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!
