Is Cancun safe? That is the million-dollar question as Cancun is the top destination for many U.S. travelers, but violent crime is soaring in certain areas because American tourists are buying drugs from Mexican drug dealers.
Cancún and the 81-mile stretch south of the resort to Tulum, known as the Riviera Maya, draw 13 million visitors a year to their lush beaches, golf courses, and all-inclusive luxury resorts.
The area accounts for nearly half of Mexico’s tourism revenue. It’s also the scene of an alarming rise in murders, mostly fueled by the demand for drugs from the vacationers themselves.
Once an American tourist is murdered travelers begin questioning whether Cancun is safe. The stories go on and on about one murder after the other and here recently there has been an uptick in carbon monoxide poisoning in Mexico.
Three American tourists died from carbon monoxide poisoning while staying at an Airbnb rental in Mexico City last month, officials said.
The three were staying at a rental in a residential complex in the La Rosita neighborhood when they were found dead on Oct. 30, according to the Attorney General’s Office of Mexico City, which investigated the deaths.
While this did not happen in Cancun I think tourists should still be cautious when renting Airbnbs or hotels no matter the destination.
The U.S. State Department recently issued an updated Mexico travel warning about U.S. Tourists traveling to Mexico due to the uptick in violence and tourists asking are the following cities safe to visit and how to handle police extorting American tourists when visiting Mexico.
- Is Cancun Safe
- Is Tulum Safe
- Is Rivieria Maya Safe
Mexico currently has a level 3 travel warning on a scale of 1 to 4, meaning “reconsider travel.” And some parts of Mexico where drug cartel violence is at its worst have long been on a no-go list, with a level 4 no-go advisory.
“Violent crime—such as homicide, kidnapping, carjacking, and robbery—is widespread and common in Mexico,” warns the State Department.
While we would love to believe we are in a Post-Covid-19 world, Covid is still problematic. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has a Level 3 Travel Health Notice for Mexico, indicating a high level of Covid in the country.
For years I wouldn’t travel to Mexico because the U.S. media painted this horrific picture of Mexico and I always wondered if it was safe to travel to Mexico.
I believed Mexico was dangerous, I would be killed, kidnapped, and held for ransom by the cartel because of the Cancun travel warning issued by the U.S. Government.
As my readers are planning their summer 2022 travels I have been receiving more questions than ever on is Mexico safe and more specifically questions about the crime in Cancun, Puerto Vallarta, Cabo San Lucas, Tulum, and Mexico City.
Before we get into “is Cancun Safe” let’s discuss the updated Covid restrictions and Monkey Pox cases in Mexico:
Health Alert – U.S. Embassy Cancun, Mexico (May 2, 2022)
Location: Mexico Effective June 12, 2022, The Biden administration dropped the Covid-19 testing requirement for inbound air travelers from abroad effective Sunday, June 12, 2022, ending one of the longest-running travel restrictions of the pandemic.
Visit the Embassy’s COVID-19 page for more information on COVID-19 in Mexico.
The rule, put in place by the Trump administration in early 2021 and later tightened by the Biden administration, most recently required inbound travelers, including U.S. citizens, to show proof of a negative Covid test a day before boarding U.S.-bound flights.
Travelers entering the U.S. at land border crossings were exempt.
The change takes effect at 12:01 a.m. ET on Sunday.
Airlines and others in the travel industry had repeatedly pushed the administration to drop the requirement, arguing it was hurting demand for international trips.
The travel industry has been one of the hardest hit by the pandemic.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention will reassess the decision in 90 days, according to a senior Biden administration official.
“If there is a need to reinstate a pre-departure testing requirement — including due to a new, concerning variant — CDC will not hesitate to act,” the official said.
Most noncitizen visitors to the U.S. will still have to show proof of Covid-19 vaccination before flying to the U.S., a White House spokesman said.
Yes, traveling to Mexico can be dangerous. While many people worry about cartels or criminals preying on tourists in areas like Cancun or Mazatlan, there are much more common risks for travelers like not using your common sense and buying drugs in a foreign country.
If you can’t spend the weekend in another country without smoking weed you should probably be checking yourself into rehab instead of traveling to Cancun.
Almost all of the American tourists that have been killed in Mexico are due to them buying drugs from the cartel because they were too afraid to fly with weed so someone thought it was a good idea to buy drugs in a foreign country. 😩😩😩😩
When my readers ask me “is Mexico safe”, my response is a resounding yes if you do not go looking for trouble! For the life of Gawd and I can not stress this enough do not go to a foreign country buying drugs and then play the victim when something bad happens.
Cancun, Mexico Update: 1/15/22
Three Canadian visitors have been shot by a lone gunman in their hotel in the Mexican resort town of Playa del Carmen – in an attack security officials are calling targeted and alleging involved individuals with criminal records.
One of the tourists died of their injuries while being transported to hospital following the incident on Friday, according to the Quintana Roo state public security secretary, Lucio Hernández Gutiérrez, who confirmed the nationality of the victims.
The state prosecutor’s office later tweeted that a second Canadian had died of their injuries.
The first person who died – identified as ATCH – “had a criminal record: drug trafficking, use of a false identity, among other things”, the office said.
ATCH “was considered a very dangerous person in Canada”, state prosecutor Óscar Montes de Oca Rosales.
The second deceased victim, RJD, “also had a criminal history”, according to the prosecutor’s office.
Information shared on social media showed a lone attacker dressed in a grey tracksuit and brandishing a pistol on the grounds of the Xcaret hotel. A video posted on Twitter showed people shrieking as a victim received first aid.
The video later panned to show two more victims lying wounded by the pool – one heavily bleeding.
Cancun, Mexico Update: 11/15/21
As a result, 1,445 troops from the Mexican National Guard will provide security starting Dec. 1 to tourist areas in Quintana Roo, focusing on the municipalities of Benito Juárez, Solidaridad, and Tulum.
The recent violence hasn’t done much to deter travelers from visiting the region.
Experts say the crimes are not targeting tourists but are the result of cartel drug trafficking disputes. The attorney general of Quintana Roo state, Oscar Montes de Oca Rosales, told the Imagen Radio station that the region’s massive influx of tourism is a catalyst for drug sales.
As you make your Spring 2022 plans, you should read the full advisory for Mexico, which has state-level summaries and advisory levels for information on specific destinations.
The state of Quintana Roo, where Tulum, Cancún, and Puerto Morelos are located, has an “Exercise Increased Caution” advisory because of crime.
Is it Safe to Travel to Cancun?
The State Department has issued a new, strict “do not travel” advisory for U.S. citizens in five Mexican states because of violent crime and gang activity.
Do Not Travel To:
- Colima state due to crime and kidnapping.
- Guerrero state due to crime and kidnapping.
- Michoacan state due to crime and kidnapping.
- Sinaloa state due to crime and kidnapping
- Tamaulipas state due to crime and kidnapping.
While the State Department has long recommended travelers exercise “increased caution” in Mexico in general because of widespread homicide, kidnapping, carjacking, and robbery, the new warning elevates the five states to level 4, the highest level of potential danger.
The advisory, issued in January 2022, puts the states of Tamaulipas on the U.S. border and Sinaloa, Colima, Michoacan, and Guerrero on the Pacific coast as a level 4 travel warning.
The main of the Bureau of Consular Affairs is to advise and help U.S. citizens make informed decisions when it comes to deciding if Cancun is safe including travel advisories, warnings, and how to stay in Cancun.
So, is it safe to travel to Mexico right now? Below we will take a look at the Mexico travel advisory boards from both the United States and Canada, as well as the Quintana Roo Tourism Board.
U.S. Department of State Travel Warnings
The U.S. State Department frequently issues advisories for Mexico and specifically Cancun travel warnings. When an alert or warning is issued for Mexico you likely have questions and concerns.
But before you go off the deep end and start imagining things that will likely not occur cancel a trip to Mexico please find out what is real vs fake about the Mexico travel warnings. , here’s what you need to know.
Click here to read the current Mexico Travel Advisory from the U.S. Department of State website.
While Cancun isn’t located in any of these states the State Department still wants travelers to be on high alert. While in the area the State Department says it may be best to only use toll roads and avoid driving alone or at night.
It also warns people to “exercise increased caution when visiting local bars, nightclubs, and casinos.”
Furthermore, tourists should steer clear of displaying signs of wealth, “such as wearing expensive watches or jewelry” and exercise extreme caution at banks and ATMs.
In addition, the State Department asks tourists to enroll in its Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to receive Alerts and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.
Cancun Travel Advisory Fact vs. Fiction
Because Cancun is one of Mexico’s most popular tourist destinations, there are more than 40,000 police officers stationed throughout all of Quintana Roo which means Cancun safety is important to the country.
That makes it far safer than any other Mexican state. Not only are there more police, but they’re also better trained and better paid.
Most officers have attended at least some college and often have a few years on their beat. Part of what keeps them motivated? They make a minimum salary of $600 USD per month—double that of other departments in Mexico.
On top of that, they receive consistent bonuses to further increase their salaries. These incentives help make officers dedicated to cracking down on crime in their city—instead of extorting money from tourists like so many other officers do throughout Mexico.
If you get up and go to the grocery store every day, go running at your local park, or even go to a concert you should always take precautions no matter the destination.
Are you worried about traveling to Chattanooga, Houston, Chicago, New Orleans, or Memphis? All of these cities have a higher crime rate than Cancun.
The Mexican Tourism authority and the government want you safe because tourism is Mexico’s number 1 revenue generator and they have pointed to the low number of victims of crime compared to the 28 million American tourists who travel to Mexico each year.
Know that Cancun is safe and keep these numbers in mind when planning your vacation for fall 2022.
Cancun is safer than most of America’s biggest cities and if you are not worried about traveling within the U.S., especially with the current racial tensions you should be asking if Cancun is safe.
You take road trips with the family to cities like St. Louis, New Orleans, and Kansas City without giving it a second thought so do not allow the media to make you believe Mexico is unsafe.
Let me be clear the majority of the criminal activity in Cancun, Quintana Roo, and Tulum is from Americans seeking to buy drugs and then cry foul or play the victim when something bad happens.
Why would anyone be looking to buy drugs in Mexico and think nothing is going to happen? If you do not go looking for drugs or drug dealers you will be fine but if you decide you must have drugs while on vacation don’t cry later when someone in your party ends up dead.
Cancun Crime vs. United States Crime
Mexico is statistically much safer than the United States.
So why is the U.S. State Dept. sending out Travel Alerts, calling Mexico “A Failed State”, and saying that ALL parts of the country (including popular tourist resorts like Puerto Vallarta and Cancun) are now unsafe for travel?
There has been a lot of news coverage about violence in Mexico. But very little of it notes that Mexico is a HUGE country with thirty-one states (+ the Distrito Federal).
They also fail to mention that most of that violence is drug traffic-related, or that you could count the number of tourists who are affected by it on one hand.
Did you know that, according to the FBI, an estimated 15,241 persons were murdered in the U.S. in 2009 111 U.S. citizens were killed in Mexico last year, and almost all of them were involved in illicit drug trafficking, gun-running, or smuggling people across the border to/from the U.S?
Imagine 111 people out of the nearly 8 million visitors (about 1 million of whom make Mexico their full-time home). Do you know who else had 111 murders in one year?
Well, Boston for starters. Then there was Las Vegas. And Orlando. And Indianapolis. Is the State Dept. advising tourists to stay away from those places?
Meanwhile, nearly 1,000 U.S. citizens died in Puerto Rico, but did anybody raise a red flag about that? The State Department can’t issue a Travel Warning, because it is not a foreign country
How big is your own city when compared to Mexico? Here are the annual numbers of MURDERS, given by MSA (or Metropolitan Statistical Area)
- Atlanta – 325
- Baltimore – 298
- Boston – 111
- Dallas/Ft. Worth – 310
- Detroit – 447
- Houston – 462
- Indianapolis – 111
- Jacksonville, FL – 120
- Kansas City – 163
- Las Vegas – 133
- Los Angeles – 68
- Miami-Boca Raton – 377
- New Orleans – 252
- New York City – 778
- Orlando – 111
- Philadelphia – 436
- Phoenix – 302
- San Francisco – 392
- St. Louis – 210
- Washington, DC – 325
To put things in perspective, consider that the murder rate in Mexico’s Yucatan State is 2 per 100,000.
That is about the same as Fond du Lac, Wisconsin. Or Evansville, Indiana. Mexico City’s murder rate is 8 per 100,000, despite being the second-largest city on the planet. That is on par with Albuquerque.
Is Cancun Safe?
Cancun Travel Advisory
In 2013, there were 10.3 murders per 100,000 people in Mexico, but that figure dropped to 7.9 murders per 100,000 people in 2014.
That’s a decrease of about 26 percent over just one year.
While that may not sound like much of a drop to you, consider that it’s more than a 40 percent drop from just five years ago: From 2009 to 2010 (the most recent years with available data), the number of murders per 100,000 people was at 20 and 18 respectively.
What does the U.S. Government say about traveling to Cancun and can you really believe the Mexico Travel Warnings based on the narrative United States paints of countries that are mostly of Black and brown people?
Below is the most current Cancun travel advisory and Mexico travel warning taken directly from the U.S. Government website:
Quintana Roo state – Level 2: Exercise Increased Caution
Exercise increased caution in Mexico due to crime and kidnapping. Some areas have increased risk. Read the entire Cancun Travel Advisory.
Violent crime – such as homicide, kidnapping, carjacking, and robbery – is widespread.
The U.S. government has limited ability to provide emergency services to U.S. citizens in many areas of Mexico, as travel by U.S. government employees to certain areas is prohibited or significantly restricted.
Read the Safety and Security section on the country information page.
While there are some parts of Mexico and Cancun that are not safe to travel to you do not have to worry about the following areas:
- Cancun
- Cozumel
- Playa del Carmen, Tulum
- Riviera Maya
If you need more evidence that Cancun is safe take a look at this interactive map and you will see what other popular countries have the same travel advisory level as Cancun and Quintana Roo.
As I stated in my previous article Is Mexico safe the countries below have the same Cancun travel advisory and most people don’t think twice about visiting these destinations so why are you asking is Cancun safe?
Safety Tips for Traveling to Cancun
Getting around Cancun can be done safely and easily on foot or by cab, but not everyone enjoys walking. If you’re in a group, hiring a bus to take you between locations might be a good option as well.
You may want to avoid taking public transportation while you’re in Mexico, especially if you’ve had too much to drink. Be wary of strangers who offer rides in their cars – they are often involved in scams that target tourists.
Taxis are generally safe and reliable; if possible, get one with a working meter rather than an agreed-upon price so that no one tries to con you out of more money at your destination.
No matter the destination it is a good idea to always follow these basic travel safety tips. Follow these tips while traveling to Cancun along with the following Cancun travel warning:
- Steer clear of spots with a bad reputation, known gang activity, or places that give you bad vibes. Stick to well-traveled places.
- Check-in with friends and family back home as often as you can. Make sure someone knows where you’re at and when you expect to check in next.
- Be aware of your surroundings. This is a good rule of thumb in general, but it’s especially important when traveling alone.
- Don’t drink too much. Make sure you know your limits. Don’t put yourself in a vulnerable position.
- Only use ATM machines that are found at reputable local banks or those at your resort.
- Do not wear expensive jewelry or watches that might attract unwanted attention.
- Avoid taking excessive amounts of cash out and about with you.
Stick together with your travel companions rather than splitting up, especially when out late at night. If you plan to drive, make it a point to travel during daylight hours.
Choosing to take a taxi at night is always a great idea, just to be on the safe side and know which areas to avoid in Cancun.
Carbon Monoxide Poisoning
The recent deaths of six Americans from carbon monoxide poisoning in two separate incidents are putting a spotlight on the risks of staying in an Airbnb or hotel that might not have the appropriate safety measures in place.
Three guests staying at an apartment in Mexico City booked through Airbnb are believed to have died from carbon monoxide poisoning last month, Bloomberg reported.
Families of three Americans who died from carbon monoxide poisoning in a rented residence in Mexico City ahead of Dia de Los Muertos – or Day of the Dead – celebrations identified them as two New Orleans teachers and the owner of a Virginia Beach-based candle business.
Another group of American tourists in May died of the same cause at a Sandals Resort in the Bahamas.
Symptoms of CO poisoning include headache, dizziness, nausea, vomiting, weakness, chest pain, and confusion, according to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. More than 400 people die in the U.S. from accidental CO poisoning each year, and another 50,000 people visit the emergency department with carbon monoxide poisoning.
What to know before you travel
Carbon monoxide (CO) is a colorless, odorless gas that is produced any time a fossil fuel is burned. Accidental poisoning can occur when home appliances and systems like furnaces, kerosene heaters, stoves, lanterns, and generators produce fumes that people breathe in.
I suggest purchasing a carbon monoxide detector and taking it with you just to be on the safe side.
Safest Areas for Tourists in Cancun
If you do not go to crime-ridden areas in your own city do not go into crime-ridden areas when you travel. While the crime rate is increasing in Mexico so is the crime in the United States!
The Mexican government wants to keep tourists safe by providing extra security in touristy areas to ensure travelers are safe and you will not have to ask if the Cancun Travel Advisory is necessary.
Below are the safe areas of Cancun:
The safest area to stay in Cancun is still the Hotel Zone which is a 13-mile stretch of beautiful white-sand beaches with boutique hotels and resorts for both families and couples alike.
Tourism authorities in Mexico and Cancun have pointed out that there is rarely violence in Cancun and the numbers are so low that it barely makes a dent in the 28 million American tourists who travel to Mexico and Cancun annually.
Be aware that there has not been any violence within the Hotel Zone – Violence has occurred outside the Hotel Zone and along with other popular vacation spots which has caused many hotels and resorts to tighten their security.
I don’t think you have anything to worry about when traveling to Cancun because Mexico is safe as long you are not buying drugs from the cartel. (Seems like common sense)
Areas to Avoid in Cancun
Now that we have discussed the safest areas in Cancun for tourists here is a list of areas you should avoid when traveling to Cancun or at a minimum be mindful of your surroundings:
- Downtown Cancun – Cancun is extremely safe and downtown Cancun is no different so there is no reason to be afraid but be extra diligent and precautious if you are traveling outside of Cancun at night and always notify someone of your location if you are traveling alone.
- Shopping in Cancun – If you are like me you love shopping and exploring the local markets but please take proper precautions do not flash money, wear expensive jewelry and keep your purse closed because pickpocketers will be watching and waiting to make their move.
- Surrounding Towns– There are plenty of surrounding neighborhoods and towns that are extremely safe and perfect for day trips including Guanajuato, San Cristóbal de las Casas and Oaxaca City.
- Driving or renting a car in Cancun – While you should always take precautions while driving in a foreign country, there’s no need to be fearful of driving in Cancun or renting a car.
- I rented a car on my last trip and felt extremely safe so no need to worry at all but the U.S. State Department advises using toll roads when possible and avoiding driving alone or at night.
How to Deal with Police Extortion in Cancun
We’ve all heard the stories about the corrupt cops south of the border. With stories ranging from extortion to kidnapping, the police in Mexico and the rest of Latin America do not have the best reputation.
Police extortion of tourists detained for minor offenses is often a problem and there have been some grotesque incidents. The authorities cracked down hard, however, and dismissed hundreds of officers, including some top officials. They claim the problem is under control.
If you are stopped for a traffic violation in Mexico, you will be asked for your driver’s license, vehicle registration, and possibly proof of insurance. You will also be told what you did wrong.
Of course, in the U.S. we would then be issued a ticket that requires us to pay a fine or appear in court at a later date.
If it is a minor infraction don’t bribe them, even so, it is possible that they ask for some money, the amount depends on the seriousness of the infraction, if you passed a red light it is better if they only give you the traffic ticket
If you drive without a license, the car must be impounded and the fine is higher, in that case, I suggest you offer $ 200 pesos (if you look Mexican) if you are blond with blue eyes maybe about $500 pesos
If you are stopped drinking alcohol in the street, the fine is $ 1500 pesos or 24 hours of jail, you will probably have to pay your full fine
Those are the most common crimes for which a police officer can pull you over, obviously, if you steal or kill, the amount will be considerably higher
The key is to remain calm and accept your mistake and when it is inevitable that they take you to jail then subtly offer the bribe, it is like a negotiation, start with a low amount and they will go up to agree on an amount.
The strategy you Should NOT use to Deal with Corrupt Mexican Police
Don’t be a tough guy or gal
This is the worst thing that you can do. If you act tough and get angry and make threats, the officer will simply arrest you for being disorderly or assaulting him or her, etc.
This is a very big no-no. Towing your car is technically something that the officer can’t do, even though they will threaten it, but if you give them enough of a desire to cause you harm they will absolutely find a way to make it happen.
While most officers will not do anything illegal beyond soliciting bribes for traffic violations, they most certainly can act above the law when they really want to.
Don’t give them a reason to want to, because you will not win. Having your car towed (and potentially never seeing it again) is a lot more expensive than paying him one hundred bucks.
Cancun Travel Restrictions
Assistance for U.S. Citizens
Colonia Cuauhtemoc
Mexico, D.F., Mexico C.P.
06500
If you decide to travel to any part of Mexico please follow the rules below:
- DO NOT BUY DRUGS! 🚫🚫🚫🚫🚫🚫
- Use toll roads when possible and avoid driving alone or at night. In many states, police presence and emergency services are extremely limited outside the state capital or major cities.
- Exercise increased caution when visiting local bars, nightclubs, and casinos.
- Do not display signs of wealth, such as wearing expensive watches or jewelry.
- Be extra vigilant when visiting banks or ATMs.
- Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to receive Alerts and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.
- Follow the Department of State on Facebook and Twitter.
- Review the Crime and Safety Reports for Mexico.
U.S. citizens who travel abroad should always have a contingency plan for emergency situations. Review the Traveler’s Checklist.
Safest Hotels in Cancun
The safest area to stay in Cancun is still the Hotel Zone, a 13-mile arc of beautiful white-sand beaches lined with resorts and hotels for every budget.
Many hotels are all-inclusive and discourage non-guests on the property, and the high-end resorts tend to have robust security.
Avoid staying or partying in downtown Cancun, where most of the recent violence has taken place.
Best and Safest Resorts in Cancun
Cancun is known for both mega resorts and luxury boutique hotels with multiple restaurants, bars, and nightlife activity. So if you're looking for a getaway I have visited Cancun's best hotels so you will know where to stay for your ultimate vacation to Cancun!
Canopy by Hilton Cancun La Isla, Mexico Hotel
The Canopy by Hilton hotel overlooks the Nichupté Lagoon and the Caribbean Sea. They are a three-minute walk to La Isla Entertainment Village with premier shopping and dining options. Access to Mandala Beach Club is easy with a five-minute drive and Tulum is just 130 kilometers away. Enjoy multiple bars and unwind at our rooftop fitness center and outdoor pool. WiFi’s on us.
Le Blanc
The luxurious, 260-room Le Blanc Spa is the best (and priciest) adult-only all-inclusive in town. It stands out for its gorgeous white-sand beach in the heart of the Hotel Zone, decadent spa (guests get free access to the hydrotherapy area), stunning pools (two with swim-up bars), and especially its pampering service, from the butlers who will unpack your clothes to the pool attendants who will provide cool towels for your eyes. It has a hip, gorgeous aesthetic throughout the entire pristine white property, and the modern, bright rooms have two-person whirlpool tubs; most have either ocean or lagoon views.
Excellence Playa Mujeres
This adult-only luxury resort offers a nice all-inclusive experience with tons of variety -- multiple dining options, several beautiful pools, a gorgeous spa, and dozens of wonderful activities. The rooms here are large and contemporary, with large modern bathrooms, Jacuzzis, and high-end amenities such as big flat-screen TVs, free Wi-Fi, and iPod docks. Some have a large rooftop terrace with a private plunge pool with ocean views.
Be Tulum Lifestyle Luxury Hotel, Private Villas & Spa.
Be Tulum – a luxury lifestyle Hotel Spa & Private Villas inspired by the rustic charm and raw natural beauty of the Mayan Riviera.
Uniquely built by the sea-cliffs, Tulum is located in the Yucatán Península in the state of Quintana Roo, southeastern México, on the northern border of the biosphere reserve of Sian Ka’an.
Kin Sol Soleil
Kin Sol Soleil is a charming home in the tradition of the Mexican haciendas where handmade hospitality, personal service and privacy are unsurpassed. The elegant simplicity of the beautiful natural setting is enhanced with native thatched roofs, glowing mahogany, bamboo-filtered light, colorful fabrics, original art, voluptuous gardens, gourmet cuisine and warm smiles.
Renaissance Cancun Resort & Marina
Situated in an exclusive area in Zona Hotelera, the all-new Renaissance Cancun Resort & Marina is a scenic haven in a lively travel destination. Find respite in your waterfront accommodations with refined design elements, contemporary essentials, luxury amenities and inspiring views of the city and shimmering bay. Stay within steps of the beach in the Cancun entertainment zone near Marina Town Center Mall, Isla Mujeres and popular shops, restaurants and pubs in downtown.
Follow These Simple Rules to Stay at the Beach in Cancun
1. Lifeguards are there to keep you safe.
2. Swim near a lifeguard tower; if there isn’t one near you, swim away from people or even better, from another person in a floating device such as an inner tube or raft.
3. Life jackets are available at many resorts and other shoreline areas – use them!
4. Have fun with your friends and don’t drink excessively;
5. Don’t participate in activities that require you to swim out too far like paddleboarding or parasailing;
6. Be aware of natural elements on beaches, like rip currents and rocks underwater that can be dangerous;
7. Make sure you have someone reliable who has agreed to watch over you while you’re partying;
8. Make sure you leave enough time between drinking and swimming;
9. Use common sense and be alert to your surroundings.
10.) Watch where others are going in case they have been swept up by a current, then go in the opposite direction immediately so that you do not get caught up in it yourself!
Things to do in Cancun
With much of its history shrouded in mystery, there’s still plenty to learn about ancient cultures when you visit Mexico.
You can explore Mayan ruins, relax on tropical beaches and join in a local fiesta – all while learning more about Mexico’s fascinating past.
If history isn’t your thing, you can still find plenty of fun things to do in Cancun. For example, if shopping is your passion, Mexican markets are brimming with beauty products and handcrafted goods from across Latin America.
If it’s a cuisine you’re interested in, local restaurants have a huge selection of delicious dishes that feature fresh ingredients grown locally. And for those who just want to party, clubs and bars are scattered throughout downtown Cancun.
No matter what floats your boat, there’s something exciting waiting for you in sunny Cancun.
Best Time to Travel to Mexico
Because Mexico is a big country deciding when and where to travel totally depends on the weather and which area you are visiting and if you are going on a Girls’ Trip in Los Cabos or a family vacation in Cancun.
The southern part of Mexico has a rainy season which generally starts in May and until October. Not to worry it only rains for a short period of time and the sun will come right back out.
If you want to travel in the cooler season book your trip from December to February when it is cooler.
I suggest traveling to Mexico between December and April when the temperatures are more comfortable and the humidity is not at all at an all-time high.
Mexico Travel Insurance
I think most people have questions about where to go for medical care in an emergency. First, I should note that if you’re on spring break, chances are slim that you’ll be needing emergency care.
Still, better safe than sorry! The good news is that some of the most beautiful cities in Mexico—like Cancun and Playa del Carmen—also happen to be home to some of the best hospitals and clinics in Latin America.
I can’t say this enough but please get insurance when traveling to Mexico! Even if you are only going on a short trip, you should always travel with insurance.
Have fun while visiting Mexico, but take it from someone who has racked up thousands of bucks on an insurance claim before, you need it.
Make sure to get your insurance before you head off on an adventure! I highly recommend Travelex Insurance.
The Conclusion: Is it Safe to Travel to Cancun Right Now
Yes, Cancun is safe!
There is no doubt that there has been horrible violence in Mexico due to drug wars between warring factions but that violence has, for the most part, been in isolated areas.
Of course, there are certain areas to avoid in Cancun but it is no different than you being in your own hometown where crime is restricted to certain areas.
DO NOT allow the U.S. media to shape your thoughts and views of Cancun because they are not only misleading but wrong!
One of Mexico’s most popular tourist regions plans began charging foreign visitors a new $10 tax in April of 2021.
The tax is meant to help offset a decline in overall tourism spending in the state, the Riviera Maya Times reported.
Quintana Roo is located on Mexico’s eastern Yucatan Peninsula and is home to popular destinations including Cancun, Cozumel, Isla Mujeres, and the ancient Maya ruins in Tulum.
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Additional Articles For Exploring This Big Ole World
Have you allowed the Cancun travel warning to affect your travel decisions and are you still wondering is it safe to travel to Cancun?
I would love to hear your thoughts on whether is it safe to travel to Cancun and how you feel about the Mexico travel warning so leave me a comment on Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram.
Are you traveling to Cancun this summer? Leave a comment and let me know!
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Victoria says
These are some great tips for traveling to Cancun. I’ve never been there, but it’s on my bucket list. I have been to Cozumel and didn’t have any problems.
Stacie says
I haven’t been to Cancun but I’d still visit. I don’t drink so I would stay away from that since I’ve heard about people get sick and dying after drinking.
Carissa says
I haven’t been to Cancun and I can’t say its high on my list right now but this is great information. I think with everything going on in the world, everyone is a little skeptical on traveling outside of the country
Mimi Robinson says
Mexico is still on my list of places to experience. I have seen beautiful pictures and I want to go see it for myself.
Tomiko says
Los Cabos and Cancun are my favorite and its expensive to get there.
Kiwi says
Ironcially I am in Mexico right now in Playa Del Carmen so not too far from Cancun. Great info because there was a travel advisory by Trump but glad it isnt on high alert.
Larry says
We have been to Cancun 14 times …Never an Issue ,we will be back there in march… can’t wait… Just like Anywhere else,if you are looking for trouble,you can find it.
Kim says
Although I haven’t been to Cancun;however, I do want to visit Tulum, – I’ve learned to take heed with the travel advisories. You have a lot of helpful pointers too.
Julia says
I am from Norway and LOVED our stay in Cancun summer 2019. We met only lovely people and beautiful destinations! I would recommend everyone seeing cancun, it is really breathtaking!
Rolando Balance says
My Wife and I have traveled to Cancun with our teenage son and have never had any issues. We have been to Hotel Row, Playa del Carmen, Playcar, Tulum and Puerto Morelos. We always rent a car and have even driven 2 1/2 hours from Cancun to Valladolid Yucatan Mexico. “Great Cenotes in this area” We are going back this April 2021, but we are going to Island hop! Isla Holbox, Isla Mujeres, Isla Cozumel and we will be taking a4 hour day trip to Bacalar, Quintana Roo! We Were in Puerto Morelos for 4th of July week 2020 and were in Huatulco, Oaxaca September 2020 for our 20th Anniversary! We rented a car as always. One thing I can tell you is that in Cancun they are taking this pandemic seriously! The hotels, the tours, the restaurants, the stores and the malls are temperature checking, mandating the use of the mask, making you disinfect your shoes and handing out sanitizer before they allow you in. They are also taking the safe distancing seriously, unlike here in the US where we have these conspiracy theorists that claim the virus is a hoax. We not only feel safe in the Riviera Maya, but we also appreciate that the people there are keeping us visitors and themselves safe!!! Thanks for this page to help fellow travelers to discover the truth about Mexican travel. By the way, if in your Naivety, you like to get drunk, search for illegal substances and women? If the bad guys don’t get you first, the undercover Mexican drug enforcement officers will take you down…
Leather Halters says
Great Information You Shared.
Lisa DeLille Bolton says
My just-graduated-college son and several of his friends are literally flying to Cancun this morning on a trip planned months back by one of the kids’ uncle who is a professional travel agent. I panicked at the State Dept update but felt much better after reading beautifully researched and well written and informative website : THANK YOU!!! I am worried post trump that people in Mexico who are rightly upset with America (since we elected — did we? really? — a racist reality tv show guy to run our country and at least he got us all talking about how things need to change) might look at my son who is a large white male and make inaccurate assumptions about him and his views based on his large white maleness. I am aware that my Black-mom friends/colleagues/patients have been dealing with people making inaccurate assumptions based on appearance for lifetimes longer than I have, and I have a whole new appreciation of that experience and how unsettling it is. We raised our son to be antiracist, not really knowing that word yet, 22 years ago, but aware because we could see what has needed to change in this country since America began with a massive blind spot as the the difference between our words “liberty and justice all” and our actions, and my hope and expectation is that my large white male son bears the responsibility to help create that Love-Thy-Neighbor world we all want for ourselves and one another, or so I choose to believe and so I believe God wants us all to have. I don’t know why I’m oversharing like this except I’ve been up since 4 and maybe had too much coffee? My son texted to say they’re off to Mexico, I looked on the State Dept website again, saw the update, freaked out, googled feverishly, found this page, and feel much better, and appreciate this information so much, and now want to quit worrying and jump on a plane and have fun and Be The Change. thank you and sorry for oversharing and God Bless!
Tomiko says
No worries whatsoever! Mexico is extremely safe and I just purchased my ticket for Cabo yesterday. I have never encountered any issues while traveling to Mexico. I’m sure your son will be safe and please keep me posted
Michael Malone says
Umm no. Let’s not bring politics into this, My wife is Mexican. From Cancun I’m a gringo. I’m from Missouri. . We live back and forth. Is this Cancun safe? Don’t ever say politics ever…. It has nothing to do with politics.
Tomiko says
I just returned from Cabo and Cancun within the last 3 months. I have been traveling Mexico for years with both my friends, husband, daughter and solo. I have never once encountered criminal activity. Not once have I felt threatened, not once have I been robbed, Not once have my credit cards been stolen but guess where all of the things have happened? Right here in Tennessee!
Terrie says
I took my daughter to Cancun when she graduated college. The hotel was rated 5 star. I was aware of my surroundings at all times. Having lived in Tijuana for over 6 months in the late 70’s. What can I say, it was my rebellious years. Anyway, my daughter had the best time of her life. When she heard me speak Spanish, she hugged me and said “Mom, you amaze me.” I have been to Cancun and Playa del Carmen several times since then. With someone and mostly by myself. I even had a medical procedure done in Cancun. My advice is be able to understand Spanish. At least the basics. Be respectful of the people waiting on you. Remember to tip those waiting on you. A dollar tip will get you better service.
Rob Alter says
I loved this guide, it was the first I read and helped me get over all the negative news about mexico. I kept coming back to your great advice throughout my visit of this amazing country, so a huge thank you for inspiration!
Alex Wilson says
Thank you! I was reading this article and I found very useful information above there.
Sam says
Thank You! It’s actually a cool and useful piece of information. I’m satisfied that you simply shared this helpful information with us.
Ryan Finn says
This blog was a lot more beneficial for me than I could have thought. It is informative and enlightening, as it gives exact and explanatory guidance and direction.
Hemant says
It was the first guide I read and helped me overcome all the negative news about Mexico. As I toured this incredible country, I kept returning to your great advice, so thank you for inspiring me!
Cecilia says
Thank you ! very very helpful … but do you know anything about what recently occurred may 7th, 2022 ?