Cancun is known for its countless beaches and spring break madness. However, theres so much more to this exciting Mexican city than that.
There’s Mayan culture aplenty in town and the surrounding areas – perfect for history buffs. Just step outside the ‘Cancun Hotel Zone’ and you’ll soon get aquainted with the local flavours and customs of authentic Mexico! Once you tire of the hustle and bustle, take a ferry out to Isla de las Mujeres to properly disconnect.
Although Cancun has a Zona Hotelera (Hotel Zone), you might want to explore alternatives to hotels to get something more intimate and authentic, such as staying in one of the awesome Cancun Airbnbs!
Whether you want a traditional homestay, a loft apartment where you can doze off in a hammock, or even your own personal beach club, there’s all of that and more when it comes to rentals in Cancun!
In this post, I’ll show you the 15 best Airbnbs in Cancun, so you can book your perfect stay with ease.
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Quick Answer: These are the Top 5 Airbnbs in Cancun
Studio in the Heart of Cancun
- > $$
- > 2 Guests
- > Roof Garden
- > Free Parking
Central Room Ideal for Couples
- > $
- > 2 Guests
- > Access to Jacuzzi
- > Use of kitchen and living room
Luxury Waterfront Mexican Mansion
- > $$$$$$$
- > 18+ Guests
- > On-site concierge and housekeeper
- > Your own personal beach club
Private Room with Mexican Breakfast
- > $$
- > 1 Guest
- > Swimming Pool
- > Vegetarian or Vegan breakfast included
Casa Hulia Palapa Room
- > $
- > 4 Guests
- > Close to central Cancun
- > Swimming pool and hammock
What to Expect from Airbnbs in Cancun?
As you might expect in one of the most popular travel destinations in Mexico, there’s a lot of choice when it comes to vacation rentals in Cancun. Prices, in general, are similar to what you might find in nearby Playa del Carmen, especially if you’re looking to stay on the Cancun Hotel Zone – a strip of beach that’s lined with hotels and resorts.
What you’ll get depends on your budget. At the lower end of the scale you can get a cabana or a bed and breakfast, while loosening the purse strings could see you get a swanky boutique condo or a villa.
When it comes to Cancun Airbnbs, there’s a mix of local and professional business accommodation. The larger and more expensive the property, the more likely it is to be managed by a professional lettings company.
Either way, you’ll be able to get the inside info on what to do off-the-beaten-track in Cancun! But before you go ahead and start planning your Cancun itinerary, let’s take a look at some of the most common types of Airbnb in Cancun Mexico.
When you think of cabins, your mind is probably drawn to pictures of log cabins in the mountains, maybe with a log fire. However, you don’t need that in Cancun. A cabin here means a cabana – in other words, a beach (or jungle) hut!
Cabins are often small and peaceful places to stay in Cancun that can be part of larger complexes. They’re best for small groups, such as solo travellers and couples. However, they do sometimes have space for four or five guests.
Yes, I know. You came to Airbnb to avoid hotels. However, boutique hotels aren’t your average grey and drab hotels that you find in every city. These independent properties are often labours of love, with their owners wanting to give the best hospitality, and offer a comfortable and welcome place to stay.
Whether you’re travelling as part of a large group or you just want a luxury experience, check out villas in Cancun. These delightful properties are mostly situated in a quiet neighborhood just outside the centre of the town, giving you the chance to soak up the peace and tranquility of the jungle or the beach.
Villas are a great option for couples too – you can get smaller properties that will make your romantic getaway unforgettable. However, most villas are handy for their size. They can sleep multiple guests and they’re great for groups of friends and/or family.
The Top 15 Airbnbs in Cancun
Now that I’ve cleared the air on what to expect and why you should stay at an Airbnb, let’s have a look at the best Airbnbs in Cancun.
Before you book your accommodation, make sure you know what you want to explore in Cancun and choose your place to stay accordingly.
Studio in the Heart of Cancun | Overall Best Value Airbnb in Cancun
Let’s kick off with a Cancun Airbnb in an excellent location. It’s right in the centre of town! This studio is the perfect place for a couple, business traveller, or solo explorer to shack up for the duration of their stay.
It’s just a block away from the Hotel Zone, so you don’t have far to go for great beaches and nightlife. However, it’s still quiet enough for you to get a good night’s sleep. Or just have a relaxing time in the rooftop garden!
If you’ve rented a car or are on a road trip through Mexico, there’s more good news. This place offers free parking!
Central Room Ideal for Couples | Best Budget Airbnb in Cancun
Travelling on a budget? If that’s the case, you’re spoiled for choice when it comes to Airbnbs in Cancun. But how do you separate a stinker from an absolute gem?
Well, listen to me for a start! Here’s the best short-term rental in Cancun for travellers on a shoestring, where you don’t have to compromise on quality! As well as a comfortable private room, you’ve got access to the kitchen and living room.
Next door is a vibrant Cancun hostel, and you can head over and soak in their jacuzzi if you ask nicely!
We’ve tested countless backpacks over the years, but there’s one that has always been the best and remains the best buy for adventurers: the broke backpacker-approved Osprey Aether and Ariel series.
Want more deetz on why these packs are so damn perfect? Then read our comprehensive review for the inside scoop!
View on OspreyLuxury Waterfront Mexican Mansion | Over the Top Luxury Airbnb in Cancun
Have you ever wanted to have your own private beach club devoted only to you and your best friends and/or family? What about your own concierge and housekeeping team to make your stay as smooth and luxurious as possible?
Then take a closer look at this waterfront Mexican Mansion – one of the most decadent and over the top Cancun Airbnbs there is!
It’s not cheap, but remember that you can fit up to 18 guests in here. So, if you split that price, it starts to look a lot more affordable!
Private Room with Mexican Breakfast | Perfect Cancun Airbnb for Solo Travellers
Most people think that solo backpackers in Mexico can only make friends in hostels. However, I understand that’s not the case, and who wants to share a noisy and smelly dorm anyway?!
Much better to stay somewhere like this cute private room, which comes with a vegetarian or vegan Mexican breakfast.
Your friendly hosts open up so much of their apartment to you – not only can you chill in your private room, but you can use the pool, relax in the living room, or prepare a tasty snack in the kitchen!
Casa Hulia Palapa Room | Perfect Short Term Airbnb in Cancun for Digital Nomads
Have you ever been sitting at a drab desk working on your laptop thinking I wish I could swap this for a swinging hammock or a loft with a swimming pool? Both of those are on offer here.
The high-speed internet is available throughout the property – the only tricky bit is deciding where you want to set up!
During your downtime, you can walk out to Cancun’s top places to visit, to take a quick Uber over to the beach! If you’re planning to stay here long term, you’ll be pleased to know you can have full use the kitchen too!
Stash your cash safely with this money belt. It will keep your valuables safely concealed, no matter where you go.
It looks exactly like a normal belt except for a SECRET interior pocket perfectly designed to hide a wad of cash, a passport photocopy or anything else you may wish to hide. Never get caught with your pants down again! (Unless you want to…)
Hide Yo’ Money!More Epic Airbnbs in Cancun
Here are a few more of my favorite Airbnbs in Cancun!
2BR Condo near Downtown Cancun | Best Airbnb in Cancun for Nightlife
No trip to Cancun is complete without a night at Coco Bongo. It’s one of the wackiest and craziest nightlife experiences not only in Cancun but in the whole of North America!
So, you’ll want a place within walking distance of nightclubs, where you can stumble home in the small hours of the morning. That walk certainly won’t be the memorable part of staying in this downtown Cancun Airbnb.
No, that’ll be the morning after when you wake up to the incredible sea view that’s walking distance to one of the best beaches in Mexico!
There’s a shared outdoor Olympic-sized swimming pool too, there perfect place to chill beside and nurse your hangover!
Design Loft Apartment | Best Vacation Rental for Couples
This awesome Cancun Airbnb plus listing offers up to three guests the opportunity to escape from everyday life and spend quality time with each other.
And this loft is packed with places you can do this – the sofa bed, the king bed, the dining table, there’s even a hammock where you can relax!
If you have your own transport, you will be able to sleep easily and safely too knowing there’s a garage that you can use for no extra charge! It’s close to a few restaurants and cafes too – ideal for a romantic meal out.
Tropical Garden Room | Best Homestay in Cancun
A homestay in Cancun is a great way to get to meet and experience local culture while keeping your costs down at the same time. And this one is my favourite!
The tropical garden has not only a bed in your private room but a hammock too – very relaxing! If you can drag yourself out of either of those, you’re of course welcome to use the communal pool.
The family you’re staying with does have a cat. It won’t be going in your room, but if you’re allergic then could be a potential deal-breaker!
Home Sweet Family Home | Runner Up Homestay in Cancun
There are so many awesome homestays in Cancun that we wanted to give you more than just one option. So, here’s another lovely option. Ask your friendly host family for recommendations on the best places to visit in the city centre.
I’m sure there’s somewhere more traditional and authentic than the Starbucks that they’ve mentioned in their listing, but at least it’s close to nearby grocery stores where you can stock up on tasty Mexican treats!
Considering Cancun can get super hot, it’s reassuring to know that you’ve got aircon in your room. It’ll mean you’re not lying awake sweating during the night!
Luxe Puerto Cancun Condo | Amazing Luxury Airbnb in Cancun
Puerto Cancun is one of the most exclusive locations in town, so it’s no surprise that some of the most luxurious Cancun Airbnbs are found here too.
This one offers a rooftop infinity pool that has incredible views of the Caribbean Sea! If you’re splashing the cash AND travelling with kids, then book this one immediately.
There’s an indoor play area and outdoor kids’ park, complete with trampolines and swings. They’re sure to have a great time while you’re relaxing in the jacuzzi or horizontal on a sun lounger!
House w/ Private Beach | Best Airbnb in Cancun for Families
This is perfectly equipped for families of all ages. However, if you’ve got young kids, do you ever feel like you can’t properly relax on the beach? Anything could happen, right? Well, sure, but not on your own private beach!
That’s what you can expect when staying in this incredible beachfront house. There’s also 24-hour security in the building, so the whole family will have nothing to worry about!
If all of this hasn’t been enough to convince you, there’s also a private pool which you’re all welcome to use!
Cosy Private Villa | Best Airbnb in Cancun for a Group of Friends
On a break with your friends? What more could you want from a beach holiday than a pool, BBQ area, and a garden where you can lounge around? It only gets better when you find out this is in one of the safest neighbourhoods in Cancun!
It’s LGBT-friendly too, so the whole group can feel included in this awesome short-term vacation rental in Cancun. Should you get too hot at night, there’s an aircon to cool you down too. Last but not least, this place is extremely cheap before you even take into account that you can split the price 8 ways!
Apartment w/ Romantic Jacuzzi | Best Airbnb in Playa del Carmen
Let’s head a little out of Cancun now. Playa del Carmen is one of the most popular spots on the Yucatan coast, so it’s only fair I give you a couple of options for Mexican Airbnbs there too.
You’ve got your own balcony, from which you’ll be able to see the swimming pool down below. As well as that, you can immerse yourself in the Mayan jungle-style atmosphere. This is the perfect spot for a romantic break, as there’s a private rooftop jacuzzi included in your vacation rental!
Right in the Thick of PDC Action | Central Airbnb in Playa del Carmen
There are some really great apartments in Playa del Carmen so it didn’t seem right just to leave it at one. This is right in the heart of all the nightlife action, so you can hit the bars and clubs when you fancy a wild night.
If you’d prefer something more chilled, head out to your private terrace, complete with a dipping tub! However you spend your night, that tub will shock you out of your hangover the following day!
Penthouse Condo w/ Seaview | Best Airbnb in Cancun Hotel Zone
Last but not least, let’s check out the best luxury Airbnb in Cancun. This penthouse in the Hotel Zone comes with a stunning open-plan living and dining room, one spacious bedroom, and my personal favourite, a bathtub on a balcony overlooking the ocean.
This spangly and elegant penthouse is also within a short walk of all the best bars and restaurants, plus of course, the beach. If you’re looking for a stunning place to spend your honeymoon, this would be it.
Airbnb Experiences
Do you fancy a day trip to go with that nice little apartment?!
Airbnb Experiences is a feature offered by Airbnb that allows hosts to offer unique, curated activities to guests – or to anyone who’s interested in, even if they’re not staying at an Airbnb property. These experiences can range from cooking classes and guided tours to art workshops, outdoor adventures, and more.
Airbnb Experiences was created to offer travellers a deeper connection with a destination by offering truly unique experiences, all led by locals who are both knowledgeable and passionate about their city.
Some personal highlights of my Airbnb Experiences include a tapas bar-crawl in Granada, a Samurai workshop in Kyoto, and a graffiti spotting bike ride around Bogota.
FAQ about Airbnbs in Cancun
Here’s what people usually ask us when they look for vacation homes in Cancun.
What To Pack For Cancun
Pants, socks, underwear, soap?! Take it from me, packing for an Airbnb stay is not always quite as straightforward as it seems. Working out what to bring and what to leave at home is an art I have perfected over many years.
Ear Plugs
Snoring dorm-mates can ruin your nights rest and seriously damage the hostel experience. This is why I always travel with a pack of decent ear plugs.
Hanging Laundry Bag
Trust us, this is an absolute game changer. Super compact, a hanging mesh laundry bag stops your dirty clothes from stinking, you don’t know how much you need one of these… so just get it, thank us later.
Sea To Summit Micro Towel
Hostel towels are scummy and take forever to dry. Microfibre towels dry quickly, are compact, lightweight, and can be used as a blanket or yoga mat if need be.
Monopoly Deal
Forget about Poker! Monopoly Deal is the single best travel card game that we have ever played. Works with 2-5 players and guarantees happy days.
Grayl Geopress Water Bottle
Always travel with a water bottle! They save you money and reduce your plastic footprint on our planet. The Grayl Geopress acts as a purifier AND temperature regulator. Boom!
Don’t Forget Your Cancun Travel Insurance
ALWAYS sort out your backpacker insurance before your trip. There’s plenty to choose from in that department, but a good place to start is Safety Wing.
They offer month-to-month payments, no lock-in contracts, and require absolutely no itineraries: that’s the exact kind of insurance long-term travellers and digital nomads need.
SafetyWing is cheap, easy, and admin-free: just sign up lickety-split so you can get back to it!
Click the button below to learn more about SafetyWing’s setup or read our insider review for the full tasty scoop.
Final Thoughts on Cancun Airbnbs
So, that concludes my list of the best Airbnbs in Cancun. I hope that you’ll agree my extensive list has plenty of choices suitable for a range of budgets and personalities. If you’d prefer to stay in Playa del Carmen or Tulum, I’ve given you some great options there too!
There are some great places to suit different travel styles in this Yucatan paradise. Chilled apartments with private beaches, centrally located studios, and tropical garden rooms have all made it onto my list of the best Airbnbs in Cancun.
You might even think I’ve given you too much choice and you’re still struggling to decide where to stay. If that’s the case, take a chill pill and go for my overall best value Airbnb in Cancun – Studio in the Heart of Cancun. It combines a perfect location with excellent value!
All that’s left now is for me to wish you an excellent trip to Cancun. Have a cocktail on the beach on me!
- Check out our Backpacking Mexico guide for in-depth info for your trip.
- Use our Where to Stay in Cancun guide to plan your adventure.
- Backpackers and frugal travellers can use our budget travel guide.
- Make sure you visit the other best places in Cancun too.
- That will of course include many of the stunning National Parks of Mexico.
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