Looking for the perfect family beach vacation? Look no further! These resorts offer comfortable rooms, endless activities for families, and stunning beachfront views, all at affordable prices.
Parents magazine conducted extensive research on over 200 hotels and resorts across the United States and the Caribbean to discover the best beach vacations for families. Whether you prefer high-energy, action-packed resorts or laid-back, relaxed atmospheres, there is a perfect fit for you and your family. Please note that prices and services are subject to change, and for the most up-to-date information, please contact the respective resorts directly.
Montage Kapalua Bay (Maui, Hawaii)
Immerse yourself and your loved ones in the spirit of ‘aloha’ at the Montage Kapalua Bay in Maui, Hawaii. With luxurious accommodations ranging from one to four bedrooms, multiple swimming pools, and direct access to the stunning Kapalua Bay Beach, this resort has everything you need for an unforgettable family vacation.
Children aged 5 to 12 can participate in the Paintbox children’s program, which offers a variety of activities throughout the day while parents unwind at the Spa Montage or by the pool. From exploring tidal pools and making instruments to witnessing marine turtles, your child will have a blast during these half-day or full-day sessions. Kids can also compete in the Hawaii-based “Montage Merit” badge competition by completing various activities.
The Montage Kapalua Bay also provides a Cultural Ambassador who will guide your family through a range of Hawaiian cultural activities, including lei-making, Talk Story sessions, and ukulele lessons. You can enjoy meals at several onsite eateries, including the famous Cane & Canoe or prepare meals in the spacious kitchen provided. For a change of scenery, take a short 11-kilometer trip to the ancient town of Lahaina.
Resort in the South Seas Island (Captiva Island, Florida)
Nestled along the Gulf Coast, this picturesque beach resort is no exception to the tradition of offering special deals throughout the summers in the Sunshine State. The South Seas Island Resort has a wide range of accommodations, including fabulous tennis courts, nature activities, family-friendly adventures, and luxurious rentals located just steps away from the shoreline.
Not only are the waves at the beach gentle, but the sand is covered in shells and there is a good chance of spotting dolphins or manatees while in the water during your vacation. With over half of the resort’s 330 acres preserved for nature, it is a nature lover’s dream destination.
Children can embark on their own pirate adventure by using the Scout About Treasure Map to explore the island or attend the Sanibel Sea School for some exciting water discoveries.
Club Med (Punta Cana, Dominican Republic)
Club Med Punta Cana offers a wide range of vacation packages that can be tailored to suit families of any size. They provide a comprehensive babysitting service, including a Pajama Club for younger children and teen-focused activities to enable older children to enjoy their vacation at their own pace. Additionally, they offer various bonuses.
While your children are having a blast, you can take full advantage of the beach, lined with palm trees, and participate in activities such as sailing, snorkeling, windsurfing, and fitness courses. The Club rooms, which are the most affordable option, are cozy and equipped with amenities such as a baby changing table, bathtub, and bottle warmer as part of the resort’s “Baby Welcome” program for families with infants.
Atlantis (Paradise Island, Bahamas)
With over 2,000 rooms to choose from, a stay at Atlantis comes with free admission to their spectacular water park and aquarium. These attractions would easily cost a couple of hundred dollars a day if visited separately in the United States.
The resort’s underwater tunnels and 14 lagoons are home to over 50,000 marine organisms of over 250 different species, a collection comparable to that of the most impressive aquariums in the United States.
There are plenty of exciting water activities spread across the 100-acre resort, including a 50-foot water slide in complete darkness. However, children must meet the height requirement of at least 48 inches to participate in these attractions. For younger kids, Splashers offers a fun water play area featuring a Mayan-themed pirate ship and water canyons. There are also small pools for them to splash around in.
If you and your children need a break from the heat, you can visit the pottery studio or Atlantis Theatre to catch a G or PG-rated movie for free. Keep in mind that this resort is best suited for families who love being near the ocean and have at least one child who is six years old or older. This way, you won’t have to pay for activities that younger children may not be able to enjoy.
The Vero Beach Resort operated by Disney (Vero Beach, Florida)
Disney World, located two hours away from the amusement parks in Orlando, Florida, offers a family-friendly experience that won’t break the bank. Vero Beach is a part of Disney Vacation Club resorts, but you don’t have to be a member to stay there. For non-members, the cost of a one-bedroom condo with a full kitchen, washer and dryer is reasonable.
There are many activities for the whole family, from watching nesting loggerhead sea turtles to exploring nature preserves, playing golf, watching movies, and more. The resort also features a swimming pool shaped like Mickey Mouse and a splash area for toddlers, both equipped with life jackets and pool toys, all provided for free.
Beaches Negril (Negril, Jamaica)
Beaches Negril is situated on what is widely regarded as the most stunning beach on the island, and is a resort that caters specifically to families with young children seeking an unforgettable vacation. Parents can partake in activities such as tennis, kayaking, windsurfing, or simply lounging on the white sand, while their children engage in supervised activities of their choosing.
Toddlers and preschoolers will have a wonderful time participating in Sesame Street-themed activities like shell collecting, face painting, and magic shows, while babies are cared for by professional counselors in a comfortable nursery setting.
Since the majority of activities, kids’ club access, and meals are included in the price, it is recommended that you take full advantage of everything on offer to get the best value for your money. This makes the resort an ideal choice for parents who wish to have a few hours to themselves each day.
Hilton Hawaiian Village (Honolulu, Hawaii)
Families seeking a beloved vacation spot can find it in Oahu, the Hawaiian island that is most accessible from the United States mainland and typically offers the lowest prices. At the Hilton Hawaiian Village, the six swimming pools, including one designed specifically for children, are the hub of activity.
Children who are already proficient swimmers can take advantage of free snorkeling lessons, while the entire family can participate in hula dancing and lei-making sessions on the top deck. Other complimentary activities, such as lawn bowling, ukulele lessons, and Friday night fireworks, are also available. The resort is home to around sixty different types of animals, including flamingos, turtles, and koi fish.
Camp Penguin, which is specifically designed for children, organizes trips to popular local attractions like the Honolulu Zoo, Bishop Museum, and Waikiki Aquarium, as well as other thrilling activities within the resort. It is important to bring your child’s birth certificate or passport, as Hawaii law requires proof of age for entry into any club.