Waves breaking on a rugged coastline, birds singing in synchrony, and the rumble of traffic from a mountaintop road all blend together in a remarkably lyrical way. This is the soundtrack to the Hilton Vallarta Riviera All-Inclusive Resort. The property is not designed for those who want to stay in the confines of their resort for a week. It’s one that immerses culture seekers in the Puerto Vallarta way of life. For a city whose number one economy is tourism, it’s still a thriving residential community—a melting pot of Mexican citizens who have relocated there from different states.
You can see it as soon as you step outside the main entrance and explore it by foot downtown, less than a 20-minute drive away. Deeper within the mountains, the Huichol Indians reside as one of the world’s last remaining indigenous tribes. Their presence and influence on Puerto Vallarta’s culture is evident in the traditional artwork sprinkled throughout the city. My husband and I prefer to visit places that allow us and our kids to see, feel, and taste the local culture. After spending four days at Hilton Vallarta Riviera, I already look forward to the day I can return with them and experience more of the city.
Puerto Vallarta has a low crime rate, and its local government is committed to keeping the city clean and safe, making it a particularly attractive destination for families with younger kids. A laidback boardwalk, cheerful plazas, streets full of character, and well-maintained green spaces including a sprawling children’s garden with a playground are only some of its draws. Beyond the city, the state of Jalisco is peppered with postcard-perfect, Colonial-style towns that make for fun day trips.
Here are seven ways the Hilton Vallarta Riviera All-Inclusive Resort keeps kiddos happy, parents and caretakers at peace, and everyone in the family connected with the local culture.
1. The kids’ club aims to educate and inspire children.
Children who visit the Kids Corner at Hilton Vallarta Riviera have free reign of a space that beckons imaginary play and creativity. Where it truly shines, though, is in the programming that infuses local culture in a way that gets them excited about learning.
Crafts are more consciously organized and include the chance for youngsters to create their own version of a symbolic Huichol Indian ornament. Many materials are also recycled from the property—think box cut-outs being used as canvases and cartons glued onto paper for three-dimensional art projects.
MULTI-GEN MUSINGS: Vacationing at the Hilton Vallarta Riviera
Spanish lessons, mini chef classes such as pizza making, and special experiences a la picnics and camping on the beach (not overnight) with s’mores are other ways the resort goes above and beyond for kiddos.
The Kids Corner is open from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m., with time slots reserved for different age groups. Children must be between the ages of four and 12. Babies and toddlers younger than four years old are welcome to play in the space with their parents or caretakers during certain hours.
2. A private protected beach and dedicated family pool offer fun in the sun.
Rock formations just off the beach form natural, lagoon-style pools with calm water ideal for swimming. Families can rent floats, life vests, or kayaks if they’re feeling more adventurous—all free of charge. Snorkel gear and other items like water shoes and pool toys are available for purchase at the resort’s gift shop.
Two oceanfront, infinity-style pools include one dedicated to families. (The other is an adults-only pool with a swim-up bar.) A few steps away, food trucks make it easy to grab a quick bite without having to dry off and go inside. For families who want a bit of privacy, cabanas are available for rent.
The Beach Club, a sandy space adjacent to the pool deck, has a rock-climbing wall for kids and plenty of space for other activities. I enjoyed watching a father and his son play a game of catch while the sun rose over the mountains, and families take disconnected walks on a trail along the water’s edge.
3. Accommodations in the Enclave provide a great value for families.
When families book an upper-tier room in the resort’s Enclave, they get perks that could prove to be invaluable for families, especially with younger kids. Among them are private check-in and check-out and a dedicated lounge that serves breakfast and all-day snacks.
The lounge itself is a sweeping space with some of the property’s best views. Other Enclave benefits include concierge service, which can assist you in getting to and from downtown as well as in planning other activities; premium drinks from 6 to 8 p.m.; premium Wi-Fi; an upgraded mini bar; and a welcome amenity and souvenir bag.
CLOSER LOOK: Review (with photos) of the Hilton Vallarta Riviera All-Inclusive Resort
Although individual rooms don’t sleep more than four, connecting options make it easy to create a larger space for families who need it. Pack-and-plays are available upon request.
4. For a break from the heat, the family lounge is the ultimate indoor hangout spot.
From noon to 10 p.m., the El Rincon Family Lounge caters to all ages with a variety of games like air hockey, ping pong, pool, and foosball. There’s even a video gaming nook with player pods.
A snack counter at the lounge features an ice cream bar, crepe station, and other snacks including cookies, popcorn, and candies. Be sure to try some of the local candy on offer.
5. Restaurants cater to picky eaters with straightforward dishes and children’s menus.
Seven restaurants serve up a variety of cuisines for different cravings. Among them are La Luce (Italian), Maxal (Mexican), Sunan (Asian), Cocomar (seafood), and Sunan Sushi.
I found that many of the dishes available are pretty straightforward—such as pizza and pasta, some with a Mexican twist, at the Italian restaurant. Don’t worry, adventurous eaters: There’s still plenty of inventive, local and international options to satiate your foodie wanderlust.
Families might find that their kids would like something off the regular menu. However, children’s menus with more basic options are available for pickier eaters. The hotel is also able to accommodate different dietary restrictions, and letting them know in advance always helps.
6. Private experiences are the property’s “hidden” talent and ideal for celebrating special occasions.
From outdoor meals set up like something straight out of Pinterest, to cooking and painting classes, Hilton Vallarta Riviera offers the chance to reserve private experiences that can be tailored to different needs. They’re a splurge-worthy option for families celebrating special occasions, or for those who want to enjoy the culture and surroundings in a more intimate way.
The Beach Club, which has a clear view of the Bahia de Banderas and mountains in the distance, sets the stage for boho-style breakfasts and sunset dinners under string lights and stars. (This is also where families can participate in included yoga and sound bath meditation classes through the resort’s wellness program.)
Couples or families with older kids can also partake in cooking classes and demos, such as a ceviche-making class. Those staying in Enclave accommodations also have access to their own private experiences, including a Mexican-style paella demo and meal complete with an array of tapas.
Note: While Beach Club meals can be booked at any time, other experiences are offered only on specific days.
