It's not surprising that Cancun is one of Mexico's most popular resort areas, given its beautiful turquoise waters, white sand beaches, and vibrant coral reefs. The 15-mile-long sandbar contains hotels, restaurants, malls, and nightclubs on either side of Boulevard Kukulkan, also known as the Hotel Zone. Here you will find many of the city's all-inclusive hotels catering to families on vacation, honeymooning couples, and everyone else. As you get closer to the city's downtown, "El Centro," you'll see a more local side of life, with markets and traditional restaurants, as well as fancy hotels and hostels of a high standard.
While Mexico has an impressive 6,200-mile coastline, Cancun and its 10 Blue Flag beaches remain one of the most popular beach vacation destinations in the country. With the majority of Hotel Zone properties situated directly on their own private stretch of sand, guests can enjoy ocean views from their private balconies.
While basking in the Cancun sun, when you are ready for your next refreshing drink. On the Caribbean side of the Hotel Zone, you'll find public access beaches such as Playa Gaviota Azul, also known as Playa Forum, while Playa Delfines is an excellent choice for surfers seeking moderate to intense waves. On this beach, there is a famous photographic paradox.
The majority of Cancun's top resorts are built with direct access to the beaches, known as "playas" in Spanish. You'll be treated to breathtaking views of the sparkling, crystal-clear waters that have made this destination so popular with tourists looking for a memorable Mexico vacation. Cancun, in fact, has several long stretches of beach, and while regular visitors may have favorites, it's difficult to go wrong. They're all friends and have something valuable to offer.
Few visitors will pass up the opportunity to spend some of their vacation time sightseeing at one or more of the larger Mayan ruins within easy reach of Cancun. Chichén Itzá, three hours west of the beaches and one of Mexico's largest and best-preserved archaeological sites, is a popular day trip. This UNESCO World Heritage Site, established by the Mayans more than 1,000 years ago, includes many famous Chac-Mool statues, as well as important buildings such as the 30-meter-tall El Castillo, one of the country's most famous pyramids.
If you have room on your Mexico itinerary for another interesting archaeological site, El Rey Mayan ruins are just a few minutes away from the Punta Nizuc end of Cancun. The El Rey Ruins (Las Ruinas del Rey) is named after a mask discovered here that was believed to be dedicated to the sun god. They include the remains of 47 buildings as well as numerous tombs built by the Mayans from AD 900 onwards.
The Maya Museum (Museo Maya de Cancun), located in the city's large convention complex, is a must-see for anyone interested in learning more about the region's rich history. This magnificent attraction, the largest such museum project since the opening of the Templo Mayor Museum in Mexico City in 1987, does an excellent job of explaining the ancient roots of the region's Mayan culture, from its founding centuries ago to the present day.
The Cancun Underwater Museum is one of the most unusual attractions in this resort town (MUSA). This seabed-based attraction, established in 2009 in the aftermath of storm damage to the Cancun National Marine Park, is dedicated to the "art of conservation" and is a delight for divers to explore. The more than 500 sculptures spread across two underwater galleries (a few are located on land in a nearby mall) submerged at depths of three to six meters and encompassing human figures in a variety of poses (there's even a concrete car) from the heart of this one-of-a-kind art collection.
The El Meco Archaeological Site is another interesting Mayan site that is easily accessible from Cancun's main resort area, located at the north end of the main beaches. It was first inhabited around AD 300 and rose to prominence as a Mayan trade center from the 1100s until the arrival of the Spanish in the 16th century. The 12.5-meter-tall El Castillo pyramid, the only one of its kind in the area, is of particular interest. The remains of an old temple perched atop the pyramid will reward you with stunning views of the coastline and Isla Mujeres. This quick one-hour visit is well worth including on your Cancun itinerary. 
Cancun's Interactive Aquarium is a great place to get a close-up look at the area's abundant marine life. After donning flippers and a snorkel, you can swim around the facility's enclosures, surrounded by stingrays, seahorses, and clown fish. The attraction's "swimming with dolphins" experience, an exciting program that allows you to get up close and personal with these gentle sea creatures, is the real draw. Similar programs are also available at nearby venues such as Dolphin Discovery and Dolphinaris Cancun.
A trip up the Scenic Tower is a must-do while in Cancun (Torre Escenica). The tower is a fun diversion for those wanting a bird's-eye view of the city, as well as its many beaches and the surrounding coastline. It is a landmark in the hotel district due to its height - it is 110 meters tall - and its pencil-thin base. While a set of steep steps can be climbed, the large round elevator that gradually rises and rotates into an observation deck is by far the best way to reach the top. It's especially appealing at night when it's lit up to resemble a Mayan representation of a flower.
Urbano Kabah Park (Parque Kabah), also known as the Kabah Ecological Park, is located in the heart of Cancun. This natural oasis is a popular spot for a stroll, jog, or picnic, and it features a two-kilometer-long trail that winds through tall palm trees and lush gardens.
The lovely Isla Mujeres is another destination that is closely associated with Cancun (the Island of Women). This long, skinny island—only it's seven kilometers long and 650 meters wide—is particularly popular among surfers for the larger waves experienced on its east coast, while divers love the abundant marine life surrounding the numerous coral reefs of Garrafon Natural Reef Park, which is located about 13 kilometers from the mainland and just a short hydrofoil ride from the pier at the convention center (Cancun Center).
Cancun is popular in winter and early spring. Many Americans are looking to escape the cold with a vacation in the low 80s. Blue skies, little rain, and a mild sun make for ideal beach conditions. With beautiful sunny days and moderately warm temperatures, hotel and flight prices will be the highest. Plus, Christmas and New Year's will be crowded.
These months have low humidity, balmy temperatures, and sunny skies. Walk the beach, take boat tours, and explore ancient ruins and jungles without overheating. The ocean will be cool but still perfect for swimming. This is a great time to sail. Know that you'll be among crowds and paying top dollar for lodging and food in Cancun. More restaurants, spas, and clubs will be open for tourists, so pack a light sweater or jacket for outdoor activities and sunset boating.
Cancun is beautiful in spring. Cancun's weather is mild, with moderate temperatures and low humidity, fewer crowds, and good travel and lodging prices. May is prime wildlife-spotting time. Whale sharks and sea turtles are nesting. Bloggers say now is the best time to see whale sharks. In the spring, take an eco-tour to explore the jungles and nearby natural beauty. April weather in Cancun is humid but mild, averaging in the 80s. Cancun whale shark
Families love spring. Families can visit Mayan ruins, inland jungle tours, caves, and beaches without crowds. Families can swim and snorkel in warm waters. April and May are great months for sightseeing and visiting Cancun's ruins. Holy Week is when spring crowds peak. Families often vacation in Cancun during the week before Easter.
March is spring break for families. Families with children often travel during school breaks, but college students will be in town for spring break. Many will party on the beach all day and night with top international DJs and bikini contests in March. To avoid kegs and bikini contests, avoid hotels and clubs that cater to that crowd, say, expert travelers.
Summer is the best time to visit Cancun for deals and fewer crowds. Cancun is in hurricane season, with high temperatures and frequent rain. Beaches, sights, and bars are less crowded. July has some cloudy days, but the summer months in Cancun are a great time to soak up the sun and go boating or snorkeling. Warm summer waters are ideal for swimming, say Cancun experts. August has a higher chance of rain than other months, so pack a light rain jacket with your swimsuit. Rainy days are great for exploring the city or ancient ruins with an umbrella.
Bloggers say summer is great for wildlife lovers. Whale shark tours through August have a good chance of spotting one of these beautiful animals, and sea turtles will nest all summer, with babies heading to sea on summer nights. Wildlife and nature lovers should take a sunset sail and eco jungle tour this summer. Five boaters visiting Cancun in the summer
Cancun's hurricane season runs from June to November, with most storms in August and October. Luckily, hurricanes rarely ruin vacations. Hurricane Gilbert hit Cancun on September 15, 1988, and Wilma on October 21, 2005.
Fall weather can be hot and rainy, leading to discounted airline tickets and hotel rates. Cancun rains most in September. A rainy day can be a passing shower or rainy at the beach but sunny inland. This is a great time to visit if you want a discount and don't mind rain showers. During these months, many restaurants and clubs close. Cancun experts say that avoiding crowds may be a benefit.
When planning a trip to Cancun, choosing a hotel may be the most important decision you make. Spend some time choosing your hotel or another vacation rental, especially if you will be there for several days. You'll want to feel at ease and enjoy your surroundings.
Cancun's high season lasts from mid-December to March. This is when the most expensive hotel rooms and flights are available.
Prices can be doubled or even tripled during less busy times of the year. Beaches and tours will also be much busier. Instead, visit during the shoulder season or low season, which runs from April to November.
While in Cancun, spend a day or two exploring the neighboring islands.
Both of these islands are breathtakingly beautiful and make excellent day trips from Cancun. Isla Mujeres is especially lovely, and visiting it is a great way to avoid the crowds in Cancun.
Don't get us wrong: poolside cocktails are almost always a good idea. Just don't make it your only activity every day. There's so much more to do and see in Cancun; don't waste it by being drunk the whole time.
The Yucatan Peninsula has so much to offer, and you should take advantage of your location if you have the time. Besides, you'll want to mix up your beach days with some activities.
