7 Ways to Experience What Lies Beyond the Beach in Cancun
Get a Glimpse of Authentic Cancun at Parque Las Palapas
There’s lot to do in downtown Cancun, and this is where you can get a glimpse at the more authentic side of the city, going beyond the tourist attractions. Parque Las Palapas is its main plaza, a park that hosts a stage, outdoor food court and food carts, a playground, and a variety of vendors featuring local handcrafted items and souvenirs.
Las Quesadillas is an especially favorite lunch stop. Weekend nights are popular times for music and dance performances, exhibitions and the like, making it a great spot for local families to gather.
Check out the Tequila Museum
Tequila is to Mexico like lobster is to Maine. It’s something you really need to sample while you’re in Cancun if you imbibe in the drink at all. One of the best places to learn about it is in Cancun’s Tequila Herradura Sensory Museum.
Not only will you get an interesting lesson in the art of tequila-making, you’ll learn about the beverage’s history, how it’s distilled, drinking etiquette, and, most importantly, you’ll indulge in a round of “sniff and slurp.”
If you’re looking for a relaxing getaway with sand between your toes and the sound of the waves, these are the best beaches for you.
Join an Excursion to Visit Isla Contoy
Day trips are available from Cancun to visit the beautiful, secluded Isla Contoy. Renowned for its birds, the island has more than 150 species, including the Caribbean’s largest population of pelicans. It’s also the most important nesting site for sea birds in the Mexican Caribbean, which means only 200 visitors can be on the island at any one time to protect its pristine ecosystem.
A handful of outfitters can take you here, most of which include stops to snorkel among the sea turtles and colorful fish at Ixlache Reef.
