Top 10 All-Inclusive Resorts for Families in Mexico

Grand Velas Riviera Maya

Grand Velas Riviera Maya stands out as one of the most elegant resorts in the Mexican Caribbean, if not all of Mexico. Despite its refined style and sophistication, it ranks among the top all-inclusive family resorts in Mexico and is a proud 2023 World’s Best Awards recipient.

Nestled between 80 acres of mangrove forest and a pristine white-sand beach, this resort features 491 suites. The accommodations are spread across three buildings—two of which cater to families—each functioning as a mini hotel with its own pools, gyms, and restaurants. Families will find the Ambassador and Grand Class sections particularly welcoming, boasting the largest pools and a variety of dining options. The Ambassador building is closest to the beach and both buildings offer kids' clubs and numerous connecting rooms, with many restaurants featuring kid-friendly menu items. This resort stands out as one of the most luxurious and family-oriented all-inclusive destinations in the country.

Important Information:

• Distance from Cancun airport: 33 miles
• Wi-Fi: Available
• Family Amenities: Kids’ Club, Teens’ Club, and Baby Concierge
• Gratuities: Included
• Rates: Starting at $1,315

Grand Velas Riviera Nayarit

Achieving Grande Dame status among all-inclusive Puerto Vallarta resorts, Grand Velas Riviera Nayarit stands as a celebrated icon of the Riviera Nayarit coastline. This World’s Best Award winner has redefined luxury in the all-inclusive resort experience.

The resort comprises 265 all-suite rooms, each boasting a balcony with ocean views and ample sunlit space. The centerpiece is a stunning infinity pool that cascades over three levels, leading to one of the finest beaches in the Bay of Banderas. Like its counterpart in Riviera Maya, this resort excels in family facilities, featuring dedicated clubs for kids and teens, along with a baby concierge that provides essentials like strollers and bassinets. With six restaurants offering a variety of dining options from casual beach fare to gourmet French, Italian, Mexican, and Pan-Asian cuisine, it's truly a foodie's paradise. The opulent spa, with 20 treatment rooms, plunge pools, hydrotherapy, and an array of holistic treatments, serves as a luxurious retreat for adults.

Key Information:

• Distance to Puerto Vallarta airport: 7 miles
• Wi-Fi: Complimentary
• Family Amenities: Kid’s Club, Teen’s Club, Baby Concierge
• Gratuities: Covered
• Rates: Starting at $909

Hotel Xcaret Mexico

Few all-inclusive resorts cater to families as effectively as Hotel Xcaret Mexico, which is likely why it topped our World's Best list for 2023. This expansive, upscale resort boasts 900 beautifully designed rooms, yet it manages to maintain a boutique atmosphere. This is perhaps due to its numerous hangout spots, ensuring no area feels overcrowded — a feat for one of the region's premier hotels.

The extensive grounds are crafted to resemble a prehistoric landscape, featuring rugged facades, lush tropical greenery, and a river inspired by nature, flanked by canyon walls. (This peaceful area houses the luxurious spa.) Amenities include ten restaurants, eight bars, and a kids' club. One of the greatest advantages for families is the unlimited, all-inclusive access to any of the Grupo Xcaret theme parks — with transportation provided. Activities like zip-lining, ATV tours, themed shows, and water parks are all part of the deal, allowing families to visit as often as they wish during their stay.

Key Information:

• Distance to Cancun airport: 41 miles
• Wi-Fi: Complimentary
• Family Amenities: A kids’ club and unlimited access to all Grupo Xcaret parks are included in the room rate
• Gratuities: Included
• Rates: Begin at $900

Grand Velas Los Cabos

Travelers to Los Cabos often find themselves overwhelmed by the choices of high-end resorts. However, Grand Velas Los Cabos stands out as a premier all-inclusive luxury option for families, earning a place on our World’s Best Awards list in 2023.

This beachfront hotel radiates understated elegance while offering a plethora of family-friendly amenities, making it anything but stuffy. The spacious, modern rooms provide a cozy atmosphere with ocean and pool views from all balconies, and many even feature private plunge pools. Guests will recognize beloved restaurants like Frida, Lucca, and Piaf, alongside the unique Velas 10 and Cocina del Autor. The well-equipped kids' club offers activities ranging from gaming to jewelry-making and treasure hunts, while teens enjoy a stylish lounge with pool tables, air hockey, and their own cafeteria. Adults can relax in the expansive spa or unwind at the multi-level pool deck.

Essential Information:

• Distance to San Jose del Cabo airport: 20 miles
• Wi-Fi: Complimentary
• Family Amenities: Kid’s Club and Teen’s Club
• Gratuities: Included
• Rates: Begin at $1,552

Mahekal Beach Resort

With its soft, white sandy beaches and charming palapa-roofed bungalows nestled among palm trees, Mahekal Beach Resort allows you to escape into paradise right in the bustling heart of Playa del Carmen. A perennial favorite of mine among all-inclusive resorts in Mexico and a World’s Best award winner in 2023, it beautifully balances stunning beachfront access with proximity to the lively Quinta Avenida, filled with fantastic dining, nightlife, and entertainment options. Families adore this resort for its prime beach location, stylish beachfront bungalows, family-oriented pool, and easy access to local attractions.

Key Information:

• Distance to Cancun airport: 35 miles
• Wi-Fi: Included
• Family Amenities: Ping pong, swimming pool, ceramic painting, and a pool suitable for families
• Gratuities: Included
• Rates: Starting at $543 for all-inclusive packages

Garza Blanca Preserve Resort & Spa Puerto Vallarta

I seldom recommend all-inclusive resorts in Puerto Vallarta, yet I gladly make an exception for Garza Blanca Preserve. This resort is fantastic for families due to its stunning location, spacious accommodations, and abundant adventure activities.

Puerto Vallarta and the Bay of Banderas are ideal spots for nature enthusiasts and active adventurers, and Garza Blanca Preserve positions families right where the action is. Each of the 165 rooms offers picturesque ocean views alongside the lush, jungle-covered Sierra Madre mountains. The resort features three pools: two by the beach and one nestled between Garza Blanca and its adults-only neighbor, Hotel Mousai. A charming white sand beach in front allows guests to launch kayaks straight from the shore to explore nearby coves and natural wonders. Hiking trails are plentiful in the area, and the hotel staff is ready to guide you to the best paths.

While the resort lacks a dedicated kids club, families who cherish spending quality time together with numerous onsite activities will find it a perfect fit. A new shopping village has recently opened between Garza Blanca and Hotel Mousai, featuring locally sourced boutiques, a vintage carousel, and several dining options.

The Details:

• Distance to Puerto Vallarta airport: 10 miles
• Wi-Fi: Included
• Family Facilities: Kid’s Club available
• Gratuities: Included
• Rates: Starting at $992

Grand Palladium Costa Mujeres Resort & Spa

Located just 30 minutes north of the bustling Cancun Hotel Zone, guests find a more tranquil and private slice of the Mexican Caribbean along the picturesque beaches of Costa Mujeres. Here, the Grand Palladium Costa Mujeres stands as a vast resort that keeps families entertained at every turn.

This 670-suite resort features 10 dining options, 19 bars, a luxurious spa, and countless activities for children. Although the property is quite extensive, its playful design includes man-made canals where boats transport guests. Alternatively, you can walk or take a golf cart to navigate the area. Families will find the Family Selection suites to be the ideal choice, functioning like a hotel within a hotel tailored for kids.

Distinctive features include access to an exciting zone filled with video games, cooking classes, arts and crafts, a customized mini-bar selection, and a delightful milk-and-cookies service at bedtime. Adults opting for Family Selection can enjoy exclusive dining at the neighboring TRS Coral Hotel.

The Essentials:

• Distance to Cancun airport: 21 miles
• Wi-Fi: Included
• Family-Friendly Amenities: A Family Selection choice offering exclusive VIP services tailored for families
• Gratuities: Included
• Rates: Starting at $912

Hard Rock Hotel Los Cabos

Hard Rock boasts several hotels throughout Mexico, all encouraging guests to unleash their inner rockstar. However, their Los Cabos location made waves when it opened in 2019. This 639-room resort shines like a neon oasis amidst the stunning desert landscape of the Baja Peninsula. Facing the roaring Pacific, which, while not safe for swimming, enhances the dramatic atmosphere and provides a lively soundtrack.

While swimming in the ocean isn’t an option (a common occurrence in Cabo), Hard Rock Hotel Los Cabos compensates with five impressive pools, complete with water slides and swim-up bars. While adults indulge in eight dining experiences or a signature massage at the Rock Spa, kids can enjoy the Hard Rock Roxity Kids Club, a Teens Club, or the on-site bowling alley. Guests at Hard Rock Hotel Los Cabos can also look forward to glamorous rock star memorabilia, music-themed activities, and rooms featuring outdoor hydro spa soaking tubs.

Details Overview:

• Distance to San Jose del Cabo airport: 35 miles
• Wi-Fi: Complimentary
• Family-Friendly Facilities: Hard Rock Roxity Kids Club, Teens Club, Music Lab, Bowling Alley
• Gratuities: Included
• Rates: Starting at $626

Paradisus Cancun

Paradisus Cancun stands out prominently while traveling through Cancun's Hotel Zone, characterized by five radiant white pyramids overlooking a picturesque beach. This hotel captures your attention with its impressive architecture and luxurious offerings. The 525-room Paradisus Cancun is an all-inclusive resort located on one of Cancun's finest beaches. Although the rooms could use some modernization, they are spacious and provide lovely views of either the ocean or lagoon.

The extensive amenities include a variety of dining venues, bars, a stunning beach, a large pool, a nine-hole golf course, and a YHI Spa. Families truly benefit here, as the Family Concierge services can be arranged to enhance the experience with additional in-room perks and fun family activities. Guests can easily reach out to their Family Concierge for assistance with reservations or scheduling excursions throughout the day. Children receive thoughtful gifts such as beach kits, kid-sized bathrobes and slippers, special bathroom products, bedtime milk and cookies, and beverages tailored for them in the minibar. They can even request a PlayStation for their room for extra entertainment.

Overview:

• Distance to Cancun airport: 12 miles
• Wi-Fi: Complimentary
• Family Facilities: Family Concierge, Kids' activities and amenities program
• Gratuities: Included
• Rates: Starting at $567

Villa del Palmar at the Islands of Loreto by Danzante Bay

I often find it surprising that Loreto, Baja California Sur, isn't more crowded, especially with its international airport. However, the locals who adore this tranquil town along the Sea of Cortez are quite content. Loreto is one of those rare places you wish could remain untouched, with its sandy streets, relaxed atmosphere, and prime views of the clear waters of the Sea of Cortez.

Located about six hours north of Cabo San Lucas, this area lacks the usual cluster of hotels and resorts. However, one standout shines brightly: Villa del Palmar at the Islands of Loreto. Nestled between majestic mountains and the stunning Danzante Bay, this breathtaking hotel sprawls over nearly 4,500 acres of natural wonders, featuring secluded coves reminiscent of Capri, pristine beaches, five pools, a vast 39,000-square-foot spa, and an 18-hole golf course crafted by Rees Jones. A $42 million renovation in 2022 refreshed 338 suites and introduced a new wing with 158 additional rooms.

Families adore this resort for its extensive range of activities, from snorkeling and kayaking just off the shore to exploring Loreto Bay National Marine Park. Kids can enjoy a wealth of specially designed activities, including yoga, pool games, movie nights, nature walks, dance lessons, and even Spanish lessons. Themed nights at the resort bring joy to all ages, featuring live performances of beloved musicals and vibrant Mexican fiestas.

The Details:

• Distance to airport: 25 miles from Loreto International Airport; 317 miles from Los Cabos
• Wi-Fi: Complimentary in common areas
• Family Facilities: Dedicated kids' activities, water sports, family-friendly shows, and themed evenings
• Gratuities: Not included
• Rates: Starting at $714

Important Information Before You Visit

Take the season into account

Mexico welcomes visitors all year, but some periods are more favorable than others. The best weather in beach destinations typically spans from November to April. Expect heat and humidity from July to August. September and October often mark hurricane season, and you might also want to consider the sargassum season in Cancun, which runs from April to October. This could influence your choice of an all-inclusive resort or not.

Amenities can sometimes trump location

Staying at a beachfront hotel is delightful, but nature doesn’t always cooperate. Many beaches in Los Cabos, for instance, are unsafe for swimming. If you travel to Cancun and the nearby Riviera Maya during sargassum season, you might find the beach littered with seaweed. Opting for an all-inclusive resort packed with amenities and featuring a beautiful pool scene, like one in Playa del Carmen, ensures there’s something for everyone to enjoy.

Watch out for timeshares

Numerous hotels and resorts in Mexico feature timeshare desks on-site, staffed by salespeople eager to recruit new timeshare owners. If purchasing a timeshare isn't on your radar, feel free to express your lack of interest. These salespeople can be quite persistent, so it's perfectly acceptable to politely but firmly decline.

How We Selected These Hotels

With a plethora of family-friendly all-inclusive resorts throughout Mexico, pinpointing the best options can be daunting. Several hotels made this list due to their recognition in our annual World's Best awards, where countless T+L readers cast votes for their top hotel picks globally.

Alongside these distinguished properties, author Meagan Drillinger lent her expertise. With 15 years of experience covering Mexico from coast to coast, she has personally explored hundreds of resorts nationwide. Her selections emphasize the quality of the guest experience, the resort's design, thoughtful details, and family-oriented services and amenities. Throughout her career as a travel writer, Drillinger has reviewed numerous hotels both in Mexico and around the world.

As with all hotel compilations, our editors ensure that every recommendation aligns with our foundational T+L Hotel Values.