We found very inexpensive tickets to Cancun for our spring break and are now looking at hotels. We want to stay in a nice upscale resort in either Cancun or Rivera Maya. Ideally we would like a place that has good food, activities for children, and adult activities (spa, cooking lessons, tennis, etc.) We also want a nice beach and fun pools would be a bonus Any suggestions?

We have been looking at the Ritz in Cancun. Does anyone know if it has a nice beach or was it wiped away with the hurricane?

Thanks.

Try the Barcelo Maya resort. They have a great beach and a water park for the children. There are a few sections to the resort. The Barcelo Palace is the most upscale and gives you access to all the other sectoins of the resort.

thank you. I will look into this resort.

any other suggestions?

The JW is, by and large, more kid friendly than the Ritz, and has nicer pools. Both properties have recently been redone. They are very close to each other. It is a very nice property. I would likely opt for the JW over the Ritz, but neither would be the wrong choice.

Alternatively, look south a bit, about 40 minutes, just north of Playa Del Carmen. Fairmont Mayakoba would be a very good option. Very pretty tropical grounds, great service, nice rooms, multiple pools, bikes everywhere just to grab and bike around the very large property. About ten mins by car to get into PDC. Have fun.

It depends on what your budget is really. There are a hundred family friendly hotels on that stretch of coastline, but not so many if you confine it to "upscale resort." See the listings on here for some detailed reviews though:
http://www.luxurylatinamerica.com/lux_mexico.html

Royal Hideaway Playacar has traditionally been the nicest all-inclusive, but a new one called Tresario (I think) looks like it will give it a challenge. You might want to check LuxuryLink.com too and see what comes up.

Royal Hideaway is adults only and their beach has suffered severe erosion.

www.bookit.com good Barcelo value

better than Ritz with kids...

Totally agree with the Barcelo, great place for kids with a huge variety of food, especially if you choose the Palace as you'll have full access to all restaurants & buffets within the complex, fantastic beaches, Kids Club and activities for all ages.

We are returning 2.10 for 7 nights, this will be our 5th trip to Barcelo.

Enjoy your vacation.
Susan

Thanks for all the great recommendations!