Photo courtesy of Cancun Convention & Visitors Bureau

Cancun is probably best known for its 14 miles of immaculate beaches. The destination, however, features a rich Mayan history and plenty of activities both in and out of the water. Although Cancun’s history is ancient, the city itself is relatively new, dating back to 1967 when the Mexican government began developing the area as a tourism destination.

Get Wet at Cancun Underwater Museum

With a speedboat as transportation, travelers can visit the Cancun Underwater museum, which features 500 life-size sculptures – called The Silent Evolution – in the waters surrounding Cancun and Isla Mujeres. The museum was created to preserve marine life. All told, it measures 1,600 feet with the sculptures weighing in at 120 tons.

Play Lara Croft at Cancun Maya Museum

Featuring 350 artifacts of the ancient Maya, the Cancun Maya Museum offers a great sightseeing option on a rainy day. Located in the Hotel Zone, the museum houses skeletal remains that date back 14,000 years. One exhibition room focuses on Mayans who lived in Quintana Roo, and another focuses on Mayan architecture and art. The museum also includes an archeological site. Hours of operation are Tuesday to Sunday from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. Tickets are $5.

Swim With The Fishes (Whale Sharks, To Be Exact)

Travelers visiting Cancun from May to September have the chance to swim with whale sharks, the largest fish in the world. These plankton-eating creatures congregate off Cancun’s coast. There are strict rules in effect to protect these creates, with just two people per boat.

Step Up Your Vacation at Coba

The Coba archeological site encompasses the 130-foot-high Nohoch Muul pyramid, the tallest in the Yucatan Peninsula, which visitors can climb. Coba, whose population in ancient times numbered 50,000, is believed to house 6,000 structures, although there are only three settlements available for visitors to explore. The Maya thrived here between 400 and 1100 AD. Coba is a 45-minute drive from Cancun.

Get Deep at The Xenotes Oasis Maya Tour

The tour includes four different kinds of cenotes, which are limestone sinkholes. Activities range from kayaking, snorkeling, ziplining and inner tubing. Tour guides provide a running commentary on the region’s history. The tours run Monday through Saturday and include a picnic lunch.