If you are searching for calm, peaceful days to enjoy the sun and the sand, the indigo seas, romantic Caribbean nights, world class hotels, restaurants and nightlife, you are thinking about Cancun vacations!

A little more than twenty years ago, Cancun was the Mayan name of a little town located on a stretch of sun-drenched land on the northeastern tip of the Yucatan peninsula. Now it has become a resort where you can keep busy 24 hours a day with all the activities and tours available but still relax to your heart's content.

On your Cancun vacations, you can choose a pace and lifestyle to suit any frame of mind, from ultra chic to funky laidback beach bum. Cancun is a resort for everybody, from college students on a strict budget to the rich and famous from all over the world. The city caters to all who visit and anyone who hasn't been should experience what this city is all about.

Cancun is definitely Mexico's showcase resort. Few resorts in the world have the infrastructure and amenities that were built into Cancun from the beginning, which is one of the reasons why Cancun is Mexico's most popular vacation spot.

The beaches are probably one of the main reasons for your visit. The powdery, incredibly white sand of the Caribbean lines all of the beaches in Cancun. The water of the Caribbean Sea is unusually warm with incredibly blue water and, most of the times, is very calm. Take a look at any beach, at almost any time of the day and you will see people enjoying the calming effects of the ocean waves.

Topless bathing is an activity that is quietly accepted in Cancun and many of the surrounding areas along the Mayan Rivera. Total nudity is rare (as well as illegal), especially on the major beaches.

The Hotel Zone is the area of Cancun where it all comes together for most visitors. Hotels and beachfront condominiums that line the beaches serve as the nearly uninterrupted backdrop of this stretch of incredible Caribbean coastline.

Kukulcan Boulevard is the main thoroughfare along this stretch and it's a name that you will become familiar with as you travel around Cancun. On the inland side of Cancun lies Laguna Nichupte, a vast lagoon that serves as home to numerous marinas, waterfront restaurants, shopping malls, a couple of golf courses, a few islands, inlets and some fantastic sunsets. There is an area near the center of all this which is known as the Party Zone which is home to many of the areas nightclubs and discos. The very same area is also home to some of Cancun's better restaurants and upper-end shopping malls.

Downtown Cancun is a pleasant zone with some great restaurants, modern shopping facilities and it's an alternative diversion to all of glitz that surrounds the tourist zone. Prices are a lot more reasonable and your wallet will certainly appreciate your visit Downtown.

Archaeological Site "El Rey"
Among other Cancun attractions are some minor archaeological sites, the best example of which is Ruinas El Rey located on Kukulacan Blvd. at km. 17 across from the Hilton Cancun Beach & Golf Resort. A visit to El Rey is well worth the modest entry fee. The ruins are well preserved and the sheer number of resident iguanas make for a pleasant diversion. Bilingual tour guides are available for the more inquisitive types. There are other very minor ruins along the beach, well marked on most maps.

Boating Excursions
A whole variety of pleasure boat cruises to the Nichupte Lagoon, Isla Mujeres, Contoy Island, and other destinations are available every day from Cancun. Modern yachts, catamarans, trimarans, and even old fashioned sloops take swimmers, sunbathers, snorkelers, and shoppers out into the turquoise waters. Some tours include a snorkeling stop at ecological parks, snorkeling equipment, continental breakfast, lunch, and a shopping tour. Most tours leave at 9:30 or 10:00 am and last about 5 to 6 hours. Sunset and night cruises go to the beaches of Isla Mujeres, away from town, for a pirate show, which usually includes a Mexican buffet dinner and open bar.

Bullfights
Cancun has its own small bullring near the northern end of Blvd. Kukulcan, in the downtown area. It is one of Mexico's oldest traditions and a demonstration of courage and style, combined with authentic folkloric dances and Mexican Rodeo. Come and cheer "ole!" at the bullfight, held every Wednesday at 3:30 pm.

Diving
Cancun features several options of sub-aquatic activities, which is why it is considered one of the most important diving destinations. There are lots of scenarios to be explored, from coral reefs located in the open sea, to caverns and cenotes in the jungle. Be amazed by the colorful and lively marine fauna, the gorgeous extensive submarine gardens, and the unique sights that you could only find in a natural grotto.

One of the most valuable treasures in the city is the Mayan Barrier Reef, the second largest in the world, after the Great Barrier Reef in Australia. Some of the best underwater landscapes can be found at the Banderas and El Bajito coral reefs, to the north of the zone known as Punta Cancun. The more experienced divers might want to visit the San Miguel and Aristos reefs on the eastern side.

Fishing
Fishing in Cancun is incredible. If it's your first time, find out what it's like to be out in open waters and waiting for a bite. If you're a seasoned fisher, there are high-tech gear and night fishing tours. Several marinas can be found in the Hotel Zone, where you will be attended by professionals, always willing to satisfy your specific needs.The main species inhabiting the Mexican Caribbean waters are the sawfish, the red snapper and the grouper. In the open waters, you can find blue and white marlin, sailfish, swordfish, and barracuda.

Golf
Picture yourself standing on the grass while feeling the marine breeze on your face and listening to the waves crashing on the beach. Now get ready to swing and FORE! Cancun features some of the finest golf courses in the world. All of them have been designed by experts like Robert Trent Jr., Greg Norman, and Jack Nicklaus, which guarantees our visitors an unparalleled experience.

Parasailing
Parasailing is another popular activity in Cancun and it is very likely to be found on any of the beaches in this gorgeous destination. Be pulled by a speedboat while you are attached to a parachute. Once you are up in the sky, you'll be amazed by the different tones of blue of the sea. The impressive view of the Hotel Zone and the thrill of being high in the sky will take your breath away.

Submarine Tours
Enjoy a unique and not so common ride in Cancun. You don't even have to get wet or be an experienced swimmer or diver. On this tour, you will see all the beauty lying underwater in the coral reef, multi-colored tropical fish, manta rays and if you are lucky, even a shark. Don't forget to see our list of tours.

Tours Through the Mangrove Forest and the Jungle
Explore the Cancun Marinas and take a boat ride to the Nichupte Lagoon. If you feel like taking control of your experience, you can drive a motorboat or a wave runner on your own through the jungle, until you come across the second largest coral reef in the world.

Water Activities
Many beachside hotels offer water-sport centers that offer rentals for rubber rafts, kayaks, wind-surf boards, motorized jets and water skis as well as equipment for para-sailing, and snorkeling. On the calm Nichupte Lagoon, there are outlets for water-skiing, sailboats, water jets, and water skis. The most popular activity of this beautiful lagoon is the Jungle Tour. Ride on a mini-boat for 2 people through the jungle and enjoy some snorkeling. They usually last about 3 hours and are perfect for those with a tight schedule.

100% Natural
100% Natural is a casual place decorated with tropical plants and a charming open-air patio where you can enjoy your meal. It features a healthy menu specializing in salads, juice and delicious sandwiches. It's easy to find as it is located on Yaxchilan Avenue, one of the more popular and lively streets in Cancun.

Bubba Gump
Enjoy fresh shrimp cooked in any way possible as well as pastas, fine cuts, and lobster at Bubba Gump. Designed around the theme of the Hollywood movie "Forrest Gump", the restaurant is upbeat and colorful. It's located on the Hotel Zone, in Flamingo Plaza Shopping Mall and features a terrace where you can dine in front of the Nichupte Lagoon.

El Cambalache
With Argentine music, almost all tangos, playing softly in the background and a bottle of nice, Argentinean red wine, your meal at Cambalache is a totally gratifying experience.

Captn. Charlie's
This restaurant offers an array of entrees to satisfy everyone's palate and features original recipes and an excellent selection of domestic and imported beers, wines and spirits to accompany your meals. It is located lakeside and has a magnificent view of the Nichupte Lagoon, a vantage point for the most breathtaking sunsets in Cancun. You must try the fresh fish and shrimp buffet and eat all you want, for a very reasonable price.You are going to love the price as much as the seafood and steaks served here.

Carlos'n Charlie's
Carlos'n Charlie's, located in Plaza Forum on the Hotel Zone, is one of the best Mexican restaurants to have lunch or dinner, as well as to enjoy your favorite drinks in a lively atmosphere. We feature a varied menu where you can choose from Mexican or American food as well as pasta, seafood and tempting appetizers all carefully prepared to taste. Its original decoration turns it into a special casual restaurant where a friendly and joyful staff will create an exceptional festive ambiance.

Casa Rolandi
Located in Plaza Caracol, this is a quaint place with many special nooks and crannies filled with plants and hidden lights. Since Casa Rolandi's trademark is their wood-burning oven, their cuts are grilled just perfectly. There is also a branch in Isla Mujeres.

Chokos & Tere
This seafood restaurant has been in business for more than 30 years, tending to the tourists that visit Cancun for business or leisure as well as locals. The main dish of the house is Relleno Tere, (a fish fillet au gratin, stuffed with crab). Its friendly service will be at your disposal to make you feel at home so come down, visit and have a good time.
v Crab House
There are very few places on the Cancun Hotel Zone that offer captivating sunsets over the Nichupte Lagoon like the Crab House, which offers a variety of exquisite, specialty seafood dishes. Meaty crab legs and jumbo shrimp are the main ingredients of the seafood creations served here, that are both pleasing to the eye as well as to the taste.

La Destileria
One important aspect of La Destileria (The Distillery) is that its menu is based on traditional Mexican dishes from the state of Jalisco since it is the birthplace of tequila. Typical dishes like tortas ahogadas, birria, menudo, Nayarit-style ceviche, among many other Mexican specialties, lure clients from everywhere. The cuisine is complemented with other regional dishes and a wide variety of moles (a sauce made of a long series of ingredients, served over chicken or rice).

La Dolce Vita
The restaurant philosophy has always been good service and top quality ingredients. The tranquility that floats in this restaurant and the easy-going nature of the owners, who are always on hand to help, are some of the main reasons why everybody who works here are happy to work here.

Grill 14
The exclusive Grill 14 is near the luxurious The Ritz-Carlton hotel, on Kukulcan Boulevard, but facing the tranquil waters of the beautiful Nichupte Lagoon. The restaurant features an exquisite combination of aromas and flavors and a very romantic atmosphere. Try such delicious appetizers as a warm spinach salad, accompanied by parmesan cheese and a bacon sauce.

Choosing a main course may not be as simple, because all the options at Grill 14 are extremely tempting! Some of the dishes here are baked in a wood-fired oven, while others are grilled or served raw (like the extensive selection of sushi). You should definitely try the roast duck with chipotle, tequila and honey. Another favorite dish is the Surf and Turf, which includes a juicy steak and a lobster tail accompanied by grilled asparagus, mashed potatoes, and roasted garlic butter.

Grill 2000
While visiting Cancun, you might want to try more than just the traditional Mexican food. Treat yourself to the delicious cuts of meat served at this cozy Brazilian churrascaria, located in the heart of downtown. Your mouth will definitely start to water when you see the waiter heading for your table with the long skewers full of perfectly grilled meats. Once you've experienced the flavors on offer here, you'll definitely want to return for more. To accompany the meat there is also an extensive salad bar. Bon appetite!

Gustino
An example of the special care taken in the presentation of the dishes at this restaurant, specializing in Northern Italian fare, is the antipasto. Also featured here are a combination of marinated mixed vegetables, a fine selection of imported cheeses as well as imported cold cuts such as prosciutto and salami.

La Troje
La Troje is one of Cancun's favorite places among locals and visitors alike. Enjoy dishes with a distinctive flavor and salads made of fruits, nuts, cheeses and unique home-made dressings. The home-made pasta is served with exclusive sauces and the baguettes are renovated with cheese and meat combinations. Come and enjoy the special ambience and the friendly service of its owners.

La Habichuela
La Habichuela, which means "string bean", is a romantic-ambiance restaurant where the most famous dish is the Cocobichuela, a coconut shell garnished with tropical fruits and filled with white rice at the bottom. It is a delightful and exquisite choice.

Ruth's Chris Steak House
This famous restaurant in Cancun's Hotel Zone combines elegant surroundings with an unbeatable location, looking out over gorgeous sunsets on Nichupte Lagoon. Its truly extraordinary menu is made up of a vast variety of appetizers, salads, steaks, and generous portions of giant shrimp and lobster. Ruth's Chris Steak House has a long history of delighting customers with exquisite steaks and many Cajun specialties, proudly displaying this chain's New Orleans roots from nearly 50 years ago.

Hacienda El Mortero
Built as an old high-class hacienda, El Mortero features Mexican haute cuisine. You will find the most typical dishes from the most important culinary capitals in the republic. Their selection of meats is quite good and the preparation includes all of Mexico's most famous ingredients such as chiles and hot sauces. Their extensive list of tequilas will astound you.

Hooters
Hooters makes you happy! Come and enjoy our famous wings, live sports broadcasts, full bar, large boutique, and of course... our Hooters Girls! They are a charming bunch and it's impossible to have a horrible time with them around. See for yourself why we are one of the fastest growing restaurant chains with over 400 restaurants across the globe. Believe it people: you'll never forget Hooters Cancun.

Jimmy Buffett's Margaritaville
Margaritaville is a lively, fun restaurant in the Hotel Zone of Cancun, delivering delicious Caribbean fare and live entertainment. The music of Jimmy Buffett is the main theme of this restaurant's vibrant decor. Here, you can enjoy delicious cuisine while listening to a variety of concerts and videos by the artist himself. Margaritaville Cancun specializes in seafood with a Mexican twist, although any selection from the menu, whether it's typical quesadillas or a fresh lobster tail, is sure to satisfy you. The friendly staff and the upbeat music of Jimmy Buffett are bound to turn any occasion into a celebration!

John Gray's Downtown
At John Gray's Downtown you'll be sure to enjoy the excellent variety of bistro specialties on offer. Choose a traditional recipe or one of the chef's latest creations, all prepared with fresh vegetables, fine spices and the highest quality poultry, fish or beef grilled to perfection. Locals and visitors alike are instantly charmed in this contemporary Cancun restaurant because of its welcoming atmosphere, unparalleled service and the mouthwatering dishes that feature an enticing blend of delicious ingredients.

Lorenzillo's
For a lobster lover, Lorenzillo's is the place. This restaurant has a lobster farm of its own with about 10,000 lobsters and you can find it on the lagoon in Cancun's Hotel Zone. No one does lobster better than Lorenzillo's!

La Madonna
La Madonna is one of the most beautiful Italian restaurants in Cancun. It is renowned for its spectacular contemporary architecture, sculptures and pieces of art. The most sophisticated Italian and Swiss dishes are served at La Madonna, all of them carefully prepared with fresh products, both imported and local. It features an elegant dining room, a terrace and a Mezzanine, exclusive for romantic evenings as well as cognac and Cuban cigars.

Outback Steakhouse
Outback Steakhouse serves American style juicy steaks seasoned with an exclusive recipe that includes seventeen spices to seal in the meats flavor and ensure tenderness. Apart from succulent prime steaks, the menu also features poultry, fish and seafood. The relaxed, Aussie-themed atmosphere is ideal for any occasion, from a casual get-together with friends to an evening dinner for two.

Pat O'Briens
In Pat O'Briens, you will have an unforgettable experience when it comes to excellent service and entertainment. With very original decor and a fire fountain, enjoy the most succulent dishes of Creole-Cajun cuisine from New Orleans. Spend an evening with the best ambiance in town and live music. If you are looking for good food and a great time, Pat O'Briens is the place for you.

Puerto Madero
A relaxing atmosphere and modern decoration are the perfect setting to taste the finest selection of meats, fish and seafood with the classical Argentinean touch. Puerto Madero is an exceptional place with a view of the Nichupte Lagoon, where you can take in the beauty of the sunset while savoring a succulent dish. With excellent service and location on the Marina Barracuda, this exceptional restaurant is a tribute to the restored Puerto Madero of the beautiful city of Buenos Aires.

Rainforest
This is a wonderful place to eat, where there are rainforests, gorillas and other animals (fake) accompanied by sounds of nature. The Rainforest is great for pastas and chicken wings. Also a favorite for children.

Casa Rubi
Enjoy the unique, one of a kind dishes as well as classic recipes served in the stylish setting of the Casa Rubi, where the service is outstanding, as is the elegant, contemporary decor. Chef Alain will amaze you with his enticing presentations of the many soups, pastas and salads offered and indulge your palate with a host of delicious entrees prepared with fine cuts of beef cooked to your liking, as well as poultry and exquisite seafood. This avant-garde restaurant is located very close to Plaza Las Americas Mall in an upper-class neighborhood that's fast becoming the new fashionable gastronomic district of Cancun.

Thai Lounge
When vacationing in Cancun, don't miss out on a visit to Thai Lounge, a little piece of paradise overlooking the Nichupte Lagoon. Indulge your senses while surrounded by nature in this sophisticated restaurant, which offers beautiful views of the sun falling behind the horizon. Its wooden terrace offers the perfect setting for drinks and casual dinners while enjoying the unique flavors of authentic Thai cuisine.

Cocobongo
Cocobongo is located in the heart of the bustling Hotel Zone. It features an extraordinary musical mix, taking sounds from the 70's and 80's, Dance, Trance, Hip-Hop, and Rave. Get ready for flying acrobats, bar top conga lines, movie clips projected on to high tech video screens, live bands, DJ's, lights, special effects, balloons, soap bubbles, confetti streamers and much more. Cocobongo is simply one of the most popular nightclubs in the world.

Dady'O
Dady'O is one of the most popular Cancun nightclubs in the center of the hotel zone. The place plays mostly techno music. Check out the special promo nights and competitions! Dady'O is a nightclub, popular among spring breakers and young locals.

Yesterday Bar
Memories come alive at Yesterday Bar. The good vibes of the most important songs of three influential decades of music (the 60s, 70s and 80s) fill the bar. It is one of the few places where you can listen to all those songs and watch their videos on the big screens that Yesterday's offers. Excellent in every aspect, this bar is the place to be for some good, honest fun that shouldn't be missed. Come in group or by yourself and see why this bar is great for relaxed night out. Trends don't exist; only lifestyles.

Basic
Basic is one of the Cancun nightclubs of latest generation. This club has innovative architecture, simulating a floating island with lush vegetation and a white canvas which is open in the middle of the ceiling. Basic is the only place where you will be able to dance and party under the stars and over the lagoon. Enjoy excellent music including Rock, R&B and Pop, where there is fabulous service and have an unforgettable evening.

Bulldog Cafe
Rock bands have been playing live music at Bulldog Cafe, which offers a great laser show and an excellent view of the stage. With space for up to 2000 people, this club has a VIP lounge with jacuzzi where you will be able to savor the most exquisite drinks. Bulldog Cafe has showcased a great variety of artists such as Mana, Molotov, Paulina Rubio and Shakira, among others.

Señor Frog's
A restaurant by day and a bar with a party atmosphere by night, Senor Frog's is one of the most important spots of Cancun's nightlife. If you haven't met anyone at the beginning of the night, you will surely have met quite a few by the end. With live music, DJ's, contests and karaoke, this bar also features a water slide that goes from the bar to the lagoon so don't forget your swim suit!

The City
The City is the Number 1 discotheque in Mexico. It's 3-level stage is just impressive, a true homage to high tech! The City experience includes a never ending range of surprises such as the special effects, the fantastic performances of the professional acrobats, and the shows of the animation staff.

State of the art light and sound equipment make of this disco, the best choice for party lovers. The City has been the host for DJ's such as Tiesto, and Paul van Dyk; as well as rappers like 50 cent, Ludacris, and Fat Joe. The City, Playa Cabana Beach Club and the CT Lounge, are the best choices to party your days off when you're in Cancun.

Mambo Cafe
This is a club with Caribbean decor and the best Latin music with tropical and pop songs. The innovation in this place is the fusion between the live music and the host DJ. The best International groups from the Caribbean islands (such as Cuba, Dominican Republic, Puerto Rico and Colombia) play here, performing the hottest tropical beats like salsa, merengue, bachata and cumbia, among others.

Barezzito
This is a sensational bar that is located in the modern and new Plaza Peninsula, where all week long, Cancun's high society comes to hang out. With live groups, excellent drinks and an ambiance that is difficult to top, Barezzito Cancun is a place to see and to be seen. Don't forget to ask about for the attractive promos which you'll surely want to take advantage of.

Yaxchilan Avenue
It is one of the most famous avenues in the downtown area of Cancun and it's known for its quaint ambiance. Nightlife in "La Yaxchilan" is extremely varied. You can find nightclubs with big-screen tvs, where you will be able to watch your favorite sporting events, enjoy karaoke and live music. From the streets, you can hear all sorts of different music, from rock to ballads. You will find high quality restaurants where Mexican cuisine predominates, contributing to the lively atmosphere on "La Yaxchilan" Avenue.

La Isla
La Isla Shopping Village is near the Nichupte Lagoon under a giant canopy. It is a shopping center with more than 150 national and international brand name stores and it is the most important commercial center in Cancun's Hotel Zone. This amazing shopping and entertainment center has a peculiar mall infrastructure which preserves the natural beauty and attractions that surround the mall. The open-air architecture has the most advanced technology and optimized comfort, the finest stores and entertainment facilities at an international level. A series of canals and small bridges are designed to give the place a Venetian look. A must-see!

Kukulcan Plaza
The cultural and consumer hub of Cancun's Hotel Zone, this extraordinary shopping center offers a wide variety of services from shopping, fine dining and bowling, to contemporary art exhibits and international film festivals. Open daily from 10:00 am to 10:00 pm. Handicapped assistance provided upon request. Blvd. Kukulcan, km 13, Hotel Zone.

Plaza Flamingo
Located by the lagoon on kilometer 11.5 of the hotel zone, this mall is the perfect place to spend the afternoon shopping. With approximately 100 stores, Plaza Flamingo guarantees to have the perfect souvenir of your vacation. Not only can you find unique handcrafts made of bone, clay or talavera, but also fashionable sunglasses, funny t-shirts and fine jewelry. Pat O'Brien's, Margaritaville, Sanborn's Cafe, The Outback Steakhouse and Bubba Gump are excellent choices to dine after you're done shopping.

Plaza Las Americas
Plaza Las Americas is the biggest and most important shopping mall in downtown Cancun. It has a number of stores and restaurants, small boutiques, movie theaters, books stores, fast-food outlets, large department stores and the Mambo Cafe salsa club, all which make this plaza a favorite for both locals and tourists. Ask any taxi driver to take you there!

Market 28
A good spot to check out souvenirs is Market 28, the huge open air flea market located in downtown Cancun. It's a maze of stalls and vendors selling everything from silver jewelry to art work, postcards to leather. Each stall features something different. Take your time to shop around. Market 28 also houses several restaurants if you're in the mood for something to eat or a cold beer. It's by far the largest of the marketplaces in Cancun so if you can't find that souvenir here, you probably won't find it elsewhere. This popular market is filled with Cancun shops selling many of the same souvenir items found in the Hotel Zone, at more competitive prices.

Plaza Bonita
Located within Market 28, Plaza Bonita is a quaint little area where you can find a variety of shops, restaurants and jewelry stores. Its walls are painted with dazzling Mexican tones, making it an attractive folkloric spot. You are sure to find great souvenirs to take home with you.

La Gran Plaza
Fine cafeterias, a food court with varied dining options, plenty of movies to choose from, boutiques, shoe stores, and a bookstore, you can find everything under the same roof at the Gran Plaza. Department stores within the mall and a Walmart right beside it turn La Gran Plaza into a convenient shopping center. Both locals and visitors can be found at this mall located on Nichupte Avenue.

Paseo Cancun
Paseo Cancun is located on Andres Quintana Roo Avenue, one of the busiest streets of the city. This shopping center is a great choice for those who are looking for different kinds of activities. Movies, bowling, pet stores, fine boutiques, restaurants and coffee shops can be found here.

Plaza La Fiesta
At Plaza La Fiesta, you will find an absolutely Mexican ambiance featuring all kinds of silver, handicrafts, and leather articles. There are also the extravagant and colorful sombreros to take home as souvenirs of your trip to Mexico. Plaza La Fiesta is located on the Hotel Zone right in front of the convention center.

Coral Negro
Coral Negro sits right in the heart of the city, in a spot known as the "party center" where the hippest clubs are to be found. Coral Negro offers all kinds of souvenirs from the elaborate to the funny. Here you will find from handicraft stores as well as places where you can get braids done, piercing and tattoos.