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“Mexico” and “all-inclusive resort” absolutely go hand-in-hand. While the plush hotel experience may not be as ingrained in Mexican culture as chilis and quinceñera parties, the country has become somewhat of an expert in the resort game. And, when it comes specifically to all-inclusive family resorts, they know what they’re doing. Lounge on the beach while your little ones roam the kids club, chill in the spa while they make use of the video game room, float over to the swim-up cocktail bar while a responsible (sober) babysitter takes over on toddler duty. Here’s a quick rundown on the best all-inclusive family resorts in Mexico.
Club Med Cancun Yucatan
Club Med is located just south of Cancun perched on the strip of land offshore. The amenities here make this spot great if you’re traveling with kids or teens. There are playgrounds, “Petit Club Med” for two and three-year-olds, and clubs with video games for kids of all ages. There’s even a teen spa and a Baby Zone where parents can prepare meals for toddlers and infants. Come nightfall Club Med offers lots of events and activities, the most famous being the circus and flying trapeze. The location is really unbeatable as it’s lined by three white beaches at the tip of the Riviera Maya, and the room prices are reasonable.
Read more: Best Beaches in Mexico 2018
Grand Velas Riviera Maya
Located in Playa del Carmen also in the Riviera Maya, Grand Velas is an all-inclusive family-friendly resort located on 80 acres of lush mangrove forests and pearl-white sand. The pool complexes are jaw-dropping, as well as the spas and the 1,270-square foot beachside suites. You can spend time in the adults-only buildings, while the kiddos can make the most of their beach Olympics, treasure hunts, and Guitar Hero tournaments. The restaurants here span from Italian to Asian fusion and classic Mexican tacos. Down in Playa del Carmen, Grand Velas is just a 40-minute drive from Xel-Ha, the world’s largest aquarium, and only 20 minutes from Xcaret Eco Park.
Iberostar Playa Mita
On the other side of Mexico, just north of Puerto Vallarta on the Pacific coast is the world-renowned resort of Iberostar Playa Mita. This huge chain of 5-star hotels is known for top-class amenities, butler service, and plush all-inclusive experiences. The Riviera Nayarit region of Mexico is significantly less visited than Cancun and other spots in the country, so your experience will be a bit more authentic. Iberostar is located just a short drive from Sayulita, which is known as the local Mexican getaway spot and isn’t as overrun with Americans as Cancun.
Azul Beach Resort
For those of you looking for an intimate option, this spot is the smallest of the bunch in the Mexican Riviera and feels more like an oversized spa. With only 92 rooms (compared to others on this list with over 500), this resort is located on a beach that’s really secluded. Older kids can enjoy beach parties, Spanish lessons, yoga, and live entertainment, while younger kids can make the most of the kiddy pools and the child-sized rope gym. In 2015, Azul Beach Resort launched its Nickelodeon Experience — a collection of games, special events, and programs designed around the channel’s major characters like Dora, Spongebob, and Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles.
Dreams Playa Mujeres
Dreams Playa Mujeres has more pools (nine in total) than some kids can count to. There’s an entire 18-hole golf course (with complimentary greens fees), six bars (and babysitting services to keep the little ones safe), two water parks, and a dolphin sanctuary — yes, a dolphin sanctuary. Younger kids can take advantage of the kids and teen clubs, while the older ones can make use of the surprising activities on offer like archery lessons, batting practice, and beach football. Dreams resort really has perfected the family-focused accommodation and combined it with serious luxury in mind.
Hyatt Ziva Cancun
The Hyatt Ziva resort, also in Cancun, is another great spot for kids. There’s a mini water park sized perfectly for those aged 4-12, a Friday night piñata party, and a 50s-themed diner with delicious milkshakes. The Hyatt isn’t so bad for adults either. Lounge on the white sand beach, relax in the infinity swimming pools, snorkel in the emerald blue water or play beach volleyball. The Ziva is an exceptionally well-rounded resort that’ll leave you feeling super satisfied with your choice of an all-inclusive resort.