Mexico is practically a paradise here on earth. There’s something for every traveler, whether you’re dreaming of soaking up the sun, snorkeling with tropical fish, immersing yourself in history, or enjoying a private tequila tasting. That said, different destinations in Mexico definitely offer travelers different types of experiences so make sure you do your research. A trip to Cancun can be very different from a vacation in Los Cabos, and Punta Mita has a totally distinct vibe all its own.
Visiting Cancun might just be the best option if you’re on the east coast and looking for a direct flight. It’s where you’ll find the brilliant turquoise waters most of us are looking for when we head south of the border, and most of the hotels are either right on or very close to the beach. These are the perfect beaches for kids – the water is calm and clear and warm.
Cabo (which includes both Cabo San Lucas and San Jose Del Cabo as well as the 20-mile stretch of resort corridor between the two) has its share of oceanfront resorts, but the water is a bit rougher there and there is a strong undertow so don’t expect to do a lot of swimming unless you head over to Medina Beach. It has a reputation for being a party town, but it’s actually one of the best destinations in the world for seeing marine life.
And Puna Mita? This 1,500-acre private peninsula in the Riviera Nayarit is the kind of place where dreams come true.
Honestly, there’s no wrong way to experience Mexico, and wherever you touch down, you’re going to have an amazing time. It’s one of my favorite places in the world, and I hope that our travels will inspire you to visit this beautiful nation (and maybe post a few photos with Mexican travel hashtags along the way).
When you visit Mexico with your children for the first time, you may be surprised at how welcoming people are. So many attractions and restaurants are child-friendly because family is such an important part of Mexican culture. Families here spend time together often, and children are especially loved. They even have their own special holiday – Día Del Niño (or children’s day) on April 30th – which is often a school holiday. Naturally, they receive gifts and treats.
I’ve written about what to expect on a Disney® cruise to Mexico before, and it’s definitely a great way to see the country if you’re traveling from the west coast. That said, older children will probably get the most out of a trip to Mexico because this is definitely a culturally rich destination with a lot of history to enjoy. You can absolutely visit Mexico just for the beaches, and there are plenty of things to do in Mexico City for kids (like Kidzania, a city in miniature run by kids), but big kids will also enjoy eco tours, museums, and learning about traditional ways of life still practiced today.
You simply cannot do better in most cases than a Four Seasons hotel for five-star service, beautiful rooms, and excellent food. I’m not the easiest guest to please when it comes to hotels, but we have loved staying in the Four Seasons Hotel Mexico.
The Hyatt Ziva Los Cabos is an all-inclusive luxury resort less than two hours by plane from San Diego. The philosophy is simple – elevate the all-inclusive experience into something worlds apart from what you’ll find elsewhere. Is that a lofty goal? Yes, but Hyatt has absolutely met and I’d even say exceeded that goal.
This is one of our favorite destinations. Mexico City is full of delicious food, rich history, interesting shopping opportunities, parks, and markets. Chances are good that you’ll encounter someone who speaks some English most places you’ll go but brush up on your Spanish, just in case.
The National Museum of Anthropology in Mexico City (Museo Nacional de Antropologica) is absolutely worth a visit. Kids seem to love the gory parts of Aztec and Mayan history, though there’s so much more to Mexico’s past here, from ancient calendars to beautiful murals and statues. We think it’s one of the best museums in the world.
You probably know the famous piramides de teotihuacan by sight, if not by name. The Temple of Quetzalcoatl, the Pyramids of the Sun and the Moon, and the Avenue of the Dead in Teotihuacan were built during the 1st and 7th centuries A.D. and you won’t be sorry you visited these iconic landmarks – even if your legs are sore for days after climbing the steep steps to the tops of the pyramids.
The history of these islands includes piracy, gambling, and smuggling, but today the Coronado Islands are a Mexican wildlife refuge where animals like gulls, cormorants, pelicans, rattlesnakes, elephant seals, and sea lions live around the pylons where there was once a casino. It’s illegal to land on the island, but you can dive, snorkel, and fish near the shore.
Looking for a place to stay? I can help you get great rates at luxury hotels in Mexico and can also get you value-added VIP amenities at most luxury hotels through my affiliation with Virtuoso®. Book a luxury hotel in Mexico here.
Our favorite exhibits at the National Museum of Anthropology (Museo Nacional de Antropologia), where all ages learn about Mexico’s pre-Columbian heritage (in person or via virtual tours)
The best things to do in Mexico City with kids including museums, day trip to Teotihuacan, fun in Chapultepec Forest and more tips for your family vacation.
What to know before booking NIZUC Resort and Spa in Cancun including room selection, kids’ amenities, onsite restaurants, and Virtuoso perks.
A list of the best day trips from Cancun including diving, Mayan ruins, theme parks, gorgeous Mexico beaches and more from downtown to Tulum.
When visiting Mexico City, this is why we always choose Four Seasons Hotel Mexico, D.F.
My husband the history major has over time amassed a binder of articles and facts about the Coronado Islands and their checkered past, so I asked him to share a bit here.
A list of the top things to do in Mexico City, one of our favorite destinations, for all ages.
If you don’t understand its history, you’ll miss out. Here’s what to know before traveling to Mexico City, including tips for transportation, tipping and more.
A review of Hacienda Petac, unique luxury accommodations for up to 14 people in the Yucatan near Merida.
Hyatt Ziva Los Cabos is a perfect weekend getaway from San Diego (and elsewhere). Here’s why.
The Los Cabos Airport (SJD) VIP lounge is small but may be worth the entry fee. Here’s what they have on offer.
Need a multigenerational family resort, site for a meeting or just want a Cancun vacation? See why you should book all-inclusive Moon Palace resort.
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