Big City Adventures
Beach Vacations
Our favorite beach getaways
Big cities have a way of opening the world to families. They are places where history, culture, food, and everyday life collide, giving kids the chance to see how big, diverse, and exciting the world can be. Traveling to a big city isn’t just about checking off landmarks; it’s about riding public transportation together, hearing new languages, tasting foods you can’t find at home, and watching your children connect the dots between what they learn and what they experience. Here are my top 10 favorite big cities for traveling as a family.
Zanzibar Island, Tanzania
Plan your next vacation on the beautiful beaches of zanzibar
The island of Zanzibar, located off the coast of Tanzania, is one of the most beautiful tropical beach destinations in the world. Its powdery white sand beaches and crystal-clear turquoise waters along the Indian Ocean create a serene and exotic setting. Palm trees sway along the shoreline, and coral reefs just offshore provide excellent snorkeling and diving opportunities. Zanzibar’s beaches feel both remote and luxurious, making them perfect for travelers seeking natural beauty and relaxation.
Best Time to Visit:The best time to visit Zanzibar is June through October, when the weather is dry, sunny, and comfortable. Another good window is January through February, which also brings warm temperatures and excellent beach conditions. The rainy seasons, typically in March–May and November, can bring heavier showers.
To Do With Families: The best time to visit Zanzibar is June through October, when the weather is dry, sunny, and comfortable. Another good window is January through February, which also brings warm temperatures and excellent beach conditions. The rainy seasons, typically in March–May and November, can bring heavier showers.
Planning a trip to Zanzibar? 👉 Click the link below to read our full guide and see exactly what to expect when visiting.
Playa Del Carmen, Mexico
Plan your next vacation on the beautiful beaches of Playa del carmen
Located along Mexico’s stunning Riviera Maya, Playa del Carmen is a dream destination for beach lovers who enjoy a mix of tropical scenery and lively culture. Its soft white-sand beaches and turquoise Caribbean waters make it ideal for swimming, snorkeling, and relaxing by the sea. Unlike some quieter beach towns, Playa del Carmen offers a vibrant atmosphere with beach clubs, waterfront restaurants, and easy access to nearby natural attractions. The coastline is part of the famous Riviera Maya, known for warm water, coral reefs, and palm-lined beaches that feel straight out of a postcard.
Best Time to Visit:The best time to visit Playa del Carmen is generally December through April, when the weather is warm, sunny, and less humid. These months fall outside the main rainy season and offer excellent beach conditions. Late spring and early fall can also be good times to visit with fewer crowds, though temperatures and humidity increase during summer.
To Do With Families: Families will find plenty to enjoy both on and off the beach in Playa del Carmen. Spend time snorkeling and swimming in the clear Caribbean waters, or take a short ferry ride to Cozumel for world-class reef snorkeling and diving. Visit the nearby eco-parks such as Xcaret Park and Xel-Há Park, where kids can float through lagoons, snorkel with fish, and learn about local wildlife. Families can also explore ancient history with a day trip to the famous Mayan ruins of Chichen Itza or swim in natural limestone sinkholes known as cenotes.
Planning a trip to Mexico? 👉 Click the link below to read our full guide and see exactly what to expect when visiting.
Oahu, Hawaii
Plan your next vacation on the beautiful beaches of Hawaii
The islands of Hawaii offer some of the most diverse and breathtaking beaches in the world. From golden sand shores and turquoise lagoons to dramatic black sand beaches formed by volcanic activity, each island provides its own unique coastal scenery. Whether relaxing on the famous beaches of Honolulu or exploring the wild coastline of Kauai, Hawaii blends spectacular ocean views with lush tropical landscapes. The islands are also known for incredible sunsets, excellent surfing conditions, and vibrant marine life, making them an unforgettable destination for beach enthusiasts.
Best Time to Visit: Hawaii is a year-round destination thanks to its mild tropical climate. The best time to visit is typically April through June and September through October, when the weather is warm and crowds are smaller. Winter months can bring larger waves—great for surfing but sometimes less ideal for swimming on certain beaches.
To Do With Families: Hawaii is full of family-friendly adventures. Families can snorkel with sea turtles at Hanauma Bay on Oahu, hike through lush valleys to waterfalls, or attend traditional Hawaiian luaus that showcase local culture and food. Exploring Hawaii Volcanoes National Park offers a fascinating look at active volcanoes and unique landscapes. Many beaches across the islands also provide calm lagoons that are ideal for children to swim and explore safely.
Planning a trip to Massachusetts? 👉 Click the link below to read our full guide and see exactly what to expect when visiting.
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Planning a trip to Zanzibar? 👉 Click the link below to read our full guide and see exactly what to expect when visiting.
Planning a trip to Mexico? 👉 Click the link below to read our full guide and see exactly what to expect when visiting.
Planning a trip to Hawaii? 👉 Click the link below to read our full guide and see exactly what to expect when visiting.