Cancun — a name that conjures up visions of white sandy beaches, crystal-clear turquoise waters and all-inclusive resorts that promise the vacation of a lifetime. It’s no secret that Cancun, nestled on the northeastern coast of the Yucatan Peninsula, is a dream destination for many.
Discover the allure of Cancun, explore why you’ll fall in love with it and learn where to stay at the best all-inclusive resorts for both adults and families. Grab a fruity cocktail and embark on a virtual journey to this Mexican paradise.
Why you’ll love Cancun
Cancun is more than just a tropical paradise; it’s a melting pot of culture, history and natural beauty. It’s an easy and often affordable destination from much of the United States with plenty to see and do.
There are great all-inclusive resorts across Mexico, from Cozumel to Puerta Vallarta and beyond, but Cancun has long been a Mexican vacation destination for good reason, not the least is the 14 miles of pristine coastline.
Cancun is the gateway to some of the most awe-inspiring Mayan ruins in Mexico. Don’t miss Chichen Itza or the mystical Tulum.
The Great Mesoamerican Reef offers incredible snorkeling and diving opportunities. Swim alongside colorful coral reefs and encounter exotic marine life. There tend to be currents, so drift dives are the norm here.
When the sun sets, Cancun comes alive. From world-renowned clubs to beachside bars, the city’s nightlife is legendary. This is one reason the destination is so popular with spring breakers.
If you haven’t traveled this way before, make sure you know what to expect. This guide shares all you need to know for your first time at an all-inclusive resort.
This post may contain affiliate links that may earn us a commission. For more information, see our Disclosures.
Best adults-only all-inclusive resorts
If you’re looking for a romantic getaway or simply a peaceful escape without the hustle and bustle of families, Cancun has you covered.
The adults-only resorts are not solely designed for couples. You will not be out of place with your adult children or traveling on a girls’ trip if you prefer a resort that does not allow children.
Always check the age requirements for the resort you book. Some require guests to be 18 or older, while others require 21. Some also change requirements during the spring break season.
Excellence Playa Mujeres
Nestled on a secluded peninsula within a gated community, Exellence Playa Mujeres resort offers a serene atmosphere, gourmet dining and luxurious spa experiences. You can choose swim-up rooms, terraces with private plunge pools or two-story rooftop terrace suites.
With 12 restaurants and another 12 bars, as well as seven pools and lazy rivers, you are sure to have the vacation of a lifetime. You can also book within the Excellence Club for additional amenities and benefits like petit fours in your room each day, a private restaurant for breakfast and dinner and more.
Le Blanc Spa Resort
Known for its impeccable service and elegant design, Le Blanc is the epitome of luxury. Enjoy the infinity pools and dine at exquisite restaurants. Your butler will make your vacation even more stress-free with the ability to have a bath waiting when you return to your suite, press your garments or book any reservations you need during your stay.
As an added benefit, you also have access to all seven of the nearby Palace resorts, though transportation is not included between resorts. That said, there is so much to enjoy at Le Blanc that you may not want to leave.
Haven Riviera Cancun
Set between Cancun and Riviera Maya, the 250-acre Haven Riviera Cancun is a more relaxed adults-only all-inclusive in Cancun. It is away from the hotel zone and feels far more secluded.
“My husband and I stayed at the adults-only Haven Riveria Cancun a few years ago. Our room had a private swim up pool overlooking the ocean. The resort had an overall sense of calm but celebration at the same time. The swim up bars, Bali beds, snack bars and 4 restaurants keep us busy when we wanted to be busy and relaxed when we wanted to relax.”
— Sarah Mock, Savoring the Good
Secrets The Vine Cancun
This modern adults-only resort boasts a stunning rooftop bar, world-class spa and access to some of the best restaurants in Cancun. Secrets The Vine Cancun is now a part of the Hyatt Collection, so you can earn and use Hyatt points for your stay.
Unlike many resorts, none of the restaurants here require reservations, which can make for a more spontaneous vacation. The pool and beach service ensures you always have a drink in hand. Like Experience Playa Mujeres, you can upgrade to the club-level rooms for additional amenities.
Hyatt Zilara Cancun
With multiple infinity pools and gourmet dining options, this all-inclusive resort offers an upscale experience right on the beach in the hotel zone of Cancun. All rooms at the Hyatt Zilara are beach-facing suites.
The focus here is more laid back, so enjoy relaxing at the beach. The main activities center around the pool area during the day.
Best family-friendly all-inclusive resorts
Cancun is also a fantastic destination for families. These resorts often have larger rooms to accommodate travelers with four and often more travelers.
These resorts still have the dining, spas, beach amenities and nightly entertainment offered at the adults-only resorts. They also tend to have more waterpark-like fun and other activities aimed at kids and families.
Moon Palace Cancun
This massive resort complex offers a water park, kids’ and teens’ clubs and plenty of family-friendly activities. Moon Palace is much larger than many, with more than 2,000 rooms onsite.
This allows for plenty of activities and amenities to keep everyone happy, from a FlowRider for all ages to a playroom for kids and a teen lounge. The resort gets divided into sub-resorts within Moon Palace to make it easier to navigate.
Azul Beach Resort
Known for its fantastic kids’ club and family suites, Azul Beach Resort provides an excellent balance of relaxation and family fun. Additionally, this resort offers both family-friendly and adult-only sections, so adults have a separate area they can book with separate amenities.
There is a Starbucks onsite, but be aware that it is not included. You don’t want to miss the
Hard Rock Hotel Cancun
For a rock ‘n’ roll family vacation, this resort has it all, including a music lab and fun activities for kids. The included activities at Hard Rock Hotel Cancun are among the most unique of those offered at all-inclusive resorts, which often appeals to those who are not strictly interested in the beach.
Iberostar Selection Cancun
This beachfront resort features a kids’ club, family suites and a variety of restaurants catering to all tastes. With nightly entertainment and plenty of water activities, Iberostar Selection Cancun is a great choice for families seeking fun and relaxation in one package.
Final thoughts
It’s time to pack your bags and experience the magic firsthand. Cancun beckons with its stunning beaches, rich cultural heritage and the promise of unforgettable memories.
Whether you’re in search of a romantic escape or a fun-filled family adventure, Cancun has something extraordinary to offer. Grab your sunscreen and sunglasses, and get ready for a warm-weather escape like no other.
Michelle Price is a food and travel writer at Honest and Truly who almost has an empty nest. She loves to provide both the inspiration and the confidence you need to help get you into the kitchen and on the road to enjoy new flavors and experiences.