The 10 best off the beaten path destinations for an unforgettable family beach escape
Think traveling to remote beach destinations with young kids is impossible? Think again! While many families stick to well-known spots like Hawaii or Dominican Republic, we have curated a list of 10 incredible, underrated beach destinations that are not only stunning but also perfectly suited for families! 🌍✨
From calm, shallow waters to kid-friendly activities and stress-free logistics, these hidden gems will prove that adventure travel with little ones is easier than you think! 🌴✨
And if you’re worried about the logistics, we’ve got you covered! Check out our must-have travel essentials that will make your adventure stress-free. 🚀
📍 Which destination on the list would you love to visit first? Let us know in the comments! 👇
2. Rote Island | Indonesia
Best time to visit: April – November.
Rote Island, Indonesia’s southernmost gem, offers families a unique blend of untouched beauty and authentic charm. Picture idyllic beaches where goats and little pigs meander along the shore, adding a whimsical touch to this tranquil paradise
🌊 Why It’s Great for Families:
Gentle Waves: Nemberala Beach is ideal for kids who love to splash around.
Slow Life: Embrace the laid-back island lifestyle, where time seems to slow down. It’s perfect for families seeking relaxation and peaceful surroundings.
Adventure Without Overcrowding: Unlike Bali, Rote Island offers secluded beaches and nature-focused activities.
✨ Family Tip: Stay at Bo’a Vida Rote and enjoy healthy food, breathtaking views and a stunning beach all to yourselves
4. Spanish Wells, Bahamas | Carribean
Best time: December – May
Spanish Wells is a serene haven with pristine, uncrowded beaches and shallow waters perfect for families with young children. This idyllic island promises a quiet escape, ideal for creating unforgettable family memories
🌊 Why It’s Great for Families:
Safe & Walkable: No big resorts, just colored houses, friendly locals and a relaxed vibe.
Incredible Marine Life: Go on a gentle boat tour to see turtles, starfish, and dolphins.
Endless Beaches: The shallow waters are ideal for toddlers and first-time swimmers.
✨ Family Tip: Rent a golf cart to explore the island—kids will love the adventure!
6. Nosy Be | Madagascar
Best time: May to October
Nosy Iranja is a treasure nestled in the Indian ocean, offering pristine beaches and crystal-clear waters perfect for a family escape. Its secluded charm and tranquil surroundings make it a peaceful haven for those seeking an authentic getaway.
🌊 Why It’s Great for Families:
Warm, Shallow Waters: Perfect for little swimmers. Stay at one of the accommodations on Andilana Beach for early morning swim.
Lemur Encounters: Visit Lemuria Land Park for an up-close experience with Madagascar’s famous lemurs.
Snorkeling & Dolphin Watching: A paradise for marine-loving families.
Exotic Perfume Island: The air is filled with the scent of vanilla and ylang-ylang flowers!
✨ Family Tip: Explore neighboring islands like Nosy Iranja and Nosy Tanikely, both perfect for snorkeling with clear waters and abundant marine life.
8. Mauritius
Best time: May to December.
Mauritius is a picturesque island with pristine beaches and clear turquoise waters. Whether enjoying water sports or simply soaking up the sun, this serene getaway offers something for everyone in the family to enjoy.
🌊 Why It’s Great for Families:
All-Inclusive Family Resorts: Many offer kids’ clubs and family activities.
Adventure & Relaxation: Visit the famous Seven Colored Earths or relax on Le Morne Beach.
Cultural Diversity: A mix of Indian, African, and European influences makes the food amazing!
✨ Family Tip: Take a glass-bottom boat tour to explore the coral reefs without needing to snorkel!
10. Mamanuca Islands | Fiji
Best time: May to November.
Mamanucas Archipelago, offers a tranquil paradise where families can explore its white sand beaches and crystal-clear waters.
🌊 Why It’s Great for Families:
Super Kid-Friendly Resorts: Many offer free kids’ clubs and nanny services.
Shallow & Warm Waters: Great for first-time swimmers and snorkeling.
Fiji’s Famous Hospitality: Locals love kids, and you’ll feel at home instantly!
✨ Family Tip: Stay at Castaway Island for the ultimate private island experience
1. Barbuda | Carribean
Best time to visit: December – April.
Barbuda, Antigua’s charming little sister, is a true hidden gem—think secluded beaches all to yourself.
🌊 Why It’s Great for Families:
Breathtaking Beaches: The famous Princess Diana Beach offers calm, shallow waters for toddlers.
No Crowds: Unlike its neighbor Antigua, Barbuda is peaceful and undeveloped.
Wildlife Encounters: Kids will love the Frigate Bird Sanctuary, home to one of the world’s largest colonies of frigate birds.
Friendly Animal Sightings: Expect to see donkeys and goats roaming freely along the roads, adding to the island’s relaxed, untouched vibe—kids will love spotting them! 🐴🐐
✨ Family Tip: Stay at Barbuda Cottages and enjoy a private beach all to yourselves!
📌 Plan your trip: The Ultimate Family Travel Guide to Barbuda.
3. Anguilla | Carribean
Best time: December – May.
Anguilla enchants families with its serene beaches and crystal-clear waters, perfect for relaxed island adventures. The island’s culinary delights, from fresh seafood to flavorful local dishes, add a touch of indulgence to your stay.
🌊 Why It’s Great for Families:
Pristine, Calm Waters: Shoal Bay is perfect for young swimmers.
Family-Friendly Island: Many hotels offer babysitting services and kids’ programs and 100% of the restaurants we went to had a high chair!
Great Food: Even picky eaters will love fresh seafood, tropical fruit smoothies, and homemade Johnny cakes.
✨ Family Tip: Take a short boat ride to Sandy Island, a tiny beach paradise perfect for snorkeling with kids!
5. Karimum Jawa | Indonesia
Best time: May to October
Karimun Jawa is an untouched paradise, offering lush landscapes and peaceful, turquoise waters ideal for family exploration. With its quiet beaches and vibrant marine life, it’s the perfect destination to unwind
🌊 Why It’s Great for Families:
Budget-Friendly Paradise: A more affordable alternative to the Maldives. Beach Bungalows start as low as $65 per night!
Crystal-Clear Waters: Perfect for safe snorkeling and shallow swimming.
Slow-Paced Vibes: Great for families looking for a peaceful beach escape.
✨ Family Tip: Go to the night market for the best freshly caught fish and enjoy a true local experience!
7. French Polynesia
Best time: May to September
French Polynesia is an hidden gem in the middle of the Pacific, an island paradise ideal for families seeking peace and seclusion.
🌊 Why It’s Great for Families:
Safe & Family-Oriented: Resorts cater specifically to families.
Unreal Beaches: Bora Bora and Moorea have some of the clearest waters on Earth.
Kid-Friendly Lagoon Tours: See rays (even manta rays!) and small sharks in crystal-clear water.
✨ Family Tip: For a luxury experience, stay in an over-water bungalow in Taha’a. Alternatively, opt for a family-owned bed and breakfast in Maupiti for a more intimate, local stay!
9. El Nido, Palawan | Philippines
Best time: December to April.
El Nido in Palawan is a breathtaking sanctuary, with dramatic limestone cliffs and crystal-clear waters, perfect for families seeking adventure and tranquility. Its hidden lagoons and pristine beaches offer a serene escape.
🌊 Why It’s Great for Families:
Island-Hopping Paradise: Calm lagoons and secret beaches kids will love.
Affordable & Accessible: Budget-friendly family stays right by the beach.
Turquoise Waters & Hidden Coves: Big Lagoon and Small Lagoon are must-visits!
✨ Family Tip: Choose Tour A (the easiest island-hopping tour with kids) but ask to reverse the order to avoid the crowds and enjoy the spots in peace!
Must-Have Travel Essentials for Stress-Free Family Adventures
If you’re hesitant about traveling to remote beach destinations with young kids, the right travel gear can make all the difference. Here are our top essentials:
✅ Lightweight Travel Stroller – Perfect for airport transfers and exploring towns.
✅ Baby Carrier – A must for hikes and beach walks.
✅ Portable Travel Crib – Ensures a safe, familiar sleeping space.
✅ Kids’ Snorkel Set – So they can explore the marine life!
✅ Packable Beach Tent – Provides shade for naps on the beach.
✅ First-Aid Kit & Medications – Be prepared for minor cuts and tummy issues.
👉 [Check out our full packing list here!]
