Don’t Miss Xcaret Park When Visiting Cancun with Toddlers

Hands down, Xcaret Park, near Playa del Carmen, is one of Mexico’s most unique waterparks, offering guests a luxury experience in addition to toddler-friendly activities. Below we’ll dive into Xcaret Park and highlight what you should know before planning your next family trip. We’ll talk about ticket prices, accommodations, activities, and cultural attractions that are safe for toddlers yet enjoyable for the whole family. Then, we will briefly discuss what restaurants we recommend for families, especially those with picky eaters. Finally, we’ll share some of the ways that Xcaret Park prioritizes safety and security for its younger guests.

Overview of Xcaret Park

 

Located in the Riviera Maya south of Cancun, Mexico, sits Xcaret Park. Xcaret means “small inlet” and is named as such because a portion of the Caribbean Sea flows into the land. Xcaret Park has been open since 1990 and spans 200 acres! Since this waterpark sits in the jungle, guests get to explore one of the coolest things that make Xcaret Park so intriguing: the natural underground rivers. In addition, Xcaret boasts beautiful architecture and highly values conservation and Mexican culture. Xcaret Park is truly a family adventure park.

Xcaret Park with Toddlers

Xcaret Park tickets are priced higher than traditional waterpark prices, but it’s no surprise considering Xcaret is like no other. That being said, admission is free for children under 4! There are additional ticket options for families who want to add on a buffet meal, park activity, or evening show. Again, children under 4 years of age are free regardless of the chosen Xcaret package.

For families who prefer to enjoy an Xcaret Cancun all-inclusive stay (including unlimited visits to Xcaret Park), Hotel Xcaret is known as the “best hotel in Playa del Carmen for families.” There is a shuttle that picks up families and takes them to and from Xcaret Park, so you don’t have to worry about walking long distances with little ones in tow.

To get a broad view of Xcaret Park, guests are encouraged to check the Xcaret Map. You’ll notice showers, restrooms, and dressing rooms throughout the park. Wheelchair and stroller rentals (including double strollers) are available each day. Lockers can be rented in addition to snorkeling equipment and towels.

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Must-See Attractions & Activities at Xcaret Park

Xcaret Park seeks to please visitors of all ages. While there are exciting activities for adults, such as wine-tasting events, shark feedings, and parasailing, there are also family-friendly and toddler-friendly activities to explore. Here are a couple of activities to consider experiencing with your toddler:

Xcaret Mexico Espectacular Dinner

Enjoy a 7-course dinner that intertwines robust flavors of Mexico into one meal while watching a dinner show. This family-friendly dinner show only lasts 30 minutes, so you don’t have to worry about your little one getting too antsy.

Swim with Dolphins

Let your toddler get up close and personal with the friendly dolphins of Xcaret Park. Learn about them and even receive a dolphin kiss! Yes, toddlers can swim with the dolphins, but an adult must accompany them.

Dolphins Ride

Dolphins Ride is similar to the Swim with Dolphins activity, but it includes experiencing a fin shake and watching dolphins jump up in the air and dance around.

Children’s World

Children’s World is a new and must-see attraction at Xcaret Park. Toddlers can play in the wading pool, sandbox, and more. Kiddos can explore the Secret Adventure section, which is a rope-type playground that includes bridges and waterslides. Inside Children’s World are bathrooms, snacks, and dressing rooms. This area is specifically for children under age 12 and has perfect toddler-friendly touches all around!

Xcaret Aviary

Walk along paved paths through the Xcaret Aviary, where toddlers can view brightly colored parrots, pelicans, and more. A cascading waterfall flows in the aviary and adds to the tropical feel of the experience.

Xcaret Butterfly Pavilion

Love butterflies? Step into the butterfly pavilion, where toddlers can learn how butterflies start from a caterpillar. This is also an excellent opportunity to get up close and personal with colorful butterflies.

Xcaret Sea Turtle Exhibit

Another wonderful exhibit for the whole family is the sea turtle exhibit in Xcaret Park. If you think your toddler loves watching fully grown sea turtles swim around, wait until you take them to the baby sea turtle pool!

These Xcaret activities (and more that we didn’t list) are perfect for the whole family to enjoy. Remember, little ones under the age of 4 can experience ticketed activities with their family for free.

Food and Drink at Xcaret Park

Beyond grabbing a tasty snack at the snack shop inside Children’s World, Xcaret Park offers plenty of dining options for the whole family, but there is one restaurant in particular that we recommend for its diverse menu options. La Laguna is an international cuisine buffet that offers a little bit of everything across the board. This makes it an excellent place for families with toddlers because we know toddlers can be picky! With that being said, La Cocina Restaurant, an alternative choice, is highly recommended if everyone is in the mood for traditional Mexican cuisine.

Safety at Xcaret Park

Thankfully, this impressive water park takes safety seriously, especially when it has to do with children. Activities for families and children have age restrictions; otherwise, the activity is safe for all ages. Any activity or attraction involving water requires children to wear a life jacket. In many cases, young children must also be accompanied by an adult. In addition, lifeguards keep an eye on the water park attractions, and cameras are monitored for security purposes.

Conclusion

For a unique experience in the Riviera Maya with your family, check out Xcaret Park. The upfront ticket price may be higher than what you’re used to paying, but given your toddler gets free admission into the park and attractions, you may not be paying that much more for a waterpark trip after all. With a wide variety of restaurants, activities, animals, swimming areas, and more, it’s worth considering how many days you’d like to visit!