This year has a lot in store for us—the Summer Olympics in Tokyo, a femme-forward anniversary in DC, an epic solar eclipse in Chile—but what about for those of us who prefer white sands, rolling waves and a comfy cabana? 2020 has your back! Here are eight hotel openings on the horizon this year, each one a beach-lovers dream and perfect for families.
1/8 Palmaïa, The House of AïA, Rivera Maya
Let your inner hippie out to play at this beach-front oasis situated on the edge of the Mexican jungle. The property boasts stellar plant-based menus, healing spa treatments and shaman-curated ceremonies to cleanse the mind and relax the body (think yoga, sound rituals and other spiritual practices lead by visiting gurus and mystical specialists). Unsurprisingly, rooms are luxuriously decked out with a Shangri-La-in-the-jungle kind of vibe (helloooo swim-up suites with infinity pool!). What really sets this place apart though? The thoughtful family suites. Precious detailing is everywhere, from suites with bunkbeds to nursery-esque rooms with adorable paintings of animals in hot-air balloons floating along the walls. Kids get their own space, while mom and dad retire to the big-kid rooms complete with giant ceramic bathtubs and oversized cabana windows.
2/8 Amrit Ocean Resort & Spa, Florida
Another wellness-forward paradise just right for families. While the kids hang out at the pool, head over to the four-story spa for some well-deserved pampering. While four farm-to-table restaurants and yoga classes on the beach are another fantastic detail, the real prize of this resort are the onsite sleep specialists and the bath concierge. Rooms come with ocean-view terraces and circadian rhythm lighting. As for that bath concierge? Let them customize and aromatherapy bath in your room’s freestanding tub while your kiddos go for a walk on the beach.
3/8 Ikos Andalusia, Spain
Mediterranean details are everywhere at this Spanish beach haven. Suites come with private terraces, gardens and even pools. The resort includes tennis courts, a fitness facility, kids’ club and an impressive tented event space that hosts live shows, movies and music. Pro tip: Check out the roof bar for a delicious sundowner cocktail while you watch the sun set.
4/8 Itz’ana Resort & Residences, Belize
Feel good about indulging at this stunning resort full of wildlife, ocean views and jungle greenery. The resort prioritizes sustainability, minimizing waste, protecting the environment and giving back to the community. Over-the-water residences are ideal for families and larger groups and the resort offers tons of guided adventures, including reef snorkeling, ziplining, fishing, sailing, diving, night hikes through an animal sanctuary and even a visit to the famed “Great Blue Hole.”
5/8 Royal Uno, Cancun
All-inclusive lovers, raise your hand! The all-inclusive package at this white sand property gets you tons of cool amenities. In addition to unique culinary experiences and unlimited drinks, your crew gets access to the Cancool Family Room, a family hub full of video games, board games, books and movies, and the kids’ club, which feature’s a children’s pool, complete with water slides and playground. The resort itself includes five restaurants, two pools and access to tons of fun water sports (think kayaking, boating, and paddle boarding).
6/8 Nickelodeon Hotels & Resorts, Riviera Maya
There’s not really a better place to let a kid be a kid than at a Nickelodeon hotel. The best part? The franchise’s new beachfront Rivera Maya location has plenty of amenities for grown-ups, including stylish rooms with surprisingly tasteful decor inspired by Nickelodeon cartoons, a decked out fitness center and spa. Aqua Nick, a 500,000 square foot water playland, is set to unveil a lazy river, slides, tubes and a tot-friendly playground. You can also expect classic Nickelodeon highlights, such as visits with your kids’ favorite characters, a theater with immersive live performances, and Club Nick, a hangout just for kids.
7/8 Auberge Mauna Lani, Hawaii
The suites and bungalows here don’t mess around: Get pristine ocean views, private entrances and tons of luxe perks at this brand new Hawaii resort. For kids who can’t sit still, this resort specializes in adventure activities. Take a mountain bike tour of the island, set sail on a Catamaran, take a surfing lesson, or take your workout to the next level by trying traditional Hawaiian underwater rock running (yep, it’s just what it sounds like). Wildlife viewing opportunities abound, while you can expect all the usual delights of a luxe resort: delicious food, spectacular views and friendly service.
8/8 Royalton Grenada, Grenada
Elegantly decorated rooms overlooking blue ocean make this resort a total win from the get-go, but we’re also impressed by the onsite splash park that serves up tons of kid-friendly waterpark fun. In addition to delicious food and a selection of fun of watersports to try, the resort also features a kids’ club, spa and fitness center. Don’t forget to look for their “Kids stay free” offer when booking! The resort frequently offers booking windows where up to two kiddos stay for free—hello savings!
By Ashley Sepanski