The 8 Best All-Inclusive Family Resorts in Playa del Carmen

Playa del Carmen is one of the most popular vacation spots in Mexico, and with good reason. The beachfront city sits on the Mexican Caribbean coast between Cancun and Tulum, and its central position also gives great access to the fun-packed island of Cozumel. Playa’s popularity means that dozens of spectacular all-inclusive hotels have popped up over the past few years, and many of them are ideally suited to families with kids and teens.

If you and your family are considering the Riviera Maya for your next family vacation, you’ll want to continue reading. Today, we are sharing our top 8 best all-inclusive family resorts in Playa del Carmen.

When to Visit?

Playa del Carmen is on the Caribbean coast and most visitors head here for the year-round hot climate. Although the weather is always warm, some months are better than others.

April and May are the best times to visit. This is because daytime temperatures are around 70-80 degrees Fahrenheit with cooler evenings that allow children to sleep comfortably.

Playa del Carmen can become quite rainy between June and September and hurricanes can happen, so families should bear that in mind when planning their annual vacation.

Best Areas to Stay

Playa del Carmen is a fairly small city and it’s easy to walk, cycle, or taxi between the key areas. Where you choose to stay on your Mexican getaway will entirely depend on what you want from your vacation.

Quinta Avenida

Fifth Avenue, as it’s known in English, is the main road that runs through Playa del Carmen’s main tourist hub. Staying in the area will give you great access to many of the city’s best restaurants, cafes, and stores. The beach in front of Fifth Avenue is wide, safe, and clean, and is a great spot to hang out if your chosen resort doesn’t have its own beach access.

Staying in downtown Playa del Carmen will also give your family easy access to the ferry to the island of Cozumel. Here, you can enjoy incredible snorkeling trips and you can even hire a convertible jeep to explore the entire island.

Playacar

Playacar is one of the best spots to stay in if you’re looking for luxury during your family vacation. Playacar is in the southern part of Playa del Carmen and from here you’ll have easy access to pristine beaches and plentiful amenities.

Families love this area because of its peaceful vibe and great track record for safety. There’s also a high concentration of family-friendly all-inclusive resorts in this area, so you’ll have lots of great places to pick from.

Mayakoba

Mayakoba isn’t as well-known as Playacar but is another fantastic option for luxurious family resorts. This area is actually a development that spans more than 500 acres of land and boasts some of the most incredible natural beauty. From lagoons and mangroves to white-sand beaches, kids will love exploring their surroundings here.

Activities for Children in Playa del Carmen

There’s so much for kids to do in Playa and the surrounding areas, which is why it’s so popular with vacationing families. Some of our favorite activities include the following:

Xcaret Eco Park

There’s so much to do at Xcaret that it really needs an article of its own. Families can explore jungle trails and discover monkeys, birds, and giant turtles. Taking to the water, visitors can observe dolphins, sting rays, manatees, and nursing sharks.

There are also lots of cultural activities including the region’s famous flying men and a traditional Mayan show. Xcaret also has a natural waterpark and your family can explore lagoons and natural pools. Then, after dark, the ‘Mexico Spectacular’ show kicks off and is well worth staying for.

Parque Fundadores

In the heart of Playa del Carmen, you’ll find Parque Fundadores, a plaza packed with things to see and do. First, take a photo under the incredible 16-meter-tall bronze archway. There’s also a playground in the shape of a pirate ship that kids can run around in while enjoying Mexico’s beautiful sunny weather.

Then, grab an ice cream and watch the famous Mayan flying performance. During this flying dance, talented men hang by their ankles as they spin around a super-tall pole and play instruments. It’s seriously impressive and one viewing might not be enough (don’t worry, they repeat it throughout the day).

Xel Ha

There’s so much to do at Xel Ha and if your kids enjoy being in water this is a must-do during your time in Playa del Carmen. Your family can snorkel in the calm, clear waters, or hop in an inner tube and float along the lazy river while enjoying the area’s impressive natural beauty. There’s also a fantastic glass bottom boat tour for families that prefer to be on the water instead of in it.

Xel Ha is close to Tulum so we recommend making a day of it and starting your morning exploring Tulum’s incredible archeological site. Then, once you’ve discovered ancient Mayan ruins, head over to Xel Ha to cool off.

3D Museum of Wonders

Most tourists don’t realize that Playa del Carmen is home to the biggest 3D museum in the world. This mind-bending museum fully immerses you in 3D illusion artwork. Your photo album will be jam-packed with snaps of your family falling through floors, surfing big waves, and playing cards with dogs.

Captain Hook Cancun

Just up the coast in Cancun is the incredible Captain Hook Spanish replica galleon ship. Guests brave enough for the voyage will play at being a pirate for the day. There are swashbuckling games and fierce ship-to-ship battles, as well as a delicious dinner and an open bar for the adults.

What to Look for in a Family-friendly All-inclusive Resort

Family-friendly hotels typically offer a range of services to ensure that kids and adults have a fantastic time. Some of the services you might like to watch out for are as follows:

• Room amenities – a spacious family room with amenities like a TV and kitchenette will make travel easier for families with youngsters
• Dining options – Fussy eaters in your family will appreciate snack bars, ice cream parlors, and buffet restaurants where they can eat more casually
• Entertainment – kids and teen clubs are great for keeping youngsters entertained, and some hotels also have game rooms
• Children’s pool – check for a shallow splash pool for young kids and water slides for older children
• Services – concierge services make light work of planning trips and activities, and babysitting services are useful when you want some adults-only time
• Family-friendly water sports – snorkeling and kayaking are popular in Playa, and older teens might like to try their hand at scuba diving

Now, let’s get into it. Here are the 8 best all-inclusive family resorts in Playa del Carmen.

1. Occidental at Xcaret Destination

Occidental all-inclusive resort is perfectly set up for an action-packed vacation that the entire family will love.

Located 10 minutes outside Playa del Carmen, this huge resort is very close to the famous Xcaret Park. Even more conveniently, guests at this hotel receive a special price for unlimited access to the park if booked during check-in, making the fun more affordable.

Inside the resort, you’ll find an incredible seven swimming pools, ten bars including a disco, 11 restaurants, and a spa. Having such a wide range of food options is perfect for fussy eaters and the buffet restaurant has been designed specifically to be kid-friendly. Free Wi-Fi is available throughout the property for when kids need some screen time, and there are babysitting services available for an additional charge for when you need some adults-only time.

Rooms at Occidental are bright and spacious with plenty of room for two adults and two children. All accommodation has air-conditioning, a flat-screen TV, and a mini-bar with alcoholic and non-alcoholic refreshments. The bathrooms are also very spacious and have all the amenities that your family might need.

Top amenities include:

• Seven swimming pools
• A kid-friendly buffet
• Free Wi-Fi in all areas
• Babysitting services

Check availability for this fun-packed resort here.

2. The Royal Haciendas Resort & Spa

If you’re looking for a beach resort, The Royal Haciendas is a great choice.

Family rooms are available for groups traveling with children, and some even have two separate bedrooms so everyone can enjoy their space and privacy. All rooms have free Wi-Fi and many also have a seating area with a TV and DVD player for keeping kids entertained.

The entertainment staff are on-site throughout the day to ensure your entire family is always having fun. The tour desk is also on hand to help you plan trips to nearby attractions including the Cancun Mayan Museum where each family receives two free tickets courtesy of The Royal Haciendas.

This resort’s swimming pools are stunning and offer beautiful sea views. There’s also a pool for younger kids to play safely, as well as a playground for fun on dry land. The private beach area is safe and family-friendly, and watersports including snorkeling and canoeing can be arranged on request. The Royal Haciendas is located on the outskirts of Playa del Carmen and the resort offers a free shuttle bus into the center of the city so your family can explore without the hassle of taxis.

Top amenities include:

• Free Wi-Fi
• Child-friendly swimming pool
• Watersports including snorkeling
• Shuttle bus to central Playa del Carmen

Check availability for this beachfront resort here.

3. Grand Hyatt

For five-star luxury in child-friendly surroundings, look no further than The Grand Hyatt. This resort is positioned in the center of Playa del Carmen, giving your family great access to all that the beachside city has to offer.

There are two restaurants on-site and the buffet offers a wide range of food to suit both adults and children. If your little ones are in need of an early night, you can take advantage of 24-hour room service. Speaking of rooms, all accommodations at The Grand Hyatt are a perfect balance of luxury and functionality. As well as a TV, air-conditioning, and free Wi-Fi, rooms also have dining areas and spacious bathrooms for your family to spread out in.

There are three outdoor pools with spectacular views of the Caribbean sea that are the perfect place to make special family memories. There’s plenty for kids to do at this resort, including a children’s pool, indoor play area, and board games to borrow. The Grand Hyatt can also arrange water sports for adults and older kids to explore the calm, crystal-clear waters. For some much-needed adult time, the on-site spa is heaven on Earth. The architecture of the wellness center has been designed to look like a cenote and makes for a very special way to spend an afternoon.

Top amenities include:

• 24-hour room service
• Two restaurants
• Central location in Playa del Carmen
• Spa and wellness center

Check availability for this luxurious resort here.

4. Banyan Tree Mayakoba

For space and privacy, the villas at Banyan Tree Mayakoba cannot be beaten. This can be especially appealing for families with young children and you can relax in your villa while the kids play safely in your own private indoor and outdoor space.

Each villa at this 5-star resort has a private pool for your family to splash around in. You’ll also have your own private sun terrace, large bathroom, walk-in closet, and a 42-inch flat-screen TV. Each villa also has free Wi-Fi.

Banyan Tree offers an incredible 11 restaurants serving everything from pasta and burgers to Thai and Mexican cuisine. So, whatever your family’s tastes, there’ll be something for everyone. There’s also a great snack bar by the communal outdoor swimming pool for when little tummies start to rumble.

This resort isn’t lacking for family entertainment and the kids’ club and playground will keep youngsters occupied for hours. There are also water sports facilities, archery, and tennis equipment for older children to enjoy.

Top amenities include:

• Villas with private pools
• Mexican cuisine available
• On-site kids’ club
• Watersports facilities

Check availability for these stunning private villas here.

5. Viva Wyndham Azteca

Viva Wyndham Azteca puts family-friendly activities center stage, making it the perfect setting for a fun vacation in the Riviera Maya. Located in beautiful Playacar, it’s also in one of the best areas of Playa del Carmen for safety and accessible beaches.

Every room on offer at this resort is equipped to accommodate a family, guaranteeing that you have plenty of space during your vacation. Outside of the room, the children’s programs offer lots of variety for younger guests and ensure that they’re always entertained. This also gives adults more time to relax and enjoy an afternoon cocktail alongside one of the spacious swimming pool areas. There are also watersports and a top-rated golf course available nearby, and the nightly entertainment is fantastic for all the family.

There are four restaurants on-site serving various cuisines, and kids are welcome at all of them. What’s more, guests are welcome to use the four restaurants and other leisure facilities in the sister hotel, Viva Wyndham Maya, which is just a few moments away.

Top amenities include:

• Beachfront property
• Family-friendly rooms
• Daily children’s program
• Access to the sister hotel’s facilities

Check availability for this activity-packed resort here.

6. Grand Sunset Princess

Another fantastically positioned resort is Grand Sunset Princess which is located just 200 yards from Playa del Carmen beach.

The variety of rooms at this resort is impressive: from Delux Junior Suites with space for two adults and one child, to Family Club rooms with space for five people. There are also rooms with direct pool access which are suitable for families with children that are 13+.

Food is family-focused at the Grand Sunset Princess all-inclusive resort. The breakfast buffet means that kids can always find something they want to eat, and there are an incredible 12 restaurants to choose from for lunch and dinner. This includes two snack restaurants serving lots of kids’ favorite treats.

The playground is popular with younger children, while older kids can play pool, table tennis, and darts. Younger visitors will also love the children’s pool with its pirate ship theme, and the entire family can enjoy the main spacious beachfront pool.

Top amenities include:

• Rooms with direct pool access
• Beach access
• 12 all-inclusive restaurants

• Kid’s pool and playground

Check availability for this activity-packed resort here.

7. Riu Lupita

Staying beachside in Playacar, we also love Riu Lupita All-inclusive for family-friendly Mexico adventures.

Rooms are air-conditioned and offer enough storage for the whole family. There’s also a flat-screen TV in each room as well as a private bathroom and a balcony. Depending on the size of your family you can choose from a Standard Double Room with two double beds or the extra large Family Room that has bunk beds for younger kids.

The kids’ club is extremely popular with families visiting the resort and there’s great family-friendly entertainment in the evenings. Older kids will appreciate the free Wi-Fi throughout the entire property and active groups can take advantage of the fitness center and tennis court. The three outdoor swimming pools give families plenty of space to relax and splash around, and there are shallower parts where kids can play safely with supervision.

Top amenities include:

• Free Wi-Fi

• Fitness center
• Tennis court

• Three swimming pools

Check availability for this Playacar all-inclusive resort here.

8. Palmaïa

For families that appreciate world-class service in luxury surroundings, Palmaïa is a very good choice.

This stunning all-inclusive resort boasts big outdoor pools and five restaurants that cater to families. Rooms at Palmaïa are spacious and extremely comfortable and have been designed with families in mind. Whichever type of suite you choose, you’ll benefit from air conditioning, free Wi-Fi, and a seating area with a flat-screen TV. Adults in your group will certainly appreciate the minibar and Nespresso machine in each room, too.

Kids will love how easy it is for your family to access the beach and the jungle from this resort. There’s a real sense of adventure when staying in this resort and it’s ideal for exploring the Yucatan’s endless natural beauty.

The best thing about Palmaïa has to be the holistic children’s program. Led by certified Waldorf Educators, this unique experience gives kids an opportunity to play and explore their environment in a safe and positive way.

Top amenities include:

• Five restaurants
• Free Wi-Fi

• Outdoor swimming pool

• Holistic children’s program

Check availability for this holistic luxury resort here.

Enjoy an All-Inclusive Family-Friendly Vacation to Playa del Carmen

So there you have it, the 8 best all-Inclusive family resorts in Playa del Carmen. Making memories with your children while surrounded by Mexico’s incredible beauty is something to cherish forever, and whichever resort you choose to stay in from this list, we’re certain it will be a trip you’ll never forget.