The great thing about travelling with kids is that there are so many options out in the world. Cruises, beaches, and theme parks may be popular but they’re not always what you want for your family vacation! But the family-friendly destinations worldwide are more than you may think!
The next time you’re looking for a family-friendly vacation spot, look no further than this list of our favourite places.
Costa Rica
Costa Rica is a beautiful country in Central America with many opportunities for those who love the outdoors. Along its Pacific and Caribbean coastlines, countless rugged beaches and national parks offer breathtaking views of wildlife from atop volcanoes or flowing waterfalls!
Of all the places in Costa Rica to visit, it’s hard not to be impressed by Arenal Volcano National Park. The area has so much natural beauty and includes some fantastic attractions like hot springs and waterfalls. The most active volcano in Costa Rica is also one of the country’s most beautiful. You can hike through cooled lava floes, enjoy a hot spring dip and take high views from hanging bridges suspended among forest canopy while you’re at it!
The beautiful beaches in Tamarindo are a great destination for families looking to spend time together. The laid-back town offers surfers and sandals alike, making it an ideal spot no matter what your mood may be! The Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve is famous for its biodiversity. It houses over 5% of all known species in Costa Rica and it’s only a half-day drive from Tamarindo!
When you think of unique accommodations, how about a repurposed vintage 1965 Boeing 727 fuselage that is not far from Manuel Antonio National Park that has two bedrooms and sleeps up to six guests?
Galapagos Islands
The Galapagos Islands are a place where kids can experience real-life education and learn about Charles Darwin’s theory of evolution. If your child is aware enough to understand what he/she reads, then bring them here so that they too may see the wildlife which inspired such an important work!
The Galapagos are a “natural laboratory” for observing evolution in action, and they’re also remote enough that you’ll have plenty of time with your family. You could go on land-based tours or book cruises which travel between islands. Experience the beauty and wonder of our ocean planet by exploring different modes of water transportation. Whether you want to go snorkelling, kayaking or see rare wildlife like marine iguanas, giant sea turtles and the emblematic Blue-footed booby!
The Charles Darwin Research Station on Santa Cruz Island is a must-see for any child who has an interest in science. When they visit this area, visitors are able to experience firsthand the initiatives and ongoing research aimed at preserving these fragile ecological systems.
The Royal Palm Galápagos is your perfect destination for exploring Santa Cruz Island. The hotel offers easy access to many day trips and activities, so you can spend more time enjoying this beautiful island! The hotel offers family villas that can sleep up to six guests and participate in the Hilton Honors program. You earn points for staying here with a rate of around USD 227 or 67,000 Hilton honours points per night!
Egypt
How could anyone not want to see the ancient Egyptian tombs and mummies? What a great way for kids’ imaginations to run wild!
When you go on vacation to Egypt, make sure that the Great Sphinx and Giza Pyramids are at least one of your destinations. There are a variety of ticket options available for those who want to explore different areas within the site; however, if private tours or camel rides sound more up your alley there is plenty that can be booked through third-party vendors.
The National Museum of Egyptian Civilization houses a stunning collection of 50K artefacts that spans the entire history and culture of Egypt. When the Grand Egyptian Museum opens in 2023, visitors will be able to see Tutankhamun’s relics and other artefacts from ancient Egypt.
The Valley of the Kings is an area further south in Luxor where many members of ancient royalty are buried. Some notable examples include Ramesses II, Tutankhamun and more!
Palm Springs, California
Palm Springs is not just a Southern California paradise for the Hollywood elite and frequent golfers; it’s also surprisingly family-friendly. A great time to visit is fall or winter when temperatures are cooler and you will be able to enjoy outdoor activities.
The Palm Springs Aerial Tramway is a ride you won’t want to miss out on! This rotating tram car travels more than 2 1/2 miles through Chino Canyon and into Mt. San Jacinto State Park, giving visitors an unparalleled view of all that Palm Springs has to offer.
After your trip to the desert, you can enjoy close encounters with animals at Living Desert Zoo and Gardens. You might also want to visit planes in Palm Springs Air Museum before seeing giant dinosaurs near Cabazon! The landscapes of Joshua Tree National Park, which is only an hour away from Palm Springs are so unique that they’ll leave you speechless.
The Hyatt Regency Indian Wells has a water park and discounted greens fees for the golfers in your family. This makes it perfect as an affordable Palm Springs hotel that can accommodate all different types of travellers!
New Orleans
New Orleans is a city of storybook wonder, family-friendly fun and bachelor parties. From Mardi Gras parades to family-friendly Bourbon Street tours there’s something for every visitor in this fascinating town!
French Quarter Kid Tours will take you on an educational walking tour of New Orleans that is both fun and engaging. After all that exploring, there’s probably a no better way to celebrate than with some beignets from Cafe Du Monde or hot dogs at Dat Dog!
City Park is one of the largest urban parks and it has everything you need for an enjoyable day trip, including playgrounds and venues to accommodate all ages! There are also children’s museums, playgrounds, train gardens, tennis courts, storybook-themed playland, botanical gardens, an amusement park and mini golf.
The Omni Royal Orleans is a four-dwelling complex located in the heart of New Orleans’ French Quarter. It’s within walking distance from Bourbon Street, Jackson Square and Cafe du Monde as well as endless shopping for all your needs!
Key West, Florida
Key West is famous not only for its nightlife and fishing but also because it’s one of the most picturesque cities in all of America. Take a trip down south to see why this little island has captured so many tourists’ hearts!
Key West’s warm waters are perfect for days spent playing in the waves. Higgs Memorial Beach Park offers a shaded playground for kids, but there is no direct beach access from the play area. This makes Smathers Beach better if you are visiting solely so that your child can enjoy sand and water!
When you need a break from the Florida sun, head over to either Key West Aquarium or Shipwreck Treasure Museum. These two attractions provide fun and informative hours of entertainment! The Conch Tour Train is an ideal way to see Key West’s sights while riding through the city. Kids will be fascinated by seeing this interesting location and learning about what they’re viewing on their 75-minute tour!
You’ll have to schedule a day trip if you want to go to Fort Jefferson and Dry Tortugas National Park. It includes a round-trip ferry ride, snorkelling equipment, food, and entry into the park!
The Key West Marriott Beachside Hotel offers a luxurious stay with family-friendly amenities like an on-site restaurant and pool located just steps away from the beach.
Bora Bora
The peaceful environment and crystal-clear water make Bora Bora the perfect place for families. With its private overwater bungalows, and romantic setting that is also family-friendly and considered to be a romantic paradise to spend a honeymoon! It is the perfect place to visit with family.
The overwater bungalows at the Four Seasons Resort Bora Bora or Conrad Bora Bora Nui offer a measure of privacy that allows kids to splash and play without parents constantly reminding them. The waterside location means you can walk right out of your hotel room for some fresh air with swimming nearby!
The two resorts also have complimentary kids’ clubs with play areas and activities, so you can enjoy at least a small bit of Bora Bora’s romantic side. There are plenty of activities to keep children out on the water in addition to resorts. For older kids who want some snorkelling experience, try visiting Matira Beach or swimming with white-tipped sharks! Some tours also include a close-up view of Mount Otemanu which is an extinct volcano at the centre island that’s worth seeing while you’re here.
