Faced with the frustrations of planning air travel, accommodation, rental cars and restaurant reservations, a vacation can sometimes seem to be more work than the hurried day-to-day pace parents were hoping to leave behind. That makes the appeal of kid-friendly all inclusive resorts obvious. From meals and rooms to activities and transportation, having all of the logistical nightmares handled by the resort means families can enjoy more quality time together.
Here are five kid-friendly resorts that pack in fun while not forgetting that the adults will enjoy a break as well.
Club Med Cancun Yucatan, Mexico
This resort located on Mexico’s famous peninsula combines the lush jungle beauty of the Yucatan with powder-white beaches and luxurious amenities. Living up to its family-friendly claim, this resort caters to childhood stages from infancy to teens with their Mini Club Med program.
For toddlers and babies, there is a special Baby Corner in the main resort restaurant offering baby food. In addition, a colorful jungle gym has age-appropriate swings and rides. For older children, Club Med instructors are available to teach tennis, culinary, science or gymnastics programs. For teens, there is a dedicated space under the restaurant where they can enjoy activities and games as well as special spa packages designed specifically for them. Trained personnel are also available for babysitting service when needed.
Atlantis Harborside Resort, Bahamas
Known for its spectacular water park and stunning indoor aquarium, this resort aims to appeal to visitors of all ages with its fantastical architecture, unique attractions and beautiful Caribbean location. Packages can be tailored to meet each family’s individual requirements; lodging at the resort is composed of smaller properties, with the Harborside Resort mimicking a seaside village of multicolored cottages. Kids will love the water activities, museums and zoo while parents will enjoy unwinding in a truly unparalleled vacation oasis.
Franklyn D. Resort, Jamaica
This charming tropical getaway adds a unique feature perfect for parents who would like a little time for themselves. A personal nanny is assigned to each family for the duration of their stay, assisting with childcare, housekeeping and event planning. There are activities for children and teens that take advantage of the exclusive beachside location, such as snorkeling, kayaking and biking. The onsite waterslide and swimming pool will delight the whole family. A sumptuous spa assures adults will enjoy a relaxing stay and the award-winning restaurant aims to make each meal a special experience for adults and children alike.
Disneyland’s Paradise Pier Hotel, California
Disney vacations can be pricey, but this hotel is the most affordable of the bunch, offering convenient options and compelling perks for visiting the park. Guests receive re-entry passes, free transportation to and from the park and exclusive early park entrance options. The hotel offers a kid-friendly movie room showing Disney favorites, a rooftop pool, visits from beloved costumed characters and in-room babysitting service.
Ka’anapali Beach Hotel, Maui
Embodying the very best of Hawaii’s aloha spirit, this 11-acre resort offers families the perfect base from which to explore this tropical paradise. Ka’anapali Beach is conveniently close to golf, horseback riding, shopping and whale-watching tours. For those who wish to unwind in the sun, the resort sports a fun whale-shaped pool that will appeal to kids as well as an exclusive beachside location. Special activities geared for children include classes in hula dancing and lei making. Four restaurants at the resort make innovative use of the fresh seafood and exotic Hawaiian produce to create dishes unique to these lovely islands.
Happy travels!
Thanks for the recommendations. We are planning a trip to Disneyland and Paradise Pier looks amazing!