Who said “hotspots” are just for wifi? On a spring break trip, the hope is that you’re having fun and living in the moment, rather than being glued to your phone 24/7 or constantly asking, “where is the Wifi?”
Cancun is known as being one of the top places the spend your spring break vacation, so we’ve pulled together a list that is sure to have you putting down your phone and exploring all the real-life hotspots Cancun has to offer. It’s also never too early to start planning your Spring Break getaway, so check out some of our top deals for spring break in Cancun while you’re at it!
Señor Frog’s
image: facebook.com/SenorFrogs
With a tagline that reads, ‘Unleash Your Fiesta,” it’s clear that Señor Frog’s offers a great nightlife scene. The club is a place where people around the world come to dance and have a good time, making it especially ideal for those in search of a place to party the night away! And let’s not forget about the entertainment shows and a water slide that drops you into a lagoon – there’s a lot happening at Señor Frog’s, so don’t be surprised if you find yourself checking it out once, twice, or even three times around!
Isla Mujeres
image: isla-mujeres.net
There will be many chances to visit the beaches along the coast while in Cancun, but the most idyllic spot facing the Caribbean Sea is Isla Mujeres. This island is a secluded, picturesque island with a relaxed atmosphere. With beautiful sunsets, dining options, and scuba diving you may be caught ditching Cancun for Isla Mujeres. No one could blame you for that!
Underwater Museum: MUSA
image: musamexico.org
Cancun is known for its underwater museum, Museo Subacático de Arte (MUSA), which is used as an artificial reef for marine life to colonize and inhabit. Created by sculptor Jason deCaires Taylor, the MUSA aims to demonstrate the interaction between art and environmental science. Home to over 500 life sized sculptures in two different reefs, this underwater museum has astonishing views, and you won’t want to miss out on experiencing them for yourself while in Cancun.
Coba
image: traveltocancun.wordpress.com/coba
Approximately two hours away from Cancun are the Coba Mayan Ruins. A breath of fresh air away from downtown lays an archaeological site within the Yucatan. Situated in the jungle by four natural lakes, these ruins are a rarity. Not nearly as traveled as many other sites, this is an adventure you will want to take part in. Couple a tour of Coba with zip-lining or a visit to cenotes for snorkeling.
La Habichuela
image: cancunmenus.com/lahabsunset.html
Listed as one of the best restaurants in Cancun, La Habichuela is serving up Latin, Mexican, and seafood cuisine. A prominent figure in the city for over 30 years, this restaurant has true character. La Habichuela is best enjoyed in the garden lounge where you can see the sculptures, trees, and lights. Signature dishes include “Cocobichuela,” a mixture of lobster, shrimp, rice, curry sauce and tropical fruits, all served in a coconut shell. A meal isn’t complete without trying a dessert or coffee.
Ah Cacao Chocolate Café
image: visitroo.com
Your favorite brew may not be in Cancun, but once you take a sip of the local artisanal coffee available from Ah Cacao Chocolate Cafe you’ll be none the wiser. Start your morning with an order of the Mexican coffee and one of their delicious chocolate desserts or pastries. This café has a diverse selection of chocolates which can be great gifts for taking back home. Ah Cacao Chocolate Café will by far become one your favorites, especially once you see the latte art created by the baristas.
Forum by the Sea
image: visitroo.com
An inviting ocean-front mall is ideal for any first time spring breaker to Cancun or repeat offender. Forum by the Sea is a busy shopping mall that has all the key features you need for a fantastic spring break. Home to popular hotspots like Coco Bongo nightclub, Hard Rock Café, and Carlos ‘n Charlies, Forum by the Sea can’t be beat. With retail shops, restaurants, ocean views, and street performers, there will be numerous Instagram opportunities.
Mercado 28
image: sipse.com
Along with having fun at the beach or at the club on spring break, shopping and bringing back souvenirs can also be added to the ‘must-do’ list. Mercado 28 is an open air market right in downtown Cancun. Visitors will discover lots of local shops selling Mexican handicrafts, clothing, food, and much more. It’s a true convenience to have right in the city, so don’t pass up the opportunity to get your hair braided or your hands styled with temporary henna tattoos.
Chichen Itza
image: holboxisland.com/tours/chichen-itza/
If getting to Coba is too far a distance for your travel plans, visiting Chichen Itza is the next best thing. A must for all traveling to Cancun, Chichen Itza is a couple hours away by car or bus. An important part to the Mayan culture are its ancient cities, and there’s no better way to feel that than by visiting them in person. Chichen Itza means “Mouth of the well of the Itza”. It is the largest of the Mayan ruins, and as a historic and sacred city, it’s SO worth a day trip.
Parque las Palapas
image: gringationcancun.com
For many seasoned travelers, sampling street food and getting to know the locals are a must. Parque las Palapas is a great place to experience the local Mexican atmosphere and try authentic Mexican food. With many food stands and carts to choose from, it’s definitely the best place to try local street food. Located the main downtown between Tulum Avenue and Yaxchilan Avenue, make sure you get a chance to relax at this park.
Cancun is a popular spring break destination for good reason, and with everything it has to offer within its own city limits there are plenty of reasons to break away from what tourists do daily. As you’re preparing for your spring break, keep in mind which hotspots you want to check out. What other hotspots would you add to this list? Share yours in the comments below!
Authored By: Dalila Sanabria – STA Travel Student Ambassador
Dalila Sanabria is an STA Travel Student Ambassador and recent grad looking for new travel opportunities. You will see her raving about what she enjoys most about travel, as she is an avid supporter of traveling abroad. Some of the things that inspire her the most about travel include: taking part in new adventures, trying new food and drinks and learning about new cultures.