Are you planning a holiday for your family but don’t know where to go? Nothing beats sunny weather and beach days when it comes to family holidays. You want a place that has kid-friendly attractions as well as activities for adults, too.
We all crave sunshine throughout the colder winter months, but finding a spot that is equally suited for families can be tricky. Between babysitting concerns and the need to find activities that everyone will enjoy, the thought of organizing such a trip can make your head spin.
Article Points To Note:
- Sunny weather, beach days, and kid-friendly attractions make a great family vacation.
- There are plenty of warm and sunny options for families searching for a winter getaway, from Mexico and Costa Rica to Europe cities like Barcelona and Rome.
- The Caribbean offers all-inclusive resorts with plenty of sunshine, watersports, and a scavenger hunt for the whole family to enjoy.
20 Best Sunny Destinations For A Family Holiday
When it comes to family vacations, nothing beats the warmth and sunshine of a winter getaway. Whether you’re looking for an all-inclusive resort or a charming city teeming with culture, there are plenty of options for families seeking sun, fun, and warmth. Mommy Poppins has put together a list of 35 warm and sunny family vacation spots that offer something for everyone.
From Atlantis Resort in the Bahamas to beaches in Mexico and Costa Rica, there are plenty of great destinations to choose from. For those who want to explore further abroad, there are also some amazing cities like Barcelona and Rome that offer incredible cultural experiences. And if you’re looking for something closer to home, consider checking out resorts in Florida or California. No matter where you decide to go, you can be sure that your family will have an unforgettable experience with these recommendations from My Top Bucket List.
1. Baha Mar Resort, Bahamas
Baha Mar Bahamas Resort is a luxurious destination for families and friends looking to experience the best of the Caribbean. Located in Nassau, this $200-million water park features 24 slides, a 500,000-gallon wave pool, and a 1,400-foot “action” river. The resort also offers six pools and access to the beach. Baha Bay is an amazing water park that will keep the whole family entertained from sunrise to sunset.
For those looking for an affordable Caribbean getaway, Comfort Suites Paradise Island offers rooms starting at $150 in January with free daily hot American buffet breakfast and free WiFi. The newly renovated suites provide the perfect beach destination for any time of year. With its convenient location near Atlantis Resort, guests can enjoy all that Nassau has to offer while still having access to all of the amenities of a luxury resort. Whether you’re looking for adventure or relaxation, Baha Mar Bahamas Resort is sure to provide you with an unforgettable experience.
2. Great Exuma, Bahamas
The Exumas are a stunning string of islands and cays in the Bahamas, with white-sand beaches and turquoise-blue waters. Grand Isle Resort and Spa is the perfect place for families to stay in Exuma, offering large accommodations, supervised activities for little ones, and a children’s spa menu. Beaches Turks and Caicos is another great spot to explore, with its stunningly blue water.
For those looking for a warm-weather getaway, Atlantis in the Bahamas is an excellent choice. It offers a variety of waterslides and water sports, as well as different towers at different price points. Atlantis is a sprawling complex that works for many different budgets, making it an ideal destination for families of all sizes. With its beautiful beaches and exciting attractions, Atlantis is sure to be an unforgettable experience.
3. Turks and Caicos
Turks and Caicos is a stunning Caribbean destination that offers an all-inclusive family vacation experience. Beaches Resorts has a jewel in the crown with Ocean Club Resort Turks and Caicos, which offers pristine beaches, pools, scavenger hunts, and other family activities. The islands are very safe and use the US dollar for currency, making it easy for American visitors. The crystal blue waters of Turks and Caicos are perfect for beach hopping or snorkeling. Kids will love exploring the long coral reef that lies beneath the surface of the ocean.
Beaches Resorts offer an unforgettable experience for families looking to get away from it all. With its all-inclusive resort packages, you can rest assured that your entire family will be taken care of during your stay in Turks and Caicos. From delicious meals to exciting activities like kayaking or sailing, there’s something for everyone in this tropical paradise.
4. Cayman Islands
The Cayman Islands are a beautiful chain of three islands located in the Caribbean. They are known for their crystal clear waters and white sandy beaches, making them a perfect destination for those looking to relax and enjoy some sun. Popular activities include diving and snorkeling in the shallow waters, as well as exploring the many attractions on land. The Grand Cayman Marriott Beach Resort has recently undergone an extensive transformation, making it an ideal winter vacation spot for families. It offers luxurious amenities such as private balconies with stunning views of the ocean, multiple restaurants and bars, and a variety of activities to keep everyone entertained.
5. Bermuda
Bermuda is a beautiful destination for family getaways, with its stunning pink-sand beaches, lush nature reserves, and laid-back atmosphere. There are plenty of activities to enjoy in Bermuda, such as sailing and boating around the island, exploring the beaches and nature reserves, visiting cultural sites like St. George’s Town or Fort Hamilton, and shopping in the capital city of Hamilton. Getting around Bermuda is easy with its pink buses and ferry rides that can take you from one end of the island to the other.
6. Cabo San Lucas, Mexico
Cabo San Lucas, Mexico is a great sunny destination for families looking for a fun and safe getaway. Located just a short flight away from the San Francisco Bay Area, it’s an ideal weekend destination. There are plenty of activities to keep everyone entertained, such as whale watching, zip lining, rock climbing, swimming with dolphins, and camel riding. For those looking for relaxation and pampering, Grand Velas Los Cabos is an all-inclusive resort with a spa, pools, and attentive service. Grand Solmar Land’s End Resort also provides guests with sun-kissed relaxation and delicious food.
7. Cancun, Mexico
Cancun, Mexico is a popular destination for travelers looking for a luxurious sunny beach vacation. With dozens of hotels and resorts to choose from, visitors can enjoy the Caribbean Sea and silky sand at any of the many locations. Azul Beach Resort Riviera Cancun is one of the most popular resorts in Cancun, offering amenities such as private pools and cabanas. Excursions to nearby attractions like the Mayan ruins in Tulum are also available.
Cancun is also a great winter destination for those who prefer warmer weather. Marriott Cancun Resort offers special amenities during the holiday season such as Christmas tree lighting, Candyland beach party, dining on Christmas Day, and live music and dancing. Visitors can also take advantage of related activities such as taking Instagram-worthy photos of the beach or exploring nearby attractions like Xcaret Park or Isla Mujeres.
8. Mexico’s Riviera Maya
The Riviera Maya region of Mexico’s Caribbean coast is a paradise for beach lovers and outdoor adventurers alike. With its stunning white sand beaches, crystal clear waters, and lush tropical jungles, it’s no wonder why this area is so popular with tourists. From snorkeling in the cenotes to zip-lining through the jungle canopy, there are plenty of activities to keep visitors entertained. For families looking for a unique experience, Nickelodeon Resort Punta Cana offers the chance to get slimed! Cancun and the Riviera Maya also have many family-friendly resorts with kid’s clubs that offer fun activities for all ages.
The Westin Lagunamar in Cancun even offers kitchenettes and laundry in each unit for added convenience. For those looking to explore more of Mexico’s history, consider an excursion to nearby Chichen Itza where you can learn about the ancient Mayan civilization. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing beach vacation or an adventure-filled holiday, Mexico’s Riviera Maya has something for everyone.
9. Punta Cana, Dominican Republic
Punta Cana, Dominican Republic is a popular destination for families looking for a tropical getaway. Located on the east coast of the Dominican Republic, it is easily accessible from many East Coast cities. The area is home to beautiful beaches with warm turquoise waters and pillowy sand, making it an ideal spot for swimming and sunbathing.
For those looking for family-friendly all-inclusive resorts, there are plenty of options available in Punta Cana. Club Med Punta Cana offers Creative by Cirque du Soleil activities, boutique-hotel styling, and a full kids program. The Nickelodeon Resort features a water park, character visits, a kids club, and beachside pools. For luxury seekers, the Grand Reserve at Paradisus Palma Real offers luxurious swim-up suites, 14 restaurants and bars, a full-service spa, a kid’s club, and an aqua adventure park for $354 per night.
10. Aruba
Aruba is a stunning Caribbean island that offers something for everyone. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing sunny beach vacation or an adventurous exploration of the rugged eastern shore, Aruba has it all. The Aruba Marriott Resort is the perfect place to stay, with its pool, spacious rooms, and even the island’s largest casino. During September and October, visitors can take advantage of discounts on hotel rooms and dive packages as well as other savings opportunities.
For those looking to explore the island without breaking the bank, there are plenty of free activities available. Take a free tourist trolley ride through Oranjestad town or walk on the California Dunes. Visitors can also explore Balashi ruins, a former gold smelter, or stock up on snacks from supermarkets to save money. With so many options available in Aruba, it’s easy to find something for everyone in your family to enjoy!
11. Tree House Lodge, Costa Rica
Tree House Lodge in Costa Rica is a unique lodging experience that offers guests a chance to explore the nearby Jaguar Rescue Park and take an Into the Woods adventure. With beachside views, this fairy tale getaway is perfect for those looking for a truly special sunny vacation. Guests can enjoy activities such as ziplining, waterfall rappelling, horseback riding, and cave tubing. The resort also provides an all-access pass to the national park, along with unlimited guided and unguided excursions.
The Tree House Lodge is located within the Gandoca-Manzanillo Refuge in Costa Rica, which is home to some of the most diverse wildlife in Central America. This stunning location provides guests with breathtaking views of both land and sea. With its lush rainforest surroundings and abundance of outdoor activities, Tree House Lodge is sure to provide visitors with an unforgettable experience. Whether you’re looking for relaxation or adventure, this unique lodge has something for everyone.
12. Las Vegas, Nevada
Believe it or not: Las Vegas is a great family destination, with plenty of activities and attractions to keep everyone entertained in the summer sun. Many people think of Las Vegas for casinos and adult-only holidays. On the Las Vegas Strip, you can find dozens of hotels and attractions such as Circus Circus’ indoor theme park and live circus acts. Our top three hotels for kids are Mandalay Bay, The Excalibur, and the MGM Grand – all offering unique experiences such as water parks, treasure hunts, knight-themed dinners, on-site arcades, and more.
13. Los Angeles, California
Los Angeles is a great destination for families looking to explore and have fun. With plenty of museums, restaurants, and theme parks, there’s something for everyone in the family. Take a day trip to Santa Barbara for botanic gardens and sailing activities or enjoy the beach year-round with kid-friendly LA-area beaches. Los Angeles also offers plenty of holiday festivities, including the Hollywood Christmas Parade and the L.A. Zoo lights, a popular animal-themed light-up tradition for kids. For those looking to stay in Los Angeles, Hotel Indigo Los Angeles offers amenities such as access to the L.A. Zoo, Hollywood Christmas Parade, and outdoor ice skating for $161 and up per night. Whether you’re looking for an educational experience or just some good old-fashioned fun, Los Angeles has something to offer everyone in your family.
14. Palm Springs, California
Palm Springs, California is a popular destination for families looking to escape the cold winter months. With its warm climate and abundance of activities, Palm Springs is an ideal spot for family vacations. Families can enjoy hiking in Joshua Tree National Park, exploring the Living Desert Zoo, or taking a ride on the aerial tram. For those interested in design and architecture, there are plenty of mid-century hotels to explore. The Saguaro, Ace Hotel and Omni Rancho Las Palmas Resort & Spa are all great options for families looking for stylish accommodations.
15. San Diego, California
San Diego is a great destination for families year-round, but especially in winter when temperatures can reach the 70s. Visitors can take a scenic cruise around San Diego Bay and enjoy fresh Pacific seafood for dinner. Popular attractions include Sea World, Legoland, the San Diego Zoo, the Gaslamp Quarter, and Coronado Island. There are plenty of budget-friendly tips and activities to enjoy with kids in San Diego. The iconic Hotel Del Coronado is kid-friendly, as well as other hotels in the area.
San Diego offers a variety of attractions that will keep everyone entertained. The world-class zoo is a must-see for animal lovers while miles of beach provide endless fun in the sun. Old Town offers an interesting look into San Diego’s past with its historic buildings and museums. Families can also explore Balboa Park which features gardens, trails, museums, and more. With so much to do and see in San Diego, it’s no wonder why it’s one of the top sunny destinations for family holidays.
16. Warm-Weather Dude Ranches
Dude ranch vacations are a great way to experience the outdoors and get away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. For those looking for a warm-weather experience, there are several options available. Wildcatter Ranch in Texas offers horseback riding, five-star meals under the stars, and plenty of outdoor activities. Tanque Verde Ranch in Arizona is another great option with its stunning desert landscape and wide range of activities like horseback riding, mountain biking, and hiking. Alisal Guest Ranch & Resort in California is also a popular choice for its beautiful scenery and variety of activities such as golfing, fishing, tennis, swimming, and more.
17. Miami, Florida
Miami, Florida is a great destination for a family getaway. With plenty of activities for kids and adults alike, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Jungle Island is an animal-themed amusement park with rides, shows, and attractions that will keep the whole family entertained. The Venetian Pool is a historic swimming pool with lush gardens and waterfalls that make it a perfect spot to cool off on hot days. For those looking for more educational experiences, there are several museums and science centers to explore such as the Frost Museum of Science and Seaquarium.
For those looking for luxury, Miami offers Sunset Key Cottages in the Florida Keys. This private island resort offers luxurious accommodations in an idyllic setting with stunning views of the ocean. Families can also take advantage of beach time or go on outdoor adventures such as snorkeling in Key Largo or exploring Everglades National Park. There are also many luxury resorts available throughout Florida if you’re looking for an upscale experience. Miami is a great sunny destination for family holidays that will provide plenty of fun and relaxation for everyone.
18. The Florida Keys
The Florida Keys are a tropical paradise located off the southern tip of Florida. With its laid-back beach vibe and turquoise waters, it’s the perfect destination for a relaxing getaway. There are plenty of outdoor activities to enjoy such as dolphin watching, boating, snorkeling, and more. There are also a dozen family-friendly resorts to choose from when visiting the Florida Keys.
The Florida Keys is the perfect destination for a tropical Christmas getaway. Tourists can enjoy a trolley ride with cookies and cider, as well as a guided historic inns holiday tour. The area also features a lighted boat parade and plenty of beaches to explore. Whether you’re looking for an adventure or just want to relax in the sun, the Florida Keys has something for everyone.
19. New Orleans, Louisiana
New Orleans is a great sunny vacation destination for families, with plenty of activities to keep everyone entertained. From swamp tours and a children’s museum to live jazz in the French Quarter and outdoor family brunches, there’s something for everyone. Lost River Caves just north of Nashville offers an exciting tour experience that will take you deep into the underground river system.
20. New York
New York City is the perfect destination for family vacations. Ice skating at Rockefeller Center, catching The Nutcracker at the Lincoln Centre, and visiting Christmas markets are all popular activities during this time of year. Of course, no trip would be complete without seeing the iconic Rockettes perform their Christmas Spectacular at Radio City Music Hall. Accommodations can be found at the Holiday Inn Times Square starting from $338 per night with amenities including ice skating, shopping, and The Rockettes show.
21. Nashville, Tennessee
Nashville, Tennessee is a great destination for families seeking sun, culture, and fun. Tour Music City by trolley or explore the Tennessee Capitol building. There are also kid-friendly museums, a science center, and outdoor adventures to enjoy. Mild winters make Nashville an ideal winter vacation destination for those looking to escape the cold.
This kitschy German town offers plenty of festive attractions such as holiday lights, an arts and crafts show, a Christmas lights parade, and a fireworks show. Parkside Cabin Rentals offer accommodations from $83 per night with amenities including a Christmas parade, arts and crafts activities, breakfast with Santa Claus, and fireworks show. With so much to do in Nashville and Gatlinburg during the holidays, it’s no wonder why this area is becoming increasingly popular for family vacations.
What Kind Of Activities Can You Plan To Do On A Family Sunny Holiday?
- Beach Activities: A family sunny holiday is a perfect time to enjoy some beach activities. From swimming and snorkeling to building sandcastles and playing beach volleyball, there are plenty of fun activities for the whole family to enjoy. If you’re feeling adventurous, try out paddle boarding or kayaking in the ocean.
- Sightseeing: Take a day trip to explore the local area and take in some of the sights. Visit historical sites, monuments, museums, and other attractions to learn more about the culture and history of your destination.
- Shopping: Take advantage of the great shopping opportunities at your sunny holiday destination. From souvenirs to clothing and accessories, you’ll be sure to find something special for everyone in your family.
- Outdoor Adventures: Get out and explore the great outdoors with your family. Go on a hike, take a bike ride, or go camping in the wilderness. There are plenty of outdoor activities to choose from that will keep everyone entertained.
- Water Sports: Have some fun in the sun with water sports such as jet skiing, parasailing, and banana boat rides. These activities are sure to be a hit with the whole family.
- Theme Parks: Spend a day at the local theme park and enjoy thrilling rides, shows, and attractions. Most theme parks also have arcades, restaurants, and other activities that the whole family can enjoy.
- Local Cuisine: Sample some of the local cuisines to get a taste of the culture of your destination. From street food to fine dining, there are plenty of delicious options to choose from.
- Nightlife: Enjoy some nightlife activities such as live music, theatre performances, and comedy shows. There are also plenty of bars and clubs to explore for those looking for a more lively evening.
- Boat Tours: Take a boat tour to explore the coastline and get a different perspective of your destination. You can also go fishing, whale watching, or take a sunset cruise for an unforgettable experience.
- Festivals: Attend some of the local festivals and events to learn more about the culture and traditions of your destination. From music festivals to food fairs, there are plenty of fun activities to enjoy.
Final Thoughts For Families Looking For Sunny Destinations
A family sunny holiday is the perfect time to make memories and has some fun in the sun. With so many activities to choose from, you’re sure to find something that everyone in your family will enjoy. Whether you’re looking for beach activities, sightseeing, shopping, outdoor adventures, or nightlife activities, there are plenty of options to explore. So get out and start planning your next sunny family holiday.