Searching for luxury vacations that keep the whole family happy can be tough. Organizing a trip for a large group of people is complicated enough without throwing different ages into the mix. However, that’s where we come in.
From a plethora of activities to fine-dining experiences around the world, “family-friendly” and “luxury” can (and do) go hand in hand. It’s all about traveling somewhere that has an activity or high-end experience for everyone in your group to enjoy.
In this article, we’ll look at 12 of the best luxurious family vacation destinations for your next getaway—including one that may surprise you.
- Disney World (USA)
- Colorado (USA)
- Hawaii (USA)
- Costa Rica (Central America)
- Antigua (Caribbean)
- Anguilla (Caribbean)
- Bahamas (Caribbean)
- Turks and Caicos (Caribbean)
- Greece (Europe)
- Italy (Europe)
- Dubai (United Arab Emirates)
- Mexico (North America)
Which is the right luxury family vacation destination for you?
Your destination will depend on the kind of vacation you’re looking for. Do you envision complete relaxation on white-sand beaches while the kids splash around in calm turquoise oceans? The Caribbean islands could be for you.
If your family are all thrill-seekers that long for adventurous activities, the theme parks of Dubai or Disney World await. For those who want something in the middle, there’s plenty to explore in historic Europe.
Whether it’s an all-inclusive resort with on-site restaurants or fully-staffed villa rentals with a private chef, we’ll cover the most luxurious options. Whatever you want from your trip, our expert team can help to make it a reality.
1. Disney World (Orlando, Florida)
While Disney World may seem like a trip purely focused on the kids, the resort has a lesser-known ultra-luxurious side. From secret lounges serving Beluga caviar to access to VIP seats as part of the private Disney Club 33, many of these treasures are hidden in plain sight.
Disney’s renowned VIP tour guides can take you through all the FastPass queues as they share their insider knowledge and secrets about each theme park and their rides. There’s no waiting for buses or wading through crowds to secure a seat for parades or fireworks, either. Jump into a cool air-conditioned SUV that’ll take you between parks on exclusive Disney roadways with on-hand cold beverages and snacks to keep your energy up.
Whatever you want from your trip, Disney’s team can make it happen. Want to host a family reunion in The Twilight Zone Tower of Terror after hours? Easy. How about a private yacht charter to enjoy dinner and watch the Magic Kingdom fireworks from the water? No problem.
If you’d like to explore Orlando’s luxurious side on your own, visit the AAA Five Diamond Award-winning Four Seasons Resort for some of the best swimming pools in the state and the delicious food inside Michelin-starred restaurant CAPA.
Fancy watching the Disney World fireworks from the comfort of your luxurious villa rental? Take a look at Treasure House and Villa Isolé.
2. Colorado (USA)
As the highest elevated state in the United States, Colorado is one of the world’s best skiing locations and a nature lover’s paradise. From the snow-capped mountains to the gushing river canyons, glistening lakes to the arid desert, there is plenty to see and do year-round.
For winter sports lovers, ski-in-ski-out rentals can sound like a dream, but they’re here waiting for you. Pick your boots off the heated rack and take a few short steps to the powder slopes. After an exhilarating day of skiing, head back to your home away from home by skiing straight to the door. Finish off with a relaxing jacuzzi beneath the spectacular backdrop of the Rocky Mountains. Finish the day with drinks around a roaring fire, a movie in your private theater, and an exquisite chef-prepared dinner, chatting with loved ones about the day’s highlights.
There’s an incredible number of national parks, colorful rock formations, diverse wildlife, and breathtaking scenery here. If you’re visiting in the warmer months, horseback riding is a popular and unforgettable experience for the whole family.
Perhaps it’s a grandiose mansion with a full staff and breathtaking views you’re after. On the other hand, it may be a quaint lakeside cabin or ski chalet with a more outdoorsy feel. Either way, we are proud to feature the best handpicked Colorado vacation rentals in towns such as Vail, Aspen, Steamboat Springs, Telluride, Beaver Creek, and Breckenridge.
3. Hawaii (USA)
The islands of Hawaii have so much to offer for family vacations. Why not stay in a Maui vacation rental high in the mountains, with an expansive view of the volcanoes and natural beauty all around? Otherwise, oceanfront villas with clear water, white sand, and magical sunsets may be more up your street.
Maui is perfect for families with children, with plenty of activities from zip-lining to snorkeling and windsurfing. For those adventurous travelers, an incredible hike up the 10,000-foot summit of Haleakala volcano awaits, or some fun mountain biking a little lower down.
If you fancy a more bustling, vibrant experience, why not visit Oahu (one of the most populated islands) and its capital Honolulu? Here, you’ll find world-class shopping, exciting nightlife, relaxing Hawaiian spas, and the famous Waikiki Beach. There’s truly something on each of the Hawaiian islands for the whole family to enjoy.
4. Costa Rica (Central America)
Home to some of the best coffee in the world, Costa Rica (the “rich coast”) sits comfortably between Nicaragua to the north and Panama to the south.
The country has designated over 25% of its landmass to protected nature reserves and national parks. With twice the number of bird species as Canada and the USA combined, you’ll experience tropical rainforests with their own micro-climates, natural lagoons and waterfalls, and stretches of unspoiled beaches.
Immerse yourself in nature with a casual hike or a jeep ride up into the hills as you and the kids spot all kinds of wildlife. Zip-lining above the jungle canopy or white-water rafting down the Balsa river are another couple of popular activities.
While you’re there, why not stay on a lush, 2.5-acre tropical reserve close to a top-quality golf course in Manuel Antonio or a high-end villa with an infinity pool in Tamarindo (the heart of Costa Rica’s gold coast beaches)?
5. Antigua (Caribbean)
Antigua and Barbuda are two islands that make up one territory. Famous for its 366 beaches, colorful coral reef systems, and snorkeling spots, Antigua is one of the most widely-visited Caribbean islands.
Shirley Heights, a restored military lookout and gun battery, is an institution in the Caribbean. The Sunday night ritual of the “pilgrimage” to Shirley Heights has to be on your list of things to do. Mingle with other visitors and locals, dine on some spicy jerk chicken and BBQ, and take in the jaw-dropping splendor of a proper Caribbean sunset.
The clear waters of the eastern Caribbean sea and the west coast of the Atlantic host a rich array of sea creatures and rock formations. Our team can help you book an unforgettable tour to Stingray City to get up close with these gentle, curious, and rather intelligent creatures.
Along with boat tours, kayaking, and paddle boarding, Antigua is a perfect beach vacation destination. As they say on the island, “The beach is just the beginning.” So, if you’re looking for things to do or the most luxurious villas to stay in, there’s plenty on offer in this tropical paradise.
6. Anguilla (Caribbean)
One of the lesser-known islands, Anguilla is fast becoming a favorite for those in search of a laid-back yet luxurious vacation. It’s the perfect place to spend quality time with your family with few distractions, surrounded by the friendliest people in this little slice of heaven.
There are all the watersports you’d expect from a Caribbean island, plus unique opportunities like a sunset sail or lobster lunch on a historic sailing sloop. There are lovely quaint villages to explore, beautiful beach bars, and turquoise waters to swim in all around. Although frequented by many celebrities, the island and its inhabitants afford them the privacy they are looking for. Why not let us create a similar experience for you?
This spectacular clifftop location features ÀNI private resort, a private beach below and an incredible 20-team staff to look after you. It’s one of the best villas in Anguilla for families who want that resort feel with the perks of complete exclusivity.
Like a luxury hotel, you can enjoy six daily spa treatments in the wellness center, a tennis court with a basketball hoop, a private fitness center, professional chefs, housekeeping, drinks, and a half-board menu.
7. The Bahamas (Caribbean)
A mere 50 miles from Florida’s coast lies The Bahamas. If you are looking for secluded and luxurious villas to rent, these 700 islands lie across 100,000 square miles of the clearest ocean.
If you enjoy surfing, the island of Eleuthera has plenty of breaks to rival some of the best-known in the California San Francisco Bay area. The difference? Pristine coastlines and no crowds. The 190-mile-long Andros Barrier Reef is the third largest barrier reef and living organism in the world. So, take a swim, dive, or snorkel and try to spot a green sea turtle, dolphin, or any other colorful types of marine life you’ll have the fortune to share the ocean with.
If you’re set on a hotel stay, Ocean Club (a Four Seasons Resort) on Paradise Island is the easy choice. There’s an 18-hole golf course, Dune restaurant (owned by celebrity chef Jean-Georges Vongerichten), and a Balinese-style spa on site. Plus, guests have access to all the amenities in the nearby Atlantis, including the fun-filled water parks for the kids.
If a hotel isn’t for you, how about a unique stay in a magnificent, modern, almost 1200-square-foot villa on Harbour Island? Your temporary home, with its own private, pink-sanded beach, offers an abundance of wonderful amenities, including a gym, sauna, steam room, theater, indoor and outdoor kitchens, an infinity-edge pool, and a rooftop deck with a jacuzzi. Our concierge team can also arrange for a yoga instructor, personal trainer, or masseuse to attend to make your stay extra special.
8. Turks and Caicos Islands (Caribbean)
Perfect crystal-clear turquoise waters, soft white sandy beaches, and 5-star standards are just some of the hallmarks of the archipelago of over 40 exquisite islands that make up Turks and Caicos. For those interested in water sports, this is one for your bucket list.
The 3-mile-long Grace Bay Beach has been voted the number one beach in the world by many reputable sources such as TripAdvisor and the Traveller’s Choice awards. Wherever you choose to stay in Turks and Caicos, don’t leave without experiencing its beauty.
One of the best resorts when traveling with children has to be The Somerset on Grace Bay. Only a short distance from the main town of Providenciales, this self-contained beach resort hosts the dedicated Caicos Kids Club for 5-12-year-olds. This drop-off program offers the opportunity for the adults in your group to escape for a little alone time while knowing their kids are having a blast with a mix of physical and creative activities.
9. Greece (Europe)
Mount Olympus, the highest mountain in mainland Greece, was once thought to be the “home of the gods,” and it’s not hard to see why. Surrounded by the Ionian, Mediterranean, and Aegean Seas on three sides, Greece is made up of more than 3,000 mystical islands and islets. Most of these coves and beaches have sheltered conditions that are perfect for families.
Visit the largest island, Crete, to find water parks, aquariums, and shopping malls, along with a crash course in Ancient Greek mythology. Follow the winding cobbled streets through the charming town of Mykonos as you spend hours strolling through the beautiful architecture, dipping into boutique stores and local restaurant refreshments. You can also take the kids to a variety of activities on the island, like quad biking, kayaking, or fly fishing.
One of the most exquisitely beautiful places on the planet, Santorini, is less than a 45-minute flight south of Athens or 4 hours by boat. Famous for its spectacular sunsets and whitewashed houses, take your time to explore the authentic Greek villages, blue-domed churches, and Mediterranean food.
10. Italy (Europe)
Italy’s unrivaled beauty and breathtaking scenery make it a truly luxurious family vacation destination. With a unique blend of rustic charm and low-key elegance, the country has it all: quaint villages, scenic drives, mouth-watering food, fine wine, and friendly people.
From one end to the other is over 1300 kilometers. As you can imagine, the scenery and culture are vastly different depending on which end you’re at. So, which part should you visit?
At its most northern point, you can experience the stunning scenery and winter sports in the majestic mountains of the Italian Alps and The Dolomites. Further south is Lake Como, Lake Garda (a popular vacation spot for Ancient Romans), and Lake Maggiore.
Villa d’Este, one of the most famous hotels in the world, is located within the cobble-stoned medieval town of Cernobbio (Lake Como). Gardaland in Lake Garda is one of the biggest theme parks in the country with rides for all ages, with an aquarium home to over 5000 marine creatures, and a new immersive Jumanji-themed attraction.
Whether it’s the history-steeped Rome, fashionable Milan, the famed wine region of Tuscany, or the jaw-dropping panoramic views of the Amalfi Coast, there’s something for the whole family in Italy.
11. Dubai (United Arab Emirates)
Dubai is a beachfront city that’s perfect for luxury family vacations. While it’s certainly lavish and glamorous, you may be worried there won’t be enough for the kids to do. However, there is an abundance of activities, watersports, and theme parks in the area. With year-round hot weather, it’s no wonder Dubai is such a popular choice for families around the world.
There are a number of sublime hotels in the area, including the famous Burj Al Arab, Jumeirah Beach and Al Qasr, and firm family-favorite Atlantis, The Palm. Most have their own kids clubs, most notably Sinbad’s Kids Club at Jumeirah Al Qasr and KiDS Club at Jumeirah Beach Hotel. Atlantis, The Palm offers something similar, along with a specific teenager “Zone” for 13-17-year-olds. These all give you the opportunity to leave the younger members of your family in safe hands while you spend some quality time as adults.
For activities the whole family can enjoy, sit poolside under a cabana or amble down the lazy river while the kids hit the fast-paced waterslides in your choice of local water parks—Wild Wadi, AquaFun, and Aquaventure.
If thrill-seeking is your thing, you’ll be spoiled for choice. Choose between the Hollywood-themed Motiongate, Dubai’s own Legoland, and indoor theme park IMG Worlds of Adventure with dinosaur, Marvel, and Cartoon Network adventure zones. There’s also the Ski Dubai indoor slope, Kidzania (where kids can pretend to be firefighters, pilots, or chefs), and the Dubai Aquarium (both in Dubai Mall).
12. Mexico (North America)
Only a short drive from San Diego, vibrant culture, delicious foods, and electric nightlife await your family in Mexico. This historic nation has wooed and welcomed the discerning traveler for generations.
Whether you fancy an all-inclusive luxury resort or Mexican villa rental, there’s no shortage of choices of places to stay or things to do. Cancun, one of the most visited parts of the country, offers all types of water sports, golf, and amazing restaurants.
Some 120 miles east lies one of Mexico’s most important and iconic cultural sites, Chichen Itza. The ancient ruins of this pre-Columbian city built by the Mayans are a must for any families interested in fascinating historical sites.
Cabo is the collective name for the two popular large resort towns, Cabo San Lucas and San Jose del Cabo. These are linked by the famous 20-mile “Tourist Corridor,” surrounded by views of the desert and Sea of Cortez coastline.
Cabo San Lucas is the much livelier of the two, with a huge marina, buzzing nightlife, and plenty of water sports on offer, like scuba diving, deep-sea fishing, sailing, and snorkeling. San Jose del Cabo is more relaxed, with lots of fabulous restaurants, beautiful beaches, and a dash of history with the charming 18th-century Parroquia San Jose church. Mexico is far too close to the USA to go another year without visiting.
Consider a deluxe villa rental over luxury family resorts
While all-inclusive resorts may seem like the easier option, a spectacular deluxe villa rental with a private pool, experienced staff, and a talented chef all to yourself can be truly unforgettable.
Our experienced concierge department will handle all of the details so that you can fully relax before you travel and once you get there. We cover everything from ground transportation, tours, car hire, massages, restaurant reservations, specialty chefs, exclusive catering, excursions, tours, and much more.
Let the expert Exceptional Villa sales team talk you through your dream luxury family vacation.
About Alexandra Baradi
Alexandra Baradi is the founder and owner of Exceptional Villas. She started the company 1992. Alex is a hotel manager by background and has travelled around the world in search of the best villas.
Her personal passion for travel and her entrepreneurial flair for making guest feel very special from the moment they enquire to the moment they arrive home, has enabled Exceptional Villas to become the world’s leader in luxury villas.
She believes anything is possible when you travel with Exceptional Villas and ensures you will be pampered every step of the way.
Alexandra and her team all have one thing in common; to provide their guests with an unmatched holiday experience and to go beyond expectations.
Each of the team members specialise in just one destination rather than in multiple destinations allowing them to become total experts in their fields.
Both Alexandra and her team spend much of their time travelling to all the destinations inspecting new villas and re-inspecting already featured villas.