Home Search by budget Destinations Beaches Interactive map Services Booking Collections Ratings VIP Club
Find flights Book transfer
Home / Destinations / Cancun

Cancun

Mexico · Coast · MXN · 21.161900, -86.851500
Family friendly 7.3/10 · Rank 506 of 2 709
Best season: December-April

Best for

Cancun is an ideal place for beach holidays, nightlife and water sports lovers. It is recommended for young people, couples and families. Least suitable for those seeking peace and quiet.

Best season

December-April

Daily budget
$118.00 (≈ 9 903 ₽ · ≈ 2 006 MXN)
For 7 days
$826.00 (≈ 69 318 ₽ · ≈ 14 042 MXN)
Cancun is a world-famous resort on the Caribbean coast, located in the northeast of the Yucatan Peninsula. The city is famous for its hotel zone in the shape of the number "7", framed by white-sand beaches and turquoise waters, and is the main gateway to Mayan ruins and cenotes. It boasts a vibrant nightlife, luxury resorts, and endless opportunities for water sports. Cancun is the perfect place for those seeking a combination of beach relaxation, history, and entertainment.
Summer
34.0°C
Winter
22.0°C
Sea
30.0°C
Search by budget Atmosphere Pros and cons Climate Sea and beach Hazards Attractions Excursions Prices FAQ
Search by budget
Enter an amount — we'll show destinations within your reach
Description and atmosphere

Energy

energetic

Pace of life

fast

Local character

Cancun residents are friendly and open people, accustomed to tourists. The atmosphere in the city is lively and cosmopolitan.

Pros and cons

Pros

  • White sandy beaches
  • Crystal clear water
  • Vibrant nightlife
  • Many restaurants and bars
  • Developed infrastructure

Cons

  • Many tourists
  • High prices
  • Beaches overcrowded
  • Sargassum season (seaweed)
Climate
Summer Temperature
Average air temperature in June–August
29.0°C
Summer Daytime Temp
Average daytime temperature in June-August
33.0°C
Summer Max Temp
Maximum daytime temperature in summer months
34.0°C
Winter Temperature
Average air temperature in December–February
25.0°C
Winter Daytime Temp
Average daytime temperature in December-February
28.0°C
Winter Min Temp
Minimum temperature in winter months
22.0°C
Summer Water Temperature
Average sea temperature in the warm season
29.0°C
Water Max Temp
Maximum water temperature in warm season
30.0°C
Rainy Season
Months with the heaviest rainfall
May-October
Sea and beach
Sand Type
Type of beach surface
white sand
Sand Color
Colour of the beach sand
white
Water Entry
Type of water entry
gentle
Waves
Level of waves
moderate
Water Clarity
Clarity of the water
crystal clear
Best Beach
Name of the most popular beach
Playa Delfines
Beach
Availability of a beach
Yes
Tides
Whether tides are noticeable
No
Rip Currents
Presence of dangerous rip currents
Yes
Sunbeds
Availability of sunbeds
Yes
Beach Cafe
Availability of a cafe or bar
Yes
Toilet / Shower
Availability of toilets and showers
Yes
Lifeguards
Presence of lifeguards
Yes
Safe for Swimming
Whether swimming is safe
Yes
Sea hazards
Sea Urchins
Presence of sea urchins
None
Corals / Reefs
Presence of corals or reefs
None
Jellyfish
Presence of jellyfish
Present
Sharks
Presence of sharks
None
Overall Danger
Overall danger rating
low
Note

Cancun is a safe resort. Beaches are equipped with lifeguards and a flag system. Main risks are strong currents on open beaches and jellyfish.

Sea urchins — details

  • Black sea urchins Diadema antillarum inhabit the waters of Cancun, reaching 50 cm in diameter with thin spines 30-40 cm long. Slate pencil urchins Eucidaris tribuloides are also found
  • Sea urchins are an important part of the reef ecosystem, controlling algal growth. Diadema antillarum stings are painful, special swimming shoes recommended

Corals and reefs — details

  • Coral reefs in Cancun National Park are represented by 22 species of hermatypic corals from 20 genera and 11 families. The dominant species is Porites astreoides with a relative cover of over 40%, along with Acropora cervicornis, Agaricia agaricites, Colpophyllia natans and Pseudodiploria clivosa
  • Reefs are part of the Mesoamerican Barrier Reef — the second largest reef system in the world. Coral communities play a key role in protecting the coast from storms and are home to over 500 fish species

Jellyfish — details

  • Jellyfish are occasionally found off the coast during summer months. Caution is advised.

Sharks — details

  • Over 40 shark species inhabit the waters of Cancun, including the nurse shark (Ginglymostoma cirratum), tiger shark (Galeocerdo cuvier), bull shark (Carcharhinus leucas), silky shark (Carcharhinus falciformis), and eagle rays (Aetobatus narinari)
  • Bull sharks typically appear in Cancun waters from November to March to give birth in cooler waters. Sharks do not pose a serious danger to swimmers, but caution is recommended
Attractions

Playa Delfines

One of Cancun's most beautiful beaches with white sand and turquoise water.

Chichen Itza

Famous Mayan city, a UNESCO site. 2.5 hours away.

Isla Mujeres

Island with beaches and snorkelling. Accessible by ferry.

Xcaret Park

Eco-park with underground rivers and shows.

El Mercadito Night Market

Market with souvenirs and local food.

Best areas

Hotel Zone

Resort area with luxury hotels and beaches.

Cancun Centre

Town centre with markets and affordable restaurants.

Isla Mujeres

Island with beaches and a relaxed atmosphere.

Must-try food

Tacos al pastor

Grilled pork tacos with pineapple.

Ceviche

Fresh fish marinated in lime.

Cochinita Pibil

Pork baked in an earth oven.

Marquesitas

Thin pastries with chocolate and cheese.

Where to go next

Playa del Carmen

Resort town with beaches. 1 hour away.

Tulum

Mayan city on the coast. 2 hours away.

Chichen Itza

Famous Mayan city. 2.5 hours away.

Family Friendly
Suitable for families with children
Yes
Nightlife
Level of nightlife
high
Getting there
Nearest airports
Cancún International Airport (CUN).
Check flight prices Putivator
Compare prices from 800+ airlines — Putivator
Search
Visa
Visa requirements
visa-free (180 days)
Best Season
Months with the most comfortable weather
December-April
Accommodation
Hostel (Dorm Bed)
Average price for a hostel dorm bed
$20.00
≈ 1 678 ₽ · ≈ 340 MXN
3-Star Hotel
Average price for a 3-star hotel room
$80.00
≈ 6 714 ₽ · ≈ 1 360 MXN
4-Star Hotel
Average price for a 4-star hotel room
$150.00
≈ 12 588 ₽ · ≈ 2 550 MXN
5-Star Hotel
Average price for a 5-star hotel room
$300.00
≈ 25 176 ₽ · ≈ 5 100 MXN
Villa / House
Average nightly rate for a villa or house
$250.00
≈ 20 980 ₽ · ≈ 4 250 MXN
Apartment
Average nightly rate for an apartment
$100.00
≈ 8 392 ₽ · ≈ 1 700 MXN
Book a hotel Partner
Over 2 million hotels — Trip.com
Find
Food and drinks
Lunch at a Cafe
Average price for lunch at a casual cafe
$10.00
≈ 839 ₽ · ≈ 170 MXN
Dinner at a Restaurant
Average check for dinner at a nice restaurant
$25.00
≈ 2 098 ₽ · ≈ 425 MXN
Coffee (Cappuccino)
Average price for a cappuccino
$3.50
≈ 294 ₽ · ≈ 60 MXN
Beer (0.5L)
Average price for a 0.5L beer
$3.50
≈ 294 ₽ · ≈ 60 MXN
Water (1.5L)
Average price for a 1.5L bottle of water
$1.00
≈ 84 ₽ · ≈ 17 MXN
Pizza
Average price for a pizza
$10.00
≈ 839 ₽ · ≈ 170 MXN
Burger
Average price for a burger
$8.00
≈ 671 ₽ · ≈ 136 MXN
Dessert
Average price for a dessert
$5.00
≈ 420 ₽ · ≈ 85 MXN
Fast Food Combo
Average price for a fast food combo
$7.00
≈ 587 ₽ · ≈ 119 MXN
Transport
Airport Taxi
Average taxi fare from the airport to the city centre
$25.00
≈ 2 098 ₽ · ≈ 425 MXN
Public Transport
Average price for a single public transport ticket
$1.00
≈ 84 ₽ · ≈ 17 MXN
Short Taxi Ride
Average fare for a short taxi ride
$6.00
≈ 504 ₽ · ≈ 102 MXN
Car Rental (per day)
Average daily rate for an economy car rental
$50.00
≈ 4 196 ₽ · ≈ 850 MXN
Airport transfer Putivator
Comfortable transfer — Putivator
Book
Activities and rentals
Bike / Scooter Rental
Average daily rate for a bike or scooter
$10.00
≈ 839 ₽ · ≈ 170 MXN
Motorbike / Scooter Rental
Average daily rate for a motorbike or scooter
$20.00
≈ 1 678 ₽ · ≈ 340 MXN
Excursion
Average price for an organised excursion
$45.00
≈ 3 776 ₽ · ≈ 765 MXN
Yacht / Boat Cruise
Average price for a boat cruise
$90.00
≈ 7 553 ₽ · ≈ 1 530 MXN
Tiqets — museums & landmarks Cancun Partner
Museums, parks, tours - Tiqets
Find
Shopping
Shopping
Average amount spent on shopping
$60.00
≈ 5 035 ₽ · ≈ 1 020 MXN
Souvenirs
Average amount spent on souvenirs
$12.00
≈ 1 007 ₽ · ≈ 204 MXN
Tourist SIM / Internet
Average price for a tourist SIM card
$15.00
≈ 1 259 ₽ · ≈ 255 MXN
eSIM for travellers Partner
Internet in 200+ countries — Yesim
Connect
Frequently asked questions
Cancun: when is the best time to go?
The best season for a holiday is December-April. At this time of year the weather is the most comfortable: minimal chance of rain, moderate humidity and optimal air temperature. This is also when the tourist infrastructure runs at full capacity — all hotels, restaurants and entertainment are open. If you want to save money, consider the period right after the high season ends: accommodation prices are lower, and the weather is still pleasant. You can check the temperature by month in the match-by-month tool.
Cancun: what is the weather like in summer?
In summer, the air warms up to an average of +34.0°C, during the day — up to +33.0°C. This is a great time for beach holidays and long walks. Sunscreen is recommended during the peak hours from 11:00 to 16:00.
Cancun: what is the weather like in winter?
In winter, the air temperature stays around +22.0°C, during the day — up to +28.0°C. For the winter period these are very comfortable figures that allow swimming and sunbathing. Evenings can be cooler, so a light jacket will not go amiss.
Cancun: what is the sea temperature?
The sea near the resort warms up to an average of +30.0°C in the warm season. This water temperature is considered ideal for long swims — you can stay in the sea for hours without discomfort. The water is comfortable for both adults and children. If you want to know the exact temperature by month, use the match-by-month tool.
Cancun: when is the rainy season?
The rainy season falls on May-October. During this period rainfall is more frequent, but usually short — the rain lasts 1-2 hours, after which the sun comes out again. Humidity is higher, so being outside may be less comfortable. At the same time, accommodation and flight prices during the rainy season are significantly lower — an excellent option for a budget holiday.
Cancun: what are the beaches like?
The beaches here are with a "white sand" surface, white sand, crystal clear water. The most popular beaches: Playa Delfines. The beaches have sunbeds and cafes and bars.
Cancun: is it safe to swim in the sea?
Swimming is allowed here, but standard precautions should be taken. The overall danger level in the sea is rated as low — you can swim and enjoy water sports without worry. Lifeguards are on duty on the beaches.
Cancun: what are the sea hazards?
The sea contains: jellyfish. Cancun is a safe resort. Beaches are equipped with lifeguards and a flag system. Main risks are strong currents on open beaches and jellyfish.. It is recommended to swim in special shoes and avoid contact with marine life.
Cancun: how much does a holiday cost?
A holiday for one person will cost around $118.00 (≈ 9 903 ₽ · ≈ 2 006 MXN) per day. The daily budget includes: a 3-star hotel, lunch at a cafe, dinner at a restaurant, drinking water, two public transport trips. Flights are not included in the calculation. You can calculate the cost of your holiday in more detail in the trip planning calculator across all 70 parameters.
Cancun: how much does accommodation cost?
Accommodation is available for every budget: a hostel dorm bed — $20.00 per night, a 3-star hotel room — $80.00 per night, a 4-star hotel — $150.00 per night, a five-star hotel — $300.00 per night, an apartment — $100.00 per night, a villa — $250.00 per night. In high season prices can be 20-30% higher, and in low season — lower.
Cancun: how much does food cost?
Food is one of the main expense items: lunch at an affordable cafe — $10.00, dinner at a restaurant — $25.00, a cup of cappuccino — $3.50, a 0.5L beer — $3.50, a 1.5L bottle of water — $1.00. You can eat significantly cheaper at markets and street cafes.
Cancun: how much does transport cost?
a taxi from the airport — $25.00, a single public transport ticket — $1.00, a short taxi ride — $6.00, car rental — $50.00 per day. Public transport is the most budget-friendly way to get around.
Cancun: what is there to see?
Among the main attractions are: Playa Delfines — One of Cancun's most beautiful beaches with white sand and turquoise water.; Chichen Itza — Famous Mayan city, a UNESCO site. 2.5 hours away.; Isla Mujeres — Island with beaches and snorkelling. Accessible by ferry.; Xcaret Park — Eco-park with underground rivers and shows.; El Mercadito Night Market — Market with souvenirs and local food.. These places are worth visiting first to get a full impression of the destination.
Cancun: what local food should I try?
Be sure to try the local cuisine: Tacos al pastor — Grilled pork tacos with pineapple.; Ceviche — Fresh fish marinated in lime.; Cochinita Pibil — Pork baked in an earth oven.; Marquesitas — Thin pastries with chocolate and cheese.. Local dishes are an important part of the travel experience.
Cancun: what are the best areas to stay?
For accommodation you can consider the following areas: Hotel Zone — Resort area with luxury hotels and beaches.; Cancun Centre — Town centre with markets and affordable restaurants.; Isla Mujeres — Island with beaches and a relaxed atmosphere.. The choice of area depends on your preferences: active or relaxing holiday.
Cancun: is a visa required?
Visa: visa-free (180 days). Before your trip, be sure to check the current requirements with official sources, as the rules may change.
Cancun: how do I get from the airport?
The nearest airport — Cancún International Airport (code CUN). You can get from the airport to the centre by taxi, the average cost is $25.00. Public transport is also available — a more budget-friendly option.
Cancun: what is the currency and how much money should I take?
Currency — MXN. It is recommended to have cash for small expenses and a bank card for larger purchases. The approximate daily budget is $118.00 (≈ 9 903 ₽ · ≈ 2 006 MXN). Check the current exchange rate before your trip.
Cancun: is it suitable for a holiday with children?
Yes, the destination is excellent for a family holiday with children. It has all the necessary infrastructure: well-maintained beaches, cafes and restaurants with children's menus, and entertainment for all ages.
Cancun: what is the nightlife like?
Nightlife is rated as high. There are plenty of bars, clubs and restaurants that stay open until morning.
Cancun: where can I go nearby?
Nearby you can visit: Playa del Carmen — Resort town with beaches. 1 hour away.; Tulum — Mayan city on the coast. 2 hours away.; Chichen Itza — Famous Mayan city. 2.5 hours away.. These places are convenient to visit on a day trip.

Putivator rating

7.3/10
Overall rank: 506 of 2 709
Rank among coastal: 374