The summer travel season is right around the corner, which means it’s time to start planning your next trip. But what summer destination is the best for a family vacation? With so many destinations to choose from, it can be overwhelming to decide where to go. It all comes down to what you and your crew are in the mood for. A tropical beach escape? A culture-filled urban getaway? A theme-park adventure? Togetherness in the great outdoors? As always, RedWeek is here to inspire you to plan your best-ever family vacation.
The Perfect Mix: San Diego
San Diego is the perfect destination for families looking for a mix of adventure, relaxation, and natural beauty. First of all, you’ll find some legendary kid-beloved attractions in the area: the San Diego Zoo, LEGOLAND California and SeaWorld to name just a few. But with 70 miles of coastline, you’ll also be able to enjoy some truly spectacular beaches, including Coronado Beach, La Jolla Cove and Pacific Beach. There’s also the urban excitement of the Gaslamp Quarter, where you can shop, dine to your heart’s delight — not to mention catch a San Diego Padres baseball game at Petco Park.
San Diego Summer Tip: Every Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday evening from late June through August, enjoy family friendly (and FREE) live music under the stars at Balboa Park.
Discover San Diego’s best museums.
Where To Stay: Four Seasons Residence Club Aviara
Sand And Sun (And More!): Nuevo Vallarta
Nuevo Vallarta is a beautiful destination located in the Riviera Nayarit region of Mexico. With its golden sand beaches and crystal-clear waters, it’s ideal for families who love to hit the waves for swimming, snorkeling and windsurfing. There are other ways to make a splash, too — like at the sprawling Aquaventuras Water Park, which features waterslides, lazy rivers and a Dolphin Discovery Experience. When you’re not soaking up the rays, make sure to explore the local culture by visiting the nearby towns of Bucerias and Sayulita, where you can try delicious Mexican food and shop for local crafts.
Nuevo Vallarta Summer Tip: For an unforgettable day trip with the family, sail out to Marieta Islands National Park where you’ll find pristine beaches, secluded coves and more.
Find out which Mexican vacation destination is right for you.
Where To Stay: Grand Luxxe at Vidanta Nuevo Vallarta
Coastal Carolina: Myrtle Beach
Looking for a classic seaside vacation? Myrtle Beach boasts more than 60 miles of sandy beaches along the beautiful South Carolina coastline. You could easily spend an entire week enjoying these beaches, whether you’re wading in the calm waters of North Myrtle Beach or escaping the crowds at Garden City Beach. But the beaches are just the beginning of what a Myrtle Beach summer vacation has to offer families. Did you know that the city is known as the Miniature Golf Capital of the World? There are more than 50 putt-putt courses to choose from, all with their own wacky designs and landscapes. You’ll also want to spend a day on the roller coasters and waterslides at Family Kingdom Amusement Park, located right on the Myrtle Beach Boardwalk.
Myrtle Beach Summer Tip: Take a spin on the Myrtle Beach SkyWheel at sunset for some of summer’s most spectacular views.
Uncover Myrtle Beach’s best vacation experiences.
Where To Stay: Marriott’s OceanWatch Villas at Grande Dunes
The Theme Park Capital Of The World: Orlando
Orlando is known as the theme park capital of the world — and for good reason. Home to Walt Disney World, Universal Orlando (including the Wizarding World of Harry Potter), and SeaWorld Orlando, your family will have the time of their lives exploring these fantastically fun attractions. Of course, Orlando isn’t just theme parks. When you want a little space to yourself, try an eco-adventure at Blue Springs State Park, a pristine spot where you can encounter Florida’s gentle manatee. Or for something a little less gentle, head to Gatorland and dare one another to try the Screamin’ Gator Zipline, which sends you zooming over more than 100 giant alligators.
Orlando Summer Tip: Every summer Tuesday, Orlando’s best food trucks converge on the city’s Milk District for Tasty Takeovers, a can’t-miss block party.
Check out RedWeek’s Orlando travel guide.
Where To Stay: Disney’s BoardWalk Villas
Summer In The City: New York City
If your summer vacation requires some big city energy, New York City can’t be beat. From the Statue of Liberty to the Empire State Building, there are countless iconic landmarks to check off your list. The museums in the Big Apple are astounding as well, whether you’re exploring the sprawling American Museum of Natural History or seeing masterpieces from days gone by at the Metropolitan Museum of Art. And don’t forget Broadway. Catch a show or two — are you a Hamilton family or a Lion King family? Or both?
New York City Summer Tip: Spread out a blanket to Bryant Park during the summer for free movies in the heart of Manhattan from mid-June to mid-August.
Discover more unexpectedly great family vacation destinations.
Where To Stay: The Manhattan Club
Start planning your family’s summer vacation with RedWeek now.
