As with many top seaside destinations around the world, Cancun started out as a quiet fishing village. It has since shed this persona to become vacation central. But its popularity has done nothing to detract from its stunning beaches, ancient Mayan archeological sites, outstanding Mexican food, and undeniable ease of living. Adventure lovers can easily take excursions out to sea for scuba diving, yachting, or other water sports.
Key attractions
The main attraction of Cancun is, of course, its 14-mile long sandy beach. The sand is light in color and the water beautifully turquoise. One attraction kids will surely enjoy is Aquarium Cancun, located in the central hotel zone. This interactive museum allows you to get up close with the resident sea creatures. You can also head to the Hidden Worlds Cenote Adventure Park, a large system of underwater caves. The waters here are beautiful and the rock formations unbelievable.
Having fun
A great night out can easily be experienced in Cancun. You do not even need to go outside the main hotel zone. There are various restaurants, bars, and nightclubs which hold different performances and parties every night of the week. Singers, bands, DJs, and various other entertainers come here to perform. Popular places include Dady'O, Senor Frog's, and O' Ultra Lounge. Many restaurants in the hotel zone as well as in downtown Cancun offer fine dining, while Cambalache is ideal for Argentine-style steaks, La Habichuela for Caribbean seafood, or Mikado for Asian food.
Shopping
The popularity of Cancun as a tourist destination has ensured a well-developed shopping scene. Generally, prices tend to be higher in the Hotel Zone and more reasonable in the downtown area. The La Isla Shopping Mall is one of the most prominent malls given its size and outdoor setting. Designer brands for clothing and accessories can be found here. In the downtown area, you can head to Market 28 for souvenirs and bargaining.
Nearby
Possibilities for daytrips are nearly endless in Cancun. Many of the excursions take in the beautiful surroundings of this Mexican city. There is Isla Mujeres, an island reached via a 20-minute boat ride from Cancun. Though close to Cancun, Isla Mujeres remains a quiet coastal town with empty beaches. Or head to Tulum, around 80 miles south of Cancun and the site of the only ancient Mayan structure found along the Caribbean coast.
Our recommendations in Cancun
Hotel Sotavento & Yacht Club
Located in Cancun's Zona Hotelera neighborhood, Hotel Sotavento & Yacht Club is in the business district and on a lake. La Isla Shopping Mall and Market 28 are worth checking out if shopping is on the agenda, while those wishing to experience the area's popular attractions can visit Cancun Interactive Aquarium and Delphinus Dreams. Aquaworld and Ventura Park Cancun are also worth visiting.
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Paradisus by Melia Cancun - All Inclusive
Located on the beach, Paradisus by Melia Cancun - All Inclusive is in Cancun's Zona Hotelera neighborhood. The area's natural beauty can be seen at Delfines Beach and Tortuga Beach, while Aquaworld and Cancun Interactive Aquarium are popular area attractions. Traveling with kids? Don't miss Delphinus Dreams and Ventura Park Cancun.
Marriott Cancun Resort
Located in Cancun's Zona Hotelera neighborhood, Marriott Cancun Resort is in the entertainment district and on the beach. The area's natural beauty can be seen at Delfines Beach and Tortuga Beach, while Aquaworld and Cancun Interactive Aquarium are popular area attractions. Traveling with kids? Don't miss Delphinus Dreams and Ventura Park Cancun.
Courtyard By Marriott Cancun Airport
Located in Cancun, Courtyard By Marriott Cancun Airport is in an area with good airport proximity. Plaza Las Americas and Market 28 are worth checking out if shopping is on the agenda, while those wishing to experience the area's popular attractions can visit Ventura Park Cancun and Aquaworld. Looking to enjoy an event or a game while in town? See what's happening at Andres Quintana Roo Stadium or Beto Avila Baseball Stadium.
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Grand Fiesta Americana Coral Beach Cancun
Located on the beach, Grand Fiesta Americana Coral Beach Cancun is in Cancun's Zona Hotelera neighborhood, an area with great shopping. The area's natural beauty can be seen at Tortuga Beach and Forum Beach, while Cancun Interactive Aquarium and Delphinus Dreams are popular area attractions. Traveling with kids? Don't miss Aquaworld and Ventura Park Cancun.
The Royal Cancun All Suites Resort
Located on the beach, The Royal Cancun All Villas Resort is in Cancun's Zona Hotelera neighborhood. The area's natural beauty can be seen at Tortuga Beach and Langosta Beach, while Delphinus Dreams and Cancun Interactive Aquarium are popular area attractions. Traveling with kids? Consider Aquaworld, or check out an event or a game at Beto Avila Baseball Stadium.
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Beach Palace Resort All Inclusive
Located on the beach, Beach Palace Resort All Inclusive is in Cancun's Zona Hotelera neighborhood. La Isla Shopping Mall and Market 28 are worth checking out if shopping is on the agenda, while those wishing to experience the area's popular attractions can visit Cancun Interactive Aquarium and Aquaworld. Traveling with kids? Don't miss Delphinus Dreams and Ventura Park Cancun.