Beautiful beaches are universally alluring—but only a few live up to the dream vacations that stay with you long after you’ve brushed off the sand. For Good Housekeeping's 2026 Travel Awards, our editors and testers explored coastlines near and far to uncover those rare destinations that pair stunning scenery with standout experiences. Whether you’re after a serene escape, a family adventure, or a chic seaside stay, these winners make every moment feel like the perfect beach day.
Beach Towns
It’s easy to get the family on board with a vacation to Huntington Beach, a 10-mile stretch of sand known for its surf culture. Your crew can ride the waves (lessons are available for kids as young as 4 or 5) or just watch the pros do it. Surfing aside, the beach here is gloriously family-friendly—wide, lifeguarded, and dotted with activities including a new inclusive playground. Hundreds of fire rings scattered about the town’s three main beaches entice flip-flop-clad families to roast marshmallows as the sun goes down.
TESTER NOTES: “From a kids’ reading nook at the outdoor shopping center to beach mats that help wheelchair users get to the shoreline, I saw all kinds of thoughtful touches around this town that is only about 15 minutes from Anaheim,” said our tester, who stayed at the beachy-chic Paséa Hotel and Spa, which they thought teens would love. “Restaurants at all price points are far more elevated than in your typical beach town—Primecut Taqueria was my favorite grab-and-go spot, and Duke’s Huntington Beach serves up both fun food and a surf vibe,” they added.
Set against the ocean, Newport is simultaneously romantic and family-friendly. No matter whose hand you’re holding, you’ll enjoy strolls downtown, where there’s a happy mix of kitschy stores and boutiques, and along the cliff walk—a popular path with stunning ocean views that runs alongside Gilded Age mansions that merit their own visits. Attractions like the Sailing Museum and the Newport Car Museum are a great way to spend the day and cater to people of all ages.
TESTER NOTES: “Newport is charming, fun, and packed tightly into a little downtown area that’s easy to walk around,” said our tester, who visited with her baby and her 7-year-old. “The Sailing Museum turned out to be one of our favorite spots. Wonderfully designed, it’s filled with colorful and fascinating exhibits and memorabilia.” Her family stayed at the Wayfinder Hotel, tucked away from the hubbub of downtown. “It had a pool, a fantastic restaurant, and free parking,” she said.
A beach getaway and a city vacation rolled into one, St. Pete–Clearwater blends sunny shoreline with world-class attractions. In the morning, you can splash around near some of the 36 miles of Gulf Coast beaches (including Clearwater Beach, which has fun inflatable slides on its powdery white sand). Then seek p.m. shade at the Clearwater Marine Aquarium, which rescues and rehabs dolphins, or the Dali Museum, which showcases works from the Spanish surrealist and other icons.
TESTER NOTES: “This destination gives off European vibes, but you can also get your typical ‘beach town’ vacation fix,” said our tester, who stayed with her spouse at the Vinoy Resort & Golf Club. “The Dali Museum was one of the most incredible ones I’ve experienced,” she added. She loved Sunken Gardens, which was full of flora and flamingos: “It is retro, has a history to it, and feels like the perfect place to bring your kids but also enjoy as adults.” Another tester, traveling with her teen, raved about her stay at the Island Grand at Tradewinds resort.
If the beaches near Wilmington look familiar but you’ve never set foot on their golden sand, you probably recognize them from The Summer I Turned Pretty. All three seasons of this Amazon hit show were filmed in Wilmington’s historic downtown and on three North Carolina barrier islands (Wrightsville Beach, Kure Beach, and Carolina Beach) about 20 to 30 minutes east. You’ll want to explore the entire trio, because each has a slightly different vibe.
TESTER NOTES: “I saw people riding bikes everywhere, especially along Wilmington’s Riverwalk and on the beach roads,” said our tester, whose family loved staying at Trailborn Surf & Sound in Wrightsville Beach because it had “great amenities” and “super quick access to the beach.” Other highlights for her family included dining at the Bluewater Waterfront Grill, “where the boats come and go,” and touring a World War II battleship that gave them “a great sense of the area’s history.”
America’s first resort destination gets better every year. The Palm Beaches, a 47-mile stretch of sunny shoreline encompassing more than three dozen cities from Jupiter to Boca Raton, boasts a wide selection of new and recently glowed-up resorts, restaurants, and attractions. Whether you want to peek in on the upgraded sea turtle hospital at Juno Beach’s Loggerhead Marine Life Center or grab the best sammie of your life at the viral Buccan sandwich counter in West Palm, it’s all waiting for you in this vacation spot that is warm 365 days a year.
TESTER NOTES: “Plan on visiting for a week or more, because there’s so much to see and do,” said our tester, who stayed with her parents in a newly renovated two-bedroom suite at the Palm Beach Marriott Singer Island Resort, adding, “We joked that it was our ‘eating vacation’ because nearly everything we tried between beach time, thrifting ventures, and sightseeing was scrumptious. It’s a tough call, but the waterfront dining at the Beacon in Jupiter was our favorite spot; it felt like a slice of Italy in Florida.”
What’s not to love about Los Cabos? This sunny spot on the southern tip of the Baja California Peninsula, where the desert mountains meet the Pacific Ocean, woos all types of travelers. Whether you’re hoping to flop on the beach with a good book, explore the magnificent marine life with the kids, or go clubbing, you’ll find options for everyone. LGBTQ+ travelers, take note that Los Cabos was one of the first “queer-certified” vacation destinations.
TESTER NOTES: Knowing his kids would want to swim daily, our tester stayed at Chileno Bay Resort & Residences because it was one of the few properties in a sheltered cove protected from rough waters. “It was totally five-star in its location and service but completely unpretentious,” he said. His family of four also enjoyed a kayak and snorkel tour from High Tide Sea Expeditions that took them past Cabo’s famous arches (shown).
Generations of girlfriends have flocked to Greater Miami & Miami Beach. Here, vibrant art deco architecture meets world-class dining, lively beaches, and indulgent spas, setting the stage for an unforgettable escape. To elevate your stay, consider aligning your trip with one of the region’s legendary festivals, such as Art Basel Miami Beach (December 5 through December 7, 2025) or the South Beach Wine & Food Festival (February 18 through February 22, 2026).
TESTER NOTES: “Book your girls’ trip to the new Andaz Miami Beach by Hyatt,” advised our tester. “The property was absolutely gorgeous—every detail was elegant, and I truly was on cloud nine! Their website doesn’t do justice to how stunning the hotel, restaurants, and grounds really are.” She also recommends heading to Coral Gables, a city just a few miles west of downtown Miami, to stroll its "charming streets" and discover another part of the bustling city.
A coastal gem, this Dutch Caribbean island near Venezuela boasts 35 beaches, and it’s hard not to love them all. Curaçao stretches 38 miles, allowing you to beach-hop and discover two or three distinct shores in a single day. From lively Mambo Beach, steps from shops and seaside cafés, to the tranquil Playa Kalki, a cove beloved by snorkelers, every beach offers its own unique charm and personality.
TESTER NOTES: “All the beaches were so gorgeous, calm, and swimmable,” said our tester, who visited with her best friend. “We went to Kokomo, which was a popular beach club with snorkeling, one day. Our favorite beach was Playa Jereme, because it was quieter and had pristine waters. The view was breathtaking.” Our tester stayed at Lion’s Dive Beach Resort, which she thought would be a solid budget-friendly hotel for families looking for spacious beachfront accommodations.
Your kids can spread their (water) wings at Destin–Fort Walton Beach. Located in the state’s panhandle near warm Caribbean-like waters, this no-passport-needed spot introduces tiny tourists to snorkeling, fishing, kayaking, and more through its brilliant Little Adventurers program. Its website suggests activities by age group—some are free, and for others you’re directed to local outfitters. The destination also recently introduced the “Ask a Scout” program, which allows moms and dads to query local parents.
TESTER NOTES: “We loved the Dolphin Cruise suggested through the Little Adventurers program,” said our tester, who brought her 2-year-old. “We saw so many dolphins out in the wild jumping in the waves!” Our tester stayed at the Emerald Grande, which has multi-bedroom suites. “My son couldn’t get enough of the hotel pool and the beach that you could take a shuttle to,” she added. “The water was crystal clear, the sand was nice, and a beautiful pelican floated near us all morning.”
Set along the shimmering shores of Lake Michigan, Traverse City is a hidden gem for non-Midwesterners. Twenty-thousand-year-old glacial deposits in Grand Traverse Bay and nearby Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore tint the water an almost Caribbean shade of blue, especially on sunny days. Beyond its lakeside allure, Traverse City charms visitors with a vibrant downtown brimming with its own local art scene and picturesque orchards.
TESTER NOTES: “A perfect day trip, the Pierce Stocking Scenic Drive, takes you in and through the dunes, with awe-inspiring views and breathtaking stops along the way,” said our tester, who visited with her spouse. "There are moments where you have to remind yourself that you’re in Michigan. The soft white sand and the perfectly clear blue waters rival those anywhere in the world.” The couple stayed at Hotel Indigo, noting that it was “walkable to almost everywhere we wanted to visit in town” and that its rooftop bar had “strong pours, great views, and even better vibes.”
All-Inclusive Beach Resorts for Adults
Couples will relish their “just the two of us” time at Almare, a newish resort on an island about seven miles from Cancun, to which a bougie catamaran whisks you from a marina near the airport. With only 109 rooms, Marriott’s first luxury property in Mexico is intimate, and its design emphasizes privacy. You won’t find all-you-can-eat buffets or large-scale parties: The vibe is more refined (case in point: a local flutist performs at the rooftop restaurant). Cultural touches abound, from the Mayan calendar in the tranquil lobby to a Cacao Experience option in which you craft your own chocolate.
TESTER NOTES: “Every meal felt like a highlight,” said our tester, who visited with her husband. “You could tell they were trying to source locally—the food was infused with Mayan tradition, and it was healthful and delicious and seemed sustainable too!” She added that the overall experience felt “thoughtful and elevated” and that she was impressed with the attentiveness of the staff.
The secret is out: A Hyatt all-inclusive hotel chain, the Secrets Playa Blanca Costa Mujeres, is the dreamiest couples’ destination. At this property in a secluded area on the Yucatán Peninsula, a dozen or so miles from the hustle and bustle of Cancun, all 505 rooms are suites—some of them swim-out style with access to a pool from the terrace. The property’s Unlimited Luxury program for all guests provides top-shelf spirits, reservation-free dining, and a vast array of activities, no cheesy wristbands required.
TESTER NOTES: Calling the resort “stunning,” our tester complimented the lush greenery and the well-maintained pools and common spaces. “My husband and I enjoyed seeing Yucatan art throughout the property, especially wood carvings and murals,” she said. Other highlights for the couple included the spa (“Our massages were in the most beautiful bungalows”) as well as the Italian restaurant Portofino and the 24-hour cafe offering coffee drinks, pastries, and gelato.
An off-the-beaten-path honeymoon spot, the new Sandals Saint Vincent and the Grenadines is becoming easier to reach: Beginning December 20, 2025, Delta Airlines will fly directly from Atlanta to St. Vincent, joining other carriers that take off from New York City, Charlotte, and Miami. Nestled on a private cove bordered by a forest, the property attracts honeymooners and couples celebrating milestone anniversaries with overwater and beachfront villas that give off White Lotus vibes. Breakfast in bed, personalized snack and drink delivery, and bonding activities perfect for two (from a hot stone couple’s massage to a round of pickleball) will let you start your life as a married couple off right.
TESTER NOTES: “Our honeymoon was extremely relaxing and romantic!” said our tester. She raved about the property’s "extremely tranquil" grounds and the resort’s “very laid-back, private atmosphere.” They found the service impeccable, and the couple’s favorite touch was having a bath run when they returned to the room every night. On the food front, “the sushi and desserts were top-tier at every restaurant,” she added.
From the moment you’re greeted by a butler with fresh coconuts, you know that your vacay at Serenity at Coconut Bay will be pure bliss. The couples-only resort, which tends to attract a 20- and 30-something crowd, gives all guests a dreamy vacation nest: a plunge-pool suite with a king-size four-poster bed and an oversize tub along with butlers who will quickly learn your preferences. The location is another plus: While most resorts on the island require a long, windy drive from the airport, Serenity is only 10 minutes from it.
TESTER NOTES: “The grounds at Serenity were beautifully maintained,” said our tester, who stayed with her boyfriend in a Grande Plunge Pool Butler Suite. “It is gorgeously landscaped and impeccably clean!” She rated the service as five-star, saying the staff remembered their names and favorite drinks. But her favorite experience turned out to be the snorkeling excursions offered through the resort: “We were taken to an open-water snorkeling location with the bluest, clearest, most stunning water I have ever seen.”
Home to only 14 couples at a time, Turtle Island Resort is a ferry or seaplane ride from Fiji’s main island of Viti Levu and delivers the personal attention you didn’t even know you needed. Each couple receives a “Mama” who will unpack their bags, tidy their villa, organize activities, and pull off special requests (like a birthday cake). The couples’ job: Bask in the Blue Lagoon worry-free.
TESTER NOTES: “All the meals were wonderful, and the staff serving us were so patient and a joy to be around. By the end of the trip, we cancelled any private dinner we had and ate with the group!” said our tester, who noted that many guests were celebrating milestone birthdays and anniversaries. Our tester also raved about the water activities: “The snorkeling was stunning, even just out in the main beach area in front of our villa. The coral was pristine, and we saw purple starfish! We also went crab hunting, which was unlike anything I’ve ever experienced.”
Rather than catering exclusively to couples, Paradisus Los Cabos appeals to a wide variety of adult travelers—whether families with grown kids, mother-daughter pairs, or a bunch of besties. Spacious suites, including some with two double beds, provide more flexible sleeping arrangements than are available at many other adult-only resorts. Featuring four pools and seven restaurants, the resort has a vibe that is a nice balance of laid-back and lively. Jewelry making and tequila tasting are highlights, as are a wide range of cultural experiences.
TESTER NOTES: “This property has beautiful views and the bonus of a swimmable beach, which is rare because of the rough currents,” said our tester. She recommends upgrading to the Reserve area, where a dedicated concierge makes dining reservations, offers pillow and room scent choices, and notes drink preferences for the minibar. A stay at the Reserve also includes a private ocean-view lounge and access to an exclusive beachfront restaurant.
You can do pools your way at Margaritaville Island Reserve Resort Riviera Maya, about 15 miles from Cancun’s airport. Dip into your suite’s plunge pool (floating taco bar optional), or head to the splashy oceanfront public pool for a DJ-led party. This palm-tree-lined resort works just as well for groups of friends as for couples, and it shouldn’t be hard to convince someone to join you for mixology classes, a snorkeling session, a water volleyball game, or a sunset bonfire.
TESTER NOTES: “It was a fun trip from the moment we got a frozen margarita lolly at check-in,” said our tester, who brought his girlfriend. “This is the type of trip you take when all you want to do is relax,” he added. “Our favorite meal was at Landshark Brewery & Grill. They brew beer on-site and then serve it straight from the brewing machines, which was awesome. We also really enjoyed the buffet restaurant, which had shows on some nights.”
If you’ve been prioritizing everyone except yourself, you’re overdue for vacation at StolenTime, a 100-room resort whose slogan is “It’s about time you introduced your body to your mind.” While the heavenly spot on a large beach seems more couple-centric (the rooms sleep two) than girlfriend getaway–oriented, the truth is that all adults will love it here. With everything from holistic spa practices and Ayurvedic treatments like Shirodara to activities such as yoga, archery, and art classes, you can simultaneously grow as a person and get the relaxation you need.
TESTER NOTES: “The food was delicious, and the fitness classes challenged me more than I expected,” said our tester, who visited with a friend. She couldn’t get enough of the striking grounds featuring gorgeous old-growth Caribbean gardens. “In this hurricane-prone part of the world, I can’t remember ever seeing things like 150-year-old trees and lush gardens,” she said. “It’s a really special place if you appreciate flowering plants. I geeked out over the gardens.” She added, “The attention to guests is perfect. Very sweet staff—they learn your preferences, appear to help, and quickly disappear if not needed. They invite you to things but do not pressure you.”
All-Inclusive Beach Resorts for Families
Thank you, Club Med Cancun, for getting it. In a popular vacation spot for families, the property stands out for its creative supervised clubs broken down into five age groups. From flying trapeze lessons for kids 4 and up to teen-only parties, Club Med's activities crack the code for under-18 vacationers being excited about being dropped off for a while. When the gang's all back together, families can enjoy the new themed Splash Park and Mini Pool & Playground.
TESTER NOTES: “Club Med Cancun is on the nicest stretch of beach, integrated so well into the landscape, which is in stark contrast to the buildings everywhere else. The main snorkeling area was just off the shore, so we could access that at no extra charge, while all the other hotels billed it as an excursion," said our tester, a frequent traveler. She added, "The food was exceptional, especially the Mexican items, and I have never seen such an extensive breakfast buffet. The kids repeatedly said that it was the best vacation of their lives.”
Your family will be living the dream at the newly remodeled Dreams Madeira Resort, Spa & Marina on an island about 600 miles away from mainland Portugal, which you can fly to directly from a few East Coast cities or connect to in Lisbon. Buildings, including a working lighthouse with a restaurant, are arranged village-style so you'll really feel the European beach town charm. All rooms are spacious by EU standards, and you can book a townhouse that sleeps up to 10. But with appealing activities and a kids' club, we don't expect you'll be in the room much.
TESTER NOTES: "We had a fantastic European beach trip away from crowds," said our tester, who brought her husband and three young daughters. The family had “incredible experiences all around,” like hiking in a UNESCO forest, going on a dolphin-watching tour, and swimming in a natural pool with marine life. One of the major highlights of their trip was the resort's delicious cuisine. "The food and service were top-notch. My kids tried so many foods for the first time!" Plus, they found the staff "some of the nicest people I've ever met anywhere," noting that "everyone seemed to genuinely love being around kids and enjoy their jobs."
Stylish design meets slime at Nickelodeon Resort Riviera Maya, a kid-friendly property that may take you back to your own childhood. Subtle Nick touches adorn the rooms (which also have a swim-out pool) and it's fun to hunt for them. AquaNick, the resort's incredible water park, unleashes gooey green slime every afternoon and water fun at the splash pad and slides all day long. While many scheduled character meet-and-greets, including a flash-mob, happen daily, randomly bumping into Blue, Chase, or Leonardo is always a delight.
TESTER NOTES: “Our family trip was pure joy from start to finish," said our tester, who visited with her spouse and three children. "Making pizzas with the Ninja Turtles and walking the Orange Carpet were unforgettable moments." She also appreciated that the resort was well-equipped and provided a changing table, baby bath, and stool to make traveling with the littles easier for everyone.
Know what's better than taking a trip with the kids? Inviting the grandparents to come along. At Beaches Resorts, a pair of all-inclusives in Turks & Caicos and Negril, Jamaica, the grands can bask in the youngest generation's joy of meeting Elmo, ordering juice from the kid-size swim-up pool bar, and squealing in the tiny turquoise waves. Oceanfront villas fit large groups—Negril's Firesky Villas are the newest and nicest, but that may change in March when the Turks & Caicos location adds its sixth village, Treasure Beach.
TESTER NOTES: "Even though they're 6 and 9, my kids loved interacting with the Sesame characters around the resort," said our tester, who celebrated her anniversary at the Negril location. "My mother-in-law watched the kids, and we went to the resort's adult-only restaurant. It was very romantic!" Another tester, who vacationed with her baby, spouse, and parents in Turks & Caicos, reported that the resort's beach was the highlight of her trip: "It's one of the most beautiful beaches I've seen, thanks to the supersoft white sand and crystal blue, calm water that feels never-ending."
Families return year after year to four-time winner Coconut Bay Beach Resort & Spa—and it’s not hard to see why. More value-priced than its island counterparts and way closer to the airport, this gem is known for its great food (the jerk chicken spot is a cult fave) and classic kids’ activities. It even has a petting zoo! Pools stay open around the clock for early risers, and well-vetted excursions from the resort will transport you to the island’s famous mud baths.
TESTER NOTES: “We took our 4-year-old once to the kids’ club for two hours, and after that he asked to go back every day,” said our tester, who also complimented the meals and the restaurant staff. “The food was outstanding, much better than at other all-inclusive resorts we’ve stayed at over the years, and the restaurants were so accommodating. One night our son, who likes pasta, wouldn’t eat his spaghetti. Our waiter changed it out for ziti—no problem!”
A family-run resort on the western coast of Jamaica, Bluefields Bay Villas & Suites had been a refuge for weary parents since the 1980s, offering a “vacation nanny” to help entertain kids, a private chef to cook meals, and a housekeeper to do laundry. It was bliss. Although Hurricane Melissa devastated the country in October, the property re-opened in January 2026 and 12% of bookings are dedicated to ongoing community rebuild efforts throughout the region.
TESTER NOTES: “Our vacation nanny jumped right in to make my 18-month-old feel comfortable with her,” said our tester, who visited in summer. “She took him on walks on the property and helped with feeding and getting him ready for naps and bedtime so my husband and I could enjoy some alone time at the pool and beach. I can’t stress enough how much we loved our trip.”
For a middle-of-the-school-year recharge, the year-old Ava Resort Cancun earns an A+. Its eco-friendly saltwater lagoon—nearly the size of three football fields—is a showstopper, and tweens and teens gravitate to the huge inflatable-obstacle course in the middle. Littles zoom down slides and through splash zones at Sunny’s Water Park. A two-story kids’ club offers supervised play and twice-daily family hours during which your whole crew can join in. To boot, all accommodations are ocean-facing with smart TVs, Nespresso machines, and room service. (Have you ever seen the excitement of a kid lifting a silver lid to reveal a grilled cheese?)
TESTER NOTES: “There's so much to love about this resort—the kids’ club setup, the lagoon, the food,” said our tester, a registered dietitian. “Livo was our favorite restaurant, serving fresh Mediterranean dishes. The pop-up taco shop was a highlight for lunch, with tacos made to order right in front of us. Poolside food was a treat too, with creative global flavors beautifully presented.” The entertainment and the activities such as escape rooms, bowling, and magic shows were also a highlight, with our tester finding that there was “truly something for everyone to enjoy.”
Located on one of the island’s most celebrated stretches of sand, the year-old Joia Aruba by Iberostar fills a niche for family travelers. It has the relaxing vibe of an adult-only resort without the age restrictions, so families that include teens as well as grown kids can vacation together. Your crew could easily walk to Eagle Beach, consistently ranked among the world’s best, or take in the turquoise panorama from the resort’s rooftop infinity pool. The property’s three restaurants are rolled into the all-inclusive plan, or you can choose a room-only option that doesn’t include food and drinks.
TESTER NOTES: “This hotel is gorgeous; I loved the modern aesthetic,” said our tester. “The grounds were immaculate and easy to navigate.” She especially enjoyed the resort’s brunch buffet, which had “every food you could think of plus an area where they’d make food by request.”
Beach Villas for Big Groups
No one is going to appreciate the cottage-core vibe of The Dunes on the Waterfront more than your besties. Scattered about 12 acres of farmland overlooking a tidal river that meets the ocean, the 21 newly renovated one- to three-bedroom cottages with green shutters, scalloped tables, farmhouse sinks, and other dreamy features are the perfect spot for friends’ trips. Service is equally delightful: Every morning the staff delivers coffee and fresh baked goods to fuel you for a bike ride (cute bikes are available to borrow) or a kayak trip along the river. Prefer to go to the beach or downtown? They’ll grab the golf cart and drive you there. Just plan ahead: The seasonally operated property reopens in May, with reservations accepted starting in mid-March.
TESTER NOTES: “We enjoyed the on-property heated pool, which was the perfect temperature and had two tubes to float around in,“ said our tester, who visited with friends. “And the yellow umbrellas and seating were so aesthetic.”
Like a home away from home, Marriott’s Newport Coast Villas provide families with a coveted feature while on vacation: space. The two-bedroom rentals, which sleep up to eight guests, each have a kitchen and two full bathrooms, handy for getting out the door quickly and over to the property’s splash pad or pickleball court. Family programming, from scavenger hunts to poolside trivia contests, unfolds all day long. To help you get your beach fix, shuttles run to nearby Crystal Cove State Park.
TESTER NOTES: “We played basketball and football as a family,” said our tester, who brought his kids, 7 and 13. “Set away from the main area so as not to disturb other guests, there’s a great kids’ pool with two large slides and a water park.” Our tester called the vibe “very family-oriented and multigenerational,” noting that even when school was in session, plenty of kids were around.
Whether you’re a party of four or a party of 24, there’s a vacation rental for you at Seabrook, a planned beach town with almost everything you need on the premises. The homes aren’t cookie-cutter: For the 250 or so available to rent, you can use more than a dozen filters on the website to narrow your selection and then view photos of the options so you can be sure you are aligned with the decor of the one you select. Many are near the resort's moody but marvelous beach (note that you’ll need a wetsuit to swim even in August), and most are walkable to the restaurants, shops, and grocery store in the town square. Kids love getting around on bikes, and you’ll see many “parked” outside the arcade and pools.
TESTER NOTES: “Walking along the beach turned out to be our favorite pastime, but we also tremendously enjoyed the indoor pool and the playground with a zip line and swings,” said our tester, who stayed with her family of five in a house called Goat With the Flow.
It sure feels like the Caribbean at this Florida resort. Located on the state’s Gulf Coast, known for powdery white sand and turquoise water, the SanDestin Golf and Beach Resort offers condos, villas, and even a classic hotel. Osprey Point, the newest option, features stylish two- to four-bedroom units that have large kitchens with quartz countertops, marble backsplashes, and high-end appliances. If you don’t feel like cooking, the property’s seven restaurants will have you covered. Golfing is big at this resort, and an 18-hole mini golf course will get the whole family on the green.
TESTER NOTES: “The pool was the highlight of our trip. It wasn’t too crowded, and it was very clean,” said our tester, who stayed in a three-bedroom unit at Osprey Point. She described the resort as beautiful and conveniently located, with no shortage of good food and activities for the family.
East Coast Beach Resorts
An adult-oriented resort in this neck of the woods is hard to come by, but The Sanderling Resort pulls through for couples. Its 123 rooms and suites recently underwent a glow-up for the property's 40th anniversary, and we're swooning over the poster beds, floral pillows, and color palette. And the view? That's as good as ever, since the property sits between the Atlantic Ocean and Currituck Sound on a prime spot of beach.
TESTER NOTES: "Relaxed, timeless, and upscale" is how our tester, who visited with his fiancée, described the resort's vibe, which offered a variety of thoughtfully curated activities. One of the highlights of their trip was their 4x4 beach tour in Corolla, where they saw wild horses up close. "It offered a unique connection to the area's natural history that many resorts don't provide." Other favorites included jet skiing in the sound to enjoy coastal scenery and a relaxing couple's massage. "The combination of a peaceful spa and exciting water-based activities allowed us to tailor our weekend exactly to what we wanted, both rest and adventure," he said. Food-wise, on-property restaurants were delicious, especially Theodosia. "It felt like each dining experience was unique, but consistently high-quality."
The kids have it made at The Boca Raton, an iconic, glamorous resort that feels perfectly comfortable with your tot's sippy cups and sand buckets. The best proof is at the Harborside Pool Club, where a giant pirate ship–themed splash pad is flanked by a row of kid-only cabanas themed after some favorite interests, from princesses to cooking. Poolside ice cream here gets an upgrade with "tackle boxes" full of toppings that kids can use to make their own creation. The Beach Club, one of the five hotels within the property, was renovated less than a year ago.
TESTER NOTES: "I've rarely seen a luxury hotel so comfortable with having kids on property," said our tester, a travel editor and mom. "The kids are treated like VIPs!" She suggests that families stay at The Tower, the hotel closest to the Harborside Pool Club, noting that it was renovated in 2022 and still gleams.
With a lagoon-style pool that stays open late, afternoon ice pops, and some bunk-bed rooms, Margaritaville Beach House puts a family twist on the brand's vibe. Most guests bring kids or teens and spend the day at Smathers Beach—it's the largest one in Key West and just across the street from the resort. Or they hop on the free resort shuttle to Old Town, the historic district on the western half of the island, where the Key West Aquarium is located. At night, many families return for dinner and plunge in the pool before they do it all over again tomorrow.
TESTER NOTES: "We enjoyed lounging at the pool, especially after dinner once it was cooler," said our tester, who brought her 15-year-old. "We also had fun playing cornhole on our walks back and forth to the pool and on-site restaurant." She added that the resort's game room was nice to have during rainy weather.
If you're a sit by the beach eating ice cream sandwiches kind of family, get yourself to The Ritz-Carlton, Sarasota's private club for sand-seekers that's a three-mile shuttle ride from the property's home in the cultural district. Forget about fighting for a lounger there: On the prime stretch of white-sand beach, comfy seating and ice cream sammies are aplenty. For kids who prefer pools, the club has one of those too, plus locker rooms with showers, hair dryers, and beauty products so you can leave all the sand behind.
TESTER NOTES: "For being such a luxury resort, we were worried it would not be kid-friendly. My kids were welcomed with open arms, and they had the time of their lives," said our tester, who highly recommends having dinner at Jack Dusty and upgrading your room to club level so you can access the lounge with "amazing wines on tap, plus great coffees, cookies, and other snacks."
West Coast Beach Resorts
Perched atop a bluff overlooking the Pacific Ocean mid-way between San Diego and Los Angeles, the Victorian-inspired Laguna Cliffs Marriott Resort & Spa caters to all types of travelers, but families and foodies especially will be in their happy place. For kiddos, it all starts at the check-in desk, where they can pick up a scavenger hunt kit and a whale-shaped water toy (the area is known as the whale-watching capital of the world). The super sleuths will be sure to spot the splash zone, with its surf board water pop-up, and may even join one of the kids’ camp activities, such as relay races. While the resort has only one sit-down restaurant, Lantern’s Edge, you’ll want to eat every meal there.
TESTER NOTES: “Lantern’s Edge was one of the best fine-dining family meals we have experienced, while traveling or at home,” said our tester, a food editor who vacationed with her wife and two children. “The breakfasts were also terrific; we had both à la carte options and the buffet. Everything was reasonably portioned and well presented, with touches like ubé and mochi.”
After a fun-filled, lively day at Legoland California, there’s no better spot to decompress than The Westin Carlsbad Resort & Spa. You’ll feel as if you’re stepping into a serene oasis as you pass through the resort's coveted private entrance to the park. We highly recommend taking the free resort shuttle one day to lifeguarded Tamarack State Beach, a local favorite that usually has gentle waves and offers restrooms and rinse-off spots.
TESTER NOTES: “We loved the various courtyards of the Westin, along with the pool, the cozy couches, the firepits, and other relaxing spots. They felt distinctly Southern California,” said our tester. “It was great being able to dine by the pool, soak in the hot tubs, and watch the kids play. The overall ambiance of the hotel made the entire experience feel like a genuine treat.”
Hello, Haystack Rock! The iconic formation sits outside the recently renovated Surfsand Resort. Grab a cup of coffee from the lobby and head out during the morning’s low tide—the sea stars and other marine life hugging the rocks will be most visible then. Families and couples get equal treatment at Surfsand: Kids dig using the lobby’s claw machine to grab a piece of taffy and enthusiastically join in on daily sand dollar searches, while adults lean into the local beer tastings and hot tubs. And the cookies served every afternoon are loved by all.
TESTER NOTES: "You can book a hotel package that includes a bonfire on the beach at night right down from the iconic rock. It was the highlight of our trip,” said our tester. “They set up wood, lit it on fire, and gave us fixings for s’mores.” She also loved the view of Haystack Rock from the property’s Wayfarers Restaurant, which serves an impressive crab bake.
You may or may not go to the beach at this newish So Cal hotel, but you’ll likely have an ocean view. More than 90% of Vea Newport Beach’s stylish rooms and suites (including a very merry holiday-themed one) face the water. Guests can hop in a free shuttle to nearby Newport Beach, but many traveling without kids soak up the pool vibes at the hotel, especially the spa’s adult-only saltwater option. Art installations in common spaces and the View restaurant also elevate the hotel experience.
TESTER NOTES: “The hotel's gym and spa were standouts,” said our tester. “Though I visited with my family, most resort guests in the fall seemed to be young professionals. But it is family-friendly—I think it would be a great place to take teens and young adults. It has a hip vibe that resonates with Gen Z.”
Hawaiian Beach Resorts
Hang 10 or hang out? Families can do both at the Sheraton Waikiki Beach Resort, in a prime spot on the famous strip of lifeguarded beach. While the waves in front of the hotel are usually gentle, nearby swells attract surfers. The resort offers beginner surfing lessons and a slew of other quintessential Hawaiian classes such as hula and lei making. Beautifully decorated two-bedroom Ohana suites that sleep six are game hangers for families with three or more kids.
TESTER NOTES: “You could make the case that this hotel has the single best location in Oahu for families,” said our tester, who surfed with his wife and three kids. “One day we had a cabana near the pool with stunning ocean views. We rotated between surfing, the shady cabana. and chilling out in the hot tubs and Helumoa Playground Pool.” Our tester also raved about the resort’s large lobby, where his family played pool and grabbed a snack after dinner: “The vibe was epic.”
Once a spot that was almost exclusively family-focused, the Wailea Beach Resort now appeals to adult travelers as well. The Olakino Wellness Pool Experience for guests 18 and older pampers with micro-spa services (think short massages and cooling masks), chef-curated healthy bites, and a saline infinity pool with in-water chaises overlooking the Pacific Ocean. Stay in the uber-romantic new Sundeck Garden Oasis room, with a roomy lanai plus an outdoor bathtub and a firepit with comfy seating.
TESTER NOTES: Our tester and her partner tried the wellness pool experience: “We had an incredible head-and-shoulder massage with a gorgeous view of the infinity pool and ocean,” she said. “Throughout the day, we were offered face masks and snacks like mini acai bowls and fresh fruit cups.” The resort’s luau was another trip highlight, thanks to its “entertaining performances” that our tester said were among the most beautiful she had ever seen.
Your crew won’t have to rush to get back to the Grand Hyatt Kauai Resort & Spa to swim, because its pools never close. But this property on the lushest of all the Hawaiian islands does turn off the lights at night to help light-sensitive local birds. The result: Swimming under the stars becomes a thing, and it’s absolutely magical for couples and families with teens. By day or at night, you can explore long, winding lazy river sections with twists and turns and little waterfalls with grottos. Then rest easy in modern, spacious rooms or suites conducive to traveling with three generations.
TESTER NOTES: “From the luau to nighttime swimming, our entire trip to the Grand Hyatt Kauai was a highlight reel of great experiences and great hospitality,” said our tester. His family of five surfed the wave breaks in front of the resort, but he noted, “Just a mile away from the hotel, there is a string of famous beaches that have calm waters and fun waves for families plus lots of sea turtles.”
You don’t have to choose between a beach and a city vibe at Moana Surfrider—simply walk from the front door to the back. The resort’s grand entrance, on one of Oahu’s busy streets, puts you in the heart of shopping and dining, but exit out the back and you’re in Waikiki beach paradise, with oceanfront restaurants and a porch with rocking chairs that remind you that this beauty of a hotel will be 125 years old next year. Just in time for its birthday celebration, newly renovated Tower rooms, many with stunning views of the ocean and Diamond Head, have all-ages appeal.
TESTER NOTES: “The Moana Surfrider is perfectly positioned right between one of the most legendary surfing beaches in the world and the heart of Waikiki,” said our tester. Still, you’ll want to remain on property for at least some meals: “We also enjoyed an incredible four-course meal at The Beachhouse at the Moana,” our tester added. “I would like to have its Pistachio Raspberry Tart again right now! So delicious!”
The newly renovated Hyatt Regency Maui Resort and Spa leaves families starstruck, and not just because of its rooftop Tour of the Stars program, led by an astronomer using a high-powered telescope. A longtime favorite of families, the resort does a great job showcasing all the Hawaii-centric activities you’ll want to do (make a lei, take in a luau) and some you didn’t know were possible (like chatting it up with the lobby’s tropical birds). The incredible pool complex more than makes up for the fact that the resort’s beach is pretty narrow. Venture off the property one day to Oneuli Beach in Kihei to see what no major resort on the island has—black sand.
TESTER NOTES: “Our favorite restaurant was Japengo, with its large, spread-out seating area," said our tester, who was celebrating his anniversary with his wife and kids. “Besides having great food, it’s the perfect place for sunset pictures.” Our tester, who dabbles in golf, also enjoyed the hotel’s YoMaui Golf experience: “The clarity of the simulator made me feel like I was right on the golf course!”
International Beach Resorts
The Curaçao Marriott Beach Resort promises a spectacular getaway for virtually every type of traveler, and we’re convinced. From high-octane water sports and dive excursions to relaxing spa treatments and private beach yoga, the resort boasts a remarkable range of activities that deliver epic thrills. The complimentary Green Turtle Kids Club rises to the occasion to help tiny tourists make vacation friends they might also hang out with later at the kids’ pool and beach.
TESTER NOTES: “The resort’s beach was definitely the highlight of our trip! It was absolutely stunning,” said our tester, who brought a friend. “There was virtually no seaweed, the water was vibrantly turquoise, and the sand was powdery soft and so bright. It was rarely crowded.” She also reported that their scuba diving experience at the resort was fantastic: "“We were able to go straight from sunbathing to our excursion with zero travel time. My friend and I had never been scuba diving, but we were immediately put at ease. The reef was filled with fish!”
After zipping around the Yucatán Peninsula all day to explore the Mayan ruins, you’ll want to return to a peaceful spot where you can cool off in the water and have one of the best meals of your life—and that’s Conrad Tulum Riviera Maya. Autor, a Michelin-guide restaurant right on the property, wows taste buds with its four-course tasting menu, which includes a vegetarian version. The spa, with a lounge designed like a cenote, leans into Mayan influences and local touches: For instance, it creates its own scrubs using herbs grown on the property.
TESTER NOTES: “As you pull up to the property, you’re greeted by lush foliage and beautiful ocean views. There are multiple pools, all with ocean views as the backdrop, surrounded by comfortable daybeds and lounge chairs,” said our tester. “Every room has a private soaking tub outside on the balcony, and my boyfriend and I loved spending our evenings in ours.”
The top reason to go to Alaia Belize, which is likely to be two plane rides away: the Belize Barrier Reef Reserve, the largest in the Northern Hemisphere. Just 600 yards from the resort, the reef is why snorkeling, scuba diving, and cave-tubing here are off the charts. An on-site shop makes it easy to nab the gear you need, and a concierge service will whisk you to a “secret beach.” Couples looking for a romantic getaway will have the best time here, though the resort is open to all ages. If you mostly plan to eat at the resort’s six restaurants rather than in San Pedro, look into the all-inclusive plan, available for stays of four nights or longer.
TESTER NOTES: “This was the greatest trip my husband and I have ever taken,” said our tester. “The snorkeling is the absolute best, and the cave tube tour/zip lining was exhilarating.” They also enjoyed the adult-only infinity pool.
Thrills run deep at Atlantis, one of the largest resorts in the world. Between its water park and its marine life center, your crew can tube into white-water rapids, slide through a shark-filled lagoon, and high-five a bottlenose dolphin all on the same day. The kids’ and teens’ clubs are next-level, with a cooking studio, a floor-to-ceiling gaming tree, and dance parties. With 40 restaurants and three Michelin-starred chefs, expect your taste buds to be thrilled too.
TESTER NOTES: Atlantis has five towers, and our tester stayed with her family at The Reef. “We used the kitchenette for breakfast each morning, and having the beach and pool access so close was lovely,” she said. She also highly recommends booking the dolphin experience. "My 6-year-old was especially enamored with our sweet dolphin, Electra,” said our tester. “Electra made sounds at us, waved, and even gave kisses and high-fives. The feel of my hand hitting the dolphin fin is not something I will soon forget!”
You can always count on W hotels for fun vibes, and this location in Punta Mita (about an hour from Puerto Vallarta) expertly blends surf culture and local artistry. A ceviche bar in a vintage Chevy truck is just one unique touch; there’s also a 460-foot-long “Camino Huichol” walkway, a mosaic made of over 3 million bright blue and green tiles. While W Punta de Mita appeals mostly to couples, families with tweens and teens won’t feel out of place, and you could argue that the resort’s family pool one-ups the adult-only option.
TESTER NOTES: Finding this the perfect place for someone looking to unwind or get away, our tester and her college-age son enjoyed the natural beauty and the food at the resort most. “Our dinner at Rubra was amazing,” said our tester. “The menu incorporates fresh native ingredients in unique ways and serves them on locally crafted plates.” Her son also enjoyed his first surf lesson at the resort, calling it “top-notch.”
A private island resort in the heart of the Great Barrier Reef will sweep you off your feet from the moment you arrive by boat or helicopter from the closest airport in Hamilton Island (about a 2 1/2-hour flight from Sydney). Colorful coral gardens teaming with tropical fish surround InterContinental Hayman Great Barrier Reef. Guests can also enjoy helicopter flights over iconic landmarks like the Heart Reef (a heart-shaped coral formation) alongside a wide range of water activities like guided jet ski tours, snorkeling in secluded coves, and glass-bottomed-boat reef explorations. Though the 75-year-old property does have some activities for children and families, couples are its main focus. Its annual Stay with Pride package celebrates the LGBTQ+ community.
TESTER NOTES: “It’s an authentic slice of Australian paradise,” said our testers, an Australian couple. “From the moment you arrive, you’re surrounded by lush, tropical beauty that feels both pristine and purposefully designed. It’s a beautifully secluded destination for those wanting to recharge, connect with nature, and enjoy quality food and wine in a relaxed, scenic setting.”
On a 15-mile coastline that’s as buzzy for both its biodiversity and its A-list vacationers, the Andaz Peninsula Papagayo makes family getaways smooth sailing. Cold towels and coconut water await you in the open-air lobby before you hop on a golf cart to your room or multi-bedroom villa. There’ll be no roughing it here. Two beaches provide quick excitement: You’ll spy crabs and turtles at the on-property beach and then take a short boat ride to the new beach club, where you can sit in a thatched cabana and be serenaded by howler monkeys. When you’re ready for a break, drop off kids ages 4 to 11 at the complimentary supervised club, which is focused on creativity.
TESTER NOTES: “The activities were exceptional,” said our tester, who visited with her family. “My husband and daughters especially enjoyed their surf lesson, where they caught warm water waves while the monkeys frolicked on the shore, watching.” Overall, she described it as “a truly incredible experience” and appreciated the free water sports and snorkeling gear.
An easy escape from the East Coast, the Westin Grand Cayman Seven Mile Beach Resort & Spa puts you in the heart of the island’s best stretch of sand. The turquoise water is so clear there that it looks like the color in the pool next to the beach! The waves give the right amount of joy for littles and make it a perfect place for guests of all ages to try stand-up paddleboarding, which is free. The island’s famous Stingray City is just a short boat ride away.
TESTER NOTES: “My favorite restaurant at the resort was The Beach House,” said our tester. “It offers a Toes in the Sand option where they set out a table on the beach and serve you dinner there. It was a great experience.”Though the resort is kid-friendly, it draws more couples outside of holiday periods.
Once you're at Joali Maldives, you’re completely surrounded by the Indian Ocean with nowhere else to go—and it’s bliss. The 5-year-old property, which bills itself as the first “art-immersive resort,” is as stunning as the surroundings. Staying in thatched-roof overwater bungalows, dining in a manta-shaped treehouse, and taking one-on-one ceramic classes at the island's art house adds up to a memorable mother-daughter trip, but the whole family and even couples will want in on this experience too. To get there, you’ll take a 50-minute journey on a seaplane from the capital, Malé.
TESTER NOTES: “Our overwater bungalow was absolutely spectacular!” said our tester, who visited with her teen daughter. “The furnishings were modern, chic, and functional. The details were unmatched. The headboards were made with coconut shells, and the ceiling fan was shaped like the gorgeous flowers that were peppered throughout the property.”
Affectionately nicknamed “The Pink Palace,” The Hamilton Princess Hotel & Beach Club, with its cotton candy hue, is a sweet pick for families and couples who want an elevated yet easygoing visit to Bermuda, less than a three-hour flight from many East Coast cities. More than 100 of the 380-plus rooms in the landmark property received a glow-up this year and were converted to roomier suites. (Stay in the Bermudiana Wing for a remodeled room.) But honestly, don’t expect to be inside much, as the infinity pool and the pink-sand beach will be far too enticing.
TESTER NOTES: A shuttle whisks you from the property to a private beach club, home to two ocean pools with a private cove and a floating platform and hammocks. “The club was so relaxing,” our tester said. “You could sit there for hours enjoying food, drinks, and the ocean view.” If you do want to get off the property, our tester noted that the town is just a five-minute walk away.
