Discover the Ultimate Family Getaway: Playa del Carmen All-Inclusive Resorts

Mexico’s Riviera Maya had us captivated from the moment we stepped onto its shores during a family cruise excursion. Even those fleeting eight hours in Playa del Carmen unveiled a destination brimming with far more than we could experience in a day. Returning home, we were inspired to make a change, downsizing our lives to prioritize what truly mattered: family travel and creating lasting memories. What was it about this slice of Mexican paradise that compelled us to reorganize our lives around returning to Playa del Carmen with our kids for an extended stay?

Mexico’s Riviera Maya region is the perfect family vacation destination. From beautiful beach resorts to amazing eco-adventure theme parks, discover all that there is to see and do in Playa del Carmen with kids.

Exploring the Riviera Maya

Before diving into the enchantment of the Riviera Maya, let’s get our bearings. This stunning coastline graces the eastern edge of the Yucatán Peninsula, stretching from Cancun southward through Playa del Carmen to Tulum. Cancun International Airport (CUN) serves as the primary gateway to the Riviera Maya, boasting modern facilities and abundant direct flights from across North America, making travel a breeze.

While Cancun is often associated with vibrant spring break festivities and a more adult-oriented atmosphere, a short journey down the coast reveals the true gem for families: Playa del Carmen. Our initial visit opened our eyes to the wealth of culture, historical wonders, pristine beaches, and incredible all-inclusive resorts perfectly suited for families. The biggest challenge quickly became choosing where to stay and what to experience first!

The Allure of All-Inclusive Resorts for Families

After countless hours of research, poring over reviews, and immersing ourselves in online video tours, one resort consistently stood out: the Barcelo Maya Palace Deluxe. This exceptional resort is part of the expansive Barcelo Maya Riviera complex, located on one of the most extensive private beaches in the Riviera Maya. The Barcelo complex comprises five interconnected all-inclusive resorts, each nestled directly along the beachfront: Barcelo Maya Beach, Caribe, Tropical, Colonial, and the premium Barcelo Maya Palace Deluxe.

A unique benefit of staying at any of the Barcelo properties is reciprocal access to all five resorts. Guests can freely explore and enjoy the amenities of Barcelo Maya Beach, Caribe, Tropical, and Colonial, regardless of their booked resort. The only exception is the exclusive Barcelo Maya Palace, whose facilities are reserved for Palace guests only. Complimentary double-decker buses efficiently shuttle guests between the resorts, making it easy to discover the vast array of dining, entertainment, and recreational options within the Barcelo complex. And trust us, you’ll want to explore it all! We’ll delve into the incredible offerings shortly.

Luxurious Rooms Designed for Families

For our stay, we opted for a ground-floor room within the Deluxe Palace section, prioritizing full access to the Palace pools and restaurants over a “Club Premium” room (which offered ocean views and concierge service) in one of the other sections. Despite being termed “lower level,” the room exceeded expectations and was truly remarkable.

All accommodations within the Palace section are suites, providing generous space, especially for a hotel room. Our suite featured two double beds and two sofa beds in a separate living area, comfortably accommodating our family. Practical amenities included two closets, two desk areas, a mini-bar, and a balcony patio. The bathroom was a highlight, boasting both a deep soaking tub and two separate showers – a welcome luxury compared to the cramped cruise ship showers we had previously experienced. The value for the space and amenities was undeniable.

Unbeatable Value for Families

Each of the Barcelo Maya Resort properties offers spacious rooms and suites infused with authentic Mexican charm. We truly believe that you can’t go wrong choosing any section of this resort complex, especially considering the pricing structure is per room, not per person. Our Junior Suite Deluxe, the most basic room category, comfortably slept five guests. While the value might be less pronounced for smaller groups, for families of four or more, it presents an exceptional deal.

Our first day was entirely devoted to exploring the resort’s incredible amenities. We effortlessly transitioned between the pristine beach, diverse buffets, four whimsical water parks, and nine expansive pools – more accurately described as “lakes” due to their sheer size.

Relaxation and Fun in Paradise

Beyond the active pursuits, we savored moments of pure relaxation, lounging in hammocks and enjoying refreshing drinks. The kids were thrilled to order non-alcoholic versions of strawberry daiquiris and piña coladas from any of the swim-up bars. For me, there was nothing better than sinking my toes into the warm turquoise waters of the Caribbean Sea while building Mayan pyramid-inspired sandcastles with the children.

Culinary Delights: A World of Flavors

As an all-inclusive resort, the Barcelo Maya Palace offered a culinary journey spanning 20 themed restaurants and 19 bars and lounges – all included in our stay. The food was simply phenomenal! Our top picks included the Brazilian Rodizio restaurant and the elegant French Brassiere at the Palace. We also thoroughly enjoyed the interactive hibachi-style Japanese restaurant, Tokyo, and the Caribe restaurant, where we savored delicious meals with breathtaking ocean views.

Endless Amenities for Every Age

Our days were a blend of exhilarating adventures at nearby eco-parks and relaxed exploration of the resort’s extensive amenities. The Barcelo Maya complex truly offers something for everyone. Water sports enthusiasts can indulge in every imaginable activity, while land lovers can enjoy a miniature golf course, bowling alley, sports bar, rock climbing wall, and even a shopping mall complete with a carousel and four large theaters. Even a simple ride on the complimentary double-decker bus became an exciting event for our children.

Pampering and Kids’ Clubs: Relaxation for Everyone

For moments of adult tranquility, Brian and I retreated to the expansive world-class spa, indulging in massages and the hydrotherapy circuit while the kids happily spent time at the Barcy Kid’s Club.

The Barcy Kid’s Club was a resounding success! Our children were enthralled, eagerly participating in scavenger hunts, engaging in fun games, and enjoying supervised lunches and ice cream outings with the enthusiastic and caring staff.

I also treated our daughters to the Barcelo’s U Kids Spa, a dedicated spa just for children. They reveled in manicures, pedicures, hairstyling, and other delightful pampering services.

Adding to the unique experiences, we even enjoyed a complimentary family scuba lesson right at the resort.

Dolphin Encounters: An Unforgettable Experience

As if the amenities weren’t already abundant, the Barcelo Maya Palace even features its own on-site dolphinarium. Guests can enjoy complimentary daily dolphin shows or opt for interactive programs like dolphin swims and “Trainer for a Day” experiences for an additional fee.

With the all-inclusive concept, virtually everything – from meals and snacks to drinks, kids’ club access, and countless activities – is included in the upfront price. Spa services and certain premium activities like dolphin encounters are available for an extra charge. The beauty of an all-inclusive resort is the ability to simply relax and immerse yourself in the Barcelo experience without constantly reaching for your wallet.

Beyond the Resort: Riviera Maya’s Eco-Adventure Parks

While the Barcelo Maya complex could easily provide a complete and fulfilling Playa del Carmen family vacation, we are naturally inclined to explore the surrounding area and delve into local attractions. We were eager to experience the Mayan culture and embrace the outdoor adventures the Riviera Maya has to offer, and there is an incredible wealth of options. This brings me to another major reason we fell in love with the Riviera Maya: its spectacular eco-adventure parks!

Xcaret: A Cultural and Natural Wonderland

Xcaret (pronounced “esh-ka-ret”) was the first eco-adventure park we discovered during our initial cruise excursion. Before that visit, I was completely unaware of this vast jungle playground teeming with underground rivers, lagoons, top-tier entertainment, diverse animal encounters, and rich cultural experiences. It’s akin to not knowing about Disney World! Spanning over 200 acres, Xcaret rivals the size of major Orlando theme parks, and every corner is packed with fun and educational activities for families.

Underground River Journey

Our Xcaret adventure commenced with a refreshing swim through the park’s natural network of crystal-clear underground rivers. Guests can choose from the Blue River, Maya River, and Manatee River, or experience all three! Xcaret provides life jackets in all sizes, including for infants and small children. Snorkels and fins are also included with the Xcaret Plus ticket. While river lengths vary slightly, each extends approximately 600 meters with convenient exit points along the way.

Xcaret thoughtfully manages belongings by providing locked duffel bags (guests retain the key) at the river entrances. These bags are then efficiently transported to the river exits, awaiting your arrival for your next adventure. They have truly anticipated every detail!

Lagoon Snorkeling and Relaxation

Following our river swim, we headed to the lagoon for some snorkeling. Xcaret boasts a stunning location directly on the Caribbean Sea, featuring a tranquil lagoon with its own beach area. Hammocks and palapas dot the shoreline, creating ideal spots for relaxation. We spent time unwinding while the kids enjoyed traversing the rope bridge stretching across the water.

Tip: Biodegradable Sunscreen is Key

Only biodegradable sunscreen is permitted within the park to protect the delicate coral reefs from potentially harmful chemicals. You can exchange your regular sunscreen at the park entrance for sample packets of biodegradable alternatives. Biodegradable sunscreen is also available for purchase in the park’s gift shops. We recommend bringing your own to be prepared.

After our snorkeling and relaxation, we enjoyed lunch at the Mexican buffet, one of ten diverse restaurants within Xcaret. We then explored some of the ancient Mayan ruins located on the property.

Children’s World: A Paradise for Kids

Our next discovery was the incredible Children’s World area within Xcaret! We could have easily spent an entire day in this dedicated kids’ zone. It features slides leading into cenotes with cascading waterfalls, hanging bridges, tunnels, a parakeet habitat, and a playground, all seamlessly integrated into the surrounding jungle environment.

Other highlights at Xcaret included the mesmerizing butterfly pavilion and the expansive aviary. We also enjoyed exploring the replica Mayan village, complete with a vibrant cemetery and artisans demonstrating traditional crafts. At every turn, we encountered performances and demonstrations showcasing the vibrant colors, sights, and sounds of Mexico.

Capture the Memories: Photo Points

I highly recommend utilizing the numerous automatic photo points strategically located throughout Xcaret to document your day. The system is incredibly user-friendly! Simply scan the barcode on your wristband (linked to your park ticket), and smile for the cameras. These photo points are especially convenient for capturing moments in the underground rivers and while snorkeling. Additionally, professional photographers in distinctive yellow shirts are readily available throughout the park to capture family photos.

The online system seamlessly tracks your photos throughout the day. At the end of your visit, you can conveniently review and purchase digital photos of your entire group at a kiosk. Pre-paying for the photo package as part of your admission offers a discounted rate.

Tip: Pre-Purchase for Savings

The photo package, as well as park tickets, are best purchased online in advance for the best deals. Look for online discounts on both adult and children’s tickets to Xcaret.

Mexico Espectacular Evening Show: A Cultural Extravaganza

To culminate our incredible day at Xcaret, we experienced the Mexico Espectacular Show at the Gran Tlacho Theater. This captivating show, included with Xcaret admission, is an absolute must-see. It is truly magnificent! The traditions, history, and culture of Mexico come alive in a vibrant fiesta of colors and music. We enhanced our experience by adding the seven-course dinner to our ticket package, which provided ideal show seating and a phenomenal, creatively presented meal.

The show is divided into segments, including an ancient Mayan ballgame played with real fireballs and a historical journey through Mexico from Mayan times to the present day. Storytelling is conveyed through music, dance, and elaborate costumes. The spectacular scenes unfolding before you make it easy to overlook that the narration is primarily in Spanish! Our kids were completely mesmerized!

You can find a video of our day at Xcaret online to get a visual taste of the experience.

It’s astonishing to realize that we only scratched the surface of all that Xcaret has to offer, even after a full day.

Xplor: Adventure for Thrill-Seeking Families

For families who crave adrenaline-pumping adventures, Xplor (pronounced “ex-plor”) is unparalleled. In one action-packed day, we soared through waterfalls on zip lines, swam and rafted through caves adorned with stalactites and stalagmites, and raced ATVs through the jungle terrain!

Our Xplor journey began at the heart of the park – literally. The central hub of Xplor is a giant mosaic heart, from which paths radiate to all the park’s activities. Our first thrill was the Hammock Splash, a fun and refreshing way to kickstart the day’s adventures.

Zipline Extravaganza

From there, we ventured to the exhilarating zip line circuits. The courses encompass 14 zip lines stretching for miles, along with two hanging bridges. Zip line heights range from 8 to 45 meters, each offering unique features. One circuit even incorporates a water slide, and another culminates in a splash landing into a refreshing waterfall. Typically, each circuit takes around 90 minutes, but due to lighter crowds, we completed both the “Deer” and “Jaguar” circuits in about half that time.

While height and weight restrictions apply, tandem zip-lining was permitted on some lines, which was fantastic for families. Each person is equipped with two clips for extra safety, ensuring even weight distribution. The views were breathtaking, and the adrenaline rush of zipping into a freshwater cenote is truly exhilarating.

Underground River Adventures: Rafting and Swimming

Next, we descended underground to embark on the river raft adventure, marveling at the incredible rock formations of stalactites and stalagmites sculpted by dripping water over millennia.

Following rafting, we swam in a 430-yard-long underground river, navigating twists and turns that opened into magnificent caverns. Similar to the rafting river, ample lighting illuminates the way, yet the distinct sense of being in an underground oasis is captivating.

The river swim culminated in an unforgettable finale. As the river seemed to end, we swam through a waterfall into a circular chamber where natural light streamed in from above – a truly spectacular finish!

All-Inclusive Dining at Xplor

All the paddling and stair climbing for the zip lines certainly worked up our appetites, making it the perfect time for lunch. Xplor is all-inclusive, offering a generous buffet with diverse options. Unlike Xcaret, alcohol is not served at Xplor (as one of the activities involves driving), but a wide array of juices, flavored waters, and delicious smoothies are readily available. The smoothie bar became a favorite between adventures, and we all particularly enjoyed the oatmeal cookies.

Amphibious Vehicle Adventure

Re-energized from lunch, we were ready to experience the amphibious vehicles. “Amphibious” is certainly an apt description! Over the 6-mile course, we navigated rugged jungle trails, plunged into dark, water-filled caves, and traversed bridges where the river nearly submerged the road. It was a truly unique and thrilling adventure unlike anything we had experienced before. We concluded our day with another exhilarating round of both zip line circuits.

Freedom to Fully Immerse Yourself

The photo system at Xplor, similar to Xcaret, is ingenious! Sensors and cameras throughout the park detect your helmet number and automatically capture photos as you enjoy the activities. As a mom who often takes photos but is rarely in them, I truly appreciated this aspect of all the Experiencias Xcaret parks. It gave me the freedom to fully participate and enjoy every moment, knowing memories were being captured.

You can watch a video online showcasing our action-packed day at Xplor.

Xel-Ha: Where Water is Born – A Natural Aquarium

The final eco-park we explored was Xel-Ha (pronounced “shell-ha”). In Mayan, Xel-Ha translates to “the place where water is born,” and the park’s name becomes evident from the moment you arrive. Turquoise blue water is everywhere you look. It is pure paradise!

This breathtaking network of cool rivers, grottos, mystical cenotes, and idyllic blue lagoons teems with marine life and offers a multitude of activities.

Snuba Diving: Exploring the Underwater World

We commenced our aquatic adventures at Xel-Ha with snuba diving, one of the many fantastic optional activities available. Children must be at least 8 years old to participate, and our youngest just met the age requirement but excelled at it. The instructor was exceptional, staying by her side throughout the entire experience.

During our snuba dive, we encountered stingrays and countless schools of fish. The confluence of freshwater from underground rivers and the warm saltwater of the Caribbean Sea creates a mesmerizing blend of colors and marine ecosystems.

Drifting Down the River: Snorkeling and Relaxation

Next, we took a tram to the river’s starting point, collected snorkel gear and rafts, and began our leisurely drift. The water is incredibly clear and calm, perfect for snorkeling through mangroves as the river opens into the wider expanse.

Tip: Underwater Camera for Stunning Shots

Bring an underwater camera to capture the amazing marine life and underwater scenery. A waterproof camera is essential for Xel-Ha.

Along the river, numerous fun activities beckon. We dared to jump from the five-meter-high “Cliffs of Courage,” navigated the “Trepachanga” ropes course, and zipped into the water on the “Salpichanga” zip line course. These zip lines are shorter and lower than those at Xplor, designed for quick, refreshing plunges back into the water. We enjoyed them so much we repeated them multiple times.

After all the swimming and adventures, we enjoyed a delicious lunch at the Mexican buffet. From tacos to tres leches cake and perfect margaritas (because, Mexico!), everything was delightful and, of course, fully included with our admission, along with towels, lockers, snorkeling equipment, life jackets, and inner tubes – essentially everything needed for a fantastic day.

Cenotes and Jungle Trails

Refueled after lunch, we explored the lush jungle trails leading to the cenotes. We encountered iguanas, parrots, and even a toucan! The kids were captivated by the rope swing and countless photo opportunities. Again, the Experiencias Xcaret park’s photo system was invaluable for capturing these moments.

We concluded our day with another relaxing swim through the river and a visit to the expansive children’s playground. We departed Xel-Ha with a treasure trove of wonderful memories and a strong desire to return and explore even more of this magnificent park.

You can find an online video of our Xel-Ha adventures for more visual inspiration.

Tip: Online Ticket Savings and Transportation

The most cost-effective and convenient way to purchase tickets for Xcaret, Xel-Ha, and Xplor is through the Experiencias Xcaret website. Purchasing tickets online in advance can save you 10-15% compared to gate prices. For multi-park visits, consider creating a package for even greater savings. Transportation to the parks can also be booked with your tickets, with punctual and easy-to-use buses picking you up directly from your hotel.

Chichen Itza: Journey to Mayan History

No visit to the Riviera Maya is complete without experiencing the ancient Mayan ruins.

Exploring Chichen Itza: A Wonder of the World

Initially, we considered visiting the smaller ruins in Tulum, just 20 minutes from our resort. However, while confirming our airport transfer (included with our Barcelo stay), we learned about a tour to Chichen Itza. We realized that we would regret missing the opportunity to see one of the Seven Wonders of the World while in the Yucatán Peninsula. It would be like visiting Agra and skipping the Taj Mahal, or Paris and not seeing the Eiffel Tower. So, we decided to seize the opportunity!

Private Tour Advantage

Opting for a private tour to Chichen Itza was absolutely the right choice! Our van driver promptly collected us from our hotel at 6:40 AM, providing breakfast bars and bananas to fuel our day. Even with a stop to pick up our knowledgeable tour guide, we arrived at Chichen Itza within two hours.

We arrived just as the archaeological site was opening. Our tour guide, Jeronimo, was incredibly knowledgeable and passionate about Mayan culture and history. This UNESCO World Heritage Site and ancient Mayan capital is vast, and Jeronimo ensured we saw all the key highlights, including the majestic observatory, the sacred cenote, the ball court, the Temple of Jaguars, the Temple of Warriors, the Thousand Pillars, and, of course, the iconic Castillo pyramid.

We also had about an hour to wander and browse the stalls of Mayan vendors selling handcrafted wares and crafts.

Beat the Crowds and the Heat

As we were departing, we witnessed the arrival of throngs of buses and tourists. By that time, the heat was becoming intense – the only time we felt truly hot during our entire week in Mexico. We were incredibly grateful to be leaving as the crowds arrived. We enjoyed a surprisingly delicious picnic lunch on the return journey to our resort, leaving ample time to relax and prepare for dinner that evening.

This private tour was an ideal way to experience this mysterious and magical place with children, avoiding the hottest part of the day and overwhelming crowds.

You can find a video of our Chichen Itza adventures online for a visual experience.

Playa del Carmen: Your Next Unforgettable Family Vacation

Whether your family envisions a perfect vacation filled with lazy beach days, active exploration of local culture, or a blend of both, consider Mexico’s Riviera Maya for your next getaway. From relaxing on pristine beaches to exploring thrilling eco-adventure parks and ancient Mayan ruins, Playa del Carmen offers something to captivate every family member. While destinations like Disney and cruises are popular family vacation choices (and we enjoy those too!), I wholeheartedly recommend considering all-inclusive resorts and eco-parks in Mexico for your next family trip! I personally can’t wait to return with my family to Playa del Carmen!

Explore online for a final video highlighting our incredible time in Mexico…

Have you visited Xcaret, Xplor, Xel-Ha, or other Experiencias parks? Share your favorite experiences in the comments below! And be sure to subscribe for more travel tips and vacation inspiration.