Last Minute Holidays to Cancun

Everything's ready for you on a last minute holiday to sunny Cancun

Once a small fishing village, Cancun has evolved into a dazzling resort – it’s palm-dotted shores are lined with sleek hotels, stylish shopping malls and glitzy nightclubs.

With an average flight time of around 10 hours, and the promise of temperatures of around 28°C in June and 23°C in January, it’s a good all-rounder when it comes to last minute breaks.

Cancun is split into two areas, the downtown area is a good place to shop then stop, with its array of market stalls and local cantinas. The hotel zone is jam packed with places to stay as well as shopping malls, nightclubs and of course the super long beach, ideal for lazy days, watersports and people watching.

The nightlife on offer is varied – whether you’re looking to dance till dawn or chill out with a few cocktails at sunset, there’s something that will appeal. If clubbing isn’t your thing there are daytrip options galore, including the Mayan ruins of Tulum, a 90-minute drive away.

The best time of year to book your last minute holiday

When it comes to last minute holidays, Cancun is a great option as not only is it sunny throughout the year, but many of its hotels offer plenty of entertainment and sporting options, so there’ll be loads to do. There is some rainfall during the summer months, though this doesn’t tend to last long and the climate will still be warm.

The best deals can be booked from eight weeks’ in advance, right up to the last minute so keep your eyes peeled for late bargains. It’s worth noting that Cancun is popular with American spring-breakers in March so those looking for a relaxed vibe may want to book outside of this time.

Other last minute holiday destinations

When it comes to affordable getaways, Cancun is by no means the only choice, as Mexico has plenty more gems on offer. Try Puerto Vallarta, for a mix of lazy beach days and sightseeing, Playa del Carmen with its spectacular sands and natural beauty, or the intimate, gated resort of Playacar for the ultimate last minute retreat. But, if you’re convinced it’s Cancun for your next holiday, check out our travel guidefor more top tips and information. Here are a few hotel options to get you started.

Riu Palace Las Americas Hotel

Located just one kilometre from Cancun’s famous hotel zone, with its cafes, bars and restaurants, the Riu Palace Las Americas is an adults-only haven, right on the beach. Airport transfers take just one hour and once you’re in the complex you can enjoy two swimming pools, a swim-up pool bar, a poolside bar and waiter service. Meals are served in the buffet dining room and there are also five a la carte options showcasing Italian, fusion, Japanese and Mexican dishes. With a daytime entertainment programme and numerous sports and activities you’ll find plenty to do without ever having to leave the hotel. Try out the gym, take part in aerobics or water polo sessions and enjoy a variety of complimentary non-motorised watersports on the beach.

Moon Palace Golf and Spa Resort

With a grand total of five swimming pools, four swim-up bars and six floodlit tennis courts the Moon Palace Golf Resort and Spa certainly delivers. Ideally situated on an extensive beach overlooking the Caribbean and this immaculate property offers a taste of luxury alongside excellent dining and amenities. Check out the gym, enjoy yoga, pilates and meditation in the gardens or work up a sweat on the basketball court. Beach and pool volleyball are other options and there’s also a surf simulator. Family features include two children’s pools, a supervised hotel-run kids’ club for ages four to 12 and a playground.