Best Family-Friendly Beaches in 2025

Planning a beach vacation each family member will enjoy — from toddlers and teens to adults and everyone in between — doesn’t have to be stressful. The key is choosing a destination that works for everyone.  

Some of my best childhood memories involve spending time at the beach with my family, be it leisurely day trips or week-long escapes. 

At the time, my only concern was how fast I could get my feet on the sand, but as an adult, I often think about how my parents pulled off those trips with two kids in tow (kids who were six years apart!).  

The ideal family beach trip should offer parents the chance to reconnect and recharge while providing various activities to satisfy all age groups and interests. 

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What Makes a Beach Destination Family-Friendly?

Not all beaches are created equal. 

Some might have a seemingly endless expanse of sand to stretch out on but lack options for kid- or teen-focused fun, while others are pretty to look at but miss the mark when it comes to amenities like changerooms and nearby food options. 

No matter where you plan to put down your beach towel, there are some important criteria to consider when looking for a family-friendly beach destination.

• Safety first: Look for areas that have beaches with shallow waters, gentle waves, and designated swimming zones. 
• Nearby amenities: Proximity to restrooms, playgrounds, and restaurants makes a beach trip more convenient and enjoyable. Easy access to these services means fewer interruptions to the fun.
• Activities for all ages: Before you book, make sure your chosen destination has enough things to see and do to satisfy even the pickiest traveler. Not everyone can spend endless hours on the sand without getting bored, so there should be a variety of alternate options available. 
• Accessible accommodations: Choose resorts or rentals with easy access to the beach, especially if you’re traveling with young kids, strollers, or mobility devices. Proximity to the shore makes it easier to enjoy the beach without the hassle of long walks or driving.

READ MORE: Best Family-Friendly Destinations

Top Beach Destinations in the U.S.

Myrtle Beach, South Carolina

With 60 miles of beautiful beaches, Myrtle Beach is a no-brainer for planning a family vacation everyone will enjoy. 

Some good options include Myrtle Beach State Park, which has nature trails to explore, ample picnic areas, and fewer crowds than other sandy spots; and Garden City Beach, which has an arcade right on the pier and live music most evenings. 

When you’re not at the beach, make time for the Myrtle Beach Boardwalk, with shops, restaurants, arcades, gorgeous ocean views, and the SkyWheel — one of the tallest observation wheels on the East Coast.

Pro Tip: Murrells Inlet is known as the seafood capital of South Carolina. It offers plenty of beachfront dining to enjoy the freshest catch, and the chance to rent a kayak, go fishing, or take boat tours.

Clearwater Beach, Florida

Known for its expanse of powdery white sand and gentle waters (perfect for long days of lounging), Clearwater Beach is ideal for family vacations. 

In addition to soft sand and calm, kid-friendly water, there are excellent attractions like St. Pete Pier, home to walking paths, a splash pad, an open-air market, the St. Petersburg Museum of History, and more. 

Make time for Clearwater Marine Aquarium, which rescues and rehabilitates injured marine animals. 

Pro Tip: Save money by picking up the FunShine Savings Passport, which offers discounts on everything from museums and attractions to tours, restaurants, and shopping. 

Outer Banks, North Carolina

If your family prefers quieter, more secluded beaches (as mine did), the Outer Banks are a good option. There are no cities in this area — just more than 100 miles of shoreline to explore, along with scenic towns and villages that give you a peek into local life.  

Beaches here offer privacy and natural beauty, making them great for activities like kayaking, swimming, and fishing. Historical sites like the Wright Brothers National Memorial or the Cape Hatteras Lighthouse (the tallest lighthouse in the U.S.) are also worth a visit.

Accommodations suit a range of family needs — from beachfront vacation rentals and quiet campgrounds to boutique hotels, charming inns, and unique motels, depending on the amount of space you need or the aesthetic you’re looking for. 

Top International Beach Destinations for Families

Cancun, Mexico

Cancun is an ideal spot for a stress-free beach vacation thanks to its reputation as one of the safest areas in Mexico and its seemingly endless array of all-inclusive resorts.

Many of these resorts are geared towards families and feature multiple pools, beach activities, spas, and a variety of dining options. There are often kids' clubs complete with supervised activities, crafts, games, and excursions — meaning adults can enjoy some alone time.

While you’re in the area, you can also take a short ferry ride to laid-back Isla Mujeres where you’ll find cute shops, restaurants, white sand beaches, and the chance to snorkel the Mesoamerican Reef — the second-largest coral reef system in the world.

Algarve, Portugal

You don’t need to search very far for beautiful beaches in the Algarve region of Portugal — there are over 100 to choose from, many of which are great for families. 

You’ll get calm waters ideal for swimming and the chance to book boat trips to see dolphins and other local marine life. 

You and your brood can also explore the extensive coastline or visit charming towns like Lagos, where you can learn about the region’s rich history and feast on local seafood (which is plentiful!). 

There’s also a varied mix of accommodations, including stylish boutique properties, budget-friendly hotels, and rustic seaside hideaways.

Gold Coast, Australia

Depending on your departure city and how accessible the area is for you, the Gold Coast of Australia can be a goldmine for families looking for a mix of outdoor adventure, fun activities, and relaxation. 

With several theme parks like Dreamworld (Australia’s largest theme park) and Warner Bros. Movie World, along with pristine beaches made for surfing, vibrant coral reefs, great food, and cultural experiences, there’s something here for every age group. 

Families can explore nature reserves and take advantage of watersports like surfing (lessons are available for various ages), parasailing, and jet skiing. There are also hundreds of kilometers of cycling paths to explore.

Budget-Friendly Beach Options

Gulf Shores, Alabama

Gulf Shores is a great choice for a budget-friendly beach trip. In addition to 32 miles of beaches, there are lots of affordable accommodations, from vacation rentals and campgrounds to budget hotels and RV parks. 

Families can enjoy activities like dolphin-watching cruises, mini-golf, museums, historic sites, and hiking, biking, and fishing in the sprawling 6,000-acre Gulf State Park.

The calm, warm waters of the Gulf are ideal for swimming, while shallow tidal pools allow kids to spot crabs, small fish, and other marine life. 

Lake Shelby in Gulf State Park is also great for kayaking and paddleboarding. 

Tulum, Mexico

Tulum, with its coastal cliffs, white sand, turquoise water, and the renowned Mayan archaeological site of the same name (visit early to avoid crowds) makes it a perennially popular destination. 

There’s a wide range of accommodation styles, including eco-resorts, vacation rentals, and budget boutique hotels, so it’ll cater to a variety of needs, from large groups and couples to traveling families. 

Beyond the beach, you can explore cenotes, which are natural sinkholes perfect for a refreshing swim — and one of my favorite things to experience in the region! 

Or take a short trip to the UNESCO-listed Sian Ka’an Biosphere Reserve, an area originally inhabited by the Maya and the largest protected area on Mexico’s Caribbean coast.

Crete, Greece

The largest island in Greece offers a unique blend of history, natural beauty, and activities suited to a range of ages and budgets. 

Not to mention the excellent food you’ll find here (think: ample fresh produce and bright Mediterranean flavors). 

When you’re ready to spend time on the sand, there’s no shortage of options. Popular Elafonissi Beach is known for its pink-hued sand and calm, kid-friendly waters, while the beaches of Bali are relaxed with a local vibe and fewer crowds than you may find elsewhere. 

Any family members interested in history will want to visit the Palace of Knossos, a sprawling archaeological site that lets you step back in time. It’s also worth exploring the winding streets of the old towns of Chania and Rethymnon.

Tips for Planning a Beach Vacation With Kids

Planning a successful vacation for various ages sounds difficult. But with a few simple strategies, you can ensure a stress-free experience for everyone. 

• Pack the right gear: A beach vacation can easily be enhanced with a few minor upgrades. Along with towels, sunscreen, and a cooler of cold drinks and healthy snacks, consider a beach tent for shade and beach toys for fun.
• Plan activities ahead of time: Popular excursions like dolphin-watching or guided snorkeling tours often require reservations. Book these in advance so your family gets to experience them without long wait times or frustration.
• Travel during off seasons: Visit beaches outside the busiest tourist times to avoid crowds and save on accommodation costs. Early spring or late fall often offer good weather and fewer people.
• Make sure you have travel insurance: You can never be too careful. Protect yourself against unexpected issues like a boat trip canceled for bad weather or a kid sick with sunstroke.

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FAQs About Beach Vacations for Families

Are there beaches with wheelchair access?

Many family-friendly beaches are equipped with ramps or mats that make access easier for those with mobility challenges. Look for beaches that specifically mention accessibility in their amenities. If in doubt, call ahead if you can. 

How can I find beaches with lifeguards?

Research beaches in advance or check with local tourism websites to find information on lifeguard presence. Many well-known family destinations, like Myrtle Beach and Clearwater Beach, often have lifeguards on duty during peak beach-going hours.

What’s the best way to save money on beach accommodations?

Consider renting a condo or vacation home for more flexibility and lower costs than a hotel or resort. That way you can also save money by preparing some meals on your own versus going out to eat three times a day. 

TL;DR: Choosing the Best Family-Friendly Beach Destination

A family beach vacation can be one of the best ways to relax, bond, and have fun as a family, whether you’ve got teens, tweens, or toddlers in tow (or all three). 

Your best bet for a seamless beach getaway is to choose a destination with calm water, hotels, and vacation rentals with family-friendly amenities, a variety of dining options to suit any picky eaters, and nearby activities that cater to everyone involved. 

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