Since vacation days are special occasions that come around only a few times a year, live them to the fullest in these exciting and family-oriented destinations with plenty of kid-friendly activities, memorable sights, and fun for parents, too.
Hawaii
The Aloha State wants you to say hello to your new favorite family vacation destination. Take a surfing lesson in the birthplace of the sport – the North Shore – on Oahu, and snorkel in the shallow pools on the South Shore of Kauai. Be enchanted by an underwater kingdom at the Maui Ocean Center with a journey through a crystal-clear tunnel, surrounded by a 750,000-gallon tank dotted with manta rays and sharks. Immerse yourself in the culture of the islands with a luau, which generally feature a buffet of island cuisine, fresh flower greeting, and other enjoyable activities inspired by the island’s people.
Recommended: A Family’s Guide to Fun in Maui
Caribbean Islands
Jerk Chicken
Tropical islands, short and frequent flights to top destinations – the Caribbean islands is that vacation in paradise you’ve always wanted. Whether you crave excitement or relaxation, there’s an island perfect for you. Feel the vibe – and adrenaline – in Jamaica. Zip-line or bobsled through the rainforest on Mystic Mountain, and taste the true heat of the Caribbean with jerk chicken. Looking for the perfect spot in the sand? Then look no further than the Dominican Republic, with more than 250 miles of the world’s best beaches. Of course, we’d be remiss not to mention the Bahamas and Atlantis, Paradise Island, which hosts the world’s largest open-air marine habitat, Aquaventure (a one-of-a-kind 141-acre waterscape) and numerous activities for parents and kids alike and together.
Florida
You knew Florida would be on this list. Between Walt Disney World, Universal Orlando Resort, SeaWorld, LEGOLAND Florida Resort, and Busch Gardens – there’s no destination that’s been created just for families quite like Florida, Orlando specifically. And this summer is the best time to visit this destination with Toy Story Land opening in Disney’s Hollywood Studios, complete with two new rides and an expanded Toy Story Mania experience. You also can’t miss Hogsmeade and Diagon Alley, as well as the brand-new Volcano Bay water park and Aventura Hotel. SeaWorld welcomes the tallest drop in river rides with Infinity Falls, opening this summer.
Recommended: 5 Best Family Spots in the US
Los Cabos
Ride a camel. Go whale watching. Snorkel in the crystal-clear waters of Chileno Bay. There’s so much to do in Los Cabos, and it’s one of the best destinations for both adults and kids to have fun. Dad and Mom will enjoy teeing off at one of the many world-class golf courses before relaxing in a harmonizing spa. At night, let loose in Cabo San Lucas, a vibrant nightlife town. Kids will enjoy taking part in a sea turtle release and get tuckered out on a desert ATV tour. Rest up at one of many all-inclusive luxury resorts dotting the corridor between Los Cabos’ dual cities.
California
Hollywood. Los Angeles. Anaheim. San Diego. San Francisco. There is no shortage of family fun in this diverse location. The studio tours are fascinating, and you never know who you’ll see. Enjoy Hogwarts, new to Universal Studios Hollywood, and then find your favorite star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame. Complete your tour de theme park in Anaheim at Disneyland and Knott’s Berry Farm. Afterwards, choose whether you want to head south to San Diego for some powdery sands and delicious Mexican food, or head north to the City by the Bay with its famous piers, abandoned prisons, and delicious sourdough. And parents – Napa. Need we say more?
Recommended: 2018, A Year of Travel
Live your family vacation to the fullest in these enticing and exciting destinations. Together with GOGO Vacations, your local travel agent will get you there.
