Should you go to Cancun or Cabo?

Mexico’s two biggest beach hotspots sit on opposite coasts – Cancun on the Caribbean, and Cabo San Lucas on the Pacific. Both deliver white sand, big-name resorts, and a side of tacos with your sunset. But the vibe? Completely different. If you’re deciding between Cancun or Cabo, this guide will help you pick the one that fits your trip best.

Where are Cancun and Cabo located?

Cancun is on the northeast tip of Mexico’s Yucatán Peninsula, right on the Caribbean Sea. It’s part of Quintana Roo and often the starting point for a Rough Guides trip to Mexico. From here, you can head down the Riviera Maya to cenotes, Mayan ruins, and beach towns like Playa del Carmen or Tulum – all solid picks if you're building a Mexico itinerary.

Cabo San Lucas – usually just called Cabo – sits at the southern end of the Baja California Peninsula, where the Pacific Ocean meets the Sea of Cortez. The scenery shifts to desert hills, rocky cliffs, and surf beaches. It looks and feels completely different from the lush Caribbean side. 

If you're searching for the best places to visit in Mexico, Cancun and Cabo both make the cut, just for different reasons. Cancun is tropical and laid-back, while Cabo is more rugged and high-energy. It all depends on your style.

How to get there from major cities

Cancun International Airport (CUN) is one of the busiest in Latin America, with 200+ direct flights daily from across North America.

• From Miami: 1.5 hours.
• From Chicago or New York: 3-4 hours.

Los Cabos International Airport (SJD) is more convenient if you're flying from the US West Coast.

• From San Diego or Los Angeles: about 2.5 hours.
• From Chicago or New York: 4.5-6 hours, often with a layover.

Both airports are easy to manage and have reliable options for getting around Mexico once you land, including rental cars, shared shuttles, and taxis (just skip the pricey ones inside the terminal).

What is the weather like in Cancun versus Cabo?

Knowing the best time to visit Mexico depends on where you're headed – the weather in Cancun and Cabo couldn’t be more different.

Cancun is hot and humid year-round, with temperatures between 75-90°F (24-32°C). It’s hottest from May through September, and the rainy season hits between June and October, with peak storm risk in September and October. For the most comfortable weather (and fewer hurricanes), aim for December to April. The weather in Cancun in January is especially good: warm, dry, and ideal for beach days.

Cabo has a dry, desert climate and sees almost no rain. Temps range from 65-95°F (18-35°C), but winter nights can get surprisingly cool – bring a light jacket. Summers (especially July to September) are hot and dry. November to April is prime time here too, with sunny days and mild evenings. Cabo’s hurricane season overlaps with Cancun’s, but most storms stay further south.

Does Cancun or Cabo have better beaches?

If you’re planning a trip to Mexico for sun and sand, Cancun has the edge when it comes to beach lounging and swimming. Its beaches are wide, soft, and bright white thanks to crushed coral that stays cool even in peak heat. Most are found in the Hotel Zone, running along a long stretch of clear turquoise coastline. The north-facing beaches – like Playa Langosta and Playa Tortugas – are best for swimming. Further south, stronger waves make the water rougher, but still beautiful for sunbathing.

Cabo’s beaches feel wilder. You’ll find golden sand and dramatic rock formations, but many beaches here aren’t safe for swimming due to strong currents. Medano Beach is the main exception – swimmable, lively, and packed with restaurants and bars. Lover’s Beach, tucked near the famous Arch, is more protected and faces the calmer Sea of Cortez. Divorce Beach, right next door, faces the Pacific and is better for photos than for swimming. While the scenery is epic, if you’re chasing the best beaches in Mexico for easy access and water activities, Cancun wins.

Is it easier to reach public beaches in Cancun or Cabo?

All beaches in Mexico are public, at least in theory. But access isn’t always simple.

In Cancun, especially along the Hotel Zone, most beaches back onto resorts. Guests get the loungers and service, but anyone can enter the beach itself. Public access points are spaced about every half mile along Boulevard Kukulcan – you just need to know where to look. This makes it easy to build beach time into your Cancun itinerary, even if you're not staying at a resort. Easy access to beautiful beaches is a big part of why Cancun ranks among the best vacation spots in Mexico.

Cabo can be more complicated. Some beaches sit behind private homes or resorts, with few signs pointing to access points. Medano Beach is the easiest to visit without a room key – plus, it’s lively and central. For quieter public options, head to Chileno Beach or Santa Maria Beach, both with parking and basic amenities. If you're venturing further, especially along the East Cape, you’ll want a 4WD to reach the more remote stretches.

Sargassum seaweed in Cancun

If you’re heading to Cancun between May and October, check beach conditions ahead of time. This is when sargassum – a type of brown seaweed – tends to wash up along the coast. It peaks around July and August. It’s not dangerous, but it can pile up, smell bad, and make swimming less appealing.

Some resorts clear it daily, others don’t. If you're planning to spend time on the beach during these months, it's worth checking local reports before you go.

What can you do beyond the beach?

If you’re not the type to lounge on a sunbed all day, both Cancun and Cabo deliver plenty of action once you towel off. From ancient ruins to reef dives, these spots offer some of the best things to do in Mexico.

Things to do in Cancun

One of the best things about staying in Cancun is how close you are to major archaeological sites. Day trips to Chichén Itzá, Tulum, or Cobá get you deep into Mayan history – think towering pyramids, jungle trails, and limestone temples.

Into wildlife? Swim with whale sharks between May and September or float through underground rivers and mangrove forests at eco-parks like Xcaret or Xel-Há.

Traveling to Mexico with kids? There's an interactive aquarium in the Hotel Zone and the Mayan Museum of Cancun, which adds a bit of education between beach breaks.

And don't skip the food. Street stands and taquerías in downtown Cancun serve up some of the best Yucatán tacos – try cochinita pibil or relleno negro.

Things to do in Cabo

n Cabo, most of the fun happens in the desert or out on the water. Golf courses stretch along the coastline, and sport fishing here is legendary – it’s one of the top places in Mexico to reel in marlin, dorado, or tuna.

Prefer dry land? Hit the dunes on an ATV, ride camels through cactus-studded hills, or go ziplining through desert canyons. Cabo Pulmo National Marine Park is a must for snorkelers and divers – this protected reef is packed with coral, sea lions, and colorful fish.

There’s also decent surf at Costa Azul and seasonal whale watching if you’re visiting between December and April.

Does Cancun or Cabo have the better nightlife? 

Cancun or Cabo? If nightlife is a dealbreaker, these two go very different ways.

Cancun leans hard into the party scene. Most of the action is packed into the Hotel Zone, so you can bounce from club to club on foot. Coco Bongo and The City are the big names – think packed dance floors, confetti cannons, and DJs that don’t quit. It’s loud, wild, and especially popular during spring break, with open bars and themed nights drawing a younger, party-focused crowd.

Cabo’s nightlife is more mixed. You can still go full party mode at Cabo Wabo or El Squid Roe – both chaotic in their own way – but you’ll also find rooftop cocktail bars, marina-front lounges, and beach clubs with a more laid-back vibe. It’s spread out, so you’ll need to plan your night a bit more, but the variety makes it easy to match your mood. Whether you want rowdy or relaxed, Cabo gives you options.

Which has better wellness and spa experiences?

Both Cancun and Cabo deliver if you’re looking to slow down – but they take different routes.

In Cancun, many spas pull from local traditions. Some include Mayan-inspired treatments like herbal massages or clay wraps, and you can even book a temazcal ceremony – a traditional sweat lodge ritual led by a shaman. Larger resorts also offer spa circuits with hydrotherapy pools, saunas, and quiet zones designed for a full afternoon of doing nothing.

In Cabo, wellness is shaped more by the desert-meets-ocean landscape. Treatments often use local ingredients like cactus, sage, or aloe, and many spas are built to take full advantage of the views. Into fitness? You’ll find sunrise yoga on the beach, surf-and-stretch retreats, or multi-day programs that combine hiking, mindfulness, and ocean time.

How’s the food scene?

Mexican food is one of the highlights of any trip here, but Cancun and Cabo offer very different takes on it.

In Cancun, the food scene is shaped by Maya and Yucatecan traditions. Expect achiote-marinated meats, citrusy ceviches, and fiery habanero salsas. This is the kind of place where a bowl of sopa de lima or a street taco dripping with cochinita pibil feels more like a cultural experience than just lunch.

Cabo, on the other hand, leans toward Baja-style fusion. The buzzword here is Baja Med – a blend of Mexican, Mediterranean, and Asian influences. Seafood dominates, especially in upscale spots along the coast. You’ll find grilled octopus, sashimi-style tuna, and creative takes on tacos made with whatever came off the boat that morning.

Which has the most authentic Mexican cuisine?

If you want to eat like a local, downtown Cancun is where to go. Skip the resort buffet and head to taquerías or family-run spots serving:

• Cochinita pibil – Slow-roasted pork with citrus and spices.
• Tikin xic – Grilled fish marinated in achiote.
• Sopa de lima – Citrusy broth with turkey and crispy tortilla strips.

These are simple, affordable, and packed with regulars.

In Cabo, the focus is more coastal. Smoked marlin tacos, chocolate clams, and flour tortillas toasted just right are standard. Around San José del Cabo, a strong farm-to-table scene brings fresh herbs and produce straight from nearby farms onto your plate.

Which has more international options?

Cancun has more variety when it comes to global cuisine, especially in the Hotel Zone. You’ll find Japanese, Italian, Brazilian, French – everything from upscale tasting menus to casual beachfront grills. Many resorts bring in international chefs or open outposts of big-name restaurants, so if you’re craving something specific, you’ll probably find it here.

Cabo’s international scene is smaller but more focused. You won’t see as many types of cuisine, but what’s here is done well. Around the Gallery District in San José del Cabo, creative restaurants blend local ingredients with global styles, especially European and Asian. The vibe is more intimate, and menus often shift with the seasons and whatever’s fresh from nearby farms or the sea.

Is Cabo or Cancun more expensive?

In general, Cancun is easier on the wallet – especially if you’re going with an all-inclusive or a bundled flight and hotel deal. There are tons of resorts, which means plenty of competition, and that helps keep prices down. Cancun is also set up for mass tourism, so transportation and eating out tend to be more affordable. Stay in the Hotel Zone and you’ll be close to beaches, restaurants, and nightlife – which keeps local travel costs low.

Cabo, on the other hand, leans toward the luxury side. It’s smaller, more spread out, and doesn’t have the same volume of budget options. While there are some mid-range places, the vibe is generally more upscale. If you’re into golf, private villas, or deep-sea fishing, Cabo can feel worth the splurge – just don’t expect a bargain.

How do accommodation prices compare?

When it comes to Mexico accommodations, Cancun gives you more choices across the budget spectrum. You’ll find hostels for under $50 a night, boutique hotels, and all-inclusives that start around $200-$400 per night for two people, including meals and drinks. Luxury resorts in the Hotel Zone can push past $1,000 per night, but you’ll still find solid mid-range value. If you're okay with staying in downtown Cancun and cabbing to the beach, you’ll save even more. For travelers looking for the best places to stay in Cancun, the choice mostly comes down to whether you want beachfront ease or local flavor at a lower cost.

In Cabo, prices start higher and rise fast. Basic hotels rarely dip below $100 during peak season. Mid-range stays often fall between $300 and $500 a night, while high-end resorts can go well beyond that. All-inclusives exist but aren’t as common as in Cancun. For better value, consider staying in San José del Cabo instead of Cabo San Lucas – just keep in mind the 20-mile distance (and taxi fare) between the two.

What hidden costs should you be aware of?

In Cancun, expect a small environmental tax added to your hotel bill – around $1-$2 per night. Airport transfers can be pricey if you don’t book in advance. Even at all-inclusives, extras like spa treatments, name-brand drinks, and specialty restaurants often cost more. Day trips – like visiting Chichén Itzá – may not include guides, meals, or entrance fees in the advertised price.

Cabo has its hidden expenses. Because it’s more remote, everyday items like snacks or sunscreen can be pricier. Restaurants are usually 20-30% more expensive than in Cancun. Taxis between San José del Cabo and Cabo San Lucas add up quickly. And if you’re booking boat tours or water sports, look out for surprise port fees and taxes that aren’t always listed upfront.

Which has better shopping?

Cancun is the better choice if you want variety and convenience. The Hotel Zone has big malls like La Isla Shopping Village and Luxury Avenue, with international brands and local boutiques. For something more traditional, head downtown to Mercado 28 – it’s packed with crafts from across the country: embroidered textiles, silver jewelry, pottery, and hand-painted souvenirs.

Cabo’s shopping scene is smaller but more curated. The Art District in San José del Cabo is the standout, especially during the Thursday night Art Walk (November to June). Expect local galleries, handmade crafts, and a creative crowd. There’s also a great organic market with artisan goods and regional treats like damiana liqueur, polished geodes, and hand-blown glass. If you’re after unique, handmade pieces, Cabo wins. If you want everything in one place, stick with Cancun.

How many days do you need in Cancun versus Cabo?

For Cancun, 5 to 7 days is a good sweet spot. That gives you time to hit the beach, explore the Hotel Zone, and take at least one day trip – maybe to Chichén Itzá, Tulum, or one of the famous Yucatan cenotes. If you want to explore more – like Isla Mujeres, Valladolid, or multiple ruins – 10 to 14 days isn’t overkill. Wondering how many days to spend in Cancun? It depends on how much exploring you want to do beyond the beach.

Cabo is more compact, and you can do a lot in 4 to 6 days. That’s usually enough to see both Cabo San Lucas and San José del Cabo, relax on the beach, and maybe squeeze in a snorkeling trip or sunset cruise. For golfers, surfers, or anyone planning a trip to Todos Santos or the East Cape, a full week is better.

You can make a short 3-4 day trip work for either, but don’t underestimate travel time, especially if you're coming from the East Coast. Midweek travel is cheaper and calmer, especially during high season.

Which is right for you: Cancun or Cabo?

It really depends on what kind of trip you're planning – how much you want to spend, what pace you’re after, and whether you prefer convenience or something more low-key.

Who would prefer Cancun (and why)

Cancun is a solid choice if it’s your first trip to Mexico. It’s easy to get around, most people speak English, and the Hotel Zone is built for tourists. Families love the calm beaches, all-inclusives with kids’ programs, and easy day trips to nearby ruins or eco-parks.

If nightlife’s on your list, you won’t need a taxi – most clubs and bars are walkable. It’s also budget-friendly, especially for travelers coming from the East Coast – frequent flights and affordable local transport help keep costs down.

Who would prefer Cabo (and why)

Cabo makes more sense if you're flying in from the West Coast – it’s a short flight and usually in the same time zone. The pace is slower, the vibe more upscale. Couples, golfers, and wellness travelers tend to love the setting: think desert views, ocean cliffs, and wide-open beaches.

The food scene’s strong, and many hotels offer boutique spa and fitness experiences without the all-inclusive crowd. It’s less about convenience, more about space and scenery.

What if you can't decide

Cancun is a solid choice if it’s your first trip to Mexico. It’s easy to get around, most people speak English, and the Hotel Zone is built for tourists. Families love the calm beaches, all-inclusives with kids’ programs, and easy day trips to nearby ruins or eco-parks.

If nightlife’s on your list, you won’t need a taxi – most clubs and bars are walkable. It’s also budget-friendly, especially for travelers coming from the East Coast – frequent flights and affordable local transport help keep costs down.

Planning your trip to Mexico

Not sure where to begin? Our Mexico travel experts can help you figure out which destination suits you best – or even combine both in one customizable tailor-made trip. That way, you get exactly the experience you’re after, without the guesswork.

Need inspiration? Start with these sample itineraries:

• 14 days in Mexico itinerary: Visit the Yucatán for ruins and beaches, dive into Mexico City’s culture, and explore colonial Oaxaca.
• 10 days in Mexico itinerary: Combine Mexico City, Teotihuacán, and beach time along the Riviera Maya.
• 7 days in Mexico itinerary: Focus on one region: the Yucatán, Oaxaca, or a mix of Mexico City and nearby sites.

Prefer to plan it yourself? Our Rough Guide to Mexico is packed with practical tips and real-world advice to help you make the most of your trip.