5 Perfect Destinations for a Relaxing Family Vacation with Toddlers

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Traveling with toddlers can be a fun and rewarding experience, especially if you choose destinations that combine relaxation with toddler-friendly activities. Here are five fantastic spots to consider for a relaxing family vacation, complete with full itineraries to make planning a breeze.

1. Maui, Hawaii: Beach Days and Waterfall Adventures

Maui offers beautiful beaches, scenic drives, and plenty of family-friendly activities, making it ideal for a relaxed getaway with toddlers.

Invision Yourself with this Itinerary:

Stay at the Grand Wailea Maui, A Waldorf Astoria Resort enjoy a beachfront location with access to an adjacent golf course, two poolside bars, and a swim-up bar. This luxurious resort offers a wide range of activities, including scuba diving, kayaking, snorkeling, and yoga and Pilates classes at the gym. Relax and rejuvenate at Kilolani Spa, where you can indulge in reflexology, massages, and aromatherapy. The resort features five on-site restaurants offering breakfast, lunch, and dinner with ocean views. Families can also take advantage of amenities such as a grocery store, a terrace, nine outdoor pools (including a children's pool with a waterslide), sun loungers, and bike rentals. The resort receives top ratings for its pools and helpful staff, making it an ideal destination for relaxation and recreation.

Day 1:

• Morning: Start at Baby Beach in Lahaina, a shallow, calm beach perfect for little ones.

• Afternoon: Head to Maui Ocean Center for an interactive aquarium experience toddlers will love.

• Evening: Dinner at Aloha Mixed Plate with ocean views.

Day 2:

• Morning: Take a scenic drive along the Road to Hana but only go as far as Twin Falls for an easy and toddler-friendly waterfall experience.

• Afternoon: Picnic at Waianapanapa State Park and let toddlers explore the black sand beach.

• Evening: Relax back at your hotel or vacation rental with an early dinner.

Day 3:

• Morning: Visit Iao Valley State Park for a short, scenic hike and beautiful views.

• Afternoon: Free afternoon for beach time or a poolside break.

• Evening: Head to Old Lahaina Luau for an authentic Hawaiian experience that kids can enjoy.

Fun Things to Do in Maui:

2. San Diego, California: Zoo, Beaches, and Playgrounds

San Diego combines gorgeous beaches with fun, educational activities for little ones, making it a family favorite for relaxed vacations.

Invision Yourself with this Itinerary:

Experience luxury and family-friendly comfort at Fairmont Grand Del Mar, located near the University of California, San Diego. This elegant hotel offers a golf course with amenities like a driving range, golf lessons, and a clubhouse, as well as a poolside bar and a terrace for relaxation. Indulge in rejuvenating treatments at Fairmont Spa, including facials, Swedish massages, and hydrotherapy, or stay active with Pilates, yoga, horseback riding, archery, and hiking/biking. Enjoy California cuisine at one of the hotel's six on-site restaurants, offering breakfast, brunch, lunch, and dinner. Guests can also take advantage of 50+ Mbps free in-room WiFi, four outdoor pools (including a children's pool with cabanas and sun loungers), a firepit, designer stores, and bike rentals. Additional amenities include limo/town car service, valet parking, an electric car charging station, two outdoor tennis courts, express check-out, and supervised childcare. With top marks for its helpful staff, this hotel is an ideal destination for both relaxation and adventure.

Day 1:

• Morning: Visit the famous San Diego Zoo and explore the children’s zoo area for close-up animal encounters.

• Afternoon: Have lunch in Balboa Park, and let toddlers enjoy the fountains and gardens.

• Evening: Early dinner in Seaport Village, a scenic spot with family-friendly dining.

Day 2:

• Morning: Go to La Jolla Shores for gentle waves perfect for toddlers to splash around in.

• Afternoon: Have a picnic lunch, then explore the tide pools at La Jolla Cove.

• Evening: Dinner at The Cottage La Jolla or similar family-friendly eatery.

Day 3:

• Morning: Play at the New Children’s Museum for a hands-on, interactive morning.

• Afternoon: Walk around Coronado Beach and relax in the nearby parks.

• Evening: Family dinner at Pizza Nova, known for a family-friendly atmosphere.

Fun Things- To-Do in San Diego:

3. Asheville, North Carolina: Mountains, Gardens, and Relaxed Fun

Asheville’s peaceful mountains and nature activities make it a laid-back destination that’s also full of adventures for little explorers.

Invision Yourself with this Itinerary:

Stay at Hotel Domestique, upscale boutique hotel located adjacent to a golf course, offering a range of amenities designed for relaxation and comfort. Enjoy a free cooked-to-order breakfast each morning, unwind by the firepit on the terrace, or visit the sauna for some rest and relaxation. Indulge in a delicious meal at Restaurant 17, the on-site restaurant, and take advantage of the coffee shop, café, and garden.

Day 1:

• Morning: Start with a visit to the North Carolina Arboretum for a stroller-friendly walk-through garden.

• Afternoon: Lunch at Rocky’s Hot Chicken Shack, then explore WNC Nature Center to see local wildlife up close.

• Evening: Dinner at a family-friendly spot downtown like Farm Burger.

Day 2:

• Morning: Visit Biltmore Estate and explore the family area with gardens, trails, and playgrounds.

• Afternoon: Have lunch at Cedric’s Tavern on the estate, then take a scenic walk in the open fields.

• Evening: Relax back at your hotel or vacation rental.

Day 3:

• Morning: Head to Chimney Rock State Park for easy, scenic trails and beautiful mountain views.

• Afternoon: Lunch in nearby Lake Lure, where you can relax and enjoy the lakeside park.

• Evening: Return to Asheville and enjoy a relaxed evening in.

Fun Things- To-Do in Asheville, North Carolina:

4. Key West, Florida: Island Time and Family Fun

Key West has a laid-back vibe, plenty of activities, and short distances between attractions—perfect for families with toddlers.

Invision Yourself with this Itinerary:

Stay at Ocean Key Resort - A Noble House Resort, located near Duval Street and close to Mallory Square and the Ernest Hemingway Home and Museum, offers a luxurious stay with a range of amenities. Guests can relax at the poolside bar, enjoy the terrace, or take advantage of dry cleaning and laundry services. For those seeking adventure, the resort offers motor boating and cycling, while the on-site spa provides indulgent treatments such as body wraps, sports massages, and body scrubs. Enjoy meals at one of the two on-site restaurants or take a yoga class at the 24-hour gym. The resort also features three bars, conference space, and free in-room Wi-Fi. Additional perks include an outdoor pool with sun loungers, limo/town car service, bike rentals, valet parking (surcharge), an electric car charging station, and express check-out.

Day 1:

• Morning: Visit Fort Zachary Taylor Beach for gentle waves and picnic areas.

• Afternoon: Have lunch at Blue Heaven for a unique Key West experience.

• Evening: Catch the Sunset Celebration at Mallory Square for live entertainment and beautiful views.

Day 2:

• Morning: Go on a short glass-bottom boat tour so toddlers can see colorful fish.

• Afternoon: Lunch in Old Town and stroll around the Butterfly and Nature Conservatory.

• Evening: Family dinner at Southernmost Beach Cafe on the waterfront.

Day 3:

• Morning: Explore the Key West Aquarium with touch tanks and family-friendly exhibits.

• Afternoon: Take a walk-through Higgs Beach Park area, with a playground and picnic spots.

• Evening: Relax and enjoy one last Key West sunset as a family.

Fun Things- To-Do in Key West, Florida:

5. Lake Tahoe, California/Nevada: Fresh Air and Family Adventures

Lake Tahoe’s scenic beauty, beaches, and family-friendly activities make it a great destination for a relaxed family vacation.

Invision Yourself with this Itinerary:

Stay at the The Ritz-Carlton in Lake Tahoe, a luxury family-friendly resort near Northstar California Resort, offers a variety of amenities for an unforgettable getaway. Enjoy the terrace, on-site shopping, and cozy firepit, or hit the slopes with ski-in/ski-out access, downhill skiing, and cross-country skiing right at your doorstep. Relax with indulgent treatments at the on-site spa, including massages, facials, and manicure/pedicure services. Dine at one of the three on-site restaurants, offering breakfast, lunch, dinner, kids' meals, and Californian cuisine. The 24-hour gym provides fitness and yoga classes, while activities like mountain biking, snowshoeing, and ecotours ensure there’s never a dull moment. The resort also features two outdoor pools with cabanas, sun loungers, and pool umbrellas, limo/town car service, valet parking (surcharge), an electric car charging station, and a children's club (surcharge). Other perks include a nature reserve, a bicycle shuttle, and ATM/banking services, making it the perfect destination for relaxation, adventure, and family fun.

Day 1:

• Morning: Start with a trip to Taylor Creek Visitor Center for easy trails and the chance to see local wildlife.

• Afternoon: Picnic at Kiva Beach, which has shallow waters ideal for toddlers.

• Evening: Dinner at a family-friendly restaurant in South Lake Tahoe, like Base Camp Pizza Co.

Day 2:

• Morning: Ride the Heavenly Gondola for spectacular views and easy walking trails.

• Afternoon: Explore the scenic Van Sickle Bi-State Park with short trails perfect for young kids.

• Evening: Have an early dinner at Sprouts Cafe for healthy family options.

Day 3:

• Morning: Take a boat ride on Lake Tahoe for a gentle, scenic trip.

• Afternoon: Head to Commons Beach in Tahoe City, which has a playground and picnic areas.

• Evening: Enjoy a relaxing evening with a lakeside walk or campfire if permitted.

Fun Things- To-Do in Lake Tahoe:

Traveling with toddlers can be both relaxing and memorable with the right destinations and itineraries. Whether you’re seeking beach days in Maui, mountain escapes in Asheville, or the laid-back vibes of Key West, each of these destinations offers a mix of relaxation and family-friendly activities. With this guide, you’ll have a plan that lets you unwind while creating lasting memories with your little ones. Happy travels!