Family holidays can take hours, maybe days, of hardcore planning and even then you may never satisfy all the sheep in your flock. Not all holiday destinations are created equal for family holidays. These six incredible places around the world not only guarantee family-friendly entertainment and world-famous sights, but they also have excellent hotels and resorts catering to both young and old.
With more than 400 million annual visitors to HotelsCombined, we’ve found the best family holiday destinations around the globe. From the tropical spoils on Hawaii’s Big Island to the cosmopolitan action in Tokyo, these places routinely deliver on sightseeing, dining, adventure and family hotels.
Island of Hawaii (Big Island), USA
The largest island in the Hawaiian archipelago, Big Island is world-famous for its active volcanoes and various adventure experiences, such as ATV tours, scuba diving, zip-lining and stand-up paddleboarding. The 428 kilometres of coastline reveals rugged cliffs and picturesque beaches with white, black or even green sand, while the diverse regions feature historic palaces and coffee farms.
Must-Do Family Holiday Experiences on the Island of Hawaii
- Head to ʻAnaehoʻomalu Beach for kayaking, hydro bikes, snorkelling and body
- Embark on a mesmerising helicopter tour over Hawaii Volcanoes National Park.
- Hike through Akaka Falls State Park to see the towering Kahuna Falls and Akaka Falls.
Top Family Hotels on the Island of Hawaii
Hilton Waikoloa Village
The oceanfront Hilton Waikoloa Village comprises 25 hectares of leisure and luxury on Waiulua Bay. Twisting lagoon-style pools meander through the resort and you can rent canal boats or trams to traverse the space. Interactive dolphin encounters pair well with organised children’s activities, two golf courses, a tennis court and nine enticing dining experiences.
Families can opt for a variety of rooms with two queen-size beds, many of which have ocean or mountain views. These also feature private balconies, shower baths and on-demand video games. Want more space? Opt for one of the suites, which boast luxurious inclusions, such as separate living rooms, deep-soaking baths and kitchens.
Nearby Family Attractions
- ʻAnaehoʻomalu Beach (2.1 kilometres)
- Waikoloa Petroglyphs (1.9 kilometres)
- Queens’ MarketPlace (2.2 kilometres)
Star Rating: 4*
Price: USD 219 – USD 987
Guest Rating: 8.1
Address: 69-425 Waikoloa Beach Dr, Waikoloa, Hawaii, United States
Fairmont Orchid
The family-oriented Fairmont Orchid overlooks Pauoa Bay and features spacious and modern rooms with two queen-size beds and views of either the ocean or resort. They also have furnished balconies and media hubs. If you book a suite, such as the Oceanfront Suite, you can enjoy private lanais and a separate living room.
The kids will love the sprawling oceanfront pool and the various organised activities, such as cultural hikes, lei making classes, Hawaiian outrigger canoe paddling and snorkelling. The resort has its own children’s program filled with activities, while the on-site dining includes the AAA Four Diamond-awarded Brown’s Beach House and live music at Luana Lounge.
Nearby Family Attractions
- Kalahuipua’a Historic Park (1.9 kilometres)
- Puakō Petroglyph Park (1 kilometre)
- The Shops at Mauna Lani (1.7 kilometres)
Star Rating: 4*
Price: USD 377 – USD 1,422
Guest Rating: 9
Address: One North Kaniku Drive, Waikoloa, Hawaii, United States
Hotel Location
Tokyo, Japan
In a city as widespread and diverse as Tokyo you’ll find a long list of exciting experiences for your family. The obvious choices are the rides, shows and oodles of sweet treats at Tokyo Disneyland and Tokyo DisneySea, but you can also meet exotic animals at Ueno Zoo, interact with exhibits at the Museum of Emerging Science and Innovation and attend baseball games.
Must-Do Family Holiday Experiences around Tokyo
- Watch the kids dress up as firefighters and play in trucks and helicopters at the Fire Museum.
- Explore the ins and outs of Tokyo street life and home life at Tokyo Edo Museum.
- Brave the thrills of Splash Mountain, Space Mountain and the Pirates of the Caribbean rides at Tokyo Disneyland.
Top Family Hotels in Tokyo
Hoshinoya Tokyo
Located a short walk from the Imperial Palace, the central Hoshinoya Tokyo is renowned among HotelsCombined visitors for its extravagant on-site dining. You’ll know why once you visit the restaurant serving authentic Nippon cuisine using fresh Japanese ingredients. The hotel perfectly balances entertainment and relaxation with its two hot spring bath halls, luxe spa, Japanese tea ceremony, Sumo training watching and Gagaku performances.
Families seeking traditional lodgings might prefer the Kiku room, which has three futons, a deep bath, paper window screens and a cosy sofa. The other rooms also have traditional Japanese features, such as tatami mats and Japanese craftwork, but also have contemporary bedding.
Nearby Family Attractions
- Science Museum (1.3 kilometres)
- Tokyo Takarazuka Theatre (1.9 kilometres)
- Tokyo Station’s shops (700 metres)
Star Rating: 5*
Price: USD 296 – USD 619
Guest Rating: 9.3
Address: Chiyoda-ku Otemachi 1-9-1, Chiyoda, Tokyo, Japan
Four Seasons Hotel Tokyo at Marunouchi
You can expect the world-renowned Four Seasons service and opulence at the 5-star Four Seasons Hotel Tokyo at Marunouchi, which caters to families with organised trips to Kidzania, babysitting services, bedtime snacks and picnics in Sumida Park. Parents can unwind with a treatment in the spa, while the whole gang will devour the farm-to-table French fare at Motif Restaurant & Bar.
Expect sophisticated and comfortable furnishings in the modern rooms, such as the two queen-size beds, lounge seating and flat-screen TV in the Deluxe Premier Room. Upgrade to the Deluxe One-Bedroom Suite for a separate living area with a dining table and pull-out sofa or the Chairman’s Suite for a home cinema system.
Nearby Family Attractions
- Kabuki-za Theatre (1.3 kilometres)
- Godzilla Statue (1 kilometre)
- Imperial Palace (1.2 kilometres)
Star Rating: 5*
Price: USD 177 – USD 331
Guest Rating: 9.2
Address: Marunouchi, 1-11-1 Pacific Century Place Marunouchi, Chiyoda, Tokyo, Japan
Hotel Location
Guanacaste, Costa Rica
Renowned for its rich biodiversity, picturesque beaches and legendary surf breaks, Guanacaste is ideal for a laid-back family holiday among verdant Costa Rican nature. Water-loving families can find numerous snorkelling and fishing areas, such as Playas del Coco, while those keen for inland adventure can explore the Tenorio Volcano or the wildlife-filled Santa Rosa National Park.
Must-Do Family Holiday Experiences around Guanacaste
- Explore the butterflies and educational exhibits on insects at Selvatura Adventure Park.
- Visit the waterfalls and natural hot springs surrounding Rincón de la Vieja Volcano.
- Snorkel, sunbathe or swim in the calm waters at the white-sand Playa Conchal.
Top Family Hotels in Guanacaste
Margaritaville Beach Resort Playa Flamingo
Life’s all about fun, cocktails and beach vibes at Margaritaville Beach Resort Playa Flamingo. The family-focused suites create a home away from home, such as the Studio Family Suite with a wet bar, kitchenette, two double beds and a sofa bed. The Family Bunk Bed Junior Suite has a king-size bed and two bunk beds, while the six-person JB Suite has two bedrooms, three patios and an open-plan living area.
The sprawling resort pool is surrounded by sun loungers and palm trees, while Playa Flamingo sets the scene for kayaking, bodyboarding and snorkelling. The resort also boasts a tennis court, fitness centre, covered children’s pool and playground and three restaurants. The family centre has billiards, foosball and a theatre, while OnZen Spa offers massages and facials.
Nearby Family Attractions
- Boos Adventures Surf & Fish Charters (500 metres)
- Playa Potrero (3.8 kilometres)
- Lazy Lizard Sailing (3.3 kilometres)
Star Rating: 4*
Price: USD 131 – USD 191
Guest Rating: 8.1
Address: Playa Flamingo, Playa Flamingo, Costa Rica
Four Seasons Resort Costa Rica at Peninsula Papagayo
Overlooking the sprawling Pacific Ocean, Four Seasons Resort Costa Rica at Peninsula Papagayo provides numerous activities for the family, including cooking classes, horseback riding, scuba diving, tennis clinics and beach volleyball. Choose from four pools with cabanas and ocean views, volunteer in the local community or embark on guided nature treks.
The resort also has five restaurants and bars, including acai bowls at Anejo, Italian fare at Pesce, mixologists at La Reserva and wood-fired pizza at Bahia. The extravagant accommodation is highlighted by the ocean-facing Terraza Room with two double beds and a private terrace, while the suites and residences feature kitchens, living rooms, infinity pools and timber decks.
Nearby Family Attractions
- Playa Virador (30 metres)
- Marina Papagayo (7.8 kilometres)
- Iguana Cliff (8.8 kilometres)
Star Rating: 5*
Price: USD 758 – USD 22,560
Guest Rating: 9.2
Address: Papagayo Peninsula, Culebra, Costa Rica
Hotel Location
Toronto, Canada
Ontario’s lakeside capital city is stacked with family-friendly restaurants, attractions and hotels. You’re spoilt for choice when it comes to entertainment, from Canada’s largest zoo and an amusement park filled with roller coasters to an 18th-century Gothic Revival castle and ice hockey. Inquisitive minds will be entertained at the interactive Ontario Science Centre, while Young People’s Theatre hosts kid-friendly productions.
Must-Do Family Holiday Experiences around Toronto
- See the only Canadian MLB team, the Toronto Blue Jays, at Rogers Centre.
- Watch IMAX movies and ride thrilling roller coasters at Canada’s Wonderland.
- Get up close to more than 5,000 creatures covering around 450 species at Toronto Zoo.
Top Family Hotels in Toronto
Hotel X Toronto by Library Hotel Collection
The towering Hotel X Toronto by Library Hotel Collection overlooks Lake Ontario and prides itself on having a family-first mentality. It starts with the various room configurations with two queen-size beds or extra sofa beds and the option of interconnecting rooms. Apple TV and Google Chrome-cast offer in-room entertainment, while the well-equipped Kids Play Centre and rooftop pool lure you outside.
Families looking to splurge can book one of the one, two or three-bedroom suites, which boast added luxuries like lake vistas, billiards tables, separate living rooms, fireplaces and full kitchens. Choose from seven enticing dining experiences on site, including the poolside Falcon SkyBar and healthy options at Maxx’s Kitchen.
Nearby Family Attractions
- Fort York National Historic Site (900 metres)
- Budweiser Stage (800 metres)
- Toronto Railway Museum (2.7 metres)
Star Rating: 5*
Price: USD 296 – USD 619
Guest Rating: No Rating
Address: 111 Princes’ Boulevard, Niagara, Toronto, Canada
Chelsea Hotel Toronto
Located in the heart of Toronto, Chelsea Hotel Toronto has become popular among families thanks to its unique Family Fun Suite. This two-bedroom suite has a DVD player and Xbox with free movies and games, a private balcony, kitchenette and living room with pull-out sofa. The Family Fun Zone is also a hit thanks to its pool, waterslide and foosball and pool tables.
The rooftop has an adults-only pool, fitness centre and sun deck, while on-site dining showcases fresh local produce in Market Garden and espress|o coffee & wine bar. Chelsea Patio is perfect for a cocktail under the sun and T|bar serves international and local cuisine.
Nearby Family Attractions
- Ed Mirvish Theatre (600 metres)
- Ripley’s Aquarium of Canada (2.5 kilometres)
- Hockey Hall of Fame (1.4 kilometres)
Star Rating: 5*
Price: USD 177 – USD 331
Guest Rating: 7.4
Address: 33 Gerrard Street West, Bay Street Corridor, Toronto, Canada
Hotel Location
San Juan, Puerto Rico
Culture vultures who enjoy discovering exotic and foreign lands will love the Spanish colonial architecture, delectable Caribbean cuisine and centuries-old landmarks in San Juan. This lively capital city has won over families with its variety of kid-friendly beaches, neighbouring national forest and atmospheric old town. Don’t forget to frequent some of the local bodegas for authentic Spanish dishes.
Must-Do Family Holiday Experiences around San Juan
- Explore the 16th-century Castillo San Felipe del Morro, a cliffside fortification with cannons.
- Visit Playa Escambron for water sports or Playa de Condado for a natural “kiddie” pool formed by coral rocks.
- Venture to Isla de Cabras to enjoy the fishing, swimming and family recreation park.
Top Family Hotels in San Juan
Caribe Hilton
The beachfront Caribe Hilton complements its idyllic location with a range of leisure facilities, including an infinity pool, a kids’ fountain pool, outdoor playground and game room. Kids can participate in daily activities, such as hula hoop contests, sandcastle building and fish feeding, while parents can get a massage at Zen Spa Oceano or work out in the gym.
De-stressing comes naturally in the modern and comfortable rooms, many of which offer the choice of two double beds and come with balconies and ocean vistas. Alternatively, you can opt for one of the larger suites, such as the One King Junior Suite with Balcony that also has a sofa bed in the seating area.
Nearby Family Attractions
- Playa El Escambrón (850 metres)
- Fortín San Gerónimo de Boquerón (170 metres)
- Estadio Sixto Escobar (400 metres)
Star Rating: 4*
Price: USD 367 – USD 574
Guest Rating: 8
Address: 1 San Geronimo Street, San Juan, Puerto Rico
Condado Vanderbilt Hotel
The 5-star Condado Vanderbilt Hotel has luxurious two-bedroom suites with kitchenettes, multiple balconies and separate living and dining areas. Most of the rooms and suites overlook the ocean, including the Heritage Two Queen, which boasts furnishings reminiscent of the Spanish colonial era.
The hotel takes advantage of its exclusive beachfront location by providing cabanas and chaise lounges on the sand and personal pool and beach butlers. Your taste buds will be spoilt by the range of on-site dining options, from artisanal delicacies at 1919 Restaurant to flavourful Puerto Rican cuisine at Ola Ocean Front Bistro Restaurant.
Nearby Family Attractions
- Playa Concha (240 metres)
- Spectrum Surf School (700 metres)
- Jaime Benítez (Condado Lagoon) National Park (800 metres)
Star Rating: 5*
Price: USD 316 – USD 870
Guest Rating: 9.3
Address: 1055 Ashford Avenue, San Juan, Puerto Rico
Hotel Location
Alaska, USA
Treat your family to a once-in-a-lifetime experience they’ll never forget with an adventurous Alaska holiday. Along with numerous cruises embarking around the fjords and glaciers, this frozen tundra offers immersive hiking trails through diverse state and national parks. The capital, Anchorage, also delivers the goods with a zoo, various cultural and historical museums and coastal treks.
Must-Do Family Holiday Experiences around Alaska
- Embark on a cruise or hike through Glacier Bay National Park and Preserve to witness unique wildlife and ice formations.
- Trek up the highest mountain in the United States in Denali National Park and Preserve.
- Enjoy the Alaskan artefacts and interactive science and space exhibits at Anchorage Museum.
Top Family Hotels in Alaska
Anchorage Marriott Downtown
The central Anchorage Marriott Downtown sets a high standard for convenience and comfort in Anchorage. The cosy guest rooms have two double beds, writing desks, flat-screen TVs and large bathrooms. Book a room on the Concierge level for access to complimentary snacks in the Concierge lounge.
Along with a pool and fitness centre, the hotel features a restaurant serving a hearty buffet breakfast every morning. You can also visit the on-site Cafe Promenade to indulge in fresh locally-sourced ingredients.
Nearby Family Attractions
- Anchorage Museum (750 metres)
- E Street Theater (750 metres)
- Delaney Park (400 metres)
Star Rating: 3.5*
Price: USD 179 – USD 212
Guest Rating: 8.5
Address: 820 W 7th Ave, Downtown Anchorage, Anchorage, United States
Hotel Alyeska
Capture the magic of Alaska at Hotel Alyeska, where the wilderness setting creates the stage for days of skiing and snowboarding, hiking, mountain biking, sea kayaking, scenic flights and cross-country skiing. The hotel is an adventure playground during winter and summer but also caters to food lovers with an on-site steakhouse, Asian bistro and cafe.
The chateau-style hotel has a variety of opulent rooms, including the Deluxe Room Double Bed with a cosy sitting area. The two-storey Townhouse Suite has deep-soaking baths, original Alaskan artwork and a separate living area, while the Royal Suite has a two-level parlour with panoramic mountain and glacier views.
Nearby Family Attractions
- Round House Museum (1 kilometre)
- Moose Meadow Park (1 kilometre)
- La Bodega (1.5 kilometres)
Star Rating: 4*
Price: USD 150 – USD 210
Guest Rating: 9.2
Address: 1000 Arlberg Ave, Girdwood, Anchorage, United States
Hotel Location
Treat the Whole Family to Lifetime Memories
Family holidays are about more than sightseeing. They’re an opportunity to create everlasting memories with the people you love. These six family-friendly destinations keep the Kodak moments coming and ensure everyone enjoys their vacation with luxury resorts and hotels featuring pools, kids’ clubs, restaurants and on-site activities.
Where do you want to take your family on holiday? Let us know in the comments below.
