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16 minutes readContent
1. Hawaii
Where to stay: The Westin Hapuna Beach Resort
Hawaii is a paradise on Earth, famous for its azure waters and its rich variety of marine life. If your kids love movies like Moana and Lilo and Stitch, they’ll feel right at home in Hawaii. The Aloha State is a great option if you want a tropical vacation without leaving the U.S., and most airports will offer a daily route to Hawaii.
There are 137 islands in the Hawaiian chain, including Hawaii itself, which is the largest. While you’ll likely choose Hawaii as your base, you’ll want to plan a long enough vacation to give you a chance to explore some of these other islands. Each island is unique, from the offshore islands like Ford Island to the major islands of Kaua’i and O’ahu.
Although Hawaii is popular with surfers, there are plenty of calmer waves to be found, perfect for taking younger children into the water.
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Although Hawaii is popular with surfers, there are plenty of calmer waves to be found, perfect for taking younger children into the water. If you want to escape the beach, there’s plenty to do, from getting a day pass to one of the island’s many luxury resorts to going whale watching on a private boat.
2. Fiji
Where to stay: Tokatoka Resort Hotel
You’re guaranteed to come across Fiji when searching for recommendations for a beach vacation. Although it’s a popular destination for couples on honeymoon, Fiji has just as many family-friendly activities for you to experience. What makes destinations like Fiji unique is that the hotel staff will always go above and beyond to give your kids an unforgettable experience, from offering babysitting services to organized activities like grass skirt making and crafting.
Fiji has long been considered one of the best family-friendly spots in the Pacific.
Photo by Sergii Figurnyi on Shutterstock
Fiji has long been considered one of the best family-friendly spots in the Pacific. Most public spaces, including restaurants, are welcoming to kids. While there are over 300 islands in the region, Viti Levu, the largest, is the most popular. Unlike other tropical destinations, you’ll want to prioritize booking a resort hotel for your family, as amenities outside of these areas can be limited.
3. Puerto Rico
Where to stay: The Royal Sonesta San Juan
Puerto Rico is a great option if you want to visit a U.S. territory in the Caribbean. While you’ll get to immerse yourself in the local culture, you’ll have the convenience of using the U.S. dollar. While other tropical vacations might involve spending the day lounging at the beach, it’s easy to pack your itinerary full of new experiences for each day of your trip to Puerto Rico. There are snorkeling and watersports experiences available for guests of all skill levels.
It’s easy to pack your itinerary full of new experiences for each day of your trip to Puerto Rico.
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Some of the most popular family-friendly activities on the island include exploring the colorful streets of the historic Old San Juan, visiting El Yunque National Forest, and experiencing the bioluminescent waters of Mosquito Bay and Laguna Grande at night. Puerto Rico is popular because of the variety of price points available for different accommodations, from private resorts to apartments and villas.
4. The Bahamas
Where to stay: Grand Hyatt Baha Mar
When most of us picture a tropical island, we’re thinking of The Bahamas. It’s a destination that ticks all the boxes, from its sandy beaches to its crystal-clear waters and its laidback atmosphere that will have you forgetting what day of the week it is. While there are over 700 islands in the Bahamas, most families will choose to stay in Nassau, a popular cruise port, and take day trips to some of the smaller islands, such as Paradise Island.
When most of us picture a tropical island, we’re thinking of The Bahamas.
Photo by Trent Erwin on Unsplash
You’ll want to do your research before visiting the Bahamas, as island hopping will take a little more planning than other beach vacations. Top attractions for kids include the Aquaventure Water Park at Paradise Island and the Lucayan National Park at Grand Bahama.
5. Mauritius
Where to stay: Anelia Resort and Spa
If you want the juxtaposition of tranquil waters with the stunning views of mountain tops, consider heading to Mauritius for your next family trip. Located off the coast of Madagascar, Mauritius is worth of the long travel day to get to your destination. Although popular with families and couples, it’s still relatively underrated compared to other tropical destinations.
What makes Mauritius so popular is its public beaches, from their velvety sand to their warm waters that are calm almost year-round, ideal for swimmers of all abilities. As a smaller island, it’s easy to get around Mauritius and tick off all the top attractions, including Black River Gorges National Park and Odysseo Oceanarium.
Stay on the west or east coast for the calmest waters and best sunsets.
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Most families plan a seven-day trip to Mauritius, which gives you plenty of time to explore the beaches and other resorts at your own pace. It’s worth noting that it’s best to avoid the water on the south coast if you have young kids, as the currents can be choppier. Stay on the west or east coast for the calmest waters and best sunsets.
6. French Polynesia
Where to stay: Four Seasons Resort Bora Bora
Overwater bungalows are all over our Pinterest board. If you’ve always dreamt of living an A-list experience of staying in one of these stunning bungalows over a crystal-clear lagoon, head to French Polynesia. Here is where you’ll find Bora Bora, an island that has skyrocketed in popularity thanks to celebrities and reality TV stars flocking to the island’s luxury resorts.
Although you can expect most accommodation to be on the pricier side, there are also affordable alternatives available on other islands. The benefits of staying at a resort shouldn’t be underrated, as you’ll get to immerse yourself in Polynesian culture and take advantage of recreational activities, such as deep-sea fishing and snorkeling safaris.
If you’ve always dreamt of living an A-list experience of staying in one of these stunning bungalows over a crystal-clear lagoon, head to French Polynesia.
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It’s easy to focus solely on these resorts, but French Polynesia has so much more to offer, from its easily accessible beaches to unique experiences like whale listening. You’ll find something for all your family, whether they prefer to sit by the pool with their Kindle or to explore the great outdoors on a hiking trail. French Polynesia is considered to have the best snorkeling locations in the world, accessible for both experienced and newbies to the hobby.
7. The Florida Keys
Where to stay: Parrot Key Hotel and Villas
If you’re not a fan of flying, you can have a tropical vacation without leaving the United States. The Florida Keys are the perfect alternative as a road trip that stretches over the 113-mile Overseas Highway that links Florida’s Key Largo and Key West. This option is ideal if you have very young children or want the flexibility to travel with your own vehicle, including the ability to change your itinerary at the last minute.
You can easily curate a travel itinerary that only requires minimal driving each day, allowing you to spend more time bonding with your family and less time on the highway. You’ll find everything from white sand beaches to historic locations and incredible seafood in the Florida Keys.
Florida Keys are the perfect alternative as a road trip that stretches over the 113-mile Overseas Highway that links Florida’s Key Largo and Key West.
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Surrounded by the Gulf and the Atlantic Ocean, the Florida Keys are ideal for wreck diving, sailing, and boating. The Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary is the only barrier reef in the continental U.S. and is home to over 6,000 species of animals. During your visit to the Florida Keys, make sure to try some of the region’s signature dishes, including key lime pie, conch chowder, stone crab, and key west pink shrimp.
8. Dominican Republic
Where to stay: Casa de Campo Resort and Villas
The Dominican Republic is an island where you never know what’s around the corner. Your family will be spoilt for choice with activities like horseback riding, canyoning, listening to live entertainment, and relaxing on Bavaro Beach.
The Dominican Republic is an island where you never know what’s around the corner.
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While there are adult-only accommodations, you’ll find plenty of family-friendly resorts and hotels. Most will offer an all-inclusive package, but it’s important to do your research and read reviews, as food quality, entertainment, and activity programs can vary drastically between resorts. If you have kids at different ages, adventure parks like Ocean World and Scape Park offer a variety of experiences, from zip-lining to wildlife encounters and interactive dolphin shows.
9. St. Barts
Where to stay: Reve de Saint Barth
Often thought of as a couple’s retreat, St. Barthelemy (often referred to as ‘St. Barts’) is the perfect option if you have older kids or want a quieter vacation. Located in the northwest region of the Caribbean, St. Barts is a smaller island with plenty of personality that covers just over 20km², making it easy to get around.
What makes St. Barts popular with families is its European feel. Unlike other nearby islands, it remains a French territory, and it’s easy to see the influence of European culture, cuisine, and language across the island. What’s fun about St. Barts is that you get a taste of European blended with Caribbean and Afro-Caribbean influences for a vacation that feels like being in paradise.
What makes St. Barts popular with families is its European feel
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Gustavia, St. Bart’s capital, has a relaxing atmosphere and is the perfect place to spend a day or two with its inviting little cafes and independent shops. You’re guaranteed to find a unique souvenir made by local artisans, alongside high-end and luxury boutiques.
Although it’s often seen as a playground for the rich and famous, you don’t need a millionaire bank balance to enjoy St. Barts. There are plenty of outdoor experiences you can do, from kite surfing to water skiing and paddle surfing.
10. Thailand
Where to stay: Baiyoka Sky Hotel
Thailand is a country that’s been popular with backpackers and budget travelers for decades, but it’s getting new attention thanks to TV shows like “The White Lotus”, which show the luxury side of the island. Affordability is one of the main attractions of Thailand, where your domestic currency is more likely to go further than at destinations in Europe, the United States, or the Caribbean.
There are over 1,000 islands in Thailand, with Koh Samui quickly gaining attention over the last year. This compact island is ideal for families with older kids, especially those in college, who want to add a wellness focus to their vacation.
There are over 1,000 islands in Thailand, with Koh Samui quickly gaining attention over the last year.
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Not all islands are made equal, so it’s important to do your research. Koh Chang, the second largest, doesn’t have the same type of resort hotels you’ll find in Koh Phi Phi or Phuket. However, 70% of the land mass is made up of Ko Chang National Park, making it a tropical paradise for families who enjoy exploring the outdoors and want to experience a protected rainforest.
11. Maldives
Where to stay: Komandoo Maldives Island Resort
It’s impossible to escape the hype of the Maldives with its crystalline waters, white beaches, and feeling of being in an untouched part of the world. You can’t scroll through social media without seeing videos of the island’s oceanfront villas and incredible sunsets.
Although the Maldives primarily caters to couples, there are plenty of family-friendly resorts and accommodations available. In fact, many hotels won’t charge for kids under a certain age, and you can usually benefit from discounted tickets at popular attractions and on local transport.
Water sports are a must-do in the Maldives, from wakeboarding to paddleboarding and kayaking.
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Treat your kids to a once-in-a-lifetime experience with a dolphin watching cruise or see the bioluminescent waters at night. Water sports are a must-do in the Maldives, from wakeboarding to paddleboarding and kayaking. Most resorts offer lessons and allow you to rent equipment for these sports.
12. Bali, Indonesia
Where to stay: Kelapa Retreat & Spa
Just like Thailand, Bali is another destination that’s long been popular with budget travelers and is starting to make an impression with families. Bali is considered one of the most child-friendly regions in Asia with its famous local hospitality. Most hotels and resorts will offer childcare services, and there’s no shortage of private accommodation if your family prefers the flexibility of a self-catered package.
Don’t forget to pre-book your tickets to other attractions, such as Waterbom Bali, the Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary, and Bali Zoo
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What we love about Bali is that you can have a luxury vacation on a budget by buying a one-day pass to most of the region’s five-star hotels, including the Four Seasons at Jimbaran Bay. Don’t forget to pre-book your tickets to other attractions, such as Waterbom Bali, the Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary, and Bali Zoo. Depending on your children’s ages, you might also want to consider visiting the 10th-century Tirta Empul Temple to take part in one of its ancient cleansing rituals.
13. Turks & Caicos
Where to stay: Beaches Turks & Caicos – All Inclusive
The Turks and Caicos Islands are home to Grace Bay, regularly voted as one of the world’s most beautiful beaches. It’s the ultimate destination for a family that wants to indulge in a luxury resort and spend their time relaxing by the pool or getting their feet in the white sand.
Lots of restaurants in Providenciales are family-friendly, and you’ll be spoilt for choice with beach-front locations, giving your kids the chance to spot dolphins and other marine life while eating.
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It’s a good idea to rent a car if you’re planning to visit Turks & Caicos, especially as the daily rate is typically very affordable. Lots of restaurants in Providenciales are family-friendly, and you’ll be spoilt for choice with beach-front locations, giving your kids the chance to spot dolphins and other marine life while eating.
14. Singapore
Where to stay: One Farrer Hotel
If you want a tropical vacation without staying on the beach, consider adding Singapore to your list of potential holiday destinations. Known for its hot weather, Singapore is a tropical vacation with a difference, blending Indian, Chinese, and Indonesian cultures for a culinary experience that your taste buds will never forget.
Universal Studios Singapore is the main theme park with 24 rides and seven themed areas, including an immersive Far Far Away land from Shrek.
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Singapore has been the focus of major investment in recent decades, including Changi Airport, which famously has its own butterfly garden, making it a destination in itself. While there are plenty of historic things to add to your itinerary, such as Tanjong Pagar and Sri Mariamman Temple, there are also newer attractions. Universal Studios Singapore is the main theme park with 24 rides and seven themed areas, including an immersive Far Far Away land from Shrek.
15. Aruba
Where to stay: Hilton Aruba Caribbean Resort and Casino
One of the main concerns families have when planning a tropical vacation in the Caribbean is the risk of hurricanes. If you want to avoid this stress, consider heading to Aruba instead, which offers year-round sunshine and a relaxing atmosphere that’s perfect for a seven-night break.
If you want to avoid stress, consider heading to Aruba instead, which offers year-round sunshine and a relaxing atmosphere that’s perfect for a seven-night break.
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You’ll want to rent a car to explore as much of the island as possible, including Arikok National Park, Eagle Beach, and Savaneta. If you’re a fan of sunsets, book a catamaran cruise to get the best view of the island as the sky develops a pink tint and the moon comes out to say hello. There’s also plenty of animal-focused experiences, including Philip’s Animal Garden, the Aruba Butterfly Farm, the Ostrich Farm, and the Donkey Sanctuary.
16. St. Martin
Where to stay: Oyster Bay Beach Resort
St. Martin, known locally as Sint Maarten, is a unique destination as it’s split into two sections, the French and Dutch areas of the island. If your family prefers a more relaxed atmosphere, you’ll want to stay on the French side, as you can expect more of a party-focused experience in the Dutch area.
Aviation geeks must take a trip to Maho Beach, right next to Princess Juliana International Airport, to see the planes coming in right over your head. St. Martin is also a great choice if you want to island hop, as both Anguilla and St. Barts are easy to reach by ferry.
If your family prefers a more relaxed atmosphere, you’ll want to stay on the French side, as you can expect more of a party-focused experience in the Dutch area.
Photo by Sean Pavone on Shutterstock
If your family has a daredevil or two, plan a visit to Rainforest Adventures St. Maarten, home to The Flying Dutchman, the world’s most daring zip line. Alternatively, spend a day at the Float-N-Splash Waterpark close to Great Bay Beach, which offers an inflatable floating obstacle course for kids aged six and over.
17. Australia
Where to stay: Sofitel Sydney Darling Harbor
If you’re based in the northern hemisphere and want a tropical vacation during winter, heading to Australia will give you a taste of summer. It’s important to consider how large this Oceanic country is. While you can visit the mainland, there’s also Tasmania and over 8,000 smaller islands.
If you’re based in the northern hemisphere and want a tropical vacation during winter, heading to Australia will give you a taste of summer.
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Not sure where to visit? Sydney is an ideal base as you’ll get to experience the city, while only being an hour from Mona Vale, which is two beaches separated by a sculptural rock. You’ll find a long stretch of soft sand on the main beach, along with a children’s pool and plenty of spots to look for dolphins.
Make the most of school recess by booking a tropical vacation with ZenHotels
School recess is the perfect time to treat your family to a tropical getaway, whether you’re vacationing with your kids or making it a multi-generational experience. There are tropical islands to suit every budget and travel itinerary.
At ZenHotels, our expert-curated travel tips will help you make the most out of your beach vacation with advice on affordable family vacations and how to travel with small children. Start planning your next family getaway by exploring top destinations across the United States and beyond.
