WATER ADVENTURES
The crystal clear blue waters of Cancún are perfect for taking in the extensive reef and colorful fish. Many independent snorkeling companies offer deep-sea tours complete with all the equipment you’ll need to explore what lies underneath. And if you really want to see the depths, scuba diving tours take place with different companies throughout the island. Don’t forget to sign up to get certified before your trip!
If you want to get up close and personal with naturally social dolphins, AquaWorld at Cancún’s Wet’n Wild waterpark offers the chance for young patrons to interact with dolphins in shallow pools and for adults to swim alongside them in deeper pools.
And for a truly unforgettable experience, touring companies like Xplor take visitors on tours of the cenotes. You’ll float or swim as you wend your way through underground rivers and caverns that are well-lit so that you can marvel at the stalactites and stalagmites that abound.
LAND ADVENTURES
There’s also plenty to see and do on dry land in Cancún. Because the area was originally inhabited by ancient Mayans, there are a number of pre-Columbian archaeological sites. One of them, El Rey, is located within the hotel zone, walking distance from some of the main resorts. It dates to A.D. 1250-1630 and features the ruins of plazas and buildings.
If you’d like to see Cancún from the treetops, take a canopy tour via zip line high up in the jungle. Or if you prefer venturing into the jungle from the safety of a Hummer, you’ll find guided tours that do just that.
CITY
For a more authentic taste of Mexico, head out of the hotel zone and into the city of Cancún itself. The heart of downtown is a main street called Avenida Tulum. Strolling down its wide pedestrian paths, you’ll find shops, bars, markets and the City Hall building.
The city’s main park, Parque Las Palapas, features vendors selling local wares and souvenirs, a playground, an outdoor food court and plenty of food carts serving traditional Mexican dishes. On weekend evenings, the park’s stage comes alive with performances that are popular with local families.
NIGHTLIFE
After the sun sets, Cancún really comes alive. The city’s nightlife brings in spring breakers and vacationers who are looking to have a good time, and Cancún has just the place for them. It is important to scope out what spots you want to hit up before night falls. Many of the clubs fill up and have cover fees, so know your options so that you can enjoy a margarita or two.