21 Best Family Beach Vacations Around the World

While there are plenty of beaches in the United States, there are some amazing ones around the world. These places offer some of the best family beach vacations, with fun attractions for the whole family, soft sand, quality accommodations, and more. From the crystal-clear waters of the Caribbean Sea to the pink sand beaches of Crete, there are some wonderful options for families.

Perhaps you’re looking for the perfect place to spend the day surfing with the kids. Or maybe you just want to relax on a white sand beach with gentle surf and know your little ones can play safely.

Below, I’ll share my favorite destinations on every continent for a beach getaway with the family. 

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Favorite Family-Friendly Beaches Around the World

Everyone has an idea of what the perfect family beach vacation looks like, and you can find each of them at popular destinations across the globe! There are resort beaches with endless amenities, all-inclusive resorts, and some with nearby villages to explore.

You might dream of days spent at a quiet, beachfront vacation rental, where you can explore tide pools and build sandcastles. Maybe you have older kids and want to make memories of trying different watersports and swimming with sharks. Or you might prefer a vacation spot with beautiful beaches, amazing locals, and historical sites to explore.

In this post, I’ve divided up each beach destination by region, based on travels with my family. You will find beach destinations in the following places:

• Caribbean
• Mexico
• United States
• Europe
• Asia and Australia

Get ready for the best family beach vacations around the world! In case you missed it, we also have US beaches that families will love.

Family-friendly Caribbean beaches

1. Bahamas

The Bahamas is a fantastic family destination, offering gorgeous beaches and a variety of fun activities.

One of the best beaches for families is Cable Beach in Nassau. Known for its soft, white sand and clear, calm waters, it’s perfect for kids to swim and play. Plus, there are many family resorts nearby, like the Grand Hyatt Baha Mar, which has a fantastic water park.

Another great family beach is Junkanoo Beach. This beach is near downtown Nassau and offers shallow waters, great for young swimmers and small children. It’s perfect for a family outing as there are nearby food stands and shops.

For a mix of relaxation and adventure, head to Paradise Island. The beaches here are stunning, and the Atlantis Resort offers an amazing water park, marine habitats, and plenty of family-friendly activities.

2. Turks and Caicos

Turks and Caicos is known for its stunning white-sand beaches, crystal-clear turquoise waters, and excellent snorkeling and diving opportunities. We had a fabulous experience at Beaches Resort in Turks & Caicos.

Nearby, is Grace Bay Beach, one of the best kid-friendly beaches on the island. It was so relaxing! The water is crystal clear, and the sand is soft and white. You can go snorkeling right off the beach to see manta rays and small fish.

Another fantastic spot is Sapodilla Bay, a gorgeous cove beach that’s surprisingly less crowded than you’d expect. You can rent beach chairs and umbrellas or purchase food and drinks from vendors on the sand.

3. Puerto Rico

The beautiful beaches of Puerto Rico offer the perfect family beach destination. The country is known for its delicious cuisine, welcoming locals, and historic sites. This is where you want to come if your family is looking for a mix of relaxation and adventure!

If you’re staying in San Juan and want to go to one of the best local beaches, plan a beach day at Luquillo Beach. There are massive palm trees, calm waters for swimming, and soft sand. It also has amenities like picnic areas, food kiosks, and restrooms, making for a convenient day out.

Flamenco Beach on Culebra Island is worth the ferry ride! It’s ideal if you want to go snorkeling. The beach is also famous for its iconic, rusted military tanks, which have become a unique part of the landscape. Here you will also find kiosks where you can rent umbrellas or buy food.

4. St. Thomas, U.S. Virgin Islands

St. Thomas is one of the best family beach vacations worldwide because of its stunning beaches, extensive marine life, and family-friendly amenities. Known for its gorgeous coastline and crystal-clear waters, this Caribbean Island is perfect for both snorkeling and swimming.

If you don’t mind a crowd, Magens Bay Beach is a top kid-friendly choice. The beach has amenities like picnic areas, restrooms, and snack bars, making it convenient for families.

For more space and quiet, there’s Coki Beach. It’s another fantastic spot for snorkeling with children. A short walk away, you can also visit the Coral World Ocean Park, offering educational and interactive marine exhibits.

5. Grand Cayman, Cayman Islands

Grand Cayman of the Cayman Islands boasts a variety of family-friendly attractions. There are so many things to do here, including a tour to Stingray City, Starfish Point, and the Cayman Turtle Centre. The island’s miles of gorgeous beaches are also a huge draw for families who like options.

Seven Mile Beach is a highlight. This famous stretch of white sand near George Town is perfect for swimming, snorkeling, and building sandcastles. Adjacent to Seven Mile Beach, Governor’s Beach is quieter and boasts soft sand and gentle waves.

On the north side, the narrow Rum Point Beach has shallow waters and abundant shade that are perfect for families with younger kids. You can spend the day kayaking, paddleboarding, and enjoying beachside dining.

6. Montego Bay, Jamaica

Montego Bay in Jamaica is a huge draw for visitors from around the world because of the range of tourist attractions in the area. While you’re here, don’t miss out on the area’s lovely public beaches, too!

Doctor’s Cave Beach is a popular choice. It’s an excellent spot for swimming and snorkeling, with equipment rentals available onsite (just be ready to pay a small cash fee per person for entry).

There’s also One Man Beach (or Old Hospital Park Beach), a small, free, public beach located near downtown Montego Bay. Its cove shape offers protection from the waves, so you can enjoy calm waters for swimming and a relaxed atmosphere.

7. Dominican Republic

One of my family’s favorite places to stay in the Caribbean with a large group is the Dominican Republic! We love the rich culture and the family-friendly activities, like snorkeling, zip-lining, and visiting water parks.

For beaches, Playa Bibijagua is a lively public beach located in the heart of Punta Cana. It’s known for its fun atmosphere, with beach vendors selling souvenirs, snacks, and drinks. Come here for an authentic DR experience!

In Puerto Plata, Playa Dorada offers a range of family-friendly activities such as kayaking and banana boating. The beach is close to attractions like Ocean World Adventure Park, making it convenient if you’re looking for entertainment beyond the beach.

Did you know I have a different article with our recommendations for the best beaches to visit with grandparents? Find it HERE.

8. Aruba

There are a handful of wonderful beaches in Aruba that are kid-friendly, but two stand out in my mind: Palm Beach and Baby Beach.

Palm Beach is a gorgeous resort area known for its long, sandy beach and family-friendly attractions. You can enjoy water sports like snorkeling, jet-skiing, and parasailing, as well as beachfront dining and shopping options.

On the other hand, the aptly named Baby Beach offers a more relaxing experience. Its crescent shape creates a calm and shallow lagoon, making it perfect for families with young children!

You can swim, snorkel, or rest under shade trees. The beach also offers amenities like beach chair rentals, food stands, and more.

If you’re headed to Aruba, don’t miss my favorite things to do in Aruba with teens.

Best Family Beach Vacations in Mexico

9. Cancun

Cancun is renowned for its best family beach vacations, offering a variety of family-friendly beaches. In the Hotel Zone, Playa Delfines is a family favorite with its quiet location and shallow waters, perfect for kids to play safely.

If you’re looking for the best family beach resorts in Cancun, consider Grand Fiesta Americana Coral Beach Cancun. The all-inclusive resort features a fantastic kids’ club, swimming pools, and beach access. It’s adjacent to the dock where boats transport families to Isla Mujeres.

There are plenty of things to do in Cancun with kids including exploring ancient ruins like Chichen Itza and swimming in cenotes.

10. Puerto Vallarta

Puerto Vallarta is famous for its family-friendly resorts that line the beachfront, but if you want to get out of the resort and head to a local beach, you have plenty to choose from!

Located in the heart of the city, Playa Los Muertos is a very popular beach with calm surf ideal for swimming. While you’re here, you have access to beachfront restaurants, food vendors, gift shops, and local guides offering boat trips at the pier.

When we visited Puerto Vallarta with kids, we also loved Conchas Chinas Beach. Located south of Puerto Vallarta, it’s a great spot if you’re looking for a quieter beach experience away from the crowds. The beach is known for its rocky shoreline and strong waves, so it’s not good for swimming. However, the tide pools are fun to explore.

11. Los Cabos

We’ve always loved snorkeling and exploring the beaches in Los Cabos. Only some of the hotels have swimmable beaches, so be sure to check before booking, but you can always take a cruise to the Cabo Arch that includes time to snorkel.

If you’re seeking a resort in Cabo with a swimmable beach, Grand Fiesta Americana Los Cabos has a man-made lagoon for swimming that is perfect for families with young children. Hacienda Beach Club and Residences has direct access to Medano Beach.

United States Family-Friendly Beaches

12. Alabama

Alabama’s Gulf Coast is known for its stunning white sandy beaches and family-friendly attractions, with Gulf Shores and Orange Beach being the most popular beach destinations for families.

Gulf Shores offers beachfront condos, vacation rentals, and resorts near family-friendly amenities and a beach with shallow waters. This is also home to the famous Gulf State Park. You can enjoy beautiful, isolated beaches, nature trails, fishing piers, and educational programs here.

Orange Beach, on the other hand, is known for its water activities, including fishing charters, dolphin cruises, and water sports like jet skiing and parasailing.

13. Santa Monica, California

There are so many amazing California beaches to choose from, but with an average of 280 days of sunshine a year, Santa Monica makes the top of the list for best family beach vacations!

Santa Monica State Beach itself features wide, sandy shores that are perfect for sunbathing and beach volleyball. You can swim here, and it’s also a popular spot for body surfing and paddle boarding.

Just off the beach is a great playground. You also have the iconic Santa Monica Pier, with its amusement park, and the Venice Strand, where you can ride bikes or rollerblade. Plus, you’re just a short distance away from everything Los Angeles has to offer!

14. Florida

Like California, it’s hard to narrow down the best Florida beaches for families. Two destinations make for great options, depending on your family.

Amelia Island near Jacksonville is perfect if you’re looking for family-friendly luxury resorts and golf courses, but there are also beautiful beaches, historic sites, and nature activities. Families can explore 13 miles of pristine coastline or visit historic attractions like Fort Clinch State Park.

In Florida’s panhandle, Destin is a top destination with more laid-back vibes. Spend your days on beaches covered in sugar-white sands, enjoy water sports, or explore the bustling harbor area filled with shops, restaurants, and attractions.

15. Cape Cod, Massachusetts

Cape Cod is an ideal beach destination for families who enjoy a mix of relaxation, outdoor activities, and charming New England culture. Here you will find numerous beaches, where kids can play in the sand, swim, and collect seashells.

There’s also the Cape Cod National Seashore, with its scenic coastal trails for hiking and biking. History lovers can explore the region’s charming towns, lighthouses, and maritime museums. 

If your family loves spending time on the water, you can book whale-watching tours, fishing charters, and boat rides.

16. Outer Banks, North Carolina

The Outer Banks is a string of barrier islands off the coast of North Carolina, stretching over 200 miles along the Atlantic Ocean. Known for its wide sandy beaches, postcard-perfect landscapes, and quaint small towns, the Outer Banks is a popular vacation destination for all kinds of visitors.

The area is perfect for families looking for a beach vacation with beautiful scenery and lots to do! The expansive beaches give everyone plenty of space to relax and play. 

The northern beaches, like those in Corolla, are famous for their expansive dunes. At times, wild horses roam the beaches here, which might be a special treat on your trip!

Kitty Hawk and Kill Devil Hills are central locations known for their historical significance, including the Wright Brothers National Memorial. These beaches are great for swimming and beachcombing, as well as kite flying.

The beaches on the sound (the western side of the islands) offer calm, shallow waters, making them ideal for young children to play safely.

17. South Carolina

South Carolina also offers some of the best family beach vacations, with its stunning coastline and diverse activities.

If you’re eyeing a stay at the exclusive Kiawah Island Golf Resort, you will enjoy private beaches and 5 different golf courses that cater to professionals, beginners, and children, too! Plus, you have access to scenic nature trails, bike rentals, tennis courts, a full spa, and more.

Hilton Head Island is another barrier island that’s a bit more accessible but with the same feel. Spend your days on beautiful beaches and your pick of golf courses.

The area is known for its biking trails, which you can use to explore the island. There are parks, picnic areas, marshlands, and a lighthouse you can visit.

Prefer a casual, classic summer beach vacation with the family? Myrtle Beach stands out as a popular beach destination known for its lively atmosphere and family-friendly attractions.

Here you will find old-fashioned amusement parks, water parks, and mini golf along the Grand Strand. The beaches tend to be calm and great for swimming, and there are picnic areas along the beach.

Looking for more? These beach towns are perfect for your summer vacation!

Best Family Beach Vacations in Europe

18. Amalfi Coast, Italy

For the ultimate summer in Italy, head to the Amalfi Coast. Located in the Campania region of Italy, along the southern coast of the Sorrentine Peninsula, it’s a breathtaking destination known for its historic towns and breathtaking beaches.

Families visiting the Amalfi Coast can enjoy gorgeous beaches set against dramatic cliffs and crystal-clear waters!

The beaches here are mostly public but note that some areas have private beach clubs or sections that require a fee or reservation to access amenities like sunbeds, umbrellas, and facilities. 

Positano Beach is a family favorite with its colorful buildings, pebble shore, and calm waters, just right for swimming and paddleboarding. The beachfront is taken up with sunbeds and umbrellas, which you need to rent for the day, but it’s worth it!

While you’re here, be sure to take advantage of boat tours like this one to explore hidden coves and grottoes. 

19. Crete, Greece

I cannot recommend a vacation to Crete highly enough! Besides the amazing food experiences and just how kid-friendly the whole island was, the beaches here might have ruined beaches for me everywhere else.

You have countless beaches to choose from, including ones with pink sand, if you visit at the right time of the year! The beaches near where we stayed in Chania were perfect for swimming.

We also loved exploring the charming small towns, where we ate good food, shopped for souvenirs, and visited ancient ruins and museums. The Greek island has tons of outdoor activities you can enjoy, including hiking trails, water sports, and boat tours.

Also, check the family-friendly Mediterranean beaches of Spain and France.

Asia and Australia Family-Friendly Beaches

20. Gold Coast, Australia

The city and region of Gold Coast on Australia’s east coast is a top destination for the best family beach vacations, boasting beautiful beaches and a host of family-friendly things to do, including Dreamworld, SeaWorld, and Warner Bros. Movie World.

Broadbeach is one of the central beaches, offering a long sandy stretch and proximity to shopping and dining options. This is the place to be if you like surfing or relaxing on the beach.

While most of the beaches in Gold Coast aren’t great for young swimmers, Palm Beach Parklands is ideal for younger kids. This local park is nestled on a protected water inlet, offering families fun play equipment, picnic areas, shade, and calm waters for swimming.

21. Phuket, Thailand

Heading to the beach is a great option if you’re looking for things to do in Thailand for families. Phuket can be a good beach destination, depending on what you’re looking for. There’s a variety of breathtaking beaches with soft sands and clear waters, where you can swim, snorkel, and enjoy a solid beach day.

If you don’t mind plenty of company, you can stay central and enjoy Patong Beach, known for its golden sand and clear turquoise waters. It offers a bustling atmosphere with all kinds of water sports, beachside dining, and robust nightlife.

However, if you’re looking for something a bit calmer with more kid-friendly amenities, you might want to go with Kamala Beach or Surin Beach to the north. Both are quiet cove beaches, with gentle waters and amenities catering to families, including beachfront resorts with kids’ clubs and local food vendors.

For a deeper dive into some of my favorite family beach vacations, check out these posts on Puerto Rico and Prince Edward Island, Canada.