Family beach vacations are booming – here's where to go

Family vacations are the perfect way to enjoy quality time together with loved ones. It’s therefore no surprise that they are hugely popular right now, with over half (53%) of Americans taking a family vacation this summer alone.

Almost two-thirds (63%) of those vacationing with family this summer said they plan to take a trip to the beach specifically too.

Our own booking data told a similar tale, revealing that bookings for ‘Oceans & Islands’ destinations have doubled year-on-year, and nearly half (42%) of bookings for beach vacations have been made by families in 2024.

With so many incredible options available in North America, and in nearby Latin America and The Caribbean, family groups really are spoilt for choice.

While many US families like to ‘stay local’ (84% will travel within the US), others are happy to venture a little further afield.

Among our US guests, the most-booked destinations in the ‘Oceans and Islands’ category in 2024 are The Maldives (18%), St Lucia (12%), Turks & Caicos (12%), and Antigua (9%). 

The most visited US beaches this summer

Over half of those planning a trip to a beach this summer said they will go to Florida (55%), while over a third (38%) will go to a beach in California.

The most popular beaches to visit according to our poll are:

1. Miami Beach, Florida (22%) 
2. West Palm Beach, Florida (18%)
3. Naples Beach, Florida (15%)
4. Mission Beach, California (14%)
5. Laguna Beach, California (13%)
6. Santa Monica Beach, California (11%)
7. Honokalani Beach, Maui, Hawaii (8%)
8. Napili Beach, Maui, Hawaii (8%)
9. Waikiki Beach, Oahu, Hawaii (7%)
10. Pink Sands Beach, Bahamas (7%)

Why beach vacations are so popular with families

Nearly all the American parents we surveyed (96%) think that a beach trip is a good day out on a family vacation. The main reasons for this are:

1. It’s an environment where you can create lasting memories (55%) 
2. It’s a soothing / stress-relieving environment (51%)
3. It makes everyone feel happier (48%)
4. It’s great to be outdoors and close to nature (47%)
5. There is something for everyone to do – all generations (39%)

But finding the perfect beach isn’t easy!

Around half (48%) specifically seek out beautiful and picturesque beaches, and when picking a beach as a family group, safety (59%) and cleanliness (56%) are the most important considerations.

Determining the best beaches for families

US Google searches for ‘best beaches’ have spiked 25% in the past month, so it’s clear that finding somewhere that ticks all the boxes is important.

To inform our rankings, we started by collating a list of 50 of the most popular beaches in North America and the Caribbean that had high Tripadvisor ratings or had been recommended in Tripadvisor’s Best Beaches lists.

We then assessed these on seven factors - whether they are Blue Flag accredited, levels of water pollution, reported shark attacks, risk of jellyfish stings in the summer months, UV ratings in the summer months, how safe the water is for swimming, and family-friendly activities on-site.

Each beach was scored in each category and then ranked by Scott Dunn’s travel experts, who picked out their top ten based on their experiences. They considered how busy they could get, ease of access, closeness to amenities, if the area is considered safe, and how likely they would be to take their family there. 

The ten best beaches for families in North America and The Caribbean

1. Grace Bay Beach in Turks and Caicos

Grace Bay scored the highest thanks to over 7,000 five-star reviews, clean and safe waters, extensive family activities like kayaking and snorkeling, and Scott Dunn’s experts giving it a 10/10 score for likelihood they would take their own family there.  

This beautiful beach is getting the stamp of approval as Turks and Caicos has seen a 100% year-on-year growth in bookings for Scott Dunn. 

Josh Peacock, Regional Destination Manager commented: “Grace Bay has a large and wide beachfront, where strolls feel uniquely your own and other tourists are far away. It boasts calm and clear waters that are inviting to little ones and offers a serene place that's perfect for kicking back and relaxing.”  

Explore vacations to Grace Bay Beach here.

2. Santa Maria Beach in Mexico

Santa Maria’s place in second was down to its Blue Flag status, over 1,300 four-and-a-half to five-star reviews, safe waters, boat tours, and tortoise spotting and Scott Dunn’s experts rated it 9/10 for ‘local area safety’.  

Josh added: “This is one of the limited number of beaches near Cabo that is swimmable - the majority of Cabo's coastline where the luxury resorts are located is not safe for swimming due to strong tides. Make sure not to go barefoot though, as the beach is slightly rocky.”   

Explore vacations to Santa Maria Beach here.

3. Sugar Beach in Saint Lucia

In third place was Sugar Beach, which also stands as Scott Dunn’s most booked Caribbean property for O&I bookings, with St Lucia having a 300% growth in bookings year-on-year.

Sugar Beach was rated for its location just steps away from acres of pristine rainforest, over 2,800 four-and-a-half to five-star reviews, and clean and safe waters, with Scott Dunn experts rating it 9/10 for local amenities and ease of access.  

Josh says: “St Lucia is a volcanic island, so the sand is usually dark, however, this silky white sand is imported hence the name 'sugar beach'. Located smack bang in the middle of the two iconic pitons, this is an incredible place to enjoy the dramatic backdrop of rainforest and mountain peaks.”  

Explore vacations to Sugar Beach here.

4. Carlisle Beach in Antigua

Sitting on Antigua’s scenic south coast, Carlisle Bay’s beach boasts access to white sands and calm crystal waters, making it well-known as a diver’s paradise. Unique water activities like kitesurfing and horse riding helped Carlise Bay rank at fourth place.

Josh says: “A firm family favorite, Carlisle Bay offers the perfect base in Antigua to soak up the island’s beauty with all the resort facilities you could dream of. There’s a huge range of watersports on offer with expert tuition available, from kayaking and paddle boarding, to sailing and windsurfing. It’s worth noting that you’ll need to visit a nearby cove for motorized watersports, as they’re not offered in Carlisle Bay to prevent any disturbances to the peaceful atmosphere and calm water.”

Explore vacations to Carlisle Beach here.

5. Crystal Cove in California, North America

Crystal Cove’s rolling surf, sandy beaches, and tidepools offer a delightful contrast to its urban surroundings. Located close to Laguna Beach, Crystal Cove is ranked highly for its clean waters and picturesque wooded canyons, providing an excellent backdrop for mountain biking and hiking.

Josh comments: “There is a more local feeling on Crystal Cove Beach than Santa Monica, though it can be difficult parking, but it’s very family-friendly. The beach is well kept and pristine and easy to access with little ones.” 

Explore vacations to Crystal Cove here.  

6. Ffryes Beach in Antigua

A must-visit destination, Ffryes Beach came in sixth largely thanks to its stunning secluded rainforest surroundings, safe waters, ease of access and Scott Dunn experts rating it 9/10 for taking their own family.

Josh adds: “This a real hidden gem. The waters are calm and are excellent for snorkeling and swimming and the beach has stylish beach bars. My top tip is to book lunch at Sheer Rocks restaurant which is close by - it's the dining spot in Antigua. Your family can enjoy the end of a great beach day and with its open-air style, it will offer some of the best sunset views you’ll see in a lifetime.”

Explore vacations to Ffryes Beach here.

7. San Josef Bay in Canada

Ranking seventh, is a secluded spot and is often voted among the world’s best beaches. Although having a much lower average yearly temperature than the other beaches on the list (53°F), its rugged wilderness, abundance of wildlife, caves, and pristine beach are unmatched.

Its low UV rating, even in the summer months, makes it a great beach if you’re happy with a hike.

Josh says: “It feels otherworldly. This is a great spot for multi-gen trips with older kids and grandparents. It's a trek to get there but very rewarding. You’ll find untouched, raw beauty - sea caves and rock formations greet you when you arrive. Be warned, there is often no cell service, so this is a real escape to the wilderness!”  

Explore vacations to San Josef Bay here.

8. Tulum Beach in Mexico

Securing eighth place, you’ll find scenic Tulum on the eastern coast of the Yucatan Peninsula, overlooking the spectacular Caribbean Sea, and is home to ancient cliff-top Mayan ruins.

Ranked highly for its tropically warm, clean, and safe waters and picturesque views, Scott Dunn experts gave it 9/10 for nearby amenities and the safe surrounding area.

Josh comments: “Tulum Beach is easily accessible from the main town either by car, on foot, or by bicycle. Pick your spot for the day and enjoy table service in your private cabana at one of the beach clubs that are dotted along the white sands. Be aware that from May to October, the water can turn a murky brown due to seaweed.”

Explore vacations to Tulum Beach here.

9. Hanalei Beach in Kauai Island, Hawaii

On the north shore of Kaua Island, Hanalei Beach has long been one of Hawaii’s most popular and most photographed beaches in the world. Ranking in ninth place, it has lots of good amenities nearby.

Josh adds: “Hanalei Beach is located on the north shore of Kauai, Hawaii, offering ideal conditions for various water activities like swimming, surfing, paddleboarding, and snorkeling. However, this beach has reports of shark attacks, so cautious of this if considering visiting to swim in the ocean.

“With an expansive sandy shoreline, the long crescent-shaped stretch of white sand is perfect for beachcombing, sunbathing, and leisurely walks, ideal for families and children.

“The beach is close to Hanalei Town for charming shops and galleries, and the Hanalei Pier where you can enjoy a view of the bay.” 

Explore vacations to Hanalei Beach here.

10. Grand Anse in Grenada

Grand Anse ranks last due to the strong water. Although the waters are too deep and the currents are too strong to swim, the beach offers exceptional beauty, gorgeous sand, tropical palm trees, and lush green mountains.

Josh says: “This is arguably one of best beaches in the whole of the Caribbean. The beautiful Spice Island Beach Resort is located right in the middle - make sure to request a Seagrape Beach Suite which have spacious terraces overlooking the sea.

“The beach has a lovely vibe with tourists and locals alike enjoying the warm Caribbean waters and soft sand that makes for an enjoyable stroll up and down the beach. Though be careful as there can be undercurrents which are not suitable for less confident swimmers”.

Explore vacations to Grand Anse here.

Other beaches recommended by Scott Dunn experts

Although they didn’t make the cut, there were other beaches that were highly recommended by the experts at Scott Dunn. Handpicked for their safe, clean waters, raving reviews, white sands and family-orientated activities, Josh also recommends:

• Waimea Beach in Oahu, Hawaii
• Balandra Beach in Mexico
• Lanikai Beach in Oahu (Hawaii)
• South Pointe (part of Miami Beach) in Florida
• The Baths in The British Virgin Islands
• Santa Monica State Beach in California

Focusing solely on family-prioritized features such as ease of access creates a different beach ranking, with Grace Bay Beach remaining at the top.

Five beautiful beaches that are typically very easy to access:

1. Grace Bay Beach, On the northern coast of the island of Providenciales, Turks and Caicos
2. Sugar Beach, on the southwest coast of St Lucia
3. Ffryes Beach, near St Johns on the west coast of Antigua
4. Hanalei Beach, on the north shore of Kauai Island, Hawaii
5. Grand Anse Beach, Near St. George, Grenada

According to the research, Canada’s San Josef beach is the best beach for multi-gen family groups, due to its rewarding, yet lengthy trek to get there.

Five beautiful beaches that are great for multi-gen family groups:

1. San Josef, British Columbia, Canada
2. Grand Anse, Near St. George, Grenada
3. Lanikai Beach, in Kailua, on the windward east side of Oahu, Hawaii
4. South Pointe, Miami Beach, Florida
5. Santa Monica State Beach, west of Downtown Los Angeles, California

Continuing with the 'off the beaten track' theme, for those that don’t mind a challenge to explore hidden gems, Scott Dunn experts recommended the following beaches.

Beautiful beaches that are harder to reach, but worth the effort:

1. Pig Beach (also known as Big Major Cay), Exuma Cays, Bahamas
2. The Baths, Virgin Gorda, The British Virgin Islands
3. La Jolla Cove within the San Diego La Jolla Underwater Park Ecological Reserve, California
4. San Josef, British Columbia, Canada
5. Balandra Beach, Baja California Sur, near La Paz, Mexico

Our Conclusion

In conclusion, our study shows that beach vacations are popular with families this year, with over two-fifths of beach vacation bookings comprised of families, it’s clear Americans are prioritizing quality downtime with their loved ones.

The emphasis on safety, cleanliness, and picturesque settings highlights the evolving priorities of families when choosing a beach destination.

Our research has considered these priorities and highlighted the best family beaches in the US and Caribbean, each with their own unique way of accommodating families and offering the best beach vacation experience.

Begin planning the perfect family beach vacation tailored to you today.