Mexico’s west coast destinations

If you’re dreaming of dramatic landscapes, beautiful beaches and vibrant culture, our favorite Mexico west coast destinations deliver on all fronts. This stretch of coastline, spanning from Baja California Sur to the shores of Oaxaca, is also home to several affordable bucket-list destinations that combine natural beauty with unforgettable experiences. Additionally, along the coast, you’ll find major cities like Puerto Vallarta, Mazatlán and Tijuana, each offering its own mix of history, food and oceanfront bliss.

While Mexico’s Caribbean coast often gets the spotlight, the Pacific side offers a wilder, more rugged beauty—plus fewer crowds and a more laid-back, unpolished vibe. Whether you’re after all-inclusive resorts, boutique stays, world-class surf or top-notch dining, the best of Mexico’s west coast destinations offer something special for everyone.

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Your kids are practically travel influencers, according to a from Hilton involving more than 13,000 travelers. About 70% of respondents with kids reported that they choose vacation destinations based on their children’s preferences. So where will your tiny tourists love that will also be a vacation for you? Behold our heavily researched, expert-vetted list of the best family vacation destinations to visit now.

We checked out most of these 50 spots, often with our kids and teens, as part of Good Housekeeping’s Family Travel Awards program for 2024 and 2025. “It was the first real vacation we ever had,” beamed one parent of an elementary schooler who previously tried several other resorts. Another added, “We’re coming back next year with my sister and her kids — it’s that good!”

In addition to rave reviews, travel experts at the Good Housekeeping Institute kept budget in mind when choosing our favorites. It’s not lost on us that travel is getting more expensive. So we focused on resorts that provide great value, from kids-stay-free deals to complimentary breakfast. For the few splurgier spots, rest assured they’re worth every penny.

Whether you’re looking to chill out at an all-inclusive resort, get active in the great outdoors, check out new attractions at a theme park, hit the beach or cozy up at a ski resort, there’s a destination or experience here to match every vacation vibe and party size.

Why you’ll love it: Is a trip to Lubbock a left-field selection as far as cheap family vacations go? It sure is, but Lubbock is a surprisingly fun hub of art, music, theater and mid-century architecture. You’ll love wandering around downtown and looking up at the stunning buildings, as well as popping into stellar restaurants like The Nicolett or sampling the local wineries to visit. Enjoy a show at the glittering new Buddy Holly Performing Arts Center—Lubbock was his home.

Budget tip: This west Texas town is thriving, thanks to one of the most spectacular public art collections found anywhere on earth. Massive sculptures are scattered all over Texas Tech University’s campus. Tours are free and involve riding around in a cute trolley, so even your little ones will be in heaven. To get the kids even more on board, promise them an hour or two at Prairie Dog Town. This public park is every bit as fun (and as literal) as the name suggests. Bring some bread or carrots and feed the little cuties for free.

How to get there: Lubbock can feel like it’s in the middle of nowhere, but the west Texas city is just a five-hour drive from Dallas. If you’d prefer to fly, Lubbock Preston Smith International Airport is just 15 minutes from downtown.

Where to stay: Families will love the Cotton Court Hotel on Broadway. The grassy courtyard is abuzz with activity every night—multiple fire pits, rocking chairs, live music, a bar and a pool.

Why trust us

Reader’s Digest has published hundreds of travel stories that help readers explore the world safely, easily and affordably. We regularly cover topics such as the best places to visit (and the best times to visit them), tips and tricks to zoom through airport security, flight-attendant secrets, hotel-room hacks and more. We’re committed to producing high-quality content by writers with expertise and experience in their field in consultation with relevant, qualified experts. We rely on reputable primary sources, including government and professional organizations and academic institutions as well as our writers’ personal experiences where appropriate. For this piece on cheap family vacations, writer Jeff Bogle tapped his experience as a travel journalist and past contributor for Travel + Leisure. We verify all facts and data, back them with credible sourcing and revisit them over time to ensure they remain accurate and up to date. Read more about our team, our contributors and our editorial policies.

The big problem with traveling usually boils down to the sheer volume of options. Options are great, right? Well, when you have a cruise line that sails to over 100 destinations around the world, all of which would make for an epic vacation, it’s tough to narrow it down. Well, we’re here to help you overcome decision paralysis. We’re narrowing down the best cruise destinations so you don’t have to. From new Caribbean islands like Grand Turk to some of our favorite Greek getaways like Santorini, these are destinations that offer a blend of rich culture, cuisine, music, landscapes, and nightlife. And the best part? You can visit all of them on our award-winning, adult-only luxury cruises.

Top 10 Best cruise destinations to visit in 2025 From glamorous Mediterranean ports to the rugged coastline of Alaska, these are the best cruise destinations to visit in 2025.

2. San Juan, Puerto Rico, a Blend of Old and New San Juan is the perfect blend of old and new. Lose yourself on the cobblestone streets and alleys of Old San Juan, sipping locally-made rum and even learning a few spicy steps in the city’s famous salsa bars. The iconic and vibrant streets are defined by the popping pastel architecture, but the most impressive sight is the Castillo San Felipe del Morro, a 16th century citadel once used as a fortress to protect San Juan from naval attacks. And of course, it wouldn’t be a complete trip without a visit to the lush El Yunque National Forest, just an hour from the city. Reasons to visit San Juan, Puerto Rico : Tropical beaches, nature reserves/tropical rainforest, bioluminescent waters, water activities, diverse & friendly island cultures, live salsa music & dancing, local cuisine, Puerto Rican rum, historical architecture & sites, warm tropical weather, art museums, island hopping, no passport needed (for Americans), US currency accepted.

: Tropical beaches, nature reserves/tropical rainforest, bioluminescent waters, water activities, diverse & friendly island cultures, live salsa music & dancing, local cuisine, Puerto Rican rum, historical architecture & sites, warm tropical weather, art museums, island hopping, no passport needed (for Americans), US currency accepted. Best for : 18+, Singles, Couples, First-time cruisers, Family-friendly (adult children), LGBTQ-friendly, Relaxation, Adventure, Weddings, Honeymoons, Modern Luxury, Foodies, Seasoned travelers, History & culture, Shopping, Beach lovers, World explorers.

: 18+, Singles, Couples, First-time cruisers, Family-friendly (adult children), LGBTQ-friendly, Relaxation, Adventure, Weddings, Honeymoons, Modern Luxury, Foodies, Seasoned travelers, History & culture, Shopping, Beach lovers, World explorers. Nearby ports of call: Oranjestad, Willemstad, Fort-de-France, Basseterre, Tortola, St. John’s, Bridgetown, Castries, Kingstown, Philipsburg; View more Caribbean ports of call.

3. Bermuda Beauty Unlike the Caribbean islands, Bermuda has the benefit of being just a short voyage from the northeast coast of the U.S. That makes it perfect for a long weekend getaway for New England cruises. Known for its pink sandy beaches, this isn’t just any tropical beach vacation. Spend the day relaxing on the unique Horseshoe Bay Beach, or explore Crystal Caves for its dramatic geological wonders. You can even embrace your cultural side and experience the local food and art scene in bustling Hamilton. Reasons to visit Kings Wharf, Bermuda : Beautiful beaches, Water activities & marine life, sub-tropical weather, art galleries, historical buildings, museums, shopping & restaurants, tours, crystal caves.

: Beautiful beaches, Water activities & marine life, sub-tropical weather, art galleries, historical buildings, museums, shopping & restaurants, tours, crystal caves. Best for : 18+, Singles, Couples, First-time cruisers, Family-friendly (adult children), LGBTQ-friendly, Relaxation, Adventure, Weddings, Honeymoons, Modern Luxury, Foodies, Seasoned travelers, History & culture, Shopping, Beach lovers, World explorers.

: 18+, Singles, Couples, First-time cruisers, Family-friendly (adult children), LGBTQ-friendly, Relaxation, Adventure, Weddings, Honeymoons, Modern Luxury, Foodies, Seasoned travelers, History & culture, Shopping, Beach lovers, World explorers. Nearby ports of call: New York City, Boston, Eastport, Saint John, Charleston; View more North America ports of call.

4. Bimini, Bahamas, a paradise oasis Who doesn’t love a beachside pool party? Virgin Voyages’ Beach Club at Bimini is the perfect Bahamian escape, giving Sailors the chance to relax poolside to the chill sounds of a DJ, rent a private cabana, or spend the day lounging on the beach. You can also indulge in poolside drinks and a curated menu of complimentary snacks. But it’s not all about the beach club on Bimini. You can also explore the island more thoroughly through a range of shore excursions. Go swimming with stingrays in Honeymoon Harbor, take a jet ski tour, go on a wild dolphin safari, or stay landside and take a culture tour of the island itself. Reasons to visit Bimini, Bahamas : Beautiful tropical beaches, local cuisine, tropical drinks, Bimini Road, water activities & marine life, fishing, warm tropical weather, accessibility, island hopping.

: Beautiful tropical beaches, local cuisine, tropical drinks, Bimini Road, water activities & marine life, fishing, warm tropical weather, accessibility, island hopping. Best for : 18+, Singles, Couples, First-time cruisers, Family-friendly (adult children), LGBTQ-friendly, Relaxation, Adventure, Weddings, Honeymoons, Modern Luxury, Foodies, Seasoned travelers, Shopping, Beach lovers.

: 18+, Singles, Couples, First-time cruisers, Family-friendly (adult children), LGBTQ-friendly, Relaxation, Adventure, Weddings, Honeymoons, Modern Luxury, Foodies, Seasoned travelers, Shopping, Beach lovers. Nearby ports of call: Miami, Key West, Puerto Plata, Ocho Rios, Cozumel, San Juan, Roatan, Costa Maya, St. Croix, George Town, Grand Turk; View more Caribbean ports of call.

5. Grand Turk, Turks and Caicos, the epitome of paradise Listed as one of the top places to visit in 2025 by Travel + Leisure, Grand Turk is more than just a beach vacation. It’s dotted with windmills and salt ponds from its once-booming salt industry, and the imposing Grand Turk Lighthouse towers over the surrounding landscape. You can also visit the 18th-century prison still standing in Cockburn Town. Delve further into the island’s history at the Turks and Caicos National Museum, which contains one of the oldest excavated shipwrecks. It’s also a great place to embrace your adventurous side, with our Turk & Thrills Shore Thing that lets you hop aboard an ATV and whip around the island’s rugged backroads. Reasons to visit Grand Turk, Turks and Caicos : Pristine beaches with unspoiled beauty, water activities & marine life with vibrant coral reefs, world-class diving and snorkeling, explore “The Wall”.

: Pristine beaches with unspoiled beauty, water activities & marine life with vibrant coral reefs, world-class diving and snorkeling, explore “The Wall”. Best for : 18+, Singles, Couples, First-time cruisers, Family-friendly (adult children), LGBTQ friendly, Relaxation, Adventure (divers and snorkelers), Honeymoons, Modern Luxury, Foodies, Seasoned travelers, History & culture, Shopping, Beach lovers, World explorers.

: 18+, Singles, Couples, First-time cruisers, Family-friendly (adult children), LGBTQ friendly, Relaxation, Adventure (divers and snorkelers), Honeymoons, Modern Luxury, Foodies, Seasoned travelers, History & culture, Shopping, Beach lovers, World explorers. Nearby ports of call: Miami, Puerto Plata, Bimini, Ocho Rios, Nassau, San Juan, St. Maaren, Key West; View more Caribbean ports of call.

6. Europe & the Med, a glamorous region Everyone dreams of a European cruise. The truly beautiful thing about traveling to Europe is the ability to visit a multitude of diverse cultures in a relatively short period, and without even traveling too far geographically. One day, you could be partying it up in Ibiza, the next you could be strolling through the French countryside sipping world-class wine, and the day after that, you might be indulging in delicious Italian cuisine. In 2025, we’re excited to be sailing out of Portsouth, UK, opening up a new range of exciting itineraries. Reasons to visit Europe : diverse & friendly cultures, beaches, local cuisine & wine, natural beauty, architecture, castles, northern lights, ease of travel.

: diverse & friendly cultures, beaches, local cuisine & wine, natural beauty, architecture, castles, northern lights, ease of travel. Best for : 18+, Singles, Couples, First-time cruisers, Family-friendly (adult children), LGBTQ friendly, Relaxation, Adventure, Weddings, Honeymoons, Modern Luxury, Foodies, Seasoned travelers, History & culture, Shopping, Beach lovers, World explorers.

: 18+, Singles, Couples, First-time cruisers, Family-friendly (adult children), LGBTQ friendly, Relaxation, Adventure, Weddings, Honeymoons, Modern Luxury, Foodies, Seasoned travelers, History & culture, Shopping, Beach lovers, World explorers. Nearby ports of call: Barcelona, Portsmouth, Cannes, Rome, Mykonos, Athens, Santorini, Rhodes, Crete, Ajaccio, Naples, Sicily; View more Europe ports of call.

7. Greek Isles, glittering and glamorous You could visit Greece a hundred times and still not see everything, and that’s what makes the country so special. From the thousands of Aegean islands to the stately ancient ruins, there’s enough to do and see here that you’ll never want to leave. Stroll the picturesque streets of Santorini lined with whitewashed cycladic buildings, unearth the remnants of the Byzantine Empire in Rhodes, and revel in the hip nightlife of Mykonos. Our 7-night Greek Island Glow voyage gives you a taste of all the highlights. Reasons to visit the islands of Greece : Beautiful beaches, natural beauty, warm weather, diverse & friendly cultures, local cuisine & wine, archaeological sites, island hopping.

: Beautiful beaches, natural beauty, warm weather, diverse & friendly cultures, local cuisine & wine, archaeological sites, island hopping. Best for : 18+, Singles, Couples, First-time cruisers, Family-friendly (adult children), LGBTQ friendly, Relaxation, Adventure, Weddings, Honeymoons, Modern Luxury, Foodies, Seasoned travelers, History & culture, Shopping, Beach lovers, World explorers.

: 18+, Singles, Couples, First-time cruisers, Family-friendly (adult children), LGBTQ friendly, Relaxation, Adventure, Weddings, Honeymoons, Modern Luxury, Foodies, Seasoned travelers, History & culture, Shopping, Beach lovers, World explorers. Nearby ports of call: Split, Kotor, Mykonos, Santorini, Rhodes, Bodrum, Crete; View more Europe ports of call.

8. Ibiza, sensational seaside spots Ibiza is one of the brightest jewels of the Mediterranean, not just for its famous party scene, but also for its quieter, more peaceful side. Spend your days relaxing on sandy coves, the historic old town, and soaking in the bohemian atmosphere of the markets and boutiques. At night, immerse yourself in the island’s legendary dance culture and vibe away to world-famous DJs. On our 7-night French Daze & Ibiza Nights itinerary, you’ll get the best of both of these worlds, as well as visits to Marseille, Cannes, and Mallorca. Reasons to visit Ibiza : Incredible beaches, nightlife, warm weather, diverse & friendly cultures, local cuisine & wine, hiking, art galleries & pop-up exhibitions.

: Incredible beaches, nightlife, warm weather, diverse & friendly cultures, local cuisine & wine, hiking, art galleries & pop-up exhibitions. Best for : 18+, Singles, Couples, First-time cruisers, Family-friendly (adult children), LGBTQ-friendly, Relaxation, Adventure, Weddings, Honeymoons, Modern Luxury, Foodies, Seasoned travelers, History & culture, Shopping, Beach lovers, World explorers.

: 18+, Singles, Couples, First-time cruisers, Family-friendly (adult children), LGBTQ-friendly, Relaxation, Adventure, Weddings, Honeymoons, Modern Luxury, Foodies, Seasoned travelers, History & culture, Shopping, Beach lovers, World explorers. Nearby ports of call: Cannes, Ajaccio, Corsica, Barcelona, Rome, Marina di Carrara, Valencia, Casablanca, Naples; View more Europe ports of call.

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Whether you’re hitting the road with the family or embarking on a solo adventure, summer is the peak season for travel in the United States. There are so many endlessly compelling sights to see and things to do throughout this country’s millions of square miles, from picturesque national parks to sleepy mountain towns to breathtakingly beautiful beaches.

An expert panel nominated their must-see places for a summer vacation, then readers voted to determine the winners. Here are the 10 best summer travel destinations for 2025.