Looking for a great hotel in cancun. We'll be traveling with an 8 year old. We want to be where the water is calm and the beach is nice for swimming especially for kids. Any suggestions would be helpful. I've read about Fiesta American? Any suggestions?

We stay at the Grand Melia Cancun. They have a nice beach and 2 beautiful pools. They have a 'kids Club'. they are right on the bus line so you don't need a car.
You have the option of 'all inclusive' or not. Some great things to do with kids: Xcaret, Isla Mujeres (Garafon), Pirate Ship dinner and show, Mini-'submarine' out to the coral reefs, Aquarium, Water park just up from Melia Cancun, swimming with the dolphins at several locations.

I love the Hilton for families. However, the surf there (and in many Cancun beaches) can tend to be rough. The pools at the Hilton are heaven for little ones! Just check the hotel's photos and read the trip advisor comments.

As mentioned above the surf in Cancun isn't calm so I would suggest staying on the north side of Cancun's hotel zone.

Here is a map to help out:

http://www.cancun-map.com/map_cancunzh_ing.asp

I would suggest Fiesta Americana Coral Beach.

you can get great deals for the grand melia cancun at this website.

www.ytbtravel.com/dreamscapegetaway