Cancun and the Riviera Maya represent the top destination in Mexico, with 7.6 million visitors in 2017. To keep pace with growth, another 5,000 rooms are expected to open up from 2018-2019. As you can imagine, the hot spots can get pretty crowded, especially during peak travel periods. Still, there are plenty of ideal spots to get away from the crowds and unusual, off-the-beaten path attractions in Cancun you won’t find anywhere else in the world. You may have heard of places like Isla Contoy, Isla Mujeres, Holbox Island, Xcaret, Rio Secreto, and Tuluum, but here are a few more experiences you won’t want to miss!

1. La Casa del Arte Popular Mexicano

Museums are a quiet way to experience the authentic culture and indigenous peoples of Mexico. The House of Popular Mexican Art houses the private collection of Gabriela Padilla de la Parra. If it was made by hand in Mexico, you will see it in some form or another here. There are masks, musical instruments, costumes, carvings, paintings, kitchen utensils, sculptures, jewelry, pottery, dolls, and other handmade toys. The displays are colorful and beautiful enough to bring tears to your eyes. Headsets offer free self-guided tours, so you can get the most out of your visit. The store features reproductions of the traditional handicrafts you see in the museum, making it the ideal stop for souvenirs. Just outside the museum, at Avenida Kukulkan and the Embarcadero at KM 4, you’ll find boats traveling to Isla Mujeres, dinner cruises, Captain Hook’s pirate ships docked, and a Mexican theatre.

2. Croco Cun Zoo

Families with young children in tow won’t want to miss the unusual Croco Cun Zoo – a family-run crocodile rescue facility 15 minutes south of Cancun. The interactive zoo lets you see and touch crocodiles, hairless dogs, baby deer, iguanas, monkeys, boa constrictors, parrots, and peacocks, while knowledgeable guides give you the inside scoop on how hurricanes and commercial development have threatened natural habitats. Animal lovers say the place is staffed by passionate caregivers who provide excellent care to the rescued animals. The property also houses a cafeteria, gift shop, and playground for the kids. On a sunny day, you can slip into the shade under the jungle canopy, but don’t forget to bring your bug repellent! 

3. MUSA

Choose your own adventure at Cancun’s one-of-a-kind underwater sculpture museum: glass bottom boat tour, snorkel, or scuba dive to get the full experience. Museo Subacuatico de Arte houses over 500 life-sized, ghostly cement figures created by artist Jason de Caires Taylor who wanted to lure tourist traffic away from endangered local reefs. The haunting statues are between 13 and 30 feet below the surface of the water, and have become artificial reefs that attract fish and wildlife in their own right. You can reach the museum by taking the Hotel Zone ferry to Isla Mujeres.

4. Xoximilco

Everyone loves a fiesta. If the clubbing lifestyle is too fast-paced for you, slow it down on a picturesque trajinera gondola out of Xoximilco Cancun Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site 27 minutes south of Cancun. These colorful traditional boats were once used to transport vegetables, fruit, and flowers throughout the area, but they are lit up by night to feature drinks, local cuisine, and live mariachi bands. Each intimate gondola seats up to 20 guests. On land before you depart, you’re treated to traditional carnival games like pin-the-tail-on-the-donkey, marbles, and darts, while sampling esquite, a local snack made from boiled corn with mayonnaise and cheese.

5. Valladolid

The charming colonial town of Valladolid is situated between Cancun and the state capital of Merida, just outside Mexico’s most popular Maya archaeological site, Chichen Itza. Visitors love the quiet streets and pastel mansions. Be sure to visit the Cocoa Museum on Friars’ Road, the Los Tres Toños tequila house, and less-visited nearby archaeological sites like Ek-Balam. After you’ve toured the colonial heart of town, you can dip into one of the local swimming holes (like the underground X’kekén cenote or the open Zaci cenote). Be sure to enjoy a tasty bite to eat before driving back to your accommodations.

For the best accommodations in Cancun, contact Sea Side Reservations. We’ll help you find all the amenities you need, whether you’re looking for a condo, private villa, or resort property. Since 1996, we’ve been committed to guest satisfaction with expert property management that ensures your every desire is met. Our concierge service includes local recommendations for dining, shopping, tours, and other attractions, so be sure to give us a call before you arrive to get the inside scoop!

More info on off-the-beaten-path treasures in Cancun:

1. Yucatan Living – Cancun Secrets and Suggestions, https://yucatanliving.com/destinations/cancun-secrets-and-suggestions
2. The Culture Trip – 7 Unusual Things You Can Only Do In Cancun, https://theculturetrip.com/north-america/mexico/articles/7-unusual-things-you-can-only-do-in-cancun/
3. Crococun Zoo – Homepage, http://crococunzoo.com/
4. MUSA Mexico – Homepage, http://musamexico.org/
5. Xoximilco – Tours, https://www.xoximilco.com/en/xoximilco-tour/

Mexico is a land noted for its rich traditions and cultural history, but next time you fly into Cancun or Los Cabos, you’ll be greeted by the latest in computer technology.  The country’s Ministry of Communications and Transportation recently announced that three international airports – Mexico City, Los Cabos and Cancun – have been outfitted with digital biometric kiosks to help expedite the entrance of both nationals and international tourists into the country.

Self-serve kiosks are faster

According to Gerardo Ruiz Esparza, head of the Ministry, these state-of-the-art kiosks are significantly faster and more comfortable than previous devices. Moreover, they will enable quick automated entry of domestic and foreign passengers who do not need a visa to enter Mexico. Rather than waiting in long immigration lines, nationals and visitors can breeze through the automated system in just under three minutes.

The self-serve automated entry kiosks will not only improve visitor experience but help authorities process record numbers of passengers in less time. The 100 kiosks currently deployed will likely process more than 8 million arrivals in the coming year alone. The international terminals in Mexico City, Cancun and Cabo handle nearly 170,000 travelers a day – representing nearly 75 percent of the country’s total tourism that arrives by air. One immigration counter oversees up to 5 biometric kiosks, which will reduce the time spent waiting in line by a whopping 40 percent.

How biometric kiosks work

The new kiosks have a touchscreen multi-lingual interface and have the ability to identify passengers through both biometrics and documents.  Passengers enter their travel information in the system and have their fingerprints scanned. The kiosk captures and uses this biometric data (fingerprints, photo and passport scan) to accurately and securely identify individuals as they enter the country.

With hope, this innovative system will help promote a more convenient and comfortable arrival experience in Mexico, which remains one of the most visited vacation destinations around the world.

Take advantage of direct flights to Cancun

This is great news for anyone who is planning a Mexico getaway to the sun-drenched beaches of the Yucatan Peninsula. If you are looking for warm turquoise waters, some of the world’s prettiest coastline and an endless array of recreational activities, then Cancun is the destination of choice. Located on the Mexican Caribbean, Cancun is a terrific base for explorations throughout the Mayan Riviera, where ancient ruins, pristine islands and friendly locals await.

Getting there has never been easier. A number of airlines offer non-stop flights to Cancun International, and with the new self-serve kiosks, you’ll have your toes in the soft white sands in no time.

Check out these non-stop routes:

• Denver to Cancun (4 hours) — Frontier and United
• Chicago to Cancun (3 hours 45 minutes) – American and United
• NYC to Cancun (4 hours) – AeroMexico, JetBlue and American
• Atlanta to Cancun (2 hours 45 minutes) – Southwest, Delta and AreoMexico
• San Francisco to Cancun (5 hours 20 minutes) – Virgin America and United
• Charlotte to Cancun (3 hours) – US Airways

Additional Resources on Mexico’s automated airport kiosks:

1. Travel Agent Central, Three Mexico Airports Debut New Digital Biometric Kiosks https://www.travelagentcentral.com/transportation/three-mexico-airports-debut-new-digital-biometric-kiosks
2. Hopper, American Cities with Direct Flights to Cancun http://www.hopper.com/articles/814/american-cities-with-direct-flights-to-cancun

Underground Rivers. Tropical Jungle Trails. Colorful Wildlife. Mexican Equestrian Shows. Beautiful Beaches. Snorkeling. Amazing Food. If this sounds like the perfect recipe for family fun, then you can’t miss Xcaret Eco Theme Park – one of Playa del Carmen’s premier tourist attractions.

Explore the magic of Mexico at Xcaret

If you happen to be staying in Cancun, Tulum or anywhere on the Riviera Maya – all roads lead to this spectacular theme park. Xcaret (pronounced eesh-caret) is located 38 miles from the Cancun International Airport and welcomes guests with its unique blend of adventure experiences, nature and cultural offerings. Visitors can easily spend a full day (yes, 8 whole hours) exploring the wonders of Xcaret. There are butterfly pavilions to wander through, turquoise waters to swim in, lazy rivers in which to snorkel and an amazing variety of cultural activities and unforgettable shows.

Cultural activities and performances

For instance, take the “Voladores de Papantla,” an unbelievable performance by “flyers” who play traditional melodies in honor of the sun while suspended hundreds of feet in the air. Witnessing this ancient ritual ceremony is not only thrilling, it provides insight into the traditional culture of Mexico! Xcaret has dozens of awe-inspiring shows and performances to punctuate your day. Admire the graceful horsemanship of costumed riders who move effortlessly with their steeds as they execute surprising moves! There are Pre-Hispanic dances timed to the steady beat of drums that will transport you back to Mayan times and vibrant performances that explain the history and legends from the country’s different cultural regions.  

Attractions for nature lovers

Xcaret is a magical place for children of all ages, and has numerous wildlife attractions and exhibits designed for curious young minds. Start your morning at the enormous Butterfly Pavilion – one of the world’s largest – where over 20 species flit around waterfalls and lush vegetation. Delve into the underwater world at the park’s coral reef aquarium that houses more than 5,000 species. Next stop is Manatee Lagoon – a favorite for visitors of all ages. Admire these beautiful, docile marine mammals in a natural habitat and watch as they glide through the water.

Smack dab in the middle of the park is Jaguar Island, surrounded by crystal clear rivers. These impressive cats play an important part in Mayan culture and can be observed as they stealthily meander through leafy jungle.  

Xcaret is one of the best places to understand the tremendous biodiversity of Mexico. Here, you can see endangered sea turtles, bats, monkeys, tapirs, pumas and dolphins!

Water activities galore

Aquatic activities are one of the highlights of this eco theme park. Admission grants you snorkel equipment for an exciting foray into the Blue River, Manatee River or Maya River which all flow underground next to mangroves dotted with pink flamingos. Lifejackets are also provided so little ones can float and swim through these winding freshwater systems.

Dolphin encounters are another hot attraction at Xcaret. Watch them jump and dance, shake their fin and even get chances to swim with them.

Your smallest animal lover will adore the park’s Adventure Kids program.  A special pond area has docile stingrays and other marine creatures that children can feed and touch. This hands-on experience is designed to be fun and educational as kids learn more about nature.

Family-friendly fun on the Riviera Maya

Xcaret has several buffet-style restaurants that serve up delicious cuisine and lots of smaller snack bars (some with gorgeous ocean views) famous for their juicy hamburgers. Bring a hearty appetite and wear comfortable walking shoes on your daytrip to this must-visit eco park!

Read More about Xcaret Park:

1. Xcaret.com, Xcaret, The pride of Mexico! http://www.xcaret.com/?langRedirect=1&_ga=2.231722783.104226057.1524072087-1715969785.1524072087
2. TripAdvisor, XCaret Eco Theme Park https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g150812-d152777-Reviews-Xcaret_Eco_Theme_Park-Playa_del_Carmen_Yucatan_Peninsula.html

Nearly 45 percent of Millennials are planning a family vacation this year, according to a new report from AAA Travel. This jet-setting generation is part of 88 million Americans who are saving their dollars for a relaxing getaway in 2018. Millennial (those born between 1982-2002) travelers are trailed by Gen Xers and Baby Boomers, who logged in at 39 percent and 32 percent, respectively. 

In summing up their latest research, AAA Senior Vice President of Travels Bill Sutherland says that Millennials – just like their parents and grandparents before them – view a family getaway as a prime opportunity to reconnect with loved ones while creating lasting memories. “No matter their age, families are going on not just one, but multiple vacations throughout the year to revisit favorite destinations and experience new places,” added Sutherland.

Family vacations abroad a big trend in 2018

AAA says that family vacations abroad will be a big trend this year. Of all the holiday-goers, a whopping 35 percent plan to explore international destinations, marking a 9 percent uptick in the past two years.

So where are Millennials, Gen Xers and Baby Boomers flying to for their family fun abroad? According to advance flight bookings, the top three international destinations will be: Cancun, the Dominican Republic’s Punta Cana, and Montego Bay in Jamaica.

Three-quarters of those polled are planning family vacations in places they have never before visited. This overwhelming desire for new experiences explains the recent boom in Mexico tourism, especially in sunny resort towns like Cancun.

Cancun – more than a Spring Break destination

Boasting plenty of sun, picturesque beaches, trendy bars and modern amenities, Cancun is perhaps most noted for its hordes of Spring Breakers. But partying college students account for a mere fraction of Cancun’s annual visitors. Less than 2 percent of the 5 million Cancun tourists come for Spring Break. The rest are families, honeymooners and other travelers who have come to admire the historical attractions, the Mayan culture and the mind-blowing array of outdoor adventure.

The Cancun Tourism Bureau says that families are attracted to the Yucatan Peninsula for a number of reasons. The tropical climate is one selling point, but it’s an array of family-centered activities and attractions that really interest visitors. There are eco-parks where you can zipline in the jungle, Nature centers where kids can swim with dolphins, and enchanting Mayan ruins within a short drive.

Boasting cool theme parks, gourmet dining and a diverse range of water sports, Cancun is undoubtedly one of the best places for a family vacation in Mexico! For the best deals on luxurious Cancun vacation rentals, contact Sea Side Reservations today!

Top things to do in Cancun

The lovely white-sand beaches are key selling points to most Cancun vacationers. Here are a few other highlights to consider on your next family holiday.

• Boat trip to Isla Mujeres, where you can snorkel in clear waters
• Swimming with dolphins at Delphinius Dreams
• Visiting the “hands-on” interactive aquarium at La Isla Shopping Center
• Taking a day trip to the Mayan site of Chichen Itza
• A full day at Xcaret Ecological Park 

Additional Resources on Millennial Family Vacations:

1. TravelAgentCentral, Stats: 44% of Millennials Planning Family Vacation https://www.travelagentcentral.com/running-your-business/stats-44-millennials-planning-family-vacation
2. MiniTime, 10 Reasons to Visit Cancun with Kids http://www.minitime.com/trip-tips/10-Reasons-to-Visit-Cancun-with-Kids-article
3. US News, Best Places to Visit in Mexico https://travel.usnews.com/rankings/best-mexico-vacations/

Holbox Island is a 26-mile stretch of unspoiled paradise in the Gulf of Mexico. While intrepid travelers know about this hidden gem (including how to pronounce its name: “ol-bosh”), Holbox has yet to become a beacon on the Yucatan tourist trail. But like many “undiscovered” places, this may soon change as word begins to spread about the island’s tranquil palm-lined beaches, azure waters and abundant wildlife.

About Holbox Island

This enchanting isle is part of the Yum Balam Flora and Fauna Protection Area and located roughly 40 miles from Cancun. A shallow, green lagoon separates this small island from the mainland. Every year, thousands of migrating flamingos find sanctuary in this lagoon estuary, which also attracts pelicans and other avian life.

Mass tourism has yet to take hold on Holbox, where fishing is still the main industry and residents are on a first name basis. Like other Caribbean islands, Holbox has gorgeous white sand beaches, brightly painted homes and a laid-back atmosphere. It has a handful of restaurants, bars and hotels but little in the way of infrastructure. In fact, there are very few cars on the island, adding to its rustic appeal.

Walking is the preferred method of transportation on Holbox given its diminutive size (only 4 miles across at its widest point). Golf carts and horses are also available to guests, as are kayak rentals for exploring the mangrove estuaries. To this day, more than half of the island remains untouched by developers, leaving miles of virgin forest, beach and wetland for residents, visitors and native wildlife.

Incredible wildlife watching

Many day trippers are drawn to the diverse range of animal life on Holbox Island. Four types of endangered marine turtles nest on the isle’s protected beaches. The dense jungles are home to pumas and a species of giant otter that are seldom seen elsewhere. There are 150+ bird species on the island, including herons, ibis, white egrets, roseate spoonbills, pelicans, sea swallows and bright pink flamingos. From May through September, giant whale sharks can be seen feeding on the plankton-rich waters that surround Holbox and adjacent islands. Flamingos are easily spotted by kayak, and local pangas (small boats) ferry visitors to the best areas for observing local fauna.

On the western side of the island, the waters are so clear you can see vibrant starfish, sea urchins and tropical fish, and the waves are calm enough for young swimmers.

How to get there from Cancun

If the idea of a mini-escape from tourist crowds sounds appealing, Isla Holbox is sure to please. Visitors come to unwind, get back to nature and revel in one of the Yucatan’s best kept secrets! Getting here is easy from your Cancun vacation rental.

Private charter flights depart daily from the Cancun airport; the scenic trip to Holbox is just 20 minutes!

The relatively new Yucatan motorway has shortened driving times to Holbox from Cancun, Playa del Carmen and other tourist destinations. For those who have rental cars, the approximate travel time from Cancun’s hotel zone is about 2.5 hours one-way.

Additional Resources on Holbox Island:

1. The Telegraph, Great Escape: Holbox, the idyllic Mexican island http://www.telegraph.co.uk/luxury/travel/holbox-mexico-island-casasandra-hotel-review-cancun/
2. HolboxIsland.com, Holbox Island http://www.holboxisland.com/destination/
3. Lonely Planet, Isla Holbox https://www.lonelyplanet.com/mexico/yucatan-peninsula/isla-holbox

Discover the amazing natural treasures of Nichupte Lagoon, which plays a starring role in many of today’s Cancun vacations. Featuring seven different lakes and a winding network of beautiful canals, this impressive lagoon spans over 3,000 acres, and offers the perfect backdrop for a wide array of water sports, mangrove excursions and chances to catch big fish on light tackle. Nichupte Lagoon, one of the most spectacular natural attractions on the Mexican Caribbean, is visited by thousands of travelers each year. Here, you can revel in the stunning landscapes, clear waters and lush estuaries brimming with colorful birds, frogs, turtles, iguanas, caiman, and tree-dwelling mammals.

Looking for some vacation inspiration? Check out some of the best-rated tours and things to do at Nichupte Lagoon.

Jungle Tour – Speed Boat & Snorkeling Combo

The Jungle Tour Adventure promises adrenaline from the moment you step aboard a custom, two-person speed boat that whisks you through a series of mangrove-lined canals. The 45-minute journey takes you through verdant estuaries at full-throttle to the warm waters of the Caribbean’s Punta Nizuc—home to one of the planet’s largest coral reef systems. Plunge overboard and explore one of the richest marine habitats as you snorkel among huge schools of tropical fish. This jungle tour is great fun for the whole family!

Skyrider Parasailing

For many intrepid travelers, parasailing is on their “bucket list” of Cancun adventure tours. One of the best ways to enjoy the breathtaking beauty of Nichupte Lagoon and surrounding areas is from hundreds of feet in the air, on a parasailing tour featuring the latest Skyrider seat. Using this revolutionary harness system, you are gently and safely lifted up from the boat’s platform, offering unbridled vistas as you soar into the sky. Don’t miss this thrilling adventure, perfect for kids and adults alike.

Light tackle & fly fishing

Ensure a complete blast on your Cancun holiday by booking a fishing trip on Nichupte Lagoon.  This isn’t your typical deep-sea charter for veteran fishermen. This is fishing for small kids and the non-angler who doesn’t care about landing a sea monster, and would rather have fun catching fat snook, snapper, sea trout and baby tarpon on light tackle (10 pound test line). Some outfits will even teach you how to catch small-sized tarpon (under 30 pounds) on the fly! Besides tarpon, snapper and snook, the Nichupte Lagoon is home to bonefish, barracuda, permit and jack crevalle.

Kayak explorations

Nichupte Lagoon is a veritable paradise for bird watchers and wildlife enthusiasts. Here, the mangrove forests and briny lagoons provide a safe haven for all manners of flora and fauna, and kayaking is one of the best (and most affordable) ways to experience Mother Nature’s glory. Kayak rentals allow you to explore the lagoon at your own pace, while guided tours offer extra insight into the diverse landscapes and animal life.

Additional Resources on “Nichupte Lagoon Activities”:

1. Mexican Caribbean, Nichupte Lagoon Cancun http://www.mexicancaribbean.com/cancun/nichupte-lagoon/
2. AquaWorld, BEST WATER ACTIVITIES IN NICHUPTE LAGOON https://aquaworld.com.mx/en/the-best-water-activities-in-nichupte-lagoon-at-aquaworld/
3. Visit Mexico, Enjoy the magic of the lagoon Nichupté https://www.visitmexico.com/en/main-activities/cancun/enjoy-the-magic-of-the-lagoon-nichupte
4. CancunTarponFishing, Cancun Fly Fishing – Cancun Fly Fishing Species http://www.cancuntarponfishing.com/cancun-fly-fishing-species.php

Whether you’re a sun worshipper, thrill-seeker or an outdoor enthusiast, Cancun promises a little slice of tropical paradise off Mexico’s sultry Yucatan Peninsula. Notorious for its rocking nightlife and impossibly beautiful white-sand beaches, Cancun offers amazing diversions and attractions for travelers of all interests. Cancun promises much more than luxury resorts and Spring Break parties, this popular beach destination is full of adventure, culture and history.

If you’re planning a Cancun vacation this year, these 5 attractions are well worth a visit!

Isla Mujeres

Escape the hustle and bustle of downtown Cancun with a relaxing day trip to Isla Mujeres (Island of Women, pictured), which is a breezy 20-minute ferry ride from Cancun’s nearest ports: Gran Puerto, Punta Sam and Puerto Juarez. Framed by swaying coconut palms, this idyllic spot is renowned for its breathtaking beaches, most notably Playa Norte. If you’re not into swimming and snorkeling or just relaxing in a hammock, the island also has an interesting turtle farm and eco-attraction, the Garrafon Natural Reef Park, where you can do zip-line tours, go sea kayaking and swim with playful dolphins.

Chichen Itza

You can’t vacation in Cancun without taking a sightseeing tour to the magnificent Mayan ruins of Chichen Itza – the largest, most impressive and most visited archeological site in all of Mexico. Local tour operators offer day trips to this UNESCO World Heritage Site, where knowledgeable certified guides lead you through this sprawling ceremonial center that boasts massive temples, pyramids and architectural feats.

Dolphinaris Cancun

Billed as the “world’s best dolphinarium,” Dolphinaris Cancun promises a once-in-a-lifetime swimming experience with these highly intelligent marine mammals. This kid-friendly attraction is situated at the southern end of the hotel zone, and features three salt water lagoons surrounded by palm trees and thatched-roof palapas. Choose from a variety of interactive dolphin tours that let you swim, kiss, hug and play with dolphins in naturalistic habitats.

Xoximilco Cancun

If you love Mariachi bands, delicious Mexican cuisine and singing aloud with strangers, you can’t miss an evening at Xoximilco Cancun!  Xoximilco recreates some of the oldest and most celebrated traditions in Mexico, and gives you a chance to tour water canals on a beautifully decorated “trajinera boat” as you listen to lively folk music, sip on tequilas and national beer, and experience the joys of a real Mexican fiesta.

Interactive Aquarium

If you’re looking for a family-friendly activity in Cancun, head to the Interactive Aquarium for some hands-on encounters with colorful marine creatures and a spectacular dolphin show. An enclosed tank has touchable animals including sting rays, conches, starfish, urchins and sea turtles. You can even arrange to swim with the dolphins and safely feed sharks with the guidance of a diving trainer. The aquarium is located in La Isla Shopping Plaza and is recommended for kids, tweens and teens!

U.S. News and World Report recently released its list of the eight best beaches in Mexico. The list features sites with beautiful scenery and plenty of nearby restaurants.

As wonderful as a lounging on the beach for days is, most travelers like to venture out and try some other activities as well. To help make the choice in beach vacation destination easier, we have narrowed down the U.S. News and World Report list further to the top five Mexico beaches with unique not-to-be-missed attractions nearby.

Playa del carmen

Take a break from the beach, shopping, and nightlife to check out Rio Secreto – the secret river – located in the heart of Playa del Carmen. The underground tour through a network of caves features thousands of stalactites and stalagmites amid the many other geological wonders. Many of its visitors count the experience as spiritual or life-changing.

Tulum

Located about an hour away from Playa del Carmen, Tulum is practically a Mayan time capsule. After relaxing on its beach at the foot of 39-foot cliffs, explore the ruins of an ancient Mayan city.

Puerto Vallarta

Meander through a 20-acre collection of native tropical plants at the Vallarta Botanical Gardens. The garden is home to rare species of plants that are on display in only a handful of botanical gardens in the world. If you are visiting Puerto Vallarta at the right time of year, you may even be able to take part in the March beer festival or any one of the local celebrations.

Cabo San Lucas

Visit the nearby Baja Outback for a hands-on look at the local ecosystem. A favorite attraction is the turtle release conservation adventure – guests can adopt a turtle and personally participate in its release. Other activity options include a tour of Cabo highlights that includes a ride on a glass-bottomed boat and time to explore.

Cancun

About an hour away  from the heart of Cancun, you can taste Mayan culture and environment at the Xcaret ecological theme park. The attraction mixes natural wonders like cenotes leading down to marvelous underground caves with cultural attractions like a Mayan Ball Game. The more than 50 attractions are sure to please the entire family.

If you plan to step off the beach for some local adventure, plan your trip around one or more of these unique destinations.

Mexico’s coasts are among the most beautiful waters for diving. The amazing coral reefs and undersea caverns are not just for the pros; even beginners can receive training and certification meeting internationally recognized standards at most diving centers in Mexico.

There are plenty of not-to-be-missed diving sites in Mexico. Read on to learn more about some of our favorites.

Playa del Carmen dive sites

Sistema Dos Ojos is one of the largest underwater cave complexes in the world – there is so much to see that for at least your first visit, you should cons/rivieranayarit/ider diving with a guide.

The cave system is enormous – over 300 miles long – and visitors can enter through 28 sinkhole entrances known in the area as cenotes (derived from a Mayan word meaning “sacred well”). The cenotes are found near Playa del Carmen, all along the Riviera Maya. “Dos Ojos” is Spanish for “two eyes” and the beautiful complex branches off into two separate caverns that in turn split off into elaborate passages. One passage leads to a breathtaking illuminated air-filled chamber while others lead to sights like stalactite and stalagmite formations.

Scuba diving near Cancun

Deep Blue Cozumel, near Cancun, is your window into colorful coral reefs and fish. The sparkling water off the coast of Cancun display the rainbow of marine life, allowing divers to see for 200 feet.

Beginning divers can enjoy the tropical reef life. More experienced divers can venture deeper into a series of caverns, connected in an intricate maze.

Dive Riviera Nayarit

Riviera Nayarit offers several exciting diving locations with an array of marine life experiences. The underwater mountain range of Las Marietas Islands Marine Reserve is exciting for beginners and was also a site explored by Jacque Cousteau. Six miles away, at the El Morro site, divers can take in sights of dolphins, manta rays, lobsters, turtles, and more. The challenging site offers an experience suited for more experienced divers. Also in the area is Los Anegados, another site suitable for more experienced divers. Get up close with nurse sharks in these warm waters.

Whether you are a beginner or a pro diver, there is much to take in under the waters of Mexico.

Taking Your Cancun Vacation To The Next Level

Cancun is one of the most desirable locations in all of coastal Mexico when it comes to friendliness, fun activities and overall vacation enjoyment. That said there is one popular activity that people from across the country and around the world come to Cancun to enjoy. The Dolphin Discovery of Cancun is a unique experience that provides lasting memories. With beautiful white sand and blue water, Cancun is the ideal location for swimming with dolphins.

Cancun Has A Rich Historical And Cultural Foundation

Swimming with the dolphins in Cancun Mexico is a world-class experience that should not be missed. Cancun has a rich historical and cultural foundation that goes back centuries. Enjoying a vacation in this wonderful part of Mexico is all the better when visitors experience the thrill of swimming with friendly dolphins. From a Dolphin Royal Swim VIP experience to the Dolphin Swim Adventure and the Dolphin Encounter, there are many ways to enjoy dolphins up close and personal while visiting Cancun.

The Opportunity To Ride A Dolphin At Full Speed

Best of all, the Dolphin Discovery experience is not limited to one location in Mexico. Those traveling to Playa Del Carmen and other key destinations within the country can enjoy dolphin encounters and swimming with dolphins. The dolphin swim adventure is particularly popular and affords visitors the opportunity to ride a dolphin at full speed. This is accomplished by actually riding on the Dolphin’s belly while holding the animal’s pectoral fins. Few other experiences can compare when it comes to experiencing dolphins in such close proximity.

Even Kissing A Dolphin Is Possible When Visiting Dolphin Discovery

The Dolphin Encounter is another popular dolphin experience that allows virtually anyone to experience dolphins and learn more about these intriguing animals. Playing and swimming with dolphins is an unforgettable experience that everyone should enjoy at one time or another. Even kissing a dolphin is possible when visiting Dolphin Discovery. The Dolphin Discovery is considered one of the premier dolphin companies in the entire world. The company has earned a reputation for safety, convenience and affordability when it comes to experiencing dolphins up close and personal. Dolphin Discovery goes out of its way to ensure that all dolphin encounters are rewarding and enjoyable. Contact Sea Side Reservations today to learn more about exclusive furnished vacation rental properties in Cancun.