Top Luxury Family Destinations for Unforgettable Getaways

Planning a family vacation can be both exciting and overwhelming. You want to create lasting memories while ensuring everyone has a great time. Here we have hand picked some of the best destinations offering the perfect blend of comfort, adventure, and relaxation. Some of these you may have heard of, and others my be a little more unexpected.

1. Maui, Hawaii

Maui is arguably the quintessential destination for a luxury family holiday in Hawaii. It perfectly blends high-end resorts and sophisticated dining with easily accessible, natural Hawaiian beauty and a huge array of family-friendly activities. The resort areas of Wailea (South Maui) and Kapalua (West Maui) are home to some of the world's most awarded hotels, all of which specifically cater to families with dedicated kids’ clubs, multi-room suites, and expansive aquatic playgrounds. Beaches like those in Wailea are known for their calm, clear, and protected waters, making them perfect for younger children to swim, snorkel, and paddleboard safely.

Activities for Families

• Snorkelling at Molokini Crater: This underwater paradise is perfect for families. You can see colourful fish and even sea turtles. Many tour companies offer family-friendly snorkelling trips.

  
  

• Road to Hana: This scenic drive is a must. Families can stop at waterfalls, black sand beaches, and local fruit stands along the way. It’s a great way to explore the island together.

  
  

• Haleakalā National Park: Watching the sunrise from the summit is an unforgettable experience. Families can hike the trails and enjoy the breathtaking views.

  
  

Where to Stay

Consider the Four Seasons Resort Maui at Wailea.  Unparalleled service, quiet elegance, and no resort fee. This resort is celebrated for its 'Kids for All Seasons' complimentary children's program and complimentary access to over 70 poolside cabanas, making a day at the pool effortless. Wailea Beach is directly out front, offering gentle waves perfect for family water sports. The resort features spacious, high-end oceanfront suites and villas, ideal for accommodating families.

A beautiful luxury resort pool in Maui, Hawaii.

2. Disneyland Resort, California

Disneyland is often heralded as the ultimate family destination, a place where dreams come to life and cherished memories are created. This iconic theme park seamlessly blends luxury with the enchanting magic of Disney, offering an unparalleled experience that caters to visitors of all ages.

Dining at Disneyland is an experience in itself, with a wide range of culinary options that cater to diverse tastes and preferences. From gourmet meals, delicious snacks, or character dining experiences, your children will be in a world of magic and wonder as they dine their way through Disney. A visit to Disneyland is not just a holiday; it is an experience that families will treasure for a lifetime.

Activities for Families

• Theme Parks: Explore Disneyland Park and Disney California Adventure Park. There are rides and attractions for all ages, from thrilling roller coasters to gentle rides for younger kids.

  
  

• Character Dining: Enjoy meals with beloved Disney characters. This is a fun way for kids to meet their favorites while dining in style.

  
  

• Special Events: Throughout the year, Disneyland hosts special events like Halloween parties and holiday celebrations. These events add extra magic to your visit.

  
  

Where to Stay

Disney's Grand Californian Hotel & Spa is the ultimate luxury choice. It offers Craftsman-style elegance, multiple pools, a full-service spa, and, crucially, a private entrance directly into Disney California Adventure Park. It's the pinnacle of convenience and exclusivity.

3. Amalfi Coast, Italy

The Amalfi Coast, with its dramatic cliffs and charming seaside towns, is an incredible destination for a luxury family holiday, but it requires strategic planning to navigate its unique challenges, especially with children. It trades the typical 'kids club' resort experience for a deep dive into Italian culture, extraordinary food, and breath-taking natural beauty so perhaps better suited for those with older children but certainly not a destination to overlook.

Activities for Families

• Boat Tours: Take a family boat tour along the coast. You can visit hidden coves and swim in the crystal-clear waters.

  
  

• Visit Positano: This picturesque village is perfect for a family day trip. Explore the colourful streets, enjoy gelato, and relax on the beach.

  
  

• Cooking Classes: Many local chefs offer cooking classes for families. Learn to make traditional Italian dishes together.

  
  

Where to Stay

Consider the Le Sirenuse in Positano. This luxury hotel offers family suites, a pool, and stunning views of the coast. Alternatively, the Caruso, A Belmond Hotel in Ravello offers a service-oriented family experience with the best views. Housed in a former 11th-century palace, this hotel features an iconic infinity pool perched on the clifftop. The Caruso is very welcoming to families, offering complimentary welcome kits, children’s robes, and a famous Kids’ Pizza Making Class with the chef.

4. Tokyo, Japan

Tokyo is an outstanding choice for a family holiday, offering a truly seamless blend of futuristic excitement, deep cultural experiences, and the world-renowned Japanese emphasis on service (omotenashi) and cleanliness. It’s an easy city to navigate with children due to its efficient, safe public transit and family-friendly amenities.

Tokyo’s luxury appeal for families lies in its ability to offer exclusive, personalized versions of its most exciting experiences. You can dive into pop culture and history with private guides who specialize in engaging children, making the vast city feel manageable and bespoke.

Activities for Families

• Tokyo Disneyland and DisneySea: These parks offer unique attractions and experiences. Families can enjoy rides, shows, and meet characters.

  
  

• Cultural Experiences: Visit temples, participate in a tea ceremony, or explore traditional markets. These experiences provide insight into Japanese culture.

  
  

• Luxury Day Trip to Mt. Fuji/Hakone: Arrange a private car and English-speaking guide to take you to the scenic Lake Ashi cruise and ropeway in Hakone, offering views of Mt. Fuji without the stress of public transport.

  
  

• TeamLab Borderless: This digital art museum is a hit with families. The interactive exhibits are fun for all ages.

  
  

Where to Stay

The Mandarin Oriental Tokyo offers luxurious accommodations with family-friendly services. The hotel features spacious rooms and a kids' program.

5. Costa Rica

Costa Rica is an unparalleled choice for families who prioritize adventure, nature, and active learning. The country's unique appeal lies in combining some of the world's richest biodiversity with highly developed, safe, and exclusive eco-luxury lodges and resorts.

The national ethos of "Pura Vida" (pure life) ensures a friendly, welcoming, and relaxed atmosphere for guests of all ages.

A luxury family trip to Costa Rica typically involves combining a beach destination (for relaxation) with a volcano/rainforest region (for adventure), all connected by seamless, private transfers

Activities for Families

• Zip-lining: Experience the thrill of zip-lining through the rainforest. Many companies offer family-friendly options. The country is an outdoor playground, offering exhilarating activities that are supervised and safe for kids and teens.

  
  

• Wildlife Tours: Costa Rica's forests, which cover three-quarters of the country, are teeming with wildlife—sloths, howler monkeys, toucans, and colourful frogs. Luxury resorts often sit within their own nature reserves, allowing families to spot these animals from their private terrace or a guided nature walk right on the property.

  
  

• Beach Days: Relax on beautiful beaches like Manuel Antonio. Families can enjoy swimming, snorkelling, and building sandcastles.

  
  

Where to Stay

Luxury stays in Costa Rica are concentrated in two main areas: the volcanic interior (Arenal) for adventure, and the Pacific Coast (Guanacaste/Manuel Antonio) for beach time.

• Four Seasons Resort Costa Rica at Peninsula Papagayo: The only Forbes Five-Star rated resort in Central America. Features a signature 'Kids For All Seasons' program (ages 4–12), multiple family pools, and complimentary non-motorized water sports on two pristine beaches with calm waters. Offers multi-bedroom villas for ultimate privacy.

  
  

• The Springs Resort & Spa at Arenal: For Volcano Views & Adventure. Arenal is the adventure capital, dominated by the spectacular Arenal Volcano and its thermal hot springs. Sprawled across 165 acres, this resort is a paradise for families, featuring 28 natural hot spring pools, cold pools with waterslides, and the Club Rio Adventure Centre right on-site, offering tubing, kayaking, and horseback riding.

6. Dubai, UAE

Dubai is renowned for its luxury and adventure, making it one of the world's top destinations for high-end family holidays. The city is specifically designed to cater to affluent travellers with children, offering stunning waterparks, family beach clubs, desert adventures, and even a host of indoor attractions such as skiing and mini villages, to ensure family fun 365 days a year regardless of the temperature.

High-end resorts typically offer huge family suites, connecting rooms, complimentary Kids' Clubs for toddlers to teens, and comprehensive amenities (like complimentary strollers, high chairs, and even specialized children's spa treatments). Its commitment to providing effortless, world-class experiences emphasizes safety, exceptional service, and stunning amenities.

Activities for Families

• Dubai Parks and Resorts: Spend a day at the massive complex, which includes LEGOLAND Dubai & LEGOLAND Water Park (perfect for younger children) and Motiongate Dubai (ideal for older kids and teens with rides themed around Hollywood blockbusters).

  
  

• Desert Safari: Experience the thrill of a desert safari. Upgrade the classic experience with a private 4x4 dune bashing adventure, followed by a gourmet (or traditional Bedouin-style) dinner at an exclusive camp, complete with camel rides, falconry demonstrations, and stargazing.

  
  

• Burj Khalifa: Visit the tallest building in the world. Pre-book a premium ticket to the "At The Top, SKY" (148th floor) observation deck for unparalleled, crowd-free views. Afterwards, watch the choreographed light and water show at The Dubai Fountain below.

  
  

Where to Stay

• Atlantis, The Palm is a renowned destination resort. Guests enjoy unlimited, free access to Aquaventure Waterpark, the largest in the world, and The Lost Chambers Aquarium. It also offers the Atlantis Kids Club for ages 4-12 and The Zone for teens aged 13-17, alongside a wealth of dining options from buffet style to fine dining.

  
  

• Famous for its "ocean wave" design and exceptional service, the Jumeriah Beach Hotel is one of the most popular family destinations in Dubai. Guests get unlimited, complimentary access to the neighbouring Wild Wadi Waterpark, with the hotel itself also offering five pools and a fully refurbished Sinbad's Kids Club.

7. Santorini, Greece

Santorini is famous for its stunning sunsets and beautiful landscapes. Santorini is famous as a romantic, couples-centric island, but it absolutely shines as a luxury family destination when planned correctly. The key to a family trip here is choosing the right base location and leveraging bespoke experiences to bypass the crowds and challenging terrain of the famous cliffside villages.

The island offers a unique blend of geological history, Greek hospitality, and luxury service, all appealing to the curious, discerning family.

Activities for Families

• Beach Days:  Children find the unique, dark volcanic beaches (black, red, and white) captivating due to their novelty factor. Beaches like Monolithos are specifically shallow and organized for younger families.

  
  

• Boat Tours: Take a boat tour around the island. Explore volcanic islands and swim in hot springs.

  
  

• Educational Adventure: The island itself is a geological marvel. Older children, in particular, will be fascinated to learn about the volcano and the Minoan history of the ancient city of Akrotiri, buried by a massive eruption centuries ago. Visit ancient ruins and learn about the island's history. This is a great way for families to bond while discovering new things.

  
  

Where to Stay

The Canaves Oia Hotel offers luxurious accommodations with stunning views. One of the most family-friendly luxury hotels. Offers spacious, interconnected suites and private villas. Features a Kids’ Program developed by childcare specialists, private villas with pools, and special children's amenities.

8. Aspen, Colorado

Aspen, Colorado, is a world-renowned year-round luxury destination that excels in offering sophisticated, active, and effortless family holidays. It seamlessly blends rustic alpine charm with high-end amenities, personalized service, and a vast playground of outdoor activities, catering to every age and skill level.

Its primary appeal for luxury families is its versatility: it’s not just a ski town, but a vibrant cultural and adventure hub in both winter and summer.

Activities for Families

• Skiing and Snowboarding: Four Mountains, Every Level. Aspen Snowmass offers access to four distinct mountains—Snowmass, Aspen Mountain, Aspen Highlands, and Buttermilk—all accessible on one ticket. This means that while older teens tackle expert terrain, younger children can enjoy the dedicated beginner slopes on Buttermilk, and the entire family can meet up for lunch. Many luxury hotels offer genuine ski-in/ski-out access and white-glove services like Ski Valets, who handle all equipment logistics, making a day on the slopes effortless for families.

  
  

• Hiking and Biking: In summer, explore the beautiful trails. Families can hike or bike together while enjoying the stunning scenery.

  
  

• Cultural Events: Aspen hosts various cultural events throughout the year, including music festivals and art shows. These events are fun for families to attend together.

  
  

Where to Stay

The St. Regis Aspen Resort offers rustic, refined elegance with spacious suites and residences. The hotel features a kids' club and easy access to outdoor activities, as well as a 24-hour heated outdoor pool and hot tubs area, complimentary airport shuttle, and is a short walk from all downtown shops and dining.

9. Maldives

The Maldives has transformed itself from a honeymooners' haven into one of the world's premier luxury family destinations. This transition is driven by its unique geography and the resorts' willingness to cater to multi-generational luxury travel. The defining characteristic of the Maldives is the "one island, one resort" concept. This provides an unparalleled level of safety and freedom for families that is difficult to find elsewhere. With no cars, traffic, or strangers, the entire island becomes a safe, secure playground.

Older children can often cycle freely around the resort, giving them independence and parents peace of mind. Unlike large beach destinations, resorts here are entirely private. You are never fighting for space or sun loungers; every guest feels like a VIP. Clubs like The Den at Soneva Fushi are destinations in themselves, often featuring water slides, pirate ships, music rooms, cinemas, and dedicated age-appropriate programs (often with a strong ecological focus).

Activities for Families

• Snorkelling and Diving: The Maldives is a world-class destination. Many resorts offer free snorkelling gear and have excellent house reefs you can explore directly from the beach or your water villa. Book a guided snorkelling safari to see turtles and rays.

  
  

• Water Sports: Enjoy non-motorized options like kayaking and stand-up paddleboarding (often complimentary). For a thrill, try a high-tech Seabob (an underwater jet scooter) or jet skiing.

  
  

• Stargazing: Since the Maldives is far from light pollution, resorts like Soneva Fushi have on-site observatories and resident astronomers who host private stargazing sessions and astronomical dinner cruises.

• Kids' Cooking Classes: Many kids' clubs offer classes where children can learn to make pizzas, ice cream, or traditional Maldivian snacks.

• Spa Days: Many resorts offer family spa treatments. This is a great way for families to relax together.

Where to Stay

The Soneva Fushi is a world class luxury resort that embraces a "No News, No Shoes" philosophy, promoting a barefoot, relaxed connection with nature, perfectly balancing indulgence and adventure. Soneva Fushi excels in providing vast, private accommodations that are ideal for multi-generational families and groups. The Den at Soneva Fushi is frequently cited as one of the largest and most impressive children’s clubs in the Maldives, if not the world. It is a complimentary, technology-free zone designed to spark imagination and creativity.

10. New York City, USA

New York City is a bustling metropolis that offers endless opportunities for family fun. New York offers a concentration of world-class culture, history, and entertainment that appeals to all ages. The city's luxury hotels specialize in providing spacious comfort and personalized services to make the family experience seamless.

Activities for Families

• Iconic Landmarks & Views: Observation Desks (Summit One Vanderbilt or Top of the Rock), Statue of Liberty, and Times Square all offer unforgettable educational and multi-sensory experiences.

  
  

• Broadway Shows: Book tickets to a family-friendly musical like Aladdin, The Lion King, or a classic revival.

  
  

• Central Park: Spend a day in Central Park. Families can enjoy picnics, bike rides, and the Central Park Zoo or let the kids play at one of the 21 playgrounds (Heckscher Playground is the largest).

  
  

• Museums: Visit the American Museum of Natural History or the Children's Museum of Manhattan. These museums offer interactive exhibits that kids will love.

  
  

Where to Stay

The Peninsula New York offers unmatched service and location. Features elegant Two-Bedroom Premier Junior Suites (connecting rooms) and treats guests of all ages like VIPs.