Take a Break!
Most everyone I know is beginning the Spring Break plan discussion, with Mexico typically slotted in the last spot on the wish list. A recent trip to Cabo San Lucas proved the city was as safe as it has always been, families from the States were around every corner, and the daily direct flights via American Airlines made traveling a breeze. A stay at two very kid-friendly and fabulous hotels — with completely different design aesthetics — shows Mexico should be moved up to the top of the travel list.
For the Modernist …
Capella Pedregal, Cabo San Lucas, Mexico
Capella Pedregal is an arid, 24-acre resort tucked into a mountain that separates the town of Cabo from the Pacific Ocean, and reached only via the 1,000-foot Dos Mares tunnel. All 66 Capella Resort and Spa rooms boasts a private plunge pool and a fireplace, and 31 shared-ownership residences (which can be rented through Capella) are perfect for families. The kid-friendly amenities include:
Capella Kids Club
The residential area of the resort provides convenient access to two pools, including one ideally suited for small children. Capella Kids Club provides half-day, full day, evening and weeklong programs as well as hourly nanny service. Activities can be conducted individually, with siblings, or as part of a larger group.
Tours and Excursions
Explore the extraordinary landscapes with guided ATV tours of the desert and canyons, horseback riding along the ocean or in the mountains, swimming with dolphins and ultra-light gliding. With a knowledgeable guide, your family can hunt fossils, tour the town of Santiago, see a desert oasis, visit a working farm, or hike the mountain range of the Sierra La Laguna and cap the day with a dip in the hot springs.
Cooking Classes
The culinary team introduces children to the joy of cooking local specialties such as tortillas, quesadillas, flautas, churros, desserts and more.
Spanish Classes
The staff teaches Spanish basics and key phrases that they can use right away as they interact with staff in their native language.
Movies under the Stars
Outdoor screenings of the latest family movies, held under a Palapa by the beach, offer a magical evening of entertainment, stars and sea, complete with delicious snacks from resort chef Marco Bustamante.
Scavenger Hunt
The Scavenger Hunt is a great way for kids to get oriented by following a custom treasure map where players gather unique souvenirs of Los Cabos and Capella.
For the Traditionalist …
One & Only Palmilla, Los Cabos, Mexico
palmilla.oneandonlyresorts.com
Built in the 1950s for a Mexican General, this former hacienda-turned-sprawling-resort boasts lush gardens, a tranquil spa, elegant décor and even a charming chapel on the grounds. The resort has a wonderful private beach area with ocean-accessibility. Their kid-friendly amenities include:
KidsOnly Program
The complimentary KidsOnly Club is available to all guests and carefully supervised by highly trained staff. A full program of entertainment and activities is tailored to the interests of various ages, and offered daily from 9am to 5pm. KidsOnly Club is available for children aged four- to eleven-years-old, with kids under four welcome to participate with a parent or guardian.
Sporting Programs
Activity programs include yoga classes, beach volleyball, horseshoes, beach tug-of-war, football, soccer matches, and more. In-room video game equipment is available, and for teens, special programs are featured during holiday periods including golf, tennis, volleyball and more.
Cultural Classes
Children are exposed to the cultures of Mexico with entertaining activities such as Spanish lessons, piñata-making classes, cooking lessons, and the art of origami.
Pool Time
Two infinity-edge pools have concierge services, and one pool is dedicated to families. The Agua Pool, a tropical oasis with waterfall and a meandering river, also features child-size chaise lounges, making it ideal for families.
For the Little Ones
For babies and toddlers, the resort offers professional baby-sitting and nanny services.
