Some destinations have it all, offering endless fun, cultural richness, and a deep connection with nature that appeals to everyone, regardless of age. In Riviera Maya, you’ll find the perfect balance between relaxation and entertainment, with activities and places to visit that will enchant visitors young and old alike. Here, Iberostar’s family-friendly hotels are eagerly awaiting your arrival with open arms. Read through our guide of fun things to do with kids in Riviera Maya to start planning your upcoming trip, and watch your perfect vacation come to life.
The best places to visit with kids in Riviera Maya
Akumal Beach
At Akumal Beach, snorkeling offers a unique opportunity to carefully interact with sea turtles and other mesmerizing marine life. The beach's turquoise and clear waters are teeming with biodiversity, making it an ideal spot for families to explore the natural beauty of Riviera Maya. The nearby coral reef provides a safe haven for sea turtles to feed and find shelter throughout the year. Notably, from May to October, female turtles venture to Half Moon Bay to nest. Watching newborn turtles take their first steps towards the ocean is an incredibly touching experience, providing a profound lesson in respecting the natural world. Moreover, Riviera Maya's dive sites promise to delight both teens and adults who are looking for a more challenging diving experience.
Xel-Há Water Park
Looking for things to do with kids in Riviera Maya that also help them develop an interest in caring for our environment? Head over to Xel-Há Water Park, a sanctuary for a variety of native wildlife, including some of Mexico's endangered species like manatees. It's also one of the prime spots near Tulum for spending quality time with the family. "Where the water is born" is what Xel-Há translates to in Mayan, named aptly because here several underground rivers merge, forming the beautiful cove and natural water park we see today. The park offers a plethora of activities: you can ascend the lighthouse for stunning views and then take an exhilarating slide down from thirty meters up, wander through rivers, explore mystical caves, soar on zip lines, tackle fun obstacle courses, and snorkel among vibrant fish, all contributing to their efforts in marine conservation.
Holbox Mangroves
Mangroves play a vital role in maintaining the health of coastal areas and are often referred to as the Earth's green lungs, mitigating the impacts of climate change. Holbox offers an exciting opportunity to kayak through these vital ecosystems. The mangroves, thriving with their roots underwater, serve as natural barriers against storms and hurricanes while offering refuge to a diverse array of life forms, from the tiny to the large. Among these are minuscule organisms responsible for bioluminescence, a magical natural phenomenon that illuminates the waters at night. Holbox features family-friendly night tours, allowing visitors of all ages to witness this breathtaking natural light show.
Tulum Ruins
The Tulum ruins offer a more child-friendly alternative to the bustling crowds and intense heat of the Chichén Itzá pyramid. Located near the city, a visit to Tulum not only takes you back in time but also allows you to experience the ancient with the modern, extending your adventure into the surrounding urban area. This adventure in Riviera Maya will captivate your family's senses and ignite their creativity, offering a unique chance to explore the rich history of the ancient civilizations of the Yucatan Peninsula. Plus, just a stone's throw away, you'll find some of Mexico's best All-Inclusive resorts, ready to provide you with a memorable family getaway.
La Ceiba Park
Visiting city parks is a great choice when vacationing with infants in Riviera Maya. La Ceiba Park in Playa del Carmen is perfect for leisurely strolls with kids and strollers, and it's a hub for engaging public events and markets. It offers a pleasant change of scenery from the beach, where you can enjoy a picnic filled with Mexican favorites like tacos and moles, complemented by kid-friendly tropical fruit cocktails and perhaps tequila or mezcal for the adults. The park also provides opportunities for outdoor activities, from impromptu chess matches and yoga sessions to a tranquil meditation break. If you're new to meditation, the park's serene setting is ideal for trying simple mindfulness exercises that can enhance your family vacation in Riviera Maya. For more family travel tips, this is the place to explore.
Fun activities for kids in Riviera Maya
Splash in the pool (at hotels with water parks)
Seeking fun things to do with kids in Riviera Maya to take advantage of the fantastic weather in Cancun and beyond? The Aquafun zones at Iberostar resorts are a dream come true, featuring kiddie pools equipped with slides, pirate ships, and castles right out of a storybook to ignite their creativity. They'll also love the variety of water games, mini waterfalls, and the gentle flow of a lazy river, ensuring they're entertained throughout your resort stay. Beyond the water park, you can dive into beachside water sports or keep active with options like bike rentals and fitness classes, making every moment of your trip both exciting and memorable.
Mayan craftsmanship classes
The Star Camp programs offer kids a vibrant introduction to Mexican culture and traditions, grounded in the multiple intelligences theory to nurture both learning and friendships during their holiday. This approach aims to broaden young minds through collaborative and hands-on experiences, and games that underscore healthy lifestyles, cultural respect, environmental care, and creativity. During your family vacation to Riviera Maya, boys and girls also get the opportunity to learn Mayan crafts, among other activities. Such experiences not only enrich their holiday but also lay the groundwork for their future roles in community-focused tourism, shaping them into advocates for meaningful change.
Shows for the whole family
The list of fun things to do with kids in Riviera Maya doesn’t end when the sun goes down. Evening performances of traditional songs and sacred dances, complete with authentic costumes, offer a window into the rich cultural history of the local communities. Imagine the thrill when characters from their beloved movies and stories make surprise appearances on stage, amplifying the excitement! At meal times and beyond, the family-friendly Iberostar hotels come alive with performances designed for all ages, encouraging kids to dance, sing, and stay active, making every moment of your stay memorable.
The best resorts for kids in Riviera Maya
In Riviera Maya, the Iberostar Selection Paraíso Lindo and Paraíso Maya Suites, part of the Playa Paraíso complex, transform family getaways with their thrilling water parks right on the premises. These places are designed for laughter and making lasting memories where fun is a shared experience for all. Iberostar Selection Cancun delivers exceptional five-star service, offering a range of accommodations and activities tailored to families big and small, and to guests of all ages. The eco-friendly Iberostar Waves Quetzal, recognized with an Earth Check certification, immerses you amid a protected tropical rainforest, offering a sustainable stay without sacrificing luxury. Likewise, Iberostar Waves Tucán invites your family into the heart of Riviera Maya, combining plush comfort with the area's natural splendor, fostering a deep connection with the tranquility of the natural environment.
As your kids dive into the fun and eco-friendly activities at Star Camp, organized by age group, you'll have the opportunity for some well-deserved personal time. Infants up to 3 years old are in safe hands with the expert Kangaroo team, while older kids are engaged with age-appropriate games: the Monkey program for those aged 4 to 7, Dolphin for ages 8 to 12, and Eagle for teenagers 13 to 17. Remember, you can request cribs for the littlest ones to ensure their comfort, subject to availability, so mention it when you book. Make sure to pack comfortable outfits for your young explorers; with the array of activities these resorts offer, every day promises exciting things to do with kids in Riviera Maya.
