:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/header-cancun-hotel-zone-CANCUNALLIN0117-6ed309db327e4a639f9e002fdfc7f658.jpg "The 10 Best All-inclusive Resorts in Cancun")
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Cancún is one of the most visited destinations in Mexico, enticing travelers with its warm turquoise waters, soft beachfront, towering resorts, and lively entertainment. Only a 15-minute hop, skip, and short drive from Cancún International Airport, the 14-mile Hotel Zone drag has been welcoming millions of sun-worshipping tourists for decades.
This coastal hotspot may not have invented the all-inclusive resort, but it has certainly shaped expectations. With more than 1,100 hotels in the Cancún area today, competition is fierce, and the all-inclusive resort reigns as king. Whether you’re looking to soak up energy in the heart of the Hotel Zone or crave a relaxing beach escape in a more secluded spot down the coast, our picks for the best all-inclusives in Cancún — a combination of T+L award winners and editor-loved properties (see our full methodology) — have standout service, notable amenities, a range of activities, and delicious food and drink that will keep you coming back for more—all set against a screensaver-worthy backdrop to boot.
Le Blanc Spa Resort Cancun
Also available to book at Hotels.com.
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Rates include a guided journey through one of Cancun’s best hydrotherapy thermal circuits.
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All-suite rooms start out smaller here compared to the other resorts on the list.
Le Blanc is one of Cancun’s all-inclusive crown jewels where the impeccable personalized service and luxurious digs often leave guests feeling like royalty. Its picturesque beachfront location, full-service Mayan spa, and reliably good food and drink options make it a repeat favorite. Five a la carte restaurants, the casual health-inspired cafe, and top-shelf drinks are included. The superb butler service means you’ll barely have to lift a finger unless you’re taking advantage of any of the included activities like aquatic spinning (think Peloton in the pool). Rooms at this 260-suite property start on the small side at 429 square feet, but you’ll still have plenty of room to stretch out — especially in the double-size marble whirlpool tub. The stocked minibar, Lavazza coffee machine, in-room premium liquor dispensers, and 24-hour room service are big perks. Le Blanc’s nightly rates cover nearly everything, sometimes even airport transfers, and they handle dietary restrictions like pros. It’s the little things that landed this five-star all-inclusive on our World’s Best list in 2021 and 2022. Le Blanc guests have access to all Palace properties’ sister resorts, which include the Moon Palace complex, Playacar Palace, and Cozumel Palace (transportation not included).
The Details:
- Distance to Airport: 15 miles
- Gratuities Included: Yes
- Restaurant Reservations Required: Yes
- WiFi: Included
- Parking: Included
- Pet Policy: Not allowed
- Rates: Start at $683
Nina Ruggiero, Editorial Director
Le Blanc changed what I thought of Cancun all-inclusive resorts. The dining felt elevated, the spa felt luxurious, and my room came with a private ocean-view jacuzzi. It’s adult-only, and while the swim-up cocktail bar has a bit of a party vibe, it’s overall serene compared to most Cancun scenes.
— Nina Ruggiero, Editorial Director
Hyatt
Also available to book at Hotels.com.
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The expanded kids’ programming is included and covers a wide range of ages.
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Even with adults-only options, this is first and foremost a family-friendly resort.
Hyatt Ziva Cancun has seen a few changes since its 2016 debut on the tip of Cancun’s stunning Punta Cancun peninsula. The new adults-only spaces, extended kids’ club programming for up to age 19, and fine-tuning of its restaurant and bar options have only made it better. All 17 restaurants, bars, and lounges, from the onsite microbrewery and tequila bar to fresh ceviche and tableside teppanyaki, are covered in the nightly rate. We love the multi-generational, choose-your-own-adventure vibe here at this 2021 World’s Best award winner. Days are loaded with activities to fit a variety of energy levels and age ranges, whether you’re spending it out on the beach, by the pool, or in the spa. The 547 contemporary suites at this resort vary between 483 to 4,381 square feet and don’t skimp on important details like daily restocked minibars, blackout drapes, Bluetooth speakers, and 24-hour room service. Turquoize Tower upgrades flaunt high-floor 270-degree views, extras like butler service, and access to adults-only dining, bar, and pool areas.
The Details:
- Distance to Airport: 15.7 miles
- Gratuities Included: Yes
- Restaurant Reservations Required: No
- WiFi: Included
- Parking: Included
- Pet Policy: Not allowed
- Rates: Start at $834
Dreams Riviera Cancun Resort & Spa
Also available to book at Hotels.com.
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The resort’s casual, beachy vibe and unique octagonal-shaped rooms are a standout.
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Fully uncovered exterior walkways are great until the weather isn’t.
Don’t let Dreams Riviera Cancun’s location in the former sleepy fishing village of Puerto Morelos fool you—the six onsite bars, including a swim-up and a beach bar, keep guests’ glasses full, and the poolside entertainment team goes big. Originally opened in 2009, the most recent 2023 renovation added an all-ages arcade and kids’ waterpark, and it upgraded the Italian specialty restaurant and its private dining wine cellar. Between the six a la carte restaurants, main buffet, snack bars, and 24-hour room service, you’ll be well fed. The overall vibe tows the line between contemporary, casual, and tropical resort with woven rattan accents, marble floors and bathrooms, and several thatched-roof palapas. Some of our favorite details from the 486 rooms are their massive mirrors, standalone tubs, frond fan blades, and unique octagonal shape, but fair warning, light sleepers should pack a good pair of earplugs. There’s no up-charge for premium alcohol, but expect to pay extra for beach cabana rentals, spa services, and tips.
The Details:
- Distance to Airport: 18 miles
- Gratuities Included: No
- Restaurant Reservations Required: No
- WiFi: Included
- Parking: Included
- Pet Policy: $65 per night for one small dog under 22 pounds
- Rates: Start at $187
Taylor Fox, Updates Writer
I stayed here for a week. This resort gives you a bit of everything. I loved the gorgeous spa and high-end gym that was easy to access, and the salon is equipped with some of the most knowledgeable stylists I’ve encountered at an all-inclusive.
— Taylor Fox, Updates Writer
Atelier Playa Mujeres
Also available to book at Hotels.com.
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Impeccable service and the variety of food and beverage options don’t disappoint.
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This resort requires guests to wear the dreaded all-inclusive bracelet.
The adults-only Atelier Playa Mujeres may have only opened in 2018, but that didn’t stop this eco-friendly beachfront resort from getting a little work done on its 593 suites just three years later. Whether you book into one of the 742-square-foot entry-level junior suites or splurge on the over 3,000-square-foot top-level Inspira suite, you’ll find a perfect balance of sophistication and style at this 2023 World’s Best hotel. We especially like the oceanfront views, comfy beds, and elegant moss-green marble bathrooms. Inspira upgrades come with amenity perks like in-room personalization menus, exclusive Inspira-only areas, butler service, and several discounts and freebies. The nightly rate covers all 13 restaurants and 12 bars, including the reservation-only Maria Dolores by Edgar Nunez. The stunning 14,000-square-foot pool, 18-hole golf course, tri-level spa, and decked-out TechnoGym fitness are big draws, while guided onsite art walks and the pup-friendly PetIt program add even more value.
The Details:
- Distance to Airport: 20 miles
- Gratuities Included: Yes
- Restaurant Reservations Required: No
- WiFi: Included
- Parking: Included
- Pet Policy: $35 per night for one dog up to 20 pounds
- Rates: Start at $548
Excellence Resorts
Also available to book at Hotels.com.
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Gorgeous suites that have extensive outdoor areas and swim-up options.
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A dress code is enforced—at restaurants and some bars.
Excellence Playa Mujeres is a 450-suite beachfront property for adults only. This 2022 World’s Best winner impresses with generous marble-laden suites that start out at over 800 square feet and there isn’t a bad room in the house. We love that upgrades don’t cost a fortune (far from it) but pay off in droves with incredible terraces, swim-up access, and rooftop plunge pools. Nine restaurants feature global cuisines and details like hand-rolled pasta and oceanfront seating, and premium, well-crafted cocktails and drinks are served from morning to late night. This resort is the perfect place to sharpen skills at a handful of niche activities, from archery and air rifle shooting to water polo and beach soccer, all included. There are several perks if you upgrade to the Excellence Club level with some favorites being access to all seven pools and six whirlpools, a club-only beach area (no hunting for loungers), and in-room extras like fresh flowers and small snacks delivered daily.
The Details:
- Distance to Airport: 18.8 miles
- Gratuities Included: Yes
- Restaurant Reservations Required: No
- WiFi: Included
- Parking: Included
- Pet Policy: Not allowed
- Rates: Start at $439
Moon Palace Cancun
Also available to book at Hotels.com.
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Kids under 17 stay and eat free, and everyone has access to a truly superlative number of activities and amenities.
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You’ll need a map and a good sense of direction to navigate this massive property—and you’ll be sharing with up to 10,000 other guests.
For those looking to go big or go home, you can’t get much more behemoth than Moon Palace Cancun. This multi-resort complex has an expansive 123-acre beachfront location and a staggering 2,483 rooms — and not an inch is wasted. Chances are, if there’s a resort feature you’re hoping for, it’s here, from a lazy river to a bowling alley and even made-to-order baby food and a dedicated kids spa area with treatments. The spa itself is over 76,000 square feet, there are 19 pools, an incredible waterpark for all ages, and there’s a 27-hole Jack Nicklaus Signature golf course. You may worry that a resort this big has spread itself too thin, but Moon Palace manages to deliver over and over, whether it’s with good food, top service, or quality experiences. If you’ve got dietary restrictions, know they have special allergy and vegan protocols in place to keep you safe. We also like that this resort recognizes its impact on the environment and local community and puts at least 10 percent of its profits back into the community and toward sustainability initiatives. They also host local artisan markets and source roughly 80 percent of their food locally.
The Details:
- Distance to Airport: 6 miles
- Gratuities Included: Yes
- Restaurant Reservations Required: Yes
- WiFi: Included
- Parking: Included
- Pet Policy: Not allowed
- Rates: Start at $655
©Grupo Posadas
Also available to book at Hotels.com.
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The resort appeals to all five senses through its design, amenities, and personalization—and they’ve got a temazcal.
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Food can be hit or miss, and there’s an extra cost for premium food and drink options.
Live Aqua Cancun is an adults-only resort with a sophisticated aesthetic and lively location. Originally debuting in 2004, then remodeled and reintroduced in 2007, Live Aqua’s most recent 2019 renovations brought the all-suite total up to 371 and added modern touches like surround sound and smart controls. Aqua aims to appeal to all five senses, from its seven international a la carte restaurants and colorful beachfront views to the seven pools set at different temperatures and in-room personalization menus. The prime Hotel Zone location yields expectedly smaller rooms than others on this list, though don’t worry; there’s enough space to unpack and spread out and enjoy the gorgeous polished marble floors, plush but firm beds, Molton Brown bath products, stocked minibars, automated curtains, and Nespresso machine. Daily activities, themed nights, and a wellness area with a 12-room spa and Mexican temazcal.
The Details:
- Distance to Airport: 14 miles
- Gratuities Included: Yes
- Restaurant Reservations Required: Specialty only
- WiFi: Included
- Parking: Included
- Pet Policy: $47 per night for up to 2 dogs under 44 pounds
- Rates: Start at $569
Hyatt Hotels
Also available to book via Expedia.
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Every room features an outdoor hammock with a view.
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The resort is adults-only with a minimum age of 18.
Hyatt Zilara sees a high guest return rate, which we credit to the resort’s friendly staff, fun but not fratty vibe (a feat for a Hotel Zone property), and consistently good food and beverages. That isn’t to say that this adults-only resort doesn’t know how to throw a party. Nightly entertainment includes big live show performances and themed parties. We love the lively vibe of these events, but we’d be lying if we said they weren’t notably loud. During the day, guests can be found lounging in cabanas at the beach or beachfront pool or sweating it out in the full-service spa’s sauna or at a fitness class. Water sports and land sports are included, as are five of the six international a la carte restaurants and premium drinks at all five of the bars and lounges. Our favorite part of each room? Curling up on the balcony hammock to soak up ocean and sunset views. You can also expect each of the 310 suites to come with a pillow menu, Nespresso machine and (slightly unimpressive) minibar, and discreet room service delivery box. Fancy a plunge pool? Upgrade for swim-up rooms with sunken loungers and split-level layouts.
The Details:
- Distance to Airport: 12 miles
- Gratuities Included: Yes
- Restaurant Reservations Required: Some
- WiFi: Included
- Parking: Included
- Pet Policy: Not allowed
- Rates: Start at $555
Garza Blanca Resort & Spa Cancun
Also available to book at Hotels.com.
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The resort design optimizes its beautiful beachfront location and views from the rooftop infinity pool are stunning.
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Required a la carte reservations and dress codes can feel restrictive at times.
Garza Blanca Cancun is a modern all-inclusive that opened with a beachfront on Playa Mujeres in 2022. Bright and breezy spaces, views at every turn, and crisp, contemporary design dominate here with gleaming, polished marble and glass, high ceilings, and floor-to-ceiling picture windows that kick the beachfront setting and level of luxury up a notch. That said, an evening dress code is required at some restaurants and bars, and guests are required to wear all-inclusive bracelets. The international a la carte restaurants get much praise, but it would be a mistake to miss out on the food hall buffet or even the beachside food truck. Guests can expect creative craft cocktails, 452 spacious suites with private terraces and modern freestanding tubs, and a large spa with an extensive hydrotherapy circuit. Accessible rooms are available, and the resort’s unique Family Program includes connecting rooms, free stays for children, daily club activities, and special take-home kids amenities. For adults, the adults-only rooftop area is a one-stop oasis with food, drinks, and an infinity pool with unforgettable views.
The Details:
- Distance to Airport: 15 miles
- Gratuities Included: Yes
- Restaurant Reservations Required: Yes
- WiFi: Included
- Parking: Included
- Pet Policy: Not allowed
- Rates: Start at $476
Also available to book via Expedia.
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This resort is notably LGBTQ-friendly as reviewed by travelers.
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Some restaurants have dress code requirements.
Travelers looking for a more traditional Cancun all-inclusive experience will appreciate the Grand Fiesta Americana Coral Beach Cancun’s sprawling but approachable layout and key waterfront location at the peninsular tip of the Hotel Zone. The 1990-built property has gone through several renovations that have modernized decor and amenities in the 602 suites, updated offerings at the 20,000-square-foot kids club, and added several restaurant concepts, including a Tuscan dinner concept complete with live Italian music in 2023. From grabbing cocktails at the lagoon pool’s swim-up bar to slurping down oysters at the raw bar, this resort scores high on its food and drink options. If your vacation vices lean more toward indulging in spa treatments, rounds of golf, or sun worshiping, well, you’re covered here, too. Picture window views of the ocean or pool, deep-soaking marble tubs, and the daily restocked minibar are standard standout features, with upgrades adding large terraces and plunge pools.
The Details:
- Distance to Airport: 13 miles
- Gratuities Included: Yes
- Restaurant Reservations Required: Yes
- Pet Policy: Not allowed
- Rates: Start at $302
Know Before You Go
Consider amenities in addition to beaches
The beautiful beaches of Cancun can fall prey to the seasonal curse of sargassum seaweed. These large heaps of stinky seaweed wash ashore, sometimes in droves, between April and August. This is a natural occurrence that resorts have no control over. Many beachfront resorts do their best to keep the beach clean, but it’s not always possible. All the more reason to choose a resort with plenty of onsite amenities, like pools, spa features, and activities, right?
Plan around hurricane season
The Yucatan Peninsula is located along Mexico’s hurricane belt, and reservations booked during hurricane season (June through November) may be affected by bad weather. During this time it’s possible to experience heavy rains that can last from just minutes up to days. Be sure to check your resort’s hurricane policy before booking, be prepared with travel insurance and an emergency evacuation plan (just in case), and be aware that there is a chance your beach vacation may have to be postponed.
No Spanish? No problem
Almost everyone you’ll come across will speak English. Cancun is a tourist hub and speaking conversational, if not perfect, English is required for any tourist-facing position. However, that doesn’t mean you can’t practice your Spanish before you arrive—or while you’re here! It never hurts to learn a few key words and phrases in the language of your destination.
How We Chose These Hotels
It’s not easy sifting through the hundreds of all-inclusive hotels in Cancun. Several hotels made the list because they’ve earned a coveted spot in our annual World’s Best awards, in which hundreds of thousands of T+L readers vote on their favorite hotels across the globe (see the 2023 winners here).
In addition to those award-winning properties, the author of this article, Katherine Alex Beaven, contributed her expertise. She has personally visited dozens of properties in the area, and for this article, she also consulted colleagues who frequent Cancun and pored over hundreds of reviews. She focused on the quality of the guest experience, from check-in to check-out and every minute in between. Well-designed spaces, thoughtful touches, and functional details were taken into account, along with location, value, and amenities. For this list in particular, the quality of the resort’s food and beverage offerings, the diversity of onsite activities, what is included in the rate (and what’s not), and the level of service were all taken into account. In her 10 years of experience as a travel writer, Beaven has reviewed more than 500 hotels around the world.
And finally, as with all our hotel roundups, editors ensure all hotel recommendations we make align with our core T+L Hotel Values.
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