My husband and I will be going back to Cancun July7-14. Last time we went in January and stayed at the Avalon Baccara. The ocean was really rough and red flags were out the whole time. I've read that the northern part of the hotel zone is alot calmer, because it is protected by Isla Mujeres. We still want to enjoy the waves....so hopefully the water won't be too calm there. I know it depends on the weather and seasons too... Any suggestions of a good inclusive resort around that area?
All of the Rius are on the north side and yes, the swimming is much better. You'll get a little bit of waves at the Riu Cancun or Riu Palace Las Americas, much fewer at the Riu Caribe.
I would not shy away from the eastern shores of the Hotel Zone in July. The water will be much calmer than during the winter months, when you were there. Avalon and Avalon Baccara are good resorts, others you may consider for AI include: The Royal in Cancun-high end adults only Barcelo Tucancun Park Royal Golden Parnassus-adults only GR Solaris Sun Palace-adults only CANCUN TOP 100 212eric
for us best swimming areas are from Presidente Intercontinental to El Embarcadero, having Isla Mujeres in front vanish most of the waves.
beaches Dreams Cancun has the best of both worlds....a beach on the Caribbean side and a beach on the bay facing Isla Mujeres. I don't recall the beach on the Caribbean side to be incredibly rough, but I believe they get enough waves to keep it interesting. The beach on the bay side is usually very calm.