Tag Archives: Mexico

Mazatlan, Mexico
Mazatlan, Mexico, Plan, Trip Ideas

Mazatlan: 10 Reasons to Go

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When beach resort meets historic port, the combination of cultures makes for a memorable vacation destination. In Mazatlan, one can play in the surf by day, dress for dinner and the symphony, then end the evening strolling historic streets where warm light and laughter spills from sidewalk cafes.

1  Welcome Amigos

As one of Mexico’s most significant port cities, dating back to Spanish Colonial times, Mazatlan has a long tradition of welcoming new arrivals with genuine hospitality. This open and accommodating attitude has earned the city the tile of “Pearl of the Pacific.” Many residents have at least some basic understanding of English and will reward polite questions with helpful answers. Most are equally willing to tutor your faltering Spanish to create a mutually satisfactory conversation.

2  The Weather is Here

There’s a good chance the day’s weather forecast will be “warm and sunny,” and little chance you’ll need to carry an umbrella. Though Mazatlan is located on the Tropic of Cancer, the effects of the warm sun are tempered by the cooling waters of the Pacific. Humidity is also lower than in coastal destinations to the south, as the terrain is somewhat more arid. The result is a year-round climate with lows in the 60s, highs in the 80s and only occasional sporadic rain showers.

3  The Downtown Scene

In addition to beachfront resorts, Mazatlan has a historic side and a life beyond the tourism zone. The heart of the city is the Historic Zone, which has roots going back to the Spanish Colonial days of the mid-1500s. After experiencing several cycles of decline and revival over the centuries, the old streets are once more alive with activity, and centuries old structures have been restored and occupied by cafes, galleries and artist’s enclaves. The streets near Plazuela Machado are animated by street performers and musicians, and the crowds at the restaurants and bars spill from open fronts onto sidewalk tables. The action continues well into the night.

4  Don’t Stop the Carnival

Mazatlan is a town that knows how to throw a party. Its annual carnival, staged the week before Lent, is billed as the third largest in the world, behind only New Orleans and Rio de Janeiro in terms of size. In addition to the costume parades and carnival queens, Mazatlan’s version of the celebration offers more opportunities for participation and is decidedly family friendly. There are themed street parties where all are welcome, live music and food festivals. Downtown streets are closed, holidays taken from work, and the waterfront along the Malecón fills with laughter and the sounds of banda, grupera and mariachi music.

5  Vacation Central

Sun, sand and fun will always rank high on most vacation wish lists, and Mazatlan certainly has those bases covered. Fronting a prime section of beach several miles north of the port is the Golden Zone, aka Zona Dorada. Here, a collection of two- to four-star beachfront hotels accommodate all budgets. The area is also home to more than 100 restaurants and an extensive collection of shops, nightclubs and entertainment venues. Also nearby are marinas, golf, a baseball stadium, botanical gardens and one of Mexico’s best aquariums.

6  The Aquatic Playground

Water-sports lovers will find plenty to like in Mazatlan. The mixing of warmer waters flowing down from the Sea of Cortez with the cool, rich waters of the Pacific Ocean create fertile fishing grounds, where anglers do battle with billfish and reel in tasty table fare. Reefs and rock ledges scattered around a trio of offshore islands tempt divers to submerge and explore, while a number of left shore breaks reward skilled wave riders. On calmer days, there’s plenty of action to be had with a kayak, stand-up paddleboard or personal watercraft from launch points all along the beach, while afternoon sea breezes give sailors, kiteboarders and windsurfers a lift.

7  Performance Art

The crown jewel of Mazatlan’s cultural scene is the Angela Peralta Theater. Dating from 1874, this once-grand opera house was restored to its former glory in 1992, and now hosts a busy schedule of events that takes in everything from the state symphony to children’s choirs. Today, Mazatlan fields an impressive array of exhibitions and festivals of international merit, including the State Festival of Arts, the International Dance Festival, the Mazatlan International Film Festival, the Mazatlan Book and Arts Fair and the International Guitar Festival. A highlight of the year is the Mazatlan Cultural Festival, which stretches from early November to mid-December, and includes a range of music, ballet and theatrical performances, along with motion picture screenings and comedy events.

8  On the Waterfront

Mazatlan’s seaside promenade, the Malecón, stretches more than seven miles along the coast, connecting Olas Altas Beach and the historic district to the Zona Dorado. Various sections of this sculpted pathway offer everything from seaside solitude to chances for convivial people watching. Walkers, joggers, riders and rollerbladers share the lanes, and there are benches and small parks for those seeking to just sit and relax. An impressive collection of original sculptures and non-traditional monuments provide points of interest. Vendors and food carts line the more popular sections, and local families join tourists each evening to take in the sunset and the sea air.

9  Fresh Catch

Local fishing skiffs launch from beaches early each morning, crossing paths with shrimp trawlers returning to port with bountiful hauls. By the end of the day, these ocean harvests will make their way to kiosks and kitchens across the city. Mazatlan is famous for the large, succulent shrimp, and these crustaceans are grilled, sautéed and fried into a delicious range of offerings. Finned fare is also on the menu, and whether it’s a fish and cabbage taco purchased from a cart on the Malecón, or the catch of the day at an upscale table in the Zona Dorada, there’s a good chance tonight’s meal was swimming yesterday.

10  Island Time

Stone Island, one of Mazatlan’s most popular day trip destinations, is a short water taxi ride from the downtown waterfront. This former coconut farm is now a waterfront playground, offering up a smorgasbord of beach activities that include horseback rides, kayaking, snorkeling, shore cruises and cookouts. To the north, and less than a mile off the beaches of the Golden Zone, a trio of uninhabited islands—Deer, Goat and Bird—provides a wilder backdrop for kayaking, snorkeling, hiking and scuba diving adventures.

 

Playa del Carmen shopping
Mexico, Plan, Playa del Carmen, Trip Ideas

Playa del Carmen: 10 Reasons to Go

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From a quiet coastal village with a single road, Playa del Carmen has blossomed into a chic, international beach destination. But the arrival of the beautiful people hasn’t marred the landscape. High rises don’t overshadow the palms, downtown remains charming Mexican rather than internationally ostentatious, and strolling the beach or the avenue is still the best way to get around. By day, its shorts and flip-flops, but when the sun sets, sexy sultry dresses are on display, while the gents don linen slacks and maybe a tailored guayabera shirt.

1  Shopping Spree

Few shoppers will emerge from Playa’s Fifth Avenue boutiques empty handed. Some of the best retail is between Calles 4 and 10 where you’ll find unique jewelry and the latest fashion from Mexican and International designers. If it’s local artisanal products you seek, look for Talavera pottery, the hand-painted earthenware made into frogs, turtles, lizards and dragonflies. For Mayan clothing bring back a huipil, the traditional blouse worn by Mayan women for centuries. Shops are also loaded with candleholders, hand-carved wall art and crucifixes, mirrors, leather goods and plenty of blankets and rugs.

2  Fifth Avenue South of the Border

Playa is a walking town. Running parallel to the beach is an inviting pathway where cafes and bistros spill out onto the brick pavers. Along the way are taco stands, street food vendors, dive shops and lively beach bars. Fifth Avenue, the main thoroughfare through town, is designated as a pedestrian-only promenade through downtown. The avenues run parallel to the beach, and the calles run perpendicular. Without once consulting a map, you can enjoy the art of exploring. After a stroll, retire to a secluded patio to relax or a table along the walkway for optimal people watching.

3  From Jalapeno to Ancho

In Playa you can dine on a seven-course menu or grab a taco on the run. Mexican, Italian and Thai menus mix with seafood and steak houses, but the evolving restaurant scene also explodes with exotic spices and innovative touches by chefs from around the world. The Yucatan adds plenty of peppers, chilies and chocolate for inspiration. For a local delicacy, try fish painted with red achiote paste, tangy but not as fiery as the local habanero chili. Local fires roast fish, turkey and pork covered in palm leaves or wrapped in plantain leaves. For the less daring there is the familiar sopa de lima, the chicken soup with shreds of chicken topped with tortillas, or caldo xochitl, a chicken soup with avocado.

4  Boutique Properties

There are no cookie-cutter resorts in the center of town. Instead what you’ll find are small boutique hotels with character, each flaunting its unique appeal. El Deseo has a rooftop bar where guests sip exotic cocktails and lounge on beds under the stars. Mosquito Blue channels the Mediterranean with white walls, plenty of wrought iron and lovely gardens that surround two pools where guests enjoy privacy and lounge at day’s end. In the heart of town, La Tortuga captivates with a decor that melds old-world Mexico with beachfront palapa style and a sculpted serpentine pool that winds through lush landscaping.

5  Disney a la Mexico

For families, or those who just love theme parks, the Yucatan offers a distinctly Mexican take on the experience. There are theme parks up and down the Riviera Maya corridors, and the largest is Xcaret, which sits just three miles south of Playa. It’s the Yucatan’s most visited eco- archaeological theme park, tying many attractions to Mayan life, history and cultures while also preserving and incorporating the natural landscape. There are shows and spectacles, but also an aviary, botanical gardens, a turtle breeding farm and a butterfly garden. Sorry, no splashing roller coasters here, but there is the snorkeling river that runs part underground and out to the sea.  

6  Stunning Ruins

At the southern end of the Riviera Maya corridor, just a short drive from Playa, is Tulum, the Yucatan’s most visited Mayan ruins. It is easily reached and therefore very popular with tour bus groups, so plan on visiting early or late to avoid the crowds. The ruins are compact, with the castillo being the largest structure, but the temple with frescoes is the most viewed. It’s pegged as the most impressive ruins in the Yucatan because of the stunning views of ancient stone structures set on a cliff overlooking the turquoise seas.

7  The Mayan Underworld

Hidden in the Mayan jungle lie the cenotes, underground waterways and tunnels that cut though the limestone substrate and provide fresh water to the region. These aquamarine pools flow into hidden caverns where stalactites and stalagmites are revealed by filtered sunlight. For the Maya these were the sacred waterways to the spiritual underworld. Join an eco-minded group to explore the caves; some allow snorkeling and swimming or relaxing on inner tubes, others even have rappelling while many are for exploration on foot only.

8  Where the Sky was Born

The Maya called it “where the sky is born.” The sprawling Sian Ka’an Biosphere Reserve abuts the southern end of the Riviera Maya. This 1.3 million-acre ecological sanctuary encompasses freshwater and coastal lagoons, mangrove swamps, cays, savannas, tropical forests and barrier reefs. The area is home to more than 1,000 varieties of plants, 350 species of birds and 70 different mammals. You’ll find endangered manatees, crocodiles, jaguars and turtles. Tour with a knowledgeable guide familiar with the local flora and fauna, join a group of bird watchers, visit Mayan ruins or kayak through the mangroves.

9  Nightlife

The shorts and flip-flop crowd owns the beach at happy hour, but nighttime action moves to another level, where a bit more style is often on display. A stop off at the Blue Parrot, one of the most popular for years is de rigueur, and after that Fly at Deseo is good for exotic cocktails and people watching. You’ll find jazz bars, where jazz is blended with Latino music and Mexican music. Diablito Cha Cha Cha pulls in crowds with a disc jockey who mixes up funk, hip hop and house music, and La Santanera is an eclectic spot with a distinctive Mexican spirit and a DJ who blends up retro salsa, cumbia and merengue rhythms.

10  Mexico Serenades

While Italian, French and English are widely spoken in Playa, there’s no doubt that you are in Mexico when the mariachis stroll down the avenue come evening. Outdoor cafes, patios and even coffee shops are greeted by the moving musicians dressed appropriately in tightly fitting black suits and embroidered vests with silver buttons. Take in the warmth of traditional Mexican ballads, and if the mood strikes, be ready to chime in on the chorus of favorites such as Cielito Lindo. If you can’t remember “Canta y no llores,” you’ll at least be good to chime in for some “Ay, Ay, Ay, Ay…”

Cabo San Lucas, Cabo Wabo Mexico
Cabo San Lucas, Eat, Mexico, Trip Ideas

Where to Party in Cabo San Lucas

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Cabo San Lucas is a town that likes to party. As the sun sinks over the mountains, the libations flow and the bars and clubs fill with everyone from sport fishermen on shore leave to incognito A-listers behaving badly. But there’s more to the scene than upside-down margaritas and boozy Macarena line dances, and you don’t have to be a spring breaker gone wild to join the party. The town at Land’s End offers many flavors of relaxation, from laid-back beach bars to pulsing dance clubs, quiet jazz to driving rock and supple sauvignons to lime-laced tequilas. Here is a sampling of the best ways to celebrate a Cabo vacation in your personal favorite style.

Cabo Wabo Crownd, Cabo San Lucas Mexico, where to party in Cabo San Lucas.

Serving more than just bar food, the kitchen at Cabo Wabo turns out a full range of entries. Those seeking to indulge can add a pour of the cantina’s namesake tequila. Photo: Cabo Wabo Cantina

Cheer

Die-hard sports fans like to know the score, even when on vacation. Those who don’t want to fight for a view of a small screen down at the corner of the room can head to the Mango Cantina. Though relatively new, this marina-side sports bar has already become one of the town’s favorites, with steaming major-league action to 16 high-def screens. And you won’t have to settle for potato skins and wings, because the kitchen turns out a full spectrum of breakfast-to-late-night offerings that include regional Mexican and fresh seafood—plus Buffalo wings for those who just can’t do without. Closer to the town center, and air conditioned for those steamy summer afternoons, is the spacious Desperados, where wall space is split between Hollywood memorabilia and a collection of plasma screens that are kept tuned to the sports channels. After the games are done, the action shifts to the dance floor, with a disc jockey most nights and live music several times a week.

Cabo San Lucas Desperados Mexico

At Desperados the wall art may be vintage Hollywood, but the daytime vibe is sports action. After dark, the dance floor takes over, with live music. Photo: Desperados Restaurant & Cantina

Dance

When you are ready to swap flip-flops for dancing shoes and spend the night moving to the mix, you need look no farther than the corner of Marina Boulevard and Ignacio Zaragoza Avenue, where the site once occupied by the Zoo has been transformed into the Pink Kitty Nightclub. The vibe is young, hip and beautiful. Italian glass chandeliers hang overhead, and eel- skin leather seating lines the corners—a decor management refers to as “modern baroque boudoir.” Sound and lights are state-of-the art, disc jockeys are imported from the West Coast, Vegas and beyond, and the requisite VIP area awaits to accommodate celebs and special occasion splurges. Equally fabulous is the Passion Club, which is located at the ME Cabo Resort. House and dance music dominates, and there are separate lounge and VIP areas with table service and top-shelf brands. Passion is best known for its themed parties, including one of the Cape’s most memorable New Year’s celebrations and an off-the-hook anniversary party each April.

Cabo San Lucas, ME, Passion, Me Cabo Mexico

Located within the ME Cabo resort, Passion is one of Cabo’s swankest night spots. The club is especially known for its theme parties and Thursday Ladies’ Nights. Photo: Victor Elias/Melia Hotels

Party

Over-hyped or totally awesome. Whatever your option of Cabo’s anything- goes watering holes, no vacation would be complete without a stop in one of them, if only to buy the T-shirt. But should you choose to give in and cut loose, you might find yourself hanging upside down like a prize catch at the Giggle Marlin, rocking out when Sammy Hagar makes a personal appearance onstage at his Cabo Wabo Cantina, or being goaded into an exhibitionist strut by the gregarious staff at El Squid Roe. Just be warned, it will take stamina to close these joints down, because the tequila flows freely and the action goes well into the wee hours.

Cabo Wabo Musicians, Cabo San Lucas Nightlife

Cabo Wabo has a reputation as the best place to hear live music in Cabo San Lucas. Internationally known performers share the stage with up-and-comers and Sammy Hagar himself. Photo: Cabo Wabo Cantina

Chill

If barefoot and beachfront is your thing, head for the office. No, not that familiar cubicle back in the states, but rather Cabo’s original waterfront hangout, The Office on the Beach. This thatched palapa has been a fixture of Médano Beach since the 1970s when it was a hangout for windsurfers and locals who dropped by for a quick cerveza and a fish taco. As Cabo grew from a quiet fishing village to an international destination, so too did the Office’s menu. Breakfast patrons can now opt for lobster omelets, while the dinner fare includes a range of fresh seafood and steak offerings, along with regional favorites and a notorious 16-ounce margarita. Tables spill out onto the sand, and the iconic rock formations of Land’s End loom in the background. The beachfront action can get lively in the afternoon and often spills over to the next-door Mango Deck. Here, a DJ presides and in-the- mouth tequila shooters are dispensed by a roving server who keeps his bottles in a hip holster, ready for deployment. For a quieter take on beachfront refreshment, head a quarter-mile up the sand to Tabasco Beach.

Quaff

If you are here for the beer, you can get it fresh from a pair of microbreweries located within walking distance of the marina district. The Baja Brewing Company blazed the way, serving up a selection of craft beers on a rooftop terrace at the Cabo Villas Beach Resort. Offerings range from blonde ales and ambers to oatmeal stout and a fruit-and-vegetable brew. A favorite savory accompaniment is the Beer Pizza, which as the name suggests, incorporates a bit of the brew into the dough. The menu pays homages to traditional pub favorites such as shepherd’s pie and onion rings, but also offers fresh fish and pastas. In early 2013, a second microbrewery joined the mix. The Ramuir Cerveza Artesanal Mexicano is a partnership between a local restaurateur and Tijuana-based microbrewer Cerveceria Ramuri. The downstairs restaurant cooks up a savory mix of entrees from land and sea in an open-air kitchen, while the best view in the house is from the rooftop beer garden, where handcrafted brews flow from tap and bottle.

Cabo San Lucas Drinks, Ramuri

Freshly brewed craft beers are the best call at the Ramuir Cerveza Artesanal Mexicano, which has an on-site brewery and rooftop beer garden. Photo: Leon Felipe Chargoy/Ramuri Cerveza Artesanal

Savor

With Cabo being just a quick hop from California, it’s no surprise that a bit of the Golden State’s wine culture has found its way south. The Los Cabos Winery was founded by Robert Turnage, who relocated from Santa Cruz, Calif., to establish the region’s first full-spectrum winery. Here, house labels are blended, barrel-aged and bottled in a temperature and humidity- controlled environment, and an adjacent retail venue offers a range of labels for sale. The venue is also home to wine tastings and one of the town’s premier restaurants, where meals are savored against a backdrop of live or recorded jazz, and a private wind cave awaits those seeking a truly intimate dinner setting. Another local favorite for oenophiles is the DOC Wine Bar, where chef Emanuele Oliviero cooks up traditional Italian favorites from locally and organically sourced ingredients. To complement these culinary offerings, owner Pietro Gioco has curated an extensive wine list that highlights Italian and Mexican vintages, with more than 200 labels to choose from.

 

 

Caribbean Hammock
British Virgin Islands, Caribbean, Cozumel, Mexico, Nevis, Stay, Trip Ideas

Six Caribbean Resorts Where Irresistible Hammocks Await

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The word comes to us from the Taino people: amaca. These woven strands evolved from fishing nets into chairs, beds and carry sacks. Sailors slung them in the holds of their trading vessels and jungle explorers carried them in lieu of bedding. Today, hammocks evoke relaxation and provide a perfect place to rest or nod off for an afternoon nap as a sea breeze tempers the heat of the day. Whether suspended over lush green grass, beachfront or just outside your private palapa, a hammock is always a welcome site when you arrive at a Caribbean resort.

Snorkeling in Mexico
Cozumel, Mazatlan, Mexico, Play, Trip Ideas

Into the Blue: Best Snorkel Sites in Mexico

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Whether it’s the clear waters of the Caribbean or the blue depths of the Pacific calling, visitors to Mexico’s coast feel the call of the sea. Those who want to heed this call would do well to take a mask and snorkel, and venture out from shore. Along any coast where breaking waves don’t hinder, there are discoveries to be made. But not all snorkel sites are created equal, and these favorites offer the best combination of calm water, easy access and abundant marine life.

Cozumel

The western shores of Mexico’s Cozumel Island are home to some fantastic shallow reefs, many of which can be reached with a short swim from shore. But not all these waters are suited for novices, as the same currents that create the island’s dramatic coral and sponge growth can also make self- guided snorkeling a tricky prospect—especially at sites to the north where currents are more likely to push you out to sea than in to shore. Currents tend to be milder near the shore at sites along the central coast, and two favorite spots for shore access are the dock at the Monkey Bar Beach Club and the stone landing at the Fiesta Americana Cozumel. Boat-based tour operators have learned to use currents to their advantage, dropping groups of divers or snorkelers at one end of a reef, and then picking them up after they’ve enjoyed a free ride on the moving waters. One perennial favorite for drift snorkels is Paradise Reef, where the many nooks and crannies of the coral provide shelter for lobster, eels and more than 200 species of tropical fish. For a milder yet still memorable shore snorkel, you’ll want to head to Chankanaab Park, where you’ll find an underwater sculpture garden and swarms of colorful fish. On-island accommodations cover a wide range of options from modest to memorable, both in terms of amenities and pricing. The Cozumel Palace delivers a good combination of pampering and value.

Cozumel, Mexico Snorkeling with Fish, best snorkel sites in Mexico

The currents that wash the reefs of Cozumel bring life-giving nutrients. Here, a school of porkfish and grunts takes shelter behind a soft coral growth. Photo: Jodi Jacobson/iStock

Cabo Pulmo

Mexico’s Cabo Pulmo National Marine Park is a haven for fish, sea lions and manta rays, and a playground for divers, sea kayakers and snorkelers, who come to explore the finest protected waters in the Sea of Cortez. It’s a two- hour drive from Cabo San Lucas to the small village of Cabo Pulmo, and several tour services provide daily transport and snorkel equipment— including the wetsuits that may be needed in the cooler months. It’s also possible to create a self-guided adventure by renting a car and driving to Mermaid’s Beach for a shore entry, or signing on with a local boat captain for a trip to Lover’s Beach or out to Frailes Rock to swim with the sea lions. In summer, water temperatures reach into the mid-80s, making wetsuits unnecessary, while sea breezes keep air temperatures significantly cooler than other parts of Baja. For those who want more than a day in the water, nearby Cabo Pulmo Beach Resort offers clean, cost-effective beach bungalows and more luxurious villas, plus an on-site dive shop and twice daily guided snorkel tours.

Manta Rays in Cabo Pulmo Mexico

Of the more than 6,000 species of marine life found at Cabo Pulmo, manta rays are possibly the most exciting. At times, they will leap from the water. Photo: iStock

Mazatlan

The Pacific Coast city of Mazatlan overlooks a group of nearshore islands that offer plenty for snorkelers to discover. The easiest to reach, Stone Island, is actually connected to the mainland by a narrow rocky peninsula, but is best accessed by a short water taxi from South Beach across the navigation channel. Once there, the best place to fish watch is along the small rocky cove on the western tip of the island, where there are also several derelict ships sitting in shallow water. A couple of miles to the north, and directly off the resort area known as the Golden Zone, are a trio of small uninhabited islands, named Deer, Bird and Goat, which are surrounded by clear waters and shallow reefs. Tour operators offer day trips to the islands. Deer Island provides a long, shallow shelf that holds a variety of fish, while Goat Island is the least visited and offers more solitary snorkeling within a reef-sheltered basin. There are a number of prime beachfront resorts on the nearby mainland, and one of our favorites is the El Cid Marina Beach.

Mazatlan, shark in Mexico

The shallow-water crevices around Mazatlan’s outlying islands are home to a population of nurse sharks. Unless severely provoked, these fish are harmless to humans. Photo: Yann Poirier/iStock

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Romantic Sunset in the Caribbean
Bahamas, Bahamas-Out Islands, Cancun, Caribbean, Cuba, Dominican Republic, Mexico, Plan, Puerto Rico, St. Lucia, Trip Ideas

The Caribbean’s Most Romantic Moments

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Between the soft, enveloping trade winds and the scent of hibiscus and frangipani they carry, it’s a cold heart indeed that doesn’t feel at least a little romantic in the Caribbean. Almost any moonlit beach or relaxed restaurant can be the launching pad for love, but there are some special times and places that you should experience for yourself. Here are our picks for the Caribbean’s most romantic moments.

Picnic at Fort Rodney, Pigeon Island, St. Lucia

“A Book of Verses underneath the Bough / A Jug of Wine, a Loaf of Bread / and Thou Beside me singing in the Wilderness….” Omar Khayyam never saw Pigeon Island on St. Lucia, but no doubt it was just this sort of place he had in mind when he wrote his famous quatrain. Pack your bread and wine and head up the hiking trail to Fort Rodney. The view from on top is magnificent, sweeping across Rodney Bay and Reduit Beach. The fort and bay are named for Admiral George Rodney, who bedeviled the French, Spanish and Dutch fleets in the 18th century. There are cannons commanding the seaway leading to Gros Islet and plenty of spots to sprawl on a blanket in the shade of the ruined fortifications.

St Lucia Pigeon Island

The site of historic forts and the source of magnificent views, St. Lucia’s Pigeon Island is now joined to the main island, thanks to a man-made earth causeway added in the 1970s. Photo: St Lucia Tourist Board

Equinox, Temple of Kukulkán, Mexico

Both mysterious and mystical, the Maya temples of the Yucatan make you feel the vastness of time and spark appreciation for the pleasures and people of the present. A short drive from Cancun, the largest structure at Chichén Itzá is “El Castillo,” the Temple of Kukulkán, the Feathered Serpent. On the spring and autumn equinoxes, the steps that ascend the pyramid cast a moving shadow that looks like a large, feathered snake slowly crawling down the structure’s stone side. Avoid the hordes of addled New Agers by visiting a few days before or after the equinox. The serpent will still appear and you can enjoy each other’s company without so many spectators. How considerate of the Mayan astronomers to put on a light show just for the two of you.

Chichén Itzá’s Kukulkan, exico

Each year at the times of the spring and fall equinox, evening shadows on Chichén Itzá’s Temple of Kukulkán create patterns that resemble a giant serpent ascending the stairs. Photo: Victor Pelaez/iStock

Sunset at the Rogativa Statue, San Juan, Puerto Rico

The stone fortifications that protected San Juan have been stout enough to survive for more than 400 years. But in 1797, the city was almost forced to surrender to British troops. Sir Ralph Abercrombie and his invasion fleet lay at anchor in the harbor. The bishop of San Juan recruited scores of women and led a torchlight parade, called a rogativa, atop the city’s walls to pray for deliverance. Seeing the huge procession of torches, the Brits concluded the town had been massively reinforced. The hoisted their anchors and sailed away in the night. A statue commemorating the event stands in the Plazuela Rogativa overlooking San Juan Harbor. At sunset, the city walls and the statue are bathed in a glow thick and sweet as orange marmalade while the lights blink on across the opposite shore.

Altos de Chavon, La Romana, Dominican Republic

Perched on the heights overlooking the languid Chavon River in southeastern Dominican Republic, Altos de Chavon is a re-creation of a 16th century Mediterranean village. Cobblestone streets meander past small shops, art galleries and restaurants, while a broad walkway along the cliff’s edge invites extended gazing over a rolling landscape that encompasses the Casa de Campo golf course. Head over to St. Stanislaus Church and sit in the niche that holds the church’s bell to watch the bougainvillea lining the ravine glow as the sun disappears. Afterward, enjoy a long, lingering dinner.

Dominican Republic La Romana Altos De Chavon

An authentic replica of a medieval European village, the buildings and cobblestone streets of Altos de Chavon were fabricated from the rock spoils of a nearby highway project. Photo: Debbie Snow

Sunrise, Pink Sands Beach, Bahamas

The east side of Harbour Island, just off Eleuthera in the central Bahamas, is rimmed by three glorious miles of pink sand. The beach is wide and lapped by gentle waves muffled by the offshore reef. The distinctive color comes from tiny foraminifera, single-celled organisms that create a pink shell. They die by the millions to create a colorful carpet for lovers. Get to the beach before the sun comes up and watch as the first tendrils of light skip across the tops of the waves onto the sand. Work up your various appetites before heading back to your hotel for breakfast and a rest.

The Tropicana, Havana, Cuba

This is the Caribbean’s original den of iniquity. Although not quite as lively as it was pre- Castro when it was run by mobsters Meyer Lansky and Santo Trafficante Jr., the stage show at the Tropicana celebrates the primal Afro-Caribbean rhythms of Cuba and serves them up with plenty of skin and sizzle. A night in the Salon Bajo las Estrellas with scantily clad dancers scampering along catwalks in the towering trees that line the outdoor showroom will have you feeling the heat.

Cuba Tropicana Club

Since 1939, the cabaret shows at the Tropicana Club have remained one of Cuba’s most iconic acts. Today, the lights shine brighter than ever to welcome a new wave of tourism. Photo: Compflight

Swimming in the Bahia Fosforescente, Parguera, Puerto Rico

On the southwest coast of Puerto Rico near La Parguera is a bay with a shallow entrance that traps microscopic bioluminescent critters. Find a local guide with a small boat, take your mask and snorkel and head out on a moonless night. Test the waters by trailing your hand overboard—when you find the plankton, the friction of your fingers will cause them to glow bright green. Slip overboard and watch in amazement as the two of you literally light up the night.

Puerto Vallarta mexico
Mexico, Plan, Puerto Vallarta, Trip Ideas

Puerto Vallarta: 10 Reasons to Go

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Backed by mountains and embracing the sea, Puerto Vallarta welcomes visitors with a spirit of genuine hospitality. Here, beach culture meets local flavor, and the glitz of modern resorts mingles with the charm of cobblestone streets. One can remain in the center of the action, cloister in an all-inclusive on the edge of town or migrate to a quiet seaside village a few miles to the north or south. Regardless of venue, the Puerto Vallarta resort area remains one of Mexico’s favorite seaside escapes.

1  A Warm Place

With an average of 320 days of sunshine each year, Puerto Vallarta provides ample solar energy for sun worshipers, while the Pacific Ocean mitigates air temperatures to an annual 80- degree average. Weather isn’t the region’s only warmth. Signs leading into town proclaim it “The Friendliest City in the World,” and most feel this claim is justified.

2  The Big Bay

Puerto Vallarta overlooks expansive Banderas Bay, which encompasses 26 miles of coastline within its north-to-south arch. The open waters of the bay are a playground for sailors, while the shores are lined with small fishing and resort villages with beaches that offer everything from surf breaks to calm coves ideal for snorkeling and wading. Some of the favorite sandy strands are adjacent to downtown and the resort districts, while other prime swimming spots are accessible only by boat.

3  Updated Amenities

As one of Mexico’s most significant tourism zones, the Puerto Vallarta region has benefited from significant investments in airport, roadway and hotel infrastructures over the past four decades. These improvements have not overshadowed the personality of the city, which remains rich in culture and tradition.

4  Island Oasis

The Cuale River runs through Puerto Vallarta and into the sea. Near its mouth, a green island of the same name has become one of the city’s favorite in-town getaways. Swinging pedestrian bridges lead to a collection of small restaurants and shops that line shaded walking paths. Cuale Island is also home to a crafts market and cultural center, and the eastern end is maintained as a forested park that attracts visitors and locals alike.

5  Huichol Art

The artwork of Mexico’s indigenous Huichol people is prized by collectors. These painting-like tapestries, which are fabricated from colorful yarns, often depict cultural icons that are sacred or important to Huichol culture. Puerto Vallarta is one of the best places in Mexico to find authentic examples of this artwork, and there are a number of shops and galleries on Lazaro Cardenas that specialize in original examples.

6  On the Waterfront

Tourists and locals alike make their way to the shore to stroll the palm-lined waterfront promenade known as El Malecon. Benches invite relaxation and are an ideal place from which to watch street performers or contemplate the statues placed along a 12-block stretch of walkway flanking Los Muertos Beach.

7  An Aquatic Treasure

At the south end of Banderas Bay, some eight miles from Puerto Vallarta, a group of near-shore rock formations mark the site of Los Arcos National Marine Park. The shallow and usually calm waters surrounding these outsized boulders teem with fish life, and the numerous crevices and ledges create an aquatic playground for snorkelers and divers. A number of excursion boats make daily trips to the site.

8  Market Value

Located near the Cuale River, and on the border between downtown and Old Town, the Municipal Market provides an authentic taste of local commerce. Here, hundreds of small stalls brim with every conceivable type of merchandise, from the necessary to the whimsical, and the prices are always negotiable. On second-story enclaves above the open-front stalls are another wave of vendors, along with a collection of small local eateries.

9  Highland Adventures

The Sierra Madre Mountains, which rise just east of the city, offer a cool, green backdrop to the sun-soaked coast and provide for a wide range of day-trip adventures. Small villages await discovery, mountain roads lead to sweeping vistas, and tree-lined trails lie ready for exploration by foot, horse, mountain bike or off-road vehicle.

10  The Romantic Zone

South of the Cuale River lies the district of old Vallarta, which has earned the nickname of Romantic Zone. It is an area of narrow cobblestone streets and traditional buildings, which house galleries, shops and many of the city’s best restaurants. Come nightfall, it’s also the epicenter for entertainment, with music and laughter spilling into the streets.

 

Lover's Beach, Cabo San Lucas 10 reasons to go, Mexico
Cabo San Lucas, Mexico, Plan, Trip Ideas

Cabo San Lucas: 10 Reasons to Go

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Like the celebrities who visit this seaside town, Cabo San Lucas achieved sufficient notoriety to be called by a single name: Cabo. Perched at the tip of Mexico’s Baja California peninsula, Cabo boasts beaches on the Pacific Ocean and the Sea of Cortez—and some of the best tequila around. Whether you are seeking reclusive luxury or inclusive fun, it’s a destination that’s easy to reach and rewarding once there. 

 

1  Fly Me

One of the best things about Cabo is how easy it is to reach. The modern airport in neighboring San José del Cabo is served by nearly 20 airlines that provide non-stop service from more than 30 destinations in the U.S., Canada and Mexico. A half-hour taxi ride from the airport to downtown Cabo, less time to the various coastal resorts that are scattered in between, puts you in vacation mode quicker than you think. 

2  Sunny, but Mild

The lower Baja peninsula is a desert surrounded by water. Cabo averages around 350 days of sunshine each year, and the cool waters of the Pacific mitigate temperatures without raising the humidity. Daytime highs stay in the 70s in winter and climb into the 90s come summer, and nights cool off slightly. With such an agreeable weather forecast, almost any time of day or night in Cabo is refreshingly pleasant.

3  Appealing Growth

Cabo is firmly on the vacation radar. Yet despite its soaring popularity, the town has not succumbed to urban sprawl, and many of the upscale resorts added in recent years were built on picturesque sites along the coast, a few miles to the north. Visitors find the best of both worlds: uncrowded stretches of beach for recreation and a lively central district for shopping and celebration.

4  Night Moves

When the sun goes down, the music begins, the tequila flows and inhibitions are forgotten. Cabo has earned a reputation as one of the hottest party towns in the hemisphere, and the vibe is inclusive. Backpackers and coeds share the dance floors with incognito celebs and day traders on a weekend fun pass. Action centers around the marina district, where famous/infamous watering holes such as El Squid Roe, Giggling Marlin and Cabo Wabo anchor a downtown collection of more than two dozen bars and dance clubs.

5  The End

 Cabo is perched on the southern tip of the thousand-mile-long Baja peninsula. The dramatic rock formation El Arco de Poseidon (Poseidon’s Arch), carved by wind and waves, is one of the most photographed natural places in Mexico. The adjacent sands of Lover’s Beach provide a scenic respite from the bustling downtown, but are just a short water-taxi ride away.

6 Reel Fun

Cabo was once a sleepy fishing village, which then became an international destination for big game fishermen. Today, the harbor is home to one of the best charter boat fleets in Mexico. Just minutes from shore, anglers can begin the hunt for coastal species such as roosterfish, or venture a bit farther into blue water to hook up with sailfish, tuna, mahimahi or a prized marlin.

7  Rooms for All

 The Los Cabos area offers accommodations at all points in the price spectrum. High rollers can check into five-star digs such as the Experanza or Capella Pedregal for north of a thousand a night, while budget-conscious travelers can score local lodgings for a few hundred pesos, about $30. In between is a wide range of two-to-four star offerings, which provide downtown convenience or beachfront solitude.

8  The Water Way

 Kayak tours along the rocky coastlines on the calmer east side contrast with surfing on the wave-washed Pacific. Factor in the mild water temperatures—70s in winter and 80s in summer—and you have an aquatic playground for every manner of driven, ridden and towed water toy, plus an environment where snorkeling and diving are equally popular. Those who enjoy sightseeing voyages can book a whale-watching tour or trips to Land’s End to see the sea lions.

9  Gaining Altitude

The south Baja peninsula is overlooked by the Sierra de la Laguna Mountains, which rise to heights of 6,000 feet. Here, boulder-strewn canyons and pine-clad heights provide a cool respite and a chance to exchange beach time for an active alpine adventure. Hiking, horseback riding and four-wheel-drive tours are among the ways to discover the higher, drier side of the Cabo area.

10  Ocean’s Bounty

Given the town’s fishing heritage, it should come as no surprise to learn that Cabo is a great place for seafood. What does impress is the variety of ways in which the catch of the day is served up. Menus run the gamut from the just-caught simplicity of fish tacos and ceviches sold by street vendors, to authentic sushi and inspired fusions, such as Baja-Mediterranean cuisine, served with a commanding waterfront view.

Diving in Cozumel, Mexico
Cozumel, Mexico, Plan, Trip Ideas

Cozumel: 10 Reasons to Go

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Cozumel embodies an unpretentious and laid-back lifestyle just right for sundresses, T- shirts, shorts and flip-flops. You’re never far from a beach bar,where you can savor the sea air under a shaded palapa and wiggle your toes in the sand. Long known for world-class diving and now a busy cruise port, Cozumel has another layer that you’ll discover once you get off the tourist route—powdery sand beaches, treasured nature preserves and a prevailing Mexican allure and friendliness.

1  By the Sea

Take in the scene along the Malecón in San Miguel, the white-washed seaside promenade where lovers walk hand-in-hand and families snap photos under the twin bronze eagle statues that flank the Mexican flag.

2  Go West

Beach clubs and beach bars are ubiquitous on Cozumel. You’ll find the hip and cool, the family-friendly and those that resemble theme parks loaded with water-sports opportunities. The sandiest shores are found on the west-central coast, south of town. There you’ll find everything needed for a day at the beach: food, drink, showers, music, plus shallows for swimming and reefs for snorkeling. Avoid those venues packed with cruisers or time your visit for the latter part of the day when the ships call their passengers to embark. Find a spot on the sand, score a hammock, order a margarita and wait for the sun to set.

3  Birdie, Bogey or Eagle?

A first for Mexico, the Cozumel Country Club is a designated and certified Audubon International Cooperative Sanctuary where careful attention was taken to maintain Cozumel’s natural surroundings. The club’s 18-hole, par-72 course was designed by the Nicklaus Design Group to not only provide spirited play, but also give players a chance to commune with nature between shots. The course is lined by tropical forest, mangroves and marshes, which are home to iguanas, crocodiles, raccoons and more than 100 species of birds.

4  Fiesta Time

Cozumel clings to its Mexican and Mayan roots, and celebrations rival any of those on mainland Mexico. Sure, there’s Carnaval in February, but even dearer to the Mexican spirit is Day of the Dead in November, where altars of flowers, candles and food are set out to remember lost loved ones. Hotel lobbies, restaurants and bars pay homage with displays of skulls and skeletons dressed in brightly-colored attire.

5  Lighthouse View

Make the journey to the pride of Cozumel, the 247-acre Faro Celarin Ecological Reserve at Punta Sur on the southern tip of the island. For a bird’s-eye view of the convergence of east and west coasts, climb the 130 steps of the lighthouse. The reserve’s five ecosystems include a lagoon with crocodiles, a mangrove with egrets and water birds and a pristine stretch of beach fronted by a fish-laden reef.

6  From the Sea

Fresh seafood dominates many menus and fish served Veracruz style with its distinctive mixture of spices and peppers is a local favorite. Direct-from-the-sea ceviche is made from fish, shrimp and conch, and keeping with the authentic Mexican experience expect it served with a basket of hot tortilla chips and a selection of homemade salsas. Local hot spots that have stood the test of time include La Conchita del Caribe, La Choza and El Capi Navegante.

7  Nightly Crowd Control

Even though Cozumel gets its fair share of cruise ships, they are gone by nightfall and that’s when the island reverts to the small, intimate town it really is. Locals come out of hiding; visitors can mingle and relax without being approached to buy a souvenir. Stroll around the plaza of Benito Juarez Park in San Miguel, grab a churro (sugar-dipped fried pastry) from the vendor carts or nab an outside table at one of the cafes and watch the night unfold.

8  The Wild Side

Pack up the jeep and get out of town for a day trip to the east coast beaches. Here, fronted by the elements, you’ll find long stretches of deserted sand perfect for walking, cresting waves where surfers play, and windswept beach bars decorated with driftwood, bottles and buoys that made landfall. Beach bars are off the main drag down sandy roads—just follow the handmade signs. Favorite stops might include Playa Bonita, Punta Chen Rio and Punta Moreno, a prime spot for surfers.

9  Feathered Snowbirds

Cozumel is a haven for the true snowbird—the kind with feathers. It also attracts bird lovers, who will delight in trying to spot the 250 species of birds that live on or spend time on Cozumel. The American flamingo hangs close to Punta Sur and warblers of all colors—black-and-white and yellow-throated—can be spotted in clumps of undisturbed forest. Real finds are the brightly-colored hooded oriole, Yucatan woodpecker and the Cozumel emerald, a tiny elusive hummingbird.

10  Underwater World

Cozumel’s sheltered western shoreline is washed by a constant north-flowing current. This stream of clear oceanic water nurtures a rich overgrowth of corals and sponges on the shallow reefs that flank the coast and on the submerged cliffs that plunge propitiously into the depths just offshore. Divers and snorkelers can hitch a ride, dropping overboard from dive boats, which follow attentively while those below are propelled over fish-laden structures. Fabled sites such as Palancar Reef are must-dos for any diver, and the clear waters also allow snorkelers to imbibe the colors and sensations from a surface vantage point.

Caribbean beach chairs for families
Bahamas, Bahamas-New Providence, Cabo San Lucas, Caribbean, Costa Rica, Curacao, Dominican Republic, Hawaii, Hawaii-Big Island, Jamaica, Kauai, Maui, Mexico, Oahu, Plan, Puerto Rico, St. Lucia, Trip Ideas, Turks & Caicos

10 Top Beach Destinations for Family Vacations

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You want to get away, but not from your family. Instead, you’d like to find a place in the sun that provides both relaxing moments and exciting memories. A place where you can temper togetherness with some alone time while the younger generation pursues their passions would be ideal. This destination should also be safe, relatively easy to reach and offer a diverse range of sights and activities—just in case you want to take a break from that beach chair and have some adventures. Here are 10 tropical destinations within easy reach of North America, each ideal for a family getaway.

St. Lucia

Coconut Bay, St. Lucia Kayaking

Located near the airport, St Lucia’s Coconut Bay Resort offers a wide range of activities for adults and children. Photo: Richard Hallman/Coconut Bay

The Caribbean’s Windward Islands are green and mountainous, with surf-washed beaches to the east and calmer waters to the west. In between are waterfalls, jungles and scenic overlooks worthy of a hike, a canopy zip-line tour or a horseback ride. One of the easiest to reach from North America is St. Lucia. Currently, there are seven U.S. and Canadian cities offering non-stop flights into Vieux Fort airport on the island’s southern coast. Luxe resorts are hidden away in St. Lucia’s wooded hills and sheltered bays, but not all are suited to the lively sounds of active children. One property where children are not only accepted, but catered to, is the Coconut Bay Resort. This mid-range but highly rated property is close to the airport and departure points for island adventures such as rainforest tram rides and four-wheeler tours. The adults-only Harmony wing is separated from the lively Splash wing, which is home to a water park, paintball court and beach shack; it’s the center for a variety of supervised land and water sports. Meanwhile, parents can enjoy all the grown-up perks expected of an all-inclusive. 

Dominican Republic

With direct air service into Punta Cana, the island’s most popular resort area, getting the family to a beach in the Dominican Republic is easy. The crime rate in this region of the DR is almost non-existent, and vacation action centers around the numerous all-inclusive resorts lining the coast. Most waiters, clerks and cab drivers have at least basic English comprehension, and within the resort complexes, you may find yourself having to seek out opportunities to practice your high school Spanish. One of the best places for families, toddlers to teens, is the Club Med Punta Cana, which is just minutes from the airport and directly fronting one of the region’s finest palm-fringed beaches. From the on-site children’s buffet, complete with baby food, to the skate park, hangout lounge and teen spa, the youth programs and recreational opportunities go well beyond the usual kids’ club routine. 

Jamaica

Negril Jamaica, Beaches Resort

Negril’s Beaches Resort offers a wide range of kid-centric amenities, including a water park and lazy river. Photo: Steve Sanacore/Beaches Resort

Jamaica is ground zero for the all-inclusive lifestyle, and the resorts that focus on families go all out to deliver a complete vacation experience for the younger generation. Parents aren’t forgotten however, and thanks to a wide assortment of infant programs, kids’ camps, and all-age water-sports activities, it’s easy for a family to play together— or pursue their own passions. Montego Bay is the default arrival point for the majority of all-inclusives, and resort shuttles whisk your group directly to a beachfront complex. High on any family’s list—especially those with younger children—is the Beaches property in Negril, which is about an hour away from the airport by shuttle bus. The little ones will be rewarded for their in-transit patience when they are greeted by Elmo and other Sesame Street characters. Older children can lose themselves in a smorgasbord of age-appropriate diversions that include water sports and everything from an Xbox Play Lounge to an under-21 nightclub (relax, there’s no alcohol). Parents can join in the fun or opt for a round of golf, a spa treatment and a private candlelight dinner. For those looking to stay closer to Montego Bay, two of the best family-friendly properties are the Half Moon resort and Iberostar Rose Hall Suites. 

Costa Rica

Xandari Resort, Costa Rica

Costa Rica’s Xandara Resort is centrally located, providing convenient access to San Jose and area attractions. Photo: Xandara Resort

 Once the kids reach bike-riding age and beyond, Costa Rica becomes a fantastic vacation destination for eco adventures and active water sports. By far the safest country in Central America, Costa Rica has long been a haven for U.S. expats. The country’s mountainous central regions mitigate the tropical heat and provide a magnificent backdrop for rainforest hikes, volcano tours, jungle river rafting, and high-flying zip-line tours. Equally popular are the numerous beachside resorts nestled into the green jungles of the Pacific Coast. Though the distances between regions may not seem great as the crow files, twisting mountain roads can mean drive times of several hours. Rather than try to see and do it all in one trip, it’s best to settle into a base camp resort and sample some of the more exciting adventures that are within easy range of that locale. The beautiful landscaped grounds of Xandari Resort & Spa provide commanding views and easy proximity to the capital of San José, while an hour to the north guests of the Peace Lodge can wander through the adjacent La Paz Waterfall Gardens and relax in eco-lodge luxury. A coastal destination that combines the best of jungle and beach is the Manuel Antonio National Park. The Sí Como No Resort, Spa & Wildlife Refuge is the region’s premier property, while Hotel Costa Verde, with its airplane suite and resident monkeys, is certainly one of the most fun places to stay.

Puerto Rico

Puerto Rico El Conquistador Resort

Puerto Rico’s El Conquistador resort offers a water park and daily boat trips to a private island. Photo: El Conquistador

If you are stuck in San Juan freeway traffic, with the kids asking “are we there yet,” it might seem like you never left Miami or Manhattan. But once you steer clear of the capital’s urban sprawl, a better side of the island is revealed. Puerto Rico’s green highlands provide miles of back-road exploration and rainforest adventures, while the ocean beckons. Surfers prefer the waves of Rincón to the west, but the island’s clearest waters and sunniest skies are found to the east. Forty minutes from Luis Muñoz Marin International Airport, the coastal town of Fajardo is an epicenter for fishing, sailing and diving excursions, and a jumping off point for the out islands of Culebra and Vieques. Just north of town, the Waldorf Astoria El Conquistador overlooks the eastern water, with an on-site marina, seven outdoor pools and a water park complete with flumes and a lazy river. Families can book into the Las Casitas Village to enjoy the extra elbow room of one- and two-bedroom suites and still be within easy walking distance of all amenities, including the spa and golf course. The waterfront is lacking in sandy beaches, but a catamaran ride from the docks will deliver you to private Palomino Island for a day of beachfront relaxation. 

Turks and Caicos

The Beaches Turks & Caicos Resort Village

The Beaches Turks & Caicos Resort Village sits on the midpoint of Providenciales’ magnificent Grace Bay. Photo: Beaches Resorts

 In their natural state the dry, low-lying islands of the Turks and Caicos aren’t much to look at—until you reach the shore. There, soft white sand meets water that shimmers in shades of emerald and turquoise. Thanks to direct air service and ample supplies of desalinated water, this sun-swept British Crown Colony has evolved into a world-class resort destination. If you arrive on Providenciales accompanied by children, you are most likely headed for Grace Bay and the expansive grounds of Beaches Turks & Caicos Resort Villages & Spa. This property takes the all-inclusive family resort concept to a whole new level, delivering activities and indulgences for all ages—including parents. There’s a dedicated nursery facility and toddlers are watched over by certified nannies and entertained by costumed Sesame Street characters. Older children can frolic in the Caribbean’s largest water park or join guided snorkel tours, beach games and reggae jams. If the teens managed to get tired of the beach, they can move to an age-themed game room, hangout lounge or dance club. Mom and dad aren’t slighted either, with everything from scuba diving to spa treatments, plus 19 restaurants and a dozen bars to sample. 

Cabo San Lucas

Melia Cabo Real, Cabo San Lucas, Mexico

The Melia Cabo Real is a family-friendly resort located north of Cabo San Lucas on Mexico’s Sea of Cortez. Photo: Victor Elias/Melia Cabo Real

Cabo San Lucas can be a party town, but there’s more to Baja’s southernmost settlement than the nightly reveries of the marina district. The same sunny skies, blue waters and warm sands that draw spring breakers and incognito A-listers can also provide the backdrop for a memorable family vacation. A number of resorts are tucked along the coast between the airport at San José del Cabo and Cabo San Lucas itself, offering a base for self-contained recreation on-property, plus reasonable drive times to the cape’s other attractions. One favorite family option is the Melia Cabo Real All-inclusive Beach & Golf Resort, which is kid-friendly both in terms of pricing and amenities. Children under 12 stay free with parents and can enjoy a range of youth-centric activities. A good near-town option is the Playa Grande Resort & Grand Spa, which sits just over the hills from downtown and at the far end of the beach near Land’s End and the Cape’s signature arch. Guests find a range of youth activities, but the real attraction is the chance for some private beach time in one of the world’s most spectacular settings, combined with five-minute access to town. 

Paradise Island

Atlantis resort, Bahamas, Tubing

The Atlantis Resort on Paradise Island, Bahamas features a mile-long tube river with rapids and tunnels. Photo: Jeffrey Brown/Atlantis Resorts

Flying into New Providence Island, home to the capital city of Nassau, is easy from points all across the eastern United States. There are several vintage and a couple of newer resorts along the western and southern coasts worth consideration, but once the kids hear “Bahamas” they will probably be thinking “Atlantis.” The marketing machine behind this mega-resort gets the word out on the children’s channels, so there’s a pretty good chance they’ll already know what to expect. You won’t have the property’s beaches, pools or water park to yourself, but everything runs with theme park-like precision. A family of four can book into the more cost-effective Beach Tower and still enjoy all the diversions the resort complex has to offer. 

Curacao

If Curacao isn’t on your family’s vacation radar, it should be. The island tempers the practical stability of the Netherlands with a hint of Caribbean spice, providing an experience that is slightly exotic, but ultimately comfortable and safe. You may hear strains of Papiamento or Dutch when strolling through the historic districts of Willemstad, but if you need to ask directions, you’ll probably get an answer in English. Water sports are the primary draw, but the capital city has also made a name for itself in recent years as a regional center for art and culture. You’ll mingle with a mixed bag of Europeans at the cafes or on the beach. A top choice for family groups with mixed-age children is the Sunscape Curacao Resort. Close to both the airport and downtown, this all-inclusive is very kid-friendly, not only because of the various youth-central amenities and activities, but also because of its location. The sheltered beach is perfect for swimming and first-time snorkelers, and the Curacao Sea Aquarium complex is within easy walking distance. 

Hawaii

Napali Kai Beach Resort, Lahaina, Maui

Napili Kai Beach Resort, Lahaina, Maui. Photo: Jim York / Napili Kai Beach Resort

Hawaii’s resort infrastructure is second to none, and it’s a tropical destination that’s also part of the United States, so you can skip the passport and count on all the comforts of home, and then some. Each of the four major destinations has its own vibe. Oahu offers urban amenities or an escape to the north shore; Kauai is a bit wilder and ideal for outdoor adventures and relaxing natural surroundings; Hawaii (aka the big island) tourism focuses around Kona and golf and big game fishing are prime. It is the island of Maui that offers the greatest diversity of activities for children of all ages, and quite a few resorts cater to families with water parks, youth camps, game rooms, social activities and so forth. Sometimes, less is more, and if you want to focus on together time and relax at a resort where you don’t have to ride a tram to get to the dining room, consider the Napili Kai Beach Resort. Its low-rise condominium accommodations are set on ten acres of landscaped grounds fronting a quiet beach and snorkel-worthy Napili Bay.