Best Family Vacation Destinations in the World in 2023
by Krishika M
Updated May 09, 2023
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Best Family Vacation Destinations in the World in 2023
Taking a family vacation is an excellent way to relax and spend quality time with your loved ones. However, choosing the perfect destination can be challenging, especially when you want to ensure everyone has a great time. It's important to pick a location that caters to everyone's interests and needs, allowing you to create memories that will last a lifetime.
To help you plan your next family vacation, we've compiled a list of some of the best family vacation spots. Whether you're looking for adventure, relaxation, or a mix of both, there's something on this list for everyone. From the heart and soul of New Zealand's Central North Island, packed with stunning volcanic landscapes and forests, to the entertainment capital of the world, Orlando, Florida, with its world-renowned theme parks and attractions, there are plenty of options to choose from.
For a city-based trip, consider Québec City in Canada. It's a perfect destination for families with its rich history, culture, and a wide range of attractions suitable for all ages. Québec City's climate means it offers different activities throughout the year, including hiking, zip-lining, tobogganing, and the aquarium.
If you're looking for something more exotic, Bali, Indonesia, offers a perfect blend of adventure, culture, and relaxation. Enjoy the breathtaking scenery, explore the cultural landmarks, and indulge in some of the world's most delicious cuisine. For those who love the beach, the Turks and Caicos Islands offer crystal-clear waters, powdery white sand, and a relaxing atmosphere. Activities include snorkeling, diving, and other water sports.
Ultimately, the best family vacation spot depends on what you're looking for and what your family members enjoy. By picking the right destination, you can ensure that your family vacation is a memorable and enjoyable experience for everyone.
Top 10 Family Destinations
Here is the list of the top 10 family destinations in the world:
1
Dune du Pilat
France
2
Honolulu
Oahu
3
San Francisco
California
4
Lake Champlain Islands
Vermont
5
Gurnee
Illinois
6
Panama City
Panama
7
Quebec
Canada
8
Central North Island
New Zealand
9
Aruba
Kingdom of the Netherlands
10
Orlando
Florida
S.No.
Places
State/Country
1. Dune du Pilat, France
Dune du Pilat is a remarkable natural wonder located on France's Atlantic coast. Rising over 360 feet above sea level, it is Europe's tallest sand dune and attracts approximately 2 million visitors annually. The sandy landscape of the dune offers a perfect opportunity for families to bond with nature, and children can enjoy guided story-time walks on the Dune.
One of the unique features of Dune du Pilat is its constant movement, shifting up to 15 feet eastward each year due to prevailing winds and tides. Visitors should come prepared with plenty of sunscreen and water as there is no shade available on the Dune. However, the breathtaking views and the magical light cast by the sun at sunrise or sunset make the climb to the top of the dune worth the effort.
For a memorable experience, visitors can enjoy Oyster Tasting, one of the great activities available on the Dune. Additionally, there are several other attractions such as mini-golf and horseback riding, which can be found in Bordeaux, a city about 50 miles away. Whether you want to explore the scenic beauty of the dune or indulge in other outdoor activities, Dune du Pilat offers a fun-filled family-friendly destination.
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2. Honolulu, Oahu
Waikiki Beach in Hawaii is a world-renowned beach destination, boasting crystal-clear turquoise waters and pristine sandy shores. Families can enjoy an array of activities on the beach, from renting out bodyboards or paddle boards to taking surfing lessons. While the beach can get crowded, there are still quiet spots to be found, and the wave-free Hilton Hawaiian Village lagoon is perfect for younger family members.
The Hawaiian culture places great importance on family, or Ohana, which means that families will find plenty of kid-friendly activities to enjoy. Many resorts offer a kids club, as well as lei-making, snorkeling, or scuba diving lessons. The city itself is also a stunning location for family vacations, and visitors can take in the breathtaking views from the historic Aloha Tower, which is just a short walk from the Children’s Discovery Center.
A trip to Pearl Harbor, located nearby, is a poignant and educational experience that brings visitors closer to the events of December 7, 1941. The USS Arizona Memorial, submarine and aviation museums, and the Battleship Missouri offer insight into the history of the area. Kids, in particular, will enjoy the Pearl Harbor Virtual Reality Center.
Another exciting day trip option is a visit to the Haleakalā National Park on the island of Maui, where the world's largest dormant volcano is located. Families can take in the stunning sights of the park and enjoy fantastic stargazing opportunities by camping overnight. With its plethora of kid-friendly activities and breathtaking natural wonders, Hawaii's Waikiki Beach is an ideal destination for families seeking an unforgettable vacation.
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3. San Francisco, California
San Francisco, with its iconic cable cars, hilly streets, and picturesque row homes seen in the popular TV series Full House, is a unique and unforgettable destination in Northern California. This vibrant city has a wide range of activities to offer, making it an ideal choice for families looking for a fun vacation.
For families who love Disney, the Walt Disney Family Museum is a must-visit attraction. Here, visitors can explore the life and work of Walt Disney through hands-on exhibits and original artwork. The Exploratorium is another fantastic museum for kids, featuring interactive games and exhibits that are sure to delight and educate. Families can also rent bikes and ride through Golden Gate Park, San Francisco’s 1,000-acre oasis, and enjoy the beautiful scenery.
Fancy a boat tour? Take a trip to Alcatraz Island, once home to notorious mobster Al Capone, and visit its infamous prison. Along the way, there are stunning views of San Francisco Bay to take in. For boating enthusiasts, the fleet of historic vessels at San Francisco Maritime National Park is a must-see.
Union Square, located in downtown San Francisco, and Ghirardelli Square, famous for its chocolate treats, are other great attractions. Families looking for outdoor recreation can head to the Presidio of San Francisco, which boasts beautiful woods, a golf course, and hiking trails.
San Francisco's diverse range of activities make it a great destination for families looking for a fun and memorable vacation.
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4. Lake Champlain Islands, Vermont
Vermont's Lake Champlain Islands offer a serene and natural setting for families looking to escape the hustle and bustle of city life. With a wide range of outdoor activities and attractions, there's something for everyone to enjoy.
Lake Champlain itself is a major draw, with opportunities for bird-watching, canoeing, kayaking, and more. The lake is home to a variety of wildlife, including Champ, a legendary underwater monster said to inhabit its depths. The islands of Lake Champlain are also worth exploring, with parks, lighthouses, and hiking trails offering endless possibilities for outdoor recreation. Families can take a leisurely hike or bike ride, have a picnic, or simply relax and take in the natural beauty of the area.
For those seeking indoor activities, the nearby museums in Plattsburgh, NY and Burlington, VT offer a glimpse into the history and culture of the region. The Echo Center in Burlington is particularly popular, with interactive exhibits and educational programs focused on Lake Champlain's ecology and conservation.
In winter, the lake and surrounding area transform into a winter wonderland, with opportunities for snowshoeing, skiing, and other winter sports. Whether you're looking for an active outdoor adventure or a peaceful retreat in nature, Lake Champlain and its islands are a perfect family vacation destination.
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5. Gurnee, Illinois
Gurnee, Illinois is an ideal destination for families seeking a fun-filled vacation with a variety of attractions that cater to everyone's interests. This vibrant village is home to a plethora of outstanding tourist attractions that are sure to leave you with unforgettable memories.
One of the must-visit places in Gurnee is Six Flags Great America, a theme park featuring exhilarating roller coasters, thrilling rides, and exciting attractions that will appeal to all ages. Additionally, Great Wolf Lodge, an indoor water park, is another fantastic destination where you can float down the lazy river and enjoy other water-based activities.
Launch Trampoline Park is the perfect spot to burn off some energy with your family while having a great workout. And for the adults, the Gurnee Mills shopping mall offers a unique Midwestern-themed architecture that's worth exploring. You can also visit during the annual September "Legions of Beer" festival, where you can indulge in beer tasting and other fun-filled activities.
Gurnee offers something for everyone, whether you're seeking thrill rides, water activities, shopping, or delicious food and drinks. It's no wonder that Gurnee is considered one of the best family vacation spots in Illinois.
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6. Panama City, Panama
Panama is a breathtaking country that offers a wealth of activities for families seeking adventure. With its central location, it is an ideal destination for travelers looking to explore both Central and South America. The country boasts stunning beaches, including the highly-rated Red Frog Beach and Starfish Beach, where families can indulge in water-based activities like kayaking, diving, and deep-sea fishing.
Panama City, the capital of Panama, is home to a plethora of attractions that cater to families of all ages. Casco Antiguo is a historical district that is a must-visit for families looking to sample Panamanian cuisine at seafood restaurants, indulge in high-end shopping, and explore museums such as the Biomuseo and the little Museo Panama Viejo, which houses cathedral ruins.
Just a short fifteen-minute drive from Panama City lies the famous Panama Canal, one of the seven wonders of the modern world. Families can marvel at the engineering feat that created this historic canal, which has revolutionized global trade. Panama also has a plethora of natural attractions such as waterfalls, abandoned castles, and stunning rivers, offering endless opportunities for hiking and exploring.
One of Panama's most prominent attractions is the Coiba Marine Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its rainforests and remarkable biological diversity. Here, families can experience whale-watching, as well as engage in other water-based activities. With such a wide range of activities to choose from, Panama is an excellent destination for families seeking adventure and fun-filled vacations.
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7. Quebec, Canada
Québec City, located in Canada, is an excellent family vacation spot for those looking for a city experience. With its fascinating history, vibrant culture, and range of attractions, it stands out as an exciting destination. Furthermore, thanks to its continental climate, it offers various activities throughout the year, making it an all-season vacation spot.
Summer in Québec City offers a variety of outdoor activities, including the panorama hiking circuit around Montmorency Falls Park, just a few miles from the city center. The park offers a thrilling walk over a waterfall that is over 90 feet higher than Niagara Falls, making it an unforgettable experience. For the more adventurous, there are also zip lines and via ferrata routes, which is a thrilling combination of hiking and climbing, taking visitors up close to the waterfall.
In winter, the city has plenty of options for winter sports, including tobogganing and snow slides. The Dufferin Terrace in Old Québec is a great spot to try tobogganing, with its toboggan lanes offering a thrilling ride with speeds of up to 40mph.
Throughout the year, Québec City boasts several attractions for visitors of all ages. The Observatoire de la Capitale offers a fantastic view of the city from its observation deck, while the 19th-century Château Frontenac is a must-visit for those interested in history and architecture.
For those who love nature, there's the Domaine de Maizerets, an expansive park with walking trails, gardens, and a greenhouse. The Aquarium du Québec is a small but packed attraction that children will love, featuring indoor and outdoor exhibits showcasing various marine life.
Québec City is an exciting destination for families looking for a mix of outdoor activities, cultural experiences, and history. Whether you're visiting in summer or winter, there's always something to do in this charming Canadian city.
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8. Central North Island, New Zealand
Central North Island in New Zealand is a fantastic family vacation spot that offers a variety of exciting activities for all ages. This region is known for its stunning natural landscapes, including volcanic landscapes, pristine forests, and New Zealand's largest lake, Taupo.
One of the most popular attractions in Taupo is the awe-inspiring Maori rock carvings that can be seen by boat cruise or kayaking. Additionally, Taupo is a great place for outdoor family fun, with a mini golf course, farm parks, playgrounds, and beautiful geothermal springs.
The Central North Island area also has many other world-renowned attractions. The Hot Water Beach at Coromandel is a must-visit destination, where you can experience thermal water bubbling under the sand. The impressive Cathedral Cove rock formation is another must-see natural wonder that draws visitors from all over the world.
Further south, the Rotorua area is full of exciting activities for families. For nature lovers, the Paradise Valley Springs wildlife park and the National Bird of Prey Centre offer the chance to get up close and personal with New Zealand's native animals. Adventure seekers can try bungee jumping at Velocity Valley or explore the scenic Whakarewarewa Forest on foot, bike, or horseback.
Central North Island in New Zealand is a great destination for a family vacation that offers an unforgettable experience of nature, adventure, and culture.
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9. Aruba, Kingdom of the Netherlands
Aruba is a small island country located in the southern Caribbean Sea, just off the coast of Venezuela. It is part of the Lesser Antilles island chain and is a constituent country of the Kingdom of the Netherlands. The capital and largest city is Oranjestad.
Aruba has a tropical climate with warm temperatures throughout the year, making it a popular tourist destination. The island is known for its beautiful beaches, crystal clear waters, and excellent weather conditions for water sports such as windsurfing and kiteboarding.
The official languages of Aruba are Dutch and Papiamento, which is a Creole language that combines elements of Portuguese, Spanish, Dutch, English, and African languages. English and Spanish are also widely spoken on the island.
Aruba has a diverse population, with people of European, African, and indigenous ancestry. The island's economy is heavily dependent on tourism, with other important industries including oil refining and offshore banking. Aruba has a high standard of living and is known for its low crime rate and political stability.
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10. Orlando, Florida
Orlando, Florida is renowned for its abundance of theme parks, making it a top destination for family vacations. A trip to the Walt Disney World Resort is an absolute must for any family vacation in Orlando. Spanning a massive 47 square miles, the resort boasts four Disney theme parks, including Magic Kingdom Park, Disney Studios, Epcot, and two water parks. Staying at the Walt Disney World Resort in Orlando also provides the added benefit of early entry and extended evening hours at the theme parks.
Apart from the classic Disney experiences, Orlando has a plethora of other exciting family vacation options. For instance, have you ever imagined staying in a spaceship? At Star Wars: Galactic Starcruiser, you can enjoy an immersive, two-night space adventure and feel like you're in one of the Star Wars movies.
Universal Orlando Resort is another great option, featuring thrilling amusement park rides, tours, and adventures based on popular movies. For a more creative experience, visit the Crayola Experience Orlando and participate in hands-on art activities.
Aquatica water park is one of the best in the world, with 42 water slides and vast sandy beaches. And for fans of the Harry Potter franchise, The Wizarding World of Harry Potter is a must-visit destination. It's a magical place where you can immerse yourself in the world of Harry Potter and experience the wizarding world firsthand.
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What is the No.1 Destination for Family Vacation?
The Dune du Pilat is a must-visit destination in France, especially for families who love the great outdoors. Located on the Atlantic coast, just south of Bordeaux, this massive sand dune is the tallest in Europe and offers breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding forests, beaches, and ocean.
Climbing to the top of the Dune du Pilat is an adventure in itself. It's a challenging hike, but well worth the effort for the stunning views at the top. Kids will love running up and down the dune's steep slopes, rolling down the sandy hills, and taking in the scenery. The Dune du Pilat is also a great place for water sports enthusiasts. The nearby beaches are perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and surfing. You could also take a boat tour of the Bay of Arcachon, a picturesque body of water surrounded by charming fishing villages.
After a long day of outdoor activities, head to one of the many local seafood restaurants for a delicious meal. Try the fresh oysters, mussels, and clams - a real treat for seafood lovers. The Dune du Pilat is a unique and unforgettable family vacation destination. The combination of natural beauty, adventure, and delicious food makes it a top choice for families visiting France.
Best International Destinations for Families
Here are some of the other best international destinations for families:
Paris, France: With its iconic landmarks, museums, and theme parks like Disneyland Paris, Paris is a fantastic family vacation spot. Don’t miss the Eiffel Tower, the Louvre Museum, and the Palace of Versailles.
Tokyo, Japan: Tokyo is a city of contrasts with a unique blend of tradition and modernity. It’s home to kid-friendly attractions such as Tokyo Disneyland, Legoland Discovery Center, and the National Museum of Nature and Science.
Costa Rica: With its tropical rainforests, stunning beaches, and exotic wildlife, Costa Rica offers plenty of outdoor activities for families. Go ziplining, hiking, or wildlife watching at the country’s many national parks.
Dubai, UAE: Dubai is a city of superlatives with its iconic skyscrapers, shopping malls, and theme parks like Legoland and IMG Worlds of Adventure. There are also plenty of beaches, parks, and outdoor activities to enjoy.
Sydney, Australia: Sydney is a great family vacation spot with its stunning beaches, world-class museums, and iconic landmarks like the Sydney Opera House and Harbour Bridge. Visit the Taronga Zoo or the SEA LIFE Sydney Aquarium for a fun day out.
London, UK: London is a cultural hub with its numerous museums, parks, and historical landmarks. Kids will love the Warner Bros. Studio Tour London - The Making of Harry Potter and the Natural History Museum.
Bali, Indonesia: Bali is a tropical paradise with its stunning beaches, cultural landmarks, and outdoor activities. Visit the Bali Safari and Marine Park, ride elephants, or take a family-friendly cooking class.
Rome, Italy: Rome is a fascinating city with a rich history, architecture, and art. Visit the Colosseum, the Vatican Museums, and the Trevi Fountain for an unforgettable family vacation.
Best Family Vacation Destinations in the World - FAQs
Some of the best family vacation destinations in the world include Orlando, Florida, Disneyland Paris, Tokyo Disney Resort, New York City, Hawaii, Costa Rica, the Maldives, and Bali.
The activities available at family vacation destinations vary depending on the location. Common activities include theme park visits, outdoor adventures such as hiking and swimming, cultural and historical tours, and relaxation on beaches or at resorts.
When traveling with children on a family vacation, it's important to plan ahead, pack accordingly, and keep the children entertained during the trip. Other tips include allowing for flexibility in the itinerary, taking breaks when necessary, and ensuring the children are properly supervised at all times.
There are several ways to save money on a family vacation, including traveling during off-peak seasons, booking in advance, using travel reward programs, and staying in budget-friendly accommodations such as vacation rentals or camping sites.
Popular family-friendly accommodations include all-inclusive resorts, vacation rentals, camping sites, and hotels with amenities such as pools, playgrounds, and kids' clubs. Some accommodations also offer special packages or deals for families traveling with children.