What to Wear in Cancun: 15 Must-Have Vacation Outfits
What to pack for Cancun is a tale as old as time, and a question many travelers have before heading to this Caribbean paradisiac.
I’ve been there — rifling through my closet and figuring out what works for beach days, wandering through ruins and taking in a nightlife of colorful food and cocktails.
Here are my tried-and-true Cancun outfits.
This guide features choices for every activity, from relaxing by the beach to dining out in style.
I’ll also touch on footwear, accessories and where each outfit stands out, so you’re prepared for any adventure Cancun has to offer.
1. Breezy Maxi Dress
In Cancun, a lightweight, flowy maxi dress is a staple.
It’s ideal for everything from sunset strolls on the beach to, most of the time, dinner out.
Opt for a breathable fabric such as cotton or linen to keep you cool in the tropical heat.
Footwear: Wears well with flat sandals or espadrilles.
Accessories: Add a straw hat and statement earrings for some flair.
Where to Wear: Perfect for browsing open-air markets or eating near the water.
2. High-Waisted Bikini with Cover-Up
Bring a stylish high-waisted bikini with a matching or contrasting cover-up for beach or pool days.
The high-waisted design provides a flattering shape and is versatile enough to be comfortable, supportive and to not create bulges.
Footwear: Flip flops or water-safe slides.
Accessories: Add oversized sunglasses and a colorful tote bag.
Where to Wear It: Perfect for relaxing at beach clubs or taking a swim in the cenotes.
3. White Linen Shirt and Shorts
This classic combo just oozes easy vacation style.
A fresh white linen shirt is so light and pairs well with denim or linen shorts.
Shoes: Slip-on sneakers or espadrilles.
Accessories: Layer on bangles and carry a crossbody bag.
Where to Wear: Ideal for Tulum day trips or Chichén Itzá exploration.
4. Tropical Print Romper
A bright romper with tropical icons literally brings the Cancun good-time feel to life.
Opt for a bag with adjustable straps and pockets.
Footwear: Strappy sandals, or comfortable slides.
Accessories: Add hoops and a tiny clutch.
Where to Wear: For casual lunches or cocktails by the beach.
5. Off-the-Shoulder Dress
For something more elegant but still also casual, pack an off-the-shoulder dress in a bright color.
This style is light, feminine, and fit for Instagram.
Footwear: Wedge sandals.
Accessories: Keep it delicate with a simple necklace, then add a woven clutch.
Where to Wear: Perfect for a romantic dinner or rooftop bar.
6. Athletic Wear for Adventures
Bring breathable workout clothes for active days.
Think leggings or shorts, with a moisture-wicking tank top.
Footwear: Durable sneakers.
Accessories: A light backpack for the basics.
Where to Wear: Zip-lining, cenote diving, or spelunking.
7. Crop Top and Flowy Skirt
Not to mention this combo is cute and comfortable.
Wear a solid color crop top and team it up with a printed maxi or midi skirt.
Footwear: Strappy sandals.
Accessories: A beaded necklace and a floppy hat.
Where to Wear: Great for exploring local markets or a sunset cruise.
8. Lightweight Jumpsuit
also: a relaxed-fit jumpsuit; versatile, it can be dressed up or down.
Try to find one in neutral or earth tones.
Footwear: Espadrilles or flat sandals.
Accessorizing: A statement belt and a small crossbody bag.
Where to Wear: Perfect for casual dinners or day trips.
9. Swimsuit with Sarong
Sarongs, extra cover-ups for a swimwear look.
They can be tied as a skirt, dress, or even a top.
Footwear: Flip-flops.
Accessories: Flat-brimmed hat and shell jewelry.
Where to Wear: Great for postbeach, pre–casual beachfront café.
10. Denim Shorts and Graphic Tee
For that laid-back look, you can’t beat denim cutoff shorts and an adorable graphic tee.
It’s a good look for hanging out with company.
Shoes: Comfy sneakers or slides.
Accessories: A simple hoop earring and a mini pack.
When to Wear: Perfect for bike tours or walking along the Cancun coast.
11. Kaftan Dress
Related: A kaftan dress is a breezy and stylishly chic option for your Cancun wardrobe.
Pick one with embroidery or a bright pattern.
Shoes: Flat leather sandals.
Accessories: Team with beaded bracelets and a straw bag.
Where to Wear: Ideal for beachside brunches or soaking up the sun at luxury resorts.
12. Button-Down Shirt and Midi Skirt
A flowing midi skirt has all the style of a tied-up button-down shirt in casual, and just as little of it.
To keep cool, choose lightweight fabric.
Shoes: Sandals, in neutral tones.
Accessories: A chunky bracelet and a head scarf.
Where to Wear: Ideal for going gallery hopping or sipping cocktails by the lagoon.
13. Sleeveless Maxi Romper
If you love the elegance of a dress but want the practicality of shorts, a maxi romper is the answer.
Pick one with a dramatic slit for extra drama.
Footwear: Gladiator sandals.
Accessories: Lizzi Bowler layered necklaces, and a clutch.
Where to Wear: Ideal for rooftop dinner soirees or nightclubs.
14. Boho-Chic Sundress
A sundress with crochet or lace accents taps into Cancun’s bohemian side.
Seek out earth tones or floral patterns.
Footwear: Woven sandals.
Accessories: Feather earrings and a fringe bag.
Where to Wear: Perfect for live music, beach bars.
15. Evening Glamour Look
For nights you want to be dazzling, include some sort of sleek jumpsuit or a bodycon style dress in a bold color.
Footwear: Heels, or embellished sandals.
Accessories: Shimmering earrings; a clutch.
When to Wear: Great for upscale dining to boogie down at clubs like Coco Bongo.
