Cancun and Los Cabos are two of the most sought-after beach destinations in Mexico.
That’s the easiest way to look at it, though not without exceptions.
Cancun has soft white sand that extends into the gently lapping, crystalline sea.
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Another Cancun beach area to consider is Costa Mujeres, a 30- to 45-minute drive north from the airport.
The resorts on this beach are much quieter than in the Hotel Zone.
Los Cabos beaches are more golden in hue and backed by the cobalt-colored Pacific.
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The differences are subtle but could make or break a vacation, depending on your interests.
Cancun is very much atropical destination, surrounded by thick jungle that spills out to the Caribbean Sea.
But it’s also one of the most built-up places in Mexico one that was created specifically for tourism.
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As a result, you’ll find a juxtaposition of ancient and cosmopolitan.
ATV tours, zip lining, and dirt biking are popular things to do in the jungle.
Los Cabos' landscape is very different, which changes the range of activities.
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And, of course, you’ll find a slew of surf beaches up and down the Baja Peninsula.
Near Cancun, explore the sleepy fishing village of Puerto Morelos or the haute, bohemian design ofTulum.
Escape even farther south to Bacalar to visit one of the largest freshwater lakes in Mexico.
Courtesy of Flora Farms
Food in Cancun and Los Cabos
Regional specialties make Mexican dining a constant adventure.
Seafood is important on the coast, with shellfish, marlin, tuna, and octopus taking center stage.
And, of course, you’ll find tasty tacos everywhere you go.
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Dining experiences can also differ.
San Jose del Cabo is one of the best places in Mexico for farm-to-table experiences.
Cancun tends to be more party-heavy year-round, with bass-thumping beach clubs and discos likeCoco Bongo.
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Is Cancun or Los Cabos More Affordable?
Los Cabos is full of more luxurious, all-inclusive resorts that carry higher price tags.
That said, by and large, travel is safe in both places.
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If you want variety in a single location, Cancun will not disappoint.
Smaller, boutique, and design-forward hotels include Acre andEl Ganzo.
Courtesy of Waldorf Astoria Los Cabos Pedregal
