The Ultimate Guide to All Inclusive Family Beach Resorts
While vacations are meant to be a relaxing experience, traveling with kids can mean the opposite for parents. Traveling with kids can be a stressful experience. Not only are you juggling bed times and picky appetites, but you’re also no doubt worried about making sure that each child has a great time, no matter their age, and that your family enjoys some quality time. Road trips and theme parks all too often leave parents with little time to relax and enjoy themselves. But all inclusive vacations offer a great alternative.
All inclusive family beach resorts make it easy for your entire family to have a great experience. Everything that you need, from food to your room to entertainment, is located on-site, so you don’t have to worry about loading up in the car to get to places. When it’s nap time or someone gets hungry, you can easily walk to your room, a restaurant, or a snack bar to get everyone in a great mood again.
With plenty of kid-friendly activities to choose from, there’s always something to do, and you won’t need to stress over planning each day’s activities. The beach is often just steps away, which means never having to worry about toting sand-covered kids back to your hotel at the end of a long day. Plus, the wide variety of resort and room options makes it easy to find a resort that fits your budget and saves money compared to other types of vacations.
If you’re thinking about planning a stay in an all inclusive family beach resort, this guide will help you find some of the best resorts for families in Mexico, Jamaica, the Dominican Republic, and the Caribbean islands.
Why Choose an All Inclusive Family Beach Resort?
There are many reasons why an all inclusive family beach resort makes for a great vacation choice for families with kids. The first is in the name. “All inclusive” means that you’ll pay one nightly rate that includes your room, food and drinks, entertainment, and activities. Some resorts have food options or activities that cost an additional fee.
For instance, excursions are often extra, but can be a great way to explore the local area or enjoy an activity like zip lining. However, it’s possible to enjoy your resort stay without spending any additional money outside of your nightly rate.
Another reason to choose all inclusive family resort is the beachfront location. Resorts in Mexico and the Caribbean are ideal because they offer pleasant climates year-round, calm waters on the beaches that are great for kids, and direct beach access, so you’ll never have to go far to play in the sand or enjoy a swim.
Of course, one of the biggest reasons to choose these resorts is the convenience. All inclusive resorts have activities for both kids and adults, so there’s something that everyone in your family will enjoy. Many resorts have childcare options for an additional fee, so adults can even enjoy their own fun while the kids are taken care of and having their own fun.
How to Choose the Best All Inclusive Beach Resorts for Families
Now that you know why all inclusive beach resorts are a great choice for families, it’s time to find the perfect one for yours.
There are a number of factors you should consider when comparing resorts. The first are the family friendly amenities. Water parks and pools are one great amenity that kids of all ages will enjoy. Kids’ clubs provide extra entertainment for little ones and give parents a chance to relax, too. Some resorts even have family friendly entertainment, like shows and games. Another important thing to consider is the accommodations.
Depending on the size of your family and your preferences, you might prefer a spacious suite or several adjoining rooms. Check that the resort that you’re considering has a room type that fits your needs.
Next up are the dining options. Resorts will often have several different types of restaurants to choose from, including formal restaurants, buffets, and even food trucks or snack stands. If you know that your kids could be picky about their food, you should check that the restaurants have kid-friendly options. Families with dietary restrictions like allergies should also check that the resort can accommodate them.
If you’re traveling with younger kids, you may want to check that the resort has lifeguards at the pool or on the beach. If you know that you’ll spend a lot of time in the water, you might even look for a resort with calm bays where small kids can swim more easily. Pools or splash pads with shade are also a great choice if you know that your family will spend a lot of time in those areas in the middle of the day.
For families with teens, many resorts have Teen clubs or Teen zones with activities and amenities specifically targeted to older children. Some families may also enjoy on-site and off-site excursions, like snorkeling reefs, cultural tours of local cities and towns, or even eco-adventures. If these are things that your family will enjoy, check the options that the resorts you’re considering have to offer.
Keeping these factors in mind will help you choose the best all inclusive beach resorts for families.
Best All Inclusive Beach Resorts for Families in Mexico & the Caribbean
It’s time to start exploring your options for the best all inclusive beach vacations for families. We’ve curated a list of the top-rated family friendly resorts in Mexico, Jamaica, the Dominican Republic, and other Caribbean destinations.
Best All Inclusive Beach Resorts for Families in Mexico
Nickelodeon Hotels & Resorts Riviera Maya
Nickelodeon Hotels & Resorts Riviera Maya is located in Riviera Maya, Mexico. The bright, colorful theming throughout this resort is certain to be a hit with families. Kids will love the Nickelodeon characters and decor. One of this resort’s standout features is its water park. Aqua Nick is a sprawling 6-acre water park with more than 20 exhilarating attractions and slides.
It has something for kids of every age, as well as for adults. There are even themed rooms and suites that keep the fun going at the end of a day of fun. Kid-friendly dining options abound at this family resort, but the world-class chefs have also made sure that adults will enjoy the cuisine as well.
While your kids may never want to leave the water park, this resort does also have direct beach access perfect for enjoying Mexico’s beautiful coast. If fun, characters, and endless family-friendly activities are on your list, you’ll love this resort.
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Hotel Xcaret Mexico
Hotel Xcaret Mexico is located in Xcaret, Mexico, right on the beach. This resort is a haven for kids and adults alike. There are a number of pools and water slides, as well as other aquatic activities. Eleven restaurants and nine bars, including three that are for adults only, await, with dining options for every taste.
But what really makes this resort unique is the access to Xcaret’s nature parks and tours. When you stay here, you’ll get complimentary access as well as transportation to Xcaret, Xel-Ha, Xplor, Xplor Fuego, Xoximilco, Xenses, and Xenotes. Each attraction also has a meal plan that’s included in your stay, so you won’t need to go back to your resort to dine.
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Sandos Caracol Eco Resort
Sandos Caracol Eco Resort is located in Riviera Maya, Mexico. Beautiful white sand beaches and calm turquoise waters await at this stunning resort. This resort has a wide variety of room types to choose from, as well as eight restaurants to choose from.
The activities here are geared a little more toward older kids and adults, though there is a lot for families to enjoy, including boogie boarding, kayaking, and beach sports. There is a Kids’ Club, as well as teenage-specific activities. If your family loves nature, the bike paths through the jungle, boat rides on the adjacent natural river, and even an Eco Club nursery and Mayan herb garden will make this resort a great choice.
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Dreams Vista Cancun Golf & Spa Resort
Dreams Vista Cancun Golf & Spa Resort is located in Cancun, Mexico, directly on the beach. This brand new resort has many room types, with most offering a view of the Caribbean. When you stay here, you’ll get access to the Puerto Cancun, which has a golf course, two surf pools, a splash park, a rooftop pool, and tons of activities day and night.
Golf-loving families will enjoy being able to hit the greens just steps away, while the shopping center located next door is a great place to pick up souvenirs. Guests can even ride the Aqau Twister, an exciting speedboat adventure between Cancun and Isla Mujeres. The resort has nine dining options, but you may want to check the menus to ensure that they fit your kids’ dietary preferences or any restrictions.
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Best All Inclusive Beach Resorts for Families in Jamaica
Azul Beach Resort Negril
Azul Beach Resort Negril is located in Negril, Jamaica. The room options here range from spacious modern suites to expansive and luxurious swim-up suites and Presidential rooms. This 5-star resort is located on the beautiful Seven Mile Beach, with expanses of white sand stretching out in front of the resort and plenty of space to find your private place to swim with your family. The resort lives up to its luxurious reputation with its delicious dining options.
There is a variety of international cuisine to choose from. If your kids have picky tastes, you’ll want to check out the resort’s menus ahead of time. It’s also important to note that some of the dining options have a dress code that families will need to follow. With fewer family activities and no water park, this resort doesn’t cater as much to younger families. But the endless luxury and activities like scuba diving are ideal for families looking for a truly relaxing vacation.
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Riu Ocho Rios
Riu Ocho Rios is located in Ocho Rios, Jamaica. The many room options at this resort reflect the character and charm of Jamaica. The resort is sandwiched between the beach and the island’s rain forests.
Romantic waterfalls, historic sites, and local shopping are located just a short distance from the resort, making it a great choice for families who want to experience the area’s beautiful nature and outdoor attractions. A water park, splash pad, sand volleyball, and table tennis offer fun for kids, while the wide variety of dining options, including multiple casual buffets and pool snack bars, make it easy for everyone to find something they enjoy.
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Best All Inclusive Beach Resorts for Families in the Dominican Republic
Nickelodeon Hotels & Resorts Punta Cana
Nickelodeon Hotels & Resorts Punta Cana is located in Punta Cana, Dominican Republic, on the popular Uvero Alto Beach. Colorful, modern rooms that range from smaller suites to spacious swim-ups and even rooms with private plunge pools cater to every size family.
This resort has family friendly amenities at every turn, with a large, themed Aqua Nick water park, character meet-and-greets, and endless entertainment, including a slime show and even slime-themed smoothies. Complimentary baby food, strollers, children’s robes, bottle warmers, and more make this one of the most family friendly resorts you’ll find on any island. But swim-up bars and delicious food make it a hit with adults, too.
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Dreams Dominicus La Romana
Dreams Dominicus La Romana is located in La Romana, Dominican Republic. This smaller resort has its own beach access, with plenty of water sports. The luxurious rooms offer a variety of sizes to choose from. International gourmet cuisine and bottomless drinks make it easier to find food that your family will enjoy, though you may want to check the menus ahead of time if you have a picky eater. The Pizzeria, located in the family section of the resort, is likely to be a hit! Two championship golf courses are located just a short way away for adults, while the Explorer’s Club and Core Zone Teen Club offer a variety of age-appropriate activities your kids will love.
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Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Punta Cana
Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Punta Cana is located in Punta Cana, Dominican Republic. This large resort is located on 121 acres, with plenty of white sand beaches to enjoy. This 5-star resort offers luxury at every turn. While there is an on-site casino and the 18-hole Nicklaus-designed Hard Rock Golf Club for adults, there are also plenty of family activities, like the Rockaway Bay water park with many slides for different ages,13 pools, a lazy river, and a kids’ pool. This resort also has the Hard Rock Roxity Kids Club™. The unique restaurants offer food from around the world, ranging from a Brazilian steakhouse to a pizzeria with brick-oven pizza.
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Best All Inclusive Beach Resorts for Families in Other Caribbean Islands
Riu Palace Aruba
Riu Palace Aruba is located near stunning Eagle Beach, Aruba, near the Northern tip of the island. This smaller resort features large, stunning pools and access to the white sand beaches that surround the island. While there may be fewer activity options for younger kids, if your family is looking to relax in paradise, this resort is a great choice. There are multiple restaurant options to choose from, offering a variety of cuisines, but you may want to check the menus if you have picky eaters or people with dietary restrictions in your family.
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Barcelo Aruba
Barcelo Aruba is located in beautiful Palm Beach, Aruba. Bright, spacious rooms offer views of the beautiful turquoise waters adjacent to this resort. Located just 15 minutes from the island’s main airport, this resort is easy to get to. Sports like tennis and beach volleyball are great for older kids and adults, though this resort has fewer options for younger kids. A variety of international cuisines is available at the multiple restaurants, though you may want to check out the menus ahead of time to make sure that they can accommodate your children’s tastes or dietary restrictions.
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Best All Inclusive Beach Vacations for Families by Travel Style
If you’re not set on traveling to one specific destination in Mexico or the Caribbean, you can instead choose a beach resort based on your family’s needs.
Best Budget-Friendly All Inclusive Beach Resorts for Families
Bahia Principe Grand Tulum
Bahia Principe Grand Tulum is a great option for families on a budget. This beachfront resort has tons of activities that are included in your stay, and you’ll even get privileges with sister hotels so you can do even more without spending any more money.
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Dreams Royal Beach Punta Cana
Dreams Royal Beach Punta Cana has tons of room types to choose from, making it easier to keep your stay within budget, not to mention endless activities that are included in your nightly rate, including many that are geared specifically to kids, like weekly camp-out adventures and sand castle competitions. With so many rooms at this resort, you may be more likely to score a seasonal deal here if you don’t mind traveling at off-peak times.
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Best All Inclusive Resorts for Families with Young Kids & Toddlers
Paradisus Playa del Carmen is a great choice for families traveling with young kids or toddlers. The resort has supervised activities for kids up to age 11 and a large water park and splash pad that children will love. Parents will enjoy relaxing at the luxurious spa while their kids have some fun at the Kidsdom. The mini bars at this resort even feature kid-friendly drinks, so you won’t have to leave your room to get your little ones something!
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Grand Palladium Bavaro
Grand Palladium Bavaro may offer ultra-luxurious rooms, but the many kid-friendly amenities make this a great choice for families with kids of all ages. A kids’ water park, nursery, craft room, video game room, and TV room will keep kids entertained. The Baby Club welcomes infants and toddlers while their parents take a break and relax, while the Kids’ Club and Teen Club cater to older children.
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Hyatt Ziva Rose Hall
Hyatt Ziva Rose Hall is home to the KidZ Club, which caters to children with endless activities, including arts and crafts, PJ and disco parties, air hockey and video games, and so much more. Outdoor activities like boogie boards, pools, and snorkeling make this resort a hit with families.
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Best All Inclusive Resorts for Families with Teens
Grand Velas Riviera Nayarit understands that keeping teens entertained can be a challenge. But with a high-tech Teens’ Club, this resort makes it a little easier. In addition to the video games and fun in the Teens’ Club, the resort also offers delicious cuisine, stunning pools, and seasonal activities your family can enjoy together.
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Dreams Macao Beach Punta Cana is also home to a teen club called the Core Zone Teens Club. Here, teens can enjoy a variety of daily activities. The resort’s four pools, the neighboring surf club, beach volleyball, and the reality gaming room are also certain to be a hit with your older kids.
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Planet Hollywood Costa Rica, An Autograph Collection All-Inclusive Resort
Planet Hollywood Costa Rica, An Autograph Collection All-Inclusive Resort has something for everyone, regardless of their age. Your teens will enjoy the dance parties, award competitions, and other themed events, as well as the stunning pools and incredible nature that surround this picturesque resort.
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Tips for Booking the Best All Inclusive Beach Vacations for Families
When it comes time to book an all inclusive family resort, there are a few tips that you should know. If you’re looking to save some money, you may be able to get a better deal by traveling during off-peak times, usually between April and November, when fewer tourists visit these resorts. Bundling your stay or booking a family package can also help you save. Check out our Hot Deals page to find the best discounts and bundles to help your family make your budget go farther!
While your nightly fee will cover your room, most of your dining, and many activities, there are a few other hidden fees you should know about. Some activities, like excursions or scuba diving, may cost extra. The same goes for some specialty dining and entertainment or even specialty drinks like wine by the bottle. While Kids’ Clubs are often included, babysitting may be an additional fee as well. You’ll also want to set aside money for tips and for transportation to and from the resort for your family.
Any time you travel with your family, it’s a good idea to purchase travel insurance. This can help protect your investment if something like weather or an illness in your family prevents you from traveling as planned.
Final Thoughts on the Best All Inclusive Beach Resorts for Families
When it comes to choosing the best all inclusive beach resorts for families, there are a lot of factors to consider. Mexico, the Dominican Republic, and the Caribbean are all great destinations for planning your family beach vacation. Warm climates, calm waters, beautiful beaches, and friendly locals all make resorts in these areas perfect for families with kids of all ages.
When it comes time to choose your resort, keep your family’s needs and preferences in mind, and use this guide to narrow your options and choose the perfect resort for you. When you’re ready to book, All Inclusive Outlet makes it easy! Compare your options, choose the best room type for you, and book your vacation with just a few clicks.
