Spotlight on The Grand at Moon Palace Resort in Cancun, Mexico

At first thought, Cancun, Mexico, often conjures images of spring breakers bar hoping and newlywed couples gallivanting on the white sandy beaches — only half accurate. Located on the Yucatán Peninsula, surrounded by the Caribbean Sea, Cancun is well known for its pristine beaches, all-inclusive resorts and epic nightlife, but there is a family-friendly side, too.

The city is divided by two districts providing a wide variety of activities, from the restaurants, nightclubs and high-rise hotels in Zona Hotelera to El Centro’s more traditional downtown area. Conveniently, there is no need to choose a side as guests can easily explore the myriad attractions on both with hotel-arranged shuttles, taxis and private cars.

© Yobro10 | Dreamstime

Check out the family-friendly scene with a stay at any of the Moon Palace Resorts in Cancun. Specifically, The Grand packs a one-two-punch for family stays. Between the resort’s sleek modern décor, age-specific amenities and incredible attention to detail, there is something for the whole family. Split up and spend the day enjoying free time on the beach, golfing and at the spa or stick together and hit the water park, arcade, various excursions and fine dining.

The opulence and luxury of The Grand at Moon Palace in Cancun, Mexico, provides an all-inclusive escape for the whole family. Stay in the grand family deluxe room and enjoy age-specific amenities. The kids can take turns on the XBox 360 or play a movie with a large selection of DVDs and games upon request.

Kids slip on slippers and robes —actually in their size — and hit the minibar complete with juice, soda, chocolate milkshakes, water and candy.

Parents, enjoy the sea breeze and beach vistas from your private balcony. Unwind from the flight with a dip in the double whirlpool tub with a glass of Champagne or head to your own minibar filled with top-notch spirits and relax with the kids in front of the Smart TV. Deluxe family rooms comfortably sleep six, so feel free to bring the family and extend the invite to friends.

© Rachel Hopper | Dreamstime

Although the comforts of the rooms are essentially endless, good luck ignoring the call of the tropical climate outside. Take to the beach with the hotel-provided Fun in the Sun Bucket, umbrella and beach bag.

Head out and about with the family on an expertly guided tour through the gorgeous surroundings or stick to the water sports provided by the resort. Enjoy scuba diving, snorkeling, kayaking, paddleboard yoga and the new aqua park. Try your hand at surfing on the FlowRider, the resort’s double wave simulator.