How much should I tip a property manager in Cancun?

For property managers at vacation rentals like Tim’s Ocean Condos, a suggested gratuity is 20% of the total rental cost, split among the staff at the end of your stay. Adjust the amount based on the level of service, group size, and length of stay.

Do I tip in US dollars or pesos in Cancun?

You can tip in either US dollars or pesos. Pesos are generally preferred by local workers. When tipping in US dollars, use bills only, as coins are not exchangeable. Always bring clean, crisp bills.

How much should I tip hotel staff in Cancun?

Tip bellhops $2–$3 USD per bag and housekeepers 50–100 pesos per day. For butler service, $10–$25 USD per day is appropriate depending on the level of service.

What is the tipping amount for tour guides and drivers in Cancun?

For tour guides, tip 10–20% of the tour price or $10–$20 USD per day for private tours. Shuttle drivers typically receive 20 pesos per person. Taxi drivers are not always tipped unless they assist with luggage or provide extra help.

How much should I tip an in-home chef or cook in Cancun?

For in-home chefs or cooks, tipping $10 USD if satisfied or $20 USD or more if thrilled with the service is customary. Consider the effort involved, especially during holidays or special events.

Should I tip at all-inclusive resorts in Cancun?

Yes, tipping is appreciated at all-inclusive resorts even if gratuities are included. Suggested amounts are $2 USD per buffet meal, $1–$2 USD per drink at the bar, and higher amounts for personalized or cabana service.

What is the recommended tipping amount at gas stations, grocery stores, and other services in Cancun?

Tip 5–10 pesos at gas stations, especially if the attendant cleans your windshield or checks fluids. Grocery packers typically receive 1–2 pesos per bag. Taxi drivers may receive a small tip if they help with luggage.

Tipping in Cancun: Your Completely Updated Guide to Gratuities

Tipping is customary worldwide, but in Mexico, it holds greater importance. Many service industry workers rely on tips as their primary income due to low base wages. Tipping in Cancun not only rewards excellent service but also fosters positive interactions with the people who enhance your vacation experience.

How Much Should You Tip in Cancun? (2025 Guide)

At Tim’s Ocean Condos, guests often ask us about tipping while staying at our penthouses and enjoying the all-inclusive amenities at ÓLEO Cancún Playa®. Whether you're traveling as a couple or as a large group, tipping is a meaningful way to show appreciation for the people who help make your Cancun vacation special.

Below, we’ve put together this easy 2025 tipping guide to help you plan:

Tipping at All-Inclusive Pool Bars and Restaurants
Tipping Guide for Two People
Tipping Guide for Groups of 8–10 People

Feel free to bookmark this page for quick reference during your trip!

Dollars or Pesos?

In Cancun, you can tip in either pesos or dollars, though pesos are more practical for those receiving the tip. If tipping in dollars, use bills, as coins cannot be exchanged.

How Much Should You Tip in Cancun?

Tipping amounts can vary, but generally, the standard is between 10% – 20% of the bill, with 15% being a good average in tourist areas. Here’s a detailed look at what to expect for different services:

Restaurant Tipping in Cancun

A general rule is to tip 10–15% of the bill is standard with 15% being a good average in tourist areas, and you can tip more if the service was exceptional. Waitstaff rely on tips to supplement their incomes, so your gratuity is important.

Hotels and Resorts

When staying at hotels or resorts, different staff members may assist you:

Bellhop: Tip $2-$3 USD (40-60 pesos) per bag when they help with your luggage.
Housekeeping: A customary tip is 50–100 pesos per day or the equivalent in USD. Tip daily, as housekeeping staff often rotate.
Butler Service: For butler service, tipping $10–$25 per day is appropriate, depending on how much help you receive.

Tours and Activities

Tipping tour guides and other activity staff is appreciated:

Tour Guides: For group tours, tip 10% to 20% of the ticket price or $3-$5 USD per day for multi-day tours. Private tour guides generally receive about $10 USD per day.
Fishing and Snorkeling: For private tours, tipping $50-$100 USD per tour is standard, reflecting the level of service and personal experience provided.

Grocery Packers

At grocery stores, seniors or teenagers often help pack groceries and work solely for tips. A good standard is 1-2 pesos per bag.

Transportation

Tips for drivers and attendants vary based on the level of service:

Shuttle Drivers: For private resort shuttles, tipping around 20 pesos per person is a good rule. If the driver assists with bags or provides extra help, consider tipping more.
Taxi Drivers: Tipping taxi drivers is not customary unless they help with your luggage or provide an additional service.

Gas Stations

At gas stations, attendants offer full service. Tip 5-10 pesos for filling your tank, and a little more if they clean your windshield, check tires, or top up oil.

In-Home Chef Services

If you hire an in-home chef, tipping $10 USD if satisfied or $20 USD or more if thrilled with the service is customary.

All-Inclusive Resorts

If gratuities are included, tipping is optional. You can still tip if you feel the service was above and beyond, but don’t feel pressured.

Final Note on Tipping in Cancun

Tipping is a way to show appreciation for excellent service and support the local economy in Cancun. It’s not compulsory but is highly valued by those in the service industry. Tip in cash whenever possible, as it’s more practical for the recipient.

Adjust your tips based on your level of satisfaction and enjoy your stay in Cancun knowing your tips are effective!

For currency conversions click here.

Tipping Guide for All-Inclusive Amenities at ÓLEO Cancún Playa®

Use this guide to know how much to tip while enjoying the all-inclusive food and beverage service at ÓLEO Cancún Playa® during your stay at Tim’s Ocean Condos. This guide is based on 2025 tipping standards with an exchange rate of $1 USD = 20 MXN.

All-Inclusive Service	Suggested Tip (USD)	Suggested Tip (MXN)
Bartender at Pool Bar (Beer)	$1 per drink	20 MXN
Bartender at Pool Bar (Mixed Drink)	$2 per drink	40 MXN
Cabana Service (Drink Delivery)	$2–$4 per round	40–80 MXN
Buffet Dining (Self-Serve)	$2 per person	40 MXN per person
Buffet Dining (Table Cleared + Drinks Served)	$3–$5 per person	60–100 MXN per person
Specialty Dinner (Table Service)	$5–$10 per person	100–200 MXN per person
Long Bar Visit (Extended Time at Bar)	$5 extra at departure	100 MXN extra
Coffee Shop (Simple Order)	Optional – $1 if extra service	20 MXN

Tipping is optional at all-inclusive resorts but is appreciated for excellent service. Generous tippers often receive faster, more personalized attention.

Quick Reference Tipping Guide for Two People (2025 Update)

These suggested tipping amounts are based on two people. Adjust as needed for your group size and satisfaction. This guide assumes an exchange rate of $1 USD = 20 MXN.

Service	Suggested Tip (USD)	Suggested Tip (MXN)
Poolside Service (Drinks)	$1–$2 per round	20–40 MXN
Poolside Service (Food)	$5 per order	100 MXN
Bartenders at Bars	$1–$5 per drink	20–100 MXN
Lunch Service (No Prices Shown)	$5–$10	100–200 MXN
Dinner Service (No Prices Shown)	$5–$10	100–200 MXN
Lunch Service (Prices on Menu)	8%–15% of bill	—
Dinner Service (Prices on Menu)	10%–18% of bill	—
Poolside Assistance (Chairs/Umbrella)	$5	100 MXN
Housekeeping (Per Day)	$5	100 MXN
Hotel Bellhop (Luggage Assistance)	$5	100 MXN
Driver Carrying Luggage (Taxi/Shuttle)	$1 per bag or $5 total	20 MXN per bag or 100 MXN total
Room Service Delivery	$5	100 MXN
Taxi/Uber/Shuttle Ride	$3–$5 per trip	60–100 MXN
English-Speaking Tour Guide	$3 per hour	60 MXN per hour
Tour Bus/Shuttle/Boat Driver	$5–$10 at end of tour	100–200 MXN

Tip amounts may vary based on your experience, group size, and the level of service received. Cash tips are generally preferred and appreciated.

Suggested Tipping Guide for Groups of 8–10 People (2025 Update)

This guide is based on Cancun service expectations for larger groups. Adjust tipping based on your group size, the level of service, and your satisfaction. Assumes an exchange rate of $1 USD = 20 MXN.

Service	Suggested Tip (USD)	Suggested Tip (MXN)
Poolside Service (Drinks)	$5–$10 per round	100–200 MXN
Poolside Service (Food)	$15–$20 per order	300–400 MXN
Bartenders at Bars	$5–$10 per round	100–200 MXN
Lunch Service (No Prices Shown)	$15–$25 total	300–500 MXN
Dinner Service (No Prices Shown)	$20–$40 total	400–800 MXN
Lunch Service (Prices on Menu)	10%–20% of bill	—
Dinner Service (Prices on Menu)	15%–20% of bill	—
Poolside Assistance (Chairs/Umbrella Setup)	$10–$20	200–400 MXN
Housekeeping (Per Day)	$20–$50 total	400–1,000 MXN
Hotel Bellhop (Luggage Assistance)	$10–$20 total	200–400 MXN
Driver Carrying Luggage (Taxi/Shuttle)	$10–$20 total	200–400 MXN
Room Service Delivery	$10–$15 per delivery	200–300 MXN
Taxi/Uber/Shuttle Ride	$5–$10 per trip	100–200 MXN
English-Speaking Tour Guide	$10–$20 per hour	200–400 MXN per hour
Tour Bus/Shuttle/Boat Driver	$20–$40 at end of tour	400–800 MXN

For large groups, higher tips are customary due to the additional effort required to provide great service. Cash tips are generally preferred and appreciated by staff.

Final Tips for Tipping in Cancun

We hope this guide helps you feel confident and prepared when it comes to tipping during your stay in Cancun. Whether you are enjoying the all-inclusive amenities at ÓLEO Cancún Playa®, exploring local tours, or relaxing inside your penthouse at Tim’s Ocean Condos, tipping is a wonderful way to show your appreciation for excellent service.

Remember, tipping is always based on your satisfaction and the level of service provided. If you have any questions about tipping or would like personal recommendations on where to exchange money or hire services, feel free to ask our property managers, Abdiel or Paola, during your stay. We are here to help make your Cancun vacation experience the best it can be!

Thank you for choosing Tim’s Ocean Condos. We look forward to welcoming you to Cancun!