Overview
by Courtney Elko
This all-inclusive beach resort features a ton of things for everyone in the family to enjoy. There are multiple pools, waterslides, the beach, archery, tennis and a kids’ club for every age. The kids will love spending time at each club designed for babies, little kids and even teens! There’s a playground and swings for little kids and video games and movies for the teens. And while the kids are having a grand Mexican vacation, parents can enjoy the adults-only pool area, spa, nearby golf course and more.
In the evenings, families will love the daily theater performances and once a week, the kids will put their own performance on for the adults. There is a disco club for adults (a separate one for teens as well), numerous restaurants from which to choose, and the guestrooms and suites feature free Wi-Fi and a fully stocked mini-fridge – all included in the rate. Families will have a glorious time staying at the Grand Palladium in Punta de Mita, Mexico.
Our Editor Loves
- Beachfront location
- Onsite zoo and theater
- All-inclusive rates
Family Interests
- All Inclusive Rates
- Beach
- Golf
- Hiking
- Horse Back Riding
- Museum/Cultural
- Sailing
- Water Sports
Family Amenities
- Babysitting
- Children Programs
- Connecting Rooms
- Cribs
- Free Wi-Fi
- Game Room
- Kids' Pool
- Kids' Theme Meals
- Laundry
- Onsite Dining
- Pool
- Refrigerator
Room Information
Find the Best Price for Your Stay
There are five different buildings that feature guestrooms and suites. All of the rooms can accommodate up to four people, but connecting rooms are available for larger families. Complimentary Wi-Fi is available, along with a mini-fridge that is replenished daily with bottled water, beer, juice and sodas. There are no elevators at this resort and most of the guestroom buildings are about three stories high. Cribs are available upon request.
Family Selection Junior Suites
The Family Selection building (which was renovated from an adults-only section in December, 2017) features its own main pool exclusive for families. The pool overlooks the beach (where families will find a reserved area) and is surrounded by lounge chairs and umbrellas. Children will enjoy this pool; however, it is a quieter pool area compared to the main pool where the games and activities take place. There is also a restaurant located near the family selection pool that is open for breakfast, lunch and dinner, and a video game area featured in the lounge.
These suites feature one king or two double beds, a sleeper sofa, balcony with chairs, dining table and a standup shower and Jacuzzi tub in the bathroom. There is a coffeemaker, television, MP3 docking station available and stronger Wi-Fi. Room service is available 24/7 in Family Selection, along with complimentary laundry service before departure (packing and unpacking services too!). Children receive a welcome kit and adults receive a personalized mini-bar. A few added bonuses are the milk and cookies turndown service, bath toys and mini robes and slippers for the kiddos.
Deluxe Guestrooms
These guestrooms feature one king or two double beds, a sofa, balcony with chairs, a small dining table and a standup shower in the bathroom. There is a coffeemaker, television and MP3 docking station available.
Junior Suites
These larger suites feature one king or two double beds, a sleeper sofa, balcony with chairs, dining table and a standup shower in the bathroom. There is a coffeemaker, television and MP3 docking station available.
Reviews
by Happiness727134
This place is great for a activity especially surfing family. Mini club is is awesome and the girls are so good with our little ones. Tons to do with the kids and having the access to surf boards and a break right in front is amazing for the surfers. I would go back for sure.
by t-in-arabia
Excellent hotel. Truly 5*. Room had pool view and bay of banderas view. What more could you ask for? Buffet restaurant food very good but you also have 4 A la carte restaurants. Mexican, Italian, Asian and Steakhouse. All bars have branded drinks no extras to pay. Will we go again? Definitely or another hotel in the same chain. You’ll love Antonio at the pool bar. Whatever cocktail you want, he knows it. Fernanda on the entertainment team, brilliant.
Family Activities
Pools
There are several pools at the resort, open from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. Lounge chairs, palapas and umbrellas surround them all. The main pool features a zero-entry section, waterslides for kids and basketball and volleyball nets. The main pool is also the activity pool where games are always taking place and music is playing. Lifeguards are on duty and pool towels are provided. A swim up bar is also located at the main pool.
The adults-only, infinity pool overlooks the beach. Restrooms and courtesy showers can be found near all of the pools; the showers are great for those whose flight doesn't take off until after check-out time.
Beach
A seawater pool is located at the beach and is literally a natural pool in the ocean. There is a natural rock/reef barrier around a section of the ocean that creates shallow and calm waters for the kids. The sand area is small, but there are lounge chairs, palapas and umbrellas located on the beach. All non-motorized water sports, including paddle boarding, kayaking and snorkeling, can be found at the beach; non-motorized water sports are included in rates.
Kids' Club
Kids of all ages will have a grand time at the supervised kids' clubs. The large kids' club area features indoor and outdoor space, which includes a playground with a slide and swings, small kids pool, sport court, a kid-sized theater, plenty of grassy areas and tons of toys, games and activities. Kids can also enjoy theme nights and parties like a pajama party or movie night. The kids will have a fabulous time practicing their theater performance for the parents as well.
Be on the lookout for the resort mascot, Raggs, the musical pup and his friends too. Raggs is sure to make several appearances throughout your stay. Theme days like pirate day or retro day occur daily as well. Lunch and dinners are included and there is stroller parking outside the clubs. The club area is also gated so parents need to be buzzed in and kids can't do a disappearing act.
Baby Club
The Baby Club is available for ages 1 to 3 years and is open from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. It features padded floors, fluffy toys and plenty to do (including nap times in tiny beds).
Mini Club
Designed for ages 4 to 12 years, this club is open from 9 a.m. to 11 p.m. This is where the play-pretend theater is located and a play-spa area. There are tons of toys, games, video games, movies, arts and crafts and outdoor activities always taking place here. With parent permission, the kids will go on scavenger hunts throughout the resort or spend time at the main pool or beach, too.
Teen Club
The Black and White Junior Club, open from 11 a.m. to midnight, is for ages 13 to 19 and is a cool place for teens to hang out, away from parents. There are video games, computers, Ping-Pong and more inside the air-conditioned room. And at night following the daily theater performance, teens can enjoy a dance party or a movie night back at the Junior Club.
Theater
Located near the lobby, the open-air theater hosts an evening show nightly. There is a different theme each night, such as disco or the 80s, and it is performed at 9 p.m. All of the shows are family friendly; however, there is a specific family show hosted once a week. Guests' children perform in the family show after practicing all week in the kids' club. Parents will love to see their own kids on stage during this special performance.
Zoo
Located in the center of the resort, covered by giant trees and surrounded by botanical gardens and sitting areas, is an onsite zoo called UMA. Families can wander around the area and watch the monkeys, ostrich, deer and peacocks. The sweet animals living here have been rescued and are unable to survive on their own in the wild. Guests are asked not to feed the animals.
Sports and Recreation
Families can enjoy tennis and basketball courts, archery, beach volleyball, billiards, Ping-Pong and non-motorized water sports on the beach (kayaking, sailing, paddle boarding and snorkeling). Scuba diving instructions are also available in the pool. All of these activities are included in the all-inclusive rates. Activities like boat tours, horseback riding or fishing require additional fees with outside vendors.
Family Dining
There are a variety of restaurants included in the all-inclusive rate at this resort. Food and drinks are essentially always available, no matter the time of day.
Buffet Restaurants
El Bosque
The main buffet is filled with options for breakfast, lunch and dinner. There are a variety of stations from which to choose, including a pasta, grill and ice cream station. There are even specific kids sections at the buffet. Families can dine inside in the air conditioning or outside.
Las Terrazas
This buffet restaurant is located close to the pool and beach areas, and is open for lunch only from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. Expect casual bites including burgers, pizza, and hot dogs.
A La Carte Restaurants
The a la carte restaurants are only open for dinner from 6 to 10:30 p.m. and a reservation is required.
Bamboo
Located above the main buffet, this Asian restaurant also features sushi.
Viva Mexico
Located near the Adults Only Pool, this Mexican restaurant offers traditional cuisine and indoor seating with air conditioning. Children are welcome to dine here.
Ribs & More
This open-air restaurant features TexMex cuisine and select cuts of meat.
Portofino
At this dinner-only restaurant, a reservation is not required. Italian cuisine is offered here and includes wood-fired pizzas the kids will love.
Planning & Tips
All About the Extras
Wi-Fi
Complimentary Wi-Fi is available throughout the hotel.
Fitness Center
Cardio and weight machines are available in the fitness area that's open between 6 a.m. and 9 p.m.
Excursions
Families can easily book excursions to explore Punta de Mita or nearby Sayulita directly onsite near the lobby area.
Boutique
A small shop is located near the lobby and offers souvenirs, snacks, clothing and other sundries.
Strollers
Parents are welcome to use the onsite strollers at the resort for no additional charge.
Babysitting
Babysitting services are available, in addition to the supervised kids' club for an additional hourly rate. Babysitting can occur in guestrooms or in the kids' club area -- whatever is preferred.
The Best Time to Visit
This resort sees the most guests between November and February.
Getting There
The Puerto Vallarta International Airport is located less than 40 minutes away from the resort. Taxi services and rental cars are easily accessible at the airport.
Getting Around
The resort is large and families can expect to walk for a few minutes from guestrooms to the pool, beach or restaurants. But most of the walkways are shaded and easy to maneuver around with children and strollers. However, there are no elevators at the resort -- just ramps to accommodate strollers and wheelchairs.
For Mom and Dad
There are several bars to choose from throughout the property and all are included in the all-inclusive rate.
La Placita Lobby Bar
The open-air lobby bar is a great place for a drink before or after dinner. It is open from 10 a.m. to 1 a.m.
Sports Bar
Located just beyond the lobby, the game is always on at this sports bar. Children are welcome here as well. The bar is open 24/7 but food is available from 4:30 to 6:30 p.m. only.
Hemingway Bar
Located near the lobby bar, the bar is for adults only and features premium cocktails. It is open from 6 p.m. to 1 a.m.
Sunset Boulevard Discotheque
After watching the daily live performance at the theater with the family, the adults can head to the discotheque for a little dancing. There is live music or a DJ and air conditioning. It is open from 11 p.m. to 2 a.m.
Spa
Adults can unwind with a variety of spa treatment options like massages or facials. The spa is an adult-only area and children under 18 are not permitted.