Planning a Luxury vacation in Cancun? We’re here to help!

Cancun is one of Mexico’s most popular destinations, and it’s easy to see why – it just has so much on offer. For those who love nothing more than sun, sand, and sea, the region has a vast array of beaches to lounge on. Nature buffs will enjoy the tropical jungles and ecological reserves which dot much of the coastline. History fans will be amazed at the Mayan ruins that are ripe for roaming through. And let’s not forget the buzzing nightlife and Cancun’s emerging foodie scene either. It’s safe to say you won’t go hungry or be bored during your stay. The only question you need to answer is, when are you going?

Cancun is filled with beaches just waiting for you to relax and unwind on. In Mexico, all beaches are public and there are a lot of resorts and bars lining the sand in Cancun, so beaches here can get busy. Don’t despair though, a little know-how is all that’s needed to ensure you find the beach of your dreams.

Playa Delfines is a large beach known for its iconic ‘Cancun’ sign that vacationers like to take photos in front of. It has fairly strong waves, so attracts surfers and bodyboarders alike.

Families enjoy the shallow waters of Playa Langosta and Playa Caracol. The former is in what is known as the ‘hotel zone’ and has bathrooms and showers, as well as lots of restaurants and bars to enjoy during your time there. The latter is a little further away from the hotels and bars and has pretty views of Isla Mujeres.

Playa Tortugas has a protected lagoon within its calm waters, as well as sun loungers to rent and a low-key restaurant to grab a bite in. Spring breakers and party people flock to Mandala beach, where live DJs provide the tunes that get the vibe going for an afternoon filled with music, tapas, chilled cocktails, and lots of dancing.

Keen swimmers, snorkelers, surfers, and divers will not be disappointed by Cancun’s freshwater pools and lagoons have to offer, not to mention the Caribbean sea. Avid snorkelers should book a private catamaran tour of Isla Mujeres and Isla Contoy. These picturesque islands, lined with pure white sandy beaches and turquoise waters offer great places to explore the area’s local sea life. There’s an underwater museum at Isla Mujeres built for scuba divers to enjoy, and Isla Contoy’s thriving coral reef is a wonderful place to explore for an hour or two. It’s part of the Mesoamerican Barrier Reef, a UNESCO world heritage site that starts near Cancun and extends down through the Caribbean coastline. Some of the reef is close to the water’s surface, so grab a snorkel and take a look.

If you vacation here between March and September you can experience the thrill of swimming with Whale Sharks. One of the largest species on the planet, whale sharks might look scary but they are totally harmless to humans. It migrates to the balmy Caribbean waters, just off Cancun’s coastline and can travel in large groups. It’s an experience you will never forget.

Another memorable experience on offer is a private guided tour of Cancun’s hidden cenotes – freshwater sinkholes that look as if they are the backdrop to an Indiana Jones movie. Ask your Luxury Retreats concierge for more information about booking a tour. Finally, a dive or snorkel around the Great Mayan Reef is not to be missed.

It makes sense to rent a car and explore Cancun’s thrilling history and natural habitat while you are here. A two-hour drive takes you to Chichen Itza, a Mayan ruin whose highest pyramid Nohoch Mul is well worth a climb for the extraordinary views. Close by is Ik Kil cenote, a great spot for a quick dip before you head back to your villa. Thirty minutes’ drive from Cancun is Playa del Carmen, a small, bustling city filled with restaurants, bars, and enticing shopping opportunities. Head to 5th Avenue to lighten your wallet and grab a bite at Ipanema’s Grill. Make a point of visiting Xel Ha Nature Park, to explore the manmade reef, and while away an afternoon kayaking along its river. Adventurous types can even have a go at cliff jumping!

Cancun has a large number of fine dining restaurants at which to celebrate a special anniversary or event. Playa Del Carmen’s Alux restaurant is set within a cave, complete with stalagmites and stalactites and you can feast on delicious dishes made from local ingredients and fresh seafood, all by candlelight. In Cancun, Le Chique and Benazuza are resort restaurants that offer tasting menus and extensive wine lists bound to draw sighs of delight and contentment, while downtown Cancun, La Habichuela is a low-key eatery offering traditional Mexican dishes and choice cuts of grilled meats. Dine under the stars in its open-air courtyard.

Where to stay - Cancun vacation rentals

Be in the heart of the action when you choose a luxury villa in Cancun. From penthouse suites to five-star villas, there is a property for everyone.

Planning a family gathering or a holiday getaway with your favorite entourage? Whatever the reason ourCancun villas on the beach are ready and waiting for you. In a Luxury Retreats home, you can experience the best of both worlds by staying in a private villa set within an exclusive resort, filled with all of the 5-star amenities you would expect for a first-class vacation.

Before exploring all of the wonders the resort has to offer, you may want to acquaint yourself with the villa’s elegant features. Wrap-around terraces with ocean views, alfresco Jacuzzis, fire pits, hammocks, and sun loungers are all yours. Inside, the expansive, open plan living spaces with elegant, modern décor, fully equipped kitchens, and bedrooms with king size beds and en-suite bathrooms are sure to delight.

ACancun honeymoon is ideal for couples who enjoy a mix of beach, culture and bar hopping. From the vibrant nightlife to the rich historical sites, and lush, tropical beaches, Cancun is just made for excitement and romance. Luxury Retreats’ villas only enhance the honeymoon experience. From the ocean facing private terraces, with alfresco Jacuzzis, hammocks, and sun loungers to the opulent, open plan living spaces, with sleek furnishings, floor-to-ceiling windows, a fully equipped kitchen with travertine countertops, and oversized bedrooms with en-suite bathrooms featuring steam rooms and whirlpool baths, our homes in the region have everything you could wish for.