What to do in Santa Elena

Activities, attractions and tours

Pyramid of the Magician which includes heritage architecture
Uxmal Archaeological Site showing heritage elements as well as a small group of people
Uxmal Archaeological Site which includes heritage elements
Pyramid of the Magician featuring heritage architecture as well as a small group of people
Uxmal Archaeological Site featuring heritage architecture

Places to Visit in Santa Elena

Ready for the adventure of a lifetime? Let Expedia.co.nz help you find the most exciting and fun things to do in Santa Elena, Mérida while also allowing you to save a ton on travel arrangements. Regardless of whether you’re an urban explorer or an intrepid outdoor enthusiast, we can help you decide exactly what to do and see during your time in town.

Our thorough travel guides offer you an insider’s perspective on all of the best Santa Elena attractions from NZ$47, making it easy for you to decide which places to visit and when. And by using Expedia.co.nz to set your sightseeing schedule, you can take in more of the enchanting attractions this area is famous for.

From group Santa Elena tours and must-see landmarks to personal guides who take you off-the-beaten track, Expedia.co.nz offers you over 16 of the most popular events, activities, and attractions in this corner of the world. So whether you’re travelling alone, alongside a loved one, or with the whole family in tow, be sure to browse through our extensive travel guides prior to your plane touching down in this spectacular Santa Elena. We even have a massive selection of flights, car hires, and accommodation for you to choose from. So what are you waiting for? Start your search today, and you’ll be having the time of your life before you know it.

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What to do in Santa Elena

Discover the most popular places to visit in Santa Elena

Progreso Beach

Progreso Beach

Nothing says holiday like spending a lazy day at Progreso Beach, a popular beach in Mérida. Stroll along the area's seaside or simply enjoy its restaurants.

Progreso Beach
Paseo de Montejo featuring night scenes and a monument

Paseo de Montejo

Walk down this beautiful tree-lined avenue for a little taste of all the things that make Mérida such a charming place to visit.

Paseo de Montejo
Merida Cathedral which includes a church or cathedral, a sunset and heritage architecture

Mérida Cathedral

Visit chapels and survey impressive works of religious art inside this ancient church, an imposing building in the historical center of Merida.

Mérida Cathedral
Yucatan International Convention Center

Yucatan International Convention Center

Learn about the events happening in Yucatan International Convention Center during your trip to Mérida. While in this culturally rich area, find time to visit its shops.

Yucatan International Convention Center
Celestún Beach

Celestún Beach

Why not spend a care-free afternoon at Celestún Beach during your travels in Mérida?

Celestún Beach
Uxmal Archaeological Site showing heritage elements

Uxmal Archaeological Site

Learn about the local history of Santa Elena with a stop at Uxmal Archaeological Site. While in this relaxing area, you can savour the local chocolate shops and restaurants.

Uxmal Archaeological Site
Cenotes Cuzama

Cenotes Cuzama

Commune with nature and explore the great outdoors at Cenotes Cuzama during your travels in Cuzama. While you're in the area, wander around the natural setting.

Cenotes Cuzama
Plaza Grande

Plaza Grande

Locals stop for friendly chats and large shady trees line the paved walkways. This main square is truly the heart of downtown Merida.

Plaza Grande
Mayapan Mayan Ruins which includes heritage architecture

Mayapan Mayan Ruins

Crumbling pyramids and lonely towers stand guard over a tranquil site that was once one of the most important Mayan cities on the Yucatán Peninsula.

Mayapan Mayan Ruins

Explore areas of Santa Elena

Uxmal Archaeological Site which includes heritage elements as well as a couple

Uxmal

Atmospheric ruins emerge from the jungle at this UNESCO site, where markets hummed with activity and Mayan priests once gazed up toward glittering constellations.

Uxmal
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Sayil

Travellers like the museums in Sayil, and Eco Museum of Cacao is a top attraction you might want to visit.

Sayil

 

Looking for fun things to do nearby? Check things to do near me to find and book the best things to do, fun activities, and top attractions wherever you happen to be.

 

 

Day trip destinations from Santa Elena

Paseo de Montejo featuring night scenes and a monument

Mérida

Photo by Vanessa Sgaravizzi

Muna

Calkini

Calkini

Photo by Rolando Gomez

Oxkutzcab

Frequently asked questions

Is Santa Elena worth visiting?
With a blend of culture and history, there's no shortage of things to do in Santa Elena. When you're here, visit Grutas de Loltún, a must-see attraction in the area.
How do I spend a day in Santa Elena?
Kick your day off with a visit to Grutas de Loltún and Palacio del Gobernador. Then, check out different parts of Santa Elena for local dining and some retail therapy.
What is the top tourist attraction in Santa Elena?
The top tourist attraction in Santa Elena is Grutas de Loltún, so be sure to include it on your agenda.
Is three days enough to stay in Santa Elena?
If you just want to see the most popular sights, three days will be a good amount of time for a break in Santa Elena. Book for seven to ten days for the chance to truly appreciate the local vibe, visit nearby hotspots and explore some hidden gems.
What are some activities to do in Santa Elena with kids?
If you're searching for activities and attractions for all ages, here are some fabulous ideas for what to do in Santa Elena with kids.

What to do in Santa Elena for adults?
Whether you're a food lover, culture enthusiast or adventure seeker, there are loads of things to do in Santa Elena for adults including Museo de Cacao.
Are there free things to do in Santa Elena?
You don't need to spend big to enjoy a memorable getaway here. There are loads of fun things to do in Santa Elena for the traveller on a budget. Roam the parks, soak up the vibes at free events and festivals or ask a local tour guide for tips.