Ready to spice up your family getaway to Cancun? Buckle up for an epic ride through our guide on “Things to Do in Cancun with Teenagers.” Picture this: turquoise waves, sandy toes, and many activities that’ll have your teens saying, “Best vacation ever!”
Cancun has everything from wild-water adventures to uncovering ancient mysteries. So, if you’re after that perfect mix of thrill and chill, join us as we spill the beans on the most incredible spots and experiences that’ll make your family vacation in Cancun a total blast.
Let’s dive into the fun and create some rad memories!
Table Of Contents
Know before you go. Cancun travel tips for families with teenagers Where to stay in Cancun with teenagers Cancun apartment alternative for your stay Getting to Cancun How to get around Cancun Weather in Cancun Cancun for international visitors Where can I go in Cancun if my teenager is ill? Things to do in Cancun with teenagers Snorkelling in Cancun Pirate Show and Dinner Cruise in Cancun Go to the beach in Cancun. Lucha Libre Experience Play Mini Golf at Planet Hollywood Cancun Parasailing in Cancun Cirque du Soleil JOYÀ Stand-up paddle boarding. Jetskiing in Cancun Horseback riding in Cancun Xplor Park – The Best Places to Visit in Cancun with Teenagers Swimming with Whale Sharks Venture Park Xcaret Eco-Archaeological Theme Park Cancun Mayan Museum – Cultural Experiences in Cancun for Teenagers Ripleys, believe it or not. Cancun Skywheel Take a surfing lesson – Teen-friendly water activities in Cancun ATV experiences – Teenager-approved excursions in Cancun Cancun Flyboard Flowrider Glass Bottom Boat Ride Mum and daughter activities in Cancun – Day Spa Cancun Scenic Tower Cancun food experiences for teenagers Cenote – Teen-friendly attractions in Cancun Watch baseball in Cancun. Check out Parque las Palapas Cancun Tiktok Inspiration The most Instagrammable shots in Cancun Professional photoshoot in Cancun Street Art in Cancun Pin Bowling in Cancun with teenagers. Family holidays in Cancun – Going to the cinema Escape rooms in Cancun for teens Shopping in Cancún with teens Free things to do in Cancun with teens Annual events in Cancun that teens will love Day trips from Cancun with teens Chichen Itza: Isla Mujeres Tulum Teen-friendly dining options in Cancun Street food adventures for teens in Cancun Travel accessories for teenagers Frequently asked questions about Cancun Where are the best places to stay in Cancun for teenagers
Know before you go. Cancun travel tips for families with teenagers
Travelling to Cancun with teens can be such an enriching experience for the whole family. Cancun is one of the top family destinations in North America. Did you know that Cancun accounts for almost a quarter of Mexico’s GDP?
Knowing helpful travel tips and information about your destination is crucial, as it can significantly enhance your family’s holiday experience. Information on the best places to stay, how to get around the city, which currency to use, and more is essential.
Our know-before-you-go tips allow you to plan your itinerary effectively, ensuring a smoother and more enjoyable trip to Cancun with teens.
Where to stay in Cancun with teenagers
You’ll never be short of options for your accommodation in Cancun. Cancun has various all-inclusive resorts, hotels, apartments, and hostels. You will be sure to be able to find something to fit singles, couples, families, and groups on every budget. Below are some of our best picks for you.
Two teens enjoying the outdoor activities in Cancun
Hard Rock Hotel Cancun is known for its vibrant atmosphere. It provides family-friendly accommodations with spacious rooms, pools, and entertainment options. The all-inclusive package includes dining at multiple restaurants and access to the resort’s amenities.
Hyatt Ziva is an all-inclusive resort catering to families, featuring multiple pools, a water park, and age-appropriate activities for kids and teens. The resort’s restaurants offer a variety of cuisines.
CasaMagna Marriott Cancun Resort is known for its family-friendly atmosphere. This resort hotel has swimming pools, on-site dining, a spa, and family-friendly amenities.
Krystal Cancun offers family-friendly amenities, including a pool and beach access. The hotel provides various room options, and its central location is convenient for exploring the area.
Smart Cancun by Oasis is a budget-friendly option focusing on simplicity and comfort, offering family rooms. The hotel is in downtown Cancun, providing easy access to the Hotel Zone and local attractions.
If you’re not keen on any of our picks below or have specific needs for your teen travel holidays, we recommend using Hotels.com and Trip Advisor to find the best prices in Cancun for your family vacation to Mexico.
Cancun apartment alternative for your stay
If you prefer a home away from home-style accommodation on your Cancun trip with teenagers, an apartment is the best choice for your family vacation. Cancun has so many options for singles, families, and budget-friendly options. You can search VRBO for apartments in Cancun.
A luxurious Plum Guide Apartment near Cancun.
If you’re looking for something fancier, discover Plum Guide’s exceptional luxury apartments, handpicked for their stunning views, prime locations, and indulgent amenities. With meticulous quality checks and a focus on unique experiences, they offer the perfect blend of luxury and comfort. Experience the extraordinary and create unforgettable memories in these exceptional accommodations.
Getting to Cancun
Cancun is renowned as one of the top family destinations in Mexico, perfect for travelling with teenagers. This holiday destination on the Yucatán Peninsula is best accessed by plane.
You can fly into Cancun International Airport. Cancun receives direct flights to and from destinations in the United States, Canada, Europe, and some Latin American countries. For many international visitors to Cancun, it will require long-haul travel. You can book an airport transfer straight to your hotel door.
If your flights have a long stopover or you want to relax before your trip, you should consider getting a lounge pass with a Priority Pass. Priority Pass has access to airport lounges all over the world. Search now for your lounge pass .
How to get around Cancun
Getting around Cancun is pretty easy, especially in the main tourist area called the Hotel Zone. This place has many cool things to see and do, and you can walk to many of them. But if you don’t feel like walking, plenty of taxis and buses can take you to different places.
If you want to explore areas outside of the central part of Cancun a lot, you might think about renting a car. But be careful, because driving in a new place can be challenging. Before driving, check the vehicle and the insurance to ensure everything is okay and safe.
Weather in Cancun
Cancun, Mexico, experiences a tropical climate. The dry season from late November to April brings sunny and warm weather with lower humidity. May to September is the hot season, marked by higher temperatures, humidity, and occasional afternoon showers.
The hurricane season lasts from June to November. Winter (December to February) offers mild and comfortable conditions, making it a popular time to visit. Stay informed about weather updates, especially during the hurricane season.
Cancun for international visitors
International travel to Cancun requires a bit more thought. You will need travel insurance in Mexico. Medical care is not cheap; if you want good-quality care, it will cost you a fortune if you don’t have travel insurance.
The official currency of Mexico is the Mexican Paso. If you use your bank account from home, you will be stung with high transaction fees, while your mobile phone calls will all be charged at an international rate. These are just some of the things you need to think about on a vacation with teens .
For international travellers, travel insurance is a must. Get a quote through Insurance Masters , and don’t go home with a massive bill for medical expenses.
Do you need a visa to visit Cancun? Mexico may require you to have a visa or an ETA (electronic travel authorisation) to enter the country. You can check and buy these documents at iVisa.
Load a Revolut Travel Money card with Mexican Pasos for your visit and save on transaction fees.
Make phone calls with an international SIM card that you can buy before leaving home or buy a voucher for a virtual e-sim for your mobile phone.
A 4G pocket Wi-Fi modem is essential for accessing the internet. You can rent a pocket modem that you can pick up at the airport or your hotel or buy a pocket modem that you can use on all future trips with your phone, tablet, or computer.
Make sure you grab a VPN for your family travels in Mexico. Surf Shark VPN has plans available from one month to one year to help keep your data safe from hackers and malware while travelling.
Where can I go in Cancun if my teenager is ill?
If your teenager is ill in Cancun, two large multidisciplinary hospitals offer state-of-the-art facilities with well-trained, well-established doctors and a standard of care similar to that available in the best facilities in the U.S., Canada, and other industrialised countries. Head to the Amerimed Cancun Hospital or the Galenia Hospital.
Things to do in Cancun with teenagers
Travelling with teenagers can be a unique and rewarding experience. Teenagers often have their own interests and preferences regarding travel, making it important to plan a vacation that caters to their needs. In this article, you will find plenty of Cancun activities for families with teens to keep them engaged and entertained while on vacation.
Snorkelling in Cancun
Snorkelling in Cancun is a popular and must-do experience. The beaches around Cancun provide you with crystal-clear waters and vibrant marine life.
Snorkelling in Cancun is popular.
The Mesoamerican Barrier Reef, the second-largest coral reef system in the world, runs along the coast of Cancun.
When snorkelling, you will see colourful coral formations, tropical fish, rays, sea turtles , and, in some cases, nurse sharks. Beginners and less confident swimmers should go on guided tours with experienced instructors.
Pirate Show and Dinner Cruise in Cancun
Looking for something to do at night in Cancun? Join the Captain Hook Pirate Show and Dinner Cruise in Cancun, featuring activities such as deck dancing contests and a sea battle. The cruise includes pirate shows and gourmet dinner choices. Depart from Captain Hook Cancun onboard a replica Spanish galleon.
Go to the beach in Cancun.
Cancun is known for its swimming beaches, and Playa Delfines is famous for its gentle waves, ideal for locals and tourists.
Enjoying the white sand beaches of Cancun.
Playa Norte on Isla Mujeres, easily accessible by ferry, boasts calm, shallow waters perfect for families.
Playa Forum, at the heart of the Hotel Zone, offers a lively atmosphere and crystal-clear waters. Playa Caracol, Playa Tortugas, Playa Chac Mool, Playa Langosta, and Playa Ballenas are great sunbathing, swimming, and water sports options. All these beaches feature calm seas and family-friendly amenities.
Lucha Libre Experience
Are your kids interested in wrestling? Mexican wrestling is not to be missed, providing a unique entertainment and cultural option for families in Cancun.
Wrestlers grapple in the vibrant energy of Cancun.
Lucha Libre is renowned for its high-flying acrobatics, vibrant masks, and dramatic storylines. The matches are known for their fast-paced, acrobatic manoeuvres, making it an enjoyable experience for the entire family.
Play Mini Golf at Planet Hollywood Cancun
Mini golf is a fun experience teens can do together or with the whole family. Planet Hollywood has a 9-hole outdoor course in Cancun like nothing you have seen.
Parasailing in Cancun
Cancun has all sorts of activities that get the adrenaline pumping, so thrill seekers shouldn’t miss the chance to try parasailing in Cancun .
Parasailing on the beach of the Caribbean Sea.
You will get a rundown on safety procedures, and pretty soon, you will be soaring through the air above Cancun’s tropical coastline with this parasailing experience. Does this sound like something your teenagers would love to do? Book your chance to parasail in Cancun.
Cirque du Soleil JOYÀ
Joya is another of the fantastic shows that Cirque du Soleil puts on worldwide. The show features a rebellious teenage girl’s adventures in a mysterious jungle inspired by the monarch butterfly’s migratory journey.
This show includes unique acts like hypnotic fire passage, aerial straps, hand balancing on canes, and more. Don’t miss out, and book your tickets today .
Stand-up paddle boarding .
Cancun’s coastal areas, including the Hotel Zone and surrounding lagoons, provide ideal locations for paddleboarding.
A teen standing on a paddle on the surfboard at sunset in Cancun
The calm waters and scenic surroundings make it a popular activity in Cancun. Paddleboarding is suitable for all skill levels, from beginners to experienced paddlers.
Jetskiing in Cancun
Jet skiing in Cancun provides a fun and exciting experience for teens. Hiring a jetski allows you to explore the turquoise waters of the Caribbean Sea.
You will feel the rush of the wind and the waves bounce as you drive the jetski. Jet skiing in Cancun is fun for both beginners and more experienced riders.
Horseback riding in Cancun
Families can enjoy a memorable adventure on horseback riding excursions in Cancun. Families will have the quiet experience of exploring scenic trails, pristine beaches, and lush jungles together. The ride can be tailor-made for experienced or beginner riders. so everyone has a great time.
Xplor Park – The Best Places to Visit in Cancun with Teenagers
Xplor Park doesn’t come cheap, but it is an all-exclusive experience with food included.
A young woman going on a zipline in the jungle near Cancun
Your tickets cover two circuits of seven ziplines each, amphibious vehicle driving, an underground expedition, a rafting tour, stalactite river swimming, and more. Buffet food and unlimited snacks are included.
This is one of the most popular attractions in the region and is popular with kids, teens, and adults alike visiting Cancun. This is an all-in-one adventure experience for thrill-seekers. Be mindful that there are age and weight restrictions with this activity.
Swimming with Whale Sharks
Tick this once-in-a-lifetime adventure off your bucket list by swimming with whale sharks off the coast of Cancun on a guided trip. Witness whale sharks up to 12 metres long in their natural habitat from May to September. Get up close and personal with a small group tour for a better, more intimate experience.
Venture Park
Ventura Park in Cancun is a family amusement park with entertainment for everyone. There are several different attractions at Venture Park.
Cancun is full of adventure for teens.
Wet’n Wild is a water park with exciting water slides. Aaah! Ventura offers extreme adventure activities like zip lines and bungee swings. Fun World is designed for children, featuring mini roller coasters and playgrounds.
Underworld showcases cutting-edge technology, including virtual reality activities like the Star Wars Battle Pod. Families can buy various passes , such as Platinum Pass, Fun Pass, and VIP Pass, offering different inclusions at different prices.
Xcaret Eco-Archaeological Theme Park
An excellent choice for families with teens is Xcaret Theme Park . This attraction in Cancun combines thrilling rides with Mexican history and culture. The park offers dozens of live performances, adrenaline-charged rides, and traditional experiences.
Explore the majestic Mexican pyramids, where you can discover subterranean rivers, interact with marine turtles, tour the vibrant coral reef aquarium, ascend the rotating Scenic Tower, or relax on the pristine white-sand beaches.
Cancun Mayan Museum – Cultural Experiences in Cancun for Teenagers
Do you want to learn more about the Mayan history of the area?
Mayan Museum entrance
Explore the San Miguelito Archaeological Site, which has one of the most significant archaeological collections of Mayan artifacts. Book your tickets for the must-see museum in Cancun .
Ripleys, believe it or not.
Explore eight themed galleries filled with artefacts, incredible art, animal oddities, pop-culture memorabilia, and interactive games.
Over 400 wonders curated by the world-famous traveller Robert Ripley are on display. You have fun with interactive galleries that feature optical illusions, hands-on interactives, and sensory experiences. Book your entry today.
Cancun Skywheel
Sky Wheel Cancún, part of Ripley’s Believe It or Not! in Cancun.
Cancun Ferris Wheel
The Skywheel provides a unique and breathtaking experience with panoramic views of the Caribbean Ocean and Nichupté Lagoon from the third-largest Ferris wheel in Latin America. The Skywheel is 230 feet tall, providing the best city views from air-conditioned gondolas. You can buy a combined Ripley and Skywheel entry ticket .
Take a surfing lesson – Teen-friendly water activities in Cancun
Ready to catch some waves in Cancun? There are several surf schools where you can take lessons with excellent instructors who’ll have you riding like a pro in no time!
Whether you’re a beginner or looking to up your surf game, Cancun’s warm waters and consistent waves make it the perfect spot to dive into the surfing scene. Let’s ride those waves and make some epic beach memories!
ATV experiences – Teenager-approved excursions in Cancun
Embarking on ATV tours in Cancun is the ultimate adventure for teens seeking an adrenaline rush.
Adventure ideas for teens in Cancun
These off-road ATVs allow teens to ride through lush jungles, conquer off-road terrain, and experience the fun of riding. Guided by experts, teens can explore the natural beauty of Cancun’s landscapes, making ATV tours an exciting and memorable adventure activity tailored to their adventurous spirit.
Cancun Flyboard
A new water-powered device called a Fly Board allows teens to fly and hover just off the water.
The best resorts for families in Cancun can organise Flyboarding
Flyboarding in Cancun is a thrilling and heart-pounding activity that teenagers visiting Cancun can enjoy.
Flying borders can take off vertically or horizontally and go as high as 10 metres above the water. You can go flyboarding as a family activity in Cancun . You can take turns flyboarding and have fun together. The minimum age for these fun activities to do in Cancun is 12.
Flowrider
If you are not keen on surfing, why not try bodyboarding on an artificial wave called the Flowrider? You will have fun as the Flowrider delivers the perfect experience in a controlled environment with great music. Family-friendly activities in Cancun for teenagers at their best.
Glass Bottom Boat Ride
Cruise the Nichupte Lagoon and the Caribbean Sea in a glass boat with 360 visibility.
Having fun in a glass boat
With the crystal-clear water of Cancun, you will see tropical fish, starfish, and colourful corals. This unique boat is entirely transparent. Book your tickets today.
Mum and daughter activities in Cancun – Day Spa
How about a mum-and-daughter bonding day in Cancun with a spa experience? Enjoy a relaxing day, experiencing saunas, steam rooms, massages, beauty treatments, and pool areas.
Cancun has several choices, including the Secrets of the Vine Spa by Pevonia and the Vassa Spa at Azul Beach Resort .
Cancun Scenic Tower
Looking for the best views in Cancun? The Scenic Tower is the highest attraction in Riviera Maya, offering a 360º panoramic view at an altitude of 262 feet. The tower rotates slowly, providing panoramic views of the Caribbean, jungle, and Cozumel Island .
Cancun food experiences for teenagers
Embark on a food adventure with your teenagers and discover the flavours of Mexico through a food tour. These food experiences teach you about local foods and offer a gateway to culture.
From savouring local delicacies to learning traditional cooking techniques on your Cancun vacation with teens, food tours can ignite a lifelong passion in teens for cooking and eating global cuisines.
Cancun’s best food tours are The Taco and Mexican Food Tour , The Cancun Hands-On Mexican Cooking Class, and The Cancun Seafood Lovers Tour
Cenote – Teen-friendly attractions in Cancun
A cenote is a natural sinkhole or pit. These unique formations are common in Mexico’s Yucatan Peninsula, including the Cancun region. Cenotes can vary in size and shape and often contain crystal-clear freshwater.
Cancun is an excellent spot for adventure vacations with teens.
Families and teens can access cenotes for various activities, including swimming, snorkelling, scuba diving, and simply enjoying the natural beauty. Several cenotes are easily accessible from Cancun and are often part of guided tours or can be reached independently.
Some popular cenotes are Cenote Dos Ojos, Ik Kil Cenote, and Gran Cenote.
Unlock global driving with a International Driving Permit. This UN-regulated travel document is valid in 165 Countries. (IDA). International Drivers Association will provide you a digital IDPs in 8 minutes, order yours today .
Watch baseball in Cancun .
Spice up your time in downtown Cancún with a thrilling professional baseball match. The Tigres de Quintana Roo, one of the 18 Mexican professional baseball league teams, showcased their skills at the Beto Ávila stadium from March to September.
The team’s playful mascot enhances the family-friendly atmosphere. Don’t forget to indulge in local snacks like chicharrónes (pork rind) smothered in hot sauce or tropical fruit on a stick.
The ice-cold and budget-friendly beer adds to the enjoyment. It’s an affordable and entertaining experience for all.
Check out Parque las Palapas
This central park in downtown Cancun is a popular gathering spot. Enjoy the local vibe, watch street performances, and maybe catch a free concert or cultural event. It’s an excellent place to experience the local community.
Cancun Tiktok Inspiration
If you need some inspiration, look no further than TikTok. This app is full of creative content and talented people from Vail. From fashion to beauty to DIY, there’s something for everyone on TikTok. Here are just a few of our favourite Vail TikTok accounts to help inspire you and plan for your vacation.
@cancunofficial
@visitcancun
The most Instagrammable shots in Cancun
The best family vacations for teens always incorporate something they love. Social media plays a crucial role in their lives, and teenagers often use platforms like Instagram to stay connected with friends, share their interests, and express themselves creatively.
Make sure you get a picture with the Cancun sign.
If you plan a vacation to Cancun, we recommend considering a few Instagram-worthy spots like El Rey Archaeological Zone, the Cancun Sign, and many white-sand beaches. You will find many teen-approved Cancun sights to take great pictures at.
One great idea is to explore the city with a small tripod and gimbal . These handy tools will help capture stable and stunning shots, perfect for your teens’ Instagram feed.
Professional photoshoot in Cancun
Capture your precious family vacation memories forever with a professional photo shoot! Cherish those genuine smiles, laughter, and love shared during your holiday.
Let a skilled photographer freeze those beautiful moments in time, creating timeless keepsakes you’ll treasure for generations to come. Don’t miss the chance to make your family’s holiday memories last a lifetime!
Street Art in Cancun
Street art is found worldwide but is especially prevalent in major cities. Cities are home to a wealth of street art, from graffiti on building walls to pieces painted on lanes and bridges.
Street art provides a unique aesthetic for these places, with topics including current events, pop culture, portraits, and more. Street art is a trendy free thing to do in Cancun and attracts tourists and teenagers alike.
Wander through downtown Cancun to discover vibrant street art and murals.
Pin Bowling in Cancun with teenagers.
If you’re looking for a fun, friendly family competition on your Cancun family holid
All Rights Reserved Travel