Unexpected Vacation Ideas That Will Surprise You

A group riding camels through the desert

Vacations with a Twist: Surprising Activities You Didn’t Know You Could Book

You booked the beach. You packed the sunscreen. You think you know what’s coming next—but what if your vacation came with a surprise or two? The kind you’ll be telling stories about long after the sunburn fades? Here are some unexpected adventures hidden in plain sight at a few of our most popular destinations.

Cancun: Not Just Beaches and Margaritas

Cancun might be known for its sparkling shoreline and all-inclusive resorts, but did you know you can snorkel through an underwater art gallery? The MUSA Underwater Museum of Art is a surreal experience, with over 500 life-sized sculptures resting on the seafloor. Whether you choose to scuba dive or float above with a snorkel, it’s an eerie, beautiful reminder of how art and nature can collide.

For something totally different, consider taking a traditional Mayan cooking class in the jungle. These authentic, open-fire classes are a delicious way to connect with the culture beyond the resort.

Myrtle Beach: Go Beyond the Boardwalk

Families love Myrtle Beach for its classic attractions, but there are some quirky, offbeat gems waiting if you venture a bit further. One hidden treasure? A private glass-blowing class where you and the kids can create your own colorful souvenirs.

Or head out to Murrells Inlet for a salt marsh kayak tour at sunset. As the sky turns pink and the dolphins start showing off, you’ll be reminded why the best memories rarely involve waiting in line.

Cabo San Lucas: Desert Adventures You Didn’t Expect

When people think of Cabo, they usually picture ocean views and poolside cocktails. But head inland, and you’ll find a wild side. Ever tried zip-lining across a desert canyon? It’s one of Mexico’s longest and fastest lines, and it offers a heart-racing way to experience the unique landscape.

Want something even more unexpected? Book a camel ride along the Pacific coastline. Yes, camels. You’ll feel like you’ve been dropped into another continent, and the photo ops are unbeatable.

Orlando: Theme Parks and Then Some

Sure, the theme parks are magical—but Orlando has a few tricks up its sleeve for those willing to look. Like the chance to go airboating through the Florida Everglades. Picture this: gliding across the water with alligators nearby and bald eagles overhead. It’s thrilling, peaceful, and wildly different from the park crowds.

Or spend a day at an interactive chocolate factory where you can design your own bar. It’s sweet, it’s hands-on, and it’s a hit with kids and grown-ups alike.

Puerto Vallarta: Art, Adventure, and a Bit of Magic

Puerto Vallarta is packed with surprises, like hidden art walks through Old Town where local creators invite you into their studios. Or take a boat to Yelapa, a car-free village where waterfalls meet the ocean and donkeys outnumber cars. You won’t find it in most guidebooks, but you will find yourself planning your return.

One more twist? Nighttime paddleboarding. With LED lights under your board, you’ll glide over glowing waters—part workout, part sci-fi dream.

Make Space for the Unexpected

Vacations don’t have to be predictable. In fact, the best stories often come from the things you didn’t plan. Our vacation packages offer you access to top destinations with room to explore, wander, and maybe even surprise yourself.

Because when someone asks you how your trip was, wouldn’t it be fun to answer, “Well, we rode camels in Cabo…”

Ready to plan something unforgettable? Check out our vacation packages to these destinations and more—then start dreaming up your twist.

Book your trip today!

Book your package, set your dates, and experience unexpected delight.
Lisanne Beeman
Lisanne Beeman
Went to Cabo San Lucas in a really beautiful resort, had a one bedroom room and all inclusive amenities. Everyone was really nice and we enjoyed ourselves very much. We will definitely travel with monster again The Price is Right! thank you Matthew Williams you were a great promotion referral. Will be traveling again in February 2024.
Karen Gennaro
Karen Gennaro
Booking with Monster was a pleasure. Mark Howard was a courteous and humorous representative. He helped to book a great little vacation on Treasure Island for us last month. The resort was perfect and I felt he worked ardently to find the perfect spot to please us. Will definitely book again through Monster. Thank you!
Vivian Edmondson
Vivian Edmondson
My husband and I had the best vacation ever at the Sports Illustrated CapCana Resort in Punta Cana, Dominican Republic. Out room was fabulous with a beautiful view of the pool and marina. The personnel were amazing; very friendly, helpful and accommodating. The food was delicious. We will definitely visit again. I highly recommend this resort!
Marsha Wolff
Marsha Wolff
I have received perfect customer service with Monster Vacations. We enjoyed a wonderful beach vacation last week. We recommend Monster vacations for anyone seeking a easy and affordable getaway Much thanks to Cathy McGrath for her genuine and dedicated assistance with our booking questions and going put of her way to make sure we were satisfied! I'm sure Cathy McGrath is one of the most effective team members Monster has! Thanks so much for a wonderful getaway!
Bettie McReynolds
Bettie McReynolds
Really great value! You have to commit to a 2 hr timeshare presentation but other than that, you get a great vacation for just a few hundred dollars. So far I've been to Myrtle Beach, Costa Rica and the Dominican Republic using Monster.
Heather Ranson
Heather Ranson
Punta Cana’s Grand Sirenes was so beautiful!! Kristine at Monster answered all of my many questions and gave me many tips on how to book my next trip!!
Anita Kromer
Anita Kromer
Absolutely gorgeous resort! Fantastic service, food, entertainment, and amenities. The beach by far was amazing!!
Amelia Tate-Moore
Amelia Tate-Moore
I had an awesome experience today booking my trip with Anthony S. He made sure I understood the details of my package and was able to answer any questions I had. You definitely can't beat the prices for the first class accommodations they provide. He even talked about some of the things I may be interested in doing while in the area. He was very friendly and his professionalism was outstanding. I'm really looking forward to my trip!!!

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You must be at least 26 years of age or older, have a gross annual income of $50,000 annually if a couple, or $60,000 if single. Attendance of a 120-minute presentation is required to receive this special offer. You must also have a valid personal major credit card bearing a MasterCard(R), Visa(R), American Express(R), or Discover(R) logo.

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