Planning a family vacation can be quite a headache, especially when considering everyone’s interests and preferences. However, it can also be an exciting adventure filled with learning opportunities, new memories, and experiences that will bond the family together. Read on for some of the perfect family destinations, whether looking for an educational experience, an outdoor adventure, or relaxation time by the beach.
Maui, Hawaii
For a tropical escape, it doesn’t get much better than Maui in Hawaii. There are numerous activities like swimming and surfing, and you can also explore the island’s lush jungles and waterfalls. Check out Haleakala National Park for some of Maui’s most beautiful sights. Your family will love lounging on the beach and can explore opportunities for snorkeling, scuba diving, or boat cruising to get close to local wildlife, such as whales and dolphins. You have many options when it comes to hotels, or perhaps you would prefer a rental in Wailea for a more secluded experience. Beyond that, there are plenty of amazing restaurants and shopping options in Lahaina and Kihei.
San Diego, California
The weather in San Diego is perfect, and it’s home to many activities that the whole family can enjoy. Kids can play at the beach and explore Balboa Park, while parents can relax with a glass of wine on the waterfront or explore the city’s vibrant culture. Mission Beach and La Jolla Shores are perfect for soaking up the sun.
You can also spend a day at SeaWorld or Legoland California Resort to get an up-close look at sea creatures or Lego characters. Then take a stroll down Seaport Village for shopping and dining.
Orlando, Florida
No family summer vacation is complete without a trip to Orlando, the home of Walt Disney World. Most Disney parks offer a great mix of thrills and adventure for the whole family. You can access the full list of every Disney theme park, Disney cruises and Adventures by Disney.
After your days at Disney World, you can take a break from rides and attractions to explore other entertainment options, such as Universal Studios, Harry Potter World, or Gatorland.
Jamaica
For a Caribbean getaway, Jamaica is the perfect destination for your family vacation. You’ll feel like paradise with its lush tropical landscape, beautiful white sand beaches, and warm climate.
You can enjoy activities and adventures like snorkeling or scuba diving while exploring some of the best coral reefs. Or take a relaxing day cruise and enjoy the views of Jamaica’s stunning coastline.
Kids will love spending the day at Dolphin Cove, interacting with these friendly creatures. Other activities include exploring the Bob Marley Museum, visiting Dunn’s River Falls for breathtaking photo ops, or zip lining through lush rainforests.
Savannah, Georgia
For a charming Southern escape, Savannah is the perfect destination for your family vacation. It has outlandish cobblestoned streets and impressive historic buildings, which makes you feel like you’re stepping back in time.
Take a stroll down River Street and explore its unique shops and restaurants. You can also take a horse-drawn carriage tour of the city or a riverboat cruise to learn more about Savannah’s history.
Kids will love visiting nearby Tybee Island, which offers miles of sandy beaches perfect for swimming, surfing, and fishing. Other entertainment options include visiting historic sites like the Andrew Low House or the Juliette Gordon Low Birthplace to learn more about Savannah’s past.
Los Angeles, California
Los Angeles offers plenty of entertainment and cultural attractions for your family. Spend the day at Universal Studios Hollywood to explore the world of movie magic; alternatively, visit The Getty Center, which houses an extensive collection of artwork from across the globe.
Walk along Santa Monica Pier or explore Griffith Park’s miles of trails and recreation areas for outdoor activities. You can also tour the nearby Hollywood Hills to get a glimpse of some iconic celebrity homes.
Kids will love getting close to animals at the Los Angeles Zoo or surfing and swimming in the Pacific Ocean. There are many outstanding restaurants across the city where you can sample some delicious Californian cuisine.
Vancouver, Canada
Vancouver is a vibrant port city surrounded by water, mountains, and lush green forests. Explore Stanley Park, an urban park with plenty of activities for families to enjoy, including biking trails, beach fronts, gardens, and nature reserves. You can also tour Granville Island, with its bustling markets and shops. The family can spend an afternoon at the Vancouver Aquarium to learn about the city’s natural wildlife or ride on the Capilano Suspension Bridge to view the surrounding mountains and forests.
Austin, Texas
When visiting Austin with kids, check out the Congress Avenue Bridge to observe the largest bat colony in North America, or visit Zilker Park to explore its botanical gardens and trails. Visit the Bullock Texas State History Museum to learn more about local culture and history. Or take a leisurely bike ride on the Lady Bird Lake Hike and Bike Trail.
You can also engage in activities like canoeing on Lady Bird Lake, where you can spot turtles and fish. Kids will love exploring the Austin Nature and Science Center, which offers a variety of interactive exhibits and an animal sanctuary. You can also take day trips to nearby attractions such as Enchanted Rock State Natural Area or Hamilton Pool Preserve for incredible views of Texas’ natural beauty. Try some delicious Tex-Mex cuisine or sample Austin’s famous BBQ for dinner.
Costa Rica
Costa Rica is a nature lover’s paradise, offering a wealth of exciting activities and attractions for your family. Spend the day soaking up some sun while spotting sloths and toucans, or explore one of many volcanoes dotting this tropical landscape guided tour.
From surfing and scuba diving off Tortuguero National Park’s Caribbean coast all the way down south towards Corcovado National Park’s Pacific shoreline, Costa Rica offers up pure paradise like nowhere else on earth. Kids will love checking out Costa Rica’s colorful culture by visiting local markets, exploring the capital city of San Jose, or getting up close to some of the country’s unique wildlife.
New York City, USA
New York City is the perfect destination for an unforgettable family vacation. Start your visit with a trip to the iconic Times Square, where you can explore shops and restaurants or catch a Broadway show. A Staten Island Ferry trip will give you a stunning view of the Manhattan skyline.
Head uptown to Central Park, a peaceful oasis in the heart of the city, and take a relaxing stroll down its pathways or rent a boat and paddle around the lake. Kids will love visiting the famous American Museum of Natural History or admiring the city’s impressive monuments and statues.
No matter where you decide to go on vacation, from bustling cities to beautiful tropical paradises, there is something for every family. Research online and read travel blogs to find the perfect spot for your family’s next adventure. Remember to bring home many unforgettable memories wherever you go.
