Dreaming of a Caribbean getaway? Try a stay in Cancun, Mexico! Wait, is Cancun in the Caribbean? The short answer is yes, but it’s not a place people often think of when thinking of the Caribbean.
Cancun is actually a great option when it comes to the Caribbean, featuring gorgeous white-sand beaches, clear turquoise water, lots of activities, fun nightlife, interesting historic sites nearby, and delicious local food.
In this article we’ll answer some of the most frequently asked questions about whether Cancun is in the Caribbean.
Is Cancun a Caribbean Beach?
Yes, Cancun is a Caribbean beach, but its location can cause some confusion.
Cancun sits on the tip of Mexico’s Yucatan Peninsula. This peninsula is surrounded by both the Gulf of Mexico and the Caribbean Sea. This means that Cancun is part of the Gulf of Mexico as well as part of the Caribbean.
Is Cancun in the Gulf or in the Caribbean?
Since Cancun is on the tip of the Yucatan Peninsula, which falls almost directly between the Gulf of Mexico and the Caribbean, this can make it difficult to answer this question.
Cancun is considered part of both, but it is actually more closely located in the Caribbean. So, Cancun can offer you the best of both the Gulf and the Caribbean. You can soak up the sun at a Caribbean beach and then travel to the Gulf of Mexico.
What Parts of Mexico Are in the Caribbean?
Only one Mexican state borders the Caribbean Sea: Quintana Roo. Quintana Roo is home to a lot of popular tourist destinations in Mexico, including Playa del Carmen, Tulum, Cozumel, Isla Mujeres, Mahahual, and Cancun. All of these popular destinations are considered to be part of the Caribbean.
Why Is Cancun Different from Other Parts of the Caribbean?
The main difference is that Cancun is in Mexico, so the culture, setting, and cuisine have a Mexican influence. Cancun is also located on the mainland rather than being on an island, as most Caribbean destinations are.
However, Cancun is similar to other places in the Caribbean in that it is warm year-round and has beautiful beaches.
Does Mexico Have Caribbean Islands?
Yes, Mexico does have a few islands that are located off its coast in the Caribbean. Each of these beautiful islands offers great Caribbean experiences with Mexican influence.
Isla Mujeres
Small and located just off the coast of Cancun, Isla Mujeres is a popular island destination for tourists. This island is known for its more relaxed atmosphere, especially compared to Cancun.
Cozumel
Cozumel is another well-known Mexican destination and Mexico’s largest Caribbean island. Just a short ferry ride from Playa del Carmen, it is close to amazing coral reefs, so it’s a top spot to snorkel and scuba dive.
Isla Contoy
Isla Contoy is a bit of a hidden treasure, just north of Cancun. This uninhabited island operates as a protected national park and bird sanctuary. It’s a fun day trip and offers plenty to explore, including one of the most beautiful untouched beaches in all of Mexico.
Isla Holbox
Another hidden gem is tiny Isla Holbox, one of the safest destinations in the area and a pristine and laidback paradise.
What Is the Best Time to Visit Cancun?
The best time of year to visit Cancun is from December to April. This time of year offers warm temperatures with little rain and humidity. However, temperatures do stay warm year round, so Cancun is a good option no matter the time of year.
Just know that the rainy (and hurricane) season runs from June to November. If you travel during this time, be prepared for occasional rain to interrupt your plans. You will also want to get travel insurance in case a storm occurs.
What Makes Cancun a Good Caribbean Destination?
Cancun is a good Caribbean destination because not only can you enjoy the sandy beaches and warm waters of the Caribbean, you can also experience everything Mexico has to offer. A stay in Cancun means you can hit the party scene, relax on a quiet beach, or explore the history and wonder of some amazing places, including Mayan ruins.
Cancun is a nearly perfect fit for any kind of traveler and also offers plenty of resorts, including adults-only and family-friendly all-inclusives.
Now that you know the answer to is Cancun a Caribbean beach?, are you interested in visiting? If so, we can help you plan the perfect trip. Just reach out to one of our trusted travel advisors to get started!