Are you going on vacation in Mexico and want to know where to stay in Cancun? We have prepared a guide that will guide you on the subject and help you choose among the best hotels in Cancun to enjoy with your family.
Cancun offers many accommodation and tour options and sometimes it is difficult to decide where to stay.
It all depends on your budget and your style as a traveler. In this post, we will give you some alternatives and explain how the city is divided so you can decide what will be best for your trip.
Discover the best areas of Cancun and what to expect from each of them in terms of accommodation and entertainment. Check it out:
Where to stay in Cancun: Main areas
In a very basic way, Cancun It is divided into two main regions: Hotel Zone-Centrinho and Center.
Every tourist who visits the place has to choose between these two areas for their accommodation.
Cancun Hotel Zone
It is the region most sought after by visitors.
A Cancun Hotel Zone It has a luxury infrastructure and it is very easy to find your way around and find various shopping and entertainment options in the region.
In this region, you will have access to exclusive beaches, nightclubs, renowned restaurants, several shopping malls and stores.
The hustle and bustle of the Mexican Caribbean is mainly concentrated in the Hotel Zone.
Hotels in the Cancun Hotel Zone
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Cancun Central Region
Las Palapas Park in downtown Cancun.
O Cancun Center It is more aimed at those who want to get to know the local culture better.
There, you can be in daily contact with the residents' routine, stroll through the region's oldest parks, squares and markets.
In fact, when staying in the Center, you can visit good local restaurants and shops that have a very different atmosphere from those in the Hotel Zone.
Those who stay in the Center cannot miss visiting Parque De Las Palapas, Mercado 28, Plaza Bonita and the Cancun Planetarium.
The hotels in downtown Cancun are not as luxurious as those in the Hotel Zone, but they offer plenty of comfort and quieter nights. Plus, the prices are much lower.
Where to stay in Cancun: what is the best place to stay?
Hard Rock Hotel Cancun
O Hard Rock Cancun It is one of the most popular and luxurious hotels in the Hotel Zone.
Inside, visitors will find 7 world-renowned restaurants, a variety of cocktails, different types of entertainment, among many other things that you have to live to believe!
Additionally, the hotel offers free Wi-Fi, parking, an outdoor pool, air conditioning and laundry service.
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Hotel Riu Cancun
O Hotel Riu Cancun This one is also located in the trendy Hotel Zone.
It is a resort that has rooms with views of the Caribbean Sea. Its facilities are luxurious. In fact, its suites have a hot tub, a living area and 24-hour room service.
The venue has 10 bars and restaurants, where guests can try Asian and Italian cuisine, as well as have fun in 3 outdoor pools, one of which has an infinity edge, and enjoy a wonderful spa.
It also offers free Wi-Fi and private parking.
Now Emerald Cancun
Also located in the Hotel Zone, the Now Emerald Cancun It has airy suites with a living room. In addition, the rooms also have a balcony, minibar, coffee maker and, depending on the suite, private pools or hot tub.
Furthermore, the resort has 8 restaurants and 8 bars on its premises, as well as a private beach and outdoor pools.
Guests may also occasionally enjoy sports activities and cooking classes.
All Ritmo Cancun Resort & WaterPark
O All Ritmo Cancun is located in the Puerto Juárez region, close to the maritime terminal from where ferries leave for Women Island.
Its rooms are much more discreet than the suites in hotels in the Hotel Zone, but they also offer free Wi-Fi to their guests, a flat-screen TV and a balcony.
Some rooms have a seating area.
It has 5 restaurants, 3 bars and 1 snack bar inside.
In addition, visitors have access to a gym, water park, private parking and a recreation area.
Where to stay in downtown Cancun
Plaza Forum
Cancun is known for its beautiful beaches, great resorts and vibrant nightlife. However, the tourist center, located at the junction of the number 7, is the ideal place to stay in the region (personal experience).
The tourist center of Cancun offers calm seas, spectacular beaches and a wide variety of hotels and resorts with different styles and prices. It is also where Cancun's nightlife is located.
Vibrant Nightlife
The town center is home to several famous nightclubs, such as Coco Bongo, Mandala, Palazzo and Dady'O, among others. You can also find lively bars, such as Senõr Frogs, La Vaquita and Congo Bar, as well as themed restaurants, such as Hard Rock Cafe, Carlos'N Charlie's and Hooters.
In addition to the lively nightlife, the downtown area offers easy access to other attractions in Cancun.
One of the piers from where ferries depart to Isla Mujeres (Playa Caracol) is located in this area. You can also find the Xcaret park support base, a craft fair and small shopping malls. Although these malls are simpler, they are worth mentioning.
Best Value Resorts in Cancun
Hotel Riu Cancun
Among the resorts with the best cost-benefit in the downtown area, the following stand out: Riu Cancun and Riu Palace Las Americas.
The Riu Cancun is a more affordable and lively option, while the Riu Palace Las Américas is more refined, aimed at adults only and provides access to the other three Riu resorts in Cancun.
Both resorts offer an all-inclusive plan and have a great combination of beach, price, structure, location and service.
Resorts Near Cancun's Nightlife
Hyatt Ziva Cancun
The two resorts closest to the nightlife stand out for their combination of five-star facilities, excellent beaches and central location. They are: Grand Fiesta Americana Coral Beach and the all-inclusive Hyatt Ziva.
The Hyatt Ziva is located exactly at the junction of the two branches of number 7 and is the only one with two paradisiacal beaches.
Budget Options in Downtown Cancun
Krystal cancun
Next up, we have the economic one. Krystal cancun, which is the closest resort to the nightlife spot and is next to the Mandala Beach Club, on the public beach Gaviota Azul.
In this area, the sea begins to have stronger waves. After the nightclub area, there are some economical options that are very close to the nightlife, such as Salvia apartments and Ocean Dream BPR Although these options are not on the beachfront, it is possible to enjoy the public beaches of Chac-Mool and Gaviota Azul / Mandala Beach Club.
Resorts Farthest from the Nightlife
Fiesta Americana Cancun Villas
Approximately 1 km from the nightlife are the old Fiesta Americana Cancun Villas, located on a calm and beautiful stretch of beach, but without a strip of sand, and the Dreams Sands Cancun, which offers good value for money.
Next up, on one of the best stretches of beach in Cancun, we have the Beachscape Kin Ha Villas & Suites, a good value for money option, and the InterContinental President, a five-star resort.
Economical Options North of the Center
Mayafair Design Hotel.
Approximately 1 km from the hustle and bustle, there is an economical and convenient option. The closest public beaches are Caracol, but the best option is Gaviota Azul / Mandala Beach Club. This option is the Mayafair Design Hotel.
In short, the tourist center of Cancun is the best place to stay in the region.
With its beautiful beaches, varied resorts and lively nightlife, it offers a unique experience for tourists.
Regardless of your budget, there are accommodation options to suit your needs and ensure an unforgettable stay in Cancun.
Where to Stay South of Cancun's Hotel Zone
Iberostar Selection
The southernmost region of Cancun's Hotel Zone is known for being the most recently occupied area, with a predominance of large, modern resorts.
In this region, the sea can be rougher and even dangerous for swimming, depending on the weather conditions. However, the landscape is beautiful, and most resorts offer complete facilities, so guests don't need to leave the premises.
Geographically, being further south means being further away from the tourist center and the pier to Isla Mujeres.
On the other hand, you will be closer to the Airport and on the way to Riviera Maya, Playa del Carmen e Tulum. The La Isla and Kukulcán Plaza shopping malls will also be nearby.
The further south you are, the fewer restaurants you will have outside of the hotels, especially for those who do not opt for an all-inclusive plan.
Among the five-star resorts, with excellent facilities and high-quality services, the all-inclusive stands out. Hard Rock Hotel Cancun, family and all-inclusive resorts Iberostar Selection, Paradise e Fiesta Americana Condesa Cancun – All Inclusive, the elegant JW Marriott, and the luxurious all-inclusive Secrets The Vines (adults only and ranked among the best in Cancun).
Some five-star resorts offer more affordable prices, although the quality of services and facilities may be slightly lower than the resorts mentioned above.
The Royal Sands
These resorts include all-inclusive The Royal Sands, Sandos Cancun, Crown Paradise e GR Caribbean (It was the first hotel I stayed at in Cancun the first time I visited the destination in 2003). The hotel Grand Oasis (adults only) is among the cheapest (and lowest rated) five-star resorts. I stayed there when I was living in Cancun and it really leaves a lot to be desired. However, the food is good and the rooms are comfortable.
To save money, you can stay at resorts that are not five stars.
The all-inclusive Western Tucancun (near Kukulcán Plaza Shopping Mall) and all-inclusive Gr Solaris e Royal Solaris are options.
Where to stay in downtown Cancun
Hotel Xbalamqué & Spa Cancun Centro
When it comes to finding the ideal place to stay in downtown Cancun, there are a variety of options available to suit every traveler’s needs and preferences.
From charming boutique hotels to luxurious resorts, Cancun offers a wide range of accommodation options that ensure a pleasant and convenient stay in the heart of the city. Let’s explore the best accommodation options in downtown Cancun, highlighting their amenities, location, and nearby attractions.
Charming boutique hotels in downtown Cancun
If you prefer a more intimate and exclusive experience, boutique hotels in downtown Cancun are a perfect choice.
These charming hotels offer unique, personalized accommodations combined with high-quality, attentive service.
O Casa Bonita It is one of those boutique hotels, with elegantly decorated rooms, a peaceful courtyard and a restaurant serving local cuisine.
Another charming option is the Hotel Xbalamqué & Spa Cancun Centro, known for their welcoming atmosphere and rooms overlooking a beautiful garden. These boutique hotels offer a memorable and unique experience in downtown Cancun.
Budget accommodation options in downtown Cancun
If you are looking for budget accommodation options in downtown Cancun, Four Points by Sheraton Cancun Centro, Ibis Cancun Centro and Oh! Cancun – The Urban Oasis are excellent options, as they are close to public transport, shopping malls and restaurants.
What is the Best Beach to Stay in Cancun?
Dolphins Beach
Cancun is a paradise holiday destination known for its stunning white sand beaches and crystal clear waters. With such a wide variety of beaches available, it can be difficult to choose the best one for your stay in Cancun. However, one of the favorite beaches among tourists is Dolphins Beach.
Located in the Hotel Zone of Cancun, Playa Delfines Beach is known as one of the most beautiful beaches in the region.
With its long stretch of white sand and turquoise waters, this beach is a sun-lover’s paradise. Playa Delfines Beach also offers stunning views of Cancun’s coastal landscape, including the famous “CANCUN” sign that has become a popular tourist attraction.
If you are looking for a place to relax, sunbathe and enjoy spectacular views, Playa Delfines Beach is the perfect choice.
What you need to know before going to Cancun
Before traveling to Cancun, it is important to be aware of a few things. First, check your passport and make sure it is valid for at least six months beyond your planned departure date. Also, schedule your interview to get the visa for Mexico.
Another important thing to consider is the weather in Cancun. The region is tropical, with warm temperatures throughout the year.
Be sure to bring light clothing and sunscreen to protect yourself from the intense sun.
During hurricane season, which runs from June to November, stay alert to weather conditions and follow the guidance of local authorities.
Finally, be aware of safety when visiting Cancun. While it is generally a safe destination, it is important to take precautions, such as avoiding displaying valuables in public and using official taxis or reputable transportation services. Be aware of your surroundings and avoid areas that may be considered dangerous.
How many days is ideal to stay in Cancun?
The answer depends on each person’s preferences and time availability.
Cancun is a popular destination in Mexico, known for its beautiful white sand beaches, crystal clear waters and vibrant nightlife. To make the most of your Cancun experience, it is recommended to stay in the area for at least five to ten days.
This will allow you to explore the various attractions, such as the hotel zone, where the best resorts, restaurants and souvenir shops.
You will also have enough time to visit the famous Mayan Ruins of Tulum ou Chichén Itzá, take boat trips to see the coral reefs and swim in spectacular cenotes.
Plus, having a few extra days will allow you to relax and enjoy Cancun's paradisiacal beaches without rushing, taking advantage of the sun and the water activities available.
So consider setting aside at least a week to fully enjoy everything Cancun has to offer.
Where not to miss in Cancun
When visiting Cancun, there are some places you definitely can't miss.
Be sure to explore the Isla Mujeres, a small island off the coast of Cancun. With paradisiacal beaches and crystal clear waters, it is the perfect place to relax and enjoy activities such as snorkeling and diving.
Another unmissable place is the Xcaret Park, an eco-archaeological park that combines nature and culture.
There, you can swim in underground rivers, observe exotic animals and watch folkloric performances. These are just some of the incredible places you can't miss in Cancun.
Specialized advice for your trip to Cancun and Riviera Maya
If you want a specialized experience, you can count on the advice of our partner, Cancuners.
Upon arrival at the airport, you will be warmly welcomed by staff who will be ready to accompany you to your hotel.
They will also be on hand to help you with any eventuality that may arise, whether it is a medical emergency, missing transportation or any other unexpected situation. Don’t hesitate to contact them, as they are ready to help!
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If you want more options of where to stay in Cancun, leave your comment or write directly to Mexico Guide Instagram.
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