Exploring 10 Family-Friendly Vacations Off the Beaten Track

Updated On: February 10, 2024 by   Raghda Elsabbagh

Off for a new adventure with your family? If you and your kids have already visited Walt Disney World in Orlando or Paris and are now looking for a bit more unique and off-the-beaten-path destination for a family-friendly vacation, we’ve got you covered.

In this article, we’ve rounded up some exceptional and exciting family-friendly vacation spots that’ll have both you and your little ones wide-eyed and grinning from ear to ear. Whether you’re looking for an adventurous outdoor experience, a chance to immerse yourself in a new culture, or simply an opportunity to unwind and enjoy some quality family time, keep reading to discover fantastic family-friendly destinations that will surely give you and your kids a blast.

Bali, Indonesia

Contrary to what everyone believes, Bali isn’t just a tropical paradise for honeymooners; it’s also a fantastic family-friendly vacation for families seeking a memorable getaway.

Bali’s gorgeous beaches, like Kuta and Seminyak, are perfect for kids to build sandcastles or splash in the gentle, calm waves. The sacred Monkey Forest in Ubud is a hit with kids, where cheeky monkeys add a touch of whimsy to the lush surroundings. For a dash of adventure, families can go on a scenic bike ride through the terraced rice fields or visit the Bali Safari and Marine Park for a close encounter with exotic wildlife.

The island’s resorts and hotels often go the extra mile to cater to young guests, offering kid-friendly amenities and services. Many accommodations provide family suites where parents and children can stay comfortably together. Numerous family-friendly resorts have dedicated kids’ clubs with engaging activities, allowing parents to relax while their little ones enjoy supervised play and games. Balinese cultural performances, like traditional dances, are also captivating for kids before adults.

Balinese people are generally fond of children, and locals often greet families warmly, making kids feel welcome and embraced by the island’s charm. With its diverse activities, kid-friendly atmosphere, stunning landscapes, and friendly locals, Bali effortlessly ensures everyone in the clan leaves with smiles as bright as the Balinese sun.

Tokyo, Japan

Tokyo might not be the first place that comes to mind when you think of a family-friendly vacation, but it’s actually a fantastic destination for families. From exciting theme parks to fascinating museums, Tokyo is ready to fascinate visitors of all ages.

Tokyo Disneyland is one of the most popular family-friendly attractions. This theme park is full of exhilarating rides that will keep everyone entertained for hours. From classic attractions like It’s a Small World to thrilling roller coasters like Space Mountain, there’s something for everyone. Another incredible theme park option is Tokyo DisneySea, which is right next to Tokyo Disneyland. This park is more geared towards older children and adults and is themed around sea exploration.

The Edo-Tokyo Museum is a great place to start if you’re interested in learning about Japanese culture. It offers interactive exhibits allowing visitors to experience life in Tokyo during the Edo period. You can explore a recreated street from the era, watch traditional performances, and even try on some period clothing.

For a bit of nature and relaxation, head to the Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden. This park is a tranquil oasis in the city’s heart, with beautifully manicured gardens, tranquil ponds, and many open spaces for a picnic or a game of catch.

For a taste of futuristic fun, Odaiba, an artificial island in Tokyo Bay, features entertainment complexes like Palette Town and attractions like teamLab Borderless, an immersive digital art museum. The Pokémon Center and Studio Ghibli Museum will delight young and adult fans. Tokyo’s efficient and family-friendly public transportation system makes getting around a breeze, and the city’s safety ensures a worry-free experience for parents.

And, of course, no trip to Tokyo would be complete without trying some of the delicious local cuisine. Whether it’s sushi from a conveyor belt restaurant, ramen, or tempura, there’s something for every taste bud. In a nutshell, Tokyo, Japan, is a surprisingly family-friendly destination for families seeking adventure, educational activities, and cultural exploration.

Cairns, Australia

When navigating fun-filled family vacation spots, Cairns, Australia, is definitely worth considering. Cairns has so much to offer, with something for everyone in the family to enjoy. One of the most exciting things to do in Cairns is exploring the Great Barrier Reef. This incredible natural wonder is full of colourful marine life and is perfect for snorkelling or scuba diving. And if you’ve got little ones who aren’t quite ready for underwater adventures, don’t worry— you can still experience the reef’s beauty from a glass-bottom boat.

If you’re in the mood for a lush rainforest adventure, the Daintree Rainforest won’t disappoint. This is one of the most unique rainforests in the world, with stunning flora and fauna, including the endangered Cassowary bird. You can either explore the rainforest on a guided tour or take a self-guided hike and soak up all the natural beauty at your own pace.

For wildlife enthusiasts, the Cairns Tropical Zoo and Hartley’s Crocodile Adventures offer interactive experiences with native Australian animals. Kuranda, a nearby rainforest village, can be reached by the scenic Kuranda Scenic Railway or the Skyrail Rainforest Cableway, providing families with breathtaking views and opportunities to explore the rainforest.

Head over to the Cairns Esplanade Lagoon for a chilled-out family activity. Parklands surround this man-made lagoon and offer a relaxing and safe spot for the kids to swim and play. With its sandy beach area and shallow waters, it’s the perfect place to soak up some sun and have a splash.

And if you’re interested in learning about the rich culture and history of the area, don’t miss the Tjapukai Aboriginal Cultural Park. This is a fantastic place to immerse yourself in the traditions and customs of the region’s Indigenous people. You can enjoy traditional dance performances, learn to throw a boomerang, and even taste some bush tucker. In short, Cairns, Australia, is a unique, family-friendly vacation destination. With its breathtaking natural wonders, outdoor activities, and cultural experiences, you will indeed have an unforgettable time.

Cancún, Mexico

Cancún, Mexico, is another beautiful destination with everything your family needs for a fantastic time together. First off, the beaches in Cancún are absolutely stunning! The water is crystal clear, and the sand is so soft and perfect for building sandcastles with the kids! While the kids are busy playing sand architects, parents can relax and soak up some sunshine. But that’s not all! You can also swim with dolphins, visit water parks, snorkel in the Great Mayan Reef, and explore the ancient Mayan ruins. Your kids will love getting up close and personal with the dolphins while you get to learn about the fascinating history and culture of the area.

Don’t worry about finding accommodations that cater to families. Cancún has many all-inclusive, family-friendly resorts that offer kids’ clubs, babysitting services, and activities for children of all ages. This means parents can have some alone time while their kids are having a blast and staying safe.

Costa Rica

When looking for a vacation offering a wide range of activities for all ages, look no further than Costa Rica. This country is ideal for families who love nature and adventure. Stunning beaches: check; lush rainforests: check; diverse wildlife: check.

Costa Rica’s abundance of outdoor activities make it an excellent place for families. From zip-lining through the rainforest treetops to surfing on the waves of the Pacific Ocean, Costa Rica has something for everyone. Families can also enjoy hiking, horseback riding, and kayaking, among other activities.

Costa Rica is also home to many national parks and wildlife reserves, where families can observe exotic wildlife, such as monkeys, sloths, and toucans, in their natural habitat. Kids will love learning about the different species and ecosystems, and parents will appreciate the conservation efforts made by the country to protect its natural resources.

There are also many family-friendly beaches and resorts in Costa Rica, where kids can swim, play, and build sandcastles while parents relax and soak up the sun. Another great thing about Costa Rica is the food. The country’s cuisine is a mix of indigenous, European, and African flavours, and there are plenty of options for even the pickiest eaters. Costa Rica is undoubtedly an excellent family-friendly vacation with a perfect mix of adventure, nature, and relaxation.

Bangkok, Thailand

Bangkok is not one of the first options that come to mind when you think of family-friendly vacations, but this vibrant city has plenty to offer for families. If you are up to a different and exciting experience, Bangkok is a brilliant destination for your family.

One of the main draws of Bangkok for families is its many temples and historical sites. Kids will love exploring the ornate temples and learning about the city’s fascinating history. The Grand Palace, Wat Pho, and Wat Arun are just a few must-see sites that will impress kids and adults. Your children will indeed have the time of their lives in Safari World and KidZania Bangkok.

You can visit the famous Chatuchak Weekend Market, where you can find all kinds of unique souvenirs and delicious street food. Additionally, you can take a boat ride along the Chao Phraya River, where you can see the city from a different perspective and take in the beautiful views.

Regarding food, Bangkok is a culinary paradise with plenty of options for both adventurous and picky eaters. Kids will love trying new things like Pad Thai, fresh fruit smoothies, and mango sticky rice. Bangkok also has many family-friendly accommodations, ranging from luxurious hotels to budget-friendly hostels. Most hotels offer amenities such as kids’ clubs, swimming pools, and babysitting services, giving parents their much-needed relaxation time. All in all, Bangkok is a unique and exciting family-friendly vacation destination that offers culture, history, adventure, and delicious food.

Egypt

Egypt is an excellent place for families with its ancient civilisation that dates back 7000 years ago. Kids will love exploring the Great Pyramids of Giza, the mummies in the Grand Egyptian Museum, and the Karnak Temple in Luxor. The country’s museums are a great way to learn about Egypt’s fascinating history and culture. Kids will love riding camels in front of the pyramids through the desert. A Nile River cruise is also a great way to see some of Egypt’s most famous sites, such as the Valley of the Kings and the Temple of Kom Ombo.

Egypt’s Red Sea Riviera and Mediterranean beaches are out of this world. They offer a variety of water activities, such as scuba diving, snorkelling, and jet skiing. It’s also noteworthy to know that Egypt is blessed with some of the best diving spots in the world.

Additionally, the Egyptian cuisine is finger-licking good. There are also family-friendly accommodations that will suit you and your family. Whether you stay in Hurghada’s all-inclusive resorts, El Gouna’s bungalows, or Siwa’s lodges, your family will remember this visit for a lifetime.

Oslo, Norway

One of the best things about Oslo is its abundance of outdoor activities. You can explore the stunning countryside, hiking in the mountains or taking a boat ride in the fjords. The city also has many parks and green spaces, perfect for picnics and outdoor games.

Oslo is also home to many cultural experiences that are great for families. The Viking Ship Museum, the Kon-Tiki Museum, the Holmenkollen Ski Museum, and the Munch Museum are just some examples of the many museums and galleries in the city that offer interactive exhibits and activities for kids.

The Oslo Reptile Park and the Oslo Zoo are must-visits, with over 1,000 animals from around the world. The Tusenfryd Amusement Park offers over 30 rides and attractions for all ages, and the Akershus Fortress is a medieval castle that kids will love exploring. With its outdoor adventures, cultural experiences, and family-friendly activities, Oslo is a family-friendly vacation for the whole family.

Cape Town, South Africa

Cape Town makes a stunning, family-friendly vacation. Families can explore the breathtaking beaches, hike on Table Mountain (which got its name since it resembles a tabletop), or go on a safari to see the local wildlife. There are also many parks and green spaces within the city that are great for picnics and outdoor games.

The District Six Museum, the Zeitz MOCAA Museum, and the Castle of Good Hope are some of the many museums and galleries in the city that offer interactive exhibits and activities for kids. You can also visit the Kirstenbosch Botanical Gardens. The Two Oceans Aquarium offers a chance to see thousands of marine animals, while the World of Birds Wildlife Sanctuary is home to over 3,000 birds and small animals from around the world.

Take a boat trip to Robben Island, located off the coast of Cape Town. The island, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is most famous for being the site of the former maximum-security prison where anti-apartheid political prisoners were held during the apartheid era. Nelson Mandela spent 18 of his 27 years in prison on this island. In addition to its historical significance, Robben Island offers stunning views of Cape Town and Table Mountain.

Overall, Cape Town is a stunning destination for a family-friendly vacation with plenty of outdoor adventures, stunning beaches, natural beauty, and a rich history to keep everyone entertained and engaged.

Crete, Greece

If you’re looking for a family-friendly vacation where the sun is always shining and fun is waiting around every corner—that’s Crete in Greece! Crete’s beaches are breathtaking. You can soak up your much-needed vitamin D and enjoy the crystal-clear waters while your children build castles on the soft sand. Crete is also home to many historical sites. The Palace of Knossos, the Venetian Harbour, and the Arkadi Monastery are a few examples of the many historical sites on the island that offer interactive exhibits and activities for kids.

The Aquaworld Aquarium and Reptile Rescue Centre is a must-visit, with various marine and reptile species on display. The Dinosauria Park is another great option, where families can learn about the prehistoric world and see life-size models of dinosaurs. Crete is definitely a gigantic playground that the whole family will enjoy.

Have a Blast in These Family-friendly Vacation Spots!

So, here you go, we’ve given you a glimpse of 10 family-friendly vacations off the beaten track. What are you waiting for? Pack your bags and your kids’ favourite toys, and jump off on a journey across the globe to unveil hidden gems and make unforgettable moments for you and your loved ones. A world of adventure beyond the ordinary is waiting for you!