Most come to Cancun for perfect beaches and warm water, so start your escape at the edge of the Caribbean Sea. A parasailing excursion along the coast is an exhilarating way to get your bearings, or you can strap on a snorkel mask to see coral reefs in crystal-clear water.

For the best views of Cancun’s white-sand beaches and resorts, head out on the water. Private sailing trips are a luxurious treat for groups, while driving your own speedboat or WaveRunner is an adventurous option that doesn’t require any previous boating experience.

Cancun nightlife spans from family-friendly to wild, but either way, it’s worth booking advance to ensure access to the hottest spots. Kids and adults love Cirque du Soleil’s gravity-defying performances. For the late-night set, club crawl tours help snag VIP perks such as skip-the-line access, free-flowing drinks, and party guides.

If you’re ready to channel your inner explorer, head to Tulum or Chichen Itza, two fascinating ancient Maya sites that are easy to reach from Cancun. If vibrant reefs are more your style, hop a boat to Isla Mujeres, where you’ll find bright coral, marine wildlife, and a sea turtle sanctuary.

After a big morning of exploring, combine some beach time with a laid-back afternoon activity. Climb into the saddle for a horseback ride along the shore, or go for aerial views of coral reefs, beaches, and resorts on a sunset flight over the Caribbean.

Make your last night in Cancun a memorable one with tickets for a dinner cruise. A crowd-pleasing pirate dinner show makes for a swashbuckling evening, while intimate small-group dinner cruises are designed as classic Mexican fiestas on the water.