Yamil Lu'um

Yamil Lu’um, also called the Temple of the Scorpion, is a small Maya archaeological site on a hill in Cancún’s Hotel Zone, between the Westin Lagunamar and Park Royal resorts. Its two structures are thought to have served as a temple and a lighthouse, though their exact purpose is uncertain. The ruins are modest, but their position above the beach gives you a view of the Caribbean Sea. Access can be difficult because the site sits within resort grounds, so ask hotel staff for permission or view it from Playa Marlín.

The ruins and their setting

Yamil Lu’um, also known as the Temple of the Scorpion, stands on one of the highest points in Cancún’s Hotel Zone. Its name means “hilly land.” The small archaeological site is set between the Westin Lagunamar and Park Royal resorts, close to the beach.

Two structures remain at the site. One is thought to have been a temple, while the other may have served as a lighthouse. The deities associated with the temples are not known. Their compact scale makes this a brief stop, but the location offers a glimpse of Maya architecture alongside the modern hotels and the Caribbean coast.

Reaching Yamil Lu’um

The ruins are on resort grounds, which can make access difficult for people who are not staying there. Ask at either hotel whether you can enter through its property. If access is not available, go to Playa Marlín to see the site from the beach. Do not rely on listed opening hours as a guarantee that resort staff will let you through.

The approach involves a walk uphill, so wear shoes suited to walking. Stay on permitted routes and do not climb barriers or enter restricted areas. La Isla is nearby if you want to combine the stop with other plans in the Hotel Zone.