As Mexico's major tourism district along the Gulf of Mexico, the Riviera Maya area of Mexico's Yucatan Peninsula contains a high number of vacation resorts. The beautiful beaches lining the coast offer plenty of options to pass the time. While the Riviera Maya might have a reputation as a Spring Break and nightlife hotspot, there are numerous family-friendly resort options as well. We've put together some of the best family hotels according to price, accommodations, and activities offered.
Azul Beach
One of Riviera Maya's top family hotels is Azul Beach. In-room baby gear is available in all suites. The hotel is in a gorgeous location with a clean white sandy beach where you can play in the warm waters. A designated safe area is marked off with buoys. Unique to this resort is their beach-side beds. They can be reserved for free and have retractable drapes surrounding them. It's the ideal spot for the little ones to take their nap while you enjoy the sun. More water fun can be found in the three family-friendly pools. The main pool features a ping pong table, plenty of lounge chairs where parents can keep an eye on the children, and a swim-up bar. Azulitos Kids' Club has supervised activities for children aged 4 to 12. There are Fisher Price toys, Legos, and gymnastic lessons available. Older kids can play the Xbox or Wii, while the under-4 set can enjoy the special "mommy and me" activities. The four onsite restaurants have kid's menus, or you can have a family picnic on the beach.
Iberostar Tucan
Iberostar Tucan is a wonderful all-inclusive value for families. Located on a long sandy beach, they have a jungle theme with real monkeys, flamingos, and toucans. Lounge chairs for parents along the shore are shaded by thatched coverings. Lucy's Club is open daily from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. with activities for children 4 to 12. Kids can paint, hit piñatas, make crafts, or simply watch a movie. Counselors are on hand to take them to the one foot deep kids' pool, run relays on the beach, or play tennis. Star Friends, the resort's entertainment staff, organizes yoga, water aerobics, and volleyball. Live shows are performed daily in the theater. There's a special seating area for the little ones right in front so everyone is sure to see the stage. The all-inclusive meals include three buffets each day plus five specialty restaurants. The poolside carts offer kid favorites such as hot dogs and hamburgers, and the ice cream cart is perfect for dessert.
Fairmont Mayakoba Riviera Maya
The Fairmont Mayakoba Riviera Maya was designed with families in mind. All activities are geared towards specific age groups. Fitness programs are offered for those 7 to 17, and biking is provided for tweens and teens alike. Complimentary BMX bikes are available. There is an adults' only pool among the hotel's five pools which gives parents some quiet time. Another pool has a waterslide with gentle slopes, and calm waters make the beach ideal for families with little ones. The Laguna Area has lounge chairs, two affordable eateries, and a children's facility with an outdoor pirate ship for climbing. Nature walks keep children from being confined all day. The air conditioned teen lounge is a nice retreat with billiards, air hockey, and Wii. Ages 4 to 6 can join the Discovery Club, while those 7 to 12 can have fun in Adventure Camp.
