Cancun is the largest city in the state of Quintana Roo and in the Yucatan Peninsula. It should be no surprise that Cancun is a fun place to visit, and it perfectly caters to any kind of traveler.
Regardless of your travel preferences, Cancun offers an array of exceptional accommodations that serve every type of traveler.
That means whether you’re visiting this part of Mexico for a family getaway, traveling with your better half, or backpacking on a budget, there are many incredible places to stay in Cancun.
The city is divided into three main areas – each with its own perks and selection of hotels.
Not sure where to stay in Cancun? This post has you covered! Continue reading, and you will find a short summary of what each Cancun area has to offer and a selection of the best places to stay in Cancun.
These are the best Cancun hotels for all budgets, including adults-only, all-inclusive options in Cancun, and some of the best resorts in Cancun.
Make sure to read my post The Best Things To Do In Cancun.
Overall Best Places To Stay In Cancun
Best Budget Place To Stay In Cancun
Villa Sofia Holiday Accommodations is one of the best places to stay in Cancun for those who don’t want to break the bank. And while it is a great discount hotel, it still has many small luxuries, like a clean swimming pool, garden, and balcony.
Villa Sofia’s decor and architecture are more similar to an apartment building than a high-end hotel. But this just makes it more welcoming, local, and comfortable.
Each room has a lovely balcony with an outside seating area, a large bed, SmartTV, a private bathroom, and complimentary toiletries.
It is a little further away from central Cancun, with the closest beach about 4.8 km (3 miles) from the hotel. However, taxis are plentiful, and the hotel is near some restaurants and grocery stores for your convenience.
Cancun International Airport is about 11km (6.8 miles) from Villa Sofia.
Best Mid Range Place To Stay In Cancun
Adhara Hacienda Cancun is a local hotel right in downtown Cancun, and where to stay in Cancun to be immersed in local life. This hotel is strongly influenced by traditional Mexican culture, which is represented in the unique architecture of the building and the rooms.
The building is a bright yellow, while Mexican art and decor are scattered throughout the property grounds. And because the hotel is in downtown Cancun, you can get more of a feel for the real Mexico compared to the “beachy Mexico” vibe near the Cancun Hotel Zone.
Adhara Hacienda Cancun has a large swimming pool with plenty of lounge chairs to relax and enjoy the beautiful Cancun weather.
And if you’re worried about being too far from the beaches, don’t fret! Adhara Hacienda Cancun offers a free hotel shuttle to the nearest beaches for all guests. So, you can enjoy the complimentary breakfast and then hop on a morning shuttle to explore the wonderful Cancun beaches.
Adhara Hacienda Cancun is only 900 meters from Parque las Palapas, an exciting and bustling local market and park. And it’s about 14km (8.6 miles) from Cancun Airport.
Best Luxury Place To Stay In Cancun
There are many luxury hotels in Cancun, and Casa Tortugas Boutique Hotel is the best option for several reasons.
First, the level of comfort and care at Casa Tortuga is unparalleled. The hotel is nicely decorated and immaculate, providing all amenities, toiletries, and other small extras. The pool views are incredible, with a large infinity pool overlooking the Caribbean Sea.
Second, Casa Tortuga is a locally owned hotel in the Hotel Zone. That means you are providing more support to local families and staff. And all while staying within the comforts of Cancun’s Hotel Zone.
Third, the location couldn’t be better. It is only a few minutes walk from Playa Tortugas and several other points of interest. This is where to stay in Cancun if you’re here to enjoy the stunning Cancun beaches.
This hotel is also about 14km (8.6 miles) from Cancun Airport and 11km (6.8 miles) from The Underwater Museum (MUSA).
Where To Stay In Cancun: Best Areas + Best Cancun Hotels
Zona Hotelera – Perfect for First-Timers
Also known as the Hotel Zone, this is the most developed part of Cancun and is where you’ll find some of the best Cancun hotels. Alongside the hotels, you’ll find everything you need for a comprehensive stay in this Maya Riviera city – shopping malls, restaurants, and lots of beaches, of course.
The geography of Zona Hotelera is part of the charm – set on a bar of sand that juts out from Downtown Cancun, it’s almost like an island. For that reason, it’s here where the most high-end resorts and luxury hotels in Cancun are located. This usually also means more expensive, too.
But being located here doesn’t mean you’ll be cut off from other parts of the town. The Hotel Zone is still connected to other parts of Cancun by public transport, and you can easily reach the center of the city from here.
Zona Hotelera is where to stay in Cancun if you’re on a family vacation. That’s because there are plenty of hotels here set up to accommodate people traveling with children.
But it’s also the best area to stay in Cancun for those who simply want to kick back on the beach – adults-only all-inclusive in Cancun will appeal to honeymooners and couples who just want a quiet vacation on the beach.
Because the area has been developed specifically for tourists, Zona Hotelera may lack a little of the authenticity of other neighborhoods. But there are a ton of amenities here, great drinking and dining options, and other services, making it a low-stress place to stay.
Looking for the best hotels in Cancun Zona Hotelera? Here is a selection.
Best luxury hotel in Zona Hotelera – Canopy By Hilton Cancun La Isla
This branch of the Hilton in Cancun offers one of the most stylish and sophisticated places to stay in Cancun. This luxurious resort comes fully equipped with a range of amenities, so you’ll have all the luxuries you need right at your fingertips.
Amenities at this hotel include a rooftop swimming pool with views out across the Caribbean Sea, hot tubs, a fitness center, a garden to kick back in, as well as a chic bar and restaurant.
Interiors throughout are modern and polished, with eye-catching artwork and upscale furnishings.
There are a variety of rooms to choose from, each decorated in a mix of smokey blues and dark woods, accented with metallics, and with large windows. The open space and large windows let in plenty of light, giving off a positive vibe. Canopy by Hilton is also pet-friendly, so you can bring your pooch along for some pampering, too.
As it’s right in Cancun’s hotel zone, it’s also not too far from other major attractions. It’s 4.5km (2.8 miles) from the Mayan Museum and 6km (3.7 miles) from El Rey Archaeological Ruins.
Best mid-range hotel in Zona Hotelera – La Villa du Golf à Cancun Hotel Boutique
A little different from the high-rise offerings in the Hotel Zone, La Villa du Golf is a small, traditional-style villa that’s packed full of elegant charm. The colorful exterior, topped with terracotta tiles, welcomes visitors to the boutique surroundings.
Here you can enjoy a swim in the outdoor pool and sit in the courtyard surrounded by soothing palm trees. Or you could simply cool off in the air-conditioned lounge inside. Throughout the property, there are marble floors, high ceilings, white-washed walls, and endless places to relax.
The guest rooms at this villa are decked out in a modern yet traditional style, maintaining historical elements of the building – such as the brick vaulted ceilings – and boasting large comfortable beds. But one of the best things about this place is the staff, who’ll make sure your stay runs as smoothly as possible.
The hotel is a little further away, about 25km (15.5 miles) from Cancun Airport, though they do offer an airport shuttle.
Best budget hotel in Zona Hotelera – Real Inn Cancún
Looking for the best places to stay in Cancun on a budget? Situated on the lagoon side of the strip of land that makes up the Hotel Zone, Real Inn Cancun is just 400 meters (0.25 miles) from Playa Tortugas and is easily one of the best budget-friendly places to stay in Cancun.
It’s a large, modern hotel that’s sparklingly clean and spotless throughout – the rooms here are simple and streamlined but sophisticated.
Offering up some great value for money, there is actually a great range of room options – each one is decked out with a color palette of greys, oranges, and whites. Some even come with spacious balconies featuring loungers and lagoon views.
In terms of amenities, guests staying at Real Inn Cancun can make full use of the well-equipped fitness center, picturesque outdoor pool, and charming hotel restaurant, which boasts indoor-outdoor style dining with lagoon views.
All in all, this Cancun hotel really is great value for money, and it’s an ideal choice for those looking for a budget-friendly accommodation option in Cancun!
Punta – Where to stay in Cancun for nightlife
Punta translates to “Point” in Spanish. In Cancun, Punta makes up the northernmost portion of the thin strip of land that comprises the Hotel Zone.
Punta is where to stay in Cancun if you’re in the city to party and let loose. For that reason, it’s popular with spring breakers and beach lovers who also like to dance the night away on the sand.
Simply put, Punta is a bustling beach destination that has something going on 24/7. Think DJs spinning tunes at beach bars, trendy drinking holes, restaurants galore, and even a selection of nightclubs – all with a palm-lined Caribbean coastline to enjoy.
But it’s not just about nightlife. The range of accommodation here is incredible, and it means that all different types of travelers on varying budgets can enjoy a break on the Mayan Riviera.
You can opt to sit by the pool and enjoy all the joys of your all-inclusive resort, or you can hop on an organized tour to explore Maya ruins further afield.
With more options, from shopping malls to water sports, there’s never a dull moment in Punta. It may not be as quiet or fancy as the southern end of the Hotel Zone, but that doesn’t mean you miss out on the beautiful beaches, ocean views, conveniences, and great dining. It’s just more noisy and usually cheaper.
Looking for the best places to stay in Cancun’s Punta? Here are a few options!
Best luxury hotel in Punta – Beachscape Kin Ha Villas & Suites
Situated practically on the beach itself, this high-end hotel creates a beautiful setting for your Cancun vacation. This is one of the best hotels in Cancun for families or couples who want a quiet holiday: staying here is all about comfort and convenience.
Days can be spent relaxing on a lounger next to the pool or perhaps strolling mere steps to the powdery white sand beach. For those who are fans of golf, there’s also a highly-rated course a three-minute drive away.
If you want to spend more time within the hotel grounds, you can enjoy some pampering with a high-class massage, or stay active in the onsite fitness center.
In terms of rooms, guest suites here come with their own private balconies with views of the sea. They’re spacious and feature dining tables, simple decor, and large windows. For dinner, opt for one of the two on-site restaurants, or choose to dine on the sand as the sun sets.
Although it’s a little further from downtown Cancun, it’s a very peaceful and tranquil area, which is refreshing for Cancun.
Best mid-range hotel in Punta – Aloft Cancun
If you’re looking for where to stay in Cancun for fun and funky, look no further than Aloft. This youthful hotel, created by chic hotel giant W Hotels, features cool, colorful spaces to enjoy on your Cancun vacation and is one of the best party resorts in Cancun.
The rooftop terrace here – complete with a swimming pool – is ideal for soaking up some rays or sipping on a cocktail or two. Elsewhere, the guest lounge is a social spot for drinks over the pool table, while the vibrant hotel bar serves up tipples late into the night.
Fitness enthusiasts can enjoy the gym and steam room, or for something more relaxing, you can head to either Forum Beach or Marlin Beach – both are just a few hundred meters from the doors of the hotel.
The hotel is only 200 meters from Coco Bongo, one of the best party shows in all of the Riviera Maya.
Best budget hotel in Punta – Selina Cancun Laguna
Packed full of character, Selina Cancun Laguna offers accommodation for an affordable price. But it’s not just affordable – this hotel is actually very stylish. Rooms here are boutique levels of design, each one decorated individually with everything from safari-esque themes to colorful mid-century modern aesthetics.
And for those who are on a shoestring budget, there’s a dormitory here, too, making this one of the best places to stay in Cancun for backpackers.
Shared guest spaces here include a bright and breezy dining area, a beautiful outdoor terrace and deck, a swimming pool, a bar with a pool table, and even a cinema room with its very own projector screen.
This place feels like an Instagram-friendly addition to Cancun’s accommodation, with an authentic feeling tagline – “escape the ordinary.”
El Centro – Where to stay in Cancun for a more local feel
Away from the island-like tourist zone is the primarily residential Downtown district of Cancun, also known as El Centro. It’s here that the everyday life of the city takes place, so staying here means you’ll get to experience the “real” Cancun.
El Centro is home to a number of authentic attractions to explore, including Mercado 28 – an open-air market where you can pick up souvenirs and sample dishes from its many food stalls. There’s also Parque de las Papas, a city park with tables, playgrounds, and even a stage for live music.
This area of Cancun is particularly good for foodies. That’s because, throughout El Centro, you’ll find a whole host of food trucks, mom-and-pop eateries, and various stalls and vendors to sate your appetite. The food here is a long way from the all-inclusive buffet, and it’s a must-try if you want a taste of actual Mexican food.
The recently redeveloped Avenida Tulum is the core of Cancun’s Downtown. It’s home to the City Hall and other municipal buildings, as well as shops, bars, and small markets, making it ideal for an easygoing stroll.
Be warned that accommodation in the area may not be as high-end as the glitzy offerings in the Zona Hotelera. However, they are often much more affordable, especially for backpackers and those who might be interested in a smaller, more specialist boutique hotel.
Another bonus of El Centro is its transport connections. Since it’s the center of the city, you’ll find the main bus terminal here, as well as ferry connections for onward travel and day trips from Gran Puerto and Puerto Juarez.
Looking for where to stay in Cancun’s El Centro? Keep on reading!
Best luxury hotel in Centro – Suites Malecon Cancun
Suites Malecon Cancun is one of the best luxury hotels in Cancun. Inside, its minimalist interiors create a relaxing ambiance, with guest rooms that boast polished floors – white-washed walls, and private terraces, with some featuring their very own hot tub, too.
The hotel has a huge rooftop pool, where you can also get views out across the lagoon and the Caribbean Sea beyond. Away from the pool, there’s a large gym where guests can keep up with their exercise routines, as well as a guest lounge and bar.
Cancun’s town center is only about a 10-minute drive, and Cancun Airport is about 20 minutes by car. The hotel is also right next to Américas Shopping Mall, making it a very convenient location.
Best mid-range hotel in Centro – Oh! Cancun – The Urban Oasis
This fashionable hotel in Cancun’s Centro district is the place to stay if you’re looking for some boutique style. Located less than a kilometer (about half a mile) from the bus station, it’s a great option if you’re arriving in the city from elsewhere or plan on traveling onward after your trip to Cancun.
The whole hotel is immaculately maintained, from the chic outdoor pool – surrounded by sunbeds and palm trees – to the vibrant ambiance of the hotel bar and restaurant. Rooms here are spacious, simple, and decked out in warm greys and pops of color.
Oh! Cancun – The Urban Oasis is a big hit on where to stay in Cancun for those looking for authenticity and comfort bundled together in one high-end hotel.
The hotel is also near Cancun’s Government Palace and about 14km (8.7 miles) from Cancun International Airport.
Best budget hotel in El Centro – Hotel Kavia
For a true bargain pick on where to stay in Cancun, consider Hotel Kavia. One thing that’s great about this place is its location – in fact, the hotel is very close to the ADO bus terminal and Avenida Tulum with all its amenities.
Hotel Kavia is a modern hotel that prioritizes comfort and cleanliness over most other characteristics. This is a rare find, especially for a budget hotel in central Cancun.
There’s an outdoor swimming pool here, as well as a restaurant and a bar, so guests don’t have to travel far for a bite to eat if they don’t want to. The decor throughout the hotel is simple, with tiled floors and calming colors – rooms come with large beds, air conditioning, TVs, and contemporary bathrooms.
The hotel is near Cancun Government Palace, Cancun Bus Station, and Beto Avila Stadium.
The Best All-Inclusive Resorts In Cancun
Staying at a hotel is great, but staying at one of the all-inclusive resorts in Cancun may be even better for some. Resorts here are large, almost like self-contained luxury towns within Cancun itself. Here is where to stay in Cancun if you’d rather opt for a resort.
Sun Palace Resort
Easily one of the best resorts in Cancun, this chic, all-inclusive resort has been designed specifically for couples and makes for the perfect romantic getaway or a break from a busy schedule. Situated in an exclusive oceanfront location, Sun Palace Resort is just a short drive from many of Cancun’s popular attractions.
The resort boasts four specialty restaurants, where guests can dine as part of the all-inclusive package, as well as three bars, each one offering something slightly different in terms of ambiance.
Other amenities include nightly entertainment and activities to look forward to, three infinity pools to lounge around, an onsite gym, a spa, and – of course – the hotel’s very own slice of beachfront.
Rooms here are stylish and beautifully appointed and come with their own private hot tubs, private balconies or terraces, and designer decor.
Nizuc Resort & Spa
This amazing resort has practically everything you could ever need in a luxury hotel. The rooms alone are incredible, decked out in Balinese style with natural wood fixtures and stone floors, minimalist aesthetic, and their own private terraces. There’s a wide variety of room options, from garden suites all the way to penthouses.
The coolness of Nizuc Resort & Spa doesn’t stop at its stylish rooms. Up next, we have the seemingly endless amenities. You’ll find a large variety of dining options onsite (six restaurants in total and numerous bars). There’s also a spa where guests can unwind with numerous treatments and services.
This Cancun resort has its own private beach and dock, as well as multiple swimming pools and spaces to kick back. It’s a beautiful, romantic place with an excellent level of service to match.
Further Readings
Traveling to Cancun? These posts will come in handy!
- The Best Day Trips From Cancun
- The Best Things To Do In Isla Mujeres
- The Best Things To Do In Tulum
- The Best Things To Do In Merida
- How To Get From Cancun To Tulum
- How To Get From Cancun To Isla Mujeres
- How To Get From Cancun To Merida
- The Best Itinerary For A Mexico Road Trip
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