11 Unforgettable Family Activities for Your Next Visit to Cancun & The Riviera Maya
The Riviera Maya is a dream destination for families looking for unforgettable experiences. From Cancun to Tulum, finding just the right amount of adventure for the entire family is easy. Whether you want to spend the day at one of the many incredible eco-parks or explore the region’s famous cenotes, this stretch of Caribbean coastline in Mexico offers something for every age and interest.
Here’s a list of the best family activities to enjoy during your visit.
- Go with the Flow in Cancun
- Croco Cun Zoo in Puerto Morelos
- Xcaret Eco Park
- Cenotes
- Snorkel with Turtles in Akumal
- Xel-Há All Inclusive Park
- Punto Venado Bike Park
- Playa del Carmen Beaches
- Rio Secreto
- Isla Mujeres and Cozumel
- Muyil in Tulum
Go with the Flow in Cancun
Hang 10! The FlowRider in Cancún is a thrilling activity for those who want to try surfing in a safe, controlled environment. Located at Aquaworld, this wave simulator lets you bodyboard or surf on an endless sheet wave, making it a fun challenge for beginners and experienced riders alike. This is the first FlowRider in Cancun and only the 5th in Mexico, making it a unique and fun experience for you to enjoy with the family during your visit. To make the most of your experience, wear a snug swimsuit to prevent wardrobe malfunctions, listen carefully to the instructor’s tips, and start with bodyboarding to get a feel for the waves before attempting to stand up.
Tips: Make sure the kids are big enough to enjoy the FlowRider, they must be at least 3.2 ft/ 1.0 m tall for Bodyboarding and at least 4 ft/1.20 m tall for Flowboarding.
Interact with Animals at Croco Cun Zoo
Located near Puerto Morelos, Croco Cun Zoo offers interactive animal experiences that kids will love. It’s a small, guided zoo where you can hold baby crocodiles, feed spider monkeys, and learn about the region’s wildlife. The hands-on experiences create lasting memories, and the small size of the zoo makes it an easy adventure for younger kids.
Tip: Wear comfortable shoes as you walk through the zoo’s shaded paths.
Explore Xcaret Eco-Park
A visit to the Riviera Maya isn’t complete without exploring Xcaret, one of the most famous eco-parks in the region. Perfect for families, this park offers activities like underground river swimming, cultural performances, and encounters with wildlife. Kids will love the Butterfly Pavilion and the Coral Reef Aquarium, and the whole family will enjoy the nightly “Xcaret México Espectacular” show, which highlights Mexico’s incredible culture and history. Explore all day, and when you’re ready for a break, relax on the sandy beaches or take a family float down the Paradise River.
Tip: Pack swimsuits, water shoes, and biodegradable sunscreen to maximize your day.
Swim in Cenotes
Cenotes—natural sinkholes filled with fresh water—are unique to the Riviera Maya and Yucatán Peninsula and perfect for family adventures. Some are open and surrounded by jungle, while others are partially underground, creating a magical swimming experience.
Family-friendly cenotes to visit:
- Cenote Azul: A shallow, open cenote with clear water ideal for younger kids.
- Dos Ojos: This cenote is known for its underwater caves, which are great for older kids and parents who want to snorkel.
- Gran Cenote: Popular and family-friendly, with areas for swimming and snorkeling.
Tip: Bring life jackets for younger children if they’re not strong swimmers.
Snorkel with Turtles in Akumal
For a once-in-a-lifetime experience, head to Akumal, known as “Place of the Turtles.” Families can snorkel in shallow waters with wild sea turtles, colorful fish, and rays. Akumal is great for families; the shallow water makes it ideal for younger kids and beginners. You don’t have to jump on a boat to get to the reef; just a few meters from the shore, you´ll see all kinds of amazing sea life. Local guides are available to ensure a safe and eco-friendly experience.
Tip: Bring your own snorkeling gear to save money, and always respect marine life by keeping a safe distance.
Spend the Day at Xel-Há Park
Xel-Há is an all-inclusive natural water park perfect for families who love outdoor fun. From snorkeling and zip-lining to floating down the lazy river, there’s something for everyone. The Children’s Playground has shallow pools and slides for younger kids, while older kids and parents can enjoy cliff jumping or biking through jungle trails. Xel-Há offers unlimited food and drinks, making it easy to keep the whole family happy.
Tip: Purchase tickets online in advance to save on admission.
Enjoy a Day at Punta Venado Bike Park
This hidden gem offers a variety of family activities, including horseback riding on the beach and kayaking. You can also jump on a mountain bike and explore the jungle. Punta Venado is conveniently located just 15 minutes from Playa del Carmen. With a mix of adventure and relaxation, it is great for active families. Punta Venado offers a wide range of activities for all ages and a beautiful beach where you can unwind after your adventures.
Tip: Book activities in advance, especially during the busy season.
Relax on Playa del Carmen’s Beaches
Not every family day needs to be action-packed. Sometimes, the best memories are made by simply enjoying the beach. Playa del Carmen offers family-friendly beaches with calm waters and plenty of amenities. Whether you spend a day at a beach club or pack your cooler and umbrella, a relaxing day at the beach is the best way to unwind after all your adventures.
For kids, we like Marena Beach Club, located in the Corasol residential community. The beach is beautiful, and the club has a swimming pool perfect for younger kids. Right next door, you´ll find Playa Boardsports, where you can rent kayaks, stand-up paddleboards, and jet skis.
If you decide to spend the day at the public beach, our favorite is Coco Beach, located on the north end of town.
Tip: Bring beach toys, snacks, and an umbrella for shade.
Visit Río Secreto
For an adventure like no other, take your family to Río Secreto, an underground river with stunning stalactites and stalagmites. Guided tours include swimming, hiking, and learning about the geological wonders of the Riviera Maya. The tours are informative and tailored to different age groups, and they are an unforgettable experience for kids who love exploring.
Tip: Children must be at least 4 years old to participate.
Explore Isla Mujeres or Cozumel
Take a short ferry ride to one of these nearby islands for a day of family fun. To visit Isla Mujeres, you’ll take the ferry from Cancun; we recommend renting a golf cart to explore the island, visit the Turtle Farm, or relax on Playa Norte. If you are in Playa del Carmen, Cozumel is just a quick 45-minute ferry ride away and is a great place to take the kids. The island is known for its world-class snorkeling and Chankanaab Beach Adventure Park, which has a kids’ area.
Tip: Ferries depart frequently from Playa del Carmen and Cancun, making it easy to plan a day trip.
Muyil
Visiting Muyil with your family is a fantastic way to combine culture, nature, and adventure in the Riviera Maya. Located just south of Tulum, Muyil is one of the oldest and most picturesque Mayan archaeological sites, surrounded by lush jungle and close to the Sian Ka’an Biosphere Reserve. Your family can explore ancient temples, such as El Castillo, and learn about Mayan history in a serene and less crowded setting than other ruins. After wandering through the site, take a boat tour through the nearby lagoons or float down the tranquil canal, a favorite for kids and adults alike.
Tip: Bring plenty of bug spray and wear lightweight, long-sleeved clothing to avoid mosquito bites, especially during the warmer months.
The Riviera Maya offers endless opportunities for families to bond and create lasting memories. Whether you’re swimming in cenotes, exploring ancient ruins, or snorkeling with turtles, there’s an adventure waiting around every corner. So pack your bags, grab the kids, and get ready to discover all the magic this incredible region offers!
