Should you rent a car in Cancun?

If you're planning a trip to Cancun, you might be wondering: Is it worth renting a car in Cancun, or is it better to use taxis and public transportation? This is an important decision, as it can affect your comfort, time, and budget.

Advantages, Places, Real Experiences, and More

In this article, we’ll analyze the pros and cons of renting a car in Cancun, provide practical advice, and share key information about three must-visit beaches:

🌴 Playa Delfines (Cancun): A paradise with white sand and turquoise waters.
🏝 Holbox: A bohemian destination with spectacular beaches and a laid-back vibe.
🌊 Puerto Progreso (Mérida): A less touristy destination, perfect for relaxing.

We'll also cover where to eat, where to stay, and how to get to Holbox from Cancun with all updated prices. 🚗💨

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1. Is It Recommended to Rent a Car in Cancun?

Cancun is an incredible destination, but getting around can be challenging if you don't choose the best transportation option. Let’s take a look at the most common alternatives, their advantages, and their drawbacks:

• Taxis: While they are readily available, they are among the most expensive transportation options in Cancun. There are no fixed rates, which means tourists often face overcharging, especially when traveling from the airport or popular tourist areas. Additionally, taxis don’t always accept credit cards, making it necessary to carry cash.
• Uber/Didi: Ride-hailing apps are available in Cancun, but they face restrictions and conflicts with taxi drivers. This can make finding a ride difficult, particularly in hotel zones and at the airport. Additionally, surge pricing can sometimes make them just as expensive as taxis.
• Public Transportation: Cancun has a network of buses and colectivos (shared vans), which offer an affordable way to get around. However, they don’t always reach all tourist spots and beaches, making them impractical for exploring the best attractions. These vehicles can also be slow, crowded, and lack air conditioning, which is a major downside in the tropical climate.
• Tours: Many travelers opt for guided tours to visit popular attractions like Chichén Itzá, Tulum, or Isla Mujeres. While tours include transportation, entrance fees, and a guide, they come with some disadvantages. First, they follow strict schedules, limiting the flexibility to explore at your own pace. Second, they can be quite expensive—paying for two or more people can often cost more than renting a car for an entire day. Lastly, you may end up spending a lot of time waiting for other passengers at pickup points, reducing the overall experience.

💡 Conclusion: If you’re looking for freedom, comfort, and security, the best option is to rent a car in Cancun. It allows you to visit hidden gems, move at your own pace, and avoid the high costs and inconveniences of other transportation options. Whether you’re planning to explore the Riviera Maya, visit cenotes, or simply enjoy the flexibility of driving on your own schedule, renting a car is the most cost-effective and convenient way to travel.

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2. Advantages of Renting a Car in Cancun

✅ Total Freedom to Explore

Renting a car allows you to move at your own pace, without depending on schedules or public transportation routes. You can visit Tulum, Playa del Carmen, Chichén Itzá, and hidden cenotes without time limits. Once you've rented a car, ask yourself: Should you rent a car in cancun? Your answer will always be yes.

✅ Save Time

With a car, you avoid wasting hours waiting for taxis or public transport. This lets you make the most of every day of your trip.

✅ Security and Privacy

By renting a car, you don’t share space with strangers, can keep your luggage safe, and avoid the risk of overcharging from taxi drivers.

✅ Convenience From the Moment You Arrive at the Airport

With Avant Rent a Car, you can pick up your car directly at the airport or bus terminal, with no complicated paperwork or long waiting times. At the end of your trip, returning the car is easy, and they’ll take you back at no extra cost.

✅ Unlimited Mileage

Unlike other agencies that limit how far you can drive, Avant Rent a Car offers unlimited mileage, meaning you can explore the entire Riviera Maya without extra costs.

✅ Insurance Included with No Fine Print

Many agencies advertise low prices but later add hidden fees. With Avant Rent a Car, insurance is already included in the final price, with no unpleasant surprises.

✅ Fast and Easy Rental Process

Renting a car with Avant is simple and accessible. You can book via phone or WhatsApp, with no complicated paperwork or unexpected charges.

💡 Real Experience: Many travelers who visited Cancun agree that renting a car with Avant Rent a Car was their best decision. The service is efficient, transparent, and hassle-free, making vacations more enjoyable.

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3. Must-Visit Beaches to Explore With Your Car

🌴 Playa Delfines (Cancun): One of the Best Public Beaches

If you choose to rent a car in Cancun, Playa Delfines is a must-visit. With its white sand, turquoise waters, and the iconic "CANCUN" sign, it is one of the most photographed beaches in the region. Best of all, it’s free to enter and has available parking.

If you’re interested in exploring Mayan history, I recommend visiting El Rey Ruins and other nearby archaeological sites. 📌 Check out a full guide to Cancun’s archaeological sites here:
➡️ The Archaeological Sites of Cancun You Can’t Miss

Things to Do in Playa Delfines

🏄‍♂️ Try surfing (one of the few beaches in Cancun with good waves).
📸 Take photos with the "CANCUN" sign, an iconic spot.
🌊 Relax on the sand and enjoy the Caribbean without hotels blocking the view.

Where to Eat Near Playa Delfines

🍽 Navíos Restaurant – Fresh seafood with an amazing lagoon view.
📍 Address: Blvd. Kukulcán Km. 19.5, Cancun.
📞 Phone: +52 998 885 3848

Where to Stay Near Playa Delfines

🏨 Emporio Cancun – A family-friendly hotel with direct beach access and ocean-view rooms.
📍 Address: Blvd. Kukulcán Km. 17, Cancun.
📞 Phone: +52 998 283 3800

💡 Tip: With your rental car, you can combine your visit to Playa Delfines with a short drive to El Rey Ruins, just 5 minutes away.

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🏝 Holbox: A Bohemian Paradise Near Cancun

Holbox is a destination that should be on your list if you're renting a car in Cancun.

How to Get to Holbox from Cancun 🚗🚢

Drive to Chiquilá (about 2 hours from Cancun) and take the ferry to Holbox.

📌 Check out all the ferry details, prices, and schedules here:
➡️ How to Get to Holbox from Cancun

Things to Do in Holbox

🦩 Swim with whale sharks (seasonal).
🌅 Experience the bioluminescence at night.
🚲 Ride a bike around the island.

Where to Eat in Holbox

🍽 Mandarina Restaurant – Gourmet food with an ocean view.
📍 Address: Calle Paseo Kuka, Holbox.
📞 Phone: +52 984 875 2169

Where to Stay in Holbox

🏨 Casa Las Tortugas – A boutique hotel with a relaxed atmosphere.
📍 Address: Calle Igualdad s/n, Holbox.
📞 Phone: +52 984 875 2129

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🌊 Puerto Progreso (Mérida): A Peaceful Escape in Yucatán

If you’re looking for a less crowded beach with a relaxed atmosphere, Puerto Progreso is an excellent choice. This destination, located just 30 minutes from Mérida, offers a perfect blend of beach, gastronomy, and nature.

Additionally, if you’re traveling from Cancun to Mérida, here’s a complete guide with routes, costs, and recommendations:

📌 How to Travel from Cancun to Mérida Without Missing Anything

Things to Do in Puerto Progreso

🚶‍♂️ Walk along the Malecón and enjoy the ocean breeze and beautiful sunsets.
🌮 Try panuchos and other Yucatecan specialties at local restaurants.
🐬 Take a kayak tour at El Corchito Nature Reserve, a hidden paradise with cenotes and mangroves.

Where to Eat in Puerto Progreso

🍽 Crabster Restaurant – Famous for its incredible selection of seafood and Yucatecan dishes.
📍 Address: Calle 19 #150, Puerto Progreso.
📞 Phone: +52 999 926 2116

Where to Stay in Puerto Progreso

🏨 Hotel Playa Linda – Located right by the beach, offering comfortable rooms and excellent service.
📍 Address: Calle 76, Puerto Progreso.
📞 Phone: +52 969 103 9330

💡 Tip: With your rental car, you can explore not only Puerto Progreso but also nearby beaches like Chelem and Chicxulub, where you’ll find more dining options and an even quieter atmosphere.

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3. Disadvantages of Renting a Car in Cancun

While renting a car in Cancun is a great option, there are a few factors to consider:

❌ Additional Costs with Other Agencies

Some rental companies do not include insurance in the initial price, which can significantly increase the total cost. However, Avant Rent a Car includes insurance in their rates and has no hidden fees.

❌ Police Checkpoints on the Road

There are police checkpoints along the Riviera Maya, and officers may stop you. As long as you have all your documents in order and drive responsibly, you won’t have any issues.

❌ Complicated Rental Processes at Some Agencies

Some companies require too many documents or block large amounts on your credit card. Avant Rent a Car offers a fast and hassle-free rental process without unnecessary paperwork.

💡 Conclusion: If you choose the right agency, renting a car in Cancun has no major downsides.

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4. How to Choose the Best Car Rental Agency?

Before booking, make sure the company meets these key criteria:

✅ Good Reputation and Reviews: Check Google and TripAdvisor for customer feedback.
✅ Clear Final Price: Avoid agencies with hidden fees or misleading fine print.
✅ Reliable Customer Service: A good company provides 24/7 support.
✅ Unlimited Mileage and Included Insurance: Essential to avoid unexpected costs.
✅ Easy Booking Process: It's best if you can book via WhatsApp or online with no hassle.

🔹 Avant Rent a Car meets all these requirements, making it one of the best choices for renting a car in Cancun.

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5. Tips for Renting a Car in Cancun Without Issues

If you decide to rent a car in Cancun, follow these tips to ensure a smooth experience:

✅ Book in advance to secure availability and better prices.
✅ Inspect the car before leaving and take photos as proof.
✅ Drive carefully and follow local traffic laws.
✅ Avoid renting from unknown agencies at the airport, as they may have hidden costs.
✅ Choose a trusted company like Avant Rent a Car, which guarantees security and transparency.

💡 Real Experience: Many travelers who have rented a car with Avant Rent a Car praise the easy process, clear pricing, and absence of unexpected charges.

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6. Should you rent a car in Cancun?

💡 If you want comfort, freedom, and to avoid problems with taxis and public transportation, then YES, renting a car in Cancun is totally worth it.

With Avant Rent a Car, you get:

✔ Unlimited mileage – Explore the entire Riviera Maya worry-free.
✔ Insurance included – No fine print or hidden fees.
✔ Quick pick-up and drop-off at the airport.
✔ Easy booking process via phone, WhatsApp, or online.
✔ No unexpected extra charges.

If you’re looking for the best way to get around Cancun without stress, renting a car with Avant Rent a Car is an excellent choice.

🌴🚗 Ready to explore Cancun at your own pace? Fill our form and find the best car rental options.