2. ONLY 3 PEOPLE USED TO LIVE HERE

Believe it or not, but 50 years ago there were just three – yes three - people living in Cancun. But how could this be possible we hear you cry? Well, let us explain. In January 1970 the only three people living in Cancun were the caretakers of a coconut plantation. Back then it wasn’t a bustling international resort, but like many places in Mexico underdeveloped and free of tourists. Today, this all-round resort hosts over a whopping 700,000 residents due to its rapid development. Unsurprisingly, it's also one of the best-value  long haul holiday destinations, so waste no time with our cracking deals on  full board luxury  hotels - or why not go exclusive with our Cancun, all inclusive deals? 

3. THERE'S AN ENTIRE CANCUN UNDERWATER MUSEUM

Thanks to the hands of eco-sculptor Jason deCaires Taylor, you'll find a series of breathtaking underwater statues located between Cancun and Isla Mujeres. This underwater museum of contemporary art (MUSA) consists of over 500 life-size sculptures, making it one of the largest, and most incredible, underwater artificial art attractions in the world. Want a closer look? Hop on a glass bottom boat excursion, or dive a little deeper and snorkel or scuba through the Museum, sighting works including The Silent Evolution, Man On Fire, The Gardener of Hope and more.  

Better still, you can experience this famous landmark without spending a fortune, thanks to our selection cheap Cancun hotels available!

4. MAYA BARRIER REEF IS THE SECOND LARGEST IN THE WORLD

Second only to Australia’s famous Great Barrier Reef, the Maya Barrier Reef is one of Cancun’s major draws, full of kaleidoscopic marine life, swaying corals and crystal clear turquoise waters to swim and snorkel in. If you want to go snorkelling or scuba diving, Cancun is a great pick - with plenty of schools on hand to help you achieve your PADI!

6. THE TIME IN CANCUN DIFFERS BY A HOUR EVERY 6 MONTHS

You know when we put our clocks either forward or back twice a year? Well in Cancun, and in fact the whole state Cancun sits in, they don’t do this, which means the time difference between Cancun and places that observe daylight savings differs by an hour every six months. An important fact to remember when working out what time you may land or return home, as depending on the time of year you could be an hour early or late! 

7. THERE ARE RUINS LITERALLY ON YOUR DOORSTEP 

We’ve all heard of the prolific Mayan ruins that are dotted around the Yucatan Peninsula and further into Mexico, including the renowned Chichen Itza and Tulum. But, what if we told you that you could find some ruins within walking distance of your Cancun resort? El Rey is located a short walk from the Hilton Club, while Yamil Lu’um can be found next to the Sheraton Cancun Resort & Towers. You don’t need to even book a day trip to see these ancient beauties in the Riviera Maya, Mexico! 

If you want to explore further, check out our guide to 15 things to do in Cancun.

8. THE HOTEL ZONE PROTECTS TURTLE EGGS 

If you're staying in the Hotel Zone and happen to be a huge turtle fan (who isn't?), you're in luck! Each May, thousands of turtles return to their original home to lay eggs on the beaches of Cancun, and their nests are located right in the heart of the Hotel Zone. Thankfully, the hotel owners, employees and even visitors on their  summer holidays  contribute to ensuring that the eggs are protected and safe from harm. Areas of Cancun beach are also closed to tourists so that the Turtles can go about their business in peace. Don’t worry though, there’s more than enough soft sand to share!