Are you looking for the perfect family beach vacation in December? Look no further! In this blog post, we will explore the 9 best beach vacations for families in December. Whether you’re seeking warm weather, festive activities, or a relaxing getaway, we’ve got you covered. Stick around as we unveil the top beach vacations for families in December.
Planning Best Beach Vacations For Families in December
When it comes to planning a beach vacation in December, there are a few crucial factors to weigh in. December can be an ideal time for families to escape to the beach, offering a unique blend of festive cheer and serene ocean retreats. Here’s why December can be a great time for a beach vacation and some key factors to consider when planning such a getaway.
Why December is a Great Time for a Beach Vacation
December brings a refreshing change in scenery for families looking to escape the winter chill. The pleasant weather in many beach destinations during this time offers a welcome respite from the cold, allowing families to bask in the sun and enjoy the gentle ocean breeze. Moreover, the festive season adds an extra layer of magic to the beach vacation, with many resorts and beach towns hosting special holiday events and activities that can make the trip even more memorable for the whole family.
Factors to Consider When Planning a Family Beach Vacation
- Weather: It’s essential to consider the weather conditions at the chosen destination. While some beach locales offer mild temperatures and sunny skies in December, others may experience cooler or rainy weather, which can impact the overall vacation experience.
- Accommodations: Families should consider the availability of family-friendly accommodations and activities at the beach destination. Opting for resorts or hotels that cater to families and offer kid-friendly amenities and programs can enhance the vacation for both parents and children.
- Safety and Security: It’s also important to look into the safety and accessibility of the beach, especially when traveling with young children, to ensure a worry-free and relaxing experience for everyone.
- Logistics: Budget and travel logistics play a crucial role in planning a family beach vacation. December is a popular time for travel, so it’s vital to make arrangements well in advance to secure the best deals on accommodations and flights.
Our list of best beach vacations for families in December considers all these factors to help you plan a memorable and enjoyable beach vacation in December.
Maui, Hawaii
Hawaii’s second-largest island, Maui, is a perfect destination for families seeking a beach vacation in December. This beautiful island offers a plethora of family-friendly activities and a range of accommodation options to cater to every family’s needs.
Family-Friendly Activities in Maui
Maui offers a wide array of activities suitable for families. Take a trip to the Maui Ocean Center, where children can get up close and personal with marine life, including sharks, turtles, and tropical fish. Drive along the northeastern shore on the famous “The Road to Hana” and enjoy the scenic views of waterfalls, bamboo forests, and stunning vistas along the way.
Families can also explore the natural beauty of Maui by visiting the Haleakalā National Park, where they can witness breathtaking sunrises and enjoy family-friendly hikes amidst stunning landscapes.
For a more relaxing experience, families can spend a day at the beautiful beaches of Kaanapali or Wailea, building sandcastles and taking leisurely strolls along the shore.
Accommodation Options for Families
Maui offers an array of family-friendly accommodation options, including beachfront resorts, vacation rentals, and condominiums. The Westin Maui Resort & Spa and the Hyatt Regency Maui Resort & Spa are excellent choices for families, offering kids’ clubs, pools with water slides, and easy access to the beach.
For families seeking a more private and spacious stay, vacation rentals and condominiums provide the perfect home away from home experience. Properties such as Honua Kai Resort & Spa and Puamana offer fully equipped kitchens, multiple bedrooms, and access to amenities like pools and recreational facilities, ensuring a comfortable and convenient stay for families.
Maui’s diverse range of family-friendly activities and accommodation options make it an ideal destination for a memorable beach vacation in December. Read our blog post to discover how to spend 7 days in Maui.
Sanibel Island, Florida
Sanibel Island is a perfect destination for families seeking a fun-filled holiday. With a range of family-friendly attractions and activities, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
Family-Friendly Attractions and Activities
Explore the J.N. “Ding” Darling National Wildlife Refuge with walking, biking, or driving trails. It’s a haven for birdwatchers, offering opportunities to spot various bird species and other wildlife. Sanibel is renowned for its shell-covered beaches. Spend time strolling along the shore and collecting unique seashells, particularly during low tide.
Best Family-Friendly Beaches in Sanibel Island
When it comes to family-friendly beaches, Sanibel Island doesn’t disappoint. The island is renowned for its pristine shores and tranquil waters, making it an ideal spot for kids to play and for parents to relax. Sanibel Beach is a top pick, boasting calm, shallow waters and plenty of space for picnics and sandcastle building.
Another great option is the Lighthouse Beach Park, which features a historic lighthouse, nature trails, and ample opportunities for shelling and wildlife spotting. Whether you’re into water sports or simply soaking up the sun, Sanibel Island’s beaches offer a little something for everyone in the family.
Riviera Maya, Mexico
When it comes to a family-friendly beach vacation in December, Riviera Maya, Mexico is a top contender. This picturesque destination offers a perfect blend of relaxation and adventure for families looking to create lasting memories. From family-friendly resorts and all-inclusive packages to child-friendly excursions and adventures, Riviera Maya has something for everyone.
Family-Friendly Resorts and All-Inclusive Packages
Riviera Maya is home to a wide array of family-friendly resorts and all-inclusive packages that cater to the needs of both parents and children. These resorts offer amenities such as kids’ clubs, swimming pools, water parks, and organized activities, ensuring that the whole family can have a fantastic time. Some resorts also provide babysitting services, allowing parents to enjoy some alone time while their children are well taken care of.
Child-Friendly Excursions and Adventures
For families seeking adventure, Riviera Maya offers plenty of child-friendly excursions and adventures. From exploring ancient Mayan ruins to snorkeling in crystal-clear cenotes, there are numerous opportunities for kids to learn and have fun at the same time. Additionally, families can enjoy activities like swimming with dolphins, visiting eco-archaeological parks, and taking jungle tours, providing an enriching experience for children of all ages.
Plan your December beach vacation in Riviera Maya, and create unforgettable memories with your loved ones while enjoying the perfect blend of relaxation and adventure.
Gold Coast, Australia
If you’re looking for a family beach vacation in December, the Gold Coast in Australia has a lot to offer. From family-friendly beaches and water parks to a range of outdoor activities and attractions, the Gold Coast is a perfect destination for families looking for fun in the sun.
Family-Friendly Beaches and Water Parks
The Gold Coast is home to some of the most beautiful and family-friendly beaches in the world. With its pristine sandy shores and clear blue waters, families can enjoy a day of sun, surf, and sandcastle building. Surfers Paradise Beach and Broadbeach are particularly popular for families, offering safe swimming areas and plenty of space to play.
In addition to the beaches, the Gold Coast is also known for its fantastic water parks, such as Wet’n’Wild and WhiteWater World. These parks offer a variety of thrilling water slides, wave pools, and attractions suitable for all ages, ensuring that the whole family can have a splashing good time.
Family-Oriented Outdoor Activities and Attractions
Apart from the beaches and water parks, the Gold Coast provides numerous family-oriented outdoor activities and attractions. Take a trip to Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary, where you can get up close and personal with native Australian wildlife. Kids will love feeding kangaroos and cuddling koalas while learning about the importance of conservation.
For an adrenaline-filled adventure, visit the SkyPoint Observation Deck, offering panoramic views of the Gold Coast from the tallest building in the city. Families can also explore the lush rainforest of the Hinterland region or embark on a whale-watching cruise to witness these majestic creatures up close.
With its combination of beautiful beaches, thrilling water parks, and engaging outdoor activities, the Gold Coast, Australia, provides the perfect setting for an unforgettable family beach vacation in December.
Phuket, Thailand
Phuket, Thailand, is a picturesque destination that offers an array of family-friendly beaches and resorts, making it an ideal choice for a December vacation.
Family-Friendly Beaches and Resorts
Phuket boasts an abundance of family-friendly beaches, such as Kata Beach and Karon Beach, known for their soft sands and shallow waters, perfect for young children to play and swim safely. Families can indulge in a variety of water sports or simply relax by the shore while the little ones build sandcastles.
Resorts like JW Marriott Phuket Resort & Spa and Novotel Phuket Surin Beach Resort offer dedicated kids’ clubs, engaging activities, and amenities catering to families, ensuring a memorable and enjoyable experience for all.
Cultural and Outdoor Experiences
Apart from its stunning beaches, Phuket presents an array of child-centric cultural and outdoor experiences. Families can venture to Phuket Elephant Sanctuary for an ethical and educational encounter with rescued elephants. The Phuket Aquarium is another must-visit, allowing young ones to marvel at a diverse range of marine life through engaging exhibits and activities.
Or, head to the view the Bug Buddha, a significant cultural and spiritual landmark that holds special significance for the locals. The statue is seated in a lotus position and exudes a sense of tranquility and serenity. Perched atop Nakkerd Hill, the Big Buddha offers panoramic views of the surrounding landscapes, including the lush hills, Phuket Town, and the sparkling waters of the Andaman Sea.
Phuket, Thailand, stands out as an enticing family getaway, offering a seamless blend of beachfront bliss and enriching experiences for children in December.
Tenerife, Canary Islands
Tenerife, the largest of the Spain’s seven Canary islands, offers stunning black and golden beaches that makes it a popular destination for a warm December holiday.
Family-Friendly Beaches and Water Sports
Tenerife offers an array of family-friendly beaches, perfect for a fun-filled day in the sun. Playa de Las Teresitas, with its golden sand and calm waters, is ideal for families with children. The shallow waters make it safe for little ones to splash and play.
For families seeking adventure, Playa de Las Vistas is a hotspot for water sports, including kayaking, paddleboarding, and jet skiing. The vibrant beachfront promenade is lined with restaurants and ice cream parlors, making it convenient for a day of sand and sea.
Family-Oriented Sightseeing and Attractions
Aside from the beaches, Tenerife offers a range of family-oriented sightseeing and attractions. A visit to Loro Parque provides an opportunity to see dolphins, sea lions, and parrots, offering an interactive and educational experience for children and adults alike.
The Siam Park waterpark is another must-visit, featuring adrenaline-pumping slides and a relaxing beach area. Families can also explore the Teide National Park, home to Spain’s highest peak, Mount Teide. The cable car ride to the summit provides breathtaking views and a memorable experience for the entire family.
The Bahamas
The Bahamas offers a delightful escape with pleasant weather in December, providing ideal conditions for exploring the stunning beaches, vibrant coral reefs, and enjoying water activities without the risk of hurricanes. Additionally, December is a festive time in the Bahamas, offering travelers the chance to experience local holiday celebrations and festivities while enjoying a tranquil tropical getaway.
Family-Friendly All-Inclusive Resorts in the Bahamas
Family vacations are a time for creating cherished memories, and the Bahamas offers a plethora of family-friendly all-inclusive resorts that are tailored to cater to the needs of both parents and children. These resorts provide a wide array of amenities to ensure that every member of the family has an enjoyable and hassle-free vacation experience. From dedicated kids’ clubs to exciting entertainment options, these resorts aim to create the perfect tropical getaway for families.
Child-Centric Water Sports and Activities
In the Bahamas, children have the opportunity to indulge in an array of thrilling water sports and activities, making their vacation experience truly unforgettable. From snorkeling in crystal-clear waters to engaging in fun beach games, the options are endless. Many resorts offer specially designed water activities that are suitable for children of all ages, ensuring that they have a safe and enjoyable time while exploring the beauty of the Bahamian beaches.
The Maldives
When it comes to family-friendly overwater bungalows and resorts, the Maldives is a top contender. Imagine waking up to the gentle sound of waves just beneath your luxurious overwater bungalow, with direct access to the crystal-clear waters.
Many resorts in the Maldives cater specifically to families, offering spacious accommodations and amenities tailored to the needs of parents and children alike. From private pools to kids’ clubs and special dining options, these overwater havens provide a perfect blend of luxury and family-friendly features.
Child-Oriented Underwater Adventures
The Maldives is a paradise for families seeking underwater adventures. Many resorts offer child-friendly snorkeling experiences, allowing kids to marvel at the vibrant marine life in safe and supervised settings.
Snorkeling tours specifically designed for families provide an opportunity for children to explore the mesmerizing underwater world of the Maldives, creating unforgettable memories for the whole family.
Water Activities
The Maldives provides a playground for water sports enthusiasts. Activities such as kayaking, windsurfing, paddleboarding, and jet-skiing are popular, thanks to the calm and clear waters.
Barbados
Barbados offers a plethora of family-friendly beaches and accommodations, making it an ideal destination for a memorable December beach vacation.
Family-Friendly Beaches and Accommodations
With calm, clear waters and soft, sandy beaches, the island provides the perfect setting for a relaxing family getaway. Families can choose from a variety of beachfront resorts and rental properties that cater to the needs of both children and adults. These accommodations often feature spacious rooms, on-site amenities, and easy access to the beach, ensuring a comfortable and convenient stay for families with young children.
Kid-Centric Island Excursions and Activities
Barbados doesn’t fall short when it comes to offering island excursions and activities tailored to kids. Families can explore the island’s natural beauty through activities such as turtle watching at the popular beaches, wildlife reserves, and botanical gardens. Additionally, attractions like the Atlantis Submarine Expedition provide a thrilling underwater adventure suitable for children and adults alike.
Engaging in water sports, such as snorkeling and stand-up paddleboarding, offers families the chance to create lasting memories while bonding over shared experiences in the warm Caribbean waters.
Final Thoughts
December is a fantastic time for a beach vacation with your family. Whether you’re seeking tropical warmth, festive holiday activities, or a peaceful seaside retreat, there are plenty of options to choose from. Remember to consider factors like weather, crowd levels, and family-friendly amenities when planning your trip. We hope our list of best beach vacations for families in December will help you make unforgettable memories and enjoy quality time with your loved ones. Safe travels and happy beach vacation planning!