Romantic Family Getaways: Enjoying the Best of Both Worlds
Travelling with children doesn't mean romance has to take a back seat. With the right destination, you can enjoy beautiful surroundings, memorable experiences and a little time together while keeping the kids entertained.
From tropical beaches in Hawaii and Bali to California's wine country and the natural wonders of the Grand Canyon, these five destinations offer something for the whole family.
Whether you're planning a special occasion or simply looking for a family holiday with a touch of romance, these destinations prove you don't have to choose between the two.
Maui, Hawaii – Tropical Beaches and Romantic Sunsets
Maui is a wonderful destination for families who want to combine a beach holiday with a little romance. With its beautiful coastline, tropical landscapes and beachfront resorts, there's plenty to keep the children entertained while parents enjoy some time to relax.
Things to Do in Maui with Kids
- Explore the beaches: Kaanapali Beach, Napili Bay and Wailea Beach are popular for swimming, relaxing and enjoying Maui's beautiful coastline at sunset.
- Drive the Road to Hana: Follow winding coastal roads past waterfalls, rainforests and spectacular viewpoints. Allow a full day and take your time.
- Visit Maui Ocean Center: Discover Hawaii's marine life, including sharks, turtles and colourful tropical fish.
- Go whale watching: Between December and April, humpback whales visit Maui's waters, making this a memorable family experience.
- Experience a Hawaiian luau: Enjoy traditional Hawaiian food, music and cultural performances together.
A Little Romance
Watch the sunset from Wailea Beach, enjoy an oceanfront dinner or simply relax together while the children play nearby.
Where to Stay in Maui with Kids
Wailea Maui Kamaole Ocean Views, Pools and Beaches is ideal for families looking for a relaxing resort holiday, while Kaanapali Oceanfront Condos offers beachfront accommodation close to restaurants, shops and activities.
Consider a family suite or self-contained apartment with separate sleeping areas for extra comfort and privacy.
Napa Valley, California – Vineyards, Scenic Drives and Family Experiences
Napa Valley isn't just for wine lovers. With its rolling vineyards, beautiful countryside and excellent restaurants, it's a lovely destination for couples who want to enjoy California's wine country while travelling with children.
While some wineries cater exclusively to adults, there are family-friendly experiences, outdoor activities and plenty of opportunities to enjoy the region together.
Things to Do in Napa Valley with Kids
Explore the Silverado Trail: Enjoy a scenic drive through vineyards and charming towns, stopping for photographs, local produce and family-friendly attractions.
Discover the outdoors: Explore the walking trails and mountain scenery of Robert Louis Stevenson State Park, choosing routes suitable for your children's ages.
Enjoy Oxbow Public Market: Sample local food, browse artisan produce and enjoy a relaxed family lunch in downtown Napa.
Explore downtown Napa: Wander along the Napa Riverfront, browse local shops and enjoy the relaxed atmosphere of this charming wine-country town.
Visit a family-friendly winery: Some Napa Valley wineries welcome children, although policies vary. Check age restrictions and available experiences before booking.
A Little Romance
Napa Valley's vineyard scenery makes it a beautiful setting for a romantic family getaway. Enjoy a leisurely lunch aboard the Napa Valley Wine Train, taking in the beautiful countryside while enjoying a memorable dining experience. Check the suitability of individual journeys for children before booking.
For something extra special, a hot-air balloon flight over Napa Valley offers breathtaking views of the vineyards. Families travelling with older children should check minimum age and height requirements before booking.
For more ideas, explore Napa Valley tours and experiences on GetYourGuide, including activities suitable for families.
Where to Stay in Napa Valley with Kids
Downtown Napa is a convenient base for families, with restaurants, shops and attractions nearby. Yountville offers a quieter, more upmarket atmosphere, while holiday homes and self-contained accommodation provide extra space for families.
Look for accommodation with a swimming pool, separate bedrooms or kitchen facilities to make your stay more comfortable.
Find Family-Friendly Accommodation in Napa Valley
Getting Around Napa Valley
Hiring a car gives families the flexibility to explore Napa Valley at their own pace. The Silverado Trail and Highway 29 connect many of the region's towns, vineyards and attractions.
However, if you plan to visit wineries and enjoy wine tastings, consider booking a private driver or guided tour that welcomes children.
Tulum, Mexico – Caribbean Beaches, Mayan Ruins and Family Adventures
Tulum combines beautiful Caribbean beaches, ancient Mayan history and natural swimming holes, making it an appealing destination for families looking for adventure with a little romance.
Whether you're exploring archaeological sites, swimming in freshwater cenotes or enjoying a relaxed afternoon by the sea, Tulum offers plenty of experiences that couples and children can enjoy together.
Things to Do in Tulum with Kids
- Explore the Tulum Mayan Ruins: Discover the remains of an ancient Mayan walled city overlooking the Caribbean Sea. The spectacular coastal setting makes this one of Mexico's most memorable archaeological sites.
- Relax on the beaches: Playa Paraíso and Playa Pescadores are popular for their white sand and turquoise water. Check local seaweed and swimming conditions before visiting.
- Swim in a cenote: Visit natural freshwater swimming holes such as Gran Cenote or Cenote Dos Ojos. Choose one suitable for your children's swimming abilities and follow local safety requirements.
- Discover Sian Ka'an Biosphere Reserve: Take a guided excursion through this UNESCO-listed nature reserve, home to mangroves, lagoons, tropical birds and marine wildlife.
- Spend a day at Xel-Há Park: Enjoy snorkelling, floating along the river and exploring the park's natural attractions. It's a popular choice for families who enjoy water activities.
- Explore Tulum town: Wander through local shops, admire colourful street art and enjoy traditional Mexican food at a local café or restaurant. For a deeper insight into the area's culture and history, consider a guided walking tour of Tulum
A Little Romance
Tulum's Caribbean coastline provides a beautiful setting for couples wanting to enjoy a little romance during a family holiday.
Watch the sunrise over the sea, enjoy a beachfront dinner or spend a relaxing afternoon at a family-friendly beach club. For something different, explore the region's cenotes together or arrange a private guided excursion.
Families with older children might enjoy a day exploring the nearby Mayan ruins of Cobá, surrounded by tropical forest.
Where to Stay in Tulum with Kids
Tulum offers everything from beachfront resorts to spacious apartments and private villas.
- Tulum Beach: Ideal for families wanting to stay close to the Caribbean Sea, although beachfront accommodation can be expensive.
- Aldea Zama: A residential area with apartments, villas and holiday rentals, offering extra space and a quieter setting.
- Tulum Town: A practical choice for families looking for restaurants, shops and more affordable accommodation.
Look for properties with swimming pools, kitchen facilities and separate bedrooms, particularly if you're travelling with younger children.
Find Family-Friendly Accommodation in Tulum
Getting Around Tulum
Hiring a car can be convenient for families planning to explore cenotes, archaeological sites and attractions outside Tulum. Alternatively, private transfers and guided excursions allow you to explore without navigating unfamiliar roads.
If you're staying near the beach, bicycles can be useful for shorter journeys, although traffic, heat and road conditions need to be considered when travelling with children.
Grand Canyon, Arizona – Spectacular Views, Family Adventures and Romantic Sunsets
The Grand Canyon is one of America's most spectacular natural wonders and a memorable destination for families who enjoy exploring the outdoors.
With breathtaking viewpoints, scenic walking trails and unforgettable sunsets, the Grand Canyon offers plenty of opportunities for adventure while giving couples a chance to enjoy some special moments together.
Things to Do at the Grand Canyon with Kids
- Explore the South Rim: Visit popular viewpoints such as Mather Point and Yavapai Point, where families can enjoy spectacular canyon views without undertaking a challenging hike.
- Visit the Grand Canyon Visitor Center: Pick up maps, learn about the canyon's geology and speak with park rangers about suitable family activities.
- Enjoy a scenic drive: Follow Desert View Drive along the South Rim, stopping at viewpoints to admire the changing colours and dramatic landscape.
- Walk the South Rim Trail: Sections of this mostly paved trail are ideal for families wanting an easier walk with beautiful canyon views. More challenging trails, including Bright Angel trail and South Kaibab, require careful planning and are not suitable for every family.
- Join a ranger programme: Learn about the canyon's geology, wildlife and cultural history through educational activities and talks. Check the National Park Service schedule for current programmes.
- Visit Desert View Watchtower: Discover this historic stone tower, inspired by the architecture of the region's Indigenous peoples, and enjoy panoramic views across the canyon.
- Enjoy a family picnic: Pack lunch and find a designated picnic area where everyone can relax and appreciate the surroundings.
A Little Romance
Few experiences are as memorable as watching the sun set over the Grand Canyon. As the light changes, the canyon walls turn beautiful shades of red, orange and purple.
For couples, a sunset visit to Hopi Point or Yavapai Point can be a wonderful way to end the day. Families with older children might also enjoy a guided stargazing experience beneath Arizona's dark night skies.
For something truly special, consider a scenic helicopter flight over the canyon. Age restrictions, seating arrangements and weather conditions vary between operators, so check the details before booking.
Where to Stay at the Grand Canyon with Kids
Staying close to the South Rim makes it easier to explore the park, particularly when travelling with younger children.
- Grand Canyon Village: The most convenient location, with accommodation inside the national park and easy access to viewpoints and walking trails.
- Tusayan: Just outside the South Entrance, offering hotels, restaurants and family-friendly accommodation.
- Williams: A historic Route 66 town with a wider selection of accommodation and the option of travelling to the canyon aboard the Grand Canyon Railway.
Look for accommodation with family rooms, convenient parking and easy access to the park.
Find Family-Friendly Accommodation Near the Grand Canyon
Getting Around the Grand Canyon
Hiring a car is one of the easiest ways to explore the Grand Canyon and surrounding Arizona attractions.
The South Rim also operates free shuttle buses connecting popular viewpoints, walking trails and visitor facilities. Some roads and viewpoints are accessible only by shuttle during certain times of the year.
If you're planning to visit several destinations across Arizona, a hire car gives you greater flexibility to travel at your own pace.
Bali, Indonesia – Tropical Villas, Cultural Experiences and Family Adventures
Bali is a wonderful destination for couples wanting a romantic getaway without leaving the children behind. With its tropical landscapes, beautiful beaches, private pool villas and family-friendly resorts, the island offers something for every age.
From exploring ancient temples and lush rice terraces to spending a day at a water park, Bali combines relaxation, culture and adventure in one holiday.
Things to Do in Bali with Kids
- Visit Waterbom Bali: Located in Kuta, this popular water park offers waterslides, pools and attractions suitable for different ages.
- Explore Bali Safari: See animals from Indonesia and around the world, including elephants, tigers and Komodo dragons, while learning about wildlife conservation.
- Discover Bali Bird Park: Wander through tropical gardens and discover colourful birds from Indonesia and other parts of the world.
- Visit Bali Zoo: Enjoy wildlife encounters and educational activities designed for families. Check animal welfare practices before booking interactive experiences.
- Explore Ubud Monkey Forest: Walk through a beautiful forest sanctuary inhabited by long-tailed macaques. Keep a safe distance from the monkeys, secure your belongings and never attempt to feed or touch them.
- Discover Bali Botanic Garden: Located in Bedugul, these extensive gardens offer a peaceful escape from the coastal heat, with walking paths, tropical plants and beautiful mountain scenery.
- Experience a Bali swing: Older children and adults may enjoy swinging above the rice terraces, although minimum age and height restrictions vary between operators.
A Little Romance
Bali offers plenty of opportunities for couples to enjoy time together, particularly in Ubud, Seminyak and Jimbaran.
Watch the sunset at Tanah Lot Temple, enjoy a romantic beachfront seafood dinner in Jimbaran or spend a relaxing afternoon beside a private pool overlooking Ubud's lush tropical landscape.
More Family Holiday Inspiration
Looking for more ideas for your next family getaway? Explore my travel guides to Australia, Europe and the United States for destination inspiration, practical travel tips and experiences to help you plan your next adventure.
