Mexico has long been celebrated as a premier destination for families seeking sun-drenched escapes. With its captivating blend of pristine beaches, invitingly warm waters, and an exciting array of activities, it’s no wonder Mexico consistently ranks high on family vacation wish lists. Adding to its appeal is the easy accessibility, especially for families residing in the United States. Whether you’re dreaming of the dramatic landscapes of Los Cabos, the vibrant culture of Puerto Vallarta, or the idyllic shores of the Mexican Caribbean, a Mexican paradise is often just a four-hour flight away – a significant perk when traveling with children.
The abundance of family-friendly, all-inclusive resorts in Mexico might seem like a blessing, yet it can quickly become overwhelming when trying to pinpoint the perfect one for your family’s needs. Mexico truly boasts an impressive collection of outstanding all-inclusive resorts designed to cater to families. From the unique desert beauty of the Baja Peninsula to the gentle, turquoise waters of the Caribbean coastline, families in search of a stress-free beach vacation will be spoiled for choice.
Our curated selection of the Top Family Resorts In Mexico represents a blend of award-winning destinations recognized by Travel & Leisure and editor-recommended favorites. These resorts stand out for their exceptional service, stunning aesthetics, prime locations, and, most importantly, their comprehensive kid-friendly amenities. Dive into our guide to discover the best all-inclusive, family-oriented resorts that Mexico has to offer.
Grand Velas Riviera Maya
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Guest room showcasing the elegant design at Grand Velas Riviera Maya, a top family resort in Mexico.
Also available to book at Hotels.com
What We Like: Guests can enjoy direct access to an impressive 1,000-foot expanse of pristine white sand beach at this all-suite property.
What to Consider: While the resort offers an extensive range of activities for children and teenagers, evening entertainment options for adults are somewhat limited compared to family offerings.
Grand Velas Riviera Maya distinguishes itself as one of the most refined resorts in the Mexican Caribbean, if not throughout Mexico. Despite its sophisticated ambiance and top-tier service, it proudly stands as one of the best all-inclusive resorts for families in Mexico and a celebrated 2023 World’s Best Awards recipient.
This expansive 491-suite resort is nestled between 80 acres of lush mangrove forest and a powdery, soft white-sand beach. Suites are thoughtfully distributed across three distinct buildings, two of which are specifically designed with families in mind. Each building operates as a self-contained mini-hotel, complete with its own pools, fitness centers, and dining venues. Families will find themselves perfectly at home in the Ambassador and Grand Class sections, which feature the largest pools and a diverse selection of restaurants. The Ambassador building’s proximity to the beach is another significant advantage. Both the Ambassador and Grand Class buildings offer well-appointed kids’ clubs and a variety of connecting room options. Most of the resort’s restaurants also feature kid-friendly menus, ensuring even the youngest guests are catered to. Grand Velas Riviera Maya is undeniably one of Mexico’s most luxurious and family-oriented all-inclusive destinations.
The Details:
- Distance to Cancun Airport: 33 miles
- Wi-Fi: Yes
- Family Facilities: Dedicated Kid’s Club, Teen’s Club, and specialized Baby Concierge services.
- Gratuities: Yes, included in the rate.
- Rates: Starting from $1,315 per night.
Grand Velas Riviera Nayarit
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Exquisite dining room at Grand Velas Riviera Nayarit, a luxurious family resort in Puerto Vallarta, Mexico.
Also available to book at Expedia.com
What We Like: The resort boasts an expansive spa with 20 treatment rooms and comprehensive hydrotherapy facilities, offering a haven for relaxation.
What to Consider: Due to its popularity and high demand, the resort can frequently reach full capacity and may feel crowded during peak seasons.
If an all-inclusive Puerto Vallarta resort could achieve legendary status, Grand Velas Riviera Nayarit has undoubtedly earned its place. As an icon along the Riviera Nayarit coastline and another esteemed World’s Best Award recipient, Grand Velas Riviera Nayarit has redefined the luxury all-inclusive resort experience.
This 265-room resort exclusively features suites, each boasting a private balcony, captivating ocean views, and abundant sun-drenched living space. The resort’s centerpiece is its stunning central infinity pool, cascading down three levels before merging seamlessly with a spectacular beach – recognized as one of the finest in the Bay of Banderas. Mirroring its Riviera Maya counterpart, the family facilities here are exceptional. Dedicated kids’ and teens’ clubs cater to younger guests, while a specialized baby concierge service assists parents with everything from strollers to cribs. Six diverse restaurants offer culinary journeys from casual beachfront fare to refined French, Italian, Mexican, and Pan-Asian cuisine – solidifying its reputation as a foodie’s paradise within the all-inclusive resort landscape. The 20-treatment room spa provides a luxurious retreat for adults, complete with plunge pools, hydrotherapy circuits, and a wide array of holistic treatments.
The Details:
- Distance to Puerto Vallarta Airport: 7 miles
- Wi-Fi: Included as part of the all-inclusive package.
- Family Facilities: Kid’s Club, Teen’s Club, and Baby Concierge services for seamless family stays.
- Gratuities: Included in the overall rate.
- Rates: Starting from $909 per night.
Hotel Xcaret Mexico
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Hotel Xcaret Mexico in Playa del Carmen, a leading family resort offering unique experiences.
Also available to book at Hotels.com
What We Like: The room rate includes a vast selection of activities, gourmet dining options, and convenient airport transfers, providing exceptional value.
What to Consider: As one of the largest resorts in the Riviera Maya, the expansive property might require significant walking to navigate between different areas.
Few family-friendly all-inclusive resorts achieve the level of excellence seen at Hotel Xcaret Mexico. This exceptional resort rightfully earned the top spot on 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 impressive scale, Hotel Xcaret Mexico retains an unexpectedly intimate and boutique feel. This is likely due to the thoughtfully designed layout, offering numerous secluded spots for guests to relax and explore, preventing any area from feeling overcrowded – a remarkable achievement for one of the region’s premier hotels.
The sprawling grounds evoke a sense of ancient wonder, characterized by stone-faced facades, dense tropical foliage, and even a cenote-inspired river meandering through canyon-like walls. (This serene setting also houses 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, including transportation. From thrilling zip-lining and ATV adventures to captivating themed shows and exhilarating water parks, the entire spectrum of Grupo Xcaret experiences is included, allowing families to enjoy unlimited visits throughout their stay.
The Details:
- Distance to Cancun Airport: 41 miles
- Wi-Fi: Included throughout the resort.
- Family Facilities: A dedicated kids’ club and unlimited access to all Grupo Xcaret parks are included with the room rate, providing unparalleled family entertainment.
- Gratuities: Included in the all-inclusive package.
- Rates: Starting from $900 per night.
Grand Velas Los Cabos
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Ocean view suite at Grand Velas Los Cabos, a top-tier family all-inclusive resort in Mexico.
Also available to book at Expedia.com
What We Like: Every room offers breathtaking ocean views and private terraces, ensuring a luxurious and scenic stay.
What to Consider: Swimming is not advisable at the beach directly in front of the resort, a common characteristic of many Los Cabos beaches.
Los Cabos presents travelers with a dazzling array of high-end resort choices. However, Grand Velas Los Cabos has firmly established itself as the leading all-inclusive, luxury resort for families in the region. It also earned a distinguished spot on our World’s Best Awards list in 2023.
This beachfront, sophisticated hotel radiates understated elegance in every detail, yet its extensive kid-friendly amenities ensure a welcoming atmosphere for families, far from being stuffy. Rooms are generously sized and feature modern yet comfortable décor, all with balconies overlooking the ocean and pools. Many suites even include private plunge pools for added luxury. Grand Velas aficionados will recognize familiar signature restaurant concepts like Frida, Lucca, and Piaf, alongside resort-exclusive dining experiences at Velas 10 and Cocina de Autor. A fully 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 with pool tables, air hockey, a dance floor, and a private snack bar. 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 throughout the resort.
- Family Facilities: Dedicated Kid’s Club and Teen’s Club, ensuring age-appropriate activities and entertainment.
- Gratuities: Included in the all-inclusive rate.
- Rates: Starting from $1,552 per night.
Mahekal Beach Resort
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Charming beachfront bungalows at Mahekal Beach Resort, a unique family resort in Playa del Carmen.
Also available to book at Expedia.com
What We Like: This beachfront resort enjoys a prime location within easy walking distance of Playa del Carmen’s famous Fifth Avenue, offering access to local culture and attractions.
What to Consider: Rooms intentionally do not include televisions, encouraging guests to disconnect and embrace the natural surroundings.
A stretch of soft, white sand and rows of charming palapa-topped bungalows nestled amidst shady palm groves create an atmosphere that feels worlds away from the bustling heart of downtown Playa del Carmen. Mahekal Beach Resort, consistently recognized as one of my personal favorite all-inclusive resorts in Mexico and a 2023 World’s Best winner, offers guests an ideal blend of tranquility and accessibility. 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 exceptional restaurants, bars, and entertainment venues. Families are drawn to this resort for its prime beachfront setting, bohemian-chic beachfront bungalows, family-friendly pool area, and convenient proximity to downtown attractions.
The Details:
- Distance to Cancun Airport: 35 miles
- Wi-Fi: Included throughout the property.
- Family Facilities: Amenities include ping pong, a family-friendly pool, ceramic painting activities, and a dedicated pool area for families.
- Gratuities: Included in the all-inclusive package.
- Rates: Starting from $543 per night for the all-inclusive experience.
Garza Blanca Preserve Resort & Spa Puerto Vallarta
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Oceanfront suite at Garza Blanca Preserve Resort & Spa Puerto Vallarta, a top family resort destination.
Also available to book at Expedia.com
What We Like: The resort enjoys one of the most enviable locations in Puerto Vallarta, offering breathtaking views of the Bahia de Banderas and surrounding natural beauty.
What to Consider: Guests at the neighboring adults-only Hotel Mousai have access to the facilities at Garza Blanca, but this reciprocal access is not extended to Garza Blanca guests for Hotel Mousai.
While I often recommend exploring Puerto Vallarta beyond the confines of all-inclusive resorts, I wholeheartedly make an exception for Garza Blanca Preserve, especially for families. I highly recommend this resort for families due to its spectacular location, generously sized rooms, and diverse array of adventure-focused activities.
Puerto Vallarta and the Bay of Banderas are ideal destinations for nature enthusiasts and active travelers, and Garza Blanca Preserve positions families at the gateway to all the region has to offer. Each of the 165 rooms at the resort treats guests to stunning ocean vistas, framed by the verdant, jungle-covered Sierra Madre mountains. Three pools are located throughout the property: two along the beachfront and one situated in the central area between Garza Blanca and its adults-only sister resort, Hotel Mousai. A small, white sand beach fronts the resort, providing direct access for guests to launch kayaks and explore the coves and natural landmarks along the shoreline. Hiking trails abound in the surrounding area, and the hotel staff is readily available to provide guidance and recommendations.
While the resort does not feature a dedicated kids’ club, families who cherish spending quality time together with ample on-site activities will find themselves perfectly at home here. A newly developed shopping village, situated between Garza Blanca and Hotel Mousai, adds further appeal, featuring a selection of locally sourced boutiques, a charming vintage-inspired carousel, and several dining establishments.
The Details:
- Distance to Puerto Vallarta Airport: 10 miles
- Wi-Fi: Included throughout the resort premises.
- Family Facilities: While there isn’t a dedicated Kid’s Club, the resort offers numerous family-oriented activities and amenities.
- Gratuities: Included in the all-inclusive rate.
- Rates: Starting from $992 per night.
Grand Palladium Costa Mujeres Resort & Spa
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Extensive pool complex at Grand Palladium Costa Mujeres, a family-friendly resort near Cancun.
Also available to book at Expedia.com
What We Like: This beachfront resort provides a wide array of options for every family member, including a dedicated kids’ pool, a luxurious spa for adults, and a beautiful stretch of sandy beach.
What to Consider: The sheer size of the resort can mean considerable walking distances to navigate between different amenities and locations.
Just a 30-minute drive north of Cancun’s bustling Hotel Zone brings travelers to a more tranquil and secluded area of the Mexican Caribbean: the pristine, white beaches of Costa Mujeres. Here, the Grand Palladium Costa Mujeres stands as a sprawling resort designed to entertain families at every turn.
This expansive 670-suite resort boasts 10 restaurants, 19 bars, a palatial spa, and a wealth of activities tailored for children. While the property is substantial in size, it features a whimsical design incorporating man-made canals where boats gracefully transport guests. Of course, walking or utilizing golf carts are also convenient options for getting around. For families, the most advantageous choice is to reserve the Family Selection suites, which function as an exclusive hotel within the larger resort, specifically catering to families with children.
Unique amenities within the Family Selection include access to a dedicated fun zone with video games, engaging cooking classes, arts and crafts sessions, personalized mini-bar selections, and a special milk-and-cookies turndown service. Adults opting for the Family Selection also gain access to the more exclusive dining venues at the adjacent sister resort, TRS Coral Hotel.
The Details:
- Distance to Cancun Airport: 21 miles
- Wi-Fi: Included throughout the resort.
- Family Facilities: The Family Selection option provides exclusive VIP services designed specifically for families, enhancing the family vacation experience.
- Gratuities: Included in the all-inclusive package.
- Rates: Starting from $912 per night.
Hard Rock Hotel Los Cabos
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Dynamic pool area at Hard Rock Hotel Los Cabos, a family-friendly resort with a musical theme.
Also available to book at Expedia.com
What We Like: Hard Rock Hotel Los Cabos offers an extensive array of activities and options specifically designed for families, ensuring entertainment for all ages.
What to Consider: The beach in front of the resort is not suitable for swimming due to strong currents, which is typical for the Los Cabos region.
Hard Rock Hotels has a significant presence across Mexico, each inviting travelers to embrace their inner rock star. However, their Los Cabos resort made waves when it opened in 2019. This 639-room resort shines like a neon-illuminated oasis against the stark desert backdrop of the Baja Peninsula. Facing the resort is the powerful Pacific Ocean, which, while unsafe for swimming, adds a dramatic element to the scenery and provides a natural, booming soundtrack.
While ocean swimming may not be an option (common in Cabo), Hard Rock Hotel Los Cabos compensates with its impressive pool offerings – five distinct pools, 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, the dedicated Teens Club, or even the on-site bowling alley. Naturally, guests at Hard Rock Hotel Los Cabos can expect the brand’s signature glitzy rock memorabilia, music-themed activities, and rooms featuring outdoor hydro spa soaking tubs.
The Details:
- Distance to San Jose del Cabo Airport: 35 miles
- Wi-Fi: Included throughout the resort.
- Family Facilities: Extensive family facilities including Hard Rock Roxity Kids Club, Teens Club, Music Lab, and a Bowling Alley, ensuring diverse entertainment options.
- Gratuities: Included in the all-inclusive rate.
- Rates: Starting from $626 per night.
Paradisus Cancun
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Distinctive pyramid architecture and pool area at Paradisus Cancun, a prominent family resort.
Also available to book at Tripadvisor.com
What We Like: A dedicated family concierge service is available to enhance your stay with exclusive perks and tailored amenities for families.
What to Consider: While spacious and well-appointed, the rooms are showing signs of needing refurbishment to maintain a modern standard.
Paradisus Cancun is instantly recognizable while driving through Cancun’s Hotel Zone. Its collection of five striking white pyramids overlooks a stunning stretch of beach. Fortunately, the hotel offers much more than just impressive architecture. The 525-room Paradisus Cancun is a luxury all-inclusive resort situated on one of the best beachfronts in Cancun. While guest rooms could benefit from a refresh, they are spacious and offer either ocean or lagoon views.
Amenities are plentiful, ranging from numerous restaurants and bars to direct beach access, a sprawling pool complex, a nine-hole golf course, and a rejuvenating YHI Spa. Families particularly benefit from the Family Concierge services, which can be reserved to elevate the stay with additional in-room amenities and family-focused activities. Guests can liaise with their Family Concierge for assistance throughout their stay, whether to secure reservations at preferred restaurants or to arrange activities and excursions. Children receive 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. Kids can even request a PlayStation for in-room entertainment, making Paradisus Cancun a comprehensive Cancun all-inclusive resort with something to appeal to every family member.
The Details:
- Distance to Cancun Airport: 12 miles
- Wi-Fi: Included throughout the resort.
- Family Facilities: Dedicated Family Concierge service, comprehensive kids’ amenities, and a varied activities program designed for children.
- Gratuities: Included in the all-inclusive rate.
- Rates: Starting from $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 spectacular locations on Mexico’s Sea of Cortez, offering unspoiled natural beauty.
What to Consider: Unless you can fly directly into Loreto airport, the resort is a considerable drive from Los Cabos, potentially impacting travel time.
It remains somewhat surprising that Loreto, Baja California Sur, is not a more frequented destination. Despite having an international airport, Loreto retains a sense of peaceful seclusion. Among those who appreciate this tranquil town along the Sea of Cortez, there’s a shared hope that Loreto will maintain its unspoiled charm indefinitely, with its unpaved streets, relaxed atmosphere, and prime location overlooking the crystalline waters of the Sea of Cortez.
Located approximately six hours north of Cabo San Lucas, Loreto is characterized by a distinct absence of sprawling hotel chains and resorts, with one notable exception that stands out as the jewel of the region: 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 magnificent hotel occupies nearly 4,500 acres of natural landscape, encompassing secluded, Capri-esque 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 resulted in the renovation of 338 suites and the addition of a new wing featuring 158 new rooms.
Families are drawn to this resort by the sheer volume of activities available, from snorkeling and kayaking directly off the shore within the Loreto Bay National Marine Park to an extensive program of activities specifically designed for children – including kids’ yoga, pool games, movie nights, nature walks, dance classes, and even Spanish lessons. Themed evenings at the resort offer entertainment for the entire family, featuring live performances of family-favorite musicals and authentic Mexican fiestas.
The Details:
- Distance to Airport: 25 miles from Loreto International Airport; 317 miles from Los Cabos International Airport.
- Wi-Fi: Complimentary in all common areas of the resort.
- Family Facilities: Dedicated kids’ activities program, diverse water sports options, family-friendly shows, and themed nights designed for family entertainment.
- Gratuities: Not included in the standard rate.
- Rates: Starting from $714 per night.
Know Before You Go
Consider the Season
Mexico welcomes visitors year-round, but optimal times to visit vary depending on your preferences. The most favorable weather conditions in beach destinations typically occur from November through April. The weather becomes intensely hot and humid around July and August. September and October often fall within hurricane season, and in Cancun, you may also need to be aware of sargassum seaweed season, which generally runs from April through October.
Amenities Sometimes Outweigh Location
While a beachfront hotel is highly desirable, natural conditions can sometimes influence the beach experience. Many beaches in Los Cabos, for example, are not safe for swimming due to strong currents. Similarly, if you visit Cancun and the Riviera Maya region during sargassum season, beach conditions may be affected by seaweed. Choosing an all-inclusive resort that offers a wealth of amenities and a stunning pool environment, such as in Playa del Carmen, can ensure that everyone in the family enjoys a fulfilling vacation regardless of beach conditions.
Beware of the Timeshare Presentation
Many hotels and resorts in Mexico also have timeshare sales desks on their properties, staffed by salespeople seeking to recruit 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. Timeshare salespeople can sometimes be persistent, so it’s important to confidently decline if you are not interested.
How We Chose These Hotels
With hundreds of family-friendly all-inclusive resorts across Mexico, selecting the best options can be a challenge. Several hotels on this list earned their place due to their recognition in our annual World’s Best awards, where hundreds of thousands of Travel + Leisure readers vote for their favorite hotels worldwide.
In addition to these award-winning properties, the expertise of author Meagan Drillinger contributed significantly to this selection. Meagan has dedicated 15 years to covering Mexico extensively, exploring destinations from coast to coast and personally visiting hundreds of resorts throughout the country. Her selections prioritize the quality of the guest experience, considering resort design, thoughtful details, and family-friendly services and amenities. Throughout her career as a travel writer, Meagan has reviewed hundreds of hotels in Mexico and around the globe.
As with all our hotel roundups, editors ensure that all hotel recommendations align with our core T+L Hotel Values.
