Best Area To Stay In Cancun For Families
Cancun is known for its beautiful beaches, all-inclusive resorts, and lively nightlife scene. But beyond the hotels and parties, it also makes for a fun and relaxing vacation spot for families.
If you’re looking for the best area to stay in Cancun with kids, the Hotel Zone is your best bet. With calm swimming beaches, family-friendly resorts and entertainment, and easy access to kid-approved activities, it checks all the boxes.
Overview of the Hotel Zone
If you’re planning a family vacation to Cancun, you’ll want to consider staying in the Hotel Zone. This area is known for its beautiful beaches, luxurious resorts, and family-friendly activities. Let’s take a closer look at what makes the Hotel Zone the best area to stay in Cancun for families.
Location and Layout
The Hotel Zone is a narrow strip of land that stretches along the coast of Cancun. It is conveniently located just a short drive away from the Cancun International Airport, making it easily accessible for families traveling with young children.
The area is also close to many of the popular tourist attractions in Cancun, such as the Mayan ruins of Tulum and the eco-parks of Xcaret and Xel-Ha.
Beaches
One of the main attractions of the Hotel Zone is its stunning beaches. The soft white sand and crystal-clear turquoise waters make it the perfect place for families to relax and enjoy the sun. Many of the beaches in the Hotel Zone have calm and shallow waters, which are ideal for young children to swim and play in.
Some of the most popular beaches in the area include Playa Delfines, Playa Tortugas, and Playa Marlin.
Resorts and Hotels
The Hotel Zone is home to a wide range of resorts and hotels that cater specifically to families. These accommodations offer spacious rooms, kid-friendly amenities, and a variety of activities for children of all ages.
Some resorts even have on-site water parks and kids’ clubs, where children can participate in supervised activities while parents relax by the pool. Some popular family-friendly resorts in the Hotel Zone include the Moon Palace Cancun, the Hard Rock Hotel Cancun, and the Grand Fiesta Americana Coral Beach Cancun.
Safety
When it comes to choosing a destination for a family vacation, safety is always a top priority. The Hotel Zone in Cancun is known for being a safe and well-patrolled area. The local authorities take great measures to ensure the safety of tourists, and there are security checkpoints at the entrances to the Hotel Zone.
Additionally, many of the resorts in the area have their own security staff, giving families an extra sense of security during their stay.
Kid-Friendly Activities
Parks and Playgrounds
When it comes to finding kid-friendly activities in Cancun, parks and playgrounds are a great option. The city is home to several parks that offer a wide range of amenities for children of all ages. One popular park is Xcaret Park, which features a variety of attractions including water slides, zip lines, and a butterfly pavilion.
Another option is Parque de las Palapas, a local park that offers a playground, a skate park, and a variety of food stalls where families can enjoy a picnic.
Interactive Museums
If your family is looking for a fun and educational experience, consider visiting one of Cancun’s interactive museums. The Cancun Underwater Museum is a unique attraction that allows visitors to explore a collection of underwater sculptures.
The museum offers snorkeling tours and diving experiences for those who want to get up close and personal with the artwork. Another popular museum is the Interactive Aquarium, where kids can learn about marine life and even have the opportunity to touch and feed some of the creatures.
Dolphin Encounters
A visit to Cancun wouldn’t be complete without a dolphin encounter. There are several opportunities for families to interact with these intelligent creatures in a safe and controlled environment. One popular option is Dolphin Discovery, which offers a range of activities including swimming with dolphins, interactive programs, and even a chance to become a dolphin trainer for a day.
These experiences provide a unique opportunity for families to learn about and connect with these amazing animals.
Water Parks
Cancun is famous for its beautiful beaches and crystal-clear waters, but if your family is looking for a different kind of water fun, consider visiting one of the city’s water parks. Wet’n Wild Cancun is a popular choice, offering a variety of water slides, lazy rivers, and wave pools for all ages to enjoy.
Another option is Ventura Park, which features not only water attractions but also zip lines, go-karts, and even a roller coaster. These parks provide a thrilling and refreshing way for families to beat the heat and have fun together.
Family-Friendly Dining Options
When it comes to finding the best area to stay in Cancun for families, one of the key considerations is the availability of family-friendly dining options. Cancun offers a wide array of restaurants catering to families, ensuring that everyone in the family can find something they enjoy.
All-Inclusive Resort Restaurants
One of the most convenient options for families staying in Cancun is to choose an all-inclusive resort. These resorts often have multiple on-site restaurants that cater specifically to families. From buffet-style dining to themed restaurants, there is a wide variety of options to choose from.
Families can enjoy a range of cuisines, including Mexican, Italian, American, and more. Plus, with all-inclusive packages, meals are included in the price of the stay, making it a hassle-free dining experience for families.
Casual Dining
For families looking for a more relaxed dining experience, Cancun offers numerous casual dining options. From beachfront cafes to local eateries, there are plenty of laid-back restaurants that are perfect for families.
These casual dining establishments often serve a mix of international and local cuisine, giving families the chance to explore different flavors while enjoying a more casual atmosphere. Some popular casual dining spots include La Parrilla, Hacienda Sisal, and Fred’s House.
Kid Favorites
When it comes to keeping the little ones happy, Cancun has a range of kid-friendly dining options. Many restaurants in the area offer special menus or dishes specifically designed for children. These menus often include classic favorites like pizza, hamburgers, and pasta, ensuring that even the pickiest eaters will find something they enjoy.
Some of the top kid-friendly restaurants in Cancun include Johnny Rockets, Planet Hollywood, and Rainforest Cafe.
It’s worth noting that many of these family-friendly dining options can be found in popular tourist areas such as the Hotel Zone and downtown Cancun. These areas are known for their vibrant dining scenes and offer a wide range of choices for families.
For more information on family-friendly dining options in Cancun, check out the official Cancun tourism website at www.cancun.com.
Getting Around the Hotel Zone
When staying in Cancun with your family, one of the things to consider is how you will get around the Hotel Zone. Fortunately, there are several options available to make your transportation hassle-free and convenient.
Rental Cars and Taxis
If you prefer the flexibility and independence of driving, renting a car is a great option. Many rental car companies operate in Cancun, and you can easily book a car online or at the airport. Having a rental car allows you to explore the area at your own pace and visit nearby attractions outside of the Hotel Zone.
Additionally, taxis are readily available and can be a convenient way to travel short distances or when you don’t want to worry about parking.
Bus System
The bus system in Cancun is an affordable and efficient way to get around the Hotel Zone. The buses are well-maintained, air-conditioned, and run frequently along the main boulevard. They operate from early morning until late at night, making it easy to explore different parts of the Hotel Zone.
The cost of a bus ticket is low, and you can pay in cash as you board the bus. This option is particularly suitable for families who want to save money on transportation while still enjoying the convenience of public transportation.
Walking and Biking
Another popular way to get around the Hotel Zone is by walking or biking. The Hotel Zone is relatively compact, and many attractions, hotels, and restaurants are within walking distance of each other. Walking allows you to take in the beautiful scenery and enjoy the warm weather.
If you prefer biking, there are bike rental shops available where you can rent bicycles for a few hours or the entire day. Biking is a fun and eco-friendly way to explore the area, and there are dedicated bike paths that make it safe for cyclists.
Whether you choose to rent a car, take a taxi, use the bus system, or simply walk or bike around the Hotel Zone, there are plenty of options to suit your family’s needs. Consider the activities you plan to do and the distance between your accommodation and various attractions to determine the best mode of transportation for your stay in Cancun.
Conclusion
With plenty of beachfront resorts, calm swimming areas, interactive museums and water parks, the Hotel Zone has everything you need to keep the kids happy and entertained throughout your family vacation.
Staying in this area allows easy access to Cancun’s top attractions while providing a comfortable and convenient home base. Book your family-friendly Cancun getaway in the Hotel Zone for a stress-free trip filled with sun, sand and smiles.
