Planning a family vacation is work, y’all. Whether you’re traveling with toddlers, teens, or somewhere in between, Riviera Maya has the perfect combination of relaxation and adventure. From luxury accommodations to cultural excursions, this region has everything you need for a memorable vacation. And we’ve chosen the best all-inclusive resorts in Riviera Maya for you to check out right here.
In this guide, we’ll break down the best all-inclusive resorts for families in Riviera Maya and give you some helpful tips to make the most of your trip. And before you know it, you’ll be sitting in the sand sipping a fruity cocktail.
Riviera Maya vs. Cancun: What’s the Difference?
Before we dive into the best family-friendly resorts, it’s helpful to understand the differences between Riviera Maya and Cancun:
Atmosphere: Cancun is known for its energetic nightlife, while Riviera Maya offers a laid-back vibe. If your family loves exploring eco parks and Mayan ruins, Riviera Maya is the perfect spot. Cancun is ideal for families who want a livelier scene with lots of dining and nightlife options.
Resort Style: Riviera Maya is filled with expansive resort complexes that are often secluded, offering privacy and relaxation. In contrast, Cancun’s hotel zone is more compact and walkable, with resorts located close to one another.
Location: Both are situated in the Yucatan Peninsula, but Cancun is a bustling city, while Riviera Maya stretches over 100 miles along the coast.
Why Riviera Maya is Perfect for Family Vacations
Riviera Maya has something for every family member, making it one of the best all-inclusive destinations for families. We love it so much, it’s been our go-to family vacay spot. Here’s why it stands out:
- Gorgeous beaches with calm waters, ideal for young kids
- Cultural experiences such as exploring nearby Mayan ruins
- Year-round warm weather perfect for outdoor fun no matter when you travel
- Easy accessibility from major U.S. cities (as well as tons of flights from non-US cities, too!)
- Resorts designed for families, offering activities specifically for kids
Top Features to Look for in Family-Friendly All-Inclusive Resorts
When searching for the best all-inclusive resorts for families in Riviera Maya, look for these essential features:
Family suites or connecting rooms: More space beyond a typical hotel room
Kids’ clubs: Supervised activities to keep the little ones (or teens) entertained
Variety of dining options: From formal restaurants to casual kid-friendly meals
Water parks and pools: Keep little ones busy with plenty of water fun
On-site medical facilities: For peace of mind
10 Best All-Inclusive Resorts for Families in Riviera Maya
- Grand Velas Riviera Maya
- Large family suites with ocean views and plenty of room to spread out
- Baby concierge service offers a range of things like high chairs, cribs, strollers, and even rattles
- Kids’ Club and Teens’ Club with video games, movie nights, and water sports
- Forbes Five-Star recognition for luxury family experiences
- Gourmet dining with kid-friendly menus
- Paradisus Playa Del Carmen
- Family Concierge service with private check-in and welcome kits
- Spacious suites with bunk beds and PlayStation
- Kids Zone with workshops, games, and themed parties
- Family packages featuring eco-tours and cultural experiences
- Hyatt Ziva Riviera Cancun
- Family suites with views of the water park
- KidZ Club with supervised beach sports and arts and crafts
- Oceanfront water park and nightly family-friendly entertainment
- Multiple restaurants catering to picky eaters
- Hilton Cancun All-Inclusive
- Two-bedroom family suites and swim-up pool suites
- Kids’ pool area and splash playground
- Kids and Teens Clubs with a variety of pool activities
- Unlimited ice cream and churros at the on-site shop (proceed with caution)
- Nickelodeon Hotels & Resorts Riviera Maya
- Themed family suites and swim-up suites
- Aqua Nick water park with slides and lazy rivers
- Character dining and pajama breakfasts
- Unique special events like Slime Time, Splash Mobs, and character meets
- Sensira Resort
- Spacious family suites with private balconies
- Family Zone with pools, water slides, and play areas
- Babysitting services and a Kids’ Club offering face painting and crafts
- The Fives Beach Hotel & Residences
- Family-friendly suites with multiple bedrooms (some even with rooftop penthouses)
- Kids’ Club with activities like face painting and water sports
- Seven swimming pools and ten restaurants
- Jungle boardwalk where you can spot monkeys and coatis
- Kids 0 to 5 years old are free and from 6 to 16 years old get a 50% discount off all-inclusive
We stayed here! Check out our room tour and resort tour
- Royalton Splash Riviera Cancun
- Luxury family suites with oceanview, swim out, or oceanfront views
- Children’s pool, lazy river, and a waterslide
- Clubhouse Kids Club and Hangout Teens’ Club with games and sports
- Game Up family spot with laser tag, bowling, and even a trampoline park. Plus, there are slices of pizza for hungry families.
- Dreams Jade Resort & Spa
- Family suites with connecting rooms and private balconies
- Kids and Teen Clubs offering art, sports, and even a beach camping adventure
- Family-oriented restaurants with buffet options
- Hotel Xcaret Mexico
- Family oceanfront suites with separate spaces for parents and kids
- Xiquillos Kids Club with crafts and water games
- Complimentary access to Xcaret Parks (Xel-Há, Xplor, Xenotes, and more)
- Round-trip ferry ticket to Cancun or Playa del Carmen
Tips for Choosing the Right Family Resort
With so many options, it can be hard to choose the best all-inclusive resort for your family. Use these factors to help narrow it down:
- Room Options: Look for suites with extra space, swim-up pools, or in-room jacuzzis. There are all kinds of room configurations so you can pick what’s best for your crew.
- Activities & Amenities: Some resorts cater more to younger kids, while others are better for older children. Think about which may be the best fit.
- Budget: Prices vary widely, so set a budget and compare what each resort offers.
- Resort Size: Larger resorts offer more amenities, but can feel crowded. Smaller resorts provide a more intimate experience.
- Location: Decide if you want to be near a town like Playa del Carmen or in a more secluded area.
- Reviews: Read reviews from other families to see if the resort is a good fit. Most resorts have a Facebook group where you can get a good feel for the place.
Making the Most of Your Family Vacation in Riviera Maya
Sometimes you want to park yourself at the resort, and stay put. Other times, you want to add some adventure. That’s the great thing about all-inclusive–both are totally viable options. If you are looking to explore beyond the resort, here are some great excursions:
Xplor Park Day Trip with Lunch and Transportation
Tulum Ruins Tour Cenote and Swimming with Sea Turtles
Selva Maya Eco Adventure Park: Ziplining, Hanging Bridges, Rappelling and Cenote
Packing Essentials for a Family Trip to Riviera Maya
Packing for a vacation in Riviera Maya is largely the same as packing for any beach vacation. However, give some extra thought to these items:
- Sunscreen: Pack more than you think you need. Resort prices can be astronomical. I think at one point, someone in our group paid $30-40 for a small bottle. Yikes!
- Hat: Now’s your chance if you’re not a hat person! For the same reasons as above, the sun is strong in Mexico and added protection is a must–for adults and kiddos!
- Bug Spray: Mosquitos can be an issue in jungle areas. Sometimes resorts will provide bug repellant, but bring your own to be on the safe side.
- Medication: Especially children’s medication, you are reliant on the hotel’s stash. We usually bring the greatest hits: Tylenol, Benedryl, Hydrocortisone, and Aloe. And kid’s versions of each.
Time to Start Planning Your Family Adventure
Riviera Maya is the perfect destination for busy parents looking to relax, explore, and create unforgettable family memories. Plus, you deserve to bask (or chase toddlers) in the sun after juggling work, kids, housework, etc. With a huge selection of all-inclusive resorts catering to families, planning your trip is super easy. So pack your bags, make sure you have a passport, and get ready for the ultimate vacation at one of the best all-inclusive resorts for families!
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