THE 21 BEST KID-FRIENDLY ALL-INCLUSIVE RESORTS THAT ARE PACKED WITH ADVENTURE (& CONVENIENCE)
Planning a family vacation? How exciting! The hardest part of pulling off a trip that the entire family will enjoy is making sure you have plenty of activities and meal reservations set in advance. Enter all-inclusive resorts. Opting for a family-friendly and all-inclusive resort means that you can actually relax on vacation instead of worrying about meals, drinks, and excursions. Instead, all-inclusive packages ensure that everyone has three meals daily and age-appropriate activities. These resorts also offer pools to take a dip in, gyms to keep on track with your fitness goals, and babysitting services so the adults can take some time away. Ready to learn more? Keep reading to learn pro tips on booking the best vaccinations, plus 20 all-inclusive resorts for families that you can book right now.
Best All-Inclusive Family-Friendly Resorts, at a Glance
Best Overall: Hilton Tulum Riviera Maya All-Inclusive Resort
Best in the Dominican Republic: Hilton Romana
Best in the Bahamas: Small Hope Bay Lodge
Best in Punta Cana: Nickelodeon Hotels & Resorts Punta Cana
Best in Hawaii: Hilton Waikoloa Village
Best in the Southeast United States: Blackberry Farm
Best in Africa: JW Marriott Masai Mara Lodge
Best in Turks & Caicos: Beaches Turks & Caicos
Best in St. Lucia: Coconut Bay Beach Resort & Spa
Best in Colorado: C Lazy U Ranch
Best in Jamaica: Franklyn D Resort & Spa
How do I choose an all-inclusive resort for my family?
Beth Washington, travel agent and founder of the Getaway Guild, says to start by thinking through the priorities for your family vacation. Ahead, she explains some factors to consider:
1. Is it a must to have a non-stop flight there?
2. What types of activities does your family value in a resort (water slides, zero-entry pool for little ones, golf, variety of restaurants, etc.)?
3. What room type works for you; are you comfortable sharing one room or do you need a separate sleeping area for kids who still nap or go to bed early?
After you discuss these priorities with your family, make a list of the resorts that meet your eye and meet your criteria.
Is all-inclusive worth it for a family?
Washington explains that all-inclusive resorts can be a great value for families. “How many times have you paid $13 for a kid’s meal only for your child to take two bites?! (I know the feeling!) Having food and drinks, kids club, and many activities included in the up-front price is a great way to manage your vacation budget.” Some resorts even include water sports, excursions, and other activities to keep your family busy while on vacation.
What is the best place for vacation with kids?
When deciding the best place for vacation with kids, it’s best to consult with a travel agent who can help guide you. “If you have little kids, consider things like how to calm the ocean water at the beach, or if they have a zero-entry pool or splash pad,” Washington says. “If your kids are older, consider the kids club offerings and amenities like a water park or water sports.” She also notes that there are other options besides an all-inclusive beach resort, “like ranches, for example, if the beach isn’t your family’s thing.”
Do all-inclusive resorts allow children?
Most resorts allow children, but a handful have age restrictions. Others offer children under five to stay free with the purchase of an adult all-inclusive package. Washington adds, “our job is to learn our clients’ priorities so we can make individual recommendations.”
Ahead, see the 20 best all-inclusive resorts for families in Punta Cana, the United States, and more.
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BEST OVERALL
Hilton Tulum Riviera Maya All-Inclusive Resort, Rivera Maya, Mexico
Hilton properties are known for featuring luxurious rooms and amenities at reasonable rates, and the Hilton Tulum Riviera Maya all-inclusive resort is no exception. It has 728 rooms, eight resort pools, 13 restaurants and bars, a luxury spa, and an exclusive family zone. Once you check in, you’re greeted by a personal concierge who ensures your stay is the best one yet.
Average cost: $550
What’s included in the all-inclusive package: all meals (breakfast, lunch, and dinner, unlimited drinks and cocktails), music and entertainment, minibar stocked daily, group fitness, daily cultural activities, pool and beach service, and personal concierge
Amenities: 8 pools, 24-hour gym, fitness classes, full-service spa, laundry, and more
Activities for kids? Kids pool, game room, kids club, waterslide, babysitting, arcade, playground
Proximity to beach/city/main attractions: 11 minute drive to Xel-Há Park, 11 minute drive to Akumal Beach, 12 minute drive to Xcacel Beach, 18 minute drive to Tulum, Quintana Roo
Restaurants: 9 restaurants, 3 bars, 3 beach bars, 3 poolside bars
BEST IN DOMINCAN REPUBLIC
Hilton Romana
We have the Dominican Republic twice on this list, but this is our all-time favorite resort when we do stay. Enter: the Hilton Romana, a stunning oceanfront property with easy beach access, four pools, a water park for the kids (!!!), spa, and daily activities. When traveling, and especially when traveling with our families, to the Dominican, safety is our top priority, and this property is full secure — with all the amenities and entertainment you could possibly want in a week(s)-long vacation with kids.
Average cost: $491+
What’s included in the all-inclusive package: All meals, alcohol service, 24-hour room service, private beach access, pool access, non-motorized watersports, daily resort activities, kids and teen clubs, nightly entertainment, fitness center, and WiFi. (Children under 2 stay and eat free; ages 3 – 12 incur an additional charge of $95.00/night/child.)
Amenities: 4 pools, fitness center, private beach, spa
Activities for kids? Kids/teen clubs, water park, daily activities (like dance lessons, food classes, and Spanish lessons), non-motorized sports
Proximity to beach/city/main attractions: Beach-front property, concierge can arrange trips to Saona Island, Catalina Island, the city of La Romana, Santo Domingo, Higuey, and Scape Park.
Restaurants: 6 (no reservations needed), plus 8 bars and lounges
BEST IN THE BAHAMAS
Small Hope Bay Lodge, Bahamas
At the Small Hope Bay Lodge, you’ll get an island retreat that gets you out to experience all of Bahama’s incredible nature. The all-inclusive resort is eco-friendly and offers classic beachfront cabins to house your family while you’re on vacation. Packages include dives, fishing, plenty of lazy hammock lounging, and walks along the private beach.
Average cost: $385 for adults (high season), $135 for kids 2-12 (high season)
What’s included in the all-inclusive package: all meals and open bar, use of bikes and kayaks, free scuba or snorkel lesson, self-guided nature tours, complimentary babysitting, and more
Amenities: Pet friendly, gym, playground, game room, gift shop
Activities for Kids? Game room, arcade, babysitting, snorkeling, fishing, nature walks
Proximity to beach/city/main attractions: On private beach, 6 minute drive to Fresh Creek Harbour, 14 minute drive to Andros Barrier Reef, 17 minute drive to Somerset Beach
Restaurants: 2 bars and lounges and 1 restaurant
BEST IN PUNTA CANA
Nickelodeon Hotels & Resorts, Punta Cana
The Nickelodeon Hotels & Resorts Punta Cana is the ultimate vacation for families. The property features the famous Aqua Nick water park, which your kiddos will love splashing around in. There are also multiple restaurants where you can dine at or grab a quick bite to eat between activities. And don’t worry — there’s plenty for the grown-ups to do, too. From the nine bars (including poolside one) to fitness classes, parents can relax and take in the stunning Punta Cana views.
Average cost: $532
What’s included in the all-inclusive package: all meals (breakfast, lunch, dinner, drinks), and activities
Amenities: 9 pools, spa, gym, hot tub, laundry, room service, fitness classes, hair salon
Activities for Kids? Kids club, kids pool, waterslide, babysitting, lazy river, playground
Proximity to beach/city/main attractions: 6 minute drive to Sirenis Aquagames Water Park, 13 minute drive to Macao Beach, 17 minute drive to Cana Bay Golf Club
Restaurants: 9 restaurants, 5 bars, coffee shop, poolside bar
BEST IN HAWAII
Hilton Waikoloa Village, Hawaii
Take in all Hawaii has to offer while lodging at the Hilton Waikoloa Village, located on the Big Island. The resort, as its name suggests, is a village. There’s ample shopping, dining, activities, and fun things for kids of all ages to enjoy during your stay. This Hilton property resides on a private beach, making it perfect for taking a dip in the ocean and enjoying the resort’s plentiful water sports.
Average cost: $450
What’s included in the all-inclusive package: all meals (breakfast, dinner, drinks), resort charge benefits, and self-parking
Amenities: 5 pools, fitness center, spa, fitness classes, kayaking, golf, shopping, and more
Activities for Kids? Children’s pool, waterslide, babysitting, and more
Proximity to beach/city/main attractions: On private beach, 1-minute walk to Waikoloa Beach Golf Course, 7-minute walk to Dolphin Quest
Restaurants: 6 restaurants, 5 bars, coffee shop
BEST IN THE SOUTHEAST UNITED STATES
Blackberry Farm, Tennessee
The debate is still heated about whether Tennessee counts as a Mideast or Southern state, but one thing’s for sure: Blackberry Farm is the cream of the crop for all-inclusive family resorts. Although a farm, your family can unwind and connect, surrounded by the sprawling acres in the Smokey Mountains. The frame includes three restaurants, a lavish spa, and a laundry list of nature-focused activities that everyone will talk about for years to come.
Average cost: $1,045
What’s included in the all-inclusive package: Nightly accommodations, dinner on the day of arrival through breakfast on the day of departure
Amenities: Pool, spa, horseback riding, fly fishing, hiking, paddle sports, and more
Activities for Kids? Farmstead tour, stream exploration, adventure archery, canoeing and kayaking, Camp Blackberry, and more
Proximity to beach/city/main attractions: 5 minute drive to Tuckaleechee Caverns
Restaurants: 3 restaurants
BEST IN AFRICA
JW Marriott Masai Mara Lodge
Overlooking the Talek River and the Masai Mara National Reserve, this lodge is more of a paradise than a traditional resort. Once you take in the breathtaking wildlife, the JW Marriott Masai Mara Lodge will capture your attention with its luxurious amenities and world-renowned architecture.
Average cost: $2,712
What’s included in the all-inclusive package: all meals, alcoholic and nonalcoholic beverages, game drives, one pair of Vortex Viper binoculars, and WiFi
Amenities: Fitness classes, safari, wildlife viewing, gym, spa, pool, and more
Activities for kids? Safaris, hot air balloon rides, game room
Proximity to beach/city/main attractions: 16-minute drive to Maasai Mara National Reserve, 52 minute drive to Sekenani Gate, 86 minute drive to Naboisho Conservancy
Restaurants: 3 restaurants, bar, coffee shop, and private dining
BEST IN TURKS & CAICOS
Beaches Turks & Caicos
Turks & Caicos is known for being not the most favorable destination for families, but thanks to Beaches, you can book without worrying about sky-high printing. The report package included unlimited meals and drinks, plus most activities throughout the resort.
Average cost: $1,961
What’s included in the all-inclusive package: unlimited food and drink, water sports, and activities for all ages, butler and concierge services
Amenities: 10 pools, beach volleyball, fitness classes, gym, spa, nightclub, sun, shopping, steam room, scuba diving, and more
Activities for kids? Playground, waterslide, children’s club, kids’ club, and more
Proximity to beach/city/main attractions: 11-minute walk to Grace Bay Beach, 17 minute walk to Providenciales Beaches, 6 minute drive to The Regent Village Shopping Mall
Restaurants: 21 restaurants, 15 bars, coffee shop, snack bar
BEST IN ST. LUCIA
Coconut Bay Beach Resort & Spa, St. Lucia
If traveling to St. Lucia is on your family’s bucket list, make sure to check out the Coconut Bay Beach Resort & Spa. Even though it’s known for hosting the best weddings, many family bloggers rank it as the best resort for families. The property features multiple pools, restaurants, and Tomos to choose from, with inclusive packages at affordable costs.
Average cost: $671
What’s included in the all-inclusive package: unlimited meals, beverages (including alcoholic), snacks, and on-site activities
Amenities: 5 pools (including 2 adults only), spa, family suites, gym, laundry, tennis court, kitesurfing, snorkeling, kayaking, nightly entertainment, and more
Activities for kids? Supervised Kidz Klub, paintball, kid’s pool, and more
Proximity to beach/city/main attractions: 13-minute walk to Sandy Beach and 13 minute walk to Maria Islands Nature Reserve
Restaurants: 8 restaurants and 7 bars
BEST IN COLORADO
C Lazy U Ranch, Colorado
TripAdvisor reviewers can’t give the C Lazy U Ranch enough praise. “Located in the scenic wilderness of Granby, Colorado, about two hours outside of Denver, the ranch is far enough away to feel like an exclusive getaway but close enough to make traveling easy,” one said. The Ranch is cozy and just the place for your family to be able to unwind and connect. There’s plenty of tasty food and treats for the kids, plus ample horseback riding, fishing, swimming, and more outdoor activities to keep everyone busy.
Average cost: $749 for a 3 to 4 person cabin
What’s included in the all-inclusive package: All meals, and some alcoholic beverages
Amenities: Heated pool, fishing rods, tennis rackets and balls, basketballs, volleyballs, cross-country skis, snowshoes, poles and ice skates (seasonally), sunscreen, ice, shuttle services, seasonal photographer on site, and more
Activities for kids? Game room, helmets and riding boots, and more
Proximity to beach/city/main attractions: 15 minute drive to Granby
Restaurants: 1
BEST IN JAMAICA
Franklyn D Resort & Spa, Jamaica
Heading to Jamaica? Make travel plans simple and book your stay at the Franklyn D Resort & Spa — a resort known for its hospitality and family-friendly rooms and amenities. The resort is always buzzing with activities, from water sports to fitness classes, and the entire family will be able to fill their time with hobbies they love. You can also plan to go snorkeling with the family or spend hours swimming on the private beach. Did we mention you also receive a nanny to help your family when you check into the resort?
Average cost: $1,040 for a two bedroom suite
What’s included in the all-inclusive package: All meals (breakfast, lunch and dinner daily), all beer, premium-brand bar drinks, smoothies, use of all land and water sports equipment and facilities, nanny/personal assistant assigned on arrival at the resort
Amenities: 2 pools, tennis court, fitness center, fishing, canoeing, karaoke, cycling, diving, snorkeling, and more
Activities for kids? Game room, playground, ping-pong, kids’ club, mini golf, kids’ pool, and more
Proximity to beach/city/main attractions: 1-minute walk to Cardiff Hall Beach, 5 minute walk to Runaway Bay Beach, 2-minute drive to Salem Beach
Restaurants: 4 restaurants and 1 bar
BEST IN THE WESTERN CARIBBEAN
Wyndham Reef Resort, Grand Cayman
The Cayman Islands are recognized by their pristine beaches and crystal-clear water, perfect for scuba diving. If you’re mapping out a family vacation, add the Wyndham Reef Resort to your places to consider lodging. The resort offers all-inclusive beachfront options that accommodate you during your stay. Thanks to the multiple restaurants, bars, and nda activities, you never have to leave the resort.
Average cost: $405
What’s included in the all-inclusive package: All meals (breakfast, lunch, and dinner daily), beverages and non-alcoholic options, sports rentals
Amenities: 2 pools, 2 spa tubs, gym, yoga classes, sailing, kayaking, scuba diving, and more
Activities for kids? Kid’s pool, volleyball, free bicycle rentals, and more
Proximity to beach/city/main attractions: 20-minute walk to Colliers Public Beach, 4 minute drive to Barefoot Beach, 12-minute drive to Grand Cayman Blow Holes
Restaurants: 2 restaurants, bar, coffee shop
BEST IN CURAçAO
Sunscape Curaçao Resort, Curaçao
The Sunscape Resort celebrates Curaçao’s diverse culture and heritage through nightly entertainment, delicious menus, and excursions through vast resort beaches. The resort offers a wide range of activities, including snorkeling and an on-site casino. There are 10 accommodation options that include meals for and drinks for the entire family.
Average cost: $620
What’s included in the all-inclusive package: all meals, and drinks
Amenities: 2 outdoor tennis courts, sauna, gym, casino, spa, nightclub, steam room, and more
Activities for kids? Explorer’s Club (ages 3 to 12), Core Zone Teens Club (ages 13 to 17), arcade, game room, and more
Proximity to beach/city/main attractions: 6-minute walk to Mambo Beach, 14 minute walk to Curaçao Sea Aquarium, 17-minute walk to Jan Thiel Beach
Restaurants: 5 restaurants, bar, and snack bar
BEST WITH OUTDOOR ACTIVITIES
Woodloch Pines, Pennsylvania
Getting your kids off their phones and Ipads is tough, but once you get to the Woodloch Pines they will be so immersed in all of the outdoor activities, they won’t even touch their electronics. In addition to over 30 activities, families can choose from an array of cozy accommodations. And after a fun-filled day, dine at the resort’s three dining rooms.
Average cost: $741.74 for a Veranda Classic (2 double beds)
What’s included in the all-inclusive package: Accommodations, 2 to 3 meals daily, access to 30+ activities
Amenities: Pool, hot tub, gym, family boats, tennis court, laundry, room service, and more
Activities for kids? Bumper boats, climbing walls, indoor playground, go-karts, kiddie pools, mini golf, and more
Proximity to beach/city/main attractions: 10-minute drive to Fawn Lake, 13-minute drive to Lake Wallenpaupack, 16-minute drive to Ski Big Bear at Masthope Mountain
Restaurants: 1
BEST IN COSTA RICA
Westin Playa Conchal, Costa Rica
The Westin Playa Conchal is one of the best all-inclusive resorts for families in Costa Rica. The luxurious 2,400-acre property features an 18-hole golf course, spa, multiple pools, and authentic cuisine restaurants—all on site. We’ll be here all day if we keep listing the Westin’s impressive amenities, but take note that the accommodations aren’t shabby either.
Average cost: $549
What’s included in the all-inclusive package: in-room refreshment station stocked daily with soft drinks, bottled juices, water, and beer, 24-hour room service, non-motorized water sports, meals and beverages, bespoke package tours and activities, and more
Amenities: 2 swimming pools, spa, gym, nightly turndown service, pilates classes, 18 holes of golf, 2 outdoor tennis courts, pro golf lessons, snorkeling, sauna, and more
Activities for kids? Kid’s club, babysitting,
Proximity to beach/city/main attractions: 6-minute walk to Conchal Beach, 10-minute walk to Reserva Conchal Golf Course
Restaurants: 9 restaurants and bars
BEST WITH GOURMET DINING
Club Med Cancun Yucatán, Cancun
Located at the tip of the Riviera Maya, the Club Med Cancun Yucatán in Cancun, Mexico, will become your favorite destination. The resort has over 20 activities that are kid-friendly, plus world-renowned relaxation packages at the spa. The all-inclusive package includes your meals, drinks, activities, and some excursions.
Average cost: $615 (children under 4 are free)
What’s included in the all-inclusive package: all-day dining, room service, captivities, entertainment
Amenities: Club Med Spa by L’Occitane, 3 outdoor pools, sailing school, snorkeling, pickleball, tennis, golf, gym, fitness classes, kayaking, and more
Activities for kids? Circus School, archery school, children’s pool, kids club (based on age), and more
Proximity to beach/city/main attractions: On private beach, 10 minutes to El Rey Ruins
Restaurants: 3 restaurants, 5 bars
BEST IN NEW YORK
Mohonk Mountain House, New York
Add the Mohonk Mountain House to your bucket list for a quiet yet fun getaway this year. The all-inclusive “house” is located in New York’s Hudson Valley. The castle-like resort offers nature hikes, lake swimming, s’mores making, and more. All rooms are staged in Victorian-decorated quarters and equipped with comfortable bedding and plush robes.
Average cost: $1,052 (sleeps 3)
What’s included in the all-inclusive package: All meals, wellness classes, activities, nightly entertainment, WiFi, and valet parking
Amenities: 2 pools, kayaking, row boating, lake swim, paddleboarding, snow tubing, tennis, and more
Activities for kids? Horseback riding , fish feeding, row boats, koi fountain, playground, outdoor movies, craft kits, s’mores, archery classes, a mountain bike tour (ages 16+)
Proximity to beach/city/main attractions: 7 minute drive to Mohonk Golf Course, 18 minute drive to the Robibero Winery
Restaurants: 5 restaurants
BEST IN DOMINICA
Fort Young Hotel & Dive Resort, Dominica
This resort offers modern features with the beauty of historic decor. “Wonderful and boutique style historic hotel resort with multiple restaurants, gorgeous views, and warm, friendly staff,” one reviewer said. “All amenities were beautifully put together.”
Average cost: $250
What’s included in the all-inclusive package: All meals, beverages, water and land activities, airport transfers, 30 minute Swedish massage, and more
Amenities: Pool, gym, scuba diving, snorkeling, shopping
Activities for kids? Hiking, swimming, paddle boarding, canyoning, visiting waterfalls, and more
Proximity to beach/city/main attractions: 3-minute walk to the Dominica Museum, 6 minute walk to the Dominica Botanical Gardens, 7-minute walk to the Roseau Public Market
Restaurants: 1 restaurant, 2 bars
BEST FOR FAMILIES WITH TEENS
Castle Hot Springs, Morristown, Arizona
Arizona has the best scenery if you love the outdoors. The Castle Hot Springs has hot springs, hiking, and all of the outdoor activities you could dream of. The only catch is this resort is best for families with older children.
Average cost: $1,400
What’s included in the all-inclusive package: All meals (breakfast, lunch, multi-course chef dinner), daily $25 beverage credit per person, food at Bar 1896, snacks and soft Beverages, poolside food
Amenities: Pool, hot springs, farm tours, guided hiking, axe throwing, horseback riding, UTV tours, spa, wine tasting, yoga classes, and more
Activities for kids? Children must be 16 years and older, but can enjoy all of the amenities
Proximity to beach/city/main attractions: 1.5 hour drive to Desert Botanical Garden, 1.5 hour drive to Out of Africa Wildlife Park
Restaurants: 2 restaurants
BEST FOR FAMILIES IN PORTUGAL
Eden Resort, Portugal
The Eden Resort in Portugal is bursting with bright colors and rich traditions. Choose from villas and apartments to lodge in. The best part? You don’t have to worry about preparing meals, snacks, or even getting up to get a drink because it’s all covered in your all-inclusive package. During your stay, play some golf, lounge by the pool, or indulge yourself in a spa treatment.
Average cost: $487 for three night stay
What’s included in the all-inclusive package: All meals and drinks (with some exceptions), snacks, and more
Amenities: 5 indoor and outdoor swimming pools, tennis court, golf course, five side soccer field, spa, and more
Activities for kids? Kids club, playground, AquaFun Park
Proximity to beach/city/main attractions: 4-minute drive to Albufeira Old Town Square, 5 minute drive to Albufeira Marina, 5-minute drive to the Strip
Restaurants: 1 restaurant and 1 bar
BEST IN COLORADO
Vista Verde Guest Ranch, Colorado
If you’ve ever wanted to stay on a ranch, here’s your chance! The Vista Verde Guest Ranch in Colorado features exciting outdoor and seasonal activities for adults and children ages six and up. There’s also so much wildlife to take in while you’re there.
Average cost: $6,800 (adults and teens), $5,800 (children)
What’s included in the all-inclusive package: Three delicious meals per day, wine, beer, and soft drinks, guided seasonal activities, weekly photography workshop, archery, yoga, and more
Amenities: 2 pools, gym, spa, outdoor activities
Activities for kids? Kid, tween, and teen programs
Proximity to beach/city/main attractions: 34-minute drive to Steamboat Lake State Park, 36- minute drive to Pearl Lake State Park, 74-minute drive to Strawberry Hot Springs
Restaurants: 1 restaurants
Experts in This Article
Beth Washington: Travel agent and founder of the Getaway Guild
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