The sights most Cancun visitors want to see are the beach and the ocean. That's probably a good thing, because there aren't many other attractions—no casinos, few historic sites, no public parks or gardens, and no historic neighborhoods.
The hotels themselves are attractions. We recommend stopping at some of the more outlandish ones along the Hotel Zone to have a margarita and marvel at the architecture—you'll find variations on Miami Beach and Las Vegas, along with Mexican themes. The buildings are a dizzying melange of styles, from block-long pink palaces with towers and cupolas to sleek, mirrored pyramids with huge, tree-filled atriums.
There are a few escapes from the resorts, however. Ruinas del Rey provides a decent, if brief, introduction to the ancient world of the Yucatan, especially if you can't make it to one of the bigger archaeological sites. The shores along Nichupte Lagoon (particularly the southern end) are less developed and more protected from the open sea. They're rich with bird life. Most hotel travel desks sell lagoon tours or something billed as a "jungle cruise" that's actually a boat ride through the lagoon to look for tropical birds. These are frequently bundled with a stop for snorkeling in the Caribbean shallows.
For anyone interested in Mayan history and culture, a visit to one or more of their ruined cities is essential. Tulum, on the coast south of Cancun, is the closest, but tends to fill up with coach parties. Chichen Itza is the most famous and a World Heritage Site, and Coba, the least developed of the three, is in a shady jungle, making it ideal for an afternoon visit. Local tour operators offer convenient packages, or you can hire a car and organize your own visit.
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More than a building, this 153,000-sq-ft/14,215-sq-m convention and exhibition center is a landmark. The surrounding area is a hub for activities that range from shopping and eating to disco dancing—think of it as the Times Square of Cancun. It is located at the point where the main thoroughfare, Boulevard Kukulcan, turns south. Blvd. Kukulcan Km. 9, Cancun. Phone 881-0400. Toll-free 866-891-0400. http://www.cancuncenter.com.
Located in Mujeres Bay in northern Cancun, this site played an important role during the Post-Classic Period when the Mayans used it as a jumping-off point for trips to Isla Mujeres. It also served as a lighthouse for navigating at night. The site has 14 structures that visitors can explore. Admission is US$3, free on Sunday. Boulevard Mujeres Bay, Cancun.
This is the most extensive of the few ancient Mayan ruins on the island. The most remarkable thing about the ruins may be their setting—in the midst of a modern resort area. They include a small ceremonial center and temple platforms dating from AD 1250. Mosquito repellant is recommended. The ruins are open daily 8 am-5 pm. Admission is US$3, free on Sunday. Blvd. Kukulcan Km. 20, Cancun. Phone 885-2019.
This museum presents a wide variety of Mexican handicrafts, including traditional toys and artwork. Monday-Friday 9 am-8 pm, Saturday and Sunday 11 am-7 pm. US$5. Blvd. Kukulcan Km. 4 (El Embarcadero), Cancun. Phone 849-7777. http://www.museoartepopularmexicano.org.
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This area on the mainland was built to house the workers who were constructing the resort areas of Cancun in the late 1960s and early 1970s. As a result, it has a more typical Mexican flavor than the island and has become a popular place to visit, especially for visitors who need a break from the hotel-and-beach scene. The city consists of
super manzanas (SM) or "super blocks" in which short streets run off main avenues named after archaeological zones. In the center of each super block is a small park. Avenida Tulum, the commercial heart of Ciudad Cancun, has many local shops, stores, banks, cafes and restaurants. The street is also home to some moderately priced hotels that appeal to budget-minded vacationers and those searching for less-touristy places.
| Amusement Parks | Top |
This multimillion-dollar water park is owned by Palace Resorts. Highlights include Dolphinaris, where you can swim and play with captive dolphins, and Baxalha, where you can snorkel with stingrays and other tropical fish. The park is extremely popular with adolescents, honeymooners and families with children. Daily 10 am-5 pm. Monday-Saturday US$49 adults, US$43 children; Sunday US$20 for everyone. Swimming with dolphins costs US$65-$135, depending on the level of interaction. Blvd. Kukulcan Km. 25 (at the southern tip of Cancun Island), Cancun. Phone 193-2000. http://www.dolphinaris.com.mx/cancun.
Located about 35 mi/56 km from Cancun off Highway 307, this ambitious ecological theme park is a worthwhile destination for families. It gives you the chance to observe native species such as marine turtles, deer, monkeys, bees, birds, orchids and butterflies. It also offers recreational activities such as scuba diving and snorkeling, guided nature treks and popular dolphin programs. Open daily 8:30 am-9 pm. US$62 adults, US$31 children ages 5-12. Extra charge for some progams. The Xcaret at Night dinner show is US$44 (the performance without the meal is included in the park admission price). A package including admission and bus fare from Cancun is US$104 adults, US$52 children. Phone 883-0470. http://www.xcaret.com.
Located 76 miles/122 km south of Cancun, Xel-Ha offers visitors many ways to explore and enjoy the water. From swimming with dolphins, snorkeling and snubaing (combination of snorkeling and scuba diving) to cliff-jumping, riding bicycles, receiving a massage and playing in the children's playground, Xel-Ha can take a whole day to experience. Open daily 8:30 am-5 pm. All-inclusive packages: US$80 adults, US$54 children. Tour from Cancun (including transportation): US$116 adults, US$81 children. Snorkel equipment, towels and lockers available for rent. Dolphin swim additional US$139. Phone 884-9422. http://www.xel-ha.com.mx.
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At this crocodile and reptile zoo south of Cancun, near Puerto Morelos, you can see more than 300 crocodiles and learn about the toothy critters' lifestyle and evolution. Try walking through a compound full of live crocodiles. You will also see many other animals native to the Yucatan, including monkeys, snakes and deer, and you can feed the animals. Open daily 9 am-5 pm. US$19 adults, US$12 children (includes a guided tour). Phone 850-3719. http://www.crococunzoo.com.
A family entertainment venue where you can watch sharks and other local marine life in glass-enclosed aquariums. Tour guides identify the various fish that feed around the nearby coral reefs. You pay extra (and dearly) to swim and play briefly with dolphins. Daily 9 am-6 pm. Entrance fee US$14 adults, US$10 children younger than 12. Dolphin interaction costs about US$135; shark feeding starts at US$65. Blvd. Kukulcan Km. 12.5 (La Isla Shopping Village), Cancun. Phone 883-0411. http://interactivedolphins.com.
Outdoor fun in Cancun is all about enjoying the warm, clear Caribbean Sea. Nearly every kind of watersport is available, from windsurfing and sailing to fishing and scuba diving. The easiest way to rent gear or find an operator is through your hotel—many of the larger properties have a watersports crew on-site. First-class golf courses, health clubs and tennis courts are also available for anyone who tires of the ocean.
The Caribbean side of the Hotel Zone is justly famous for gorgeous white-sand beaches, but these aren't necessarily the best places to swim—the surf can pound mercilessly, and the undertow can be treacherous. Swim only where you see the water-safety pennant system: A white flag means the swimming is excellent, green signifies good or normal conditions, yellow means you should use caution, and black or red means conditions are unsafe. If you don't know what the water conditions are, don't swim. The safest place for swimming is along the northern shore of the island, facing Bahia de Mujeres.
All beaches in Mexico belong to the government and are therefore public. Once you get onto the beach, you can walk in either direction for as long as you want. Legally, you can use the beach in front of any of the resort hotels and no one can ask you to leave. However, you are not entitled to use any of the facilities provided by the hotel. Several of Cancun's beaches, including those at Playa Tortugas and Playa Delfines, have services that are available to everyone.
Facing the Caribbean, this beach is one of the largest and widest in Cancun. It's named for the wild dolphins that you can see swimming there in the early morning. Be careful of wading out too far from shore—the waves and undertow can be strong. Across the boulevard from Playa Delfines is the archaeological site Ruinas del Rey. Blvd. Kukulcan Km. 15, Cancun.
This beach, located along the northern end of the island, has restrooms, changing areas and restaurants, plus huts where you can rent snorkeling equipment and sailboards. The snorkeling conditions are fairly good there. Blvd. Kukulcan Km. 7, Cancun.
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You can rent all sorts of watercraft—Hobie Cats and Sunfish, for instance—to play in the sea. Sailboarding is especially popular, and equipment can be rented from seaside vendors at Playa Tortugas. Expect to pay about US$60 for a sailboard (add US$60 or so for lessons). The calm waters of Nichupte Lagoon make it a popular spot to water-ski. And you can literally get a bird's-eye view of the Hotel Zone while parasailing behind a boat.
Many of the major hotels have their own watersports rental facilities. Several independent marinas also specialize in rentals and deep-sea fishing charters.
This is one of the largest marinas in Cancun. You can rent a glass-bottomed boat, take a snorkel tour or go on a sunset tour in a catamaran. Prices are more reasonable than other marinas, and the tours are longer. Boat tours cost US$45 and up, depending on the type and length of the tour. Blvd. Kukulcan Km. 6.5, Cancun. Phone 849-4444. http://www.aquatours.com.mx.
This is a one-stop shop for water-related activities. You can see Cancun from the air in a Sky Rider, which is similar to parasailing (not advised for the weak or inebriated). The Sub Sea Explorer allows you to glimpse aquatic life through the windows of a submarinelike craft (the trips also include an hour of snorkeling time, if you want to get wet). Other activities include Wave Runner "jungle" tours (which really have nothing to do with the jungle) and waterskiing. Daily 7 am-10 pm. Sub Sea Explorer trips run about US$45 per person, as do the Wave Runner tours. You can rent a Wave Runner (sans tour) for about US$55 for 30 minutes. Kayaks rent for about US$25 an hour and paddleboats for US$30 an hour. Waterskiing excursions cost US$55 for 30 minutes. Deep-sea fishing charters are also available. For a six-hour, shared (nonprivate) outing, expect to pay about US$105 per person. Private charters start at US$420 for four hours. Blvd. Kukulcan Km. 15.2, Cancun. Phone 848-8327. http://www.aquaworld.com.mx.
The 18-hole course seems to have water everywhere, from lagoons to the ocean. Ancient spirits may also influence your tee shot: The 16th hole runs alongside the Ruinas del Rey archaeological park. Low-season greens fees are US$125 for hotel guests, US$149 for others. In high season, hotel guests pay US$149, others pay US$199. A cart is included. Blvd. Kukulcan Km. 17, Cancun. Phone 881-8000. http://www.hiltoncancun.com/golf.htm.
This 7,000-yard course was designed by Greg Norman (his first design in Mexico). The Camaleon hosts the Classic Mayakoba PGA tournament each February. There is a driving range and putting green, plus well-stocked pro shop and steak house overlooking the 18th hole. Greens fees are US$198, including cart and water. Equipment rental is US$60. Highway 307, Km. 297 (Cancun and Playa del Carmen), Cancun.
The only Jack Nicklaus Signature course in Cancun has three separate courses totaling 27 holes. The layout has lush vegetation, water features and sand traps. There is also an on-site day spa. Fees include transportation from area hotels, food and drinks and a shared cart. Standard fee is US$260. Twilight fee is US$150. Highway 307, Km. 340 (at the Moon Palace hotel), Cancun. Phone 881-6000. http://www.palaceresorts.com.
Crowning the Costa Mujeres development in northern Cancun, this is an 18-hole course designed by Greg Norman. It winds through tropical mangroves and has frequent beachfront views. It is 18 holes, par 72. Bonampak Avenue, Punta Sam, Bahia Mujeres, Cancun. Phone 887-7322. http://www.playamujeres.com.mx.
This 18-hole course, designed by Robert Trent Jones Jr., is the oldest on the island. The holes are tucked alongside the sea, which makes for some nice scenery. Greens fees are US$145-$175 before 2 pm and US$115-125 after 2 pm, depending on the season. A cart is included in the greens fee. Blvd. Kukulcan Km. 6.5, Cancun. Phone 883-1230. http://www.cancungolfclub.com.
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Offers half- and full-day horse-riding excursions for US$40-$60. Also available are ATV adventures, Wave Runners, deep-sea fishing, scuba diving and reef snorkeling. Open daily 10 am-7 pm. Highway 307 Km. 49, Cancun. Phone 887-5465. http://www.rancholomabonita.com.
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Almost all of Cancun's resorts rent snorkeling masks and fins, and they are complimentary for guests of the all-inclusive hotels. Although the underwater scenery isn't as stunning as that around Cozumel, you'll be surprised by the clarity of the water and the quantity of sea creatures. Snorkelers may want to join an excursion to one of the reefs off the north shore of the island. A popular dive site is the Manchones Reef, which is about 5 mi/8 km northeast of the island—close to Isla Mujeres. Divers and snorkelers also may want to explore the starting point of the Palancar Barrier Reef at Punta Nizuc, near the southern end of the Cancun Hotel Zone.
At Xcaret and at Garrafon Park on Isla Mujeres, you can try snuba—diving attached to a 20-ft-/6-m-long air hose that gives you more flexibility than snorkeling but doesn't require certification. The cost is about US$35.
Offers both snorkeling and dive trips. A snorkel excursion costs about US$29, and a two-tank scuba trip costs about US$68. Full certification takes three days and costs US$140. Blvd. Kukulcan Km. 5.2, Cancun. Phone 849-4736. http://www.scubacancun.com.mx.
Cancun is famous for its nightlife, and several of the big resort hotels in the Hotel Zone have discos. Some also host Mexican fiesta nights that include dinner and a folkloric show. Among the popular hot spots are El Azucar next to the Dreams Cancun and—known for their loud music and large, rowdy crowds—Coco Bongo, Dady'O, and the biggest disco in Cancun, The City, on Boulevard Kukulcan.
You also can take the fiesta to the water on one of Cancun's "party cruises." Back on land, if you tire of the party scene, try the jazz club Roots, in Ciudad Cancun. It's a nice alternative to the disco beat of clubs along Boulevard Kukulcan.
Most bars stay open until at least 2 am, and discos until at least 3 am. Many places keep going until dawn, especially when spring-break revelers are in town.
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This is the one must-do nightclub in town. A large central bar is ringed with stadium-style seating for nearly 1,000 guests. Live performances go on all night and range from celebrity impersonators to flying acrobats to performers bringing popular movie scenes to life. Continuous laser-light shows, streamers, and balloon and confetti drops make it feel like New Year's Eve all year long. Open daily 10:30 pm-5 am. Cover charge ranges from US$30 to US$60, depending on the night. Includes open bar. Blvd. Kukulcan Km. 9.5 (in Forum by the Sea mall), Cancun. Phone 883-5061. http://www.cocobongo.com.mx.
This cavelike establishment is a popular venue for youth, particularly Mexican nationals. Not as good as Coco Bongo, but it's a close second with its state-of-the-art sound and lights. Thursday night is the Miss Hawaiian Tropic International Bikini Model Search, and Friday is the best of music from the '80s and '90s. Daily 10 pm-4:30 am. US$20; US$45 for open-bar privileges. Blvd. Kukulcan Km. 9.5 (in Forum by the Sea), Cancun. Phone 883-3333. http://www.dadyo.net.
Cancun's only Latin music club, with bands from Cuba and the Dominican Republic playing hot salsa, meringue and other Latin music. Monday-Saturday 9:30 pm-4 am. US$9. Blvd. Kukulcan Km. 9 (adjacent to the Dreams Cancun Resort), Cancun. Phone 848-7000.
This bar's ads tell the story: "The gay place in town, where the boys are." Daily except Monday from 10:30 pm. US$18 cover on Friday and Saturday. Ave. Tulum 9, Ciudad Cancun, Cancun. Phone 884-0032. http://www.karambabar.com.
A gay and lesbian club that offers free tequila drinks on Thursday. Daily 9:30 pm-5:30 am. No cover. No phone. Ave. Tulum 19 (next to Plaza Galerias), Ciudad Cancun, Cancun. http://www.picantebar.com.
The biggest disco in Cancun, The City caters to all ages and musical tastes, with pop-rock and tropical rhythms, and electronic music late at night. The dance floor takes center stage, with an impressive light system and stadium seating all around. Occasional live bands play, too. On Tuesday night, the party moves to the beachfront, with open-air bars, cabana seating and wet-T-shirt contests. Open daily. Cover US$45 including open-bar privileges. Most major credit cards. Blvd. Kukulcan Km. 9.5, Cancun. Phone 848-8380. http://www.thecitycancun.com.
A stylish jazz and supper club in Ciudad Cancun, decorated with the work of local artists. Live jazz, flamenco and blues bands play Thursday-Saturday starting at 10:30 pm. Monday-Saturday 7 pm-2 am. Music starts around 10:30 pm. A cover of about US$5 is charged after 11 pm. Calle Tulipanes 26, Ciudad Cancun, Cancun. Phone 884-2437.
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Feast on such delicacies as lobster and steak and then dance to live music as this ersatz riverboat cruises around the lagoon. Thursday 5 pm. US$39-$59 for dinner and open bar. Blvd. Kukulcan Km. 15.2 (the boat leaves from AquaWorld), Cancun. Phone 848-8327. http://www.aquaworld.com.mx.
Two authentic 17th-century Spanish galleon replicas offer nightly cruises for up to 300 guests. Cruise includes pirate-themed games, contests, dancing, open bar and dinner. The boat leaves the dock at 7 pm and returns at 10:30 pm. Reservations are required and can be booked from any hotel tour desk or online. Guests have choice of menu: Lobster or surf and turf is US$82 for adults, US$41 for kids. New York strip is US$70 for adults, US$35 for kids. A US$7 per person port service fee is added for all customers. http://www.capitanhook.com.
A party cruise with buffet dining, open bar, limbo contest and dancing. This cruise also includes a pirate skit that alternates with a Caribbean show. Saturday. Departs at 7 pm, returns at 11:30 pm. US$79. Blvd. Kukulcan Km. 4.1 (the dock is on Playa Tortuga), Cancun. Phone 884-3760. http://www.caribbeancarnaval.com.
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There’s not much in the way of cultural events or performing arts in Cancun. Xcaret, an hour south of Cancun, hosts nightly Mayan-themed shows featuring local songs and dances.
The Cancun bull ring hosts occasional concerts, boxing matches and special events, though they are mostly targeted toward the local population rather than to tourists.
Most all-inclusive hotels offer nightly shows in their theaters for their guests only. Impromptu performances by street performers are held nightly near the Party Zone and in the area malls.
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Cancun is a place for visitors to play their own sports, particularly watersports, but there's not much in the way of watching other people play. There is a soccer stadium and a baseball field in Cancun City, but games are not promoted to the tourist population. Bullfights are held weekly, but beyond that, there aren't many other regularly scheduled games or competitions.
Matadors do battle with bulls each week (and they usually win). Before the fight, folkloric dancers and horse riders present a Mexican fiesta spectacle. Remember that bullfights are graphic (six bulls are usually killed in each performance) and may not appeal to everyone. Wednesday at 3:30 pm. Tickets cost about US$40, and you can usually get them through your hotel or at the venue (credit card payment is not accepted). Avenida Bonampak at Calle Sayil, Ciudad Cancun, Cancun. Phone 884-4848.
Cancun's shops are not noted for any particular items, but you can buy anything and everything made in Mexico there. Shopping and browsing are popular pastimes in the Hotel Zone, but don't expect many bargains. In fact, prices are higher there than in other parts of Mexico.
Most shops are concentrated in a series of air-conditioned malls in the Hotel Zone on Boulevard Kukulcan between Km. 7 and Km. 15. These malls have everything from souvenir shops to internationally known boutiques—resort wear and handicrafts are among the best buys. Look for handwoven fabrics, blown glass and jewelry. Specialties of the Yucatan include hammocks and guayaberas (traditional tailored men's cotton shirts). Well-known franchise restaurants and open-air bars make the malls popular destinations by day or night.
Bargain hunters should head to Ciudad Cancun on the mainland, where outdoor markets line the east side of Avenida Tulum (be aware that although prices may be lower there, the quality may be, too). There also are several nice shops along Avenida Yaxchilan. Vendors may not accept credit cards, but even if they do, you often get a better price with cash. Almost all stores take U.S. dollars as well as pesos—prices often are marked in both currencies or just U.S. dollars.
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Generally Monday-Saturday 9 am-9 pm. Some stores may close for several hours in the early afternoon, and some, especially malls, are open on Sunday.
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This unusual department store includes a bookstore, liquor store and clothing boutique, and has a fair selection of international magazines and books on Mexican history and archaeology. It's a good place to pick up guides to Tulum, Chichen Itza and Coba. Daily 9 am-9 pm. Ave. Tulum 105, Ciudad Cancun, Cancun. Phone 884-6586.
This open-air market has a wide selection of stalls selling mainly Mexican crafts, plus stalls offering hair braids, temporary tattoos and touristy T-shirts. Open daily until well into the evening. Next to the Convention Center and across from Coco Bongo in the Hotel Zone, Cancun.
Also known as Mercado Viente-Ocho, this is one of the best options for food (try the seafood at El Cejas), Mexican crafts, clothes and souvenirs. This market is very local in nature, and prices are quite good, provided you're prepared to bargain. Daily 8 am-8 pm. Ave. Xel-ha Super Manzana 28, Ciudad Cancun, Cancun.
This is the best flea market in the area, with a wide variety of handicrafts and other items. (
Ki-Huic means "market" in Mayan.) Hawkers can get quite aggressive, so be prepared to say "no" and keep an eye on your valuables. Most importantly, don't allow yourself to be led off into a less accessible part of the facility. Daily 8 am-8 pm. Avenida Tulum (near Avenida Coba), Ciudad Cancun, Cancun.
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A casual, multilevel, open-air seaside mall with several name-brand shops and restaurants, including the popular chains Hard Rock Cafe, Carlos 'n' Charlies and Rainforest Cafe. Human statues, a bungee sling and other attractions keep nonshoppers occupied, also. Daily 10 am-midnight. Blvd. Kukulcan Km. 9.5, Cancun. Phone 883-4425.
The most stylish, largest and most spectacular mall in Cancun, this is a dining and shopping destination with a Caribbean theme. Open daily 10 am-midnight. Blvd. Kukulcan Km. 11, Cancun. Phone 883-5023. http://www.laislacancun.com.mx.
This stylish two-story mall offers high-end jewelry, gifts, fashions and accessories. Top stores include Ultrafemme, Ultrajewels, Cartier, Fendi, Louis Vuitton, Burberry and Mont Blanc. Open daily 10 am-10 pm. Blvd. Kukulcan Km. 13, Cancun.
This is one of Cancun's largest malls. You'll find such specialty shops as Gucci, Polo, Guess and Cartier, as well as places to pick up practical items such as camera supplies. Its popularity is waning, however, and some smaller shops have closed, now that La Isla has grown so popular. Daily 10 am-10 pm. Blvd. Kukulcan Km. 8.5 (next to the Convention Center), Cancun. Phone 883-2961.
An enclosed mall with many fine shops, including Benetton, Mont Blanc, MaxMara, Adora (fine lingerie) and Versace, as well as a bank, and liquor and music stores. There's also a bowling alley, several restaurants, and a luxury corridor lined with exclusive shops such as Lladro, Cartier and Swarovsky. Daily 10 am-10 pm. Blvd. Kukulcan Km. 13, Cancun. Phone 885-2304. http://www.kukulcanplaza.com.
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This small shop in downtown Cancun has a selection of cigars from Cuba, the Dominican Republic and Mexico. Monday-Saturday 9 am-9 pm. Corner of Ave. Tulum 5 and Azucena. (facing Disco Karamba), Cancun.
This conveniently located photo store is a good place to buy supplies or have your snapshots printed. It also carries batteries and a small selection of cameras and other photography equipment. Monday-Saturday 9 am-9 pm, Sunday 10 am-6 pm. Ave. Tulum 22 (near Calle Claveles), Cancun. Phone 887-4625.
Hip clothes for twenty- and thirtysomethings with such brands as Versace, Wanama, Osira and D & G. There's a separate store for men and women. Daily 10 am-9 pm. Blvd. Kukulcan Km. 11 (at the La Isla Shopping Village), Cancun. Phone 883-4707.
This boutique specializes in sophisticated shoe designs imported from Italy for men as well as women. Daily 10 am-9 pm. Blvd. Kukulcan Km 8.5 (in the Plaza Caracol mall), Cancun. Phone 883-0472.
This tobacconist carries Cohiba, Upmann, Montecristos and hand-rolled Cuban cigars. To avoid fake Cuban cigars, visitors are advised to buy only from reputable vendors such as this one. Daily 10 am-9 pm. Blvd. Kukulcan Km. 11.5 (in the Plaza Flamingo shopping complex), Cancun. Phone 885-2929. http://www.lacasadelhabano.cu.
A store with three locales selling gold, silver and jewelry made with semiprecious stones. They will manufacture your own design, as well as repair and clean jewelry. Daily 10 am-9 pm. Blvd. Kukulcan Km. 13 (in the Plaza Kukulcan mall), Cancun. Phone 883-0271.
This is not your typical T-shirt shop. High-style casual clothing including bags, shorts, shirts and matching jackets and pants—all made of high-quality Mexican cotton and in beautiful colors—are for sale there. Daily 10 am-9 pm. Blvd. Kukulcan Km. 8.5 (in the Plaza Caracol mall), Cancun. Phone 883-7645.
Exclusive designs, fair prices and friendly service are all hallmarks of this well-stocked silver- and gold-jewelry store in downtown. Prices may seem fixed, but they're really not, so feel free to bargain for a better deal. Monday-Saturday 10 am-10 pm. Most major credit cards. Plaza Mexicanerias, Avenida Tulum, Ciudad Cancun, Cancun. Phone 884-6222.
One of the top clothing stores for men and women. Also carries accessories and costume jewelry. Monday-Saturday 9:30 am-9 pm. Sunday 1-9 pm. Blvd. Kukulcan Km. 8.5 (in Plaza Caracol mall), Cancun. Phone 883-9499.
Excellent prices on a great selection of duty-free cosmetics and imported perfume. Monday-Saturday 10 am-9 pm. Blvd. Kukulcan Km. 8.5 (in Plaza Caracol mall and La Isla Shopping Village), Cancun. Phone 883-1912. http://www.ultrafemme.com.mx.
You won't find polyester or any other type of synthetic fabric at this shop: It specializes in clothing made from natural fibers from Indonesia. Mexican and Mayan styles are also well-represented. Daily 9 am-10 pm. Blvd. Kukulcan Km. 11.5 (in the Plaza Flamingo, La Isla and Plaza Caracol shopping complexes), Cancun. Phone 883-5572.
To
Chichen Itza. This World Heritage Site sits in the middle of the northern Yucatan Peninsula, southwest of Cancun. It contains a variety of buildings built between the fifth and 13th centuries. Although some, and perhaps all, were the product of the Maya, some structures were influenced by the Itzaes. Intricate, graceful stone carvings are well-preserved, and some of the sculpture that is shaded from the sun still shows traces of color. The 79-ft-/24-m-tall, pyramid-shaped Temple of Kukulkan, or El Castillo, dominates the site. About 125 mi/200 km from Cancun, Chichen Itza is accessible by car, bus or air. Tours usually include transportation and a guide. If you want to avoid the crowds, plan to visit the ruins early in the morning before tour buses arrive or late in the afternoon after they leave. Daily 8 am-5 pm. Entrance fee US$9, which includes a light-and-sound show at 7 or 8 pm.
To Isla Mujeres. This easygoing island is half the size of Cancun Island and has long been a haven for divers, anglers, escapists and adventurers. Located 8 mi/13 km off the northeastern tip of Cancun, it can be reached by regular ferry service from Cancun for a day of snorkeling or for exploring by rented bicycle, golf cart or motor scooter. The beaches north of town are popular hangouts for swimmers and sunbathers. The island's only town is crammed with souvenir shops, but a few excellent folk-art boutiques sell high-quality pottery, wood carvings and weavings. Garrafon Park at the southern tip of the island offers a variety of activities including snorkeling, guided nature walks and zip-lining. There is also a modern-sculpture garden at the southern tip of the island, an old lighthouse you can climb and a museum in what was once the keeper's cottage. Garrafon reef has been badly damaged by snorkelers, but it is now protected and efforts are being made to restore it.
To Cozumel. This popular resort island is less developed than Cancun but has the same crystalline water. Located about 40 mi/65 km to the south, it is close to the second-longest barrier reef in the world, making it a paradise for divers and snorkelers. The calmer water on the west side is good for swimming, and the deserted beaches to the east have white sand but rougher surf—beautiful but not good for swimming. Cozumel can be reached by plane from Cancun or by taking the ferry from Playa del Carmen, a resort town an hour south of Cancun.
To Maya communities. Alltournative, an award-winning ecotourism outfit dedicated to preserving the Mayan heritage, offers unique, low-impact excursions to isolated Maya communities. Once there, visitors can swim and snorkel in cenotes (ancient, underground rivers), ride a zip line across lakes, rappel, kayak and interact with villagers, who prepare a typical lunch for the visitors. One tour takes in the ruins at Coba. Around US$115 per tour. Vans pick up tourists in Cancun. Phone 984-873-2073. http://www.alltournative.com.
To Sian Ka'an Biosphere Reserve. Located near Tulum, Sian Ka'an is the largest protected area in Mexico—more than 1 million acres/40,500 hectares—and is a UNESCO World Heritage site. Its name means "the place where the sky is born." The site combines ecologically pristine reefs, wetlands and tropical forests, as well as archaeological sites going back 2,300 years. It is home to more than 350 species of birds and many other animals. Cancun-based EcoColors offers a variety of one-day tours to Sian Ka'an. US$109-$175. Phone 884-3667 or 884-9214. http://www.ecotravelmexico.com.
To Tulum. Tulum is about 80 mi/130 km south of Cancun on Highway 307. When the Spaniards first arrived from the sea they thought the city was Eldorado, as the setting sun turned the buildings a golden color. Although small compared with the other archaeological sites, Tulum is the only major Mayan city next to the sea. The buildings don't rival Chichen Itza's in size or number, and most have been roped off to prevent damage by the hordes of visitors. However, Tulum's seaside setting is unforgettable. A beach at the foot of the ruins adds to the picture-postcard quality of the area. Buses from Cancun drop passengers off at the turnoff to the ruins, which lie less than 0.5 mi/1 km east of the highway. Daily 8 am-5 pm. Entrance fee is US$9.
To Coba. If you have time and feel adventurous, take the inland highway branching off Highway 307 near Tulum and head for this mysterious Mayan city, thought to have once been the commercial hub of the Maya empire in the northern Yucatan. Mostly unexcavated and covered by jungle, the site is crisscrossed with limestone-paved roads built by the ancient Maya. It has some of the tallest pyramids and temples in the region. Dress for hiking and take water and insect repellent. Coba is much less crowded than Tulum. Bicycles are available for hire just inside the main gate and provide an excellent way of exploring the site. It is located about 105 mi/167 km southeast of Cancun. Daily 8 am-5 pm. Entrance fee US$4.
Cancun is an ideal center for exploring the Riviera Maya and Yucatan. A variety of operators run boat tours to the offshore islands of Isla Mujeres and Cozumel. By coach, you can take day trips to all of the attractions as far south as Sian Ka'an Biosphere Reserve and west to Chichen Itza. Multiday trips are also available and are an excellent value for the money. The two-day excursion to Chichen Itza and Uzmal takes in both of those ancient cities and includes short stops at the Spanish colonial cities of Valladolid and the Yucatan capital Merida.
Offers a variety of tours, including all-terrain-vehicle tours that cross the jungle and go up to the beaches of the Riviera Maya. US$72 per person. Phone 843-6517. http://www.cancunmermaid.com.
This respectable agency offers boat tours to Isla Mujeres, including meals, beach games, live music and open bar. An evening party-ship cruise with dinner plus a tour of Cancun's night spots is also offered. US$50-$117. Located in the Grand Oasis Hotel, Zona Hotelera, Cancun. Phone 848-9999 or 044-9981-53-3878.
This well-established company hosts bus tours to Chichen Itza, Tulum, Xcaret, Xel-Ha, Cozumel and numerous other destinations. Admission fees, a buffet and a guide are included. Prices for day trips are US$49-$89. More expensive overnight and combination tours are also available. Plaza Nautilus, Zona Hoteleria, Cancun. Phone 849-4545. http://www.graylinecancun.com.
The oldest tour company in Cancun, it offers bus tours to Tulum, the only Mayan ruins overlooking the sea. Guides explain the history of the area. Afterward, you can go for a swim and a snorkel at Xel-Ha, a natural aquarium. Snorkeling gear is provided. The eight-hour trip includes lunch. Hotel pickups begin at 7:30 am. US$85 for the tour only, US$107 with lunch and drinks included. Ave. Tulum 225, Cancun. Phone 881-0000.
We suggest a minimum of four nights in Cancun, even if all you plan to do is lie on the beach. (There's a lot of beach to lounge on—and it is irresistible.) Add one to two more days if you plan to visit other islands or ruins.
Day 1—Arrive and spend some time lying on the beach in front of your hotel. Later, spend some time strolling and window-shopping before having dinner.
Day 2—Take a day trip to Isla Mujeres. Head out to the Forum by the Sea shopping mall at night for some grand people-watching and grab dinner at one of its restaurants.
Day 3—Scuba divers may want to head to Playa del Carmen to catch an early ferry to Cozumel, where the diving is spectacular. (Check with the Cozumel dive shops in advance to be sure they have a dive trip scheduled after your ferry arrives.) Nondivers can stay in Cancun to shop, enjoy the beach or take a ride in the Sub Sea Explorer. At night, take in the scene at one of the dance clubs.
Day 4—If you've got a keen interest in ruins, take a day trip to Chichen Itza. Another option is to mix visiting ruins with some other sightseeing by renting a car or taking the bus to Tulum and then making a leisurely visit to Xcaret or Playa del Carmen.
Day 5—Depart.
To help you make the most of your time in Cancun, we've designed three different itineraries.
PLAN A
Sand, Shops and a Show
You can sun first and then shop, or vice versa. We'd sun first, in the morning, when the rays aren't so intense. For a safe swim, choose the beaches along the northern coast, facing the Bahia de Mujeres. If you prefer a public beach, Playa Tortugas is a short taxi or bus ride from the convention-center bus stop.
When you've had enough sun and surf, try one of the casual restaurants at the Punta Cancun dining district, next to the Cancun Convention Center, or dine at El Caribeno in the InterContinental Presidente for lunch. If you plan to spend the rest of your day shopping, try the Plaza La Isla mall, which is full of local and international boutiques, shops and restaurants.
For those who will be in town for the evening, we suggest dinner and the folklore show at El Mexicano. The restaurant offers classical regional dishes and entertainment by mariachis and dancers.
PLAN B
Watersports and Cancun City
In the morning, arrange your favorite watersport. If you're fascinated by what's beneath the water, you'll want to try snorkeling at the southern end of the island near Parque Nizuc (most of the resorts offer daily tours). If it is a calm day, take a glass-bottomed boat to a nearby coral reef. Experienced sailboarders will want to head for Playa Tortugas, the public beach on the north coast of the island. You can rent equipment and take lessons there.
After you've spent a couple of hours in the water, you may want to change out of your wet swimsuit and catch a bus to Cancun City (it costs less than US$1 each way). You can easily spend a few hours browsing the colorful markets along Avenida Tulum in the more typically Mexican part of the city. At meal times, the smell of grilled meats and the sounds of strolling mariachi bands beckon diners to the many sidewalk restaurants lining the avenue.
PLAN C
Cancun's Maya Past
If you want an introduction to Mayan ruins before visiting Chichen Itza, Tulum or Coba, take a bus or a cab to the Mayan ruins of El Rey, near the south end of the Cancun Hotel Zone across from the Hilton. The site includes a few platforms, two plazas and a small pyramid.
You could have lunch at one of the restaurants in the Hilton or head north on Boulevard Kukulcan to La Dolce Vita. (The views and relaxed ambience at this Italian cafe make it worth an extra stop.) Spend the rest of your day lazing on the beach or enjoying your favorite watersports.