11 Best Hotels for Cancun Spring Break

Cancun, with its magnificent Caribbean beaches and one-of-a-kind and unique Maya culture, has long been famous as a spring break party destination. That said, the city isn’t just for spring breakers anymore, with many travelers from all over the world visiting every year to explore, unwind, and, well, PAR-TAY! When we went looking for the best hotels for Cancun spring break, they sure filled up fast. That speaks volumes of Cancun’s popularity, which is home to some of the best bars and nightclubs on the planet. Furthermore, many of the hotels we found also catered to those looking for a party atmosphere closer to their abode. But that’s not all. We also found hotels sans a party atmosphere that fit into a variety of budgets, and some were even located right on the beachfront. So, no matter your Cancun vibe, there’s a spring break stay all waiting for you.

With so many hotels, stays, beachfront bars, nightclubs, and activities to participate in, deciding where to stay in Cancun can quickly become overwhelming. We’ve done all the heavy lifting for you and put together a detailed guide to Cancun’s many staying options during spring break.

Here’s a detailed guide to a magical Cancun journey, from markets to beaches, to get you started.

Le Blanc Spa Resort Cancun

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The beachfront, all-inclusive, and upscale Le Blanc Spa Resort Cancun sat in the heart of the hotel zone and was a real slice of heaven in otherwise crazy Cancún. This adults-only paradise might be smaller in size than the other Hotel Zone resorts, but that was just what we needed for a relaxing spring break. One of the first things we have to mention here is the excellent staff who always managed to stay one step ahead. Whether it was the butlers who prepared our baths or the staff who’d re-fill our poolside drinks before we even asked, they were the best part of our stay. The best bit? We could request all these services through the hotel’s very own phone app, which also allowed us to make spa appointments, give room service orders, and more.

Two pools, the smaller one on the third-floor terrace and the larger infinity one by the beach were perfect for cooling off. What’s more, both pools offered food and drink service. Later, we headed to the much-acclaimed calming and sleek BlancSpa, which offered the most lavish treatments ever. A fitness center aside, the all-inclusive plan here allowed us to drink and have dinner at the 13 (yes, 13!) restaurants on the property. Plus, the main restaurant, BlancInternational, serves an impressive and rather sumptuous breakfast buffet.

The rooms and suites were impressive, with minimalist decor and all-white furnishings. Did you know we could browse an extensive pillow menu even as a butler prepared a whirlpool bath for us? Yeah. In fact, bathing was a full experience with a double whirlpool tub in our (every) room, and they even gave us in-room amenities like an Apple TV, a beach bag, slippers, and bathrobes.

Hyatt Ziva Cancun

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Best chain hotel. Hyatt Ziva Cancun is another excellent spring break stay in Cancun. For starters, when they say that they’ll be hosting a beach party, you can be assured that they will be – and a hoot it will be too! Of course, there was more to this hotel than just all-night partying. In fact, what we liked about the hotel was that during the day, it was a peaceful place to spend by the blue waters. And at night, it turns into an upscale party place.

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Since this is a Hyatt resort, the amenities are worth checking out too. It has not one but multiple infinity pools that overlook the beach and the blue waters. What’s more, they also had private cabanas where we could lounge and order food and drinks. With as many as eight restaurants onsite, including three lounges for amazing drinks, we never had to worry about food becoming boring. Plus, some events always took place here, including virtual reality simulators, dolphin encounters, and more. Rounding up the amenities is the resort’s spa, where we pampered ourselves to the hilt.

When it comes to accommodations, we wanted to enjoy this splendid experience, so we chose a swim-up room. However, all rooms came with picturesque views, either of the garden or the ocean, spa-like bathrooms, complementary refreshment centers, and even turn-down service.

Secrets Playa Mujeres Golf & Spa Resort – All Inclusive Adults Only 

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Most romantic. We wanted to have a bit of laidback fun in Cancun, along with partying, of course, which is why we chose the Secrets Playa Mujeres Golf & Spa Resort. This tranquil spot was perfect for soaking in the sun, sand, and the Caribbean Sea in an adults-only, all-inclusive environment. Tucked at the northern end of Playa Mujeres, the resort boasted a secluded atmosphere that we were desperately seeking in crazed Cancun.

What we loved about the resort is that it’s divided into two sections: the beach area with rooms, pool, and daytime restaurants, and a restaurant and lobby that come alive after sunset. There’s a nature preserve between these two areas, with golf carts to get us around. What’s great was that both areas allowed us to enjoy two distinct experiences day and night. The massive lagoon-style main pool was our favorite, especially since it came with pergolas, whirlpool tubs, and even a swim-up bar with F&B service. Those who love activity will love the watersports at the beach, while the spa was more our vibe, with an outdoor hydrotherapy area amidst vibrant tropical gardens. Thanks to six restaurants on the property and the all-inclusive package, we didn’t have to worry about drinks or food at any point in time.

The spacious and serene rooms came with extensive amenities like slippers and bathrobes, sitting areas, and balconies, with two-person hydro tubs in the bathroom. Since we wanted to enjoy a private swim away from the main pool, we booked a swim-up suite. That’s why this resort is considered one of the best Cancun hotels with swim-up rooms.

Aloft Cancun

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Best value for money. We were looking for a not-so-expensive hotel near the Hotel Zone, and we didn’t mind not being on the beach either. That’s how we ended up at the Aloft Cancun, and we were pleasantly surprised to have an amazing time. Just because it wasn’t a beach resort didn’t mean that the Aloft was bereft of amenities; in fact, it had quite a few. For one, the outdoor swimming pool was the standout, especially since it sat on the rooftop, complete with loungers and daybeds and splendid sunset views. After a swim, we retreated to the roof garden, which also had panoramic views. But that’s not all. The onsite restaurant Nook served all meals, including breakfasts, while the buzzing W XYZ Bar was perfect for beginning our evening revelries in the city.

The rooms and suites at Aloft impressed us to the hilt, too. All of them were air-conditioned with colorful and modern décor, flatscreen satellite TVs, coffeemakers, and even minibars. Moreover, they all came with private bathrooms with bespoke and complimentary toiletries. The best bit? Free Wi-Fi was available in all areas.

Turquoize at Hyatt Ziva Cancun 

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We’ve already spoken about Hyatt Ziva; now we have to talk about the intimate and matchless Turquoize at Hyatt Ziva Cancun. Part of the Hyatt Ziva property but separate from it, this luxurious adults-only haven offered beautifully designed beachfront suites – only. Reserved exclusively for Turquoize guests, these massive digs even come with balconies that have private hot tubs. Even the bathrooms offered ocean views! But that’s not all, is it? When we entered, we enjoyed a private VIP check-in and reception area. The best bit? All the suites, including ours, enjoyed personalized concierge and butler services, too!

The amenities at Turquoize at Hyatt Ziva are even better than we expected. For one, we had eight restaurants to choose from. These included everything from Italian and Mexican to a steakhouse and even a romantic French restaurant. Our favorite place to unwind was the rooftop infinity pool with ocean views and the private Punta Vista rooftop bar, again open for just us Turquoize guests. Plus, the Zen Spa furthered our sense of well-being and laidback luxury with its bevy of treatments. During the day, we’d enjoy kayaking and lounging on the beach, followed by live music, entertainment, and themed dinner parties in the evening.

Temptation Cancun Resort

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Best party atmosphere. The name says it all, doesn’t it? Temptation Cancun Resort was the spot for us spring breakers who were looking for an adults-only, sensual party atmosphere. It makes sense since the amenities and offerings here were geared toward more mature guests. In fact, they take their services to an entirely new level, so expect a lot of risque here. Now, that’s the kind of spring break we want!

For instance, there’s a resort section for those guests who are uninhibited and want to go topless – yes, it’s possible here. What’s more, those who wanted to could even swim in the nude. ‘That said, the resort provides guests with an area where they can get comfortable. Besides that, the resort is famed for its wild, themed pool parties. For example, the resort has a “Sexy Pool” and even hosts risque live shows. True to word, we felt sexier and more confident here, for sure. ‘Nuff said.

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Aside from the great party atmosphere with live music, there’s also daily and nightly entertainment, as well as a DJ and a nightclub. During the day, we loved relaxing at the two outdoor pools, followed by a massage at the full-service spa. Plus, we had the choice of six bars and seven onsite restaurants, as well as 24-hour room service. When it came to the accommodations, we had the choice of contemporarily-designed rooms and suites, all of which came with private terraces/balconies with stunning garden/ocean views. Plus, they all also had internet access, satellite TVs, and in-room coffeemakers, while our suite even had a hot tub.

Fiesta Americana Condesa Cancun – All Inclusive

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Best for families with kids. Tucked at the southern part of the Hotel Zone, the Fiesta Americana Condesa Cancun also offered us unique views of the Nichupte Lagoon. The resort comprises three main buildings, each with a thatched roof palapa that gives it a distinctive Cancun vibe. The same vibe extended to the rooms, and we had several categories to choose from. There are several different rooms to choose from at the resort, including lagoon, garden, and ocean view suites. Nevertheless, all rooms came with flatscreen TVs, minibars, safes, and private bathrooms. That said, the best ones in the house are the suites with private plunge pools, which is what we chose. It even had mesmerizing, sweeping views of the Caribbean.

When it comes to the amenities, there’s a large outdoor swimming pool, aside from the beach, of course, where we could spend our day lounging to the hilt. What’s more, many activities kept us busy, including table tennis, cooking classes, and even watersports. Since we were traveling with kids, the kids club and games room were a blessing in keeping them entertained while we took some much-needed time for ourselves at the spa. We enjoyed the evening entertainment, too, followed by dinner at one of the 11 restaurants.

Atelier Playa Mujeres 

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Are you looking for some romance in Cancun during spring break? We found the perfect place to indulge in romance, Atelier Playa Mujeres. The all-inclusive, adults-only retreat sits on one of the most picture-perfect sandy beaches in the region, with crystal-clear turquoise waters. The private beach area is one of the biggest draws, especially since it boasts shaded white cabanas with curtains billowing in the breeze. After a swim in the waters, it was the perfect place to lounge and order some drinks, thanks to the beachside service. Back at the hotel, we had even more water fun awaiting us in the form of the heated outdoor swimming pools and hot tubs.

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Thanks to a delicious breakfast buffet, we had a good start to all our days here. And with nine restaurants on the property to choose from, food wasn’t an issue at all. Plus, the resort offered a ton of activities to keep everyone busy, right from bike tours to watersports. And since an onsite nightclub with a DJ existed, our nightly entertainment was also right on the property! Fitness and wellness centers, including a spa, round up the facilities here.

There are many suites at the Atelier to choose from, including rooftop suites, ocean-view rooms, and even rooms with swim-out options. What’s more, they all have flatscreen TVs, seating areas, and modern bathrooms with rain showers and bathtubs.

Krystal Cancun

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Krystal Cancun lies right in the heart of the Spring Break action in the Hotel Zone and is party central all the way. We didn’t even need to head out to town for the party vibes, as the resort gives them off like no other. After all, it did host some amazing parties with DJs spinning absolutely danceable music and tunes. This is one live entertainment spot you don’t want to miss. All rooms, including our fantastic oceanfront one, came with cable TVs, minibars, tea/coffeemakers, and magnificent ocean views.

“Laidback beach lounging with world-class stay – that’s Krystal Cancun for you.”

WOW Travel

That said, the hotel is more than just a party place. For one, it has the most panoramic pool ever, along with a rather convenient swim-up bar. So, we could enjoy a swim paired with some fabulous Mexican cocktails. What’s more, the pools cater to all kinds of travelers, as one is an adults-only infinity pool, and the second is an outdoor pool for the kiddos. Moreover, the third one is adults-only again but slightly secluded and surrounded by daybeds and loungers. Secondly, it even has a hot tub and a sauna right next to the oceanfront pool, firmly completing the trifecta of outdoor wellness. Thanks to the three restaurants onsite, we didn’t have to worry about stepping out of the hotel for any meals.

Hotel Riu Cancun

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During spring break, our main agenda was to hit up Cancun’s best clubs. But since we were staying at Riu Cancun, we didn’t even have to leave the premises to enjoy the nightlife. We’re talking about Pacha, the Riu’s onsite nightclub, so we could take full advantage of the wild parties. At the same time, we’d still be on the property, so we could head back to our digs whenever we wanted to crash and get some sleep.

But what we spring breakers enjoyed most about the resort was its four gorgeous outdoor swimming pools, all peppered with sunloungers and pool umbrellas. What’s more, we could even lounge on the daybeds after a swim, ordering drinks from the swim-up bar. We don’t know if we could get closer to paradise than this. Secondly, there are tons of themed dining experiences and cuisines to discover at the six onsite restaurants. While the sandy beach was ideal for soaking up some sun, we also enjoyed getting massages at the Renova Spa, A health club, and a plethora of activities, like windsurfing, beach volleyball, etc., round up the amenities here.

More than 500 rooms and suites all feature creature comforts, with extra thoughtful touches such as safes, free WiFi, and lots of space. The best rooms at this property are the ones facing the ocean.

Hard Rock Hotel Cancun

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The Hard Rock Hotel Cancun is not just one of the best stays for spring vacation, but it also happens to be one of the best Cancun party hotels. Tucked in the middle of the Hotel Zone, the iconic resort sits on a beautiful stretch of sandy beach and hosts tons of live music performances with DJs spinning tunes. What’s more, it even had evening karaoke and entertainment. We especially loved the rooms at this Hard Rock outpost, all of which featured free music streaming services. That’s no surprise, given the fact that it’s a musically inclined hotel! What’s more, we also loved the bonus perks, like the fully stocked minibar and the free Wi-Fi. We had the choice of lagoon or ocean-view rooms, and we obviously chose the fabulous ocean-view ones.

We had a lot of fun and enjoyment exploring the property, as there was not one but two spacious outdoor pools that overlooked the ocean. After a swim and lounge at the pools, we headed to the full-service spa for a relaxing and rejuvenating massage and treatment. Besides the two onsite tennis courts, we also had the choice of five gourmet restaurants located on the property. A kids club, outdoor playing equipment, and a fitness center with yoga classes round up the amenities here.

Our Verdict!

While we loved all of Cancun’s spring vacation stays, the ones below were rather special because of their amenities:

• Best chain hotel: Hyatt Ziva Cancun
• Most romantic: Secrets Playa Mujeres Golf & Spa Resort – All Inclusive Adults Only 
• Best value for money: Aloft Cancun
• Best party atmosphere: Temptation Cancun Resort

Where to Stay in Cancun?

Cancun has a wide variety of areas to suit the preferences of different kinds of travelers, from the bustling Hotel Zone to quieter and more local neighborhoods. We wanted to stay in the middle of all the action, for which the Hotel Zone in Quintana Roo is just the ticket. This L-shaped strip is lined with some of the best beach hotels in Cancun, sitting pretty on the pristine white sand beaches. So, if you love beach days, want easy access to water sports, and are all about all-inclusive luxury, then this is the place to be.

Next, there’s the center of the city, a.k.a. El Centro, which is also home to Cancun’s downtown. We loved the mix of all kinds of hotels, colorful structures, street food, and traditional Mexican markets. So, if you want to soak in the culture of the city, then Centro is ideal for an authentic Cancun experience and escaping the crowds.

Of course, there’s no way we can’t mention Playa Mujeres. This up-and-coming area north of Cancun is home to a number of luxurious resorts and spas. Those for whom the main agenda is to relax and enjoy the beaches should certainly consider Playa Mujeres.

You might also want to check out the best Cancun hotels with a private pool.

Recommended Restaurants / Bars in Cancun:

• The City: This is Cancun’s largest club with a capacity of 6,000 people, with musical dates, special events, and celebrity appearances. There’s not just a dance floor but also an open bar. Plus, a party of four or more people can even get a high-top table.
• Coco Bongo: One of the top nightclubs in the city, Coco Bongo has not just a huge video screen but also streamers, confetti, balloons, soap bubbles, and whatnot. Multi-level seating aside, there are performances by everyone ranging from DJs and live bands to bar-top conga lines and even flying acrobats!
• Mandala Beach Club: We love listening to amazing music while sipping equally amazing drinks that skilled mixologists create. That’s why the outdoor dance club, the Mandala Beach Club on the coastline, was our top spot to go and party in Cancun. Their weekly pool parties see amazing modern house music, excellent drinks, and finger food. Do note that some of their events might require advance tickets.

Recommended Activities in Cancun:

• Snorkel Paradise Cancun and Underwater Museum: Snorkelers and divers, especially beginners like us, could enjoy the brilliantly blue waters of the Caribbean Sea off the coast of Cancun via this tour. We dived and visited Cancun’s spectacular Underwater Museum of Art and even stopped at two shipwrecks!
• Chichen Itza, Cenote, and Valladolid All-Inclusive Tour: We couldn’t go to Cancun and not see Chichen Itza or not explore a cenote, could we? This combo tour allowed us to tour the impressive archaeological ruins of Chichén Itzá, which is an important center of the Mayan civilization. We finished our trip with a visit to a sacred cenote, ending it with a buffet meal.