Thinking about heading to Mexico for Spring Break? There are so many amazing kid-friendly, all-inclusive Mexico resorts. Scroll to find out all the info about planning the ultimate Spring Break in Mexico with kids!
This post about Spring Break in Mexico with kids was written by family travel expert Marcie Cheung and contains affiliate links which means if you purchase something from one of my affiliate links, I may earn a small commission that goes back into maintaining this blog.
My kids LOVE Mexico! We’ve been to Cabo San Lucas, Riviera Maya, and Cozumel and they are always asking when we’ll go back.
Making the decision on where to head for Spring Break in Mexico with the kids for a family-friendly vacation can be both exciting and daunting.
Choosing a destination, figuring out what to see and do, and getting everything ready for your trip doesn’t have to be overwhelming.
Thousands of Americans visit the country each year for Spring Break season and with countless all-inclusive, family-friendly resorts to choose from, Mexico is the perfect vacation destination.
If you want to turn it into an educational trip, try quizzing your kids on these fascinating fun facts about Mexico.
While it is a busy time with college students coming in from all over, family-friendly resorts that cater to kids and their parents, are less likely to experience that influx of tourism.
Plus, March is a great time to head to Cancun to avoid sargasso seaweed season in Mexico.
Whether you are wanting to stay at one resort or go on a Mexico road trip, we’ve got you covered!
What to Expect Spring Break Weather in Mexico
Spring comes to Mexico in the month of March and while the weather varies depending on which part of Mexico you’re visiting, Spring Break is a good time to visit with kids.
Central and Southern Mexico experiences hot and dry weather while along the coast, of course, it is ideal beach day weather.
Spring break weather in Mexico can vary depending on the specific location you are planning to visit. You can definitely visit several places in your Mexico itinerary.
During spring break dates, which typically occur in March or April, you can generally expect warm to hot temperatures in most parts of Mexico.
Coastal areas, such as Cancun, Puerto Vallarta, and Cabo San Lucas, typically have temperatures in the high 70s to low 80s Fahrenheit (around 25-28 degrees Celsius) during this time of year. These are the most popular spring break destinations.
It is worth noting that Mexico does experience occasional rain showers and storms, particularly during the late spring and summer months. However, these are usually short-lived and should not significantly impact your spring break plans.
Overall, if you are planning a spring break trip to Mexico, you can generally expect warm and sunny weather, although it is always a good idea to check the local weather forecast before your trip.
Best Family-Friendly All-Inclusive Resorts in Mexico
Spring Break Family-Friendly Resorts in Cancun
Cancun has so many fun things to do for families. From these resorts, you can go on a snorkeling tour, explore Rio Secreto Nature Reserve, see a Cirque du Soleil show, and more.
It’s also an ideal spring break destination because there are so many things to do on the Mexico Caribbean coast!
Trying to decide between Cancun, Playa del Carmen, or Tulum? Get a comparison of some of Mexico’s best beach towns.
MOON PALACE RESORT
Cancun’s Mayan Riviera is home to the Moon Palace Golf & Spa Resort is just 7 miles from Cancun International Airport and is one of the most luxurious resorts to take the kids to during Spring Break. Check resort rates.
Accommodations vary and include themes like a dollhouse, racetrack or art-inspired decor that will resonate well with the kids. The property has an on-site theater, several pools and waterslides, a learn-to-surf pool, and for parents, a swim-up bar.
With golf and spa for parents, playgrounds, pools, and a beach for kids, everyone wins at Moon Palace Golf & Spa Resort. Check the latest rates and availability.
ROYAL SANDS RESORT & SPA
Another great Cancun Spring Break option for families is the all-inclusive Royal Sands Resort & Spa.
It’s located at the center of Cancun’s gorgeous Caribbean shoreline with stunning views of white sand and turquoise waters. Check resort rates.
Parents will love the world-class spa and fine dining. And children will love the kids club and children’s pool. Plus there are tons of tours like exploring Chichen Itza or going zip lining! Check the latest rates and availability.
HARD ROCK HOTEL RIVIERA MAYA
If you are looking for the ultimate Spring Break spot for kids who want to be pop stars, head to the Hard Rock Hotel Riviera Maya.
They have a KIDZ BOP Experience, which is a fun drop-off program where kids get to sing, dance, and pretend to be KIDZ BOP kids. Check resort rates.
The rest of the resort is pretty fabulous. They have several pools, including a children’s pool and splash pad. Plus, the rooms have hammocks on the decks, which is a huge hit with kids.
You can read my detailed blog posts about the Hard Rock Hotel Riviera Maya as well as their KIDZ BOP Experience. Check the latest rates and availability.
Book a Family Photo Shoot
Whenever we travel, we almost always book a family photo shoot with Flytographer. They are super easy, affordable, AND guarantee that I’ll be in some photos. You can get $25 off if you book through this link or use the code HAWAIITRAVEL.
Puerto Vallarta Resorts for Spring Break
Puerto Vallarta is a premier family-friendly destination. Families will enjoy taking advantage of excursions from their Puerto Vallarta resort.
The Rhythm of the Night brings guests out on a boat to the private island, Las Caletas, for a buffet dinner on the beach and a traditional show. There are dolphin encounters, zip line canopy tours and ATV tours, and more.
While in Puerto Vallarta, don’t forget to try the Pescado Zarandeado, a delicious regional white fish dish made often prepared right on the beach.
VELAS VALLARTA
Velas Vallarta is an all-suite family-friendly resort with accommodations that sleep up to 8 guests.
The three-bedroom condos feature full kitchens and already-stocked refrigerators, a bonus that is hard to pass up. Check resort rates.
If you are heading to Velas Vallarta during Easter, they offer a meet and greet with the Easter Bunny and hold egg hunts.
Their kids club daily activities, events, games, and lots of fun stuff to keep kids entertained and wanting to come back.
With tennis lessons, sandcastle competitions, scavenger hunts, and movie nights, there’s something for all ages! Check the latest rates and availability.
HARD ROCK HOTEL VALLARTA
Nearby, just across the Ameca River, Nuevo Vallarta is home to the Hard Rock Hotel Vallarta.
Families looking for an on-the-go Spring Break all-inclusive experience will enjoy this resort right off of Banderas Bay. Check resort rates.
Like the Hard Rock Riviera Maya, their Nuevo Vallarta location has a great kids club. The Hard Rock Roxity Kids Club features tons of activities, pool parties, games, snorkeling, talent shows, crafts, and music.
They also offer a place for the whole family to hang out together. The Cavern offers air hockey, a pool table, an XBox, arcade games, board games, and more. Check the latest rates and availability.
Cabo San Lucas All-Inclusive Resorts for Larger Families
Located on the southern tip of Baja California, Cabo San Lucas is another popular Mexico Spring Break destination for families. There are tons of things to do in Cabo San Lucas for families.
Some fun Cabo San Lucas excursions along the Pacific coast include a camel adventure, a whale-watching pirate cruise, an animal sanctuary, and more.
There are tons of Cabo San Lucas all-inclusive resorts for families. I’ll list a few below. It’s our favorite spring break destination in Mexico.
HYATT ZIVA LOS CABOS
One of the best kid-friendly Cabo resorts is the Hyatt Ziva Los Cabos. They have several room layouts for families of all sizes. Plus, it’s great for multi-generational travel.
They have a nice kids club with a private outdoor play area. Plus, they have a little waterpark for kids. And there’s a teen club. Check resort rates.
We personally think it’s one of the best resorts in Cabo for families. You can read my full review or check the latest rates and availability.
DREAMS LOS CABOS GOLF RESORT
Families visiting Cabo San Lucas for their Spring Break getaway will appreciate the Family Junior Suites at Dreams Los Cabos Golf Resort.
The suites offer a private King bedroom for parents and a separate living area with a sofa bed for the kids. There are two bathrooms a separate dining area and patio or balcony; ample space for a family of four to spread out and have their own space. Check resort rates.
Countless activities and clubs for younger children and teens round out the amenities at Dreams. Check the latest rates and availability.
PARADISUS LOS CABOS
Similarly, Paradisus Los Cabos is another all-inclusive, family-friendly resort in Mexico with a large, pristine beach.
The Family Junior Suites here accommodate groups of six, so it’s ideal for larger families who often have a difficult time finding suitable hotel rooms. Check the latest rates and availability.
Spend Spring Break with the Kids at Playa del Carmen
Another popular kid-friendly Mexico Spring Break spot is Playa del Carmen. Some of the best Playa del Carmen excursions include visiting Chichen Itza, exploring Tulum, ATV tour, and more.
With a large selection of family-friendly excursions, you won’t run out of things to do during your Playa del Carmen Spring Break family adventure.
Plus, there are also lots of day trips from Playa del Carmen, so the possibilities are endless!
SANDOS CARACOL ECO RESORT
One of the coolest kid-friendly all-inclusive Playa del Camen resorts is Sandos Caracol Eco Resort. With a huge water park, world-class entertainment, and a gorgeous beach, what’s not to love?
They have fully furnished villas (awesome for multi-generational travel) and family-friendly room options. There’s also an adults-only area, which is perfect for when you drop your children off at the kids club. Check resort rates.
Something really special is that kids can participate in their daily eco-activities with the All-Nature Experience. This includes taking care of rescue animals in the Animal Keeper activity! Check the latest rates and availability.
PARADISUS PLAYA DEL CARMEN LA ESMERELDA
Located on the Yucatan Peninsula, Paradisus Playa del Carmen La Esmeralda is a family-friendly resort with activities for all ages. This oceanfront resort offers plenty of space for the family to spread out and play in the surf and sand.
Parents can relax in the loungers while kids build sandcastles nearby. The all-inclusive resort offers a kids club with special activities, games, and workshops to keep the kids busy. Check resort rates.
Paradisus also provides babysitting services for parents seeking a night out alone. With over 20 restaurants, three pools and a pirate-themed splash area, there’s something for everyone here. Check the latest rates and availability.
Tips for Visiting Mexico with Kids During Spring Break
Traveling With Kids: Before You Go to Mexico
There are some general international travel rules you should adhere to when planning for Spring Break to Mexico with kids.
When booking travel tickets, ensure that the names on the tickets match exactly the names on everyone’s passport or official identification.
Often, if names aren’t an exact match in both the documentation and travel tickets, the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) will require you to provide additional info.
If only one parent is heading into Mexico with kids, be sure to get a notarized letter from the other parent stating that it’s okay to bring the kids into Mexico.
U.S. and Canadian citizens flying into Mexico will need to present a valid passport, regardless of the traveler’s age.
If you’re cruising or driving to Mexico, travelers 16 and older are required to show a passport or passport card. Children under 16 can enter with a birth certificate, Canadian citizenship card or naturalization certificate.
Visiting Mexico with Kids: Involve Them in the Planning
If you find yourself considering a Spring Break vacation in Mexico, get the kids excited about the trip by involving them in the planning process.
One easy way that you’ve likely already experienced, is by having them watch Disney’s Coco get a feel for the vibrant colors, culture, language, holidays and traditions of the country.
If you’ve visited EPCOT World Showcase at Walt Disney World, remind them of The Mexico Pavilion and some of the sights and sounds they experienced while there.
Incorporating some of your own interests during your vacation is a must but you may also want to let the kids choose some things they’re interested in doing too.
Determine which excursions or attractions are feasible for your time-frame and budget ahead of time and then give them choices to add to the itinerary.
One great way to incorporate life learning into your travel is through language. Work together at home to learn Spanish phrases ahead of your trip so they can practice once you arrive.
What to Pack for Your Spring Break trip to Mexico
If you’re planning a Spring Break trip to Mexico with kids, here are some essential items to consider packing:
Sunscreen
The sun in Mexico can be intense, so make sure to pack sunscreen with a high SPF to protect your family’s skin.
Sun hats
Hats provide additional sun protection and help keep your kids cool. I like to bring bendable straw hats.
Swimsuits
Mexico has beautiful beaches and pools, so pack plenty of swimsuits for your family.
Beach towels
You’ll need towels for the beach and pool, so pack a few extras.
Comfortable walking shoes
If you plan to explore Mexico’s cities and towns, make sure to pack comfortable walking shoes for your family.
Lightweight clothing
Mexico can be hot and humid, so pack lightweight, breathable clothing for your family.
Insect repellent
Mosquitoes and other insects can be a nuisance in Mexico, so pack insect repellent to avoid bug bites.
First-aid kit
Pack a small first-aid kit with bandages, antiseptic wipes, and other essentials.
Snacks
Pack some snacks for your kids to munch on during the trip. But I also suggest hitting up a grocery store in Mexico to try some Mexican snacks and candy.
Entertainment
Bring books, coloring books, toys, and games to keep your kids entertained during downtime.
Mexico Spring Break Vacation FAQs
Why does everyone go to Mexico for Spring Break?
Mexico is a popular destination for Spring Break for several reasons.
Mexico has some of the most beautiful beaches in the world, with crystal-clear water and soft white sand. Cancun, Cabo San Lucas, and Puerto Vallarta are just a few examples of the many beach destinations in Mexico that are popular for Spring Break.
Mexico is also relatively affordable compared to other international destinations, which makes it an attractive option for college students and families on a budget.
Spring Break usually occurs in March or April when many parts of the US are still cold and rainy. Mexico, on the other hand, has warm and sunny weather during this time of year, which is a major draw for people looking to escape the winter blues.
What is Spring Break called in Mexico?
Mexican Spring Break is called “Semana Santa” (Holy Week) or “Pascua” (Easter). It is a religious and cultural holiday that takes place during the week leading up to Easter Sunday, which typically falls in March or April.
During this time, many schools and universities have a week-long break, and families often take the opportunity to travel, relax, and celebrate the holiday.
What month is Spring Break in Mexico?
Spring Break in Mexico typically takes place in the months of March and April, which coincides with the Spring Break schedules of many schools and universities in the United States.
What are some budget-friendly options for Spring Break in Mexico?
When looking for budget-friendly resorts, it’s important to compare prices and amenities. Look for all-inclusive packages that include meals, drinks, and activities, as this can often be more cost-effective than paying for everything separately.
Additionally, be sure to read reviews from other families who have stayed at the resort to get an idea of the experience you can expect.
Is it safe to travel to Mexico during Spring Break?
Traveling to Mexico during Spring Break can be safe if you take certain precautions and stay informed. While Mexico has experienced some incidents of violence and crime in the past, many popular tourist destinations are relatively safe.
Here are some tips to help you stay safe while traveling to Mexico during Spring Break:
Research your destination
Before you travel, do some research on the specific city or area you’ll be visiting. Look for any travel advisories or warnings from the US State Department or other reputable sources.
Stay in well-known tourist areas
Stick to popular tourist areas and avoid wandering into unfamiliar neighborhoods.
Be aware of your surroundings
Pay attention to your surroundings and avoid displaying signs of wealth or carrying valuables in public.
Use trusted transportation
Use only licensed taxis or arrange for transportation through your hotel or resort.
Drink responsibly
Alcohol-related incidents are a common cause of problems for Spring Breakers in Mexico. Drink responsibly and avoid excessive drinking.
Follow local laws and customs
Familiarize yourself with local laws and customs and follow them while you’re in Mexico.
Overall, while there is no way to guarantee complete safety while traveling, taking these precautions can help ensure a safer and more enjoyable Spring Break in Mexico.
Mexico Spring Break Wrap-Up
I hope these Mexican destinations have inspired you to plan a spring break experience. With all these different options, you won’t run out of spring break vacations for years!
Travel and cultural experiences are one of the most treasured gifts we can give our children, spending time together as a family during Spring Break in Mexico is a great way to bond with your kids and provide them with memories that will last well into adulthood.
Looking for more Mexico travel resources? Find out the best Cabo San Lucas all-inclusive family resorts, Cancun travel tips, cutest small towns in Mexico to visit for the Day of the Dead, best all-inclusive Cancun family resorts, Cabo San Lucas travel tips, Hyatt Ziva Los Cabos review, Mexico vs Hawaii vacations, quirky hotels in Mexico, Cancun vs Cozumel, best places to visit in Mexico, Cabo vs Cancun, Cancun vs Tulum, Tulum family resorts, best Cancun day trips, and our review of the Hard Rock Hotel Riviera Maya!
Kirsten
Monday 10th of February 2020
There are so many good choices in Mexico for families. We love Paradisus Los Cabos and Finest Playa Mujeres.
marciecheung
Monday 6th of July 2020
Ooh! I'll add those to our bucket list! We can't wait to go back!