Cancun is filled with incredible ways to get out on the water. From catamaran cruises around Isla Mujeres to swimming in cenotes in the nearby jungle, there is something for everyone. Soar high above the sea while you parasail or dive to the depths to see bull sharks and whale sharks. It is truly a wonderful place.
The area is popular with families as there are many great water parks like Xel-ha or fun swimming pools at hotels/resorts where they go to relax after long days playing on the beach!
Here are 5 amazing water sports that you can find in Cancun, Mexico.
- Water Parks
Cancun and the Riviera Maya has several world-renowned water parks that are built into the natural landscape of the area. Most famous is Xcaret and their series of waterparks and adventure parks in the area. But if you’re into water adventure, Xel-ha is the place for you.
Here you’ll find snorkeling, ziplines into cenotes, dolphins, freshwater rivers that flow to the sea, cliff jumping, manatees, waterslides and more. It is truly a mecca for water lovers and combines the natural features of the land with some man made attractions too. There is more than you’ll be able to see and do even in an entire day.
- Jet skiing
The most high intensity water sport in Cancun is jet skiing. Hit the throttle and feel the acceleration as you rip up the Cancun coastline. Cruise across the Caribbean waters and wind through mangroves in Nichupte lagoon. Check in on Cancun jet ski prices, but you’ll typically pay about $100/hour for a jet ski rental.
You’ll get a guide and briefing on how to ride the jet ski so it’s great for beginners too. It is more fun than it sounds, and it’s not as hard to learn as you might think. If you want some adventure without having to do much work for it, then jet skiing may be just what you’re looking for!
You can even do this activity in Cancun—it’s one of the most popular things to do here in Mexico. You can jet ski alone or with a partner as well.
- Catamaran tour
The most popular catamaran tour in Cancun goes out to Isla Mujeres. Most of the trips are around seven hours long and include lunch, snorkeling and open bar. It is a great way to explore a beautiful island, relax on a boat hammock and party it up at a very reasonable price.
If you’re interested in seeing whale sharks or dolphins while on your excursion to Isla Mujeres you’ll need to book that separately as there is a specific season (June-September) and boats that go to see Whale Sharks.
- Kayaking
There are many things to see while kayaking and many areas where you can enjoy this leisurely activity. At some resorts kayaks will be included or you can rent them to explore parts of the lagoon. But if you’re truly looking for a world class kayak experience, take a tour down to Laguna Bacalar south of Cancun. This is a LONG journey, but the colors of the water as you kayak around is well worth it.
If you don’t want to make the trek to Bacalar, you can enjoy canoeing in Playa Del Carmen or other nearby towns. Canoeing is a fun way to explore the local waterways and see wildlife up close. The best place to rent canoes is the beach at Playa del Carmen, where you’ll find several companies offering rentals for about $10 USD per hour. You can also rent canoes from operators near the marinas in Puerto Juarez or Isla Mujeres.
- Scuba diving
Scuba diving is a way to explore the underwater world from a whole new perspective. Tourists travel from around the world to enjoy diving along the Mexican Caribbean. While Cozumel, near Cancun, is probably the most famous for scuba diving, Cancun offers unique cenote dives and diving with bull sharks too.
Typically, you’ll need to have your PADI certification, but if many dive shops offer a 3 day certification course or a single day exploratory dive where you can do a test dive in a pool and then go out to the ocean for a dive, even before you’re certified!
What Will You Choose?
If you are planning a trip to Cancun, Mexico, there are many wonderful water sports to experience. Hit up the parks, sail the seas or dive to the depths. There are also many different ways to enjoy the water, you are sure to have a good time.
