Familymoons offer an incredible opportunity for newly blended families to engage in unique experiences while forging bonds that last a lifetime. Unlike a typical honeymoon or vacation, a Familymoon elevates the experince, intertwining the love between partners and their new family. It’s more than just a weekend visit to grandma’s house or a country retreat. A Familymoon represents the inaugural journey of a newly formed family.
This could be your family’s first Caribbean adventure, an African safari, a jungle retreat in Central America, or a dream visit to Disney. Often the first significant adventure together, a Familymoon isn’t just a vacation. But rather a chance to learn more about each other in new settings. Many families begin a journal-keeping tradition during these trips, chronicling each day’s experiences and adventures.
We’ve scoured the globe to find the best Familymoon destinations and ideas, ensuring that your trip is unforgettable.
1. Beaches Turks and Caicos
Turks and Caicos, home to the stunning Beaches Turks & Caicos resort, offers an unparalleled familymoon destination. The island nation boasts an enticing blend of luxury, stunning Caribbean beauty, and family-friendly fun. The resort itself is nestled on the shores of famous Grace Bay Beach. Often named the world’s most beautiful, its soft white sands are framed by crystal-clear turquoise water, providing a serene backdrop for families to relax and bond.
Beaches Turks & Caicos is particularly renowned for its extensive range of activities suitable for all ages. Enjoy everything from water sports like snorkeling and windsurfing to a 45,000 square-foot waterpark. There’s something for every member in the family to enjoy here.
Additionally, the resort’s commitment to providing top-notch service ensures you’ll enjoy a comfortable, stress-freey stay. Furthermore, it features gourmet dining across 21 international restaurants and luxurious accommodations.
But Turks and Caicos isn’t just about the resort life. This is a destination rich in natural beauty and cultural experiences. Beyond your Beaches resort, you and your family can explore the island’s vibrant marine life. Just some of the opportunities include scuba diving excursions, encounters with the famous Jojo the Dolphin, and day trips that explore other islands in the archipelago. The islands also offer the chance to engage with local culture through island festivals, sampling traditional cuisine, and more.
This mix of relaxation, adventure, and cultural immersion makes Turks and Caicos, and especially tthe Beaches Turks & Caicos resort, an ideal destination for a familymoon. It’s the perfect recipe for memorable experiences and the opportunity for families to strengthen their bonds in a paradisiacal setting.
2. Beaches Resorts in Jamaica
Jamaica stands out as an idyllic familymoon destination. Look forward to an enticing blend of breathtaking natural beauty, rich cultural heritage, and world-class resort experiences, particularly at Beaches Negril and Beaches Ocho Rios.
Beaches Negril
Beaches Negril is nestled along the famous Seven Mile Beach. It offers families a slice of paradise with its pristine, powdery sands and clear, calm waters, ideal for young children and water sports enthusiasts alike. The resort is renowned for its luxurious accommodations and diverse dining options featuring international and local dishes. There’s a wide range of activities for all ages too, including a water park, kids’ clubs, and nightly entertainment.
Beaches Ocho Rios
Beaches Ocho Rios, on the other hand, provides a more intimate setting. It has a private white sand beach and offers an array of adventures. Enjoy everything from golfing to scuba diving and a state-of-the-art water park, ensuring a fun-filled family stay.
Beyond the resorts, Jamaica’s rich cultural tapestry and natural wonders offer a wealth of things to do for familymooners. From exploring the lush rainforests and majestic waterfalls to enjoying vibrant Jamaican music and dance, families can create lasting memories while engaging in authentic Jamaican experiences. The island’s warm, welcoming locals add to the charm while offering insights into their culture and history.
The combination of luxurious resort life at Beaches Negril and Beaches Ocho Rios coupled with the island’s natural and cultural attractions, makes Jamaica an unbeatable destination. It’s a great pick for families seeking a balance of relaxation, adventure, and cultural exploration on a familymoon.
3. Atlantis Paradise Island in The Bahamas
Imagine a place where you’re surrounded by crystal blue waters, sparkling pools, and thrilling water attractions. Slides, rides, snorkeling among abundant marine life, it’s a paradise. And, it can all be fueled with a variety of tantalizing dining options too. That description aptly fits The Atlantis, a resort that masterfully blends state-of-the-art amenities with an endless array of children’s attractions.
A standout feature of this resort are its well-organized kids’ clubs and recreational activities. It provides the perfect opportunity for parents to enjoy much-needed leisure time together. You might choose to join a group fishing excursion or explore the island on a tour. With so much to see and do, a week’s stay is barely enough to fully enjoy everything on offer.
While The Atlantis is on the pricier side, it is high value. The cost is justified with an extensive range of pools and attractions, especially for children. For adults seeking a more tranquil experience, The Cove area offers an exclusive adults-only pool.
Atlantis is ideal for those seeking a beach adventure with more activities for children than the average resort. Did we mention the entertainment is stellar? Be sure to check out the calendar of scheduled events.
Do keep in mind that if you’re planning a visit without children during the summer or other busy periods, you’ll need to be prepared for a high-energy environment. It will be jam-packed with kids, similar to Disney during Christmas break, but without Minnie or Mickey.
3. Family-Friendly All-Inclusive Resorts on Mexico’s Maya Riviera
Sandos Caracol Eco Resort
Known for its eco-conscious approach, Sandals Caracol offers a range of activities for children. It features a water park, ancient cenote for swimming, and various live performances, including a ritual to honor Mother Earth. While there’s plenty to do, it also emphasizes the importance of caring for our planet.
Hard Rock Hotel Riviera Maya
This resort is especially appealing to teenagers, offering a unique rock ‘n’ roll experience. It boasts a wide range of amenities. Play at the water park, get pampered at the luxurious spa, enjoy delicious cuisine, and enjoy unique experiences. That includes listening to vinyl records and impromptu studio sessions with Fender guitars and amps.
Azul Beach Hotel
Ideal for those seeking tranquil water and dramatic sunsets, Azul Beach Hotel offers several swimming pools, six restaurants, bars, and a world-class spa. It features Azulitos Playhouse and a My Gym center for kids, along with special spa services for children aged 5-17.
Fairmont Mayakoba Riviera Maya
Situated within a 240-acre gated community, the Fairmont Mayakoba is known for its emphasis on well-being and physical activities. There an array of family fun that awaits from kite surfing and catamaran tours to salsa dancing classes. I
Grand Velas Riviera Maya
Spread across over 200 acres, Grand Velas Riviera Maya is a stunning resort with all-suite accommodations. It’s divided into three areas, with two welcoming families, while hosting a kids’ program, teen center, and family karaoke.
Iberostar Tucan & Quetzal
Located in the private, gated Playacar community, Iberostar Tucan and Quetzal are sister properties. They share pools, restaurants, beaches, entertainment, and children’s programming, offering a blend of luxury and family-friendly activities.
Paradisus, Playa del Carmen
Paradisus is a resort known for its exceptional family-concierge service and giant waterpark. It also offers activities like craft classes, mini-Olympics, and cooking classes for kids.
Dreams Tulum Resort and Spa
Just minutes from the Mayan ruins of Tulum, Dreams Tulum offers activities for all age groups. It features a large activity pool, Explorer’s Club for children, and various offsite tours.
Azul Fives Hotel by Karisma
Located on Xcalacoco beach, this medium-sized resort offers impressive designer rooms and suites. It includes amenities like swim-up pool bars, beach volleyball, and a village of shops and restaurants.
Hard Rock Resort Riviera Maya
Halfway between Playa del Carmen and Tulum, the Hard Rock Resort Riviera Maya is a massive complex. Here you’ll enjoy a diverse range of music, beaches, pools, and plazas for nightly events and parties.
5. Disney World
It’s essential to address a common misconception. Despite its fame, many still haven’t visited Disney World, considering it a place primarily for young children. However, this couldn’t be further from the truth! Disney World is a fantastic destination for all ages. Adults often develop a unique appreciation for the magic it offers. A trip to Disney definitely isn’t just for kids. It’s an experience that delights and often rekindles child-like wonder.
A Disney World vacation isn’t just about Mickey and Minnie. Walt Disney World Resort includes four theme parks: Disney’s Animal Kingdom Theme Park, Disney’s Hollywood Studios, EPCOT and Magic Kingdom Park. Plus there are two water parks.
For those planning a visit, it’s worth checking out the Disney World insider guides. These resources offer valuable savings tips to make your trip more affordable. They also include advice to enhance your enjoyment.
Orlando, the home of Disney World, goes well-beyond the famous Disney attractions. There’s a ton to do here, including attractions like Universal Studios and the Disney Sports Complex. Plus, the city has an excellent science center, an adventure park, gardens, and professional sports teams like the Orlando Magic.
There’s a diverse array of experiences available in Orlando, ensuring there’s something for everyone.
6. Jumeirah Beach Hotel, Dubai
Situated on Jumeirah Beach Road, Jumeirah Beach Hotel is conveniently located near the iconic Burj Al Arab and Madinat Jumeirah. Just a 30-minute drive from Dubai International Airport, it was designed with families in mind. You’ll find a wide array of activities and amenities for all ages.
The hotel’s architecture is a visual marvel, resembling a stunning breaking wave with a curved design in both its plan and elevation. Inside, the decor is inspired by the four elements of nature, Earth, Air, Fire, and Water. Each are represented through distinctive color schemes across four levels of the hotel. Think calming blues and greens for water, earthy browns and reds for earth, airy blues and whites for air, and vibrant reds and yellows for fire.
Stunning Accommodation & A Wealth of Amenities
An award-winning resort, Jumeirah Beach features 26 floors with 617 sea-facing rooms, suites, and villas. Additionally, there are 19 Arabian-themed Beit Al Bahar villas, providing exclusive amenities. This is a luxury experience. Book to enjoy a private check-in, butler service, individual plunge pools, private terraces, and access to a secluded pool area.
For relaxation, the health club features saunas, hot tubs, steam rooms, Jacuzzis, plunge pools, massage rooms, and a range of pampering treatments. There are five outdoor swimming pools, including a 25-meter lap pool and main leisure pool. The main pool has a walk-in Jacuzzi, chilled plunge pool, submerged airbeds, and a swim-up bar. There’s also an exclusive Executive Pool with an underwater sound system and bubble coves.
A Kid-Friendly Paradise
We mentioned there were five pools. In addition to those noted, there’s a family pool with a “beach” entrance where the adults and kids can enjoy a water slide. You’ll find a shaded children’s pool with water play equipment for the youngest in the group.
The Sinbad’s Kids Club, a ship-shaped clubhouse near the family pool, offers a variety of activities for children aged 2-12. Highly trained staff provide supervision and babysitting services are available as well.
Guests also enjoy free access to the adjacent Wild Wadi Water Park, a top attraction in the Middle East. The Pavilion sports club on the Marina breakwater offers a range of activities too. That includes diving (PADI 5 star), squash, tennis, a gym, and various water sports, all with qualified instruction available.
And, that’s not all! Additional outdoor facilities include a mini putting green, golf driving nets, and a children’s adventure park.
7. Family-Friendly Jungle Lodges in Belize
San Ignacio Resort Hotel
Located in the Cayo District, this family-owned boutique hotel offers a warm, intimate experience on a 17-acre private estate. Just a short distance from San Ignacio Town, it allows families to conveniently explore the local attractions. The resort hosts the Running W Restaurant with meats from the family’s ranch, an on-site tour company for adventures, and the notable Green Iguana Conservation Project with an interactive and educational experience for children.
The Lodge at Chaa Creek
This luxury jungle lodge not only provides modern accommodations but also a variety of eco-adventures and family-friendly experiences. Attractions include a butterfly farm, archaeological sites, and an on-site organic garden. Every family member is sure to find something engaging and enjoyable here.
Bocawina Rainforest Resort
Nestled in the heart of Mayflower Bocawina National Park, this eco-lodge is ideal for families keen on sustainable tourism. Bocawina Rainforest Tesort offers diverse family-friendly adventures and activities such as guided jungle hikes and birdwatching. Enjoy a family-friendly stay that’s both exhilarating and educational.
8. Shamwari South African Safari
Shamwari is nestled in the Eastern Cape of South Africa. One of the world’s premier game reserves, it’s been the recipient of numerous conservation awards. It’s particularly renowned for its exceptional “Kids on Safari” program while providing a unique and unforgettable vacation experience for the entire family. The “Kids on Safari” package includes three action-packed days at Shamwari, situated in a malaria-free zone. Here, children as young as four can encounter the Big Five (lion, leopard, rhino, elephant, and Cape buffalo), watch an educational film, visit the Born Free Foundation and Shamwari’s Wildlife Hospital, stay in a traditional African lodge, and much more.
Accommodations are provided at the colonial-style Riverdene Lodge with nine interconnected air-conditioned rooms, each with an authentic African ambiance. Upon arrival, a children’s coordinator will tailor activity options to suit the family’s size, children’s ages, and weather conditions. (Take note that while children under four are welcome, they are not permitted on the game drives)
The blend of fun and education is constant at Shamwari. Beyond the thrilling game drives that children four and over can enjoy, there are special educational programs and a variety of supervised activities. That includes social, sporting, and cultural endeavors like African bead making, clay work, face painting, star-gazing, and African storytelling. For more details on this exceptional trip, be sure to visit Shamwari’s website.
9. Whitewater Rafting on the Colorado River in Arizona
Embark on a thrilling family adventure: whitewater rafting on the Colorado River that courses through the Grand Canyon. This unique journey offers a distinctive perspective of one of the world’s most renowned natural wonders. Opt for the “scenic route” with a virtual rafting tour of the Grand Canyon to get a taste of what a Colorado River raft trip could be. It’s a once-in-a-lifetime experience through one of America’s most iconic national parks, sure to create unforgettable family memories.
Since 1970, Arizona River Runners has been providing comprehensive Grand Canyon whitewater rafting trips. The experienced reservation staff are ready to assist with the details and can provideadditional information about Colorado River rafting trips. Seasoned guides from Arizona River Runners ensure a safe and enjoyable vacation adventure. Customer testimonials, often emotionally charged, attest to the profound impact a Grand Canyon whitewater rafting vacation can have.
Don’t leave the area without experiencing Arizona’s Grand Canyon from the unique vantage point of the river, contrasting with the view from the canyon’s rim. Those who do often voice regrets. Plus, if you’re concerned about environmental impact, you should know that Arizona River Runners is an Authorized Concessionaire of Grand Canyon National Park, deeply committed to protecting the Canyon’s unique environment.
This commitment is evident in the time invested in the staff, educational efforts about the Colorado River corridor, and the company’s passion for preserving this natural wonder for future generations. While in Arizona, families are also encouraged to explore the state’s natural reserves, ranches, and resorts, renowned for their exceptional service and beauty. Touring destinations like these wil provide a more in-depth experience of Arizona’s diverse landscapes while enriching the overall visit.
10. Saint Lucia Family-Friendly Resorts
St. Lucia, a lush gem in the Caribbean, is renowned for its natural beauty. Highlights include the iconic Pitons rising majestically above the turquoise sea, verdant rainforests and golden beaches. This island paradise is not just a haven for honeymooners and other romance-seeking couples. It’s also a fantastic destination for families seeking a blend of relaxation and adventure.
This curated list of family-friendly resorts in St. Lucia caters to the needs of all ages, ensuring an unforgettable vacation experience for everyone. From kids’ clubs to thrilling watersports and tranquil spa treatments, it offers an exciting yet rejuvenating family retreat.
Coconut Bay Resort & Spa
This resort has distinct areas for families (Splash) and adults (Harmony), featuring a lazy river, private beach access, and special programs for children over the age of 2, making it an exciting option for a family holiday.
Starfish St. Lucia
As a budget-friendly option, Starfish St. Lucia offers various family-oriented activities and entertainment, including water sports, games, and nightly shows. The resort also features a children’s club suitable for kids aged 4-12 years.
Anse Chastanet
This luxury resort is suitable for families with children aged 10 and above (or 6 and above from July to September). It offers an all-inclusive meal plan, beach access, and various non-motorized water sports, providing a serene experience for families with older kids.
Bay Gardens Beach Resort & Spa
Located on Reduit Beach, Bay Gardens Beach Resort & Spa resort offers all-inclusive plans including free non-motorized sports and access to the Splash Island Water Park. It’s a family-friendly resort with amenities like spa treatment and activities for children.
Sugar Beach, A Viceroy Resort
Sugar Beach is a luxurious resort beside the Pitons, featuring rooms with private plunge pools, poolside cabanas, a kids’ club, and separate activities for teens and tweens. It offers indulgent experiences at The Rainforest Spa and various dining options.
St. James’s Club Morgan Bay
The all-inclusive St. James’s Club boasts seven restaurants, five bars, four pools, and a range of activities including watersports and a kids’ club. Located on Choc Bay near Rodney Bay Village, it offers a variety of entertainment and dining options for families.
Royalton Saint Lucia
Near Rodney Bay, Royalton Saint Lucia offers a range of amenities including a spa, kids’ and teens’ clubs, and a Seaside Summer Camp. The resort features watersports, fitness classes, and a water slides park, making it ideal for families.
Windjammer Landing
This family-friendly resort offers a kids’ club, teen center, and babysitting services. It features amenities such as tennis courts, fitness centers, wellness packages, and sea or land excursions for family outings.
