Mexico has solidified its position as a premier destination for family vacations worldwide. Its inviting sandy beaches, balmy waters, and a plethora of family-oriented activities are major draws. Accessibility is another key advantage, especially for families in the United States, with flight times as short as four hours from many US cities to popular Mexican locales like Los Cabos, Puerto Vallarta, and the Mexican Caribbean. This ease of travel is a significant perk when traveling with children.
Finding a family-friendly, all-inclusive resort in Mexico is not a challenge; the difficulty lies in selecting the ideal one from the abundant options. Mexico boasts an impressive collection of exceptional all-inclusive resorts designed to cater to families. Whether you prefer the dramatic desert landscapes of the Baja Peninsula or the tranquil turquoise waters of the Mexican Caribbean, families seeking a stress-free beach getaway are spoiled for choice.
Our curated list of the best all-inclusive, family-friendly resorts in Mexico is a blend of award-winning establishments recognized by Travel & Leisure and editor-recommended favorites. These resorts are distinguished by their outstanding service, stunning aesthetics, prime locations, and, crucially, their comprehensive kid-friendly amenities. Explore our top selections for unforgettable family all-inclusive vacations in Mexico.
Grand Velas Riviera Maya
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Alt text: Luxurious suite at Grand Velas Riviera Maya, showcasing elegant design and spaciousness, ideal for families seeking comfort in Playa del Carmen.
What We Like: This all-suite resort boasts an impressive 1,000-foot stretch of pristine white sand beach, providing ample space for families to relax and play.
What to Consider: While the resort offers extensive activities for children and teenagers, the selection of evening entertainment options for adults is somewhat limited.
Grand Velas Riviera Maya stands out as one of the most refined resorts in the Mexican Caribbean, and arguably in all of Mexico. Despite its sophisticated ambiance, it is also recognized as one of the best all-inclusive resorts for families in Mexico, a testament solidified by its 2023 World’s Best Awards win.
This expansive 491-suite resort is nestled between 80 acres of lush mangrove forest and a soft, powdery white-sand beach. The suites are distributed across three distinct buildings, two of which are specifically designed to be family-friendly. Each building operates almost as a separate, smaller hotel within the larger resort, 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 array of restaurants. The Ambassador building’s proximity to the beach is another advantage for families. Both the Ambassador and Grand Class buildings offer excellent kids’ clubs and a variety of connecting room options, making it easier for families to stay together. Most restaurants also feature kid-friendly menus, ensuring dining is stress-free for parents. Grand Velas Riviera Maya truly represents the pinnacle of luxury and family-friendliness in Mexican all-inclusive resorts.
The Details:
- Distance to Cancun airport: 33 miles
- Wi-Fi: Yes
- Facilities for Families: Kid’s Club, Teen’s Club, and Baby Concierge services are available to cater to families with children of all ages.
- Gratuities: Yes
- Rates: Start at $1,315
Grand Velas Riviera Nayarit
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Alt text: Elegant dining area at Grand Velas Riviera Nayarit, showcasing sophisticated ambiance and culinary excellence, perfect for family fine dining experiences in Puerto Vallarta.
What We Like: The resort features a sprawling spa with 20 treatment rooms and comprehensive hydrotherapy facilities, offering a haven for relaxation and rejuvenation for parents.
What to Consider: Due to its popularity, the resort can often reach full capacity and may feel crowded, especially during peak travel seasons.
If an all-inclusive Puerto Vallarta resort can achieve the status of a Grande Dame, Grand Velas Riviera Nayarit undoubtedly fits the description. As an icon along the Riviera Nayarit coastline and a consistent World’s Best Award winner, Grand Velas Riviera Nayarit has established a benchmark for luxury all-inclusive resort experiences, particularly for families.
The 265-room resort is comprised entirely of suites, each featuring a private balcony, stunning ocean views, and abundant space bathed in sunlight. The resort’s centerpiece is its captivating central infinity pool, cascading down three levels before merging seamlessly with 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 offer age-appropriate activities, while a specialized baby concierge service assists parents with necessities like strollers and bassinets. Culinary experiences are diverse and outstanding with six restaurants ranging from casual beachfront fare to gourmet French, Italian, Mexican, and Pan-Asian cuisine, establishing it as a foodie’s paradise within the all-inclusive resort landscape. For adults seeking respite, the 20-treatment room spa provides a luxurious escape with plunge pools, hydrotherapy circuits, and a wide array of holistic treatments.
The Details:
- Distance to Puerto Vallarta airport: 7 miles
- Wi-Fi: Included
- Facilities for Families: Kid’s Club, Teen’s Club, Baby Concierge ensures a comfortable stay for families with young children.
- Gratuities: Included
- Rates: Start at $909
Hotel Xcaret Mexico
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Alt text: Unique architectural design of Hotel Xcaret Mexico in Playa del Carmen, showcasing natural integration and Mayan-inspired elements, appealing to families seeking cultural experiences.
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 planning process for families.
What to Consider: As one of the largest resorts in the Riviera Maya, its expansive size might require significant walking to navigate the entire property.
Few family-friendly all-inclusive resorts achieve the level of excellence found at Hotel Xcaret Mexico. This is a key reason why it topped our World’s Best list for 2023. This massive, upscale, family-oriented resort is among the largest in the region, featuring 900 exquisitely designed rooms. Despite its scale, Hotel Xcaret Mexico maintains a surprisingly boutique atmosphere. This is likely due to the thoughtfully designed layout that offers numerous distinct areas for guests to explore and relax, preventing any single space from feeling overcrowded, a quality rarely found in top-tier hotels in the region.
The extensive grounds are designed with a prehistoric aesthetic, incorporating stone-faced structures, dense tropical vegetation, and a cenote-inspired river bordered by canyon-like walls. This tranquil river setting also houses the resort’s luxurious spa. Ten restaurants, eight bars, and a comprehensive kids’ club enhance the resort’s amenities. However, the standout feature for families is the unlimited, all-inclusive access to all Grupo Xcaret theme parks, including transportation. This perk encompasses zip-lining, ATV adventures, captivating themed shows, and thrilling water parks, all accessible as many times as desired during your stay.
The Details:
- Distance to Cancun airport: 41 miles
- Wi-Fi: Included
- Facilities for Families: A dedicated kids’ club and unlimited access to Grupo Xcaret parks are included, providing unparalleled entertainment for families.
- Gratuities: Included
- Rates: Start at $900
Grand Velas Los Cabos
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Alt text: Modern and luxurious guest suite at Grand Velas Los Cabos, featuring ocean views and a private terrace, ideal for families seeking upscale accommodations in Los Cabos.
What We Like: Every room at this resort offers stunning ocean views and private terraces, ensuring a scenic and relaxing stay for all guests.
What to Consider: The beach at this location is not swimmable, which is typical for Los Cabos, and families looking for ocean swimming should consider alternative beach activities.
Los Cabos presents a wealth of high-end resort options, making the choice overwhelming for travelers. However, Grand Velas Los Cabos distinguishes itself as the premier all-inclusive, luxury resort tailored for families. It has consistently earned recognition, including a place on our World’s Best Awards list in 2023.
This beachfront hotel exudes understated elegance in every detail, yet it remains warmly welcoming to families with a plethora of kid-friendly amenities, avoiding any sense of stuffiness. Rooms are generously sized and feature modern yet comfortable décor, each offering ocean and pool views from private balconies. Select suites even include private plunge pools. Guests familiar with Grand Velas will recognize signature restaurant concepts like Frida, Lucca, and Piaf, alongside resort-exclusive dining experiences at Velas 10 and Cocina del Autor. A well-equipped kids’ club offers a range of activities from Wii and Xbox gaming to creative pursuits like jewelry-making and treasure hunts. Teenagers have their own separate, sophisticated space complete with pool tables, air hockey, a dance floor, and a dedicated cafeteria. Adults can indulge in relaxation at the expansive spa or unwind by the central multi-level pool complex.
The Details:
- Distance to San Jose del Cabo airport: 20 miles
- Wi-Fi: Included
- Facilities for Families: Kid’s Club and Teen’s Club provide age-specific entertainment and activities.
- Gratuities: Included
- Rates: Start at $1,552
Explore more Los Cabos All-inclusive Resorts for a Sunny, Stress-free Getaway
Mahekal Beach Resort
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Alt text: Serene beachfront setting of Mahekal Beach Resort in Playa del Carmen, featuring palapa-topped bungalows and lush palm trees, perfect for a bohemian family escape.
What We Like: This beachfront resort is conveniently located within walking distance of Playa del Carmen’s renowned Fifth Avenue, offering easy access to local attractions and nightlife.
What to Consider: Rooms at Mahekal Beach Resort do not include televisions, which may be a consideration for families who prefer in-room entertainment options.
Stepping onto the fluffy white sand beach and seeing rows of palapa-topped bungalows nestled among shady palm groves, it’s easy to forget you are in a resort located in the heart of downtown Playa del Carmen. Mahekal Beach Resort, consistently one of my favorite all-inclusive resorts in Mexico and a World’s Best winner in 2023, provides guests with an ideal combination of beachside tranquility and urban accessibility. It boasts one of the most beautiful beaches in Playa del Carmen while being just steps away from the vibrant Quinta Avenida, known for its excellent restaurants, lively bars, and entertainment venues. Families appreciate this resort for its prime beachfront location, charming boho-chic beachfront bungalows, a family-friendly pool, and its proximity to downtown Playa del Carmen’s attractions.
The Details:
- Distance to Cancun airport: 35 miles
- Wi-Fi: Included
- Facilities for Families: Activities like ping pong, a pool, ceramic painting, and a dedicated family-friendly pool cater to family enjoyment.
- Gratuities: Included
- Rates: Start at $543 for all-inclusive
Garza Blanca Preserve Resort & Spa Puerto Vallarta
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Alt text: Luxurious and spacious guest room at Garza Blanca Preserve Resort & Spa in Puerto Vallarta, offering stunning ocean views and modern amenities, ideal for discerning families.
What We Like: The resort enjoys one of the best locations in Puerto Vallarta, offering breathtaking views of the Bahia de Banderas, enhancing the scenic vacation experience.
What to Consider: Guests staying at the adjacent adults-only Hotel Mousai have access to facilities at Garza Blanca, but this reciprocal access is not extended to Garza Blanca guests, which may affect pool and amenity availability during peak times.
While I don’t often recommend all-inclusive resorts in Puerto Vallarta, Garza Blanca Preserve is a notable exception. I highly recommend this resort for families due to its spectacular location, generously sized rooms, and a wide array of adventure-based activities available both on and off the property.
Puerto Vallarta and the Bay of Banderas are ideal destinations for nature enthusiasts and active travelers, and Garza Blanca Preserve positions families perfectly to take advantage of all the region offers. Each of the 165 rooms at the resort offers guests stunning ocean vistas, complemented by views of the lush, jungle-covered Sierra Madre mountains. The property features three pools: two situated by the beach and one centrally located 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 and explore the nearby coves and natural landmarks along the shoreline. Hiking trails are abundant in the surrounding area, and the hotel staff is readily available to provide guidance and recommendations.
While the resort doesn’t have a dedicated kids’ club, families who enjoy spending quality time together with numerous on-site activities will find it exceptionally appealing. A recently opened shopping village located between Garza Blanca and Hotel Mousai adds to the amenities, featuring local boutiques, a vintage-inspired carousel, and several dining options.
The Details:
- Distance to Puerto Vallarta airport: 10 miles
- Wi-Fi: Included
- Facilities for Families: Kid’s Club available, although the resort focuses more on family-integrated activities.
- Gratuities: Included
- Rates: Start at $992
Grand Palladium Costa Mujeres Resort & Spa
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Alt text: Expansive pool area at Grand Palladium Costa Mujeres Resort & Spa, featuring clear blue waters and family-friendly amenities, inviting for a Cancun family vacation.
What We Like: This beachfront resort is designed to cater to every family member, offering a dedicated kids’ pool, a luxurious spa for adults, and a beautiful stretch of beach for everyone to enjoy.
What to Consider: The resort’s large size means that getting around the property may involve considerable walking, which could be tiring for families with young children or those with mobility concerns.
Located just 30 minutes north of Cancun’s bustling Hotel Zone, Grand Palladium Costa Mujeres offers a tranquil and more secluded setting in the Mexican Caribbean, characterized by the pristine, white beaches of Costa Mujeres. Here, the Grand Palladium Costa Mujeres is an expansive resort designed to entertain families at every turn.
The 670-suite resort features an impressive array of amenities, including 10 restaurants, 19 bars, a lavish spa, and numerous activities for children. Despite its significant size, the resort incorporates a whimsical design with man-made canals where boats transport guests around the property, offering a unique and enjoyable way to navigate. Alternatively, guests can walk or use golf carts to travel between locations. For families, the Family Selection suites are highly recommended. These suites function as an exclusive hotel within the larger resort and are specifically tailored to meet the needs of families with children.
Unique amenities for Family Selection guests include access to a fun zone with video games, cooking classes, arts and crafts sessions, a personalized mini-bar selection, and a special milk-and-cookies turndown service. Adults in the Family Selection also enjoy access to the more exclusive dining options at the adjacent sister resort, TRS Coral Hotel.
The Details:
- Distance to Cancun airport: 21 miles
- Wi-Fi: Included
- Facilities for Families: Family Selection option provides VIP services and amenities specifically for families, enhancing the all-inclusive experience.
- Gratuities: Included
- Rates: Start at $912
Hard Rock Hotel Los Cabos
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Alt text: Lively pool scene at Hard Rock Hotel Los Cabos, showcasing family-friendly water features and vibrant atmosphere, perfect for energetic family vacations.
What We Like: Hard Rock Hotel Los Cabos offers an extensive range of options and activities specifically designed for families, ensuring there is something for every age group and interest.
What to Consider: The beach at this location is not suitable for swimming due to strong currents, which is typical for the Los Cabos area, and families should plan to utilize the resort’s pool facilities for swimming.
Hard Rock Hotels has a significant presence throughout Mexico, each inviting travelers to embrace their inner rock star. The Los Cabos resort, opened in 2019, particularly stands out. This 639-room resort shines like a neon-lit oasis against the stark desert landscape of the Baja Peninsula. It directly faces the Pacific Ocean, where the crashing waves, while unsafe for swimming, create a dramatic backdrop and a powerful natural soundtrack.
While ocean swimming is not an option (common in Cabo), Hard Rock Hotel Los Cabos compensates with its impressive pool complex, featuring five pools including water slides and swim-up bars. While adults explore the eight diverse dining venues or enjoy a signature treatment at the Rock Spa, children can enjoy the Hard Rock Roxity Kids Club, Teens Club, or even the on-site bowling alley. Guests at Hard Rock Hotel Los Cabos can expect the brand’s signature rock star memorabilia, music-themed activities, and rooms equipped with outdoor hydro spa soaking tubs.
The Details:
- Distance to San Jose del Cabo airport: 35 miles
- Wi-Fi: Included
- Facilities for Families: Hard Rock Roxity Kids Club, Teens Club, Music Lab, and a Bowling Alley offer a wide variety of entertainment for all ages.
- Gratuities: Included
- Rates: Start at $626
Find more Spring Break Ideas for Family Vacations
Paradisus Cancun
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Alt text: Striking pyramid architecture of Paradisus Cancun overlooking a large pool, emphasizing the resort’s unique design and appeal for family vacations in Cancun.
What We Like: A dedicated family concierge service is available to enhance your stay with exclusive perks and amenities, providing personalized assistance and care for families.
What to Consider: While spacious and well-appointed, the rooms at Paradisus Cancun are due for a refresh to maintain a modern and updated feel.
Paradisus Cancun is hard to miss when traveling through Cancun’s Hotel Zone, distinguished by its collection of five gleaming white pyramids overlooking a beautiful stretch of beach. The hotel lives up to its striking architecture, offering a luxurious all-inclusive experience on one of Cancun’s best beachfronts. The 525-room Paradisus Cancun provides spacious accommodations with ocean or lagoon views, though some areas are ready for updates.
The amenities are extensive, ranging from numerous restaurants and bars to a pristine beach, 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. A Family Concierge is available to assist with various needs throughout the day, from securing reservations at preferred restaurants to scheduling activities and excursions. Children receive special beach kits, kid-sized bathrobes and slippers, exclusive bathroom amenities, milk and cookies at bedtime, and children’s beverages in the minibar. Guests can even request a PlayStation for in-room entertainment, making Paradisus Cancun a Cancun all-inclusive resort that truly caters to everyone in the family.
The Details:
- Distance to Cancun airport: 12 miles
- Wi-Fi: Included
- Facilities for Families: Family Concierge services and a dedicated kids’ amenities and activities program ensure a tailored and enjoyable family vacation.
- Gratuities: Included
- Rates: Start at $567
Villa del Palmar at the Islands of Loreto by Danzante Bay
Alt text: Panoramic view of Villa del Palmar at the Islands of Loreto, showcasing its stunning location on Danzante Bay, ideal for families seeking a secluded and scenic Mexican getaway.
What We Like: This under-the-radar all-inclusive resort boasts one of the most spectacular locations on Mexico’s Sea of Cortez, offering unspoiled natural beauty and tranquility.
What to Consider: Reaching the resort can be challenging unless flying directly into Loreto airport, as it is a significant drive from Los Cabos, making accessibility a factor for some families.
It remains surprising that Loreto, Baja California Sur, is not a more bustling tourist destination, despite having an international airport. However, those who appreciate this tranquil town along the Sea of Cortez coast are likely content with its peaceful ambiance. Loreto is a hidden gem, cherished for its sandy streets, relaxed atmosphere, and prime location overlooking the clear waters of the Sea of Cortez.
Located about six hours north of Cabo San Lucas, Loreto is not lined with numerous hotels and resorts. However, Villa del Palmar at the Islands of Loreto stands out as a premier destination. Protected by towering mountains on one side and overlooking the picturesque island-dotted Danzante Bay, this stunning hotel is set on nearly 4,500 acres of natural landscape, including secluded coves reminiscent of Capri, pristine beaches, five pools, a sprawling 39,000-square-foot spa, and an 18-hole golf course designed by Rees Jones. A substantial $42 million investment in 2022 led to the renovation of 338 suites and the addition of a new wing with 158 rooms.
Families are drawn to this resort for its extensive array of activities, from snorkeling and kayaking in the Loreto Bay National Marine Park, accessible directly from the shore, to a comprehensive list of kids’ activities including kids’ yoga, pool games, movie nights, nature walks, dance lessons, and even Spanish lessons. The resort also hosts family-friendly theme nights with live performances of popular musicals and Mexican-themed fiestas, ensuring entertainment for all ages.
The Details:
- Distance to airport: 25 miles from Loreto International Airport; 317 miles from Los Cabos
- Wi-Fi: Free in common areas
- Facilities for Families: Dedicated kids’ activities, water sports, family-friendly shows, and theme nights provide diverse entertainment options for families.
- Gratuities: Not included
- Rates: Start at $714
Know Before You Go
Consider the season
Mexico is a year-round destination, but the optimal times to visit its beach destinations are typically from November through April, offering the most pleasant weather. The weather becomes very hot and humid around July and August. Hurricane season is often during September and October. Additionally, in Cancun and the Riviera Maya, sargassum seaweed season can be a factor from April through October.
Amenities sometimes outweigh location
While a beachfront hotel is often desirable, sometimes the natural conditions may present challenges. For example, many beaches in Los Cabos are not safe for swimming. In Cancun and Riviera Maya, seaweed can be prevalent during sargassum season. Choosing an all-inclusive resort that is rich in amenities and features attractive pool areas, such as in Playa del Carmen, can ensure that everyone in the family finds enjoyable activities regardless of beach conditions.
Beware of the timeshare presentation
Many hotels and resorts in Mexico have timeshare sales desks on their properties, staffed with salespeople seeking to recruit new timeshare owners. If purchasing a timeshare is not part of your vacation plan, 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.
How We Chose These Hotels
Selecting the best family-friendly all-inclusive resorts from hundreds across Mexico is a complex task. Several resorts on this list were chosen because they have been recognized in our annual World’s Best awards, where hundreds of thousands of T+L readers vote for their favorite hotels globally.
In addition to these award-winning properties, expertise from author Meagan Drillinger was invaluable. With 15 years of experience covering Mexico extensively, she has personally visited hundreds of resorts throughout the country. Her selections were based on the quality of guest experience, resort design, thoughtful details, and family-friendly services and amenities. Meagan Drillinger has reviewed countless hotels in Mexico and worldwide throughout her career as a travel writer.
As with all our hotel recommendations, editors ensure that each resort aligns with our core T+L Hotel Values.
