30 Caribbean & Mexican Riviera Destinations You'll Love

For Families, Couples & Accessible Travelers

One of my favorite things about planning travel is matching the right destination to the right traveler. Whether you're vacationing as a family, sneaking away with your significant other, or navigating travel needs around accessibility ... the Caribbean and Mexican Riviera offer amazing options that go far beyond the typical beach escape.

So I’ve put together a list of 30 places I love recommending (10 each for families, couples, and accessible needs travelers) all packed with fun, flavor, and a little BYC sparkle. (And yes, many of these destinations offer fantastic all-inclusive options, even if I don’t name names here.)

For Families: Where Memories Are Made

These destinations serve up kid-friendly beaches, wild adventures, and cultural moments that’ll stick long after the sand’s been rinsed out of your suitcase:

- Turks & Caicos – Calm, clear water at Grace Bay and amazing snorkeling for all ages.

- Aruba – Year-round sunshine, water parks, and quirky stops like the butterfly farm.

- Cozumel, Mexico – Snorkeling, Mayan ruins, and beach clubs designed with families in mind.

- Puerto Vallarta, Mexico – A scenic boardwalk, jungle ziplining, and vibrant art for every generation.

- Bahamas – Swim with pigs, explore pirate lore, and visit hands-on aquariums.

- Riviera Maya, Mexico – Cenote swimming, eco-parks like Xcaret, and family-friendly resorts.

- St. Lucia – Mud baths, rainforest zip lines, and volcano exploration? Yes, please.

- Jamaica (Ocho Rios) – Climb Dunn’s River Falls, ride a bobsled, and make dolphin friends.

- Curaçao – Colorful buildings, sea aquariums, and quiet beaches for little swimmers.

- Cancún, Mexico – Water parks, easy excursions to Mayan ruins, and sparkling resorts with kids’ clubs.

For Couples: Romance, Relaxation & A Bit of Adventure

Looking for your next dreamy getaway? These destinations are full of romance, natural beauty, and grown-up perks for couples ready to reconnect:

- St. Barts – Luxe beaches, elegant cafes, and a whisper of glam.

- Tulum, Mexico – Jungle-chic with beachfront lounging, cenote dips, and candlelit dinners.

- St. Lucia – Breathtaking views of the Pitons, couples’ spas, and sunset cruises.

- Isla Mujeres, Mexico – A quiet island with snorkeling, golf carts, and tropical cocktails.

- Grenada – Waterfalls, spice tours, and just the right touch of barefoot luxury.

- Puerto Morelos, Mexico – An artsy coastal town that balances quiet with charm.

- Antigua – A beach for every day of the year, plus sailing and historic forts.

- Cabo San Lucas, Mexico – Cliffside views, whale watching, and chic beach clubs.

- Anguilla – Tranquil shores, beach bars, and upscale intimacy.

- Playa del Carmen, Mexico – Rooftop pools, electric nightlife, and ferry access to Cozumel.

For Accessible Needs Travelers: Travel That Works for You

Every traveler deserves a seamless, empowering experience. These destinations offer better infrastructure, inclusive experiences, and thoughtful design to help take the stress out of planning:

- Puerto Rico – ADA-accessible beaches like Luquillo, colonial history, and U.S. territory perks.

- Barbados – Home to the Fully Accessible Barbados (FAB) certification program.

- Aruba – Smooth boardwalks, beach wheelchairs, and accessible public spaces.

- Cancún, Mexico – Accessible tours, paved beach access, and modern accommodations.

- Playa del Carmen, Mexico – Inclusive eco-parks, beach mats, and resorts with thoughtful design.

- St. Thomas, USVI – ADA-friendly excursions, U.S. healthcare system, and beach access.

- Cozumel, Mexico – Accessible snorkeling, adapted beach clubs, and flat coastal paths.

- Grand Cayman – Easy-to-navigate towns and inclusive marine life centers.

- Riviera Maya, Mexico – Pool lifts, roll-in showers, and mobility-friendly excursions.

- St. Martin (French side) – Level walkways, adaptable villas, and welcoming infrastructure.

Need help matching your travel crew to one of these amazing spots? That’s what I love to do! Whether you’re coordinating a couples’ retreat, a multigenerational trip, or a vacation with specific mobility needs, Believe You Can Travel is here to help you find the destination that fits.

Let’s plan something unforgettable and inclusive, too.

Sheila Smith

Believe You Can Travel