What Is the Drinking Age in Cancun? Drinking Laws Explained
If you’re planning a trip to Cancun, you might be wondering, “What is the drinking age in Cancun?”. As someone who loves to travel and let loose on vacation, one of the first things I always look up about my destination is the local drinking laws.
Well, the good news is that the drinking age in Cancun is 18 years old. That’s right, if you’re 18 or older, you can legally drink in Cancun. This is lower than the drinking age in many other countries and states, which is typically 21.
Now, just because the drinking age is 18 in Cancun doesn’t mean you can go completely wild. There are still some laws and regulations in place that you’ll want to be aware of. Let’s take a closer look at the drinking laws in Cancun and answer some frequently asked questions.
What is the legal drinking age in Cancun?
As mentioned, the legal drinking age in Cancun is 18. This means that if you’re 18 or older, you can legally purchase and consume alcohol in Cancun.
It’s worth noting that the drinking age in Mexico, where Cancun is located, is actually 18 as well. However, some states within Mexico have their own laws and regulations, and the drinking age in those states may be higher. Cancun, however, follows the national drinking age of 18.
Can you drink on the streets in Cancun?
While you can legally purchase and consume alcohol in Cancun if you’re 18 or older, it’s important to note that public intoxication is not allowed. This means that you can’t walk around the streets of Cancun with an open container of alcohol.
In general, it’s best to consume alcohol in licensed establishments such as bars, clubs, and restaurants. These establishments are regulated and have the necessary licenses to serve alcohol. It’s also worth noting that it’s illegal to drive under the influence of alcohol in Cancun, as it is in most places.
What are the laws around purchasing alcohol in Cancun?
As long as you’re 18 or older, you can legally purchase alcohol in Cancun. You’ll find that alcohol is widely available, and you can purchase it at a variety of places including supermarkets, convenience stores, and liquor stores.
It’s worth noting that the sale of alcohol is restricted in Cancun from 1:00 AM to 7:00 AM. This means that you won’t be able to purchase alcohol during these hours.
Can you bring your own alcohol to Cancun?
Yes, you can bring your own alcohol to Cancun. However, it’s important to note that there are some restrictions on the amount of alcohol you can bring.
According to Mexico’s customs laws, travelers over the age of 18 are allowed to bring up to three liters of alcohol per person into the country duty-free. This includes a combination of beer, wine, and spirits. It’s worth noting that this alcohol must be for personal consumption and cannot be resold.
If you’re planning to bring more than three liters of alcohol with you to Cancun, you’ll need to pay customs duties. It’s also worth noting that if you’re bringing in large quantities of alcohol, you may be subject to additional inspection.
What are the laws around serving alcohol in Cancun?
If you’re working in the hospitality industry in Cancun, it’s important to be aware of the laws around serving alcohol.
In Cancun, it’s illegal to serve alcohol to anyone under the age of 18. It’s also illegal to serve alcohol to anyone who is visibly intoxicated. If you’re working as a bartender or server in Cancun, it’s your responsibility to ensure that you’re not serving alcohol to anyone who is under the age of 18 or visibly intoxicated.
In addition to these laws, there are also some regulations around how alcohol can be served and advertised in Cancun. For example, it’s illegal to advertise alcohol in a way that promotes excessive consumption or targets minors.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the drinking age in Cancun lower than in the US?
Yes, the drinking age in Cancun is lower than in the US. In the US, the drinking age is 21, while in Cancun, it’s 18.
Can you drink on the beaches in Cancun?
In general, it’s best to consume alcohol in licensed establishments such as bars and restaurants in Cancun. However, it is legal to consume alcohol on the beach as long as you’re not causing a disturbance or public intoxication.
Can you bring your own alcohol to all-inclusive resorts in Cancun?
It’s worth checking with your specific resort, as policies can vary. Some all-inclusive resorts in Cancun may allow you to bring your own alcohol, while others may not. It’s always best to check with the resort before packing your bags.
In conclusion, the drinking age in Cancun is 18 and alcohol is widely available for purchase. It’s important to be aware of the laws and regulations around consuming and serving alcohol in Cancun, including the restrictions on public intoxication and the sale of alcohol during certain hours.
As always, it’s important to drink responsibly and respect the local laws and customs of your destination.
Sources:
- “Mexico – Drinking Age” World Travel Guide. https://www.worldtravelguide.net/guides/central-america-and-the-caribbean/mexico/drinking-age/
- “Customs Allowances for Travel to Mexico” Mexico Tourism Board. https://www.visitmexico.com/en/customs-allowances-for-travel-to-mexico
- “Alcohol in Mexico: Dos and Don’ts” The Culture Trip. https://theculturetrip.com/north-america/mexico/articles/alcohol-in-mexico-dos-and-donts/
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