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Planning a trip to Cancún and not sure where to stay? You’re definitely not alone.
Cancún is a destination of contrasts, blending postcard-perfect beaches, all-inclusive resorts, lively nightlife, and a more local city side just beyond the coast. From the resort-lined Hotel Zone and cultural streets of Downtown to quieter escapes like Costa Mujeres and Isla Mujeres just offshore, choosing where to base yourself can feel overwhelming. But that’s where we can help.
After exploring Cancún from multiple angles, we’ve narrowed down the best areas to stay, each suited to a different travel style. Below, we break down what makes each area special and share hotel picks we genuinely recommend to help you choose the perfect base for your trip.
Don’t Miss Out On Our Top Choice!
This is the hotel and area we loved the most and suggest booking ASAP!
Our personal FAVORITE area to stay in Cancún is Hotel Zone! It’s perfect for first-time visitors, with easy access to beaches, nightlife, shopping, and tours.
We love staying at Beachscape Kin Ha Villas & Suites for its beachfront location, spacious rooms, and great value without the resort crowds.
- Don’t Miss Out On Our Top Choice!
- Overview of the Best Areas to Stay in Cancun
- Important Tip
- Where to Stay in Cancun
- Top Activities to do in Cancun
- Thanks for reading!
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Overview of the Best Areas to Stay in Cancun
Regardless of where you stay, Cancun is an absolute delight. However, it’s still a destination shaped by contrast, offering you a choice on how you want to experience it. Most stay either in the Hotel Zone, a long ribbon of white-sand beaches and resorts along the coast, or in Downtown Cancún (El Centro), where the city feels more local, affordable, and lived-in. The Hotel Zone is ideal for easy beachfront access, nightlife, and all-inclusive resorts, while Downtown appeals to travelers looking for lower prices, local restaurants, and a more authentic atmosphere.
Beyond these two main areas, Cancún also serves as a gateway to quieter escapes we love. Costa Mujeres, just north of the Hotel Zone, is calm and resort-focused, with newer properties and a relaxed vibe. Isla Mujeres, a small island just offshore, offers a slower pace, colorful streets, and beautiful beaches, making it a popular add-on for a few nights.
That being said, Cancún isn’t a city where you casually walk between neighborhoods. The Hotel Zone stretches for miles and is separated from Downtown by a lagoon, so each area feels distinct. Fortunately, getting around is simple. The cheap and frequent public buses—especially the R1 and R2 routes—connect Downtown and the Hotel Zone throughout the day. Taxis are easy to find for short trips, and rideshare can work within city limits, though airport pickups can be unreliable, so many travelers pre-book transfers on arrival. To reach Isla Mujeres, most visitors head to Puerto Juárez and take the public ferry, which runs often and takes about 20 minutes.
Here is an overview of each area:
- Hotel Zone – Best for first-time visitors – The Hotel Zone is ideal for first-time visitors because it puts Cancún’s best beaches, resorts, nightlife, and tours in one easy, well-connected strip along the coast. Beachscape Kin Ha Villas & Suites is an excellent mid-range option here, offering direct beach access and spacious accommodations without the high price tag of many nearby resorts.
- Downtown Cancun (El Centro) – Best for budget & culture – Downtown Cancún offers a more authentic, budget-friendly stay with local eateries, markets, and a lively neighborhood vibe, and Adhara Hacienda Cancún is a standout choice here, blending comfortable rooms and modern amenities with easy access to shops, plazas, and public transit without the Hotel Zone price tag.
- Costa Mujeres – Best for luxury & relaxation – Costa Mujeres is perfect for travelers seeking a quieter, upscale escape just north of Cancún’s Hotel Zone. Villa del Palmar Cancun offers a serene, beachfront all-suite experience with spacious rooms, family-friendly amenities, and a relaxed vibe that’s ideal for unwinding in style.
- Isla Mujeres – Best for adventure & island escapes – Isla Mujeres offers a charming, laid-back island vibe with stunning beaches, great snorkeling, and easy ferry access from Cancún. La Joya Isla Mujeres is a fantastic boutique choice that blends stylish comfort with a prime waterfront location perfect for exploring the island’s natural beauty.
Important Tip
Multiple Cancún trips have taught us that this island doesn’t reward spontaneity when it comes to planning. The good places get snapped up months in advance, leaving the overpriced and underwhelming options for last-minute travelers.
The sweet spot for booking Cancún accommodations is 3-4 months out—enough time to secure good rates but not so far ahead that you’re locking in plans excessively early.
Where to Stay in Cancun
Hotel Zone
BEST FOR FIRST-TIME VISITORS
Pros
- Easy access to Cancún’s best beaches, resorts, nightlife, and organized tours
- Well-connected by frequent, inexpensive buses and abundant taxis
Cons
- Generally more expensive than Downtown Cancún
- Feels more touristy and less connected to local daily life
The Hotel Zone is Cancún’s most iconic area, stretching for more than 20 kilometers (13 miles) along a narrow strip of land between the Caribbean Sea and the Nichupté Lagoon. This is where Cancún’s tourism story began in the 1970s, and it remains the heart of the city’s visitor experience today. The area is defined by wide white-sand beaches, turquoise water, and a long line of resorts, hotels, restaurants, beach clubs, and nightlife venues.
The Hotel Zone is especially well-suited to first-time visitors, families, couples, and anyone who wants a classic beach vacation with minimal planning. Everything is designed for convenience, from all-inclusive resorts and tour desks to frequent public buses that run up and down the strip all day and night.
Top nearby sights include Playa Delfines, one of Cancún’s most famous public beaches, the Cancún Underwater Museum (MUSA) for snorkeling and diving, and major shopping hubs like La Isla Shopping Village. Nightlife centers around spots like Punta Cancún, while lagoon-side areas offer calmer sunset views and water sports.
Hotel Zone delivers exactly what many travelers come for: beautiful beaches, easy logistics, and a relaxed, resort-style atmosphere that makes exploring Cancún straightforward and stress-free.
Presidente InterContinental Cancún Resort – $$$
Perched on a stretch of pristine white sand in Cancún’s Hotel Zone, the Presidente InterContinental Cancún Resort is a refined beachfront property in the heart of the Hotel Zone, ideal for travelers seeking classic luxury without an overly crowded resort feel.
Set on one of Cancún’s widest stretches of white-sand beach, the hotel is well-suited to couples, honeymooners, and anyone prioritizing comfort, service, and ocean views. Rooms and suites are elegantly designed, with many offering private balconies overlooking the Caribbean or the Nichupté Lagoon.
On-site amenities include multiple pools, a full-service spa, and several restaurants serving Mexican and international cuisine. The calm beachfront is perfect for swimming, while water sports and excursions can be easily arranged through the hotel. Rooms start around $300 USD per night.
Find the best deals and book this beachfront stay here!
If the Presidente InterContinental is fully booked, Emporio Cancún is another solid option in the Hotel Zone, offering a more affordable beachfront stay with modern rooms, ocean views, and easy access to Playa Delfines. It’s a good fit for travelers who want a comfortable, well-located resort without the higher-end price tag.
Another popular alternative is Grand Park Royal Cancún, an all-inclusive beachfront resort known for its lively atmosphere, multiple pools, and a wide range of dining options. This hotel works especially well for families and travelers who prefer having meals, drinks, and entertainment bundled into one convenient stay.
Beachscape Kin Ha Villas & Suites – $$
Beachscape Kin Ha Villas & Suites is a welcoming mid-range option in the Hotel Zone that strikes a great balance between comfort, location, and value. Just steps from the coast, the property offers spacious rooms and suites—many with kitchenettes or ocean views—that make it a smart choice for couples, small families, or travelers who want a bit more flexibility during their stay.
Guests can relax by the beachfront pool, enjoy easy access to Playa Caracol, and take advantage of on-site amenities like a restaurant, bar, and fitness center. The laid-back atmosphere feels less formal than some larger resorts, but still delivers the conveniences you want in Cancún, from tour booking to daily housekeeping. Rooms at this location generally start around $315 USD per night.
Lock in this convenient Cancun stay here!
If Beachscape Kin Ha Villas & Suites is unavailable, Casa Tortugas Boutique Hotel is a quieter, adults-focused alternative in the Hotel Zone, offering stylish suites with kitchenettes and a peaceful lagoon-side setting that feels more residential than resort-like. It’s a great option for couples or longer stays and those who want space and calm while still being close to beaches and restaurants.
For a more social and budget-friendly stay, Mayan Monkey Cancún delivers a lively atmosphere with modern rooms, shared spaces, and regular events that make it popular with younger travelers and solo visitors. Located near the start of the Hotel Zone, it offers easy access to beaches, nightlife, and public transport while keeping costs down.
Sina Suites – $
Sina Suites is a budget-friendly option in the Hotel Zone that offers a quieter, more residential feel compared to large beachfront resorts. Set along the Nichupté Lagoon rather than the open sea, this small, family-run property is best suited to travelers who value space, calm surroundings, and good value over resort-style amenities.
Rooms are simple but spacious, with many featuring kitchenettes or full kitchens, making Sina Suites a practical choice for longer stays, couples, or travelers on a tighter budget. Guests can enjoy lagoon views, a small pool, and on-site dining, while nearby beaches are just a short walk or bus ride away.
Its location still provides easy access to the rest of the Hotel Zone via frequent buses, but the atmosphere is noticeably more relaxed, offering a peaceful base for exploring Cancún without the higher price tag. Rooms at Sina Suites start at $110 USD per night.
Browse options and reserve this affordable stay here!
If Sina Suites is fully booked, Nílu Cancún is a solid alternative for budget travelers who want a social, modern stay in the Hotel Zone, with private rooms and shared spaces that suit solo travelers and younger visitors. Its location near beaches, nightlife, and public transport makes it easy to explore without spending much.
Another good option is Cancún Suites Apartments, which offers simple, no-frills studios with kitchenettes at an affordable price point. This property is best for independent travelers or longer stays, providing a practical base in the Hotel Zone with quick access to buses, shops, and nearby beaches.
Downtown Cancun (El Centro)
BEST FOR BUDGET & CULTURE
Pros
- More affordable hotels, restaurants, and daily expenses than in the Hotel Zone
- A more authentic local atmosphere with markets, street food, and neighborhood eateries
Cons
- Not beachfront, with beaches requiring a short bus or taxi ride
- Fewer resort-style amenities and less of a vacation feel than the Hotel Zone
Downtown Cancún, also known as El Centro, is the city’s original urban core and offers a very different experience from the resort-focused Hotel Zone. This is where most locals live and work, and it’s the best place to see everyday life in Cancún. The area developed first, before the Hotel Zone’s resort boom in the 1970s, and still feels grounded in local culture.
El Centro is best suited to budget-conscious travelers, long-term visitors, and anyone interested in experiencing a more authentic side of Cancún. Accommodations are generally more affordable, and food prices are noticeably lower. While there’s no beach access, frequent buses connect Downtown to the Hotel Zone in about 15–20 minutes.
Nearby highlights include Parque Las Palapas, the city’s social heart in the evenings, and Mercado 28, a popular market for souvenirs and street food. The area is also convenient for transport, with easy access to bus stations for day trips to places like Playa del Carmen or Valladolid.
While El Centro lacks the polished resort feel, it offers value, character, and a deeper connection to local life, making it a rewarding base for travelers who prioritize culture over beachfront luxury.
Krystal Urban Cancun & Beach Club – $$$
Krystal Urban Cancun & Beach Club is a versatile and well-located hotel perfect for travelers who want a mix of city convenience and easy beach access without staying in the Hotel Zone’s resort core. Located just steps from Plaza Las Américas and local eateries, this property offers a comfortable base for exploring El Centro’s markets, parks, and cultural spots while still being close to the beaches (a free shuttle to the affiliated beach club is included).
Rooms are modern and well-appointed, many with balconies and views of the city or nearby Nichupté Lagoon, and the hotel features an outdoor pool, on-site restaurant and bar, free Wi-Fi, and fitness facilities. It’s a great pick for couples, families, or business travelers who want solid comfort, a lively urban setting, and the option to easily hop to the sand when you like. Rooms here start at a reasonable $175 USD per night.
Check availability for your travel dates and book this modern stay here!
If Krystal Urban Cancún & Beach Club is booked, Oh! Cancun is a standout alternative in Downtown, known for its rooftop pool and social atmosphere, modern rooms, and proximity to Plaza Las Américas and local nightlife—perfect for travelers who want urban convenience with a bit of style.
Another great choice nearby is Enigmatic Hotel Boutique, a smaller, stylish property with contemporary design and personalized service that’s ideal for couples or travelers seeking a quieter, more intimate stay while still being close to shops, restaurants, and the bus routes that connect you easily to the Hotel Zone.
Adhara Hacienda Cancun – $$
Adhara Hacienda Cancun is a comfortable, mid-priced central base with good value and easy access to local life. Located just a short walk from Mercado 23, Benito Juárez Municipal Building, and Parque Las Palapas, it’s ideal for budget-minded couples, families, or anyone who wants to explore Cancun’s authentic neighborhoods.
The hotel features spacious, air-conditioned rooms with modern amenities like free Wi-Fi and flat-screen TVs, plus leisure offerings such as an outdoor pool, fitness center, and a swim-up bar where you can cool off after a day of sightseeing.
Thanks to its downtown location, many of Cancún’s cultural highlights are within walking distance, yet the Hotel Zone beaches and nightlife are easily reachable by a short bus or taxi ride. Rooms here start around $120 USD per night.
Stay within easy access to local life and reserve this stay here!
If Adhara Hacienda Cancun is fully booked, Mezcal Hotel Boutique is a stylish downtown alternative with a laid-back, design-forward vibe, comfortable rooms, and easy access to local markets and eateries—ideal for travelers seeking a more intimate, culturally rich stay.
Another great pick is Hotel Luma by Kavia, offering modern rooms, friendly service, and a central location that puts you close to Parque Las Palapas, Mercado 28, and the bus routes to the Hotel Zone. It’s a convenient choice for both budget explorers and culture-focused visitors.
Eco-hotel El Rey del Caribe – $
Eco-hotel El Rey del Caribe is a budget-friendly, eco-conscious stay that appeals to sustainability-minded travelers who also want great value. The property emphasizes green practices such as energy-saving measures, use of local materials, and efforts to minimize waste, giving you a feel of environmentally thoughtful travel without a big price tag.
Rooms are simple but comfortable, with bright décor and essential amenities, making this hotel ideal for backpackers, couples, or anyone who prefers a clean, tranquil place to rest between adventures. The leafy courtyard and outdoor spaces reinforce the relaxed, nature-inspired vibe, and the pool offers a great spot to cool off while surrounded by nature. Rooms are very well priced, starting at $100 USD per night.
Don’t miss out—reserve this budget-friendly stay here!
If Eco-Hotel El Rey del Caribe is booked, Hotel Parador is a nearby alternative that offers straightforward, comfortable rooms at a similar price point with a convenient downtown location close to shops, restaurants, and bus routes to the beaches.
Another good budget pick is Ibis Cancún Centro, a reliable chain option with modern, no-frills rooms and easy access to Parque Las Palapas and local transit—great for travelers who want simplicity, consistency, and a central base for exploring both El Centro and the Hotel Zone.
Costa Mujeres
BEST FOR LUXURY & RELAXATION
Pros
- Peaceful, uncrowded beaches and a quieter atmosphere than Cancún’s Hotel Zone
- High-end resorts with spacious rooms, upscale amenities, and ocean views
Cons
- Farther from nightlife, shopping, and central Cancún attractions
- Limited local dining and cultural experiences outside the resort areas
Costa Mujeres is a newer, upscale resort area located just north of Cancún’s Hotel Zone, known for its wide, uncrowded beaches and calm, luxurious atmosphere. Unlike the Hotel Zone, which was developed starting in the 1970s, Costa Mujeres is a more recent addition to the Cancún region, designed with spacious resorts, lower density, and relaxation in mind. The area feels intentionally quieter and more exclusive, making it a favorite for travelers who want to disconnect and unwind.
Costa Mujeres is best suited to luxury travelers who prefer resort-style stays with high-end amenities. Most accommodations here are all-inclusive resorts offering multiple pools, spas, fine dining, and private beach access, meaning guests often spend most of their time on the property.
While Costa Mujeres doesn’t have a walkable town center, it’s close to natural attractions and cultural sites. Nearby highlights include Playa Mujeres, known for its soft sand and gentle waters, and the Playa Mujeres Golf Club, one of the region’s top courses. Because of its more secluded layout, Costa Mujeres is less about sightseeing and nightlife and more about comfort, space, and serenity.
Grand Palladium Select – $$$
Grand Palladium Select is a luxurious all-inclusive resort set on a quiet stretch of beach in Costa Mujeres, ideal for travelers seeking relaxation, space, and high-end amenities. The resort is well-suited to couples, honeymooners, and families who want a polished resort experience away from the crowds of Cancún’s Hotel Zone.
Rooms and suites are modern and spacious, many with balconies, swim-up access, or ocean views. Guests have access to multiple pools, a full-service spa, fitness facilities, and a wide range of restaurants and bars serving international and Mexican cuisine. Daily activities and evening entertainment are included, with options for both adults and children. Rooms at this ultra-luxury stay start around $900 USD.
Book your all-inclusive stay at Grand Palladium Select here!
If Grand Palladium Select Costa Mujeres isn’t your vibe, SLS Playa Mujeres is an excellent upscale alternative nearby, known for its chic design, lively dining scene, and refined beachfront vibe—perfect for travelers who want both luxury and style.
Another great option is Planet Hollywood Cancun, an all-inclusive resort with a fun, entertainment-focused atmosphere, themed dining, and activities that appeal to couples and families alike—a solid choice for those seeking a spirited, immersive beach resort experience.
Villa del Palmar Cancun – $$
Villa del Palmar Cancun is a welcoming mid-range resort that blends comfort, space, and beachfront luxury without the high price tag. This property is well-suited to families, couples, and travelers who want a relaxed all-inclusive experience with plenty of amenities, but prefer a slightly quieter setting than Cancún’s busier Hotel Zone.
Accommodations range from comfortable guest rooms to spacious suites with kitchenettes or full kitchens. The resort features multiple swimming pools, a spa, a children’s club, and on-site dining options that serve a mix of Mexican and international cuisine. Its beachfront location makes enjoying the soft sands and calm waters effortless, while water sports and organized activities add variety to your days.
Villa del Palmar’s layout feels open and inviting, with lush gardens and easy access to beach loungers and shaded relaxation areas. Whether you’re seeking poolside downtime or casual evenings by the sea, this resort offers a balanced blend of comfort, convenience, and Costa Mujeres tranquility. Depending on the season, rooms start around $400 USD.
Lock in your beachfront stay at Villa del Palmar Cancun here!
Casa CARIBE Cancun- $
Casa CARIBE Cancun is an affordable, laid-back option that’s perfect for travelers who want beach access and comfort without resort prices. This hotel appeals to budget-minded couples, friends, and small families who prioritize location and simplicity over extensive amenities.
Rooms are clean and comfortable, offering basic conveniences and modern décor, with many featuring ocean or garden views. The property includes a swimming pool and easy access to the soft sands and calm waters of Costa Mujeres Beach, making it easy to spend relaxed days by the sea. On-site dining is casual and convenient, while local spots nearby offer a taste of regional flavors without needing to venture far.
Located slightly south of the larger all-inclusive resorts, Casa CARIBE Cancun provides a quieter, more authentic beach stay while still being close enough for guests to enjoy Costa Mujeres’ laid-back charm. It’s a strong choice for travelers who want a simple beach retreat with direct beach access at a friendly price point. Prices for rooms are incredibly reasonable, starting at $100 USD a night.
Reserve your room at this laid-back Costa Mujeres stay here!
Related Read: Not sure how to plan your days? Our 5-day Cancún Itinerary walks you through exactly how to make the most of your trip.
Isla Mujeres
BEST FOR ADVENTURE & ISLAND ESCAPES
Pros
- Laid-back island atmosphere with beautiful beaches, snorkeling, and clear turquoise water
- Compact and easy to explore by golf cart, bike, or on foot
Cons
- Requires a ferry ride from Cancún, which adds time and planning
- Fewer large resorts and nightlife options compared to the mainland
Isla Mujeres is a small Caribbean island located just off the coast of Cancún, offering a relaxed, adventurous alternative to the mainland’s resort scene. Once a quiet fishing village, the island has grown into a popular escape known for its turquoise waters, coral reefs, and slower pace of life. Despite its popularity, Isla Mujeres has retained much of its charm, with colorful streets, local eateries, and a friendly, walkable feel.
The island is best suited to adventurous travelers, couples, and beach lovers who enjoy exploring at their own pace. Many visitors get around by golf cart, making it easy to discover hidden beaches, viewpoints, and snorkeling spots. Isla Mujeres is also a great option for travelers who want to mix relaxation with outdoor activities.
Top attractions include Playa Norte, often ranked among Mexico’s best beaches, Punta Sur, the island’s highest point with sunrise views and coastal cliffs, and nearby snorkeling and diving sites along the Mesoamerican Reef. The island is also famous for seasonal whale shark tours.
Access is simple via a frequent ferry from Puerto Juárez, with a crossing time of about 20 minutes. Isla Mujeres offers a peaceful, scenic escape that feels worlds away from Cancún, while still being easy to reach.
Privilege Aluxes- $$$
Privilege Aluxes is an elegant beachfront boutique hotel that offers a serene and stylish island getaway, perfect for couples, honeymooners, or travelers seeking a relaxed escape with direct access to the Caribbean Sea. Set on the island’s western shoreline, the property provides easy access to calm waters, making it ideal for those who want both comfort and classic island charm.
Rooms are modern, and many have private balconies or terraces that overlook the sea or garden areas. The hotel’s beachfront location means you can step straight onto the sand for swimming, lounging, or water activities, and thoughtful amenities help make your stay comfortable and memorable.
Privilege Aluxes is also conveniently located near Isla Mujeres’ top attractions: Playa Norte’s famed beach is a short golf cart or bike ride away, and local shops, restaurants, and bars are easily accessible. Whether your focus is relaxation or exploration, this boutique retreat combines seaside ease with a welcoming island atmosphere. Depending on the season, room rates start as low as $290 USD per night.
Check availability and book your stay at Privilege Aluxes here!
If Privilege Aluxes is fully booked, Izla Beach Front Hotel is a great alternative right on the water with modern design, relaxed vibes, and easy access to Playa Norte—perfect for travelers who want a stylish beachfront base without a resort feel.
Another strong option is Na Balam Hotel, a boutique stay closer to the island’s downtown area that blends comfort and local character, making it ideal for visitors who want to balance beach time with exploring Isla Mujeres’ shops, cafés, and culture.
Hotel La Joya Isla Mujeres – $$
Hotel La Joya Isla Mujeres is a charming mid-range hotel that offers comfortable accommodations with easy access to the island’s beaches and vibrant downtown. This property is ideal for couples, small families, and independent travelers who want a relaxed base with laid-back island vibes and a friendly atmosphere.
Rooms are thoughtfully designed with modern touches, and many include balconies or terraces, providing views of the garden or nearby sea. Guests can enjoy a rooftop pool and lounge area. It’s the perfect spot to unwind with a drink while watching the sunset.
Hotel La Joya also arranges activities like snorkeling, boat tours, and golf cart rentals, so you can easily plan your adventures right from the front desk. With its combination of comfort, location, and value, La Joya is a solid choice for travelers who want a relaxed island experience without the premium resort price tag. Rooms can be booked for as low as $200 USD per night.
Secure this charming stay on Isla Mujeres here!
If Hotel La Joya Isla Mujeres is full, Hotel Playa La Media Luna is a great nearby alternative with a peaceful beachfront location and classic island charm, perfect for travelers who want easy access to the sand and sea without the resort price.
Another solid choice is Ixchel Beach Hotel, a boutique property right on Playa Norte known for its friendly service, cozy rooms, and excellent location — ideal for guests who want to be steps from one of the island’s best beaches and close to local restaurants and nightlife.
Hotel Caracol Isla Mujeres – $
Hotel Caracol Isla Mujeres is an affordable and laid-back option that’s perfect for travelers who want a simple, comfortable base with easy access tobeaches without a big price tag.
Rooms are clean and bright, many with balconies or terraces overlooking the sea, giving you an effortless oceanfront experience. Guests can take advantage of on-site amenities like a pool and easy access to swimming and snorkeling from nearby beaches.
Hotel Caracol’s central location also means you’re just a short walk or golf cart ride from Playa Norte’s iconic beach, local shops, and eateries, making it a great budget-friendly choice for travelers who want both beach time and island exploration without splurging. You can book rooms starting as low as $85 USD per night.
Check availability for your travel dates and reserve this stay here!
If Hotel Caracol Isla Mujeres is booked or not your vibe, Hotel Villa Kiin is a lovely alternative offering a quieter, boutique feel with comfortable rooms and a garden pool just a short stroll from Playa Norte — great for travelers who want a relaxed, peaceful stay near the beach.
Another solid choice is Nílu Isla Mujeres, a modern, budget-friendly property with bright, stylish rooms and easy access to local restaurants and attractions—perfect for visitors who want a comfortable base with a social atmosphere and close proximity to the island’s highlights.
Related Read: If you’re staying on Isla Mujeres, check out our favorite Isla Mujeres tours from Cancún for the best ways to explore the island and surrounding waters.
Top Activities to do in Cancun
Whether it’s your first trip or a return visit, choosing the right area to stay in Cancún can make a huge difference. I’ve been coming to Cancun since I was a kid, and I never get tired of visiting. There are so many fun things to do here that will make for an amazing vacation. So if you’re looking for even more activities, check out some of my favorites below!
- Tour an underwater museum – Whether you’re snorkeling or scuba diving in Cancun, a visit to MUSA (Underwater Museum of Art) is a must. There are hundreds of sculptures down here, and it feels like visiting the Lost City of Atlantis! This snorkeling tour takes you to MUSA, along with visits to a shipwreck and a cenote!
- Eat, eat, eat! – The Mexican restaurants in Cancun definitely deliver, and Mextreme has the best tacos, and I always order the Aztec soup! If you want to try a bunch of different dishes in an evening, this taco and beer food tour will take you to five popular spots for a fun night you’ll want to arrive hungry for! Before booking, it’s worth brushing up on a few things to know before booking a taco tour in Cancun, so you know exactly what you’re getting into.
- Swim with whale sharks – For a totally unique and memorable experience, jump in the water to swim with whale sharks near Cancun! These gentle giants feast on plankton and fish, so you can relax on this whale shark tour and just admire these giant fish (they aren’t actually sharks!). Whale shark season is from May to September, so if you’re here at a different time of year, this half-day sailing trip is another way to get out on the water and cruise the beautiful ocean!
- Go ziplining – If you love an adrenaline rush like us, Cancun has awesome ziplining opportunities. Trust me, there’s nothing quite like flying high above the Mayan jungle! So check out this ziplining tour, which includes a 3-kilometer (1.9-mile) long ride!
Related Read: Looking for more inspiration? Explore our guide on our favorite things to do in Cancún here for even more top tours, food spots, and adventures.
Renting a Car in Mexico
Undoubtedly, one of the best ways to get around Mexico is in a rental car.
I struggled to get around by bus and taxi for the longest time. But after renting a car in Cancun in 2023, I never looked back. It allowed me to explore the country without worrying about tours or taxis. It was why I fell in love with Mexico and eventually decided to live here periodically.
I refuse to use local services whenever I rent a car in Mexico. The truth is they sometimes can’t be trusted or come with hidden fees (or costly insurance that doesn’t make sense.) There are even rental car scams! So instead, I use Discover Cars, the company most experienced travelers or ex-pats in Mexico recommend. Read my honest review of Discover Cars here for more details!
The rates on Discover Cars are cheap, too, with the average rental costing around $25 USD per day. Full coverage insurance can be added for an extra $10 USD a day too.
Driving in Mexico also only requires a driver’s license using the Roman alphabet. If yours uses another like Japan and China, you simply need an international driving permit.
Insurance is required, but if you book with Discover Cars and get the full coverage, that’s all you need! Oh, and being over 18 is required, and if you’re over 25, your rental will be much cheaper!
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In simple terms, it’s the easiest way to get data and stay connected while traveling.
We’ve tested a bunch of eSIMs over the years, and after a few frustrating experiences, we’ve found our favorite — Airalo. It’s fast, reliable, and incredibly easy to use. You can set it up in minutes (even my mom managed it solo on her first try!), and the prices are some of the best out there.
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Thanks for reading!
If you’re looking for a destination that truly offers a little bit of everything, Cancún delivers. We love how you can spend your days relaxing on white-sand beaches, exploring local neighborhoods, or escaping to quieter spots like Isla Mujeres—all within easy reach. Ideally, you’ll experience a few of the areas we mentioned, but even if you choose just one, you really can’t go wrong.
Before you go, be sure to check out all of our Mexico travel guides here. We’ve shared plenty more tips, hotel picks, and activity ideas to help you plan an unforgettable trip. And if you’re continuing your travels around the Yucatán Peninsula, we’ll link a few nearby destinations you might love too. Cheers!
12 Things to Know BEFORE Booking a Cancun Sunset Cruise