7 fantastic family-friendly destinations in Mexico beyond the Riviera Maya

With a plethora of all-inclusive resorts and a high likelihood of winter sunshine (except during hurricane season), popular Mexican vacation spots like Cancun, Playa del Carmen, and the Riviera Maya are often the go-to choices for families.

However, these destinations can be crowded, pricey, and often lack genuine Mexican culture and charm.

For a more budget-friendly family getaway enriched with local culture, consider these alternative Mexican destinations, which range from famous family spots to hidden gems. Rest assured, you'll still enjoy those classic vacation benefits like stunning hotels and winter sunshine.

Guanajuato

Travelers visiting the charming town of San Miguel de Allende should also take a trip to Guanajuato, a historic silver mining town and UNESCO World Heritage Site. Everyone, from kids to adults, will enjoy wandering the vibrant streets, particularly the famous Callejón del Beso, so narrow that young lovers can easily reach across their balconies for a kiss. For a break from walking, hop on the city’s funicular to the Pípila Monument for breathtaking views of the town below.

Children will delight in a visit to the mummy museum or a leisurely stroll around the Presa de la Olla, a reservoir where families can rent boats and paddle around. After sunset, consider joining a Callejoneadas tour, where traditional musicians guide visitors through the city with lively music and dance.

Oaxaca

Travelers seeking a blend of beach relaxation, culture, and opportunities to explore Zapotec and Mazatec ruins should make their way to Oaxaca in southwestern Mexico. With its stunning, clear Pacific waters and beautiful beaches, it provides families with a tranquil alternative to the busy Riviera Maya.

Some of the finest beaches are just a short distance from the rustic resort town of Puerto Escondido. While certain areas may feature high waves, better suited for surfers than young children, families can still engage in fun activities like releasing baby turtles on the beach at sunset.

Established in the 1980s with a focus on ecology, Huatulco boasts over 35 secluded, forested beaches, along with the Eco-Archaeological Park of Copalita, where families can explore pre-Hispanic ruins, pyramids, and even an ancient cemetery.

For those preferring a more urban atmosphere, delve into one of Mexico's gastronomic hubs, the city of Oaxaca, renowned for its delectable chocolate and famous mole sauce.

Baja California

While Los Cabos is the main attraction on the Baja California peninsula, there’s so much more to discover — and residents of the southwestern U.S. can easily drive there. About an hour north of Los Cabos lies Todos Santos, which draws visitors with its rugged coastal landscapes and a more bohemian atmosphere, reminiscent of Tulum’s vibe before it became commercialized. Some beaches in Todos Santos offer family-friendly surf lessons, and many restaurants provide a relaxed outdoor dining experience where kids can play while adults savor delicious food and cocktails.

Don’t overlook Mexico’s renowned wine region, Valle de Guadalupe. While it’s a favorite among adults, it’s surprisingly kid-friendly as well. Many wineries are set on farms or estates where children can interact with baby goats or enjoy a picnic outside while parents indulge in wine tastings.

Querétaro

Santiago de Querétaro's pedestrian-friendly streets are ideal for families eager to explore the city’s parks, squares, churches, fountains, and impressive aqueduct. Just outside the city center, you'll find the often-overlooked Chupícuaro archaeological site in El Cerrito, home to ancient pyramids. The Cerro de Las Campanas National Park on the outskirts features beautifully landscaped gardens, historical landmarks, and museums, including enigmatic stones that, according to legend, emit bell-like sounds when touched.

Families can truly connect with nature on a bike tour of the Sierra Gorda Biosphere Reserve, which boasts stunning mountains, valleys, waterfalls, and the Estorax River. Alternatively, consider a family adventure to the iconic Peña de Bernal, a towering monolith recognized as one of Mexico's 13 remarkable natural wonders.

Lacandon Jungle, Chiapas

In the state of Chiapas, the Lacandon Jungle stands as one of Mexico's largest rainforests. Spanning the border between Mexico and Guatemala, it is protected as part of the Montes Azules Biosphere Reserve. Ideal for adventurous families, this area offers ample hiking and camping opportunities, with kids enjoying the chance to spot monkeys and other wildlife along the trails. A must-see is the Las Golondrinas waterfall.

For families eager to explore history and culture, there are hidden ancient Mayan ruins like Bonampak, famous for its detailed painted murals. Further north, the enigmatic Palenque, draped in jungle, ranks among Mexico's most breathtaking archaeological sites. No matter which ruins you visit, hiring a guide will enhance your experience.

Mazatlán, Sinaloa

If you seek a Cancun-style beach vacation without the crowds and at a more budget-friendly price, Mazatlán is a fantastic option. While the Pacific waters may not be as crystal clear as Cancun's Caribbean beaches, the shorelines are less congested, frequented by local families alongside visitors.

A fun and accessible family activity is taking a boat ride to Stone Island, where children can play on endless deserted beaches. Parents can unwind with an ice-cold beer at a relaxed beachfront bar or restaurant in the village. If you need a break from the sun, there’s also a large aquarium in the city that’s perfect for kids.

Mérida, Yucatán and Campeche

For those looking to explore the Yucatán Peninsula, flying into Cancun from the U.S. is quite straightforward. You can rent a car at Cancun International Airport (CUN) and drive west toward the city of Mérida, skipping the usual route south along the Riviera Maya.

Mérida is home to a variety of free museums and walking tours, making it easy to discover the city’s colonial history even on a budget. Notable sites include the 16th-century Casa de Montejo, furnished with period decor, and the impressive cathedral — the oldest in Mexico — constructed partly from Mayan stone.

The city-state of Campeche stretches along the southeastern coast. While it lacks beaches, the city is renowned for its scenic boardwalk, where families can enjoy leisurely strolls for several miles. Between Mérida and Campeche, visitors can immerse themselves in nature with activities like snorkeling in cenotes (limestone sinkholes), taking boat tours through lush mangroves, and observing flamingo colonies in the Petenes-Ría Celestún Natural Park.