Introduction

Prior to its transformation into a world-renowned vacation spot, Cancún Mexico was a relatively undeveloped and sparsely populated area on the eastern coast of Mexico's Yucatan Peninsula. Not so today! That same city today is now one of the most sought-after destinations in the global tourism industry, held up by its iconic reputation as a tropical paradise. In the early 1970s, the Mexican government recognized the potential of Cancún's pristine beaches, crystal-clear waters, and strategic location near ancient Mayan ruins. The government, along with the support of the National Tourism Development Fund (FONATUR), embarked on an ambitious plan to transform Cancún into a premier tourist destination. The vision was to create a purpose-built resort city that would cater to tourists from around the globe. In 1974, Cancún's international airport opened, providing easy access for international tourists. Since then, countless luxurious hotels and resorts have been constructed along the oceanfront lands of the Yucatan. Many of these hotels, including some of the world's most premiere brands like Club Med, Hyatt, Hilton and Marriott, have built impressive resort grounds designed to blend seamlessly with the area's natural surroundings and preserve the area's beauty and ecological balance. In addition to the stunning beaches, Cancún's proximity to ancient Mayan ruins increases tourist appeal. The nearby archaeological sites of Tulum, Chichen Itza, and Coba add cultural and historical value to the region, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in the rich Mayan heritage. A wide range of activities, including snorkeling, scuba diving, and water sports are a key draw. The city also now boasts world-class golf courses, vibrant nightlife, ecological parks, and a variety of cultural and culinary experiences. Today, Cancún stands as one of the most popular tourist destinations in the world, welcoming millions of visitors annually.

Many of the resort options in Cancún are also all-inclusive, which means for a single package price, vacationers can enjoy accommodations, dining, activities, excursions, open-bars and family-friendly amenities like childcare and kids' clubs. These all-inclusive options make coordinating a family vacation hassle-free and seamless, reducing the headaches and stress traditionally caused by vacation planning. Between Cancún's well-developed tourism industry, natural beauty, abundance of activities, culture, historical offerings and all-inclusive options, Cancún may very well be the perfect option for your next family getaway. 

Benefits of choosing an all-inclusive resort for a family vacation

All-inclusive vacations are a fantastic option for family vacations because they make planning a breeze. For a single price, families can enjoy nice room accommodations, a range of dining options, recreational activities, beach access (often private beaches), childcare services, access to kids' clubs and a number of other included services and amenities. All-inclusive resorts often offer complimentary airport transfers to and from the resort, as well as local shuttle services. The list of inclusions when purchasing an all-inclusive package can vary drastically from resort-to-resort. Some resorts may have different meal plans with options, like breakfast only, or dinner only. Some include alcohol, while others do not. Gratuity and resort fees may, or may not be included. You'll want to get a clear idea of what is, and is not, included in the package price.

Club Med, the originators of the all-inclusive concept going back the 1950s, include everything. From family-friendly rooms, to all-day dining at multiple restaurants, more than two dozen recreational activities (including things like kayaking, snorkeling, sailing, archery lessons, tennis lessons, group fitness classes, and even a flying trapeze circus school for kids), access to kids' clubs, a regular schedule of kids special events, and live entertainment, Club Med's all-inclusive packages include just about everything. 

No matter which all-inclusive resort you choose in Cancún , there are definite benefits to the all-inclusive model. Here are a few: 

  • Unparalleled Beachfront Locations: Many all-inclusive resorts in Cancún are situated directly on the stunning Caribbean coastline, offering easy access to pristine white-sand beaches and turquoise waters. This proximity allows families to enjoy beach activities, build sandcastles, swim, snorkel, or simply relax while soaking up the sun, all within steps of their accommodations. Club Med Cancún has three white-sand beaches next to the world’s second largest coral reef, and three different pools. 

  • Family-Friendly Amenities and Facilities: All-inclusive resorts in Cancún are designed with families in mind, offering a wide array of amenities and facilities that cater to kids. From kids' clubs with supervised activities, water parks, and playgrounds, to teen lounges, family pools, and babysitting services, these resorts ensure that every family member has something to enjoy.

  • Exciting Water Sports and Activities: Cancún is renowned for its water sports and adventure activities. Many all-inclusive resorts provide easy access to these thrilling experiences. Whether it's snorkeling, kayaking, paddle boarding, jet skiing, or even scuba diving, these resorts often include complimentary or discounted access to a range of water sports and activities.

  • Gourmet Dining Experiences: Cancún all-inclusive resorts offer a diverse range of dining options that cater to various culinary preferences. From buffet-style restaurants serving international cuisines, to specialty restaurants showcasing Mexican delicacies, these resorts provide a culinary journey. Club Med Cancún, for example, has four restaurants, including a Creperie, a fine-dining Argentinian Restaurant, a Taco Beach Lounge and grand-style buffet. 

  • Safety and Security: All-inclusive resorts in Cancún prioritize the safety and security of their guests, providing peace of mind for families. These resorts often have well-trained staff, security measures, and gated entrances, ensuring a secure environment for families to relax and enjoy their vacation.

  • Entertainment and Evening Shows: All-inclusive resorts in Cancún often offer live entertainment, such as musical performances, stand-up comedy, dance clubs, cooking demos, themed parties, cultural shows, movie nights and interactive games.

  • Value Added and Stress Reduced: All-inclusive resorts often get travelers the best bang-for-the-buck. By booking an all-inclusive resort, families can save money and reduce the hassle of having to plan every individual aspect of travel like food, transportation, activities and accommodations. 

Family-friendly activities and amenities offered by Club Med resorts

Club Med was the originator of the all-inclusive concept. The brand has become world-renowned as the premiere choice for all-inclusive travel, particularly for families. This is because Club Med offers a wider range of better activities and amenities than its competitors.

For example, Club Med Cancún:

  • Includes more than two dozen recreational activities, both at sea and on land. These include kayaking, sailing lessons, windsurfing school, waterskiing and wakeboarding school in a private lagoon, paddle boarding, snorkeling, tennis lessons, archery, mini golf and our iconic flying trapeze circus school. Day excursions and additional activities like zip lining and scuba diving are also available for a reasonable add-on price.

  • Rooms and suites at Club Med cater to families with separate bed spaces for kids and fun decor.

  • There is an entirely dedicated area of Club Med Cancún for families called Aguamarina. This area is designed specifically for families with a dedicated family pool, bar (with kid-friendly "mocktails")  and kids' splash pad.

  • All-inclusive packages at Club Med Cancún include all-day, 24/7 dining at a grand-style buffet and four unique restaurants. See more below for details on Club Med's food and beverage options. 

  • Adults have access to Club Med's new L’Occitane Spa, which offers healing treatments like massage and a unique traditional experience: The Tezmacal. Tezmacal, which translates to “house of heat” is a detoxifying sweat lodge conducted with a ceremony steeped in Mexican heritage

  • Club Med Cancún has three different beaches and three different pools. Just offshore is the world's second largest coral reef where guests can snorkel at no additional cost. 

  • Club Med Cancún includes access to the Kids' Club, which provides entertainment and special activities for kids. Childcare services are available at no additional cost for kids ages 4-17. Childcare is also available for younger children, ages zero to four, for a reasonable charge. 

Convenient and good dining options

Food and beverage options at Club Med Cancún will satisfy the whole family. In addition to a grand-style buffet, which serves a wide range of international food options, a kid-friendly menu and can cater to special dietary restrictions, the resort grounds have four unique restaurants. Taco Arte Beach Lounge is a trendy oceanside restaurant featuring authentic Mexican specialties. La Crêperie is a French-inspired cafe with snacks and sweet treats. La Estancia is a fine-dining, terrace-style Argentinian steakhouse restaurant with beautiful ocean views. Bodega is a wine cellar offering a wide selection of fine wines, champagnes and spirits. In addition to the buffet and four restaurants, the resort has four different bars serving cocktails, including a family-dedicated bar in the Aguamarina that serves fun "mocktails" for kids. 

Additional excursions to make the most of your all-inclusive family vacation in Cancún

Once you and your family have decided on which all-inclusive resort you wish to stay at, you will want to plan to pack in all the relaxation, beach time, recreational activities and excursions you desire. Resort concierge should be readily available to help you plan your days. In addition to what's offered on resort grounds, there are some off-resort excursions you probably won't want to miss, including:

Wander Ancient Mayan Ruins: Explore the fascinating archaeological sites such as Tulum, Chichen Itza, and Coba:

Discover the Underwater Museum: Dive or snorkel in the world-famous Cancún Underwater Museum (MUSA). This unique underwater art installation features more than 500 life-sized sculptures that serve as artificial reefs, creating a breathtaking and immersive underwater experience.

Swim in Cenotes: Cenotes are freshwater sinkholes formed by collapsed limestone in the jungles surrounding Cancún. These crystal-clear pools offer a refreshing escape for visitors to go swimming, snorkeling, and even diving. Popular cenotes include Dos Ojos, Gran Cenote, and Ik Kil.

Visit Xel-Ha: Xel-Ha is an eco-archaeological park where you can snorkel, swim, and float along a stunning natural river inlet surrounded by lush vegetation. The park has adrenaline-pumping activities like cliff jumping, zip-lining, and exploring underwater caves.

Explore Xcaret Park: Xcaret Park is another beautiful park where visitors can discover underground rivers, swim with dolphins, witness traditional Mexican performances, explore a butterfly pavilion, and admire colorful marine life in the aquarium. The park also offers an unforgettable evening show highlighting Mexico's history and folklore.

Go Island Hopping: Take a ferry to the nearby Isla Mujeres or Cozumel for a day trip. Enjoy pristine beaches, snorkel in clear waters, explore charming town centers, and savor local cuisine.

Engage in Ecotourism Activities: Participate in eco-friendly adventures like birdwatching, jungle hikes, and wildlife encounters at places like Sian Ka'an Biosphere Reserve, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, or Xoximilco, where you can cruise through canals in traditional trajineras -- colorful and festive boats. 

Experience Nightlife in Cancún: Cancún comes alive at night with a thriving nightlife scene. Visit the lively clubs, bars, and beachfront discos in the Hotel Zone, where you can dance, enjoy live music, and experience the vibrant energy of Cancún after dark.

Conclusion

Cancún offers incredible beaches, rich cultural heritage, delectable cuisine, and thrilling eco-adventures. Whether it's exploring the natural wonders of cenotes, going scuba diving to see the world's second largest barrier reef, visiting an ancient Mayan ruin or exploring nearby tropical islands, there is never a shortage of unique and exciting experiences in Cancún. Resorts like the All-Inclusive Club Med Cancún are an ideal choice for families. The convenience and simplicity they provide, coupled with cost savings and a wide range of dining options, recreational activities, and excursions, make them a practical and enjoyable option for families. We hope you enjoy your next family getaway in Cancún!