Family holidays look different to everyone. While some will crave the beach, others seek outdoor adventure and there is a growing number keen for an eco-friendly getaway. Whatever brings your loved ones together, these American family holiday destinations will be sure to inspire, entertain and strengthen your bonds.
Make sure to check local government websites for the latest information before you make a booking or pack for your flight.
- Outdoor and adventure destinations
- Foodie destinations
- All-inclusive destinations
- Green/eco-friendly destinations
Outdoor and adventure family holiday destinations
Nothing entertains, engages and challenges kids’ minds and bodies like the great outdoors and a sense of adventure. With that in mind, here are some family holiday destinations are for those hooked on adventures in nature.
Slideshow: Queenstown, Wineglass Bay (Tasmania), Whistler
Queenstown, Tasmania and Whistler
New Zealand’s Queenstown describes itself as the adventure capital of the world. Whether you’re there for its famed bungee jumping, to go whitewater rafting or take a trip to go ice climbing on a nearby glacier, there are plenty of options available.
Australians travelling to New Zealand currently have to quarantine upon arrival, but vaccinated travellers will be allowed to forego this from July 2022 onwards.
Domestic travel has taken off over the last year or so, and many Australians are keen to see more of their own country.
Tasmania is a state that allows people to get back to nature. The northwest of the island boasts the world’s cleanest air, the east coast has some of the country’s best coastline and the Overland Track takes you through stunning scenery on either a six- or seven-day trail.
While you can ski in Australia, the snow in the Northern Hemisphere is that little bit more special. With borders now open, a trip to Canada to ski and snowboard is back on the menu. There are plenty of skifields to choose from, but Whistler’s proximity to Vancouver and its Australian-friendly atmosphere make it a great choice for families.
Read More: 7 tips for safe road trips during COVID
Foodie family holiday destinations
Early days of the pandemic limited our culinary experiences to our kitchens, local take-out and binge-watching cooking shows. Now, we have many more opportunities to experience new cultures through their cuisines (without resorting to the take-out menu during lockdown). So when you’re ready for your next trip, add these foodie destinations to your list.
Slideshow: Chiang Mai/Mahabalipuram, Chennai/Seoul
Chiang Mai, Chennai and Seoul
Thai is Australia’s favourite takeaway but when you try the local stuff you’ll be amazed at how much better it can get. Thai food changes a lot around the country, especially in northern Chiang Mai. You’ll find a mix of fresh fruit and vegetables, gallons of sticky rice and enough spice to knock out a horse. Thailand is also a fantastic destination for families, and Chiang Mai is no different. It may not have a beach nearby, but it does have night safaris, ethical elephant sanctuaries, and a host of waterfalls – head to the Bua Tong Waterfalls, known as the ‘Sticky falls’ because they are easy for little ones to climb.
India is one of the world’s best destinations for vegetarians, and there’s no end to the scrumptious food on offer. Curries, crispy dosa and local favourite sundal will keep your belly as full and round as possible. There is a real sliding scale for spice, and you can definitely find really mild and child-friendly food in the South which makes it a hit for taking the family. There is also the charms of the old colonial port of Pondicherry and the majesty of the ancient temples of Mahabalipuram nearby.
For many people, Korean barbecue is all they know of what to expect in Seoul. And while that’s enough for many, the capital (and the rest of the country) has much more to offer. Order a spicy tteokbokki, find a street vendor selling the belly- and hand-warming hotteok or grab a seat in one of many bars with two very limited specialities: beer and fried chicken. This city is also chock-a-block with interactive museums dedicated to children – seriously, there are around 19 with specially designated play areas and displays!
All-inclusive family holiday destinations
An all-inclusive-family holiday means total relaxation, fun for everyone and no need to think of ways to entertain the kids or cook meals. It’s also a chance to escape from those everyday things that keep us away from our families.
Slideshow: Beaches and resorts of Fiji, Bali and Dominican Republic
Fiji, Bali and Punta Cana
If there’s a country that screams ‘all inclusive’ for Australian families, it’s Fiji. And with so many islands and resorts to choose from, you’re sure of a great deal. Whether that’s kids eat free or a host of activities (like dolphin watching), the whole family can gave a great, relaxing time in the sun.
Another tried and tested favourite for Australian travellers, Bali has beaches and suburbs for all types of traveller. Families will probably want to stay away from the drinking haven of Kuta, but there are plenty of family-friendly areas like Jimbaran Bay, Sanur or even Ubud.
The Caribbean has a world-wide reputation for its incredible beaches. Punta Cana on the Dominican Republic exceeds these rumours. Powdery white sand, bath-warm water and beachfront resorts that’ll make the flights well worth it. If you want to relax, there’s nowhere better to be pampered than here.
Green family holiday destinations
Is sustainability, reducing your carbon footprint and thinking of ways to go even greener part of your family’s values? Then these family holiday destinations will inspire you in new ways.
Slideshow: Green travel options in Australia and China
Central Coast, Singapore and Hubei Shennongjia
If you want to be environmentally friendly, one option is to stay local. New South Wales’ Central Coast, found between Newcastle and Sydney, was named as a finalist in the 2021 Top 100 Sustainability Stories Competition, so not only is the travel green, so is the destination.
Singapore is one of the most developed countries in Southeast Asia and recently it’s been pushing to become the most eco-friendly. From strategies to make the most of rain- and waste-water to ambitious construction goals, Lion City is making huge strides forward.
China is a vast country so knowing where to start exploring it can be tricky. The Hubei Shennongjia region is a UNESCO World Heritage Site that is home to the country’s largest virgin forests. Explore the amazing dioversity and see some of the rarest animals on Earth.
