Going somewhere tropical is quite an allure for most tourists. It’s relaxing, the sun is gleaming is strong as ever, strings of palm trees are hypnotizing, and it’s a dream vacation destination. Places like the Caribbean and Cancun are tropical hubs with herds of tourists present during peak season. Resorts are filled up to their maximum, but a week in a state of nirvana seems like the perfect remedy to everyday stress. I spent a few days inside the Iberostar Resort in Cancun a few years ago, and it was an ultra-soothing experience. 

Nevertheless, a resort is meant for doing activities you enjoy, so naturally questions may arise about what to do other than relax. If you happen to spend a few days completely inside a resort, whether it may be Cancun or another destination, here are some suggestions on how to allocate your time:

Head to the Pool

A tropical resort is bound to have its own version of a waterpark for its residents. This may include a Lazy River, multiple pools of different depths, and maybe a volleyball net or two. There are a multitude of options in a resort, and sitting at a poolside bar with a drink or actively competing in a pool game like Marco Polo or volleyball is also acceptable. In addition, the pool is most comfortable in the afternoon when the sun’s harsh rays are countered by the chilly pool water brushing up against your skin.

Relax by the Ocean

If a pool is not sufficient as a pastime for you, grab a chair under an umbrella and relax by one of the finest sights of nature. Most resorts are conveniently located on the ocean so patrons can have an easy stroll to the sea. Just like the pool, peak afternoon heat is the perfect time to read a book or sit and chat under some shade. You may be lucky enough to see the sun shining on the water, or feel a slight breeze from the ocean.

However, afternoon time is likely the most crowded time, so expect many occupied chairs and plenty of fellow resort residents. If your plan is to sit by the ocean for peace and quiet, consider visiting in the morning, which has minimal crowds and heat, and nothing but the sounds of waves crashing periodically against the sand.

If sitting on a chair for a few hours by the ocean is not your cup of tea, there are other activities to partake in. You can grab a drink and saunter along the ocean or a boardwalk, scoping out the area and atmosphere. Another suggestion is to dip your toes in the sea and become immersed in the euphoria from the nippy splashes kissing your feet. If that’s not exhilarating enough, hopping into the spine-tingling ocean and escaping the summer heat is certainly a comforting moment.

There are also options to participate in electrifying activities such as water-skiing, jet-skiing, or parasailing in some resorts by the ocean. Lastly, you can sleep. You are on vacation, so there’s no need to feel guilty if you happen to doze off under the shade on a sweltering day.

Recreational Sports

Being in a resort doesn’t mean you must sacrifice your daily workout schedule. Instead of the gym, you can participate in outdoor sports. There may be basketball courts to shoot a few hoops or play a pickup game. This is best done in the morning, before the afternoon heat and humidity makes it impossible to play with full effort.

You can also play beachside volleyball or soccer. This is a great way to stay active while enjoying a game in the company of those you know, or even a group of fellow residents. It helps that the setting is ultra-attractive, with a swarm of palm trees, sand, and the ocean right nearby.

Enjoy Dining/Drinking Options

A resort is bound to have a plethora of dining options. There may be upscale restaurants that require a dress code, all you can eat buffets, or several snack bars. There will likely be a wide variety of food available, and enjoying the resort all day can naturally lead to some hunger. Luckily, food is served during mostly all hours, so replenishing your energy should not be an issue.

The grub options can include fresh fruits, sandwiches, all types of meat, and dessert. In addition, there is no shortage of food in sight. The best part? It’s all prepaid, so chowing down at any time of the day is acceptable if you find the foods delectable.

A tropical resort is also filled with plenty of poolside/beachside bars for those who would like a drink (if they are of proper age). The options are endless for beverages, but margaritas are among the most popular given the setting. In addition, there are some refreshing drinks among the non-alcoholic type, such as Shirley Temples. The bartenders are highly skilled and well-versed in meshing multiple ingredients for an icy, revitalizing, resort drink. Of course, the only ingredients necessary for you to enjoy this getaway in paradise is eat, drink, relax, and enjoy.