The hotel zone of Cancun is actually located on an island in the Mexican state of Quintana Roo.  It is shaped like the number 7 and has bridges on each end connecting it to the main land and local city of Cancun.  There are a number of resorts and hotels as well as many nightclubs, restaurants and shopping.  Cancun even has small ruins called El Rey.    Cancun is a great place to start your adventure in Mexico.  From here, sites such as Tulum, Chichen Itza and many others are within driving distance.  For a more authentic Mexican experience, consider using Merida, Mexico as your starting point for adventure.  Cancun is easily reached fro m the United States, Canada, Europe or South America via the Cancun International Airport which serves thousands of passengers daily.

 Things to see and do in Cancun:

You name it, Cancun has it.  Here is a small list of activities in the area.

Xcaret – An eco park that has almost everything including ruins, a zoo, snorkeling, cenotes, a beach, swimming with dolphins and you end the day with a traditional Mayan ball game and Mexican folk dancing. 

Holbox – A small island with a beautiful beach 2 hours from Cancun that features swimming with whale sharks from June – September.  An amazing experience!

Chichen Itza – These ruins dubbed one of the new 7 wonders of the world are only 2 hours from Cancun.  Read more about Chichen Itza on its destination page.

Shopping – There are many wonderful out door malls to explore in Cancun, as well as local markets.

Scuba and snorkeling – The world’s second largest reef, the Mesoamerican Barrier Reef is just off Cancun.   There is also a new attraction below water, Cancun’s Underwater Museum.  When completed it will hold one of the world’s largest underwater museums with more than 400 sculptures.  

Isla Mujeres – A beautiful quant Mexican island close to Cancun.  Take a catamaran day trip here and enjoy snorkeling and lunch on the way.

Jeep adventures, zip Line, cave diving or swim with dolphins – There are a plethora of adventure activities here in the area.

The Beach – It’s no wonder Cancun was chosen as Mexico’s hot tourism spot, the beach alone is worth the visit!

Nightclubs – Although many hotels have remolded targeting the luxury market, the night clubs you know and love are still here such as Senior Frogs, Daddy O’s and Coco Bongos.

Markets – Great buys abound and don’t forget to bargain when you visit one of the many markets of Cancun