Please note: This wonderful guest post was written by Jana and reflects her own experiences. I really enjoyed reading her article—and I hope you do too!
When my fiancé and I scheduled our wedding in Riviera Maya, Mexico, making the event kid-friendly for nephews and nieces was one of our main priorities.
That meant locating the best family-friendly resorts that hit every checkmark for adults (spa, dining, luxury amenities) plus tons of kids activities to entertain everyone for the week.
We researched and took 2 trips to Riviera Maya to tour all inclusive resorts. Tours were a fantastic way to experience each place, and it taught me quite a lot about the resorts across the region.
Here are 5 of the best family resorts in Mexico Riviera Maya for an epic Mexico family vacation.
1. Barcelo Maya Grand Resort
Location: Resting along a long stretch of beach overlooking Puerto Aventuras reef in Puerto Aventuras.
Rooms: 2,500+
Pool: 11 pools
Kid’s Club: Barcy Kids Club
Family Concierge: Premium Level
Dining: 22 restaurants across the 6 hotels
Distance From Airport: 50 miles
If you’re looking for an impressively large resort designed for family vacations, Barcelo may be a great experience for your family. Barcelo’s big draw is just how many family-friendly activities the resort hosts. When I toured, I took a golf cart around all 6 hotels across the property and there was a ton going on.
The resort has a nearly endless amount of outdoor activities, kid friendly pools, water parks, and splash zones, including a Pirates Island theme Park.
Outdoorsy travelers would love the sports courts, educational activities, and non-motorized water experiences. For indoor entertainment Barcelo’s mini golf course, Ventura fly and ride park, and plentiful programmed entertainment are a perfect place to hang out.
Lots of activities cater to younger kids, but teens aren’t left out. The land and water sports, daytime events, and large beaches seemed to attract the older kid crowd. Barcelo even hosts a teen-friendly night club.
Resort rooms are family friendly and close to the action. In fact, I’d recommend asking for a room away from the daytime pool music if you have the option. You can book adjoining rooms, strollers are available, and premium amenities feel like concierge service.
This is a best option if you want fun activities and an adventure filled family getaway.
2. Paradisus Playa Del Carmen-Riviera Maya
Location: In central Playa Del Carmen on a private white sand beach.
Rooms: 898
Pool: 5 pools, including 3 in the complimentary water park
Kid’s Club: Kids Club
Family Concierge: The Reserve (formerly Family Concierge)
Dining: 14 restaurants
Distance From Airport: 35 miles
Paradisus Playa Del Carmen feels like a five star resort from the moment of entry. But, it’s also no fuss, striking a balance between refined luxury and laid back.
When you step onto the property, you’re immediately greeted with families moving between the pools, game room, beach, and restaurants. However, Paradisus never feels crowded because of how the resort is laid out.
I like the way child friendly elements are incorporated across the property, so you won’t feel like you have to pack everyone up to grab food or even a drink at one of the bars. The family side overlooks the pool and pirate ship with lots of shaded seating and poolside restaurant so everything is in one place.
The resort water park, water slides, beach activities, and events will keep everyone plenty busy. I think the only downside would be for teens who may not have the water parks and daytime activity options of a resort like Barcelo. If their idea of fun is lounging by the pool or beach with endless ice cream though, this resort is a winner. And for younger kids, this is a top choice (We chose this resort for our wedding).
I noticed that The Reserve level has quite a few perks to personalize your stay. You get access to a Reserve-only pool and casual poolside restaurant. Also, private check in and check out alongside all day refreshments and premium drinks.
If you’re planning your trip and want to be fully prepared, check out this comprehensive all-inclusive packing list for Mexico.
Paradisus is a wonderful choice for families looking for a 5-star experience, personalization (if you choose The Reserve), and a wealth of activities for kids under 12.
3. Dreams by Jade
Location: On a gentle slope overlooking the ocean beside Vallarta.
Rooms: 550
Pool: 3 pools
Kid’s Club: Explorer’s Club for Kids and supervised program for teens
Family Concierge: Preferred Club
Dining: 9 restaurants and 2 snack bars
Distance From Airport: 12 miles
Dreams by Jade is a smaller resort but it packs a lot in for families. The energetic atmosphere is a great option if you want a cozy stay with all the inclusive amenities.
Where Dreams by Jade stands out is its incredibly friendly and helpful staff. From the moment I arrived I felt welcomed, creating almost a summer camp feeling. The scenery is also beautiful, with the main pool and swim up bar overlooking the ocean and private beach. There’s a dedicated wading pool for the littles and an adults-only pool for Preferred Club guests.
The resort may be smaller than others on this list, but they’ve packed in a lot to do. The entrance leads to an onsite shopping mall beside restaurants and outdoor bar. Plus you’ve got everything you’d expect from a four star resort like miniature golf, spa, fitness center, and programmed activities.
The teen program has its own space with video games, DJ equipment, and arcade. The resort also has a full program of events for youngsters 3 to12, including everything from weekly campout adventures to arts and crafts. At the beach you can take out kayaks and Hobie cats for an adventure. If you’re looking for a place where you can leave the kids and relax poolside, the resort has thought of everything.
Dreams by Jade is a great mid-range option that doesn’t compromise on amenities for all age ranges.
4. Nickelodeon Riviera Maya
Location: Nestled along the water in between Puerto Morelos and Punta Maroma.
Rooms: 280, some with premium themes
Pool: Tons of pools from swim up rooms to water park
Kid’s Club: Club Nick
Family Concierge: Yes (no specific name)
Dining: 6 restaurants
Distance From Airport: 7 miles
Nickelodeon Riviera Maya brings its colorful universe to life in a high energy, family-friendly resort with an epic water park. Everything in the resort is designed for families so you can slip into vacation mode upon arrival.
If your kids have a special love of Nickelodeon characters (everything from PAW Patrol to Sponge Bob to Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles) the resort will feel a bit like Disney World. You’ll get a full themed experience, from spacious suites, to the waterpark with a lazy river, to the fully costumed characters strolling the property and hanging at character spots.
The 6-acre water park could easily keep you busy for days with slides and pools for all ages. Bigger kids will love Soak Summit Tower, and littles can enjoy calmer waters at Bikini Bottom Beach. Everything is easily accessible from your suite, so you don’t have to worry about long walks between pool, beach, and restaurants.
Nickelodeon’s water park and daily events are a great reason to consider the resort for your next family vacation. You’ll get all the perks of a beachfront resort, plus unique live experiences. The Slime Time Live, Pajama Jam Character Breakfast, face painting, and overall festive atmosphere will keep everyone busy. But when needed adults can escape to relax at the spa and quiet zones – a smart touch.
This is one of the best family resorts in Mexico and Riviera Maya for young children if you’re wanting a lively atmosphere and water park fun.
5. Ocean Riviera Paradise
Location: Sprawling along white sand beaches north of Playa del Carmen.
Rooms: 974
Pool: 5 pools
Kid’s Club: Daisy Club
Family Concierge: Privilege Service
Dining: 10 restaurants
Distance From Airport: 31 miles
Ocean Riviera Paradise strikes a balance between laid back beachy vibes and energetic family resort. I’m a big fan of the beautiful natural setting and the way activities are incorporated throughout the property. It feels like an upscale resort with natural connections between pools, walkways, and buildings.
The Daisy Club is perfect for dropping off youngsters while you enjoy the spa or pool. Daisy Club is an expansive program that includes a family-dedication section of the resort, kids programming, themed days, and water park. Add to this the teens club with sports and activities and the whole family is covered.
Outside of this programming, the amenities are pretty great. The resort holds tennis courts, diving centre and motorized water sports, bowling, theater, nightclub, and casino. Similar to Paradisus, I like the large room selection that really caters to different family sizes.
This is a good option if you want a family vacation with plenty of time for rest and relaxation.
Final Thoughts on the Best Family Resorts in Mexico Riviera Maya for Kids
With so many family-friendly all-inclusive luxury resorts in Mexico, it can feel tough to choose where to book. Take some time to think about what your family wants to experience on vacation, and dream big!
Write a short list, and stick to your non-negotiables for an unforgettable vacation. There are enough fabulous resorts on this coast to find the right fit, and investing some time up front to research will make your life much easier once you arrive at your destination.
FAQs: Family Resorts in Mexico Riviera Maya for Kids
Which is better for families Cancun or Riviera Maya?
This all depends on what you’re looking for in a family friendly vacation. Cancun is home to some of the best hotels for families in a very central location. Its white-sand beaches, busy shopping and dining scene, and access to Isla Mujeres are big draws.
Riviera Maya on the other hand is a bit quieter, more spread out, and away from Cancun’s traffic. The region’s many luxury hotels and family-friendly resorts have grown its popularity over the years. It also helps that Riviera Maya is a great place for a day trip to the Chichen Itza Mayan ruins, Cozumel Island, and tons of adventure activities.
What is the best month to go to Riviera Maya?
Springtime around April is a great time of year for calm weather, fewer crowds, and good hotel rates.
November into early December are also excellent. This is right when the Riviera Maya’s dry season begins. The holiday season hasn’t quite kicked off either, meaning you can find good rates.
How far is Riviera Maya from the airport?
You’ll fly into the Cancun Airport when traveling to your resort in Riviera Maya. Riviera Maya is a huge coastal region in Mexico, so drive distances vary. Your drive might be anywhere from 6 to 70 miles.
What is the best all inclusive resort for a family in Riviera Maya?
This depends on what you’re looking for in a resort room, location, amenities, activities, and dining.
I recommend exploring at least a few resorts before you make your decision. Visit the resort’s website, read reviews, and watch a couple Youtube videos to get the lay of the land.
As I explored family friendly resorts in Mexico’s Riviera Maya I found that hotel websites generally were not informative enough. So, look online across social media and review sites to get a full picture.
Just a heads up: some links in “Best Family Resorts in Mexico Riviera Maya” are affiliate links. If you click and buy, we might earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.
