We just returned from one of our FAVORITE All Inclusive Resorts in Mexico: The Hard Rock Hotel, Riviera Maya. We traveled with 5 kids; ranging in age from 2 to 8, plus grandparents. This resort offered family friendly activities for all ages and overdelivers for multi-generational family travelers.

Learn more about why we think the Hard Rock Riviera Maya is an absolutely fabulous resort. Here’s why it’s a game changer for an incredible family vacation.

1) The Pool is Amazing

Every resort needs a fantastic pool to cool off on your family vacation. The Float pool comes equipped with a water slide, fountain features, sun decks, and tucked away alcoves. There’s a spot for everyone in your family.

Littlest travelers also have their own brand of fun at the Hard Rock Riviera Maya Resort. The Children’s Pool and splash park was tons of fun for our wild crew and was kid-approved!

 

 

2) SO. MUCH. SHADE!

We think that it’s pretty unique and awesome that even those of us with transparent family members (like my husband *cough*) can enjoy a full day outdoors without the dreaded, vacation ruining sunburn. We really liked the sun sails over the alcove pools we mentioned above. Plus, there is plenty of shade offered around the pool with umbrellas and tiki style covers.

 

3) The Food

All of the food at Hard Rock Riviera Maya is both incredible and completely included in the price. If you see two things on the menu that sound tempting; order both!

The Hard Rock Riviera Maya is home to specialty restaurants, including Frida for traditional Mexican fare and Zen for hibachi style and Japanese dishes. You also can’t go wrong at Ipanema’s classic steakhouse or the Market for varying menu and a historic buffet.

If you’ve been indulging all day, you can enjoy lighter fare all day at Pizzetto and the Sun Bar. For adult-only dining, venture over to the Heaven side of the resort.

Have you have ever had to prepare a meal for just one kid? You know the struggle is real. We arrived at the Hard Rock Riviera Maya with five varying palates, a vegetarian, and a diabetic family member. Yet all of the resort food was consistently excellent. The staff was also eager to make sure everyone left satisfied and with a full tummy. Well, we may have had just a  tiny spot left for some ice cream.

4) Ice Cream

About that ice cream… The Cafetto offers gourmet coffees and delicious treats to savor all day long. It was definitely a frequent stop for our sweet-tooth crew! They loved grabbing an ice cream or piece of cake a few times a day. Hey, it’s vacation!

5) The Drinks

Hard Rock Riviera Maya’s all-inclusive rate means everything is included: even the drinks! Sodas and refreshing drinks just scratch the surface of what you can sip on poolside. Hard Rock Riviera Maya also has the best Margaritas in Mexico! Hands down.

6) Rockaway Bay, Waterpark

When you’re ready for a change of scenery from the beach and pool, Rockaway Bay was a popular spot for kids to burn off some vacation energy! We really enjoyed visiting the waterpark during that crazy time between lunch and dinner.

7) Woodward

For those who have athletic children – Woodward is the absolute perfect place for them! World class instructors help your children learn or improve extreme sporting skills from skating, biking and gymnastics. There is a fee to use the facility, but is minimal and totally worth it.

8) The Beach at Hard Rock Riviera Maya

The family beach is divided into 2 sections; Maracas Beach (a cove), and the Hacienda Beach. We love the family beach because the seawall protects your children (and your beverage of choice) from waves. But it also keeps the Sargasso Sea Grass from piling up along that soft white sand.

Although the beach isn’t huge, we found it to be the perfect size for the children to explore. They all really enjoyed snorkeling and observing a variety of sea life.

9) Live Entertainment

The Hard Rock name is synonymous with high-caliber entertainment. Nightly events, poolside concerts and dinner side soloists immersed us in the rocker lifestyle!

10) Cool Props Everywhere

We loved seeing all of the costumes, instruments, and artifacts from our favorite entertainers. The hospitality at Hard Rock Riviera Maya is incredible. We absolutely love the family-friendly vibe at the resort that feels cozy and welcoming. Best of all, children are free to be children and live their best vacation life without judgement.We can’t wait to visit Hard Rock Riviera Maya again!

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