Mexico › Cancún › Best Hotels
Updated: September 24, 2024
My Favorite Cancún Hotels
• 5-star: Atelier
• 4-star: Hyatt Ziva
• 3-star: Crown Paradise
• For families: Grand Residences
• For couples: Nizuc
• Best all-ages all-inclusive: Grand Fiesta Americana
Atelier is our pick for an all-inclusive resort for couples and honeymoons in Cancún.
Cancún Hotels – My Advice
- Cancún has some wonderful 5-star resorts that we love. But for smaller boutique hotels, we prefer to stay in Tulum and Isla Mujeres – two of my favorite beach destinations in Mexico.
- Booking.com – the best website (and best prices) for booking Cancún hotels.
- Our Favorite Luxury Hotels in Cancún: Atelier • Nizuc • Kempinski
- Our Favorite Boutique Hotel in Cancún: SLS Cancun
- Our Favorite Hotels for Honeymoon: Nizuc • Le Blanc
- Our Favorite Hotels for Families: Grand Residences • Grand Fiesta Americana • Garza Blanca
- The best places to stay in Cancún are Playa Mujeres (newest resorts on pristine beaches), Riviera Cancún (great beaches, family attractions, and cenotes – located just south of Cancún), Puerto Juárez (has a luxury mall, golf courses, and marinas – set between downtown, the Hotel Zone, and the ferry to Isla Mujeres) and the Hotel Zone. The Hotel Zone is shaped like a number 7, running the length of Boulevard Kukulkan, and is divided into three areas: North (softest sand and gentlest surf, near nightlife), Middle (great beaches, near nightlife and aquatic activities), and South (quietest beaches, farthest from the nightlife and bars).
- Most activities, attractions, and tour operators in Cancún are located in the Hotel Zone. The best way to get around within the Hotel Zone or to get into downtown from there is by bus. Two bus lines serve the Hotel Zone, the R-1 and R-2, both with buses running every 2-3 minutes all day, every day. Bus stops along the main drag are abundant and clearly marked. Catch the bus on the beach side of the road to head toward downtown, or take the bus on the lagoon side of the road to head toward the airport. To catch a bus, simply flag it down from the bus stop. Bus fare is 12 pesos (about $0.60 USD). Passengers are issued tickets for proof of purchase in the odd chance of inspection, but the tickets cannot be used to transfer to another bus. If you exit one bus and catch another, you must purchase an additional ticket. Bus drivers carry change for those paying in pesos. Passengers may also pay in US dollars, but the rate is higher at $1 per person, rather than $0.60, and no change is given. Bus stops do not have names and are not announced. Keep an eye out for your destination, or follow along on your phone’s GPS. To request a stop, move to the rear of the bus and press the red button near the exit or simply shout “Alto!”
Garza Blanca is a wonderful all-inclusive resort for family vacations in Cancún.
Cancún Hotel Map
Hotels on Map: Majestic Elegance • Secrets Playa Mujeres • Dreams Golf & Spa • Atelier • Garza Blanca • Moon Palace The Grand • Azul • Dreams Jade • Grand Residences • Dreams Vista • SLS • Breathless • Riu Palace • InterContinental • Dreams Sands • Grand Fiesta Americana • Hyatt Ziva • Le Blanc • Wyndham Alltra • Hyatt Zilara • Live Aqua • Kempinski • Sandos • Secrets the Vine • Hard Rock • JW Marriott • Marriott Resort • Fiesta Americana • Wyndham Grand • Iberostar • Crown Paradise • Sun Palace • Nizuc
The 33 Best Hotels in Cancún
1. Atelier – Playa Mujeres
All-suite, all-inclusive resort with a romantic atmosphere set on a Blue Flag beach. Luxe facilities include a lavish spa with a hydrotherapy circuit, 13 excellent restaurants, and two pools (heated seasonally). Top-tier Inspira Suites include access to two additional pools, an exclusive serviced zone on the resort’s beach, butler service, and more. Complimentary, daily activities highlight Mexican traditions, like Huichol art classes, clay workshops, tequila tastings, and flower art. Suites are all spacious, beginning at 59 square meters, and include private balconies; some have private pools or access to a semi-private, sharing pool. The resort is open to guests 16 years and up.
2. Nizuc Resort and Spa – South Hotel Zone
The most stylish resort in Cancún, Nizuc features five pools, sumptuous dining, and a Maya-inspired hydrotherapy spa. Rooms, suites, and villas are all generously-sized with private balconies; some add outdoor showers, soaking tubs, or private plunge pools. Ocean Junior Suites are adults-only (there’s also an adults-only pool and restaurant). Dining and drinks are top tier, with fresh, locally sourced ingredients and a wide range of cuisines from contemporary Mexican to Mediterranean to pan-Asian. La Havana features cigars hand-rolled onsite and paired with Caribbean rums. The kids’ club is well-loved with a caring staff, crafts, activities, beach toys, and its own pool. Located on Nizuc Beach, the quietest beach at the tail end of the Hotel Zone, with tame water, white sand, and a reef filled with colorful fish, perfect for first-time snorkelers.
3. Kempinski Hotel Cancún – Middle Hotel Zone
Refined, family-friendly, beach resort boasting some of Cancún’s best restaurants, along with two oceanfront pools and a tranquil spa. Dining is at the forefront with a five-diamond restaurant serving sophisticated dishes with local flair, as well as romantic beachfront dining in private cabanas. An immersive kids clubs offer a range of cultural, crafty, and culinary activities all day, with night safari activities on Fridays and Saturdays. A teens club and game room serves older kids. Rooms and suites all include balconies, soaking tubs, and floor-to-ceiling windows. Some add private pools, outdoor Jacuzzis, or club-level perks. The Grand sits on a glorious stretch of white sand, with crystal blue waters perfect for swimming.
4. Grand Residences – Riviera Cancún
Luxury, family-friendly, all-suite resort on a white sand beach with an oceanfront infinity pool, customized service, and thoughtful amenities, such as round-trip airport transfer included in the rates. Especially great for larger families, their spacious suites can have up to four bedrooms and sleep up to thirteen guests, with a combination of king, double, and Murphy beds. All units come with kitchenettes and whirlpool tubs, while many others add washers and dryers, outdoor Jacuzzis, private pools, and butler service. Family amenities include an amazing kids’ club with sports, activities, and crafts; plus bike tours, craft workshops, and adult amenities like mixology classes and a full-service spa. Guests can choose the all-inclusive, daily breakfast, or European plan to customize their stay. The beach is gorgeous, though rocky and coral-y in some spots, and swimmable, though surf is sometimes strong.
5. Le Blanc Spa Resort – Middle Hotel Zone
Wellness-focused, adults-only, all-inclusive Le Blanc offers three pools, indulgent suites, and exceptional dining. Its grand spa showcases a comprehensive hydrotherapy circuit (free for all guests), couples packages, and holistic body treatments. The relaxation theme continues with double whirlpool tubs, aromatherapy, pillow menus, and butler service included in all rooms and suites. Restaurants are superb with fine and casual dining spotlighting a variety of world cuisines, along with creative cocktails at the bars and onsite nightclub, and an extensive wine selection. Its resort credits program allows guests to customize their all-inclusive experience with excursions, romantic beach dinners, spa services, and more. Though only a ten-minute walk to Cancún’s famous nightlife, their particular stretch of beach is tranquil and well cared for, raked and cleaned daily, with ideal swimming and turquoise water.
6. JW Marriott Resort & Spa – Middle Hotel Zone
Posh, family-friendly, beachfront resort with three interconnected pools, including a scuba pool with a built-in reef and dive lessons onsite. Rooms and one-bedroom suites are large and well-appointed, all with private balconies, soaking tubs, and dual vanities; connecting rooms are available. Their massive, three-story spa offers Mayan-inspired treatments for the whole family in a tranquil space. Dining is excellent, though not particularly adventurous, from their stellar, four-diamond Italian restaurant to their casual Southwestern grill. Guests also have access to the restaurants and kids’ club at their sister property, Marriott Cancun Resort, right next door. The beach here is wide, with plenty of loungers under shady palapas, attentive food and drink service, and the waves are just right for bobbing and body surfing.
7. Grand Fiesta Americana Coral Beach – North Hotel Zone
Located on one of Cancún’s best beaches, this upscale, family-friendly, all-suite resort boasts an enormous, free-form pool, extensive spa, and award-winning dining. Most suites are junior or master suites, all with balconies and ocean views; masters add jetted tubs and more space. Presidential and Governor Suites are the largest, with one and two bedrooms; the Presidential suite features a rooftop plunge pool and full kitchen. Five-diamond Le Basilic and four-diamond La Joya, serving French and Mexican fine dining, are the culinary highlights, though all restaurants here are superb. The spa is a palatial, three-story haven with expert massage and a hydrocircuit that’s complimentary for hotel guests. Open for ages three through twelve, the kids club offers unique amenities like a water park, a theater with costumes, a game room, and a night camp. The Grand Fiesta sits in a protected cove just to the inside of Punta Cancún, with the finest white sand and calm, turquoise water nearly as flat as a pool.
8. Secrets the Vine – Middle Hotel Zone
Beach-chic, adults-only, all-inclusive resort with four dazzling pools, a spa, and phenomenal foods. The Vine stands out for its unique wine concept, with a huge wine cellar (over 4500 to choose from!), wine-based spa treatments, and wine tastings three times a day guided by a knowledgeable sommelier. Rooms have private balconies and connecting options; suites range from junior to two bedrooms, many with soaking tubs. The club-level upgrade grants access to an additional infinity pool, private lounge, and rooms on the highest floors with the best views. Restaurants are exceptional, with a great variety of cuisines all with optional wine pairings. Located on a heavenly beach, clean and well-maintained, with shallow turquoise water.
9. Garza Blanca – Playa Mujeres
Beachfront, kid-friendly resort with the option of booking an all-inclusive or European-plan stay. Families can enjoy connecting rooms with full kitchens and washer/dryer sets, plus a carousel, kids club with all-day activities, family packages with baby gear or kids amenities, and other fun perks; nanny service is on offer for a fee. Onsite, guests will find seven heated pools, a slew of international and Mexican restaurants, and a full-service spa with hydrotherapy. Suites, lofts, and residences are roomy, ranging from 54 to 495 square meters, many with semi-private sharing pools, private jacuzzis, or private plunge pools. Gorgeous beach setting in Playa Mujeres near Punta Sam and the ferry to Isla Mujeres.
10. Hyatt Ziva Cancún – North Hotel Zone
Contemporary, family-friendly, all-inclusive hotel with dolphins, three infinity pools, and a microbrewery. Hyatt Ziva has a range of room and suite types, whether oceanfront, dolphin view, or swim-up, some with soaking tubs or club-level perks. The new Turquoize wing is adults-only, with outdoor Jacuzzis, butler service, and free access to the spa hydrocircuit. Family amenities include a kids’ club with a mini-water park, a climbing pyramid in the ocean, and dolphin swims. Restaurants and bars offer international flavors and creative cocktails with a 24-hour lounge and room service. Located in a protected cove next to the Punta Cancún lighthouse, the sand is super soft here and the surf is particularly mild, ideal for beginning swimmers.
11. Sun Palace – South Hotel Zone
Romantic, couples-only, all-inclusive on a quiet beach, with three infinity pools (one of them covered), a hydrotherapy spa, and incredible food and drinks. Décor is sleek and understated luxury with 96% of accommodations boasting ocean views. Rooms and suites all feature a double whirlpool tub, a private balcony, a liquor dispenser, and a welcome bottle of wine. Concierge-level upgrades add a candlelight dinner, couples’ massage, pillow menu, and aromatherapy. Restaurants are all on point, with the pan-Asian and steakhouse being the standouts. Their resort credits can be used for any number of things, from Maya ruins and colonial village excursions to spa days or dolphin encounters. Sun Palace is located on a relaxing beach in the south end with soft sand, clear water, and very few vendors.
12. Live Aqua Beach Resort – Middle Hotel Zone
Lavish, adults-only, all-inclusive resort with a focus on re-awakening the senses through gorgeous views, bold dining, music, massage, and aromatherapy throughout the resort. Water has the spotlight here, with a tranquil beach, seven shimmering pools, and hydro-reflexology in the spa. Gastronomy is a close second, with regionally-inspired cocktails and indulgent dining in a range of styles and flavors, from molecular gastronomy served al fresco to Asian fusion served in a shady jungle garden. Guests are greeted with a welcome hand massage, and pool cabana rates include a foot massage. Daily live music is performed poolside and throughout the resort, with DJs every night at Egos Bar. Live Aqua sits on a broad stretch of white sand beach with warm, clear water and moderate waves.
13. Hyatt Zilara Cancún – Middle Hotel Zone
Hacienda-style, adults-only, all-inclusive resort on a broad, ivory beach with perfectly turquoise waters. Service is extraordinary here, with all staff consistently going above and beyond to create memorable experiences for guests. Rooms and suites all offer private balconies, double whirlpool tubs, a liquor dispenser, and a “magic box” for room service delivery. The grounds house an immaculate infinity pool overlooking the beach, plus a rooftop lap pool and a spa with a menu of Maya treatments, ceremonies, and a temazcal. Food and drinks are rich and flavorful; guests in oceanfront category rooms and above have access to exclusive dining at the Chef’s Plate, featuring a different menu every evening. With weekly pool parties, cocktail classes, wine and tequila tastings, and show cooking, guests have plenty of activities to indulge in, if they can bear to part from the beach.
14. Majestic Elegance – Playa Mujeres
Stylish, all-suite, all-inclusive resort on a gorgeous beach in exclusive Playa Mujeres. 70% of accommodations are for adults only (18+), while the rest are family-friendly for all ages. Suites sleep two to four guests, all with private outdoor jacuzzis or private plunge pools. A few have outdoor jacuzzis plus swim-out access to the main pool or a semi-private sharing pool. The seven gourmet restaurants (six are a la carte) here serve everything from French to Japanese and are accompanied by 13 cocktail bars and 24-hour room service. Facility highlights include a total of twelve pools (some adults-only, one kids-only), a cenote-inspired spa, and both kids’ and teens’ clubs.
15. Riu Palace Peninsula – North Hotel Zone
Glitzy, family-friendly, all-inclusive resort with five pools (one exclusively for villa guests), a wide range of suites, plus phenomenal activities for kids and families. Suites all include private balconies, soaking tubs, and liquor dispensers; some add Jacuzzis, and others are adults-only. There is a small kids’ club for ages four through twelve, with supervised pool and beach activities; for families and older kids, they offer art workshops, with classes in painting and ceramics, a free scuba lesson in the pool, nightly theater and entertainment, and non-motorized watercraft like kayaks and catamarans. Food is delicious, with a good mix of a la carte restaurants (Mexican, French, Japanese, and more) along with high-end buffets serving lobster. Service at all restaurants and bars is prompt and attentive. The beach is just barely rockier than some of the other Cancún beaches, but it is still gorgeous with soft sand, turquoise water, and just enough gentle surf to keep it interesting.
16. SLS Cancun – Puerto Juárez
The best boutique hotel in Cancún. Each of the 45 spacious suites has a walk-in shower and dual vanities in the bathroom. Most have private balconies with ocean views; top-tier suites add soaking tubs. Onsite find an infinity pool, a lively beach club, an Argentine-Mexican fusion restaurant, and a spa with a hydrotherapy circuit. Free perks include weekly cocktail-making classes and a free shuttle to the main beach in Puerto Cancún. Cooking classes, wine/tequila tastings, and private yacht trips are on offer for a fee. Exclusive location inside a gated community in the luxury development of Puerto Cancún in the Puerto Juárez neighborhood. The luxury mall Marina Puerto Cancún is only 800 meters away, the nearest golf course is only 850 meters away, and the ferry to Isla Mujeres is less than two kilometers away.
17. Dreams Vista – Puerto Juárez
Family-friendly, all-inclusive resort with a water park, two surf pools, and three heated swimming pools set on a small, sandy beach. A whopping 80% of rooms and suites have connecting options. All have one king or two queen beds, ocean views, and a private, furnished balcony. Honeymoon Suites add deep soaking tubs; some Preferred Club Suites have private, outdoor, heated plunge pools. Club-level suites also grant access to two more pools and a private section of the beach, along with other perks. A kids club and a teen club keep younger guests entertained, while adults-only areas offer calm, romantic spaces for couples. Gourmet dining and a luxury spa complete the package here. Idyllic location in a gated community in Puerto Juárez, near the ferry to Isla Mujeres and less than two kilometers from a golf course and luxury mall.
18. InterContinental Presidente Resort – North Hotel Zone
Sitting on the single best beach in Cancún, this classic luxury resort offers two pools (one adults-only) and a spa with hydrotherapy and Maya-inspired treatments. The beach is the main attraction here: wide and clean, no seaweed, powdery-fine sand, and water so blue it looks like it’s been dyed that way. Dining is exceptional, especially the breakfasts at Café Urbano and the beachside service at Le Cap Beach Club. Rooms and one-bedroom suites are contemporary and well-appointed; club-level upgrades add balconies, soaking tubs, and exclusive lounge access. Though this is a family-friendly hotel with a kids’ club and playground, the vibe here is very low-key and relaxed. Its location makes this resort a great home base for exploring downtown Cancún’s restaurants and attractions or for exploring the uptown nightlife district.
19. Marriott Resort – Middle Hotel Zone
A beachfront paradise, this family-friendly, luxury resort features a hacienda-style design blended with traditional and contemporary Mexican décor. Its large infinity pool features a whirlpool front and center, overlooking the brilliant blue sea. Rooms and one-bedroom suites vary by size and view, but all feature a private balcony; connecting rooms are available. The Presidential Suite adds a second balcony and an outdoor Jacuzzi. Their popular kids’ club hosts children ages four to twelve during daylight hours with a pool and plenty of activities. Dining and drinks are fantastic and varied, with restaurants specializing in Japanese, Polynesian, pizza, and more. Located on a wide, white stretch of swimmable beach with moderate waves, served by the attentive staff at Bahia.
20. Hard Rock Hotel – Middle Hotel Zone
Flashy, all-inclusive, rock-themed resort with fun amenities for families and couples. This lively property shows off with a huge cascading infinity pools, three whirlpools, and a comprehensive spa. Their signature Sound of Your Stay experience offers loaner guitars, mixing stations, record players, and access to a recording studio – all complimentary. Anyone over 12 years has access to the Music Lab, with professional instrument, DJ, and vocal lessons; culminating in a live performance at the end of their stay. All rooms have a private balcony and two-person Jacuzzi tub; suites are all two-bedroom, and Family Suites add a kids’ minibar and Xbox. Couples should consider upgrading to Rock Royalty level to gain access to the adults-only pool on the third floor, complimentary couples’ massage, and a personal assistant. The beach here is gorgeous with brilliant blue water and attentive service.
21. Breathless Cancun Soul – North Hotel Zone
Adults-only, all-inclusive hotel on the beach with two whimsical pools, all with swim-up bars. This playful party hotel offers a host of activities day and night, such as DJed pool parties, karaoke nights, beachfront white parties, tequila tastings, and more. All suites have one king or two double beds, a private balcony, and dual vanities in the bathrooms. Club-level suites add perks, including a private outdoor jacuzzi, complimentary use of the hydrotherapy circuit in the spa, an exclusive lounge, and access to a third swimming pool on the rooftop. Restaurants offer various menus, ranging from pan-Asian to Mediterranean/Middle Eastern and more. The beach here provides stunning blue water, soft sand, and gentle waves, but the hotel’s private area is small, and much of the public beach space gets taken over by outside families with children.
22. Fiesta Americana Condesa – Middle Hotel Zone
With a focus on Mexican hospitality, this family-friendly, beachfront, all-inclusive offers an upscale experience paired with a uniquely local vibe. Over half of the restaurants offer delightful, regional, Mexican fare on their menus, alongside several international restaurants. The spa uses Mexican products in all of their treatments. Décor features Mexican embellished tile, stonework floors, and palapa roofs property-wide. The kids’ club offers creative activities all day, as well as a pirate-themed pool, while the teens’ club features video games, billiards, and outdoor sports. Onsite activities include Maya language classes, Maya astrology, and tequila tasting. Room options are varied, from standard up to a two-bedroom suite with attached studio; some suites feature sofa beds and terrace Jacuzzis; the Presidential adds a full kitchen. The beach is beautiful with perfect white sand and medium surf; it might be a little much for beginners, but it is swimmable for those more experienced.
23. Wyndham Grand – Middle Hotel Zone
Located on a truly exceptional beach, the all-inclusive, family-friendly Wyndham Grand offers an impressive selection of accommodations and fantastic activities. Spacious rooms, one- and two-bedroom suites, and huge villas all feature private balconies, some with jetted tubs, Presidential with a full kitchen. Larger families will appreciate the villas with three bedrooms and three bathrooms spread over three stories, plus a full kitchen and direct pool access. The grounds boast three cascading pools (one for kids), one mega hot tub for up to 35 guests, several small hot tubs, and a full-service spa and salon. There is a small kids’ club here for ages five to twelve. Their perfectly swimmable beach showcases breathtaking turquoise waves, clean white sand, and an absence of rocks, reefs, and barriers.
24. Moon Palace The Grand – Riviera Cancun
Huge, all-inclusive, family-centric resort featuring an awesome water park, kids’ and teens’ clubs, and comprehensive kid and family amenities. All suites include a two-person jetted tub, private balcony, and hammock; Grand Family suites are double-sized with one king and two double beds, a kids’ minibar, and an Xbox 360. The grounds feature two pools, a lazy river, FlowRider, and a bowling alley. The kids’ club is expansive with a splash pad, black light mini-golf, bumper cars, and much more. Parents will find plenty of adults-only areas, including a nightclub, day club, pool, and a French restaurant. Their resort credits program covers amazing family excursions, dolphin swims, spa days, and more. The beach has recently been renovated with excellent views and service, but it is not swimmable; for a more traditional beach experience, guests may use their all-inclusive privileges at their sister property Beach Palace.
25. Wyndham Alltra – Middle Hotel Zone
With a water park, a splash zone, and kids’ and teens’ clubs, Wyndham Alltra is ideal for a carefree, family beach vacation. Family suites have one king-sized bed, bunk beds, and a trundle bed to sleep up to five (two adults and three children). One-Bedroom Master Suites and the Presidential Suite sleep up to four and offer more privacy with separate rooms. All suites offer private balconies, some with access to a semi-private sharing pool. Top-tier suites have private, outdoor jacuzzis. The culinary program centers on crowd-pleasing favorites, like Italian, pan-Asian, Mexican, and an international buffet; room service is available from 7 a.m. to 11 p.m. Guests will also find two pools, a wellness center, and fun activities onsite throughout the day. Great location in the heart of the Hotel Zone on a long, wide, sandy beach not too far from La Isla luxury mall.
26. Dreams Jade Resort & Spa – Riviera Cancun
This five-star, family-friendly, all-inclusive offers large suites and excellent kids amenities on a gorgeous beach next to a dolphinarium. Light-filled suites come in several styles, beginning at 65 square meters, all with private balconies and either indoor or outdoor Jacuzzis. The resort houses two free-form infinity pools, with the adult pool accessible with club-level upgrades. Their kids’ club is open all day to children ages three to twelve, with a host of activities, arts, and adventures; the teens’ club features breakdancing lessons, video games, and more. Dining and drinks are fantastic and varied, with sixteen restaurants and bars to choose from. The beach is beautiful, albeit a little rocky and sometimes rough; walk just five minutes south along the beach, though, and you’ll find better swimming.
27. Sandos Cancun – Middle Hotel Zone
Beachfront, four-diamond, all-inclusive hotel with three infinity pools, delicious restaurants, and an amazing music program. Accommodations here are unique for Cancún with windows in every unit facing both the ocean and the lagoon, so that all guests may experience sunrise and sunset views from their rooms. Each room features a soaking tub, welcome wine, and floor-to-ceiling windows, most with one or two balconies; one- and two-bedroom suites add kitchenettes. Their Rhythm Experience music program offers live music and DJs, with a different genre featured daily; at night the music moves to the bars, with Bar One for a relaxing ambiance and Bar Two for a lively party. Food here is superbly prepared with fresh ingredients, with Gaijin Japanese and Zango international buffet the most popular of the restaurant options. Though there is no dedicated Mexican restaurant onsite, St. Trop has several Caribbean Mexican options on the menu. The beach is clean and well-maintained with crystal clear water, though waves can be a little rough at times.
28. Iberostar Selection – Middle Hotel Zone
Upscale, all-inclusive resort on a wide, sandy beach and directly across from a 150-acre competition golf course. Great for mixed groups with a romantic, adults-only wing as well as family-centric spaces with a kids club, kids pool, and playground. Rooms, suites, and villas offer a variety of layouts and amenities, many with private, furnished balconies and ocean views. Some have private jacuzzis, plunge pools, or access to semi-private sharing pools. Of course, there are several beachfront pools open to all guests, a full-service spa with a hydromassage pool, and a host of buffet and a la carte restaurants to suit all tastes.
29. Secrets Golf & Spa Resort – Playa Mujeres
This gem of a resort, located on a vast beach, offers an exquisite all-inclusive, adults-only experience. Amply-sized junior and one-bedroom suites include hydro-spa tubs and balconies, some with swim-up access or private plunge pools. Club-level upgrades add a day pass to the spa hydrotherapy circuit, lounge access, pillow menu, and an exclusive a la carte daily breakfast. Grounds include a huge free-form pool (actually three pools really close together), while the beach offers snorkel gear, catamarans, paddleboards, and a swing set bar. The beach itself is long, with soft sand, no rocks, calm water, and intense turquoise colors.
30. Dreams Golf & Spa Resort – Playa Mujeres
New, family-friendly, all-inclusive resort with dolphins and exceptional kids’ and teens’ amenities on a quiet beach. Suites and villas are all large and feature private balconies and sofa beds; options include swim-ups, private pools, outdoor Jacuzzis, and two-person whirlpool tubs. Upgrade to Club Level for access to the lazy river, complimentary hydrotherapy, and access to a private lounge. The kids’ club hosts weekly camping, along with daily activities and a small water park; the teens’ club is open until 1 a.m. and features dance nights, video games, rock climbing, weekly bonfires, and more. Dolphin swims, a stellar full-service spa, and an 18-hole golf course are excellent add-on perks. The beach has soft sand and gentle waves, thanks to nearby Isla Mujeres acting as a buffer.
31. Dreams Sands – North Hotel Zone
Luxury all-inclusive on a gorgeous beach with soft, white sand. Five-star facilities include a holistic spa and salon, fine and casual restaurants (plus 24-hour room service), and four sparkling pools – the main pool is heated in winter and has a swim-up bar. Rooms and suites have one king or two queen beds, some with private balconies. Families can enjoy spacious suites or connecting rooms, a kids club, and beachfront camping adventures. The entertainment program features nightly shows, outdoor movies, theme nights, and much more. Great location in the North Hotel Zone, just steps from many of Cancún’s best restaurants, nightlife, and shopping.
32. Azul Beach Resort – Riviera Cancun
High-end, family-friendly resort with six pools, a lazy river, excellent kids’ amenities, and private balconies and indoor Jacuzzis for every room type. Suites range from junior to two-bedroom, some with full kitchens and butler service; family suites have two sofa beds. Kids have a Nickelodeon-themed club with character visits, a splash pad and pool, gymnastics, and more. Teens have a designated lounge with a pool table, air hockey, and outdoor activities. Couples and honeymooners enjoy plenty of adults-only spaces in a dedicated wing with its own pool and swim-up suites, plus several bars, and Le Chique, their renowned five-diamond restaurant, serving Mexican molecular gastronomy. The beach here is beautiful and well-maintained, though not vivid turquoise of Cancún and further south in the Riviera Maya. Though a little rockier here, it is still swimmable with calm waves and good snorkeling.
33. Crown Paradise Club – South Hotel Zone
Beachfront, family-friendly, all-inclusive with kids amenities for all age groups and five pools, including one adults-only pool and one covered pool. Rooms and suites come with balconies, many with soaking tubs. Family Suites have king beds plus triple bunk beds. Club-level upgrades add Jacuzzis (indoor or outdoor) and a lagoon cruise. Their Baby Club hosts tots from eighteen months up to three years old, with story times and a playroom; a Kids’ Club for ages three to twelve has a pirate ship pool, a castle with nine waterslides, and plenty of activities. Older kids and families have access to a small waterpark, billiards, video games, and mini-golf. The beach here has plenty of shaded loungers, stunning white sand, and bright blue water with moderate surf.
Cancún’s Hotel Zone
Most hotels and resorts in Cancún are located in the Hotel Zone. The Hotel Zone is about a 22 km strip on Boulevard Kukulkan shaped like a number 7, jutting out into the water dues east of Downtown Cancún then turning south to rejoin the mainland. This long island strip of beach is bound to the north and east by the Caribbean, with the interior portion taken up by the Nichupte Lagoon. Resorts line the northern and eastern beaches, while the restaurants, malls, and attractions sit along the lagoon side of the road.
The Hotel Zone is roughly divided into three sections identified by their kilometer markers: The North (km 1-9, this is the horizontal portion making up the top of the 7, from the edge of Downtown in the west to Punta Cancún in the east), The Middle (km 9.5-17.5, beginning at the elbow of the 7, from Punta Cancún running south, just past Museo Maya), and the South (km 18-21.5, from El Rey archeological zone to Punta Nizuc at the southernmost tip).
Staying in the North Hotel Zone
The North (also called the “beginning”) of the Hotel Zone has the softest sand and the most pristine beaches. Unlike the rest of the Hotel Zone, the northernmost portion is partially protected from hurricanes by Isla Mujeres to the northeast and the horn of Punta Cancún to the east. Because it is shielded in this way, it still has its original sand, worn smooth and powdery over the years. In contrast, the rest of the Hotel Zone has lost its sand to recent hurricanes and had to have new sand trucked in from afar to rebuild its beaches. The North Hotel Zone’s prized location also shields it from the seaweed that tends to collect in the Middle and South Hotel Zones. The North is the closest part of the Hotel Zone to downtown’s amazing restaurants and cultural attractions like Market 28 and lucha libre at the Cancún Arena. It’s also just a short distance from the Uptown Cancún nightlife in Punta Cancún. With such proximity to dining, bars, and attractions, the North Hotel Zone is ideal for guests who opt not to stay in an all-inclusive.
The Best Hotels in the North Hotel Zone
Staying in the Middle Hotel Zone
The Middle of the Hotel Zone is where the action is. Uptown Cancún and its famous nightlife is located here in Punta Cancún. Travelers will find a cluster of nightclubs and bars, the best known being Coco Bongo, Mandala, and La Vaquita, though The City and Congo Bar are the best-loved night spots. Follow the main drag south to find Cancún’s most popular family attractions, including Aquaworld, Museo Maya, and MUSA, the underwater museum. Beaches here are not as soft as those in the North Hotel Zone, and the waves tend to be a little bigger. But this is the nesting spot for local sea turtles, which come ashore every night from May through October to lay eggs. Baby turtles hatch and are released into the ocean from July through December. Most hotels in the Middle Hotel Zone have designated areas to protect the eggs from predators. Guests are invited to watch the adult turtles making their nests every night or to watch as the babies are released later in the season.
The Best Hotels in the Middle Hotel Zone
Staying in the South Hotel Zone
The South Hotel Zone, sometimes called the End of the Hotel Zone, begins at El Rey Ruins in the north and ends at Punta Nizuc in the south. It’s much quieter than the North or Middle, while still being highly accessible to all that the city has to offer. Travelers here will find the most relaxed beaches with fewer vendors interrupting their tranquil moments. Beach quality here is similar to that of the Middle, with moderate surf, soft white sand (though slightly coarser than that of the North), and lots of sea turtle activity. There is generally better snorkeling in the South Hotel Zone, especially at the southernmost end toward Punta Nizuc. Most resorts in this area are all-inclusive, and the immediate area only has a handful of restaurants. This is an ideal spot for travelers who want a relaxed getaway without straying too far from the conveniences of the city.
The Best Hotels in the South Hotel Zone
Staying in Riviera Cancún
The Riviera Cancún is the northernmost part of the Riviera Maya, just south of Cancún, down about as far as Puerto Morelos. It is fronted by the Mesoamerican Barrier Reef, which follows the coastline from Cancún all the way down to Guatemala. The Riviera Cancún is home to some of the largest all-inclusive resorts. Most of these sit on long stretches of beach protected by the reef, making for mostly gentle waves. Beaches here tend to be a mix of mostly white sand, with some rocky and coral parts. The sandy areas are great for swimming and body surfing with moderate waves, while the rocky and coral areas usually have great conditions for snorkeling, with a variety of colorful fish. The resort beaches here are nearly private with no vendors because they’re not within walking distance to anything. Near Puerto Morales, travelers will find a botanical garden, Croco Cun Zoo, several refreshing cenotes just inland, and many adventure parks a little further south.
The Best Hotels in Riviera Cancún
Staying in Playa Mujeres/Costa Mujeres
Playa Mujeres, AKA Costa Mujeres, sits in the north end of Cancún, due west of Isla Mujeres and north of the main ferry terminals, Puerto Juárez and Gran Puerto. This is the newest resort development area in Cancún (the oldest hotel here opened in 2007). This area is designed expressly for leisure, mostly made up of resorts, beaches, and golf courses. Playa Mujeres is more accessible to the city and attractions than Riviera Cancún, but since it is so new, there are not many restaurants serving the area. This is the closest point in Cancún to Isla Mujeres; travelers wishing to visit the island can leave from the smaller Punta Sam ferry. The beaches of Playa Mujeres have soft white sand, vivid blue water, and gentle waves, thanks to Isla Mujeres acting as a shield. Isla Mujeres blocks much of the seaweed coming in from the ocean. Still, most resorts in the area hire sweepers to clean the beaches twice a day.
The Best Hotels in Playa Mujeres
Staying in Puerto Juárez
Once the main population center of the area before Cancún was established as a city, Puerto Juárez has a fantastic location. This neighborhood sits between downtown and the North Hotel Zone and is home to the ferry to Isla Mujeres. Visitors here will find a golf course, marinas, and a luxury mall, Puerto Cancún, with both land and water access to its shops. Hotels, condos, and restaurants on the beach mostly fall into the luxury category, but head just a tad inland to find affordable, traditional restaurants and places to stay. Though there is plenty of beachfront here, the sand isn’t as thick and white, and the water isn’t as radiantly blue as in the Hotel Zone. Still, this is a wonderful place to stay to see the more authentic side of Cancún, while still being close to the water.
What is the best beach with hotels in the Cancun area? It doesn’t have to be in Cancun proper. Looking for calm water and good swimming with a kid-friendly environment.
Isla Mujeres (an island a short ferry ride from Cancun) has one of the most kid-friendly beaches I’ve ever been too. Calm shallow water that’s protected from the ocean waves. There are many hotels on the beach and just back from the water. The town is very walkable and pedestrian-friendly. A great destination for families.