Mexico has long been a premier destination for families seeking sun-drenched getaways, and for good reason. With its stunning stretches of powdery sand beaches, invitingly warm turquoise waters, and a vibrant culture brimming with adventure, Mexico caters perfectly to family vacations. Its accessibility from the United States, with many destinations just a four-hour flight from major US hubs, makes it an incredibly convenient choice when traveling with children. Whether you’re dreaming of exploring the Baja Peninsula’s dramatic desert landscapes or immersing yourselves in the gentle waves of the Mexican Caribbean, Mexico offers a diverse range of experiences for every family.
Finding an all-inclusive resort in Mexico that welcomes families is wonderfully easy; however, pinpointing the perfect one for your specific needs requires a little more consideration. Mexico boasts an incredible array of family-friendly, all-inclusive resorts, each offering unique amenities and experiences. To help you navigate this wealth of options, we’ve curated a list of the best family-friendly, all-inclusive resorts in Mexico, drawing from Travel & Leisure award winners and our editors’ personal favorites. These resorts stand out for their exceptional service, breathtaking locations, stunning designs, and, most importantly, their dedication to creating unforgettable experiences for families. Prepare to discover your ideal Mexican family escape among our top picks.
Grand Velas Riviera Maya
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/TAL-grand-velas-riviera-maya-FAMALLINCLMX0924-46723b3fd04141c28d418d420bb28421.jpg)
Spacious and luxurious suite at Grand Velas Riviera Maya, a top family-friendly resort in Mexico, featuring elegant design and comfortable furnishings.
Also available to book at Hotels.com
What We Like: This all-suite hotel boasts an impressive 1,000-foot stretch of pristine white sand beach, perfect for family fun in the sun.
What to Consider: While Grand Velas Riviera Maya offers a plethora of activities for children and teenagers, evening entertainment options for adults might be more limited.
Grand Velas Riviera Maya stands as a beacon of sophistication in the Mexican Caribbean, arguably across all of Mexico. Despite its elevated style and class, this resort is also recognized as one of the premier all-inclusive family resorts in Mexico and a distinguished 2023 World’s Best Awards recipient.
Nestled between 80 acres of lush mangrove forest and a powdery, soft white-sand beach, the expansive 491-suite resort offers a serene escape. 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 ease in the Ambassador and Grand Class sections, which feature the largest pools and a diverse selection of restaurants. The Ambassador building also enjoys the added convenience of being closest to the beach. Both the Ambassador and Grand Class buildings provide well-equipped kids’ clubs and an array of connecting rooms, making family stays seamless. Notably, most restaurants feature kid-friendly menu selections. Grand Velas Riviera Maya undeniably ranks among 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
- Rates: Start at $1,315
Grand Velas Riviera Nayarit
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/TAL-grand-velas-riviera-nayarit-FAMALLINCLMX0424-aaad7315c6e946bab6067340c0c5ebad.jpg)
Elegant dining area at Grand Velas Riviera Nayarit, showcasing the resort’s commitment to gourmet experiences and sophisticated ambiance suitable for families.
Also available to book at Expedia.com
What We Like: A sprawling, world-class spa offers 20 treatment rooms and exceptional hydrotherapy facilities, providing a haven for relaxation and rejuvenation for parents.
What to Consider: Due to its popularity and high guest satisfaction, the resort can be fully booked and feel crowded, especially during peak seasons.
If an all-inclusive Puerto Vallarta resort can achieve iconic status, Grand Velas Riviera Nayarit has undoubtedly earned the title. A landmark along the Riviera Nayarit coastline and another esteemed World’s Best Award winner, Grand Velas Riviera Nayarit has consistently elevated the standard for luxury all-inclusive resort experiences.
The 265-room resort is comprised entirely of suites, each featuring a private balcony, captivating ocean vistas, 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 – considered among the finest in the Bay of Banderas. Mirroring its Riviera Maya counterpart, the family-oriented facilities here are exceptional. Dedicated kids’ and teens’ clubs cater to younger guests, while a specialized baby concierge assists parents with necessities ranging from strollers to bassinets. Six diverse restaurants serve a spectrum of culinary delights, from casual beachfront fare to refined French, Italian, Mexican, and Pan-Asian cuisines—solidifying its reputation as a foodie’s paradise within the all-inclusive resort landscape. The expansive 20-treatment room spa offers a luxurious retreat for adults, featuring plunge pools, hydrotherapy circuits, and a comprehensive menu 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 for specialized family services.
- Gratuities: Included
- Rates: Start at $909
Hotel Xcaret Mexico
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/TAL-hotel-xcaret-mexico-FAMALLINCLMX0424-efde4533fe2f4505b6b4bdb565dd2537.jpg)
Exterior view of Hotel Xcaret Mexico in Playa del Carmen, showcasing its unique architecture and integration with the natural Mayan Riviera landscape, making it a distinctive family resort.
Also available to book at Hotels.com
What We Like: An unparalleled selection of activities, diverse restaurants, and convenient airport transfers are all included in the room rate, offering exceptional value and ease for families.
What to Consider: As one of the largest resorts in the Riviera Maya, the sheer size of Hotel Xcaret Mexico can be overwhelming for some guests seeking a more intimate experience.
Few family-friendly all-inclusive resorts achieve the level of excellence found at Hotel Xcaret Mexico. This exceptional resort rightfully topped our World’s Best list for 2023. This expansive, upscale, and family-oriented resort is among the largest in the region, boasting 900 exquisitely designed rooms. Despite its grand scale, Hotel Xcaret Mexico retains a surprisingly boutique ambiance. This is likely due to the thoughtful layout, offering numerous distinct areas for guests to explore and relax, preventing any single space from feeling overcrowded, a testament to its standing as one of the region’s top hotels.
The sprawling grounds are designed to evoke a sense of ancient wonder, featuring stone-like facades, lush tropical vegetation, and even a cenote-inspired river bordered by canyon-esque walls. (This tranquil setting is also home to the resort’s luxurious spa.) Ten restaurants, eight bars, and a comprehensive kids’ club enhance the resort’s amenities. However, the most compelling perk for families is undoubtedly the unlimited, all-inclusive access to all Grupo Xcaret theme parks – with transportation seamlessly included. From exhilarating zip-lining and ATV adventures to captivating themed shows and thrilling water parks, the Grupo Xcaret park experiences are all part of the package, and families can enjoy them as often as they wish throughout their stay.
The Details:
- Distance to Cancun airport: 41 miles
- Wi-Fi: Included
- Facilities for Families: A dedicated kids’ club and unlimited access to all Grupo Xcaret parks included in the room rate, offering unparalleled family entertainment.
- Gratuities: Included
- Rates: Start at $900
Grand Velas Los Cabos
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/TAL-grand-velas-los-cabos-FAMALLINCLMX0424-97425f86917042c5bcdc6b246d580578.jpg)
Ocean view suite at Grand Velas Los Cabos, highlighting the resort’s commitment to luxury family vacations with private terraces and stunning coastal scenery.
Also available to book at Expedia.com
What We Like: Every room at Grand Velas Los Cabos features breathtaking ocean views and private terraces, ensuring a luxurious and scenic family retreat.
What to Consider: The beach at Grand Velas Los Cabos is not swimmable, a common characteristic of beaches in the Los Cabos region.
Los Cabos presents travelers with an abundance of exceptional high-end resort choices. However, Grand Velas Los Cabos has firmly established itself as the leader in the all-inclusive, luxury resort category for families in the area. It has also earned a prestigious spot on our World’s Best Awards list in 2023.
This beachfront, sophisticated hotel radiates understated elegance in every detail, yet its extensive array of kid-friendly amenities ensures it is far from formal. Rooms are generously sized and modern, yet maintain a cozy and relaxed ambiance, with captivating ocean and pool views from every balcony. Many suites even feature private plunge pools for added luxury. Grand Velas aficionados will recognize signature restaurant concepts like Frida, Lucca, and Piaf, alongside resort-specific culinary gems Velas 10 and Cocina de Autor. A fully equipped kids’ club offers everything from Wii and Xbox gaming to creative activities like jewelry-making and treasure hunts. Teenagers have their own separate, stylish space with pool tables, air hockey, a dance floor, and a dedicated cafeteria. Adults can indulge in relaxation at the spacious spa or unwind at the central multi-level pool deck.
The Details:
- Distance to San Jose del Cabo airport: 20 miles
- Wi-Fi: Included
- Facilities for Families: Dedicated Kid’s Club and Teen’s Club providing age-appropriate activities and entertainment.
- Gratuities: Included
- Rates: Start at $1,552
Mahekal Beach Resort
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/TAL-mahekal-beach-resort-FAMALLINCLMX0424-608bfea02a5840aeb0f6043570f87ae9.jpg)
Exterior view of Mahekal Beach Resort, showcasing its beachfront bungalows and lush tropical setting in Playa del Carmen, perfect for a relaxed family vacation.
Also available to book at Expedia.com
What We Like: This idyllic beachfront resort is conveniently located within walking distance of Playa del Carmen’s famous and vibrant Fifth Avenue, offering easy access to local attractions and culture.
What to Consider: Rooms at Mahekal Beach Resort intentionally do not include televisions, promoting a digital detox and focus on nature and family time.
A pristine stretch of soft, white sand and charming rows of palapa-topped bungalows nestled within shady palm groves will transport you to a tranquil oasis, making it easy to forget you are in a resort located in the heart of downtown Playa del Carmen. Mahekal Beach Resort, consistently one of our favorite all-inclusive resorts in Mexico and a World’s Best winner in 2023, provides guests with the best of both worlds. It boasts a prime location on one of Playa del Carmen’s most beautiful beaches, while also being just steps away from the bustling, energetic Quinta Avenida, lined with exceptional restaurants, lively bars, and diverse entertainment options. Families adore this resort for its enviable beachfront setting, bohemian-chic beachfront bungalows, family-friendly pool area, and close proximity to downtown attractions.
The Details:
- Distance to Cancun airport: 35 miles
- Wi-Fi: Included
- Facilities for Families: Family-friendly amenities include ping pong, a swimming pool, ceramic painting activities, and a dedicated family pool area.
- Gratuities: Included
- Rates: Start at $543 for all-inclusive
Garza Blanca Preserve Resort & Spa Puerto Vallarta
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/TAL-garza-blanca-preserve-resort-FAMALLINCLMX0424-a426ae8b077947b28c8b1b313c8b4ab9.jpg)
Luxury suite at Garza Blanca Preserve Resort & Spa Puerto Vallarta, showcasing modern design and ocean views, ideal for a family-friendly all-inclusive experience in Mexico.
Also available to book at Expedia.com
What We Like: Garza Blanca Preserve boasts one of the best locations in Puerto Vallarta, offering truly stunning panoramic views of the Bahia de Banderas.
What to Consider: Guests staying at the neighboring adults-only Hotel Mousai are permitted to use the facilities at Garza Blanca, however, this reciprocal access is not extended to Garza Blanca guests.
While I generally recommend exploring beyond all-inclusive resorts when visiting Puerto Vallarta, I wholeheartedly make an exception for Garza Blanca Preserve. I highly recommend this resort for families due to its spectacular location, generously sized rooms, and a wealth of adventure-based activities.
Puerto Vallarta and the Bay of Banderas are exceptional destinations for nature enthusiasts and active travelers, and Garza Blanca Preserve places families at the very heart of it all. Each of the 165 rooms at the resort treats guests to breathtaking ocean views, complemented by the lush, jungle-covered slopes of the Sierra Madre mountains. The property features three pools: two situated by the beach and one located in the central area between Garza Blanca and its adults-only sister resort, Hotel Mousai. A small, white sand beach fronts the resort, providing guests with direct access for launching kayaks and exploring the secluded coves and natural landmarks surrounding the resort. Hiking trails are plentiful in the area, and the hotel staff is readily available to provide guidance and recommendations.
While the resort does not offer a dedicated kids’ club, families who cherish spending quality time together and appreciate a wide array of on-site activities will find themselves perfectly at home here. A newly developed shopping village, nestled between Garza Blanca and Hotel Mousai, features a curated selection of locally sourced boutiques, a charming 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 for younger guests.
- Gratuities: Included
- Rates: Start at $992
Grand Palladium Costa Mujeres Resort & Spa
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/TAL-grand-palladium-costa-mujeres-FAMALLINCLMX0424-fab51bc65d1840569c7142a20dc822a5.jpg)
Extensive pool area at Grand Palladium Costa Mujeres Resort & Spa, illustrating the resort’s wide range of amenities and family-friendly atmosphere in Cancun.
Also available to book at Expedia.com
What We Like: This beachfront resort truly offers something for every member of the family, 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 means that getting around often involves a significant amount of walking.
Just a short 30-minute drive north of Cancun’s bustling Hotel Zone, travelers will discover a more tranquil and secluded area of the Mexican Caribbean: the idyllic, pristine beaches of Costa Mujeres. Here, the Grand Palladium Costa Mujeres stands as a sprawling resort designed to captivate families at every turn.
This extensive 670-suite resort features an impressive array of amenities, including 10 restaurants, 19 bars, a palatial spa, and a wide variety of activities designed for children. While the property is considerable in size, it incorporates a whimsical design with man-made canals where boats elegantly transport guests around the resort. Of course, walking or utilizing golf carts are also readily available options for navigating the grounds. For families, the most advantageous accommodation choice is booking the Family Selection suites, which operate as an exclusive hotel within the larger resort, specifically tailored to cater to families with children.
Unique Family Selection amenities include access to a dedicated fun zone equipped 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. Adult guests who are part of the Family Selection program also enjoy 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
- Facilities for Families: A dedicated Family Selection option providing exclusive VIP services and amenities specifically for families.
- Gratuities: Included
- Rates: Start at $912
Hard Rock Hotel Los Cabos
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/TAL-hard-rock-hotel-los-cabos-FAMALLINCLMX0424-bd81d23aca3d41daa79c2868a464b1d2.jpg)
Lively pool area at Hard Rock Hotel Los Cabos, showcasing the resort’s energetic atmosphere and extensive amenities designed for family entertainment in Los Cabos.
Also available to book at Expedia.com
What We Like: Hard Rock Hotel Los Cabos offers a vast array of options and activities specifically tailored for families, ensuring entertainment for all ages.
What to Consider: Similar to many resorts in the area, the beach at Hard Rock Hotel Los Cabos is not considered safe for swimming due to strong currents.
Hard Rock Hotels has a significant presence across Mexico, each inviting travelers to embrace their inner rock star. However, their Los Cabos resort particularly captured attention when it opened in 2019. This 639-room resort shines like a neon-lit oasis against the stark desert beauty of the Baja Peninsula. The resort directly faces the crashing waves of the Pacific Ocean, which, while not suitable for swimming, adds a dramatic element to the scenery and a powerful, natural soundtrack.
While ocean swimming may not be an option (a common characteristic of Cabo beaches), Hard Rock Hotel Los Cabos 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, children can enjoy the dedicated Hard Rock Roxity Kids Club, 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 throughout the resort, and rooms equipped with private 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 for interactive musical experiences, and a Bowling Alley for family fun.
- Gratuities: Included
- Rates: Start at $626
Paradisus Cancun
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/TAL-paradisus-cancun-FAMALLINCLMX0424-d40780e9fffa424694d5b7dabdc2c822.jpg)
Pyramid-shaped architecture of Paradisus Cancun overlooking its expansive pool area, highlighting the resort’s iconic design and family-friendly amenities in Cancun’s Hotel Zone.
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 designed for families.
What to Consider: While offering excellent facilities, the rooms at Paradisus Cancun could benefit from a refresh to modernize their décor.
Paradisus Cancun is an unmistakable landmark when driving through Cancun’s Hotel Zone. Its collection of five gleaming white pyramids overlooking a stunning stretch of beach immediately captures attention. Fortunately, the hotel’s appeal extends far beyond its 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 may be due for an update, they are spacious and offer either ocean or lagoon views.
The amenities are extensive, ranging from numerous restaurants and bars to direct beach access, a large pool complex, a nine-hole golf course, and a rejuvenating YHI Spa. Families are particularly well-catered to here, thanks to the Family Concierge services that can be booked to elevate their stay with additional in-room amenities and family-focused activities. Guests utilizing the Family Concierge service can communicate with their dedicated concierge throughout the day for assistance with various needs, from securing reservations at preferred restaurants to scheduling activities and day excursions. Children receive special beach kits, kid-sized bathrobes and slippers, specialized bathroom amenities, milk and cookies at turndown service, and children’s beverages stocked in the minibar. Kids can even request a PlayStation in their room, making Paradisus Cancun a true Cancun all-inclusive destination with something to appeal to every family member.
The Details:
- Distance to Cancun airport: 12 miles
- Wi-Fi: Included
- Facilities for Families: Dedicated Family Concierge service, comprehensive kids’ amenities, and a structured activities program for children.
- Gratuities: Included
- Rates: Start at $567
Villa del Palmar at the Islands of Loreto by Danzante Bay
Also available to book at Expedia.com
What We Like: This hidden gem all-inclusive resort boasts one of the most breathtaking locations on Mexico’s Sea of Cortez, offering unparalleled natural beauty and tranquility.
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.
It remains a surprise that Loreto, Baja California Sur, is not a more bustling tourist destination, considering it has an international airport. However, those who appreciate this peaceful town nestled along the Sea of Cortez coast are certainly not complaining. Loreto is a truly special place, one you hope will remain perfectly preserved forever, with its charming sandy streets, relaxed atmosphere, and prime location overlooking the crystal-clear waters of the Sea of Cortez.
Located approximately six hours north of Cabo San Lucas, Loreto is not characterized by dense clusters of hotels and resorts. Instead, you’ll find one exceptional resort that stands out as the jewel of the region: Villa del Palmar at the Islands of Loreto. Sheltered by towering mountains on one side and overlooking the spectacular island-dotted Danzante Bay on the other, this stunning hotel is set within nearly 4,500 acres of natural beauty. This includes secluded, Capri-like coves, pristine beaches, five swimming pools, an expansive 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 complete renovation of 338 suites and the addition of a new wing featuring 158 rooms.
Families are drawn to this resort for the sheer abundance of activities available, from snorkeling or kayaking directly off the shore in the Loreto Bay National Marine Park to a comprehensive list of activities designed exclusively for children. These include kids’ yoga, engaging pool games, movie nights, nature walks, dance lessons, and even introductory Spanish lessons. Themed nights at the resort provide entertainment for the entire family, featuring live performances of beloved family musicals and festive Mexican-themed celebrations.
The Details:
- Distance to airport: 25 miles from Loreto International Airport; 317 miles from Los Cabos
- Wi-Fi: Free in the common areas
- Facilities for Families: Dedicated kids’ activities program, diverse water sports options, family-friendly evening shows and themed nights.
- Gratuities: Not included
- Rates: Start at $714
Know Before You Go
Consider the Season
Mexico welcomes visitors year-round, but certain times of year are more ideal for travel than others. The most favorable weather in Mexican beach destinations is generally from November through April, offering pleasant temperatures and sunshine. The weather becomes intensely hot and humid around July and August. September and October often fall within hurricane season, and in Cancun and the surrounding Riviera Maya region, you may also need to consider sargassum seaweed season, which typically occurs from April through October.
Amenities Sometimes Outweigh Location
While a beachfront hotel is often a desirable feature, sometimes natural conditions can impact the beach experience. For example, many beaches in Los Cabos are not safe for swimming due to strong undertows. Additionally, if visiting Cancun and the Riviera Maya during sargassum season, beaches may experience seaweed accumulation. Opting for an all-inclusive resort that boasts extensive amenities and a spectacular pool scene, such as those in Playa del Carmen, can ensure that every family member finds enjoyable activities regardless of beach conditions.
Beware of the Timeshare Presentation
Many hotels and resorts in Mexico also operate timeshare sales desks on their properties, with salespeople actively seeking to recruit new timeshare owners. If purchasing a timeshare is not part of your vacation plans, it is perfectly acceptable to politely state that you are not interested. Timeshare salespeople can sometimes be persistent, so it is okay to firmly but respectfully decline their offers.
How We Chose These Hotels
With hundreds of family-friendly all-inclusive resorts available across Mexico, selecting the best options can be a challenging task. Several hotels featured 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 around the globe.
In addition to these award-winning properties, travel expert Meagan Drillinger contributed her extensive knowledge and insights. With 15 years of experience covering Mexico from coast to coast, she has personally visited hundreds of resorts throughout the country. Her selections were based on a thorough evaluation of guest experience quality, resort design aesthetics, thoughtful amenities, and family-friendly services. Throughout her career as a travel writer, Drillinger has reviewed countless hotels in Mexico and worldwide.
As with all of our hotel roundups, Travel + Leisure editors ensure that all hotel recommendations align with our core T+L Hotel Values, prioritizing properties that deliver exceptional experiences and value to our readers.
