Some family holidays require military-level organization. Not so at Dreams Playa Mujeres Golf & Spa Resort, an all-inclusive beachfront escape in Cancún, where the hardest decision might be whether to spend the afternoon on the beach or hang at your poolside cabana.
Just a four-and-a-half-hour flight from Los Angeles, the resort makes bringing multiple generations together surprisingly straightforward. With everything from excellent dining and ocean views to an impressive choice of activities, there’s something for everyone — including plenty of opportunities for parents to put their feet up.
Part of Hyatt’s Unlimited-Luxury collection, it offers everything from excellent dining and ocean views to an impressive choice of activities – with the added bonus of an adults-only sister resort, Secrets Playa Mujeres, next door.
A multigenerational playground
With beautiful sprawling grounds, multiple pools, a golf course and direct beach access, this AAA Four Diamond all-inclusive resort features 502 spacious suites that have hot tubs on their private balconies.
With Caribbean sunset views to die for, Dreams is a popular honeymoon and wedding destination. I smiled as I witnessed two wedding ceremonies from my balcony.
Fitness options abound — from dance classes to Zumba in the Mermaid Pool, to a cardio circuit in a top-tier gym. There’s also snorkeling, tennis, archery, table games, a water park and a fun lazy river, where I found myself drifting on an inflatable, cocktail in hand. This, I thought, is the kind of “mom time” I deserve.
The Explorer’s Club (ages 3 to 12) offers supervised activities at the indoor-outdoor play center, including sandcastle-making competitions, treasure hunts and crafts. Meanwhile, teens are drawn to the Core Zone Teens Club (ages 13-17) to be entertained by miniature golf, disco mixers and beach volleyball.
Upgrade your family experience
The Preferred Club VIP upgrade experience is worth considering, particularly for families. It features premium room locations, enhanced minibar amenities and a dedicated concierge.
I was impressed by the private lounge access, which provided a convenient place to grab breakfast, snacks, coffee and refreshments throughout the day. Starting my mornings with coffee and pastries, I found myself returning for an additional caffeine fix. And if you’re traveling with teenagers who seem perpetually hungry, the upgrade makes even more sense. The smoothies were particularly popular.
There’s also a dedicated Preferred Club white sand beach and pool, with attentive service and a lifeguard on duty during operating hours. It’s an excellent meeting point for families who want the flexibility to come and go throughout the day.
Two resorts, twice the choice
Adults (18 and over) looking for a quieter escape can head next door to Secrets Playa Mujeres Resort, the adults-only sister property. The five-star luxury resort is just a four-minute walk or a short complimentary golf cart ride away.
Reopened in January following an extensive refurbishment, Secrets now boasts a private beach club, infinity pool, upgraded spa, stunning gym and revamped, chic dining venues.
Essentially, it offers a welcome change of pace from the family-friendly buzz next door, whether you’re looking for a leisurely lunch, a quiet afternoon by the pool or a romantic dinner without having to negotiate over chicken nuggets.
To facilitate this little escape, Dreams offers comprehensive childcare and babysitting/activity facilities, which are easily booked through your concierge.
Something for everyone
There are many family-friendly (and multigenerational) activities, including a chance to watch a movie under the stars, accompanied by buckets of popcorn.
But one of the standout experiences is the MasterChef Junior: Next Course cooking activity. Children (and their grownups) get to put on their chef’s hats, tackle a mystery box and select ingredients before creating their own culinary masterpiece. It’s hands-on, entertaining and a lovely opportunity to do something together away from the pool.
There are also arts and crafts activities, including a fun hat-decorating workshop.
A feast for the family
With six à la carte restaurants, a buffet, grill, fast-casual eatery and ice cream parlour — 10 dining options in total — no one should struggle to find a meal they crave.
A standout dinner was at Ayara, located at Secrets. With its dramatic Amazon rainforest-inspired Art Deco interiors and South American menu drawing on flavors from Brazil, Peru and Argentina, it’s a must-do date-night destination. I loved the lomo saltado — and the beautifully designed ceramics almost stole the show.
You can find delectable French cuisine at L’Etoile, while meat lovers will enjoy the Gaucho Grill, the resort’s Argentinian/Brazilian-style dining experience. Its signature dish is the classic churrasco steak, served with fresh chimichurri sauce.
One holiday, everyone happy
I ended my vacation at the serene Dreams Spa, inspired by Mayan culture, with a signature massage. By this point, I was so relaxed that I fell asleep mid-treatment.
With the opportunity for all ages to recharge fully, Dreams Playa Mujeres makes a compelling case for the all-inclusive holiday. This is a plop-and-drop getaway. Get everyone there and let the resort take care of the rest. From morning activities to sunset cocktails, there’s little need to venture far.
Ultimately, it’s a place where children can make memories, parents can rediscover the joy of doing absolutely nothing and everyone can come together at the end of the day.
Now that’s a family vacation.
Five things to know before you go
- Consider Preferred Club: Particularly useful for families with young kids or teenagers who appreciate easy access to snacks and drinks.
- Make time for the kids’ activities: MasterChef Junior is a highlight worth building into your stay.
- Book some grown-up time: Check babysitting availability if you fancy a child-free dinner or spa visit.
- Explore beyond the resort: Consider an excursion to Isla Mujeres, including a jungle tour under the Mexican canopy, for a change of scenery.
- Allow enough time: This is a huge property. A longer stay gives you the chance to fully relax and enjoy its facilities rather than rush from one activity to another.
Margot Black is a Los Angeles-based travel writer, mom and founder of Black Ink PR.
