Cancun is a well-known vacation spot and is a great place for a quick, 2-day getaway. From world-class restaurants to gorgeous beaches, this sunny destination has everything you need to recharge in a short period of time. And the best part is, cheap flight deals can get you there! Here are our recommendations for things to do in Cancun. Mix and match them to customize the perfect weekend trip for you and your travel companions!

Visit the El Rey Archeological Site

El Rey Mayan Ruins in Cancun, Mexico

If you’re staying in Cancun’s resort area, it will be hard to miss the El Rey Archeological site. A morning visit here is a great way to take in some local history without having to travel too far. Learn about the legacy of the Mayans as you wander through the ruins that make up Cancun’s largest archeological site.

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Snorkel or Dive

Scenics from the coral reefs of the mesoamerican barrier. Mayan Riviera, Mexican Caribbean.

Easily one of the best snorkeling and diving destinations in the world, Cancun offers a variety of options for people of all comfort levels and skill sets. Swim and snorkel above schools of brightly colored fish or dive deep to explore underwater caverns and magical coral reefs. The massive Mayan Barrier Reef (the second largest in the world) is an absolute must see. The Banderas and El Bajito coral reefs, both located in the northern part of Punta Cancun, are also incredibly stunning. Experienced divers will also enjoy adventuring through the San Miguel and Aristos reefs on Cancun’s east side. There are plenty of places to take lessons or rent gear so it’s always best to check with your hotel or resort on who they recommend.

Experience Local Cuisine

Steak tacos with sliced meet, salad and tomato salsa on a cutting board

We’re firm believers in experiencing the local culinary culture wherever we go. For those who love Mexican food, Cancun is definitely the place to enjoy it. Hailed by many as Cancun’s most famous restaurant, La Destileria serves up a dazzling array of seafood, tacos, salsas, and more. Wash down your flavorful dish with a shot of tequila (or two) from La Destileria’s impressive list. You can even take a “tequila tour” to learn more about how this local liquor is made. Another great spot is the decidedly romantic La Habichuela Sunset. The interior – inspired by Mayan and Yucatan aesthetics – is as impressive as the menu. Located in bustling Punta Cancun, Casa Tequila is also a fantastic choice. The people watching from the patio is almost as good as the fresh, flavorful cuisine.

You may also like: The Most Beautiful Beaches in Mexico That You Need To Visit

Chill on a Beach

young beautiful woman enjoying summer vacation

It’s not a trip to Cancun without some beach time. Of course, the hotel/resort area is home to miles of sandy beaches that are just made for relaxing. If you’d like to venture outside of this area, we recommend Playa Norte (North Beach), located on the northern end of Isla Mujeres (an island just off the coast of Cancun). It’s a bit less populated (depending on the season), and a great place to sip cocktails and go for a dip in the calm and clear water. Time your Playa Norte visit for the sunset – it’s absolutely spectacular!

Have you booked cheap flight deals to Cancun? What are your recommendations for must-do activities during a 48-hr stay here? Let us know in the comments section.

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About The Author

An insatiable foodie, art collector, and international literature aficionado, I have traveled throughout Europe, Asia, the U.S. and Canada. For the past fifteen years, I have written about my adventures for various travel and literary publications. I am the owner of Lucidité Writing (www.luciditewriting.com) and Bouchard Design Co.