Cancun is Mexico's most visited destination for good reason: those Caribbean blues are real, the weather is nearly perfect year-round, and the combination of beaches, ruins, and nightlife offers something for everyone. The Hotel Zone's strip of resorts is the default experience, but venture beyond for cenotes, Mayan history, and authentic Mexican culture. The beauty of Cancun is that it can be whatever you want: a relaxing beach escape, an adventure-packed trip, or a non-stop party. Flight deals from the US are common given the competition on this route. Watch for sub-$200 roundtrips from southern cities.
Best Time to Fly to Cancun
Peak Season
December through April brings dry weather and peak prices. Spring break (mid-March) is especially crowded and expensive. Christmas and New Year are the priciest weeks.
Off Season (Best Deals)
May through November is rainy season with lower prices. September and October see the most rain and occasional hurricanes. June is a sweet spot with fewer crowds.
Dry season (December to April) offers sunny 80-85°F weather. Wet season (May to November) sees afternoon storms and 85-90°F temps with high humidity. Hurricane season peaks September to October. Water stays warm year-round.
💡Book 2-3 months ahead for peak season. Summer and fall deals can appear last-minute.
Cheapest Months to Fly to Cancun
Cheapest Months
September, October, May
Most Expensive
December, February, March (spring break)
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Must-Try Foods in Cancun
Tacos al Pastor
Spit-roasted pork with pineapple in soft tortillas. The best are found outside the Hotel Zone in downtown Cancun or nearby towns. Los de Pescado has excellent fish tacos. Eat where locals eat for authentic flavors at real prices.
$1-3
Ceviche
Fresh fish marinated in lime juice with tomatoes, onions, and chilies. Caribbean ceviche here is exceptional given the fresh catch. Beach clubs and local restaurants both serve good versions. Pair with cold beer and chips.
$8-15
Cochinita Pibil
Yucatecan slow-roasted pork marinated in achiote and citrus, wrapped in banana leaves. This regional specialty is found at traditional restaurants and markets. Best with pickled onions and habanero. A must-try for pork lovers.
$8-15
Top Attractions in Cancun
Chichen Itza
One of the New Seven Wonders of the World is a 2.5-hour drive from Cancun. The Kukulkan pyramid is stunning at equinox but impressive anytime. Go early to beat crowds and heat. Consider an overnight trip to nearby Valladolid.
Cenotes
Natural sinkholes filled with crystal-clear water are unique to the Yucatan. Gran Cenote, Cenote Ik Kil, and Cenote Dos Ojos are popular choices. The underground caverns feel otherworldly. Bring water shoes and reef-safe sunscreen.
Isla Mujeres
This laid-back island 20 minutes by ferry from Cancun offers a mellower beach vibe. Rent a golf cart, visit Playa Norte (one of the Caribbean's best beaches), and snorkel at the underwater museum. Perfect day trip escape from the Hotel Zone.
Daily Costs in Cancun
Cancun ranges from budget to splurge. All-inclusive resorts simplify costs but vary wildly in value. Eating and drinking outside the Hotel Zone is dramatically cheaper. Local buses cost almost nothing. Activities add up fast.
Accommodation (per night, pick one)
Budget
$50-100
Mid-Range
$120-250
Airbnb
$60-150
Food (per day)
Street Meal
$3-8
Restaurant
$15-35
Coffee
$2-4
Transport
Local Transport
$1-3/ride
Comfortable Daily Budget
(excluding flights)
$80-150
Getting Around Cancun
From the Airport
Official airport shuttles run about $20-30 per person to the Hotel Zone. Private transfers cost $50-80. Avoid taxi hustlers in the terminal and book in advance for best rates.
Getting Around
The Hotel Zone is a long strip; buses run frequently for about $1. Taxis are expensive and often overcharge tourists. Uber works but faces resistance from taxi unions. Renting a car is useful for Chichen Itza and cenotes.
Tips
- •Take the R-1 or R-2 bus from the Hotel Zone to downtown Cancun for $1. Taxis charge $25+ for the same trip.
- •Rent a car for day trips to ruins and cenotes. Roads are good and having wheels saves money on tours.
Where to Stay in Cancun
Hotel Zone (Zona Hotelera)
The long strip of resorts, beaches, and nightclubs is what most visitors picture. Convenient for beach access, water sports, and the party scene. Not authentically Mexican but easy and safe. All-inclusive resorts line the lagoon and ocean.
Coco Bongo / Punta Cancun
The party district centers on Coco Bongo's famous shows and nearby clubs. Spring breakers and party crowds congregate here. Drinks are overpriced but the energy is unmatched. Not for quiet evenings.
Downtown Cancun / Puerto Morelos
Real Mexico exists beyond the Hotel Zone. Downtown Cancun has authentic taquerias and Parque de las Palapas. Puerto Morelos, 20 minutes south, offers a fishing village vibe with great snorkeling. Much cheaper than the Hotel Zone.
Smart Travel Tips for Cancun
FAQs About Flights to Cancun
Cancun ranges from budget to luxury. The Hotel Zone is pricey; downtown and nearby towns are much cheaper. All-inclusive resorts can be good value if you'd spend a lot on food and drinks anyway. Budget $80-150 per day without all-inclusive.
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