Some of the best snorkeling in the area is to be had at Coral Beach (some 20km west of Varadero), where the underwater world stuns with color and variety. Diving would require you to take about an hour-long boat trip out to one of the many sites around the peninsula. Some reputable local dive centers include: Barracuda Dive Center Retiro Josone, calle 59 y Playa in Varadero (near Arenas Blancas Hotel) +53 45 613481 Acua Diving Center Ave. Kawama 201 (between 2 and 3 Street from Varadero, near Kawama Hotel) +53 45 668063

For nature lovers, Christmas Island National Park provides fantastic opportunities to observe unique plants and animals in their natural habitats. The park covers about two thirds of the island. As an isolated oceanic island, distant from other land masses, Christmas Island is home to a high proportion of endemic species. Several are endangered. The park protects significant ecosystems including much of the island's uniquely structured rainforests and two wetlands of international importance, the Dales and Hosnie's Springs. In and around the national park you will find a host of native sea and forest birds, unique marine life and land crabs — including tens of millions of red crabs, famous throughout the world for their spectacular annual breeding migration.

Under the shelter of lush rainforest, the archeological site of Kohunlich is an outstanding example of Maya architecture. Palaces, citadels, temples, such as the top attraction Temple of the Masks, and other elaborate structures are scattered over an area of more than 20 acres, with most landmarks dating back to as early as 250 to 600 AD. Chetumal is a common starting point to visit Kohunlich, but tours are available at the Costa Maya Cruise Port as well. If you are in the area, don't miss out on the opportunity to visit Dzibanche, another outstanding Maya landmark around 20 miles away from Kohunlich.