Traveling with kids can be a daunting task, especially when it comes to finding suitable accommodation that caters to their needs. Family-friendly hotels with kids clubs are the perfect solution for parents who want to provide their children with a fun and engaging environment while on vacation. These hotels offer a range of activities and facilities designed to keep children entertained and happy, allowing parents to relax and enjoy their holiday. In this guide, we will explore the best family-friendly hotels with kids clubs, providing insights into what they offer and what makes them stand out from the rest. Whether you’re planning a beach vacation or a ski getaway, we’ve got you covered with the ultimate guide to family-friendly hotels with kids clubs.
What to Look for in a Family-Friendly Hotel
Location
When looking for a family-friendly hotel, the location is an essential factor to consider. Here are some things to keep in mind:
- Proximity to attractions and activities: The hotel should be located near attractions and activities that are suitable for families. This could include theme parks, museums, beaches, or hiking trails. Being close to these attractions will allow families to have more time to enjoy them without having to worry about long commutes.
- Safety and security: The hotel should have adequate security measures in place to ensure the safety of guests, especially children. This could include security personnel, CCTV cameras, and secure entry systems. It’s also important to ensure that the hotel is located in a safe area with low crime rates.
- Accessibility to public transportation: If the hotel is not located near attractions and activities, it’s essential to consider the accessibility of public transportation. This will make it easier for families to get around and explore the area without having to rely on taxis or rental cars. It’s also essential to consider the cost of public transportation when budgeting for the trip.
Accommodations
When looking for a family-friendly hotel, it’s important to consider the accommodations that are available. Here are some key factors to keep in mind:
- Spacious and comfortable rooms: Look for rooms that have enough space for everyone to move around comfortably. This means considering the number of beds, as well as any additional sleeping options like sofa beds or roll-away beds. Additionally, make sure the room is comfortable and inviting, with amenities like comfortable beds, plenty of pillows, and soft lighting.
- Amenities for families: A family-friendly hotel should offer amenities that cater to families, such as cribs and high chairs for younger children, and extra towels and linens for everyone. Additionally, consider whether the hotel offers other family-friendly amenities, such as in-room entertainment options or games.
- Connecting rooms or suites: If you’re traveling with a family, it’s likely that you’ll want to stay in rooms that are connected or that have a door between them. This can help provide additional privacy and make it easier for everyone to move around. Some hotels may also offer suites that have separate living and sleeping areas, which can be a great option for families.
Dining Options
When choosing a family-friendly hotel, it’s important to consider the dining options available on-site. Here are some factors to keep in mind:
- On-site restaurants and dining options: Look for a hotel that has a variety of dining options on-site, such as a restaurant, cafe, or bar. This can be convenient for when you want to grab a quick bite or enjoy a meal without having to leave the hotel.
- Kid-friendly menus: Many family-friendly hotels offer special menus for kids, which typically include items like burgers, pizza, and pasta. However, it’s important to note that not all kid-friendly options are healthy, so it’s a good idea to check the nutritional information and make sure there are also some healthy options available.
- Special dietary accommodations: If you or a family member has a specific dietary need, such as gluten-free, vegan, or allergy-free, make sure to ask the hotel about their ability to accommodate these needs. Some hotels may have dedicated gluten-free or allergy-free kitchens, while others may be able to modify dishes to meet your needs.
Entertainment and Activities
When looking for a family-friendly hotel, it’s important to consider the entertainment and activities available for both adults and children. Here are some key factors to keep in mind:
Kids Clubs and Supervised Activities
One of the most important aspects of a family-friendly hotel is the availability of kids clubs and supervised activities. These programs are designed to keep children entertained and engaged while their parents relax or explore the area. Some hotels may offer specialized clubs for different age groups, while others may have a single club that caters to all ages.
When choosing a hotel with a kids club, it’s important to consider the following factors:
- Qualifications and experience of the staff
- Types of activities offered (e.g. arts and crafts, sports, outdoor adventures)
- Ratio of staff to children
- Hours of operation
- Age range of children accepted
Pool and Beach Access
Another important factor to consider is access to a pool or beach. Many family-friendly hotels will have a pool on site, which can be a great way to beat the heat and have some fun in the sun. Some hotels may also have a private beach or access to a nearby beach, which can be a great way to spend the day with the family.
When choosing a hotel with a pool or beach, it’s important to consider the following factors:
- Size and location of the pool or beach
- Availability of lounge chairs and umbrellas
- Water quality and safety measures
- Activities and equipment available (e.g. pool toys, beach volleyball)
Outdoor and Indoor Activities
In addition to kids clubs and pool/beach access, it’s important to consider the other entertainment options available at the hotel. Some hotels may offer outdoor activities such as hiking, biking, or horseback riding, while others may have indoor activities such as movie theaters, game rooms, or sports courts.
When choosing a hotel with outdoor and indoor activities, it’s important to consider the following factors:
- Availability and cost of equipment rentals
- Location and accessibility of the activities
- Safety measures and guidelines
- Availability of instructors or guides (if necessary)
Top Family-Friendly Hotels with Kids Clubs
Hotel Xcaret Mexico
Pros
- All-inclusive package options: Guests can enjoy unlimited access to food and drinks at the hotel’s multiple dining options, making it convenient for families to have all their meals taken care of without having to leave the premises.
- Multiple pools and water activities: The hotel boasts several swimming pools, including a family pool and an adult-only pool, as well as a water park with water slides and a lazy river, providing plenty of opportunities for families to have fun and beat the heat.
- Access to Xcaret Park and attractions: Hotel guests have exclusive access to the nearby Xcaret Park, which offers a variety of activities such as snorkeling, swimming with dolphins, and visiting ancient ruins, providing endless entertainment for the whole family.
Cons
- Limited dining options outside of the hotel: While the hotel offers several dining options, there are limited options for families to explore outside of the hotel, which may be a drawback for those who prefer more variety in their dining options.
- Expensive compared to other options: The all-inclusive package and exclusive access to Xcaret Park can add up, making Hotel Xcaret Mexico a more expensive option compared to other family-friendly hotels in the area. However, the luxurious amenities and top-notch entertainment may be worth the extra cost for some families.
Four Seasons Resort Bali
Pros
- Luxurious accommodations and amenities: The Four Seasons Resort Bali offers spacious and elegant rooms, suites, and villas with private pools, providing a luxurious experience for families.
- Kids club with daily activities: The resort’s kids club, called the “Little Seeds” program, provides a range of age-appropriate activities for children, including arts and crafts, sports, and cultural experiences, ensuring that kids are well-entertained and engaged throughout their stay.
- Access to nearby beaches and attractions: The resort is located in the popular tourist area of Jimbaran Bay, offering easy access to some of Bali’s most beautiful beaches and attractions, such as Uluwatu Temple and Garuda Wisnu Kencana Cultural Park.
Cons
- Higher price point: The Four Seasons Resort Bali is a high-end property, and its rates can be higher compared to other family-friendly hotels in the area.
- Limited options for teenagers: While the resort offers a range of activities for younger children, teenagers may find the options limited, and the resort may not have enough facilities to cater to their specific needs and interests.
Club Med Sandpiper Bay
Club Med Sandpiper Bay is a family-friendly hotel located in Florida, USA. It offers an all-inclusive package option, which includes meals, drinks, and activities. The hotel also features a kids club with age-specific activities, such as arts and crafts, sports, and outdoor adventures. Additionally, guests have access to nearby golf courses and other activities.
- All-inclusive package options: With the all-inclusive package, guests can enjoy meals, drinks, and activities without having to worry about additional costs.
- Kids club with age-specific activities: The kids club at Club Med Sandpiper Bay offers age-specific activities that cater to different age groups, ensuring that children are engaged and entertained.
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Access to nearby golf courses and other activities: The hotel is located near golf courses and other outdoor activities, making it a great option for families who enjoy golfing and other outdoor sports.
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Limited dining options outside of the hotel: The all-inclusive package may limit dining options outside of the hotel, which may be a drawback for some families.
- Reports of understaffing and maintenance issues: Some guests have reported issues with understaffing and maintenance, which may impact the overall experience at the hotel.
The Westin St. John
- All-inclusive package options
- The Westin St. John offers various all-inclusive packages that cater to families with children. These packages include meals, activities, and access to the kids club, making it convenient for families to plan their vacation without worrying about budgeting for each activity separately.
- Access to nearby beaches and activities
- The hotel is located near several beaches and offers transportation to and from these beaches. Families can enjoy the sun, sand, and water activities at these beaches, or take part in other activities such as snorkeling, kayaking, and more.
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Kids club with daily activities
- The Westin St. John has a kids club that offers daily activities for children aged 5-12. These activities include arts and crafts, sports, and other age-appropriate activities that are designed to keep children entertained and engaged while their parents relax.
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Limited dining options outside of the hotel
- While the hotel offers several dining options, there are limited options for families to dine outside of the hotel. This may be a drawback for families who want to explore the local cuisine or dine at a specific restaurant.
- Some rooms may not have ocean views
- The Westin St. John has several room types, but some rooms may not have an ocean view. Families who want to enjoy the beautiful views of the ocean may want to request a room with an ocean view when booking their stay.
Hyatt Ziva Cancun
- All-inclusive package options: The Hyatt Ziva Cancun offers a range of all-inclusive package options that cater to families, providing a convenient and hassle-free experience. These packages typically include meals, drinks, and activities, making it easy for families to budget for their vacation.
- Kids club with daily activities: The hotel features a kids club with a variety of daily activities designed to keep children entertained and engaged. The kids club offers a supervised environment for children to participate in arts and crafts, sports, and other age-appropriate activities.
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Access to nearby attractions and activities: The Hyatt Ziva Cancun is located in the heart of Cancun, providing easy access to a range of nearby attractions and activities. Families can explore the nearby beaches, visit historical sites, or participate in water sports, ensuring there is always something to do during their stay.
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Limited dining options outside of the hotel: While the all-inclusive package options provide ample dining options within the hotel, there are limited dining options available outside of the hotel. This may be a drawback for families who want to explore the local cuisine or dine at alternative restaurants.
- Reports of overcrowding and understaffing: Some guests have reported issues with overcrowding and understaffing at the hotel, which can result in longer wait times for services and activities. It is essential to plan accordingly and be prepared for potential delays during peak travel seasons.
Disney’s Vero Beach Resort
- Access to Disney brand and characters:
- Disney’s Vero Beach Resort offers an immersive Disney experience, allowing guests to interact with beloved characters and enjoy the iconic brand’s magic. This unique feature is a significant draw for families with young children who are fans of Disney.
- Kids club with age-specific activities:
- The resort features a supervised kids’ club with a variety of age-appropriate activities, ensuring that children of different ages have engaging and entertaining experiences. This helps to provide a fun and memorable vacation for the entire family.
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Access to nearby beaches and attractions:
- In addition to the on-site amenities, guests at Disney’s Vero Beach Resort can enjoy easy access to nearby beaches and attractions, offering a range of options for families to explore and enjoy during their stay.
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Limited dining options outside of the hotel:
- While the resort offers several dining options, there are limited options for families to explore culinary experiences outside of the hotel. This may be a drawback for families who enjoy exploring local restaurants and cuisine during their vacations.
- Higher price point:
- Disney’s Vero Beach Resort is a luxury property, which can result in a higher price point compared to other family-friendly hotels. This may be a consideration for families with budget constraints or those seeking more affordable accommodations.
JW Marriott Phuket Resort & Spa
- Luxurious accommodations and amenities: The JW Marriott Phuket Resort & Spa offers spacious and well-appointed rooms, suites, and villas with modern amenities such as flat-screen TVs, Wi-Fi, and private balconies or terraces. The resort also features an array of facilities including multiple swimming pools, a fitness center, and a luxurious spa.
- Kids club with daily activities: The hotel’s kids club, called the “Jr. Friends” program, offers a variety of age-appropriate activities such as arts and crafts, sports, and nature exploration. The program is supervised by trained staff and is available for children aged 5-12 years old.
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Access to nearby beaches and attractions: The resort is located on the west coast of Phuket, close to several beautiful beaches such as Surin and Bang Tao Beach. Guests can also explore nearby attractions such as the Big Buddha and the Phuket Aquarium.
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Higher price point: The JW Marriott Phuket Resort & Spa is a luxury property and prices reflect that. While there are other options available in Phuket, the higher price point may be worth it for the luxurious accommodations and amenities offered.
- Limited dining options outside of the hotel: While the resort has several dining options on-site, there are limited options for dining outside of the hotel. However, guests can take advantage of the hotel’s private beach and enjoy a variety of dining options there.
FAQs
1. What is a kids club in a family-friendly hotel?
A kids club is a designated area or program within a hotel that provides supervised activities and entertainment for children. These clubs typically offer a variety of age-appropriate games, toys, and equipment, as well as trained staff to ensure the safety and enjoyment of the children.
2. How do I find family-friendly hotels with kids clubs?
There are several ways to find family-friendly hotels with kids clubs. One option is to search online travel agencies or hotel booking websites, where you can filter your search by location, date, and amenities, including kids clubs. Another option is to check with your travel agent or contact individual hotels directly to inquire about their kids club offerings.
3. What types of activities are offered at kids clubs in family-friendly hotels?
Kids clubs in family-friendly hotels typically offer a range of age-appropriate activities for children, including arts and crafts, sports, games, and more. Some hotels may also offer additional amenities such as movie nights, themed parties, and outdoor activities like swimming and hiking.
4. Are kids clubs in family-friendly hotels free to use?
Kids clubs in family-friendly hotels may offer complimentary access to guests of the hotel, or they may charge a fee for use. It’s important to check with the hotel directly to determine whether the kids club is included in the cost of your room or if there is an additional fee.
5. How do I know if a kids club is safe for my child?
When selecting a family-friendly hotel with a kids club, it’s important to do your research and ask questions about the safety and quality of the club. Look for hotels that have trained staff, clear safety policies and procedures, and appropriate supervision ratios. You may also want to ask for references or reviews from other families who have used the kids club.
6. Can I drop my child off at the kids club while I enjoy hotel amenities?
In most cases, kids clubs in family-friendly hotels require parental supervision, so you will need to be present with your child while they participate in activities. However, some hotels may offer “drop-off” options for older children, so it’s important to check with the hotel directly to determine their policies and procedures.
7. What are some tips for selecting the best family-friendly hotel with a kids club?
When selecting a family-friendly hotel with a kids club, consider factors such as location, amenities, room quality, and dining options, as well as the quality and safety of the kids club. It’s also a good idea to read reviews from other families and reach out to the hotel directly with any questions or concerns. Additionally, consider the needs and preferences of your specific family, such as any dietary restrictions or special accommodations required.