The Best Hostels to Book in Cancún, Mexico, for Budget Travelers

This Cancún accommodation stays true to the trademarks of this popular international hostel brand. The familiar blend of colorful wall art, beach-house vibes and gentle-on-the-budget rates attract in-the-know travelers. You can choose between shared dorms or private rooms at this Cancún hostel and there are always fun social opportunities on the cards with the likes of regular mezcal tastings and pool parties. The downtown location also puts it within a quick walk from Cancún’s nightlife.

Mayan Monkey is a step up from your run-of-the-mill backpacker bolthole – particularly in the private rooms or shared dorms where you’ll find stylish light woods and floor-to-ceiling views over neighboring Nichupté Lagoon. An inviting dipping pool sits on a stilted deck overlooking those same waters, along with a bar where you can congregate for the daily happy hour. Undoubtedly, the party will continue to the bars and clubs – but the Hotel Zone location means you can slink off early if you want.

Capsule living comes to Cancún at this sci-fi hostel. You’ll stay in spaceship pods, all white with bright lighting. But most of your time will be spent in the common areas – the open-air terrace lit by romantic string lighting is certainly the highlight. A stay comes with breakfast plus coffee throughout the day and you’ll get a shuttle to the airport when it’s time to head home.

A lagoon-like outdoor pool is the place to gather during the day at this hotel-hostel hybrid, forgetting the excesses of the night before while chilling on a chaise lounge or under the shade of a thatched-roof hut known as a palapa. Relax further on the yoga deck, in the library, or with a massage in the wellness center. As the evening draws in, glam up before heading to the on-site restaurant, which serves Yucatécan cuisine and zesty margaritas. The dorms – called community rooms – sleep between four and eight, or you can opt for a private room if you prefer,