Five Out of this World Family Friendly Beach Holiday Stays

Beach, beach, beach!

Stock up on snorkels and fish out that bucket and spade: when it comes to getaways with children, a beach holiday can be hard to beat. The travel experts at Smith & Family have trawled Asia’s coastlines for five out-of-this-world family-friendly stays.

Soneva Kiri – Koh Kood, Thailand

Set amid palm-fringed hills around a secluded bay, Soneva Kiri is the very model of a genial island paradise. Tucked away in luxuriant foliage along the coastline, the resort’s breathtaking villas each have their own large private pool. Everything here – from the manta-ray-shaped kids club to the help-yourself ice-cream and chocolate bars – has been designed for happy tots. That’s not to say grown-ups aren’t in for a treat: the sensuous spa, tree pod dining and private butlers make for an indulgent getaway.

Smith extra One dinner (excluding drinks), either at the View or Benz’s.

Karma Kandara – Bali, Indonesia

A cool coastal hideaway on the rugged Bukit Peninsula, Karma Kendara is perched above the dazzling Indian Ocean. Its thatch-roofed whitewashed villas are designed for family life; each has a private plunge pool and indoor-outdoor bathroom to make the most of Bali’s balmy climate. With a two-level infinity pool, private beach and protected reef-fringed lagoon for safe snorkelling and splashing, there’s plenty to thrill water lovers of all ages.

Smith extra A mocktail making class with the resident mixologist for Smith juniors (aka your little misters and misses).

Nihiwatu – Sumba, Indonesia

Above a stretch of wild and unspoilt Sumbanese coast, Nihiwatu feels on the edge of a world. Unplug and unwind at this off-the-beaten-path retreat: there are surf breaks to tackle, rock pools to explore and freshly-hatched turtles to guide to the sea. That’s not to say the resort is without creature comforts: take a jungle safari to the secluded spa, sample Indonesian family feasts rustled up from the island’s fresh organic produce and line-caught fish, and luxuriate in rustic-chic villas with their own private pool.

Smith extra A family outing by open-top jeep to swim at Lapopu waterfall.

Six Senses Con Dao, Vietnam

Set on its own sprawling beach with views of evergreen forests and jungle-clad islands dotting the azure sea, this barefoot-luxe resort makes a laid-back escape for the whole family. Banish cries of ‘I’m bored’ with a kids club, water sports, pizza-making classes and camping under the stars. Staff will happily arrange a diving trip, squid-fishing session or windsurfing class for thrill seekers. The more sedate may prefer a gentle wallow in the curvaceous pool or a tension-busting treatment from the child-friendly spa.

Smith extra Adults get a half-hour foot massage or body scrub for two; children are treated to a pizza making class and a cupcake making class.

Mia Resort – Nah Trang, Vietnam

This seafront resort may not have a crèche or kids club, but it doesn’t need one: kids can roam around in hectares of green gardens, gambol on the glorious beach and kick up their heels in the calm shallows. While tots decorate cupcakes and raid the fancy-dress box, frazzled parents can unwind with mud wraps and hot-stone massages in the peaceful spa. Sunbathing and sea-frolicking can be hungry work: savour succulent seafood and refreshing fruity drinks at the excellent beachside restaurant.

Smith extra One free high tea in Mojito’s from 3pm–5pm for two adults and up to two under-12s. Teens get a free manicure or pedicure at Xanh Spa.

Smith & Family gives you the best price, guaranteed, as well as a little something extra on arrival. Book online at smithandfamily.com, or call the Smith24 team toll-free on 800 905 32.