Tulum is ~2 hour drive away from Cancun. It is well known for its 1 way in, 1 way out, dirt road that leads you to beautiful beaches, stunning boutique hotels, and a magical jungle vibe. If you are looking for boho chic energy and electric beats, this is the place for you. Be sure to check out Casa Malca, one of Pablo Escobar's former mansions. Other cool places to check out: Azulik (picturesque hotel), Papaya Playa Project (late night beach party with famous DJs), and Rosa Negra (party dinner vibes).
Mexico is known for many of their beautiful Cenotes, natural springs. If you are looking to do something adventurous, these are some of the more popular ones to the region: Cenote Azul, Cenote Kin Ha, Cenote Dos Ojos, Gran Cenote (closer to Tulum), Cenote Ik Kil (closer to Chichén Itzá).
Jose and Victoria visited Chichén-Itzá a few years ago and highly recommend if you are in the mood for a history excursion! Chichén Itzá is ~2hr drive away from NIZUC. It is a well-known Pyramid/Mayan Ruin archaeological site. It was recently selected as one of the New 7 Wonders of the World.
Isla Mujeres is an island located 8 miles off the coast of Cancun, known for its white sand beaches and crystal-clear waters. Approximately 4.3 miles long, it is a versatile destination perfect for a day trip. The island features some of the world's best beaches, dramatic cliffs, an ecological park, and the ancient temple ruins dedicated to the Mayan goddess Ixchel. The nearby MUSA (Underwater Museum of Art) features over 500 submerged sculptures that act as artificial reefs. The surrounding waters are part of the Mesoamerican Barrier Reef, offering world-class snorkeling and diving spots like the Manchones Reef. The primary method to get there is a short ferry ride (about 20-30 minutes) from terminals in Cancun, such as Puerto Juárez or the Hotel Zone piers.
These are some of our recommendations for the dining options at NIZUC: Breakfast, Café de la Playa: Burrito, Motuleño Eggs, Brunch Buffet on Sunday Lunch, NI (Peruvian): Classic Peruvian Ceviche, Tuna Tiradito, Acevichado Rice Roll La Punta Grill poolside: Fried Ceviche, Tropical Tuna Tostada, Fish Tacos, Guacamole Dinner, La Punta Grill: The Rockefeller Baja California Oysters, the Provoleta, the Lobster Bisque, Grilled Lobster with Mashed Potatoes Indochine (Asian/Indian): Chicken and Coconut Thai Soup, Indochine Roll Outside of NIZUC, you will be able to find a variety of dining options in the Hotel Zone and at La Isla Cancun shopping mall https://islacancun.mx/en/restaurants. Some recommendations: Rosa Negra & Taboo (Mexican dinner party spot), Ilios (Mediterranean dinner party spot), Puerto Madero (Argentinean), Fred's (Seafood), Nicoletta (Italian).