Where to Stay in Cancun: Best Areas, Hotels and Resorts
Wondering where to stay in Cancun? Cancun, Mexico’s number one tourist destination, is known worldwide for its spectacular beaches, unique beauty, and crystal-clear turquoise waters. Cancun’s Hotel Zone is one of the most popular and beautiful places to stay on your trip to Mexico.
The northern part is known for its energetic and active nightlife while the central and southern parts are quieter. However, you can also stay in other places outside the hotel zone where you can enjoy the Caribbean Sea or take day tours.
In this post, you’ll find the best places to stay in Cancun if you’re looking for affordable or all-inclusive resorts or if you’re planning a family trip.
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Where to Stay in Cancun
1. Hotel Zone – Best for Family
Where to stay in the Cancun Hotel Zone if you are looking for all-inclusive resorts or traveling with your family? The Hotel Zone is a long stretch of road with hotels and resorts on both sides. Most resorts are directly on the white sandy beach and have luxury suites overlooking the Caribbean Sea.
You can snorkel directly in front of the hotel, swim in the clear azure waters, or choose an exclusive water sport and make your trip unforgettable. However, we recommend booking an all-inclusive resort as there are very few restaurants in this area.
If you want to get downtown cheaper than a taxi, walk out to the street where there are many bus stops and catch the R1 bus. This bus will take you directly from the Hotel zone to the Ado bus station located in the city center, so if you want to continue your journey by bus from Cancun it is a good choice.
The Cancun Hotel Zone is the best area to stay for the first time with your family, your partner, or if you are traveling with friends.
Grand Fiesta Americana – All Inclusive
Where to stay in Cancun with kids? The Grand Fiesta is a luxury all-inclusive beachfront resort with direct sea views from almost every room. The resort is located on a secluded white sandy beach and offers over 600 sea-view suites. This family-friendly resort also has a Kids Club, perfect for children aged 3-12.
The indoor areas offer individually designed zones for different age groups, while the outdoor area features remote-controlled toy vehicles for multi-generational competitions. Relax by the hotel pool or recharge with a massage and hydrotherapy treatment in the hotel’s wellness area.
The Grand Fiesta is one of the best places to stay in the Cancun Hotel Zone if you are traveling with your family and looking for relaxation in a luxury resort.
Photo credit: Grand Fiesta Americana Coral Beach
Hyatt Ziva
Where to stay in Cancun if you are looking for one of the best all-inclusive resorts? The Hyatt Ziva is a stunning resort in the most beautiful Caribbean beachfront area of Punta Cancun. The hotel offers more than 500 rooms and luxury suites with Caribbean decor, handmade furnishings, and everything you need for a relaxing holiday.
Spend a day rejuvenating body and soul at the beachfront spa, where optional massages and holistic body treatments are available. Relax in one of the infinity pools or the large hot tub, all overlooking the Caribbean Sea. This family-friendly resort has a kids club, water sports activities, and 8 unique restaurants serving local and international cuisine.
Photo credit: Hyatt Ziva
Wyndham Alltra – All Inclusive Resort
Where to stay in the Cancun hotel zone? Immerse yourself in an unforgettable vacation at Wyndham’s Alltra Resort, overlooking the brilliant blue sea and a stretch of golden sand rated as one of the best beaches in the world. The family-friendly all-inclusive resort offers an infinite number of activities in the Hotel Zone.
The resort has water slides, a kids’ club, and endless activities to ensure fun for all ages. Choose from a wide selection of dishes at the buffet restaurant or try creative cocktails at the on-site bar. This beachfront resort in Cancun is one of the best choices for families who want to stay in an unrivaled location close to the Caribbean Sea.
Photo credit: Wyndham Alltra – All Inclusive Resort
2. City Center – Best for Everyone
Where to stay in Cancun if you are looking for affordable hotels? The City Center is the best choice for cheaper accommodation but still a short taxi ride from the best beaches. It is a safe area with plenty of restaurants, supermarkets and is close to the Ado bus station.
One of the cheapest ways to get from the airport to downtown is by air-conditioned ADO bus or minivan. The travel time is approximately 45 minutes, depending on traffic, and costs 8 USD per person. The A/C buses run all day from the Airport to ADO Terminal Autobuses Cancun every 30 minutes from 01:00 AM to 8:00 PM.
Get your Bus and Minivan Tickets
This is one of the best and cheapest areas to stay in Cancun if you plan to travel by public transport in Mexico.
The Quetzal
Where to stay in Cancun on a budget? The Quetzal Hotel is just a 10-minute walk from the Ado bus station, perfect for those arriving in the city by public transport. Free parking is available if you arrive by car. The hotel is located in a quiet and clean area close to the city center and a shopping mall.
The rooms have everything you need for a relaxing stay. It has a pool, which is a great place to relax and recharge. Guests can enjoy a freshly served American breakfast, which is also available in the room.
Photo credit: The Quetzal
Adhara Hacienda
Hotel Adhara is a modern and authentic Mexican hacienda in the city center near the Ado bus station. The design and decor reflect Mexico’s rich culture and traditions, providing guests with a unique experience. There’s also an outdoor swimming pool where you can chill out and relax in the sun or enjoy a tropical cocktail.
The restaurant offers authentic Mexican dishes from tacos and enchiladas to fresh guacamole and spicy sauces. Offering a free shuttle service to the nearby beach, the hotel is one of the best choices if you arrive by bus to the city center.
Photo credit: Adhara Hacienda
Casa Neem
Casa Neem is a boho-style Mexican apartment that offers affordable accommodation in the center of Cancun in a safe and quiet neighborhood. Shops and restaurants are nearby and Ado bus station is just a few minutes’ walk away. The apartment has a modern, well-equipped kitchenette with a microwave and electric kettle.
The hotel also offers an airport shuttle service, but if you need it, you can also rent a car. The hotel is a great base for day trips or to the nearby beaches.
Photo credit: Casa Neem
3. Where to stay in Cancun for Couples
Costa Mujeres is a peninsula located just 20 minutes north of Cancun, with fewer hotels but a quiet and peaceful area. Pristine white sandy beaches, crystal clear turquoise waters, everything ideal for a relaxing holiday. But its calm waters are also perfect for a variety of water sports.
From kayaking to paddleboarding or catamaran, there are many ways to enjoy the Caribbean Sea. Opposite is the island of Isla Mujeres, where you can also take a luxury catamaran sailing. On your sailing tour, you can snorkel, swim, and watch the amazing views, or take a break and enjoy a delicious lunch on board the catamaran.
Book your Isla Mujeres Luxury Catamaran Tour
This area is perfect for first-time visitors to Cancun and for those looking for a sophisticated and luxurious getaway away from the city.
Atelier Playa – Adults Only – All Inclusive Resort
Where to stay in Cancun if I’m looking for adults-only accommodation in a quieter area? Atelier Playa is an all-inclusive luxury resort for adults, nestled between the crystalline waters of the Caribbean Sea and a magnificent golf course. The nearly 600 suites feature stunning design, marble and wood decor, unique amenities, and stunning sea views.
The suites are modern, with every element, from the elegant furniture to the thoughtful lighting, adding to the magical atmosphere. The resort has 12 bars, 2 cafés, and 13 restaurants serving authentic Mexican and international cuisine.
Photo credit: Atelier Playa
Majestic Elegance – All Inclusive
The Majestic Elegance is an incredible all-inclusive resort surrounded by the most stunning scenery, ideal for those looking for comfort and style on holiday in the Caribbean. The hotel is divided into two zones, one for families and one for adults only, to ensure that all guests feel comfortable.
The suites are spacious with lots of natural light, large wardrobes, several seating areas, and comfortable beds. Treat yourself to a beachside dinner, relax with a spa treatment, or choose from a variety of water sports ideal for an active holiday. This is one of the best places to stay near Cancun in Costa Mujeres if you are looking for an all-inclusive resort.
Photo credit: Majestic Elegance
Catalonia Grand Costa Mujeres – All Inclusive
Catalonia Grand is an all-inclusive resort with modern suites with terraces or balconies, as well as daytime and nighttime activities. The resort beach is perfectly clean and calm, the ideal place to relax with a tropical cocktail. In addition to lying on the beach in the Caribbean sun, you can also cool off in the resort’s two large pools.
The resort offers a buffet of restaurants, bars, shops, and day and night entertainment. There is also a children’s pool and Kids Club, so it is a great choice for families. We recommend this resort to anyone looking for a fun and relaxing holiday.
Photo credit: Catalonia Grand Costa Mujeres
4. Where to Stay near Cancun Airport
Where to stay in Cancun for a night? These accommodations are in a great location, near the Cancun airport, making them a good choice for a one-night stay. It’s an ideal choice to relax after a long flight if you want to skip the city, or if you have an early flight the next day and want to be close to the airport.
The hotels offer an airport shuttle service to make your journey easier. However, there are no restaurants or shops in this area, so we recommend that you bring enough snacks and food with you.
Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott
Located close to the airport, Fairfield Inn & Suites is perfect for those who need overnight accommodation for an early flight the next day or a late flight. The hotel offers a free, fast, and efficient airport shuttle service. All rooms have modern facilities and furnishings, ensuring a stylish and comfortable retreat.
Start your day with a free breakfast of classic favorites, including omelets, bacon, mini waffles, fresh fruit, Greek yogurt, and sweet bread. This is one of the best hotels to stay near Cancun Airport if comfort is important to you.
Photo credit: Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott
1st Luxury Warehouse
Where to Stay near Cancun Airport? The luxury apartment is just a few minutes from the airport in an unusual location in an industrial park, which is a truly unique experience. Excellent modern apartment with all the comforts, fully equipped kitchenette, TV with Netflix access so you can watch your series and films in comfort.
The property offers a paid airport shuttle service. Affordable but comfortable accommodation for a night, or if you’re waiting for a flight you’ll probably feel more comfortable here than waiting at the airport.
Photo credit: 1st Luxury Warehouse
City Express by Marriott
A clean and modern hotel was recently built near the airport. The hotel has everything you need for a relaxing stay before or after your flight. An American-style breakfast is served hot and cold, including fruit, pastries, sliced bread, granola, yogurt, cold cuts, and a variety of boiled eggs, side dishes, coffee and tea. The hotel is perfect for an overnight stay near Cancun airport, with a free shuttle to and from the airport.
Photo credit: City Express by Marriott
5. Puerto Juárez
Where to stay in Cancun if you want a less touristy but safe place near the beach? This area is located not far from the city center on the beach, a quieter area away from the popular tourist spots of Cancun. Isla Mujeres is easily accessible if you want to spend a day there as the ferry port is located here.
There are not so many shopping choices in the area but you can easily get to the city center by Uber. On the beach, you’ll find a few Mexican restaurants with thatched roofs where you can enjoy fresh seafood and beautiful sea views. There are some expensive resorts, but you can find much cheaper accommodations here than in the Hotel Zone.
Dreams Vista Golf & Spa Resort
Dreams Vista is an all-inclusive luxury resort located on the beachfront in the Puerta del Mar area, with breathtaking views of Isla Mujeres. Treat yourself to adventure and elegance in one of over 400 rooms and suites with stunning views of the Caribbean Sea. The luxuriously decorated rooms and suites feature a clean design and a range of lavish amenities.
Recharge with a world-class Dreams Spa on the beach or rooftop pool, or choose from a variety of adventures in the surf pool or climbing wall. Ideally located on the beach, Dreams Vista is a great choice for families, groups of friends, and couples.
Photo credit: Dreams Vista Golf & Spa Resort
Casa Lara Homestay
Casa Lara Homestay is located in a safe area close to the beach which is across the street. There are many beach restaurants nearby, and due to the good location, you can easily and quickly get to the city center with Uber. The rooms have everything you need for a relaxing stay. A variety of delicious breakfasts are served every day, including fresh fruit.
The homestay’s rooftop pool is the perfect place to relax after a long day of exploring.
Photo credit: Casa Lara Homestay
Cancun: FAQ
Top Tours
Chichen Itza, Cenote, and Valladolid Tour
Isla Mujeres Luxury Catamaran Tour
Tulum Ruins, Reef Snorkeling, Cenote and Caves
Cancun Adventure: Turtles, Reef, Musa, Shipwreck, Cenote
Xcaret Park Day Trip
Best time to Visit
The best time to visit Cancun is between December and April. This period is the dry season, with pleasant temperatures and little rainfall.
How to Get to Cancun
Getting to Cancun City may seem difficult, but depending on your time and budget, there are several ways to get there. You can easily get to the city center from the airport by taxi, ADO bus, rental car, and airport transfer.
Recommended post → Cancun Airport to City Center
How to get around?
For nearby attractions or day trips, you can join a group or private tour, travel by taxi, Uber, or rent a bike. If you want to travel to another city, take the Ado bus.
Where to Stay in Cancun: Map of the Best Areas
We’ve categorized Cancun into 5 areas to help you find the best places to stay.
We hope our post on the best areas and hotels in Cancun helps you plan to choose where to stay. If you have any questions or thoughts, let us know in the comment below.
More Travel Guides about Mexico
- Ultimate Yucatan Peninsula Itinerary
- 10 Best Things to Do in the Yucatan Peninsula
- Guide to Visiting Chichen Itza
- 10 Things to Do in Tulum
- 7 Best Things to Do in Bacalar
- 9 Best Cenotes in Tulum
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