Cancun's Best Activities and Attractions

You'll find multiple ways to enjoy Cancun's tempting ocean, both above and below the surface. On dry land, you can also find plenty of ways to fill your days. Here are some favorite things to do in Cancun:

• Scuba diving in Cozumel and along the Yucatan's Caribbean coast: The coral reefs off the island are among the top-five dive spots in the world and constitute Mexico's premier diving destination. The Yucatán's coastal reef, part of the second-largest reef system in the world, affords excellent diving all along the coast. Especially beautiful is the Chinchorro Reef, lying 32km (20 miles) offshore from Majahual or Xcalak. Diving from Isla Mujeres is also quite spectacular.

• Snorkeling: Even if you're not usually the sporting type, you don't want to miss the chance to try snorkeling the same reef system so highly acclaimed by divers. The waters offshore are so clear that snorkelers are guaranteed to see clouds of tropical fish in every color of the rainbow, and possibly even a turtle or two. You can see a stunningly beautiful underwater world. One of the best places is El Garrafon Park in Isla Mujeres.

• Cenote diving on the Yucatán Mainland: Dive into the clear depths of the Yucatán's cenotes (natural wells) for an interesting twist on underwater exploration. The Maya considered the cenotes sacred — and their vivid colors seem otherworldly indeed. Most are located between Playa del Carmen and Tulum, and dive shops in these areas regularly run trips for experienced divers.

• Fly-fishing off the Punta Allen and Majahual Peninsulas: Serious anglers enjoy the challenge of fly-fishing the saltwater flats and lagoons on the protected sides of these peninsulas.

• Birding: The Yucatan Peninsula is an ornithological paradise, with hundreds of species awaiting the birder's gaze and list. One very special place is Isla Contoy, with more than 70 species of birds as well as a host of marine and animal life.

• Getting a bird's-eye view: On Isla Mujeres, The Panoramic Tower is the best way to get the lay of the island, not to mention a stunning view of Cancun. The gentle ride rotates at the top to give you the perfect 360-degree perspective.

In addition to beautiful beaches, the Yucatan also offers a spectacular glance into this region's rich history through its various architectural sites and ruins. Here are two picks for a day trip in the Yucatan:

• Tulum: Some dismiss Tulum as less important than other ruins in the Yucatan Peninsula, but this seaside Maya fortress is still inspiring. The sight of its crumbling stone walls against the stark contrast of the clear turquoise ocean just beyond is extraordinary.

• Chichen Itza: Stand beside the giant serpent head at the foot of the El Castillo pyramid and marvel at the architects and astronomers who positioned the building so precisely that shadow and sunlight form a serpent's body slithering from peak to the earth at each equinox (Mar 21 and Sept 21).