16 Safest Resorts in Mexico for Tourists

Many resorts in Mexico have a rock-solid reputation for safety, and guests keep coming back for more every year. So, where can we find these gems?

In Mexico’s most beautiful cities, of course—Mexico City, Cancun, Tulum, Cozumel, Cabo San Lucas, Playa Del Carmen, Puerto Vallarta, and Oaxaca.

Stick around and you learn not one, but two of the safest resorts in each city. Plus, we’ll help you choose the perfect one by laying out some factors to consider.

Where’s your destination?:

• Mexico City
• Cancun
• Tulum
• Cozumel
• Cabo San Lucas
• Playa Del Carmen
• Puerto Vallarta
• Oaxaca

What Аre the Safest Resorts in Mexico City?

Time Out magazine placed Mexico City as the #1 city in the world for culture in 2023, attracting a staggering 14.4 million tourists in hotels alone.

However, when it comes to resorts in Mexico City, they don’t quite exist in the traditional sense as in beach destinations like Cancun or Cozumel. Why? Simply because Mexico City isn’t located on the coast. Nevertheless, the city boasts some incredible hotels that offer a resort-like experience.

Option #1: Live Aqua Ciudad de México

Live Aqua Urban Resort is nestled in the Bosques de las Lomas neighborhood, a place known for its safety, captivating architecture, and gleaming skyscrapers.

The hotel is a breath of sophistication—an on-site restaurant offering a selection of 300 wines, a private fitness center, a spa and wellness center, and rooms highly rated for their incredibly comfy beds.

Live Aqua Urban Resort neighbors Santa Fe’s shopping area and is a 7-minute drive to Paseo de la Reforma Avenue, your express route to the city center.

Couples love the resort, giving it a solid 9.4 rating on Booking as a romantic escape.

Option #2: Four Seasons Hotel

• Heart of the city
• Private parking
• 24-hour front desk
• 24-hour security
• ATM/cash machine on site
• Fire extinguishers and smoke alarms
• CCTV outside property and in common areas
• Security alarms
• Key card access
• Key access
• Safety deposit boxes

Four Seasons Hotel is situated in the heart of Mexico City, along the prestigious Paseo de la Reforma avenue.

Enter the hotel and you’ll be welcomed by a serene courtyard filled with lush greenery, palm trees, and a fountain. The rooms are elegant, with balconies overlooking the courtyard.

The bathrooms feature spacious bathtubs, and for those staying in executive suites, an in-mirror TV adds a touch of luxury to the bathing experience.

Room service and a fitness center are available 24/7. There’s a special “Health Club” in the hotel with two massage treatment rooms, a pool, a jacuzzi, and locker rooms complete with a sauna.

Customers give high scores on Booking for its convenient location—9.5 starts.

What Are the Safest Resorts in Cancun, Mexico?

Cancun is the second most visited place in the world, right after Dubai, with 30 million tourists arriving at Cancun International Airport in 2023.

Cancun’s Hotel Zone, locally known as Zona Hotelera, is the safest area in the whole of Cancun. This strip, nestled between the Caribbean Sea and Nichupté Lagoon, is a treasure trove of one exceptional resort after another. 

Option #1: Paradisus Cancun

Choosing a resort that fits various traveler preferences can be tough, but not when it comes to Paradisus Cancun.

For instance, if you’re a group of adults, you can go for the adults-only section “The Reserve,” and if you’re a family, look no further than the family-friendly “Nikté.”

Paradisus Cancun has 17 restaurants and bars, including the poolside Fahrenheit and the classy Sal Steak Cave. Guests also get access to the YHI Spa Center, a private golf and tennis court, a nightclub, two swimming pools, and ample space for meetings, events, and celebrations.

The beautiful scenery and relaxed atmosphere are often mentioned in visitors’ reviews as reasons to come back.

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Option #2: Grand Fiesta Americana

Perched right at the tip of the Hotel Zone, Grand Fiesta Americana’s windows have the finest view in the resort area.

Rooms provide a panorama of a white-sand beach and a vast pool deck overlooking Isla Mujeres in the distance. Guests even have the option to take a private ferry to the island—a destination considered one of the safest in all of Mexico.

The resort boasts a 40,000 sq ft spa center (3,700 m2), a “sensation” pool, a lagoon-inspired pool, a gym with an ocean view, a children’s club, and nine restaurants, with visitors particularly praising the French-Mediterranean cuisine.

The property is located in the highest-rated area in Cancún—an exceptional location score of 9.5 on Booking.

What Are the Safest Resorts in Tulum, Mexico?

Tulum has recently opened its very first international airport, making it more convenient to visit than ever before.

The resorts are ideally situated along the six-mile stretch of coastline from the Tulum Ruins to the soft sand beach at the south end—yes, you’ve read that correctly, you’ll be vacationing right next to ancient Mayan sites.

Option #1: Barceló Maya Riviera

Barceló Maya Riviera provides just about any amenity and service you can think of, not to mention its own shopping mall and events venue.

The friendly and professional service here is widely praised by guests. The rooms are pristine, with a contemporary minimalist design and marble details. You’ll have 16 eateries to choose from, three theaters, a 24-hour sports bar, numerous sports facilities, and an escape room. Every guest room on the property has a balcony with a view of either the pool or the ocean.

If that weren’t enough, this resort is also home to the largest infinity pool on the Maya Riviera with pathways that lead to the beach.

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Option #2: Bahia Principe Luxury Akumal

Bahia Principe Luxury Akumal is nestled along a tranquil stretch between Playa del Carmen and Tulum.

On the premises, you’ll find a tennis court, gym, waterpark, nightclub, golf course, spa center, three swimming pools, and seven on-site restaurants. Families can make use of the kids’ club and enjoy entertaining kid-friendly shows.

The accommodations come with private balconies or terraces and minibars. There’s a diverse range of food and beverage options, including beach and pool bars, and seven restaurants offering everything from traditional Mexican, Japanese, and Italian cuisine.

Visitors praise this resort—8.6 score for location, 8.3 for its facilities, and 8.9 for staff.

What are the Safest Resorts in Cozumel, Mexico?

With its compact size measuring just 29 miles in length and 9 miles in width, Cozumel allows you to explore almost every bit of the island during your short vacation.

Cruise ships are a regular sight along Cozumel’s coast, and the island’s delightful atmosphere is very frequently accompanied by lively tourists. A true gem—not only because it’s one of the safest places in Mexico, but because it’s one of the most affordable ones, too.

Option #1: The Explorean

• 24-hour security
• CCTV outside the property and in common areas
• Key card access
• Security alarms
• Safety deposit boxes
• Concierge service
• ATM/cash machine on site
• Private parking
• Smoke alarms and fire extinguishers

At The Explorean, boredom is simply not an option. Excursions here cover a range of activities, including snorkeling in Playa Uvas, horseback riding, visiting nearby Mayan ruins, tequila tasting, a sailing tour to El Cielo, and a visit to Punta Sur’s crocodile and endemic bird observatory.

After your adventures in Cozumel, relaxation awaits beside the pool—or on beautiful beaches like Playa Santa María. When it’s time to unwind in your room, expect neutral colors, wooden furniture, and amenities like a furnished balcony and a rain shower.

The helpful staff has received high rates from guests. This is a resort where you can savor an all-inclusive vacation without breaking the bank.

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Option #2: Iberostar

If you’re a bungalow enthusiast, you’ll love the Iberostar resort and its fully-equipped bungalow-style accommodations—facing the beachfront!

The resort has a very family-friendly atmosphere. Its premises are surrounded by beautiful palm gardens, a restaurant, two swimming pools, spa and fitness centers, a kids’ club, and a long, white, sandy beach.

Activities include billiards, table tennis, darts, or the best one—taking a diving tour to explore the world’s second-largest coral reef situated right on this island.

Couples especially appreciate the location, giving it a rating of 8.9 for a two-person trip. The ratings go even higher with 9 stars for location, 9.1 for cleanliness, and an impressive 9.2 for the staff’s efficiency.

What are the Safest Resorts in Cabo San Lucas, Mexico?

Cabo San Lucas first captured the attention of Hollywood’s elite in the 1940s, attracting celebrities like Lucille Ball, John Wayne, and Bing Crosby. Today, this destination at the southernmost tip of Baja California is synonymous with luxury and opulence.

At the beginning of 2023, Cabo San Lucas welcomed a total of 26 cruise ships and 26 yachts, and achieved an impressive 80% hotel occupancy rate.

Option #1: Breathless Cabo San Lucas

If you’re in Cabo San Lucas for a lively experience, recent guests highly recommend the Breathless Resort. The resort hosts a range of daily and nighttime activities, including beer pong tournaments, glow parties, bubble pool parties, dance parties, DJ sets, fashion shows, and burlesque shows.

Reviewers particularly praised the ocean views, giving the resort an impressive location rating of 9.3! The modern rooms received high marks for comfort with a rating of 9.0 and 9.1 for cleanliness. The staff also garnered praise, earning a rating of 9.2.

Additional perks include eight on-site restaurants, three bars, two heated pools, a spa, and a fitness center. And for those looking to expand their horizons, guests can even participate in Spanish language classes at the resort!

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Option #2: Playa Grande Resort

Playa Grande Resort is a captivating retreat spread across 8 acres of golden sands and turquoise waves.

The resort offers everything from on-site shops to a gym, golf and tennis courts, and sea-inspired treatments in the spa. Each room is adorned with Mexican-style décor. Parents can drop off their children at the kids’ club and secure a spot at one of the three swimming pools. The resort is located near La Marina, where you can indulge in water activities like scuba diving.

The resort’s highest ratings go to comfort, with a stellar 9.2, closely followed by cleanliness and location both earning impressive 9.1 ratings. Visitors share positive reviews, with one saying:

“We enjoyed our stay. We loved the view from our balcony where we could see whales every day. The staff kept everything clean and safe throughout the grounds, swimming pools, etc.”

What Are the Safest Resorts in Playa Del Carmen, Mexico?

Playa Del Carmen is the second most visited destination in Quintana Roo after Cancun. And what’s not to love?

It’s a laid-back destination with beautiful Caribbean waters, lots of cool parks, and the deep natural wells known as cenotes. Right in the center is El Zócalo, known for a statue arch honoring Mayan ancestors. New resorts keep popping up, promising visitors a good time. It’s the go-to spot in Quintana Roo where you can relax, have fun, and soak in the local scene.

Option #1: Hotel Xcaret Arte

• 24-hour security
• Security alarms
• CCTV outside the property and in common areas
• Key card access
• Safety deposit box
• Luggage storage
• Lockers
• 24-hour reception
• Private beach
• Private parking
• Airport shuttle
• ATM/cash machine on site
• Fire extinguishers and smoke alarms

Hotel Xcaret Arte celebrates Mexican artists. The resort is divided into several unique buildings, all crafted to showcase different artistic elements.

For example, the Casa de los Artistas building is all about the art of painting, with paintbrush door knobs and painting workshops. Casa del Diseño focuses on design, with button handles, a wall of sewing machines, and textile classes.

Beyond the unique, inspiring decor, Hotel Xcaret has 12 restaurants, multiple infinity pools, three gyms, a spa, a tennis court, and a nightclub.

The well-maintained suites score very high in comfort and cleanliness, rated 9.7. The staff earns a 9.4 for service. Plus, you can enjoy the convenience of a free airport shuttle service.

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Option #2: Mahekal Beach Resort

• 24-hour security
• 24-hour reception
• Private entrance
• Safety deposit box
• Laptop safe
• Key access
• Airport shuttle
• Concierge service
• Luggage storage
• Currency exchange
• Fire extinguishers and smoke alarms
• Carbon monoxide detector

Loved by couples for its intimate ambiance, serene rooms, and exceptional staff, Mahekal Beach Resort consistently leaves a lasting impression on visitors, with many returning for more.

The resort strikes a balance between being neither too big nor too small and offering enough amenities without guests feeling overwhelmed—five restaurants, a spa, a fitness center, four pools, a game room, bars, and direct beach access to Vida Aquatica Dive Center.

Guests rave about the thatched-roof accommodations surrounded by palm trees. One visitor said: “Clean, lots of foliage, nice gardens, and birds in the trees. Security made you feel safe.”

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What Are the Safest Resorts in Puerto Vallarta, Mexico?

Puerto Vallarta greeted a record-breaking 6 million tourists in 2023, solidifying its status as one of Mexico’s cherished beachfront destinations. The city’s allure is undeniable—captivating ocean views upfront, lush Sierra Madre mountains in the background, and some of the finest resorts catering to a diverse range of travelers.

Option #1: Hilton Vallarta Riviera

• 24-hour security
• CCTV outside the property and in common areas
• Key card/key access
• Security alarms
• Safety deposit boxes
• Lockers
• Private parking
• Private beach
• Concierge service
• ATM/cash machine on site
• Luggage storage
• 24-hour reception
• Fire extinguishers and smoke alarms

What sets Hilton Vallarta Riviera apart is its ideal location—close enough to enjoy the energy of Zona Romantica, yet secluded enough to provide a serene getaway.

With two pools, a private beach, a spa, a gym, and seven on-site restaurants, the resort caters to every taste and preference. Tourists have the option to engage in a range of activities—from water sports like snorkeling and beach volleyball, to live music performances, a kids’ club, art classes, and unforgettable sunset pool parties.

Guests love the sleek accommodations and the friendly staff, earning high ratings of 9.1 for service and 9.0 for comfort. It’s a perfect retreat for those seeking a blend of relaxation and excitement.

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Option #2: Velas Vallarta

• 24-hour security
• CCTV outside the property and in common areas
• Key card access
• Security alarms
• Safety deposit boxes
• Private parking
• Private beach
• Concierge service
• ATM/cash machine on site
• Luggage storage
• 24-hour reception
• Fire extinguishers and smoke alarms

Ever had the chance to get up close to peacocks and iguanas? Well, at this Puerto Vallarta resort, guests gush about these colorful birds and reptiles freely roaming the property.

Velar Vallarta enjoys a prime location overlooking Bandera Bay, and it’s conveniently situated less than 2 miles southwest of the airport. As one visitor expressed: “Very convenient location close to the airport, which means your vacation starts as soon as you land.”

The resort features three swimming pools, two on-site restaurants, a spa, a fitness center, and a myriad of activities such as horse riding, a game room, cultural tours, snorkeling, tennis, and golf. Families traveling with children can relax, knowing that the kids’ club offers plenty of engaging activities.

Recent guests rave about the stunning grounds, giving a high rating of 9.2 for location. The standout service and comfort level also earned high praise, with ratings of 8.9 and 9.0, respectively.

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What Are the Safest Resorts in Oaxaca, Mexico?

Oaxaca is Mexico’s emerging culinary capital and home to the well-preserved ruins at Monte Albán. However, when it comes to resorts, it’s akin to Mexico City—it has no coast. As a result, the hotel resorts in Oaxaca offer a distinct vibe, leaning more towards the colonial than the coastal aesthetic.

Option #1: Grand Fiesta Americana

• 24-hour security
• Security alarms
• Security cameras outside the accommodation and in common areas
• Access card
• Safe
• Laptop safe
• Airport transport
• 24-hour reception
• Private parking
• Fire extinguishers and smoke detectors

Grand Fiesta Americana lies in the heart of the city, just steps away from the Basilica de Nuestra Señora de la Soledad church and the city’s other attractions.

This urban retreat embraces the essence of Oaxaca. The property boasts indoor gardens, beautiful terraces, an on-site restaurant, an indoor pool, a gym, and a spa center. Guests can partake in a variety of activities, including cooking lessons, cultural tours, a game room, bike and walking tours, or enjoy a live music show.

One tourist remarked: “The staff is very attentive and the hotel facilities. The Jalatlaco neighborhood is very beautiful,” contributing to the high ratings for location (9.6), staff (9.6), and facilities and services (9.6).

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Option #2: Quinta Real Oaxaca

Quinta Real Oaxaca, originally a 16th-century convent, has transformed into one of the finest hotel resorts in the heart of the city.

Upon entering, the colonial-style design is immediately apparent, featuring elegant archways, high ceilings, and tranquil patios. Quinta Real offers an outdoor garden pool, a fitness center, three on-site restaurants, and two on-site bars.

This resort hotel has earned the highest ratings for its location among all the options listed in this article, boasting an impressive 9.9! You’ll find yourself in the very center, within walking distance of all the highlights in Oaxaca, eliminating the need for transportation, taxis, or long walks. The ratings for staff, comfort, facilities, and services are equally impressive, all surpassing a score of 9.

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How Can I Choose a Safe Resort in Mexico?

★    Take a Look at the Travel Advisory

Every year, the US Government publishes an official advisory for tourists headed to Mexico. In it, you’ll read all about the current safety situation in the country, the type of crimes it’s dealing with, what areas are dangerous and you should avoid, and the safe havens to stick to. Cancun and Cozumel for instance, are stellar destinations where the risk of crime is minimal.

★    Consider the Location/Neighbourhood

Every city has a sketchy area, and you don’t want to accidentally book accommodations in one. Don’t be lured by a resort deal that seems too good to be true—check out the neighborhood first. Some places might offer low prices but come with a side of high crime rates.

The golden rule is to stick to the resort areas, as the prime focus here is the well-being and safety of the tourists. If you visit landlocked cities like Mexico City or Oaxaca, opt for downtown lodgings. This ensures you’ll be surrounded by more people, police officers, and well-lit streets, enhancing your overall safety. Additionally, staying downtown means you’re always close to where you’re staying, sparing you from long walks or the hassle of public transport.

★    Dive Into the Reviews

Companies might paint a rosy picture, but the real truth lies in the experiences of previous guests. Open the reviews section and read what others have to say. The more positive reviews the better.

We’ve taken the time to share some positive reviews for a couple of resorts. However, don’t hesitate to dig a little deeper on your own. The reviews section holds a wealth of information that goes beyond just the highlights. It provides a closer look at the real experiences, helping you make a better decision. 

★    Do a Quick Media Check

Ensure your dream resort hasn’t made headlines for the wrong reasons. Type in your resort on Google and see what media reports will pop up.

★    Opt For Good Security Measures

A good resort should have gated premises, restricted guest access, and vigilant guards on standby 24/7. Have a chat with the resort’s staff, and if the security doesn’t meet your needs, opt for a more secure option.

Rest assured, the resorts we’ve selected go beyond aesthetics and positive feedback, and we’ve taken the extra step to outline all the security benefits they offer. Any resort lacking robust security measures—although beautiful—didn’t make the cut.

★    Look For a Round-The-Clock Hotel Lobby

If anything seems off around the resort, the lobby staff should be available 24/7 to assist you and, if necessary, notify authorities. All the resorts except for “The Explorean” in Cozumel offer 24-hour reception service. However, rest assured that the resort compensates with 24-hour security personnel.

In destinations like Puerto Vallarta, for instance, you’ll find resorts that go the extra mile by offering concierge services. This is particularly beneficial for newcomers, as the concierge can assist you in various ways, such as making restaurant reservations, arranging transportation, and even booking tickets for events. It’s a valuable resource that adds an extra layer of convenience to your stay.

★    Consider Solid Parking Security

A good parking lot is one with card entry, vigilant security, bright lighting, and active camera monitoring. For instance, the Four Seasons in Mexico City, Paradisus in Cancun, The Explorean in Cozumel, and Breathless in Cabo San Lucas all have private parking areas. Other resorts, like Quinta Real in Oaxaca, don’t have private parking.

If you plan to rent a car during your stay in Mexico, it’s in your best interest to choose a resort or hotel that offers a secure parking spot. This ensures that your vehicle is well-protected, allowing you to explore the surroundings with peace of mind.

★    Check the Number of Hotel Floors

Ground and second floors can be prime targets for robberies, whereas higher floors might pose challenges in emergencies like fire or natural disasters. Opt for floors three to five—the sweet spot that balances safety and convenience.

★    Ensure Your Room Has a Carbon Monoxide Detector

Carbon monoxide is a deadly gas that can leak from faulty appliances. Three tourists fell victim to this gas in an Airbnb hotel room in Mexico City.

Mahekal Beach Resort in Playa Del Carmen was the only resort on our list that offered CO detectors as a protective measure. However, we believe that other resorts may also have CO safety measures in place, but they might not be explicitly listed. So have a chat with the staff regarding this matter. If such protection isn’t offered, you can always purchase a portable CO detector.

★    Explore Beach Options

It’s always safer to sunbathe on a private resort beach rather than a public one. The resort’s staff keeps the beach clean and the security guards patrol night and day to keep everyone safe. Grand Fiesta Americana in Cancun,  Barceló Maya Riviera in Tulum, Playa Grande Resort in Cabo San Lucas, Hotel Xcaret Arte in Playa Del Carmen, and many more offer the benefit of privacy and security while sunbathing or swimming.

On the other hand, some resorts on our list do not have the advantage of a private beach. Public beaches, while not inherently dangerous, are accessible to everyone, including potential petty thieves. So while enjoying the sun on a public beach, exercise a bit more caution with your belongings!

★    Check Water Conditions

Families or casual beachgoers may prefer resorts located on beaches with gentle surf, while thrill-seekers might be chasing waves for surfing. Confirm with the staff about the water conditions on the beaches and if lifeguards are on duty. When at the beach, take a look at the beach flags—green (safe), yellow (caution), red (danger), or purple (sharks/sea creatures).

★    Check In-Room Safes

Protect your passport, tickets, and valuables while you unwind on the beach. Some resorts offer in-room safes, while others use a central safety deposit box system.

★    Research Food Options

Some resorts offer diverse meal plans, including breakfast-only, half-board, or all-inclusive options with meals and snacks throughout the day. Opt for a resort with a wider range of food options. If you can, investigate the food reviews about the resort and whether they’ve struggled with any food-borne incidents.

★    Check Transportation Options

A hassle-free vacation starts with pre-arranged transportation from the airport to your resort and back. Check if your chosen resort provides private airport shuttles. Live Aqua Ciudad de Mexico in Mexico City and Barceló Maya Riviera in Tulum, for instance, offer airport transport, though these services are charged extra. Hotel Xcaret Arte in Playa Del Carmen, on the other hand, offers such transfers for free!

★    Balance Relaxation and Exploration

If you’re a chill vacationer, a secluded resort might be perfect, like the bungalow-style Iberostar resort in Cozumel. However, if you crave local experiences, then pick a resort that’s close to where the fun is—like the Grand Fiesta Americana in the heart of Oaxaca—so you can still go out but be close enough to your bed so you don’t have to worry about transport back.

Comencemos a Hacer Las Maletas or Let’s Start Packing!

That’s a wrap on our little travel guide!

Mexico’s got some super safe resorts to visit, with tight security and a big heart for keeping guests safe. Yes, there might be some areas in Mexico with a bit more crime, but they are far away from the resorts we all love and dream of visiting.

Just keep your wits about you! Do a tiny bit of homework about the city you’re visiting and, of course, use common sense when you’re out and about. The more you know, the smoother your journey will prove to be.

Wishing you a fantastic time in Mexico!