Puerto Vallarta, Mexico - School’s out and summer vacation planning is well underway. There is no better time to visit Mexico than now. Explore black coral reefs, dive in sinkholes, discover hidden waterfalls, traverse archaeological sites, and bask in the sun on the country's endless beaches – these are but a few of the myriad experiences one can have in Mexico.

“Mexico is the ideal destination for families, offering not only excellent value, but warm and inviting people, and a rich and diverse culture,” said Rodolfo Lopez-Negrete, Chief Operating Officer of the Mexico Tourism Board. “Whether you explore the jungles of Palenque in Chiapas or spend your time 'giving back' at Mexico's turtle conservation efforts, we have plenty to offer families looking for a vacation filled with unique and exciting activities.”

Below are just a few examples of unique family vacation destinations and activities:

Chiapas

Located in southern Mexico, Chiapas is an excellent choice for the family seeking an adventure-packed getaway. Home to Palenque, one of the most important Mayan archaeological sites, the ruins are ensconced in the heart of a tropical jungle. The site offers amazing temples and structures dating back to Mexico's Classic era, from 400 to 700 AD.

In the ruin's surrounding areas, you can go hiking in dense jungle while appreciating the unique flora and fauna which inhabit the Palenque National Park. There, you'll spot various bird species, howler monkeys, and you might even get a chance to spy a jaguar.

Nearby, you can visit the waterfalls of Agua Azul and Misol-Ha, two important natural tourist attractions. There, you can go camping and take in the gorgeous scenery, while enjoying some traditional Chiapan cuisine.

Punta Mita

The beachfront haven of Punta Mita, located just 10 miles north of the popular Pacific Coast destination of Puerto Vallarta offers a wealth of beach-side and nature-engaging activities. This beach has clear warm waters and fine sand surrounded by volcanic rock formations. You can enjoy a wide array of aquatic sports here, including scenic kayaking; marine-life filled snorkeling; and a once-in-a-lifetime submarine trip through the black coral reefs of the Pacific Ocean.

From August to December, enjoy a rewarding experience of helping baby sea turtles voyage back to the ocean from their sand nests. During this time, thousands of female turtles of varying species travel hundreds-even thousands-of miles to Punta Mita and neighboring shores to lay their eggs. Appreciating that only about one in a 1,000 baby turtles survives to adulthood in the wild, local properties provide visitors with the opportunity to help in the release of the newest hatchlings on a regular basis.

Queretaro and Guanajuato

Families can enjoy a trip back in time by starting with the town of Bernal in the state of Queretaro. Here, many Chichimecan groups fought against the colonists, and today the town displays the charm of Mexico’s “Magical Towns” (name given to towns of cultural interest by the Secretary of Tourism) through its beautiful landscape and cultural traditions.

Stop by the Sierra Gorda Biosphere Reserve, a stunning example of the natural beauty found in this part of the country, inviting you to connect with nature in the midst of inspiring surroundings.

The city of Santiago de Queretaro, one of the UNESCO’s World Heritage Sites, holds uncountable attractions related not only to Mexico’s revolutionary era, but also to colonial art and culture. It has beautiful churches, traditions, museums, theaters and customs, all of which form the foundation of the Mexican culture that is recognized today in the country’s bicentennial celebrations.

Nearby “Magical Town,” San Miguel de Allende offers visitors magnificent cultural sites, museums, artisanry and sanctuaries, immersed in the original architecture of the independence era. Neighboring city, Guanajuato has seen its fair share of revolutionary battles, is an impressive part of this route. The beautiful buildings, charming alleyways and mine shafts once set the stage for many battles for independence. History can be seen in every cobblestone, brick and tree throughout the city.

Puerto Vallarta & Riviera Nayarit

With more than 200 miles of coast line, Puerto Vallarta and Riviera Nayarit have become increasingly popular among families who enjoy water activities, including whale watching, swimming with dolphins and sea lions, a family friendly water park complete with water slides and marine shows, boogie boarding, surfing, windsurfing, kite boarding, banana boats, wave runners, parasailing, snorkeling and scuba diving, sailing and deep sea fishing.

Popular land adventures include canopy zip lining and rappelling, horseback riding, ATV tours, baby sea turtle releases, jungle hiking and mangrove cruises, viewing wildlife and one enjoying some of the world's best spots for bird watching.

Families looking for some tranquility can take a day trip to the nearby village of Yelapa and Majahuitas beach, which are only accessible by boat. The village of Yelapa is a tiny enclave free of any roads, making it one of the few remaining must-sees.

Hike through the jungle to the Cola de Caballo waterfalls, go for a swim in crystal clear waters, or just kick-back and bury your toes in the sand of its expansive beach. With emerald waters and pristine golden sand beaches, Majahuita is ideal for snorkeling, swimming and kayaking and provides the perfect backdrop to explore Banderas Bay’s secret hideaways.