Summer is almost here and a lot of people are thinking about taking family vacations. There are plenty of things to do around the world, but what families should know is that in addition to having fun there are plenty of other benefits such as strengthening family relations, building memories, and general health benefits. That’s where I come in. I am an expert on how you can plan a fun summer vacation with your family.

Summer is the perfect time to take a vacation with the family. It’s still warm out and there are plenty of events taking place to make it a fun and memorable experience. Use this guide to help you plan a summer vacation full of fun and laughter.

Summer vacation is upon us. Some of us are looking forward to the long holiday while others are dreading the memories too many days off brings. If you’re in the latter group, I’ve got a list of ideas for vacations that don’t involve spending money.A great family getaway is just around the corner and you’re trying to decide where to go. Here are some fun family vacation ideas and destinations for you to explore.

Family Fun Summer Vacation Ideas

Best Family Beach Vacations in the U.S.

Taking the family to the beach can create lifelong memories, as long as every member of the family is satisfied. To help you choose a beach destination for your next family getaway, U.S. News considered factors like safe waters, kid-friendly attractions, dining options, spacious accommodations and multigenerational appeal to determine the best family beach vacations in the U.S. Weigh in by voting below, then use this list to plan your upcoming travels. (Note: Some of the below destinations may be affected by the coronavirus outbreak. Check with the CDC and the U.S. Department of State before traveling.)

Read Best Vacations Methodology »

SUMMARY

• View 42 PhotosBelongs on List?YesNoOuter Banks#1 in Best Family Beach Vacations in the U.S.Outer Banks beaches are lauded for their consistent yet manageable waves and verdant landscapes. And you can count on North Carolina’s OBX to deliver great summer weather (think: highs in the 70s and 80s). Plan on renting a cottage or condo for more space without being too far from the beach. For lots of sand to stretch out on and build sandcastles on, visit Nags Head’s wide shores. Or, head to Kitty Hawk or Kill Devil Hills to surf the choppy waters. Duck is the beach town to go to if you brought your four-legged family member with you. READ MOREBEST HOTELS|THINGS TO DO
• View 30 PhotosBelongs on List?YesNoDestin#2 in Best Family Beach Vacations in the U.S.This Florida town’s family-friendly vibe and impressive beaches entice multigenerational groups year after year. The stark white sand and calm jade water at Henderson Beach State Park and the Shores at Crystal Beach Park are picture-perfect. Plus, many Destin resorts cater to kids, so parents can relax while the little ones play. Boat tours are also a great way to spend some quality time with the family; all ages will have fun looking for jumping dolphins, and the kids will have a blast on the pirate-themed cruises. READ MOREBEST HOTELS|FLIGHTS|THINGS TO DO
• View 27 PhotosBelongs on List?YesNoSanibel Island#3 in Best Family Beach Vacations in the U.S.Florida’s Sanibel Island is a hit with kids for two reasons: The area’s beaches offer calm waters that are perfect for play, and the “Sanibel Stoop” will keep little ones occupied for hours as they search for shells and sand dollars on popular shelling beaches like Bowman’s and Blind Pass. Families can also look for animals like alligators and shorebirds along the 4-mile-long Wildlife Drive in J.N. Ding Darling National Wildlife Refuge. If you’re not yet convinced, remember that hotel deals are pretty easy to find here. READ MOREBEST HOTELS|THINGS TO DO
• View 43 PhotosBelongs on List?YesNoMaui#4 in Best Family Beach Vacations in the U.S.While cost is a barrier for any family getaway, it’s an especially large barrier for many when it comes to traveling to Hawaii. Still, Maui has some of the United States’ most abundant and exotic family-friendly beaches. Kihei’s Wailea Beach and Lahaina’s Baby Beach are the go-to options, with sun-drenched sands and calm waters ideal for little swimmers. And all ages will want to head to Haleakala National Park for an educational yet unforgettable visit to the world’s largest dormant volcano. READ MOREBEST HOTELS|THINGS TO DO
• Belongs on List?YesNoAmelia Island#5 in Best Family Beach Vacations in the U.S.This barrier island off Florida’s northeast coast offers plenty of space to spread out in the sand – 13 miles, to be exact – but it also promises plenty of fun away from the shore. Head to Egans Creek Greenway, a more than 300-acre protected area that’s home to alligators, snakes, bobcats and many birds. For even more wildlife-watching opportunities, sign up for Amelia River Cruises’ Family Friendly Sunset Tour. You’ll sail around the island while looking for dolphin pods and listening to an abbreviated history of the area.
• View 34 PhotosBelongs on List?YesNoHilton Head#6 in Best Family Beach Vacations in the U.S.Hilton Head, South Carolina, is perfect for families looking to slow down. You’ll find two notable beaches here: Driessen Beach Park and the ever-popular Coligny Beach Park. For a break from the sands, take a stroll (or bike ride) through Harbour Town and climb to the top of the lighthouse. Golf courses and tennis courts abound as well, giving your family plenty of options for staying active while on vacation. READ MOREBEST HOTELS|FLIGHTS|THINGS TO DO

• View 46 PhotosBelongs on List?YesNoHonolulu – Oahu#7 in Best Family Beach Vacations in the U.S.Oahu is expensive, but it’s home to some of Hawaii’s most inviting beaches. Head to Waikiki Beach or Ala Moana Regional Park, two beaches where the water remains relatively calm and lifeguards are always present. When you need a break from the beach, admire the animals housed at the Honolulu Zoo or explore some of the island’s historical sites, such as the Battleship Missouri Memorial. If you’re up for exploring the North Shore, you’ll want to stop at the Dole Plantation for a ride on the attraction’s vintage-style trains, which wind through the grounds of the verdant pineapple farm. READ MOREBEST HOTELS|THINGS TO DO
• View 16 PhotosBelongs on List?YesNoCape May#8 in Best Family Beach Vacations in the U.S.Cape May’s nearly 3 miles of family-friendly sands fill with New Jersey locals during school breaks and out-of-towners in summer. You and your little ones can bond while surfing, kayaking or strolling along the promenade. Sunset Beach is a popular spot for families, and The Cove, while often crowded, is fun for surfing. Just remember to buy beach tags for visits between Memorial Day and Labor Day, and reserve accommodations a few months in advance