Where to stay in Cancun [Best Places to Stay for 2024]

With cool, Caribbean seas, sandy beaches and warm weather, Cancun has been welcoming travelers from all over the world since the 1970s.

The ancient Mayan civilization of the Yucatan Peninsula has been slowly replaced by all-inclusive resorts and sunburned tourists exploring the Mexican state of Quintana Roo.

Cancun hotel and resort options continue to expand, making it hard to choose where to stay in Cancun in 2024.

We’ve pulled together the best areas of Cancun and nearby resort towns to help you narrow down your options to the best location and then decide on the best hotels for your travel taste and budget. Wondering best place to stay in Cancun all-inclusive? There are plenty of options below.

❤️ Best Area first timers	Hotel Zone
💸 Best Luxury Hotel	Hilton Playa del Carmen
👪 Best Hotel for For Families	Casa Azul Maya
🏨 Best Mid-Range Hotel	Flamingo Cancun Resort
🛏️ Best Budget Hotel	Hotel los Girasoles Cancun
✨ Best Hostel	Mayan Monkey Cancun

We will cover off all types of Cancun accommodation options from Hostels to luxury Cancun hotels as well as how to decide where to stay in Cancun Mexico.

This guide shows the best Cancun hotels, best places in Cancun to visit, the best places to stay in Cancun, hotels near Cancun attractions, Cancun neighborhood guide and many more.

Hotel Zone – Where to Stay in Cancun for tourists

Sometimes called the Cancun 7 for the “7” shape of the island jutting out, the Hotel Zone is the best area for tourists on their first visit to Cancun. The narrow island is 22 kilometers long and is lined with Cancun All-Inclusive resorts and hotels. 

With more than 70 hotels in the hotel zone, there are different kinds of resorts for every traveler. If you want to know where to stay in Cancun with family, there are tons of family-friendly activities along the strip.

The Hotel Zone of Cancun is also home to the area known as the party zone. The Cancun All-Inclusive resorts vary greatly from hedonistic party scenes to relaxed, family-friendly resorts, so it’s important to choose your resort carefully, especially if you are visiting during the American Spring Break period during March and April. 

Each resort in the hotel zone has a private beach, so you’ll never have to worry about beach access if you stay here. 

Hotel Zone Cancun also encompasses Punta Cancun. The tip of the Cancun 7 is Punta Cancun, which is the best area to stay in Cancun for nightlife. Technically part of the hotel zone, this subsection is known as the Party Zone, with over two dozen nightclubs where travelers can dance the night away.

The Riu Cancun is pretty much Ground Zero for Cancun’s party scene, so if proximity to nightlife is important to you, choose a hotel near that area. Most nightclubs will charge a fairly steep cover charge, from $50 to $70 USD which includes open bar, with upgrade options available.  

Why Stay in Hotel Zone Cancun

With over 70 hotels and resorts to choose from, there is at least one where you can find your dream vacation in. A couple on a romantic getaway? La Blanca Spa Resort is an all-inclusive adult-only resort that can give you everything you need for that romantic getaway.

Taking the family? Stay at the Grand Fiesta Americana which caters to kids with kid clubs and organized activities.

With beautiful beaches, a plethora of activities, and quick access to major attractions, Hotel Zone Cancun is the place to stay no matter how you travel. 

Things To Do in Hotel Zone Cancun

• Museum of Underwater Art

This unique experience will have you reliving these moments time and again long after you are home. Snorkel or dive the Museum of Underwater Art, an underwater sculpture museum. Over 500 sculptures lay under the sea for you to enjoy.

Most of the art is sculpted by Jason deCaires Taylor with local Mexican Artists also contributing. There are two different galleries that can be viewed in a few different ways.

You can snorkel through or take a glass bottom boat. Punta Nizuc Gallery is only four feet under the waterand is great for snorkeling.

Manchones Gallery, is located off the coast of Isla Mujeres. 10 to 12 feet deep and is highly recommended for divers. Whichever way you decide to explore this unusual art display, it will be a moment to remember. 

• Interactive Aquarium

Swim with the dolphins, pet a stingray or submerge yourself in an aquarium. When they say interactive, they mean it.

This educational attraction makes learning fun for the whole family. With interactive sites designed for different age groups, everyone at every age can touch and learn about life under the sea.

Entrance to the Interactive Aquarium is $15, book a swim with the dolphins through your resort, the entrance fee is free. A fun day for the entire family. 

• Visit an Archeology Museum

Take a walk back in time to The Museo Museum located in the Hotel Zone. Learn the Mayan history through the many exhibits on display.

Walk down a jungle path leading to San Miguelito, an original Mayan settlement that now sits in ruins.

Explore the settlement to learn the lifestyle and the ways of the Mayan culture that lived so many years ago. A history lesson that you can touch and experience firsthand is a great way to spend a day in Cancun. 

• Nightlife

The Hotel Zone is party central in Cancun. With a variety of clubs and bars to choose from you can attend a different party every night.

Visit the largest club in Latin America, The City Discotheque. With 9 bars, 3 floors, a floating dance floor and a maximum capacity of 5000 people, you are guaranteed to have a great time.

For some great atmosphere, visit the Congo Bar or undecided on where to go, you can do a Pub crawl with Cuncrawl and visit 3 of the hottest nightspots all in one night.

Whether you are looking for late-night drinks on the beach or a night of dancing to the vibe you can find it in the Hotel Zone Cancun.

Best place to stay in the Hotel Zone Cancun

Cheapest Backpacking Hostels in the Hotel Zone
Stay Green 16 Hotel
Hostel Natura
Mayan Monkey Cancun
Nirvana Hotel & Hostel – Cancun Hotel Zone

Budget Hotels in the Hotel Zone
Bed & Beach & Fun Cancun Hotel Zone
Sotavento Hotel & Yacht Club
Grand Royal Lagoon
Selina Cancun Laguna

Mid range Hotels in the Hotel Zone 
Hotel & Museo Casa Turquesa
Flamingo Cancun Resort
Hotel NYX Cancun
Grand Park Royal Luxury Resort Cancun

Family Friendly Hotels in the Hotel Zone
Sunset Royal Beach Resort
Park Royal Cancun
The Westin Lagunamar Ocean Resort Villas & Spa, Cancun
La Villa du Golf a Cancun

Affordable Luxury Hotels in the Hotel Zone
Hyatt Zilara Cancun
Grand Fiesta Americana Coral Beach
Live Aqua Beach Resort Cancun
Canopy By Hilton Cancun La Isla

Downtown – Where to stay in Cancun on a budget

If you want to know where to stay in Cancun on a budget, downtown Cancun, or Centro, is a great option. Being 20 minutes from the beach means there are loads of budget-friendly accommodations to choose from. 

Downtown Cancun also has a distinctly more “authentic” feel than the Americanized resorts of the hotel zone.

Not only are the hotels less expensive, but it’s easier to find cheap delicious street food that Mexico is famous for. Even if you don’t choose a hotel here, plan to spend one evening strolling the streets of downtown Cancun. 

Why Stay in Downtown Cancun

Staying in Downtown Cancun allows you to have a Cancun vacation adventure without breaking the bank while enjoying the authentic Mexican culture.

Snack on Mexico’s famous street food, shop the vendor stalls of Mercado 28 flea market and stroll through the main central square of downtown Cancun, Parque de las Palapas.

Take a day tour of the local attractions from the many tour packages offered throughout downtown.

With transportation in downtown Cancun easily accessible and the beaches only 5 min away, this is a budget-friendly Mexican adventure you will not want to miss. 

Things To Do in Downtown Cancun

• Mercado 28 Flea Market

Mercado 28 is a large flea market located in Plaza San Miguel and is known for its variety of shops and food stalls. Visit the many vendors selling local goods such as clothes, jewelry, and handmade trinkets.

Taste the many local delicacies sold throughout the market at the food stalls. You are sure to find the perfect souvenir at the Mercado 28 Flea Market. and have a fun afternoon. 

• Parque de las Palapas

Parque de las Palapas is the central square in Downtown Cancun. A favourite place for the locals to meet and grab a snack from the local food vendors situated throughout the square.

It is a wonderful opportunity for tourists to meet and chat with the local community. As well as providing outdoor performances for you to enjoy, it is a great day at the park.

• Taco Tour Cancun

Do you seriously love Tacos? Mix great food with great fun and take a Taco Tour. Visit different restaurants to taste the best tacos Cancun has to offer.

There are many food tours to choose from. Each will take you to the best taquerias in Cancun to enjoy the different types of tacos available.

Try some authentic Mexican beer or sip a margarita with your taco for a truly delicious and unique kind of food tour. 

• Enjoy the Street Art in Downtown Cancun

The streets of Downtown Cancun not only give you beautiful boutiques and tasty street food they are also an art gallery.

As you stroll the streets of the downtown, experience the beauty of the masterful street art that is painted on the walls of downtown.

There are Street Art Tours available or you can wander the streets and make your own discoveries of these magnificent art pieces.

No matter which way you choose, it will be an Art Gallery that will touch your soul and live in your heart forever. 

Best place to stay in Downtown Cancun

Cheapest Backpacking Hostels in Downtown Cancun
Venado-Ocho
La Luz Hostal Cancun
Hostel Ka Beh
Nomads Hotel & Rooftop Pool Cancun

Budget Hotels in Downtown Cancun
Hotel los Girasoles Cancun
Suites Cancun Centro
Maria De Lourdes
Hotel Xbalamque Resort & Spa

Mid range Hotels in Downtown Cancun
Kabah Boutique Hotel
Hotel Blue Star Cancun
Grand City Hotel
Oh! The Urban Oasis

Family Friendly Hotels in Downtown Cancun
Hotel Kavia
Suites Gaby Hotel
Eco-Hotel El Rey Del Caribe
Casa Blanca

Affordable Luxury Hotels in Downtown Cancun
Villa Sofía Holiday Accommodations
The Quetzal
Four Points by Sheraton Cancun Centro

Isla Mujeres – Where to stay in Cancun with family

Another quiet escape from the chaos of Cancun is Isla Mujeres, just a few kilometers north of Cancun’s hotel zone. 

To reach Isla Mujeres, you take a 20-minute ferry from Cancun, and most people get around the small island on golf carts. 

Several beaches surround the island, from calm sandy beaches to stunning coral reefs perfect for snorkeling.

Accommodation in Isla Mujeres options range from luxury villas to budget-friendly hostels, but the vibe is definitely laid-back.  Several adventure tours depart from the island if you prefer something more active than beach bumming. 

Why Stay in Isla Mujeres

This island paradise just across Bahia de Mujeres (Bay of Women) from Cancun is the perfect tropical getaway for the family.

Miles of white sandy beaches, fun water sports and family activities await you in Isla Mujeres.

Spend the day building sand castles or take a walk through the palm trees to the temple of Mayan Goddess Ixchel at Punta Sur Park to visit the ruins of this ancient Mayan temple.

Enjoy the tranquillity and serenity for the whole family staying on this charming little island in the Caribbean.

Things To Do in Isla Mujeres 

• Hit The Beach

There are three major beaches in Isla Mujeres for you to enjoy Playa Norte, Playa Centro and Playa Albatros, each with its own attributes. The most popular beach, Playa Norte is rated one of the best beaches in the world.

As the sun glistens off the white sandy beaches and the warm turquoise water laps at the shore, this beach invites you to relax and enjoy the tranquillity.

Along the beach, you can choose from a variety of beach clubs and restaurants to complete your day at the beach. 

• Water Sports in Isla Mujeres 

Surrounded by water, you know there have to be some fun water sports provided in Isla Mujeres. In fact, there is one water sport that can only be found in Isla Mujeres in all of the Caribbean. Wing Diving is kind of like surfing but under the water.

Hanging on to two gliding panels, a slow boat pulls you through the water. Underwater you can twist and turn with a tilt of your gliders. Tilting them up will bring you up to the surface.

A wonderful underwater experience for every age. Snorkelling and deep fish fishing is also a poplular water sport in Isla Mujeres for the whole family to enjoy.

• Visit Punta Sur Park

Punta Sur Park is located at Isla Mujeres’s southernmost tip. This incredible Eco Park is the highest point on the island and the first to feel the sun’s morning rays.

A magical place that links art, nature and history in a most beautiful way. Stroll to the top and admire the exquisite views of the Gulf of Mexico, walk through the sculpture park and appreciate the variety of artistic works of renowned artists from around the world.

Visit the Mayan temple of the Goddess Ixchel built by the Mayan people so long ago. Punta Sur is a place where age does not matter. There is something for everyone. 

Best place to stay in Isla Mujeres

Cheapest Backpacking Hostels in Isla Mujeres
Itzé Hostel
Poc-Na Hostel

Budget Hotels in Isla Mujeres
Hotel Marcianito
Villas Coco Resort
Hotel Posada Del Mar
Villas Keh

Mid range Hotels in Isla Mujeres
Izla Hotel
The Mermaid and The Pearl Boutique B&B
Boutique Hotel Bahia Tolok
Hotel Bahia Chac Chi – Adults Only

Family Friendly Hotels in Isla Mujeres
Maria’s Kan-kin
Hotel La Joya
Hotel Berny
Casa Azul Maya

Affordable Luxury Hotels in Isla Mujeres
Icaco Island Village – Adults Only
Isla Mujeres Palace
Zoetry Villa Rolandi Isla Mujeres Cancun – All Inclusive
Casa Coco by Coco B Isla

Playa del Carmen – Where to stay near Cancun for couples

Wondering where to stay in Cancun for couples? About an hour south of Cancun’s hotel zone is the former fishing village of Playa del Carmen. 

Quiet sandy beaches and top-notch diving spots make this the best place to stay for couples traveling to Quintana Roo. 

Playa del Carmen is also a great location for exploring nearby Mayan ruins, of which there are several nearby. 

All-inclusive resorts abound here, and it’s quickly becoming a popular alternative to Cancun. The Malecon, Quinta Avenida, lines the waterfront with fun bars, restaurants, and shops.

Why Stay in Playa del Carmen

Looking for that quiet getaway for just the two of you? Someplace where you can unwind and enjoy each other’s company. Playa del Carmen is the laid-back version of Cancun.

There is still a lot to do and you can feel the party vibe but in a more relaxing atmosphere. Relax with a drink in hand from the many bars and beach clubs along the beach, sit and watch local performers at Parque Fundadores.

Shop Playa del Carmen’s famous 5th Avenue, or Quinta Avenida as the locals refer to it. There are so many ways to make your Caribbean vacation memorable in Paya del Carmen.

Things To Do in Playa del Carmen

• Xaman-Ha Mayan Ruins

This hidden gem is one of the smaller examples of the Mayan ruins in the area and is also one of the few that are free to visit. Within walking distance of Playa del Carmen beach is Xaman-Ha ruins.

Built-in 1200 – 1500 AD these few buildings are what is left of a small fishing village. Follow a jungle trail to reach the ruins and watch out for the iguanas sunning themselves on the walls of what’s left of Xaman-Ha. 

• Quinta Avenida

5th Avenue or affectionately known as Quinta Avenida by the locals is a pedestrian walkway that runs parallel to Playa del Carmen Beach.

A 22-block-long street filled with small boutiques, exquisite shops and local goods for sale, it is a shopping experience you will not forget. Stop and have lunch or dinner at the many restaurants that line the street.

Go in the evening and see local street performers share their talents in an evening of twinkling lights and quaint bars to make your day complete.   

• Play, Swim, Relax on the Beach

There is nothing like a relaxing day at the beach. Sipping margaritas while you dip your toes in the crystal blue waters of the sea or take a romantic stroll on the white sands of the beach watching the fabulous sunset.

Playa del Carmen Beach is the most popular beach, but if you are looking for a little quiet interlude for just the two of you, visit Playacar Beach.

Snorkelling and scuba diving are also a popular water sport in Playa del Carmen. Being close to one of the most beautiful coral reefs in the world makes this a hotspot for snorkelling and scuba diving enthusiasts. 

• Parque Fundadores

As you enter Parque Fundadores you will go under the Portal Maya. A 50-foot high sculpture built in 2011 of two people reaching out for each other.

As you stroll through this beachfront park you can enjoy a tradition of the Cultural heritage of Mexico. Voladores is a ceremony created in about 600 BC. Watch as 5 men climb to the top of a tall pole.

While one stays on top to call the gods by beating a drum or playing the flute, the other men tie themselves off with ropes and “fly’ through the air like birds.

It is said this ceremony will bring the rains, fertilizing the land to cultivate a good crop. A trip to the park you will not soon forget.  

Best place to stay in Playa del Carmen

Cheapest Backpacking Hostels in Playa del Carmen
Lezzoto hostel Boutique 2,5
Hoste MXV Quinta Avenida
Wabi Hostel
Che Playa Hostel & Bar Adults Only

Budget Hotels in Playa del Carmen
Hotel All Riviera
Bosque Caribe Hotel
Hotel Kay Adults Only
Hotel Kinbe

Mid range Hotels in Playa del Carmen
Hacienda Paradise Boutique Hotel
Reina Roja Hotel
Holiday Inn Express and Suites
HM Playa del Carmen

Family Friendly Hotels in Playa del Carmen
Aventura Mexicana
Soho Playa Hotel
Hotel Aspira & Beach Club
Iberostar Tucan Hotel

Affordable Luxury Hotels in Playa del Carmen
Banyan Tree Mayakoba
Grand Hyatt Playa Del Carmen Resort
Thompson Playa Del Carmen
Hilton Playa del Carmen – All-Inclusive Adult Only Resort

Puerto Morelos – Where to stay near Cancun for tourists

Between Cancun and Playa del Carmen is the sleepy town of Puerto Morelos. It’s fairly close to the Cancun airport and is a great option for travelers looking for budget-friendly accommodations outside of Cancun. Puerto Morelos has a botanical garden and several cenotes nearby to explore.

This is the best area for tourists who want the convenience of a major airport and easy tourist infrastructure, but want to get off the beaten tourist path just a bit. 

You won’t find as many large-scale all-inclusive resorts, but plenty of accommodation options for every budget.

Why Stay in Puerto Morelos

Located between two of the busiest tourist hubs in the Yucatan is Puerto Morelos. A laid-back fishing village that gives you the tranquillity of being away from it all but close enough to visit.

You can still watch the fisherman bring in the day’s haul of fish in this quaint fishing village. White sandy beaches line this serene tropical paradise with a few hidden gems nearby.

Snorkel or dive The Mesoamerican Reef or watch as the turtles lay their eggs on the shore. Small boutiques to shop at and excellent restaurants line the streets of Puerto Morelos for a wonderful day of shopping.

This budget-friendly piece of paradise will have you coming back again and again. 

Things To Do in Puerto Morelos

• The Mesoamerican Reef

The Mesoamerican Reef runs 625 miles along the coast of Honduras, Guatemala, Belize and Mexico. It is the largest barrier reef in the Western Hemisphere.

Snorkel or dive into this beautiful one-of-a-kind natural barrier to see the stunning colours and multitudes of ocean life that make it their home.

Make it a day and take a catamaran out to the reef with Puerto Morelos Catamaran Reef Sail and Snorkel. Swim, snorkel or dive The Mesoamerican Reef is a natural wonder to be explored. 

• El Faro Inclinado (The Leaning Lighthouse)

Just off the main beach in Puerto Morelos is a slightly offset lighthouse. Damaged by Hurricane Beulah in 1967 this iconic lighthouse has sat as a symbol of strength for Mexican people since then.

With some of the foundation being washed away it stands as a reminder to everyone that you can indeed weather the storm. 

• Jardin Botanico Dr. Alfredo Marin

Explore 65 hectares of botanical gardens and jungle foliage as you walk through this biodiverse garden. Walk the 2 km pathways and discover the beautiful orchid garden while watching the spider monkeys swing through the trees.

Climb the tower and walk the suspension bridge for a fabulous view of the grounds and surrounding area. Jardin Botanico is the largest Botanical garden in Mexico and a must-see when you visit.

Best place to stay in Puerto Morelos

Cheapest Backpacking Hostels in Puerto Morelos
Hostel Humanity
Hostal Cuca Macuca

Budget Hotels in Puerto Morelos
Hotel Ojo De Agua
Suites SanRey
Abbey Del Sol
Suites Valentina

Mid range Hotels in Puerto Morelos
Hotel el Moro
Hotel Hacienda Morelos
Layla Guesthouse
Hotel Amar Inn

Family Friendly Hotels in Puerto Morelos
Corales Suites
Hotel Marina El Cid Spa & Beach Resort
Vela’s Condos Ocean Front
Hotel Arrecifes Suites

Affordable Luxury Hotels in Puerto Morelos
Dreams Riviera Cancun Resort & Spa
Dreams Jade Resort & Spa – All Inclusive
Grand Residences Riviera Cancun
Azul Beach Resort Resort Riviera Cancun

Cozumel – Where to stay near Cancun for divers

Off the coast from Playa del Carmen is the island of Cozumel. This Caribbean island is largely undeveloped but very popular with SCUBA divers. 

Cozumel is also a major port of call for Caribbean cruise ships, so prepare to be overwhelmed by passengers on cruise ship days. In addition to diving, the snorkeling in Cozumel is amazing.

There are also Mayan ruins to visit, both on the island and on the mainland. For convenience, you can even fly directly to Cozumel and bypass Cancun entirely if you wish. 

Why Stay in Cozumel

Fly directly to this island paradise and start snorkelling or diving right away. Cozumel is world-renowned for its scuba diving. Dive the Mesoamerica Reef or for more experienced divers, explore the caves at Colombia Wall.

No matter your dive experience the many dive shops available will give you all the equipment and training to enjoy your time under the sea. There are many things to do out of the water as well, on this island wonderland.

Explore the Wild East Side of the island to experience the raw side of nature, visit the Mayan ruin of El Cedral and shop the quaint streets of San Miguel de Cozumel. There are many activities on the island to make this a vacation to remember. 

Things To Do in Cozumel

• Walk the Malecon

The Malecon is a 5.4-mile boardwalk located on the shore near San Miguel, Cozumel. On one side beautiful ocean waters, on the other, shops, boutiques and restaurants for you to enjoy.

At the end of the boardwalk sit on the bench and enjoy the beautiful sunset over the horizon. A wonderful way to spend an afternoon. 

• Explore The Mayan Ruins of Cozumel

Dating back to 800 AD, El Cedral Ruins was the destination for Mayan women to visit the Goddess IX Chel; the Goddess of Childbirth. These ruins cover 2 square miles and are a shining example of Mayan culture.

It is said El Cedral was the first early warning weather system. A hole strategically placed in the building would emit a whistling sound to warn the people of bad weather approaching.

Walk across the road to the Lagoon Tower for some beautiful views. A walk back in history that will not soon be forgotten. 

• Dive and Snorkel in Cozumel

World famous for its snorkelling and diving attractions, for people with a passion for underwater adventures, Cozumel is the place to be. Whether you are a beginner or a seasoned diver, there is a place for everyone to see the beauty that lies beneath the sea.

From the majestic beauty of the Mesoamerica Reef to the spectacular sight of a C-53 shipwreck, it will be a diving experience you will remember for a lifetime. 

• Submarine Expedition

Discover the underwater mysteries and stay dry with Atlantis Submarines. Take a ride on Mexico’s only tourist submarine and discover the beauty that lies below.

Peer through the portholes to see a sunken ship or the 400-foot vertical drop known as the wall. A great way to explore the ocean depths without a wetsuit.

Best place to stay in Cozumel

Cheapest Backpacking Hostels in Cozumel
Amigos Hostel Cozumel
Blue Magic Hostel
Hostelito Cozumel
Hostel Tropico 20º

Budget Hotels in Cozumel
Hotel La Casona Real
Caribo Cozumel
Kinta Kan Boutique Hotel
Casa del Solar Centro Cozumel

Mid range Hotels in Cozumel
Hotel Villas El Encanto
Suites Colonial
Hotel Pal Cozumel
Hotel Puerto Libre

Family Friendly Hotels in Cozumel
Villas Las Anclas
Hotel Cozumel & Resort
Casa Mexicana Cozumel
Hotel Barracuda

Affordable Luxury Hotels in Cozumel
Cozumel Palace – All Inclusive
Presidente Inter-Continental Cozumel Resort & Spa
The Westin Cozumel
Grand Park Royal Cozumel

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