written by
Lottie Gross
updated 05.11.2024
To help you find destinations that are as much fun for children as for grown-ups Rough Guides' family travel experts have put their heads together and come up with the top 30 best places to go with kids. So if you’re after a relaxing beach break or something a little more adventurous, we've found spots around the world for every child and parent.
You might also want to take a look at our list of magical places to visit with children. And if you're traveling with older kids finding ways to keep them wowed is easier with inspiration from our gallery of seriously weird places around the world.
Created by local experts
Slovenia is a small but brilliant country, especially when it comes to places to go with kids. Rent a car and head north from the capital to Maribor, a compact city that's just minutes away from active entertainment for all ages.
There’s canoeing on the river Drava in summer and skiing in the nearby resort of Pohorje in winter. In spring, try the resort’s single-track toboggan run that hurtles down the ski slopes at up to 30mph.
More adventure activities await on rafting tours of the Soča River. It's a thrilling adventure for the whole family, during which kids can learn about the sport from experienced local guides.
Alternatively, spend a day at Canyon Učja, the biggest zipline park in Europe, no less. Fearless teens will love flying on the long ziplines which rise above the canyon of the river Učja.
Monteverde, Costa Rica © Shutterstock
Costa Rica is a world leader in eco and adventure tourism, with Monteverde as a prime example. About half this protected area is conserved as the Bosque Eternal de los Niños ("Children's Eternal Forest"), a huge stretch of lush cloud forest, rainforest, and montane evergreen forest threaded with trails and full of wildlife-spotting opportunities.
As you'd expect, there are plenty of outdoor activities: hiking, camping, zip lines, canopy tours, and horse riding. Costa Rica is also easy to travel around. Our 7-day Costa Rica itinerary is kid-friendly, but if you have more time, consider spending 10 days to fully explore.
Nearby Monteverde Cloudforest Biological Reserve offers yet more pristine forests and adventure activities, while Reserva Santa Elena even has stroller-friendly trails.
Monteverde is a playground for curious kids and nature lovers alike. Start with a ride on the Sky Tram, which glides through the misty cloud forest, giving little explorers a bird’s-eye view of the treetops. Then, take them on a thrilling walk across the Sky Walk Hanging Bridges — watch their faces light up as they cross bridges high above the forest floor!
Along the way, keep your eyes peeled for monkeys, sloths, and colorful birds. For a wow-worthy view, head to a lookout point and gaze across the Gulf of Nicoya.
Bali, Indonesia © Shutterstock
Bali has an enchanting Hindu culture and jaw-dropping tropical landscapes that will leave any family spellbound. But there’s also no shortage of fun activities to keep kids interested, from Ubud’s monkey forest and shadow puppet shows to waterfall swimming at Gitgit and dolphin-watching off Bali’s north shore.
When it’s time for tranquility, the idyllic Gili islands are a short boat ride away. With white sands and still waters, Gili Air is the perfect place to enjoy the irresistibly slow pace of island life, although the turtle hatchery at Gili Meno is also worth a day trip.
Let kids learn to surf on Kuta Beach, one of the best beaches in Bali. Fully qualified instructors are English-speaking and surfing lessons can include pickup from local hotels.
And don't forget to arm yourself with our Bali travel tips and our guide to the best time to visit Bali to make your family Bali itinerary even better.
Sail from Lombok and find out why Gili Nanggu is called Paradise Island on a snorkeling tour, which will often include visits to the islands of Gili Sudak and Gili Kedis.
Havana, Cuba © Shutterstock
Havana has more to offer families than just colorful buildings and vintage cars. This vibrant city is packed with kid-friendly spots and unique experiences.
For example, a tour of the planetarium walks you around four floors of rooms, charting a journey through the cosmos, from the Big Bang (represented by a light and sound display) onwards.
For some outdoor fun, head to Parque Almendares. This lush park is more than just a patch of green in the city — it’s a playground for family adventures. Pack a picnic, rent a rowboat for a leisurely paddle down the river, or let the kids loose on the mini-golf course. Add in the park’s quirky sculptures and shady trails, and you’ve got a spot that’s perfect for unwinding while the kids explore.
Cuba is full of surprises for families, blending culture, and nature, and plenty of fun. Start in Havana, where kids can explore the interactive planetarium or enjoy a picnic and paddle boats in Parque Almendares. For a hands-on history lesson, take a classic car tour around the city’s colorful streets.
Heading out of Havana, dive into Viñales Valley, where kids can explore caves, meet local farmers, and learn about Cuba’s famous tobacco industry. And no Cuba itinerary is complete without the beach — try Varadero or Cayo Coco for crystal-clear waters and soft sands perfect for a family day out.
While Argentina isn't known as a family destination, it has a lot to recommend it. The food is delicious and kids will particularly appreciate the traditional heladerías or ice cream parlors. There's also a stunning variety of landscapes and outdoor activities and the wildlife-spotting is second to none.
If you want to venture away from Buenos Aires, Rosario makes a good base. Not only does it have child-focused attractions like the Jardin de los Niños and the Museo de los Niños, but you can head out on river tours or rent a car and work your way north to the awe-inspiring Iguazú Falls.
Argentina is packed with thrilling activities for kids, and a trip to Iguazú Falls is the perfect way to kick off a family-friendly itinerary. Give your kids an unforgettable experience with a boat tour on the Gran Aventura, where they’ll feel the full force of the falls up close. Then, dive into an adventure through the surrounding jungle in a 4×4, spotting wildlife along the way.
For something a bit different, try guided horseback riding in the Puerto Iguazú jungle. You can even tour a historic missionary country and visit a local Guaraní community, adding cultural depth to your itinerary.
Hobbiton, New Zealand © Shutterstock
New Zealand is top of the most beautiful countries in the world, as voted by you. And while the country's North Island might not have snow-capped mountains, it doesn't skimp when it comes to dramatic scenery.
Kids will be enthralled by the sulfur stink at Rotorua, the tiny living lights in the glowworm caves of Waitomo and the bubbling pools at Hot Water Beach on the Coromandel Peninsula. If you hire a motorhome you can explore at your own pace.
These days it's impossible to separate New Zealand from the Lord of the Rings trilogy, and young fans will love the hobbit holes at Hobbiton, as well as Wellington's Weta Workshop, the center of New Zealand's film industry, where kids can learn all about prop building and prosthetics.
New Zealand’s North Island is packed with experiences that bring its stunning landscapes to life. Start with a guided tour of the Hobbiton Movie Set, where you can wander through the Shire, peek into Hobbit holes, and enjoy a drink at the Green Dragon Inn. It’s a must for Lord of the Rings fans and a magical stop for families alike.
Then, head to the Waitomo Glowworm Caves. This 45-minute boat tour glides you through dark caves illuminated by thousands of glowworms, creating an enchanting, starlit atmosphere underground. For more travel inspiration, check out our New Zealand itineraries.
Belize rainforest © Shutterstock
Not only is Belize one of the world's best small countries, but it's also one of the safest and easiest countries to explore in Central America.
Beyond its colorful marine life and beautiful beaches, Belize offers tropical excitement in its malaria-free rainforest. In San Ignacio, start with a day at Caves Branch Jungle Lodge, where you can float downriver, spotting monkeys and toucans. For more ideas, explore our Belize itineraries for family-friendly adventures across the country.
At Caves Branch Jungle Lodge near San Ignacio, you can float downriver in an inner tube through luxuriant forests full of cheeky spider monkeys and squawking toucans, then wake up to a dawn chorus of chirping cicadas.
Or how about taking a half-day canoeing tour with kids? Drive through a Mennonite community to the remnants of an ancient Mayan civilization then explore the cool watery underground caverns of Barton Creek by canoe.
Colorado, USA © Shutterstock
You won't find finer views and cleaner air than in Colorado and if you're looking for a family trip that embraces the great outdoors, this state begs to be explored.
Start in the compact, mile-high city of Denver, from where it's a short drive to the sparkling alpine lakes and majestic peaks of the Rockies. Hidden further east is Colorado's answer to the Grand Canyon — the dramatic Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park, one of America's most overlooked national parks.
Older kids with an interest in history will also be fascinated by the Ancestral Puebloan cliff dwellings at Mesa Verde in the state's southwest corner.
Colorado is a playground for families looking to combine adventure with history in their itinerary. Start with a day trip to Rocky Mountain National Park from Denver. The kids will love the scenic drive, and you'll see iconic sights like the Flatiron rock formations and the famous Stanley Hotel, known from the movie The Shining. Bring a picnic lunch and enjoy it surrounded by stunning mountain vistas.
If you want variety, take the kids on a haunted walking tour of Denver's Capitol Hill neighborhood. This spooky adventure embraces the city's dark history with tales of old mansions and creepy encounters. It's an unforgettable way to delve into Denver's past - creepy enough to be interesting.
Kerala, India © Shutterstock
Kerala offers the Indian experience at a more manageable pace for families with babies or small children.
Start in quaint Fort Cochin, a small, chilled-out quarter of Kochi with good hotels and restaurants. The peaceful backwaters can easily be reached on a day trip from here, but if you want to overnight along serene waterways on a houseboat made of wood and palm leaves, start out from Alappuzha (Alleppey) or Kumarakom.
Kids will also love the state’s national parks, with elephant spotting in Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary, and for teenagers, there’s bamboo rafting.
Cruise the backwaters of Alleppey on a houseboat tour from Cochin. It'll have you exploring the famous inland waterways of Kerala, seeing traditional villages, and learning about backwater life.
Enjoy a trip to the hill station of Munnar, 1700 meters above sea level. Most Indian itineraries from Kochi include visits to a tea museum as well as tea and spice plantations.
Kenya © Shutterstock
On the surface, this sprawling city doesn’t seem like one of the most sensible places to go with kids. But Nairobi has access to some wonderful child-friendly attractions.
For example, Nairobi National Park, where lions, leopards, giraffes, and zebra roam free within sight of the city, is the perfect day trip for wildlife-watching.
Or, for a more hands-on experience, try the Giraffe Center where you can feed these elegant, long-necked beasts from a raised gallery. Alternatively, visit the Sheldrick Wildlife Trust where orphaned elephants are rehabilitated and prepared for life in the wild.
Editor's tip: read our guide to the best time to travel to Kenya and explore our Kenya itineraries for inspiration.
Thinking about a family trip to Kenya? Our guide to visiting Kenya with kids offers invaluable tips.
Nairobi offers unforgettable wildlife experiences that are perfect for kids. Start with a full-day tour of Nairobi National Park, where you can spot lions, rhinos, and zebras against the city skyline. Don’t miss a visit to the elephant orphanage, where rescued baby elephants are fed and cared for, and the giraffe center, where kids can hand-feed these gentle giants.
For families looking to venture further, consider an overnight safari to Amboseli National Park. Here, you’ll witness breathtaking views of Mount Kilimanjaro and encounter legendary elephant herds up close. It’s an immersive way to introduce kids to Kenya’s incredible wildlife.
Puglia, Italy © Shutterstock
Puglia, in the heel of Italy’s boot, is a great choice for a family holiday in the sun. With no end of pristine beaches, the Salento peninsula is a highlight, and the seaside town of Otranto, with its hulking castle, also has a family-friendly appeal.
Editor's tip: want to see more of Puglia's coast? Read up on the 20 best beaches in Italy.
Inland Puglia is charming too, not least the fairy tale trulli houses. Kids will love spotting these pint-sized limestone dwellings with conical roofs, which are dotted throughout the region. Puglia is easy to navigate with kids and could perfectly fit in a 10-day Italy itinerary.
Head to UNESCO-protected Alberobello for a town full of trulli. For added fun, you can even spend a night in one, or go on a trulli trail tour with a local guide.
Stroll the town’s narrow streets, explore the famous trulli houses, and learn about Alberobello’s fascinating history — it’s like stepping into another world.
If you’re also visiting Rome, take a look at our guide on things to do with kids in Rome for more family-friendly ideas.
The West Midlands is perhaps not the most obvious destination for a family holiday in England, but the region has tons of amazingly good fun activities for kids.
You can see big games at the West Midlands Safari Park or visit the Black Country Living Museum in Dudley to go back in time to the 1930s and eat the best chips ever. The secret is frying them in beef dripping.
Then there's Birmingham, which has an excellent Sea Life Center. Or you could head to Derby, a pleasant gateway to the Peak District.
Book family tickets for Alton Towers Resort and try 40 rides and attractions including world-first rollercoasters and the UK’s only CBeebies Land.
Then hop aboard the Severn Valley Steam Railway, which runs between Kidderminster and Bridgnorth. This nostalgic train ride takes you through scenic countryside, giving kids a taste of classic steam travel. It’s a fun and relaxing way to soak up the region’s beauty while stepping back in time.
Bran, Romania © Shutterstock
For older children, Transylvania in Romania is a feast of freaky folklore. The historic city of Brasov is one of Rough Guide's best things to do in Romania and its near neighbor Bran Castle is one of the reasons it's a must-do with kids.
With its grim facade, turrets, ramparts, and precarious position, teetering atop a rocky bluff against a mountain backdrop, Bran Castle is the quintessential vampire count’s lair.
The historical figure behind Romania’s Dracula legend (Vlad Țepeş) is as terrifying as Bram Stoker’s fiction: he wasn’t known as “the Impaler” for nothing.
There are countless other atmospheric sites linked to the legend, not least Poenari Castle, where Vlad once lived, and the country’s “cult of the dead” is never far from the surface.
Transylvania is a land of legends and wild landscapes that’s perfect for a family itinerary. Start with a guided tour of Bran Castle, where you and the kids can wander through the eerie rooms while learning about the castle’s infamous history.
Traveling with wildlife-mad kids? Go on a small-group brown bear-watching tour in Brasov to see these amazing animals in their natural habitat.
Royal Mile, Edinburgh © Shutterstock
The capital of Scotland has a small enough city center to stroll around and hosts several fun and educational attractions for the whole family. It also happens to be one of the most beautiful places in Scotland, as voted by Rough Guides readers.
But what makes Edinburgh really stand out are its festivals. There are 12 major festivals throughout the year, from a storytelling event and science festival to the world-famous Fringe.
If you don't go during festival season, the Camera Obscura makes for some ridiculous family photos. Then, of course, there's the Museum of Childhood, where you can get nostalgic and the kids can get hands-on.
Don't miss the opportunity to include a magical guided walking tour of Edinburgh, the city where the world of Harry Potter was born, in your Scotland itinerary. Kids can test their knowledge with an audio-visual quiz, find their Hogwarts House, and visit Tom Riddle’s grave.
Take an Edinburgh underground vaults tour with older kids to explore beneath the Old Town. The vaults date back to the early 18th century and are packed with tales of murders, witches, and other sinister happenings.
Camaret sur Mer, Brittany © Shutterstock
For a European classic beach vacation, it's hard to beat Brittany — France's ruggedly beautiful northwest region.
For families, it offers everything from charming seaside resorts and friendly campsites to remote coves and rocky promontories.
For a first visit, base yourself in Saint-Malo, where a strip of gorgeous beaches stretches east from the winding streets of the old walled town.
Looking for vacation ideas in France? Check out our 7-day France itinerary - you might like it!
Visit the Grand Aquarium of Saint-Malo with kids for hours of total immersion and discovery in the company of 10,000 fish and other marine creatures.
Older kids can try windsurfing or catamaran sailing at the Saint-Malo surf school, while grown-ups will get to feast on fresh oysters and local ciders.
For a memorable day trip, visit Mont Saint-Michel in nearby Normandy and explore the historic sites of Saint-Malo. Kids will love hearing tales of pilgrims, pirates, and explorers as they wander these fascinating medieval towns.
Florida flamingoes © Shutterstock
Florida can't be beat on theme parks, but even if Orlando isn't your idea of a vacation, don't discount the Sunshine State.
In the Northeast you can drive on the beach at Daytona, or have your bones rattled on the Shuttle Launch Experience at Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex.
For something a little more serene, kids will be fascinated by gators in the subtropical wilderness of Everglades National Park, or you could head further up the coast to Tampa Bay and the northwest to swim with manatees in the Crystal River.
Enjoy a full day of unique experiences at the world's most authentic space attraction — the Kennedy Space Center.
Ready for an up-close gator encounter? Try an Everglades National Park Airboat Tour, see the extraordinary wetlands with guides, and take in a wildlife show where kids have the chance to hold a baby alligator.
Toronto, Canada © Shutterstock
Toronto is a-buzz with kid-friendly activities, from marveling at the slick skyline and crisscrossing town on a streetcar to splashing out on a ticket to ascend the famous CN Tower or seeing dinosaur bones and Native Canadian headdresses at the Royal Ontario Museum.
Chinatown and nearby Kensington Market are great browsing and wandering territory, and the Toronto Islands are only a ferry ride away.
Visit Niagara Falls from Toronto. Stopover in Niagara-on-the-Lake and view attractions such as the Floral Clock and Whirlpool Rapids, then enjoy up to a few hours at the falls.
Be sure to visit the Royal Ontario Museum. Canada's largest museum, it contains a world-class art collection and artifacts ranging from dinosaurs to mummies. For more family travel ideas, check out our Canada itineraries.
Isle of Wight, UK © Shutterstock
For the kind of nostalgic, classic beach holiday that brings back rosy memories of your own childhood, look no further than the Isle of Wight.
There’s plenty to keep kids entertained here, from rock pooling and playing on safe sandy beaches to a raft of old-school attractions, including a model village and a steam railway.
Don't miss Blackgang Chine, the UK’s oldest amusement park. Set in rambling cliff-top gardens, it's a child’s fantasy of pirates, cowboys, and princesses, though the star turns are the life-sized animatronic dinosaurs.
To enjoy a spectacular view of the South Coast, visit the Emirates Spinnaker Tower in Portsmouth. Then drop in on Shanklin, it's one of our top 30 best seaside towns UK.
To see how Victorian royalty lived, head to historic Osborne House. Reportedly Queen Victoria's favorite home, kids will love exploring the private beach and rambling around the adventure playground.
Alternatively, be captivated by Carisbrooke Castle, another of the island's royal residences and quite a bit older than Osborne House. This experience also offers sinister legends and the bonus of cute Carisbrooke Donkeys.
Hallgrimskirkja, Reykjavik © Ververidis Vasilis/Shutterstock
This landscape of rare geological youth feels utterly alive – the earth belches out gasses, waterfalls cascade as if bursting forth for the first time, and the Northern Lights dance around the skies. You can easily experience much of the wonder on day trips from the pint-sized, child-friendly capital, Reykjavík.
The “Golden Circle” circuit is well established, while the otherworldly Blue Lagoon is also a simple excursion. Bathing in the Lagoon's warm waters with steam rising all around, children will feel like they’ve entered another realm. If you want to know more take a look at the best places to stay in Iceland.
You can also remind them, that Iceland is home to the Huldufólk, or “hidden folk”, magical creatures invisible to the human eye. Local residents believe in them so strongly that building projects have been diverted to avoid their supposed habitats.
Tour Iceland’s Golden Circle to experience stunning natural scenery and see the legendary Geysir area, as well as the spectacular Gullfoss waterfall and Þingvellir National Park. If you have time, make sure to drive the 10-day Ring Road itinerary!
Enjoy an epic whale-watching cruise of Faxaflói Bay from Reykjavik. Also, keep your eyes peeled for dolphins, and if you or your kids don't spot a whale, you get another trip, free of charge.
Can't wait for your trip to Iceland? Increase your chances of an unforgettable trip by choosing one of the best places to stay in Reykjavik and check out our Iceland itineraries.
Zion National Park, Utah, USA © Shutterstock
If you’re looking to introduce young kids to the joys of the outdoors in Utah, spectacular Zion National Park is one of the most accessible places to start.
Shuttle buses and well-marked trails (starting at just half a mile long) make getting to the stunning waterfalls and wildlife of Zion Canyon a breeze.
Add in horseback rides, ranger-led youth tours, and s’mores by the campfire in one of the park’s three campsites and you’ve got the makings of an unforgettable family trip.
Take kids on a Canyon tour of Zion National Park, during which you typically get to experience a thrilling UTV ride followed by a hike in the East Zion backcountry to see the famous Slot Canyon formations.
For a memorable end to the day, book a sunset ATV adventure near the park. This thrilling ride takes you through Southern Utah’s breathtaking landscapes, including Sand Hollow State Park, as the sun dips below the horizon, casting vibrant colors over the red rocks. It’s an exhilarating way to wrap up your Zion experience.
Lake Retba, Senegal © Shutterstock
Senegal in Africa has a lot to offer families, from wide open beaches on the wild Atlantic coast to some seriously curious natural wonders.
There's the pink-hued Lake Retba, which, at its brightest, is a startling sight. There are undulating sand dunes ripe for you and your 4X4 to explore and don't miss Ile de Fadiouth – a small island in the south made entirely from shells.
Go on a Senegal family safari with a local guide so you and your kids will have the opportunity to walk with lions at Fathala Wildlife Reserve — one of the country's most famous parks.
We also suggest touring the Pink Lake from Dakar or Saly to let kids see the wonderful waters of Lake Retba up close. Finish your trip with some 4X4 dune driving along Senegal's Atlantic coast or a visit to Ile de Fadiouth, a unique island made entirely from shells.
Antalya, Turkey © Shutterstock
Antalya in southern Turkey is packed with activities to keep the whole family entertained.
Behind Konyaaltı beach lies the Antalya Aquarium (complete with 4-D cinema), the Wildpark (devoted to insects and reptiles), and – for when the kids can't bear the heat – an indoor snow park.
Next door is Antalya Minicity, which has 1:25 scale re-creations of some of Turkey’s most iconic landmarks. The Toy Museum at Antalya’s harbor also provides a fun distraction from the beach.
Antalya offers plenty of activities for families, especially for those with older children. For an unforgettable adventure, include a quad bike safari in the rugged Taurus Mountains in your Turkey itinerary. These impressive peaks create a natural barrier between the coastal region and the Anatolian plateau, providing an exciting off-road journey with stunning views.
Back in Antalya, you can also explore the city’s rich history and natural beauty. Visit the ancient ruins of Perge or Termessos, where kids can imagine life in ancient Turkey, or take a boat trip to see the stunning Düden Waterfalls cascading right into the Mediterranean Sea.
Tokyo, Japan © Shutterstock
There are loads of kid-friendly destinations in Japan, but when it comes to places with activities all the family will enjoy – as with everything – you're spoiled for choice in Tokyo.
The Ghibli Museum and Odaiba are the highlights of any Japan itinerary, and there are plenty of huge parks and interactive museums to explore together.
Tokyo Disneyland is also nearby, while Yokohama (for Chinatown and yet another Ferris wheel), Kamakura, and Nikkō (more nature and history, less neon) are all doable on a day trip.
Visit Tokyo Legoland Discovery Center so kids can immerse themselves in an indoor world of play and learning surrounded by over 3 million LEGO bricks.
See Tokyo from the water on a river cruise from Asakusa to the city's Odaiba district. Sail along the Sumida River and Tokyo Bay and take in views of the Tokyo Skytree, Hamarikyu Garden, Rainbow Bridge, and more.
Mount Sorrow, Cape Tribulation, Australia
Cape Tribulation in Queensland is an amazing adventure for children and adults too. With both lush forests and palm tree-lined beaches, there are plenty of activities on offer.
You can also take a boat trip from the cape to the Great Barrier Reef or trek through the Daintree Rainforest on the lookout for prehistoric cassowaries, avoiding crocodiles, spiders, and snakes along the way. Daredevils may want to include a night walk through the rainforest or a thrilling zip-wire ride through the jungle as part of their Aussie itinerary.
Thrill kids with an ocean safari off the Daintree Coast — an out-of-this-world cruise that includes snorkeling the Great Barrier Reef with experienced local guides.
Take a tour of the Daintree Rainforest and Cape Tribulation by 4WD with friendly expert guides. Spot wildlife in their natural habitat, enjoy spectacular views and learn about the extraordinary environment.
Pembrokeshire puffins © Shutterstock
It's hard to pick any one place in Wales because the country is brimming with options for family-friendly itineraries.
Pembrokeshire has beautiful beaches and a rugged coastline ripe for exploration, whether you want to take a walk on the Coast Path or get a bit more hands-on with some coasteering and kayaking.
Up in North Wales, adventure hubs like Zip World, where a four-person zip line is capable of speeds up to 100mph, and Bounce Below, a series of trampolines inside underground caves, are bound to keep kids happy
See Snowdonia National Park from the water on a Llyn Padarn-guided kayaking adventure. Paddle the glacial lake, enjoy fresh mountain air, see historic Welsh castles, and even go for a swim.
Explore the stunning southeast of Wales on a tour of the Wye Valley and Brecon Beacons — you'll get to see everything from Tintern Abbey to the dramatic Upper Wye Gorge.
Maldives © Shutterstock
The Maldives might seem like a honeymoon-only destination, but if you're in the market for a dreamy family trip, bear in mind that most resorts are child-friendly, though it's best to check first to avoid being surrounded by just-married couples.
Rent a hut on the beach and children will spend hours playing in the white sand, jumping in waves and snorkeling in the shallow waters.
Many islands have swimming pools and offer beach games, kayak hire, and dolphin-spotting trips too, with diving courses for older children.
There are plenty of adventures for the whole family in the Maldives that go beyond the usual tropical vacations. Start with snorkeling or a glass-bottom boat tour, where kids can admire colorful coral reefs, tropical fish, and maybe even a friendly sea turtle. Many resorts also offer kids' clubs with activities such as treasure hunts, beach games, and craft workshops.
For a unique adventure, try a dolphin-watching cruise at sunset. End the day with an outdoor movie on the beach where you can relax under the stars. The Maldives offers the perfect combination of relaxation and adventure for families.
Ang Thong Marine Park, Thailand
Ko Samui or Ko Lanta are great options for a Thailand itinerary, with plenty of facilities and lots of distractions for kids. If the thought of resorts makes you shudder, Thailand has a well-developed traveler infrastructure making it fairly easy to head to a more secluded island or part of the mainland.
Thailand is especially great for kids in January – National Children's Day (the second Saturday of the month) means free activities and public transport for children throughout the country.
Book an ethical elephant sanctuary tour in Ko Samui so your kids can spend time with elephants in their jungle home, and make some of the best vacation memories ever.
Over in Ko Lanta, take the family on a mangrove kayaking tour. Paddle through lush mangroves, spotting exotic birds and wildlife along the way. Older kids and teens will love the thrill of exploring this wild, untouched paradise. These activities make for unforgettable family memories in Thailand’s tropical islands.
Penguins near Cape Town, South Africa © Shutterstock
The outdoors is never far away in Cape Town, which makes the city a particularly great destination in South Africa for children.
It's hard to beat the city's fabulous beaches, the highlight of which for most kids is Boulders, home to a resident penguin-breeding colony. The beach at Fish Hoek, a little further north, boasts a playground alongside its beautiful beach and gentle waves.
Cape Town also offers many parks and open spaces that are worth including in your itinerary – perfect for picnicking in fine weather, while for rainy days there's a handful of good, interactive museums.
Visit Cape Point and Boulders Beach with your kids to see the famous penguin colony, and possibly spot whales at the right time of year.
Older kids will be fascinated by a Robben Island tour from Cape Town. Take a ferry to visit the prison where Nelson Mandela was imprisoned, then learn about South Africa's history from one of the former prisoners.
Galapagos Islands © Shutterstock
The epic wildlife of the Galápagos Islands makes adults feel like kids — and makes kids feel like they just can't believe their luck.
They’ll tiptoe between giant tortoises, have birds land inches from their nose, splash around in the shallows with playful baby sea lions, and snorkel near hammerheads and enormous turtles.
When they tire of the wildlife one-on-ones, regale them with tales of 16th and 17th-century pirates who hid out on the islands. The landscape remains (almost) exactly as those old sea dogs would have found it and there’s even some ancient pirate graffiti to boot.
Editor's tip: you'll enjoy your trip even more if you get the timing right. So, read our guide to the best time to visit Ecuador, and the best time to visit the Galapagos Islands.
You may also find it useful to read our guide to Ecuador with kids, our Ecuador travel tips, and information on what you need to know before traveling to Ecuador.
Visit Bartolome Island and Sulivan Bay with kids to see the extraordinary landscape of the Galápagos, play on beaches, and snorkel with penguins.
Include a boat tour to visit Tortuga Bay, La Loberia, Canal del Amor, and Playa de los Perros beaches in your Galapagos Islands itinerary. Expect to see sea lions, marine iguanas, reef sharks, and much more.
Tobago © Shutterstock
Tiny Tobago is perhaps the most laid-back place in the Caribbean for kids as it provides dozens of activities and wildlife experiences, from beachside horse-riding to hummingbird spotting.
Instead of high-rise hotels, you’ll find small-scale guesthouses accustomed to catering to families. Kids will love steel bands and street eats, fresh juice, and safe swimming beaches. Just remember, once you've been "Tobagoed" you will want to go back.
Be sure to include in your itinerary a tour of the Maine Ridge Forest Reserve in Tobago, the oldest protected reserve in the world.
Take a nature and snorkeling boat trip to Little Tobago island from beautiful, secluded Batteaux Bay before heading over to the headland to swim in Pirate's Bay, Charlotteville.
Follow our tips to make travelling with kids a smoother experience © Shutterstock
We've all been on an airplane with a crying baby or unruly toddler and felt the parent's pain. And we're not going to lie — long-haul travel with the whole clan can be challenging, but there are ways to make family travel go more smoothly.
Looking for more ideas for your trip? Explore our list of dream vacation destinations to suit any traveler.
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written by
Lottie Gross
updated 05.11.2024
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