Museo Maya de Cancun
Lest you forget that Cancun has hosted civilizations far older than the tourist crowd, Museo Maya de Cancun has a fabulous and important collection of archeological artifacts. Open since 2012, this relatively new museum is dedicated to Mayan history and also features an outdoor garden as well as a number of Mayan ruins.
Dolphin Discovery
Dolphins are elegant and enchanting creatures, and the opportunity to swim with one is both rare and hard to pass up. These animals are trained to play with visitors, and different tiers of packages get your different experiences, but all include a delightful handshake, kiss, hug and swim time with a dolphin.
El Rey Ruins
If you don’t have the time to trek to Chichen Itza, the El Rey Ruins are a fine replacement for the famed ruins. These ancient Mayan structures are easily accessible, located in Hotel Zone and known for their impressive iguana population. El Rey’s smaller size means that visitors can leisurely stroll the grounds without a guide.
Tacos
Almost anyplace you go in Mexico will have tacos leagues better than what you’ll find at your local Taco Bell. Here in Cancun, tacos are served on soft corn tortillas, wrapped around slow-roasted meat or flaky white fish that melts in your mouth, topped with fresh salsa or pico de gallo — an irresistible combination!
Seafood
No ocean-side vacation is complete without a spread of seafood. Start with ceviche — El Fish Fritanga has three different kinds — available at many restaurants in Cancun. For succulent lobster and crab while overlooking a lagoon, try Lorenzillo’s. And if you really want to eat like the locals, trek out to Va q’Va for its family-sized portions.
Steak
Cancun has quite a number of steakhouses, each a celebration of eating beef. Get your fill of Argentinean-style meat at Puerto Madero, which also features an alluring wine list, or nosh on Brazilian-style steak at Bovino’s Churrascaria. You’ll also find fantastic cuts at Lima 1205, a Peruvian steakhouse with great Pisco Sours.
Coco Bongo
Undoubtedly the most famous hotspot in Cancun for nightlife, Coco Bongo is a must-visit for those looking for a good time. With a cover fee that includes unlimited drinks all night, plus acrobatic performances and three floors of drinking and dancing, you’re bound to have a fun and memorable time.
Ritz Carlton Lobby Lounge
For a relaxing evening, head to the Ritz Carlton, an intimate lounge with luxe, overstuffed couches where you can sip your drink in comfortable ambience. Tequila tastings are served daily, and fresh-rolled cigars are available certain days of the week; if you’re lucky, you can also catch a live jazz band.
Palazzo Cancun
This upscale and recently renovated nightclub advertises a VIP experience, and you’ll most certainly get one if you and your friends settle in at a table. The music is pumping, the drinks keep coming and the dance floor is abuzz with revelers enjoying the posh and lively atmosphere.