Traveling to Mexico With Kids (2025)

Traveling to Mexico with Kids? It was the last thing on my mind. Five years ago, my husband surprised me with plane tickets to Mexico. Just one week’s notice! Panic mode kicked in. How would I handle a surprise trip with a four-year-old?

Back then, Olivia was my only child, just four years old, and the thought of managing a last-minute vacation with a picky eater was overwhelming. 

As moms, we know that family vacations require careful planning—especially with young children. 

Mexico turned out to be an amazing destination, but it took some extra preparation to make sure our trip went smoothly. 

In this post, I’ll share my experience and tips to help other moms enjoy a stress-free family vacation in Mexico.

Planning a Last-Minute Mexico Trip

When Bryan revealed that he’d booked a 15-day trip to Mexico just two weeks before our departure, I was thrilled—and a bit panicked. Managing a last-minute vacation with a toddler is no easy feat.

But knowing that Bryan had already sorted out our travel insurance was a huge relief.

Also Read: 3 Best Travel With Kid Carry-On Suitcases

Booking Flights and Accommodations with Ease

Bryan booked our flights and hotel accommodations using the Booking.com app. Even with just two weeks’ notice, the app made it easy to find family-friendly hotels.

I especially love how you can filter by amenities, ensuring we had a comfortable stay with Olivia. Early summer through late fall is often the best time to find cheaper flights, which worked out perfectly for our plans.

Navigating Local Transport

For our excursions, Bryan booked private tours and a transfer service to rent a car.

While this option was convenient, we found that using cabs was more cost-effective for our 15-day trip. It’s worth considering both options when planning your own vacation.

The Importance of Travel Insurance

Planning with a toddler in tow adds a layer of complexity, and having travel insurance in place is a must. While Mexico doesn’t require travel insurance for all visitors, it is necessary for trips to Puerto Vallarta and Riviera Nayarit.

This insurance is vital, especially for families, to cover any unexpected medical events during the trip.

If you’re planning your own family vacation, consider using Booking.com for accommodations and checking out travel insurance options from Allianz Travel Insurance to ensure peace of mind.

Must-Do Activities for Families in Mexico

When planning a family trip to Mexico, choosing the right destination is key. It’s important to consider your child’s age and interests to ensure everyone has a great time.

During our 15-day trip, we visited several family-friendly spots in Mexico that offered a perfect mix of relaxation, adventure, and cultural experiences.

Let me share our favorites and how Olivia, Bryan, and I enjoyed each place.

Cancun – Sun, Sand, and Endless Fun

Our first stop was Cancun, famous for its stunning beaches and all-inclusive resorts. We spent five days here, and Olivia couldn’t get enough of the beach.

The calm, clear waters were perfect for her to splash around safely. We also stayed at an all-inclusive resort, which made meals a breeze—something every parent can appreciate.

For couples, the resort offered evening entertainment and spa treatments, giving Bryan and me some much-needed relaxation after a day full of kid-friendly activities like visiting the local aquarium and swimming with dolphins.

Riviera Maya – Adventure and Relaxation Combined

Next, we headed to Riviera Maya for four days. This destination is ideal for families who want a mix of adventure and relaxation.

We explored the beautiful cenotes, natural swimming holes that Olivia found fascinating. The highlight for Bryan and me was visiting the archaeological sites, where we could immerse ourselves in Mexico’s rich history.

Olivia enjoyed the cultural performances and craft activities offered at our hotel. This area also has great equipment rental services, so we didn’t have to lug around extra gear like car seats or strollers—such a relief!

Los Cabos – Thrills for Water Lovers

Los Cabos was our next stop, where we spent three days. This destination is perfect for families who love water sports. We tried snorkeling, and Olivia had a blast seeing colorful fish up close.

The luxury resorts here offered fantastic kids’ clubs, giving us some time to enjoy the adults-only pool and a romantic dinner by the ocean.

Los Cabos truly catered to everyone’s needs, making it a memorable part of our trip.

Puerto Vallarta – Authentic Mexican Charm

Finally, we spent three days in Puerto Vallarta, a charming city with a beautiful bay. This was where we felt the most connected to authentic Mexican culture.

We took leisurely strolls along the Malecon, where Olivia enjoyed the street performers and local treats. Bryan and I loved exploring the art galleries and trying traditional Mexican dishes at local restaurants.

Puerto Vallarta is also a great place for family-friendly excursions, like boat tours to hidden beaches and whale watching. It’s a must-visit if you’re seeking a genuine Mexican experience with your family.

If you’re planning your own family vacation, I highly recommend using Expedia to compare destinations and book your perfect getaway. 

With so many family-friendly options, Mexico truly has something for everyone.

Kid-Friendly Accommodations in Mexico

Choosing the right place to stay is crucial when traveling with kids, and this was something Bryan and I put a lot of thought into before our trip to Mexico.

 With Olivia being just four years old at the time, we wanted to ensure we found a spot that was both comfortable for us and fun for her.

Here’s what we learned about finding the perfect home base for a family vacation in Mexico.

All-Inclusive Resorts vs. Vacation Rentals

When it comes to family travel, there’s a big decision to be made: should you go for an all-inclusive resort or a vacation rental? Both options have their perks, and we tried out a bit of both during our 15-day trip.

All-Inclusive Resorts

These are a dream for families. We stayed at one in Cancun, and it was like living in a bubble where everything was taken care of. The resort had multiple pools, a kids’ club that Olivia loved, and several on-site restaurants with plenty of kid-friendly options.

The best part? Not having to worry about meals or entertainment—everything was included, which made our stay stress-free.

Vacation Rentals

In Puerto Vallarta, we opted for a vacation rental, which gave us a different experience. The extra space was great, especially for Olivia to run around and play.

We had the flexibility to prepare her meals in the kitchen, which was a lifesaver with her picky eating habits. Plus, we enjoyed having a more local experience, exploring nearby markets, and feeling more at home.

When deciding between the two, consider your family’s needs. If you want convenience and plenty of activities on-site, an all-inclusive resort might be the way to go.

But if you prefer more space and a personalized experience, a vacation rental could be perfect.

Kid-Friendly Amenities to Look For

Regardless of whether you choose a resort or a rental, it’s essential to look for accommodations that cater to families. Here are some amenities we found particularly helpful:

• Pools: A must-have for any family vacation. Olivia spent hours splashing around, which gave Bryan and me some much-needed relaxation time. We made sure to pick places with shallow kids’ pools and lifeguards on duty.

• Kids’ Clubs: These are fantastic if you want to carve out some adult time. The resort in Cancun had a kids’ club where Olivia could play games, do crafts, and even have a mini treasure hunt. It was a win-win—she had fun, and we got to enjoy some quiet moments.

• On-Site Restaurants: Having kid-friendly dining options on-site made life so much easier. We didn’t have to worry about finding a suitable place to eat after a long day. Many resorts and hotels offer menus with simple dishes like pasta, pizza, and grilled chicken, which are perfect for picky eaters.

Tips for Booking Kid-Friendly Accommodations

Here are a few tips to ensure you book the best family-friendly accommodation:

• Check Reviews: Before booking, I always read reviews from other parents. They often provide insights into the best and worst parts of a property for families.
  
• Look for Family Packages: Some resorts offer special packages that include extras like free meals for kids, access to kids’ clubs, or family excursions.
  
• Location Matters: We chose places close to the beach and major attractions so we wouldn’t spend too much time traveling with Olivia.
  
• Consider Booking Early: Popular family resorts can fill up fast, especially during peak travel seasons. Booking early can also help you snag a better deal.

For your next family trip to Mexico, finding the right place to stay is key to a smooth and enjoyable vacation. Whether you’re leaning towards the all-inclusive luxury or the comfort of a vacation rental, it’s all about what works best for your family.

Looking for great family-friendly accommodations? Check out Booking.com or explore vacation rentals on Airbnb. Both offer a variety of options that cater to families, making it easier to find the perfect spot for your next adventure.

Must-Try Food in Mexico

Traveling to Mexico with Olivia, who’s both a picky eater and allergic to peanut butter, meant we had to be extra careful about what and where we ate.

But with some planning and creativity, we found plenty of delicious options that kept her—and us—happy.

Let’s dive into some of the foods we discovered and how we managed mealtime on our trip.

Tacos al Pastor

Tacos al Pastor are a Mexican staple, featuring marinated pork cooked on a vertical spit, then sliced thin and served on corn tortillas. The blend of savory and slightly sweet flavors is irresistible.

However, Olivia’s picky eating habits meant we had to simplify this dish for her. We found that many restaurants were happy to serve her just the plain tortillas with a side of grilled chicken, which she loved.

It’s always worth asking if the restaurant can customize dishes to suit your child’s tastes.

Enchiladas

Enchiladas, with their corn tortillas rolled around various fillings and smothered in sauce, were a hit with Bryan and me.

Olivia, on the other hand, preferred hers without the sauce, and luckily, many places were willing to accommodate. The key was finding restaurants with flexible menus and kid-friendly options like cheese or plain chicken enchiladas.

I recommend checking online menus or calling ahead to ensure there are options that will work for your little one.

Tamales

Tamales, made of corn dough filled with meats or veggies and steamed in corn husks, were a bit more challenging for Olivia to enjoy.

The unfamiliar texture didn’t appeal to her, so we often brought along snacks she was more comfortable with, like crackers or granola bars, just in case.

For parents, it’s a good idea to pack familiar snacks for your child, especially when trying new foods.

Mole

Mole is a rich, complex sauce made from a blend of chilies, spices, and sometimes nuts or seeds, served over meats like chicken. While Bryan and I loved trying this traditional dish, it was too intense for Olivia.

Instead, we found simpler dishes for her, like grilled chicken with a side of rice. When dining out, don’t hesitate to ask for a plain version of a dish if your child isn’t ready for the bold flavors of traditional Mexican cuisine.

Elote

Elote, grilled corn on the cob coated with mayo, chili powder, cotija cheese, and lime juice, was a fun snack that we all enjoyed.

For Olivia, we requested it without the chili powder, making it a more kid-friendly option. Street food in Mexico can be a great way to introduce your child to new flavors in a simple, approachable way.

Just be sure to choose vendors that keep things clean and fresh.

Kid-Friendly Mexican Food

We also found several kid-friendly Mexican dishes that Olivia enjoyed.

These included:

• Baja Fish Bites: Lightly battered and fried fish, perfect for kids who enjoy milder flavors.
• Poblano & Corn Fritters: A tasty, bite-sized treat that Olivia loved.
• Loaded Nachos: Easy to customize with cheese, beans, and mild salsa, making them a fun, interactive meal for kids.
• Easy Tostadas: Crunchy tortillas topped with beans and cheese, which were a hit with Olivia.
• Crispy Chipotle Beans Tacos with Avocado Sauce: We asked for these without the spice, and they quickly became a favorite.
• Chicken Jalapeño Meatballs: Mild and full of flavor, these were a surprising hit.
• Leek & Potato Taquitos: A simple yet delicious option that even picky eaters can enjoy.

When dining out, we often asked if the restaurant had a children’s menu or if they could prepare something simple like plain rice, grilled chicken, or pasta. And having snacks on hand was a lifesaver on days when finding a suitable meal was tough.

In terms of restaurants, we found that beachfront cafes in Cancun and family-run spots in Puerto Vallarta were particularly accommodating. They offered a relaxed atmosphere where Olivia could enjoy her food without feeling overwhelmed by too many new flavors.

For those planning a trip to Mexico with kids, it’s all about finding that balance between trying new things and sticking to what your child knows and loves.

With a little preparation, you can enjoy the best of both worlds.

Conclusion

Mexico turned out to be an incredible family vacation spot for us, and with a bit of planning, it can be for you too. From finding kid-friendly places to stay to enjoying all the fun activities, it’s all about making sure everyone has a great time.

If you’ve been to Mexico with your kids, I’d love to hear your stories! And if you’re looking for more tips and ideas for your next family trip, don’t forget to subscribe to my blog. Let’s keep the adventure going together!