Before Mexico's Riviera Mayan became famous as a region, Cancun already was attracting legions of American travelers looking for a beach vacation. Cancun still has the most breathtakingly-beautiful beach, and more of just about everything than anywhere else in the country.
Cancun has the finest accommodations in Mexico. The Zona Hotelera, where the best hotels stand, is a 14-mile strip of sandy-white beach lined with luxurious places to stay. Boulevard Kukulcan, the main thoroughfare, is itself tastefully landscaped and decorated with palm trees, bushes and waterfalls. The hotels in this area are fabulous but also very expensive. The devastation wrought by Hurricane Wilma in 2005 hastened renovations and new development, as extravagance became the norm.
The Ritz-Carlton Cancun is one hotel that gets rave reviews. Its architecture pays homage to Mexico's Spanish heritage, but its centerpiece is its powdery white-sand beach. The hotel's primary restaurant, The Club Grill, is highly acclaimed and has earned the prestigious five-diamond award.
Le Blanc Spa Resort is an all-inclusive property on the Zona Hotelera that is one of Cancun's finest. Its spa and fitness center are extraordinary, as is Le Blanc's service. Another top hotel choice is the JW Marriott, with its marble lobby and luxurious guest rooms. The JW Marriott's Gustino restaurant serves the finest Italian cuisine in Cancun.
Cancun is also an epicurean's paradise. Fabulous restaurants abound, especially on Boulevard Kukulcan, where the major hotels are located. Casa Rolandi, a Swiss/Italian restaurant, is the cream of the crop. The fresh Caribbean fish, veal and other meat dishes are outstanding, as are the desserts. Casa Rolandi also features an extensive wine list.
Lorenzillo's is a premier choice for seafood and is best known for lobster. Harry's Prime Steakhouse has a far-reaching reputation as the go-to place for superb steaks, but the fish is excellent also.
Nightlife is a big part of the Cancun scene. Several clubs are located in major hotels, and standalone mega-clubs include The City, CoCo Bongo and Bling. The Bar Hopper Tour takes the party crowd to Congo Bar, Senor Frog's and CoCo Bongo in one evening.
The adjacent Caribbean Sea adds tremendous value for fans of boating and water sports. Perhaps the most popular boat trip is a ride to nearby Isla Mujeres, home to a laid-back former fishing village with shops and restaurants. Isla Mujeres, which also has hotels and an excellent beach, is a vacation destination in its own right. Other boat outings include an evening party aboard the Caribbean Carnaval as well as a night of games and a pirate show on the Captain Hook.
Several vendors offer a Jungle Cruise, where two people drive their own speed boat across the lagoon and through a large coral reef. Other Cancun adventures include night fishing and snorkeling.
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