Tuesday, November 7, 2023
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The perfect winter solar with children


Because the nights get darker and the times get colder, my ideas inevitably flip to at least one factor… the place to seek out the most effective winter solar with children.

Kids at a tropical beach sitting on palm tree above the sea - my tips for the best winter sun with kids
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There’s nothing just like the considered some heat to maintain me going via winter, and from chilled-out seashore escapes to bucket record adventures like a safari, there are many winter solar holidays for households to select from.

In case you’re primarily based within the UK, that does imply at the very least a mid-haul flight, often longer. However whereas long-haul journey with children is one thing which lots of people shrink back from, it’s each doable and price it, even with infants and toddlers – stated from expertise, after surviving a flight to the US with my nine-month-old daughter, one other along with her aged 22 months sitting on my knee all the way in which to the Caribbean plus a number of multi-leg journeys to South East Asia (together with an surprising dash via Bangkok airport).

In case you’re already craving one other sunny escape, I’ve discovered a string of concepts for nice holidays for some winter solar with children, with a number of the finest locations to flee the chilly.

For extra my important long-haul journey merchandise, take a look at my high picks right here

Quick-haul winter solar

In case you’re searching for some winter solar with a toddler or child and don’t fancy flying long-haul, you’ll nonetheless discover some nice locations slightly nearer to the UK too.

Canary Islands

The Canary Islands are one of many few locations you’ll have the ability to discover correct winter solar in Europe – whereas there’s extra likelihood of rain in winter, you possibly can get pleasure from solar yr spherical. 

View of Las Teresitas beach near Santa Cruz with golden sand palm tree and colourful buildings in the shadow of a forested cliff - the Canary Islands are a great option for winter sun with kids

The archipelago’s location off the coast of northwestern Africa implies that winter temperatures stay a pleasing 16-21C. It’s nonetheless heat sufficient to profit from the attractive seashores however cool sufficient for trekking via the nationwide parks or exploring historic cities and cities.

Tenerife is without doubt one of the most family-friendly Canary Islands, with loads of vacation resorts alongside its west coast. The island can also be the place you’ll discover Siam Park, the largest water park in Europe!

Lanzarote is understood for its distinctive pure panorama and nationwide parks in addition to golden sand seashores round Playa Blanca, whereas Gran Canaria is residence to the well-known Maspalomas sand dunes and a less-explored mountainous inside.

Fuerteventura is without doubt one of the windiest islands, however this makes it a unbelievable choice for water sports activities followers, though maybe not the most effective one for winter solar with toddlers. 

All of the Canary Islands have some unbelievable household inns, together with extra luxurious choices just like the Princess Yaiza lodge in Lanzarote, whereas you will discover some price range winter solar holidays with children too.

TUI has some nice package deal holidays within the Canary Islands for households, whereas Jet2Holidays additionally has some nice household holidays within the Canary Islands, together with inns and villa lodging. EasyJet Holidays additionally has packages to Tenerife, Gran Canaria and Lanzarote.

In case you’re searching for some additional luxurious, TopVillas has villa lodging on each Lanzarote and Fuerteventura.

Cape Verde

Cape Verde is an archipelago of 10 volcanic islands, positioned off the west coast of Africa, round a six hour flight from the UK. Nonetheless considerably of a hidden gem, the sunny islands are much less touristy and extra laid-back than the Canaries – the right spot for a extra enjoyable winter break.

A colourful street in Palmeira on Sal in Cape Verde - one of the more unusual places for winter sun with kids

Sal and Boa Vista are two of the preferred islands, with golden sand seashores and an excellent vary of services. You’ll discover every little thing from all-inclusive resorts to extra price range lodge stays. 

Winter is the dry season in Cape Verde and you’ll count on temperatures sitting within the mid-20s. Nonetheless, there are fewer hours of daylight in the course of the winter months, so it’s finest to carry a number of layers to put on after the solar units and the climate cools.

We stayed on the all-inclusive Melia Dunas on Sal, whereas TUI additionally has some nice Cape Verde holidays for households

Morocco

With as little as a three-hour flight from the UK to northern Africa, you will discover much more nice climate and winter sunshine in Morocco, even when it’s not searingly sizzling in midwinter. 

The main square of Marrakesh and the old Medina - one of the great options for a winter sun city break with kids

With temperatures sitting round 18-20C and hardly any rain, winter is the right time to discover the colourful cities of Marrakesh, Fez, and Casablanca, with bustling markets and historic websites which might be positive to excite children of all ages. 

The coastal areas of Agadir and Essaouira are two of the nation’s high seashore locations. Nonetheless, the cruel ​​Atlantic winds and funky waters imply that winter isn’t the most effective time for lounging on the seashore in Morocco. 

You’ll discover loads of selection for reserving household holidays in Morocco – TUI, EasyJet Holidays and Jet2Holidays each have inns in Marrakech in addition to the coast, whereas British Airways Holidays and Reserving.com have some riads of their assortment.

In case you favor to self-cater, PlumGuide has some attractive lodging, largely in and round Marrakech, or to discover additional, Discover runs nice family-friendly group journeys, together with a Household Atlas Mountains and Sahara journey.

Tunisia

Tunisia additionally sits on the north coast of Africa, round a three-hour flight from the UK as properly. The climate in Tunisia stays heat and nice all through winter, with a median temperature of 18C and loads of sunshine.

View of blue and white buildings and steps in Sidi Bou Said - one of several short-haul winter sun destinations for families

For some, this can be heat sufficient to benefit from the nation’s lovely seashores. However even when it’s not sizzling sufficient for a full-blown seashore break, there are many different issues to do too.

You’ll be able to go to the historic Medina of Sousse, a UNESCO World Heritage web site that provides a glimpse into Tunisia’s wealthy historical past, discover Roman ruins, discover the various fairly coastal cities, take a jeep trip within the Japanese Sand Sea, or pop by the Djerba Crocodile Farm.

Most household inns in Tunisia are usually in a number of areas, though it’s straightforward to guide day journeys if you wish to enterprise additional afield – TUI, EasyJet Holidays and OnTheBeach have some nice package deal holidays.

Egypt

Exploring the traditional wonders of Egypt is the right winter household trip with younger historical past fans. Most flights from the UK take between 5-6 hours to succeed in Egypt, which continues to be manageable with barely youthful kids.

Two tiny horses silhouetted against the sand with the pyramids of Giza in Egypt behind against a blue sky - if you're looking for winter sun with kids, this makes an unforgettable holiday

Winter is a well-liked time to go to Egypt, with dry and sunny circumstances all season. Temperatures sit between 20-25C, which is much extra comfy for outside actions than the stifling warmth of the summer season months.

From taking a camel trip across the Pyramids at Giza to visiting Pharaohs’ burial chambers within the Valley of the Kings, Egypt is an incredible place to carry historical past alive for teenagers of all ages.

If it’s an all-inclusive seashore trip you’re searching for, Sharm El-Sheikh is the place to go. The resort city has quite a few family-friendly resorts, in addition to lovely sheltered sandy seashores, clear waters, and superb coral reefs to get pleasure from.

In case you’re hoping to discover the primary websites of Historic Egypt, I’d advocate a guided tour – both a non-public one tailor-made for households, or a bunch tour, except you’re assured doing this independently. Discover has family-friendly group journeys.

Or if you happen to’re searching for solar, sea and sand by the Pink Sea, TUI and EasyJet Holidays have some nice lodge packages.

A malaria-free safari

My daughter loves animals, and after years devouring books, magazines and TV exhibits about life on earht, she’s one thing of a mini encyclopaedia of animal info herself. So after I took her on her personal first safari in Kenya aged 10, it was shortly certainly one of our most memorable holidays – you possibly can actually begin youthful although, as soon as your children’ consideration span means they’ll deal with sport drives too.

My daughter with her camera phone taking a photo of three elephants, including a baby, in the Mara Naboisho conservancy in Kenya - my tips for visiting Kenya with kids include advice on a family safari

After struggling to get my daughter to take malaria tablets on our journey to Burma I’m undoubtedly glad to keep away from these if I can, so a malaria-free safari is a straightforward different, with two notably good winter solar locations in Africa.

South Africa

South Africa is the basic household safari vacation spot. Not solely is the nation largely malaria-free, however there’s additionally a terrific selection of parks and sport reserves, loads of family-friendly lodges and campsites, and even self-drive choices for a extra inexpensive safari. Plus, regardless of the long-haul flight, there’s minimal jetlag for little ones to beat due to the two-hour time distinction.

Kruger Nationwide Park is essentially the most well-known sport reserve in SA. Nonetheless, the park’s location within the northeast of the nation does put it in a malaria-risk space throughout moist season (Nov-Apr). 

To see the massive 5, take a look at Pilanesberg Nationwide Park as a substitute. Or in case your children love elephants, Addo Elephant Nationwide Park on the Japanese Cape is one other nice selection.

An elephant herd, led by a magnificent 'tusker' bull at a waterhole in the Addo Elephant National Park in South Africa - a malaria-free safari here is a great option if you're looking for winter sun with kids

Gondwana Personal Recreation Reserve is smaller than most, nevertheless it’s residence to the massive 5 too and its location on the Backyard Route just some hours from Cape City makes it a handy choice for households.

You’ll be able to simply mix your South African safari with a metropolis break in Cape City too. Cape City has loads of enjoyable issues to do with children, like visiting Desk Mountain, seeing the penguins at Boulders Seashore, and exploring the well-known Robben Island.

Discover has a terrific South Africa safari and seashore vacation for households, aimed toward children aged 7+ (though most are older) if you happen to like the thought of travelling in a bunch, in addition to a South Africa Backyard Route and Safari break for the same age vary. Or strive a tailormade household vacation in South Africa from Kuoni.

Namibia

Namibia is one other terrific winter safari vacation spot for households. Whereas there’s a small danger of malaria within the northeast of the nation in the course of the winter (it could be finest to rule out Etosha Nationwide Park), loads of parks and reserves are malaria-free year-round. 

Namib-Naukluft Nationwide Park sits on the nation’s west coast and is legendary for its monumental orange sand dunes. On a safari, you possibly can spot desert wildlife similar to zebra, oryx, leopards, cheetahs, black rhinos, hyenas, and giraffes. 

Dead Vlei in Naukluft National Park, Namibia - a safari and chance to see the unearthly landscapes here is a great option for a winter sun holiday with kids

Mountainous Damaraland, in the direction of the Skeleton Coast, can also be a unbelievable place for household wildlife safaris, with its endangered black rhinos and uncommon desert elephants and lions.

And close by Okonjima Nature Reserve is a good spot to see wild leopards and hyenas. Nonetheless, some actions within the reserve are restricted to kids over 12.

Kuoni additionally tailormakes household holidays in Namibia together with the prospect to discover the dunes of Sossuvlei in addition to discovering the nation’s wildlife

Indian Ocean

I’ve dipped my toes into the Indian Ocean a number of instances, together with from Burma, Sri Lanka and Kenya in addition to the Maldives, and whether or not you go for a basic island escape or not, it’s simply probably the greatest locations for winter solar with children.

Mauritius

Mauritius is the best vacation spot for having fun with some winter solar with children. The island has its finest climate later within the yr, with November and December being dry, sizzling, and sunny. January and February stay sizzling, though there’s a danger of rain because of the incoming cyclone season.

Aerial view of Mauritius island panorama and famous Le Morne Brabant mountain, beautiful blue lagoon and underwater waterfall - one of the best places for winter sun with kids

Mauritius is residence to a number of the world’s most lovely seashores, together with Trou aux Biches and Belle Mare. The calm, shallow waters are good for younger kids to splash round in, whereas older children and adults can discover snorkelling and water sports activities.

There’s heaps to do past swimming and snorkelling too, together with an opportunity to be taught extra in regards to the island’s multicultural melting pot of influences. You’ll be able to uncover the island’s colonial historical past in Port Louis, see wild animals in Casela Nature Park, and discover the multi-colored sand formations of the Chamarel plain.

For household holidays in Mauritius, TUI has some nice offers if you happen to’re searching for winter solar with children, or take a look at the package deal holidays to Mauritius from British Airways Holidays

Maldives

If it’s an expensive and enjoyable sun-soaked household trip you’re after, look no additional than the Maldives. The dry season within the Maldives falls between November and April, making it an ideal winter solar vacation spot.

One of the glorious white sand beaches in the Maldives and the turquoise Indian Ocean - why we should all #JoinTheFight to stop superbugs, and why I'm personally thankful for antibiotics

Deal with your self to an all-inclusive personal island resort the place the children can run round freely having fun with the attractive seashores, tranquil waters, and household actions. Or when you have older kids, a keep in one of many iconic overwater bungalows is a once-in-a-lifetime expertise.

We had an incredible household vacation within the Maldives saying on two separate islands at 4 Seasons Kudaa Hura and Landaa Giraavaru – take a look at extra of my ideas for visiting the Maldives with children

As most islands are fully owned by a single resort, it does pay to decide on fastidiously – with totally different swimming pools, children golf equipment and actions on supply, they are often unbelievable for households.

And whereas typically all I need is seashore, solar and the prospect to lie down and loosen up (so far as a small individual will let me), the Maldives can also be residence to a number of the most unbelievable marine life on the planet. High off your trip with a snorkelling or diving journey to see turtles, vibrant fish, manta rays, and even dolphins or whale sharks.

Winter solar with children within the Maldives doesn’t come low-cost nevertheless it’s an unforgettable vacation – you will discover a wide range of family-friendly resorts, together with all-inclusive Indian Ocean escapes in addition to locations just like the Hilton Amingiri whereas TUI and British Airways Holidays have some nice package deal holidays to the Maldives together with all-inclusive resorts

Seychelles 

Regardless of winter being wet season within the Seychelles, that is nonetheless a preferred time to go to. An occasional downpour is a small value to pay for sunshine and 30°c the remainder of the day, in any case. However if you happen to do wish to keep away from the worst of the rain, November tends to be the driest month.

Anse Source D'Argent on La Digue island, one of the most beautiful beaches in the Seychelles - while winter is rainy season, it's still a great option for winter sun with kids

The Seychelles is full of family-friendly actions and sights too. You’ll be able to go island hopping and uncover lovely hidden seashores, feed large tortoises on Curieuse Island, and discover the plush palm jungles of Vallee de Mai Nature Reserve.

Plus don’t miss the chance to go snorkelling across the multicoloured coral reefs and uncover the colourful marine life. In case you’re travelling with a toddler who’s too younger to snorkel, a glass-bottomed boat tour is a enjoyable different.

TUI additionally has some nice holidays for households within the Seychelles, or there are additionally packages accessible from British Airways Holidays

Household-friendly Center East

One of many closest locations to the UK for some assured warmth in midwinter, the Center East has loads of tempting winter solar holidays for households.

Whether or not you wish to fly and flop or get out exploring, a luxurious lodge with a terrific children’ membership and loads of family-friendly actions like watersports and an opportunity to be taught some Arabic cooking, who doesn’t fancy some desert journey when the temperatures at residence are subzero?

Oman

After an exquisite week exploring Oman, I already wish to return and do all of it once more in addition to discover additional – maybe to the Musandam Pensinsula subsequent time. I’m somewhat tempted to discover Salalah too, well-known for its lush greenery after the monsoon – or khareef – season, however maybe not whereas I’m searching for winter solar with children.

My daughter watches the sun set over the orange dunes stretching into the distance at Wahiba Sands in Oman - my nine reasons to visit Oman with kids

The nation is straightforward to get round (though having a driver or information if you happen to’re going into the desert is an excellent plan, except you’ve had follow) and so you possibly can simply uncover a number of the highlights of Muscat, in addition to the historical past and surroundings of Oman, and nonetheless have time to sit back out.

After 24 hours in Muscat, the place we noticed dolphins, explored the outdated souk at Mutrah and visited the astonishing Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque, we visited Oman’s forts, climbed sand dunes within the desert at Wahiba Sands, noticed turtles hatching at Ras Al Jinz and relaxed by the pool. We travelled with Cussed Mule who specialize in household holidays.

For extra inspiration, uncover my itinerary for per week in Oman with children in addition to 9 causes to go to Oman with children

United Arab Emirates (UAE)

For a mid-haul winter solar vacation spot from the UK, the UAE is one other nice selection. The UAE has year-round sunshine and heat climate, with winter temperatures remaining round 25C – in reality, winter is definitely much more bearable than the area’s scorchingly sizzling summers!

Dubai is definitely the most effective identified, a sprawling metropolis with many unbelievable family-friendly sights, together with the IMG Worlds of Journey theme park and the world’s largest water park Aquaventure Dubai – to not point out luxurious inns, loads of bling and a few iconic buildings.

However don’t overlook the UAE’s different treasures too, particularly if you happen to’d like a extra genuine style of native tradition.

The skyline of Abu Dhabi with a boat on the beach in the foreground - one of several places to find winter sun with kids without a long-haul flight

For households searching for a extra adventurous and fewer glitzy expertise, Ras al Khaimah is a rugged gem within the UAE. You’ll discover adrenalin-fuelled outside actions similar to mountaineering and the world’s longest zipline at Jebel Jais, whereas the coast can also be unbelievable for watersport lovers.

Or Abu Dhabi is residence to the likes of Warner Bros World and Ferrari World, making it superb for theme park followers (finest for older kids and youths).

You’re spoiled for selection if you happen to’re reserving a winter solar vacation with children within the UAE – TUI has household pleasant and all-inclusive breaks in varied totally different Emirates, whereas British Airways Holidays has packages for Dubai and On The Seashore has packages with children included too.

Jordan

If massive fashionable cities aren’t for you, Jordan is ideal for households searching for a singular mix of tradition, historical past, and outside adventures within the Center East.

View of the red sand and rocks in Wadi Rum Jordan - one of the places for a winter sun holiday with kids that's about more than beach.

Youngsters can marvel on the archaeological wonders of Petra, float within the supersalty waters of the Useless Sea, snorkel within the Pink Sea and take a camel trip throughout the superb desert landscapes of Wadi Rum.

Midwinter isn’t a good time to go to Jordan, with temperatures dropping steeply in December and January. However November is an effective choice for avoiding the height summer season/autumn crowds whereas nonetheless attending to get pleasure from pleasantly sunny climate (20C common daytime highs).

Discover has a terrific family-friendly group tour – Household Jordan, Petra and Desert Journey to see a number of the nation’s highlights

Household journey in Sri Lanka

After visiting Sri Lanka not lengthy after the tsunami, I fell in love with the nation – and since my journey, the vacation spot has opened up much more, so areas I couldn’t see then are all of the sudden an choice.

I’m decided to go again with my daughter and introduce her to this excellent place: revisiting the traditional cities, heading up into the hill nation and the tea plantations in addition to a seashore keep and seeing a number of the fantastic wildlife.

A view of the towering rock of Sigiriya where a palace once stood - one of many sights in Sri Lanka that you can enjoy on a winter sun holiday with kids

Sri Lanka’s climate is usually a little difficult with totally different wet seasons on the totally different coasts, however the most effective climate within the hills and on the south and west coasts is from December to March – good to seek out some winter solar with children too.

Questioning why Sri Lanka with children is so tempting? Take a look at my high causes to go to

One in every of my very own favorite locations was Sigiriya, the place as soon as a palace stood on high of the large rock, whereas the traditional cities of Anuradhapura and Polonnaruwa are each fascinating.

You’ll be able to see the cave temples at Dambulla, in addition to extra temples at Kandy earlier than heading into the hills – in addition to spectacular surroundings, there are tea plantations and more moderen colonial historical past.

Add in seashores on the south and west coast, and a few unbelievable wildlife, similar to leopards at Yala Nationwide Park, and the prospect of seeing elephants within the wild in Uda Walawe Nationwide park too.

Female Asian elephant in Udawalawe national park, Sri Lanka - one of my top picks for winter sun with kids

The family-friendly lodging consists of the choice of personal villas in addition to some attractive boutique inns which nonetheless welcome children. Having seen each the roads and the driving, I’m glad at hand that job over to another person although, so the thought of a tour or a vacation with a driver organised that can assist you get round is an effective one.

Kuoni can tailormake household holidays in Sri Lanka, or it’s also possible to discover family-friendly holidays in Sri Lanka with TUI. Discover additionally runs group excursions, together with the nine-day Household Highlights of Sri Lanka for age 7+.

Unique escape in Kerala

Winter is definitely probably the greatest instances to go to Kerala in southern India – head to the coast round Kochi and the temperatures are nonetheless within the excessive 20s-low 30sC, and even at evening, you possibly can count on it to remain round 20C.

A houseboat on the backwaters of Kerala in India - the winter months are a great time to explore this corner of southern India and enjoy some winter sun with kids

In case you do head into the hills round Munnar, count on it to be cooler however for the prospect to discover the historical past of Fort Kochi with out melting, or for a much less humid cruise via the backwaters, the winter months are superb.

There are many golden sand seashores as properly if you happen to’re searching for an opportunity to loosen up. In actual fact, the entire of Kerala is extremely chilled-out – India lite as an (Indian) pal of mine put it, which additionally makes it a terrific selection for a primary household vacation in India.

Once I visited in February, there was actually as a lot winter solar as I might have hoped, and even if you happen to solely have time for a brief journey, you possibly can pack loads into one week in Kerala, so it’s even an choice for February half-term with school-age children.

I organized my very own journey independently, checking out lodging in Kerala on Reserving.com and arranging drivers individually – if you happen to’d somewhat another person organises the small print, Kuoni can tailormake holidays to Kerala

USA

Whereas there are many locations to find off the overwhelmed monitor if you happen to’re searching for winter solar with children, there are some household favourites which work simply as properly, together with a vacation within the US.

Florida

It’s no secret that Florida is without doubt one of the high family-friendly locations within the US. However do you know that it’s additionally probably the greatest locations to go to in the course of the winter months?

Palm trees by the beach in Key West - the Florida Keys are easy to combine with a stay in Miami, and perfect for some winter sun with kids

Being the southernmost state within the US, temperatures in Florida stay a sunny 25C all winter lengthy. December can also be the driest month of the yr and humidity is at its lowest. Which means it’s sizzling sufficient for lounging on the seashore however not too uncomfortable to spend lengthy days on the state’s many theme parks with little ones. 

Orlando is the guts of Florida’s theme park scene, with sights like Walt Disney World, Common Resort, and Legoland Florida offering continuous leisure for teenagers of all ages. 

Or if theme parks aren’t for you, don’t miss the beautiful seashores and tranquil waters of the Gulf Coast, the colourful tradition of vibrant Miami, a extra uncommon Florida metropolis break in Tampa or the pristine coral reefs of the Florida Keys.

TUI is a good place to start out if you happen to’re searching for household vacation packages in Florida, in addition to British Airways Holidays. However it’s also possible to discover some attractive villa lodging in Florida from TopVillas

Journey in Costa Rica

Each time I write a journey bucket record, Costa Rica options – and its dry season runs from mid December to April, so it’s additionally good for winter solar holidays for households.

Sloth hanging from a tree with what appears to be a smile on its face - one of the highlights of visiting Costa Rica with kids

I can’t think about staying in a single lodge and lacking out on a number of the fascinating issues to see and do although – volcano, cloudforest, rainforest, two totally different coasts and seashores, espresso plantations plus wildlife galore – so a self-drive vacation is tempting

For extra issues to do in Costa Rica with children, take a look at my high picks

Even my cautious daughter would love wandering the walkways via rainforest canopies to identify monkeys, sloths and tropical birds, whereas the considered soaking in a pure sizzling spring after some intensive exploring fits me.

For older children, you possibly can strive browsing and rafting, whereas there’s loads of likelihood to loosen up on the sand after recognizing a few of Costa Rica’s fantastic wildlife.

To pack in as lots of the nation’s sights as attainable, Discover has some nice family-friendly excursions of Costa Rica – the nine-day Household Costa Rica Highlights and the longer Household Costa Rica Rainforest and Wildlife Journey are appropriate for age 7+ (some actions for age 8+). Or construct your individual Costa Rica household journey with Kuoni

Caribbean household vacation

It appears like we’re slowly working our method across the CaribbeanAruba, Antigua, St Lucia, the Turks and Caicos islands – and people with direct flights from the UK are an effective way to make long-haul journey with children a bit simpler.

Plus the winter months are drier with loads of solar to brighten the darkish days at residence.

Aruba

If the powdery white sand seashores and shallow turquoise waters aren’t sufficient to tempt you to Aruba, the large array of family-friendly actions will. 

My daughter stands on the edge of a smooth pale sand beach by the turquoise waters of the Caribbean, at Eagle Beach in Aruba - one of the great winter sun holidays with kids in the Caribbean

From boat journeys, snorkelling, and waterparks, to the intriguing pure cave formations of Arikok Nationwide Park and the island’s number of distinctive wildlife – together with flamingos, ostriches, donkeys, and butterflies – there’s greater than sufficient to maintain little ones entertained all journey.

Palm Seashore is the most effective space to remain on the island with children, with all of the facilities and sights you might want proper in your doorstep.

We stayed on the Hilton Aruba for a part of our journey, whereas TUI has a string of package deal holidays in Aruba and their very own direct flights, as does British Airways Holidays

Antigua

For a mixture of lovely seashores and interesting historical past, Antigua is one other nice household trip choice within the Caribbean. 

View of Deep Bay in Antigua, one of the many great places in the Caribbean for winter sun with kids

Well-known for its 365 seashores – one for every single day of the yr – you received’t be wanting someplace to loosen up by the waves. Lots of the island’s seashores have calm shallow waters that are perfect for having fun with some winter solar with infants and toddlers. 

There are many historic sights across the island to uncover with older kids too, similar to Nelson’s Dockyard, an 18th-century naval base as soon as residence to Nelson himself, historic windmills, and the colorful ex-colonial buildings of the capital metropolis St John’s.

British Airways Holidays has some nice household holidays in Antigua in its Caribbean assortment, or you will discover villa lodging with TopVillas and PlumGuide

St Lucia

St Lucia is certainly essentially the most lush and numerous of the Caribbean Islands, with loads of issues to do for extra energetic households.

A view across the Caribbean to the Pitons in St Lucia - one of the great winter sun destinations for families in the Caribbean

The island is centred across the mighty Piton mountains, two volcanic peaks surrounded by wealthy rainforests. There are many strolling routes that provide unbelievable views of the Pitons, together with the superb Tet Paul nature path which is definitely doable with children and toddler pleasant too.  

Different thrilling household sights embody the world’s solely drive-in volcano in Soufriere, thermal swimming pools you possibly can bathe in, thrilling jungle zip strains (for teenagers 4+), and scrumptious cacao plantation excursions (sure, you get to eat chocolate!).

British Airways Holidays has some nice all-inclusive household holidays in St Lucia, in addition to different winter solar offers, whereas TUI’s family-friendly resorts in St Lucia are one other nice choice. TopVillas has some nice villas on the island too

Turks & Caicos

It doesn’t matter what you’re searching for in your winter solar trip, Turks & Caicos is bound to have it. The attractive archipelago has quite a few island breaks to select from. 

A girl looks out to the turquoise waters of the Caribbean from Grace Bay on Providenciales in the Turks & Caicos islands, one of the more unusual places for winter sun with kids in the Caribbean

Providenciales is the most effective place to base your self with children, with its many luxurious vacation resorts, thrilling watersports, and beautiful seashores. Grace Bay Seashore has been voted the world’s most lovely seashore and is a unbelievable place for teenagers to run round on the smooth white sands and splash in crystal-clear waters. 

We stayed at Seashores Turks & Caicos, proper on Grace Bay which is unbelievable for households

Grand Turk is the place to go for attention-grabbing historic sights, whereas the tiny island of Salt Cay affords unspoiled pure magnificence and a extra peaceable and genuine ambiance. 

High Villas and PlumGuide have some beautiful self-catering villa lodging on Providenciales, whereas British Airways Holidays has package deal holidays to Turks & Caicos for households

Barbados

Barbados is without doubt one of the Caribbean’s high family-friendly locations and a terrific place to get pleasure from some winter solar with little ones. Not solely does the island have numerous superb family-friendly resorts and villas, however there’s lots to do with children of all ages too. 

View of Bottom Bay in Barbados, a palm fringed white sand beach - the Caribbean island is a great winter sun destination with kids

Younger animal lovers will get pleasure from recognizing the monkeys at Barbados Wildlife Reserve, whereas the superb 500,000-year-old Harrison’s Cave is certainly a must-visit. 

You can too take a cruise across the island to benefit from the lovely waters or head underwater in a submarine to see the unbelievable coral reefs up shut – nice for little explorers who’re too younger to swim or snorkel but.

Each British Airways Holidays and TUI have some nice package deal holidays in Barbados for households, otherwise you’ll discover luxurious self-catering lodging with PlumGuide and TopVillas

Mexico

There’s extra to the Caribbean than simply the islands – and with the dry season falling between December and April and temperatures sitting within the excessive 20s to low 30s, winter is a unbelievable time to go to Mexico. 

Boats moored by the boardwalk at Puerto Morelos with the white sand beach seen in the background - one of the smaller resorts on the Riviera Maya if you're looking for winter sun with kids in Mexico

Whereas there are many unbelievable locations to discover all throughout the nation, the seashore resorts of the Riviera Maya (residence to Cancun and Playa del Carmen) are our high suggestion for a spot of winter solar with children.

The Riviera Maya is full of upscale but inexpensive family-friendly resorts, with lovely ocean-facing swimming pools and a great deal of enjoyable actions for teenagers. The seashores have calm waters so are nice for little ones to swim in. Plus there are many day journeys you possibly can take to discover the close by cenotes and the nation’s many superb historic ruins.

For household holidays in Cancun and the Riviera Maya, British Airways Holidays has some nice offers, in addition to extra choices for Mexico’s Caribbean coast from TUI. Or to your personal personal house, PlumGuide has some luxurious villas and self-catering lodging within the Riviera Maya too.

Seashore break in South East Asia

South-East Asia typically will get forgotten if you happen to’re searching for a winter solar escape with children – and when you do want to decide on your vacation spot fastidiously to get the most effective climate, it’s good for an unique seashore break or a household journey.

Thailand

Thailand is a giant bucket-list vacation spot for a lot of households. However do you know that the winter is definitely a unbelievable time to go to? 

Longtail boat in the shallows with turquoise sea and an island in the distance - Thailand is one of the great winter sun destinations with kids which often gets overlooked

November to February is the “cool season” in Thailand, with temperatures dropping to a balmy 30C, in comparison with the insufferable 40C+ “sizzling season”. Rainfall and humidity are additionally at their lowest, making it a way more comfy time to go to with little ones.

When visiting the well-known Thai islands in winter, you’ll wish to stick with the likes of Phuket, Krabi, and Ko Phi Phi on the western coast although. The Andaman Sea is at its calmest, making it a good time to swim and snorkel with children. It’s finest to keep away from the east coast islands of Koh Samui and Koh Tao that are liable to monsoons throughout this era.

Chiang Mai and northern Thailand are the place you’ll discover lots of the nation’s superb temples and animal sanctuaries. Nonetheless, February is “burning season,” which suggests the area is roofed in a layer of smoke attributable to agricultural burning, so keep away from visiting the north of the nation throughout this month if you happen to can.

Discover has some nice group excursions of Thailand for households together with choices with some seashore time, whereas Kuoni can tailormake your individual good Thailand tour with children.

There’s a terrific selection of Thailand journeys from British Airways Holidays too, in addition to luxurious villas in Phuket from TopVillas

Cambodia

For a barely much less touristy vacation spot than Thailand, head to neighbouring Cambodia. Winter can also be the dry season right here, with temperatures sitting within the excessive 20s and low humidity. 

My daughter watches a monk at Angkor Wat in Cambodia, one of the best places for an adventure as well as winter sun with kids

The nation has loads of thrilling actions for adventurous older kids. You’ll be able to discover the world-famous ruins at Angkor Wat, take the Bamboo Practice at Battambang, go ziplining within the nation’s lush jungles, and discover the various superb nationwide parks.

Or for a extra conventional winter solar trip with little ones, the tropical islands of Koh Rong and Koh Rong Samloem have the identical lovely white sand seashores and turquoise waters because the Thai islands, simply with out the large vacationer crowds. 

Take a look at our two-week itinerary for Cambodia with children, together with Otres Seashore (in its place mainland choice to the nation’s tropical islands) and Angkor Wat amongst different stops. We travelled with Cussed Mule

Vietnam

Vietnam is a big nation with a number of various climates, so if you happen to’re planning to journey across the nation, it pays to suppose forward. However usually, December to February is an effective time to go to most elements of the nation for some winter solar, though November should still be slightly wet in locations.

Fishing boats in the gulf of Phu Quoc island, one of several places in Vietnam which are great for winter sun with kids

There’s lots for households to find in Vietnam. The colourful cities, bustling markets, and scrumptious delicacies are nice for older kids and youths. 

Households with infants and toddlers might wish to stick with the extra peaceable seashore resorts of Phu Quoc or Danang. Nha Trang makes a greater seashore break for older children due to its abundance of watersports and the large VinWonders water park.

Kuoni’s South-East Asia workforce has some nice recommendation to assist create your household vacation in Vietnam, whereas Discover has a number of family-friendly excursions of Vietnam, together with choices within the Christmas holidays

Malaysia

For winter solar in Malaysia, you’re going to wish to stick with the mainland’s western coast. Winter is wet season on the East Coast and the Malay Peninsula, so it’s finest to keep away from these.

My daughter splashes in the sea off a small beach on Langkawi, boat in the background by the tree lined hills - one of the great winter sun destinations with kids in Malaysia

However that also leaves lots to do. Kuala Lumpur is a good metropolis journey with older children, with the colorful Batu Caves, vibrant Chinatown, and the Sunway Lagoon Theme Park. The island of Penang additionally affords scrumptious meals, historic landmarks and temples, and several other thrilling theme parks.

The island archipelago of Langkawi is the place to go for lovely seashores and beautiful pure landscapes. From enjoyable by the ocean to exploring many waterfalls and rainforests, Langkawi is an ideal winter solar vacation spot for teenagers of all ages.

British Airways Holidays has journeys which go to the capital and west coast of Malaysia, whereas Kuoni also can tailormake household holidays in Malaysia for some winter solar with children

*First revealed 2019, final up to date 2023*

PIN FOR LATER: THE BEST WINTER SUN WITH KIDS

The best winter sun with kids - my pick of the world's best winter sun holidays for families, and where to go if you're considering long-haul travel with kids, from Africa to the Indian Ocean, adventures in Costa Rica and Sri Lanka, plus beaches galore

Disclosure: This put up accommodates affiliate hyperlinks – any purchases you make are unaffected however I’ll obtain a small fee

Cape Verde/Tunisia/Kenya/Maldives/Oman/Kerala/Aruba/Antigua/St Lucia/Turks & Caicos/Cambodia/Langkawi pictures copyright MummyTravels, all different pictures courtesy of Depositphotos

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