• Enjoy a selection of shore excursions on your cruise.cruise ship image by Brett Bouwer from Fotolia.com
  
  The Carnival Splendor departs weekly from Los Angeles on cruises to the Mexican Riviera. The ship is fitted with all the luxuries you would expect from a cruise ship, as well as extra features such as an adults-only area, a much-appreciated benefit on a cruise ship filled with families. The children can take part in activity clubs with others of their age so you are unlikely to see them until it's time for the shore excursions.
  
  

Cabo San Lucas

• Explore the beaches at Cabo San Lucas.cabo san lucas image by jedphoto from Fotolia.com
  
  One of the stops on the Mexican Riviera cruise is Cabo San Lucas, a beach resort. Most of the shore excursions offered to guests are based around beach and beach activities, including driving a 4x4 jeep on the beach, or if you prefer, join the excursion as a passenger. Or, opt to ride horseback on the beach. If you who want more sea adventures, take a sailing trip on the Australian or New Zealand team's yacht from the Americas Cup around the bay at Cabo San Lucas.
  
  

Mazatlan

• Sample the local tequila.Tequila image by Azazirov from Fotolia.com
  
  Cultural shore excursions are on offer at Mazatlan, including a trip to the local Pacifico brewery to learn how the beer is made and to sample some of the local produce. You can also take a tour of the Sierra Madre mountains to visit the historic colonial villages in the region or join a walking tour of old town Mazatlan. In the evening, join a party celebrating Mexican culture that includes traditional food, music and tequila.
  
  

Puerto Vallarta

• Swim with dolphins.dolphins image by SdoubleU from Fotolia.com
  
  Children will enjoy some of the activities offered at Puerto Vallarta, including an opportunity to swim with dolphins in the Pacific Ocean or even to try to train the creatures. Take a trip on a pirate ship cruise that includes staff and hosts in costume, snorkeling and an all-you-can-eat buffet lunch. Or, opt to join a safari that tours the canals and swamps in the region to search for crocodiles.