The public bus system in Cancun is economical and easy to use. Buses cruise Blvd Kukulcan, the Zona Hoteleras main street, shuttling passengers from their hotels to the restaurants and bars, and into El Centro (downtown) for 6 pesos (around 60 cents). Official bus stops are frequent, but if you linger anywhere on the main road or hold out an arm, the driver is likely to stop for you. Have your fare ready as the bus pulls up and find a seat quickly the driver may step on the gas while you fumble for change. Tell the driver your destination so that he informs you when to get off, and keep an eye on familiar landmarks so you do not miss your stop.

To reach a destination on the hotel strip, catch any bus along the main road (Blvd Kukulcan). For The Point Cancuns activity hub, where you will find CoCo Bongo, Maria Bonita, Plaza DadyO get off at the Plaza Forum (across the street from the Coral Negro market). If you miss this stop, the next one is a hike from the main attractions.

Although all buses traveling north on Kukulcan reach downtown, they each have a specific route. If you want a central drop-off point to explore downtown (where you will find many of the restaurants featured in this guide), take the R-1, R-2, or R-15 and get off at the main intersection of Tulum and Coba. It is one of the first downtown stops; you will see the popular Ki Huic market on your left and major grocery store, Chedraui, across the street.

For Wal-Mart, catch the R-2 or R-15. Let the driver know your destination or ask a local to tell you when to get off (they are used to it); the store is not visible from the street.

Main bus routes:

• R-1: Goes to the regional bus terminal on Av Tulum, and Mercado 23.
• R-2 and R-15: Travel down Av Coba, past Wal-mart and Mercado 28 (you will have to walk north on Av Tankah to reach the market).
• R-27: Turns south to Plaza Las Americas mall.