have kids,
will travel
Surf instuctor Nacho
Gutierrez at work
Learn to Surf
Mexico’s Pacific coast attracts
serious boarders seeking
challenging surf breaks. But
for wobbly newbies, the calmer
waves of the Atlantic coast
make for the perfect training
ground. Former pro surfer
Nacho Gutierrez runs Cozumel
Surfing where beginners can
learn to hang ten before the end
of their holiday. Gutierrez and
his experienced crew will teach
the whole family, from gradeschoolers to grandparents.
Spring for a private family
lesson—rates are surprisingly
reasonable and customizable
based on your group’s needs.
Between its pristine stretch
of Playa san francisco beach
and mini water park, this resort
focuses on water fun. And when
kids get bored with aquatic
pursuits, sign them up for pottery
painting on the beach. families
will also get a kick out of the
traditional thatched-roof cottage
accommodations.
Swim in cenoteS
These subterranean sinkholes are probably the prettiest pits you’ll
ever see. Formed by the collapse of limestone bedrock, cenotes dot the
Yucatán Peninsula, with a particular concentration near Cancun and
the Mayan Riviera. Most are operated by local tour outfitters and are
easily accessible. Kids can swim in these protected alcoves without
potentially dangerous waves and strong currents. And snorkeling here
affords ample opportunities to view sea life in more tranquil waters.
STAY: Bel Air Collection
Resort & Spa, Cancun ($)
underground swimming is a
stone’s throw from this budgetand family-friendly spot. several
cenotes are a short drive from
the resort. And when you’re
craving a little adults-only time,
the hotel can arrange a romantic
candlelit dinner for two.
($)
36
WINTER 2016
Cost-saving stay |
AMA INsIdER
($ $)
affordable luxury |
($ $ $)
no expense spared
suRfINg: CozumEl suRfINg; CENoTE: HEmIs/AlAmy
STAY: Occidental Allegro
Cozumel ($)
One of Mexico’s prettiest
swimming holes