🧳 5 Must-Visit Family-Friendly Destinations for 2025 (With Travel Tips & Gear)
- Laci Jo Brimer
- May 13
- 4 min read
Updated: Jul 5
✈️ Introduction: Where Should Families Travel in 2025?
Planning a family vacation doesn’t have to be overwhelming. The key is picking a destination that blends fun, relaxation, and age-appropriate activities. Whether your crew prefers lazy beach days, high-energy theme parks, or cultural immersion, these 5 destinations offer unforgettable memories for all ages.
👨👩👧👦 Bonus: Get your FREE Travel Safety Checklist to stay organized and stress-free from departure to return when you sign up for my blog!
🌺 1. Oahu, Hawaii – Waves, Wildlife & Culture
Why families love it: Oahu combines relaxing beaches with family-friendly adventures and rich Polynesian culture.
Top Family Experiences:
Ride the Pineapple Express at Dole Plantation
Visit the Honolulu Zoo and Waikiki Aquarium
Snorkel in the calm waters of Hanauma Bay
- Consider the following handy dandy beach day supplies
Take a cultural journey at the Polynesian Cultural Center
Where to Stay:
Hilton Hawaiian Village Waikiki Beach Resort (book here)
Airbnbs with beach access in Kailua or North Shore (quote here)
🎢 2. Orlando, Florida – Parks, Pools & Pure Fun
Why families love it: Home to Walt Disney World, Universal Studios, and water parks like Typhoon Lagoon, Orlando is a dream come true for kids and kids-at-heart.
Must-Do Activities:
Character breakfast at Magic Kingdom
Ride the Hogwarts Express at Universal’s Wizarding World of Harry Potter
Cool off at Volcano Bay Waterpark
Where to Stay:
NCL cruise + theme park packages
🧺 Must-Haves for a Long Day at the Park
Spending the whole day at a theme park, state park, or city playground? These Amazon must-haves will help keep your family comfortable, cool, and meltdown-free.
🎒 Essentials to Pack
1. Lightweight Foldable Backpack
Perfect for snacks, sunscreen, and souvenirs without weighing you down.
2. Refillable Water Bottles
Staying hydrated is key, especially on hot days.
3. Cooling Towels
Soak in water, wring, and enjoy instant cooling — great for hot summer lines!
👶 For Kids’ Comfort & Entertainment
4. Stroller Fan or Clip-On Mini Fan
If you’re bringing a stroller or just want a breeze in line, this is a must.
5. Reusable Sticker or Activity Book
Perfect for waiting in long lines or breaks in the shade.
6. Packable Picnic Blanket
Useful for breaks in the grass, impromptu snacks, or parades.
🧴 Protection & Clean-Up
7. Travel-Sized Sunscreen & Bug Spray Combo Pack
Parks can be full sun and full bugs — protect your crew.
8. Hand Sanitizer Wipes
Wipe down picnic tables or sticky fingers — no sink required.
9. Compact First Aid Kit
You never know when a blister or scrape will pop up!
🛍️ Bonus: Keep It All Organized
10. Park Day Organizer Tote
Keeps snacks, toys, wipes, and supplies neatly separated.
🐾 3. San Diego, California – Beaches, Zoos & Breezy Vibes
Why families love it: San Diego blends outdoor fun with wildlife and cultural learning.
Top Experiences:
Explore the world-famous San Diego Zoo
Watch sea lions at La Jolla Cove
Tour the USS Midway Aircraft Carrier Museum
Beach day at Coronado Island
Where to Stay:
Mission Bay resorts with kid pools
Beachside vacation rentals (info here)
Don't forget:
Binoculars for kids ( wildlife watching)
🏰 4. Quebec City, Canada – Fairytale Charm Close to Home
Why families love it: It’s like visiting Europe without a long-haul flight or time zone shock.
Top Family Fun:
Explore Château Frontenac
Ride the funiculaire in Old Quebec
Visit the Ice Hotel or Toboggan Slide (in winter)
Savor crepes and hot cocoa at cozy cafés
Where to Stay:
Historic inns like Hôtel du Vieux-Québec
Family-friendly Airbnbs in Old Quebec
Don't forget:
Packing cubes for family luggage (I use them every time I travel)
🌋 5. Costa Rica – Eco-Adventure & Wildlife Wonders
Why families love it: Costa Rica mixes gentle adventure with nature education and warm beaches.
Top Family Activities:
Zipline through Monteverde Cloud Forest
Spot sloths at Manuel Antonio National Park
Swim at La Fortuna Waterfall
Volcano views from Arenal hot springs
Where to Stay:
Eco-lodges or beachfront family resorts near Tamarindo or La Fortuna
Don't forget:
🧭 Wrap-Up: Your 2025 Family Vacation Awaits
Whether you’re relaxing beachside in Hawaii, exploring history in Canada, or feeding giraffes in San Diego, these destinations offer just the right mix of adventure, relaxation, and kid-approved fun.
✨ Ready to start planning? Don’t forget to grab my FREE Family Travel Safety Checklist for signing up for my blog and take advantage of my FREE travel planning and booking! Just click here to get started!!!
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