Family Beach Resorts – Top 13

Key Takeaways‍

• Four Seasons Resort the Biltmore, Santa Barbara offers a variety of water sports and a complimentary Kids For All Seasons club.
• Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge in Orlando has unique African-inspired settings, savanna view rooms, and a 67-foot-long water slide.
• Omni Amelia Island Plantation Resort provides activities like golf, tennis, biking, kayaking, and crabbing for all ages.
• Topnotch Resort in Stowe, Vermont, features a wide range of outdoor activities and allows up to two dogs in select rooms.
• Dollywood’s DreamMore Resort and Spa offers both indoor and outdoor activities, including stargazing berms and a full-service spa.
• Marriott Resort and Spa at Grand Dunes in Myrtle Beach provides ocean-view rooms, a fantastic pool, and kids’ activities.

The excitement of planning a family vacation is undeniable, and finding the perfect beach resort that caters to everyone’s needs can be a thrilling challenge. With so many family-friendly resorts in the US offering unique amenities, fun activities, and luxurious accommodations, it’s no surprise that families are eager to explore these exceptional vacation spots. This makes me wonder, what are the top family beach resorts in US, and why are they perfect for families seeking an unforgettable vacation experience?

Family Beach Resorts In US – Top 13

So, what are the top 13 family beach resorts in the US? They are Four Seasons Resort the Biltmore in Santa Barbara, Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge in Orlando, Omni Amelia Island Plantation Resort in Fernandina Beach, Topnotch Resort in Stowe, Dollywood’s DreamMore Resort and Spa in Pigeon Forge, Myrtle Beach Oceanfront Hotels in Myrtle Beach, Wequassett Resort and Golf Club in Chatham, Sonesta Resort Hilton Head Island, Sea Island off the coast of Georgia, King and Prince Beach & Golf Resort on St. Simons Island, Hotel del Coronado in San Diego, Wild Dunes Resort on Isle of Palms, and YMCA of the Rockies in Estes Park.

In the following sections, I’ll delve deeper into the unique offerings of each resort, from beachfront activities and coastal adventures to luxurious accommodations and mouth-watering local cuisine.

The idea of setting foot on a luxury property that boasts everything families could possibly want, from swimming pools and golf courses to tennis courts, is irresistible. They seem to have everything!

Whether you’re seeking a luxurious escape or a rustic beach getaway, you’ll find a coastal haven that perfectly suits your family’s needs. So, hold on to your sun hats and sunglasses, and let’s embark on this journey of exploration and discovery, uncovering the best family beach resorts the United States has to offer.

A Deeper Look into the 13 Top Family Beach Resorts In US – Family Fun

Family vacation travel to beach resorts in the United States is popular. Here are a few statistics and facts to give you a bigger picture:

Families are opting for beach vacations (66%) and city vacations (65%) over nature or active family vacations, and 41% of millennials traveling with children visit beach resorts. (Source)

Additionally, 62% of families choose vacation destinations based on the availability of activities for both parents and children, and 47% of respondents in a 2022 survey on U.S. family travel planned to travel for large family groups. (Source)

These statistics provide insight into the preferences of families when it comes to vacation destinations and the importance of family-friendly activities and accommodations.

Let’s start going over the top 11 family beach resorts in the United States, giving you an in-depth description of what makes each one stand out, from their golf courses to tennis courts, and why they are worth considering for your next family getaway.

1. Four Seasons Resort the Biltmore, Santa Barbara, California

Four Seasons Resort The Biltmore Santa Barbara is an ideal beach getaway for families looking for an exciting and enjoyable vacation. With a stunning beach just outside the resort, Butterfly Beach, families can enjoy a variety of water sports like kayaking, surfing and paddleboarding.

The complimentary Kids For All Seasons club provides plenty of activities to keep little ones entertained with cookie-making workshops, arts and crafts, painting, and access to their swimming pool. For those with kids of all ages, the resort also offers tennis, movies, swimming, and more. And for golf enthusiasts, nearby golf courses are readily accessible.

For seaside dining, there is Bella Vista providing Italian-inspired cuisine. Those who book a Premier Room will also get complimentary access to the Coral Casino Beach and Cabana Club Pool. All of this makes Four Seasons Resort The Biltmore Santa Barbara a great beach resort for families looking for a fun, memorable and luxurious experience reminiscent of a dream vacation in Hawaii.

2. Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge, Orlando, Florida

Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge is the perfect beach resort for families because of its unique African-inspired setting and endless amenities and activities.

With savanna view rooms offering glimpses of the African wildlife, the 67-foot-long water slide at the Uzima Springs Pool, and fun-filled family events, such as campfires with stories and s’mores, it is sure to be a memorable vacation for all. You’d think you were staying at a luxury property in Hawaii!

From family beach vacations on the gulf shores to adventures through south beach, resorts provide a wide range of experiences. One such place is Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge, which is conveniently located near Walt Disney World theme parks and the surrounding Orlando water parks. It offers stunning gardens, exciting things for teens to do, and a breakfast that sets you up for the day.

Beyond the recreational activities, this sustainable waterfront resort also contributes to the environment with initiatives such as free bicycles, a parking lot that captures pollutants, and a pool filled with condensation from air conditioners.

3. Omni Amelia Island Plantation Resort, Fernandina Beach, Florida

Omni Amelia Island Plantation Resort is the perfect beach resort for families.

This resort offers activities for all ages, from golf and tennis to biking, kayaking, crabbing and playing on the beach. It’s a paradise for teens who enjoy a diverse range of outdoor activities.

It offers a wide range of activities for all ages, from golf and tennis to biking, kayaking, crabbing and playing on the beach.

There is something for everyone, including the luxurious spa, the Shops of Amelia Island Plantation, the Amelia Island Nature Center, and the Camp Amelia program for kids. It’s not far from the buzzing south beach area, allowing explorations beyond the resort’s boundaries.

The resort also boasts of 3 1/2 miles of private beach, a pool area full of restaurants, kids’ activities, and even a tequila bar, providing a safe and enjoyable environment for families to relax and have fun.

With spacious guestrooms and villas spread throughout the 10,000-acre island haven, finding breakfast spots with stunning views isn’t a hard feat. This makes it ideal for families looking for a luxurious and fun-filled vacation.

A great family-friendly beach resort situated in more temperate climes is the Topnotch Resort in Stowe, Vermont. It offers a wealth of outdoor activities for all ages, in addition to resort homes that feature up to three bedrooms and full kitchens.

Nearby Stowe also has plenty to offer, from hiking and bird watching to exploring the art scene and shopping. With the options such as these, family beach vacations are a delightful mix of relaxation and adventure here.

All these features make Omni Amelia Island Plantation Resort an ideal beach resort for families looking for a luxurious and fun-filled vacation.

4. Topnotch Resort, Stowe, Vermont

Topnotch Resort in Stowe, Vermont is a great beach resort for families in the US for a variety of reasons. The resort is set on 120 acres of woodland and offers a wide range of outdoor activities for all ages. From tennis lessons and swimming in the indoor and outdoor pools to skiing, snowboarding and other winter sports, the resort has something for everyone. Plus, families can bring their pets along, with up to two dogs allowed in select rooms.

The resort also offers family-friendly accommodations, with resort homes that feature two to three bedrooms, a full kitchen, fireplace, washer and dryer, privacy, and a “home away from home” experience. Guests can enjoy fire pits with s’mores kits, afternoon tea and hot cocoa, and plenty of outdoor activities like badminton and volleyball.

In addition to the outdoor activities, there is a lot to explore in nearby Stowe as well. Hiking, fishing, canoeing, swimming, bird watching, paddle boarding, golfing, shopping, art and culture scene, vintage and boutique shopping, and even brew touring are all great options for a fun family getaway. Finally, the resort is pet-friendly, so families can bring their furry friends along for the fun.

For these reasons, Topnotch Resort in Stowe, Vermont is a great beach resort for families in the US.

5. Dollywood’s DreamMore Resort and Spa, Pigeon Forge, Tennessee

Dollywood’s DreamMore Resort and Spa is one of the best beach resorts for families in the US because it offers a range of activities both indoors and outdoors that the whole family can enjoy.

With its stargazing berms, rocking chairs on the porch, and a full-service spa, DreamMore Resort provides a unique and luxurious experience for adults.

Meanwhile, kids can take advantage of the resort’s family activities center, indoor and outdoor pool complex, and farmhouse-style restaurant.

The resort is conveniently located next to the Dollywood Theme Park, with complimentary transportation and theme park perks.

Additionally, families can take advantage of the beautiful and expansive grounds which feature a private lake with white sandy beach and water sports.

With all these features, DreamMore Resort and Spa provides a memorable beach experience for the whole family.

6. Myrtle Beach Oceanfront Hotels, Myrtle Beach, South Carolina

What are some of the kid friendly hotels in Myrtle Beach for large families?

Myrtle Beach is a great beach destination for families, with plenty of activities and attractions to keep everyone entertained.

For an affordable beach getaway, consider the Marriott Resort and Spa at Grand Dunes, which offers freshly renovated guest rooms with ocean views and balconies, a fantastic pool, and kids’ activities.

Other great family hotels in Myrtle Beach include the Boardwalk Beach Resort, which is conveniently located near the famous city boardwalk and amusement parks, and the Surfsand Cannon Beach which is known for its laid-back vibe and beautiful beach.

For ocean views, the Caribbean Resort and Villas has plenty of spacious accommodations to fit large families.

Finally, the Hilton Myrtle Beach Resort offers spacious suites with kitchenettes, a lazy river, and a pirate-themed pool.

7. Wequassett Resort and Golf Club, Chatham, Massachusetts

Wequassett Resort and Golf Club is an ideal beach resort for families, offering a range of fun activities that will keep the kids entertained for days.

It is a 27-acre, upmarket family beach hotel, located in Chatham, Massachusetts, and offers a complimentary boat ride to the Cape Cod National Seashore’s undeveloped beaches.

During the summer months, kids can enjoy kayaking, sailing and swimming at the Wequassett’s kids’ club, which also features a pirate ship activity area with waterslides and spray features, plus indoor games and entertainment.

Meanwhile, parents can relax on one of the Water View Cottages’ private balconies or decks, or enjoy a bite to eat at one of the beach resort’s restaurants, such as the Outer Bar & Grille.

8. Sonesta Resort Hilton Head Island, South Carolina

Sonesta Resort Hilton Head Island is an ideal family beach resort for any kind of getaway.

The resort offers 340 guestrooms, including suites with mini-fridges and private balconies, and is located within walking distance to the Shipyard beach access.

The resort also has two zero-entry lagoon pools, four onsite restaurants, and a fitness center, spa, and office space.

In addition to the relaxing amenities, the resort also has plenty of activities to keep the whole family entertained.

Families can rent bicycles and explore the resort, discover wildlife, and visit the Just Us Kids club for beach toys, game times, arts and crafts, and more.

All this, plus its close proximity to the sandy beaches of Hilton Head, make it an ideal place to spend a beach vacation.

9. Sea Island – Off the Coast of Georgia

Sea Island is one of the best beach resorts in the US for families looking to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life.

Located on a beautiful barrier island off the coast of Georgia, it is surrounded by the Black Banks River to the west and 5 miles of dune-fringed Atlantic seashore to the east, offering stunning views of the ocean and river, as well as a variety of activities for the family.

At the heart of the resort, the Cloister and adjacent Beach Club offer elegant guest rooms and suites with easy access to the resort’s beach and pools.

Families can enjoy a range of activities, such as learning about the island’s ecology and history, paddleboarding through tidal grasslands, or grabbing a cone at the Wonderland Sweet Shop.

The resort also offers Camp Cloister, a children’s program providing engaging experiences with talented onsite naturalists and educators.

Overall, Sea Island is a great beach resort for families, offering a charming, old-fashioned vibe and a variety of activities for all ages to enjoy.

10. King and Prince Beach & Golf Resort, St. Simmons Island, Georgia

• King and Prince Beach & Golf Resort is an ideal family beach destination due to its location on St. Simons Island
• The resort offers a variety of accommodations, including guestrooms, villas, and full houses, suitable for all age groups
• Guests can enjoy a wide range of activities such as water sports, pools, tennis, and golf
• Easy access to charming local attractions like St. Simons Island Light and Massengale Park adds to the appeal
• In-room dining options and proximity to shops and restaurants make it convenient for families
• Overall, the resort provides all the necessary elements for a memorable beach vacation

11. Hotel del Coronado, San Diego, California

Hotel del Coronado is widely regarded as one of the best beach resorts for families in the US. Located on the Coronado Peninsula across from downtown San Diego in Southern California, the resort is known for its glamorous weekend brunches, fancy-schmancy shops, and immaculate stretch of beach.

The grand dame of Coronado Island, the stunning, red-roofed Hotel Del Coronado serves up an elegant cocktail of Victorian seashore charm infused with bygone glamor.

Families can enjoy a variety of activities such as biking along the Pacific coast, surfing, beach bonfires and waterskiing, while kids aged 4-12 can take part in the DelVentures activities center, which offers crafts, beach games and gear rental. Plus, the resort offers nightly movies on the beach and a selection of unique shops and restaurants.

The Hotel del Coronado is also an iconic tourist attraction, having been the inspiration for the design of Disney’s Grand Floridian Hotel, and many movies have been filmed here, most notably Some Like It Hot, starring Marilyn Monroe. With its incredible views, endless activities and classic charm, the Hotel del Coronado is a great destination for families looking for a beach holiday in the US.

12. Wild Dunes Resort, Isle of Palms, South Carolina

Wild Dunes Resort is the perfect beach resort for families looking for a fun yet low-key weekend getaway. Located 18 miles from historic Charleston and situated on the Isle of Palms, this barrier island features six miles of white sand beaches for the family to explore and relax on.

Accommodations at Wild Dunes Resort range from small guestrooms that can sleep up to four to larger beach houses and condominiums that can accommodate larger groups.

Families can also take advantage of the resort’s numerous amenities, such as its several pools, a relaxing spa, and an 18-hole golf course.

There are numerous on-site restaurants for everyone’s taste buds, and the resort even has its own boardwalk so the family can get a frozen treat on its way to the beach. Kids can participate in exciting activities and make friends along the way. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing day at the spa or a fun-filled day of golf, Wild Dunes Resort is the perfect beach destination for families.

13. YMCA of the Rockies, Estes Park, Colorado

The YMCA of the Rockies, located in Estes Park, Colorado, is an ideal beach resort for families looking for an unforgettable vacation experience. With its breathtaking views of the Rocky Mountains, the nearly 1,000 acres of open space is perfect for making memories with your loved ones.

The resort also offers a multitude of activities that can be enjoyed all year round, including archery, disc golf, challenge courses, and a craft and design center. Families can also choose from a variety of lodging options, ranging from lodge rooms to five-bedroom cabins, all of which come complete with fireplaces.

The YMCA of the Rockies is the perfect destination for those looking to explore the great outdoors, relax in the beauty of nature, and make lasting memories with the ones they love.

Tips for Making the Most of Your Stay at A Beach Resort for Families

1. Research the Resort and Explore Its Amenities

Researching and exploring a beach resort is a great way to ensure that your family gets the most out of your upcoming beach vacation. To get the best out of your resort experience, here’s a step-by-step guide to help you research and explore potential beach resorts and their amenities:

1. Identify your family’s needs: Before you begin your research, consider your family’s needs – such as age range, activities, size, and budget. Knowing what you need will help you narrow down your search and find the right resort for your family.
2. Select the right destination: Once you’ve established your family’s needs, it’s time to choose a destination. Whether you’re looking for a Florida beach resort, a resort in the Pacific, or a New England getaway, you’ll be able to find something that suits your family’s needs.
3. Research a variety of resorts: Now it’s time to do some research. Read reviews to get a sense of each resort’s offerings and atmosphere. Make sure to read the fine print, such as age restrictions, pet policies, and family packages.
4. Get to know the amenities: Each resort may offer different kinds of amenities, such as restaurants, bars, pools, spas, and recreational activities. Make sure to explore all of the available amenities to determine which resort best fits your family’s needs.
5. Compare prices: Once you’ve identified your desired destination and amenities, it’s time to compare prices. Compare prices from different websites, such as Travelocity and Expedia, to find the best deal for your family.

By following the steps outlined above, you can get a better understanding of the beach resort you’re interested in and make sure it has the right amenities and activities for your family. Happy beach vacation!

2. Consider the Types of Activities Available for Families

At a beach resort for families, there are a variety of activities available for all ages. For children, there are kids’/teen clubs and rooms, welcome packages, discounts, packages, games, and nightly entertainment. Beach resorts for families also offer water sports such as boating, sailing, windsurfing, and kayaking, as well as children’s programs that engage kids of all ages while teaching them about local culture, ecology, wildlife and history. For adults, activities include tennis, golf, spas and seaside dining options. Additionally, many beach resorts offer boardwalk fun, arcade games, billiards, golf simulators, and more.

3. Check for Reviews and Ratings of The Resort

When planning a family beach vacation, it is important to check for reviews and ratings of the beach resort you are considering.

Beach Resort Reviews and Ratings

Before choosing a beach resort for your family, it’s important to consider various aspects. Reviews and ratings can provide a comprehensive idea about these aspects. Here is a simplified breakdown in a table format.

Aspect	Details	Benefits
Amenities and Atmosphere	Provides insight into the facilities and ambience of the resort	Helps in assessing if the resort is suitable for your family
Customer Service	Gives an understanding of the staff’s responsiveness and hospitality	Can determine the overall quality of your stay
Overall Experience	Reviews often touch upon the general experience at the resort	Offers a preview of what to expect during your stay
Activities and Facilities	Information about the type of activities and facilities available	Can help you choose a resort that offers activities your family enjoys
Quality of Food	Reviews often comment on the food offered at the resort	Helps in determining if the food meets your family’s preferences
Safety and Security	Gives an idea about the level of safety and security at the resort	Ensures peace of mind during your stay
Value for Money	Reviews can help assess if the resort offers good value for the price	Assists in making a cost-effective choice

By comparing these aspects across different beach resorts, you can find the one that best suits your family’s needs.

4. Ask About Family-Friendly Excursions

At beach resorts for families, there are a variety of family-friendly excursions available. These include activities such as water sports such as boating, sailing, windsurfing, and kayaking, as well as educational programs that engage both children and adults, such as local culture and history programs, ecology and wildlife programs, and more. Additionally, many resorts provide tennis and golf courts, spas, and seaside dining options for adults.

5. Take Into Account the Proximity of The Resort to The Beach

• Proximity to the beach is important for a family beach resort stay
• Beaches offer a variety of activities for the whole family to enjoy
• Easy access to restaurants and bars for meals and refreshments
• Close proximity to the beach provides greater safety and security
• Families can take advantage of numerous beach activities with easy access to the shore

6. Look Into the Resort’s Kid-Friendly Activities

At beach resorts specifically designed for families, kids can enjoy a range of activities suited to their age and interests. Depending on the resort, activities may include a welcome package, kids’/teen clubs and rooms, games, discounts, packages, hoola-hoop competitions, s’mores, “dive-in” movies, child care services, day camps, a water-play area, a baby beach, caves, waterfalls, a game room, theater, craft room, hiking, nature walks, leis and ukulele lessons, a water elevator, a world-class spa, a trapeze and acrobatics program from Cirque du Soleil, and more.

7. Invest in A Resort Package that Includes Amenities Such as Babysitting and Meal Prep

When purchasing a beach resort package for families, there are several amenities to consider.

Look for resorts that offer beach access, activities that are suitable for all ages, from small children to grandparents, kids’/teen clubs and rooms, welcome packages, discounts, packages, games, and nightly entertainment.

Check the fine print to see if there are restrictions on activities or accommodations for small children, and if your pet is allowed.

Furthermore, consider resorts with babysitting services, coconut tree-lined beaches, sailing, snorkeling, windsurfing, and fitness classes.

Look for resorts that provide welcome packages for infants and even a changing table, baby bathtub, and bottle warmer.

Also, look for resorts with a supervised program for toddlers and preschoolers, Global Gourmet™ dining, luxurious rooms and suites, and a personal nanny for newborns to 1-year-olds, as well as bike rentals, hammocks, and horseback riding.

Finally, seek out resorts that offer an all-inclusive package, including meals, baby amenities, a kids’ club, and other activities.

Personal Thoughts and Experiences About ‍Family Beach Resorts in The US

Growing up in San Diego, you sometimes forget how much the beach can be a part of your life. I adored the charm of small beach towns and daydreamed about exploring beaches around the world. This was easy enough when I was single and working in a job that offered lots of travel.

Then when I had a family, the idea of going to a resort was very enticing. I’ve only taken my family to beach resorts in the US and China, but I would gladly travel more if our time schedules could work out.

If I got the opportunity to travel, I would choose the Omni Amelia Island Plantation Resort in Fernandina Beach, Florida. The diverse range of activities like golf, tennis, biking, and kayaking would keep my family entertained, while I indulge myself at the luxurious spa.

We would also explore the local Shops of Amelia Island Plantation for souvenirs. In addition, I would visit the Wequassett Resort and Golf Club in Chatham, Massachusetts, to enjoy the complimentary boat ride to Cape Cod National Seashore’s undeveloped beaches for a day of relaxation and fun in the sun.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Are Some Budget-Friendly Family Beach Resorts In The Us That Offer A Variety Of Activities And Amenities For All Ages?

When seeking budget-friendly getaways, it’s crucial to find family beach resorts that cater to everyone’s needs. Age-appropriate amenities and activities abound at these havens of sand and sun, ensuring a good time for all.

No need for extravagance – simplicity is the key here, like Hemingway himself might have appreciated. Feel the salty breeze on your skin, let the waves call to your inner adventurer, and celebrate the freedom found in experiencing life together as a family.

Whether it’s building castles in the sand or splashing through crystal-clear waters, there truly is something for everyone at these wallet-conscious vacation spots.

Can You Recommend Any All-Inclusive Family Beach Resorts In The Us That Cater To Specific Dietary Restrictions Or Food Allergies?

Sure, there are all-inclusive family beach resorts in the US that cater to specific dietary restrictions or food allergies.

With allergy-friendly dining options and inclusive resort amenities, you’ll find freedom in knowing your family’s needs are met.

These resorts understand the importance of accommodating guests with diverse dietary requirements, ensuring everyone can indulge in delicious cuisine without worry.

So go ahead, kick back and relax as your cares drift away with the tide – these resorts have got your back when it comes to satisfying even the most discerning palates.

Are There Any Family Beach Resorts In The Us That Offer Childcare Or Kids’ Club Programs So Parents Can Enjoy Some Downtime During Their Vacation?

Did you know that over 90% of parents consider childcare amenities when planning a vacation?

It’s no surprise, as childcare benefits and kids club features play a significant role in helping families unwind during their holiday.

Fortunately, many family beach resorts in the US offer top-notch childcare or kids’ club programs, giving parents the chance to savor some downtime while their little ones explore exciting activities under expert supervision.

So indulge in that spa treatment or soak up the sun by the pool guilt-free, knowing your children are having a fantastic time making new friends and creating unforgettable memories.

What Us Family Beach Resorts Offer Unique Or Specialized Activities, Such As Surf Lessons, Marine Life Education Programs, Or Beach Yoga Classes?

You’ll find many thrilling options when seeking a US family beach resort that offers unique activities.

Get your kids hooked on the surf school benefits, like improved balance and strength, as they learn to ride the waves with experienced instructors.

Let them dive into marine life conservation programs to foster a love for our oceans and its inhabitants.

Even parents can join in on the fun or find their own peace by participating in rejuvenating beach yoga classes.

These specialized activities create unforgettable memories and set you and your family free to truly enjoy every moment spent together at these captivating resorts.

Can You Provide Any Suggestions For Family Beach Resorts In The Us That Are Easily Accessible Via Public Transportation Or Offer Shuttle Services From Nearby Airports Or Train Stations?

You’re in luck, as many accessible resorts in the US cater to families seeking freedom and adventure without the hassle of transportation worries.

With shuttle services from nearby airports or train stations, these family beach resorts ensure a smooth arrival and departure experience, letting you focus on making unforgettable memories.

Imagine stepping off the plane or train, being whisked away to your beachside haven, and diving straight into that vacation mindset – pure bliss awaits!

So pack your bags and let these convenient resorts handle the rest; you deserve it.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the perfect family beach resort awaits you in the US. With a plethora of options available, finding one that caters to your budget, dietary restrictions, and childcare needs is just a matter of time.

Venture forth and make memories that will last a lifetime.

So, dear reader, heed my advice: seek out these gems scattered along our nation’s coastlines. Embrace the sand between your toes, breathe in the salty air and let the waves wash away your worries as you create unforgettable moments with your loved ones.