Best Cancun All Inclusive Family Resorts

Are you thinking about going to Mexico for a family vacation? You might be surprised, but it's not just a spring break destination anymore. With a surge in family-friendly, all-inclusive resorts, Cancun has become a favourite spot for family vacations.

Need help deciding which resort to choose? Don't worry — we've compiled a list of Cancun's best family-friendly all-inclusive resorts, along with expert travel tips to make your booking process a breeze.

What makes Cancun a great family destination?

According to Chantale Baker, founder and group travel specialist at Global Vibes Travel, Cancun is becoming very popular for family vacations because the number of all-inclusive resorts catering to families has increased.

"Family-friendly all-inclusive resorts in Cancun have grown due to market changes," Baker explains. "Existing brands have expanded, new family-oriented resorts like Nickelodeon have entered the market, and familiar U.S. hotel chains have joined the all-inclusive sector. Post-pandemic, leisure travel also continues to increase, driving demand for these resorts."

Cancun is also a great family destination with its beautiful beaches, water sports, and cultural experiences like cenotes, ruins, snorkelling, and horseback riding. According to Baker, most resorts also provide family-friendly amenities such as pools, game rooms, and evening shows, making it inclusive for all ages.

What are the benefits of all-inclusive resorts for families?

Convenience

"All-inclusive resorts offer unparalleled convenience," says Baker. "With room, food and drinks bundled into one price, families can enjoy their vacation without daily budget concerns. Multiple onsite dining options also eliminate the need for external transportation or meal planning. Many resorts also provide complimentary 24-hour room service, enhancing the hassle-free experience."

Budget-friendly

Believe it or not, all-inclusive resorts can be cost-effective for families. According to Baker, 'This is especially true for big savings on alcoholic beverages for parents and young adults of legal drinking age who consume alcohol.' She adds, "These resorts also typically offer additional food options such as pastry shops, coffee shops, cookies and ice cream."

What to consider when choosing family-friendly resorts

Theme

One of the most important things to consider when choosing an all-inclusive resort for your family is making sure the resort's theme aligns with your style and expectations.

Baker explains, "For instance, if your family is looking for a quiet and relaxing experience, then you need to select a resort that caters to that. On the other hand, if your family would prefer a more upbeat, loud music pool party experience, then it's best to find a resort with a 'loud' atmosphere."

Age of children

"When picking a family-friendly resort, don't forget to think about how old your kids are," Baker advises. "You'll want to make sure the resort has age-appropriate perks — maybe a kids' club for the little ones, exciting teen activities for the older crowd or a splashy water park that'll thrill kids of all ages."

The size of the resort

According to Baker, the size of a resort is another important consideration. "Larger resorts often provide a wider range of amenities, activities, and dining choices. "On the other hand, smaller resorts tend to offer a more intimate setting and quicker access to nearby attractions."

Resort location

The resort's location also matters. Baker suggests, "Consider whether the resort is on the beach or off the beach, what attractions are nearby, and what the distance to the airport is."

Room options

Baker advises checking out the variety of rooms available at resorts before booking. "Many properties offer different types of rooms," she says. "You could find choices such as adjoining rooms or roomy family suites, which might impact your choice."

Dining options

As you plan your family getaway, consider the dining options at your hotel. Baker says this is especially important if anyone in your family has allergies or special dietary requirements.

Activities and entertainment

When choosing a place to stay, look for hotels and resorts with plenty of fun activities. Baker recommends finding spots with free water activities like kayaking or paddleboarding or places with tennis or pickleball courts. "For entertainment, keep an eye out for resorts that host pool parties, family-friendly shows and have game rooms," she says.

The best Cancun all-inclusive family resorts

Moon Palace Cancun

This family-friendly Cancun resort offers family suites, multiple pools, and kids'/teens' clubs. It also offers adult golf and spa amenities near Mayan ruins, as well as shopping.

Dreams Playa Mujeres Golf & Spa Resort

This family-friendly resort, 10 miles from Cancun, offers water parks, luxury rooms and live shows. It also features a dolphin habitat where guests can swim with dolphins.

Finest Playa Mujeres by Excellence Collection 

This expansive resort is ideal for family vacations. It features 12 restaurants, 16 bars, and 12 pools with jacuzzis. The resort also offers numerous family activities, including a water park, sports facilities, and yacht excursions.

Wyndham Alltra Cancun

This resort ranks as one of the best family resorts in Cancun. It features a splash park, waterslide, family pool, kids' and teens' clubs, and family-friendly activities like movie nights, live shows, music, and themed events.

Hyatt Ziva Cancun 

This top Cancun family resort offers an all-inclusive package that includes meals, drinks, and numerous activities. It also features family-friendly rooms, entertainment, shows, pools, and water activities.

Finest Playa Mujeres

This resort features 450 upscale suites, including family and swim-up options. Guests can also enjoy 10 pools, a children's water playground, 14 jacuzzis and various beach activities.

Royalton Splash Riviera Cancun

This all-inclusive resort is perfect for families. It offers 1,005 suites and a variety of activities and dining options. The onsite water park also features lazy rivers, 14 water slides, tubes, splash pads, and spray grounds.

Nickelodeon Hotels & Resorts Riviera Maya

This resort boasts a Nickelodeon™-themed area with a water park and kids' club. It also offers gourmet dining and spa services for adults. It also features oceanfront swim-up suites and all-age activities for everyone in the family.

Tips for making the most of your all-inclusive family vacation in Cancun

Plan ahead

According to Baker, planning in advance is important because it has many perks. By planning early, you have a better chance of getting your preferred room at resorts, can often save money on room rates and flights, and have a higher likelihood of securing spots in popular excursions or activities that need to be booked ahead of time. "It also gives you plenty of time to sort out important details like requesting vacation time from work or arranging for someone to cover your responsibilities," she adds.

Take advantage of kids' clubs

Baker mentions that kids' clubs not only offer parents some much-needed alone time but also allow children to make new friends and discover new games, toys and stories. "These experiences can create lasting memories from the vacation, filled with the excitement of learning and enjoying new things," she explains.

Don't overbook

"It's paramount not to jam-pack your schedule," says Baker. "Although it can be tempting to fill your days with as many excursions and activities as possible, it's essential to remember that relaxation is a key part of any vacation."

Explore beyond the resort

Baker suggests that families venture beyond the resort to truly experience all that Cancun has to offer. "It's a great idea to mix up your activities," she says. "Think about trying water sports, land adventures, cultural tours, museums, and even spa treatments. This variety will engage your senses and provide a more fulfilling experience."

But don't stress if you haven't booked these excursions in advance — Baker says most all-inclusive resorts have an excursion desk where you can easily arrange last-minute activities during your stay.

Experts

• Chantale Baker, founder and group travel specialist at Global Vibes Travel