Where to Stay in Cancun: A Guide to Picking Your Perfect Paradise
Ah, Cancun. Land of turquoise waters, white sandy beaches, and an impressive number of people trying to sell you tequila at the airport. If you’re planning a trip here, the first big question you need to answer is (here’s our article on things to do in Cancun):
To All-Inclusive or Not to All-Inclusive? That is the Question.
Before you even think about which part of Cancun to stay in, you have to decide if you want an all-inclusive resort experience or if you’d rather go for a hotel or condo where you’re free to explore local restaurants. This is the choice that will shape your entire trip.
All-Inclusive Resorts: The “I Just Want to Eat, Drink, and Relax” Option
All-inclusive resorts are the kings of Cancun. If you want endless buffets, unlimited drinks, pools that make you question whether you even need the beach, and zero thoughts about where your next meal is coming from, this is the way to go.
Most of the Hotel Zone is lined with massive beachfront all-inclusive resorts, meaning you can wake up, wander down to breakfast in flip-flops, and sip drinks by the pool before noon without ever reaching for your wallet.
Who should stay at an all-inclusive?
- People who like their vacations stress-free (Should we go to that taco stand or this seafood restaurant? No, you just go to the buffet.)
- Families with kids (because keeping track of restaurant bills is not fun when your child suddenly decides they now hate chicken nuggets).
- Those who consider unlimited drinks a key part of their vacation strategy.
Non-All-Inclusive: The “I Came for the Adventure” Option
Maybe you don’t want to be tied down to a resort. Maybe you’re here to explore Cancun’s incredible food scene, hop between beach clubs, and find hidden taco spots where the only English word on the menu is “taco”. If that sounds like your vibe, skip the all-inclusive and stay at a hotel or Airbnb instead.
Who should skip the all-inclusive?
- Foodies who want to eat outside the resort (Cancun has some fantastic restaurants). One of the best burgers I’ve ever had came from a street vendor in Valladolid, Yucatan about 2 hours from Cancun.
- Explorers who plan to take lots of day trips and won’t be around the hotel much anyway.
- Budget travelers who don’t want to pay for an all-you-can-eat resort when they won’t use it.
Where to Stay in Cancun: A Breakdown of the Hotel Zone
Alright, now that we’ve covered the all-inclusive dilemma, let’s talk about location. Cancun’s famous Hotel Zone is a 14-mile strip of resorts, beaches, nightlife, and ocean views shaped like the number 7. But not all parts of the Hotel Zone are the same.
The Northern End (Protected Waters & Calm Beaches)
The northern tip of the Hotel Zone (around Playa Mujeres and Playa Langosta) is perfect for families and people who don’t love getting smacked in the face by waves. The waters here are calm and shallow, thanks to Isla Mujeres sitting just offshore, acting as a natural barrier.
- Best for: Families with kids, paddleboarding enthusiasts, people who prefer floating over wave-jumping.
- Vibe: Relaxed, peaceful, more residential in some areas.
- Downside: The sand isn’t quite as powdery-white as further south, but that’s a small tradeoff for those tranquil waters.
- All inclusive hotels include Occidental Costa Cancun, Hotel Riu Caribe, and The Royal Cancun All Villas (has room that sleeps 6 our favorite of the area).
- Non all inclusive – Aquamarina Beach Resort, Sunset Marina Resort & Yacht Club, and Hotel Sotavento & Yacht Club.
The Middle Strip (Party Central & Classic Cancun Vibes)
If you’ve seen those classic Cancun spring break videos (you know, the ones with people dancing on tables with giant margaritas), this is the area they were filmed in. This part of the Hotel Zone is home to big-name all-inclusive resorts, lively beach clubs, and the famous nightlife of Coco Bongo, Mandala, and Señor Frog’s.
- Best for: Party lovers, groups of friends, travelers who want nightlife within walking distance.
- Vibe: Fun, vibrant, a little wild.
- Downside: If you’re looking for quiet relaxation, this is not the place.
- All inclusive hotels include – The Royal Sands All Inclusive Resort & Spa, The Sens Cancun By Oasis, and Krystal Cancun.
- Non all inclusive hotels include – Wyndham Alltra Cancun and Hotel NYX Cancun.
The Southern End (Best Beaches & More Laid-Back Resorts)
As you go further south down the Hotel Zone, the beaches get wider, the sand gets softer, and the waves get a little stronger. This area has a mix of luxury resorts, family-friendly spots, and some peaceful sections perfect for lounging under a palapa with a cocktail.
- Best for: Couples, honeymooners, and anyone looking for that picture-perfect Cancun beach experience.
- Vibe: More relaxed than the middle strip, but still with plenty of great resorts and activities.
- Downside: The waves can get rougher here, so it’s not ideal for little kids.
- All inclusive hotels include – Oleo Cancun Playa and Solymar Hotel.
- Non all inclusive hotels –Nizuc Resort and Spa, The Westin Resort & Spa, and Cyan Cancun Resort.
Wait… What About the Riviera Maya?
Now here’s where people get confused. Riviera Maya is NOT Cancun—but it’s only 45 minutes away. This stretch of coastline runs from Puerto Morelos down to Tulum and is home to some of the most luxurious resorts, eco-friendly hotels, and boutique stays in Mexico. We prefer the Riviera Maya to the hotel zone in Cancun.
Why Stay in Riviera Maya Instead of Cancun?
- More Seclusion: Resorts here tend to be more spread out, with private beaches and a more tranquil vibe.
- Lush Jungle Meets the Beach: Many resorts are tucked away in the jungle, giving you that tropical paradise feel.
- Close to Amazing Attractions: If you want to explore Mayan ruins, cenotes, and eco-parks like Xcaret, Xel Ha or Kantun Chi, Riviera Maya is closer to the action.
- Luxury & Romance: Some of the most famous luxury resorts (like Banyan Tree Mayakoba and Hotel Xcaret) are down here.
- All inclusive hotels include – El Dorado Casitas Royale, El Dorado Maroma, and the best Hotel Xcaret Mexico (it includes access to the Xcaret Parks, which are amazing).
- Non all inclusive – Mahekal Beach Front Resort & Spa, Fairmont Mayakoba and The Reef 28 Hotel & Spa – Luxury Adults Only – All Suites
Who Should Stay in the Riviera Maya?
- Couples and honeymooners looking for something romantic.
- Travelers who want a mix of beach and adventure.
- Those who prefer quiet over nightlife.
Final Thoughts: Which Spot is Right for You?
| Stay in Cancun’s Hotel Zone if… | Stay in Riviera Maya if… |
| You love all-inclusive resorts | You prefer a more secluded vibe |
| You want to be close to nightlife | You plan on exploring ruins, cenotes, and eco-parks |
| You don’t mind busier beaches | You want a mix of beach and jungle |
| You’re staying for just a few days | You’re staying longer and want a resort that feels like a retreat |
Check out our guide on things to do in Cancun!
No matter where you stay, one thing is certain: Cancun and the Riviera Maya are home to some of the best beaches in the world, and you really can’t go wrong.
Just be prepared—once you see that crystal-clear turquoise water, you might start questioning why you don’t just move to Mexico permanently. 🌊🌴🍹
