As a mom and travel enthusiast, the realm of family travel holds a special place in my heart. The common saying “It’s not a vacation once you have kids” simply doesn’t resonate with me. Yes, family trips come with their share of challenges, but these moments of exploration and discovery, whether in new locales or cherished familiar spots, are the building blocks of precious childhood memories. And even for the youngest travelers who may not consciously recall every detail, the experience imprints on the family narrative, becoming stories and photos to revisit and treasure for years to come.
While I firmly believe that enriching, age-appropriate activities can be found virtually anywhere, the reality is that not every parent desires to spend countless hours online, meticulously curating kid-friendly itineraries and accommodations. For many, the ideal family getaway revolves around selecting an exceptional resort that effortlessly handles the complexities of planning and executing a memorable vacation. But what exactly defines an “exceptional” family resort? It boils down to key features: spacious lodging options (bonus points for thoughtful in-room amenities like high chairs and child-sized robes), a wide array of amenities catering to all age groups, diverse dining experiences to satisfy every palate, and, ideally, a well-structured kids’ club. By focusing our search on domestic destinations within the United States, we eliminate the added hurdles of passports, lengthy international flights (with the notable exception of Hawaii, a family paradise in its own right), currency exchanges, and visa requirements. The U.S. boasts an incredible selection of vacation-perfecting resorts, from expansive properties mere minutes from the magic of Disney World to secluded luxury mountain retreats.
Top American Family Resorts to Consider
Whether you are actively planning your next family adventure or simply gathering inspiration for future getaways, explore our curated list of the best American Family Resorts, as recommended by seasoned parents and travel experts.
Four Seasons Resort Maui at Wailea, Maui
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Also available to book at Expedia
What We Like: The unparalleled attentive service and a plethora of thoughtful extras designed for young children make this resort an exceptional choice for families with toddlers and babies.
What to Consider: Being a highly sought-after destination, the resort can become quite crowded, especially during peak school holiday periods.
The Four Seasons Resort Maui at Wailea stands as a legendary luxury family vacation destination, boasting an impressive list of accolades, including being recognized as one of the best resorts in Hawaii for 2023 by Travel + Leisure readers and a World’s Best Awards Hall of Fame honoree. Children, or “keikis” as they are known in Hawaii, can spend their days joyfully moving between the inviting pools and the captivating azure waves, engaging in tennis, and forming friendships at the complimentary kids’ program. Immersive experiences, such as torch bearer rituals and captivating Hawaiian star stories, offer enriching insights into the local culture. To further simplify family travel, the resort provides complimentary pool playpens, beach toys, personalized stuffed animals, strollers, baby monitors, and swings, effectively minimizing packing burdens. Parents can indulge in their own vacation dreams with stress-relieving spa treatments and refreshing cocktails by the serene adults-only infinity pool.
The Details:
- Standout Amenities: Direct beach access, three distinct swimming pools, complimentary pool playpens, beach toys, and in-room amenities tailored for young children, a complimentary and engaging Kids for All Seasons program, and immersive Hawaiian culture activities.
- Location: Maui, Hawaii
- Starting Rates: $1,500 per night
Montage Laguna Beach
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Also available to book at Expedia
What We Like: The exceptional kids club at Montage Laguna Beach warmly welcomes young guests starting from the age of two, making it ideal for families with toddlers.
What to Consider: Montage Laguna Beach is positioned as one of the more luxurious and thus pricier resorts featured on this list.
Families are naturally drawn to the allure of Montage Laguna Beach. Recognized by Travel + Leisure readers as one of the best resorts in California, this 262-key property captivates guests of all ages with its relaxed coastal charm, reflecting the quintessential Laguna Beach lifestyle, alongside impeccable service and diverse recreational opportunities. While the temptation to spend entire days relaxing on the beach or lounging by the refreshing saline swimming pools is strong, the abundance of activities – from snorkeling and kayaking adventures in the Pacific Ocean to engaging surf lessons – provides compelling reasons to explore beyond the comfort of the cabanas. The resort’s thoughtfully designed Paintbox sessions, offered in half-day formats, and the appealing Montage merit badge program ensure children remain thoroughly entertained and engaged, offering a welcome respite from screen time. The residential-style villas provide an ideal retreat for families seeking spacious and comfortable accommodations. Exceptional baby-friendly in-room amenities, including premium Bloom crib mattresses and convenient diaper pails, further enhance the family-centric experience.
The Details:
- Standout Amenities: Direct access to the beach, three saltwater swimming pools including a dedicated children’s pool, beachfront accommodations, engaging Paintbox and Paintbox Petite children’s programs, the rewarding Montage Merit badges, a convenient UPPAbaby rental program, teen-focused spa treatments, and 24-hour in-room dining service.
- Location: Laguna Beach, California
- Starting Rates: $1,100 per night
The Ranch at Rock Creek
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What We Like: The Ranch at Rock Creek offers an abundance of outdoor activities set against a backdrop of truly breathtaking landscapes, providing an immersive nature experience.
What to Consider: The resort is located approximately 90 minutes away from Missoula International Airport, requiring advance transportation planning.
“Surrounded by majestic mountains, expansive meadows, and clear streams, The Ranch at Rock Creek provides families with an unparalleled opportunity to reconnect with nature and spend quality time together, far removed from the constant distractions of our fast-paced modern world,” notes Carolyn Addison, Head of Product at Black Tomato, and a mother of two. With a diverse array of activities such as horseback riding, sporting clays, fly fishing, mountain biking, and even a bowling alley, there is genuinely something to captivate every member of the family. The morning and afternoon sessions at Flint’s Forest Rangers Kids Club offer younger guests the chance to observe local wildlife, delve into cowboy history, mine for sapphires, enjoy pony rides, and participate in geocaching adventures. The luxurious private homes and cabins, conveniently located within walking distance of the main lodge, along with unique glamping cabins, are particularly popular choices for families. The property also offers practical amenities for families traveling with young children, including car seats, high chairs, cribs, pack ‘n plays, and babysitting services.
The Details:
- Standout Amenities: The engaging Flint’s Forest Rangers Kid’s Club, extensive horseback riding opportunities, sapphire mining, a refreshing swimming pool, a fun bowling alley, private homes and cabins for ample space, and unique glamping tent accommodations.
- Location: Philipsburg, Montana
- Starting Rates: $2,300 per night (all inclusive) for two guests; $900 additional nightly charge for guests age six and over.
Four Seasons Resort Orlando at Walt Disney World Resort
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Also available to book at Expedia
What We Like: This luxurious resort provides complimentary shuttle service for convenient and quick access to the nearby Disney theme parks, blending luxury with Disney magic.
What to Consider: Compared to many other resorts in the Disney World area, this property is positioned at a higher price point, reflecting its luxury amenities and services.
For many families, a visit to Disney World is a top travel aspiration. And what could elevate a trip to “The Most Magical Place on Earth” even further? A stay at the Four Seasons Resort Orlando at Walt Disney World Resort, a distinguished recipient of the World’s Best Awards in 2021. After exhilarating days filled with rides and live entertainment at the parks, this five-star property serves as the ideal oasis to unwind and continue the fun. Family-favorite highlights include the expansive five-acre waterpark, complete with thrilling slides and a relaxing lazy river, and the delightful breakfast experience with Goofy and his beloved pals. While children are happily engaged in the complimentary Kids For All Seasons supervised children’s camp, parents can indulge in well-deserved relaxation by the tranquil adult-only pool, enjoy a round of golf on the 18-hole course, or rejuvenate with spa treatments. Furthermore, the rooms are not only luxurious but also remarkably spacious, providing ample room for families to spread out and feel comfortable. “Don’t miss Capa for a rooftop Michelin-starred dining experience offering breathtaking views of the nightly Disney fireworks,” recommends Elizabeth Rhodes, T+L special projects editor, based on her recent stay.
The Details:
- Standout Amenities: Spacious rooms featuring private terraces, a five-acre waterpark for family fun, the complimentary Kids for All Seasons program, tennis courts, an 18-hole golf course, an adult-only pool for relaxation, complimentary dining for children under five at select restaurants, breakfast with Goofy character dining, and complimentary transportation to the Disney parks.
- Location: Orlando, Florida
- Starting Rates: $1,295 per night
Turtle Bay Resort
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Also available to book at Expedia
What We Like: Turtle Bay Resort offers a wealth of on-site activities, including an impressive 12 miles of scenic hiking trails to explore the natural beauty of Oahu.
What to Consider: Dining costs can be on the higher side, though dedicated kids’ menus are available at many restaurants to provide more budget-friendly options for families.
Recognized as one of the best hotels in Hawaii for families, Turtle Bay Resort is a pristine slice of paradise nestled on the North Shore of O‘ahu. This sprawling property boasts seven sun-kissed beaches, three main swimming pools (including a dedicated kids’ pool complete with exciting water slides), nine diverse restaurants, stables for equestrian activities, and a 468-acre working farm. It is also renowned for its extensive and engaging lineup of activities, ranging from snorkeling adventures with gentle sea turtles and learning to surf from seasoned professionals to immersive hula lessons and delightful pony rides. A personal anecdote: my best friend recently vacationed here with her daughters, who particularly adored Kariel’s Mermaid Academy, a unique and enchanting experience. All accommodations at Turtle Bay Resort feature captivating ocean views, and most also include a private lanai or balcony, providing ideal spaces to unwind and enjoy the scenery, especially convenient during children’s nap times. For families seeking an even greater level of exclusivity and luxury, the resort offers 42 ocean bungalows, positioned just steps from the soft sand.
The Details:
- Standout Amenities: Ocean-view rooms for breathtaking vistas, three swimming pools for varied aquatic experiences, seven distinct beaches to explore, stables for horseback riding, a championship Arnold Palmer-designed golf course, a 468-acre working farm for agricultural immersion, hula and ukulele lessons for cultural enrichment, and beach cruisers for leisurely exploration.
- Location: O‘ahu, Hawaii
- Starting Rates: $700 per night
The Ritz-Carlton, Naples
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Also available to book at Expedia
What We Like: The unbeatable beachfront location of The Ritz-Carlton, Naples, directly on Vanderbilt Beach, provides effortless access to sun, sand, and surf.
What to Consider: It’s advisable to be mindful of the weather forecast, particularly during hurricane season in Florida, to ensure safe and enjoyable travel.
The Ritz-Carlton, Naples has long been a cherished destination for family vacations. Following a significant $100-million renovation, this five-star resort, situated on the beautiful Vanderbilt Beach, offers even more to delight guests of all ages. According to Jacqui Gifford, editor-in-chief of Travel + Leisure, the newly refurbished property “feels like a relaxed country club,” boasting features like a game lawn, engaging kid-centric sign-up activities such as stuffed animal-making, and a delightful made-to-order guacamole cart. Complementing these are a variety of water sports and serviced beachside cabanas for ultimate relaxation. The addition of new air-conditioned poolside bungalows provides ideal spaces for midday naps or a break from the sun, perhaps with an episode of Bluey on the flat-screen TV. Guest rooms with balconies and captivating ocean views are sure to impress. For an enhanced experience, consider booking accommodations in the new Vanderbilt Tower, granting access to exclusive food and beverage offerings and a dedicated kid’s play area within the largest club lounge in North America.
The Details:
- Standout Amenities: All rooms feature balconies and stunning ocean views, a wide array of water sports activities, convenient poolside bungalows, beach cabanas for relaxation, an exclusive club lounge experience, engaging Ritz Kids programming, and complimentary shuttle service to The Ritz-Carlton Naples, Tiburón.
- Location: Naples, Florida
- Starting Rates: $699 per night
The Lodge at Blue Sky, Auberge Resorts Collection
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Also available to book at Expedia
What We Like: The Lodge at Blue Sky offers seemingly endless open space for children to explore and roam freely, fostering a sense of adventure and connection with nature.
What to Consider: While offering family activities, some activities at the resort may be better suited and more engaging for older children and teenagers.
I personally experienced The Lodge at Blue Sky, Auberge Resorts Collection – a recurring winner in our World’s Best Awards – during a solo trip while expecting our second child. However, throughout my stay, I continually envisioned returning with my son, Miles. Scenes of happy children participating in nature scavenger hunts, swimming in the pool, or enjoying meals on the outdoor restaurant terrace frequently reminded me of him. The spacious and contemporary Earth Suites provide families with ample stylish space to comfortably spread out. And the inviting outdoor fire pits are perfect for creating family memories while roasting s’mores under the stars. For animal enthusiasts, the resort boasts a remarkable 30,000-square-foot indoor equestrian center and a heartwarming horse rescue sanctuary. Older children and adventurous teens can enjoy activities like e-biking and axe throwing. A particularly enriching experience for families is visiting Gracie’s Farm to learn about organic agriculture and sustainable practices.
The Details:
- Standout Amenities: Hiking trails to explore the natural surroundings, fly fishing in pristine waters, clay shooting for sport enthusiasts, heli-skiing adventures, an organic farm for educational experiences, a 30,000-square-foot indoor equestrian center, the heartwarming Saving Gracie horse rescue sanctuary, a farm-to-table restaurant emphasizing fresh ingredients, a nature-driven spa for relaxation, and an on-site High West Whiskey distillery for adult indulgence.
- Location: Wanship, Utah
- Starting Rates: $1,299 per night
Montage Deer Valley
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Also available to book at Expedia
What We Like: The generously sized accommodations at Montage Deer Valley are particularly appealing, especially when combined with the more reasonable rates often available during the off-season periods.
What to Consider: It’s worth noting that some amenities and activities at the resort may have limited availability or be temporarily closed during the off-season.
Park City holds a special place as one of my personal favorite shoulder season destinations. This past fall, we introduced our son Miles to Montage Deer Valley and discovered it to be an ideal destination for families. This luxury mountain resort, a 2023 World’s Best Awards recipient, offers a diverse range of activities including archery lessons and exhilarating snow tubing, a pub with classic arcade games and a bowling alley for family fun, a dedicated kids club, and direct access to scenic hiking paths and perfectly groomed ski slopes. Our toddler was particularly delighted by interacting with the resort’s canine ambassador, and I will always cherish the memory of his pure joy upon discovering the adorable in-suite camping setup. Thanks to both indoor and outdoor pools, guests can enjoy swimming year-round, and adults will find respite in the serene 35,000-square-foot spa oasis. For active families, Compass Sports simplifies adventuring with gear rentals and lift ticket services, and the nightly s’mores gathering around the fire pit provides a sweet and memorable way to conclude each day.
The Details:
- Standout Amenities: Mountain-view rooms and suites offering scenic vistas, convenient ski-in/ski-out access for winter sports enthusiasts, both indoor and outdoor pools for year-round swimming, six distinct dining options to cater to various tastes, the engaging Paintbox children’s program, Montage Merit badges for kids, the UPPAbaby rental program for families with young children, and Compass Sports for adventure planning.
- Location: Park City, Utah
- Starting Rates: $450 per night
Ojai Valley Inn
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Also available to book at Expedia
What We Like: Ojai Valley Inn stands out for its unique and engaging programming, including the option for private golf and tennis lessons, catering to diverse interests.
What to Consider: Camp Oak, the resort’s kids’ camp, has a minimum age requirement of four years old, and many of the resort’s activities are available at an additional cost.
Although our son Miles, at just 11 months old, was too young to participate in the Camp Oaks fun during our Ojai Valley Inn stay, the offerings – which include arts and crafts sessions, exciting scavenger hunts, and educational science experiments – are sure to delight young guests (ages 4 to 12) during both daytime and weekend evening sessions. I observed young swimmers joyfully playing with pool noodles and splashing around in the Pixie Pool before enjoying plates of delicious-looking chicken fingers and fries. The artist cottage and apothecary at the inn host daily craft hours, offering opportunities to create personalized soaps, miniature terrariums, tie-dye creations, and more. Horseback riding, tennis clinics, in-room game night baskets, s’mores gatherings, and special events like face painting and balloon twisting provide even more avenues for family bonding and creating shared experiences. The adults-only pool, rejuvenating spa, and championship golf course offer excellent opportunities for parents to unwind and escape.
The Details:
- Standout Amenities: A dedicated family pool and a separate adults-only pool, a championship golf course for golf enthusiasts, a well-regarded kid’s camp, mountain-view rooms featuring fireplaces, bathtubs, and private terraces, a relaxing spa, and an artist cottage and apothecary for creative pursuits.
- Location: Ojai, California
- Starting Rates: $709 per night
C Lazy U Ranch
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What We Like: C Lazy U Ranch is an expansive 8,500-acre ranch offering a vast array of outdoor activities, providing an immersive Western experience.
What to Consider: The ranch is located approximately two hours and 15 minutes from Denver International Airport, requiring consideration for transportation arrangements.
Saddle up for Wild West-themed family adventures at C Lazy U Ranch, an all-inclusive, four-season dude ranch nestled in the heart of the Rocky Mountains. Recognized as one of the favorite resorts in Colorado of 2023 by Travel + Leisure readers, this property promises an adventure-packed vacation experience that both city dwellers and seasoned cowboys will appreciate. Guests can engage in activities such as horseback riding across scenic trails, cattle pushing for a taste of ranch life, archery, axe throwing, fly fishing in pristine waters, mountain biking through varied terrain, and exhilarating ziplining. For those seeking more leisurely pursuits, the creekside spa offers rejuvenating massages and soothing soaks in the hot tub. The ranch’s excellent kids and teens program provides young cowpokes with an engaging introduction to ranch life through age-appropriate activities, all under the supervision of trained counselors. As evening approaches, families gather to share stories around the campfire before retiring to cozy cabins for a restful night’s sleep.
The Details:
- Standout Amenities: Charming cabins featuring wood-burning fireplaces for cozy evenings, luxurious C.O. Bigelow bath products, extensive horseback riding opportunities, cattle pushing experiences, and archery ranges.
- Location: Granby, Colorado
- Starting Rates: $392 per night
The Resort at Paws Up
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What We Like: The Resort at Paws Up provides an extensive variety of activities, ensuring there is something for everyone, and conveniently includes round-trip airport transfers.
What to Consider: A deposit is required at the time of booking to secure your reservation at The Resort at Paws Up.
Looking for a surefire way to encourage kids to step away from their iPads? Plan a trip to The Resort at Paws Up. At this expansive cattle ranch, transformed into a luxury family-friendly retreat and a World’s Best Awards honoree, located in Montana’s Blackfoot Valley, outdoor recreation takes center stage over screen time. Spanning over 35,000 acres of Montana wilderness, the resort serves as a backdrop for limitless adventure. Spend your days exploring over 100 miles of scenic walking trails, engaging in fly fishing on the river, riding go-carts for some thrills, developing horsemanship skills through lessons, and participating in mosaic workshops as a family. During half-day or full-day sessions at the Kids Corps of Discovery, children aged 3 to 12 can enjoy swimming, painting, geocaching adventures, and much more. This dedicated kids’ program provides parents with ample time to relax at the spa or participate in adult-only wilderness activities. Vacation homes and unique glamping sites, featuring deluxe tents (available from mid-May through mid-October), serve as ideal home bases for families seeking immersive nature experiences without sacrificing luxurious comforts.
The Details:
- Standout Amenities: Over 70 diverse activities to choose from, 100 miles of trails to explore, meals included for a seamless experience, all home accommodation guests benefit from access to a Lexus SUV for convenient transportation, and round-trip airport transfers are included.
- Location: Greenough, Montana
- Starting Rates: $2,265 per night for two adults and two children
The Cloister at Sea Island
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What We Like: The Cloister at Sea Island offers a balanced experience with plenty of activities for both kids and adults to enjoy together or independently, with Camp Cloister starting for children as young as three years old.
What to Consider: The resort is located approximately a one-hour drive from Jacksonville International Airport, and renting a car may be necessary for convenient exploration of the surrounding area.
Recognized among Travel + Leisure readers’ favorite resorts in the South, The Cloister at Sea Island stands as a true grand dame among American family resorts. Guest rooms, suites, and residences feature comfortable amenities including classic wood furnishings, deep-soaking tubs perfect for bathing young children, and charming Mediterranean-style arched windows. “From tennis to crabbing adventures, the expansive 50-acre property provides an array of activities tailored to engage all members of the family,” notes Addison. Itineraries designed for nature enthusiasts include falconry experiences, guided hawk walks, and enriching visits to the nature center. Those seeking relaxation can unwind at the beach club. “We particularly appreciated the Kids Nights Out program, which ensures a delightful escape for both young ones and parents seeking a child-free evening,” Addison adds. Family-oriented activities like bingo night and collaborative family paint parties promise endless laughter and shared memories. “Horseback riding on the beach was a highlight of a recent wonderful trip to Sea Island, and I loved the family pool,” shared Rhodes.
The Details:
- Standout Amenities: Accommodation options including one-, two-, and three-bedroom layouts, luxurious Molton Brown toiletries, an inviting outdoor swimming pool, well-maintained tennis courts, a beach club for seaside relaxation, bike rentals for island exploration, engaging family paint parties, and the convenient Kids Nights Out program.
- Location: Sea Island, Georgia
- Starting Rates: $600 per night
Big Cedar Lodge
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Also available to book at Expedia
What We Like: Big Cedar Lodge offers exceptional value for a family resort, providing a wealth of both indoor and outdoor fun and activities suitable for all ages.
What to Consider: The resort’s extensive entertainment offerings and popularity can sometimes create an atmosphere that feels somewhat similar to an amusement park, which may not appeal to all travelers seeking a more secluded or tranquil experience.
Few destinations can rival the family fun potential of Big Cedar Lodge, a lakeside resort and recurring World’s Best Awards winner nestled in Missouri’s scenic Ozark Mountains. There are countless ways to embrace the great outdoors – from renting a boat for lake adventures and fishing in pristine waters to swimming in refreshing pools, playing mini golf as a family, or simply spreading out a blanket for cozy outdoor movie nights on the lawn. Fun Mountain, the resort’s expansive 30,000-square-foot entertainment zone, elevates indoor excitement with underwater-themed bowling lanes, challenging rock climbing walls, a thrilling ropes course, classic arcade games, go-karts for racing fun, and laser tag arenas. The diverse accommodation options, ranging from waterfront cottages and rustic log cabins to enormous suites and unique glamping tents, can comfortably accommodate groups of varying sizes, from smaller families to large multi-generational gatherings. Consider Big Cedar Lodge as an ideal destination for planning memorable family reunions.
The Details:
- Standout Amenities: An expansive entertainment zone called Fun Mountain featuring underwater-themed bowling, rock climbing, a ropes course, arcade games, go-karts, and laser tag, mini golf courses, and unique glamping site accommodations.
- Location: Ridgedale, Missouri
- Starting Rates: $369 per night
Chatham Bars Inn
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Also available to book at Expedia
What We Like: Chatham Bars Inn’s prime beachfront location is conveniently within a short walk of Chatham’s charming Main Street, offering both seaside relaxation and easy access to local attractions.
What to Consider: It’s important to note that many of the amenities and activities at Chatham Bars Inn are seasonal, primarily available during the warmer months.
“Having grown up spending summers in Cape Cod, it holds a very special place in my heart. And I cherish returning with my own family. Our preferred place to stay is the charming Chatham Bars Inn, an elegant and timeless oceanfront resort situated in the quintessentially quaint town of Chatham,” shares Addison. “I fondly remember moments sitting with my children on the oceanfront veranda, watching the breathtaking sunrise over the Atlantic.” The property boasts a private sandy beach, ideal for leisurely lounging, building elaborate sandcastles, and enjoying refreshing swims in the ocean. Guests can also enjoy a zero-entry pool with comfortable cabanas, a separate kiddie pool designed for younger children, tennis clinics suitable for all ages and skill levels, and engaging summer kids programming. The on-site dock and private fleet of boats offer perfect opportunities for memorable family excursions such as whale watching adventures, sailing trips, fishing charters, and even authentic lobstering experiences. Traditional New England clambakes evoke a sense of nostalgic coastal charm and provide a delicious culinary experience.
The Details:
- Standout Amenities: A private beach exclusively for guests, a zero-entry pool with cabanas for relaxed poolside lounging, a dedicated kiddie pool for young children, an on-site dock with a fleet of boats for water excursions, tennis clinics for all ages, and the complimentary supervised Kids Crew program with interactive activities.
- Location: Chatham, Massachusetts
- Starting Rates: $650 per night
Know Before You Go
Decide what kind of vacation you want.
From the towering mountains of Colorado to the sun-drenched beaches of Hawaii, the United States encompasses a vast and diverse landscape, offering a wide spectrum of scenery and vacation experiences. Equally varied are the types of family holidays available to travelers. Are you envisioning days spent lounging by a sparkling pool under the sun? Or perhaps an alpine escape filled with rugged outdoor adventures is more aligned with your family’s style? Maybe the thrill of adrenaline-pumping rides and capturing photos with beloved costumed characters tops your family vacation wish list?
Consider travel time and logistics.
Traveling with children can introduce complexities and potential stress, particularly when involving red-eye flights, multiple plane changes, and tight connection times. The more logistical elements involved, the greater the likelihood of someone experiencing a meltdown (and this applies not just to the little ones!). Depending on your children’s ages and prior travel experiences, opting for a longer-haul flight to a destination like Hawaii might actually be more manageable than shorter, more complex itineraries. Jet lag tolerance also varies among individuals, so considering time zone differences is an important factor in planning. Furthermore, it’s crucial to assess on-the-ground logistics at your destination. Will you require a rental car? What is the availability and efficiency of public transportation? Does the chosen resort offer shuttle services to and from the airport?
Be mindful of budget.
Many luxury resorts, with price tags to match their premium offerings, excel at catering to the needs and desires of families. However, a wide range of more budget-conscious options are also available, providing excellent family experiences at more accessible price points. You can also strategically reduce vacation costs by avoiding peak travel seasons such as summer vacation and winter break, and instead opting to visit during the more affordable off-season or shoulder season periods.
How We Chose These Hotels
Lindsay Cohn, a seasoned travel journalist and a mother of two young boys, curated the resorts featured on this list. The selections are based on her personal travel experiences and thorough research, combined with firsthand accounts from Travel + Leisure editors and respected industry professionals – all of whom are also parents navigating the world of family travel. Many of these exceptional resorts have also been recognized and honored within their respective categories in the prestigious World’s Best Awards, as voted by the discerning readers of Travel + Leisure.
