Are you ready for an unforgettable family vacation? 

Look no further than Xcaret in Mexico! This resort, located in Riviera Maya in the state of Quntana Roo, Mexcio, is jam-packed with natural beauty, cultural experiences, and entertainment that will leave you and your loved ones smiling from ear to ear.  

Xcaret is actually a collection of parks and attractions, each with its own unique experience. From the natural beauty and cultural heritage of Xcaret Park to the sensory experiences and mind-bending challenges of Xenses Park, there’s something for everyone.  When describing Xcaret to folks that have never been I often tell them it’s kind of Disney World for snorkelers/adventure enthusiasts!

In general I would recommend visiting the parks when everyone in your family is able to swim independently.  There are areas of the parks for toddlers but, in order for everyone to get the most of the parks, I would encourage visiting when little ones are 5+.

Here are some of the things you can expect on a family vacation to Xcaret:

1. Eco-Adventures: Xcaret offers a variety of eco-adventures that are perfect for families.  There are a variety of activities for folks of all ages. You can snorkel in underground rivers, explore Mayan ruins, and even swim with dolphins.

2. Cultural Experiences: Xcaret showcases the rich cultural history of Mexico through traditional dance performances, art exhibits, and live music. Families can also visit the on-site Mayan Village and learn about the ancient Mayan civilization.

3. Nature and Wildlife: Xcaret is home to an incredible variety of flora and fauna. Families can explore the Butterfly Pavilion, Jaguar Island, and the Aviary, which houses over 1,500 birds.

4. Water Activities: Xcaret has several swimming pools, including a natural pool fed by a cenote, a lazy river, and a beach area with calm waters perfect for young children.

5. Entertainment: Xcaret offers a variety of nightly entertainment options, including a spectacular show that highlights Mexico’s history, culture, and traditions.

The Parks:

   1. Xcaret Park: This is the main park and the heart of the Xcaret experience. It showcases the natural beauty and cultural heritage of Mexico through a variety of eco-activities, cultural exhibits, and live entertainment. The park features underground rivers, a coral reef aquarium, Mayan ruins, a butterfly pavilion, a sea turtle sanctuary, and much more.

2. Xplor Park: This park is an adventure lover’s paradise, featuring zip-lines, underground rivers, and off-road vehicles. Visitors can fly through the air on zip-lines, drive amphibious vehicles through the jungle, and explore underground caves and rivers.

3. Xel-Ha Park: This park is a natural aquarium that offers snorkeling, swimming, and other water activities in a beautiful natural setting. Visitors can explore the park’s underwater world, which is home to hundreds of species of fish and other marine life.

4. Xenses Park: This park is all about the senses, featuring optical illusions, sensory experiences, and mind-bending challenges. Visitors can walk through an upside down town, explore a pitch-black world that requires you to rely on your senses other than site to navigate, and float on a river that defies gravity.

5. Xavage Park: This park is the newest addition to Xcaret and offers extreme adventures for thrill-seekers. Visitors can go white-water rafting, tackle an obstacle course, and try their hand at kayaking or jet skiing.

Where to stay?

Where to stay?

Let’s dive into the top family-friendly hotels in Playa del Carmen. Don’t forget to keep an eye out for our favorite, Hotel Xcaret, though it’s a bit on the pricey side!

1. Hotel Xcaret Mexico – Just wow!

Our absolute favorite hotel, Hotel Xcaret Mexico, offers an all-inclusive, family-friendly experience that is simply out of this world. With unlimited access to all of the Xcaret Adventure Parks and transportation between the parks, your family will never run out of fun activities. Don’t be surprised if you find yourself doing a double-take at the price tag, though it’s a bit pricey but, the grounds are amazing, the all inclusive food is delicious, and all of your park tickets and transportation are included.

Star Camp Kids Club & Pools Galore

Hotel Xcaret is a dream come true for kids and parents alike. With its Star Camp kids club providing activities and games for various ages, and playgrounds and children’s pools, your little ones will be entertained all day long. Meanwhile, you can relax and enjoy the four on-site pools, grab a bite to eat at one of the awesome restaurants, swim in the cenotes, hunt for the hidden waterslide there’s so much to see and do.

Location & Dining

Situated in the heart of the South Riviera Maya, Hotel Xcaret is just 5 km away from Playa del Carmen’s bustling downtown area, filled with restaurants, nightlife, and shopping options. When it comes to dining, the hotel offers eight restaurants and seven bars, serving everything from Mexican, Japanese, and Mediterranean fare to buffets and beach shacks. It’s an all inclusive culinary adventure that will have your taste buds dancing with joy.

2. Grand Velas Riviera Maya – Luxury Meets Fun

Nestled just south of the Mayakoba resort complex, the Grand Velas Riviera Maya offers an all-inclusive experience that combines luxury with family-friendly fun. With three pools, kids’ and teens’ clubs, top-notch restaurants, and a world-class spa, you’ll be giggling in delight as you experience the grandeur of this resort.

Kids & Teens Clubs

The Grand Velas Riviera Maya goes above and beyond to cater to the needs of your young ones. Their kids’ club stays open until 11:00 p.m., offering activities and crafts throughout the day. The teens’ club, open until midnight, features a dance floor, karaoke, and video games, ensuring that your teenagers are entertained and engaged.

Rooms & Suites

All rooms and suites at the Grand Velas Riviera Maya boast whirlpool tubs and private terraces, while some even come with plunge pools. The Nature View Suites can accommodate a family of four, and the Zen Suites are perfect for families of five or six.

3. Hard Rock Hotel – A Rockin’ Family Vacation

If you’re looking to inject some high-octane excitement into your family vacation, then look no further than the Hard Rock Hotel in South Riviera Maya. This music-themed beachfront resort comes fully loaded with five pools, a natural lagoon, the largest spa in the Riviera Maya, and a whole host of family-friendly amenities that will have you all headbanging in delight.  

Kids & Teens Clubs

The Hard Rock Hotel takes family entertainment to a whole new level with its kids’ and teens’ clubs. Offering rock climbing, signature music amenities like loaner guitars, instrument and DJ lessons, and a massive skate/bike/gymnastics center, your little rock stars will be busy all day long.

Rooms & Suites

All rooms and suites at the all-inclusive Hard Rock Hotel feature private balconies, hammocks, and indoor or outdoor jacuzzis. The largest suites can sleep up to six people, ensuring that everyone in your family has a comfortable and rockin’ space to call their own.

4. Paradisus – A Slice of Paradise

Located in North Playa del Carmen, the Paradisus offers an all-inclusive resort experience on a stunning beach with a coral reef. Boasting three pools, a baby club, kids club, and spacious suites, this resort is perfect for families seeking a touch of paradise with a side of laughter.

Family Concierge Upgrade

For an extra touch of luxury, consider upgrading your stay to the Family Concierge package. This includes a private terrace with a Jacuzzi, kids’ minibar items, a gaming console, a private restaurant, and club lounge access. It’s a little slice of heaven that you and your family will never want to leave.  

5. Banyan Tree Mayakoba – Luxury in the Jungle

The Banyan Tree Mayakoba offers a unique, all-villa boutique experience, where each villa comes with its own private pool, an outdoor whirlpool tub, and a terrace. Located within the exclusive Mayakoba resort and golf complex, this luxurious retreat is surrounded by a sun-drenched beach and mangrove jungle, perfect for families seeking an exotic escape with a hint of humor.  All-inclusive packages are available but a la carte dining is also an option here.

Kids Club & Boat Service

With an active kids club and boat service to the beach, the Banyan Tree Mayakoba ensures that your little ones are entertained while you indulge in some well-deserved relaxation at the Thai spa or one of their incredible restaurants.

6. Fairmont Mayakoba – A Fairytale Family Getaway

The Fairmont Mayakoba is a dream come true for families seeking a beachfront resort with exceptional amenities, including five pools, a kids club, and fantastic dining options. With rooms and suites offering soaking tubs and private terraces, you and your family will feel like royalty in this enchanting paradise. All-inclusive packages are available but a la carte dining is also an option here.

Kids Club & Adventure Camp

In addition to the kids club offering cooking classes and crafts, the Fairmont Mayakoba also features an adventure camp for tweens, where they can enjoy kayaking and beach sports. It’s the perfect blend of relaxation and excitement for the whole family.

7. Hotel Esencia – Elegance Meets Laughter

The elegant Hotel Esencia, located in South Riviera Maya, offers a unique and family-friendly experience with spacious suites and villas, some of which can accommodate up to nine guests. With a gentle beach, two pools, and a Maya-inspired spa, this hotel offers the perfect combination of luxury and laughter for your family vacation.  This is a luxury boutique hotel and is not an all inclusive resort.

Babysitting & Family Activities

Hotel Esencia provides babysitting services and a variety of family activities on-site, ensuring that your little ones are entertained while you enjoy some well-deserved relaxation.

8. Andaz Mayakoba – A Stylish Family Retreat (a Hyatt hotel!)

Located in the exclusive Mayakoba beach resort, the stylish Andaz Mayakoba offers a luxury experience for families seeking adventure and excitement. With two pools, a holistic spa, a kids club for ages 4 to 12, and free bikes, your family will be entertained and engaged throughout your stay.  This is an all inclusive resort by Hyatt (earn and redeem Hyatt points.)

Rooms & Suites

The spacious rooms and suites at Andaz Mayakoba include free minibar items and private balconies. If you’re looking to splurge, some suites even offer private outdoor plunge pools.

9. Playacar Palace – A Royal Family Vacation

Located downtown in Playa del Carmen, the Playacar Palace offers an all-inclusive experience fit for royalty. With expansive rooms and suites, exceptional restaurants, and a huge pool overlooking the beach, your family will feel like kings and queens in this palace of laughter and fun.  This is a large all inclusive resort.

Kids Club & Water Park Access

The Playacar Palace offers a kids club for children ages 4 to 12 and free bicycle tours for the whole family. Additionally, guests have signing privileges at all Palace properties, including free transfer to the water park at The Grand at Moon Palace.

10. Grand Palladium White Sand – Family Fun on the Beach

Located near Akumal in South Riviera Maya, the Grand Palladium White Sand offers a beachfront resort experience perfect for families. With nine pools, a host of restaurants, and a spa, this resort provides endless entertainment for the entire family.  This is an all inclusive resort.

Kids Clubs & Water Park

White Sand is the best choice for families, being closest to the water park and kids’ clubs, catering to babies, kids, and teens. With so many activities and amenities to choose from, your family will be laughing and making memories to last a lifetime.

So there you have it – our top 10 family-friendly hotels in Riviera Maya, Playa del Carmen. With options ranging from luxurious to budget-friendly, we’re sure you’ll find the perfect hotel for your family’s vacation, full of laughter and unforgettable moments. And remember, if you’re looking to splurge on an unforgettable experience, our favorite hotel, the Hotel Xcaret Mexico, is worth every penny!

How to have a great time but not break the bank?

With the eye watering price tags associated with some of these resorts, here are a few tips to save some cash, make the most of your trip, and have a wonderful experience.

Hack your location – GEO spoof your location and be prepared to save huge $$$

Use a VPN when booking and set your IP location to Mexico (you can also try European countries, just make sure you clear your cookies between each search.) you will be shocked at the difference in price quotes you will see when the site thinks that you are booking from within Mexico vs the US, we’re talking 25+% difference.

Check-in time

With the all-inclusive resorts in the Cancun area, most have check in times (usually 4pm) and they are notorious sticklers about not offering complimentary early check-in.  Most will either charge an extra fee for early check-in or have you check your bags with the bell desk and give you a pass to use the grounds before your room is ready (this is key..check with your resort to see how they handle pre-check in arrivals.)  Double check your destinations policy and plan for not having access to your room until check in time.  We usually pack swim suits in backpacks so we can change into them in the locker rooms or restrooms and hit water right away.  We try and book earlier flights so we can make the most of our first day.  If we can not get an early flight we will sometimes spend a night or two in Cancun in the hotels zone and then head down to the resort early the next day.  When you’re talking $1k+ a night, we want to make sure we’re getting the most of moment we have access to the resorts!

Check-out time

As much as the resorts are sticklers about check-in time, almost al of the resorts are very generous on check-out day.  You generally have to have your belongings out of your rooms by 11-12 am (varies by hotel) however, they grant you access to the grounds for your entire check out day.  We will again use this to our advantage, we’ll check our luggage at the bell desk and then use our backpacks for our swim suits/clothes and anything we may need throughout the day. Once we’ve had enough fun for the day, we’ll either catch a late flight or head up to the cancun strip for a night or two before catching our flight back.  This trick is particularly useful if you’re staying at Xcaret as you do have access to all the parks and transportation on your departure day!

Cancun Strip

A lot of the resorts on the strip are all inclusive and tend to be a little pricey however, there are a few hotels that are gorgeous and relatively inexpensive.  We’re huge fans of the Marriott Cancun, we prefer it over all of the other Marriott properties in the hotel zone. We’ve consistently been able to use points for rooms either before or after heading down to Riviera Maya to hit the Xcaret! parks.

Is Quintana Roo safe to visit?

While Mexico has faced some safety concerns in recent years, it is essential to consider the specifics of each location and take the necessary precautions to enjoy a safe and memorable vacation. Below we will discuss the safety of these destinations, travel advisories, and tips to ensure a secure and enjoyable trip. I have found a great non-biased resource for current events and specifically crime in the state is The Yucatan Times.

Xcaret

Located in the Riviera Maya, Xcaret is an eco-archaeological park with over 50 attractions, including snorkeling, exploring underground rivers and caves, and learning about Mayan culture. The park is generally considered safe for travelers, especially those staying within the resort areas. However, it is essential to be aware of any recent incidents.

Riviera Maya

Riviera Maya, stretching from Cancun to Tulum, is known for its stunning beaches and all-inclusive resorts. While the region generally sees low levels of violence against tourists, it is vital to stay informed of any recent incidents and exercise caution. Some areas, such as Tulum, have experienced safety issues with tourists caught in the crossfire between gangs. Nonetheless, by staying within resort areas and avoiding high-risk locations, travelers can enjoy a safe and relaxing vacation in the Riviera Maya.

Playa del Carmen

Playa del Carmen, a popular beach town in the Riviera Maya, is generally considered safe for travel. However, anecdotal experiences suggest that travelers should stay aware and follow safety guidelines. Petty crime and robberies have occurred, and cartel-related violence is a reality of life in Quintana Roo. By staying in well-lit areas, avoiding poorly lit alleyways, and being cautious with personal belongings, travelers can minimize safety risks in Playa del Carmen.

Cancun

Cancun, a famous tourist destination known for its beautiful beaches and vibrant nightlife, has faced safety concerns due to incidents involving taxi drivers and Uber drivers, as well as crime and kidnapping warnings. The US government issued a travel advisory for the state of Quintana Roo, which includes Cancun. Despite these concerns, many travelers continue to visit Cancun, and by staying within resort areas and following safety precautions, they can enjoy a safe vacation.

Travel Advisories and Safety Ratings

The US Department of State regularly updates its Travel Advisory for Mexico, which assesses each Mexican state individually due to varying levels of crime and kidnapping risk. As of now, Quintana Roo, which includes Xcaret, Riviera Maya, Playa del Carmen, and Cancun, has an “exercise increased caution when traveling to” warning due to criminal activity and violence.

It is crucial to stay updated on the latest travel advisories and adjust your travel plans accordingly.

Crime, Cartels, and Scams

As with any tourist destination, scams and crime exist in Mexico. To stay safe, be aware of the following common scams in Playa del Carmen:

• Tampered ATMs
• Car rental issues
• Gas station scams
• Unregulated alcohol
• Familiar face scam
• Bird poop scam

In addition to scams, cartel (gang) violence is present in the region. While incidents are rarely directed at tourists, staying away from gang hotspots, avoiding drug use, and keeping a low profile can minimize the risk of being involved in cartel-related incidents.

Tips for Female and Solo Travelers

Mexico is generally safe for female and solo travelers. However, it is essential to exercise reasonable caution and be aware of risks to ensure a safe trip. Some tips for solo travelers include staying in hostels, avoiding walking alone at night, and researching safety tips and guidelines for your destination.

Family Safety

Mexico is an excellent destination for families, with many attractions catering to children and discounted rates for younger travelers. To ensure a safe and enjoyable family vacation, consider the following tips:

• Rent a stroller for young children
• Dress casually to avoid being targeted by thieves
• Do not overconsume alcohol
• Avoid recreational drugs
• Be aware of wildlife
• Learn basic Spanish
• Keep valuables locked away
• Be taxi-savvy
• Check the weather

Water Safety

Tap water in Mexico is generally not considered safe to drink. However, most major hotels and resorts provide locally filtered and safe water. Additionally, restaurants use purified drinking water to prepare beverages. It is essential to stay hydrated and avoid consuming potentially contaminated water.

Transportation Safety

When using taxis or other transportation services, ensure that the vehicle is marked and negotiate the price with the driver before getting in the car. For airport transfers, consider using a reputable private transfer service arranged through your hotel or resort. 

Travel Insurance

Obtaining travel insurance for your trip to Mexico is highly recommended. Travel insurance can provide coverage for medical emergencies, lost or stolen belongings, and trip cancellations, ensuring peace of mind during your vacation.

Staying Informed and Prepared

Stay updated on the latest news, travel advisories, and safety guidelines for your destination. Communicate your travel plans with someone back home and enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program to receive real-time safety alerts from the US Embassy.

By staying informed, exercising caution, and following safety guidelines, you can enjoy a safe and memorable vacation in Xcaret, Riviera Maya, Playa del Carmen, and Cancun in 2023.