parents and 4 boys. budget minded. leave from los angeles. any ideas. read about the AI's in PDC (boy am I confused). Would like to get a package deal with airfare included. Need sun, fun, great pool and beach.

I don't think there are all inclusives in Hawaii. Have been to Playa Del Carmen area and really like it. Hope to take my family next spring break. Kids can sip fun drinks or soft drinks all day long for one price! I like the Iberostars in Mexico, but more budget minded you might enjoy the Viva Maya or Viva Azteca - or a new resort is the Reef Coco Resort - on a great stretch of beach. I would try that resort in a heart beat. Good luck!

Even though the beaches aren't as good, you might look at the Pacific coast of Mexico, Puerto Vallarta or Ixtapa, lots of all inclusive options there, and quite a bit closer for you.

I also don't think there are any all inclusives in Hawaii, and in any case, if you're budget minded, Mexico is the place for you. Personally, I like the Playa Del Carmen area better than PV or Ixtapa area because the water is prettier and warmer at the beaches. There has got to be a company to do a 'package' for you with air and hotel...I use Funjet Vacations but there is also Apple Vacations and MLT Vacations...do a search on these and see if one has packages from LA.

I would highly recommend an AI since you have kids. THere are none in Hawaii.
Kids can eat whatever they want- if they order something and don't like it, you can send it back and get something else without having to worry about it costing an arm and a leg. I am sure they would love the buffets too.
Have done Renaissance Grand in Ochos Rios, Moon Palace and ALlegro of Cancun, and Allegro in Pueto VAllarta.

Mexico is probably better for kids, if for no other reason than the flight to HI is soooooooo long & everything is expensive in HI. The Iberostar resorts are fun & have kids programs. Check out the prices on funjet.com they have packages for tons of Mexican resorts.