Are you looking to experience a tropical paradise with your family? If the answer is yes, then visiting Cancun should be at the top of your list.
Whether you’re planning a romantic getaway or an all-inclusive family retreat, this city has something for everyone.
From idyllic beaches and stunning resorts to world-class nightlife and bustling markets – Cancun truly has it all.
It’s convenient location makes visiting easier than ever before! But when is the best time to go?
To help answer that question, this article will cover everything from weather patterns and tourist season considerations to cost saving tips and great activities for both kids and adults.
So sit back, relax, and start planning your perfect vacation.
The best time to visit Cancun with family
Cancun is a great destination for families looking to have an unforgettable vacation.
With its beautiful beaches, amazing activities, and world-class resorts, Cancun has something for everyone.
The best time to visit Cancun with family is during the winter months of December through March. During this time, the weather is warm and sunny with temperatures ranging from 75-85 degrees Fahrenheit.
The days are long and there are plenty of activities to keep everyone entertained.
The winter months also offer some of the best deals on flights and accommodations in Cancun.
Many resorts offer special packages that include meals and activities for families at discounted rates.
Almost all airlines offer discounts on airfare during this time as well.
Best things to do in Cancun with family:
with so many options available, planning a family vacation can be overwhelming. To help you out, we have compiled a list of the top 10 best things to do in Cancun with family.
Visit the Mayan ruins:
Explore the fascinating Mayan civilization by visiting the ancient ruins of Tulum, Chichen Itza, and Coba. Learn about their culture, architecture, and way of life while enjoying the spectacular views of the Caribbean Sea.
Go snorkeling or scuba diving:
Cancun boasts some of the best snorkeling and scuba diving spots in the world. Swim among colorful fish, coral reefs, and underwater sculptures in the crystal-clear waters of the Mesoamerican Barrier Reef.
Enjoy the beaches:
Cancun’s beaches are renowned for their beauty and are perfect for families to relax and have fun. Some of the most popular beaches in Cancun include Playa Delfines, Playa Tortugas, and Playa Norte.
Visit Xcaret:
Xcaret is an eco-archaeological park that offers a wide range of activities such as swimming in underground rivers, exploring Mayan culture, watching wildlife, and enjoying cultural shows. It is a great place for families to spend the whole day together.
Swim with dolphins:
For a once-in-a-lifetime experience, swim with dolphins in Cancun. Get up close and personal with these intelligent creatures and learn about their behaviors and habitats.
Go on a jungle tour:
Take a jungle tour in Cancun’s lush green forests where you can zip-line, ride ATVs, and explore hidden cenotes. It is an excellent opportunity to experience the natural beauty of Cancun.
Visit Isla Mujeres:
Take a ferry to Isla Mujeres and enjoy its white sandy beaches, turquoise waters, and vibrant culture. You can rent a golf cart and explore the island, swim with sharks, and visit the Turtle Farm.
Enjoy water sports:
Cancun offers a wide range of water sports such as parasailing, jet-skiing, water-skiing, and kayak tours. It is an exciting way to spend time with your family and to explore the clear blue sea.
Experience a theme park:
Cancun has several theme parks that offer a variety of entertainment for the whole family. Xplor, Ventura Park, and Wet’n Wild are some of the most popular theme parks in Cancun.
Visit the Cancun Underwater Museum:
The Cancun Underwater Museum is a unique attraction where you can see over 500 underwater sculptures. It is a great family-friendly activity that combines art and marine life.
Best places to stay in Cancun with family:
Whether you prefer an all-inclusive resort, a luxurious stay, or a budget-friendly option, Cancun has it all. These 10 best places to stay in Cancun with family will provide an unforgettable experience for everyone.
Grand Velas Riviera Maya:
This all-inclusive resort offers spacious suites, a kids’ club, a teen’s club, and numerous family-friendly activities such as water sports, yoga classes, and guided bike tours. Parents can also enjoy some time alone at their adult-only pool and spa.
Dreams Sands Cancun Resort and Spa:
This lively resort is perfect for families with kids of any age. It offers spacious rooms, a kids’ club, a teen’s club, a mini-golf course, and a wide selection of water sports, including snorkeling, kayaking, and windsurfing.
Moon Palace Cancun:
This resort is all about fun and entertainment. It offers a 27-hole golf course, a water park, a kids’ club with supervised activities, and an arcade game room. The rooms are spacious and equipped with amenities such as double Jacuzzi tubs and private balconies.
Hyatt Ziva Cancun:
This all-inclusive resort is perfect for families who love the beach. It offers a private beach, four swimming pools, water sports, and a dedicated kids’ area with a splash zone, water slides, and a playground. The rooms are spacious and come with excellent ocean views.
Paradisus Cancun:
This luxurious all-inclusive resort offers a variety of activities for the entire family, including a private beach, a pool, a golf course, and a kids’ club with age-specific programs for children of all ages. The rooms are spacious and come with private balconies overlooking the ocean or the lagoon.
Crown Paradise Club Cancun:
This resort is packed with activities for every member of the family. It boasts a water park with water slides, a kids’ club, a games room, a mini-golf course, and a babysitting service. The rooms are spacious and come with ocean or lagoon views.
Beach Palace:
This luxurious resort provides numerous amenities for families, including a kids’ club, a rooftop pool, and a variety of water sports such as snorkeling, kayaking, and paddleboarding. The rooms have private balconies with amazing ocean views.
Fiesta Americana Condesa Cancun:
This resort caters to families with young children. It offers a kids’ club, a playground, a baby club, and a variety of family-friendly activities, including cooking classes, beach volleyball, and water sports. The rooms are spacious and come with balconies.
The Ritz-Carlton Cancun:
This upscale resort is perfect for families looking for a luxurious stay. It offers a kids’ club, a beach club, a pool, and a variety of water sports such as jet skiing, parasailing, and scuba diving. The rooms are spacious and come with beautiful ocean views.
Club Med Cancun Yucatan:
This all-inclusive resort is known for its exciting activities and entertainment for the entire family. It offers a kids’ club, a teen’s club, a variety of water sports, including sailing, windsurfing, and kayaking. The rooms are cozy and come with garden or ocean views.
Best restaurants in Cancun with family:
When it comes to dining in Cancun with family, there’s no shortage of options.
From traditional Mexican cuisine to international dishes, the city has an array of restaurants that cater to families.
Below topics picks are perfect for those with children looking for tasty meals and an excellent ambiance.
La Parrilla:
This Cancun staple serves delicious Mexican food, including traditional tacos and fajitas. The atmosphere is lively and perfect for families, with live music and a children’s menu. You can also watch the chefs prepare your meal in the open kitchen, adding to the fun experience.
Harry’s Prime Steakhouse:
For families looking for a high-end dining experience, Harry’s Prime Steakhouse is an excellent choice. The menu features prime cuts of beef and seafood, and their kid’s menu is full of delicious options for younger guests.
La Destilería:
This restaurant is perfect for families who want to try traditional Mexican cuisine, including tequila, of course. Their menu features flavorful dishes such as ceviche, chiles rellenos, and mole poblano. The atmosphere is fun and festive, with live music and a tequila museum on-site.
Cambalache:
This Argentinean restaurant serves some of the best grilled meats in Cancun. The portions are large, and the prices are reasonable, making it an excellent option for families. Don’t forget to try their empanadas and chimichurri sauce!
Mike’s Kitchen:
Located in the Hotel Zone, Mike’s Kitchen is a family-friendly restaurant specializing in breakfast dishes. The restaurant has a cozy atmosphere, and the American-style pancakes, eggs benedict, and waffles are a hit with kids and adults alike.
Lorenzillo’s:
This seafood restaurant is set on a lagoon and features a beautiful ambiance. The lobster dishes are a must-try, and the kids’ menu has tasty options that even picky eaters will enjoy.
Hanaichi:
This Japanese restaurant has a sushi bar and teppanyaki tables, where chefs perform tableside cooking. Kids love watching the flames and theatrics of teppanyaki, and the sushi options are delicious.
Sasi Thai:
For those craving Thai food, Sasi Thai is a must-visit. The menu features flavorful curries, noodle dishes, and stir-fry options. The restaurant also has vegetarian and vegan dishes, making it an excellent option for families with dietary restrictions.
Fred’s House:
This restaurant boasts a beautiful oceanfront location and is known for its seafood dishes. The menu includes ceviche, fish tacos, and fresh seafood caught daily. The kids’ menu has plenty of options and even includes mini-tacos.
La Capilla Argentina:
This unique restaurant is set in a 100-year-old chapel and serves delicious Argentinean dishes, including meats cooked over an open flame. The atmosphere is cozy and charming, making it a hit with families.
Best beaches in Cancun with family:
With a long list of beautiful beaches in Cancun, families can have countless options for their next beach holiday.
Whether you are seeking a peaceful escape from the tourist crowds or an adventure-packed vacation, Cancun’s beaches offer something for everyone.
The beaches mentioned below are our top picks with detailed explanations, so you can be confident in your choice of where to spend your family vacation in Cancun.
Playa Norte:
Playa Norte is situated on northern Isla Mujeres and is one of the best beaches in Cancun for families. Known for its scenic beauty, clear waters, and cool marine breeze, Playa Norte offers numerous activities for kids such as snorkeling, paddle-boarding, and kayaking.
Playa Tortugas:
Located in the Hotel Zone, Playa Tortugas is the perfect beach for a family day out in Cancun. It is an ideal destination for watersports lovers, offering banana boats, jet skis and parasailing.
Playa Delfines:
Playa Delfines, also known as Dolphin beach, is located on the southern end of the Hotel Zone. This beach is always buzzing with activity and has a lot of space for kids to play. It also offers fantastic ocean views, with the waves often reaching high enough for bodysurfing.
Xcacel Beach:
Xcacel Beach is located in the south of Cancun and is known for its clear waters and unspoiled sandy shores. This beach is a perfect getaway for families seeking a peaceful escape from crowded tourist hotspots. It is also known as a turtle sanctuary where children can watch the sea turtles nesting.
Playa Ballenas:
Another beautiful beach located in the Hotel Zone, Playa Ballenas is a terrific beach for couples with kids. It has plenty of space to explore, swim, and sunbathe, and is perfect for kids to build sandcastles.
Playa Langosta:
Playa Langosta is located on the north end of Cancun’s Hotel Zone, and is ideal for those looking for a more laid-back and intimate beach experience. It boasts warm, crystal-clear waters that are perfect for swimming and snorkeling with kids.
Playa Caracol:
Located right beside Playa Tortugas, Playa Caracol is another great beach in Cancun for families. It is close to the shopping and entertainment options and offers plenty of activities for kids, such as beach volleyball, kayaking, and parasailing.
Playa Maroma:
Located on the outskirts of Cancun is Playa Maroma. It is considered one of the finest beaches in the world with white sand, crystal-clear waters, and a wide range of water sports for kids. A perfect destination for a family day out.
Playa del Carmen:
Playa del Carmen is a beautiful beach located just south of Cancun in the Riviera Maya. The beach offers plenty of activities for families, including beach volleyball, snorkeling, and paddleboarding. The beach promenade is also dotted with quaint cafes and shops for souvenirs.
Akumal Beach:
Akumal Beach is situated about an hour away from Cancun, and is ideal for families seeking a secluded beach. Its clear waters make it perfect for kids who love to explore the marine life, including turtles and colorful fish.
Best family friendly resorts in Cancun:
Cancun, Mexico, offers an enormous number of family-friendly resorts, and choosing the right one may seem overwhelming. However, the below-listed resorts are sure to offer a memorable vacation experience for your entire family.
Moon Palace Golf & Spa Resort:
This resort is located on the southside of Cancun’s hotel zone offering a wide range of activities for families.
Kids can engage in activities like mini-golf, basketball, and a water park while parents can choose to relax by the pool or get pampered at the spa.
Moreover, the resort holds daily shows for entertainment, making it a perfect destination for family vacations.
Grand Fiesta Americana Coral Beach Cancun Resort & Spa:
This resort has a luxurious feel to it and proves to be a perfect choice for families looking for spacious accommodation.
The resort features a kid’s club that coordinates daily activities for children of all ages while the adults relax at the world-class spa.
The location of the resort is perfect for adventure-seeking families because of its proximity to the ocean.
Hyatt Ziva Cancun:
This resort is the ultimate destination for families who love to indulge in outdoor activities.
From kayaking, paddleboarding to mini-golf and beach volleyball, the resort never fails to provide thrilling experiences to its guests.
The all-inclusive dining options keep the foodies satisfied, and the range of kid’s activities makes this property a top choice for family vacations.
Fiesta Americana Condesa Cancun All-Inclusive:
This resort is a beautiful blend of fun-filled activities and a touch of culture.
Parents can cuddle up around the beautiful pool while kids can be entertained by exploring the ancient Mayan culture through kids’ workshops offered at the resort.
Additionally, the resort features multiple restaurants offering cuisines for all taste buds.
Dreams Sands Cancun Resort & Spa:
If you desire to give your family a memorable experience, then Dreams Sands Cancun Resort & Spa is the place for you.
For the guests who love adventure, the resort offers non-motorized watersports, and for those who prefer a more laid-back experience, they can opt for the refreshing spa treatment.
The resort offers excellent childcare services for the little ones, making this resort a top choice for families.
Crown Paradise Club Cancun:
As the name suggests, this resort offers the ultimate paradise experience to all of its guests.
The resort offers excellent kids’ clubs with multiple daily activities that keep children well-entertained while their parents enjoy lounges and relaxation areas.
The resort also provides an all-inclusive dining option to cater to guests’ distinctive food choices.
Panama Jack Resorts Cancun:
This resort is perfect for families looking to indulge in an array of activities without compromising on luxurious accommodations.
From zip-lining to paddleboarding, this resort is designed to provide guests with the ultimate beach vacation experience.
The kid’s club offers hands-on activities for children of all ages, making it the ultimate family-friendly resort option.
Paradisus by Melia Cancun:
This resort offers unparalleled luxury combined with excellent family-friendly activities, making it the perfect destination for any family.
The resort features multiple pool areas, including an adults-only pool and a dedicated kid’s club pool, making it suitable for all of your family’s needs.
The luxurious spa and excellent dining options set this resort apart from all other family vacation destinations.
Royalton Suites Cancun Resort & Spa:
Looking for a lavish vacation option for the entire family? Look no further than the Royalton Suites Cancun Resort & Spa.
The resort offers daily activities and clubs for children of all ages while providing adults with all kinds of luxury amenities.
The resort’s all-inclusive dining options cater to everyone’s tastes, making it a perfect holiday destination.
Ritz Carlton Cancun:
This resort is perfect for the family looking for a sophisticated and elegant accommodation option.
The Ritz Carlton Cancun offers a Kids Club, providing children with fun-filled activities throughout the day.
The resort also offers an excellent spa for adults looking to unwind and relax.
The views of the ocean from the resort rooms are breathtaking, and the resort’s service is impeccable, making it an ideal family vacation option.