The Best Vacation Rentals in Cancún, Mexico

It’s in a good neighborhood, close to shops and amenities – and the two-bed apartments at Tres Soles are fresh and modern, with muted tones and hotel-worthy facilities. The low-rise buildings hug a pretty, well-kept communal garden area with palms, a pool, a jacuzzi and space to socialize with new best friends. Each apartment has a private terrace area, and many look onto the garden, making Tres Soles a proper hideaway for self-catering in Cancún.

You’ve got an unbeatable beach location – and you’re opposite La Isla shopping center, much loved for its boutiques, cinemas and restaurants. Ocean Front Condo has all the benefits of a private apartment with all the perks of a hotel: direct beach access, three swimming pools, a water park for children, a gym and on-site restaurants. For complete peace of mind, you can pre-pay for “food packages” on arrival, which means you’ll get the same benefits as all-in hotel residents.

In the heart of Cancún, this is a set of five comfy, simply decorated spaces, most with king-sized beds and kitchenettes and – crucially – all with air-con. You’ll want to laze about among the potted bamboo in the outside seating areas with a chilled beer at the end of the day. This being Downtown, you walk out the door to bars, restaurants and, best of all, markets: vibrant, photogenic and full of everything you need for a self-sufficient stay.

The beach and Downtown aren’t as close, but then here you get more space for your spend. Choose from one-, two- or three-bedroom, fully serviced apartments – all with (small) kitchens – and ask for a Lagoon View. If you need breakfast, add it to your package – it’s served at Café Vancouver on the first floor. Among the perks: concierge, housekeeping, secure parking and 24-hour security. Added bonus: the Americas Shopping Plaza is adjacent.

Here’s a very special place to stay: a three-bedroom penthouse with a dazzling view of the Caribbean and gleaming white sand from the bedrooms. Floor-to-ceiling windows create a bright space with a Mexican flair: floor cushions, natural wood throughout and splashes of pattern and color. There’s a communal pool, and it’s fully serviced – book a personal chef if you fancy – with a restaurant on the block. The highlight? A roof terrace with blue sea views.

Yes, it’s a hotel, if the children’s play areas, deli, restaurants and bars are anything to go by. But the 370 fully serviced suites, with ocean-fresh decor and kitchenettes, give you the convenience and freedom of a self-catering vacation. You can choose either marine or lagoon views. We recommend the Ambassador Suite sleeping six and the Junior Room, with two doubles side by side and a living space, dining area and balcony.