Cancún has long drawn sun-seekers and partygoers, but a new study suggests its fame may have backfired. The Daily Mail analyzed nearly 100,000 Google reviews across the world’s 100 busiest cities and found that 14.2% of comments about Cancún were negative—the highest share among all destinations assessed.
Travelers frequently lament steep prices, persistent souvenir hawkers and an overall atmosphere that feels engineered for tourists rather than reflecting local life. One Google reviewer summed up the disappointment at Dolphins Beach, describing it as “small (steep), dirty, crowded with some deserted construction ruins. No place worth to see”.
Despite this criticism, Cancún remains Mexico’s busiest tourist hub, welcoming over 9.7 million international visitors in 2024—more than double the arrivals recorded in Mexico City. The influx can lead to overcrowded shorelines and a cityscape that leans heavily on upselling to keep up with demand.
Still, most visitors don’t leave disappointed. Roughly 85.8% of reviews fell into neutral or positive territory, and a few simple strategies can help you enjoy the destination. Skipping the overly commercial Hotel Zone offers a glimpse of more authentic Mexico, and planning your trip outside peak spring-break periods—late April through early June or early fall—can mean quieter beaches and fewer party crowds.
If Cancún’s crowds sound unappealing, consider Mexico’s Emerald Coast instead. Here, you’ll find equally stunning beaches, friendlier prices and a stronger sense of place. On the Caribbean side, Tulum is another popular alternative, prized for its powder-white sand and laid-back vibe
