Latin America · beach
Cancun
Mexico
Turquoise waters, ancient ruins, and endless sun — Mexico's ultimate beach escape
Cancun enjoys a tropical climate with warm temperatures year-round. The dry season from December through April brings sunshine, low humidity, and the most pleasant beach weather, with temperatures in the low-to-mid 80s°F. Hurricane season runs June through October, with September being the peak risk month and bringing heavy rains and potential storms.
When to visit
Award flights from the US
Economy
Chase Ultimate Rewards → United MileagePlus
via United MileagePlus
+ $45 taxes
Transfer Chase UR to United for direct JFK/EWR–CUN flights. Saver awards at 20K each way; book early for availability on United and partners.
Capital One Miles → Avianca LifeMiles
via Avianca LifeMiles
+ $35 taxes
LifeMiles prices NYC–Cancun at 15K each way on Star Alliance partners. No fuel surcharges and easy online booking make this a top value pick.
Business / First
Amex Membership Rewards → Air France/KLM Flying Blue
via Air France/KLM Flying Blue
+ $120 taxes
Flying Blue promo awards frequently drop to 40K each way in business on Aeromexico or partner metal. Watch monthly promos for 25–30% discounts.
Chase Ultimate Rewards → Aeroplan
via Air Canada Aeroplan
+ $95 taxes
Aeroplan's distance-based chart prices NYC–Cancun in business around 35K each way on United or Air Canada. No fuel surcharges on most partners.
Cash equivalent: economy ~$450 · business ~$2,200 roundtrip from NYC
Award hotels
Hyatt Zilara Cancun
Hyatt
All-inclusive adults-only resort in the Hotel Zone. World of Hyatt points provide excellent value here, especially with Category 7 free night awards.
Hyatt Ziva Cancun
Hyatt
Family all-inclusive sister property to Zilara. Hyatt points cover all food and drinks included in the resort fee — exceptional redemption value.
JW Marriott Cancun Resort & Spa
Marriott Bonvoy
Beachfront luxury in the Hotel Zone. Good option for Marriott Bonvoy points holders who prefer à la carte dining over all-inclusive.
What to see & do
Playa Delfines
The most iconic public beach in Cancun with the famous sign and stunning turquoise water views — perfect for a free beach day outside the resort.
Chichen Itza
One of the New Seven Wonders of the World, this iconic Mayan pyramid is a 2.5-hour drive and an unmissable day trip from Cancun.
Isla Mujeres
A charming car-free island a 20-minute ferry ride away, with clear waters, colorful streets, and excellent ceviche at seaside restaurants.
Underwater Museum of Art (MUSA)
Snorkel or dive among hundreds of life-size submerged sculptures forming an artificial reef — one of the world's most surreal art installations.
Mercado 28
Cancun's bustling local market where you can eat cochinita pibil, tacos, and fresh seafood at a fraction of resort prices surrounded by craft stalls.
Coco Bongo
Cancun's legendary mega-club and entertainment show combining live acts, acrobatics, and DJs — a quintessential Hotel Zone nightlife experience.
Monthly weather
| Month | Low | High | Rain |
|---|---|---|---|
| Jan | 68°F | 82°F | |
| Feb | 68°F | 83°F | |
| Mar | 70°F | 85°F | |
| Apr | 73°F | 88°F | |
| May | 76°F | 91°F | |
| Jun | 77°F | 91°F | |
| Jul | 77°F | 92°F | |
| Aug | 77°F | 92°F | |
| Sep | 76°F | 91°F | |
| Oct | 74°F | 89°F | |
| Nov | 71°F | 86°F | |
| Dec | 68°F | 83°F |
Best cards for this trip
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