Family

Level Up Family Fun at 6 All-Inclusive Resorts Perfect for Families

by Dana Ter

Photograph by Dana Ter

mother and toddler with sunglasses in pool

Create memories of a lifetime on an all-inclusive family vacation. (Photo: Getty Images)

With life seemingly moving at a million miles an hour, family time is more important that ever. An epic family trip is the perfect way to step back and take time to connect, but planning can be a lot of work. That’s why all-inclusive resorts are a fantastic option for families. After all, what could be better than vacationing in a tropical locale with everything you need right at your fingertips?

From snorkeling and kayaking to water parks and kids clubs that keep the young ones entertained, family fun abounds at these six top-notch, all-inclusive family resorts.

As always, check for travel guidelines and closures before planning your trip.

The Westin Porto de Galinhas, an All-Inclusive Resort

The Westin Porto de Galinhas, an All-Inclusive Resort
The Westin Porto de Galinhas, an All-Inclusive Resort (Photo: Marriott International)

The first Westin all-inclusive resort in Brazil, this tree-lined property in Ipojuca on the country’s east coast unfolds into the blue of the Atlantic Ocean.

With spacious rooms, suites and villas set on five acres of lush greenery, The Westin Porto de Galinhas, an All-Inclusive Resort is jungle living infused with a pinch of luxury — and it’s a fabulous fit for both adults and children. The whole family can easily spend an entire day at the sparkling pools, including a dedicated children’s pool, nestled along the oceanfront.

To top it off, kids will love the Brazilian street food from the resort’s own food truck. And on-site babysitting services mean adults can slip away for some alone time to unwind at the spa.

Royalton Splash Riviera Cancun, an Autograph Collection All-Inclusive Resort

Royalton Splash Riviera Cancun, an Autograph Collection All-Inclusive Resort
Royalton Splash Riviera Cancun, an Autograph Collection All-Inclusive Resort (Photo: Marriott International)

Set on the powder-sand shores of Mexico’s famous Playa del Carmen, Royalton Splash Riviera Cancun, an Autograph Collection All-Inclusive Resort is a sprawling playground for adults and children alike.

The all-suite resort, including oceanfront and swim-out suites, means families have plenty of room to spread out. Enjoy unlimited access to one of the largest on-site water parks in the Caribbean, complete with 14 waterslides, two lazy rivers, a whirlpool and splash pads.

In addition, the resort has a kids club (ages 4 to 12) and an area just for teens (ages 13 to 17), as well as laser tag, bowling and an indoor trampoline park.

Turtle Beach by Elegant Hotels – All-Inclusive

Turtle Beach by Elegant Hotels - All-Inclusive
Turtle Beach by Elegant Hotels – All-Inclusive (Photo: Marriott International)

Named after the charming baby turtles that inhabit Dover Beach on Barbados’ beautiful south coast, the lush, palm-tree-filled Turtle Beach by Elegant Hotels – All-Inclusive elicits tranquility and is welcoming to guests of all ages.

The spacious suites are well-suited for families, and children have their own dedicated area with a splash pool, playground and kids club for ages 3 to 12, which organizes activities such as locally inspired arts and crafts.

Daily programs like Calypso dance lessons and beach cricket are fun for the whole family. Or why not take advantage of the included water sports and take the kids on a snorkeling or kayaking adventure? The possibilities are endless.

Planet Hollywood Costa Rica, An Autograph Collection All-Inclusive Resort

Planet Hollywood Costa Rica, An Autograph Collection All-Inclusive Resort
Planet Hollywood Costa Rica, An Autograph Collection All-Inclusive Resort (Photo: Marriott International)

Embedded in the steep green hills of Culebra on Costa Rica’s northwest coast, with sweeping views of the Pacific Ocean, Planet Hollywood Costa Rica, An Autograph Collection All-Inclusive Resort lives up to its glamorous name. Here, everyone vacations like a star — even the kids.

Join a scavenger hunt and look for gold stars hidden throughout the resort or indulge in a movie night under starry skies. At the STARS Kids Club, children from 4 to 12 can learn to act, sing, dance, and direct and edit movies under the guidance of a talent manager.

Kids can sign up for an acting class or a singer-songwriter class and then have a blast trying on costumes in the wardrobe room as they get ready for the resort’s weekly “Hall of Fame” party.

Royalton Splash Punta Cana, An Autograph Collection All-Inclusive Resort & Casino

Royalton Splash Punta Cana, An Autograph Collection All-Inclusive Resort & Casino
Royalton Splash Punta Cana, An Autograph Collection All-Inclusive Resort & Casino (Photo: Marriott International)

Set in a lush, tropical paradise a short stroll from pristine beaches in Punta Cana in the Dominican Republic, Royalton Splash Punta Cana, An Autograph Collection All-Inclusive Resort & Casino includes one of the biggest water parks in the Caribbean.

There are seven water slides (including a roller-coaster slide and twisting tube slides), a gigantic splash pad, a wave pool and a mini-slide water park sprawled among swaying palms.

In addition to a children’s pool, there are activities for kids such as VR gaming and an escape room. With pingpong tables, dance lessons and water polo also on offer, this resort is about fun for the entire family.

Royalton Blue Waters Montego Bay, An Autograph Collection All-Inclusive Resort

Royalton Blue Waters Montego Bay, An Autograph Collection All-Inclusive Resort
Royalton Blue Waters Montego Bay, An Autograph Collection All-Inclusive Resort (Photo: Marriott International)

Located along the pristine turquoise waters of Jamaica’s northern coast, Royalton Blue Waters Montego Bay, An Autograph Collection All-Inclusive Resort is as family-friendly as it is eco-conscious.

A lazy river snakes around the resort’s grounds, there are plenty of pools and waterslides to choose from in the resort’s splash park, and a beautiful beach beckons for basking in the sun, snorkeling and kayaking. For littles ages 4 to 12, the Clubhouse Kids Club has a big playground and areas to play video games and watch cartoons.

Keep an eye out for Turbo the Turtle, the hotel’s mascot who entertains kids and teaches them about the importance of taking care of the ocean.