We just wrapped up our fifth annual trip to Hotel Xcaret Mexico, and like clockwork, we stayed for six nights and seven days. As members and repeat guests, we've found this duration to be the sweet spot—long enough to soak everything in without burning out. But let’s be real: this place is massive, the parks are intense, and if you’re traveling with kids, it’s easy to get overwhelmed. So here's our family-tested, sanity-saving itinerary.

Day 1: Arrival + Resort Time

Pro tip: Take advantage of the exclusive Xcaret Arrival Lounges now at all terminals at CUN. You can check in, snack, hydrate, and relax in A/C before boarding your spacious, comfortable shuttle to the hotel.

Once you arrive, expect a warm welcome: ice cream, cool towel, and all-inclusive perks that start immediately—even if your room isn't ready. We drop our bags, hit Mercado de la Merced for a buffet fix, and let our kid swim while we wait. After check-in, we explore the resort and cap off the day with dinner at La Trajinera, known for its seafood and stunning views from the infinity pool.

Day 2: Octopus Pool + Xcaret Park (Afternoon Only)

Start the day at Mercado de la Merced for breakfast—think fresh tortillas, pancakes, juice, fruit, you name it.

Then head to the Octopus Pool, home to awesome water slides kids can’t get enough of. For lunch, Chibali hits the spot with pizza burgers, milkshakes, and a dessert station straight out of your kid’s dreams.

In the afternoon, visit Xcaret Park via the resort shuttle. Focus on the "dry" attractions—animals, Mayan village, cultural shows. It’s a solid intro to a massive park that demands multiple visits. For dinner, reserve a table at Xin-Gao Fusion for sushi and Asian fusion dishes.

Day 3: Bio + Kayaking + Xenses

Fuel up at Bio, a vegan beachside spot known for its acai bowls. Spend the morning paddleboarding or kayaking through the lagoons.

Lunch at Las Playas is a must—order the oysters, fresh ceviches and brie pizza. Hands down our favorite spot.

In the afternoon, head to Xenses, a trippy sensory park full of optical illusions and kid-friendly fun. Wrap up the night with dinner at Las Cuevas (reservation required), a rodizio-style spot with endless meat options and a pasta buffet for the little ones.

Day 4: All-Day Park + Teppanyaki Show

Order room service breakfast the night before (get the French toast!). This is the day to go big with an “all-day” park:

Revisit Xcaret Park for water activities like cave swimming
Or book the Xenotes tour if your kids are older
Xel-Ha is another winner—basically paradise for water-loving families

We opted to go to Xel-Ha and had a wonderful time!

If you're back in time, check out the Xin Gao Teppanyaki show for dinner (reservation required). The live cooking performance is a hit with kids.

Day 5: Resort Day + Oaxacan Cuisine

Ease into the day with made-to-order omelets at Chibali and more Octopus Pool fun. Lunch at La Trajinera (seafood heaven), then spend the afternoon wandering the resort, finding Xelfie stations, hidden slides, and lagoon corners.

Dinner at Cantina Los Faroles brings a twist—Oaxacan dishes, some with ants. Don’t panic—servers can leave them off. But if you’re adventurous, go for it.

Day 6: Xplor + Sunset Views

Start the day at Xin Gao for a lighter breakfast with Asian flavors (miso soup + matcha pancakes).

Then dive into Xplor—ziplining, ATVs, cave rafting. It’s the adrenaline park, so bring your energy. Lunch is included there. Once back at the hotel, chill at the infinity pool and watch the sunset over the Caribbean.

Dinner? Revisit your favorite restaurant. We always pick a “last night favorite” and go all out.

Day 7: Goodbye... for Now

If your flight is later in the day, sneak in a final swim and breakfast. The hotel will push for a 6-hour pre-flight departure, but we've always been fine leaving 3 hours before. Trust your gut.

Final Tips

Always pack swimsuits in a carry-on for Day 1.
Don’t try to do full park days back-to-back. Alternate park days with slower ones.
Make dinner reservations early.
Let your kids set the pace—this place is paradise, not a checklist.

Got questions about planning your own Xcaret trip? Drop them in the comments. We’re five years deep and happy to share what we’ve learned.

Hotel Xcaret Mexico: 7 Day Itinerary