Where to stay in Cancún: 4 Dreamy Areas & Stunning Hotels

Aerial view of a tropical beachfront with hotels and clear blue waters.

Hola amigos I’m so eager to start this guide on where to stay in Cancún!

I have only great memories from Cancún as this is where I spent my honeymoon (and it was amazing!)

While there, I had some time to discover the areas and the surroundings and in this post I will present to you 4 most tourist friendly places to stay (and describe how each of them is different). 

Zona Hotelera has the most incredible beaches and offers breathtaking views, making it the best area to stay in Cancún!

Read this post because you’ll find a top-notch selection of hotels that will make your beach vacation unforgettable! I’ve compared ALL the options in Cancún and handpicked the most amazing ones for each budget!

You’ll be just a few clicks away from sitting on a beach in Cancún, so let’s start!

Quick Picks for Your Stay…

Check this list with the best hotels located in the central Hotel Zone:


Watch my video, it will give you a visual explanation of all the areas:


Here’s a map that will help you visualize all the areas to stay in Cancún that I will be talking about in this post:

Map showing the best areas to stay in Cancun, Mexico, with color-coded regions such as Zona Hotelera, El Centro, Playa Mujeres, and Riviera Cancun, under the title 'BEST AREAS TO STAY IN CANCUN, MEXICO.'

1. Zona Hotelera – where to stay for first-time visitors

Aerial perspective of Cancun's Hotel Zone, showcasing a narrow strip of land with resorts flanked by the sapphire blue ocean on one side and the tranquil Nichupté Lagoon on the other

Zona Hotelera is a looong strip of beach that has pretty much everything! 

Superb, golden sand beaches and the color of the sea is absolutely amazing – 

I don’t think I have seen water so rich blue anywhere else! 

After you are bored of just laying on the beach and being mesmerized by turquoise water, there are still plenty of things to do! There is:

  • Mayan archaeological sites
  • Water sport activities (like kayaking or snorkeling)
  • Rich nightlife and plenty of bars
  • shopping (La Isla Shopping Village is a must-see)
  • world-class restaurants

Since it’s so big, the area is split into 4 smaller areas: North Hotel Zone, Middle, South and Punta Cancún. All are super safe (Cancún is one of the safest places in Mexico) but as in all foreign countries avoid walking alone at night in dodgy areas!

And since most tourists stay here, I did the same! So you’ll find below a list of the best hotels for each price range in all 4 mini-neighborhoods! Plus a short description on the type of activities!

Zona Hotelera has tons of all-inclusive resorts where you can feel spoiled and completely relaxed during your holiday! You’ll find a handful below but if you’d like to see more, check our post with the most incredible all-inclusive resorts in Cancún!

1.1 North Hotel Zone (incl. Punta Cancun)

The lively entrance of Coco Bongo nightclub in Cancun, with large billboards featuring performers, under a bright blue sky, capturing the dynamic street life and local attractions

Welcome to the gorgeous North Hotel Zone, where the sand is soft and the waves are calm! Home also to the famous Punta Cancún, a nightlife hotspot, this place is perfect for people who want a vibrant vacation full of dancing during the night and lying on the beach during the day. 

Those wild souls who want to keep the party going even at their accommodation, can stay at the best party hotels in Cancún!

If you are confused about where exactly to stay in Zona Hotelera, I would suggest Punta Cancún because it is in the middle of the action, close to the ferry station for Isla Mujeres and it has an amazing choice of all kinds of restaurants and nightlife. In fact, this is where I chose to stay for my honeymoon!

Ah, and by the way, the famous Coco Bongo (the ultimate destination for fun, musicals, and cool shows) is located in this area. Don’t miss it!

There are around 15 reefs in the North Hotel Zone! Yep, this area is perfect for going on a snorkeling tour! Here’s a post with the top snorkeling tours in town if you need some inspo!

After all, Cancún is home to the 2nd largest reef system in the world, and it’d be a shame not to see some of it!

A collage of three hotel photos to stay in Cancun: A luxurious beachfront hotel complex with tall buildings, a serene room with floor-to-ceiling windows offering expansive sea views, and a balcony with a single chair overlooking the tranquil beach at dusk

Luxury (US$350 and up)

  • Grand Fiesta Americana – in case you’re looking for a luxurious all-inclusive resort in Punta Cancún, you just found it! This superb 5-star hotel in Cancún offers beachfront suites, spacious rooms, concierge services, a rooftop infinity pool, and more! This is the hotel I stayed in, you can read more about my experience staying here in my post about Riviera Maya.
  • Hyatt Ziva Cancún – this is another gorgeous all-inclusive resort for the best stay in Cancún! It’s actually one of the most popular choices, and the guests will definitely enjoy the superb rooms, the 3 infinity pools, fun activities like theater shows, tequila tasting, and more. It’s only a short walk from Coco Bongo and other entertainment places!

Mid-range (US$150 – US$350)

  • Beachscape Kin Ha Villas & Suites – here is another amazing option if you want affordable beachfront accommodation. This one has an outdoor pool, a kids pool, and many other perfect facilities. By the way, make sure to book it as much in advance as you can so you can find an even better price deal!
  • Altitude at Krystal Grand Cancún – enjoy a delicious breakfast in the morning while staying at this hotel in the North Hotel Zone that comes with 7 restaurants, an outdoor swimming pool, and a spa center! 

Budget (up to US$150)

  • Cancún Suites Apartments – situated in the Cancún Hotel Zone, this great apartment offers rooms with air conditioning and a private balcony. I really recommend it as great value for the price, and the host is great!
  • Beachfront Apartment – enjoy this beautiful beachfront apartment with an amazing view and location super close to the best restaurants in Cancún and nightlife ideal for couples, groups of friends, and families!

1.2 Middle Hotel Zone 

Aerial view of Cancun's Zona Hotelera at sunset, showcasing the long stretch of white sandy beach, turquoise waters, and the dense line of resorts against a dramatic sky

If you’re looking for something a bit more tranquil and not as party-orientated then the Middle Hotel Zone may be for you!

Here you can try some adventurous water sports (snorkeling, scuba diving, or parasailing) in the Nichupté lagoon or sunbathe on Playa Delfines! And even dive deep into the Mayan culture of this area in places like Museo Maya de Cancún y Zona Arqueológica de San Miguelito.

TIP: if you like underwater adventures, see our selection of the best whale shark tours in Cancún!

A collage of three hotel photos to stay in Cancun: A bedroom with a large window and poolside view, a tropical outdoor pool surrounded by palm trees and lounge chairs, and a relaxing spa area with a Jacuzzi and ambient lighting

Luxury (US$250 and up)

  • Le Blanc Spa Resort Cancún – All Inclusive – Adults Only – this superb 5-star accommodation in the middle Hotel Zone is the most expensive hotel in Cancún and the perfect place to get a royal treatment! It’s a super cool all-inclusive resort that has its own private beach, and it’s actually rated in the ‘Top 100 Hotels in the World!’
  • La Villa du Golf à Cancún Hotel Boutique – this amazing 4-star boutique hotel boasts incredible service and unbeatable prices, considering its perfect location in the middle Hotel Zone! Choose this hotel if you want beautiful rooms, a 24-hour outdoor pool, and more!

Mid-range (US$100 – US$250)

  • Villa Aurora – set on the most beautiful white-sandy shores, this hotel boasts incredible views, 3 swimming pools, a pool bar and a terrace! When you’re not out and about exploring you can hit the tennis course!
  • Sea Breeze – looking for a place to have entirely for yourself? Then check out this loft that has a kitchen, a furnished balcony, sea views and a shared pool!

Budget (up to US$100)

  • Sina Suites – here’s another great affordable place in the middle Hotel Zone just a short walk away from La Isla Beach that comes with an outdoor swimming pool, a restaurant, and a terrace. 

1.3 South Hotel Zone

Expansive view of the sandy beaches and high-rise hotels along Cancun's coastline, with the Nichupté Lagoon visible in the background, under a sky dotted with fluffy clouds

Looking for a tranquil area where you can do nothing but relax on the gorgeous beaches, swim in the ocean and sip cocktails? Then the South Hotel Zone might be for you! 

Stretching from El Rey to Punta Nizuc, this area is perfect for a romantic getaway or if you’re traveling with your kids as you won’t be disturbed by the noisy clubs in the North Hotel Zone or anything like that! 

When it comes to activities and things to see, the South Hotel Zone is mostly sought for its water sports and a few archeological sites like El Rey Archaeological Zone!

A collage of three hotel photos to stay in Cancun: An aerial view of a modern hotel complex by the turquoise sea, a simple bedroom with a nautical theme opening to a small balcony, and a resort pool with a view of parasailing over a clear blue ocean

Luxury (US$250 and up) 

  • Nizuc Resort & Spa – this is the nicest resort in Cancún’s South Hotel Zone, which offers an outdoor pool, 6 on-site restaurants, a spa center, and many other luxurious amenities! Needless to say, the rooms are simply beautiful, just like the entire property!
  • Residence Inn by Marriott – what more do you need than a restaurant and an on-site swimming pool when vacationing in Mexico? A place to relax and some privacy, you say? Well, Residence Inn in the South Hotel Zone has just that, with individual studios featuring a modern design and well-fitted kitchen!

Mid-range (US$100 – US$250)

  • Solymar Condos On The Beach – savor those ocean views while chilling on a sun lounger by the pool of this hotel that has a private beach area, a garden and a bar!

Budget (up to US$100)

  • Modern Apartment – here’s an affordable place that offers beach access, a comfy bed and a Tv! When you’re not heading to the beach you head to the pool they’ve got on-site! 
  • El Rey Place – a great apartment that has an even better price, a lot of space and a small kitchen with a fridge! Guests will have access to a pool and also to the beach.

2. El Centro (Downtown) – for a local experience (and budget)

Vibrant red colonial-style building with a bell tower and fountain in the foreground, surrounded by agave plants, under a clear blue sky in Cancun, Mexico

Do you want a local, authentic experience in Cancún? Then El Centro is the ideal place for you!

El Centro (also known as Downtown Cancún) is the place where the locals live and where you’ll find tons of authentic restaurants, cool bars, local shopping places (Mercado 28 is a must see), most set on Avenida Tulum, that area’s main street! 

So, if you want variety, you’ll definitely find it here. Plus a bunch of fun places where you can hang out like Parque de las Palapas (map)!

I think it’s the perfect place if you want to discover the true colors of Cancún and avoid the tourists that you’d normally find in Zona Hotelera. 

El Centro is also a great place for budget travelers and backpackers, as the prices here are lower than in Zona Hotelera, and you can find tons of hostels, guesthouses, and cheap hotels. 

Ah, and no worries about missing out. You will still have easy access to the Cancún beach zone via bus or taxi. If you want more flexibility, though, you can always rent a car! We’ve got a whole post on how to rent a car in Cancún, which includes lots of tips on how to avoid scams!

A collage of three hotel photos to stay in Cancun: A bedroom with a vibrant piece of art and an office area, a rooftop pool with string lights and a city view, and an angular modern hotel building with a distinct architectural pattern

Luxury (US$100 and up)

  • Adhara Hacienda Cancún – this awesome 4-star hotel is perfect if you’re looking for high-end service! It has an outdoor pool and an on-site restaurant, as well as some gorgeous, bright rooms. By the way, they even have a fitness center that you can use!
  • Suites Malecon Cancún – here’s another very good 4-star hotel that has all the facilities and amenities you might need for a perfect stay, including a big terrace with a pool overlooking the lagoon and the city landscape, cozy rooms, and more!

Mid-range (US$50 – US$100)

  • Art Studios Local Accommodation – this guest house is another excellent choice where you’ll receive great service! It’s also ideal for a family-friendly vacation, as they have apartments with fully equipped kitchens and dining areas.
  • Bed and Breakfast Pecarí – this bed and breakfast located within walking distance to the heart of the city is simply excellent! By the way, the rooms have air conditioning, a private terrace, and access to a garden with a pool!

Budget (up to US$50)

  • Nomads Hotel Hostel & Bar – if you’re looking for a super cool place where you’ll feel spoiled for a very good value for money, this one’s for you! This party hostel has an outdoor swimming pool, a terrace, and a nice garden where you can relax.
  • Moloch Hostel & Suites – book a room at this super affordable place to stay in Downtown Cancún that has double rooms or mixed dormitories, an outdoor pool, and a garden! 

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3. Playa Mujeres – for a luxury stay in Cancún

Serene beach setting with rows of sun loungers under the shade of tall palm trees facing the calm sea, inviting relaxation in Cancun's tropical paradise

Want to splurge during this holiday and spend it in the most luxurious hotels in Cancún?

Then Playa Mujeres is for you! It is only about 12-15 mins away by car to Zona Hotelera, so pretty close to everything. 

This newer part of Cancún bears wonderful gifts, including some fab all-inclusive resorts that will make you never want to leave, a golf club and many other fun things!

It’s definitely more pricey than the rest of the areas I recommended, but so worth it! And a great spot for families as it boasts a calm vibe!

Its white sand beach is an absolute heaven for those who love sitting on a lounge chair accompanied by a book and a cocktail! And if you’re up for some adventures, here you can go on tours and swim with whale sharks and turtles.

While here, you can get the royal treatment and let yourself be spoiled by all the incredible services at the high-end hotels! If you’re looking for more incredible luxury hotels in Cancún, we’ve got a whole post on that waiting for you!

A collage of three hotel photos to stay in Cancun: An elegant rooftop terrace with sun loungers and a striking view of the sky, a cozy massage area with a view of the sunset, and a spacious resort pool with ample lounge chairs under a covered patio by the sea

Luxury (US$300 and up)

  • Atelier Playa Mujeres – you’ll never forget your holiday after spending it at this hotel on Playa Mujeres with a fabulous view and rooms with your own private pool! The accommodation also offers a private beach area and 9 restaurants!
  • Garza Blanca Resort & Spa Cancún – enjoy your morning coffee on the hammock of your private balcony alongside the gorgeous sea views! This hotel boasts 4 swimming pools, a private beach area, and a wellness center where you can take yoga classes!

Mid-range (US$150 – US$300)

  • Sea by C Apartments – looking for something a bit more bohemian? Then check out this place on Playa Mujeres that offers fully-equipped villas that have a little patio and a kitchenette! 
  • Majestic Ocean – lay in bed while admiring the sunrise or sunset in this cute Playa Mujeres accommodation that offers beach access and a kitchen. 

Budget (up to US$150)

  • El encanto 209 – a small hotel within the district of Costa Mujeres with spacious rooms, a swimming pool, a private garden, and even beach access.
  • Amazing Oceanfront – an affordable place with an incredible view! This accommodation boasts a comfy bed, a kitchen, and beach access. 

4. Riviera Cancún – best place to stay for families

Tropical paradise at Xcaret Park, featuring traditional thatched structures amidst clear blue waters, rocky formations, and lush greenery, with visitors enjoying the aquatic activities

Planning a holiday with the whole family? Then there’s no better place for you then Riviera Cancún, stretching from the end of Punta Nizuc up to Puerto Morelos, this area is somehow newer and it comes bearing lots of gifts!

Such as fabulous all-inclusive hotels for you and the little ones, theme parks and just as a side-note, you should know that it’s pretty close to the airport! 

If you’re a golf fan then you’ll be happy to know there are some golf resorts around where you can play all day long! Riviera Cancún Golf & Resorts is a great one!

Yep, this sounds like a dream! Plus it has a great location just 20 min to Punta Cancún in Zona Hotelera. 

Some really spot-on spots that you shouldn’t miss out on are Ventura Park (perfect for some splashing and water sliding) or Zipline Xavage for those who love a bit of adrenaline!

For those hunting theme parks near the Cancún area, I’d also recommend heading to Playa del Carmen, they’ve got a bunch there, including Xcaret, a fun theme park. 

As for the beaches, you’ll find both some rocky ones and white sand beaches too!

Now let’s check out the hotels!

NOTEI’ve only included some of the best options here, but if you’d like to see more, make sure you check our posts with the top family resorts in Cancún or the best waterpark resorts in town!

A collage of three hotel photos to stay in Cancun: A modern, airy hotel room with a green armchair and hardwood floors, a spacious living area with floor-to-ceiling windows overlooking the forest, and an aerial view of a beachfront hotel nestled between lush greenery and the blue sea

Luxury (US$300 and up)

  • Hilton Cancún – set right on the white sandy shores, this all-inclusive hotel offers all you need for a fab family trip! A Kid’s pool, countless activities for all ages like bike tours and water sports, play areas and don’t worry parents, you’ll find a bar and 3 amazing restaurants too!
  • Moon Palace Nizuc – ready to have fun at the kids club, and relax at the spa (they offer babysitting services too)! This hotel offers no more and no less than 8 restaurants, a private beach area and many fun activities! 

Mid-range (US$150 – US$300)

  • Hotel Tequila Cancún – surrounded by greenery and offering a serene setting, this hotel offers spacious family rooms, a free breakfast that you can enjoy in the restaurant and free parking. 
  • Avani Cancún – this one is set closer to the airport and it comes with spacious family rooms with floor-to-ceiling windows, an outdoor swimming pool and a restaurant. 

Budget (up to US$150)

  • Cancún Home – want an entire home for you and your family? Then check out this place which has room for 4 people, a small kitchen and a courtyard as well! Just perfect for a family trip.
  • Fairfield Inn & Suites – here’s a more affordable place, closer to the airport that has an outdoor swimming pool, bright rooms with coffee makers and a restaurant.

Best apartments in Cancún

Rooftop infinity pool overlooking a palm-lined street in Cancun, with clear blue waters reflecting the sky, flanked by modern high-rise buildings

I’m sure there are some travelers out there who prefer staying in the comfort of an apartment, even when it comes to Cancún! 

I think that if you are traveling in a large group (a family with kids, for example, or a group of friends) or if you want to save some money on accommodation, booking an apartment rather than a hotel could be a very wise choice.

In case you want to do so, below you can find my selection of handpicked apartments listed from most to least expensive!

Luxury (US$150 and up)

  • New Suite – this one’s a superb apartment located in the heart of the city. It is an excellent option for all those travelers who seek comfort, tranquility, and relaxation!
  • The Quarry – in case you want to stay in a luxurious penthouse with unforgettable sea views, then this apartment is for you! You’ll be surrounded by white sand beaches, nightlife places, bars, and more. Perfect for an upscale Cancún vacation!

Mid-range (US$100 – US$150)

  • Studio Gold – fully equipped cozy studio with one of the best locations in the city center, walking distance from the buses/taxis station, that brings you to the beaches in the Hotel Zone.
  • Beautiful Studio Apartment – chill by the outdoor pool of this place or enjoy your mornings on the balcony accompanied by your favorite book! The accommodation has a kitchen and a backyard.

Budget (up to US$100)

  • Suite 15 – in case you’re looking for more budget options, here’s another one for you! This apartment has a very nice decor, simple and clean and it’s located in El Centro, very close to the beginning of the Hotel Zone. A great advantage!
  • Aldeazul by Andiani Travel – how cool is this apartment that has such a fab design, a kitchen, and a balcony! Plus, there’s also a garden where you can chill! 
👑 Luxury price:US$350
💵 Mid-range:US$250
🛏️ Budget:US$100
📍 Best area:Zona Hotelera
🛎️ Best luxury hotel:Le Blanc Spa Resort
🧳 Best mid-range hotel:La Villa du Golf à Cancún Hotel Boutique
👛 Best budget hotel:Cancún Suites Apartments

BONUS 1:  Best places to stay on Isla Mujeres

Aerial shot of a bustling pier in Isla Mujeres, Cancun, with boats docked along the clear turquoise waters of the Caribbean Sea, overlooking a vibrant coastal community.

Just a 15-minute ferry ride away from Zona Hotelera in Cancún, you’ll find the mysterious and gorgeous Isla Mujeres! Since many Cancún tourists take trips there to explore and visit attractions like the Art Underwater Museum (map), I made this bonus section with the best hotel on the island for those who want to spend the night!

This island has been the topic of many mythical stories, and it’s said that the Mayan Goddess Ixchel and the women accompanying her lived here! 

In terms of accommodation, I’ve featured a few of the best ones below, but we’ve got a whole post with the best places to stay on Isla Mujeres

Luxury (US$200 and up)

  • Izla Beach Front Hotel – start your mornings by the outdoor pool of this incredible hotel and admire the views of the Caribbean Sea. The accommodation comes with a private beach area and 2 restaurants. 
  • Privilege Aluxes – fabulous spa services, access to the white sand beaches, and serving yummy food in their 4 on-site authentic restaurants, this one is surely a keeper!

Mid-range (US$100 – US$200)

  • Casa Barco Hotel Boutique – I love the stylish room and cozy feel of this hotel! Before you head out to explore the local attractions, grab some coffee and go for a swim in the pool.
  • Hotel La Joya Isla Mujeres – catch a scenic sunset by the infinity pool of this hotel, which has a relaxed vibe and a restaurant.

Budget (up to US$100)

  • Casa María – feel at home in this super cozy place set on Isla Mujeres near the pristine beaches that comes with a balcony and a flat-screen TV. 
  • Suites Ha – when you’re not visiting local attractions or sunbathing on the pristine beaches, chill in the hammock of this budget accommodation that offers rooms with a private kitchen. 

BONUS 2: Where to stay in Puerto Morelos 

Aerial shot of Puerto Morelos with boats docked along the vibrant coastline, highlighting the peaceful charm of this fishing village turned tourist destination near Cancun

Not really an all-inclusive resort kind of person but still want to discover Cancún? Don’t you worry, because I’ve got just the place for you!

Puerto Morelos is a classic Mexican fishing village with a laid-back atmosphere, set just a 30 min drive away from Cancún, right between El Rey and Playa del Carmen! Although touched a bit by tourism, you can still get a taste of the real Mexican seaside vibe here. Plus, everything it’s much cheaper (that’s always a plus).

If it sounds like your kind of spot, then let’s check out the best hotels here:

Luxury (US$200 and up)

  • Glass 20.87 – hello, paradise! Tucked away between the trees, this ultra-modern tree house features mostly glass windows and walls, an outdoor terrace where you can relax and enjoy the fresh air and an outdoor pool. 
  • Oom Bubble Boutique – an amazing place that comes with different bubble suites that overlook the pool or the jungle! Start your days with a free breakfast and then head out to explore!

Mid-range (US$100 – US$200)

  • Anand Ecoaldea – immerse yourself in the Puerto Morelos jungles while staying in these wooden made-bungalows which feature an outdoor pool and barbecue facilities. 
  • Vela’s Condos – a cool apartment overlooking the ocean that has a furnished balcony and 2 shared swimming pools.

Budget (up to US$100)

  • Hotel Amar Inn – homey and super cozy! This place features family rooms, a complimentary Mexican breakfast and a pool.
  • Hostal Cuca Macuca – this amazing studio offers shared and private rooms and it boasts an outdoor pool and free Wi-fi. 

BONUS 3: Best all-inclusive resorts in Cancún

Luxurious beachfront resort in Cancun, with an expansive pool area leading to a pristine beach and the vast blue ocean, under clear skies

Cancun is world famous for its incredible (and many) all-inclusive hotels! That’s why I decided to create a special section where I’m recommending the top resorts that offer all-inclusive services for the perfect vacation on the beach.

Needless to say, all of them have flawless reviews from former guests.

I already ordered them from most to least expensive, so let’s check them out:

  • Le Blanc Spa Resort ($$$) – catch a scenic sunset by the infinity pool of this hotel in the middle Hotel Zone, which has rooms with ocean views and hot tubs! 
  • Haven Riviera Cancún ($$$)  – spend an unforgettable holiday in this hotel that has an outdoor pool, 5 restaurants, and a private beach area.
  • Secrets The Vine Cancún ($$$)  – with breathtaking views of the Caribbean Sea, this hotel offers a fabulous spa center and 6 incredible restaurants. 
  • Hyatt Ziva Cancún ($$$) – surrounded by the bluest waters, this dreamy hotel boasts countless facilities from theater shows to water sports and 8 restaurants. 
  • Sun Palace  ($$$) – indulge in delicious dinners and relax by the otherworldly pool of this hotel, which has 3 lively bars and a private beach area. 
  • Hyatt Zilara Cancún ($$$) – you’ll never get enough of the breathtaking views of this hotel that offers rooms overlooking the ocean, a private beach area, and some lively bars. 
  • Live Aqua Beach Resort Cancún ($$$) – get your daily dose of vitamin D by the pool of this hotel, which comes with a spa center and 8 restaurants. 
  • Wyndham Alltra Cancún ($$) – jump from your bed straight on the white sand beach while staying at this hotel which has rooms with balconies, children and teen clubs, a mini-golf course and an on-site water park.

BONUS 4: Best hotels near Cancún Airport

Cancun International Airport with a stationary commercial airplane at the gate, a clear blue sky above

Cancún International Airport (CUN) is the 2nd busiest airport in Mexico, and it’s located 12 km (8 miles) from Cancún Downtown and around 20 km (13 miles) from Zona Hotelera.

In case you have a super early flight back home or your flight arrives in Cancún very late at night, a wise choice would be to book a hotel room as close to the airport as possible. 

This way, you’ll save some sleep, and you’ll enjoy some convenience! Regardless of your reasons, I have found the best airport hotels for your stay down below (one for each type of budget):

  • 1st Luxury Warehouse – this one is perfect for people looking for luxurious accommodation and great value for the money. This property offers gorgeous rooms, free parking, an airport shuttle, and it’s set only 1 mile from Cancún International Airport!
  • Cancún-Soho B&B – looking for great value for the price? Then I recommend booking a room at this great bed and breakfast located only 4 km (3 miles) from the airport. It has an outdoor pool, a kitchenette, and an airport shuttle as well.
  • Casa del Arquitecto – here’s my recommendation for people looking for super cheap accommodation close to the airport. This apartment offers free Wi-Fi, access to a kitchen, and free private parking!

BONUS 5: Best Cancún hotels for families

Beachfront luxury hotel with ample loungers on white sands, overlooking the rolling waves of the azure Caribbean Sea, epitomizing the upscale resort experience in Cancun

Even though Cancún receives a lot of tourism for parties, nightlife, and spring break celebrations, it also offers lots of cultural and outdoor activities for a perfect family vacation!

So, if you’re planning a holiday with your toddlers or kids of all ages, this bonus is for you as you’ll find some incredible hotels for families.

Luxury (US$300 and up)

  • JW Marriott Cancún Resort & Spa – if you’re looking for a luxurious hotel for your family trip, then stop scrolling and check out this hotel that offers family rooms with a balcony, a kids club, and lots of water sports like scuba diving!
  • Kempinski Hotel Cancún – here you have another great choice for where to stay in Cancún with the family! Two pools, delicious dining, a tranquil spa, and kids’ and teens’ club entertainment all day – these are just some of the advantages of staying here!

Mid-range (US$100 – US$300)

  • Torre Sofia – this hotel is great for families as it comes with so much space, a small kitchen, an outdoor pool where you can play, and a terrace. 
  • Casa Zoe – if you haven’t made up your mind just yet, here’s another accommodation for your stay. This one is only 5 minutes away from the beach Puerta del Sol and is located in a very tranquil neighborhood – so good!

Budget (up to US$100)

  • El Rey del Caribe – in case you want to save some money on accommodation, I recommend booking a room in this nice boutique hotel! With a small pool, hot tub, and kid’s playhouse set in a jungle garden with plants and birds, expect to enjoy a very pleasant stay!
  • Residential Home – entire home with an excellent and quiet location, just 6 blocks from the Hotel Zone and just near the beach. With a Jacuzzi pool and all the amenities to relax after the excursions, this accommodation has everything you need for a vacation /with the family!

FAQs about lodging in Cancún, Mexico

Panoramic view of Cancun's skyline at dusk, with the hotel zone brightly lit, reflecting in the tranquil waters of the Caribbean Sea, embodying the lively spirit of this coastal city

 

🤩 What part of Cancún is best to stay in?

The best area to stay in Cancún, especially for first-time visitors, is the Hotel Zone, where all the all-inclusive hotels are located, like the luxurious Le Blanc Spa Resort or Nizuc Resort & Spa.

🏨 Is it better to stay in downtown Cancún or Hotel Zone?

If you’re looking for all-inclusive resorts and luxury hotels, you should stay in the Hotel Zone, while Downtown Cancún offers cheaper accommodations, like the Moloch Hostel & Suites.

🏨 Where to stay in Cancún to party?

The best area to stay in Cancún to party is Punta Cancún, where all the clubs and bars are located.

🕵️‍♀️ Is Cancún safe to visit?

Cancún is generally a safe town: locals are friendly, and crime rates are very low compared to other Mexican cities. Anyways, you should avoid non-tourist areas, especially at night.

🤔 Which one is better: Punta Cancún or Hotel Zone?

Both have the same vibe since Punta Cancún is part of the big Hotel Zone, but I would say Punta Cancún is better for partying, and the Hotel Zone is great for first-time visitors.

🌃 Where to stay in Cancún for 1 night?

The Hotel Zone is perfect for a night in Cancún! You can spend an unforgettable evening there and stay at some of the best hotels like Le Blanc Spa Resort Cancún.

📅 How many days in Cancún is enough?

I would recommend spending 3 to 5 days in Cancún. That way, you’ll have plenty of time to chill in the infinity pools, visit local attractions, and drink cocktails!

🏖️ Which area of Cancún has the best beaches?

The Middle Hotel Zone and North Hotel Zone have some of the best beaches in Cancún!

🗺️ What region is Cancún in?

Cancún is located in the Quintana Roo in southeast Mexico, on the Yucatan peninsula.

Conclusion

Twilight descends on Cancun's Hotel Zone, illuminating the resort-lined beach that stretches towards the horizon along the glistening turquoise waters of the Caribbean Sea

Woohoo, you’ve made it to the end of this guide on where to stay in Cancún! Isn’t this one of the best holiday spots on the continent?

I’m sure you can agree that you’ve seen the best areas in Cancún and the top hotels there!

Now, all you need to do is to make a choice! 

Still not sure? Then, check out my 2 absolute favorite options, both located in Zona Hotelera:

These places are incredible! That only means that they’ll sell out super fast, so I recommend booking yours in advance!

Enjoy your holidays in mesmerizing Cancún, and if you have any questions, let me know in the comments below. I’m happy to help!

Happy exploring,

Yulia


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12 Comments

  1. Tonya Kish 07.01.2024 at 23:33
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