Located just a short drive from Cancun's Hotel Zone, the rustic town of Puerto Morelos has been delighting day tripping tourists for a number of years. Known for its laidback, bohemian atmosphere, Puerto Morelos has long been home to a diverse population ? from traditional fisherman to foreign artists and thrill seekers. Similar to Old Town Cancun, the historic section of the resort city located inland from the Hotel Zone, Puerto Morelos offers visitors an opportunity to experience authentic Mexican culture in a picturesque and inviting setting.

Unlike the multifaceted resort city of Cancun that allows visitors to relax while enjoying world-class accommodations and exciting activities, Puerto Morelos is known throughout Mexico as a quiet and simple retreat. What Puerto Morelos lacks in nightlife ? the town has long been called ?Muerto Morelos? because of its lack of bars and nightclubs ? it more than makes up for in relaxed dining and entertainment options. Locals have been known to spend several hours each night in the town's cafes and host spirited get-togethers in public parks and plazas. Furthermore, as most of the cafes and other businesses in Puerto Morelos rest right at the water's edge, there are plenty of ways to enjoy the scenery of the Caribbean Sea.

One of the most popular activities in Puerto Morelos is scuba diving, as an immaculately preserved section of the Great Mayan Reef rests just a short boat ride from shore. As the second largest barrier reef in the world, the Great Mayan Reef allows adventurous travelers to experience vibrant underwater life both in Puerto Morelos and throughout the Mayan Riviera. Much like the conditions on the beaches of Cancun, the waters offshore from Puerto Morelos are perfect for swimming, diving and snorkeling throughout the year. Day trippers may also want to the explore the Dr. Alfredo Barrera Marin Botanical Garden ? a gorgeous facility full of local flora ? and the Crococun ? a local zoo specializing in the unique species that can be found in the diverse environments surrounding Puerto Morelos.

Though shopping in Puerto Morelos can't compare to Cancun, there is still much to see in this small town. If you make a day trip to Puerto Morelos on a weekend, try to check out the open-air market. As the town is known to be home to a number of artists, the weekend market in Puerto Morelos is one of the best places to buy unique arts and crafts directly from the artisans. The stores and galleries in Puerto Morelos are also good places to find local products and artwork.

While there are certainly plenty of ways to spend a relaxing day in Puerto Morelos, the town has become a great daytrip destination because of its easy accessibility. Every day, buses make round trip voyages from Cancun's Hotel Zone to Puerto Morelos and seats never cost more than a few dollars. It is also possible to find taxis that will take you directly to Puerto Morelos and fees are typically modest for the 20-30 ride. However, if you really want to explore the Caribbean coast and the beautiful scenery south of Cancun, rent a car in Cancun and make the leisurely drive to Puerto Morelos. If you need help finding the right bus or renting a car in Cancun, contact your concierge or the help desk at your resort to make the proper arrangements.

Though Puerto Morelos lacks the luxurious surroundings and myriad activities of Cancun, the relaxed lifestyle of this charming town provides an interesting counterpoint to the luxurious resorts and action-packed beaches of the Hotel Zone. Furthermore, as Puerto Morelos is just a short ride away for day trippers, it is easy to enjoy an afternoon in this peaceful Caribbean town.