Planning a Mexico vacation and searching for the most beautiful Airbnb Cancun rentals? I’m here to help! Over 6 million visitors per year touch down in the stunning Mexican city of Cancun, and that isn’t just U.S Spring Breakers looking to get a little crazy in paradise. Solo travelers, couples, groups and families all love Cancun too.
They come for an affordable tropical vacation, where the beer and cocktails flow freely, the food is delicious and the beaches picture-perfect. They come to party it up in all-night clubs and fun bars. They come to explore Mayan ruins and take a glimpse into the past. But a lot of the time, they come to have some downtime under the Mexican sun, with the Caribbean Sea lapping at their feet.
Cancun is a little slice of heaven in south-east Mexico, with a backdrop to make jaws drop.
Now you want to pack and jet off as quickly as you can, I bet? I don’t blame you! But first things first – let’s sort your accommodation.
I’ve shortlisted the 20 absolute best AirBNB’s in Cancun – both in the famous “Hotel Zone” and beyond – to ensure a stay you’ll never forget. Also, be sure to check out my guide on “The 15 Best Music Festivals in Mexico” to see if your trip overlaps with one of the epic event!
Your Quick Top 5 Airbnb Cancun Vacation Rentals
Trust me to choose the best Cancun AirBNB for your own unique travel needs? I’m down for the challenge. My “Quick 5” AirBNB Cancun recommendations are tailored to a range of styles and budgets. Is it value for money or luxury you’re looking for? A cozy couples escape to the Caribbean? A group-friendly beachfront oasis? Or just the best of the best Airbnb Cancun? Check out these links below and hit “BOOK”, and you won’t regret it!
- Best Overall AirBNB Cancun – Beachfront Condo with Terrace Walkout
- Best AirBNB in Cancun For Groups – Spectacular luxury apartment facing the sea
- Best Romantic AirBNB Cancun for Couples – Capacious Studio Perfectly Placed in the Midst of Cancun
- Best Cheap Airbnb Cancun – Lounge in the Hammock of a Designer Apartment
- Best Luxury Cancun AirBNB – Villa 910
I’ve also added tons of fun, helpful, and inspiring travel videos for your upcoming trip to Cancun! It’s such a jaw-droppingly beautiful destination with lota to do, so make sure you watch a few of them to get loads of ideas for how to spend your time down there!
1) Beachfront Condo with Terrace Walkout
The Best Overall Airbnb Cancun
Location: Kukulcan Boulevard
AirBNB Plus: Yes
Superhost: Yes
Price: $200+ USD per night
https://www.airbnb.com/rooms/28604984
With the relatively low cost of living across Cancun, it’s totally possible to rent a stunning condo that is right on the beach for a fraction of the price that a similar haven in The States would cost. With that in mind, I’ve chosen this beautiful one-bedroom beachfront condo as the best Airbnb in Cancun. This sleek and stylish abode is open plan and breezy – just what you want in a Mexican seaside hideaway. It’s also located within an upmarket apartment complex, and AirBNB guests have complete access to the infinity pool, gym and patio on-site. Located just a few minutes from the Cancun’s central Hotel Zone, this 5 star Cancun AirBNB offers dazzling views of the ocean in a quiet and relaxed neighborhood. Don’t miss out!
Guest review: “Absolutely beautiful ! Looks just like the photos ! It’s a must ! Safe secure clean and that view just amazing to wake up to. You get the privacy and location all in one definitely book again. If your thinking about booking don’t wait !” – Rachel
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2) Spectacular luxury apartment facing the sea
The Best AirBNB Cancun For Groups
Location: Hotel Zone
AirBNB Plus: Yes
Superhost: Yes
Price: $150+ USD per night
https://www.airbnb.com/rooms/23688780
Cancun is an ever-popular destination for groups, be it wedding parties, bucks or hens nights, Spring Break or even just a tropical family holiday in the fun. Forget hotels. Airbnb has a huge range of offerings in Cancun, and my pick for the best Cancun AirBNB for groups is this incredible three-bedroom condo. Verified by AirBNB, this stylish, spacious and chic apartment has one of the best locations in Cancun. It’s nestled within a quiet and private luxury complex in the Hotel Zone that has its own private beach, pool and spa. This diamond on the Caribbean Sea offers majestic sea views from its balcony and is just a stone’s throw from the airport, restaurants, bars, clubs and the bright lights of Cancun. It’s the perfect base for exploring all the amazing things to do in Cancun.
Guest review: “This place was incredible – the living room is beautifully decorated and is surrounded by ceiling-high windows which give you a fantastic view of the beach and countryside, and the balcony is perfect for just sitting out and watching the sunset. There isn’t a TV in the living room, but that provides a nice opportunity to just talk and relax. The community pool is really great as well and we spent a lot of time there working on our tans. Overall this was just a great place to stay and highly recommended.” – Jamie
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3) Capacious Studio Perfectly Placed in the Midst of Cancun
The Best AirBNB in Cancun for Couples
Location: Hotel Zone
AirBNB Plus: Yes
Superhost: Yes
Price: $70+ USD per night
https://www.airbnb.com/rooms/20524112
All loved up and jetting off to a tropical Mexican hotspot? Perched right on the edge of Cancun’s humming Hotel Zone, this gorgeous one bedroom apartment is the best Cancun AirBNB for couples. Over 200 AirBNB guests (and counting) have given this colorful retreat near-perfect ratings and reviews. The apartment is equipped with a large balcony with tree top views, a stylish meals area and an airy lounge. Forget taxiing around Cancun. This little romantic getaway is just minutes walk from the many restaurants, bars and stores of the Hotel Zone, and is located in a safe and friendly area. So affordable and so lush.
Guest review: “Perfect stay! Such a nice place to come to after a long day of traveling. Communication was excellent and the unit just lovely. Thank you.” – Kathryn
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4) Lounge in the Hammock of a Designer Apartment
The Best Value For Money Cancun AirBNB
Location: Mercado Donceles
AirBNB Plus: Yes
Superhost: Yes
Price: $40+ USD per night
https://www.airbnb.com/rooms/10565428
A trip to Cancun offers exceptional value for money in general, but this awesome one-bedroom condo is my choice for the best value for money AirBNB in Cancun. For as little as $40 per night (USD) you’ll have the best of everything at your fingertips. An open plan, designer apartment with stylish decor that is backed by many rave reviews, lodgings that are verified for quality by AirBNB, and a Superhost that is happy to help make your stay the best ever. This apartment is located in a residential neighborhood just a short drive to the Hotel Zone. There are many restaurants, cafes and bars nearby, and the ferry to majestic Isla Mujeres is super close. Save your hard-earned cash for those many tropical cocktails and enjoy a value for money Cancun vacation.
Guest review: “Zubzen’s place was beautiful and clean. It was a lovely place to relax, with great kitchen and bathroom amenities. We didn’t have a car, but managed to get around by taxi for quite cheap. There’s also a lovely cafe right nearby.” – Talia
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5) Villa 910
The Best Luxury Airbnb Cancun
Location: Hotel Zone
AirBNB Luxe: Yes
Superhost: Yes
Price: $1700+ USD per night
https://www.airbnb.com/rooms/29854301
There’s so many mind-blowing accommodation offers in Cancun. After all, it’s where visitors go to let loose and live it up. But in my humble opinion, this epic villa is the best luxury Cancun AirBNB by a mile. Spring for a stay here and you’ll be blown away by the guest experience you’ll enjoy. Verified by AirBNB Luxe, this six bedroom villa will have you feeling like royalty. Located within a secure upmarket complex with a shared pool, the villa offers unparalleled ocean views, enormous open plan interiors, a private plunge pool of its own, a games room, a BBQ and ultra modern appliances and technology. Oh, and each bedroom has its own bathroom. Amazing right? It gets better.
The villa is located in the heart of Cancun’s hotspot, the Hotel Zone, and has a pristine beach just steps away from its door. There’s archaeological sites and museums to experience nearby, as well as a popular water park. You’ll enjoy housekeeping services and 24 hour security, plus chef and laundry services for an additional cost. Luxury doesn’t get much better than this. While it may be the most expensive listing here, it’s without a doubt the best Airbnb in Cancun if money is not an issue!
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6) 30 square meters studio inside Cancun’s heart
Location: Downtown Cancun
AirBNB Plus: No
Superhost: Yes
Price: $30+ USD per night
https://www.airbnb.com/rooms/20188636
Downtown Cancun is a great location that puts you just a short distance from the central Hotel Zone and the city’s many beaches, historical sites, restaurants, bars and clubs. And a stay in Downtown Cancun can mean you shave a little off the price of your stay – which means more cocktail and taco money. This lovely little studio is spotless, fashionable and contemporary, and has a private roof garden with hammock and sea views. It has air-conditioning, wifi, modern appliances and is just one block from the starting point of the buzzing Hotel Zone. And all at such an affordable price you won’t believe it.
Guest review: “Fantastic property in a great location. Walking distance to great restaurants. Zubzen was a wonderful host and answered all questions promptly. I couldn’t have been happier with my stay at this beautiful space.” – Christine
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7) 68 square meters studio inside Cancun’s heart
Location: Downtown Cancun
AirBNB Plus: No
Superhost: Yes
Price: $50+ USD per night
https://www.airbnb.com/rooms/20534492
Incredibly spacious for a studio apartment, this value for money Cancun AirBNB is managed by the same terrific Superhost as the property above, so if you can’t secure your desired dates for that space, go for this one instead! Another Downtown Cancun apartment that exceeds expectations, this fantastic studio has a private balcony, meals area, comfortable bed, modern kitchen rooftop garden and air-conditioning. It’s nestled just 5 minutes walk from the beginning of the central Hotel Zone, where you can eat, drink and be merry to your heart’s content!
Guest review: “What a BEAUTIFUL space. Incredible attention to detail. Really enjoyed our stay with great restaurants surrounding the area.” – Alexandra
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8) Cozy Loft Apartment Near Isla Mujeres Ferry
Location: Mercado Donceles
AirBNB Plus: Yes
Superhost: Yes
Price: $40+ USD per night
https://www.airbnb.com/rooms/22001028
Ultra modern and cleverly designed, this one bedroom Cancun AirBNB apartment is split over two levels to maximise space, with the generous bedroom upstairs and the living quarters and kitchen downstairs. Verified and managed by one of Cancun’s top rated AirBNB hosts, the loft is situated within a modern complex with a shared pool and patio for soaking up those relaxing Mexico rays. The neighborhood you’ll be staying in is just a short drive to the Hotel Zone, or just chill out around the local area and enjoy some delicious Mexican food right at the source, a refreshing cerveza or trawl the shops for some souvenirs to take home. The ferry to Isla Mujeres is right nearby, as are the beaches of Puerto Juarez.
Guest review: “Zubzen’s place is great. Open and airy in design with a really comfortable bed and well equipped kitchen. Nice touches like coffee and plenty of drinking water and condiments left for our use. Best Airbnb we have stayed at in Mexico so far. Perfect size for a couple! Just under 2 kilometers away you have a lovely white sand beach to swim at and a choice of several seafood restaurants to try. Highly recommended if you want an authentic experience!” – Karen
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9) GREAT STUDIO ON THE BEACH WITH PRIVATE TERRACE!
Location: Hotel Zone
AirBNB Plus: No
Superhost: No
Price: $70+ USD per night
https://www.airbnb.com/rooms/11354410
Located on one of Cancun’s most beautiful beaches, this new studio apartment is spacious, bright and crisp white to match the Mexican sand outside. It’s located within a complex with its own pool and 24/7 security, plus a maid service and masseuse is available upon request. Just steps from the turquoise waters of El Rey beach and it’s many umbrellas and deck chairs, this air-conditioned apartment has a very peaceful vibe. Enjoy water sports, swimming or sunbaking on your doorstep, the central hub of the Hotel Zone just a few minutes away or slightly further afield, explore the region’s ancient Mayan ruins. A relaxing massage on a tropical beach in Cancun, mojito in hand? Send me a postcard.
Guest review: “The large and very stylish studio is right on the gorgeous beach! The location was perfect for us as we wanted a more secluded beach and it was! The studio was spotless clean with thoughtful touches like plants, flowers and even candles. It was quiet, peaceful and private. We also had use of the very nice pool and patio with the most amazing views! The studio has everything you need for a wonderful Cancun visit. The best part was having Robert greet us and giving us a personal driving tour of the local restaurants, hotspots, ferry station and atms. He even took us to the grocery store for water and supplies!” – Larayn
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10) Beachfront Three Story Coastal Penthouse
Location: Hotel Zone
AirBNB Plus: Yes
Superhost: Yes
Price: $200+ USD per night
https://www.airbnb.com/rooms/31468313
Nestled within a quiet gated complex with a stunning pool, this two bedroom luxury Cancun penthouse offers the best of everything. This exclusive retreat has a number of private balconies and terraces with some of the best ocean views, free-flowing interiors and a rooftop lounge with a handy mini fridge – to keep the beer cold. This penthouse condo is situated right in the heart of Cancun’s visitor hotspot, The Hotel Zone, and is bordered by a beach and a lagoon. It has also been verified by AirBNB for quality and has a perfect 5/5 rating from its many happy guests.
Guest review: “This place was perfect! The views from the condo was beautiful from the lagoon side to the ocean! Super clean and convenient ; with 3 bathrooms with nice finishes. Taking the bus towards the shopping and restaurants were literally minutes. My grandma loved it and we plan on definitely renting here again!” – Jenny
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11) New Luxury Airbnb Cancun Condo Near the Beach!
Location: Downtown Cancun
AirBNB Plus: No
Superhost: No
Price: $80+ USD per night
https://www.airbnb.com/rooms/966319
Located on the Cancun mainland in an upmarket neighborhood, this fantastic two bedroom, two storey deluxe condo offers so much for visitors. It’s tucked away within a secure complex that is equipped with a pool, gym, game room, super fast wifi, 24/7 security and private parking for two cars.
This luxury condo is fun, bright and classically stylish, and has all the mod cons you’ll require for an easy, breezy Mexican getaway. For a small additional fee, they even offer a maid service. Downtown Cancun is a fascinating melting pot with some of the city’s best eating, drinking and cultural attractions on offer. It’s also just a short journey into the central Hotel Zone, with its many beautiful beaches, and taxis and public buses are available everywhere at all times of the day and night.
Guest review: “We had a great stay at Julio’s place. We were a bit worried about staying out of the hotel zone before arriving however once we arrived felt extremely safe in the condo and the area. Easy walk to restaurants and good coffee.” – Shannon
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12) Amazing Loft in HotelZone CANCUN New
Location: Hotel Zone
AirBNB Plus: No
Superhost: Yes
Price: $50+ USD per night
https://www.airbnb.com/rooms/20932458
Located at the tail end of Cancun’s buzzing Hotel Zone, this one-bedroom luxury condo has features upon features, with a top notch location to back it up. A completely remodeled abode, this loft is steps from one of the best beaches in Cancun and has views to write home about. It is located within a safe complex with THREE separate pools (2 adult pools and 1 child pool), beachside jacuzzis, a tennis court and free parking. The space itself is chic, modern and comfortable, and has a number of great plazas just minutes walk away, as well as superb restaurants. Cancun Aquarium is 500 metres from the door of this family-friendly condo, and is the perfect spot to take the kids as a fun outing. The big kids will love the many bars and clubs of Hotel Zone, just 3km away.
Guest review: “This was probably the best AirBNB that I have been to, let me tell you we got there at night so I was wondering if I was gonna really like it but in the morning when my boyfriend showed me the view of the ocean I was hooked. The pool was nice and having the beach a few steps away was unbeatable I would say the only con was the water pressure but that’s it .” – Valeria
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13) CARIBBEAN PARADISE BEACH CANCUN Airbnb
Location: Hotel Zone
AirBNB Plus: No
Superhost: No
Price: $90+ USD per night
https://www.airbnb.com/rooms/6935888
Virtually every single AirBNB review for this awesome apartment not only raves about the space itself, but talks highly of its helpful host Ken, so you know you’re onto a winner already. A family friendly oasis, this neat one bedroom apartment has amazing sea views, a swimming pool on-site, a garden, a beach with loungers and even a massage zone and gym for a small additional fee. For added safety and simplicity , a number of registered cab companies frequent the taxi rank right at the entrance. This sweet condo is located within the tourist-friendly Hotel Zone, and you’ll have a litany of restaurants, bars, nightclubs, shops and beaches all at your fingertips.
Guest review: “Couldn’t recommend this apartment or Kenmore! Location is AMAZING, beach facing room was incredible. Ken was SO helpful and kind!” – Taya
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14) Great Beautiful B&B in the Cancun Hotel Zone!
Location: Hotel Zone
AirBNB Plus: No
Superhost: Yes
Price: $70+ USD per night
https://www.airbnb.com/rooms/202108
A warm and rustic room in a large villa complex, this Cancun AirBNB provides a B&B style experience on the Mexican coast. Enjoy the king size bed, kitchenette, en-suite bathroom and private balcony – plus a homemade daily breakfast to fill you up before hitting the beach. You’ll be at the heart of Cancun’s Hotel Zone, with its miles and miles of beachfront bars, restaurants, clubs, shops and malls. Downtown Cancun is less than 10 minutes away. For those using the cheap and efficient 24 hour public bus service, there is a bus stop just 1 minutes walk away that services the Hotel Zone and beyond. Catch the ferry across to the tiny, historical island of Isla Mujeres – the ferry port is right across the street from this AirBNB!
Guest review: “The property was exactly as advertised. The backyard area on the lagoon is a great spot to relax before starting the day. I corresponded with Carmen and Eli cooked me breakfast every morning. It was a pleasure interacting with both of them.” – Grant
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15) Ruby Studio in Downtown Cancún
Location: Downtown Cancun
AirBNB Plus: No
Superhost: Yes
Price: $40+ USD per night
https://www.airbnb.com/rooms/33943813
Escape the crowds of the Hotel Zone and book your stay at this bright, sunny and fresh one bedroom loft in the heart of Downtown Cancun. It is equipped with a king size bed, bathroom, private terrace and a rooftop swimming pool to die for. There is 24 hour security on-site, and the apartment is located in a very tourist-heavy area of Downtown Cancun, just 15-25 minutes taxi or bus to the main Hotel Zone and its picturesque beaches. Immerse yourself in the fun vibe of Downtown Cancun, and its many authentic Mexican restaurants, plus a ton of bars and local shopping opportunities. Who said you can’t have a first class Cancun vacation at a beyond cheap price?
Guest review: “The private pool on the rooftop was very enjoyable at night. The views were very nice. Very clean and secure location. We were just a block from the small shopping centers. Highly recommend this place.” – Michael
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16) Villa Natural Cancun Airbnb
Location: Doctores
AirBNB Plus: No
Superhost: Yes
Price: $170+ USD per night
https://www.airbnb.com/rooms/7397376
This four bedroom Cancun villa oozes style, sophistication and most of all – location! With airy open plan interiors, two patios, walking paths, a pool and lush gardens all around, this is very much a retreat from the hustle and bustle of Cancun’s Hotel Zone. What’s nearby, you wonder? Well, within five minutes you can be at Cancun Airport, a great shopping plaza, a top golf course and a luxury spa. In 10 minutes you can be at Cancun’s pristine Dolphin Beach and in 15 you can be at Mexico’s largest outlet mall (Las Plazas Outlet), the Hotel Zone or the Isla Mujeres ferry port. Oh, and in 30 minutes you can be in the beautiful coastal town of Playa del Carmen. The only question is – when are you booking your stay?
Guest review: “Overall, absolutely amazing and beautiful place. Full of nature and privacy. A great get away stay.” – Hana
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17) Vip APARTMENT, 300 MTS TO AVENUE OF HOTELS
Location: Hotel Zone
AirBNB Plus: No
Superhost: No
Price: $70+ USD per night
https://www.airbnb.com/rooms/30177984
Located at the quiet endpoint of Cancun’s central Hotel Zone, this one-bedroom condo is a real treat. Sparkling clean, sophisticated and spacious, the new executive apartment is nestled within a secure upmarket complex with a great pool and gym guests are free to use as much as they like. This brilliant loft-style space is such great value for money, you’ll hardly believe it. While the days away on the picturesque beaches of the Hotel Zone, and enjoy its endless variety of restaurants, bars, pubs, nightclubs, tourist attractions and shops.
Guest review: “This was an absolute BEAUTIFUL stay. I hardly left the house because it was so comfortable and absolutely gorgeous. Everything was CLEAN and bright!! I would highly recommend this stay! The bed is cozy and having a downstairs bathroom is a plus. However there were a few little mosquitos inside and a bit of construction noise happening next door… but I would certainly stay here again. Gorgeous!” – Jenna
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Cancun Day Trips To Consider Booking For Your Upcoming Holiday
Cancun isn’t just all mojitos and all nighters. There’s a ton of cultural landmarks right near the city – like the incredible Mayan relic of Chichén Itzá. There’s also beautiful neighboring islands with historical significance. Book your place on these unmissable Cancun tours and experience the other side of this fascinating city.
*Yes. I have included a party boat in these recommendations. It is Cancun, after all. Now go book!
Chichén Itzá, Ik Kil Cenote & Valladolid All-Inclusive Tour
https://www.getyourguide.com/chichn-itz-l785/chichn-itz-full-day-cenote-valladolid-tour-t115450/
Price: From $70 USD (12 hours)
“Tour the impressive archaeological ruins of Chichén Itzá and discover a ceremonial center of the Maya civilization. Then, go to the sacred Cenote of Hubiku and end with a buffet meal in the restaurant.”
Review: “Very well organized and very enthusiastic tour guides. Carlos was super knowledgeable and passionate and caring — we had a great experience with the tour!!” – Anonymous, United States
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Temple of Kukulkan, pyramid in Chichen Itza, Yucatan, Mexico
Isla Mujeres: All Inclusive Full-Day Catamaran Tour
https://www.getyourguide.com/cancn-l150/from-cancun-isla-mujeres-catamaran-tour-t69067/
Price: From $80 USD (10 hours)
“Set sail on the Caribbean Sea for Isla Mujeres, the Island of Women, where you can snorkel in the turquoise waters and relax on one of the world’s most beautiful beaches. Savor a delicious buffet lunch and enjoy your favorite drinks from the open bar.”
Review: “Left pier by 10am, great sail, bring sunglasses, hat and towel to swipe off sweat, sunblock, towel and a positive attitude. I would do this every time I come to Cancun. Sailing by 10am. While waiting you can drink, take scenery pictures and shop. Once on the boat, you get instructions, Sail an hour, snorkeling 30-45 minutes, back on boat, eat on island, back in boat to shopping/ beach area on Isla Mujeres then sail back to main land! We were on the Catamaran called Max. If you can get that one.” – Lukaea, United States
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Rockstar Boat Party Cancun – Booze Cruise Cancun (18+)
https://www.getyourguide.com/cancn-l150/cancun-boat-party-for-adults-t152304/
Price: From $150 USD (4 hours)
“Board this adult-only party boat that departs from Cancun and enjoy beats from guest DJ’s, snorkeling, champagne, snacks and a beautiful sunset. Be ready to let loose on this 4-hour cruise that includes an all-you-can-drink open bar.”
Review: “It was a very very good Party. And the guide was the best. Had a very good time on the boat.” – Sascha, Germany
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Airbnb Cancun Travel & Safety tips
Some people worry about their personal safety when they book a trip to Cancun – and that’s to be expected. Mexico gets a bad rap, and yes, it has a higher crime rate than many other countries in the Americas. However, Cancun isn’t even in the top 10 list of dangerous Mexican cities and is statistically less dangerous than Detroit, New Orleans and Baltimore. So relax!
The local government in Cancun is continuing to put a lot of effort into ensuring their streets are as safe as possible for residents and visitors, and tourism continues to be the main industry in Cancun.
Here’s a few safety tips to keep in mind when visiting Cancun…
- The Hotel Zone is the safest area of Cancun. If you are worried about your personal safety, book a stay at any of my recommended Cancun AirBNB’s that are closest to the centre of the Hotel Zone. But don’t write off AirBNB’s in Downtown Cancun or slightly further afield. Hundreds of guests have raved about feeling safe at amazing homes outside of this tourist zone, and even think that it amplified their Cancun experience by spending their stay away from the tourist traps .
- Take measures to keep your personal belongings safe. Most AirBNB’s have on-site safes. Put any valuables / passports or money in these, and just carry the absolute essentials on you when venturing out. This way, you’ll feel a whole lot safer.
- I don’t want to sound like your Dad, but a money belt is a good investment. Thieves in Cancun love tourists with easily snatchable bags or belongings. Either that, or wear a cross-body bag.
- Keep your wits about you and make smart choices when out and about. Stick to public thoroughfares and don’t walk around alone or late at night.
- Be aware of your surroundings when taking cash out of an ATM. Take someone with you as a lookout.
- Take registered cabs and never hail a cab on the streets. Your AirBNB hosts can help you with a list of the best taxi companies to use, or if you get stuck, just ask the nearest hotel to call a cab for you. They will be happy to oblige.
- Be mindful when drinking alcohol, and alert your AirBNB host, hotel or local police if you believe your alcohol has been messed with.
- Slather on that sunscreen and insect repellant. Like many other tropical locations, Mexico has some thirsty mosquitos and bugs that carry a whole host of dangerous (and gross) diseases.
- Don’t stop and engage with people trying to talk to you or ask you questions on the street. They are usually trying to sell you something, so just keep walking confidently and they will drop off. Same goes for people asking you for help. It’s a tried and trusted scam.
- Don’t mess around on balconies. It may come as no surprise that Mexico’s health and safety regulations aren’t of the same standard as in the States, and it’s easier to go over a balcony or for a balcony to come crashing down in Cancun. It happens a lot.
- Cancun has many tourist police, and if there’s anything that concerns you, locate one to report any issues to. Mexico has a large number of scams against foreigners from regular people impersonating police and fining tourists on the spot for random, non-criminal offences. If this happens to you, ask for their ID number, or find a tourist police officer for assistance or to check their identity.
- Always check reviews and certifications if you’re taking part in any adventure sports or extreme activities. Again, Mexico doesn’t have the strict safety regs we are lucky to have in the Western world, so before you get on that jet-ski or dive to the depths of the ocean… check and check again.
- In the event you are robbed, just hand over your belongings. I trust you will have taken out solid travel insurance (a must) for the duration of your trip, and this will be covered in the event of a robbery. A phone, wallet or camera is not worth losing your life over.
- Mexico has hefty penalties for drug offences. If you don’t want to sleep on a paper-thin mattress in one of the world’s hardest prisons for 25 years – avoid them.
- Learning some basic Spanish words and phrases can get you a surprisingly long way with locals, and will build rapport. And that brings me to…
Essential Spanish words and phrases to get by in Cancun…
- Si- Yes
- No – No
- Buenos días – Good morning
- Buenas noches – Good evening
- Adiós — Goodbye
- Cómo estás? — How are you?
- Qué pasa? — What’s happening?
- Muy bien — Very well
- Bien, gracias — Good, thank you
- Me llamo… — My name is…
- Gracias! — Thank you!
- Muchas gracias! — Thank you very much!
- De nada! — You’re welcome! / No problem!
- Por favor — Please
- Perdon! — Excuse me!
- Lo siento! — Sorry!
- Dónde…? — Where?
- Puede ayudarme? — Can you help me?
- Cuánto cuesta eso? — How much does it cost?
- Dónde puedo encontrar un taxi? — Where can I find a taxi?
- Dónde está [hotel’s name] hotel? — Where is [hotel’s name] hotel?
- No hablo español — I don’t speak Spanish
- Mi español es malo — My Spanish is bad
- Salud! — Cheers!
- Una cerveza, por favor – A beer, please
Am I Missing Any Amazing Airbnbs in Cancun, Mexico?
There are dozens of more quality Airbnbs in Cancun and the surrounding areas in Mexico like Playa Del Carmen & Tulum! If you’ve been to Cancun recently and stayed at awesome Airbnb that should be included on this list, please do let me know! I’d love to keep my list of the best Airbnbs in Cancun as up-to-date as possible! Also, if you’re a Cancun Airbnb host and would like to be included on this list, let me know as well! I’d love to take a look at your property!
Cancun really is an unbelievably gorgeous destination, and can’t wait to get back myself!
Amazing Airbnb Cancun articles man! Also, you can do a salsa and bachata lesson during your trip to Cancun!
Excellent information we have a great house vacation near Cancun too!