Affordable Beach Getaway for Couples: Chicago to Cancun, Mexico

Day 1: Travel & Arrival

Cancun, Mexico on June 22, 2025

9:00am

Flight from Chicago to Cancun

Catch an early morning budget flight to Cancun. Several low-cost carriers offer affordable tickets if booked early, helping you maximize your trip budget.
USD150 per person, 4h0m

2:00pm

Arrival and Check-in

Check into a budget beachfront hostel or affordable Airbnb near Playa Delfines, which offers beautiful public beaches and great value accommodation for young travelers.
USD30 per night, 1h0m

4:00pm

Relax at Playa Delfines

Enjoy your first beach experience by lounging on the white sands of Playa Delfines, a free and public beach known for its scenic views and vibrant atmosphere.
Free, 2h0m

7:00pm

Dinner at El Pocito Restaurant

Taste authentic Mexican cuisine with budget-friendly prices at this well-loved local eatery that offers delicious tacos and seafood dishes.
USD10 per person, 1h0m
View Hotel Availability

Day 2: Beach & Culture

Cancun, Mexico on June 23, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Cafe Nader

Start your day with affordable fresh pastries and coffee at this local favorite, open from 7am.
USD5 per person, 1h0m

9:30am

Visit Museo Maya de Cancun

Explore Mayan history and culture at this affordable museum, open 9am-7pm, with fascinating archaeological exhibits.
USD5 per person, 2h0m

12:00pm

Lunch at El Fish Fritanga

Enjoy fresh, affordable seafood right by the lagoon, known for great fish tacos and ceviche.
USD10 per person, 1h0m

1:30pm

Beach Time at Playa Tortugas

A lively public beach ideal for swimming and snorkeling, open all day and free to access.
Free, 3h0m

5:00pm

Stroll Cancun Hotel Zone

Walk through Cancun’s Hotel Zone for window shopping and people watching along the boulevard.
Free, 1h0m

7:00pm

Dinner at La Parrilla

Traditional Mexican grill serving affordable fajitas and margaritas with live mariachi music.
USD15 per person, 1h30m
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Day 3: Island Excursion

Isla Mujeres, Mexico on June 24, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Hostelito Cancun

Enjoy a quick and cheap breakfast at your accommodation or local bakery before departure.
USD5 per person, 1h0m

9:00am

Ferry to Isla Mujeres

Take a 15-minute ferry ride from Puerto Juarez to Isla Mujeres, a charming nearby island with serene beaches.
USD15 per person round trip, 30m

10:00am

Rent a Golf Cart

Rent a golf cart for the day (~USD30) to explore the island at your own pace and visit beautiful spots like Playa Norte.
USD30, 6h0m

12:30pm

Lunch at Playa Norte Beach Club

Enjoy affordable tacos and drinks right on one of the best beaches in the region.
USD12 per person, 1h0m

5:00pm

Return Ferry to Cancun

Head back to Cancun to rest and prepare for the evening.
Included in ferry ticket, 30m

7:00pm

Dinner at Tacos Rigo

Experience some of Cancun’s best and cheapest tacos, popular among locals.
USD5 per person, 1h0m
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Day 4: Nature & Beach

Cancun, Mexico on June 25, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at La Pasteletería

Grab delicious and affordable pastries and coffee at this local bakery chain, open from 7am.
USD6 per person, 1h0m

9:30am

Day trip to Cenote Azul

Visit this beautiful natural swimming hole for a refreshing dip; entry fee is inexpensive and it’s open daily from 8am to 5pm.
USD8 per person, 3h0m

1:00pm

Lunch at Mercado 28

Sample inexpensive local street food and browse souvenirs in this artisan market.
USD8 per person, 1h0m

2:30pm

Relax at Playa Forum

Free public beach that’s perfect for afternoon swimming and sunbathing.
Free, 3h0m

6:30pm

Dinner at Burrito Amor

Try affordable and delicious burritos made with fresh ingredients at this casual spot.
USD10 per person, 1h0m
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Day 5: Explore & Beach

Cancun, Mexico on June 26, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at La Casa de los Abuelos

Enjoy a budget-friendly Mexican breakfast with fresh juices and traditional dishes.
USD6 per person, 1h0m

9:30am

Visit El Rey Ruins

Explore the small Mayan ruins located just inside the Cancun Hotel Zone, open 8am-5pm. Entry is cheap and it’s less crowded.
USD4 per person, 2h0m

12:00pm

Lunch at Marakame Cafe

Relax over affordable vegetarian and Mexican dishes in a bohemian setting.
USD12 per person, 1h0m

1:30pm

Beach time at Playa Langosta

A quieter beach choice known for clean water and safe swimming, perfect for couples.
Free, 3h0m

6:30pm

Dinner at La Playita

Enjoy fresh catch of the day and local dishes at reasonable prices near the beach.
USD15 per person, 1h0m
View Hotel Availability

Day 6: Chill & Farewell

Cancun, Mexico on June 27, 2025

9:00am

Breakfast at freshly bakeries near hotel

Start your day with affordable coffee and pastries at a local bakery, open from 7am.
USD5 per person, 1h0m

10:30am

Final beach day at Playa Delfines

Spend your last day relaxing on the iconic Playa Delfines sandy beach, enjoying the sun and sea view.
Free, 4h0m

3:00pm

Pack and relax

Return to accommodation, pack belongings and rest before travel day.
Free, 2h0m

6:30pm

Early Dinner at Taqueria Coapenitos

Enjoy some inexpensive and tasty local street food as a farewell meal.
USD7 per person, 1h0m
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Day 7: Travel Home

Cancun to Chicago, USA on June 28, 2025

7:00am

Early Morning Flight

Take an early return flight back to Chicago to maximize your budget and time.
USD150 per person, 4h0m
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