The 14 best all-inclusive resorts in Mexico, from family-friendly options with massive waterparks to romantic retreats with overwater bungalows

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Grand Riviera Princess

Grand Riviera Princess

Book Grand Riviera Princess

Typical starting/peak prices: $168/$208

Location: Playa Del Carmen

On-site amenities: 11 restaurants, nine bars, gym, basketball and soccer courts, family club, 15 pools, spa

Pros: A wallet-friendly stay that still comes with all the amenities you’d want in a solid beach vacation including a beachfront location, multiple pools, a spa, and plenty of on-site activities.

Cons: The rooms are nice, but are not exceedingly memorable or luxurious when it comes to decor and amenities. The resort is also quite large and it can be a trek to reach the beach depending on where your room is located.

Grand Riviera Princess can start as low as $127 in the off-season and even in peak December holiday season, prices hover close to $200 per night. That’s shockingly cheap compared to competitors but there’s no catch. The price includes all food, many activities, and great resort amenities.

Suites with hot tubs make good options for couples, while Family Club rooms with King-sized beds, in addition to bunk beds, are ideal for families. 

There is a wide range of global restaurants to please all palates, including Mexican, Italian, Swiss, and Asian cuisine. You won’t find as many over-the-top amenities and activities here as at larger resorts or luxury hotels, but there’s still access to great beaches, 15 (yes, 15) pools — including those designated exclusively for kids, a kids’ club, a small game room, tennis courts, free non-motorized sports, and a spa.  

COVID-19 policies can be found here. 

Villa La Estancia Riviera Nayarit

Villa La Estancia

Book Villa La Estancia Riviera Nayarit

Typical starting/peak prices: $199/$273

Location: Flamingo

On-site amenities: Multiple restaurants, spa, fitness center, outdoor pool, beachfront hot tub, market, tennis courts

Pros: An apartment-style resort that gives guests the flexibility to book as a standard hotel or as an all-inclusive package with meals. 

Cons: Some of the rooms can feel dated and it doesn’t have as modern or chic decor as other nearby resorts.

This AAA Four-Diamond luxury resort in Nuevo Vallarta is a serious steal. It’s not exclusively all-inclusive, but it has an all-inclusive package option when booking, allowing for more flexibility. This can be a perk for larger groups who may want to choose different options. The all-inclusive add-on includes all meals, drinks, resort activities, access to the tennis courts, use of the hydrotherapy circuit at the spa, and all non-motorized sports equipment. 

The apartment-style property consists of multi-bedroom suites with either kitchenettes or full kitchens, depending on room type and price point. Private terraces provide sweeping views of the lush grounds and the Bay of Banderas.

The large main pool features multiple zero-entry points, making it extremely accessible, while the swim-up bar keeps the atmosphere fun. On-site activities cater to kids and adults, including kid-friendly survival classes and movie nights, as well as paddle-boarding and dance or Spanish lessons. Additionally, guests have access to the beaches, pools, and activities at sister resort Villa del Palmar Flamingos right next door.   

COVID-19 policies can be found here. 

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TRS Yucatan Hotel

TRS Yucatan

Book TRS Yucatan Hotel

Typical starting/peak prices: $285/$584

Location: Akumal

On-site amenities: Four pools, spa, 20 dining options, swim-up bars

Pros: A more secluded, adults-only resort that still gives guests access to all the amenities found at the four sister properties within the complex.

Cons: None of the rooms are right on the beach and it can be a long walk to get there depending on where your room is.

Part of the Grand Palladium Riviera Maya complex of five resorts, the adults-only, 130-room TRS Yucatan Hotel offers a smaller, quieter retreat in comparison to its big behemoth sister properties. 

TRS Yucatan Hotel is just right for couples in the beautiful area of Akumal, nestled between lively Tulum and Cancun. Akumal is named after the sea turtles you’ll likely find swimming beside you while out snorkeling, alongside soft-sand beaches and clear turquoise waters.

Contemporary accommodations start with huge entry-level Junior Suites and go all the way up to premium suites with private plunge pools, and Romance Bungalows featuring unique wood furniture, hidden outdoor showers, and private decks with kayak landings.  

But perhaps one of the biggest perks of staying at TRS Yucatan is the fact that guests can enjoy all the amenities of Grand Palladium Riviera Maya’s other four resorts, while TRS remains private only to guests booked there. It makes for a pretty exclusive stay, with the option of a big resort sprawl, while being able to retreat to a quiet, secluded base. Still, even at just TRS, there’s plenty to do. Six restaurants, multiple bars, a VIP beach area, a spa, and three pools, including an infinity pool with exceptional ocean views, are all available. Additionally, activities like kayaking, diving, and windsurfing ensure guests are never left idling aimlessly on the beach — unless that’s exactly what they’re looking to do.

COVID-19 policies can be found here. 

Excellence Playa Mujeres

Excellence Playa Mujeres

Book Excellence Playa Mujeres

Typical starting/peak prices: $368/$526

Location: Playa Mujeres

On-site amenities: 10 restaurants, 7 bars, spa, 7 pools, fitness center, rooftop terrace

Pros: An adults-only, all-suite resort where lively fun and deep relaxation can all happen under the same palapa. 

Cons: Not all of the restaurants are open every night, so be sure to check the schedules ahead of time and plan accordingly, especially if there’s one restaurant you’re eager to try.

This adults-only all-suite resort is found on the powdery white-sand beaches of Playa Mujeres in Cancun. The beach is dotted with private palapas that provide a shady reprieve for lounging and plenty of romantic R&R. Couples can also rest in hammocks, or dip their toes in crystal clear waters as a school of fish swims by. 

More action can be found at the main pool where drinks and shots flow freely at the swim-up bar. There are seven pools in total, along with four jacuzzis, and five whirlpool tubs, and junior suites come with swim-up pool access right from the room. 

Other room types include pool-view suites, or our top pick, terrace suites with private plunge pools. To really up the romance, opt for a two-story room with a massive private terrace, plunge pool, and in-suite jacuzzi.   

Each night, guests receive a list of activities for the next day, along with daily restaurant choices, and a nightly entertainment schedule. Activities range from kayaking to yoga and Spanish lessons, and every activity except for deep-sea fishing, private yacht excursions, and scuba diving are included in the nightly rate. 

Savor the sunset and the balmy nights that follow with live music, laser shows, and romantic outdoor dinners, all included.

COVID-19 policies can be found here. 

El Dorado Maroma

El Dorado Maroma

Book El Dorado Maroma

Typical starting/peak prices: $369/$887

Location: Playa Maroma

On-site amenities: Spa, six restaurants, swim-up bars, three pools, fitness center

Pros: The spacious entry-level Junior Suites and slightly more expensive Honeymoon Suites still offer plenty of romance in the desirable setting of Quintana Roo.

Cons: The bungalows are expensive but if staying in one is a bucket list item, the resort makes a strong case to do it here. Unlike most overwater bungalow resorts, the price here also includes meals and activities, and the resort is much easier to reach than the Maldives.

There are perhaps two words that automatically set the tone for luxury and romance: overwater bungalows. And you don’t have to fly halfway around the world to the Maldives to cozy up in one. We like El Dorado Maroma in particular, found on the pristine beaches of Quintana Roo, though they predictably come at a very high price point, starting at $1,500. Not to worry, we also rounded up our favorite affordable overwater bungalows around the world. 

Don’t dismiss El Dorado just because their overwater bungalow might be too far above your budget. Consider their spacious Junior Suites instead that start at $549 for all-inclusive rates, and feature balconies, hot tubs, and artfully decorated interiors. Honeymoon Suites are only $30 more and add oversized private terraces outfitted with double beds and in-suite hot tubs.

But if you can’t resist the allure of waking up to turquoise waters directly under your glass-bottom floors, the overwater bungalows make a strong case for a serious splurge. Consider that you’ll save on airfare, travel time, and jet lag compared to similar resorts in Tahiti or Asia. Plus, most other overwater bungalows aren’t all-inclusive and cost the same price before adding hefty food, drink, and activity charges. If you’ve always dreamt of diving from your private terrace directly into the ocean, this is a good place to do it. 

Additionally, there are six on-site restaurants ranging s from Mexican and Peruvian to Asian fusion. Sip on a fruity cocktail at any of the five bars — and don’t even bother changing out of your swimsuit since three are swim-up. All-inclusive extras include paddleboarding, Latin dance lessons, and a free champagne toast upon arrival.

COVID-19 policies can be found here. 

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Club Med Cancun Yucatan

Club Med

Book Club Med Cancun Yucatan

Typical starting/peak prices: $154/$251

Location: Cancun

On-site amenities: Three pools, extensive kids programming, cultural activities, spa, four restaurants, seven bars

Pros: A kid-friendly resort with unique on-site offerings like trapeze classes and archery lessons, as well as easy access to book off-site excursions to wonders like Chichen Itza and the famous cenotes.

Cons: The excursions off property are a major draw, but they come at additional costs and staff can try to upsell guests. 

Families can pair a beach getaway with exceptional cultural and learning opportunities at Club Med Cancun Yucatan. The resort offers quirky activities for kids including flying trapeze school and archery lessons, as well as direct access to the world’s second-largest coral reef, plus snorkeling, waterskiing, and sailing school, all included. 

Though they come at an additional cost, off-site excursions are worth a surcharge for easy access to days spent snorkeling with sea turtles, swimming with whale sharks, exploring famed Chichen Itza, or floating in crystal clear cenotes. 

The resort itself is situated on an idyllic stretch of sand and most rooms have furnished balconies with either sea or lagoon views. The Aguamarina buildings are designed specifically for families with colorful, beachy decor including purple couches, turquoise curtains, and multiple bedrooms. The oceanfront rooms are also located right by the family oasis pool on its own secluded beach. 

Parents will appreciate the spa by luxury French skincare company L’Occitane, and six bars and lounges provide a fun retreat when it’s grownup time.

COVID-19 policies can be found here. 

Hard Rock Riviera Maya

Hard Rock

Book Hard Rock Riviera Maya

Typical starting/peak prices: $379/$434

Location: Puerto Aventuras

On-site amenities: Waterpark, extensive kids programming, adults-only resort within a resort, six bars, 10 restaurants, private beach, three pools, spa

Pros: Kids will never be bored between the waterpark, action-sports facility, and unique activities like the Kidz Bop Experience. The adults-only resort within a resort concept also means parents can relax, too.

Cons: Guests need to make reservations for all of the restaurants and during the busiest seasons, they book up incredibly fast. If you don’t book ahead of time, you could end up eating at the buffet every night.

The Hard Rock Riviera Maya promises to please every age group. At the on-site Rockaway Bay Water Park, teens can get adrenaline pumping zooming down high-speed waterslides, while young children splash away at the jungle gym. And, of course, everyone appreciates the private beach, and a wide variety of pools all designated for kids, families, or adults. 

Young travelers will enjoy burning off extra energy at the indoor action-sports facility with trampolines, a skate park, indoor snowboard and ski equipment, and an obstacle course. 

Children can also live out pop star dreams at Kidz Bop Experience, where they meet a tour manager, pick out a band name, select a red carpet look, and perform on a real stage. The entire experience is included as part of the all-inclusive rate, though taking it to the next level with a glam squad and cover shoots does come with a fee.  

Parents aren’t forgotten either and can find plenty of pampering at Heaven, the adults-only resort within a resort section of the property. Here, heaven also includes the signature Hard Rock spa, seven bars, a nightclub, four upscale restaurants, and private pools. 

COVID-19 policies can be found here. 

Hotel Xcaret Mexico

Booking.com

Book Hotel Xcaret Mexico

Typical starting/peak prices: $401/$610

Location: Playa del Carmen

On-site amenities: Eight eco-centric theme parks, waterpark, river, jungle trails, kids’ club, spa, 10 restaurants, grotto-style pools, swim-up bars

Pros: A resort with a unique eco-integrated design that gives guests access to eight parks and tours included in the all-inclusive price.

Cons: Reservations for the parks and restaurants can book up fast, and there can be long lines at the reservation center if you try to book with staff once you’ve arrived, so book activities and meals ahead of time if possible.

Hotel Xcaret Mexico features a unique architectural approach with an eco-integrated design resulting in pools that look like natural lagoons and grottos, and “casa” complexes named after the natural elements. 

The all-suite resort has four varieties of room types ranging from swim-up suites with private pools to junior suites with large terraces. 

Best of all for families is the ALL-FUN All-Inclusive Concept, which gives guests unlimited access to Xcaret’s eight eco-centric theme parks, waterparks, and tours with experiences like ziplining, waterslides, and driving off-road vehicles through the jungle. Shuttles between the resort and the eco-parks, as well as to and from the airport in Cancun, are also included. 

Within the main grounds of Hotel Xcaret, join included activities such as kayaking down the river, sport courts, jungle trails, and kids’ club, or simply grab a lounge chair on the beautiful beach.

Daily meals can be eaten at 10 different on-site restaurants, with drinks offered at eight bars. There is also the relaxing Muluk Spa that incorporates ancient Mayan mythology and practices into their signature treatments. 

COVID-19 policies can be found here. 

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Grand Residences Riviera Cancun

Grand Residences

Book Grand Residences Riviera Cancun

Typical starting/peak prices: $203/$469

Location: Puerto Morelos

On-site amenities: Airport shuttle, spa, private beach, fitness center, restaurant, pool bar, food market

Pros: An all-suite property with one- to four-bedroom suites in a calmer area than the usual Cancun party scene.

Cons: There are only two main restaurants, which can become repetitive on lengthier trips when you’re paying to only dine on-site.

The 144-suite Grand Residences Riviera Cancun ingratiates itself to large groups with spacious suites and villas that include as many as four bedrooms, homey, handcrafted furniture, gourmet kitchens, Jacuzzis, and large terraces with sea views. 

Despite the name, the hotel is actually located in the village of Puerto Morelos, which is 20 minutes from the Cancun airport, and close to Tulum and its archaeological wonders. We like it because it’s a more peaceful spot away from the main party scene.

The resort delivers on many details others don’t, such as airport transfers, welcome drinks (margaritas for adults, juice for kids), and a bottle of tequila waiting in the room upon arrival. Other perks and activities range from lollipops in the pool area and personalized cookies, to mixology and tennis lessons, daily beach games, snorkeling, bike tours, dance contests, Spanish classes, and more.

COVID-19 policies can be found here. 

Velas Vallarta

Vellas Vallartes

Book Velas Vallarta

Typical starting/peak prices: $246/$324

Location: Puerto Vallarta

On-site amenities: Spa, beauty salon, market, oceanfront dining, private beach, gym, two pools, tennis courts, bars

Pros: One- to three-bedroom suites with stunning ocean and mountain views in Marina Vallarta. The staff is also exceptionally attentive. 

Cons: The resort could generally use a refresh and some rooms show signs of wear and tear. All dining requires advance reservations.

Set along 10 acres on the gorgeous Banderas Bay with views of the Sierra Madre Mountains, Velas Vallarta offers all-inclusive options for groups, plus multiple pools and a relaxing beach area. The suites feature contemporary Mexican details and range from one- to three-bedrooms, with kitchens or kitchenettes, private balconies, and large living room areas.

All-inclusive rates include activities like tennis, basketball,  morning yoga, and a kid’s club for ages 4 to 12 with plenty of offerings to keep young ones busy.

Gourmet dining is also included and La Ribera Restaurant offers breathtaking ocean views along with steak and seafood dinners, as well as a great breakfast buffet. For live music and Mexican cantina food, Foodies Cantina offers authentic fare, while Andrea Restaurant serves fresh local seafood and Asian and Italian-inspired options. Just be sure to make reservations; they are required for all restaurants. 

COVID-19 policies can be found here. 

Marival Distinct Luxury Residences

Marival Distinct Residences

Book Marival Distinct Luxury Residences

Typical starting/peak prices: $384/$842

Location: Nuevo Vallarta

On-site amenities: Five restaurants, multiple pools, sky bar, infinity pool, beach volleyball, fitness center

Pros: The huge residences and villas with kitchens, washer/dryers, and private pools give groups the feeling of staying in their own personal beach house.

Cons: In the busiest seasons, pools can be very crowded and some travelers have had issues with adults-only areas not being respected by families.

While it may seem difficult for a resort to cater to couples, families, and groups, Marival Distinct Luxury Residences in Riviera Nayarit has found a way to balance these contrasts with a wide variety of offerings, amenities, and lodging. For groups, Marival Distinct Luxury Residences are spacious and range from one to four bedrooms equipped with kitchens, washer/dryers, living rooms, and terraces. For even more space, villas and penthouses include huge private pools.

All meals from the five distinct a la carte restaurants are included, along with pool and beach concierge service, a personal butler, babysitting, and tennis clinics. The resort can also arrange spectacular off-site excursions like whale watching, ziplining, or sailing off to the nearby Marieta Islands, but these come with an additional fee.

Multi-gen groups with children will appreciate an on-site kids’ club, a family-only area just two minutes from the main resort, as well as the fact that residences and villas come with children-themed bedrooms with special kid-friendly amenities and toys. 

Finally, the Melange World Spa features nine thematic cabins, each with a distinctive atmosphere representing a different world country.

COVID-19 policies can be found here. 

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Secrets Maroma Beach Riviera Cancun

Secrets Maroma

Book Secrets Maroma Beach Riviera Cancun

Typical starting/peak prices: $523/$831

Location: Playa Maroma

On-site amenities: Nine dining options, six bars, swim-up bars, theater, beach volleyball, two pools, mini-golf, two hot tubs, fitness center, complimentary golf at nearby course

Pros: A romantic, secluded resort on a private beach with spacious entry-level suites, excellent dining options, and top-shelf liquor included in the price. In the off-season, you can find incredible deals for premium luxury service.

Cons: Rooms on the ground floor experience added foot traffic and lack privacy.

If spacious swim-out suites, tropical views, and a secluded, romantic setting sound like vacation heaven, consider Secrets Maroma Beach Riviera Cancun. 

This AAA Five Diamond Resort is an adults-only resort tucked away along a private beach with a romantic vibe and modern rooms with whirlpools. The spacious entry-level rooms start at over 600 square feet and come with private furnished balconies and luxurious spa-like bathrooms with hydro tubs. True romance is found in the Swim Out Suites that line a meandering pool and mimics the feel of having a natural river flowing by. 

A peaceful sanctuary on its own private stretch of beach, the property includes two main pools with ocean views, along with several other smaller, semi-private pools. Daytime activities such as snorkeling, yoga, dance lessons, mini-golf, tennis, and non-motorized watersports are all free. Additionally, guests have green fees waived at the nearby golf course. The spa promises to pamper and has the option for beachfront treatments.   

Beyond the usual buffet, Secrets Maroma Beach Riviera Cancun features six a la carte restaurants, a grill, and a cafe. Unlike most resorts, reservations aren’t required, leaving room for spontaneity. Fine gourmet options include Bordeaux where French food is served against the backdrop of aged wine barrels, and Oceana for fresh seafood al fresco by candlelight. Top-shelf liquor is also included and served at six lively bars and restaurants alongside, live performances and theme party nights.

COVID-19 policies can be found here. 

Le Blanc Spa Resort Cancun

Booking.com

Book Le Blanc Spa Resort Cancun

Typical starting/peak prices: $545/$898

Location: Cancun

On-site amenities: Fitness center with classes, three outdoor pools, spa, private beach, personalized butler service, five exceptional restaurants

Pros: This luxurious, adults-only spot with elegant rooms, elevated cuisine, and above-and-beyond amenities is the best in Cancun.

Cons: Le Blanc Spa Resort is one of the most expensive resorts in Cancun where there are many other cheaper, still luxe options.

This luxury adults-only resort is an expensive option, especially given the fact that Cancun has many high-end hotels and resorts available at a much lower price point. However, Le Blanc is rated the number one hotel in all of Cancun on Tripadvisor for good reason. 

Chic rooms feature dreamy lagoon and ocean views, whirlpool tubs, and personal butlers. In-room aromatherapy, comfort menus, and pillow menus ensure every room is a personal paradise. And the feeling extends outside. It’s easy to find beach bliss on the hotel’s large stretch of white sand, or at the manicured pools where attendants diligently hand out ice water and cool towels. Service is impeccable and every whim is easily pampered.

The elevated dining also goes far above the standard all-inclusive fare. Fine French cuisine is served in an elegant setting under bubble chandeliers, while melt-in-your-mouth sushi can be eaten among tasteful, Japanese-inspired decor.

For a more active vacation, tours to swim with dolphins, unlimited golf, sailing to Isla Mujeres, and fitness classes are all available. And, as the name implies, the sumptuous spa is a major draw. Book a treatment at the BlancSpa and take advantage of the sauna, steam room, ice room, and lagoons, for a final dose of serenity.

COVID-19 policies can be found here. 

Grand Velas Los Cabos

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Book Grand Velas Los Cabos

Typical starting/peak prices: $1,023/$1,352

Location: San Jose del Cabo

On-site amenities: Personal butler service, all-suite rooms, kids’ clubs, huge spa, three-level infinity pool with ocean view, poolside service, five restaurants, bars, beauty salon, boutiques

Pros: Famous in Cabo for its next-level luxury service and amenities, this picturesque resort pleases couples and families alike with massive entry-level suites, gourmet food, and some of the best views in Mexico.

Cons: The beach is not suitable for swimming due to strong currents, though this is common throughout the area.

Grand Velas is a beacon for luxury in Los Cabos with a location overlooking some of the bluest, most beautiful waters in Baja. Indulgence is a way of life with guests receiving not just a welcome drink upon check-in, but a welcome massage, too. Personal butler service is included, as well as top-shelf liquor.

Even entry-level suites are massive, starting at 1,100 square feet, and come with ocean view balconies, elegant neutral furnishings, art, and decor. Premium suites boast large living areas and private plunge pools on the balcony. 

Though the ambiance exudes romance, the resort also does an excellent job catering to families with two-bedroom family suites, a kids’ club, teens’ club, baby concierge, and rotating daily activities. 

However, adults will find the hotel plenty posh with five signature restaurants serving fine dining, surf and turf, and Italian-Mediterranean dishes. Poolside and beachside service ensures guests never have to lift a finger when it comes to setting up chairs and towels or getting a drink refill. The spa is its own 35,000 square foot paradise with a private, serene pool, and personal spa valets. 

For an additional fee, spend days surfing, kayaking over to Lover’s Beach, snorkeling the reefs, or playing a round of golf. Just be aware that while the beach is exceptional for relaxation, the ocean is not ideal for a leisurely swim. In fact, swimming at all is frequently prohibited throughout the Cabo area due to strong currents.    

COVID-19 policies can be found here. 

FAQs

Is is safe to travel to Mexico?

Be aware that according to the CDC, Mexico is still classified at a Level 4, which is “Very High” risk. The CDC notes that if you do plan to travel to Mexico you should be fully vaccinated, but that even vaccinated travelers may be at risk to COVID-19 variants.

If you plan to travel to Mexico, you should follow recommended guidelines, such as wearing a mask, social distancing, and washing hands frequently.

Do I need a COVID-19 test to travel to Mexico?

Air travel is open to Mexico and travelers do not need to provide proof of vaccination, a negative COVID test, or quarantine upon arrival. However, some resort requirements may differ and most resorts will require you to fill out a health questionnaire upon arrival.

However, be aware that when traveling back to the US from Mexico you will need a negative COVID-19 test result no more than 3 days before travel, or proof of recovery from COVID-19 in the past 3 months. This applies even to fully vaccinated travelers.

Many Mexico resorts are offering free COVID-19 testings for guests, but read up on your specific resort’s policies and offerings.

What’s included at all-inclusive resorts?

Every resort is a little different when it comes to what’s included and that can play a big part in the value. Read up closely on whether taxes, fees, and tips are included, as well as exactly what meals and restaurants. Some resorts have included buffets, but additional charges for top-tier restaurants, for example. Similarly, some include no alcohol, some include bottom shelf, and some include even premium spirits.

Also consider what activities are included and factor in additional charges for those that are not, such as off-property excursions. 

Many resort starting prices are also based on double occupancy, so if you are a solo traveler or seeking a family trip, check the policies and fees carefully. When it comes to families, some allow kids under a certain age for free or a discounted rate.

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Courtesy of Likuliku Lagoon Resort

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