Cancun has long been a destination synonymous with the world-class beach, but its hotel offerings have grown exponentially in recent decades. From spring-break resorts to adults-only five-star escapes, from all-inclusive family-friendly resorts to boutique hotels, Cancun now has it all.
The variety of accommodations now available means that a stay in this Mexican resort city can be tailored to any traveler’s needs. Couples seeking a romantic getaway, families with young children desiring large-suite accommodations.
Even business professionals looking for a luxury boutique hotel in a five-star setting can all find what they need in the Cancun area. Here are 9 Forbes Travel Guide recommended hotels in Cancun and what makes each of them special:
A Beachfront Hotel in the Hotel Zone
For travelers who want to be within walking distance of bars, restaurants, and other amenities, a hotel in the Hotel Zone offers the best of both worlds: the privacy of a beachfront resort and the convenience of being in the thick of things.
These properties tend to have larger pools and a variety of dining options, as well as easy access to the water for swimming or water sports.An Adults-Only Hotel
Cancun has seen an explosion in the number of adults-only resorts in recent years, offering couples a chance to enjoy swim-up suites and drink-friendly amenities while avoiding the chaos of families.
These properties tend to have a more romantic feel than their family-friendly counterparts and offer a more adult-oriented dining and pool scene.
An All-Inclusive Family-Friendly Hotel with Kids’ Club
Families seeking a Cancun vacation should look for an all-inclusive resort with kids’ clubs or other family amenities. Many of the most family-friendly resorts have large, interconnected suites where parents and children can stay together, as well as pools and other amenities suited to younger guests.
A Boutique Hotel Outside of the Hotel Zone
While most of the best hotels in Cancun are large-scale properties, there are a few smaller, more intimate boutique hotels that offer the privacy and personalized service of a smaller hotel without sacrificing the luxury and convenience of a larger resort.
A Luxury Hotel with a World-Class Spa
Several of the most luxurious Cancun hotels have invested in extraordinary spa treatments and amenities, including traditional Mayan healing practices. These properties also tend to have exceptional dining options, including unique culinary experiences such as chef’s table dining.
A Golf Resort
Several of the best hotels in Cancun offer world-class golfing experiences, including private courses or access to nearby championship courses. These resorts tend to have a more traditional hotel feel than other beachfront properties and offer an amenity-filled environment for golfers of all levels.
An All-Suite Hotel
For travelers who want to experience Cancun in a more home-like setting, all-suite hotels offer the convenience of a private kitchen and separate living and sleeping areas, in addition to the luxury of a traditional resort.
A Beachfront Hotel with Exceptional Dining
For travelers who want to enjoy the best of Cancun’s dining, a hotel with exceptional culinary experiences is a must. Some of the most highly regarded restaurants in the area are located in private hotels that offer their culinary services to other area hotels, so it’s worth asking at the hotel of your choice if they offer any unique dining options.
A Hotel with a Rich History
While most of the best hotels in Cancun are newer properties, there are a few older hotels that offer a taste of the region’s early development. These properties tend to appeal to repeat visitors who want to experience Cancun as it was in years past.
What Makes a Hotel in Cancun Worth Visiting?
Hotels in Cancun tend to have a reputation for being five-star, but not all luxury accommodations are created equal. Travelers who want to ensure that they’re choosing a truly exceptional hotel should look beyond flashy amenities and think about what sets one property apart from another.
The most highly regarded hotels in Cancun offer exceptional service and amenities that might include private check-in, staff concierge services, and exceptional dining and beach options.
How Do the Best Hotels in Cancun Compare to Similar Destinations?
The hotel scene in Cancun has changed dramatically in recent years, as has the overall appeal of the region. While Cancun has long been known as a beach destination, other areas in Mexico, such as the Riviera Maya, have seen an increase in boutique and adults-only resorts.
The overall appeal of the Riviera Maya is similar to that of Cancun, but the Riviera Maya has more options for boutique and family-friendly resorts, while Cancun has more large-scale luxury resorts. The closest airport to Cancun is also much closer to the city center, making it a better option for most travelers.
What Should Travelers Know Before Visiting Cancun?
Travelers to Cancun should be aware that the best hotels in the city tend to have a more traditional hotel feel, with larger-scale amenities such as concierge services, private check-in, and exceptional dining and beach options.
While some of the most luxurious properties in the city offer private services such as butlers and private transportation, most first-time visitors will find that the amenities at the most highly reviewed hotels are more than sufficient for their needs.
What Are the Best Time of Year to Visit Cancun?
The best time of year to visit Cancun is during the dry season, which runs from December through April. During this time, the weather tends to be warm and sunny, making it ideal for beach activities.
The shoulder seasons of late April through early June and October through early November are also excellent times to visit, as the weather tends to be nice and hotel rates are often lower.
How Can Travelers Get the Best Rates on a Cancun Hotel?
The best way to get the best rates on a hotel in Cancun is to book well in advance, especially during peak season. Most luxury properties book up quickly, and last-minute availability can be limited, especially during holidays and spring break.
Additionally, while there may be occasional deals on less desirable dates or properties, most of the best-reviewed hotels in the region rarely offer significant discounts.
How Can Travelers Choose Between Different Kinds of Accommodations in Cancun?
When choosing between different kinds of accommodations in Cancun, travelers should think about what kind of vacation they want to have. Those seeking a romantic getaway might consider an adults-only resort.
while families with young children may want to consider an all-inclusive resort with a kids’ club. Golfers should look into resorts with championship courses, while those seeking a more traditional hotel experience may want to consider a boutique property.
What Should Travelers Know About Room Upgrades in Cancun?
Most large-scale resorts in Cancun have a variety of room types, ranging from standard rooms with a view of the hotel’s gardens or lagoon to ocean-view or ocean-front rooms with private balconies.
Upgrades can be well worth the extra cost, especially for travelers who want a more private room with a view, but those who are considering a suite upgrade should think about whether they’ll actually use the additional space.
What Are Some Other Things to Do in Cancun Besides Go to the Hotel Pool?
While many of the best hotels in Cancun have excellent dining and recreational facilities, travelers should consider spending at least one meal at a restaurant outside of their hotel.
The downtown area of Cancun and the nearby Isla Mujeres have some excellent local eateries that offer a more authentic taste of the region than most resort restaurants.
Most large-scale hotels have concierge services that can help travelers arrange transportation to these local restaurants, as well as other nearby attractions.
What Are Some Other Excursions or Activities in the Cancun Area?
The best hotels in the Cancun area tend to offer a variety of excursions and activities for their guests, ranging from day trips to nearby ruins to snorkeling and diving tours. Many of these excursions can be arranged directly through the hotel, which can be much easier for first-time visitors who may not be familiar with the area.
How Can Travelers Make Sure They’re Getting the Most Value for Their Money?
While most of the top-rated hotels in Cancun offer exceptional value, travelers should always think about what they want out of their hotel stay. For example, some of the most luxurious properties in the region offer additional amenities such as private butler service or access to exclusive lounges.
which may be worth the extra cost for those who want to splurge. Others may find that a lower-priced hotel has more amenities that are important to them, such as a private balcony or an in-room dining option.
What Are Some Important Considerations for Travelers Visiting Cancun with Families?
When visiting Cancun with families, travelers should consider their needs when it comes to room size and accessibility. Some of the most family-friendly resorts have large, interconnected suites, while others may have more limited accessibility options for those with mobility impairments.
Additionally, larger resorts can sometimes be difficult to navigate, especially for younger children, so it’s important to consider the size of the hotel when choosing where to stay.
What Are Some Important Considerations for Travelers Visiting Cancun with Senior Citizens?
For senior citizens, accessibility can be an important consideration when choosing where to stay in Cancun. Many large-scale resorts have limited accessibility options, so it’s important to research hotels that have elevators and other amenities that can make it easier for senior citizens to get around.
What Are Some Common Issues With Cancun?
The most common issues with Cancun tend to relate to accessibility and convenience. While most hotels in the area have excellent amenities, some of the most luxurious properties can be difficult to navigate, especially for those with mobility impairments.
Additionally, while most of the best-reviewed hotels in the region offer exceptional dining and recreational facilities, some travelers may find that the amenities at a particular hotel are too limited for their needs.
What Are Some Other Factors That Might Influence a Hotel Stay in Cancun?
When it comes to choosing a hotel in Cancun, location is everything. The most desirable properties tend to be within walking distance of the beach, but those who want to be closer to the city may find that a hotel near the northern end of the Hotel Zone has better weather and more privacy.
Are There Loyalty or Rewards Programs for Staying at Certain Hotels in Cancun?
Most of the top-rated hotels in Cancun are part of larger hotel chains, which means that travelers who have a preferred loyalty program with one of these chains can often earn rewards for their stay.
Additionally, some independent luxury hotels in the region have their own rewards programs that can offer exceptional value, so it’s always worth asking when booking a hotel if there are any special offers for those who book directly with the hotel.
Are There Any Other Questions Travelers Should Ask Before Visiting Cancun?
Before visiting Cancun, travelers should ask about the hotel’s location, dining options, and amenities. Additionally, those who want to maximize their Cancun experience should ask about the hotel’s concierge services and what kinds of excursions or activities the hotel can offer.
