Mexico has long been celebrated as a premier destination for family getaways, and for good reason. With its stunning sandy beaches, invitingly warm waters, and an incredible array of activities, it’s a paradise tailored for families. Accessibility is another major draw, particularly for those traveling from North America. Whether you’re dreaming of the vibrant shores of Los Cabos, the charming atmosphere of Puerto Vallarta, or the breathtaking beauty of the Mexican Caribbean, you can often find yourself on Mexican soil in just a few hours – a significant advantage when traveling with children.
Finding a family-friendly, all-inclusive resort in Mexico is wonderfully easy, yet choosing the perfect one for your family’s needs requires careful consideration. Mexico boasts an abundance of exceptional all-inclusive resorts designed to cater to families. From the dramatic desert landscapes of the Baja Peninsula to the tranquil turquoise waters of the Mexican Caribbean, families seeking a stress-free beach vacation will be spoiled for choice.
Our curated selection of the best all-inclusive, family-friendly resorts in Mexico blends Travel & Leisure award-winning properties with editor-recommended gems. These resorts are distinguished by their exceptional service, stunning design, prime locations, and, most importantly, their outstanding kid-friendly amenities. Explore our top picks for the ultimate Mexico Family Resorts, guaranteeing a memorable vacation for everyone.
Grand Velas Riviera Maya
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/TAL-grand-velas-riviera-maya-FAMALLINCLMX0924-46723b3fd04141c28d418d420bb28421.jpg)
Guest room offering luxury and comfort at the family-friendly Grand Velas Riviera Maya resort in Mexico.
Also available to book at Hotels.com
What We Like: This all-suite resort boasts an impressive 1,000-foot stretch of pristine white sand beach, perfect for families to enjoy.
What to Consider: While there are numerous activities designed for kids and teens, the evening entertainment options for adults might be somewhat limited compared to the daytime offerings.
Grand Velas Riviera Maya stands as a beacon of sophistication in the Mexican Caribbean and arguably across all of Mexico. Despite its elevated style and refined ambiance, this resort is also recognized as one of the best all-inclusive mexico family resorts, earning a 2023 World’s Best Awards accolade.
Nestled between 80 acres of lush mangrove forest and a powdery, soft white-sand beach, the expansive 491-suite resort offers a unique layout. Suites are distributed across three distinct buildings, two of which are specifically designed with families in mind. Each building functions as a self-contained mini-hotel, complete with its own pools, fitness centers, and dining venues. Families will particularly appreciate the Ambassador and Grand Class sections, which feature the largest pools and a diverse selection of restaurants. The Ambassador building also enjoys the closest proximity to the beach. Both the Ambassador and Grand Class buildings offer well-equipped kids’ clubs and a variety of connecting room options, ideal for family stays. Most of the resort’s restaurants also feature dedicated kid-friendly menu sections. Grand Velas Riviera Maya truly represents one of the most luxurious and family-oriented all-inclusive resorts in the country.
The Details:
- Distance to Cancun airport: 33 miles
- Wi-Fi: Yes
- Facilities for Families: Kid’s Club, Teen’s Club, and Baby Concierge services to cater to families with young children.
- Gratuities: Yes, all gratuities are included in the resort package.
- Rates: Starting from $1,315 per night.
Grand Velas Riviera Nayarit
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/TAL-grand-velas-riviera-nayarit-FAMALLINCLMX0424-aaad7315c6e946bab6067340c0c5ebad.jpg)
A sophisticated dining room within the Grand Velas Riviera Nayarit, a top choice for mexico family resorts.
Also available to book at Expedia.com
What We Like: The resort features a sprawling spa with 20 treatment rooms and comprehensive hydrotherapy facilities, offering relaxation for parents.
What to Consider: Due to its popularity and high ratings, the resort can often reach full capacity and may feel somewhat crowded during peak seasons.
If an all-inclusive Puerto Vallarta resort could achieve the esteemed status of a Grande Dame, Grand Velas Riviera Nayarit would undoubtedly earn the title. As an icon along the Riviera Nayarit coastline and another World’s Best Award winner, Grand Velas Riviera Nayarit has truly set the benchmark for luxury all-inclusive resort experiences, especially for families.
This 265-room resort is comprised entirely of suites, each featuring a private balcony, captivating ocean views, and abundant space bathed in sunlight. The resort’s centerpiece is its stunning central infinity pool, cascading down three levels before merging into a spectacular beach – considered among the finest in the Bay of Banderas. Mirroring its Riviera Maya counterpart, the family facilities here are exceptional. Dedicated kids’ and teens’ clubs provide age-appropriate activities, while a specialized baby concierge assists parents with everything from strollers to cribs. Six diverse restaurants cater to every palate, ranging from casual beachfront fare to exquisite fine dining experiences featuring French, Italian, Mexican, and Pan-Asian cuisines—making it a true foodie’s paradise within the all-inclusive resort category. For adults, the 20-treatment room spa offers a luxurious retreat with plunge pools, hydrotherapy circuits, and an extensive menu of holistic treatments.
The Details:
- Distance to Puerto Vallarta airport: 7 miles, making it a quick transfer for families.
- Wi-Fi: Included throughout the resort.
- Facilities for Families: Kid’s Club, Teen’s Club, and Baby Concierge, ensuring all age groups are well catered for.
- Gratuities: Included in the all-inclusive package.
- Rates: Starting at $909 per night.
Hotel Xcaret Mexico
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/TAL-hotel-xcaret-mexico-FAMALLINCLMX0424-efde4533fe2f4505b6b4bdb565dd2537.jpg)
Hotel Xcaret Mexico, a unique and expansive resort in Playa del Carmen, perfect for family adventures.
Also available to book at Hotels.com
What We Like: The room rate is exceptionally inclusive, covering a vast selection of activities, diverse dining options, and even airport transfers, simplifying the vacation experience.
What to Consider: As one of the largest resorts in the Riviera Maya, the sheer size of Hotel Xcaret Mexico might be overwhelming for some guests seeking a more intimate setting.
Few family-friendly all-inclusive resorts achieve the level of excellence found at Hotel Xcaret Mexico. This is likely a key reason why the resort topped our World’s Best list for 2023. This expansive, upscale, family-focused resort is among the largest in the region, boasting 900 beautifully appointed rooms. Yet, despite its scale, one of the most remarkable aspects of Hotel Xcaret Mexico is its ability to maintain a boutique hotel atmosphere. This is perhaps due to the resort’s thoughtfully designed layout, offering numerous distinct areas for guests to relax and explore, ensuring that no single space ever feels overcrowded. This contributes to its reputation as one of the region’s top hotels.
The sprawling grounds are artfully designed to evoke a sense of prehistoric wonder, featuring stone-clad facades, dense tropical foliage, and even a cenote-inspired river embraced by canyon-like walls. (This tranquil river setting is also where you’ll discover the luxurious spa.) Ten restaurants, eight bars, and a comprehensive kids’ club enhance the resort’s amenities. However, the most compelling perk for families is the unlimited, all-inclusive access to all Grupo Xcaret theme parks – with transportation seamlessly included. From exhilarating zip-lining adventures and ATV tours to captivating themed shows and exciting water parks, all these experiences are part of the package, and families can enjoy them as many times as they wish during their stay.
The Details:
- Distance to Cancun airport: 41 miles.
- Wi-Fi: Included throughout the resort.
- Facilities for Families: A dedicated kids’ club and unlimited access to all Grupo Xcaret parks are included, providing unparalleled entertainment value for families.
- Gratuities: Included within the all-inclusive rate.
- Rates: Starting at $900 per night.
Grand Velas Los Cabos
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/TAL-grand-velas-los-cabos-FAMALLINCLMX0424-97425f86917042c5bcdc6b246d580578.jpg)
A luxurious and spacious guest room at Grand Velas Los Cabos, designed for ultimate family comfort.
Also available to book at Expedia.com
What We Like: Every room at this resort offers stunning ocean views and private terraces, enhancing the luxurious experience.
What to Consider: The beach at this location is not swimmable, which is a common characteristic of many beaches in Los Cabos, potentially limiting ocean activities directly from the resort.
Los Cabos presents travelers with a dizzying array of high-end resort choices. However, Grand Velas Los Cabos has firmly established itself as the leader in the market for all-inclusive, luxury resorts tailored for families. It has also earned a distinguished spot on our World’s Best Awards list in 2023, further solidifying its reputation as one of the best mexico family resorts.
This beachfront, sophisticated hotel radiates understated elegance in every detail, yet it remains warmly welcoming to families with a wealth of kid-friendly amenities, ensuring it is far from being stuffy. Rooms are generously sized and feature modern yet comfortable décor, all boasting ocean and pool views from private balconies. Many suites even include private plunge pools for added luxury and relaxation. Guests familiar with Grand Velas will recognize signature restaurant concepts like Frida, Lucca, and Piaf, while unique dining experiences specific to this resort include Velas 10 and Cocina de Autor. A comprehensively equipped kids’ club offers everything from Wii and Xbox consoles to engaging activities like jewelry-making and treasure hunts. Teenagers have their own dedicated, stylish space featuring pool tables, air hockey, a dance floor, and a private cafeteria. Adults can indulge in relaxation at the expansive spa or unwind at the central multi-level pool deck.
The Details:
- Distance to San Jose del Cabo airport: 20 miles.
- Wi-Fi: Included throughout the resort.
- Facilities for Families: Dedicated Kid’s Club and Teen’s Club, providing age-appropriate entertainment and activities.
- Gratuities: Included in the all-inclusive package.
- Rates: Starting at $1,552 per night.
Mahekal Beach Resort
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/TAL-mahekal-beach-resort-FAMALLINCLMX0424-608bfea02a5840aeb0f6043570f87ae9.jpg)
Picturesque beachfront setting at Mahekal Beach Resort, offering a unique family vacation experience in Mexico.
Also available to book at Expedia.com
What We Like: This beachfront resort is conveniently located within walking distance of Playa del Carmen’s famous Fifth Avenue, offering easy access to local attractions and nightlife.
What to Consider: Rooms at Mahekal Beach Resort intentionally do not include televisions, which may be a departure from typical resort amenities and could affect entertainment options within the room.
A stretch of soft, white sand and rows of charming palapa-topped bungalows nestled within shady palm groves create an atmosphere that makes you forget you’re in a resort right in the heart of downtown Playa del Carmen. Mahekal Beach Resort, consistently recognized as a favorite all-inclusive resort in Mexico and a World’s Best winner in 2023, offers guests the best of both worlds. It boasts one of the most beautiful beaches in Playa del Carmen while being just steps away from the vibrant and energetic Quinta Avenida, lined with excellent restaurants, lively bars, and diverse entertainment options. Families are particularly drawn to this resort for its prime beachfront location, its bohemian-chic beachfront bungalows, the family-friendly pool area, and its convenient proximity to downtown attractions.
The Details:
- Distance to Cancun airport: 35 miles.
- Wi-Fi: Included for guest convenience.
- Facilities for Families: Features like ping pong, a family pool, ceramic painting activities, and a dedicated family-friendly pool area provide entertainment for all ages.
- Gratuities: Included in the all-inclusive package.
- Rates: Starting at $543 per night for the all-inclusive experience.
Garza Blanca Preserve Resort & Spa Puerto Vallarta
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/TAL-garza-blanca-preserve-resort-FAMALLINCLMX0424-a426ae8b077947b28c8b1b313c8b4ab9.jpg)
A beautifully appointed guest suite at Garza Blanca Preserve Resort & Spa, designed for family luxury in Puerto Vallarta.
Also available to book at Expedia.com
What We Like: This resort boasts one of the best locations in Puerto Vallarta, offering breathtaking views of the Bahia de Banderas and the surrounding natural beauty.
What to Consider: Guests staying at the adjacent adults-only Hotel Mousai are granted access to the facilities at Garza Blanca, but this reciprocal access is not extended to Garza Blanca guests visiting Hotel Mousai.
While I often recommend exploring Puerto Vallarta beyond the confines of all-inclusive resorts, Garza Blanca Preserve is a notable exception. I highly recommend this resort for families due to its spectacular location, generously proportioned rooms, and a wide array of adventure-focused activities. It truly stands out amongst mexico family resorts in the Puerto Vallarta area.
Puerto Vallarta and the Bay of Banderas are prime destinations for nature enthusiasts and active travelers, and Garza Blanca Preserve places families at the heart of all the action. Each of the 165 rooms at the resort treats guests to stunning ocean views, complemented by the lush, jungle-covered mountains of the Sierra Madre as a backdrop. The property features three pools: two located by the beach and one situated in the central area between Garza Blanca and its adults-only sister resort, Hotel Mousai. A small, white sand beach in front of the resort allows guests to easily launch kayaks directly from the shore and explore the nearby coves and natural landmarks that dot the coastline. Hiking trails are abundant in the surrounding area, and the hotel staff are readily available to provide guidance and directions.
While the resort does not have a dedicated kids’ club, families who enjoy spending quality time together with ample on-site activities will find themselves perfectly at home here. A newly developed shopping village, nestled between Garza Blanca and Hotel Mousai, features a selection of locally sourced boutiques, a charming vintage-inspired carousel, and several dining options, adding to the resort’s family-friendly appeal.
The Details:
- Distance to Puerto Vallarta airport: 10 miles.
- Wi-Fi: Included for all guests.
- Facilities for Families: While there isn’t a dedicated Kid’s Club, the resort offers numerous family-oriented activities and amenities.
- Gratuities: Included in the resort package.
- Rates: Starting at $992 per night.
Grand Palladium Costa Mujeres Resort & Spa
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/TAL-grand-palladium-costa-mujeres-FAMALLINCLMX0424-fab51bc65d1840569c7142a20dc822a5.jpg)
A beautifully designed pool area at Grand Palladium Costa Mujeres Resort & Spa, ideal for family relaxation and fun.
Also available to book at Expedia.com
What We Like: This beachfront resort is designed to cater to every family member, featuring a dedicated kids’ pool, a luxurious spa for adults, and a beautiful stretch of sandy beach for everyone to enjoy.
What to Consider: Given the extensive size of the resort, navigating between different areas may require a significant amount of walking, which could be a factor for families with young children or mobility concerns.
Located just 30 minutes north of the bustling Cancun Hotel Zone, Costa Mujeres offers travelers a tranquil and more secluded section of the Mexican Caribbean, characterized by idyllic, pristine beaches. Here, the Grand Palladium Costa Mujeres stands as a sprawling resort designed to captivate families at every turn. It is a prime example of excellent mexico family resorts in the Cancun area.
The expansive 670-suite resort boasts an impressive array of amenities, including 10 restaurants, 19 bars, a lavish spa, and numerous activities tailored for children. While the property is considerable in size, it features a charming design incorporating man-made canals where boats gently transport guests around the resort. Of course, walking and golf cart services are also readily available for getting around. For families, the premier accommodation choice is the Family Selection suites, which operate as an exclusive hotel within the larger resort and are specifically geared towards families with children.
Unique amenities offered within the Family Selection include access to a dedicated fun zone with video games, engaging cooking classes, arts and crafts sessions, a personalized mini-bar selection, and a special milk-and-cookies turndown service before bedtime. Adults who are part of the Family Selection also enjoy access to the more exclusive dining venues at the adjacent sister resort, TRS Coral Hotel, adding an extra layer of luxury to the family vacation experience.
The Details:
- Distance to Cancun airport: 21 miles.
- Wi-Fi: Included throughout the resort premises.
- Facilities for Families: Offers a Family Selection option that includes VIP services and amenities exclusively for families, enhancing the family vacation experience.
- Gratuities: Included in the all-inclusive package.
- Rates: Starting at $912 per night.
Hard Rock Hotel Los Cabos
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/TAL-hard-rock-hotel-los-cabos-FAMALLINCLMX0424-bd81d23aca3d41daa79c2868a464b1d2.jpg)
A vibrant pool area at Hard Rock Hotel Los Cabos, offering a fun-filled vacation for rockstar families.
Also available to book at Expedia.com
What We Like: Hard Rock Hotel Los Cabos provides an extensive range of options and activities designed specifically for families, ensuring there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
What to Consider: The beach at this location is not suitable for swimming due to strong currents, which is typical for the Los Cabos region.
Hard Rock Hotels has established a significant presence in Mexico, with numerous properties that invite travelers to embrace their inner rock star. However, the Los Cabos resort, which opened in 2019, particularly captured attention. This 639-room resort shines like a neon-illuminated oasis against the stark desert backdrop of the Baja Peninsula. The resort directly faces the powerful Pacific Ocean, which, while not safe for swimming, adds a dramatic visual and auditory element to the setting, providing a constant, booming soundtrack.
Although ocean swimming isn’t an option directly in front of the resort (a common trait in Cabo), Hard Rock Hotel Los Cabos more than compensates with its impressive collection of pools – five in total, including exciting water slides and convenient swim-up bars. While adults explore the eight diverse dining options or indulge in a signature massage at the Rock Spa®, kids can enjoy the Hard Rock Roxity Kids Club™, Teens Club, or even the on-site bowling alley. True to the Hard Rock brand, guests can expect to find dazzling rock star memorabilia, music-themed activities throughout the resort, and rooms equipped with outdoor hydro spa soaking tubs, creating a unique and entertaining family vacation experience among mexico family resorts.
The Details:
- Distance to San Jose del Cabo airport: 35 miles.
- Wi-Fi: Included throughout the hotel.
- Facilities for Families: Features Hard Rock Roxity Kids Club™, Teens Club, Music Lab, and a Bowling Alley, ensuring a wide range of entertainment for younger guests.
- Gratuities: Included in the all-inclusive offering.
- Rates: Starting at $626 per night.
Paradisus Cancun
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/TAL-paradisus-cancun-FAMALLINCLMX0424-d40780e9fffa424694d5b7dabdc2c822.jpg)
The iconic pyramid structures and expansive pool area at Paradisus Cancun, a landmark among mexico family resorts.
Also available to book at Tripadvisor.com
What We Like: A dedicated family concierge service is available to enhance your stay with special perks and amenities tailored for families, providing personalized attention.
What to Consider: While the amenities are extensive, some aspects of the rooms could benefit from updates and modernization to align with contemporary standards.
Paradisus Cancun is instantly recognizable while driving through Cancun’s Hotel Zone. Its distinctive collection of five gleaming white pyramids overlooking a beautiful stretch of beach makes it a landmark destination. Fortunately, the hotel offers much more than just striking architecture. The 525-room Paradisus Cancun is a luxury all-inclusive resort situated on one of the finest beachfronts in Cancun. While the rooms could use some refreshing, they are spacious and offer either ocean or lagoon views.
The amenities are plentiful, ranging from numerous restaurants and bars to direct beach access, a large pool complex, a nine-hole golf course, and the YHI Spa. Families particularly benefit from the Family Concierge services, which can be booked to elevate their stay with additional in-room amenities and family-focused activities. Guests utilizing the Family Concierge can communicate directly with their dedicated concierge for assistance throughout the day, whether to secure reservations at preferred restaurants or to help schedule activities and excursions. Children are welcomed with special beach kits, kid-sized bathrobes and slippers, dedicated bathroom amenities, milk and cookies at turndown service, and children’s beverages stocked in the minibar. For in-room entertainment, families can even request a PlayStation, making Paradisus Cancun a Cancun all-inclusive option with something to appeal to every family member.
The Details:
- Distance to Cancun airport: 12 miles, offering a short transfer for families.
- Wi-Fi: Included for guest convenience.
- Facilities for Families: Family Concierge service, Kids amenities, and a structured activities program designed for children.
- Gratuities: Included in the all-inclusive plan.
- Rates: Starting at $567 per night.
Villa del Palmar at the Islands of Loreto by Danzante Bay
Also available to book at Expedia.com
What We Like: This relatively undiscovered all-inclusive resort boasts one of the most breathtaking locations on Mexico’s Sea of Cortez, offering a tranquil and scenic escape.
What to Consider: Unless you are able to fly directly into the Loreto airport, reaching the resort involves a very long drive from Los Cabos, which may be challenging for some families.
It remains somewhat surprising that Loreto, Baja California Sur, is not a more bustling tourist destination, especially considering it has an international airport. However, those who appreciate this peaceful town along the Sea of Cortez coast are likely content with its unhurried pace. Loreto is a hidden gem, offering a unique charm with its sandy streets, relaxed atmosphere, and prime location overlooking the clear waters of the Sea of Cortez, making it an ideal spot for mexico family resorts seeking tranquility.
Located approximately six hours north of Cabo San Lucas, Loreto is distinct from typical Mexican resort hubs, lacking the dense clusters of hotels and resorts. However, it is home to a standout property: Villa del Palmar at the Islands of Loreto. Protected by towering mountains on one side and overlooking the stunning island-dotted Danzante Bay on the other, this beautiful hotel occupies nearly 4,500 acres of natural landscape, including secluded, Capri-like coves, pristine beaches, five swimming pools, a sprawling 39,000-square-foot spa, and an 18-hole golf course designed by Rees Jones. A significant $42 million investment in 2022 led to the renovation of 338 suites and the addition of a new wing with 158 rooms, enhancing the resort’s luxury offerings.
Families are drawn to this resort for the sheer volume of activities available, from snorkeling and kayaking directly off the shore in the Loreto Bay National Marine Park to an extensive list of activities specifically designed for children – including kids’ yoga, pool games, movie nights, nature walks, dance classes, and even Spanish lessons. Themed nights at the resort provide entertainment for the whole family, featuring live performances of family-favorite musicals and vibrant Mexican-themed fiestas.
The Details:
- Distance to airport: 25 miles from Loreto International Airport; 317 miles from Los Cabos, highlighting the more remote location.
- Wi-Fi: Complimentary in common areas.
- Facilities for Families: Dedicated kids’ activities, diverse water sports options, family-friendly shows, and themed entertainment nights.
- Gratuities: Not included, allowing guests to manage tipping according to service.
- Rates: Starting at $714 per night.
Know Before You Go
Consider the Season
Mexico welcomes visitors throughout the year, but certain times are more optimal for travel, particularly for beach destinations. The most favorable weather is typically from November through April. The weather becomes intensely hot and humid around July and August. September and October are frequently within hurricane season. Additionally, in Cancun and the surrounding Riviera Maya region, sargassum seaweed season, which can affect beach conditions, typically runs from April through October. Planning your trip outside of these less favorable periods can enhance your family vacation experience at mexico family resorts.
Amenities Sometimes Outweigh Location
While a beachfront hotel is often desired, sometimes environmental factors can influence the beach experience. For instance, many beaches in Los Cabos are not safe for swimming due to strong currents. Similarly, during sargassum season in Cancun and the Riviera Maya, beaches can be affected by seaweed. Choosing an all-inclusive resort that offers a wealth of amenities and a stunning pool area, such as those in Playa del Carmen, can ensure that everyone in the family finds enjoyable activities regardless of beach conditions.
Beware of the Time Share Presentation
Many hotels and resorts in Mexico often have timeshare desks on their properties, staffed by salespeople aiming to attract new timeshare owners. If purchasing a timeshare is not part of your vacation plans, it is perfectly acceptable to politely but firmly state that you are not interested. Sales tactics can sometimes be persistent, so it’s important to be prepared to confidently decline if you wish to avoid these presentations.
How We Chose These Hotels
Selecting the best family-friendly all-inclusive resorts from the hundreds available across Mexico can be a challenging task. Several hotels on this list earned their place due to recognition in our annual World’s Best awards, where hundreds of thousands of Travel + Leisure readers vote for their favorite hotels globally.
In addition to these award-winning properties, expertise from author Meagan Drillinger was incorporated. With 15 years of experience covering Mexico extensively, she has personally visited numerous resorts nationwide. Her selections prioritized the quality of guest experiences, resort design, thoughtful details, and family-oriented services and amenities. Drillinger has reviewed hundreds of hotels in Mexico and worldwide throughout her career as a travel writer.
As with all our hotel selections, editors ensure that every hotel recommendation aligns with our core T+L Hotel Values, focusing on providing valuable and trustworthy recommendations for our readers seeking the best mexico family resorts.
