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11 Cheap (but Great) Hotels in Cancun + Budget Travel Tips

 

Spending your holiday in Cancun, Mexico can go one of two ways. You can blow your savings and not lift a finger at incredible 5-star resorts or you can be smart about your expenses and enjoy your vacation without worrying about money.

 

Since you’re here, I’m going to assume you belong to the latter group, the money-conscious group. Luckily, a getaway to Mexico doesn’t need to be synonymous with luxury and extravagance. It’s perfectly within reach to have the trip of your dreams, without breaking the bank.

 

Before we dive into our favorite cheap hotels in Cancun, I want to first share with you a few of my favorite money-saving trips whenever I visit Cancun. The more I’m able to save each time, the more regularly I can visit. And once you get your first glimpse at that impossibly blue Caribbean Sea, you’ll want to visit as often as possible, too.\

 

5 Tips for a Budget-Friendly Vacation to Cancun

 

1. Eat and shop locally

 

Most tourists in Cancun choose to eat primarily at their resort or hotel. While this might be the most convenient option, it’s certainly not the best. Even at all-inclusive resorts, most people don’t eat and drink enough to cover the initial costs, especially compared to what you would spend in pesos eating locally.

 

I suggest you get out of the Cancun Hotel Zone and get a taste of real Mexican cuisine. Not only will your taste buds be happy but your wallet will be, too.

 

The same goes for shopping. If you plan to bring souvenirs back for you or your family, instead of shopping at the hotel gift shop, head to the local market (or mercado) and stock up on artisan goods there. Not only will it typically be better quality but it will also be far less expensive.

 

2. Avoid tours and venture out on your own

 

Another big way to save money on your trip to Cancun is to skip out on tours and visit places on your own. The bus system is pretty easy to navigate or you can rent a car only for the days you’d like to explore.

 

You’re more than able to visit the incredible cenotes and Mayan ruins without the help of a guide getting you from Point A to Point B. If you’d like to have some insight into the area you’re visiting, there are typically guides employed by the park or area that you can pay just for the tour itself once you arrive.

 

3. Bring what you’ll need to avoid extra purchases

 

It can feel like a space-saving packing tip to not bring things like basic medicine, sunscreen, and bug spray, but something like sunscreen you’ll absolutely need while on your vacation to Cancun. While you certainly can buy these things once you arrive, the price tag might shock you.

 

Hotels, pharmacies, and beach shops that sell these goods know that tourists are only making these purchases because they have no other option. Because of this necessity, you’ll be paying far more for usually a poor quality than you’d prefer.

 

Cut out one piece of clothing for your suitcase and toss these things in if you’d like to save money on your trip.

 

4. Speak a little Spanish

 

Speaking Spanish, even if it’s just un poco will help you take advantage of the local way of life, instead of falling privy to tourist traps and gringo prices. From my experience, the more Spanish you speak, the more money you’ll be able to save since you’ll be able to easily bargain at the local market for food and goods.

 

Don’t get discouraged though, even knowing the basics will help you navigate the bus system and order at a local restaurant in downtown Cancun.

 

5. Book a cheap (but great) hotel

 

Some people associate budget hotels with low-quality hotels. By being budget conscious while choosing your accommodation, you can save $100s-$1000s on only your accommodation. Now that’s an amount of savings none of us can deny!

 

With cheap hotels found on the beachfront, in Cancun Centro, or in the Hotel Zone, you’ll be able to find the perfect place to stay for your solo getaway, friends, trip, or family holiday, without spending all your hard-earned savings.

 

11 Cheap Hotels That You’ll Actually Love

 

1. Nomads Party Hotel & Hostel

 

 

As the name suggests, this hotel is ideal for solo travelers, groups of friends, or young couples who want to socialize. Here you’ll be surrounded by backpackers from all over the world. While I wouldn’t consider this a family-friendly option, it is one of the best hotels for young travelers looking to have a little fun at their hotel.

 

I’ve stayed in plenty of hostels in my day and this is certainly one of the nicer ones. You’ll be able to choose from a super affordable dorm-style hostel room or a private hotel room with one bed or two.

 

Nomads Party Hotel & Hostel is located in downtown Cancun. That means your surroundings will be cheaper too, since you’ll be away from the tourist zone and in the heart of the city instead. This hotel has a bar, swimming pool, hammock chill area, and a 24-hour front desk.

 

Check availability and current prices to book Nomads Party Hotel & Hostel.

 

2. Azcapri Villa Boutique & Spa

 

 

Located in a smaller, more local area of Cancun, this semi-apartment, semi-hotel is another great option for a great stay in a less expensive area of Cancun. South of downtown, you’ll be closer to the Cancun airport at this hotel.

 

All rooms have air conditioning and free wifi. On the property there is a shared garden and swimming pool. While the grounds itself will make you feel like you’ve landed in your own private oasis, the spa and wellness center is really what sets this hotel apart.

 

Here, you can take part in 3 unique alternative therapies: the Flotarium to experience zero gravity, Ichthyotherapy for skin therapy with fish, and Thalassotherapy, which uses seawater to fully relax you.

 

Check availability and current prices to book Azcapri Villa Boutique & Spa.

 

3. The Yellow Capsule Experience

 

 

Have you ever heard of a capsule hotel before? If not, this is a unique experience unlike any other. These types of hotels are most common in Asian countries like Singapore and Japan but are starting to grow in popularity around the world. Unless you’re claustrophobic, this is a great option, especially for solo travelers, although they do offer single and double capsules.

 

Located in downtown Cancun, you’ll feel as though you’re actually on a mission to Mars in the hyper futuristic design and décor of this hotel. As with the other hotels on this list, the location will help you save some money when dining out and shopping.

 

At the Yellow Capsule Experience, all units are provided with wifi, air conditioning, a lock box, and a flat screen TV. Free breakfast is also included in the price of the room, helping you save even just a tiny bit more. You’ll love the shared hang out spaces at this hotel, perfect for making friends with other travelers.

 

Check availability and current prices to book the Yellow Capsule Experience.

 

4. Hotel Casa Mallorca

 

 

This cute, welcoming hotel in the heart of Cancun will certainly make you feel as though you’re in an old hacienda, instead of a hotel in a bustling metropolis. Located within walking distance of a new mall and plenty of local shops and restaurants, you’ll also only be a 10-minute drive from the white sand of Quintana Roo. Or, to save extra money, you can take the public bus, which has a bus stop only a few steps away.

 

As an added bonus, this hotel offers free cancellation. That means you can book your stay today without having to stress if your plans change. Guests say in particular they enjoyed this hotel because of the kind owner. From the moment you check-in, you’ll feel more than welcome at this cozy, friendly hotel.

 

Each room is equipped with air conditioning, free wifi, and provides daily housekeeping. Each room also has an ensuite bathroom, so no need to worry about the low price affecting your privacy.

 

Check availability and current prices to book Hotel Casa Mallorca.

 

5. Villa Sofía Holiday Accommodations

 

 

This hotels is more like an urban oasis than anything. Located in downtown Cancun, you’ll certainly feel more like you’re on a tropical getaway to somewhere far more secluded. The architecture makes the hotel feel more like a treehouse and the whites, blues, and raw wood décor in the rooms add to that feel.

 

Just minutes away from a bus stop that will take you directly to the beach, you’ll be able to hit the waves whenever you please, without spending prices like you’ll find at the zona hotelera. Also, right next door you’ll find a supermarket, which is perfect for grabbing groceries so you can whip up your own meals at the shared, well-stocked kitchen.

 

With an outdoor swimming pool, garden space, and communal area, at this hotel you can mingle or keep to yourself as much as you’d prefer. Some of the rooms also have desk space, so is a great option for digital nomads needing to do a bit of work while in Cancun. Each room has wifi, air conditioning, and a private bathroom.

 

Check availability and current prices to book Villa Sofía Holiday Accommodations.

 

6. Casa Tortugas Boutique Hotel

 

 

This hotel is known as a peaceful hidden gem and usually books quickly, so if you’re interested, be sure not to wait to reserve your dates. When staying at this incredible boutique hotel, you certainly won’t feel like you’re cutting any corners at a budget hotel. The rooms, the location, and the amenities are more than you could ask for.

 

Located on the western edge of the hotel zone, this hotel is located on the straight that connects mainland to the tourist-filled peninsula. Given this location, you can experience the best of both worlds. You’ll easily be able to head into the city center for local flair, or get your tourist fill by heading deeper into the hotel zone. It’s also located just near the ferry to Isla Mujeres if you’re interested in a day trip.

 

Better yet, choose to spend most of your time enjoying this hotel instead. With an infinity pool, beach access just steps away, and fully-equipped kitchens in each room, you’ll have everything you need for an incredible stay right on site.

 

Check availability and current prices to book Casa Tortugas Boutique Hotel.

 

7. Santa Fe Studios And Suites

 

 

Considered a hotel or an apartment rental, depending on your viewpoint, Santa Fe Studios and Suites is a great place for someone looking for the comforts of home on holiday. Another great choice for a digital nomad or remote worker, you’ll have a comfortable bed, equipped kitchen, and even a great workspace.

 

Given how spacious these rooms are, you won’t believe the low price per night! Plus, you’ll have free parking, and an outdoor pool that’s open year round. Each room also has a private balcony, perfect for enjoying breakfast or a nightcap. Located on the southern edge of Cancun, you’ll be conveniently located near the airport.

 

Rooms are well-equipped with air conditioning, free wifi, and smart TVs that can connect to Netflix or YouTube. Take a break from the wild Caribe nightlife for a lazy night in of comfort here.

 

Check availability and current prices to book Santa Fe Studios and Suites.

 

8. Capital O Cancun Ocean View

 

 

Get all the perks of a swanky Cancun resort at just a fraction of the price tag when you stay at Capital O. While the rooms themselves are clean, comfortable, and modern, the real gem is the shared space on the rooftop.

 

Choose to start your day at the glass-walled gym, the rooftop outdoor pool, or the sunbeds – or if you’re really excited – go for all three. On a rainy day, you can instead choose to swim at the indoor pool. Here you’ll have multiple options on how to have a fantastic time at Capital O.

 

Each room has a private balcony with city views, air conditioning, and free wifi. Some rooms are even pet-friendly at no additional cost so if you plan to travel with your pup, this is a great budget-friendly option for you both. While you can easily grab the bus from here, you can take advantage of the on-site bike rentals instead and give yourself a great tour of the city and some exercise all in one.

 

Check availability and current prices to book Capital O Cancun Ocean View.

 

9. Hotel y Suites Nader

 

 

Another great option for those that need to get a little work done while in Cancun, each room at this hotel has a designated workspace to help keep you focused on holiday. Past guests have been incredibly happy with the hotel deals they’ve been able to snag here. Guests agree you can get an entire stay for what you’d pay for one night at many of the beach resorts. For those of us traveling on a budget, you can’t complain about that!

 

With a bus stop right outside the property, you can see everything that Cancun offers on the fly once you learn how to navigate the local bus even just slightly. Since this hotel is on the eastern side of downtown Cancun, the beach is also not too far away. Puerto Juarez Harbor is also nearby.

 

There’s a café onsite, free wifi, and free air conditioning in all of the rooms. You can also ask for room service from the café for some extra special service.

 

Check availability and current prices to book Hotel y Suites Nadar.

 

10. Beachscape Kin Ha Villas & Suites

 

 

This beachfront hotel is a great option for those that want to still save some money on accommodation but don’t want to sacrifice being able to put your toes in the sand in just a few steps. This hotel is a bit more costly than others on the list, but given the location of this hotel, on the edge of the hotel zone, you can understand why.

 

It’s also just a few minutes drive to a nearby golf course, so if you’re a golfer, this is an even better option. The hotel also offers 2 on-site restaurants so you’ll certainly feel as though you’re at a resort, rather than a budget-friendly stay.

 

There’s a few different room sizes, with the largest villa able to accommodate 6 guests. If you’re traveling with a group of friends or family, this is a great hotel for you. The water off the coast is ideal for swimming and snorkeling, so you’ll easily be able to entertain yourself in and out of the villa.

 

Check availability and current prices to book Beachscape Kin Ha Villas & Suites.

 

11. Álamos Inn Hotel

 

 

Located near the airport and bus station, this hotel is a really great choice if you’d like to spend a night or two in Cancun before visiting other places in the Yucatan Peninsula, like Tulum. The hotel itself has a luxurious feel to it, especially the common areas.

 

All rooms have a balcony and a view of the garden. In the garden, guests can enjoy the outdoor swimming pool and hot tub. Each morning you stay, you’ll be given a free breakfast included in the price of the room. The hotel also has a spa, where you can indulge in a massage or two.

 

The rooms come well equipped with private bathrooms, air conditioning, and free wifi, but personally, I’d choose to spend most of my time here lounging by the pool in the garden. That’s where the real magic of this hotel is!

 

Check availability and current prices to book Álamos Inn Hotel.

 

With this, you’re ready to have an incredible budget-friendly getaway to Cancun, Mexico. Our big travel tips will ensure you keep your costs low without sacrificing any fun and by booking one of these cheap hotels, your stay will still be incredibly comfortable and enjoyable without breaking the bank.

 

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