If the idea of swapping snow boots for sandals sounds tempting, you’re not alone. The holidays are one of the busiest times to travel, but that doesn’t mean all flights to Cancún are sky-high. Some U.S. cities consistently offer better fares to the Mexican Caribbean — even during Christmas and New Year.
We checked Google Flights for December 20 – January 4, 2026, and found the six U.S. gateways with the best round-trip rates to Cancún International Airport (CUN). Whether you’re heading to Akumal, Tulum, or Riviera Maya, these routes can make your tropical escape a little easier on the wallet. Google Flights also recommends to book by Dec. 8, 2025 to ensure low rate.
1. New York City (JFK / EWR)
Round-trip fares from $402 USD
New York remains one of the most competitive gateways thanks to JetBlue, United, and Delta. It’s about a four-and-a-half-hour nonstop flight — just long enough to finish a holiday movie before landing in paradise. Traveling just after Christmas or returning January 3–4 can yield the best prices.
2. Houston, Texas (IAH)
Round-trip fares from $353 USD
With multiple daily nonstops on United and Southwest, Houston continues to be one of the easiest and most affordable launch points to Cancún. The quick 2½-hour flight makes it perfect for a last-minute Christmas Eve getaway.
3. Dallas / Fort Worth, Texas (DFW)
Round-trip fares from $431 USD
DFW travelers benefit from frequent service on American, Spirit, and Frontier. Prices rise for departures around December 23–26, but flights just before or after the peak window still hover in the mid-$500s if booked early.
4. Los Angeles, California (LAX)
Round-trip fares from $357 USD
Even during peak holiday weeks, West-Coast travelers can find reasonable deals from LAX. Delta, Alaska, and American offer multiple nonstops daily. Flights on Christmas Day or returning after January 3 often come in on the lower end of the range.
5. Chicago, Illinois (ORD)
Round-trip fares from $387 USD
Chicago’s nonstop routes on United and American help keep fares relatively stable, even when the snow piles up at home. Booking early and targeting mid-week departures can keep prices closer to the $600 mark.
6. Denver, Colorado (DEN)
Round-trip fares from $410 USD
Denver travelers will pay slightly more, but direct options on United and Frontier are still competitive compared to other Mountain-West cities. Leaving a day or two before Christmas or extending into early January can trim up to $100 off the average fare.
Tips for Finding the Best Holiday Flight
Book early. Prices rise quickly after mid-November.
Depart mid-week. Tuesdays and Wednesdays often have the lowest fares.
Watch for seat sales. Even holiday periods see brief flash discounts.
Stay flexible. Shifting travel by one or two days can make a big difference.
From Cancún to Akumal — The Easy Part
After landing at Cancún International Airport, it’s a scenic 90-minute drive to Akumal. Locogringo can help you arrange private airport transfers, choose a beachfront villa or condo, and provide local insight so your holiday begins the moment you arrive.
Ready to celebrate Christmas in the Caribbean?
Contact Us to find your ideal Riviera Maya vacation home, and let our team help you plan a warm, worry-free holiday getaway.