Cancún Hotel Zone

Cancún's Hotel Zone is a long, narrow strip of land shaped like the number 7, with the Caribbean on one side and the calm Nichupté Lagoon on the other. Its beaches have powder-soft white sand and water in every shade of turquoise.

North-facing beaches such as Playa Gaviota Azul and Playa Langosta have calmer water for children, while the eastern stretch has stronger waves, so watch the flag colours. Snorkelling, parasailing and jet skis are easy to arrange, and the MUSA underwater museum of sculptures lies just offshore.

All-inclusive resorts suit families and honeymooners alike. South along the coast, eco-parks such as Xcaret and Xel-Há make excellent family days out, with underground rivers, snorkelling lagoons and evening shows. In the evening, the La Isla shopping area beside the lagoon is pleasant for a stroll.