The Best Family-Friendly Hotels in Playa del Carmen

Situated on the shores of the Caribbean Sea and close to downtown Playa del Carmen, this all-inclusive coastal resort offers fun for the whole family. Kids will love Camp Jack, a daytime activity center filled with mini golf, water sports, arts and crafts and more. For teens, the #Hashtag club promises to keep them on their toes, with arcade games and ping pong among the mix of activities on offer. Taking things at a slower pace, the spa offers a slice of tranquility for the parents, with a chocolate body wrap being one of the more sensual treatments.

If you’re looking for some adrenaline-pumping action on your next vacation, check into the Hotel Xcaret Mexico. The resort’s All-Fun Inclusive package grants you complimentary access to nine parks, with activities to suit all ages and abilities. For the more adventurous, there’s the opportunity to go ziplining or monster truck driving or, if you’re looking to take it easy, a peaceful ride down Xel-Há’s lazy river should fit the bill. Back at the plush resort, there are 12 restaurants to replenish your energy levels; if you’re after a spot of pampering, the spa is worth checking out with treatment rooms housed within caves.

Hotel Esencia takes luxury to a whole new level with its smart jungle-side suites and beachfront bungalows matched by three colorful yet sophisticated restaurants. Stained glass windows and arched brick ceilings hint at the hotel’s past as an Italian duchess’s private getaway, but this place has been refurbished for the 21st-century traveler. The interiors are chic and breezy with freestanding bathtubs and smart entertainment systems for all to enjoy. Kids will be mesmerized by the underwater world with free snorkeling gear and a private beach to play on. If you fancy a little alone time for a session in the spa or romantic beach dinner, there is a babysitting service available.

Unwind, unplug and reconnect with family at this all-inclusive spot where there’s an impressive spread of amenities, from a welcome glass of bubbly to complimentary baby strollers. Don’t forget to pack your swimming gear here, as there are seven outdoor pools to skip between, including a heated pool for adults only, and a children’s pool at the Kids Club Playhouse. On the food front, you’re equally spoiled for choice, with 15 restaurants and bars taking your tastebuds on a trip around the world. Savor Tuscan-style cuisine at Arezzo, or head to La Casa de Rosa for some authentic Mexican fodder.

Be a willing castaway at this top-rated eco lodge that is sandwiched between tropical forest and white sand shores. There are 401 rooms scattered across the property, with bright and colorful interiors evoking the Mexican spirit. The kids club is another highlight when it comes to interior design, with playful jungle-inspired murals adorning the walls. Children will be happy exploring here while you take some time out to relax in the salubrious spa or on the beach, and there are professional babysitters on hand as well.

This hotel is quite a sight to behold, with its dazzling white facade rearing up from the sugar-like sands. Children and adults alike are catered to, with the resort’s all-inclusive service. There’s a daily daytime entertainment program tailored to different ages and a smorgasbord of snacks served around the clock. After dipping into some activities, cool off in one of the four pools. There’s a swim-up bar in one for the grown-ups and slides in another for the youngsters.

Soak up the serene atmosphere at Rosewood Mayakoba, where relaxation is the word of the day. This family-friendly resort is framed by nature, with slick suites and villas nestled among green mangroves and emerald lagoons. There’s also a beautiful stretch of white sand to be enjoyed, along with the warm waters of the Caribbean Sea. Here, you will also find the adults-only dining spot Aquí Me Quedo. While grown-ups enjoy a beverage or two, the Rosewood Explorers kids club caters to younger holiday-makers with yoga classes and cookie-making tutorials among the activities on offer.

Tucked away on a sheltered bay, the Royal Haciendas offers guests all the comforts of a high-end, all-inclusive resort. There are special activities for adults to spend time together – from spa sessions to rounds of golf – and youngsters will love the gentle surf, daily activities and kids club. A perk of this hotel is that you can take advantage of the facilities at its two sister properties, the Royal Cancun and the Royal Sands in Cancun, with a free shuttle running between all three.

Every member of the family is catered to at this expansive all-inclusive hotel. While adults sip cocktails in one of the many bars or break a sweat in the fitness center, children can play to their heart’s content at the kids club. The beach is a hive of activity for all ages, with volleyball, snorkeling and swimming with dolphins among the activities you can enjoy. Come nightfall, this hotel turns into an entertainment hub. Watch a breakdancing show or enjoy a Mexican fiesta.

Travelers praise the activities on offer for both adults and kids at this smart five-star resort, along with its impeccable beach. For younger guests, there is a state-of-the-art kids zone, where there are workshops and games to be enjoyed. For the parents, there are water sports, fitness classes and an adults-only pool to indulge in. In the evening, expect a vibrant mix of live music, traditional Mayan shows and pool parties.

Enjoy direct beach access at this attractive coastal hotel, where there’s something to suit all ages. There are specially designed family-friendly rooms located in the heart of the all-inclusive resort. The king junior suites, which can accommodate up to two adults and three children, feature in-room jacuzzis and private balconies looking out over the swimming pool and jungle foliage. Kick off your vacation with trip to the spa, where there are also treatments for kids, from “crab” manicures to “dolphin” body wraps.

Immerse yourself in nature at this beachside eco resort and enjoy some thrilling activities at the same time. Nine different excursions are included in the all-inclusive plan, from kayaking through the turquoise waters of the Caribbean Sea to jungle biking. Another perk of a stay here is free access to the Sandos Aquapark, where there are water slides galore. After a jam-packed day, the eco family suites make for a comfortable place to unwind, with interiors inspired by the jungle and a plunge pool right on your private balcony.