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Best Mexico family holidays: find family-friendly hotels and resorts in Mexico
Are you considering a trip to Mexico? Here’s a list of the best family hotels in Mexico, as recommended by parents.
By Dina Mahmoud | Last updated Feb 16, 2024
White beaches, crystal blue waters, breathtaking views and sun-kissed resorts aren’t all that you’ll find in Mexico. If there’s one place that packs a punch when it comes to adventure, entertainment, and relaxation, it’s Mexico and its incredible family-friendly hotels.
Horse riding on the beach, pristine golf courses, extraordinary coral reefs and a variety of water sports activities will have your kids talking for ages about their fun-filled family holiday to Mexico. The all-inclusive resorts promise non-stop entertainment for everyone and the ultimate relaxation experience.
If you’re looking to leave your resort, there are a number of excursion sites and historical sightseeing opportunities to learn about Mexico’s rich heritage, history and culture. From the Mayan ruin of Chichén Itzá, to the beautiful coastal line of the Mayan Riviera, you’ll find exciting adventures, divine food and a mesmerising history.
Here’s our guide to the best family hotels in Mexico for your next family holiday.
Best family hotels in Mexico at a glance
Best overall: Royalton Riviera Cancun | Book now
Best restaurant variety: Moon Palace Cancun | Book now
Best natural scenery: Occidental at Xcaret | Book now
Best amenities: Grand Palladium Kantenah Resort and Spa | Book now
Best for entertainment: Bahia Principe Luxury Akumal | Book now
Best budget: Bahia Principe Grand Coba | Book now
Best views: Occidental Cozumel | Book now
Best location: Akumal Bay Beach & Wellness Resort | Book now
Best for kids: Paradisus Playa del Carmen | Book now
Best for teens: Hard Rock Riviera Maya | Book now
1. Best overall: Royalton Riviera Cancun
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What Mumsnet users say
“We've stayed at Grand Sirenis and Royalton. Both good but out of the 2, I'd choose Royalton.” Tequilamockinbird
“Think they are all much the same. We've stayed at the Royalton Riviera and the Hard Rock on Riviera Maya. Liked them both. Loads to do, really recommend swimming with Whale sharks.” Celtiethree
Our verdict
Adventure, relaxation and unlimited fun are just some of the things you can expect at the Royalton Riviera Cancun. With over 800 suites, private beach access, tennis courts, a night club and grocery deliveries, the hotel is equipped with everything you could possibly need. All while basking in the sun.
Home to 12 bars, a spa, a casino, a sports facility, a splash park and eight swimming pools, there’s never a dull moment at the Royalton Riviera Cancun. If you wish to venture out, just a short car journey will take you to El Rey Mayan Ruins, the Mayan Museum and ultimate fun at Wet ‘n Wild Cancun.
The resort is packed with a number of activities, including windsurfing and snorkelling. Best of all, the hotel also has a kids’ club. The indoor supervised play space is open to children aged four to twelve years old, where they are welcome to play games, relax, watch some telly, make new friends or enjoy the outdoor playground.
As for the bigger kids, adventure awaits the teens at the Royalton Riviera. Offering an exclusive hangout area that is dedicated just for teenagers, this no-adult zone is a supervised site that lets your teens have all the fun without the parental embarrassment. The teens’ club features PlayStation games, movies, Wi-Fi, kayaking, sailing, snorkelling, beach volleyball, dance lessons and more, the resort is truly a teenager’s haven.
At the end of a long day of fun, grab a signature cocktail and treat your taste buds to a hot meal from one of the nine onsite restaurants boasting international cuisines such as; Indian, Japanese, Mexican, Italian, Tex-Mex, international and steak house options. With buffet-style and a la carte dining options, great food is all within arms reach.
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2. Best restaurant variety: Moon Palace Cancun
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What Mumsnet users say
“Moon Palace in Cancun was lovely when we went, but it was a few years ago. I'm not sure what it's like now though, hopefully it's still really good!” BurnTheBlackSuit
Our verdict
Dip your toes into the pristine waters of Moon Palace Cancun and immerse yourself with its larger than life resort experience. With 20 restaurants, premium drink options, a playroom, a skating rink, and, of course, happy hour, you won’t ever want to leave…
Along the resort, you will find a perfectly groomed golf course that is made from immaculate green grass and lush tropical foliage. The Jack Nicklaus Signature course is a 27-hole that is a golf lovers paradise.
With three swimming pools, the resort offers a number of child-friendly activities that will surely keep the kids entertained for hours on end. Water sports, mini golf, and a kids-menu are just some of the things that your kids will enjoy on their day to day at the resort.
But, if younger guests are looking for some indoor play, The Playroom Kids Club is their home away from home. Equipped with games, consoles, arcade, internet access, and snacks, this kids club presents itself as a playful and modern lounge that is more than ideal for their entertainment.
If that’s not enough, skate some laps around the indoor ice skating rink and practice your cool moves on the ice, with a delightful view of the lush green scenery and the beaming sun.
After sunset, the fun continues. With lively music, dancing and pyrotechnic shows, your night of entertainment is just getting started. Get lost in the fabulous dinner options at the resort. With 20 restaurants to choose from, and an assortment of cuisines from around the world, it’s understandable if you can’t make up your mind on which restaurant to try out for the evening.
3. Best natural scenery: Occidental at Xcaret
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What Mumsnet users say
“We stayed just south of Playa del Carmen at the Occidental Xcaret. It's right next to the Xcaret eco park and most rooms come with unlimited access (via a river boat from the hotel lobby). The 'beach' is actually a man made cove, so water is incredibly calm and no wind to speak of- but it's not your idyllic beach setting.
Really great for kids with all sorts of animals inside the resort (flamingos, monkeys, parrots) and would highly recommend it.” dancingqueen345
“Occidental Xcaret is lovely, you can pay for unlimited Xcaret tickets which we did for our 2 weeks, great value, they also have a booking desk exclusively for park trips.” timeforawine
Our verdict
Located in the heart of Playa del Carmen, the Occidental at Xcaret is a tropical paradise filled with palm-lined beaches, nestled among some beautiful jungle gardens. With soft white sand, clear blue waters and stunning coral reefs, the resort is located just 45 minutes away from Cancun and just 10 minutes away from the centre of Playa del Carmen. Being in close proximity to the Xcaret Park, the hotel boasts activities, entertainment and fun both in the resort and in nearby attractions.
Guests here can join in the fun at any of the hotel ventures, which include bingo, archery, tennis, mini golf, water sports, snorkelling and showing up the competition in the game room. The younger guests will also enjoy a day at the hotel playground.
There’s also seven swimming pools, and the resort offers scuba lessons to those interested in trying it out. If you want to get out and about, excursions to the Mayan Ruins and the archaeological sites of Chichén Itzá are also available.
Nearby you will find the Xcaret Park, an eco-archaeological park which gives an experience of a lifetime, offering families a chance to participate in over 40 cultural attractions and exhibitions related to Mexican traditions and culture. Hotel guests can enjoy the Unlimited Xcaret Xperience which offers unlimited access to the park during your stay.
While the daytime activities are worth the hype, the night-time entertainment is just as exciting: there’s 11 restaurants to choose from, offering a range of cuisines, 10 bars as well as a nightclub.
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4. Best amenities: Grand Palladium Kantenah Resort and Spa
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What Mumsnet users say
“Grand Palladium was great.” jolufc
“We are going for our 3rd visit to Grand Palladium Kantenah in April. Have also been to Luxury Bahia Principe Akumal twice. Both are fab hotels!
The Spa at Grand Palladium is gorgeous - not so much at the Bahia.” sidsgranny
Our verdict
The Grand Palladium Kantenah Resort and Spa lies on the stunning Akumal coast in Mexico’s Riviera Maya on the Yucatán Peninsula.
The city is known as a hub for turtles, so swimming with turtles or even witnessing the birth of baby turtles can sometimes be possible for some lucky guests.
With an onsite water park, and a bustling kids’ club, the resort has great amenities to entertain kids for hours on end. While the gorgeous white beach is a sight on its own, kids will truly enjoy the onsite water sports facilities, mini golf, playground, games room and the dedicated entertainment staff.
With the wide choices of restaurants onsite, younger guests will appreciate the child-friendly buffet and kid’s meals that are available alongside the nine resort hotels offering Argentinian, Mediterranean, Brazilian, Mexican, Spanish, Japanese, Asian and American food.
Just a short car ride away, you can visit the Cenote Dos Ojos, a beautiful flooded cave that is part of one of the largest underwater systems located on the Yucatán Peninsula.
The resort also features a fitness centre, beauty salon and spa services to keep you relaxed and on top of your game as you trek through the enormous hotel.
5. Best for entertainment: Bahia Principe Luxury Akumal
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What Mumsnet users say
“We have stayed at Grand Palladium Kantenah and Luxury Bahia Principe Akumal - both twice. Playa del Carmen is 20/30 mins in a taxi (which the hotel will arrange) and has shops etc. Lots of great trips - Xel-ha, Xsenses, Xcaret. We love it!” sidsgranny
Our verdict
Wake up to the smell of the sea breeze at the stunning coastal resort of Bahia Principe Luxury Akumal.
With both indoor and outdoor play available here, you can leave your worries behind, knowing that the little ones are busy playing. Waterparks, kids’ club, water sports facilities and games room aren’t the only activities available at this luxurious hotel.
In fact, parents and children will enjoy the many features including the themed dinner nights, live performances, and a variety of other evening entertainments. If that’s not tempting enough, you may also enjoy some of the offsite activities that include fishing and a golf course, all within a short distance away.
Should you want some time with nature, the sun terrace and garden are a great place to wind down and as you laze under the sun.
The restaurant choices are exceptional at the Bahia Principe Luxury Akumal. With seven onsite restaurants to pick from with both a la carte and buffet options as well as child-friendly alternatives, the food is aplenty and the chefs are brilliant.
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6. Best budget: Bahia Principe Grand Coba
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What Mumsnet users say
“Grand Bahia coba in Riviera Maya you get to use all the four hotel facilities anyway! Amazing holiday with the best choice of food ever.” lorribaby
Our verdict
Your family holiday isn’t complete without some family-friendly competition. Get competitive in a game of badminton, mini golf, bowling or the games room. Impress the family with your fabulous singing voice during karaoke or have a laugh at the stand-up comedy club. And if you’re looking for an activity that the whole family will want to partake in, then join the resort cooking class, suitable for both adult and young guests.
Learn about the local culture through the hotel’s available class or head out and take up horse riding, or strike a hole in one in the golf course, which is less than two miles away.
The entertainment at the resort is plentiful for both adults and children to enjoy and the evening entertainment is all the rave. With live performances, themed dinner nights, stand-up comedy, and temporary art galleries - the resort is truly a little slice of heaven.
In close proximity you will find the Tulum Archaeological site, an impressive Mayan archaeological site where you can swim in a natural sinkhole with turquoise waters and learn about the Mayans and the history of this Mexican wonder.
7. Best for views: Occidental Cozumel
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What Mumsnet users say
“We stayed at the Occidental on Cozumel - it was a bit cheaper than the mainland one from memory, probably because you need to get the ferry over! I liked Cozumel - seemed more peaceful & far less built up than Playa del Carmen & we hired a jeep to bomb around the island. I really liked the hotel.” SJane48S
Our verdict
Located on the island of Cozumel, and surrounded by the Caribbean sea and coral reefs, guests who enjoy snorkelling and scuba diving are in for a treat at the Occidental Cozumel.
Surrounded by nature, the Occidental Cozumel boasts lush jungle vibes with all amenities within close range. Learn to cook a homey Mexican dish, canoe on the mesmerising turquoise waters, wind surf overtop of the Caribbean sea or go relax on the beach with a cocktail in hand while you await the nightly entertainment that is not to disappoint.
With live performances, themed dinner nights, an onsite nightclub, and babysitting services, the evening entertainment is bustling in this island resort. Offsite, you and your family can enjoy fishing or a nice horse ride along the beach. Onsite, the children will enjoy the kids’ club, the outdoor play area, water sports and the entertainment staff who will keep your little ones engaged for hours on end.
With seven different cuisines to choose from, the restaurant variety at the Occidental Cozumel is plenty and there are food choices and accommodations for every guest.
8. Best location: Akumal Bay Beach & Wellness Resort
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What Mumsnet users say
“Flew into Cancun and stayed in Akumal. Gorgeous place, it's near Playa del Carmen for all the shops and restaurants, near Tulum for sightseeing. We went to Xoximilco which was absolutely amazing, very different! Ek’ Balam was well worth it too. Plenty of Xenotes to explore.” 64632K
Our verdict
For those looking for a truly unique experience, Akumal Bay Beach and Wellness is calling. With white, powder sand, crystal clear water and an abundance of marine life, this resort gives an exclusive opportunity to snorkel with turtles and dive among the beautiful marine life and coral reefs.
The resort also offers a kids' club, water sports facilities and evening entertainment. Plus all the rooms of the Akumal Bay Beach and Wellness Resort offer spectacular ocean views from a private balcony or terrace, so you’re guaranteed a beautiful view even if you stay in and order room service.
Babysitting services are available at the resort as well as a snack bar on the ocean and restaurants that include two international restaurants, a steakhouse, a Peruvian restaurant, Mexican restaurant, and a sushi bar, all providing a tranquil ocean view.
9. Best for kids: Paradisus Playa del Carmen
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What Mumsnet users say
“We just got back from Paradisus Playa del Carmen. It was amazing - we stayed in the family side of the resort and it could not have been more child/baby friendly. They provided a load of baby toiletries for us, and even a tiny baby robe. We splurged on Family Concierge for the "free" airport transfer, but it was so worth it.” allfurcoatnoknickers
Our verdict
Nestled between the tropical lush greenery and overlooking the clear, blue Caribbean sea and Cozumel Island, Paradisus del Carmen offers spectacular views, and a serene mangrove and is a natural hub for nature lovers, beach goers and thrill seekers.
Guests can take advantage of the relaxing massage and facial services offered at the Yhi Spa, while the younger guests enjoy a day under the sun, partaking in any of the fun activities that are featured at this 5* resort.
Games rooms, a kids’ club, water sport facilities, a waterpark, a swimming pool, a play area and of course the breath-taking beach - the resort has a lot to offer for all ages.
There’s also a swim-up bar, a poolside grill and the resort is just a 15-minute drive from the Xcaret eco Archaeological park. You also have the option of joining a game of golf on the golf course, which is less than two miles away.
With spectacular coral reefs, crystal clear cenotes and historic Mayan ruins, adventure, culture and history await at the Paradisus Playa del Carmen.
10. Best for teens: Hard Rock Riviera Maya
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What Mumsnet users say
“We stayed at the Hard Rock Hotel, Riviera Maya with Virgin Holidays - can't recommend it enough.” NorfieGirl
“Think they are all much the same. We've stayed at the Royalton Riviera and the Hard Rock on Riviera Maya. Liked them both. Loads to do, really recommend swimming with Whale sharks.” celtiethree
Our verdict
Let the kids rule your holidays while you sit back and relax at the Hard Rock Riviera Maya. With a kids’ club that is located just steps away from the beach, the waterslides, and five swimming pools, the resort promises a variety of fun activities and adventures.
The kids’ hangout spots allow the younger guests to have maximum fun in this adult-free zone, which is entirely designed just for them.
With a daily itinerary filled with thrilling kids activities, the Hard Rock’s young guests can also enjoy a games room, movies and more. The hotel is equipped with a waterpark, Rockaway Bay Water Park, that features over 15 water slides. The fun is never ending at this unique resort.
Adults, the Hard Rock hasn’t forgotten about you. Equipped with rooms that feature double spa baths, you can pamper yourself right from the comfort of your room. You may also want to relax and rejuvenate at the Yoga temple near the Body Rock Fitness Centre.
As for family bonding, activities such as snorkelling, kayaking and diving are just some of the experiences offered at the resort. You can also enjoy quality family time at one of the resort’s nine restaurants that offer cuisines from around the world. If you’re in the pool and feeling a bit peckish, you will appreciate the swim up bar that offers drinks and snacks while lounge around in the pool.
Is Mexico safe for families?
There is a huge misconception about Mexico being an unsafe place. While some areas in Mexico are best to be avoided, most areas are safe for family travel. This includes the major tourist attractions and the hotels. With most hotels being all-inclusive, danger is not a concern within the resort walls or the tourist attractions. However, taking the regular precautions as you normally would while travelling to any destination is recommended.
But, when it comes to safety and Mexico, you can put your worries behind you, as Mexico is relatively safe, and is a country that welcomes family tourism.
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Is Mexico family-friendly?
Mexico is a haven for families. The excursions and offsite activities are thrill-seeking and exciting, and the same can be said for the resort activities and amenities. There is always some sort of entertainment to be enjoyed by family members of all ages.
Some history lessons and sight seeing at the Mayan Ruins will also spark interest in learning more about the rich Mexican history and culture for both adults and children.
No matter where you go in Mexico, you will always find something enjoyable and worthwhile for the family.
Where’s the best city to stay in Mexico?
Epic fun can be found in many of Mexico’s cities. With white sandy coastal shores, and a stunning blue sea like no other, Mexico will leave you and your family with a lasting impression and the most memorable moments.
We turned to our beloved Mumsnet forum for their recommendations on the best cities in Mexico, with many praising Cancun, Playa del Carmen, Riviera Maya, Cozumel and Tulum. Los Cabos and Puerta Vallarta were also recommended.
Do I need to hire a car in Mexico?
A car is not necessary if you’re staying for a short visit to Mexico, especially if you are considering staying in the hotel for the entirety of your trip.
If you plan to do excursions or leave the resort for some casual sightseeing, a car may be useful, but you may also find interest in getting a taxi or registering for one of the resort excursions, where transportation is provided.
When is the best time to go to Mexico?
When travelling to Mexico, you want to make sure that it's warm, crisp and sunny - so try to book your trip during the dry season. Between November and March are the best months to travel here, as you will avoid the rainy hurricane season.
How we chose our recommendations
Recommendations by real parents
Before choosing any destination for our roundups, we first consult the Mumsnet forums. With over 10 million users per month, there’s a lot of suggestions by real parents who have been there, done that when travelling to Mexico with the family.
Expert guidance and traveller reviews
After we’ve collated our hotel picks, we then turn to the experts and consult the likes of TripAdvisor, Booking.com, and Expedia to see what their recommendations include for family holidays here.
Here we’ll also check what travellers are saying about Mexico on these sites, taking into consideration both the positive and negative points of their trip to bring you a well-rounded and honest guide.
Celebrated hotels
Finally, we cross-referenced all of the above information to find the best Mexico resorts for families that had won the most awards and recommendations across the board. We feel there’s something here for everyone, to suit every budget.
Why should you trust us?
We work hard to provide unbiased, independent advice you can trust. We do sometimes earn revenue through affiliate (click to-buy) links in our articles. This helps us fund more helpful articles like this one.