The Cancun Hotel Zone, also called ‘Zona Hotelera’ or the ‘Tourist Zone,’ is a 14-mile (22.5 km) long strip where most visitors stay during their Cancun vacation.
This area is packed with hotels, resorts, and villas, offering direct access to white-sand beaches and turquoise waters.
You will find beautiful beaches and luxury hotels on one side of the Hotel Zone, while the other faces Laguna Nichupté, a large lagoon.
Along the lagoon, there are waterfront restaurants, water sports activities, golf courses, shopping malls, and various attractions.
The Hotel Zone also has a few small archaeological sites, perfect for a relaxed day of exploration.
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Distance from the Airport
The Cancun Hotel Zone stretches from Punta Cancun (the closest part) to Punta Nizuc (the farthest part).
- Punta Cancun is 6.2 miles (10 km) from Cancun International Airport, and a taxi ride takes about 12 minutes.
- Punta Nizuc, at the farthest end, is 15.5 miles (25 km) away, requiring around 25 minutes by taxi.
In Cancun, it usually takes one minute to travel 1 km (0.62 miles) by road, so your travel time depends on your hotel’s location in the Hotel Zone.
Related Read: Cancun Airport transfers
Map of Cancun Hotel Zone
Before we share the Cancun Hotel Zone map, let us show you where Cancun is in Mexico.
Looking at the top right corner of the Cancun area map below, you will spot Cancun and the nearby island of Isla Mujeres.
Now, try to spot the number ‘7’ on the map.
Found it? Let us help you.
The area marked by the red circle is called the Cancun Hotel Zone.
Now, let us understand the Cancun Hotel Zone layout in more detail by zooming in.
There are more than 70 hotels in this Hotel Zone.
The red umbrellas on the map are the beaches along the zone.
The region where the upper and lower half of the number ‘7’ meet is also known as the Party Zone.
This area is home to many of the area’s nightclubs and discos.
Select your hotel in the Cancun Hotel Zone
Downtown Cancun vs. Hotel Zone
The area outside the Cancun Hotel Zone is called Downtown Cancun or “El Centro.” It is a popular choice for seasoned travelers and budget-conscious tourists looking for a more local experience.
Both Downtown Cancun and the Hotel Zone have their own benefits. The Hotel Zone is known for its beautiful beaches, big nightclubs, and fine dining restaurants, making it ideal for those who want a resort-style vacation. In contrast, Downtown Cancun offers a more authentic Mexican experience, with local markets, traditional eateries, and a vibrant city atmosphere.
The only downside to staying in Downtown Cancun is the distance from the beaches, nightclubs, and tourist attractions. However, this isn’t a big problem, as buses can take you to the Hotel Zone in about 20 minutes.
For those looking for the best hotel in Downtown Cancun, Krystal Urban Cancun Centro is a top choice. Other great options include Xbalamque, Hotel Ibis Cancun Centro, City Express Cancun, La Quinta Inn & Suites Cancun, and City Express Junior Cancun.
Best location in Cancun Hotel Zone
The best location in the Cancun Hotel Zone depends on what you want from your vacation. Whether you are looking for the best hotels, beaches, or nightlife, there is a perfect spot for everyone.
Best location for hotels in Hotel Zone
When it comes to picking a hotel, location doesn’t matter much. Cancun has a great public transport system, with buses running every few minutes right outside most hotels. They are cheap and convenient, costing just $1 per trip.
Instead of choosing a hotel based on its location, focus on what suits your needs—look at prices, facilities, and what’s included in the package before booking.
Best location for beaches in Hotel Zone
Almost every hotel in the Hotel Zone has its own private beach, but if you want the best beaches within walking distance, book a hotel in the lower part of Cancun’s ‘7’—the strip that runs north to south.
If you prefer calmer waters, stay on the upper part of the ‘7’, which runs east to west. This side offers gentler waves, making it ideal for swimming and relaxing.
Best location for nightlife in the Hotel Zone
For the best nightlife, stay in the party zone where the two sides of Cancun’s ‘7’ meet. The best spot is within 1 km (0.65 miles) of Hotel Riu Cancun, in an area known as Punta Cancun.
Cancun’s nightlife is incredible, so don’t miss out! But to truly enjoy it, you’ll need more than just a great location—you will need lots of energy!
Safety in Cancun Hotel Zone
Cancun is a popular tourist destination, attracting millions of visitors every year. Like any city with a large population and high tourism, some crime does exist, and the Cancun Hotel Zone is no exception.
However, the Hotel Zone is the safest part of Cancun, and violent crime is rare. Most issues involve petty street crimes, such as pickpocketing or scams. Staying alert and aware of your surroundings is the best way to stay safe.
To avoid trouble, don’t show off valuables, and never walk alone at night. The Mexican police have reported some cases of assault in resort areas, mainly at night or early morning, often involving acquaintances or locals.
Using common sense and caution will help ensure you have a safe and enjoyable vacation in Cancun!
More about Cancun
# Packing for Cancun
# Cancun for Couples
# Cancun Nightlife
# Cancun for kids
# Resorts in Cancun
# Mexican Menu
# Cheap Cancun holidays
# Cancun Airport Transfers
# Cancun Weather
# Cancun Airport
