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Whether you’re planning a Cancun getaway to escape chilly winter weather or thinking ahead for spring break, you’ll find plenty to do on the warm shores of the Yucatan. While you’re there, don’t miss these five Cancun experiences.

Chichen Itza

No trip to Cancun is complete without a day trip to the ruins of this Mayan capital and UNESCO World Heritage Site. The 2.5-square miles of Chichen Itza are filled with archaeological wonders, from the Mayans’ largest ball court to the towering Temple of Kukuclan pyramid. While you can’t climb the pyramid, also known as El Castillo, you can take in the sculptures of the feathered serpent to which the temple is dedicated. Throughout the area, you can also explore the ruins of palaces, tombs and temples.

Isla Mujeres

Once a Mayan sanctuary, Isla Mujeres is a small island off the coast of Cancun that offers a more peaceful beachside experience compared to the shores of Cancun. Here, you can spot sea turtles at the island’s Turtle Farm, swim with dolphins at Dolphin Discovery, or spend a day feeling the sand between your toes at Playa del Norte, one of the island’s top beaches.

Interactive Aquarium

Take a look at the Yucatan’s native marine life at the Interactive Aquarium in the La Isla Shopping Village. Sting rays, sea turtles, piranhas and tiger sharks are just a few of the aquatic creatures that call this aquarium home, but you don’t have to settle for seeing the sea life from behind glass. Unforgettable experiences like shark encounters, swimming with dolphins and swimming with sea lions put you face to face with Cancun’s marine life.

Coco Bongo Cancun

If your time in the Yucatan only allows for one night of partying, don’t miss the nightlife scene at Coco Bongo Cancun. The experience is unlike the traditional DJ-dance floor combo you might be used to; rather, Coco Bongo is a beast all of its own. Wild acrobatics, celebrity impersonators, world-class dancers and choreography, and gallons upon gallons of confetti define the performances at Coco Bongo, which is as much a dance club as it is a Las Vegas-style show.

Snorkel in Cozumel

Don’t just look at the warm turquoise waters of Cancun – grab some snorkeling gear and dive in to see the beauty that lies beneath. For some of the best snorkeling, don’t miss the island of Cozumel, less than two hours from Cancun. Cozumel is surrounded by some of the area’s best reefs, so you’ll be treated to views of spectacular corals and friendly fish.

 

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About the author

Marissa WillmanMarissa Willman earned a bachelor's degree in journalism before downsizing her life into two suitcases for a teaching gig in South Korea. Seoul was her home base for two years of wanderlusting throughout six countries in Asia. In 2011, Marissa swapped teaching for travel writing and now calls Southern California home.

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