21 Best Beach Resorts for Families (Around the World)

Whether splashing in ocean waves or sipping a tropical drink from a lounge chair, nothing says “vacation” more than a day at the beach. Of course, for the best beach holiday, you must choose a fabulous hotel. I asked top travel bloggers to share their picks for the best beach resorts for families. As a beach-loving mama, I included a few of my favorites, too. Whether you prefer pure relaxation or activities galore, you’ll love this list of 21 beach hotels for kids.

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1. Hotel Del Coronado – Coronado, California

Grande Dame of Beach Hotels

Your family will feel like royalty during a stay at Hotel Del Coronado. It’s located on the Coronado peninsula across from downtown San Diego in Southern California.

Look familiar? The Del’s whimsical turreted architecture inspired the design of Disney’s Grand Floridian Hotel. (NOT the other way around!)

A tourist attraction in its own right, many people come just for the day to the resort. This hotel is renowned for its extravagant weekend brunch, fancy-schmancy shops, and immaculate stretch of beach. Adding to the resort’s glamorous vibe, many movies have been filmed here, most notably Some Like It Hot, starring Marilyn Monroe.

In summer months, the resort offers family-friendly activities like Beach Bonfires and Movies on the Beach. During winter holidays, visitors and guests alike can take a spin on the Del’s oceanside outdoor ice skating rink. The Hotel del Coronado is worthy of a visit year-round.
–Colleen Lanin, Travel Mamas

2. Nickelodeon Hotel Punta Cana – Punta Cana, Dominican Republic

Incredibly Themed Beach Resort

For a beach getaway sure to please the whole family, Nickelodeon Hotel Punta Cana makes a fantastic choice. Parents enjoy five-star accommodations, pampering amenities, and all-inclusive fine dining. Meanwhile, kids love an over-the-top water park, an engaging kids club, and non-stop entertainment.

The resort features a choice of two pools, including a stunning infinity pool that overlooks the beach. There’s also a swimming pool at Aqua Nick with a lazy river, splash center, water slides, water cannons, and a zero-entry play area for young kids. For pool-loving families, Nick’s Swim-Up Suites are a great option.

Read my Nickelodeon Hotel Punta Cana review here on Travel Mamas to learn more about why this is one of the best beach resorts for kids.
— Lyla Gleason, Globetrotting Mommy

3. Club Med Ixtapa Pacific – Ixtapa, Mexico

Beach Hotel for Kids of All Ages

Sapphire-blue Pacific water meets the golden sand of Playa Quieta to create a wonderful setting. The fabulous Club Med Ixtapa Pacific welcomes every member of your family. This resort offers spacious rooms, lush gardens grounds, two great pools, plus all the usual Club Med activities.

For children, there’s the Mini Club for kids ages 4 and up. Petit Club caters to guests aged 2 to 4. And the Baby Club cares for babies as young as 4 months. You’ll also find baby-welcoming amenities like cribs, high chairs, baby baths, baby food, and snacks. There are even several stations for preparing baby food and bottles.

Tweens and teens also have their own club. Juniors’ Club Med keeps big kids ages 11 to 17 content during your Mexican holiday.
— Corinne McDermott, Have Baby Will Travel

4. Hilton Waikoloa Village – Big Island, Hawaii

Superb Tropical Beach Resort

With its lagoon surrounded by white sandy beaches, it’s hard to beat the family-friendly fun at the Hilton Waikoloa Village on the Big Island of Hawaii. Picture three unique pools, a relaxing spa, two championship golf courses, and a dolphin program.

Kids will love the crafts, games, and water activities at the resort’s Camp Menehune. Meanwhile, parents can savor peace and quiet at the adults-only pool.

Where else can you snorkel with sea turtles, slide down a 175-foot waterslide, take a luxurious coconut milk bath, and chow down Polynesian style at a luau without ever leaving the resort? With so much to do at this tropical island resort, your family may never want to board that airplane home!
— Sharlene Earnshaw, Trekaroo

5. Martinhal Sagres Beach Resort – Sagres, Portugal

Best Hotel Within a National Park

Located in the Algarve region of Portugal, the Martinhal Sagres Beach Resort opened in 2010 within a National Park.

This beautiful resort offers a number of family-focused amenities. You’ll find an extensive kids’ club, a baby concierge, children’s menus in the restaurants (including purees), and more.

There are lots of beach activities, too. Think stand-up paddleboarding, kayaking, and windsurfing. Adventurous families can also rent bikes, play tennis, and participate in activities such as baby disco and mocktail creation.
— Jodi Grundig, Family Travel Magazine

6. Shangri-la’s Tanjung Aru Resort and Spa – Borneo, Malaysia

Amazing Hotel for Kids with Private Beach

Shangri-la’s Tanjung Aru Resort and Spa in Kota Kinabalu is one of Asia’s best beach resorts for kids. Sign up for fishing or diving trips, parasailing, banana boat rides, and more from this amazing resort.

In addition to a small beach in front of the resort, you can take a boat from the onsite STAR Marina to the hotel’s private beach on remote Mamutik Island. Here, the snorkeling and shelling are quite remarkable. (It is Borneo, after all!)

On my family’s last visit, staff members knew where a cluster of clownfish was swarming around some blue coral. They took us out to see them, leading my daughter with a buoy to deeper waters. My daughter still calls the spot “Nemo’s house.” They even delivered a picnic lunch from the resort to the beach for us.
— Katie Dillon, La Jolla Mom

7. Azul Beach Hotel – Riviera Maya, Mexico

Most Pampering Beach Hotel

I have at least a half-dozen favorite family beach hotels in Mexico, but one that really stands out is the all-inclusive 98-room Azul Beach Hotel Riviera Maya.

To start, kids are greeted with smoothies. And parents get champagne!

The resort partners with Fisher-Price, so you can borrow toys for use during your stay. Also on complimentary loan for little ones: a baby monitor, stroller, bathtub, bottle warmers, and more.

For older children (ages 4 to 12), every day brings fun activities at the Azulitos Kids Club.

My family loved lolling on one of the comfortable beach beds just steps from the ocean at Azul. In fact, we enjoyed the services of our very own beach butler. He brought us cold drinks and offered snacks. Plus, whenever we left our bed to frolic in the mellow waves, he’d fluff the pillows, tidy it up, and leave towel animals for our kids!
— Kara Williams, The Vacation Gals

8. The Breakers – Palm Beach, Florida

Active Family’s Beach Resort

I get restless on the beach so it’s always important for my family to find beach hotels that offer plenty of alternate activities. The Breakers Palm Beach in Florida fits this requirement in every way. There’s no getting bored at this hotel, even in bad weather.

Golf, tennis, a world-class spa, boating, croquet, shopping, excellent restaurants…check! The Breakers also features top-notch children’s amenities. There’s a kids club for ages 3 to 12. Plus, an enormous game room pleases children and teens of all ages.

To top it off, the service is exceptional. There’s nothing that staff won’t do to ensure every age is happy and relaxed while on vacation.
— Amie O’Shaunessy, Ciao Bambino

9. Beaches Negril – Negril, Jamaica

Beach Hotel for Pool Lovers

The seven-mile beach at Beaches Negril Resort & Spa is a stunner. But you might have a hard time convincing your kiddos to leave the pool complex at this all-inclusive resort. Waterslides, fountains, a lazy river, and a swim-up smoothie bar delight pool-loving families.

Offspring of all ages will enjoy children’s programs separated by age for babies, toddlers, pre-teens, and teenagers. Meanwhile, mom and dad can spend some alone time refreshing at the spa.

Best of all for little ones? The preschooler set adores character meals and bedtime tuck-ins with their favorite Sesame Street personalities like Cookie Monster and Zoe.

To learn more about this family-focused Caribbean resort, read my full review of Beaches Negril.
— Colleen Lanin, Travel Mamas

10. Caribe Hilton – San Juan, Puerto Rico

Resort for a Bit of Everything

Home of the original piña colada, Caribe Hilton in San Juan, Puerto Rico entertains kids while adults can indulge in tropical adult beverages and delicious cuisine at the hip and casual Caribar.

Stay busy all day with the Caribe’s many activities. Expect water sports such as kayaking and SNUBA (a super cool combination of scuba diving and snorkeling).

Consider renting a beach cabana, too. The rental includes an hour of water sports, a fresh tropical fruit platter, and an ice bucket of cold waters. With lounge chairs resting on the secluded beach, parents can relax while kids frolic in the sand.

Families love the Caribe Hilton‘s three oceanfront pools, a kiddie fountain pool, an outdoor playground, a basketball hoop, mini-golf, children’s tennis lessons, kids’ spa packages, video games arcade, children’s food menus, babysitting services, and fish feeding at a koi pond. What’s not to love?
— Lisa Grabelle, Hilton Mom Voyage and We Said Go Travel

11. Hawks Cay Resort – Duck Cay, Florida

Multigenerational Waterfront Resort

The gorgeous Hawks Cay Resort has lots for the entire family to enjoy. With expansive suites and villas featuring full kitchens, this hotel makes a great choice for a multigenerational waterfront vacation.

Although Hawks Cay does not offer a vast beach, the resort is home to a beautiful Saltwater Lagoon. The water is warm and surrounded by soft sand and plentiful chaise lounges. Check the resort schedule for s’mores nights with campfires and sweet treats with a view.

Hawks Cay is home to five different pools for swimming. A favorite for kids, the Pirate Ship Pool features spray cannons and small waterslides. Additionally, 18 of the resort’s villas offer private plunge pools.

The Main Resort Pool is filled with over 65,000 gallons of water. This large pool offers zero-entry, perfect for young swimmers.

Hawks Cay is a boat lover’s paradise. To appreciate the beauty of the Florida Keys, you must take to the water. Owners can dock their own yachts at the resort’s slips. The rest of us can book a boating excursion for deep-sea fishing, snorkeling, or a sunset cruise instead.

With tennis courts, dive-in movies, a swanky spa, fitness center, and more — there really is too much for me to cover here! Read about 20 things to do at Hawks Cay Resort in my complete review.
— Colleen Lanin, Travel Mamas

12. The Lodge at Gulf State Park – Gulf Shores, Alabama

Sustainable Waterfront Lodging

The Lodge at Gulf State Park in Alabama is one of the most sustainable waterfront lodging options in the United States, and the world. Yet this resort satisfies that relaxed luxury requirement families crave on beach vacations.

A large percentage of hotel rooms at The Lodge feature bunk beds. Some even offer two sets of bunk beds! Of course, those bunk bed rooms connect to adjacent guest rooms with king or queen beds. That way family members can have their own space but also be together. 

Steps from each room is a spectacular US Gulf Coast sugar sand beach. And across the street are 28 miles of pristine trails to explore. Guests can choose from dozens of free bicycles to use (up to three hours at a time) during their stay. 

Signs all around the property educate and entertain guests about the hotel’s remarkable sustainability efforts. For instance, The Lodge and the nearby Education Center are the first two buildings in Alabama to receive FORTIFIED certification. The parking lot captures pollutants before they reach the groundwater. Plus, the pool is refilled with moisture captured from air conditioner condensation.
— Charles McCool, US Gulf Coast Travel

13. Henderson Beach Resort and Spa – Destin, Florida

Sea Resort for Spa-Loving Parents

Henderson Beach Resort offers the most luxurious accommodations in the town of Destin, Florida. The open azure sky sets the perfect view for this elegantly decorated hotel.

Henderson Beach Resort is well-known for its full spa services. People often come to this sea beach resort to shrug off their tiredness in 10,000 feet of spa bliss. How about Flotation Therapy, Himalayan Salt Suites, or a Lush Lavender Massage and Wrap?

One of the best Florida beach resorts is also famous for its private access beach. The clear, shallow water is perfect for young children. After playing at the beach, take a plunge into one of two hotel pools.

If your family is seeking active play, then Henderson Beach Resort has you covered, too. Enjoy kayaking, paddle boarding, biking, and beyond.
— Trijit Mallick from Budget Travel Buff

14. InterContinental Bali Resort – Bali, Indonesia

Balinese Culture and Relaxation

InterContinental Bali Resort is located in the westernmost of the Lesser Sunda Islands in Indonesia. It boasts a private beach for hotel guests situated along the stretch of Jimbaran — a long, narrow white sand beach filled with luxurious resorts.

The exclusive beach has everything you need for a relaxing day by the ocean. But if you are looking for something more active, then join the complimentary beach volleyball, beach soccer, or cycling activities.

A tropical garden provides a secluded enclave filled with outdoor pools, bars, and restaurants. Take a walk in the evenings through trails under the palm trees. There, you’ll discover handicrafts and souvenirs at the resort’s mini-night markets.

Best for children is the Planet Trekkers club for ages 4 to 12. Much more than just babysitting, youngsters learn traditional Balinese activities. Kids may participate in kite making, local crafts, fishing, Balinese dance lessons, and beyond.
— Kenny Chow, Knycx Journeying

15. Villa HM Palapas del Mar – Isla Holbox, Mexico

Serene Family Beach Getaway

If you are looking for a beautiful and serene place to travel with kids, then choose Villas HM Palapas de Mar. This hotel is set on the sandy shores of the quiet Mexican island of Isla Holbox.

Villas HM Palapas del Mar is perfect for families who want to spend their holiday far away from crowds. There are no cars on the island so plan to rent a golf cart or bicycles to explore.

Choose from a variety of villas for two to four guests. Some rooms even offer private plunge pools.

Two communal pools offer fantastic ocean views to guests. For more water play, families will love swimming in the shallow Gulf of Mexico, paddleboarding, or kayaking.
— Paulina, ukeveryday

16. Beaches Turks and Caicos – Providenciales, Turks and Caicos

Atlantic Archipelago Vacation

One of the best beach resorts for a family vacation is Beaches Turks and Caicos in the Caribbean. This all-inclusive hotel is located on the glorious Grace Bay. Beach days include splashing in the calm, crystal teal water.

The resort’s soft beige sand is perfect for kids. Usually, the waves are pretty calm, too.

Plus, whether a member of a family has mobility concerns or parents are pushing a stroller, the resort accommodates a variety of mobility and accessibility needs.

There is also a protected Coral Reef in Grace Bay, which is easy to snorkel right from the beach. You might even see the resident barracuda, Elvis!

Over 21 included site restaurants range from kid-friendly burgers and pizza to sushi and seafood (and everything in between). There is something for every palate.

Since Beaches partners with Sesame Street, the youngest guests are entertained by familiar characters. Look for special activities like cookie making with Cookie Monster or seashell collecting with Big Bird.   

What’s more, childcare is included for kids including babies. There is also programming and dedicated areas for older kids and teens, like a dance club, Xbox room, and a DJ school.

Located in Providenciales, Beaches Turks and Caico is only about 15 minutes from the airport. Bonus: a Beaches airport shuttle is provided.
— Keri Baugh, Bon Voyage With Kids

17. JW Marriott Marco Island Beach Resort – Marco Island, Florida

Blissful Family Fun

When it comes to blissful beach vacations, the JW Marriott Marco Island Beach Resort ticks every box for family fun. This part of southwest Florida is known as the Paradise Coast, which is fitting with JW Marriott’s white-sand beaches and luxurious amenities.

Meanwhile, the Florida Everglades location is the perfect complement to a typical Florida family beach vacation. Expect an unparalleled dose of water and wildlife adventure for everyone.

While mom and dad are relaxing poolside, kids learn about the local ecosystem at the resort’s Tiki Tribe Discovery Day Camp. It’s open to children ages 5 to 12.

Teens will have no trouble finding a new favorite chill-out spot every day, either. The resort’s expansive private beach with covered palapas appeals to big kids.

On-site dining options are geared toward families as well. Grab an ice cream snack on the beach, sip a fruity mocktail while watching the sunset, or gape in awe at the fire dancer performing on the sand!
— Lori Sorrentino, Naples Florida Travel Guide

18. Winnetu Oceanside Resort – Martha’s Vineyard, Massachusetts

Cape Cod Island Charm

Winnetu Oceanside Resort is a family-friendly resort conveniently located on Martha’s Vineyard, with Katama Bay and South Beach at its doorstep.

Borrow Winnetu’s picnic baskets and beach chairs and spend the entire day at the beach. The Atlantic Ocean waves at South Beach are fun for kids who want to boogie board or play in the waves. Younger children may prefer the Katama Bay side for splashing. The sand is also soft and great for sandcastle building. 

The three-mile South Beach is one of the best on the island. It is connected to Wasque Beach and Norton Point Beach. With an overland vehicle permit, you can take your 4×4 vehicle out for miles to a great spot on the beach where there’s hardly anyone around. 

The Winnetu offers great accommodations for families. Choose from one- to four-bedroom suites or one- to two-bedroom cottages.

The onsite free kids’ club for guests is organized by age. Counselors will even take children to the beach. Your offspring will love getting ferried around in restored vintage vehicles: a wood-paneled jitney or an antique red firetruck. Paid evening programs keep kids busy while parents duck out for date night, too.
— Shobha George, Martha’s Vineyard Tourist

19. Disney’s Hilton Head Island Resort – Hilton Head Island, South Carolina

Woodsy Beach Resort with Disney Magic

Disney’s Hilton Head Island Resort is tucked away beneath the oaks in a quiet area on the marsh side of the island. The units are designed to look like cabins in the woods. They’re outfitted with hammocks and fire pits. Grilling stations are also conveniently located nearby. The majority of rooms provide marsh views where guests can watch beautiful sunsets over the water.

The resort offers a shuttle that runs to the beach multiple times daily. But there is also a sandy beach area on the property. That’s where kayaks and boats launch while kiddos build sandcastles. Hilton Head’s beaches are nice for younger kids in particular because the north end of the island is protected by a sandbar so the waves are very small.

The pool area is fully gated and great for kids. Expect very attentive lifeguards on duty during active pool hours.

Plus, the resort has a plethora of things to do! There are dolphin and kayaking tours available from the nearby marina. Kids love the resort’s activities such as crafts, s’mores by the campfire, and a “Behind the Ears” tour.
— Erin Clarkson, Savannah First-Timer’s Guide

20. Hotel Xcaret Mexico – Playa del Carmen, Mexico

Eco-Friendly Resort in Archeological Site

Hotel Xcaret Mexico is an eco-friendly resort located within the archaeological site of Xcaret in Playa del Carmen, Mexico. With its pretty setting, ample amenities, and wide range of activities — Hotel Xcaret Mexico is a great place for a family vacation!

The hotel offers two private beautiful beaches and several pools. Kids will flip for the octopus-shaped waterslide at Casa Viento pool. Other onsite water activities include snorkeling and kayaking.

The Xiipal Family Club is where to go for a pool table, air hockey, and mini-soccer table. But for some couples-time, parents can send children to Xiquillos Kids Club to play.

This luxury resort is truly all-inclusive. That means hotel guests get free access to all of Grupo Xcaret’s parks and tours. This includes transportation, food, and beverages to the most popular adventure parks and cenotes in Cancun and Riviera Maya!
— Anh Lee, Luxury Under Budget

21. Hyatt Regency Maui Resort and Spa – Lahaina, Hawaii

Playground in Paradise

Last but certainly not least, Hyatt Regency Maui is one of my all-time favorite beach resorts for families. Picture a lush landscape, a super fun kids club, and a sandy beachfront location in paradise.

Around 50 animals representing 21 species make their home on the hotel’s fantastical grounds. Wander around the property saying hello to koi fish and birds like penguins and parrots.

Do not miss the Drums of the Pacific Luau. Spectacular hula and fire dancing wow all ages. Willing participants can even learn steps to the Hukilau (fishing dance). Taste authentic Hawaiian dishes, too, like Kahlua Pork, Lomi Lomi Chicken, and Poi (taro root).

Best of all, though, are the resort’s amazing water features. All ages love Hyatt Regency Maui’s swimming pools, waterslides, kiddie splash pad, and rope bridges.

Read more about what makes this resort special in my Hyatt Regency Maui review for families.
— Colleen Lanin, Travel Mamas

Book Your Beach Vacation with Travelocity

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