Family Beach Vacations

A vacation with the whole family is always epic, especially when it’s in a beach destination, at an oceanfront, kid-friendly resort facing white sands and calm waters. Many beautiful beaches rank high on travel lists. To find out which are the best beach vacation spots, we consulted Fora, a modern travel agency known for curating unforgettable experiences. Are you dreaming about a beach getaway? This blog presents the top 10 family beach vacations as recommended by the travel experts at Fora—and we’ll even share tips on how to stay in style! 😉

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TLDR

USA

• Honolulu, Hawaii | Turtle Bay
• Miami, Florida | Acqualina Resort & Residences
• San Diego, California | Pendry San Diego
• Charleston, South Carolina | Charleston Place & The Dunlin

Caribbean, Mexico & Central America

• San Juan, Puerto Rico | Fairmont El San Juan
• Cancun, Mexico | Rosewood Mayakoba
• Tamarindo, Costa Rica | Four Seasons Peninsula Papagayo

Europe

• Taormina, Italy | Villa Sant ’Andrea, A Belmond Hotel
• Santorini, Greece | Canaves Epitome
• Algarve, Portugal | Martinhal Sagres Family Resort

Photo: Claudia in Cancun for Flytographer. Stacia and family capture memories in Cancun with a family photoshoot at Isla Mujeres.

USA

1. Honolulu, Hawaii | Turtle Bay

On the South Shore of Oahu Island, Honolulu offers a complete package for a memorable family beach vacation. As the capital of Hawaii, it’s brimming with top-notch entertainment, shopping, dining, and colourful corners like the Kaka’ako Murals—one of the best spots for taking photos in Honolulu. 👌

There is no shortage of white sand beaches here, including the world-famous Waikiki Beach and the scenic Waialae Beach Park. You’ll also discover the rich Polynesian culture and stunning vistas of the iconic Diamond Head. Honolulu serves as a perfect gateway for road trips, too, like driving from the South Shore to the North Shore, where you can explore charming beach towns and stop for ice cream or shaved ice. 🍦

How about staying on Oahu’s calmer North Shore? Just an hour’s drive from Honolulu, Turtle Bay Resort offers scenic walking paths, hiking trails, and secluded shorelines. Kids will love exploring the area to find sea turtles, and there are activities for the whole family, including ukulele lessons, lei-making workshops, and surfing sessions. 🏄

✔️ Perks for booking Turtle Bay with Fora: $100 hotel/resort credit, a welcome amenity, daily breakfast, and the possibility of a room upgrade and extended check-in/out, whenever available.

Photo: Enzo in Honolulu for Flytographer. Tiffany and family capture memories in Honolulu with a family photoshoot at Mokuleia Beach.

2. Miami, Florida | Acqualina Resort & Residences

Miami is a destination that perfectly blends city fun with natural beauty. From world-class restaurants to vibrant street art and Art Deco design, there’s plenty to see. As Florida’s largest city, it’s a melting pot of vibrant Latin American and Caribbean cultures and a great place to introduce children to the beauty of cultural diversity. 🎉

The beaches are unforgettable. Hip South Beach, for instance, boasts colourful lifeguard posts that are total photo hits, while Surfside Beach and Historic Virginia Key Beach Park offer more intimate settings.

Nestled in Miami Beach, Acqualina Resort embodies beachfront elegance and is extremely kid-friendly. The resort offers special adventures for the little ones, including a marine biology educational program. While they learn about the sea, you can relax by the oceanfront swimming pool, surrounded by palms and the shimmering sea. 🌴

✔️ Perks for booking Acqualina Resort & Residences with Fora: $100 hotel/resort credit, a welcome amenity, daily breakfast, and the possibility of a room upgrade and extended check-in/out, whenever available.

Photo: Cheryl in Miami for Flytographer. Thuy and family capture memories in Miami with a family photoshoot at Lummus Park & Beach.

3. San Diego, California | Pendry San Diego

San Diego is ideal for experiencing the California lifestyle while on a family beach vacation. Its coastline features dazzling beaches where adults can unwind while their children build sandcastles or play hopscotch.

On Mission Beach’s boardwalk, you’ll feel a delightful atmosphere. With picnic tables and a classic amusement park, the boardwalk and surrounding area are go-to spots for family fun, including cycling, rollerblading, and skateboarding. 🛹

Pendry is one of the best hotels in the downtown area. It’s not only renowned for its elegant decor but also for being a cool and hip spot. Got teens in tow? They’ll love that the hotel lets them borrow Taylor guitars and skateboards during their stay. And if you want to drive a Cadillac around San Diego, the hotel lends guests the car for free city exploration. 🚗

✔️ Perks for booking Pendry San Diego with Fora: $100 hotel/resort credit, $35 daily breakfast credit, and the possibility of a room upgrade and extended check-in/out, whenever available.

Photo: Flytographer in San Diego. Cody and family capture memories in San Diego with a family photoshoot at Windansea Beach in La Jolla.

4. Charleston, South Carolina | Charleston Place & The Dunlin

Charleston is famous for its beautifully restored 19th-century homes. What is the ultimate experience in this South Carolina gem? A horse-drawn carriage ride—a delightful activity for all ages that feels like a journey back in time. 🐴

Outside the city, you’ll find stunning beaches on Sullivan’s Island, Folly Island, and Isle of Palms, all combining Southern charm with breathtaking natural beauty. These uncrowded retreats are perfect for water sports and relaxation. Other must-dos include boat tours for dolphin watching and “pirate ship tours” for kids. 🏴‍☠️

A landmark in the heart of Charleston’s historic district, Charleston Place will captivate your imagination. The hotel is gorgeous, with furnishings and décor that reflect the rich history and culture all around. It’s the ideal city-centre lodging option! If you’re craving something away from the buzz, The Dunlin boasts cottage-inspired southern allure amid marshlands and the backdrop of the Kiawah River and majestic oak trees. 🌳

✔️ Perks for booking with Fora

• Charleston Place: $100 food/beverage credit, $45 daily breakfast credit, and the possibility of a room upgrade and extended check-in/out, whenever available.
• The Dunlin: $100 hotel/resort credit, $30 daily breakfast credit, and the possibility of a room upgrade and extended check-in/out, whenever available.
  

Photo: Kelsey in Charleston for Flytographer. Yanet and family capture memories in Charleston with a family photoshoot at Folly Beach.

Caribbean, Mexico & Central America

5. San Juan, Puerto Rico | Fairmont El San Juan

San Juan is dotted with plenty of Instagrammable spots and colourful colonial buildings. Bustling with vibrant culture, it’s no wonder the city is considered Puerto Rico’s beating heart. 🇵🇷 The beaches boast calm, blue, and clear Caribbean waters, perfect for the younger crowd. Balneario Escambrón is a top family beach vacation choice, thanks to its kiddie pools, excellent facilities, and lifeguard stations.

Beyond the beach, San Juan offers plenty of national parks where you can explore rainforests and discover wildlife and stunning waterfalls. The city also features water parks with thrilling slides and dolphin-watching tours. 🐬

A Puerto Rican icon with its casino-chic vibes, Fairmont El San Juan once drew the likes of Frank Sinatra and Liza Minnelli. Even today, it’s the perfect spot for your sun fix, especially if you choose a luxury cabana by the pool. You and your family will feel like stars. ⭐️

✔️ Perks for booking Fairmont El San Juan with Fora: $100 hotel/resort credit, daily breakfast, and the possibility of a room upgrade and extended check-in/out, whenever available.

Photo: Karlota in San Juan for Flytographer. Kejal and family capture memories in San Juan with a family photoshoot.

6. Cancun, Mexico | Rosewood Mayakoba

Nestled in the stunning Mayan Riviera, Cancun is famous for its beachside photoshoots, all-inclusive resorts, and fine white sand beaches where the Caribbean Sea sparkles like nowhere else. 💙 From spectacular cenotes and Mayan wonders nearby to world-class shopping and eateries, Cancun offers something for the entire family—all at some of the most affordable rates in North America. For the kids, most resorts feature a kids’ club with tons of engaging activities.

Near Cancun, Playa del Carmen offers a more relaxed vibe and is an excellent option for accommodation. Rosewood Mayakoba, for instance, is spread across many small islands and surrounded by lush green mangroves—perfect for family beach vacations! 👍

✔️ Perks for booking Rosewood Mayakoba with Fora: $125 hotel/resort credit, a welcome amenity, daily breakfast, and the possibility of a room upgrade and extended check-in/out, whenever available.

Photo: Claudia in Cancun for Flytographer. Luciana and family capture memories in Cancun with a family photoshoot at Playa Delfines.

7. Tamarindo, Costa Rica | Four Seasons Peninsula Papagayo

Tamarindo Tamarindo is the perfect gateway to exploring Costa Rica’s Guanacaste Province and its stunning beaches. Playa Hermosa, just a short drive away, is fantastic spot for family beach vacations, offering opportunities for swimming, snorkelling, kayaking, and surfing. 🛶

But it’s not all about the ocean waves; the city and region also feature fantastic national parks with lush rainforests that you can explore on horseback. These are a dream come true for any nature-loving family! 🌿 

For great all-inclusive resorts in Costa Rica, check out this guide to all-inclusives in Costa Rica for families. The Four Seasons at Peninsula Papagayo, a top choice, is just a two-hour drive from Tamarindo. The resort boasts a golf course, zip-lining, waterfall hikes, and even, wait for it, volcano trekking opportunities. 🌋

✔️ Perks for booking Four Seasons Peninsula Papagayo with Fora: Enjoy exclusive Four Seasons Preferred Partner amenities when you book with a Fora Advisor. Your advisor will be pleased to provide more details.

Photo: Mariana in Tamarindo for Flytographer. Leigh and family capture memories in Tamarindo with a family photoshoot at Penca Beach.

Europe

8. Taormina, Italy | Villa Sant ’Andrea, A Belmond Hotel

Perched atop a rocky hill on the east coast of Sicily, Taormina boasts cobblestone streets, marvellous architecture, and dramatic ocean views. 😍 The entire city is compact enough to explore easily with kids, and let us tell you—they love checking out the piazzas, ancient ruins, and the views of Mount Etna from afar, especially with a gelato in hand! For water activities, head to Isola Bella Beach or hop on a boat tour of the Aeolian Islands.

Opening onto a dreamy, almost private beach, Villa Sant’Andrea was originally built as a palace for aristocrats. Today, it’s part of the exquisite Belmond chain and is considered one of the most romantic spots to stay in Sicily. The hotel is also perfect for family beach vacations, offering a place where everyone can indulge in la dolce vita. 🇮🇹

✔️ Perks for booking Villa Sant’Andrea with Fora: $90 hotel/resort credit, a welcome amenity, daily breakfast, and an upgrade whenever possible.

Photo: Deborah in Taormina for Flytographer. Laura and family capture memories in Taormina with a family photoshoot at the City Centre.

9. Santorini, Greece | Canaves Epitome

Santorini beckons with its cliffside views, white-washed architecture, and dazzling photo spots. This volcanic island feels more like a Greek myth than a reality. The magic of Santorini captivates young ones, who are fascinated by the black sand and volcanic rock formations on certain beaches. 😲

Families have endless options for spending time together by sea. Just save some energy to savour exquisite Mediterranean cuisine at the end of the day and, of course, marvel at the best sunsets in the world. 🌅

Nestled amid Oia’s blue-domed churches, Canaves Epitome is the perfect choice for families travelling to Santorini. Spacious and elegant, the hotel exudes a sense of serenity and seclusion, like your private slice of Greece. 🇬🇷

✔️ Perks for booking Canaves Epitome with Fora: $100 food/beverage credit, daily breakfast, and the possibility of a room upgrade and extended check-in/out, whenever available.

Photo: Spyros in Santorini for Flytographer. Sungina and family capture memories in Santorini with a family photoshoot in Imerovigli Village.

10. Algarve, Portugal | Martinhal Sagres Family Resort

On the southernmost tip of Portugal, the Algarve boasts miles of golden beaches, countless photo locations, and a truly unique culture. With small towns, fishing villages, and beaches bordered by striking cliffs, the region feels like a well-kept secret. Add in the warm climate with long sunny days, and you have one of the best family beach vacations in Europe. 🇵🇹

With its relaxed atmosphere and beautiful, rugged surroundings, Sagres is a fantastic place to stay in the Algarve. The Martinhal Sagres Beach Family Resort in town is designed with understated luxury and offers special activities, pools, and playgrounds for children. With so much variety, the little ones will always be entertained. As for you, it’s all about soaking in the wonderful coastal vibes of this piece of heaven by the Atlantic Ocean. 🥰

✔️ Perks for booking Martinhal Sagres Family Resort with Fora: 20% off on one spa treatment, welcome amenities, and an upgrade whenever possible.

Photo: Olga in Algarve for Flytographer. Kristina and family capture memories in Algarve with a family photoshoot at Praia Dona Ana.

FAQ

What are the most family-friendly beaches?

All the beaches we mentioned above are family-friendly. For more US destinations, check out Clearwater Beach in Florida, Corolla Beach in North Carolina, Grand Haven State Park in Michigan, and Long Sands Beach in Maine.

Where is the most affordable beach vacation?

Cancun is one of the most affordable options on our list, offering great, budget-friendly, all-inclusive beach resorts. In the US, consider East Coast destinations like Gulf Shores in Alabama and Myrtle Beach in South Carolina, where you can find excellent deals on family beach vacation rentals.

What are the best family beach vacation spots to go with kids?

All the options mentioned above are fantastic destinations for families with kids, but San Diego stands out with SeaWorld and Disneyland just a short drive away. Other great options include Outer Banks for a unique barrier island experience and Hilton Head Island for its resort amenities. If charming historic towns are your style, Cape Cod is the perfect choice.

Where is the safest place to travel with a family?

All the options above are generally safe. Outside our list, Maui in Hawaii, Tulum in Mexico, and the beaches of Australia and New Zealand score high in this category. However, always check official travel advisories to know the conditions before travelling with family. Safety is paramount.

Photo: Mariana in Tamarindo for Flytographer. Evelyn and family capture memories in Tamarindo with a family photoshoot.

Capturing family memories this summer

Eager to pack up and set off on a beach adventure with the whole family? Whether you choose one of the amazing vacation destinations above or somewhere else, the important thing is to share special moments with the ones you love.

Capture the magic of your trip by getting everyone in the photo with Flytographer, and book your accommodations with Fora. That’s the formula for a successful and unforgettable family beach vacation! ☀️🏖️