Cancun Vacation Guide
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Explore Cancun
Everything we've researched in Cancun, Mexico: hotels, dining, beaches, and things to do, plus golf, hikes, spas, snorkeling, nightlife, shopping, and more. Each list carries local tips, Google ratings, and map links.
When to visit Cancun
December-April (dry season)
Weather & climate in Cancun
Average monthly high and low temperatures (Fahrenheit).
| Month | High | Low | Rain (in) |
|---|---|---|---|
| January | 82°F | 68°F | 2.4 |
| February | 84°F | 69°F | 1.8 |
| March | 87°F | 72°F | 2.0 |
| April | 89°F | 75°F | 2.5 |
| May | 91°F | 78°F | 4.7 |
| June | 92°F | 79°F | 8.5 |
| July | 92°F | 79°F | 6.2 |
| August | 93°F | 79°F | 6.8 |
| September | 91°F | 78°F | 9.4 |
| October | 88°F | 75°F | 8.9 |
| November | 85°F | 72°F | 4.1 |
| December | 83°F | 69°F | 2.8 |
Cancun quick facts
Getting around Cancun
Towns & neighborhoods in Cancun
The main areas travelers stay and explore.
Hotel Zone
Cancun's main tourist strip with all-inclusive resorts, beaches, nightlife, and shopping along a 14-mile barrier island shaped like a '7'.
Downtown Cancun
Authentic Mexican experience with local markets, affordable dining, and where Cancun residents live and work. Much more budget-friendly than Hotel Zone.
Puerto Morelos
Quiet fishing village with reef snorkeling, local charm, and family-friendly beaches. Perfect escape from Cancun's crowds.
Local tips for Cancun
Insider tips
- Drink bottled water only
- Tip in pesos when possible (better rate for workers)
- Bargain at Mercado 28 - start at half the asking price
- Rainy season June-October but usually brief afternoon showers
- All-inclusive resorts are great value but venture out for authentic food
What to pack
- Reef-safe sunscreen (required in cenotes)
- Water shoes for rocky beaches
- Bug spray (for jungle excursions)
- Light, breathable clothing
- Cash in pesos for tips and local vendors
Family & accessibility
Kid-friendly activities
- Xcaret Park, Eco park with snorkeling, animals, beaches, shows
- Xel-Ha, All-inclusive water park and snorkeling cove
- Interactive Aquarium Cancun, Swim with dolphins and see marine life
- Isla Mujeres, Golf cart island exploration and calm beaches
Wheelchair-friendly
- Most large resorts are accessible
- Hotel Zone sidewalks can be uneven
- Newer eco-parks have accessibility
Sample itinerary: 1 days in Cancun
A suggested day-by-day plan your travel agent can customize.
Chat with Courtney to plan your dream Cancun itinerary
A day-by-day plan built around your dates, pace, and budget, by a real advisor who prices Cancun trips every week. Free, because resorts pay her, not you.
Plan my dream itineraryCancun vs other destinations
Deciding between Cancun and somewhere else? We've broken down the popular matchups with a clear verdict.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about visiting Cancun
