15 Best Familymoon Ideas + Family Honeymoon Tips

Thinking about planning a honeymoon with kids? Let’s talk familymoon ideas and the best destinations for familymoons!

Best Familymoon Ideas | The Honeymoon Guide
Estimated reading time: 16 minutes

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If you’re wondering if you should bring the kids on honeymoon or you’ve already decided and are looking for the best family honeymoon ideas, we’ve got you covered with the best familymoon destinations!

What exactly is a familymoon? A familymoon, aka a family honeymoon, has become an increasingly popular. This growing trend naturally reflects changes in family dynamics in the 21st century! We’re big fans of the familymoon (as long as the parents get a little break, too!)

Many couples have children before getting married, so the concept of a familymoon is simple — instead of going on what might be seen as a ‘traditional’ honeymoon as a couple, couples have a honeymoon with kids to make it a family honeymoon vacation aka a familymoon.

However, you might struggle with deciding whether to plan a honeymoon with kids, whether to bring along or leave them behind with grandparents or aunties and uncles.

The decision is a deeply personal one. For some, the idea of a romantic honeymoon getaway with just your spouse is too alluring to pass up, while others may feel that a familymoon is the perfect way to tick off a bucket list adventure as a family.

If you can get away just the two of you for a break and you won’t miss them too much, then great (honestly, you’ll miss them more than they’ll miss you!). However, we know many parents want to celebrate getting married as a whole family and do a big trip.

Some couples feel that maybe their kids are too young and you don’t think they can leave them for too long. Go with your instinct! If you’re one of those couples who have decided to go on a familymoon, then you may wonder where to go.

With so many family honeymoon destinations and activities to choose from, the options can be overwhelming.

Whether you’re looking for a relaxing beach familymoon, an adventure familymoon, a road trip familymoon, we’ve got you covered.

We’ve got the perfect family honeymoon destinations aka familymoon ideas and tips below for couples who want to honeymoon with kids and get their loved ones involved in this special trip of a lifetime!

1. Orlando & Caribbean Cruise

The USA has so many incredible honeymoon destinations across the 50 states, but Orlando is one of the ultimate USA familymoon ideas.

We can’t think of a better reason to tick this bucket list destination off your family’s list! Combine it with a Caribbean cruise on a mega cruise ship from nearby Cape Canaveral and you’ve got a trip of a lifetime.

Running around theme parks, like Universal Studios, Universal Islands of Adventure & Walt Disney World, is a lot of fun, but it can also tire you out!

Adding on a cruise is perfect for some more relaxing time. Secure child care facilities are one of the best things about a cruise. Then there are the incredible destinations you get to visit, the fun bells and whistles to suit all ages, and the innovative dining options!

No matter what age your children are, you can drop them off at the teen and kids’ club or creche. You can have a romantic meal, trip to the spa, take in a show or have fun in the casino while they have the time of their lives.

You can even go on an excursion without them, knowing they are in the extremely capable and well-trained hands of the cruise’s employee.

You can pick them up completely guilt-free, having stolen some precious time for just the two of you. This is why it’s why a cruise is one of our favourite familymoon ideas!

The Honeymoon Guide loves… Universal Loews Sapphire and Royal Caribbean

universal studios islands of adventure honeymoon in orlando

2. Thailand

One of South-East Asia’s top destinations, Thailand, is one of our favourite familymoon destinations. It should be at the top of your list.

Endless beaches, fun island hopping adventures and lots of dining options for every taste await.

One of the biggest draws of a Thailand familymoon is the endless beaches. With so many options to choose from, you’ll be spoilt for choice. Choose two or three islands. There are so many to explore. An island hop is a must!

But Thailand has so much more to offer than just beautiful beaches. Throw in wildlife encounters with elephants and monkeys.

Enroll the kids in a cooking school and Muay Thai boxing classes — so much to keep kids entertained. For families who love cultural pursuits, Thailand has plenty to offer as well. Discover Bangkok and go exploring temples and visit floating markets.

One of the best things about Thailand is that there are accommodation choices for all budgets with many affordable, luxurious and family-friendly options with brilliant kids’ clubs. You can find more with our Thailand Honeymoon Guide.

The Honeymoon Guide loves… Sheraton Grande Sukhumvit | Anantara Golden Triangle Elephant Camp Jungle Bubbles | Banyan Tree Phuket

Koh Hong Island Honeymoon in Thailand

3. Maldives

Often thought of as a couple’s only honeymoon destination, the Maldives may seem like an unlikely familymoon destination, but most resorts in the Maldives welcome families.

The Maldives is one of our ultimate familymoon ideas. The range of activities and amenities will pleasantly surprise you. Many resorts have an incredible lineup of activities for kids!

Expect snorkelling, outdoor cinemas and state-of-the-art kids’ clubs. Drop them for a few hours into the capable hands of the childcare providers and you can still go for that romantic sandbank lunch, enjoy a floating breakfast or just indulge in some much needed rest and relaxation.

Check out our other article ‘Is the Maldives boring‘ for our favourite Maldives resorts that are jam-packed with things to do (the quick answer is 100% not boring!). We’ve got all the essential information on the Maldives if you want to dive deeper into this beautiful destination.

A stopover in Abu Dhabi or Dubai in the United Arab Emirates is an ideal addition to the Maldives for a familymoon.

The Honeymoon Guide loves… in the Maldives: Soneva Jani | Oblu Select Sangeli | Siyam World

best familymoon ideas maldives family honeymoon

4. South Africa & Mauritius

South Africa is the perfect destination for an unforgettable familymoon road trip with wildlife in abundance, family-friendly accommodation and welcoming locals.

The country’s diverse landscapes and exciting attractions make it the perfect destination for adventure-seeking families. It’s one of our favourite familymoon ideas.

Cape Town is an excellent starting point. Explore the lovely beaches, including two of our favourites, the beach resort town of Camps Bay and also Boulders Beach with its cute penguin population.

You have exciting whale-watching opportunities in Hermanus (seasonal from July to November). Go on iconic Table Mountain’s cable car. Cape Town is also home to an array of world-class dining options that cater to all tastes.

Along the Garden Route, you can stop at many fun destinations. There’s Oudtshoorn where you can learn all about ostrich on an ostrich farm.

A couple of days at Plettenberg Bay or Tsitsikamma National Park is a must for a vast array of adventure activities, including zip-lining and bungee jumping, which are perfect for older kids.

One of the most significant draws of South Africa is the opportunity to see the Big 5 on safari. The Big 5 are lion, elephant, rhino, buffalo and leopard and you can see other favourites, like Giraffe.

Many lodges offer supervised kids’ clubs and educational programs, making it a great experience for the whole family. We adore South Africa for the ultimate adventure familymoon! Find out more with our South Africa guide.

After this epic South Africa adventure familymoon, recharge and rewind in Mauritius, which is only a few hours away. It’s the ideal tropical paradise for a stunning beach familymoon.

Beautiful resorts await on picturesque beaches with warm turquoise lagoons that are safe for swimming.

There are also a wide variety of activities for families, including snorkeling, water sports, glass-bottom boat trips and day trips to national parks with beautiful waterfalls and scenic views. If you want to dive deeper, then discover all the essential information on Mauritius.

South Africa and Mauritius are a heavenly familymoon multi-destination combination.

The Honeymoon Guide loves… in South Africa: Belmond Mount Nelson | One&Only Shamwari Riverdene | Amakhala Hlosi Lodge and in Mauritius: Constance Belle Mare Plage | Shangri-La Le Touesrrok | Zilwa Attitude

elephants in kruger national park honeymoon in south africa

5. Greece

Greece is one of our favourite European destinations with an abundance of familymoon ideas to choose from!

The country’s rich history, stunning landscapes, and welcoming locals make it an ideal place for families to explore and make memories together.

While Santorini is undoubtedly one of the most beautiful islands in the world, it can present some challenges for families. The nature of the towns and villages with cliff edge hotels is very suitable terrain for very young families.

Many families still travel there however (as you can stay on the east coast of the island) but there are other Cyclades islands that are even more perfect for families.

One of the best options is the beautiful island of Naxos, which is perfect for a familymoon. Discover beautiful sandy beaches, welcoming tavernas and plenty of fun in the sunshine. There are family friendly hikes, too.

Older kids will enjoy the watersports on offer and the whitewashed churches and ancient ruins like the Temple of Apollo are worthy of a day’s exploration.

You should also consider the mainland of Greece. Some of Europe’s top luxury family resorts are in Halkidiki.

Greece’s big islands like Crete and Corfu are two of our favourite islands for a familymoon. These islands offer luxurious surroundings, excellent food, and fun for parents and kids alike.

Families can enjoy a wide range of activities, from swimming and sunbathing to exploring ancient historical sites, including some UNESCO World Heritage spots. Enjoying all the delicious Greek cuisine, too.

From sandy beaches to ancient ruins and delicious Greek cuisine, Greece is a wonderful place for a honeymoon with kids. Explore and make memories together on the perfect Europe familymoon!

The Honeymoon Guide loves… Ikos Olivia | Sani BeachDomes Zeen Chania | Daios Cove | Andronis Arcadia.

Balos Beach Crete honeymoon in greece

6. Queensland, Australia

Without a doubt, Queensland is one of the ultimate familymoon ideas – there is so much more fun to be had on Australia’s east coast state. It’s a paradise for families seeking an adventure you’ll never forget.

Finding the beloved characters Nemo & Dory in real life on the iconic and precious Great Barrier Reef to licking ant bums in the Daintree Rainforest in Cape Tribulation. Yes really, licking ant’s bum is good for vitamin C!

You’ll see why Queensland is one of the world’s best familymoon destinations with no shortage of activities. Imagine swimming alongside the colorful fish, exploring the coral reefs, and discovering the underwater world.

Discover Kuranda’s Scenic Railway and sea turtles nesting near Bundaberg. The endless beaches, Australia Zoo and the world’s largest sand island K’gari, also known as Fraser Island, await.

Explore the theme parks on the Gold Coast and koala sanctuaries near Brisbane, Australia is familymoon fun in the sun.

One of the best ways to experience all that Queensland is by renting a luxury motorhome. Imagine waking up to the sound of the ocean, exploring hidden coves and beaches. Experience the beauty and fun activities of Australia’s east coast state at your own pace without having to pack up every few days.

Queensland is a dream destination for families seeking a unique familymoon.

The Honeymoon Guide loves… Maui Motorhomes

diving snorkelling great barrier reef honeymoon in australia

7. Riviera Maya, Mexico

Mexico is one of our absolute favourites for a lovely familymoon because of its diverse attractions and activities and stunning family friendly hotels.

Opt for the Yucatan Peninsula on the Caribbean coast. Explore the ancient Mayan ruins at Tulum and Chichen Itza. Take a refreshing dip in a cenote, a natural swimming hole formed by the collapse of limestone bedrock. These natural wonders are scattered throughout the region. Shop until you drop in Cancun.

Enjoy the beautiful beaches along the Riviera Maya. with crystal-clear waters and soft, white sand. Whether you want to soak up the sun, go for a swim, splash around or go snorkeling or scuba diving, there are plenty of water activities for families of all ages.

In addition, Mexico is an affordable destination perfect if you’re planning a family honeymoon on a budget, making it an ideal choice for families who want to have a memorable familymoon without breaking the bank.

All-inclusive resorts are particularly popular in family honeymoon destinations, offering a stress-free familymoon where everything is taken care of. Many of these resorts also offer kid-friendly amenities, such as water parks and kids’ clubs.

With its diverse attractions and activities, stunning beaches, and affordable hotels, it’s no wonder that Mexico is one of the top choices for a familymoon!

The Honeymoon Guide loves… Banyan Tree Mayakoba | Maroma, A Belmond Hotel, Riviera Maya | Moon Palace Cancun

8. Mediterranean Cruise

Another great option for a familymoon is a Mediterranean cruise. It’s a great way to visit multiple destinations while having all the amenities of a floating resort at your fingertips.

Cruise lines have family-friendly itineraries with activities and entertainment suitable for all ages.

Whether you want to go on bumper cars, surfing or skydiving, you’ll find so many fun activities for all ages.

Book some shore excursions to explore historic cities such as stunning Barcelona, historic Rome or ancient Athens, visit the beaches in the French Riviera or the Greek islands, or take part in onboard activities such as cupcake making or see a broadway style show.

One of the best things about a Mediterranean cruise is that you have the opportunity to have some time alone while qualified staff entertains the kids at the onboard children’s clubs.

The kids clubs are second to none so you can truly relax and unwind in the spa, or spend a small fraction of the kids inheritance in the casino or take a short excursion to romantic honeymoon destinations like Santorini while still spending plenty of quality time with your children.

The Honeymoon Guide loves… NCL | Royal Caribbean | MSC

allure of the sea cruise honeymoon

9. The Dominican Republic

The Caribbean is a heavenly spot for a beach familymoon. Any of the islands will have beautiful beaches, familymoon resorts and locals who love children!

Our top pick for a Caribbean familymoon is the Dominican Republic.

On the island of Hispaniola, this haven is more than just sun-kissed beaches and all-inclusive resorts, although those are certainly part of its charm.

For adventure-seeking clans, the Dominican Republic has a rainforest interior and an array of unforgettable activities

Think horseback riding on the beach. Zip lining through the rainforest. Swimming in lagoons and cenotes. Magical waterfall adventures. Learn how to surf. Don’t miss a trip to Monkeyland.

If you are ocean bound, the Bay of Samaná is a must-visit between January and March, when humpback whales make their annual migration.

Cultural aficionados will relish a visit to Santo Domingo, the capital city, where the cobblestone streets of the Zona Colonial tell tales of its colonial past. 

Admittedly, the Dominican Republic is all about the beaches! You can do nothing except laze around a beautiful resort. Enjoy the food, pools and kids’ clubs and just relax in familymoon bliss!

The Honeymoon Guide loves… Casa de Campo Resort & Villas | Dreams Royal Beach Punta Cana

dominican republic beach

10. Costa Rica

Where lush rainforests meet pristine beaches, where you can sip on freshly brewed coffee as your little ones marvel at the exotic wildlife, Costa Rica is a paradise for families seeking a familymoon adventure or a relaxing familymoon (or both!).

For adventure, head for La Fortuna where all of you can zip-line through the canopy, hike volcanoes, meet some sloths and learn all about chocolate.

On the Pacific coast go to Quepos where you can go dolphin and whale watching, frolic on the magnificent beaches, learn to surf, and even volunteer for a day at a wildlife sanctuary.

There really is a lot to do on a Costa Rica familymoon!

If you are planning a familymoon with younger kids and want to stay in one spot, the Guanacaste region is the spot for you.

Opt for a luxury resort on the Papagayo Peninsula which has everything you need without having to move. You can relax on the sublime beaches perfect for building sandcastles by day and stargazing by night.

There are plenty of optional activities and wildlife around this area, too. Hiking, biking, ziplining, monkeys and sloths. 

Costa Rica is one of the best spots for a familymoon! If you want to dive deeper, then discover all the essential information on Costa Rica.

The Honeymoon Guide loves… Nayara Gardens La Fortuna | Tulemar Resort Quepos | Four Seasons Costa Rica at Peninsula Papagayo

aerial view of green blue pacific ocean over manuel antonio beach costa rica honeymoon

11. Bali, Indonesia

The ‘Island of the Gods,’ might be known as a haven for digital nomads, backpackers and couples but Bali is an island paradise for all ages.

The multifaceted jewel in Indonesia‘s crown, with an array of experiences that will cater to the most diverse of interests. 

Or, you may just want some post-wedding relaxation in a luxury resort on the beaches of Seminyak or Nusa Dua with a great kids club. Bali has some beautiful options for a chilled-out beach familymoon.

For an active familymoon, Bali is a playground. Surfing lessons in Canggu, horse riding on the beach, snorkelling in the crystal-clear waters of the Nusa islands.

Explore the culture and art of the island in Ubud with temple visits and waterfalls. Try batik painting or wood carving. Don’t miss Waterbom, the premier waterpark in Bali for a fun day out.

Bali is one of our top picks for familymoons! Want to dive deeper into planning? Discover everything you need to know about Bali.

The Honeymoon Guide loves… The Seminyak Beach Resort & Spa | The Udaya Resorts & Spa

Tegalalang Rice Terraces Bali Honeymoon in Indonesia

12. Hawaii

Aloha and welcome to our favourite familymoon destination in the USA, beautiful Hawaii.

This archipelago of volcanic islands in the Pacific, has so much going on that the hardest part is choosing which islands to visit and which you can bear to leave off your itinerary! You can easily do an island hop as flights take less than an hour.

Oahu is the most popular island and has so much fun for all the family. You can base yourselves at Waikiki Beach in Honolulu with delicious dining options and fantastic family friendly hotels.

Don’t miss a Luau show, a glass bottom boat tour, swimming with turtles and dolphinssurfing lessons and whale watching!

The Polynesian Cultural Centre gives you a glimpse into the traditions of the Pacific Islands. Plus the aviation tour at Pearl Harbour is popular with young and old alike.

On the stunning island of Maui, spot dolphins, swim with turtles, go surfing, hike to waterfalls in the rainforest. Take the road trip to Hana.

In Hawaii, the spirit of ‘ohana’—or family—is ever-present, making it a sublime destination for a familymoon!

Want to dive deeper into planning? Discover everything you need to know about Hawaii.

The Honeymoon Guide lovesOutrigger Reef Waikiki Beach ResortFour Seasons Resort Maui at Wailea

13. Spain

A feast for the senses, Spain is one our top picks for a familymoon. After all, this is Europe’s premier family vacation destination with a diverse line up of beautiful beach towns, islands and cities with delectable food to boot!

Discover Mallorca, home to the beautiful city of Palma and an endless array of stunning familymoon resorts and hotels. Take boat trips, visit a waterpark and explore the delicious dining scene.

On the Canary Islands, you can choose between any four of these fun islands but we love Tenerife. Tenerife is more than just luxury resorts, you can go stargazing or try one of its Michelin star restaurants.

Back on the mainland, discover the architectural wonders of Barcelona‘s Sagrada Familia and visit PortAventura and Ferrari Land. Kids will love Park Guell, the UNESCO World Heritage site.

From San Sebastian to the Costa del Sol’s endless golden beaches, there truly are so many wonderful options for a magical Spain familymoon!

The Honeymoon Guide loves… Royal Hideaway Corales Suites Tenerife | The St. Regis Mardavall Mallorca Resort | Mandarin Oriental Barcelona

tenerife spain stargazing honeymoon

14. Dubai, UAE

Where glamour meets family-friendly adventure, Dubai is truly one of the best familymoon destinations on the planet.

Imagine this: one moment you’re soaring up the iconic Burj Khalifa with your little ones, their eyes widening at the bird’s-eye views of skyscrapers and desert.

The next, you’re sharing a twilight camel ride along the golden sands, awash in the hues of a breathtaking Arabian sunset.

For aquatic escapades the kids can have a riveting encounter with marine life in the Lost Chambers Aquarium to adrenaline-fuelled water slides at Aquaventure.

There truly is a vast array of things to do in Dubai, including theme parks, amusement parks, museums and gardens.

But if you’d prefer a quiet escape, the innumerable rooftop lounges offer you a chance for a romantic tête-à-tête, sipping on exotic cocktails while the kids are entertained by professional childminders.

Maybe a skydive for your teens? Or a hot air balloon ride for all of the family? From the bustling spice markets to ultra-lux shopping in the Dubai Mall, the city has an endless array of shopping and dining options too.

Dubai also has a superb choice of honeymoon resorts that are family-friendly.

Luxury, romance, and a dash of adventure — for a familymoon, Dubai encapsulates it all, and then some

Dubai is also the perfect city stopover for families en route to the Indian Ocean or other exotic destinations in Asia, Africa, Europe, Oceania or the Middle East. Find out all the essential information on Dubai.

The Honeymoon Guide loves… Atlantis The Palm | Jumeirah Mina A’Salam | Rixos The Palm

atlantis the palm dubai

15. Lapland, Finland

When it comes to winter familymoons, Finnish Lapland is in a league of its own. Imagine a place where the sky dances with ethereal Northern Lights, and snow-laden trees form a surreal landscape straight out of a fairy tale.

This Arctic region is a mesmerising magical backdrop for a once-in-a-lifetime winter familymoon.

Hop on a snowmobile and traverse the pristine wilderness, or take the reins of a husky sled for a ride through the forest

But the magic of Lapland isn’t just in its outdoor pursuits. The northern town of Rovaniemi is the official hometown of Santa Claus.

A visit to Santa Claus Village is an absolute must with reindeer encounters, husky rides and the chance to cross the Arctic Circle. Don’t miss a day trip to Snowman World. 

Stay in a log cabin where the trees are under a blanket of soft snow. A trip to Lapland is one of our favourite unique familymoon ideas!

The Honeymoon Guide loves… Arctic TreeHouse Hotel

northern lights lapland finland stargazing honeymoon

Familymoon Planning tips

  • Book Early

Especially if you’re traveling during school holidays or peak vacation times, early booking ensures better availability and more favourable pricing. Prices only swing upwards for peak travel times.

  • Passport Check

Make sure everyone’s passports are up-to-date and consider any necessary visas for international travel.

  • Consider how far to travel

While you may want to travel further than you normally would, factor in the effect this will have on the kids. We encourage you to think big! But, make you have enough time to recover from jet lag.

  • Consider Arrival Timing

If flying long-haul, try to arrive at night to make adjusting to local time easier.

  • Opt for Convenience

Choose convenience over cost when possible. Book skip-the-line tours or private transportation to make the journey smoother.

  • Interconnecting Rooms

Booking interconnecting rooms allows you to have some space and alone time while keeping children close by.

  • Balance Activities

Plan a mix of activities that cater to both children and adults. Include plenty of beach and pool time, as most kids love splashing around.

  • Give Yourselves Time

Particularly with younger children. Extra time at the airport, to get on the train, to get on your tour etc, etc!

  • Prebook Activities

Arrange tours and excursions before you go so you don’t have to faff around on arrival. We love GetYourGuide, Tiqets and Viator.

  • Flexible Snack and Screen Time Rules

Relax rules about snacks and screen time during the trip to make life easier on yourselves.

  • Use a Travel Agent

A great travel agent specialising in family travel can provide personalised recommendations and take care of the details, reducing stress.

  • Health and Safety Precautions

Research healthcare facilities at your destination and consider travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. Pack a first-aid kit with essentials.

  • Incorporate Educational Elements

Choose destinations or activities that offer educational experiences, turning the trip into a fun learning opportunity they will never forget!

  • Create a Packing Checklist

A detailed packing checklist ensures nothing essential is forgotten. Consider specific needs for babies or toddlers.

  • Involve the Kids in Planning

Letting children have a say in some of the activities or destinations can make the trip more exciting for them.

  • Consider Dietary Needs

If your family has specific dietary requirements, research dining options in advance or consider self-catering accommodations.

  • Prepare for Different Climates

If your familymoon involves multiple climates or a climate you’re not used to, pack accordingly and consider how to manage the transitions.

  • Capture the Memories

Consider giving older children disposable cameras or journals to document the trip from their perspective.

  • Plan for Downtime

Don’t over-schedule. Leave room for relaxation and spontaneous adventures!

  • Pack before the wedding

If you’re going on your familymoon soon after the wedding, pack before your wedding day to eliminate unnecessary stress!

  • Make a Honeymoon Planning Schedule

You have to plan a wedding AND a honeymoon? Visit our shop for our Honeymoon Planning Schedule, which breaks down in easy steps everything you need to do to plan a stress-free familymoon.

Are you bringing your kids on your honeymoon? Have you been wondering whether to take a familymoon? We’d love to hear where you’re going in the comments!

Happy Planning x