We have a few days to get away with the littles (5 and 3 year old boys) and want to put their passports to use. Thinking all inclusive is the way to go for 4-5 days. Something with a direct flight much preferred.

All suggestions/comments welcome!

If you're flying from Texas - I would recommend Cancun/Riviera Maya or Los Cabos -- easy, direct flights usually and better family all-inclusive resorts.

There are some great options in Cancun/Riviera Maya -- I like Moon Palace (beach isn't as great), Finest Playa Mujeres, Dreams Playa Mujeres and Hotel Xcaret.

In Los Cabos - I really like Hard Rock Los Cabos, Hyatt Ziva, Dreams, and Grand Velas for families.

I'd be glad to help you out with any planning and booking - feel free to send me a message or email!

I typically find Dreams Resorts are great for the younger kids, as well as Hard Rock RM and Planet Hollywood. However depending when you plan on going you may have big seaweed issues.

Puerto Vallarta doesn't have sargassum but the water isn't the pretty blue. Cabo the kids won't be able to get into the ocean if that's important to you.

Dreams Playa Mujeres, Hyatt Ziva Cancun, Planet Hollywood, Hard Rock Riviera Maya are good options in the Cancun/RM area.

Barcelo complex south of Playa Del Carmen
Thank me later:-)

Which comlex?

The complex is like 5-6 properties. I would suggest doing Barcelo Maya Palace as it is higher levels than the others, and would also suggest doing Premium Level. If not in the price point, I would try to do Premium Level at one of the others (gets you more amenities, better dining). Barcelo Caribe, Barcelo Tropical, etc.

JMac03 said:

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The complex is like 5-6 properties. I would suggest doing Barcelo Maya Palace as it is higher levels than the others, and would also suggest doing Premium Level. If not in the price point, I would try to do Premium Level at one of the others (gets you more amenities, better dining). Barcelo Caribe, Barcelo Tropical, etc.

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This. Book Premium at the Palace for private check in and room locations alone. Our kids grew up going to this resort and loved it. We've been 10+ times and have stayed at numerous other AIs. This one never failed us.

What time of year are you planning to go? Sargassum on the beach can really mess up a trip to Riviera Maya at certain times of the year.

Going to Hard Rock Riviera in July, kids 2-8.

We just came back from Finest Playa Mujeres which this resort along with Dreams Playa Mujeres fits what you are looking for.
My girls are 9 & 8 but we have done all inclusives since they were 3. I think Dreams Playa Mujeres has one of the best splash pads for littles. Also with littles it's important to think about transportation time to resort once in destination.

Feel free to reach out if you would like help planning this vacation. My contact info is in my Bio.

Following. Looking for an all-inclusive for my wife and I and our 6 year old son. Do these generally have lots of activities for the kid? TIA

Kage00 said:

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Following. Looking for an all-inclusive for my wife and I and our 6 year old son. Do these generally have lots of activities for the kid? TIA

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Yes - most family resorts have activities. All of the Dreams resorts have kids clubs where there are activities throughout the day. Most have splash pads and some have water slides. Dreams Playa Mujeres as Brooke mentioned is a great option, as is Planet Hollywood, Hard Rock Riviera Maya, Dreams Natura (beach isn't good here), Hyatt Ziva Cancun, Moon Palace/Grand at Moon Palace (beach isn't good here) but the kids club is amazing at Grand Moon Palace.

Any reviews/experiences with Garza Blanca Cancun for families with small kids? We are considering going this summer.

We're owners with Garza Blanca. We haven't been to Puerta Vallarta yet but went to Garza Blanca Cabo a few years ago with my son and nephew. They were both 8 at the time I think. They had a fantastic time. Pools all day, order whatever your want. My wife and I did steakhouse one night and left them in the room with a room service order and you'd have thought it was the greatest thing that ever happened to them.

Cancun Garza Blanca is very modern and upscale and the newest property. Villa Del Palmar next door has a bit more of a "Mexican" feel to it. We love them both.

Just got back from Garza Blanca Cancun with our kids and a few other families. Food and service were great. Resort still feels new. Beach is ok, but the beach in front of Villa del Palmar (sister resort) is nice. Lots of pools, no waterslides. Lots of kids activities, and the kids had a blast. Took a day trip to Isla Mujeres including Playa Norte beach which is gorgeous. Snorkeling is good there for small kids, can see tons of fish in the clear water.

Just returned from Hyatt Zilara (adults only) in the Dominican Republic. The Hyatt Ziva is next door and perfect for families. This resort is only a couple years old and put simply done right.

Casa de Campo in DR is great.

Following