Where To Stay In Mexico – 12 Of The Best Hotels In Cancun And Surrounding Areas
Planning a trip to Mexico? I’ve chosen the 12 best hotels in Cancun and nearby, to suit all ages, budgets and holiday styles.
Mexico is easier to reach than ever, with multiple flight options available via the US and Canada, as well as the new direct Aer Lingus service from Dublin to Cancun Airport operating from January to April. With improved access and world-class resorts, it is the perfect time to explore the best hotels in Cancun and the Caribbean Coast.
Choosing the right hotel in Mexico can feel overwhelming, particularly when so many resorts are beachfront, five-star, and all-inclusive. How do you know which one is right for you? That is where I come in! I have done the hard work for you and selected the 12 best hotels in Cancun and nearby, making it easier for you to find the resort that best matches your travel style.
On my recent trip to Mexico, I stayed in four of these hotels, so I can recommend them first-hand. There’s something for every type of trip below including family holidays in Mexico, couples retreats, or lively holidays with friends. I have also listed some twin-centre recommendations below, for those looking to combine a city and beach holiday in Cancun.
I have teamed up with the travel experts at Tropical Sky, who planned my whole trip to Mexico, which was an amazing experience from start to finish! I have showcased their top all inclusive hotels in Mexico below, but this is just a small sample of the many Mexico holidays they offer.
You can contact the team at Tropical Sky by phone, or submit an enquiry online, and they will design the perfect holiday to Mexico for you – or check out some of their Mexico deals here:
Read: Cancun holiday deals with direct Aer Lingus flights
Best Adult Only Hotels in Cancun & Surrounding Areas
1. Secrets The Vine, Cancun
Secrets The Vine is one of the best hotels in Cancun for adults seeking a refined taste of luxury in the heart of the main hotel zone. This contemporary resort is known for its unlimited premium wines and spirits, alongside gourmet dining, creative mixology and curated wine tasting experiences.
Guests can choose from eight dining venues, including five à la carte restaurants, a buffet, a grill and a café, with the option of a romantic private dinner in your room or directly on the beach. The resort also impresses with panoramic views of the Caribbean Sea and Nichupté Lagoon, elegant suites with private balconies, and serene infinity pools and spa facilities, creating a polished and indulgent adults only escape.
2. Haven Riviera Cancun Resort & Spa, Cancun
This adult only, all suite, all-inclusive resort is renowned for its superb service and world class restaurants. Perfectly situated on a stunning beach between Cancun and the Riviera Maya, Haven Riviera Cancun offers the best of both worlds – it is close enough to Cancun’s lively Hotel Zone, yet far enough to provide a relaxing escape.
Guests can enjoy a state-of-the-art fitness centre and a luxurious spa offering innovative treatments inspired by ancient Mayan philosophy. The resort features six different restaurants and nine stylish bars, including two swim-up bars in the expansive pool area, and the contemporary suites are designed for ultimate comfort. Check out the reviews on TripAdvisor if you still need convincing!
3. Secrets Akumal, Riviera Maya
Secrets Akumal is easily one of the best hotels in Cancun and you don’t just have to take my word for it – TripAdvisor has officially named it the number one “Best of the Best Hotel in the World for 2025”! I was fortunate enough to spend a night here at the end of my Mexico holiday this year and it was an incredible place to finish the trip.
Secrets Akumal Riviera Maya is set in the heart of Akumal, an area known for its beautiful beaches and remarkable marine life. The second largest reef in the world lies just 300 metres offshore, making this one of the finest places in Mexico and the Caribbean to swim with sea turtles.
I loved the service around the pool. Each day you will find everything from ice cream carts and tequila tasting to pop up taco stands, jacket potato stands and fresh fruit carts. It means you do not need to leave your sunbed unless you fancy a swim, beach volleyball or just a stroll along the beach.
The hotel boasts direct beach access to a stunning stretch of white sand and crystal-clear waters as well as nine dining options and seven bars. Onsite facilities include a luxury Spa, dance classes, yoga, and movies on the beach, as well as discounted green fees at Riviera Maya Golf Club.
Read: The best All Inclusive hotels in Mexico and the Caribbean
4. Almare, a Luxury Collection Resort, Isla Mujeres
If you are looking for a more laid back and secluded stay, Almare, a Luxury Collection Resort on the island of Isla Mujeres might be the perfect place for you. The property offers a peaceful island escape, combining modern beachfront luxury with a touch of VIP treatment.
Your holiday begins with a scenic 20 minute private boat transfer, with lovely sea views along the way. Guests can indulge in a culinary journey across multiple venues, from vibrant Mayan and Mexican flavours at Boga to tropical cocktails and refined dishes at The Breeze.
Wellness takes centre stage at Alma Spa, where massages and yoga offer a mind-body reset, complimented by a state-of-the-art fitness centre and daily wellness classes. Two pools, non-motorised watersports and nightly entertainment complete the resort experience.
5. Secrets Tulum Resort and Beach Club, Tulum
Looking for a five star luxury hotel that is both aesthetically pleasing and adults only? Secrets Tulum is the place for you. Set in the jungle in Tulum, it offers a distinctive, and in my opinion, perfect way to experience a stay in Tulum. Tulum is known for its glamorous and expensive beach clubs, but with this hotel you have a beach club included in your all-inclusive stay.
I loved my four night stay at this resort. The staff go above and beyond, and the privilege club made the experience even better. Preferred club guests can enjoy butler service, an additional private pool, an a la carte breakfast option and a private restaurant for brunch and late afternoon snacks. The upgrade is definitely worthwhile for a honeymoon or special occasion.
You will have access to fourteen bars and restaurants, four different pools and a wide range of daytime and evening activities including cooking classes, Spanish lessons, bingo, aqua aerobics, bike tours and much more.
A 15 minute complimentary shuttle takes you to Tulum’s hotel zone, where you will find Secrets Tulum Beach Club. You can relax on the white sands and enjoy delicious light bites and cocktails just steps from the ocean.
This was one of my favourite days of the whole holiday, It felt like a day out but without spending any extra money! They had aqua aerobics, live music and even a beach BBQ. It opens from 10-5pm so it is perfect escape for a few hours during the day but still making use of your all-inclusive benefits.
6. The Fives Oceanfront, Puerto Morelos
I stayed at The Fives Oceanfront for two nights during my trip to Mexico. The hotel is beautiful, with spacious, modern rooms and a laid back vibe. It offers a relaxed all-inclusive atmosphere, not the typical large resort experience, but rather a more refined, boutique-style feel.
I loved the rooftop pool, I think its a fabulous addition to the hotel and really made it stand out. This is not strictly an adults only hotel but it definitely caters more for adults as there’s no activities or entertainment offered for children.
It is walking distance to the shops, bars and restaurants in Puerto Morelos too. This is an up and coming resort with a fantastic local feel but you are still close to Cancun if you fancy some shopping or nightlife. Its perfectly situated between Cancun and Playa del Carmen.
There is a small choice of dining options which include a rooftop pool bar for lunch and snacks, and an Italian a la carte and restaurant run by Rohan Marley, Bob Marley’s son, which is a cool touch! This laidback hotel is a super choice for a boutique Mexico getaway.
7. Secrets Maroma Beach Riviera Cancun, Playa del Carmen
Secrets Maroma Beach Riviera Cancun is regarded as one of the best hotels in Cancun and one of Mexico’s top rated resorts, winning a TripAdvisor Travellers Choice Award, thanks to a string of five star reviews.
Located on its own private stretch of beach in Playa del Carmen, Secrets Maroma Beach boasts a stunning setting and exceptional facilities including a world-class spa, thirteen pools, seven restaurants and seven bars. You can also dine in the evening at its sister resorts in the region.
On-site activities include stargazing and bonfires on the beach, dance classes and cocktail making, and the open-air theatre holds wonderful evening shows.
Top Tip: For the ultimate luxury experience upgrade to the Preferred Club rooms and enjoy breakfast and lunch served exclusively in the Beach Club, amongst other benefits.
The All Rounders: Best Hotels in Cancun and Nearby for Adults or Families
8. Essence at The Fives Beach Hotel & Residences, Playa del Carmen
This hotel was my first stop on my trip to Mexico this year and it made a great first impression. It is a fantastic resort that suits guests of all ages, including families, couples and groups of friends, with a really good mix of travellers during our stay.
The location is excellent. It sits on a beautiful sandy beach in Playa del Carmen, surrounded by tropical forest, and is also within easy reach of the restaurants and shops of Fifth Avenue, which is around a 20 minute drive away.
I particularly liked the adults only pool when the main pool felt a little busy. The taco stand during the day was also a life saver for a quick snack when you felt a little peckish after a few cocktails by the pool.
Parents spoke very highly of the kids club and its brilliant staff, with several mentioning that their children were upset when it was time to leave, which says a lot. In addition to the kids club, older children can enjoy the tennis courts, life-size board games and a wide range of pool activities.
With spacious one, two and three bedroom residences, seven outdoor pools, fourteen restaurants and a kids club complete with a playground and water activities, Essence at The Fives has everything needed for a fun filled holiday for the whole family.
Beachfront at the Fives
Next door to Essence at The Fives Beach Hotel and Residences you will find the adults only Beachfront at The Fives. You can use all the facilities at the sister hotel, while also enjoying your own private adults only pool and restaurant.
The rooms here are stunning and really impressed me, especially the swim-up options that face directly onto the beach. I like the idea of staying here for a quieter atmosphere during the day and going next door in the evenings to mingle and enjoy the live entertainment.
9. Moon Palace, Cancun
The Moon Palace Cancun has been a firm favourite with Irish holidaymakers for many years and stands out as one of the best hotels in Cancun, particularly for families. There are two hotels, Moon Palace Cancun and Moon Palace Nizuc, and you have access to both, including a host of dining options, non-stop entertainment, themed parties, a FlowRider surf simulator, nightclub, and a Jack Nicklaus-designed golf course!
Young children will love the kids’ clubs, splash zone and water slides, ice rink, game room, pony centre, mini golf, and sports courts. The Moon Palace Grand is also next door and you can purchase a day pass to access its facilities too.
Located just 10 minutes from Cancun’s lively Hotel Zone, you can enjoy a secluded stay while having easy access to the Riviera Maya top attractions.
10. Dreams Riviera Cancun Resort & Spa, Puerto Morelos
Dreams Riviera Cancun is one of the most popular all-inclusive hotels in Cancun. It has a gorgeous beachfront location and only a short journey from both Cancun and Playa del Carmen.
Dreams Riviera is a super resort for families and boasts a Kids Club with a climbing wall, planetarium, splash pool with water slides, an ocean trampoline, and movies on the beach! The guaranteed interconnecting rooms are also a big hit with families.
Complimentary non-motorised water sports include kayaks, hobby cats and snorkelling are available, as well as cocktail making classes, cooking lessons and a fitness centre with yoga, and water and land aerobics classes. There are plenty of daily activities for adults and children at this super all-inclusive resort.
11. Grand Palladium Colonial Resort and Spa, Riviera Maya
Located on Kantenah Beach, this five star, family-friendly resort ticks a lot of boxes. It offers a lake style pool and loads of activities, including a wide range of sports, aerobics, Zumba, water polo, kayaking and much more. There are four à la carte restaurants to choose from, serving Mexican, steak, Argentinian and Japanese cuisine. You also have a couple of buffet restaurants for added choice.
You will not go thirsty here, with ten bars spread across the resort. These include swim-up and beachfront options, plus a sports bar with large screens and games tables.
Children are well catered for too, with an on-site aquatic park, a mini club, bowling, an arcade with many video games and evening entertainment to keep them happy throughout the stay.
12. Dreams Tulum Resort & Spa, Tulum
Dreams Tulum Resort is located just minutes from the ancient Mayan ruins and the trendy town of Tulum. This award-winning eco-friendly resort is also situated on two miles of white sand.
While Tulum still offers plenty of nightlife for visitors, overall it has a more relaxed vibe than Downtown Cancun and is ideal for families. There is a kids’ club with a water park on-site, as well as family entertainment, and there are family suites with guaranteed interconnecting rooms.
Dreams Tulum offers a ‘Sip, Savour and See’ dining experience as part of the Unlimited Luxury® program, where you can enjoy complimentary cocktails, cuisine and entertainment at any of the Dreams Resorts in Riviera Maya and Cancun. Dreams Tulum Resort also offers discounted green fees at a nearby Golf Club.
Popular Twin Centre Holidays With Cancun
Why not combine an iconic city break before or after your trip to Cancun and make the most of your time on that side of the world. Mexico often works best afterwards, giving you time to relax following shopping sprees in New York or theme park hopping in Orlando. See all popular options below.
New York City
An iconic city break in the Big Apple followed by sunshine and relaxation in Mexico sounds like a dream. Enjoy the best of both worlds, soaking up the sights of New York City before heading off to relax on stunning white sand beaches. Spend your days shopping, visiting the 9/11 Memorial, taking a ferry ride to Staten Island for views of the Statue of Liberty, or simply wandering through Central Park.
Whether you prefer sightseeing or laid-back exploring, this twin centre combination offers the perfect balance of excitement and relaxation.
Note: You can fly directly to Tulum Airport from New York if you are planning to stay in the Tulum area, which saves a long transfer time from Cancun Airport.
Orlando, Florida
Are you a thrillseeker or just looking for the perfect family holiday? Enjoy the many theme parks that Orlando has to offer, from roller coasters to water slides, before jetting off to relax on the beautiful beaches of Mexico. If you fancy a bit of adventure once you arrive in Mexico the eco park Xcaret offers endless fun with zip lines, cenotes, a natural water park, cultural shows and much more.
This twin centre is a dream family holiday too, combining action packed days with laid back beach time.
Las Vegas, Nevada
Enjoy the bright lights of Las Vegas followed by sunshine soaked relaxation in Mexico. Visit Sin City on a twin centre trip with Cancun and experience the entertainment capital of world! Take a helicopter flight over the Grand Canyon and shop till you drop at the outlets. This twin centre is perfect for a big celebration, or even an elopement in the little white chapel followed by a honeymoon in Mexico!
Toronto, Canada
Toronto is the city I picked to visit on my way to Cancun. I think two to three nights is plenty of time to explore the city and even enjoy a day trip to Niagara Falls. I found Toronto very walkable and loved the city views from the iconic CN Tower.
I would recommend visiting Toronto in the spring or summer months, as you can enjoy Toronto Island at its full potential. Niagara Falls is also best visited at this time of year, as some attractions are seasonal and close during winter, so it is worth keeping that in mind when planning.
I hope this list of the best hotels in Cancun help you choose the perfect hotel for your holiday. This is just a small sample of the many hotels that Tropical Sky offer. They can tailor make the perfect trip to suit your requirements by phone, at their Customer Lounge in Dublin, or you can submit an enquiry online.
Do you want to know more about each resort area? Check out my Mexico resort guide here.
While every effort was made to ensure accuracy, prices, attractions and activities are subject to change. This post was sponsored by Tropical Sky.
