Destinations
Choosing the right destination is critical to making a great family vacation. In a family where the kids want one thing, and parents want entirely another, it can sometimes seem impossible to find somewhere where everyone will be happy! It is important to consider everyone’s wish list when choosing your family vacation destination – if mum and dad are picturing some relaxing downtime on the beach sipping cocktails, a couple of bored, whiney kids are not going to help!
We’ve taken a look at a range of different family vacation destinations, and we’ll help you choose the right one for you and your family. We’ll show you that it isn’t impossible to keep everyone happy; it just takes a little thought and planning.
Don’t forget – if you are all wanting different things, try combining some different vacation ideas, for example some theme park action followed by a few days chilling out by the beach in Florida… You next family vacation is limited only by your imagination!
Beaches and Tropical Destinations
The beach is often top of the list when thinking of vacation destinations – and rightfully so, as, if you pick the right place, a beach holiday has something to offer the whole family. Hotels and resorts located at the beach are often more geared towards families than other destinations – for example, many resorts offer comprehensive kids and activity programs, so mom can be relaxing by the pool all day, while the kids are off playing pirates and dad is windsurfing!
Check out these great family beach vacation destinations, and we’ve found some fantastic kid-friendly hotels too.
- Hawaii
- Carribbean
- Mexico
- Fiji
City Vacations
Did you know that vacation time can be the best time to visit some of the major cities? Cities are often quieter during peak vacation times, and city hotels will generally be cheaper over weekends and holiday periods, outside of peak business travel times. A trip to the big city can be a truly rewarding family vacation, and mom can sneak in some quality shopping time too! From museums and art galleries to taking in a show or first run movie, city vacations have something to offer the whole family
- New York
- Boston
- San Fransico
- Washington DC
- Chicago
- Las Vegas
Mountains and Skiing
Skiing is a great family experience, and kids can’t help but get excited about that crunchy white stuff called snow! The mountains can also be a great place to escape to in the summer, with many resorts offering summer activities for kids such as hiking, mountain biking, rafting and fishing. With spectacular scenery and a huge variety of activities summer or winter, the mountains will always offer a great family vacation destination. Check out our top family ski vacation destinations.
- Top Ski Resorts for the Family
- Ski Resorts for Kids
- Ski vacations: resorts, activities and more!
Theme Parks
Theme parks are not just for kids, there is plenty to entertain mom and dad too! A theme park family vacation can be a great compromise, with most theme park destinations offering great shops and restaurants as well as a huge variety of entertainment and rides, from roller coasters to water slides and everything in between! If your family loves adventure and non-stop action, then a theme-park vacation might be for you. Check out our best theme park family vacation destinations.
- Orlando
- Anaheim
- Los Angeles
Cruising the High Seas
Cruising is back in vogue in a big way, and offers huge variety and choice for families. Cruising can also be a very affordable family vacation, with some great packages on offer, and the large cruise ships do a fantastic job at catering for kids of all ages. With over 60 cruise lines and over 300 cruises to choose from, it can seem a little overwhelming to know where to start. We’ve done the hard work for you, and researched what the different cruise companies offer kids and their families to give you a great family vacation.
Google Search: “cruise companies for families”
Camping Trips for kids
So you want to take your little nomad out into the wilds of the wilderness, though you haven’t been camping yourself since you were a teenager or in college. Little Nomads, recommends picking up a copy of the Tent And Car Camper’s Handbook: Advice for Families & First-timers (Backpacker Magazine) . This great little book retails for around $12, and will you on your way into the wildnerness with some fantastic advice and tips.
