Are you ready to have a family sojourn in Mexico? Sometimes the nearest exotic destination is the best choice, especially when your littlest kids aren’t the best at enduring long flights. No need to venture further than this handpicked list of 10 luxury family-friendly resorts in Mexico that balance chic luxury with a warm, family-friendly welcome. Find sun-soaked beaches of Tulum to Riviera Nayarit’s eco-chic retreats (we’ve left city getaways and inland escapades off of this particular list. It’s all about the beach this time.)

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On the Pacific Ocean side our top pick is the One&Only Mandarina (fly into Puerto Vallarta) and Carribean-side may we suggest and Hotel Xcaret (Playa Del Carmen south) for families who want a full roster of activities at their finger tips, and Etéreo (Playa Del Carmen north) for a higher-end experience and attention to detail. These top picks all offer babysitting & a kids club.

FLIGHT time to mexico

From New York City to the Yucatan (4 hours 15 minutes)

From Dallas to the Yucatan (2 hours 45 minutes) and to Los Cabos (3 hours 5 minutes) and to Puerto Vallarta and Riviera Nayarit (3 hours 55 minutes)

From Los Angeles to Los Cabos (2 hours 15 minutes) and to Puerto Vallarta and Riviera Nayarit (3 hours 5 minutes)

Los Cabos

In the sun-drenched locale of Cabo, where rugged cliffs meet the Pacific Ocean, your family will find picturesque relaxation and a destination that revolves around resort-life. On the tip of the Baja California peninsula, Los Cabos and Cabo San Lucas are the two towns to visit, with resorts that line the coast between them. There’s hardly any rain in the region, it’s quite dry and temperate, making it ideal for traveling year round.

Activities + Restaurants

Flora Farms and El Huerto Farm to Table for a casual but elevated meal on a farm, Wild Canyon for a variety of activities like water play and an animal sanctuary, Torote Restaurant at Valle del Sol for a picturesque cocktail hour appropriate for kids too.

1. One&Only Palmilla

One&Only Palmilla  Takeaways

HOTEL: One&Only Palmilla Cabo, Mexico (fly into Los Cabo airport, taxi to the hotel is 20 minutes)

BEST BITS: We like the mobile margarita bar housed in a vintage VW van + leisurely afternoons playing lawn games + the refined air of seaside luxury

SWIMMING: There’s a family pool and an adjecent splash pool for your babies and toddlers.

KIDS CLUB & BABYSITTING: Yes to both. Babysitting services available and tailored programs for children of all ages, including KidsOnly for 4-11 year olds and 12-16 year olds.

The One&Only Palmilla hotel is your destination for peak elegance with hacienda-style architecture and impeccable service (did someone say butler?) Look forward to Jean-Georges' renowned restaurant amidst a choice of four dining venues and two bars. There’s no shortage of things to do here. Find two swimming pools, a private beach, spa and gym facilities, a golf course, and tennis courts. Upon arrival, you’ll be greeted with a welcome tequila, setting the tone for your luxurious stay, and will help you unwind from the flight down with kids. Families are catered to with amenities like a children's splash pool and a Kids Club that features a treehouse, which all kids will love. In the mood for tranquility? The serene adult-only pool with a swim-up bar awaits, or book a private spa villa, the perfect escape.

2. Rosewood Las Ventanas

Rosewood Las Ventanas Takeaways

HOTEL: Rosewood Las Ventanas Cabo, Mexico (fly into Los Cabo airport, taxi to the hotel is 30 minutes)

BEST BITS: lazy river + mini manis/pedis for little ones + baby gear like cribs, and baby monitors for guest use

SWIMMING: pools + beach

KIDS CLUB & BABYSITTING: no kids club, but visit in summer (july-august) and get involved with family programming running 9-5pm. Yes, they offer babysitting with notice.

PARENT WINS: floating sushi tray + golf & tennis + speakeasy piano bar

For an idyllic summer escape, look no further than Rosewood Las Ventanas especially during the sun-soaked months of July and August. During this time, the hotel offers a delightful array of complimentary activities, including invigorating beach boot camps, thrilling treasure hunts, and creative arts and crafts sessions, running daily from 9 am to 5 pm. Beyond the summer months, families can indulge in year-round signature experiences such as tailored tennis lessons and spa treatments designed for children aged five to thirteen. Upon returning to their luxurious accommodations, young guests can slip into plush mini bathrobes and snug slippers, ensuring the relaxation continues effortlessly. Meanwhile, the swimming pool's enchanting lazy river promises endless joy for little holiday-makers throughout the year. Parents traveling with infants need not worry about a thing – the hotel goes above and beyond to cater to their needs, providing an extensive range of baby gear from monitors to cribs, and even offering room babyproofing services for added peace of mind.

3. Nobu Hotel, Los Cabos

NOBU HOTEL Takeaways

HOTEL: Nobu Hotel, Los Cabos, Cabo, Mexico (fly into Los Cabo airport, taxi to the hotel is 46 minutes)

BEST BITS: Our favorite perk? Every room features an onsen teak soaking tub.

SWIMMING: Yes, multiple pools.

KIDS CLUB & BABYSITTING: The Kizzu Kids Club, beautifully designed, has a range of activities for kids 4 to 12, from face painting to games to art projects. Babysitting can be arranged.

The Nobu Hotel is a luxurious retreat tucked away from the main hotel zone, with 200 guest rooms and private plunge pools with the ocean vistas Cabo is known for. you’ll be treated to truly elite food and drinks at the various restaurants and bars, including a Nobu, which we always enjoy a seat at wherever we are in the world. Beautiful Japanese-inspired art and architectural elements are dotted amongst the grounds. Book a swim-up room (if you’re traveling with older kids who swim) to really splash out on your stay. With two spas, one offering a Japanese onsen experience, you can indulge in one of the best spa experiences in all of Cabo (in our humble opinion.)

Yucatán

Activities + Excursions + Restaurants

XCaret is a tropical water based theme park with loads of activities, Chichen Itza or Tulum ruins are a cultural diversion great for older kids, take a swim in the many cenotes the region has to offer. For Dining? La Tarraya for a no frills beach meal, Alux for unique dining in a cave, and Aldea Corazon for a cafe setting amongst tropical plants.

4. Etereo Yucatán

Etéreo Takeaways

The HOTEL: Etéreo, Quintana Roo, Mexico (fly into Cancún International Airport, the hotel is 42 minutes by car)

BEST BITS: We always rate an A+ design, think coastal-chic meets elegant-bohemian. Also, hand-made tortillas.

SWIMMING: pools + beach

KIDS CLUB & BABYSITTING: The Chavitos Kids Club has full and half-day experiences, available for kids ages 4 to11.

PARENT WINS: Plenty of events grown ups like, for example: Mayan Calendar Readings, HIIT beach workouts, and ceviche workshops on the beach.

Located in Playa Del Carmen, Etéreo stands out as a luxurious retreat blending elegance with the spirit of the region manifest in design and ethos. True to its name, which translates to ethereal, the accommodations are adorned with locally crafted furniture, art, and decor, giving each space a sense of authenticity to the destination. When your ready for some pampering, head to the bathhouse, a tranquil cavern inspired by cenotes, offers a bit of respite from the sun-kissed shores just steps away. Spend your afternoon dipping between two pools (and there’s also a children's pool where you can bask as well.) There are five dining options, where you’ll beeline for the freshly made tortillas.

5. Hotel Xcaret

The HOTEL: Hotel Xcaret,Quintana Roo, Mexico (fly into Cancún International Airport, the hotel is 1 hour by car)

BEST BITS: up to age 4 eat free, all-inclusive fun, one-stop-shop for every activity

SWIMMING: 10 outdoor pools and a children's pool + beach + Xcaret Park access

KIDS CLUB & BABYSITTING: yes there is the Xiquillos Kids' Club and a separate teen club childcare options.

PARENT WINS: 2 swim-up bars, built in excursions (no extra planning is always a plus) and outdoor tennis court.

Full disclosure, Hotel Xcaret is not a luxury hotel, but it made the list because its a great option for families looking for a ton of activities. Nestled in the lush jungle, where rivers wind their way through the hotel, Hotel XCaret is a retreat that feels worlds away from the hustle and bustle of civilization. Despite its impressive scale of 900 rooms, the resort maintains an intimate atmosphere, thanks to its thoughtful design, and locally crafted decor, that ensures it never feels crowded. With 11 restaurants, 13 pools, and a sprawling beachfront lagoon, there's no shortage of activities for guests of all ages. What sets Hotel Xcaret apart is its "all-fun" inclusive concept, which goes beyond the traditional all-inclusive experience. Guests enjoy unlimited access and transportation to nearby theme parks, adding an extra layer of adventure to their stay. For families, we suggest the jump-off lagoon suites that provide direct access to sea water, it’s worth it (just make sure your kids are old enough to swim.) If you’re traveling with adults without kids, they can escape to the sister resort, Hotel XCaret Arte, an exclusive adults-only retreat.

6. La Zebra Beach Hotel, Tulum

The HOTEL: Le Zebra Hotel, Quintana Roo, Mexico (fly into Cancún International Airport, the hotel is 1 hour and 45 minutes by car)

BEST BITS: a kids’s playground on premises is such a simple amenity, but always makes life as a parent so much easier. It’s your go-to during witching hour.

SWIMMING: a small pool and some rooms have plunge pools, perfect for a refreshing dip + the hotel is literally on the beach.

KIDS CLUB & BABYSITTING: no kids club, but they do offer babysitting with notice.

La Zebra Boutique Hotel provides the quintessential Tulum experience tastefully. With its prime beachfront location, guests can indulge in the ultimate relaxation, whether lounging at the swim-up bar, sipping cocktails at the beach bar, or strolling through the lush garden oasis. For a truly pampering experience, beach massages beckon, allowing the soothing sounds of the waves to melt away tension. The hotel's spa offers a range of rejuvenating treatments, including the sought-after Ancestral hot stone therapy and crystal therapy, promising holistic wellness for mind, body, and spirit. Culinary delights await at the chef's table dining experience, an intimate affair for up to eight guests, where each dish is crafted from the freshest local ingredients by Chef Bonilla.

7. Rosewood Mayakoba

Rosewood Mayakoba guest boat & pool view

Arial view of the Private Residences at Rosewood Mayakoba

The HOTEL: Rosewood Mayakoba, Quintana Roo, Mexico (fly into Cancún International Airport, the hotel is 37 minutes by car)

BEST BITS: Extensive walking and biking paths amidst native plants, lagoons and waterways.

SWIMMING: Pools + beachfront access

KIDS CLUB & BABYSITTING: Yes, babysitting and nanny services are available.

PARENT WINS: You don’t need to go far for new experiences, the Mayakoba Complex is home to three other luxe resorts that you’'ll have access to.

Experience the tropical paradise of Rosewood Mayakoba, where sleek, modern mexican design meets lush natural surroundings on a series of interconnected islands. From accommodations perched above mangrove lagoons to those overlooking the ocean, every suite offers privacy and luxury with outdoor heated plunge pools and outdoor showers. Immerse yourself in holistic rejuvenation with the Mayan Healing Hands journey, or enjoy world-class amenities within the expansive Mayakoba complex, including a Greg Norman-designed golf course and a myriad of recreational offerings shared among four resorts (including Fairmont Mayakoba, Andaz Mayakoba and Banyan Tree Mayakoba). Families are catered to with kid-friendly amenities, from children's spa services to provided baby gear. Delight in a range of family adventures, from eco-tours of the lagoons to water activities and beachside movies under the stars, all within the hotel grounds.

8. The House of AïA Palmaïa, Playa del Carmen

The House of AïA Palmaïa is focused on, but not limited to, vegan, plant-based food options with a deeply rooted wellness itinerary: think cacao ceremonies, sound bathing, yoga and spiritual journeys. If that’s not your family’s vibe this vacation, skip to number seven on the list. If you want the Tulum vibe without the hour and 45 minute drive, The House of AïA Palmaïa is a great alternative.

Pool at The House of AïA Palmaïa (image @lorna_x_)

Pool at The House of AïA Palmaïa *(image* *@rhiannaferial*)

Ceremony tent at The House of AïA Palmaïa *(image @blindvillains)*

Waldorf kid’s club at The House of AïA Palmaïa

giant beach sculptures at The House of AïA Palmaïa

The House of AïA Palmaïa’s mini water park just for littles

THE HOTEL: The House of AïA Palmaïa, Quintana Roo, Mexico (fly into Cancún International Airport, the hotel is 52 minutes by car)

BEST BITS: two natural cenotes within walking distance + a mini aqua park for kids + kid-friendly activities and amenities (like bamboo bicycles!)

SWIMMING: pools + a mini aqua park for kids + beachfront lounging & swimming

KIDS CLUB & BABYSITTING: yes, a waldorf-inspired kid’s club and babysitting available to book

PARENT WINS: yoga + tribal-inspired DJ beats on the beach + private jungle spa service domiciles

Situated along the sun-kissed shores of Playa del Carmen, this vegan-friendly beachfront resort sets a new standard for eco-conscious luxury. With a focus on wellness and sustainability, the resort offers a private beach and a dedicated kids' pool adorned with playful slides and waterfalls. Culinary delights await at the four restaurants, each boasting plant-based menus to tantalize the taste buds. As one of the first carbon-neutral resorts, this all-inclusive retreat showcases sumptuous grounds adorned with original mangrove forests, offering a serene backdrop for an enlightening and indulgent beach vacation. Inspired by Waldorf principles, Awen, the resort's children's center, provides a nurturing environment for young explorers to thrive amidst nature's beauty.

Riviera Nayarit

In the tranquil embrace of Riviera Nayarit, where lush jungles meet pristine beaches, parents discover a sanctuary of serenity and exploration, inviting families to embark on unforgettable journeys amidst the natural wonders of Mexico's Pacific coast.

9. Sussiros del Corazon

auberge resorts susurros terrace — Sussiros del Corazon terrace

auberge resorts susurros fire pit — Sussiros del Corazon Terrace fire pit

The HOTEL: Sussiros del Corazon, Nayarit, Mexico (fly into Puerto Vallarta International Airport, the hotel is 50 minutes by car)

RATES: start from $780

BEST BITS: welcome goodies for kids + surf camp for older kids + grilling your own corn on a personal fire pit

SWIMMING: kids pool + beach

KIDS CLUB & BABYSITTING: Morritos kids club for age 5-11 (under 5 must be accompanied by an adult) and babysitting is available at an additional cost

PARENT WINS: swim-up bar at the adults pool + yoga & sound bathing + spa

Nestled along the picturesque shores of Nayarit's Bay of Banderas, Sussiros del Corazon embodies a relaxed, down-to-earth ambiance, inviting guests to unwind amidst stunning natural beauty. With a private white-sand beach and three expansive infinity pools, including one exclusively for families, the property offers ample opportunities for both relaxation and adventure. Immerse yourself in the local culture at the swim-up bar, where cocktails celebrate the vibrant flavors of the region. Kids can attend the Morritos kids' club, where they can partake in a plethora of activities and games. For larger families, the resort has luxurious villas with two to seven rooms, each equipped with private kitchens, pools, and yards complete with grills for al fresco dining. Embracing a commitment to environmental preservation, Sussiros del Corazon seamlessly integrates with its natural surroundings, nestled amongst mangroves and vegetation, with an on-site ecologist overseeing animal protection and responsible relocation efforts.

10. One&Only Mandarina

One&Only Mandarina’s jetty-protected swimmable beach

Ancient healing and spa treatments at One&Only Mandarina

THE HOTEL: One&Only Mandarina, Nayarit, Mexico (fly into Puerto Vallarta International Airport, the hotel is 1 hour by car)

BEST BITS: a 42,000 square-foot jungle adventure playground + an on-staff biologist who teaches kids about the jungle & bugs

SWIMMING: kids are welcome at Alma pool + Jetty beach club

KIDS CLUB & BABYSITTING: a never-never land-inspired kids club + babysitting available with 48-hours notice

PARENT WINS: private plunge pools are available, yoga, sailing

Positioned amidst the lush tropical rainforest of Riviera Nayarit's wild Pacific Coast, a stay at the One&Only Mandarina is true jungle-luxury. The resort’s modern villas and tree houses offer unparalleled privacy amidst the backdrop of soaring mountain peaks, sandy shores, rolling green flatlands, and verdant jungle. Impeccable butler service, exceptional dining options, and myriad activities await guests. Each of the 105 free-standing villas and treehouses, spread across 80 acres of dense jungle canopy, has a private plunge pool and panoramic views of either the jungle canopy or the sparking Pacific Ocean. The spa, comprising six treatment rooms nestled within a natural volcanic rock garden, offers rejuvenating experiences, including sessions in the temazcal—a sweat lodge inspired by Mexico's Indigenous cultures, promoting detoxification through medicinal herbs, steam, and heat. With every booking, guests are treated to the dedicated service of a designated butler. The kids' club area features a network of tree houses interconnected by suspended bridges, slides, climbing walls, and trails, offering immersive programming to engage young adventurers in the local environment throughout the day.