My Guide to Mexico Cruises for Families
Having lived in Mexico for the past four years and more importantly, as a mum to an adventurous little explorer, I’m often asked for family-friendly vacation advice. And when it comes to a trip that seamlessly blends relaxation for the parents with non-stop fun for the kids, a family cruise vacation to Mexico is pretty hard to beat.
Forget the logistical nightmares of planning multiple destinations, packing and unpacking endless times, and the constant chorus of “Are we there yet?”. A cruise ship is your floating hotel, your transportation, and your entertainment hub all in one. But with so many options out there, crafting the perfect itinerary can feel overwhelming.
Having explored many parts of Mexico, I’ve compiled a guide on Mexico cruises, with must-see stops and unforgettable shore excursions that will have your family creating memories to last a lifetime. So grab a cup of café de olla, settle in, and let’s plan your dream Mexican cruise journey.
Table of Contents
Understanding Your Mexico Cruise Options
When planning a Mexican cruise, your first choice is a geographic one: will you sail the Pacific Ocean or the Caribbean Sea? Cruises departing from California ports like Los Angeles, Long Beach, and San Diego explore Mexico’s west coast. The first is the Baja California cruise, a popular choice for a quick family getaway. These shorter 3- to 5-night voyages focus exclusively on the Baja Peninsula, with stops typically including Ensenada and sometimes Cabo San Lucas.
The second Pacific option is the longer Mexican Riviera cruise. These 7-night or longer sailings include the Baja ports but continue further south along the mainland coast to vibrant destinations like Mazatlán and Puerto Vallarta. This route combines the unique desert-meets-sea landscape of Baja with the lush jungles, charming colonial towns, and rich culture of the mainland.
On the other side of the country, cruises explore the turquoise waters of the Western Caribbean, stopping at ports on the Yucatán Peninsula like Cozumel and Costa Maya. These voyages usually set sail from Gulf Coast ports such as Galveston, New Orleans, or various cities in Florida. This side of Mexico is defined by its postcard-perfect white-sand beaches, crystal-clear water perfect for snorkeling, and its deep connection to ancient Mayan history. Here, you’ll find easy access to incredible coral reefs, mysterious cenotes (natural swimming holes), and ancient archaeological sites.
Finding Your Perfect Family Itinerary
Every family is different, so finding the itinerary that suits you depends on your interest. For a classic Mexican Riviera experience, I highly recommend a 7-night itinerary that includes the “big three”: Cabo San Lucas, Mazatlán, and Puerto Vallarta. This route gives you a fantastic taste of everything the Pacific coast has to offer, from the iconic Arch of Cabo to the historic Old Town of Mazatlán and the jungle-clad hills of Puerto Vallarta.
However, if a full week-long vacation isn’t in the cards, the 3- to 5-night Baja cruise is a fantastic and action-packed alternative. I often recommend these as the perfect ‘starter cruise’ for families wanting to test the waters, or for an easy long-weekend getaway from the West Coast. These itineraries typically visit Ensenada, and the longer versions will take you to Cabo San Lucas as well. The absolute can’t-miss highlight, if you’re traveling between January and March, is the magnificent gray whale migration.
For Caribbean sailings, a popular and fantastic route for families is a 5- to 7-night Western Caribbean cruise that focuses on the Mexican ports of Cozumel and Costa Maya. These itineraries often include another exciting port of call like Roatán, Honduras, or Belize City, Belize. This route is an absolute dream for water-loving families like mine. It provides unparalleled opportunities for snorkeling and diving along the Mesoamerican Reef and serves as a gateway to exploring the fascinating world of the ancient Maya.
Choosing Your Ride: Best Cruise Lines for Families
Before we even dive into the ports of call, let’s talk about the vessel that will be your home away from home. Not all cruise lines are created equal when it comes to catering to families. Based on my family’s adventures and extensive research, a few stand out from the crowd.
For an all-around fantastic experience, I often recommend Royal Caribbean and Carnival Cruise Line for their year-round sailings from ports like Los Angeles and Galveston. These lines have mastered the art of family entertainment with incredible kids’ clubs, water slides, rock climbing walls, and even Broadway-style shows. Princess Cruises and Norwegian Cruise Line also offer excellent options, often with a slightly more relaxed atmosphere but still plenty of activities to keep everyone engaged.
When making your decision, consider the size of the ship and the onboard amenities. A larger ship might offer more bells and whistles, but a mid-sized vessel can feel more intimate and easier to navigate with little ones in tow. Look for itineraries that have a good balance of sea days and port days. Sea days are your chance to explore the ship and recharge, while port days are all about adventure.
Best Ports of Call for Family Adventures
Cabo San Lucas: Where the Desert Meets the Sea
Cabo San Lucas, with its iconic arch and dramatic desert landscapes, is a feast for the eyes. While it has a reputation as a party destination, there is a wealth of family-friendly activities to enjoy. The heart of the action is the bustling marina, where you can hop on a water taxi to see the famous Arch and the whales that call the bay home. My daughter had a blast watching humpback whales breach just a few feet from our boat.
For a day of sun and sand, Medano Beach is the place to be. The waters here are generally calm and swimmable, and there are plenty of beachfront restaurants where you can grab a bite to eat with your toes in the sand. If you’re feeling adventurous, consider a camel ride along the beach – a truly unique and memorable experience! For older kids and teens, a pirate ship adventure complete with a show and dinner is a guaranteed hit.
Puerto Vallarta: A Charming Blend of Old and New
Puerto Vallarta holds a special place in my heart. Its charming cobblestone streets, vibrant art scene, and lush jungle backdrop create a truly magical atmosphere. A stroll along the Malecón, the city’s lively boardwalk, is a must. You’ll find street performers, fascinating sculptures, and plenty of delicious street food to sample.
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One of our absolute favorite family excursions in Puerto Vallarta is a day trip to Las Caletas, a secluded beach hideaway accessible only by boat. This place is a paradise for kids and adults alike. There’s a dedicated “Kids Adventure Park” with zip lines, a donkey ride, and face painting, while parents can relax in a hammock, take a cooking class, or go snorkeling. The boat ride itself is part of the fun, with the crew often putting on an entertaining show. Another fantastic option is the Rhythms of the Night show, an enchanting evening of music, dance, and acrobatics in a mystical jungle setting.
For a more nature-focused adventure, consider a whale watching tour during the winter months or a visit to the Vallarta Botanical Gardens, where you can wander through lush trails and even take a dip in a river. And if your kids are animal lovers, an ethical sea turtle release program is an incredibly moving and educational experience.
Mazatlán: The Pearl of the Pacific
Often called the “Pearl of the Pacific,” Mazatlán offers a delightful mix of historic charm, beautiful beaches, and authentic Mexican culture. Unlike some of the more overtly touristy spots, Mazatlán retains a genuine local vibe that my family truly appreciates. Its Old Town, known as Centro Histórico, is a UNESCO World Heritage site candidate, boasting stunning colonial architecture, lively plazas like Plazuela Machado, and quaint cafes perfect for a relaxed afternoon.
One of Mazatlán’s standout features is its incredible Malecón, one of the longest boardwalks in the world. It stretches for miles, offering breathtaking ocean views, ideal for a leisurely stroll or a family bike ride. My kid loved watching the famous Cliff Divers plunge into the ocean from a small cliff near the El Faro lighthouse, an exhilarating spectacle that always draws a crowd. For an adventure, taking a pulmonía (an open-air taxi unique to Mazatlán) along the Malecón is a fun and breezy way to see the sights.
For beach time, a short water taxi ride to Stone Island (Isla de la Piedra) is a must. Despite its name, it’s actually a peninsula with a long, tranquil beach. Here, you can enjoy horseback riding along the shore, rent ATVs for a bumpy jungle ride, or simply relax in the calm, shallow waters that are perfect for younger swimmers. The local seafood shacks serve up some of the freshest ceviche and pescado zarandeado (grilled fish) you’ll ever taste, making for a truly memorable beachfront lunch.
Cozumel: An Island Paradise for Water Lovers
Cozumel is an island that seems to have been designed with families in mind. The snorkeling and diving here are world-class, but you don’t need to be an expert to enjoy the underwater wonders. My kid’s face when he saw a sea turtle for the first time while snorkeling in the shallow, clear waters is a memory I’ll cherish forever. Many tour operators offer family-friendly snorkeling trips to the shallow reefs.
One of the best ways to experience Cozumel is to purchase a day pass to a beach club or an all-inclusive resort like Cozumel Palace or Playa Mia Grand Beach Park. These places offer a plethora of activities, from water slides and splash pads for the little ones to kayaks and paddleboards for the whole family. Many also include food and drinks, making for a hassle-free and relaxing day.
For a dose of culture and nature, Chankanaab National Park is an excellent choice. Here you can explore botanical gardens, see a sea lion show, and even have a dolphin encounter. And for a truly unique adventure, consider a mini-submarine excursion to explore the underwater world without getting wet.
Costa Maya and the Wonders of the Mayan World
Further down the coast, the port of Costa Maya serves as a gateway to ancient Mayan ruins and pristine jungle landscapes. While a trip to the magnificent ruins of Chichen Itza might be a bit long for younger children, there are closer and equally fascinating sites like Chacchoben, where you can climb ancient pyramids and imagine life in a bygone era.
For a day of pure, unadulterated fun, hop over to Xcaret Park, an eco-themed park with something for everyone. You can float down underground rivers, explore a butterfly pavilion, see jaguars and manatees, and witness spectacular cultural shows. We used to live in Playa del Carmen, and had an annual pass to Xcaret which allowed us to visit on weekends. There’s even a dedicated “Children’s World” with water slides, hanging bridges, and a playground that could keep kids entertained for hours. It’s an all-day adventure, so be sure to plan accordingly.
Best Side Excursions
Release Baby Turtles at the Sea Turtle Camp in Puerto Vallarta
For a truly heartwarming and educational experience, I cannot recommend participating in a sea turtle release enough. Puerto Vallarta is a critical nesting ground for the Olive Ridley sea turtle, and from August to December, you can witness the magic of baby turtles making their first journey to the ocean. Several hotels and dedicated turtle camps, like Campamento Tortuguero Boca de Tomates, run conservation programs. We took our kid to learn about turtles and release baby turtles there, and she still talks about it.
Their program is open to the public and free of charge. Holding a tiny, determined hatchling and watching it scurry across the sand towards the waves under the soft glow of the sunset is a profoundly moving experience. It’s a powerful lesson for kids about conservation and the wonders of nature. The sea turtle releases are typically held at dusk to give the babies a better chance of survival against predators.
Swim with Sealions in the Sea of Cortez
If your cruise itinerary is stopping at Cabo San Lucas, it’s worth making the two-hour journey to La Paz. This beach town has a much more laid-back, authentic feel compared to other port cities and serves as the gateway to what the legendary explorer Jacques Cousteau called “the world’s aquarium.” The city’s Malecón is perfect for a family stroll, with calm waters on one side and charming shops and restaurants on the other.
But the real magic of La Paz lies just beyond the city. A short excursion can take you to Balandra Bay, a place that consistently ranks among the most beautiful beaches in the world. The shallow, calm, turquoise waters are perfect for families with young children. My son could wade out for ages and the water barely reached his waist. The iconic “Mushroom Rock” is a must-see, and the whole bay, a protected nature reserve, is a stunning place to relax and swim.
For an even bigger adventure, book a tour to Espiritu Santo Island, a UNESCO World Heritage site. The main attraction here is the opportunity to swim and snorkel with a colony of playful sea lions at Los Islotes. The younger sea lions are incredibly curious and will often swim right up to you, twirling and blowing bubbles. It’s an exhilarating and joyful experience that will be a highlight of your trip. Note that swimming with the sea lions is restricted during their breeding season from June to August.
Snorkeling with Turtles in Akumal
A short trip from either Cozumel or Costa Maya is the small town of Akumal, which in Mayan means “Place of the Turtle.” And for good reason! The bay here is a feeding ground for green sea turtles, and snorkeling alongside these gentle creatures is an unforgettable experience. The water is calm and shallow, making it accessible even for young children who are comfortable with a mask and snorkel.
You can either book a guided tour or, if you’re feeling more independent, simply rent snorkel gear on the beach. Remember to be a responsible tourist: never touch the turtles and give them plenty of space. It’s a truly magical encounter with nature that will leave a lasting impression on your entire family.
Float in the Dreamy Laguna Bacalar
If your cruise itinerary includes Costa Maya or even Cozumel (though it’s a longer journey from Cozumel), be sure to take a side excursion to Laguna Bacalar. Often called the “Lake of Seven Colors” (Laguna de los Siete Colores), this freshwater lake is simply breathtaking. Its waters shimmer with incredible shades of blue, turquoise, and green, thanks to the different depths and the way the sun hits the limestone bottom.
Laguna Bacalar is incredibly family-friendly because its waters are calm, warm, and relatively shallow near the shore, making it perfect for swimming, even with very young children. My son absolutely adored splashing in the gentle clear waters, spotting tiny fish, and just reveling in the tranquility. You can rent kayaks or paddleboards to explore the different hues of the lake, or take a boat tour to visit the cenotes (natural sinkholes) within the lagoon and the pirate channel.
This excursion offers a refreshing change of pace from the typical beach day or ruins visit. It’s an opportunity to experience a different side of Mexico’s natural beauty, unwind in a peaceful setting, and enjoy pure, unadulterated water fun in a safe and serene environment. It requires a bit more planning for transport, but trust me, the vibrant colors and peaceful atmosphere of Bacalar are well worth the effort for a truly unique family memory.
Practical Tips for a Smooth Sailing Adventure
Now that you’re armed with a wealth of itinerary ideas, here are a few practical tips to ensure your family’s Mexican cruise is as smooth and enjoyable as possible:
- Pack Smart: In addition to the usual beachwear, pack comfortable walking shoes for exploring the port towns, especially those with cobblestone streets. A light jacket or sweater is always a good idea for cooler evenings on the ship. And don’t forget essentials like reef-safe sunscreen, insect repellent, and any necessary medications. Consider bringing a waterproof bag for your electronics and a small backpack for shore excursions.
- Stay Connected (or Don’t!): While most cruise ships offer Wi-Fi packages, they can be pricey. Consider this a great opportunity to disconnect and enjoy quality family time. Download movies and games for the kids before you leave.
- Embrace the Kids’ Clubs: Don’t be afraid to take advantage of the onboard kids’ clubs. They are run by trained professionals and offer a fantastic range of age-appropriate activities. This gives you and your partner a chance to enjoy a quiet dinner or a relaxing afternoon by the pool, knowing your children are having a blast and making new friends.
- Book Shore Excursions in Advance: Popular shore excursions can sell out quickly, especially during peak season. I highly recommend booking your must-do activities in advance through the cruise line or a reputable third-party provider. This will save you time and ensure you don’t miss out on your top choices.
- Hydrate and Stay Sun-Safe: The Mexican sun can be intense. Make sure everyone in the family drinks plenty of water and applies sunscreen regularly. A wide-brimmed hat and sunglasses are also essential.
A Mexican cruise offers an incredible opportunity to introduce your children to a new culture, explore stunning landscapes, and create a treasure trove of shared memories. From the thrill of spotting a whale off the coast of Cabo to the wonder of swimming with sea turtles in the Caribbean, the experiences you’ll have will be talked about for years to come. So, what are you waiting for? Your family’s great Mexican adventure awaits.
Exploring Mexico Cruises with Kids
Thank you for reading! Mexico cruises are an incredible way for families to explore the country’s vibrant culture, stunning coastlines, and lively ports of call. Whether you’re after relaxing days at sea or thrilling excursions onshore, cruises to Mexico strike the perfect balance between adventure and comfort.
From Baja California to the Riviera Maya, cruises in Mexico let you experience multiple destinations without the stress of constant travel planning. Your Mexico cruise itinerary can include everything from historic towns and pristine beaches to colorful markets and exciting wildlife encounters—each stop offering a unique glimpse into Mexican life.
Want to discover more family adventures in Mexico? These articles are full of great ideas!
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- 25 Fun Things to Do in Los Cabos
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Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links i.e. if you book anything through my links, I’ll get a small % of commission, at NO cost to you. I only recommend products or hotels I have personally used and enjoyed.
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