Where to Stay in Cancun: Your Guide to the Best Neighborhoods, Hostels, and Hotels

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So, you have booked your plane ticket to Mexico and you have chosen to travel to Cancun. Congrats! It is a pretty awesome place, as you’ll soon find out. Hopefully, you’ve already familiarized yourself with the long list of things to do in Cancun and maybe even booked a few Cancun tours to the Mayan ruins and some of the best cenotes. One big lingering question that many first-time visitors have is where to stay in Cancun and where you can get the best bang for the buck? Let me take you on a tour of the best neighborhoods to base yourself, along with the best hostels and hotels in each area in Cancun.

Why Visit Cancun?

Cancun is a fantastic Caribbean getaway in Mexico’s Yucatan Peninsula, and the most popular destination in Mexico with more than three million visitors every year. The white-sand beaches, turquoise blue waters, lively nightlife, exceptional cuisine, and tons more make it an even more exciting destination.

where to stay in Cancun

This city is centrally located as well, not far from Playa Del Carmen and Tulum, as well as close by to the best cenotes (fresh water pools) in the world and Mayan ruins like Chichen Itza and Coba.

Cancun offers the perfect mix of underwater, outdoor, adventure, historical, and gastronomical experiences all in one. Heck, there are even theme parks not too far from here. It’s a place that offers a little something for everyone really.

When is the Best Time to Visit Cancun?

The best season to go to Cancun is from January to April because you will have slightly more moderate climate and you can fully enjoy the white-sand beaches and many tourist attractions in this part of Mexico.

where to stay in Cancun

Towards March and April, expect crazier nightlife and parties in most of the resorts because of the many spring breakers coming in. Hey, if that is your game then this period would be perfect for you.

If you are one budget traveler a.k.a. dirtbag like me, you can choose to travel during the off-peak season from August to September. This is also the hurricane season so you should know this if ever you plan to go to Cancun at about this time of the year.

Then from October to December, you’ve got another great period with stunning weather. Especially when compared to the cold and gray that most of us are used to experiencing at that time of year.

Where to Stay in Cancun: Your Guide to the Best Neighborhoods, Hostels, and Hotels travel, mexico, central-america

There’s a reason that thousands of people come from all over the world every day, and it’s because Cancun has hundreds of things to do and so many places to go that are unlike anything you have seen in your life.

Whether you are the type to look for cheap accommodations or one who prefers to stay at beautiful resorts, Cancun has a place for every traveler’s budget and needs.

So, are you ready for a little help when trying to choose from the many great places to stay in Cancun?

where to stay in cancun

Where to Stay in Cancun – Best Neighborhoods

Unlike bigger South American cities like Mexico City, Buenos Aires or Lima, the relatively small city of Cancun has only a few areas to choose from.

Note: I will also be giving recommendations for top Cancun hotels and hostels for each area so you can choose the best place that fits your kind of vacation.

Many are surprised to learn that there are hostels in Cancun, which can be a great way to save big if you’re traveling on a budget. And if you have never tried staying at a hostel, check out my guide to staying in hostels for first-timers and maybe then, you will have a better idea if a hostel is somewhere that is for you or something you would try for budget’s sake.

where to stay in Cancun

Basically, there are only two areas in Cancun that you can choose from: El Centro (or Downtown Cancun) and the Zona Hotelera. Cancun has been called Mexico’s answer to Las Vegas, which I think is a pretty apt comparison. It also helps illustrate the two areas to stay in Cancun.

The Zona Hotelera is basically the Vegas Strip, filled with massive resorts and catering exclusively to tourists.

Downtown Cancun is a bit more like Downtown Vegas and the Fremont Street Experience — which is still touristy but offering a different vibe and a much more authentic feel than the towering resorts occupying massive swaths of land.

Finally, if you want to get away a little further than either of those options, then you might also consider a few other nearby options like Isla Mujeres or Puerto Morelos.

where to stay in Cancun

Perhaps an island getaway is more your style? Consider taking a look at Isla Mujeres, which is located a short ways from Cancun. Another great option is a quiet village that is becoming popular with backpackers is a place called Puerto Morelos past the southern part of the city.

We’ll discuss Downtown Cancun and the Zona Hotelera more in-depth, but also consider Isla Mujeres and Puerto Morelos. Let’s get to know these places, so you can start choosing where you want to stay for your trip.

Zona Hotelera

Zona Hotelera is by far the most popular place to stay in Cancun since almost every single room in this area has a spectacular view of the Caribbean Sea or the Laguna. You’re always just steps from a spectacular beach here, no matter where you’re staying, so it’s no wonder Zona Hotelera is more touristy and more curated than the rest of Cancun. This area is perfect for beach lovers, honeymooners, first-time travelers, and even families.

where to stay in cancun zona hotelera

Zona Hotelera is on a sandbar (which is, interestingly, in the shape of the number seven) and is filled by hotels and hostels in its 15-mile length. Kukulkan Boulevard is the only road that runs the length of this zone. Nichupte Lagoon is the body of water between the Zona and the mainland, which is connected by causeways.

Where to stay in cancun Zona Hotelera

Aside from a relaxing and sunbathing, this area offers a lot of restaurants, shopping, and nightlife. Take the popular La Isla Shopping Village where you can find Venetian-like complex with canals and bridges to wander off to little shops, gourmet cafes, exclusive stores, and entertainment.

where to stay in cancun Museo Maya de Cancun

If you are a history buff, you can explore Museo Maya de Cancún y Zona Arqueológica de San Miguelito or the Cancun Mayan Museum and learn more about the ancient Mayans. Or you can even visit a nearer archeological site called El Rey (The King), right in the Zona Hotelera, which was an important venue for the ancient Mayans’ religious rituals and ceremonies. Some other places to visit include underwater activities and aquarium like the Cancun Interactive Aquarium.

where to stay in cancun hostel cancun natura

Pro Tip: When booking your hotel accommodations, try to be flexible if you want the best rates as you can often find discounts or deals of the day. Our friends from Hotels.com offer generous discounts of up to 80% on rooms. Be wise and savvy, and you just might pay less than a hundred dollars for a 4-star hotel stay.

The sheer number of hotels along this beachfront strip can make it quite difficult to choose, so I have included some top recommendations for the best hostels and hotels for Zona Hotelera.

Best Hostels in Cancun’s Zona Hotelera: Mayan Monkey Hostel Cancún

A cheap vacation doesn’t have to mean shoddy and poor accommodations. This is definitely true for Mayan Monkey Hostel Cancún as it is one of the best hostels in Cancun and Mexico. Located in the idyllic Zona Hotelera, this hostel goes beyond the regular definition of a hostel, by leaps and bounds. A quick two-minute walk brings you to a beautiful white-sand beach, where you can walk barefoot, and feel the sand beneath your toes.

where to stay in cancun Mayan Monkey Hostel Cancun

It has an epic rooftop that overlooks the blue turquoise waters with the backdrop of the modern resorts of Cancun’s hotel zone. The design of the hostel has a young and energetic vibe with an abundance of colors.

where to stay in cancun Mayan Monkey Hostel Cancun

Enjoy a drink at the bar with cocktail tables and quirky bar stools, or just enjoy a swim in the ample-sized pool. How about chilling on those swing chairs overlooking the sea where you can watch the sun go down?

where to stay in cancun Mayan Monkey Hostel Cancun

Mayan Monkey Hostel Cancún room rates start at $9 USD/night with an all-you-can-eat continental breakfast. They offer a double bed in double occupancy rooms, a suite with a balcony, and bunk beds in 12-bed mixed dorm rooms, 12-bed female-only dorm rooms, 8-bed mixed dorm rooms, 10-bed female-only dorm rooms, 6-bed mixed dorm rooms.

where to stay in cancun Mayan Monkey Hostel Cancun

This hostel also has a shared kitchen where you can prepare your food. If you need to know more about excursions and day trips in and around Cancun, there is a ticket service for guests. But if you just want some insider information about the nightlife, just ask any of the staff as they know where the best parties happen.

where to stay in cancun Mayan Monkey Hostel Cancun

Everything in this Mayan Monkey Hostel Cancún is brightly designed with fun graphics, making for a cool, fun place to base yourself as you enjoy this city.

Check the best rates for Mayan Monkey Hostel Cancún and book now:
Booking.com or Hostelworld.com

Best Hostels in Cancun’s Zona Hotelera: Hostel Cancun Natura

Hostel Cancun Natura is in Cancun’s Hotel Zone and is close to some of the zone’s liveliest spots like Coco Bongo Club, Hard Rock Café Restaurant and Mandala Nightclub. There are also shopping options and great restaurants in the area.

where to stay in cancun hostel cancun natura

Hostel Cancun Natura room rates start at $13/night with continental breakfast and they offer a single bed in an 8-bed or 10-bed mixed dorm room, 6-bed female-only dorm room, a bunk bed in a standard double room, and a king room.

where to stay in cancun hostel cancun natura

Almost everything is within walking distance from the hostel, including the beach, which is about 300 meters away. If you would like to grab a bite to eat, you can take advantage of the discounts offered at the hostel’s own Natura Restaurant onsite. Around the property, you can find some convenience stores, a pharmacy, and a few more bars.

where to stay in cancun hostel cancun natura

Hostel Cancun Natura is best for solo travelers as well as groups who want to be near nightlife and where exciting things happen.

Check the best rates for Hostel Cancun Natura and book now:
Booking.com or Hostelworld.com

Best All-Inclusive Resort in Cancun’s Zona Hotelera: Live Aqua Beach Resort Cancun

Live Aqua Beach Resort Cancun is the top reviewed resort in Cancun’s Zona Hotelera. It is a 5-star hotel with the best views of the white-sand beaches and blue turquoise waters.

where to stay in cancun Live Aqua Beach Resort Cancun

The price point is a little bit higher than the other hotels, but it is all-inclusive, so you won’t have to worry about additional expenses. All-inclusive means that all your food and drinks are included for the duration of your stay! You can check out Hotels.com for significant discounts and deals.

where to stay in cancun Live Aqua Beach Resort Cancun

Live Aqua Beach Resort Cancun boasts of eight restaurants, three bars and lounges, a coffee shop, a beach bar, a swim-up bar, and a poolside bar. You can enjoy the hot Mexican sun in beach sun loungers and beach umbrellas and one of the seven outdoor pools. If you’re up for it, you can also sneak in a few workouts on the tennis court or by playing volleyball. There is a full-service spa, sauna, and spa treatment rooms where you can relax the day away.

where to stay in cancun Live Aqua Beach Resort Cancun

This place is epic and truly has it all. It’s perfect for when you want to get away and not worry about anything. This resort is Adults-Only so you won’t have to worry about screaming children or crying kids, perfect for relaxing.

where to stay in cancun Live Aqua Beach Resort Cancun

Live Aqua Beach Resort Cancun can also arrange tours and excursions for you at the concierge and ticket assistance center. If you need to check your email and do some business, they have conference space, several meeting rooms, and a computer station.

Book your Live Aqua Beach Resort Cancun stay with
Hotels.com or Booking.com

Best High-End Hotel in Zona Hotelera: Panama Jack Resorts

Another excellent all-inclusive resort in Cancun is Panama Jack Resorts (formerly known as Gran Caribe) is a 4-star resort hotel with a water park.

where to stay in cancun Panama Jack Resorts Cancun

Panama Jack Resorts is perfect for families who are looking to have fun in Cancun It is right on the beach with lots of beach cabanas, a beach bar, and a poolside bar. If you are bringing your kids with you on this vacation, they also offer a free entrance to a children’s club and supervised childcare and activities (surcharge).

where to stay in cancun Panama Jack Resorts Cancun

This 470-guestroom hotel is in a 6-floor building which also houses seven restaurants, three bars and lounges, and a common room (with coffee and tea being served).

where to stay in cancun Panama Jack Resorts Cancun

There are lots of things to do here for a family, like fitness classes, miniature golf, a playground, and volleyball. And around the area, you can scout for activities like kayaking, sailing, snorkeling, scuba diving, surfing, water skiing, windsurfing, golf, and so much more.

where to stay in cancun Panama Jack Resorts Cancun

Panama Jack Resorts the best resort in Cancun for families, IMO.

Book your Panama Jack Resorts stay with
Hotels.com or Booking.com

Best Budget Hotel in Cancun’s Zona Hotelera: Real Inn Cancun

Want to experience the Zona Hotelera without spending a fortune? Well, the Real Inn Cancun is a 3.5-star hotel with an outdoor pool and centrally located near Tortuga Beach.

where to stay in cancun Real Inn Cancun

The location means it isn’t far from the heart of the Zona Hotelera and the city’s best nightlife spots and restaurants.

where to stay in cancun Real Inn Cancun

The multilingual staff can accommodate your requests and make arrangements for tours and day trips in and around Cancun. This hotel also has a restaurant, cafe, and a deli.

where to stay in cancun Real Inn Cancun

They can also attend to your work needs if you would ever need a business center or meeting rooms.

where to stay in cancun Real Inn Cancun

You can never say no to a great view and a spacious room with friendly service in Real Inn Cancun . And with room rates starting at $80 USD with breakfast, you can experience the best of the Zona Hotelera without dropping a fortune.

Book your Real Inn Cancun stay with
Hotels.com or Booking.com

El Centro or Downtown Cancun

El Centro or Downtown Cancun is also an exciting part of the city to explore and to stay. Most tourists usually choose to stay at the more popular Zona Hotelera. But El Centro is where all the locals live, and is where you can experience a more authentic side of the city.

Cancún - México Where to Stay in Cancun

This area is also home to much cheaper accommodation and you can find a room starting from $8 USD with breakfast included. You can get to public beaches in the Hotel Zone with a short bus ride, making this a perfect place for budget travelers and party-goers.

Where to Stay in Cancun

Food in the Hotel Zone is often big chains but you can get a taste of the great Mexican cuisine in Downtown Cancun and find all sorts of delicious eats including burritos, street tacos, and cochinita pibil. Visit Parque Las Palapas which is a popular spot for exploring local bars, restaurants, and souvenir shops. In this park, you can try the food offered by many food stalls offering real Mexican and Yucatan delicacies. Eat where the locals eat if you want the best food.

Conchinita pibil, lechon al horno Where to Stay in Cancun

La Habichuela is Cancun’s favorite restaurant has been a fixture for more than 30 years. There is Mexican cuisine, steaks, salads, and seafood in this Cancun institution. Ask for the Cocobichuela. Just go. Thank me later.

El Centro’s nightlife also will not disappoint with a plethora of bars and cantinas with live bands performing almost any night of the week. Find yourself on Yaxchilan Avenue for the best selection.

If you are looking for affordable souvenirs and local crafts, you can explore the open-air market Mercado 28. Try haggling for a piece of jewelry in this old-school Mexican village market. Visit the Malecon Tajamar, which is one of Cancun’s newer and most exciting places. You’ll have an amazing view of the Zona Hotelera across the Nichupte Lagoon.

El meco ruinas edgar alvarez

A smaller Mayan site to explore is El Meco which is just north of Downtown Cancun. Located in Punta Juarez area, El Meco is an ancient Mayan ruins with a pyramid and other old structures.

The Castle at El Meco 2 where to stay in cancun

This is an off the beaten path place to visit that doesn’t see anywhere near the crowds of a popular place like Chichen Itza or Coba but with an admission fee of just $3 USD and a short trip, it’s not a bad idea after all. The best part is just having the chance to be in a less popular site that you can have to yourself and enjoy your visit. Don’t mind the iguanas, they usually stay away from people too.

An authentic Mexican town with a fun, social vibe is what El Centro is all about. And the prices here are just perfect for budget travelers like me. Let me introduce you to some of the best hostels and hotels in Downtown Cancun.

Best Hostels in Downtown Cancun: Mezcal Hostel Hotel and Bar

Mezcal Hostel Hotel & Bar is in the heart of Cancun Downtown, just a few minutes away from the many restaurants, shops, and bars. The white-sand beaches of Cancun is a 10-minute bus ride away and if you are headed to other parts of the Yucatan, you’ll find the central bus station just a 7-minute walk from the hostel.

where to stay in cancun Mezcal Hotel Hostel & Bar

Mezcal Hostel Hotel & Bar room rates start at $9 USD with breakfast and dinner included (such a great deal!). They offer single beds in mixed dorm rooms, bunk bed in 8-bed mixed dorm rooms, single bed in 6-bed female-only dorm rooms & 4- or 6-bed mixed dorm rooms, single bed in 6-bed mixed dorm rooms, double bed in double-occupancy rooms, standard double rooms, and quadruple rooms with private bathroom. Some rooms have a balcony.

where to stay in cancun Mezcal Hotel Hostel & Bar

This rustic-style hostel has an outdoor pool, onsite bar, game rooms (darts and table tennis), and a barbeque area. On some nights, they also have BBQ night, Salsa, and Casino theme. While you are at it, you can enjoy the hammocks and tropical palm trees, or you can also stay in the shared lounge and watch TV. Some of the services they have is a spa and tattoo shop. If you would like, you can also rent bicycles on the property.

where to stay in cancun Mezcal Hotel Hostel & Bar

If you want to be in the party zone where locals go, Mezcal Hostel Hotel & Bar is the place to be! The accommodating staff can provide you with the information where the party is at with some of the best bars and clubs around.

Check the best rates for Mezcal Hostel Hotel & Bar on
Booking.com or Hostelworld.com

Best Hostels in Downtown Cancun: Agavero Hostel

Agavero Hostel is located right in Downtown Cancun around the top spots in the city. Quirky and fun design in a traditional-style hacienda is how Agavero Hostel can be described. Lots come to party in this hostel with the pool and onsite bar though, so just a heads-up if you would like a quieter stay. But if you prefer some more fiestas, then this place is for you.

where to stay in cancun Agavero Hostel

Onsite Pitahaya Bar offers different kinds of cocktails and beverages. Find some hammocks at the rooftop deck to sunbathe at. And jump into the tub with your beer to pass the day. There are a lot of other fun things you can do here like playing air hockey, billiards, or ping-pong.

where to stay in cancun Agavero Hostel

Agavero Hostel room rates start at $8 USD/night with breakfast (vegetarian breakfast options provided). They offer bunk beds in 4-, 8-bed mixed dorm rooms or 8-bed female-only dorm rooms, double bed in a double room with a balcony, double bed in a deluxe king room, and double bed in a private room with private bathroom.

where to stay in cancun Agavero Hostel

Agavero Hostel has a garden, karaoke, shared lounge, restaurant, and shared kitchen to save some dough. Definitely a great option in Downtown Cancun!

Check the best rates for Agavero Hostel on
Booking.com or Hostelworld.com

Best Hostels in Downtown Cancun: Hostalito Mexican Hostel

In Hostalito Mexican Hostel they say: don’t treat it as a hostel, treat it like home. And how nice would it be to be head back every day to a home away from home? Hostalito is a newer hostel in Cancun inspired by Mexican culture and identifies the most beautiful places of the Riviera Maya and Yucatan by naming the different rooms as such.

where to stay in cancun Hostalito Mexican Hostel

This hostel is near Beto Avila Stadium, Cancun Bus Station and Cristo Rey Church. The property offers a paid airport shuttle service since the airport is just about 18 km from the property.

where to stay in cancun Hostalito Mexican Hostel

Hostalito Mexican Hostel room rates start at $8 USD/night with breakfast. They offer bunk bed in 6-bed mixed dorm rooms, 4-bed mixed and female-only dorm rooms, 4-bed mixed and female-only dorm rooms with balcony, double bed in standard and double rooms, double bed in a deluxe double room with shower.

where to stay in cancun Hostalito Mexican Hostel

Hostalito Mexican Hostel has an outdoor swimming pool, restaurant, garden, shared kitchen, sun terrace, a bar, and a shared lounge.

where to stay in cancun Hostalito Mexican Hostel

The hostel organizes different activities for all the guests like movie nights, beach days, bar nights, and pool parties. Now, those are a few more reasons to choose this hostel, right?

Check the best rates for Hostalito Mexican Hostel on
Booking.com or Hostelworld.com

Best Upscale Hotel in Downtown Cancun (El Centro): Suites Malecon Cancun

Suites Malecon Cancun is a 3.5-star hotel right in Downtown Cancun. It has 64 guestrooms with an outdoor pool, fitness center, terrace, garden, and a picnic area.

where to stay in cancun Suites Malecon Cancun

What is great about this hotel is that it is connected to a shopping center where you can get all your needs and souvenirs.

where to stay in cancun Suites Malecon Cancun

From the rooftop pool of Suites Malecon Cancun, you can view the Hotel Zone from across Nichupte Lagoon.

where to stay in cancun Suites Malecon Cancun

And you can enjoy a sunset dip or an early evening drink. This hotel makes for a great place to stay in Cancun!

Check the best deals for Suites Malecon Cancun with
Hotels.com or Booking.com

Best Budget Hotel in Downtown Cancun (El Centro): Hotel Bonampak

Hotel Bonampak is a 3-star hotel located in El Centro. This hotel has 80 guest rooms and is located near the beach.

where to stay in cancun Hotel Bonampak

The hotel also has an outdoor pool, a garden, and a convenience store. Shopping centers, casinos, cafes, restaurants, and the city’s tourist attractions are nearby with basically anything you need in about 10-20 minutes walk.

where to stay in cancun Hotel Bonampak

Hotel Bonampak is a better choice that gives you the best accommodation at a cheaper rate. 

Check the best deals for Hotel Bonampak with
Hotels.com or Booking.com

Isla Mujeres

Just 13 kilometers off the coast of Cancun is the idyllic island of Isla Mujeres in the middle of the Caribbean Sea. A beautiful beach getaway where you can swim, snorkel, sail, scuba dive, and enjoy the Mexican sun while looking out to the turquoise waters.

Isla mujeres Where to stay in Cancun

Check out the sand or North Beach and proceed to Garrafon Natural Reef Park to see its magic beneath the waves. Or you can choose to visit a small turtle farm like Tortugranja to see turtles, sea horses, fish, and other marine life. There is also a Seashell House which is quite interesting (the name is such a spoiler).

playa del carmen tours isla mujeres Where to stay in Cancun

Punta Sur is also one of the places that you should explore on the island. Punta Sur is a little seaside park which has a lighthouse and a large sculpture.

Punta Sur, Isla Mujeres Where to stay in Cancun

And on the southern tip of the island, there is a Mayan temple called the Ixchel Temple. In the history of Isla Mujeres, it is known to most of the ancient Mayans to be a sanctuary for the goddess Ixchel, the Maya goddess of fertility, medicine, happiness, and the moon. The Mayans also came to this island to harvest salt from the salt lagoons.

Isla Mujeres Where to stay in Cancun

The island of Isla Mujeres is an amazing place to spend at least some of your days while you are visiting Cancun (at minimum, make a day trip on tour here). You can walk around the island or rent golf carts or even cruise around the island by catamaran to see what it has to offer.

Isla Mujeres Where to stay in Cancun

This small island is six kilometers long and nearly a kilometer wide. But no matter how small this is, this place is packed with the best things the area has to offer and has several great places to stay. Palm trees are everywhere, and under these palm trees is a place just perfect for you.

Best Hostel in Isla Mujeres: Poc na Hostel

Poc na Hostel in Isla Mujeres is somewhere you’d probably love to stay for a long time. Island life will define your days in Poc na Hostel. Yoga in the morning, early swim, breakfast with a beach view, chill in a hammock, party at night with live music with the sand in your toes. And… repeat.

where to stay in cancun hostel poc na isla mujeres

Poc na Hostel room rates start at $11 USD/night with breakfast, and they offer bunk beds in mixed dorm rooms. For those hot summer days and nights, the rooms are air-conditioned, so you don’t have to worry.

where to stay in cancun hostel poc na isla mujeres

You can enjoy playing volleyball, table tennis, and pool in this hostel. Learning Spanish is also another way to spend some of your days as they offer classes here. For those who would like to work out, then aerobics and yoga are also available. Ask for the scuba diving too.

where to stay in cancun hostel poc na isla mujeres

Party on the beach here at Poc na Hostel until the wee hours of the morning with the live band, barbecue nights, and pizzas grilling.

where to stay in cancun hostel poc na isla mujeres

You’re sure to enjoy the Caribbean in every single way here in Isla Mujeres.

Check the best rates for Poc na Hostel on
Booking.com or Hostelworld.com

Best Resort Hotel in Isla Mujeres: Excellence Playa Mujeres

Excellence Playa Mujeres is a 5-star beachfront hotel which has seven outdoor pools and a full-service spa. There are 450 guest rooms in this hotel, including 10 restaurants and seven poolside bars. There is a rooftop terrace where you can also watch the sunset and the rest of Isla Mujeres.

where to stay in cancun excellence playa mujeres

Excellence Playa Mujeres is one of those epic all-inclusive resorts where you come to get away from it all, so you’d expect nothing less than excellence here.

Check the best deals for Excellence Playa Mujeres on Hotels.com now.

Best Upscale Hotel in Isla Mujeres: Privilege Aluxes Isla Mujeres Hotel

Privilege Aluxes Isla Mujeres Hotel is a 4.5-star hotel which is an upscale beachfront hotel with spa near Norte Beach in Isla Mujeres.

where to stay in cancun Privilege Aluxes Isla Mujeres Hotel

This hotel is a 124-guestroom property with three restaurants and 2 bars and lounges. There are two outdoor pools for you to enjoy. The hotel room rates start at $233 USD, which includes a breakfast buffet for two. Almost all the rooms have a beach view.

where to stay in cancun Privilege Aluxes Isla Mujeres Hotel

If you would like to enjoy the beach in Privilege Aluxes Isla Mujeres Hotel, there are beach umbrellas and chair lounges right outside.

where to stay in cancun Privilege Aluxes Isla Mujeres Hotel

Enjoy the swim-up bar and pool sun loungers if you would prefer to stay by the pool. Other water activities like sailing and scuba diving can also be found nearby.

where to stay in cancun Privilege Aluxes Isla Mujeres Hotel

This is a cool place that offers that big resort feels but at a much better price.

Check the best deals for Privilege Aluxes Isla Mujeres Hotel with
Hotels.com or Booking.com

Best Mid-Range Hotel in Isla Mujeres: Ixchel Beach Hotel

 Ixchel Beach Hotel is a 3.5-star hotel right on the beach of Isla Mujeres. This is a 111-guestroom with two outdoor pools, a restaurant, a bar, and a lounge.

where to stay in cancun Ixchel Beach Hotel

Chill out at the beach under the umbrellas and sun loungers as you drink your cocktails topped with that colorful little umbrella.

where to stay in cancun Ixchel Beach Hotel

Ixchel Beach Hotel is near Norte Beach which is just a 3-minute walk away.

where to stay in cancun Ixchel Beach Hotel

Be sure to make the visit to Garrafon Natural Reef Park for some snorkeling or scuba diving which is just 35 minutes away. Tortugranja Turtle Farm is also one of the must-see spots while in Isla Mujeres.

Check the best deals for Ixchel Beach Hotel with
Hotels.com or Booking.com

Puerto Morelos

Puerto Morelos is a small fishing village located halfway between Cancun and the town of Playa del Carmen.

where to stay in cancun hostel humanity

This has been rising in popularity for budget travelers. If you would like to stay in a classic Mexican village with local cuisine and quaint souvenir shops, then Puerto Morelos is your jam.

Muelle, Puerto Morelos. - panoramio where to stay in cancun

A short distance from the Cancun International Airport, this area is perfect for solo travelers, outdoor adventurers, and budget travelers looking to get off the beaten path.

Iglesia de Puerto Morelos. - panoramio where to stay in cancun

There are a number of activities nearby ranging from amazing beaches, the best cenotes, and other attractions like the Jardín Botanico, Croco Can Zoo, and Teatro Cirque du Soleil.

Best Hostel in Puerto Morelos: Hostel Humanity

Hostel Humanity is located in Puerto Morelos and is only about 20 minutes away from the airport. You have all kinds of activities like snorkeling, scuba diving, and zip lining to name a few.

where to stay in cancun hostel humanity

Hostel Humanity room rates start at $10 USD/night and they offer single beds in 4-bed, 8-bed mixed dorm room, and a double room with pool view.

where to stay in cancun hostel humanity

This hostel also offers a sun terrace with a swimming pool, shared lounge, shared kitchen, hammocks area, rooftop terrace, and a garden.

Check the best rates for Hostel Humanity on
Booking.com or Hostelsworld.com

Best Resort Hotel in Puerto Morelos: Excellence Riviera Cancun

Excellence Riviera Cancun is a 5-star hotel in Puerto Morelos. As you’d expect with a high-end resort, it is a beachfront property in Puerto Morelos with all the normal trappings for a getaway without worry.

where to stay in cancun Excellence Riviera Cancun

This 440-guestroom hotel is on a private beach with rates starting from as low as $280 USD (check out Hotels.com discounts). The resort also has 10 restaurants, 11 bars and lounges, a full-service spa, six outdoor pools, a rooftop terrace, a 24-hour fitness center, and a garden.

where to stay in cancun Excellence Riviera Cancun

Excellence Riviera Cancun is a perfect getaway in a laid-back part of Quintana Roo that is not that far from Cancun. Indeed, Puerto Morelos offers an ideal location if you want to enjoy both Playa del Carmen (things like Xcaret and the theme parks) and all that Cancun has to offer.

Check the best deals for Excellence Riviera Cancun on Hotels.com now.

More about Cancun

Cancun is the epitome of pure fun and relaxation with its many white-sand beaches, light blue waters, Mayan ruins, and exciting nightlife. With so many ways to enjoy this city, it can be hard to choose between an ice-cold drink, epic theme parks, lounging by the pool, or parasailing over Cancun.

Where to Stay in Cancun: Your Guide to the Best Neighborhoods, Hostels, and Hotels travel, mexico, central-america

From sun up to sundown, there are hundreds of water activities and awesome Cancun tours and activities from jungle speed boats to ancient ruins waiting for you to explore. Then when the sun goes down, there’s an almost unlimited selection of nightlife to choose from the chill to the absolutely over the top.

best cancun tours parasailing adventure in cancun playa del carmen

But don’t just party and chill poolside, also take the time to learn about the ancient Mayan people and their culture. Cancun is a perfect launchpad for your learning journey. Aside from being close to the famous Chichen Itza and Coba ruins, there are smaller archaeological sites that you can explore on your own (with some just outside Downtown Cancun).

Cancun is sure to amaze you on and off the beach. Now, are you ready to travel?

Traveling to Cancun soon? Be sure to book your room from Booking.com now to save on the best Cancun hotels. If you are staying on for a few weeks, I highly recommend looking into Airbnb units. Don’t forget to purchase travel insurance for Mexico to protect yourself against theft, sickness, and injury. I use and recommend World Nomads for the best combination of affordability and coverage.

Read Next: The 12 Best Cancun Tours and Activities for Your Next Trip

Metropolitan Cathedral beside the Zocalo in Mexico City.

Mexico Travel Tips

Important tips and resources for planning an amazing trip to Mexico, based on my extensive experience traveling across the entire country.

Instructions

  1. Book a cheap flight to Mexico with Momondo, or better yet, start travel hacking so you can fly for free.
  2. Plan a rough itinerary and how long you will spend in each destination. Pick up Lonely Planet Mexico to help with this.
  3. Work every day to teach yourself Spanish, you want to know as much as possible before you arrive.
  4. Book your cheap accommodation in advance, at least for the first destinations -- For hostels use: Booking, for cheap hotels use: Hotels.com, for apartments use: Airbnb.
  5. Reserve your on the ground tours and activities through Get Your Guide.
  6. Purchase travel insurance for Mexico with World Nomads to protect yourself from illness, injury, and theft while in Mexico.
  7. Check out my comprehensive guide about traveling to Mexico with information on cities, things to do, places to see, and more.
  8. Learn more money saving tricks with my top budget travel tips if you want to get more bang for your buck.
  9. Put together your Mexico packing list.
  10. Enjoy this incredible country!

Notes

I hope this helped you plan your travels in Mexico! I know it can be a struggle to find accurate and on the ground information when traveling to a new place like Mexico, which is why I started writing so extensively about it!

If you have any questions about Mexico, budget travel, or anything else shoot me an email at ryan@desktodirtbag.com.

(I love getting questions! That is how I get ideas for my blog posts and what to write about!)

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