Don’t overlook Cancun's dive chops because of its reputation as a spring break party hot spot. Located on the Yucatan Peninsula, it’s an ideal jumping off point for a huge variety of dive adventures. From here, divers can stay local to hit wrecks like the Barrera and Anaya — a pair of navy minesweepers that lay just a short boat ride from the city — and wander the offshore reefs perforated by fishy tunnels often circled by eagle rays and occupied by nurse sharks. You can also arrange a day trip plunge into the overhead environments of Riviera Maya’s cenotes or drift the lush walls of Cozumel.

Don’t miss one of the region's biggest attractions: whale sharks. Up the coast from Cancun, the waters between Holbox and Contoy islands host one of the largest seasonal populations of whale sharks in the world — an estimated 500 animals. Just like at most whale shark hotspots around the world, encounters here are snorkel only; but unlike at those other destinations, sightings in these waters are so common they come with a money-back guarantee during the season.

Weather: Air temps are in the mid-70s in winter and mid- to high 80s in summer.

Average Water Temp: In winter, water temps are in the mid-70s; in summer, temps are in the mid-80s.

Average Visibility: Viz is usually in the 80- to 100-foot range.