In, above, and below the turquoise waters of the Caribbean Sea, you'll enjoy some of the world's finest beaches and most exciting water sports. In all, 14 miles of white-powder sand make up the Cancun beachfront and are ideal for sunning, windsurfing, parasailing or swimming.

Just off the shore, the Nichupté Lagoon System offers an array of activities. Formed by the Nichupté, Rio Inglés, Love, Caleta Nizuc and Bojórquez lagoons, the system covers some 6,700 hectares. The juxtaposition of the ocean and these lagoons provides a rich natural framework for biodiversity, as well as for a wide variety of water-related services. Add to this natural setting a world-class infrastructure that includes over 25 marinas and water sports centers manned by expert guides and professional operators, an excellent fleet for providing services, and an island-wide use of environmentally sensitive technology that minimizes fuel-related contamination, and it's easy to see why Cancun is a true water sports haven.

Set sail on the deck of a schooner or speed out to sea and vie for big game aboard a deep-sea fishing boat. Under the sparkling surface, snorkel or scuba dive among the world's second largest natural reef and experience breathtakingly close views of amazing corals and vividly colored fish. You can even walk along the bottom of the sea with the help of a clear breathing helmet.

Adventure can be found everywhere near, and in, the waters of Cancun and the Riviera Maya. Rent a wave runner or catamaran. Go on a jungle tour, glass bottom boat excursion or snorkeling trip. Get SCUBA-certified by an experienced dive instructor. Put your toes in the sand, on the deck or in the water. You're in Cancun, one of the world's foremost water sports havens.

Take a jungle tour. Cancun's most popular visitor activity gives you insight into fascinating ecosystems and habitats you can't view anywhere else in the world.

Mexican law prohibits the following practices: touching animals or coral reefs, collecting rocks, sand, seashells or any natural object in the water or on the beach. Those violating these laws may be prosecuted.

Be sure to use sunscreen/suntan lotion, but make sure it's biodegradable to avoid polluting the waters.

Always wear a life jacket while doing water sports or other nautical activities, sometimes the undertow is more than you may think.