Hecht John - Lonely Planet Cancun, Cozumel & the Yucatan

Without a doubt, this corner of Mexico has some of the most beautiful stretches of coastline youll ever see which explains in large part why beaches get top billing on the peninsula. On the east coast you have the famous coral-crushed white sands and turquoise-blue waters of the Mexican Caribbean, while up north youll find sleepy fishing villages with sandy streets and wildlife-rich surroundings. For the ultimate beach-bumming experience you can always hit one of several low-key islands off the Caribbean coast.

You cant help but feel awestruck when standing before the pyramids, temples and ball courts of one of the most brilliant pre-Hispanic civilizations of all time. Yes, those Maya certainly knew a thing or two about architecture and they were no slouchers when it came to astronomy, science and mathematics either. Witnessing their remarkable achievements firsthand leaves a lasting impression on even the most jaded traveler and the peninsula is chock-full of these mind-blowing Maya archaeological sites.

The Yucatn is the real deal for nature enthusiasts. With colorful underwater scenery like none other, it offers some of the best diving and snorkeling sites in the world. Then you have the many biosphere reserves and national parks that are home to a remarkably diverse variety of animal and plant life. Just to give you an idea of whats in store: you can swim with whale sharks, spot crocodiles and flamingos, help liberate sea turtles and observe hundreds upon hundreds of bird species.

In case you need a little something more than pretty beaches, ancient ruins and outdoor adventures, youll be glad to know that culture and fun-filled activities abound in the Yucatn. On any given day you may come across soulful dance performances, free concerts, interesting museums or art exhibits particularly in Mrida, the peninsulas cultural capital. For all-out fun, the Yucatn is one big splashfest after another with thousands of underground natural pools, theme parks with subterranean rivers, and all kinds of thrilling boat tours.

Tulum beach and ancient Maya ruins
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Why I Love Cancn, Cozumel & the Yucatn

By John Hecht, Author

Above all, I love the colors. Maybe Ive been living in smog-choked Mexico City waaay too long now but every time I visit the peninsula I find myself asking: can an ocean really have that many shades of intense blue, or can jungles and mangroves really be so chlorophyll green? I also love that there are so many things to do. Had your fill of Maya ruins? No problem - have a dip in a gorgeous cenote (limestone sinkhole) or explore amazing coral reefs. And dont even get me started about the Yucatns wonderful regional cuisine.

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Cancn, Cozumel & the Yucatns Top 17

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The Maya considered them sacred gateways to the underworld. OK, so maybe they had a flair for the dramatic, but once you visit a cenote (a limestone sinkhole) youll better understand where the Maya were coming from. An estimated 6000 cenotes dot the peninsula; some, like the spectacular pair of caverns at Cenote Dzitnup ( ) , draw divers from far and wide.