This brief video shows 10 of the top attractions in and around Cancun.

Hi, my name is Scott Bateman. I’m a professional journalist and travel blogger. I have been to Cancun multiple times and have tips about the 10 best attractions in the area.

Cancun is mainly a hanging out kind of destination. It is not known for major attractions right in the city. But it has some great attractions within driving distance.

Number 1 - Chichen Itza is simply amazing. The massive Mayan ruins are stunning in size and ambition. This day trip out of Cancun is worth the two hour drive over and two back again. The cost for a guided tour ranges from $75 to $100 per adult.

Number 2 - Isla Mujeres is a small island off the coast with sandy beaches, a turtle sanctuary and swimming with the dolphins at Dolphin Discovery.

Number 3 - I think Playa del Carmen is worth the 1-hour drive south of Cancun for its lively tourism district on Fifth Avenue. This pedestrian mall is packed with shops, restaurants and entertainment. Keep an eye out for the strangely attired street performers.

Number 4 - Aquaworld at the southern end of the hotel strip is a major watersports center that offers diving, fishing, boat tours, waverunners and a unique ride called The Rocket.

Number 5 - Parque Knee-Sook also lies on the hotel stript. It has snorkeling, water slides and swimming with the dolphins

Number 6 - Beach lovers may like Playa Tortugas at the northern end of the hotel zone. It has a reputation for being the best all-around beach in Cancun.

Number 7 - Playa Del-feen-ess at the southern end of the Hotel Zone is another popular option, especially with families.

Number 8 - Speaking of families, they will find an educational experience at the Interactive Aquarium in the Hotel Zone. The aquarium has touch tanks, a dolphin swim and an underwater snuba aquarium trek.

Number 9 - Anyone who makes the drive to Playa del Carmen can add only six more miles to reach Ish-cah-ret Park. It has Mayan ball games, dolphin swims, underground rivers and snorkeling tours. It also has beaches, bays and natural pools for swimming.

Number 10 - My final tip is the great Mayan Tulum Ruins another 50 minutes south of Playa del Carmen. That sounds like a lot of driving, but it’s no longer than a trip to Chichen Itza. So if you want to dedicate a full day to an excursion, choose either Chichen Itza or a combination of Playa del Carmen and Tulum.

That wraps up my top 10 Cancun attractions and excursions. I hope you enjoy your trip!