendors, colorful souvenir stalls, and jewelry stores. Haggling is highly recommended.
Diving and discovery
For your Cancun sightseeing, the most spectacular option for couples is Xcaret Park. This natural park offers the opportunity to discover Mexican culture and local wildlife, as well as offering idyllic snorkeling spots and lush natural landscapes. To add a romantic touch to your visit to Xcaret Park, don’t forget to visit its aviary and swim in its majestic underground river.
For your nightlife, downtown Cancún also offers numerous restaurants. Try Yucatecan cuisine on the back patio of the original La Habichuela, one of Cancún’s oldest restaurants, and then, for dessert, order some crispy Yucatecan marquesitas from a street vendor in nearby Parque Las Palapas. At dusk, you can find artisanal jewelry vendors in Parque de Los Hippies, as the locals call it, across from the church.
Just knowing where to go is enough to turn a Cancun vacation into a classic postcard-perfect romantic getaway with lush natural beauty, ancient Mayan civilization, and exciting discoveries on the agenda.