Best Things to do at night in Cancun

Best Things to Do at Night in Cancun

One of the most famous tourist destinations in the world, Cancun is located on the Yucatán Peninsula bordering the Caribbean Sea in Mexico. It mixes old and new with its historic Mayan ruins and modern attractions. Initially, Mayan inhabitants ruled this southeast Mexcian city until the Spanish conquest of Yucatan. You will still find this indigenous group in much of Quintana Roo and Yucatan states.

This city never sleeps and offers many nighttime activities. Some of its daytime attractions also operate at night, so visitors will find plenty of options. Compared to bright daylight, their experiences will be more thrilling after the sun goes down. Hence, if you don’t mind staying up extra late, we recommend the best things to do at night in Cancun.

Is Cancun Safe at Night?

Cancun
Cancun is a relatively safe place to visit.

Anyone will be concerned about their travel destination’s safety before their trip. Likewise, people are especially cautious before traveling to Mexico, as the country’s crime rates are high. However, these activities occur far from the Yucatan Peninsula’s shores. You will be surprised that Cancun’s crime rating is 56.16, almost similar to Miami’s (53.14%).

However, incidents like vandalism, assaults, and property damage have lower rates in this city. In addition, the Mexican government implements strict policies to secure tourists’ safety. The Armed Forces provide 24-hour security at 42 bus stations and 14 airports throughout the state. Hence, Cancun could be considered a safe place to visit.

Still, exercising extra caution in the evening and at night is best. Avoid secluded areas and sleazy-looking bars. Don’t fall for scammers or promoters with false promises. Moreover, you should keep a close eye on your belongings and avoid wearing flashy accessories when walking at night.

Watch the Mystical Chichen Itza Night Show

Chichen Itza Night Show
Find out how Chichen Itza looks different at night.

Have you heard of Chichen Itza? This magnificent place is one of the few remaining Mayan ruins worldwide. The Pyramid of Kukulkan, aka El Castillo, sits at the site’s center. Although you can’t climb the pyramid, you can take gorgeous snaps in front of it. Moreover, it looks more beautiful when illuminated by lights at night.

Also called Kukulkan Nights, the Chichen Itza Night Show uses dramatic lights, images, and sounds to create a memorable experience. Mayan ruins are floodlit in color-changing lights, making viewers feel like they are in a magical land. Moreover, the main spectacle occurs in El Castillo, where a 30-minute light and sound show occurs. Although it is present in Spanish, you will easily get the gist of the content. Tickets are available from 3 PM to 8 PM.

Ride Thrilling Ziplines at Xcaret Park

Xcaret Park
Explore nigh-time attractions at Xcaret Park.

Who said theme parks are only for daytime activity? Xcaret Park is an exception, as it operates from morning until midnight. It offers over fifty natural and cultural attractions. This place has everything you want, from water parks to eco-archaeological parks.

This theme park is also lively at night. Visitors often come here to try thrilling zip lines and other adventurous sports, which are more exciting in the dark. In addition, this park offers a separate kids’ section for younger visitors. It also includes the Papantla Flyers ceremony, Xcaret Mexico Espectacular, ancestral dances in the Pre-Hispanic Village, and the equestrian show.

Experience Mexican Party Night at Xoximilco

Xoximilco
It’s a party time at night at Xoximilco.
(Source: Xoximilco Instagram)

Make your evening more fun with this Xoximilco tour. You will board a colorful trajinera and travel through the Xoximilco canals. Unlike your typical canal boat tours, this one will be different with its vibrant party style. You will dance to the beats of mariachi and banda and sing alongside other passengers. Furthermore, this activity is suitable for solo travelers and families.

Passengers will also try various Mexican delicacies during the trip. You can quench your thirst at the open bar on the boat, which offers everything from tequila to vodka, beer, and soft drinks. Moreover, the host will make your experience more enjoyable by telling funny stories and inviting everyone to play games. Overall, you will truly experience the Mexican party vibe on this tour.

Explore Night Wildlife Tour at Nichupte Lagoon

Nichupte Lagoon
Catch beautiful sunset views from Nichupte Lagoon.
  • Address: Supermanzana 510, 77534 Cancun, Quintana Roo, Mexico; Google Map
  • Things To Do: Kayaking, Swimming, Snorkeling, Scuba Diving, Canoeing

The beautiful Nichupte Lagoon is a natural paradise. It is famous among outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers. If you are a marine biologist or a bird watcher, you must visit this place at least once. Nichupte is the meeting point of seven lakes: the North Basin, Laguna del Amor, Central Basin, South Basin, English River, Borjoquez Lagoon, and Mediterranean Lagoon.

You will see various wildlife, such as crocodiles, seabirds, migratory birds, and sea animals. In addition, you can embark on a jungle tour and explore this reserve’s thick forest. Another thing to do here is watch the sunset. As you can see in the picture, this place offers beautiful views. As you explore, you will find more nighttime activities here.

Stroll Around Cancun Night Markets

Parque de las Palapas
Explore the Cancun night market scene of Parque de las Palapas. (Source: Parque de las Palapas Facebook)

Shopping in malls is outdated; we can do it in our native country. In Cancun, shop in Cancun style by strolling around local markets. They are usually open during the evenings and cheaper than department stores. Moreover, these markets offer fresh products like groceries, meat, and handmade items. You can even bargain with the sellers.

You won’t find a more vibrant night market beside Parque de las Palapas in Cancun. This park is full of local vendors selling treats, tacos, and street food in the evening. You must go on a Taco and Marquesitas tour here. Aside from here, other renowned markets in this city are as follows:

Dance the Night Away at Cancun Night Clubs

What could be a better nighttime activity than clubbing? Luckily, Cancun Hotel Zone has hundreds of bars and nightclubs where you can enjoy a great night out. Here, the drinks never stop coming, music is always playing, and the vibe never goes down.

Mandala Beach Club

Mandala Beach Club
Find out why Mandala Beach ranks among the hottest Cancun clubs. (Source: Mandala Beach Facebook)

We start our list with the iconic Mandala Beach Club. This establishment stands out from other clubs as it operates day and night. The daytime club opens at 11 AM and provides a fun beach vacation. You will enjoy swimming in pools, relaxing in the jacuzzi, and drinking refreshing beverages. In addition, there will be electronic and beach vibes music in the air.

Mandala Nightclub is perfect for night owls on the hunt for the best nightlife. It opens at 9 PM and closes around 3 AM. You can wear casual or upscale clothing and must check in before 10:30 PM. Furthermore, you will bust dance moves to hip-hop, EDM, and Reggaeton music. This club’s open facade only adds to the enjoyment.

Coco Bongo Cancun

Coco Bongo Cancun
Watch special performances at Coco Bongo Cancun.
(Source: Coco Bongo Facebook)

Located in the heart of Hotel Zone, Coco Bongo Cancun offers more than your average nightclub experience. It hosts incredible performances with music, aerial acrobatics, singing, and dancing. You will watch the famous Samba dance, the 90s movie-inspired The Mask, 300 movie-inspired show, the classic musical Moulin Rouge, the Mad Max movie-inspired show, and a tribute to rock band Queen.

Coco Bongo opens at 9 PM; however, the show usually starts at around 11 PM. Visitors must be at least 18 to enter the club. They can buy gold or regular tickets online or at the door. While this nightclub doesn’t have a dress code, people often wear their best outfits suitable for clubbing. Hence, dressing up is better than coming in beach clothes and flip-flops.

The City

The City
Have a good time at The City. (Source: The City Instagram)
  • Address: Blvd. Kukulcan Km 9.5, Punta Cancun, Zona Hotelera, 77500 Cancún, Q.R., Mexico; Google Map
  • Opening Hours: 10:30 PM – 3 AM
  • Social Media: Official Facebook, Official Instagram

There is a party in the air at The City. This establishment is one of the largest nightclubs in Latin America, and it has a massive capacity for up to 6,000 people. Nine bars serve drinks throughout three levels. Moreover, this place has the best laser and lighting systems in Cancun. The disco lights only add to the already exciting party atmosphere.

Likewise, The City often hosts top artists’ concerts. Fergie, Flo Rida, Ludacris, 50 Cent, Snoop Dogg, Paul Van Dyk, and Paris Hilton have performed here. This club also hosts jaw-dropping acrobatic performances every other day. Regarding the dress code, visitors are required to dress smart-casual. Save time by purchasing tickets online on Viator.

Dady’O aka D’Cave

Dady'O
Vibe to the electrifying music at Dady’O.
(Source: D’Cave MX Facebook)

Have you ever been to a club that looks like a cave? If not, you must visit Dady’O, aka D’Cave, in Cancun. This place has a cave-like theme with an exterior that looks like a gigantic rock. Visitors will enter through the door resembling an underground tunnel. The interior looks like a gigantic cave with dark decor and tables lining the walls.

D’Cave opened its doors in the late 1980s and has been running ever since. So, expect 80s and 90s theme nights. This place has trendy pop, EDM, Top 40, and Moment hits blasting off speakers. You will also occasionally find celebs hosting special parties. Regarding the dress code, you must wear elegant outfits. Shorts, t-shirts, swimsuits, flip-flops, sandals, and tank tops are prohibited.

Señor Frog’s

Senor Frog's
Bring out your party animal at Señor Frog’s.
(Source: Senor Frog’s Facebook)

Explore fine dining and wild clubbing at Señor Frog’s. This place offers the best of both worlds. During the daytime, it operates as a family-friendly restaurant serving international dishes like pizza, pasta, chicken, steak, fajitas, and enchiladas. This establishment can accommodate up to 300 customers and offers an all-inclusive option.

Señor Frog’s turns into a nightclub after the sun goes down. It can house up to 1,500 people and hosts different theme nights daily. You will find the place full of people dancing, drinking, and participating in conga lines. In addition, this club often hosts glow and foam parties.

Regarding the best things to do at night in Cancun, this city has it all. One second, you will be exploring night markets, and the next second, you will be busting dance moves in the Cancun Party Zone. Furthermore, this city’s nightclubs continue until the early morning, so you can drink, dance, and go wild as much as you want.

While it is considered a great destination for a night out, Cancun nightlife safety depends on the visitors. They must be aware of persuasive shot girls looking to sell jello shots or tequila. Pay attention to your drinks, and do not accept beverages from strangers. Likewise, you must keep tabs on your drinks for payment, and it’s best to pay after each order.

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