Meliá Chiang Mai earns a third consecutive Holidays with Kids award, recognised for standout family facilities, kids’ clubs and eco-friendly experiences
Melia Chiang Mai has once again secured a place among Thailand’s Best Family Resorts, earning recognition in the Holidays with Kids Readers’ Choice Awards for the third consecutive year — a rare achievement that underscores the hotel’s consistent appeal to travelling families.
The well-regarded Australian family travel magazine named Meliá Chiang Mai among just 12 hotels and resorts nationwide, with the property standing out as the only hotel in Chiang Mai to make the prestigious list. Located in northern Thailand’s cultural capital, the award-winning hotel continues to position itself as a leading family-friendly destination in the region. Some links in this article are affiliate booking links, which may earn me a small commission at no extra cost to you.
A reader-driven award backed by parents
The Holidays with Kids Readers’ Choice Awards are based on nominations from the publication’s extensive audience of more than 600,000 parents, with voting open over a 12-month period. The awards are widely respected for reflecting real family travel experiences, rather than industry-led judging panels.
According to the magazine, this year’s winners represent a new benchmark for family travel in Thailand.
“This year’s winners don’t just meet expectations, they raise them,” the publication said. “From immersive kids’ clubs that spark genuine excitement and imaginative activities to standout facilities and family-focused dining, these resorts are setting new standards for family holidays.”
Why Meliá Chiang Mai stood out
Holidays with Kids described Meliá Chiang Mai as “a stylish, family-friendly hotel in the heart of Chiang Mai, Thailand”, noting the property’s ability to balance contemporary design with amenities that genuinely cater to parents and children alike.
Family-friendly facilities with broad appeal
Among the highlights recognised by the magazine were the hotel’s comprehensive leisure and wellness offerings, including:
- YHI Spa, offering massages, scrubs, wraps and facials
- A fully equipped fitness centre for guests maintaining their workout routines
- Five bars and dining venues, showcasing a diverse range of cuisines
The hotel’s rooftop bar, with panoramic views across Chiang Mai and the surrounding mountains, was also singled out, alongside the outdoor swimming pool, which provides a relaxing escape after a day of sightseeing in the city.
Kids’ club, eco initiatives and thoughtful design
A major drawcard for families is the hotel’s well-equipped kids’ club, which allows younger guests to enjoy structured activities in a safe and engaging environment, while parents take time to relax or enjoy an evening out.
Holidays with Kids also highlighted Meliá Farm 360, the hotel’s sustainability-focused programme that connects guests with eco-farming initiatives. The programme supplies fresh produce to the hotel’s restaurants while educating families about responsible tourism and local food sourcing — a feature that resonates strongly with today’s environmentally conscious travellers.
A resort designed with families in mind
According to Marc Selinger, General Manager of Meliá Chiang Mai, the recognition reflects the hotel’s long-term commitment to family travel.
“We are thrilled that Meliá Chiang Mai has been named among Thailand’s leading family properties for the third year in a row,” he said.
The hotel offers a wide range of family-focused accommodation and activities, including:
Family Rooms
Designed specifically for travelling families, the rooms feature:
- Puzzles and board games
- A children’s tent
- Toys and playful design touches
Kids’ and teens’ clubs
The expansive clubs offer hands-on and culturally inspired activities such as:
- Thai boxing sessions
- Umbrella painting
- Arts and crafts using recycled materials
One of Chiang Mai’s most family-friendly pools
The hotel’s large outdoor swimming pool remains a favourite among families, particularly its dedicated children’s zone, which includes:
- A shallow pool area for younger guests
- Two water slides
- Water fountains and a rain curtain
- A giant tipping bucket for added fun
These features make the pool area a central hub for family relaxation throughout the day.
Gateway to Chiang Mai’s top attractions
Beyond the resort, Meliá Chiang Mai’s central location provides families with easy access to many of the city’s best-known attractions, including:
- Wat Phra That Doi Suthep, Chiang Mai’s iconic hilltop temple
- Chiang Mai Night Safari
- Elephant Poo Poo Paper Park, a quirky and educational attraction popular with children
The hotel’s position makes it an ideal base for families exploring northern Thailand.
At a Glance: Meliá Chiang Mai
- Award: Holidays with Kids Readers’ Choice Awards 2025
- Recognition: Thailand’s Best Family Resorts (Third consecutive year)
- Location: Chiang Mai, Northern Thailand
- Key features: Kids’ club, family rooms, water-play pool, YHI Spa
- Dining: Five bars and restaurants
- Sustainability: Meliá Farm 360 eco-farming programme
- Nearby attractions: Wat Phra That Doi Suthep, Night Safari, Elephant Poo Poo Paper Park
Also read Meliá Chiang Mai’s Mai Restaurant & Bar Unveils Sustainable New Menu
