Baby-Friendly Vacations
Travelling for the first time with a brand-new family member brings challenges but also joy, new experiences and cherished memories. Planning baby-friendly vacations starts with a great destination where the whole family can relax and have fun together, so here’s our round-up of the top ten best spots, plus travel tips, for your next baby-friendly family vacay! 🌍
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TLDR
- Baby-friendly beaches
- Baby-friendly vacation destinations
- Best parks for babies
Photo: Darine in Banff for Flytographer. Sandeep and family capture memories in Banff with a birthday photoshoot at Lake Minnewanka.
Beach Vacations
Sun-warmed sand under your feet, a sparkling jewel-toned ocean and dinner made by someone who isn’t you. From the all-inclusive resorts of Mexico to the island paradise of Maui, baby-friendly vacations at the beach are the ideal break for parents. 🏖️
1. Cancun, Mexico
Cancun, located on Mexico’s southeastern coast, is famous for its beautiful beaches, all-inclusive resorts and ancient Mayan architecture. As a popular vacation destination, most major U.S. cities offer direct flights throughout the year. Winter and spring offer the best weather, but the shoulder seasons of fall and summer see fewer crowds and better deals.
Many all-inclusive Cancun resorts go above and beyond to offer accommodations perfect for little ones. Resorts often provide kid clubs and engaging activities tailored for various age groups, ensuring entertainment for children while parents enjoy some relaxation. From shallow pools with splash areas to mini waterparks, there’s no shortage of fun for the littlest vacationers. 🤿Some properties even offer babysitting services, allowing parents to enjoy a quiet dinner or spa treatment. Depending on where you stay, you can often choose a nearby route for a photoshoot!
Photo: Tati in Cancun for Flytographer. Iona and family capture memories in Cancun with a birthday photoshoot.
2. Guanacaste, Costa Rica
Pura Vida! You’ll hear this greeting often in Central American Costa Rica. It’s a phrase that celebrates the simple life, filled with good food, family and a strong connection to nature.
Costa Rica is a very baby-friendly vacation destination. Unlike Mexico, the tap water all over Costa Rica is safe to drink, which is great for tiny tummies. Little ones are welcome everywhere in the family-centric nation. And the tropical climate offers year-round warmth. For a laid-back stay, book an Airbnb, and you won’t have to worry about disturbing anyone around you—plus, baby can have their own room, perfect for nap time! 🍼
Photo: Mariana in Guanacaste for Flytographer. Christopher and family capture memories in Guanacaste with a family photoshoot.
3. Maui, Hawaii
After the devastating 2023 fires, Hawaii’s Governor Josh Green asked visitors to stay away from Maui as the island began the long road to recovery. Now, many businesses in Lahaina are open and encouraging tourists to return.
Maui, the second largest of the Hawaiian islands, is known for its stunning beaches, lush landscapes and vibrant restaurant scene. The laid-back lifestyle is perfect for families with young children. 🌴 Spend your days by the beach or rent a car plus car seat and if you’re up for an adventure, road trip the Hana Highway. Stay in Wailea, which has a stroller-friendly beach path and plenty of family-friendly accommodation options, such as the Wailea Beach Resort, The Grand Wailea and the Hyatt Regency Ka’anapali.
Photo: Marie in Maui for Flytographer. Tanisha and family capture memories in Maui with a family photoshoot.
Photo: Nicole in Maui for Flytographer. Kathy and family capture memories in Maui with an anniversary photoshoot at Po’olenalena Beach.
City Destinations
Sightseeing on a city vacation is doable with a stroller and is perfect for a baby’s first trip. Take plenty of coffee breaks, factor in some outdoor activities and get around on public transportation for a memorable getaway in some of the world’s greatest cities.
4. New York City, New York
Hit the streets of New York with a stroller and soak up the sights and sounds of a city that never fails to inspire. 🗽Late nights on Broadway may be out (unless babysitting is an option), but lazy lunches followed by a meander through Central Park are definitely in. Stay at a funky Midtown hotel, such as The Roxy, or Tribeca, and indulge in pancakes at Bubby’s, one of the neighborhood’s many family-friendly cafes. Our local Flytographers have a ton of great family travel tips for New York, so be sure to book an NYC photoshoot while you’re in town!
Photo: Anna in New York City for Flytographer. Bridget and family capture memories in New York City with a family photoshoot at Brooklyn Bridge & DUMBO.
Photo: Sehee in New York City for Flytographer. Larisa and family capture memories in New York City with a family photoshoot in Central Park.
5. Tokyo, Japan
With clean, safe public transportation, Japan’s capital city of Tokyo is easy to navigate and a wonderful place for baby-friendly vacations. Immerse yourself in the buzz of the Tsukiji Fish Market or the neon-bright Shibuya district, then find peace in an ancient temple or one of Tokyo’s expansive parks. For delicious food at a baby-friendly location, try the rooftop restaurant of the iconic Mitsukoshi department store in the Ginza district or the whimsical Straw Hat Cafe at the Ghibli Museum. Spring is a popular time to visit Tokyo. Be sure to plan accommodations well in advance to catch the cherry blossom season in April.
Photo: Daniel in Tokyo for Flytographer. Jonathan and family capture memories in Tokyo with a family photoshoot in Asakusa.
6. Florence, Italy
Expose your little one to history, great food, and culture early with a trip to this European city. Family is at the heart of Italian life, and babies are welcomed everywhere in the beautiful city of Florence. Despite the cobblestones, Florence is relatively easy to navigate with a stroller, and the beautiful piazzas are car-free. Ride the carousel at Piazza della Repubblica, explore the beautiful Uffizi Gallery, and of course, indulge in a gelato or three. 🍨 Almost everything in Florence is suited to baby-friendly vacations.
Photo: Ellie in Florence for Flytographer.Renee and family capture memories in Florence with a family photoshoot at Duomo & Ponte Vecchio.
Photo: Ellie in Florence for Flytographer. Melissa and family capture memories in Florence with a family photoshoot at Duomo & Ponte Vecchio.
7. San Juan, Caribbean
San Juan, Puerto Rico’s capital, boasts colourful architecture, tropical beaches and vibrant culture. Art and music festivals take place throughout the year, giving you plenty of opportunities to take part in a family-friendly fiesta. 💃Check out Old San Juan and join in the fun tradition of flying a kite on the lawn outside Castillo San Felipe del Morro on a Sunday afternoon, or splash in the fountain in Plaza del Quinto Centenario. The San Juan Marriott is a good accommodation option in the city, or consider El Conquistador Resort on the east side of the island if you have older kids who would appreciate the waterslides and beach.
Photo: Karlota in San Juan for Flytographer. Matthew and family capture memories in San Juan with a family photoshoot.
Parks
Whether you love hiking to waterfalls or prefer the Ferris Wheel at a theme park, you can still enjoy outdoor activities with a baby in tow. Pack hats and sunscreen alongside the diapers for an epic parks trip–national or Disney, that’s up to you. 😎
8. Banff, Canada
Bring a baby carrier and explore the breathtaking vistas of Banff, Canada. This area is Instagram-famous for a reason—the turquoise waters of Lake Louise draw thousands of tourists every summer. 📸 For a less crowded baby-friendly vacation experience, go during the fall months of September and October. Make the most of the incredible natural scenery by booking a baby photoshoot with a Flytographer!
Photo: Darine in Banff for Flytographer. Hannah and family capture memories in Banff with a family photoshoot at Lake Minnewanka.
9. Denver, Colorado
Year-round outdoor adventures await in the Rockies when you visit the mile-high metropolis of Denver, Colorado. 🏔️ The city is a great base for day trips exploring the spectacular surroundings, from Rocky Mountain National Park to Dinosaur Ridge and Red Rocks Park and Amphitheater. And there are plenty of baby-friendly activities in Denver itself, including the Denver Zoo and Denver Botanic Gardens. After a busy day, check out one of Denver’s kid-friendly craft breweries for a cold beer and comfort food on a sunny patio.
Photo: Jenna in Denver for Flytographer. Tiffany and family capture memories in Denver with a family photoshoot at South Valley Park.
Photo: Katie in Denver for Flytographer. Jill and family capture memories in Denver with a family photoshoot at South Valley Park.
10. Anaheim, California
Head to Anaheim for a stay at the world’s happiest place, Disneyland. 🎢While infants can’t join you on every ride, many attractions offer rider swaps so that one parent can hold the baby while the other hops on. There’s plenty to enjoy at the famous park, including parades, shows and fireworks. It’s also smaller and easier to walk around compared with the larger Disneyworld in Florida. If you want to go back to your accommodation during the day for naps, it’s best to stay at one of the Disneyland resorts, as these are closest to the parks.
Outside of Disneyland, glamorous Los Angeles awaits. Stroll along the Hollywood Walk of Fame, explore the Griffith Observatory, or check out the iconic Santa Monica Pier.
Photo: Alvin in Anaheim for Flytographer. Yung and family capture memories in Anaheim with a family photoshoot at Disneyland Main Street & the Castle.
Photo: Alvin in Anaheim for Flytographer. Audrey and family capture memories in Anaheim with a family photoshoot at Disneyland Main Street & the Castle.
Capturing Memories on Your Family Vacation
The best baby-friendly vacations take a little planning, but the memories you bring home are well worth the effort. The first year of your baby’s life passes so fast, so it’s important to take time to slow down and enjoy these precious moments. Capture the major milestone of your baby’s first trip with a Flytographer family photography session, and you’ll have a beautiful souvenir you can treasure forever. ✨📷