The most famous tourism hotspot in Mexico, if not the whole of South America, Cancun is a brilliant blend of hospitality, fun activities and hot sunshine. Spending your visit here in the right accommodation is going to make your trip all the brighter, and if you're daunted by your options, relax. We've compiled the cream of the crop right here, blending sublime style, complete convenience and good locations, all showing off the best in affordable luxury.
Staying at Riu Cancun Hotel, you've got the beach within a stone's throw and the best bars in town just 10 minutes away in the other direction. Bright and spacious, inside and out, the four pools include a sit-in infinity pool. As well as the RIU evening entertainment programme, you get free entry and drinks to Pacha nightclub six nights a week. Also included in your stay are diving lessons, banana boating and canoeing.
Just 20 minutes from Flamingo Mall and tucked in close to the beach, it's clear why Beach Palace Cancun evokes such regal feelings. When the retail therapy and seaside days are done, head back for Asian, Italian or good old Mexican cuisine before retiring to a bright and appealing room.
A tropical flavour with light and colour makes Riu Caribe Hotel an inviting place to hang your hat, while beachfront access ensures that Cancun sunshine is never more than a few minutes away. This hotel is big on activities, so you can expect a range of gym and sports options, as well as the chance to head out onto the waves on a catamaran ride.
The name makes it clear that luxury and amenities are the order of the day here, and with the entire complex snug within a tropical forest, you've got a whole community of wonders to yourself. The beach is just a stroll away, as are the pools, the golf course and stunning on-site restaurants including Mexican, Asian, steakhouse and seafood options.
This adults-only offering is your retreat away from the hubbub, where your every whim is the priority of a friendly team of assistants. Each room blends style and comfort, while days by the pool are the perfect escape from worries and stress. What's more, mealtimes give you the chance to dine at a choice of 10 restaurants and drink at 16 different bars.
Just a short drive from downtown Cancun, the high standards of quality and affordable luxury you'd expect of the Riu Palace name shine just as brightly as this locale. Colourful cafes and communal areas frame a central tropical pool with a swim-up bar, while dining choices range from Japanese sushi and buffet meals to a full on steakhouse experience.
So big is this beachfront resort that it's got its own waterpark right in the centre, so you already know the kids are going to adore it. There's plenty for the grown-ups as well, including tennis courts and a gym. The restaurants offer Mexican flavours together with Italian, Asian and fast food options.
Recently shifting its focus to operating as an adults-only resort, the elegant design of the Riu Palace Las Americas is guaranteed to captivate you. Gorgeous turrets rise high and the interior features warm colours and inviting places to rest between adventures in the sun. Six restaurants and sea view pools are accompanied by daytime entertainment, sports and activities including water polo and aqua aerobics.
This stylish, adults-only hotel has sophistication in volume, with sunloungers and cocktail bars at every turn. Popular with newlyweds, romance flavours every sleek curve of this hotel, which certainly lives up to its palatial name. Three pools and a range of sports and activities give you plenty to keep you occupied during your stay.