Flights to Cancun

Cancun is no doubt packed with fun beaches, but Playa Caracol is one of those that just happen to be blessed with a little more. For one thing, its location is awesome—it's right in the heart of the Hotel Zone, Cancun's most popular and well-known stretch of beachfront and hotels.

It also happens to be close to some excellent dining and shopping options, which is ideal if you're getting around on foot.

The water here is calm and clear, making it perfect for a relaxing dip, for a snorkeling session or for playing in the water with small children. Lifeguards in the area help maintain a safe environment.

Though there aren't any public restrooms here, Playa Caracol does offer some other conveniences. Vendors usually make their way by this stretch, so if you're hungry or thirsty, see what tasty morsels they have to offer.

More variety can be found at the dining spots scattered around the beach and Hotel Zone area. After a satisfying meal, head to Boulevard Kukulkan for some shopping.

If the sun's strong rays make you more cross than content, rent a chair and umbrella and hide away for the afternoon.

Water sports are hugely popular in Cancun, and you can rent equipment along the beach and join other water enthusiasts out there on the waves.

To learn more about Cancun and Mexico in general, book a sightseeing tour to nearby Mayan ruins and other historical sites, or try something adventurous like zip-lining or a day trip on a chartered boat.

If you're staying in a different section of Cancun, but still want to visit Playa Caracol, never fear. Two bus lines—the green line and the blue line—make regular stops here, so you can come for a few hours or stay the whole day.

Behold, Cancun travelers: a place to escape the crowds, the resorts and the cramped beaches of the ever-popular Yucatán Peninsula.

This hidden gem is called Playa Delfines, and though it isn't too far from the Hotel Zone, it manages to stay under the radar and provide a more secluded, serene experience for beachgoers.

If you're going to make the trek to Playa Delfines, there are a few things to keep in mind. Due to heavy currents and rough waters, it's not an ideal beach for swimming. Also, there are no restaurants, bars, resorts or shops here.

You'll have to bring all your supplies and snacks for the day, but that's the trade-off for the peace and quiet you'll enjoy on this stretch of sand.

Playa Delfines offers incredible views of the region, and is also known for the colorful Cancun sign that welcomes visitors to its shores. Remember to bring your camera or phone—this is great selfie material.

And to unwind and enjoy the sunshine, try to get here early enough to claim a palapa, which are available at no charge. Otherwise, you'll have to tough it out on your beach towel or blanket; there are no chair or umbrella rentals here.

Though this section of Cancun is easy to find by driving or renting a taxi (and offers free parking), you can alternatively take a bus to Playa Delfines.

Cancun may have a reputation as a major party zone, but a few hidden gems within the area attest to the resort city's ever-increasing family-friendly appeal.

Playa Langosta, located near Boulevard Kukulcan and the Casa Maya Hotel, is one such place, and it draws parents and kids who can't get enough of the clear, shallow waters.

That Playa Langosta is a family hotspot is no secret to locals. They've been enjoying fun, sunny afternoons at this sandy stretch for a long time.

Be warned that on weekends, the area gets quite busy. If you're looking to stretch out and have a relaxing picnic while the kids build sand castles, it might be best to take your excursion to this beach during the week.

Aside from water-based fun, there are a few things for families to do near the beach. There's a playground complete with swings and a mini-obstacle course, plus a colorful Cancun sign ideal for family snapshots. The park directly behind the beach (across Boulevard Kukulcan) is a great spot to stretch your legs and view interesting sculptures and monuments.

A boardwalk meanders through nearby Jardin del Arte, a sliver of a park between Boulevard Kukulcan and the lagoon. Little white pavilions dot the boardwalk and provide some shade.