About RIU CANCUN
Riu Cancún is a 5-star, all-inclusive beach resort in Cancún’s Hotel Zone, located at Blvd. Kukulcán Km 9 (Manzana 50, Lote 5) (www.balkantourbox.com ). The property features two mirrored glass high-rise towers facing the Nichupté Lagoon and the Caribbean Sea, an iconic sight on the skyline. Built in 2003, it has about 569 rooms and suites (www.balkantourbox.com ). Uniquely, Riu Cancún now markets itself as adults-only (guests age 18+) (www.riu.com ) – a distinction that creates a lively, sophisticated atmosphere for couples and groups. In 2014 the resort underwent a full renovation of all facilities (www.riu.com ), so guest rooms and public areas have modern decor and equipment.
The resort offers resort-class amenities: three large outdoor pools (one with a swim-up bar), a beachfront with white sand and loungers, plus a free fitness center, spa, salon and hot tubs (www.riu.com ). Its dining options are extensive. There is a 24-hour international buffet and five themed restaurants (e.g. Mexican, Italian “La Toscana”, Asian “Kawachi”, gourmet “Kulinarium”, plus a steakhouse) (solcaribe.com.ec ). Full-service bars include a lobby lounge (“La Punta”), a 24-hour sports bar, and an adults-only swim-up pool bar (solcaribe.com.ec ). All inclusive 24h service means snacks and drinks are unlimited day and night. The lively entertainment—live music shows and DJs—gives this resort a reputation as one of Cancún’s flagship party hotspots.
Events and Programming
At Riu Cancún, entertainment is built into almost every hour. By day the RIU team runs activities like beach volleyball, water aerobics, dance contests and watersports for guests (www.riu.com ). As evening falls, the focus shifts to performances. The resort features an open-air stage by the pool where nightly shows (dancing, live music, themed cabaret acts) are presented by the in-house entertainment staff (www.riu.com ). After the show, guests often head to the on-site Pacha nightclub, which plays upbeat music late into the night (typically until around 2:00 AM). One special highlight is the RIU pool party series: adults-only themed parties (White Party, Neon Party, etc.) with live DJs, dancers and light shows (riulatinocancun.com ). These “RIU Party” events give Cancún visitors a resort-based festival vibe. In short, while Riu Cancún isn’t a large concert venue, it offers free daily entertainment – from beach games in daytime to lively stage shows and night-club DJs at night.
Booking and Rates
Visitors book Riu Cancún the same way they book any oceanside resort. You reserve an all-inclusive package through RIU’s website or a travel agent, choosing your room type and dates. All guest entertainment (shows, pool parties) is then included with your stay – there are no extra “ticket” fees for on-site events. Room rates vary by season and view: for example, off-season nights can start around $150–$200 USD per night for a standard adult room (all-inclusive), whereas holiday or spring-break dates can easily exceed $300/night. To get the best pricing, buyers often watch for advance-booking deals, use RIU’s loyalty program (Club Riu/RIU Class), or take advantage of package promotions. Specialty options like a Premium (RIU Class) floor room, honeymoon suite or swim-up corner suite come at higher tiers and may include extra perks (VIP lounge access, premium liquor, etc.). Unlike booking concert tickets, there’s no box office for RIU Cancún events – everything is arranged through the hotel as part of the stay.
Rooms & Resort Layout
Riu Cancún’s layout revolves around its two tall towers and central pool courtyard. The “ocean view” tower faces east toward the Caribbean; rooms there catch the morning sun and have balcony views of the beach. The “lagoon side” tower faces west over Nichupté Lagoon and gets the sunset glow. All rooms come with TV, minibar, liquor dispenser and private balcony (globalresortmaps.com ). Standard doubles are about 30–35 m2 with two beds; junior suites and ocean-view suites are larger with king beds, seating areas and (in select suites) whirlpool tubs. When choosing a room, note that higher floors have better views and are quieter. Riu Class (the hotel’s VIP category) occupies select top floors on the ocean tower – Riu Class rooms include access to an exclusive lounge.
Public areas are laid out so that the main lobby and lobby bar sit between the towers. Three large pools fan out from the center: one by the lobby (shallow and large), one by the back tower (with swim-up island bar), and one family/kids pool. The main buffet and restaurants lie along the front, and the theater-stage sits adjacent to the main pool. Acoustically, expect some music spill into nearby rooms at night, so if you want quiet avoid rooms near the theater. For ambience, by the beach you’ll enjoy sunrise views, while lagoon-side balconies (tempting for their sunsets and night skyline) get more reflection of the city. In short, for the best experience request an upper-floor room in the ocean tower for a classic Caribbean view; families of friends might prefer lagoon-side rooms for extra space and tranquility.
Getting There and Parking
Riu Cancún is easy to locate on the hotel strip: it’s at Km 9 on Blvd. Kukulcán in the Cancún Hotel Zone (www.balkantourbox.com ). From Cancún International Airport (about 12 miles away), you can take an authorized airport taxi or pre-book a private transfer (about 20–30 minutes drive). Shared airport shuttles and buses are cheaper options: for example, the ADO bus (to downtown) plus a short hotel-zone taxi ride saves money. Once on Blvd. Kukulcán, local public buses (lines R1, R2 and others) run past the resort frequently; there are marked bus stops near the hotel’s entrance. Ride-hailing apps like Uber and Didi also operate in Cancún – drivers will meet you on the service road by the main entrance (note that hotels in Cancún sometimes restrict app pickups to outer roads, but it’s generally available).
For guests arriving by car, Riu Cancún provides on-site parking. Self-parking is listed as an amenity (www.balkantourbox.com ), and most travelers report that guest parking is complimentary (check-in staff will direct you to a lot). A valet drop-off lane is at the covered lobby, making luggage transfer easy. Do note that pedestrian entrances are on the main boulevard; if you’re walking from a nearby resort (e.g. Riu Caribe to the south, connected via a gate), there is an internal path link. In short, taxis and Ubers can drop you at the front porte-cochère, and cars can be parked on property free of charge. At night, the hotel often hires security and taxi staff to stand by the entrance, so late arrivals can stroll in safely or get a quick cab call when leaving.
Inside the Resort
Check-in & Security: The lobby reception is open 24/7. At arrival, you’ll show your passport/ID and booking voucher. Because of the Adults-Only rule (www.riu.com ), expect an age check on every guest. Staff will fit you with a colored wristband (your access key to drinks and nightly shows). Hotel security is vigilant but friendly — you won’t find metal detectors or removal of belongings at RIU. Bag searches are very rare; just be aware of unofficial vendors outside (only hotel personnel are allowed selling services inside).Dining & Bars: The main buffet (Miramar) serves global cuisine by day and elaborate themed dinners by night. Casual dinner attire is fine at the buffet, but the specialty restaurants usually enforce a smart-casual dress code (no swimwear, t-shirts or flip-flops at dinner). Riu Cancún’s bars are plentiful: the lobby bar “La Punta” for cocktails and coffee, a sports bar with pool tables (open 24h) and several pool bars – notably the adults-only swim-up bar “Wet’n Drinking” by the family pool (solcaribe.com.ec ). Drink service runs 24 hours: cocktails, beer, wines, tequila and coffee drinks are all included in your package. Premium import liquor (top-shelf whiskey or champagne) may incur an extra charge or require Riu Class in-room authorization.Entertainment Areas: The main Broadway-style shows take place on a covered open-air stage near the central pool, often starting around 9–10 PM. After the show, the Pacha nightclub (by the beach-side pool) begins to pump music until about 1–2 AM. There is no cover charge for these venues if you stay at the hotel. The stage lighting and sound are modest – think club or Vegas-format shows, not large arenas. You can dance at leisure or watch from the bar areas. The pool area converts to a party zone during weekend DJ nights or international celebrations. The hotel does sell some nightly events (like tequila tastings, specialty dinner shows or pool parties) but these are advertised on the resort activity board.Pool, Beach & Amenities: Towels, loungers and umbrellas by all pools/beach are free to use. There is a small children’s pool and a large family pool, but note children are not allowed anyway (depending on enforcement of Adults-Only). A fitness center and gym (free for guests) are located near the lobby, along with a steam sauna and whirlpools. The spa (massage/beauty) is on the lobby level (services at extra cost). A small gift shop (souvenirs and toiletries) and a medical clinic (doctor on-call) are also inside. Restrooms are conveniently placed by each pool, in the lobby and near restaurants. Wi-Fi is available throughout the hotel; according to the hotel website, in-room Wi-Fi is complimentary (globalresortmaps.com ) (some guests report occasional login requirements, but basic data access is usually no extra fee).Services & Connectivity: RIU supplies free filtered water and re-stocks the room mini-bar daily (non-alcoholic sodas and mixers) as part of the all-inclusive plan. For late-night needs, the sports bar offers 24h snacks and drinks. Chargeable services (like the spa, laundry, telephone or room service menus) are posted in the room; no one is expected to pay to sip the included drinks or eat buffet food. Electrical outlets are 110V (North American standard), and the hotel recommends you bring adapters if your devices are not dual-voltage. Cell phones generally have service in common areas; the resort’s phone extension system can wake you with calls if needed. A safety deposit box is provided in each room (free of charge) for valuables.
Nearby Amenities
Restaurants & Bars: Cancún’s hotel zone has plenty of dining options within a short walk or ride. Immediately outside Riu Cancún, you’ll find local taco stands and seafood spots. Five minutes’ walk north is the La Isla Shopping Village , a lagoon-front mall with restaurants (e.g. Rainforest Café, Bubba Gump, La Isla Sky Bar) and casual eateries. Northwards along the strip (10–15 min) are well-known spots like Porfirio’s and La Habichuela (for upscale Mexican cuisine). Evening party clubs (Coco Bongo, Mandala, The City) cluster around Km 14 a short drive north. If you explore outside the resorts, downtown Cancún (25 min by bus or taxi) offers authentic markets and inexpensive taquerías.Transportation: A bus stop (for the R1/R2 route) is located right in front of the hotel on Blvd. Kukulcán. Buses are very inexpensive (~$1 USD) and run frequently from early morning until midnight along the hotel strip. Late at night, the R1 buses slow and X (express) runs may stop. Taxis and ride-hail apps like Uber often serve the hotel’s porte-cochère; after 11 PM many guests prefer a brief walk to the hotel exit on Kukulcán Blvd or call a secure taxi through the front desk. The main taxi stand is just south of Riu Caribe (at the Mall plaza). Bicycles and scooters (rented off-property) are popular by day for local wandering.Shopping & Services: Besides La Isla mall (shops, cinemas, a small grocery), another nearby mall is “Avenida Kukulcán” with a drugstore and airport shops. Small convenience stores (OXXO) are at hotels up and down the strip. If you need medical or pharmacy help, there are clinics and pharmacies a few blocks north. ATMs (dispensing pesos and $USD) are at the casino next door and inside La Isla.Nearby Hotels: Riu Cancún is neighbor to Riu Caribe (to the south) and Riu Palace Arena (north side); guests often mingle across these connected resorts. Further along the coast: Staples like Marriott, Westin, and Hyatt all flanking the beach area. Las Perlas and other boutique hotels border it if you want to walk the beach; centrally, there are tens of resorts within easy strolling distance along the sands.Natural & Cultural Points: Not far from the resort is the Cancún Underwater Museum (MUSA); snorkel and diving tours depart beaches around the hotel zone to see hundreds of submerged sculptures. On-land, the “El Rey” Mayan ruins lie a few minutes north (Km 8) and the Interactive Aquarium at the mall is 1 block away (globalresortmaps.com ). The Nichupté Lagoon behind the hotel is a wildlife corridor; on calm days you might spot iguanas sunning or herons fishing.
What Makes This Venue Special
Riu Cancún stands out as one of Cancún’s classic beachfront party resorts. Its two gleaming towers and sweeping pools make for an unforgettable panorama (the rose-gold reflections at sunrise are often photographed). The hotel was one of the first of the Riu chain’s Caribbean properties (opening in 2003 (www.balkantourbox.com )) and helped establish the “all-inclusive party resort” model in Cancún. It typifies the blend of Spanish-style hospitality (22 hotels in Mexico spanning 25+ years (www.riu.com )) with Mexican scenery. Over the years it has attracted Latin pop stars for private resort concerts, and many guests recall impromptu street-dancers and nightly tequila beach bonfires as part of its culture.
One “signature” here is the atmosphere: everything from themed pool parties to the laid-back beachfront vibe contributes to its reputation. Locals jokingly call it a “club with a hotel,” and many repeat visitors return just for its non-stop fun and ocean views. For honeymooners and pranksters alike, Riu Cancún’s mix of luxury and late-night revelry is legendary. In industry rankings it consistently appears near the top of Cancún hotels, and for artists and audiences it’s known as a reliable mid-size venue (offering a built-in audience of on-site guest guests). In short, Riu Cancún’s combination of prime white-sand beach, wide lagoon vistas, and 24/7 entertainment is its defining trait – it gives travelers a true slice of Cancún’s high-energy resort life.
Visitor Tips and Information
Age & ID: This resort is strictly 18+. Plan to bring a government-issued ID for each adult – staff will check ages at check-in (www.riu.com ). If someone in your party is 17 or younger, they will not be admitted. All bookings are for 2 adults minimum (since kids aren't allowed).Dress Code: Daytime is casual – swimwear, shorts and summer clothes are fine around the pool and beach. For dinner and shows, smart casual is safest: men often need long pants/collared shirts for the steakhouse or themed nights, and no swimsuits/sleeveless shirts at dinner.Lunch & Late Meals: Everything is included 24/7. The buffet runs almost all day; if you miss breakfast, the sports bar offers tacos/fruit all hours. Room service (limited menu) and midnight snacks might incur a small fee or trade “points” from your all-inclusive account – just ask the desk.Tipping: Gratuities are not required by policy (unlike non-inclusive hotels), but small tips (50–100 pesos or $3–5) are appreciated for outstanding service (e.g. spa therapists, your favorite bartender, or taxi drivers). It’s customary to tip tour guides and porters. Do not tip for items already billed as “inclusive” at restaurants.Money & Payments: The resort accepts Mexican pesos and major credit cards; US dollars are widely accepted but use pesos for best value (USD payments may come with a fixed exchange). No sign needed on status. There is an ATM on-site (often charges a fee). By law, tips must be at least 0.02% in pesos (trivial). Most guests leave the cash in the safe and pay incidental bills (spa, souvenirs) by card on check-out.Connectivity: Free Wi-Fi is offered in rooms and public areas (globalresortmaps.com ). Speeds can vary (resort policy may require a one-time sign-in code), but basic browsing/WhatsApp/skype generally work. Dallas-area power outlets are standard (no adapter needed if from North America).What to Bring: We recommend reef-safe sunscreen (the sun is strong), insect repellent (rarely needed except at dusk), and beach shoes or water socks (the shoreline has rocks/coral). An outfit for themed parties (white, neon or pink) can be fun, as RIU hosts special pool parties. For evenings, pack at least one set of smart-casual dinner clothes per trip. Don’t forget chargers for electronics and any medications (the on-site convenience store has only basics).Common Mistakes: If you want to eat at the gourmet or steakhouse restaurants, reserve them on your first morning – they can fill up. Likewise, spa appointments (massages) should be booked early. Don’t forget to use your all-inclusive perks: ask about the Riu Class lounge if eligible. Also, when booking tours (mayan ruins, cenotes), check if the hotel’s rep offer matches price – avoid time-sellers by the pool if possible, as they sometimes have higher prices. Finally, observe the wristband policy: losing it means paying full price to replenish it.Accessibility: Riu Cancún is mostly wheelchair-accessible. Public areas (restaurants, bars, lobby) have ramps or level entries, and elevators reach all floors. Some rooms are designed for wheelchair users (wide doors, roll-in showers, grab bars). The beach has wooden ramps on the sand, but there is no water wheel chair – you’ll need assistance entering the sea. If you need special hardware, contact the hotel in advance. Service animals are permitted.Emergency & Health: The resort employs a doctor on call 24 h. In case of emergency, call reception or dial the front desk from your room phone. First aid is available; alcohol sanitizer is provided in restaurants. Mexico has hot weather, so stay hydrated. The saltwater beach can be strong – do some test swims before venturing far from shore.
What is the exact location and address of Hotel Riu Cancún?
Hotel Riu Cancún is on Boulevard Kukulcán in Cancún’s Hotel Zone. The address is Km 9, Manzana 50, Lote 5, Zona Hotelera, Cancún, Quintana Roo, Mexico (www.balkantourbox.com ). It’s between the KNR Palm Island shopping area to the north and the Riu Caribe resort to the south. Look for the two big glass towers facing the beach.
How far is Riu Cancún from the airport and what are the transport options?
Cancún International Airport (CUN) is about 12 miles (20 km) from Riu Cancún, roughly a 25–30 minute drive. Common options: a taxi or private transfer (pre-booked van) directly to the hotel; shared airport shuttles that drop at major hotels; or economy ADO buses to downtown Cancún followed by a short taxi. Ride-sharing (Uber/Didi) is available but may require meeting at the main road outside the resort. Many travelers arrange an airport shuttle in advance for convenience.
Does Hotel Riu Cancún have parking, and is there a charge?
Yes, Riu Cancún provides on-site parking for guests. Self-parking is available and is generally complimentary with your stay (www.balkantourbox.com ). The hotel also has a valet drop-off area at the entrance (tip optional). There is no additional charge for standard guest parking. Note that street parking is prohibited along the hotel zone, so it’s best to use the resort’s lot. Ride-share drop-offs (Uber/Didi) occur at the main lobby lane.
What does "Adults Only" mean at Riu Cancún?
Adults Only means the resort exclusively serves guests age 18 and older (www.riu.com ). All accommodations and common areas (pool, restaurants, nightclubs) require guests to be adults. Families with children must choose another resort; even infants and majors 18+ are the minimum. This policy applies year-round, giving Riu Cancún a more mature, party-friendly vibe.
Can I bring my children or pets to Riu Cancún?
No – children and pets are not permitted. The resort’s adult-only policy means guests must be 18 or older (www.riu.com ), so minors and animals cannot be accommodated. If you have pets or are traveling with kids, Riu Cancún is not suitable. The neighboring Riu Caribe or other family-friendly resorts allow families, but Riu Cancún remains strictly for adults.
What are the dress codes at Riu Cancún?
Riu Cancún has a relaxed dress code by day and smart-casual in the evening. In pool and beach areas, swimwear, shorts, T-shirts and sandals are fine. For dinner (especially in the Steakhouse or gourmet restaurants), men should wear long trousers and a collared shirt, and ladies evening attire. Bare feet, sleeveless muscle shirts or activewear are generally not allowed in upscale dining areas. The casino and lobby dress is also resort-casual. Cocktails are the norm at bars; there’s no formal black-tie requirement anywhere on site.
What is the typical check-in and check-out time at Riu Cancún?
Check-in at Riu Cancún typically begins in the afternoon (around 3:00–4:00 PM local time). Check-out is usually by 11:00 AM. If you arrive early, you can often use the pool and dining areas before official check-in (check with reception). Similarly, if you have a late flight, the hotel will hold your luggage after check-out. Always verify times with the front desk when you book.
What room types and views does Riu Cancún offer?
Rooms at Riu Cancún range from standard doubles to junior and full suites. Each room has a private furnished balcony. The main distinction is view: Ocean-view rooms face east toward the beach and Caribbean, great for sunrises. Lagoon-view rooms face west over the Nichupté Lagoon, ideal for sunsets and city lights. Suites are larger (44–53 m²) with lounge areas and sometimes Jacuzzi tubs. The high-floor Riu Class rooms (at the top of the ocean tower) include extra perks like lounge access. When booking, many guests favor ocean-front balconies for the full beach experience, but both views are beautiful.
What is included in the all-inclusive package at Riu Cancún?
The all-inclusive package covers all meals (buffet and most a la carte restaurants), snacks, and unlimited drinks (local beer, wine, spirits, and mixers) at any hotel outlets 24/7. Live entertainment shows, nightly parties, beach and pool games, and standard in-room amenities (mini-bar, Wifi, etc.) are included. Water sports like kayaks/paddleboards are free from the beach. Services not included typically are spa treatments, casino gambling, some premium imported liquors and travel excursions (which you can book separately). There are no hidden fees on-site for the basics – you pay for extras only.
Are Wi-Fi and other amenities free at Riu Cancún?
Basic Wi-Fi access is provided to guests. According to RIU, in-room Wi-Fi is complimentary (globalresortmaps.com ), though speeds may be moderate. Wi-Fi is also available in public areas (lobby, bars). Standard room amenities like air conditioning, mini-bar restocked daily (non-alcoholic), cable TV, and safe are all free. As typical at an all-inclusive, tipping and local calls might incur small fees, but you won’t pay to browse the Internet or watch your TV. The on-site gym, sauna and pools are also free to use.
What restaurants and bars are there at Riu Cancún?
Riu Cancún has multiple dining outlets. The large main buffet restaurant (Miramar) serves international cuisine all day (solcaribe.com.ec ). There are four themed restaurants: Italian (La Toscana), Asian (Kawachi), gourmet continental (Kulinarium) and a Mexican grill – plus an open-air steakhouse. Additional casual snack bars operate by day. Bar-wise: “La Punta” is a lobby lounge bar, there’s a 24h sports bar (with pool tables), an adults-only swim-up bar (“Wet’n Drinking”) at the main pool, and a late-night Pacha Discotheque bar. All alcohol and soft drinks are included; specialty coffee and premium liquors may be extra.
Does Riu Cancún have a spa and fitness center?
Yes. Riu Cancún offers a full spa and wellness area. The on-site spa (in the lobby level) provides massages, facials and beauty treatments for an extra fee. There is a free fitness center/gym open to guests, equipped with cardio machines and weights. The hotel also has a heat sauna and whirlpool tubs. Towels for spa and gym use are provided. Aquatic fitness classes (like aqua aerobics) take place in the pool area as part of the entertainment schedule.
What is the tipping policy at Riu Cancún?
Since Riu Cancún is all-inclusive, tipping isn’t required. Your stay and meals include service charges. However, small tips (50–100 pesos or a few US dollars) are appreciated for excellent service – for example, if a waiter or your housekeeper goes above and beyond. Tipping tour guides and taxi drivers as a courtesy is common, but nothing is mandatory on property. Unopened resort activities or services will never ask for a tip explicitly. Keep a few small bills handy for thanks if you choose.
How can I find deals or book the best rates at Riu Cancún?
Deals on Riu Cancún often appear around holidays or off-peak seasons. Strategies: watch RIU’s official promotions (sign up for email alerts), compare package prices at travel sites, or book well in advance for high-season dates. Consider flexibility on travel dates (mid-week often cheaper). Joining RIU’s loyalty program (Riu Class/Fan Club) can yield discounts or room upgrades. Booking at least 3–6 months ahead is wise for spring-break or Christmas stays. Last-minute rates sometimes drop too, but inventory can be scarce on popular dates.
What entertainment or nightly shows can I expect at Riu Cancún?
Riu Cancún’s nightly entertainment includes in-house stage shows and DJ parties. Typically, each evening features a water-themed or dance musical show on the pool stage, followed by late-night DJ sets or live music at the Pacha club on site. Entertainment is free for guests and varies by night (Latin bands, tribute acts, etc.). The exact schedule appears daily on the activity board. In short: expect something like a Vegas-style family show around 9pm and a lively DJ disco late into the night (until ~2am).
Does RIU Cancún host any special parties or pool events?
Yes, RIU Cancún is known for its themed pool parties. These adults-only events (part of the RIU Party concept) happen several times a week by day and night. Each party has a theme – for example, “White Party”, “Neon Party” or “Pink Party” – and features a live DJ, dancers and special light effects (riulatinocancun.com ). They usually take place at the main pool or beach club, transforming the area into a mini-festival. These parties are included for guests (just wear the theme’s color and arrive early for good seats).
What should I pack or know before staying at Riu Cancún?
Pack light summer clothes, swimsuits and sunscreen (the Caribbean sun is strong). Include evening attire (no beachwear in restaurants after dark). Bring reusable water shoes or flip-flops – the shoreline has some rocks. Important to bring: passport/ID (for check-in and age verification) and any required medications. Money-wise, you’ll only need cash for tips or off-site purchases (small bills of pesos or USD). Also bring chargers, hat, sunglasses and insect spray. The resort provides towels, shampoo, soap and hairdryers in rooms.
Is Riu Cancún safe at night?
Yes. The hotel zone of Cancún (where Riu Cancún is located) is generally very safe, even at night. Riu Cancún has 24-hour security patrols and well-lit grounds. Inside the resort, you can walk freely at night, as long as you stay within hotel areas. Exercise normal travel caution: stick to well-known pathways, lock your room door, and avoid flashing valuables at the beach. Many guests feel comfortable taking short walks on the property or to neighboring resorts after dark. If you venture into town late, use registered taxis or rideshares.
What currency and payment methods does Riu Cancún accept?
The local currency is the Mexican peso, and Riu Cancún accepts pesos and major credit/debit cards (Visa, MasterCard, Amex). US dollars are widely accepted throughout Cancún including at the hotel, but it’s wise to use pesos for small purchases (you’ll get local rates and avoid union surcharge). For any incidentals or up-charges, you can charge to your room (settled by card at check-out). No need to tip large amounts in cash (see tipping FAQ), but having some pesos for extra services or small tips is handy.
