Mexico: The Best Waterparks in the Riviera Maya and Cancun

Written By Krista Nannery

Part of the hotel zone in Cancun

I am really bad at self promotion. Case in point: It took me years to finally set up my business Instagram @antidote.travel.

Did you know that I am a certified expert on the Riviera Maya in Mexico? Probably not! Because I haven’t told anyone!!

We actually call ourselves “Mexperts”!

I have been booking so much Cancun and Riviera Maya for clients lately that it was time to invest in learning all the 4 and 5 star resorts inside and out. We have secret Facebook groups, regular webinars, and in-depth Q&As with all the resort sales teams. (Remember travel is a business, Hotels need to be proactive in selling their rooms, especially in the Riviera Maya where there is so much competition.)

Now I can slice and dice the Riviera Maya in a thousand different ways — best resorts for couples, best resorts for girls’ getaways, best spa resorts, best resorts for teens — you name it. This includes properties in Cancun, Isla Mujeres, Tulum, Playa del Carmen, and Cozumel.

So this week, let me focus on something fun and totally different for me. You might know me for 5 star hotels, private jets, European river cruises, and luxury ocean cruises but today…let’s talk waterparks!

If your ideal vacation includes both poolside cocktails and waterslides, I’ve got some resorts for you! These family-friendly, all-inclusive resorts in Mexico don’t just offer beautiful beaches and spacious suites — they come with full-on waterparks. Whether you’ve got little ones, tweens, or kids-at-heart adults, these resorts make it easy to keep everyone entertained (and cooled off!).

One important note about the photos below — it’s hard to get everything into one picture! So if you don’t see waterslides in the photos, it’s not that they don’t exist. It’s just that I had to make hard choices on the best way to present each property.

I can add perks and amenities to many of these stays — think resort credits, welcome gifts, and more.

Ready to talk about the best fit for your family? Book a complimentary vacation consultation here.

Nickelodeon Rivera Maya

Nickelodeon Riviera Maya
This all-oceanfront suite resort is a dream for kids and kids at heart, thanks to Aqua Nick, one of the largest waterparks in Mexico. From slime-filled splash zones to high-speed slides, there’s endless fun alongside beloved Nickelodeon characters. Plus, every suite has a swim-up pool!

Moon Palace The Grand

Moon Palace The Grand
Moon Palace The Grand packs in everything, including a massive waterpark with twisting slides, a lazy river, and a wave simulator. Adults can indulge in top-tier dining and spa treatments while kids make a splash all day. It's perfect for multi-generational families looking for non-stop entertainment.

Royalton Splash Riviera Cancun

Royalton Splash Riviera Cancun
Known for its gigantic on-site waterpark, Royalton Splash has slides, splash zones, and even a wave pool for hours of aquatic adventure. Spacious rooms and all-inclusive dining round out the experience. It’s designed for families who want action-packed fun and plenty of dining choices.

Hard Rock Riviera Maya

Hard Rock Riviera Maya
Music meets adventure here, with the Rockaway Bay waterpark featuring high-speed slides, multi-lane racers, and kid-friendly splash areas. Parents can rock out with spa treatments or hit the adults-only areas while kids play. The vibe is lively, fun, and unapologetically over the top.

Iberostar Selection Lindo

Iberostar Selection Lindo & Maya
These neighboring resorts share access to a sprawling waterpark, complete with pirate ships, wave pools, and heart-racing waterslides. Families love the blend of beachfront relaxation and action-packed activities. Plus, Iberostar’s focus on sustainability means guilt-free indulgence.

Dreams Natura

Dreams Natura Resort & Spa
Dreams Natura brings the jungle to the beach, with its tropical-themed waterpark featuring waterslides and a splash zone. Families can also float along the lazy river or relax in the infinity pool. It’s a fun, low-key escape with plenty of ways to cool off.

Dreams Playa Mujeres Golf & Spa Resort
This upscale all-suite resort features a fun-filled waterpark with slides and splash zones. Families will love the spacious rooms and easy beach access. It’s a great mix of luxury and kid-friendly fun.

Sandos Caracol

Sandos Caracol Eco Resort
Adventure meets nature here, with a unique waterpark surrounded by lush jungle. Multiple waterslides, splash areas, and even a mini-aqua park for toddlers make it ideal for all ages. Plus, you can swim in on-site cenotes after a day on the slides!

Planet Hollywood Cancun

Planet Hollywood Cancun
At this star-studded resort, the Shipwreck Cove waterpark delivers thrills with slides, splash zones, and a lazy river. The resort’s Hollywood-themed atmosphere means every moment feels like a movie set. It’s a bold, flashy choice for families who love both glitz and adventure.

Rio Dunamar

Riu Dunamar
Riu Dunamar’s waterpark, Splash Water World, features high-adrenaline slides and plenty of kid-friendly splash areas. It’s an affordable, all-inclusive option that still delivers big on fun. With beachfront access and multiple pools, it’s ideal for families seeking great value.

Summary: The Best Waterparks in the Riviera Maya and Cancun

Ready to swap “Are we there yet?” for “Can we go down the slide again?” These resorts prove you don’t have to choose between luxury and family fun — you can have both. If one of these catches your eye, I’d love to help you plan the perfect splash-filled getaway! Ready to talk? Book a complimentary vacation consultation here.

About Krista

I’m a Virtuoso luxury travel advisor based in West Palm Beach, Florida. Prior to moving to Florida to take care of my elderly mom with Parkinson’s Disease, I spent over 11 years living and working in London, England. My career and personal travel have taken me all over the world. To date, I’ve been to 78 countries. Now I bring the joy of travel to others as a Virtuoso travel advisor. I offer a 30 minute complimentary vacation consultation for anyone looking to plan their next trip.

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Krista Nannery
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