Cancun Guide: Fresh Finds in an Established Traveler Favorite

By Lisa Shames

Few places in the world succeed in appealing to a hodgepodge of travelers’ tastes and desires quite like the Mexican Caribbean’s Cancun.

The gorgeous white sandy beaches along its 14-mile coastline offer stunning views of turquoise water as far as the eye can see. Archeological sites provide a glimpse into the ancient Mayan civilization that once called this area home. Sunken ships, coral formations, colorful marine life and even an underwater art museum await divers in Cancun. Nearby cenotes, giant caves formed when the roof of a cavern collapses in on itself, causing them to fill with clear, cool freshwater, are perfect for snorkeling and more magical than they sound.

The Mayan Museum of Cancun showcases one of the largest collections of Mayan artifacts in Mexico. Surrounded by dense tropical forest, the museum’s main focus is all aspects of Mayan civilization, but it also includes information on the history, archeology, culture, architecture and natural surroundings of the Yucatan Peninsula. Behind the museum, a path leads to San Miguelito, formerly a bustling Mayan community that now includes crumbling stone temples, a palace and a pyramid. (Tip: Bring bug repellent, especially if visiting in the late afternoon.) Keep the archaeological love going by visiting archaeological sites in Cancun, which are part of the cityscape, including El Rey, the largest, consisting of 47 structures dating back to the 2nd and 3rd centuries BC. El Meco, north of Cancun, is the highest in the northern region of the state, and San Miguelito can be accessed through the Mayan Museum of Cancun.

Head south of Cancun and you will find the Riviera Maya. This region holds some of the most impressive archaeological sites in Mexico, like Tulum and Cobá, the latter being one of the most beautiful and largest Mayan archaeological sites. Nestled in the thick jungles of Quintana Roo, it is surrounded by lakes and breathtaking views. The ancient city dates back to the pre-Hispanic Mayan civilization and is one of the oldest Mayan cities in the region.

Life is truly a beach in Cancun with plenty of public waterfronts to explore. While all of them offer the same powdery white sand and intensely hued turquoise water, there are a few differences to note. On the Caribbean side of the Hotel Zone, you’ll find public access beaches like Playa Gaviota Azul —known to locals as Playa Forum, while in the southern end, Playa Delfines is a great option for people looking for moderate to intense waves. On this beach, you will find a well-known photographic parador.

Tee time is yours for asking in this tropical paradise. Jack Nicklaus, Greg Norman and Robert Trent Jones Jr. among others have all had a hand in designing courses here that appeal to amateurs and professionals alike. Unique attributes include mangroves, Mayan vestiges and, of course, views of the ubiquitous turquoise blue water. In other words: Adjust your golf score accordingly.

Cancun has a knack of attracting chefs from all over the world, offering cutting-edge cuisine that reflects the globetrotting culinary backgrounds of those creating it. Cancun is renowned for its delectable cuisine and is home to some of the best restaurants in the region. You can find a wonderful mix of authentic Mexican fare and laid-back restaurants downtown, as well as upscale Mexican and international cuisine throughout our restaurants and nightlife options, including restaurants that overlook the Caribbean Sea and the beautiful Nichupté Lagoon, many of which have been recognized by prestigious travel and lifestyle magazines. These restaurants serve haute cuisine dishes featuring sophisticated atmospheres and the best service. They also feature some special performances, mariachi bands, DJ´s and dance shows.