By Jenny Hart and Tyler Bohlman

Cancún is a top-rated international holiday spot for travelers — and for good reason. The sunny destination is easily accessible from many places and appeals to different types of travelers. Plus, the Mexican-Caribbean resort city keeps adding new restaurants and attractions. Here’s a look at some of the hottest attractions, restaurants, and activities you can find during your next memorable holiday to Cancún.

Shop, Dine, and Play at La Isla

In the heart of the city is La Isla Cancún. This popular shopping and entertainment hub is absolutely glowing after a recent renovation, making it a can’t-miss stop. It’s chock-full of fine dining, luxury shopping, and fun for the whole family.

Begin your visit with a trip to the shops, where you can pick up a souvenir for yourself or someone back home. Afterward, treat yourself to lunch at a Thai Restaurant. This go-to spot for high-end Thai and Indian cuisine practically transports you to South and Southeast Asia. Walk through a jungle canopy to your table located in private huts — some of them over the water.

Popular kid-friendly activities at La Isla include the 230-foot-tall Sky Wheel Cancún^® Ferris wheel overlooking the Caribbean, Ripley’s Believe It Or Not^® Odditorium, and the Museo de Cera wax museum.

Check Out Hot, New Restaurants

No holiday would be complete without a visit to two of Cancún’s newest Hotel Zone restaurants. Carajillo, a Mexico City favorite known for its American-Mexican fusion menu, features a fine mix of tacos, pizza, steaks, and more. Nicoletta, a modern Italian spot owned by the same group as the iconic Harry’s Prime Steakhouse & Raw Bar, provides a pasta fix with seafood, carpaccio, and parmigiana.

Amazing restaurants are also found outside of the Hotel Zone. Enjoy the finer side of the grill at Entre Fuegos. This local steakhouse is known for its prime cuts of grilled meats, impressive wine cellar, and live entertainment. Or if brisket is what you’re looking for, check out Bokka Smokehouse & Grill, another new restaurant that’s quickly becoming a local favorite.

Hit the Water

Two activities synonymous with Cancún are exploring Mexico’s beautiful cenotes and snorkeling havens. Cenotes are swimmable freshwater sinkholes that were considered sacred in Maya culture. Some of the best snorkeling can be found in the shallow waters of the Nichupté Lagoon and the natural coral reef off Punta Nizuc, a popular beach and marine park in the Hotel Zone.

If you feel like taking a more direct route to the water, ask your Concierge about renting a pontoon boat, sailboat, or catamaran.

New Perspectives

Aside from being a beachside paradise, Cancún is also surrounded by history and culture.

The best way to discover this history — and get a better understanding of the region — is with a tour. Visit historical Chichén Itzá, eat a gourmet meal on a catamaran in the middle of the ocean, or visit one of the many beaches and cenotes. Most area tours involve visits to multiple culturally significant sites that not only enhance your view of the world but also make memories to last a lifetime.

Where To Stay

The Westin Lagunamar Ocean Resort
Located right off the Caribbean Sea in the Hotel Zone, experience a resort perfect for your dream holiday in Cancún. Your day starts as you wake up well-rested in a Westin Heavenly^® Bed. After enjoying a hearty breakfast at Oceano, a Cajun-inspired restaurant right on-site, you’re ready to tackle the day.

Spend your days at the resort for a unique holiday in paradise. Swim in an infinity pool, take a trip down the waterslide, or relax in a whirlpool spa. Head to the beach where you can swim in the ocean or simply rest under your umbrella. You can even stay active with a game or two of mini golf and a visit to the WestinWORKOUT^® Fitness Studio.

Rejuvenate your mind and body with a relaxing massage or body treatment at the Heavenly Spa by Westin^®. Stimulate your senses with a service near the beach, or enjoy service in a thatched-roof cabana or private room.

Once you’ve charged your batteries at the resort, head into the city to visit museums, restaurants, and more.

Explore the local area with a visit to one of the New Seven Wonders of the World — Chichén Itzá. These Maya ruins attract visitors from around the world and are sure to be a highlight of your trip. If hitting the water is more your style, snorkel in the reefs or visit the Underwater Museum of Art.

After a day of adventuring, return to your studio, 1-, or 2-bedroom apartment. You’ll feel at home with a kitchen or kitchenette, washer, and dryer in each unit.

The Westin Resort & Spa, Cancún
Escape to paradise in a beachside resort nestled between the Caribbean Sea and a tranquil lagoon. Recharge by relaxing in a sparkling pool or on the white-sand beach. Lay back with a drink and let the sun’s rays warm your body and soul. For the ultimate in rejuvenation, book massages, facials, body wraps, and more at the on-site spa.

At the end of the day, a studio, 2-bedroom, or 3-bedroom apartment offers you all the comforts of home, like a kitchenette, washer and dryer, and generous living and dining areas with high-definition TVs, DVD players, and a Bose^® sound system. And, of course, you’ll relax in your signature Westin Heavenly Bed.

Contact Member Services to use Points^* to reserve a stay at these resorts.