Worldwide Family Destinations For Your 2019 Vacation

Discover some of the most exciting and undiscovered spots around the globe!

Sick of the same old holiday destinations? Looking to encourage the adventurous spirit in your family? Sassy Mama has you covered with some of the most unique, less touristy, off the beaten track, and unconventional worldwide family destinations to book for your next vacation. Get out there and explore some of most the diverse cultures and natural wonders of our planet!

These family holidays are not only great for the kiddies and teenagers, but for parents as well. We have thought of everything from stunning beaches, caves and waterfalls, to nature immersed hikes and expeditions. There are adventures to be had all over the globe so let the booking begin!

Read more: Travel Tips: How To Help Babies And Toddlers Overcome Jet Lag

There is no doubt about it, Bali is an amazing place to visit, but there is so much more to see in Indonesia. Now is the time to try something new if you have already visited beautiful Bali. Whether you have time to select multiple destinations or choose to focus on one spot, Indonesia offers up gorgeous beaches, volcanoes and island hopping, all ready for you to explore.

Places to visit and what to do:

First stop, Java, which is home to volcano Mount Bromo. With unforgettable sights at sunrise, it is worth getting the kids up early to hike to the vantage point. If little legs aren’t quite up for the challenge, there are also easier hikes (which are just as beautiful) around the Gunung Bromo area.

Stroll the hidden paradise islands of Karimunjawa and get snorkelling in the crystal clear waters of the Java Sea. The kids might even find Nemo! Be sure to check out the amazing UNESCO attractions Borobudur and Prambanan near Yogyakarta, for some truly breath-taking temples and cultural history. Learning and travel really do go hand in hand.

To check out some captivating wildlife head over to Komodo National Park, and get up close and personal with the famous Komodo dragons in the area.

Next stop, Nusa Islands. These islands are a little taste of paradise made for beach strolls and diving. Head to Nusa Lembongan, Nusa Penida, or the more remote and less frequently visited Nusa Ceningan for plenty of surfing, diving, snorkelling, and hiking adventures. Or, simply relax and spend some quiet time away from the hustle and bustle of the tourist areas.

While in Nusa Penida some sights to check out are the Tembeling Forest, the Goa Giri Putri cave, Atuh Beach, and Broken Sea beaches. In Nusa Lembongan take the kids on a bicycle ride around Dream Beach and head over to Tanjung Benoa or Geger Beach.

Last stop, the Gili islands. Composed of more than 30 islands around Lombok, the most popular of the bunch are Gili Trawangan, Gili Air, and Gili Meno. Make sure to get in some beach time and snorkelling on these turquoise islands.

Best time to visit:

May and September, but don’t let the rain stop you during the wet season.

Read more: Stopover Series: 72 Hours In Uluwatu, Bali

Thinking of an unconventional and adventurous family holiday? Then head over to Oman. Sitting on the south-eastern coast of the Arabian Peninsula, this enchanting country is known for its sand dunes, beaches and luxurious accommodation.

Places to visit and what to do:

Oman has a range of activities for your family to enjoy from wildlife spotting to camping, sandboarding to sunset camel safaris. The famous sand dunes, Wahiba Sands, will take your breath away. Watch turtles nesting (including the endangered green turtles) from June to September at The Ras Al Jinz Turtle Reserve.

Visit Salalah’s beautiful city, banana plantations, and dolphin-filled beaches. Looking for some water adventure? Head to Fins Beach, then take a road trip down to the Musandam Peninsula or check out Wadi Shab for some cave swimming. Indulge in luxury accommodation and city life in the old town Nizwa, as well as Muscat and Musandam.

Best time to visit:

Avoid the hot summer months from June to August, any other time is suitable to visit. In October to April, you’ll get the best weather.

Laos must be one of the most beautiful countries in Asia. Yet it is often overlooked as a vacation spot. Beaming with beauty, culture, and adventure, this jungle destination has plenty of exploration opportunities to let the kids be truly immersed in nature. Enjoy trekking through the lush jungle mountains then cool yourself off in surreal turquoise waterfalls and caves. When in Laos, you must take in the local culture and history by strolling through the temples and villages.

Places to visit and what to do:

First, head over to the wonderous UNESCO World Heritage city of Luang Prabang. This ancient capital lies on the convergence of the Mekong and Nam Khan Rivers. Take the kids on trekking and hiking adventures and explore the ethnic diversity of Laos, visit local villages and listen to their stories. You’ll learn the traditional ways of life of the local Khmu people residing in the Hmong villages.

Kayak the Nam Ou River and visit Kuang Si Falls which is a large cascade of pale turquoise blue waterfalls trailing from the lush jungle. Bring along a picnic and relax and swim with your family by the waterfalls. You can also visit the famous Buddha Park or zip line through The Nam Kan National Park while you spot the famous gibbons of Indochina.

Best time to visit:

The best time to go is from October to April. For river visits, head over in November to January when high water levels make cruising easy.

Read more: Stopover Series: 72 Hours in Luang Prabang, Laos

Looking for some amazing animal adventures and safari expeditions? Then look no further than East Africa.

Places to visit and what to do:

Kenya is a definite must visit! You can find a wide range of Africa’s greatest wildlife at Maasai Mara Animal Reserve and Mara North Conservancy. See the Big Five and the annual migrations through different activities such as air balloon, helicopter, walking, or customised vehicle safaris. Other parks to look into are Kenya Wildlife Service and Amboseli National Park.

After your safari adventures, head over to the white sand beaches of the Indian Ocean. Galu Beach and Diani Beach are both extremely tranquil destinations and part of Kenya’s very own “Maldives” paradise. Hike or bike the holy forests and sacred lands north of Mombasa called the Lamu Archipelago. Next stop Nairobi to enjoy breakfast with giraffes at the very instagrammable Giraffe Manor or take a guided walk to the AFEW Giraffe Centre.

Still haven’t had enough of the wildlife? Head over to Kenya’s neighbour Tanzania and visit Serengeti National Park and Ngorongoro Conservation Area to enjoy walking safaris, visit the famous Ngorongoro crater, bird watch and get a glimpse of the famous flamingos. Visit Tarangire Tanzania which is habitat to wildlife such as zebras, elephants, wildebeests, buffalos, impalas, rhinos, giraffes and a wide range of bird species. Tarangire Tanzania also brings you a glimpse of the Maasai culture and tribe.

Best time to visit:

The best wildlife viewing months in Kenya and Tanzania are during the dry season from late June to October.

Read more: Ethical Animal Tourism: Family-Friendly Safaris And Sanctuaries Worth Visiting

Ancient civilisations, mountain peaks, lush jungles and barren deserts, if you are going to visit South America, Peru and Ecuador sure do pack a lot into two small countries!

Places to visit and what to do:

Fly into Cusco and check out the famous Inca citadel at Machu Picchu. This has become one of the most popular places to visit on earth, so much so that visitor numbers are limited per day. Explore the sights of the ruins and hike Huayna Picchu for a different angle of the ruins. Be sure to stop by Vinicunca to view the famous and picturesque rainbow mountains (about a two-hour drive from Cusco and a walk of about 5 kilometres).

After visiting Peru make your way to the Galápagos Islands. This is a once in a lifetime destination! Give the kids a first-hand science lesson in the place where Darwin discovered his theory of evolution. A volcanic archipelago in the Pacific Ocean off the coast of Ecuador, these islands are incredibly special and brimming with wildlife-viewing such as iguanas, tortoises, and cormorants.

Visit the Galápagos Safari Camp and arrange walking safaris, boat cruises and snorkelling trips. They even provide specially arranged activities for the kids.

We also recommend hiking to the Sierra Negra Volcano rim located on Isabela Island and checking out Santiago Island. While in Santiago Island visit Bartolome Island Pinnacle Rock, snorkel red-tinged islet Rabida Island – snorkel and hang out with sea lions at Sombrero Chino, Mosquera Island and Puerto Egas.

Best time to visit:

Peru: May to September is the driest season. If you wish to visit in a warmer climate, December to March is the time to go, however, be warned it is the wet season.

Galápagos Ecuador: The best time to visit is during the warmer months from December to June. Think calm seas and good underwater visibility, with short rain showers.

Hawaii has it all! There are chill surf towns, beaches, snorkelling, scenic hikes, waterfalls, lush green scenery and hidden beauty around every corner. If you are looking for a beach holiday then look no further.

Places to visit and what to do:

Check in to Maui, and visit the Waianapanapa State Park which has a ton of activities and places to see. You’ll want to make sure you make time for Honokaliani Beach, Pailoa Beach and all the famous black-sand beaches. There are also plenty of glistening freshwater caves to explore as well. Be sure to hike the Kipapa O Kihapiilani Trail and the Kings Highway Trail for some epic natural beauty and scenic sites.

Hawaii has plenty of National parks just waiting for you to explore. Visit the sacred sites in the Pu`uhonua o Hōnaunau National Historical Park or the Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park. The latter displays the results of at least 70 million years of volcanism as well as the summits of two of the world’s most active volcanoes, Kīlauea and Mauna Loa.

South Kona’s calm and clear waters are perfect for snorkelling, diving, sailing and spotting dolphins and green sea turtles. Head over to Kauai, “the Garden Isle” aka the tropical rainforest of Hawaii. Don’t miss Lumahai Beach and Kee Beach. Canoe and explore the Hanalei River into Hanalei Bay where you can get in on some more sea turtle snorkelling.

Lastly, make your way to the “Heart of Hawaii”, Oahu. Here you can enjoy hiking, snorkelling, boat trips, and laid back surf towns of the North Shore. Sunset Beach is definitely a highlight of Oahu. This beautiful surfing mecca should not be missed after you make your rounds at Waimea Bay and the Banzai Pipeline.

Best time to visit:

The best months to visit Oahu and Maui are April, May, September and October for great weather and fewer crowds.

Who hasn’t dreamed of seeing the postcard-perfect Greek Islands for themselves? It is a destination that has to be seen to be believed.

Places to visit and what to do:

Fly into Athens and head over to Kea, a small quiet island in the Cyclades archipelago. Kea is perfect if you want to trade in the main tourist area and exchange the crowds for secluded coves and ancient ruins. This is the best-kept secret on the island! After just a few hours by boat and you arrive in Serifos Island, a charming and elegant place rich with history and a true Cycladic feel. Enjoy outdoor activities like hiking, climbing, mountain biking, and diving.

From there head over to the famous and beautiful Mykonos. Be sure to check out the islands Rinia and Delos for some boating and snorkelling adventures and also enjoy Psarou Beach for some fun under the sun!

In Paros, you will find ancient and medieval ruins and monuments, as well as the well-known white sugar cube towns and villages. There are plenty of bars and cafes to enjoy with the family. While you are in the area check out the quaint but lively fishing village of Parikia, just a 20-minute drive from Naousa, the capital of Paros.

Next stop Naxos, a fabulous and fascinating island only 20 minutes by boat from Paros. Check out the many great beaches on this large island. Our favourite is the lovely and calm St. George beach which is great for families (not to mention there are a number of excellent tavernas right on the sand!). Take a day to sail to Rina Cave and Kalados Bay where you will be introduced to more pristine and secluded beaches.

Finish up in the famous capital of Syros, Hermoupolis. Here you can stay and entertain your family in the romantic towns which make you feel like you are in ancient Greece.

Best time to visit:

Visit from April through to early November for lots of sunny weather. Be warned July and August are the hottest months so pack a sun hat and lotion!

Croatia may have gained in popularity over recent years, but it still makes our list for the amazing adventures that can be had on the Adriatic Sea. Plan on visiting the historical sites of the city and take in the unique architecture. It has some of the most beautiful coasts and beaches to visit as well.

Places to visit and what to do:

A must do is the Palace of Diocletian, a UNESCO World Heritage site in Split. Then make your way to Korčula Island where you can relax and swim in the quiet coves. Dubrovnik and Southern Dalmatia are popular spots among tourists but, if you are looking to skip the crowds, head over to Istria instead.

As you sail along the coast, visit beaches like Lubenice on the island of Cres, Bol on Brac island, the islands of the Kornati National Park and Stiniva Cove on Vis island.

Spend a day kayaking and exploring the wooded islands, white pebble beaches, and lush inlets of Croatia’s stunning coast and the beaches of the Makarska Riviera.

Take a day trip to the cascading waterfalls of Krka National Park, or take in the lakes, waterfalls, and forests of Plitvice Lakes National Park. You could also swim in the saltwater of the island forest Lokrum. 

Best time to visit:

The best time to visit Croatia is during the months of May, June, September and October.

The incredible landscape of Patagonia is perfect for kids with a love for exploration and wonder. Patagonia offers many adventures and natural beauty as you experience the glaciers and fjords. This a great spot to get active, hiking and kayaking amidst snow-capped mountain peaks.

Places to visit and what to do:

Fly into Buenos Aires and soak in the Argentinian culture and explore all the city has to offer. Check out a live tango show, hang out by the river in Tigre, or visit San Telmo – the oldest neighbourhood in Buenos Aires.

Visit the national parks around the country including El Calafate National Park and Torres del Paine National Park where you can enjoy trekking, guided tours, kayaking, and fishing. Stay in an eco-friendly yurt immersed in nature. There are great opportunities at Patagonia Camp or Eco Camp in Torres del Paine National Park. We highly recommend horseback riding throughout the terrain with some of the local tour operators. These tours take you to the wild corners with the best outlooks of Patagonia and Chile. An unforgettable experience you don’t want to miss! 

Best time to visit:

The best time to go is from November to March during the summer months.

More and more families are choosing to visit this remote location in search of an Arctic eco-adventure.

Places to visit and what to do:

Greenland is ready and waiting for your family. Get out and about kayaking among the icebergs and fjords, viewing the Northern Lights at Northeast Greenland’s National Park, while staying at eco-conscious campsites.

Visit Tasiilaq for the bright coloured houses around King Oscar’s Bay. There are great photo opportunities as they’re surrounded by pointed peaks iced with glaciers. The town has a ton of outdoor adventures including hiking, kayaking, hot springs and whale watching.

Explore the landscape on snowshoes, arrange a skiing tour or let loose on the snowmobiles. You can also arrange boat tours, biking adventures and scuba diving on your trip. Hike into the Valley of Flowers and visit the second largest ice sheet on the planet, Sermilik Fjord. Don’t forget the people! Immerse yourself in the Greenlandic culture and meet the locals. Visit in the middle of summer to experience the spectacular “Midnight Sun” phenomenon where the sun is visible for one perpetual day.

For eco-conscious accommodation book your stay at the Natural Habitat’s Base Camp facilities.

Best time to visit:

From June to September, the days are long and bright. The northern lights occur all year round, except the summer months.

Costa Rica

Costa Rica is a wonderful rainforest vacation to book for the family. We recommend heading to Puerto Viejo, Limon where you can enjoy the beautiful beaches of Playa Cocles, Playa Chiquita, Playa Blanca, Playa Negra and Vargas.

Visit wildlife refuges, water raft on The Rio Pacuare, snorkel, and kayak. Also, tour the rainforest and reefs of Osa Peninsular and national parks including Corcovado National Park, Piedras Blancas National Park and Manuel Antonio National Park. Head over to Guanacaste Province and check out Monteverde, Tamarindo beach and Captain Island, as well as the Palo Verde National Park.

Cape Town, South Africa

Cape Town has always been a popular family destination and we couldn’t agree more! It is packed full of activities the entire family will enjoy. Stroll the colourful Muizenberg Beach and check out the artistic vibe and surf culture. Visit the Table Mountain taking in Cape Peninsula. Hang out at Noordhoek Beach and visit Boulders Beach, home to 3,000 African penguins. Visit The Cape of Good Hope Nature Reserve and the West Coast National Park for some more wildlife adventures. If you can manage some adults-only time (or have patient kids), a visit to the wineries of Stellenbosch and Franschhoek are a must!

Israel

Israel offers your family a range of different and unique experiences. Take in the history and culture visiting the well-known archaeological ruins of Roman amphitheatres, mosques and synagogues. Be sure to stop by Telavi and visit the Neve Tzedek District as well as the Dead Sea. Take a hike along the water at the Ein Gedi, Banias, Yehudiya and Majrase Nature Reserves.

Read more: Five Days In Finland: A Family-Friendly Itinerary To Helsinki, Lapland And More