The Best 2017 Summer Holiday Destinations For Families

The Best 2017 Summer Holiday Destinations For Families Written by Mark Smith. Published on 2nd June, 2017. Category: Travel Guides

With the summer school holidays fast approaching, parents across the UK are slowly beginning to pale in colour as the thought of having to find activities to occupy energetic and bored children for weeks at a time. If, like me, the very thought send you into a tailspin, get some of that colour back into your complexion with these great holiday ideas to family friendly destinations… and maybe even manage to get a bit of time to yourselves too!

Family Summer Holidays in Europe

The first family holiday may be just as daunting a thought as having them at home for the holidays. To try and make the trip as hassle-free as possible, it may be that you feel a destination within Europe would be a good place to start. With short flight times, great weather, and enough culture to know you are on holiday, check out these family friendly locations and get some sun on that skin!

The Algarve, Portugal

Long a classic destination for families looking for a short break to enjoy sun and sand, The Algarve in Portugal is the perfect location to keep the kids entertained. With beautiful beaches and cosy villages to explore, families of all ages can enjoy the their break. Younger families will want to check out the facilities of hotels such as Martinhal Beach Resort & Hotel and Pine Cliffs Resort for their comprehensive kid’s clubs and children’s activities, while still providing parents with an excellent standard of service and comfort.

Majorca, Spain

The Balearic Islands in general are a fantastic option for family holidays, but Majorca has some of the best options around when looking to experience the Mediterranean Sea. Make sure to get out of the main towns and relax (yes, it is possible… even with children!) on one of the many child-friendly beaches in the quieter areas of the island. Try the northeast at resorts such as Viva Eden where the beautiful surroundings are accented by the children’s activities and clubs.

Crete, Greece

Greece’s largest island, Crete, appeals to many summer holiday lovers because of the blend of island life, history, food, and the ability to be as active or as relaxed as you wish. The Eastern half of the island may not be for very young children as the beaches tend to be less sandy, but hotels such as the Daios Cove Luxury Resort & Villas provide excellent facilities for the whole family.

Long-Haul Family Summer Holidays

Looking to get further afield? Long-haul flights with children don’t have to be a hassle. Have a look over some of these great tips on what airlines can offer in the way of in-flight service for children. Often, colouring books, special meals, and even nannies can be arranged!

Business class flights can make sure the kids get some sleep and you get some relaxation in the lounge, on the flight, and even with chauffeur services so you don’t need to find a taxi while keeping an eye on an excited toddler.

Paradise Island, The Bahamas

The ultimate children’s playground, Atlantis Paradise Island in The Bahamas has so many activities and excursions just for the kids, you may think that the adults have been forgotten! What is more likely, is that you will forget the daily grind while in this aptly named island resort.

San Diego, California

A mecca for those that love the beach without wanting a culture shock, San Diego offers families the perfect excuse for a summer holiday. With endless beaches, Legoland, SeaWorld, and Disneyland California only a short drive up the coast, children will be well catered for while parents can also enjoy the shopping and restaurants that California is famous for. Loews Coronado Bay Resort is geared specifically towards making sure families enjoy their stay, helping create memories that will last a lifetime!

Orlando, Florida

No family holiday list would be complete without the inclusion of Orlando… a destination that will have children squealing with glee, and parents left exhausted by the end! But have no doubt, the exhaustion is worth every bit to see the smiles spread across the faces of your kids when they first walk through the gates of Disneyland and Universal Studios. Make the holiday extra special and stay inside the park at one of its many hotels. My pick? Animal Kingdom Lodge!