Finding the ideal family getaway involves more than just choosing a destination. You need a place where everyone can enjoy themselves, relax, and make lasting memories without worrying about extra expenses or planning every detail. All-inclusive resorts make this possible, offering everything from meals to entertainment in one package.
Here’s a look at the 20 best family-friendly all-inclusive resorts for 2024.
List of All-inclusive Resorts
- Club Med
- Moon Palace Cancun
- Hyatt Ziva Cancun
- Sandals Resorts
- Barcelo Maya Palace
- Sani Resort
- Melia Caribe Beach Resort
- Riu Palace Punta Cana
- Grand Velas Riviera Maya
- Paradisus Playa del Carmen
- Ikos Resorts
- Beaches Resorts
- Atlantis Paradise Island
- Viva Wyndham Maya
- Hard Rock Hotel Riviera Maya
- Azul Beach Resort
- Dreams Riviera Cancun Resort & Spa
- Iberostar Selection Paraiso Maya Suites
- Nickelodeon Resorts
1. Club Med
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Location | Global (Mexico, Caribbean, Europe, etc.) |
| Family Focus | Kids’ clubs for ages 4 months to 17 years |
| Dining Options | Multiple restaurants, baby corners, room service |
| Activities | Watersports, sports facilities, flying trapeze |
| Accommodation | Family suites with separate rooms and kid-friendly designs |
Club Med is a pioneer in the all-inclusive vacation model, making it a top choice for families worldwide. The resorts offer comprehensive family-focused amenities that cater to all age groups, including kids’ clubs, sports activities, and special events designed to create lasting memories.
From toddlers to teenagers, every family member can find something to enjoy, whether it’s learning new skills, engaging in thrilling activities like archery or sailing, or simply relaxing by the pool. The resorts also provide specialized areas such as baby corners and dedicated family zones in their restaurants, ensuring that even the pickiest eaters are satisfied.
Beyond the activities, parents can take advantage of “me time” while kids are entertained under expert supervision. Club Med’s well-rounded package includes everything from gourmet dining to evening entertainment, making it easy to relax knowing everything is covered.
2. Moon Palace Cancun
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Location | Cancun, Mexico |
| Family Focus | Kids’ clubs for ages 4-12, teen lounge |
| Dining Options | 17 restaurants, in-room liquor dispensers, 24-hour room service |
| Activities | FlowRider, bowling, mini-golf, water sports |
| Accommodation | Family suites with connecting rooms |
Moon Palace Cancun is a sprawling, all-inclusive resort ideal for families. It offers a mix of relaxation and adventure with amenities tailored for all ages. The resort features multiple pools, including a dedicated children’s pool, along with a FlowRider wave simulator for surfing enthusiasts. Kids can enjoy “The Playroom,” a supervised space designed for ages 4-12, packed with fun activities ranging from video games to arts and crafts. For teenagers, the Wired Lounge provides entertainment and a space to socialize.
Parents aren’t left out either; they can indulge in spa treatments, enjoy fine dining at one of the 17 restaurants, or unwind at Noir, the resort’s nightclub. The resort also offers various dining options, from casual buffets to gourmet experiences featuring Mexican and international cuisines.
3. Hyatt Ziva Cancun
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Location | Cancun, Mexico |
| Family Focus | Kids’ club (ages 4-12), teen lounge, water play area |
| Dining Options | 17 restaurants, 24-hour room service, in-house microbrewery |
| Activities | Water sports, dolphin habitat, nightly live shows |
| Accommodation | Family suites, swim-up rooms, adults-only tower |
Hyatt Ziva Cancun is an all-inclusive resort perfect for families who want to experience the best of Cancun. The resort is surrounded by the Caribbean Sea, offering two stunning beaches: one private and one public. Families can enjoy activities ranging from snorkeling and paddleboarding to nightly entertainment like dance performances and live music. The dedicated kids’ club features a water play area, while teens have their own lounge for socializing and activities.
The resort offers 17 dining options, from beachfront Mexican fare to French cuisine exclusively for adults. A highlight is the in-house microbrewery, Tres Cervezas, where craft beers are brewed on-site. The resort also features swim-up suites, infinity pools, and an adults-only area, Turquoize, complete with its own rooftop infinity pool and bar for those seeking a more exclusive experience.
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4. Sandals Resorts
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Location | Multiple Caribbean destinations (Jamaica, Bahamas, St. Lucia, etc.) |
| Family Focus | Kids’ clubs, Sesame Street® program, Xbox lounges |
| Dining Options | Up to 21 restaurants per resort, premium drinks, Robert Mondavi® wines |
| Activities | Water parks, scuba diving, land sports, water sports |
| Accommodation | Family suites, connecting rooms, beachfront villas |
While Sandals Resorts are generally known for catering to couples, their Beaches® brand specifically targets families and offers an all-inclusive experience that leaves no detail overlooked. The resorts include something for everyone—whether it’s a Pirates Island waterpark for kids, Xbox Play Lounges for teens, or top-tier dining experiences for the whole family. Their Sesame Street® program, featuring live character interactions, adds an extra layer of magic for younger guests.
Dining is a highlight at these resorts, with options ranging from beachside grills to formal dining experiences, all included in the package. Many locations also provide access to multiple properties, letting guests enjoy amenities from several resorts during one stay. The accommodations are equally diverse, offering everything from spacious family suites to private beachfront villas.
5. Barcelo Maya Palace
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Location | Riviera Maya, Mexico |
| Family Focus | Kids’ water park, Barcy Kids’ Club, Teens’ Center |
| Dining Options | 6 restaurants, access to 12 others at neighboring properties |
| Activities | Water sports, mini-golf, tennis, nightly shows |
| Accommodation | Junior Suites, Family Suites, oceanfront rooms |
Barcelo Maya Palace is a luxurious all-inclusive resort that offers a variety of amenities and activities tailored for families. Located on one of the most beautiful beaches in the Caribbean, the resort features spacious suites that can accommodate families of up to five members. The resort’s focus on family entertainment includes a dedicated kids’ water park, a Barcy Kids’ Club, and a Teens’ Center equipped with games and sports.
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Parents can unwind at the adults-only pool or indulge in the spa, while the whole family can enjoy multiple pools, including an Olympic-sized pool and a swim-up bar. The resort offers six restaurants with a variety of cuisines, from Brazilian to Caribbean, and guests have access to 12 additional restaurants at neighboring properties within the Barcelo Maya complex.
6. Sani Resort
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Location | Halkidiki, Greece |
| Family Focus | Kids’ clubs, Bear Grylls Survival Academy, Rafa Nadal Tennis Center |
| Dining Options | 27 restaurants, Michelin-starred chefs, dine-around program |
| Activities | Watersports, Chelsea FCF Football Academy, nature trails |
| Accommodation | Variety of rooms across five hotels, from family suites to boutique options |
Sani Resort is a top-tier luxury destination nestled in Halkidiki, Greece, spread across 1,000 acres of Mediterranean charm. The resort comprises five distinct hotels, each catering to different preferences, from vibrant family environments to tranquil retreats surrounded by nature. The family-friendly amenities are exceptional, with options like kids’ clubs, sports academies, and even a Bear Grylls Survival Academy that engages children in unique outdoor adventures.
Dining at Sani Resort is a gastronomic journey, featuring 27 restaurants where guests can indulge in cuisines ranging from Greek to Peruvian, many crafted by Michelin-starred chefs. The resort’s dine-around program allows guests to explore a variety of dining options, offering everything from buffet breakfasts to gourmet dinners.
7. Melia Caribe Beach Resort
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Location | Punta Cana, Dominican Republic |
| Family Focus | Kids’ Zone, Splash Island Water Park, family-friendly pools |
| Dining Options | 13 restaurants, including international buffets and specialty dining |
| Activities | Water sports, beach parties, nightly shows, golf nearby |
| Accommodation | Family rooms, suites with garden or pool views, The Level suites |
Melia Caribe Beach Resort in Punta Cana is a fantastic choice for families seeking both luxury and adventure. The resort offers a perfect blend of relaxation and family-friendly fun, with highlights like the Splash Island Water Park featuring waterslides and a kids’ club packed with activities for all ages. The Kids’ Zone is open daily with supervised events such as treasure hunts, dance parties, and pirate-themed activities, ensuring younger guests are entertained from morning to evening.
Parents can indulge in spa treatments at the YHI Spa, enjoy the adults-only pool areas, or tee off at the nearby Cocotal Golf & Country Club. The resort’s extensive dining options include international buffets, Mediterranean cuisine, and beachfront snacks. Guests staying in The Level suites enjoy additional perks such as private lounges, exclusive pools, and upgraded dining experiences.
8. Riu Palace Punta Cana
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Location | Punta Cana, Dominican Republic |
| Family Focus | Kids’ pool, Splash Water World, daily entertainment for all ages |
| Dining Options | 5 restaurants, including international buffets and specialty dining |
| Activities | Beach sports, Riu Party events, nightly shows |
| Accommodation | Junior Suites, family suites, swim-up rooms with pool access |
Riu Palace Punta Cana is a family-friendly all-inclusive resort located on the beautiful Arena Gorda Beach. The resort offers a wide range of amenities that cater to guests of all ages, from a kids’ pool with slides to the popular Splash Water World, where children and adults can enjoy various water attractions. The resort also includes Riu’s signature “Riu Party” events for teens and adults, ensuring that every member of the family has plenty of entertainment options.
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Dining is diverse, with options ranging from buffet-style meals to à la carte restaurants serving Asian, Italian, and steakhouse cuisines. Families can relax by one of the resort’s three pools or take advantage of beach activities such as volleyball and paddleboarding. The resort’s prime beachfront location makes it easy to enjoy long walks along the pristine coastline or simply unwind under the shade of palm trees.
9. Grand Velas Riviera Maya
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Location | Playa del Carmen, Mexico |
| Family Focus | Kids’ club, teens’ club, activities for all ages |
| Dining Options | 8 gourmet restaurants, including Michelin-star-quality options |
| Activities | Water sports, eco-tours, nightly entertainment, world-class spa |
| Accommodation | Family suites, three distinct areas: Zen, Ambassador, Grand Class |
Grand Velas Riviera Maya is one of the most luxurious family-friendly resorts in the Riviera Maya, offering an all-inclusive experience that combines elegance with family-centered amenities. The resort is divided into three distinct sections, each catering to different preferences: Zen for nature lovers, Ambassador for families, and Grand Class for luxury seekers. Families are especially drawn to the Ambassador section, which is designed with spacious suites overlooking the Caribbean Sea and easy access to the beach.
Children and teens have their own dedicated clubs filled with activities like arts and crafts, video games, and guided eco-tours. For parents, the resort’s award-winning SE Spa offers world-class treatments, and the dining experience is extraordinary, featuring options like traditional Mexican cuisine and gourmet French dishes.
10. Paradisus Playa del Carmen
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Location | Playa del Carmen, Mexico |
| Family Focus | Kids’ club, themed parties, Family Concierge service |
| Dining Options | 22 restaurants and bars, including international and gourmet options |
| Activities | Water park, beach games, cooking classes, evening shows |
| Accommodation | Family suites, swim-up rooms, Nikté suites with concierge services |
Paradisus Playa del Carmen is a top-tier family resort that blends luxury with kid-friendly amenities. Located in a protected mangrove forest near the Caribbean Sea, the resort offers a lush and serene environment for a family getaway. One of the highlights is the dedicated Family Concierge service, which provides tailored experiences, private check-ins, and exclusive pool and beach access.
The resort offers extensive activities for children and teens, from a tropical-themed water park to creative workshops and themed parties. Parents can enjoy fine dining at any of the 22 restaurants or relax at the YHI Spa while kids have a blast at the Kids Zone or game room. The resort’s elegant suites include options for swim-up access and private terraces with hot tubs, ensuring both comfort and luxury for all guests.
11. Ikos Resorts
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Location | Multiple locations in Greece and Spain |
| Family Focus | Kids’ clubs (ages 4 months and up), babysitting services, beachside childcare |
| Dining Options | Michelin-starred chefs, à la carte restaurants, international cuisines |
| Activities | Watersports, tennis, evening shows, spa treatments |
| Accommodation | Family suites, deluxe collections, beachfront villas |
Ikos Resorts provide a luxurious yet family-friendly experience across several stunning locations in Greece and Spain. With their “Infinite Lifestyle” concept, Ikos offers a high standard of all-inclusive services, including dining options curated by Michelin-starred chefs, premium drinks, and a variety of family-centered activities. The resorts feature elegant accommodations ranging from family suites to private beachfront villas, ensuring comfort for all.
For families, the kids’ clubs cater to children as young as four months, with separate programs for different age groups. Activities include watersports, creative workshops, and even beachside childcare services, allowing parents to relax while kids enjoy supervised fun. Whether it’s sailing, spa days, or exploring nearby cultural sites, Ikos provides something for every family member.
12. Beaches Resorts
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Location | Jamaica and Turks & Caicos |
| Family Focus | Kids’ camps, Sesame Street® programs, autism-certified care |
| Dining Options | Up to 21 restaurants, global cuisines, swim-up bars |
| Activities | Waterparks, scuba diving, nightly shows, land and water sports |
| Accommodation | Family suites, beachfront rooms, butler service available |
Beaches Resorts offer a top-tier family vacation experience across several locations, most notably in Jamaica and Turks & Caicos. These resorts are perfect for families seeking a mix of luxury and fun, with endless activities that cater to all ages. Children will love the Pirates Island waterparks, Sesame Street® character interactions, and supervised kids’ camps with certified nannies, while teenagers have access to the Xbox Play Lounge and teen discos.
The resorts feature multiple dining options, ranging from international buffets to à la carte restaurants, and the all-inclusive package ensures premium drinks, round-the-clock snacks, and various activities without any additional costs. Parents can relax at the spa, enjoy golf, or simply unwind by the pool, knowing the kids are in safe hands.
13. Atlantis Paradise Island
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Location | Paradise Island, Bahamas |
| Family Focus | Kids’ clubs, marine habitats, world-class water park |
| Dining Options | Over 40 restaurants, celebrity chef options, quick bites |
| Activities | Aquaventure water park, beaches, golf, casino |
| Accommodation | Family suites, villas, luxury ocean-view rooms |
Atlantis Paradise Island is one of the most iconic family-friendly resorts in the Bahamas, offering a blend of luxury, adventure, and relaxation. The resort’s Aquaventure water park is a massive 141-acre attraction featuring waterslides, a lazy river, and marine exhibits with sharks and rays. Kids can explore the Atlantis Kids Adventures Club, participate in cooking classes, and engage in creative activities tailored to various age groups.
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With over 40 dining options ranging from casual eateries to fine dining experiences by celebrity chefs like Nobu Matsuhisa, there’s something for every palate. Families can choose from a wide range of accommodations, including spacious suites at The Coral, luxury rooms at The Royal, and residential-style options at The Reef. The recently completed $150 million renovation ensures modern amenities and upgraded facilities throughout the resort.
14. Viva Wyndham Maya
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Location | Playa del Carmen, Mexico |
| Family Focus | Kids’ club, circus school, themed entertainment |
| Dining Options | 5 restaurants, international buffets, à la carte options |
| Activities | Water sports, fitness classes, cultural workshops |
| Accommodation | Family rooms, ocean view suites, garden view options |
Viva Wyndham Maya is an all-inclusive resort located in the scenic Riviera Maya, offering a blend of cultural experiences and family-friendly activities. The resort’s Kids’ Club caters to children aged 4 to 12, with activities ranging from creative workshops to circus classes, ensuring the little ones are always entertained. The resort also features a trapeze setup where both kids and adults can take part in unique circus training.
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The property offers diverse dining options with five restaurants serving international cuisine, including Mexican, Italian, and Mediterranean. Guests can also enjoy themed nights and live entertainment shows every evening, adding an extra layer of excitement to their stay.
15. Hard Rock Hotel Riviera Maya
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Location | Riviera Maya, Mexico |
| Family Focus | Kids’ club, teen activities, Rockaway Bay Water Park |
| Dining Options | 9 restaurants, 24-hour room service, snack bars |
| Activities | Water sports, climbing wall, live shows, guitar rentals |
| Accommodation | Family suites, connecting rooms, Rock Star suites |
Why It Stands Out
Hard Rock Hotel Riviera Maya is a lively all-inclusive resort that offers both family-friendly and adults-only sections, making it a versatile option for travelers of all ages. The family area, known as Hacienda, provides various kid-centric activities like the Roxity Kids Club™, where younger guests can participate in fun, supervised programs, and the Rockaway Bay Water Park, which features slides and splash zones for kids and teens alike. The rooms are tailored for comfort and entertainment, with options ranging from standard family suites to luxurious Rock Star suites, complete with in-room hydro spa tubs and access to a private sky terrace.
Dining is a significant highlight, with nine diverse restaurants offering everything from Mexican cuisine to international fare, along with 24-hour room service and snack options. The resort also emphasizes entertainment, with nightly shows, themed events, and unique offerings like guitar rentals delivered straight to your room for some Hard Rock-style fun.
16. Azul Beach Resort
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Location | Riviera Cancun, Mexico |
| Family Focus | Toddler-inclusive amenities, Family Suites, Kids’ club |
| Dining Options | 6 restaurants, including gourmet and à la carte options |
| Activities | Water sports, cooking classes, nightly entertainment |
| Accommodation | Family suites, ocean-view rooms, swim-up suites |
Azul Beach Resort is a family-friendly all-inclusive resort located in the picturesque Riviera Cancun. Known for its thoughtful toddler-inclusive amenities, the resort is designed to make family vacations stress-free, offering everything from baby monitors to organic baby food. The property features a mix of family-oriented areas and adults-only zones, ensuring a balance of relaxation and fun for everyone.
Families can take advantage of the kids’ club, which offers daily supervised activities, as well as the family pool with a water slide designed for younger guests. Dining options are plentiful, with six restaurants serving a range of international cuisines, including one of the top 50 best restaurants in Latin America. The resort’s beach offers a mix of tranquility and adventure, with options for water sports, beach games, and lounging.
17. Dreams Riviera Cancun Resort & Spa
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Location | Puerto Morelos, Riviera Cancun, Mexico |
| Family Focus | Explorer’s Club for Kids, teen activities, splash park |
| Dining Options | 9 restaurants, no reservations required, gluten-free options available |
| Activities | Water sports, cooking classes, Euro-Bungee, nightly entertainment |
| Accommodation | Family suites, plunge pool suites, Preferred Club rooms |
Dreams Riviera Cancun Resort & Spa offers a vibrant and luxurious setting for families looking to enjoy the Caribbean. With its lush gardens and wide sandy beaches, the resort is a perfect backdrop for a family getaway. The Explorer’s Club provides a variety of supervised activities for kids, including treasure hunts, arts and crafts, and even weekly camping adventures. Teens can enjoy dedicated spaces and activities tailored to their interests, making sure everyone in the family is engaged.
The resort boasts nine dining options, offering cuisines from French to Mexican, with no reservations needed, giving families the flexibility to dine whenever they want. The 24-hour room service and poolside grills provide convenience for quick snacks or full meals by the pool.
18. Iberostar Selection Paraiso Maya Suites
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Location | Riviera Maya, Mexico |
| Family Focus | Star Camp kids’ program, 34,000 sq. ft. Aquapark, lazy river |
| Dining Options | 9 restaurants, live cooking stations, specialty cuisines |
| Activities | Wave pool, tennis, golf, non-motorized water sports |
| Accommodation | Family suites, Junior suites, poolside and beachside options |
Iberostar Selection Paraiso Maya Suites is a luxurious all-inclusive resort that provides a comprehensive family experience within the expansive Paraiso Complex. The resort’s Star Camp offers more than 140 activities for kids, categorized by age groups, and the newly expanded Aquapark features thrilling water slides and a pirate ship designed for younger children. Families can also enjoy the lazy river, wave pool, and multiple lake-style pools spread throughout the resort.
Dining options include nine restaurants offering international and local cuisines, live cooking stations, and unique themed dining experiences. The rooms are spacious and well-equipped, with options ranging from family suites to beachside Junior suites. The resort’s Mayan-themed architecture adds a cultural touch, complete with a lobby inspired by the Chichén Itzá pyramid.
19. Nickelodeon Hotels & Resorts
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Location | Punta Cana, Dominican Republic and Riviera Maya, Mexico |
| Family Focus | Character meet and greets, Aqua Nick® water park, Club Nick kids’ club |
| Dining Options | 6 restaurants, themed dining experiences, kid-friendly menus |
| Activities | Water slides, lazy river, live entertainment, slime experiences |
| Accommodation | Swim-up suites, themed rooms, oceanfront suites |
Nickelodeon Hotels & Resorts take family vacations to the next level with a unique blend of luxury and playful fun. Located in both Punta Cana and Riviera Maya, these all-inclusive resorts offer a vibrant, character-filled experience where kids can meet their favorite Nickelodeon stars like SpongeBob and the PAW Patrol. The centerpiece is Aqua Nick®, a six-acre water park packed with water slides, a lazy river, and the iconic slime events.
The resorts are designed for families of all sizes, with spacious suites including swim-up options and themed rooms like the famous SpongeBob Pineapple Villa. Dining is equally exciting with six restaurants featuring everything from gourmet dishes to kid-friendly options, ensuring that both adults and little ones have plenty of delicious choices.
FAQs
Can I request adjoining or connected rooms for large families in all-inclusive resorts?
Yes, resorts such as Paradisus Playa del Carmen and Club Med Punta Cana offer adjoining rooms and family suites specifically designed to accommodate larger groups, ensuring convenience and privacy for everyone.
What type of evening entertainment can we expect in all-inclusive resorts?
Resorts like Sandals and Riu Palace Punta Cana offer family-friendly entertainment such as live shows, themed parties, beach movie nights, and cultural performances. Each resort typically has a daily schedule with activities and events suitable for all ages.
Do all-inclusive resorts have accessibility options for guests with mobility issues?
Yes, resorts like Nickelodeon Hotels & Resorts and Melia Caribe Beach Resort are equipped with accessible rooms, ramps, and other facilities to ensure a comfortable stay for guests with mobility needs.
Is babysitting available at all-inclusive resorts?
Yes, babysitting services are available at resorts like Moon Palace Cancun and Iberostar Selection Paraiso Maya Suites for an additional fee. This allows parents some personal time while children are cared for in a safe environment.
Are pets allowed at all-inclusive family resorts?
Most family-oriented resorts, like Barcelo Maya Palace and Paradisus Playa del Carmen, do not allow pets. These properties focus on creating a child-friendly and clean environment for guests.
Last Words
Choosing the right all-inclusive resort for a family vacation in 2024 comes down to finding the perfect balance of activities, relaxation, and amenities that cater to everyone’s needs. The variety of options available means that families can select a resort that best fits their preferences, whether it’s adventure-filled days at water parks, relaxing beachside getaways, or luxury experiences with gourmet dining and top-tier entertainment.
