All-inclusive resorts can keep budgets from ballooning—the pervasive risk of all multigenerational trips. But when everything’s included, it’s not a problem when the grandkids want more windsurfing, or when teens grab second helpings of lobster.
The upscale Grand Velas Riviera Maya (pictured above), a luxury resort on 206 acres in Mexico, delivers good food and a sense of expansiveness. The oceanfront, family-friendly Ambassador suites are around 1,100-square feet apiece, and the spa, which administers treatments inspired by local traditions, provides ample space for relaxing. At the kids’ clubs, those aged 4 to 12 take mariachi lessons, listen to stories, and enjoy arts and crafts. Teens get foosball, air hockey, and video games.
At Beaches Turks & Caicos, expect more crowds but also more activities—wakeboarding, sailing, scuba diving—as well as no-extra-fee child care for infants through 3-year-olds, and a full day’s worth of activities for kids ages 4 to 17. The waterpark’s geysers and slides divert kids for hours, while Sesame Street characters thrill preschoolers, who can bake cookies with Cookie Monster, take a nature walk with Big Bird, or listen to stories with Elmo for added fees. For a bit of luxury, consider a two-bedroom suite or a 3- to 4-bedroom villa. Both lodging categories come with butlers.