Unstoppable Cancun! Passenger Traffic Holds Strong Despite 2 Major Challenges

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If you thought a shiny new Tulum Airport and a historic seaweed invasion would slow Cancún down, think again!

In June 2025, Cancún International Airport welcomed 1,558,510 international travelers—only 47,622 fewer than the 1,606,132 recorded in June 2024—a tiny 3% dip that proves Cancún’s allure is simply unstoppable.

A New Neighbor in Tulum

Late in 2023, Tulum’s Felipe Carrillo Puerto International Airport flapped its brand-new wings and handled 1,237,248 passengers in its inaugural year, putting it on the Riviera Maya’s map.

Yet despite this fresh-faced newcomer just 125 kilometers south, most of you still scramble to catch your flight into Cancún’s buzzing Hotel Zone. Why?

Because Cancún is like that friend who never misses a beat: multiple terminals humming with activity, lounges to collapse in after red-eye flights, and the thrill of spotting the turquoise Caribbean right as you exit customs. Plus constant improvement plans!

Plus, with nonstop service to over 100 cities across the Americas and Europe, why settle for connecting flights when margaritas and tacos are calling?

Sargassum Got Nothing On Us

Yes, the seaweed saga has hit some serious highs this summer.

But here in Cancún, we didn’t just sit back. Our beach guardians—local crews and hotel staff—turned sunrise cleanups into friendly competitions, racing tractors and nets to clear prime swim zones before breakfast.

Resorts even installed floating barriers offshore to catch kelp before it washed ashore, while eco-enthusiasts repurposed the haul into nutrient-rich fertilizer for mangrove restoration.

Why You Still Can’t Resist Cancún

Beyond airport stats and seaweed showdowns, Cancún’s secret sauce is variety.

In 2024, Cancún International Airport handled a whopping 20.17 million international passengers, ranking it Mexico’s second-busiest airport and Latin America’s top international gateway.

Whether you’re a honeymooner hunting sunset vows on the beach, a digital nomad hopping cenotes with your laptop stashed in your backpack, or a family chasing poolside thrills, Cancún has your name written in the sand.

Before you pack your bags, here’s a taste of Cancún’s must-dos:

1. Dive Into Cenotes: Swim in hidden freshwater caves like Calavera or Casa Cenote, where the water’s cooler than your morning coffee.
2. Unlock Mayan Mysteries: Tour Chichén Itzá, Ek Balam, and Tulum ruins—your Insta grid will thank you.
3. Island Escapades: Snorkel with whale sharks near Isla Holbox or sip piña coladas on Isla Mujeres.
4. Beach Bliss: From buzzing Hotel Zone strips to the chill vibes at Punta Nizuc, every stretch of sand has its own personality.
5. Nightlife Nirvana: Dance the night away at spots like Coco Bongo, catch live beats at Mandala, or enjoy a speakeasy mezcal flight downtown.
6. Flavor Frenzy: Hunt down street tacos, fresh ceviche, and gourmet seafood at pop-up markets and beachfront grills.

Need some R&R? Dive into our Resort Finder—filter by budget, beachfront vibes, and must-have amenities to lock in your dream spot in just a few clicks.

We at The Cancún Sun believe Cancún’s unstoppable spirit—its sun-drenched beaches, vibrant culture, and top-tier service—means you’ll keep coming back, no matter what sargassum storms or new airports try to throw its way.