Had enough Cancun sun? Take a break and make your way to La Isla Shopping Village, located in the city's Hotel Zone at kilometer 12.5 of Kukulcán Boulevard.
La Isla is the Hotel Zone's largest and most popular shopping mall. The fact that this open-air center has charming bridges and a river winding through it just makes La Isla that much funner to visit. There's really something for everyone, from the smallest children to older couples.
Rivers wind through La Isla Shopping Village in Cancun — Photo courtesy of 72eViL1A
The Interactive Aquarium provides a couple hours of fun for everyone. You can see piranhas, moray eels, jellyfish, seahorses, soles, clown fish, scorpion fish, lion fish, corals, anemones, sea lions, dolphins, sharks and more. Don't miss the dolphin show; it's included in the price of admission. If you're in the mood for an adventure, for an extra charge you can swim with dolphins or sharks.
La Isla also has a movie theater. U.S. films are generally shown in English with Spanish subtitles, unless they are children's movies (which are normally dubbed over in Spanish).
If you're looking to grab a bite, La Isla offers many options from economical to pricey. Thai Lounge is one of Cancun's most popular restaurants, due to its over-the-water tables with thatched roofs. They serve dinner only. Elefanta, which serves Indian cuisine, and La Madonna, which serves Italian, are two additional upscale choices.
Since La Isla is located on Nichupte Lagoon, there are various restaurants with waterfront dining, including Hooter's, Blu and Taco Grill, which are all moderately priced options. La Isla is also home to McDonald's, Starbucks, Subway, Johnny Rocket's, Chili's and other eateries. Ah Cacao Chocolate Cafe is a must for coffee and dessert.
La Isla Shopping Village is open every day — Photo courtesy of La Isla
Ready to shop 'til you drop? Well, you're in luck, because La Isla recently opened Fashion Harbour, a section of the mall dedicated to high-end boutiques like Louis Vuitton, Kate Spade, Tiffany & Co., Rolex, Tous, Emporio Armani, Lacoste and more.
There are also many moderately priced shops that sell clothing, shoes, sunglasses, jewelry, bathing suits, etc. Soho (women and men's apparel) and Zara (apparel for the whole family) are favorites. Stop by the Market Place area if you're looking for souvenirs.
Surprises abound at La Isla. You may run into the Ninja Turtles or the Transformers, and the Cookie Monster is a permanent fixture. Be sure to take a picture in front of the fountain (next to Hooter's) around sundown. It will be a wonderful reminder of your fun day at La Isla.
