When it comes to tropical escapes that combine sun, sea, and sand with access and affordability, it’s hard to beat Cancun. Often considered the Las Vegas of Mexico, this economic juggernaut is known for its hedonistic pursuits, megamalls, and behemoth resorts that line the commercialized strip of the Hotel Zone. But if you dig a little deeper, this modern city has plenty to offer travelers looking to be within striking distance of spectacular archaeological ruins, Michelin-starred cuisine, world-class spas, dazzling marine life, and idyllic coastal enclaves. Beyond Cancun’s glorious natural assets and diversity of experiences, this tourist mecca draws millions of travelers each year thanks to its dizzying range of accommodation offerings across the budget spectrum.
Expanding north and south beyond the Hotel Zone, and along the white sands of Isla Mujeres, you’ll find major brands like Hyatt, Hilton, and Marriott leading the charge on the ever-evolving all-inclusive model where quantity no longer supersedes quality. From romantic island getaways to swanky palatial retreats and family-friendly resorts, here are some of TPG’s best all-inclusive resorts in Cancun.
Hilton Cancun, an All-Inclusive Resort
Cancun, Quintana Roo, Mexico
Best for: Families who want to enjoy a contemporary resort that breaks the all-inclusive mold.
Why stay here: This new upscale resort from Hilton is redefining the brand’s take on the all-inclusive model and has a lot to offer guests of all ages looking for a mix of fun and relaxation in Cancun.
Best way to book: Book directly through Hilton.
One of TPG’s favorite family-friendly resorts, this 715-key Hilton property, which debuted in 2021, is a fine example of the new wave of all-inclusive resorts. Far removed from the hustle and bustle of Cancun — it’s an eight-minute drive through mangrove forests to access the property after leaving the main road — this excellent value Hilton shares over 100 acres of secluded real estate with its more exclusive sibling, the Waldorf Astoria Cancun, which opened in 2022.
Standard rooms start at just over 400 square feet and boast a warm but minimalist design ethos, with wooden accents and decorative nods to Mexican culture. Spacious bathrooms have double vanities and large walk-in showers with frosted-glass doors, and all rooms have either a furnished balcony or patio.
The overall vibe is decidedly upscale, with stylish public spaces designed to maximize spectacular Caribbean views and attractive grounds anchored by two large infinity pools. Ten restaurants and bars add plenty of culinary variety, even for young picky eaters, and there’s gourmet a la carte dining in addition to the standard buffet fare, all of which impress in quality and scale.
If you are not soaking up the sun on a plush sun lounger on the lightly populated white-sand beach, there are plenty of activities to satisfy competitive types, like beach volleyball and soccer. After dinner, the fun continues with themed parties as well as theatrical performances and live music, most of which is geared to families.
Grown-ups can indulge in a spa treatment or work off the fruity cocktails at the fitness center, while younger guests can visit the kids club for arts and crafts, games, and sports. There’s also a teen zone for those age 13 to 17, with gaming consoles and sports tournaments.
Impression Isla Mujeres by Secrets
Isla Mujeres, Mexico
Best for: Romance, removed just enough from Cancun but still easy to access.
Why stay here: The luxurious all-inclusive mixes nature exploration and activities with all of the elevated leisure components you’d expect from a tropical resort.
Best way to book: Book directly with Hyatt to earn or redeem World of Hyatt points and enjoy any elite benefits.
One of Hyatt’s ever-expanding all-inclusive offerings, this new Impression imprint is the brand’s most exclusive iteration and a great choice for uninitiated couples keen to dip their toes into the all-inclusive concept. Located on a picturesque stretch of white sand on the southern (and more desirable) end of Isla Mujeres, the swanky resort is great for couples looking for a low-key alternative to Cancun’s lively and commercialized Hotel Zone.
At Cancun’s ferry port, you’ll be greeted with a hand towel and welcome drink before being whisked away on a private catamaran for the 30-minute journey to the gleaming Mediterranean-style resort, where beautifully designed public spaces set a tone of refined elegance.
With just 125 rooms, the property has more of a boutique feel, with spacious accommodations decorated in soothing neutral shades and appointed with sleek furnishings and luxe bathrooms with rainfall showers. If you splash out on a larger suite, you can expect upgrades like a furnished terrace with a hot tub and larger walk-in closets.
The highly praised cuisine ranges from Mediterranean at Spezia to Japanese at Sake and sunset cocktails at The Top bar. There’s plenty to inspire romance with overwater torch-lit cabanas, private sailing excursions, and inventive cocktails served on the rooftop terrace with stunning panoramas. A beautifully designed infinity pool blends seamlessly with the calm turquoise waters below, or for a little more novelty, you can take a dip in the ocean via the hotel’s four-story waterslide.
Secrets Playa Blanca Costa Mujeres
Costa Mujeres, Cancun, Mexico
Best for: Couples looking for a quiet, but accessible getaway with plenty of activities and indulgences to punctuate days spent relaxing on the beach or poolside.
Why stay here: A fresh new property on a calm stretch of sand overlooking the Mesoamerican Barrier Reef with soothing rooms, inspired dining options, and beautifully landscaped pools.
Best way to book: Book directly with Hyatt to earn World of Hyatt points and enjoy status perks.
The latest from Hyatt’s all-inclusive collection — and its ever-expanding footprint in Mexico — the Secrets Playa Blanca Costa Mujeres debuted Feb. 1 as the 13th adults-only Secrets property in Mexico. A world apart from Cancun’s commercialized Hotel Zone, located on a sweep of pristine white sand around a 50-minute drive from Cancun International Airport (CUN), the 507-key property is surrounded by upscale properties, golf courses, and a marina. For travelers looking to daytrip to car-free Isla Mujeres, the ferry terminal at Punta Sam is also just a short drive away.
Tastefully appointed suites start at 581 square feet and feature hardwood furnishings and artfully layered textures and fabrics in shades of white and cream, accented with locally inspired prints and motifs. Luxe bathrooms are spacious and inviting, with double vanities and decadent free-standing tubs.
Round-the-clock entertainment is provided for every mood and moment. Active types can play beach and pool volleyball or hit the state-of-the-art gym, foodies can hone their culinary skills with a cooking class, and sybarites can head to the Secrets Spa by Pevonia for a Mayan-inspired massage or body treatment.
And there’s plenty of opportunity to simply relax, unplug, and soak up those tropical vibes. Sip a tequila-laced cocktail on the white-sand beach and take in classic Caribbean views, or post up on a plush, cushioned lounger beside the two infinity pools or cenote-inspired pool nestled among leafy foliage.
A range of cuisine will satisfy longer-stay guests with nine on-site restaurants (including buffet and a la carte). There’s Pan-Asian at Himitsu, traditional Mexican at El Patio, and refined French cuisine at Bordeaux. With Hyatt’s Unlimited-Luxury inclusions, everything from gourmet cuisine and 24-hour room service to sundries and libations from the minibar is included in the rate.
Garza Blanca Cancun
Playa Mujeres, Cancun, Quintana Roo, Mexico
Best for: Design-conscious families who like plenty of space, upscale amenities, and fine dining.
Why stay here: A polished home-away-from-home vacation with stylish rooms and luxe facilities.
Best way to book: Book directly and join the Tafer Rewards program to receive benefits such as complimentary wine, resort credits, and early check-in and late checkout.
Some 17 miles north of Cancun, between a mangrove forest and the powdery sands of Playa Mujeres, this Garza Blanca property opened in the spring of 2022. Chic, modern suites and residences feature wooden bedframes, contemporary lighting, flat-screen TVs, and a crisp white-and-beige color palette accented with foliage-print cushions, paintings, and textiles.
The resort boasts a stunning beachfront location, with uninterrupted views of the Caribbean Sea. Guests can enjoy a range of activities, including water sports, beach volleyball, and yoga classes. There are also multiple pools, including a rooftop infinity pool with panoramic views.
Dining options at Garza Blanca Cancun are diverse and impressive, with a variety of cuisines available at the resort’s restaurants. From traditional Mexican dishes to international favorites, there is something to suit every palate. The resort also offers a spa, fitness center, and kids club, ensuring that guests of all ages have a memorable stay.
In conclusion, Cancun offers a wide range of all-inclusive resorts that cater to different types of travelers. Whether you’re looking for a family-friendly resort, a romantic getaway, or a luxurious escape, there is something for everyone in this tropical paradise. So, pack your bags and get ready to experience the sun, sea, and sand of Cancun.