Cancun
is renowned for its beaches for good reason – the sparkling white stretches of
sand and clear aqua waters are perfect for sunbathing, swimming and strolling.
Those who want to jump into the ocean should head to the beaches that face the
Bahia de Mujeres, the waters on the windward stretch of Cancun . Strong currents
can make swimming risky so take heed and don't venture into the ocean when red
or black danger flags fly. Yellow flags warn swimmers to proceed with caution;
green or blue flags mean that the waters are calm and it's safe to go in. Hotel
employees often keep watch over the beaches around their property so it is best
to stay on the beach of your hotel. This is a pleasure if you're staying at one
of the Zona Hotelera's many all-inclusive resort hotels, such as the Cancun
Palace . Flanked by the waters of the Caribbean and the Nichupte Lagoon, the
Cancun Palace is perfect for those who want to spend time in the water. Fans of
diving or jet-skiing should check into the Hotel
Sierra Cancun , a resort equipped with its own water-sports facilities. Relax
peacefully on the beaches of Aventura
Spa Palace , an adults-only hotel tucked into a quiet inlet on the Caribbean
. Those staying at beach-less downtown hotels can still
enjoy the ocean. Playa Tortugas and Chacmool are public beaches that have restaurants
and changing areas for visitors to use. Playa Marlin and Playa Ballenas are less
crowded public beaches that are known for their smooth sand and spectacular views
of the rugged surf. Looking for more adventure in the ocean?
Take advantage of Cancun 's wealth of snorkeling and scuba diving opportunities.
With its shallow reefs and diversity of ocean life, Cancun is one of the best
places in the world to explore underwater. The Cave of
the Sleeping Sharks (once home to several of the animals, now shark-free) and
El Garrafon are reefs that boast a wealth of sea creatures and several sunken
boats for novice scuba divers to discover. More experienced divers can explore
caverns and wellsprings. The largest operator of scuba trips and lessons is Aquaworld,
located close to the Melia
Turquesa Cancun . Dives usually begin in the morning and last for 4 to 5 hours.
For those hesitant to plunge into the ocean, Aquaworld created the Sub See Explorer
– a submarine-style boat that allows passengers to see below the surface of the
water without getting wet. El Garrafon National Park is
one of Cancun 's most popular places to snorkel. Another option lies about 20
miles south of the resort: Puerto Morelos is a reef whose location close to the
shore keeps its waters calm, shallow and ideal for snorkeling. Both places are
short trips away from the Zona Hotelera: staff at hotels like the Avalon
Grand Cancun can connect guests to travel agencies that sponsor day trips
to snorkeling facilities. Visitors who want to test out
their diving skills before venturing underwater can practice in the dive tank
and multiple pools of the Beach
Palace or take part in scuba and snorkeling demonstrations at the Crown
Paradise Club Cancun . Wondering how you can see all
of Cancun during your vacation? Take off on a panoramic helicopter tour of the
resort and the surrounding areas. Many hover above the ruins to give passengers
an overhead view of the magnificent Maya structures; some fly south along the
Riviera Maya, cruising over tropical vegetation and sparkling shores. Hotel pickup
is provided; the concierges at the Cameleon
Marival Riviera Maya and the Paradisus
Riviera Cancun have details on nearby operators. For
those who just want to marvel at all the resort has to offer, take the elevator
to the top of La Torre Cancun, a rotating tower at the El Embarcadero entertainment
complex located near the Fiesta
Americana Condesa . Spinning 250 feet above the ground and looking down at
the activity below, you'll appreciate Cancun and all its amenities in completely
new way. <<--Back | 
