Best Family Hotels in Cancun: Top 17 Kid-Friendly Resorts for 2024

Cancun Family Resorts – Tips & Info

Cancun is an ideal destination for family vacations, offering a variety of kid-friendly hotels. The Hotel Zone, known as Isla Cancun, is a hotspot for luxury resorts, with its beautiful, east-facing beaches perfect for swimming and sunbathing. The northern part of the Hotel Zone is semi-protected from ocean waves, making it great for young swimmers. Downtown Cancun, or Ciudad Cancun, offers more budget-friendly hotel options and access to authentic local cuisine.

Where to Stay in Cancun

• Hotel Zone: Known for its luxury resorts with family-friendly amenities.
• Downtown Cancun: Offers budget-friendly hotels and access to local culture and food.

The 17 Best Hotels for Families in Cancun

Comparative Table of Cancun Family Hotels

 

1. Grand Fiesta Americana Coral Beach – Luxury

The Grand Fiesta Americana Coral Beach is an upscale resort boasting an enormous pool, an extensive spa, and award-winning dining. Suites range from junior to two-bedrooms, all with balconies and ocean views. The Presidential Suite includes a rooftop plunge pool and a full kitchen. The kids’ club for ages three to twelve offers a water park, theater, game room, and night camp.

Pros:

• Large, luxurious pool and spa.
• Excellent dining options.
• Family-friendly suites with stunning views.
• Extensive kids’ club activities.

Cons:

• Higher price point.
• Can be crowded during peak seasons.

Personal Experience:

"Our family loved the kids’ club and the protected beach cove. The water park kept our children entertained for hours, giving us adults time to relax by the pool."

 

2. JW Marriott Resort & Spa – Luxury

The JW Marriott Resort & Spa features a contemporary design with an oceanfront infinity pool and a whirlpool. Rooms and one-bedroom suites all come with private balconies, and the Presidential Suite includes an outdoor Jacuzzi. The kids’ club, shared with the neighboring Marriott, offers a variety of activities for ages four to twelve.

Pros:

• Beautiful infinity pool with ocean views.
• Spacious rooms and suites with balconies.
• Active kids’ club with a pool.

Cons:

• Moderate waves may be challenging for young children.
• Higher cost.

Personal Experience:

"We appreciated the modern design and the variety of activities for our kids. The infinity pool with an ocean view was a highlight of our stay."

 

3. Hard Rock Hotel – Luxury

Description:

The Hard Rock Hotel Cancun is a rock-themed, all-inclusive resort perfect for tweens and teens. It features cascading infinity pools, three whirlpools, and a swimmable sandy beach. Unique perks include complimentary guitars, mixing stations, record players, and a recording studio. The Music Lab offers professional instrument, DJing, and vocal lessons for guests over twelve, culminating in a live performance.

Pros:

• Fun and energetic atmosphere for older kids.
• All-inclusive amenities with unique musical perks.
• Spacious rooms with private balconies and Jacuzzi tubs.

Cons:

• Loud and energetic atmosphere may not suit all families.
• Can be overwhelming for younger children.

Personal Experience:

"Our tweens were thrilled with the musical activities and the opportunity to perform. The overall vibe was energetic and fun, making it a memorable experience for the whole family."

 

4. Hyatt Ziva – Luxury

The Hyatt Ziva Cancun is a contemporary, all-inclusive resort featuring dolphins and three infinity pools. Some rooms and suites offer soaking tubs, swim-up access, or club level perks. Family amenities include a kids’ club with a mini-water park, multiple dining options, and 24-hour room service. The resort is located in a protected cove with soft sand and mild surf.

Pros:

• Multiple pools and family-friendly activities.
• Variety of dining options with 24-hour room service.
• Protected beach area with gentle waves.

Cons:

• High occupancy can lead to crowded areas.
• Premium rooms come at a higher cost.

Personal Experience:

"The kids loved the mini-water park and swimming with the dolphins. The variety of dining options and the 24-hour room service made our stay convenient and enjoyable."

5. Grand Residences Riviera – Luxury

Located in Puerto Morelos, the Grand Residences Riviera features spacious suites with up to four bedrooms, accommodating up to thirteen guests. Suites come with kitchenettes, whirlpool tubs, and some include washers and dryers, outdoor Jacuzzis, or private pools. The resort offers an oceanfront pool, kids’ club, and spa.

Pros:

• Spacious accommodations ideal for large families.
• Flexibility with all-inclusive, breakfast plan, or room-only options.
• Beautiful beach, though occasionally rocky.

Cons:

• A bit removed from central Cancun.
• Some strong surf in certain areas.

Personal Experience:

"Our extended family enjoyed the spacious suites and the variety of amenities. The beachfront location was beautiful, and the kids' club provided plenty of activities."

 

6. Crown Paradise Club – Midrange

The Crown Paradise Club is an all-inclusive resort with five pools on a gorgeous beach with moderate surf. Family Suites feature triple bunk beds and can sleep a family of five. Club level upgrades add Jacuzzis and a lagoon cruise. The resort offers a baby club, a kids’ club with a pirate ship and castle pool, and activities for older kids and families.

Pros:

• Affordable family-friendly resort.
• Variety of pools and water activities.
• Extensive kids’ club and baby club options.

Cons:

• Moderate surf may not be suitable for beginners.
• Food quality is average.

Personal Experience:

"The kids were thrilled with the pirate ship and water slides. The variety of activities kept everyone entertained, and we appreciated the affordability."

 

7. Kempinski Hotel Cancun – Luxury

The Kempinski Hotel Cancun offers a luxurious beachfront experience with two pools, stellar dining, and a tranquil spa. The kids’ and teens’ clubs provide a range of activities, including night safaris and a video game area for teens. Rooms and suites feature balconies and soaking tubs, with some offering private pools or Jacuzzis.

Pros:

• Luxurious amenities and excellent dining.
• Comprehensive kids’ and teens’ clubs.
• Beautiful beach with moderate waves.

Cons:

• Higher price point.
• Some areas may feel too upscale for younger children.

Personal Experience:

"The kids enjoyed the night safaris and the video game area, while we relaxed at the spa. The overall experience was luxurious and memorable."

 

8. Moon Palace The Grand – Luxury

Moon Palace The Grand is a huge, all-inclusive resort featuring a water park, two pools, and a lazy river. Suites include whirlpools and private balconies. Grand Family suites are double-sized with three beds, a kids’ minibar, and an Xbox. The kids’ club offers a splash pad, mini-golf, and bumper cars. Resort credits cover excursions, dolphin swims, and more.

Pros:

• Extensive family-friendly amenities and activities.
• Spacious suites for large families.
• Resort credits offer added value.

Cons:

• The beach is not swimmable.
• Resort size can make navigation challenging.

Personal Experience:

"The kids were excited about the water park and bumper cars. The resort credits allowed us to enjoy various excursions without additional costs."

 

9. Wyndham Grand – Luxury

The Wyndham Grand Cancun is a family-friendly, all-inclusive resort with three cascading pools on a swimmable beach. Spacious rooms and suites come with private balconies, some with jetted tubs or full kitchens. The kids’ club offers activities for ages five to twelve.

Pros:

• Family-friendly amenities and activities.
• Spacious accommodations with kitchen options.
• Swimmable beach with clear water.

Cons:

• Crowded during peak seasons.
• Some areas may feel dated.

Personal Experience:

"We enjoyed the spacious suite with a kitchen, which made meal times easier. The kids loved the cascading pools, and the beach was perfect for swimming."

 

10. Fiesta Americana Condesa – Luxury

The Fiesta Americana Condesa is an all-inclusive resort with two pools and a Maya-inspired spa. The kids’ club offers a pirate pool and creative activities, while the teens’ club features video games and sports. Rooms vary from standard to two-bedroom suites with sofa beds, terrace Jacuzzis, and full kitchens.

Pros:

• Family-friendly with a variety of activities.
• Maya-inspired spa for relaxation.
• Diverse room options for different family sizes.

Cons:

• Moderate surf may not suit inexperienced swimmers.
• Some dining options can be hit or miss.

Personal Experience:

"The pirate pool was a hit with the younger kids, while the teens enjoyed the video games and sports. The Maya-inspired spa provided a relaxing escape for the adults."

 

11. Dreams Jade Resort & Spa – Luxury

The Dreams Jade Resort & Spa is a five-star, all-inclusive resort with spacious suites, two infinity pools, and a beautiful beach next to a dolphinarium. Suites include private balconies and Jacuzzis. The kids’ club offers activities and adventures for ages three to twelve, and the teen club hosts breakdancing lessons and video games.

Pros:

• Spacious suites with luxurious amenities.
• Excellent kids’ and teen clubs.
• Beautiful beach with dolphinarium nearby.

Cons:

• The beach can be rocky and rough in some areas.
• Higher cost for premium suites.

Personal Experience:

"Our children loved the dolphinarium and the variety of activities at the kids’ club. The spacious suite with a Jacuzzi was a highlight for the whole family."

 

12. Dreams Playa Mujeres – Luxury

Dreams Playa Mujeres is an all-inclusive resort featuring dolphins, golf, and a quiet beach with gentle waves. Suites and villas include private balconies, some with swim-up access, private pools, and Jacuzzis. Club Level upgrades provide access to a lazy river, spa hydrotherapy, and a private lounge. The kids’ club offers daily activities, a small water park, and weekly campouts; the teens’ club features dance nights, video games, rock climbing, and weekly bonfires.

Pros:

• Variety of activities for kids and teens.
• Spacious and luxurious accommodations.
• Calm, swimmable beach.

Cons:

• Higher cost for Club Level upgrades.
• Some areas may be crowded during peak seasons.

Personal Experience:

"Our children enjoyed the water park and the variety of activities at the kids’ club. The calm beach was perfect for our younger kids, and the private pool in our villa added an extra touch of luxury."

 

13. Dreams Riviera Resort & Spa – Luxury

Dreams Riviera Resort & Spa is an active, all-inclusive resort with three pools and two hot tubs. Rooms and suites include whirlpool tubs and private balconies, many with private plunge pools. The kids’ club is open to children as young as three years, featuring a playground, splash pad, and weekly campouts. Family activities include Euro bungee, cooking classes, and dance lessons. The beach is well-maintained, super clean, and great for swimming with mostly calm surf.

Pros:

• Wide range of family activities.
• Clean and calm beach.
• Spacious rooms with luxurious amenities.

Cons:

• Can be expensive.
• Some activities may require additional fees.

Personal Experience:

"We loved the variety of activities available for the whole family, especially the cooking classes and dance lessons. The beach was beautiful and perfect for swimming."

 

14. Royal Cancun – Midrange

The Royal Cancun is an all-suite resort with two pools and a kids’ club on one of Cancun’s best beaches, featuring powdery white sand and calm waves. Sailboats, kayaks, and snorkel gear are free for guest use. Suites are all two-bedroom units that sleep up to six, with full kitchens and private balconies. Guests can choose between an all-inclusive or room-only package.

Pros:

• Spacious two-bedroom suites with kitchens.
• Calm beach ideal for families.
• Free use of water sports equipment.

Cons:

• Some areas may feel dated.
• Limited dining options compared to larger resorts.

Personal Experience:

"The calm beach was perfect for our young children. We appreciated the spacious suite with a kitchen, which made meal times convenient."

 

15. Royal Uno – Midrange

Description:

Royal Uno is a charming resort with two free-form pools, massage cabanas, and an active kids’ club for ages four to twelve. Rooms include private balconies, while one- and two-bedroom suites add full kitchens. The main restaurant, Tradewinds, offers dining all day with different nightly themes, plus there are two bars, a coffee shop, and a well-stocked market onsite. The beach is gorgeous but can be a bit rough for swimming.

Pros:

• Family-friendly amenities and activities.
• Spacious suites with full kitchens.
• Gorgeous beach.

Cons:

• Rough water for swimming.
• Not as luxurious as higher-end resorts.

Personal Experience:

"Our kids enjoyed the kids’ club and the variety of activities. The suites were spacious and well-equipped, making our stay comfortable."

 

16. The Royal Islander – Midrange

The Royal Islander is a beachfront resort offering excellent dining, a small kids’ club, and two free-form pools. Rooms and suites feature soaking tubs; rooms have Juliet balconies, while suites add full-sized terraces and kitchens. The resort has four restaurants and bars, with El Conquistador being the most popular. Perks include loaner bicycles, sailboats, and golf clubs.

Pros:

• Excellent dining options.
• Spacious suites with kitchens.
• Beautiful beachfront location.

Cons:

• Smaller kids’ club compared to other resorts.
• Some areas can feel a bit dated.

Personal Experience:

"We enjoyed the dining options, especially El Conquistador. The beachfront location was perfect, and the free use of bicycles and sailboats was a great perk."

 

17. El Rey del Caribe – Budget

El Rey del Caribe is an eco-friendly, boutique hotel with a small pool, hot tub, and kid’s playhouse set in a jungle garden with native plants and birds. The hotel collects rainwater, uses solar heating, and composts everything. All rooms are junior suites with kitchenettes and two-burner stovetops. Onsite amenities include yoga, a massage studio, and a breakfast restaurant serving healthy meals.

Pros:

• Eco-friendly and sustainable practices.
• Budget-friendly accommodations.
• Unique jungle garden setting.

Cons:

• Limited amenities compared to larger resorts.
• Located inland, not beachfront.

Personal Experience:

"We appreciated the eco-friendly practices and the unique jungle garden setting. The small pool and playhouse were perfect for our kids, and the healthy breakfast options were a nice touch."

Family Villas & Apartments in Cancun

The Villas at The Royal Cancun

• Two-bedroom apartments sleep a family of five with a double bed, sofa bed, and two single beds. Located directly on the beach.

Apartment Cancun

• Small beachfront apartment with two double beds and one sofa bed, suitable for a family of four or five.

Beachscape Kin Ha Villas & Suites

• Two-bedroom suite with a full kitchen, sleeping up to eight guests snugly.

Suites Malecon

• Inexpensive two-bedroom suite with one double bed and two single beds, located in town rather than on the beach.

Additional Tips and Recommendations

Best Time to Visit Cancun with Family

Cancun is a good year-round destination, but the best weather for a family vacation is between December and April.

Best Kid-Friendly Tours

The Cenote Day Tour, which takes you to four unique cenotes, is highly recommended. Kids need to be six years or older.

Less Touristy Destinations

Consider visiting Isla Mujeres or Tulum for a more laid-back experience with kid-friendly beaches and boutique hotels.

Cancun offers a diverse range of family-friendly hotels and resorts, each with its own unique amenities and experiences. Whether you’re looking for luxury accommodations with extensive kids’ clubs and activities, or budget-friendly options with eco-friendly practices, Cancun has something for every family. By considering the pros and cons of each hotel and resort, you can find the perfect place to create lasting memories with your loved ones.