5 Night Cancun Travel Itinerary - Your Cancun Vacation Guide
Looking to plan a beach adventure to Cancun? We got you covered! Explore this 5 night Cancun travel itinerary and let it be your ultimate guide to experiencing the beautiful beaches, vibrant nightlife, and rich cultural history of Mexico's Yucatán Peninsula.
Cancun is famous for its gorgeous beaches, clear blue waters, and lively atmosphere, making it a perfect destination for both relaxation and adventure.
Over the next 5 days, you'll explore ancient Mayan ruins, snorkel in crystal-clear waters, and enjoy some of the best dining and entertainment in the region. Of course, a couple of days will be dedicated to just soaking up the sun on Cancun's beautiful beaches—because what's a trip to Cancun without some serious beach time?
Pack your sunscreen and get ready to enjoy the perfect blend of leisure and exploration in paradise!
Day 1: Arrival and Beach Relaxation
Morning
- Arrival at Cancun International Airport: Check into your hotel by the beach and take some time to settle in.
- Beach Time: Start your vacation right by heading straight to the beach. Whether you're staying at the beach or in your resort, grab a lounger, and let the sound of the waves ease you into vacation mode.
Afternoon
- Lunch at a Beachfront Restaurant: Enjoy fresh seafood and Mexican cuisine with your toes in the sand. Try La Isla Shopping Village for a variety of dining options.
- Beach Activities: Take a swim in the turquoise waters or try some beach volleyball.
Evening
- Dinner at Lorenzillo's: This iconic restaurant is known for its lobster and beautiful lagoon views. Reserve a table on the deck for the best experience.
- Night Stroll on the Beach: Enjoy a peaceful walk under the stars along the soft sandy beach.
Day 2: Explore Ancient Mayan Ruins
Morning
- Day Trip to Tulum: Depart early for a guided tour of the Tulum Ruins, about 1.5 hours from Cancun. These cliffside ruins offer breathtaking views of the Caribbean Sea and a fascinating glimpse into Mayan history.
Afternoon
- Lunch at Tulum Beach: After exploring the ruins, enjoy lunch at one of the many beach clubs in Tulum. Ziggy's Beach Club offers a relaxed atmosphere and delicious food.
- Visit the Cenotes: Tulum is full of Cenotes, and this is a must visit for your day trip to Tulum.
Evening
- Dinner in Downtown Cancun: Head to downtown Cancun for a more local dining experience. La Parrilla serves authentic Mexican dishes in a lively setting.
Day 3: Snorkeling Adventure
Morning
- Snorkeling at Isla Mujeres: Take a ferry from Playa Tortugas to Isla Mujeres for a day of snorkeling. The island offers some of the best snorkeling spots in the area, such as Garrafon Natural Reef Park.
Afternoon
- Lunch on Isla Mujeres: Enjoy a casual lunch at one of the beachside restaurants, like Mango Café, which is famous for its fresh and flavorful dishes.
- Explore the Island: Rent a golf cart to explore Isla Mujeres. Visit Punta Sur for panoramic views and a glimpse of the island's easternmost point.
Evening
- Dinner at Javi's Cantina: Return to Cancun and have dinner at Javi's Cantina, known for its excellent seafood and welcoming atmosphere.
Day 4: Relax and Unwind
Morning
- Lazy Beach Morning: Spend your morning lounging by the pool or on the beach. Grab a good book and enjoy the tropical breeze.
Afternoon
- Spa Afternoon: Treat yourself to a spa afternoon at your hotel or one of Cancun's top spas. A massage or facial will rejuvenate you for the evening ahead.
Evening
- Dinner at Harry's Steakhouse & Raw Bar: Enjoy a luxurious dining experience with prime cuts of meat and fresh seafood.
- Nightlife in the Hotel Zone: Experience Cancun's famous nightlife with a visit to Coco Bongo or Mandala, two of the top nightclubs in the area.
Day 5: Explore Cancun’s Attractions
Morning
- Visit the Interactive Aquarium: Located in La Isla Shopping Village, this aquarium offers interactive experiences with marine life, including swimming with dolphins.
Afternoon
- Lunch at La Parrilla: Head back to downtown Cancun for a traditional Mexican lunch at this popular eatery.
- Shopping at Mercado 28: Explore this bustling market for souvenirs, handcrafted goods, and local art.
Evening
- Sunset Dinner Cruise: End your trip with a romantic sunset dinner cruise. Enjoy a delicious meal while sailing along the beautiful coastline.
Worried about planning these activities yourself?
Don't be! Getyourguide.com has all of these things we mention with tons of different packages and tour companies that will not just allow you to do the activities we mention but include several other things for you to do during those day trips etc, and even provide your transportation to and from.
The best part? If you decide you have a change of plans, you can cancel anything you book 24 hour prior to it starting for a 100% refund, no questions asked.
Daily Budget Needed
Budget Traveler
- Accommodation: $50–$100 per night
- Meals: $20–$40 per day
- Transportation: $10–$20 per day
- Attractions: $20–$50 per day
Luxury Traveler
- Accommodation: $200–$500 per night
- Meals: $80–$150 per day
- Transportation: $30–$60 per day
- Attractions: $50–$100 per day
Top Luxury Places to Stay
Nizuc Resort & Spa
- Guest Rating: 9.3
- Location: On a secluded stretch of beach
- Nearby Attractions: Ventura Park, El Rey Ruins
Grand Fiesta Americana Coral Beach Cancun
- Guest Rating: 9.1
- Location: Beachfront in the heart of the Hotel Zone
- Nearby Attractions: Forum Beach, Cancun Convention Center
Top Pick For Kids: If you are taking children with you the Grand Fiesta Americana is hands down the winner as far as our luxury options on this list. It's a massive property with huge pools and there will be lots of other kids there for them to play with, complete with a kids club and all.
Le Blanc Spa Resort Cancun
- Guest Rating: 9.5
- Location: On a beautiful beach with easy access to nightlife
- Nearby Attractions: Playa Chac Mool, Coco Bongo
Top Budget-Friendly Places to Stay
Selina Cancun Laguna Hotel Zone
- Guest Rating: 8.1
- Location: Across the street from the beach
- Nearby Attractions: Playa Tortugas, Cancun Golf Club at Pok Ta Pok
Beachscape Kin Ha Villas & Suites
- Guest Rating: 8.6
- Location: Beachfront access
- Nearby Attractions: Plaza Caracol, Forum Beach
Out Budget Pick: This is the more expensive of the budget friendly options, which typically runs around $120 per night, but if you can swing it you will have an amazing stay at the Beachscape Kin Ha Villas & Suites.
Hotel Casa Maya
- Guest Rating: 8.3
- Location: Directly on the beach
- Nearby Attractions: Playa Langosta, Playa Tortugas
Optional Day Trips From Cancun
- Chichen Itza: This iconic archaeological site is one of the New Seven Wonders of the World and a must-visit for history enthusiasts.
- Cozumel: A short ferry ride away, Cozumel offers fantastic scuba diving and snorkeling opportunities with its vibrant coral reefs.
- Valladolid: This charming colonial town is perfect for a day of exploring beautiful architecture and sampling local cuisine.
- Playa del Carmen: Known for its lively beach scene and shopping on Fifth Avenue, Playa del Carmen is a great destination for a day trip.
- Xcaret Park: Experience a day of fun and adventure at this eco-archaeological park, featuring natural and cultural attractions.