Hotels in Cancun

Carribbean beaches and buzzing nightlife make the Yucatan city of Cancun a popular destination for sun-worshippers and party animals. Thousands of American students descend on the city during Spring Break for a week of drinking and debauchery, so if you want to find cheap hotels in Cancun it might be avoiding the Easter holidays.

Where to stay in Cancun

Do you want to mingle with the locals, or are you more keen on finding the best spot on the beach? Finding the best place to stay in Cancun is all about finding your neighbourhood. Our quick guide to Cancun's neighbourhoods should help you make your decision. Use our map search to find hotels in Cancun based on area.

Ciudad Cancun

Downtown Cancun, also known as Centro, is the more authentic area of Cancun. This is where the locals live, eat and shop, making it a great choice for budget travellers and those who are looking for a real Mexican experience. Visit the Mayan ruins of El Meco, catch a bullfight on Wednesday afternoon, or check out the live bands on Yaxchilan Avenue (warning: most don't even start warming up until midnight).

Although Centro isn't as touristy as the Isla Cancun, there are still plenty of great accommodation options in the area. Chain hotels, like the Ramada Cancun City, are ideal for those who don't want to step too far out of their comfort zone. Other accommodation options include Bed & Breakfast La Casa Naranja and Hostel Ka Beh.

Punta Cancun

Most tourists base themselves in Cancun's Zona Hotelera, a strip of land that sits just off the coast. The main nightlife neighbourhood (and the spring break capital of the world) is in the Punta Cancun area: at the top right hand corner of the island, near kilometre nine. It's home to neon-lit tequila bars and Mexican restaurants, as well as popular American chains like Hooters. Gorgeous Caribbean beaches add to the sun and fun atmosphere, perfect for a holiday with your friends.

As the name suggests, there are lots of hotels to choose from. Top choices include the Cancun Clipper Club, Turquoize at Hyatt Ziva Cancun (adults only), and the Krystal Grand Punta Cancun.

Isla Cancun

A little further down the Zona Hotelera, you'll reach the slightly more upmarket and laid back Isla Cancun area. This area is home to La Isla Cancun Shopping Village, and designer stores such as Rolex and Louis Vuitton. Other attractions include the Interactive Aquarium Cancun, and the MUSA Subacuatico de Arte underwater sculpture garden. The white sandy beach of Playa Marlin is also on this stretch.

Hotels near Isla Cancun are perfect for honeymooners who want to be away from the party buzz, but not completely out of the loop. They're also a great choice for families. Popular options include Hotel NYX Cancun, Park Royal Cancun (All Inclusive), and the Westin Lagunamar Ocean Resort Village & Spa.

El Rey

El Rey is at the southern end of the Zona Hotelera, and is a great base if you want a bit of peace and quiet. It's also ideal for history buffs, as the El Rey Archaeological Zone has 47 excavated Mayan buildings which date back to 250 A.D. You're also likely to spot iguanas wandering around the ruins. Other attractions in this part of the hotel zone include an Iberostar golf club, the Mayan Museum, and (of course) plenty of gorgeous beaches. Although there's less buzz down here, there are still a good range of restaurants and cocktail bars – for example Captain's Cove seafood restaurants.

Well-rated hotels in El Rey Cancun are Crown Paradise Club Cancun (All Inclusive), GR Solaris Cancun (All Inclusive) and the Seadust Cancun Family Resort.