North America Mexico Cancún Where to Stay in Cancun: Best Hostels & Hotels in Cancun

Where to Stay in Cancun: Best Hostels & Hotels in Cancun

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Whether you’re coming to party hard during spring break, attend a beach wedding, or on a family-friendly vacation, Cancun has everything you need so you can have the time of your life. With fun places to visit, amazing places to eat, and picturesque beaches, you’ll truly be in paradise. But with so many different hotels, how can you possibly know where to stay in Cancun to maximize your fun? How can you know whether downtown or the Hotel Zone is best for you? Check out the best hotels in Cancun here, or check out the best timeshares in Cancun here, so you can make the decision for yourself. Whether you’re looking for an all-inclusive resort or you want to live like a local, Cancun has the ideal accommodation for you.

Where to Stay in Cancun:
Hotel Zone | Downtown | Isla Mujeres

Hotel Zone (Zona Hotelera)

If you need to know where to stay in Cancun for convenient access to everything your heart desires, then the Hotel Zone is the place to be. Most tourists flock here as it’s packed with all-inclusive resorts, excellent dining, first-class shopping, and fun nightlife. Although it’s more expensive, it’s more convenient. Many hotels have an on-site travel agent to help you book your excursions or finalize your itinerary. The Hotel Zone is one of the world’s best beach destinations where you’ll have easy access to the white beaches and stunning waters. English is spoken almost everywhere you go and there’s never any shortage of fun for guests of all ages. You just can’t beat the ease and convenience of the Hotel Zone.

Hyatt Zilara Cancun in Cancún, Mexico
Image Credit: © Hyatt Zilara Cancun

Hyatt Zilara Cancun

Highlight: Best All-Inclusive Resort in Cancun for Couples

This luxury beachfront resort is continually named as one of the best all-inclusive resorts in Cancun because of their staff, dining, and activities. The Hyatt Zilara Cancun is an adults-only resort that will allow you to experience the best in Mexican hospitality without the young ones running around. Don’t forget to grab an event calendar when you check-in so you can join in on all types of fun like cooking classes or scuba diving lessons. One of the best places to stay in Cancun for couples, the staff is happy to organize a beachside candlelit dinner and massages, or you guys can dance the night away with the DJ at their pool parties. To experience pure relaxation in one of the most beautiful cities in the world, Hyatt Zilara Cancun is where you need to be.

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Hyatt Ziva Cancun in Cancún, Mexico
Image Credit: © Hyatt Ziva Cancun

Hyatt Ziva Cancun

Highlight: Best All-Inclusive Resort in Cancun for Families

You’ll be almost completely surrounded by the Caribbean Sea when you stay at Hyatt Ziva Cancun. Along with its absolute beauty, it tops the list of the best all-inclusive resorts in Cancun for families as they have an endless list of activities for both kids and adults. Not only can you enjoy three infinity pools overlooking the water, but their KidZ Club is a separate supervised water park where kids can enjoy watersports, an arcade, arts & crafts, and more. While the little ones are in the KidZ Club, you can take advantage of their wonderful spa or grab a drink at the microbrewery. Hyatt Ziva Cancun is truly one of those places you will never want to leave.

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Panama Jack in Cancún, Mexico
Image Credit: © Panama Jack

Panama Jack

Highlight: Best Budget All-Inclusive Resort in Cancun

Formerly the Gran Caribe Resort & Spa, Panama Jack is an oasis for guests of all ages. 13 restaurants, bars, and lounges allow you to indulge in the best flavors from around the world. Whatever your definition of fun, Panama Jack is sure to have it. Camp Jack is perfect for the kids as it boasts a splash park, mini golf course, movie nights, and more. No kids with you on this trip? Wine and tequila tastings and beach volleyball are only a few of the activities here to make your stay more exciting. For your own personal piece of paradise during your time in Cancun, look no further than Panama Jack.

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Royal Solaris Cancun in Cancún, Mexico
Image Credit: © Royal Solaris Cancun

Royal Solaris Cancun

Highlight: Best All-Inclusive Resort in Cancun for Families on a Budget

Choosing where to stay in Cancun is no longer an issue once you discover Royal Solaris Cancun. At a great price, this all-inclusive resort will give you a package that makes everyone in the family happy. Their water park and top of the line dining will have you hooked, and on top of that their nightly entertainment is one of the best you’ll find. With a variety of themes, get ready to learn dance styles from all over the world and see amazing interpretations of famous Hollywood and Broadway performances. There’s no doubt about it, Royal Solaris is definitely one of the best resorts in Cancun.

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Aloft Cancun in Cancún, Mexico
Image Credit: © Aloft Cancun

Aloft Cancun

Highlight: Best Hotel in the Hotel Zone for Budget Travelers

If you want to stay in the Hotel Zone, but don’t want to bust your budget, then the Aloft is one of the best places to stay in Cancun for you. This edgy, boutique hotel is just steps from the hottest entertainment and nightlife in the area. For the tour lovers, Aloft Cancun has direct access to one of the best tour operators in the area, so check with them for the best deals. Wrap up your evening at the rooftop bar where your new best friend, Jimmi the bartender, will keep your favorite drinks coming all night. You’ll be confident you chose one of the best hotels in Cancun as soon as you step in Aloft Cancun.

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Downtown Cancun (El Centro)

Downtown Cancun is where most of the locals live. You’ll find excellent restaurants, shopping, and clubs here, and they’ll be much cheaper than in the Hotel Zone. Staying downtown will give you a more authentic experience as it is less touristy. Downtown Cancun has a great social vibe and community atmosphere. When you’re not out exploring, you can make friends with locals and enjoy cheap food at local markets. The downtown area has a range of accommodation options from luxury hotels to hostels, and is home to some of the best places to stay in Cancun. It only takes a 10 peso ($0.50 USD) bus to get to the Hotel Zone, so if you’re a budget traveler who’s looking for an authentic and cheap stay in Cancun, then you’ll love staying downtown.

Oh! - The Urban Oasis in Cancún, Mexico
Image Credit: © Oh! – The Urban Oasis

Oh! – The Urban Oasis

Highlight: Best Hotel in Downtown Cancun for Adults

Highlighting the list of the best hotels in Cancun for adults, Oh! – The Urban Oasis is sure to exceed your expectations. An intimate and quiet stay is guaranteed so you can relax and recharge while you’re in Cancun. The massive breakfast ensures even the pickiest of eaters will find something they love. When you return for the day, you’ll be even more excited by your dinner choices. The White Terrace is their upscale gastrobar where you can enjoy tasty sushi, and Mega Bites is their international buffet restaurant offering unique choices every day. A perfect place to have a business meeting or even a wedding, they also offer grand event rooms, so no matter why you’re coming to Cancun, Oh! – The Urban Oasis has everything you need.

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Smart Cancun by Oasis in Cancún, Mexico
Image Credit: © Smart Cancun by Oasis

Smart Cancun by Oasis

Highlight: Best Business Hotel in Cancun

If you need to know where to stay in Cancun for a first-class stay near downtown, then Smart Cancun by Oasis should be at the top of your list. This modern business hotel is set up to be a quiet oasis for business and leisure travelers alike. The receptionists are very helpful, and once you walk in the door you’ll know all of your needs will be catered to. When it’s time to eat, you’ll be thrilled to learn the restaurant gives you a variety of options at a budget-friendly price. To enjoy all the benefits of a four-star business hotel at a great price, Smart Cancun by Oasis has your name written all over it.

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El Rey del Caribe in Cancún, Mexico
Image Credit: © El Rey del Caribe

El Rey del Caribe

Highlight: Best Eco-Hotel in Cancun

For true serenity and an eco-friendly visit in downtown Cancun, El Rey del Caribe has everything you need. Surrounding you will be lush tropical gardens as soon as you enter the courtyard. All rooms open to the courtyard which also houses a pool and jacuzzi. This is an eco-hotel where the staff not only cares about you, they also care about the environment. Solar water heating, composting, and capturing rain water are just a few of the ways El Rey del Caribe is committed preserving the environment while helping you to have the perfect stay in Cancun. If you want to have an unforgettable stay while helping the environment, it’s high time you stay at El Rey del Caribe.

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Bed and Breakfast Eclipse in Cancún, Mexico
Image Credit: © Bed and Breakfast Eclipse

Bed and Breakfast Eclipse

Highlight: Best Budget Hotel in Cancun

Ideal for budget travelers who aren’t keen on hostels, Bed and Breakfast Eclipse is perfect for you. Andrea and Sandra are very welcoming and super helpful with any recommendations you may need to perfect your itinerary. Right next to a shopping mall and supermarket, you’ll also have easy access to Playa Gaviota Azul, Parque Urbano Kabah, and many other local attractions. The garden and terrace are beautiful places to relax and unwind after an action-packed day. For a warm and personalized stay at a great value, Bed and Breakfast Eclipse is your answer for where to stay in Cancun.

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Mezcal Hostel in Cancún, Mexico
Image Credit: © Mezcal Hostel

Mezcal Hostel

Highlight: Best Backpacker Hostel in Cancun

To ensure you’ll never have a dull moment, Mezcal Hostel is one of the best places to stay in Cancun for budget backpackers. Even if you’re traveling alone, you’re guaranteed to make friends as they have weekly BBQs, a games room, and a pool. Breakfast and dinner are included here, so you can spend your money on what really matters, creating great memories. You’ll be in walking distance to many of the best stores, bars, and restaurants as well as the main bus station so you can experience the best of the city and surrounding areas like Playa del Carmen and Tulum. The host, Victor, makes sure you’ll never have to wonder where to stay in Cancun again.

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Isla Mujeres

Okay, Isla Mujeres is technically not Cancun, but it’s only a 20-minute ferry ride to the Hotel Zone, so we figured we would add this oasis to the list. Most people only take a day trip to Isla Mujeres, but staying on the peaceful island can be a welcomed break from the chaos of the city. With many types of accommodations, Isla Mujeres can be a great compromise for where to stay in Cancun to avoid the crowds. The island is pretty relaxed, and scooters are a quick and cheap way to get around and explore. If you’re looking to chill out on your vacation, North Beach (aka Playa Norte) is one of the most beautiful beaches in Mexico. For some fun for the whole family, you’ll definitely want to visit Garrafon Natural Reef Park, an ecological water theme park. To escape from the tourist traps and have a fun and tranquil vacation, check out Isla Mujeres.

Privilege Aluxes in Cancún, Mexico
Image Credit: © Privilege Aluxes

Privilege Aluxes

Highlight: Best Luxury Hotel on Isla Mujeres for Adults

Privilege Aluxes is an enchanting paradise that gives you the ultimate experience on your vacation. For the mature and sophisticated, this adults-oriented hotel is the best luxury solution for where to stay in Cancun. Whether you want to chill on the beach or go on excursions, Privilege Aluxes has you covered. All the watersports you could desire are at your fingertips. When it’s meal time, their three premier restaurants will have your mouthwatering. They even have menus designed for special diets or occasions, like vegan menus or a romantic dinner for two. Privilege Aluxes is an amazing resort run by even better people, and you deserve to live in the lap of luxury during your time in Cancun.

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Mia Reef Isla Mujeres in Cancún, Mexico
Image Credit: © Mia Reef Isla Mujeres

Mia Reef Isla Mujeres

Highlight: Best All-Inclusive Resort on Isla Mujeres

Be prepared to be pampered at Mia Reef Isla Mujeres. This trendy all-inclusive resort provides endless food and fun for the whole family. Whether it’s ocean views from your room, a massage in the spa, or family-friendly entertainment, you can truly have it your way at Mia Reef Isla Mujeres. Three restaurants offer first-class cuisine, and when you’re in the water you can take advantage of the poolside bar and beachfront snack bar. As one of the best all-inclusive family resorts in the Cancun area, they offer fantastic packages so you can enjoy a vacation with the kids and not have to spend an arm and a leg. It’s time for you to live the dream at Mia Reef Isla Mujeres.

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Hotel La Joya in Cancún, Mexico
Image Credit: © Hotel La Joya

Hotel La Joya

Highlight: Best Mid-Range Hotel on Isla Mujeres

Your relaxation and satisfaction are priorities at this cozy beachfront property. With only twelve rooms, the warm and personalized service you’ll experience is unmatched. In addition to a comfy bed and convenient mini fridge, your terrace is the perfect place to chill in a hammock and enjoy the sunset while you watch the boats sail by. Adjacent to Hotel La Joya is Garrafon Natural Reef Park where you can enjoy ziplining, kayaking, and more! In a tranquil setting with beautiful views, it’s hard to find any faults at Hotel La Joya.

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Isla Caracol in Cancún, Mexico
Image Credit: © Isla Caracol

Isla Caracol

Highlight: Best Budget Hotel on Isla Mujeres

Isla Caracol is a lovely, no frill budget hotel that is an easy walk from both the ferry and the beach. It’s in a quiet location so you’ll have a good night’s sleep after a long day of adventures. The general manager, Gabriela, and her team are very thoughtful and will do all they can to make sure your vacation is the best it can be. The spacious rooms are designed with your comfort in mind, and some even overlook the garden and pool. This hidden gem is the perfect answer if you’re looking for the best budget hotel in the area.

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Poc-Na Hostel on Isla Mujeres, Mexico
Image Credit: © Poc-Na Hostel

Poc-Na Hostel

Highlight: Best Backpacker Hostel on Isla Mujeres

Mexico’s oldest hostel is still one of the best you’ll find for budget backpackers as it boasts lots of freebies like breakfast and daily activities. You’ll definitely regret not staying at Poc-Na Hostel when you visit the Riviera Maya. You’ll be only six blocks from the pier and right near North Beach. The staff has organized dinner and events to guarantee you fun in the sun like live music and private parties. Each evening has a different dinner special, and the beach bar is open until 2:45am. With all it has to offer at a great value, you can’t beat Poc-Na Hostel.

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With all the time you’ve saved figuring out where to stay in Cancun, you can now fill your itinerary with everything you’ve dreamed of crossing off your bucket list. Now that you know the best places to stay in Cancun, get ready for the adventure of a lifetime, after all it is one of the best places to visit in Mexico!

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