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7 Best Places in Mexico for Families

BySherry Arkfeld

Planning a trip to Mexico with kids? Whether you’re looking for beach time, cultural experiences, or outdoor adventures, you’re in the right place.

I’ve been living and traveling throughout Mexico full-time since 2022. I’ve explored beach towns, colonial cities, and quiet corners most tourists miss. I know what makes a destination fun, safe, and easy for families.

If you’re trying to keep everyone happy without spending all day planning or stressing, this guide is for you. From snorkeling with turtles to riding zip lines through the jungle and even riding camels, these places make it simple to enjoy your time together.

Here are seven of the best places in Mexico for families, each offering something a little different depending on what you’re looking for.

Best Places for Families in Mexico

Mexico, in general, is very family-oriented. I loved seeing entire families playing ball in the street in the evenings when I lived in Cancun.

So, how did I come up with this list? While cities like San Miguel de Allende and Mexico City are perfectly welcoming to families, they may not appeal to children so much.

That’s why I stuck with the places on or near the ocean with a lot of tourist attractions. While exploring museums and architecture in Mexico City is my idea of a great time, kids are more likely to get bored.

Sticking with beach destinations pretty much guarantees children of all ages will be entertained without a lot of effort.

1. Akumal

A sea turtle swimming gracefully through the crystal-clear turquoise waters of Akumal, Mexico. The turtle’s detailed shell glistens under the sun as a lush coastline and resorts stretch out in the background beneath a sky full of fluffy clouds.

Why it’s great for families:

  • Calm, swimmable bay perfect for younger kids
  • Easy snorkeling with wild sea turtles
  • Close to eco-parks, cenotes, and Mayan ruins
  • Less crowded and more relaxed than nearby towns

Akumal is a hidden gem between Tulum and Playa del Carmen. The town’s name means “place of the turtles,” and you’ll quickly see why. The bay is shallow and clear, with wild sea turtles often gliding by just a few feet from shore.

Yal-Ku Lagoon offers another great swim spot with calm water full of colorful fish. You’ve also got nearby cenotes for cooling off and eco-parks like Xcaret for full-day adventures. Akumal is ideal if you want a slower pace but still have plenty to do.

Family-friendly things to do:

Where to stay:

2. Cancun

A beautiful beach scene in Cancun with several thatched-roof palapas providing shade on the sandy shore. In the background, the vivid turquoise ocean stretches out towards the horizon under a partly cloudy sky, while a few people enjoy the beach in the distance. Lush green plants frame the area, adding a touch of tropical beauty.

Why it’s great for families:

  • Direct flights from many major cities
  • Tons of all-inclusive resorts with built-in kid entertainment
  • Easy day trips to islands, parks, and ruins
  • Convenience and comfort all in one place

Cancun is an easy win for families, especially if you want a trip that requires minimal planning. The Hotel Zone is designed for stress-free vacations with beach access, kid-friendly pools, and endless dining options.

There is more to Cancun than just resorts. You can visit the interactive aquarium, take a pirate dinner cruise, hop on a ferry to Isla Mujeres, or book a cenote tour.

Family-friendly things to do:

Where to stay:

3. Puerto Vallarta

An aerial shot captures the bustling Los Muertos Beach in Puerto Vallarta, featuring the iconic pier with its sail-like structure, surrounded by azure waters, colorful beach umbrellas, and nestled at the foot of the verdant Sierra Madre mountains.

Why it’s great for families:

  • Safe, walkable, and full of character
  • Combines beach, jungle, and culture
  • Great for foodies, explorers, and relaxation
  • Works for all ages

Puerto Vallarta blends small-town charm with big adventure. You can stroll the Malecon for street art and live music, take a water taxi to hidden beaches, or zipline through the jungle.

It is a solid choice if you want a mix of beach days and cultural experiences without dealing with big crowds.

Family-friendly things to do:

Where to stay:

4. Cozumel

A purple octopus statue - one of the decorations for Carnaval.

Why it’s great for families:

  • Calm beaches and excellent snorkeling
  • Small island that is easy to get around
  • Low-key and nature-focused

Cozumel is made for families who love being outside. It’s relaxed and safe, with tons of water activities like snorkeling, reef tours, and even submarine rides.

There are also plenty of things to do outside the water. You can go on an easy hike, go ziplining, and visit the San Gervasio Mayan ruins.

If you want a trip without crowds but still packed with memorable activities, Cozumel is a great pick.

Family-friendly things to do:

Where to stay:

5. Merida

A wide-angle shot of the Monumento a la Patria in Mérida, Mexico, a large stone sculpture featuring intricate carvings of Mayan figures and symbols, with a Mexican flag flying above. The monument sits in a circular stone base surrounded by a landscaped street, with red tropical plants in the foreground and a man crossing the road to the right under a blue sky with puffy clouds.

Why it’s great for families:

  • Safe, clean, and walkable
  • Affordable and packed with culture
  • Close to cenotes, ruins, and Progreso Beach
  • Great for families who want a little learning with their fun

Merida is one of Mexico’s safest cities and a perfect choice for families who want more than just a beach trip. You can explore plazas filled with live music, day trip to ancient ruins, or swim in nearby cenotes.

It is easy to blend learning, culture, and relaxing family time all in one trip.

Family-friendly things to do:

Where to stay:

6. Cabo San Lucas

Aerial shot of a picturesque Cabo beachfront neighborhood with red-roofed houses, palm trees, a clear sandy beach, and a boat cruising near the shore.

Why it’s great for families:

  • Dramatic landscapes with plenty of activities
  • Year-round sunshine
  • Resorts with kid-friendly features
  • Calm, swimmable beaches in certain areas

Cabo is a solid choice if you want a no-stress vacation setup. You can spend days at the pool or beach, but there is also adventure nearby.

Families can take glass-bottom boat rides, go ziplining, or explore the desert.

Just double-check beach conditions before swimming since some beaches have strong currents.

Family-friendly things to do:

Where to stay:

7. Isla Mujeres

A scenic view of a tall wooden tower with a thatched roof standing in the middle of vibrant turquoise waters, likely part of a zipline attraction. A person is seen ziplining toward the shore, while a palm tree frames the foreground and a distant city skyline stretches across the background.

Why it’s great for families:

  • Small, safe, and easy to get around
  • Calm, shallow beaches perfect for young kids
  • Golf carts instead of cars
  • Quick ferry ride from Cancun

Isla Mujeres is a peaceful escape if you want to slow things down. The island is compact and safe, making it ideal for families who want to relax.

Playa Norte is the highlight. Kids can wade out forever in the calm, clear water while you unwind at a beachfront cafe.

Family-friendly things to do:

Don’t miss my article, 15 Unforgettable Things to Do in Isla Mujeres

Where to stay:

Tips for Traveling to Mexico with Kids

Time Activities Around the Heat
Plan outings for early morning or late afternoon, especially in hotter areas like Cancun, Merida, and Cabo. Use the middle of the day for downtime, naps, or pool time.

Stay Safe

Stick to known tourist areas. Drink bottled or filtered water, even for brushing teeth. Keep an eye on ocean conditions before letting kids swim, especially on the Pacific side.

What to Pack

You can find most supplies in big towns, but it helps to bring essentials.

Renting a Car vs. Using Taxis

Taxis are affordable and easy to use in places like Cancun, Cozumel, Isla Mujeres, and Puerto Vallarta. Rentals make sense if you want to explore around Akumal, Merida, or Cozumel at your own pace.

If you rent a car, make sure you buy full insurance, document the car with photos, and be ready for lots of speed bumps.

I recommend using Discover Cars in Mexico. They sell their own insurance, which is much less than you’d pay at the counter.

A family of three—two adults and a young girl—stand hand-in-hand at the edge of a beach, facing the ocean as waves crash toward them under a bright, sunny sky.

Wrap-Up: Best Places in Mexico for Families

Mexico is one of the easiest countries to travel with kids. Whether you want relaxation, adventure, or culture, there’s a destination that fits your family’s style.

  • Want calm beaches? Isla Mujeres or Cozumel
  • Looking for activities and sightseeing? Puerto Vallarta or Cabo
  • Interested in culture and history? Merida
  • Prefer an all-in-one resort stay? Cancun
  • Want nature and fewer crowds? Akumal

Pick the spot that feels right for your family, pack your bags, and get ready to make some unforgettable memories.

Related Posts

Pro Tips for Your Mexico Trips

Do I need travel insurance?

YES. No matter when you visit Mexico, don’t forget to buy travel insurance. It’s a small price to pay for peace of mind. If you need it once it will pay for itself many times over. I highly recommend Safety Wing. They have a proven track record for customer satisfaction and a variety of coverage levels.

Is it safe to rent a car in Mexico?

YES. Renting a car in Mexico is not only safe, but it’s a great way to explore. Discover Cars is hands down the best rental car company. They check international and local companies to get you the best rates.

Will my phone work in Mexico?

Maybe — It depends on your company, so check with your provider. If you don’t have free service in Mexico, the least expensive option is to buy a Telcel SIM card. As Mexico’s largest carrier, Telcel has the best coverage of any Mexico SIM Cards. I have one and it’s been a lifesaver.

You can also get an eSIM. Airalo has coverage in over 200 countries/regions, including Mexico.

What’s the best way to book my Mexico accommodations?

For Mexico hotels, Booking.com is the best site, but for hostels, check out Hostel World. If you’re considering a Mexico Airbnb, don’t forget to check VRBO, which is often cheaper with more options.

What do I pack for Mexico?

 My Mexico packing list has all the info you need on packing for your trip to Mexico.

What’s the best site for great deals on flights to Mexico?

For finding cheap Mexico flights, I recommend using Skyscanner.

Do I need a visa for Mexico?

Probably Not. U.S., Canadian, and most European passport holders don’t need a visa for Mexico. To verify if you’ll need a Mexico travel visa check the Mexican Consulate’s website.
For assistance with all your worldwide visa questions, check out iVisa.

Sherry Arkfeld is a digital nomad, travel blogger, and copywriter living her dream of being able to work from anywhere in the world while exploring new places with her little dog, Shelby. Sherry is passionate about sharing her experiences to help other travelers and digital nomads. Sherry and Shelby are currently traveling slowly around Mexico with plans to eventually go (almost) everywhere.