The 10 best vacations to take with your baby when you need a little time away

At first, the thought of getting away with our 3-month-old baby seemed absolutely blissful – our little one would peacefully nap in a baby carrier while we strolled through new towns or dipped our toes in the hotel pool. Hello, relaxation!  

But soon after my husband and I started planning our first trip with our daughter, the worry set in. How would she handle the journey there? What about jet lag? Will she even like splashing in a pool? How would she adjust to diaper changes and bedtime routines in unfamiliar locations? 

We were seasoned travelers ourselves – I'm a travel writer, and we had just visited Morocco and Greece a few months before our daughter was born – but this was all uncharted territory. 

Thankfully, after doing some research and then testing the waters myself, I found that certain destinations completely cater to families and make vacationing with a baby just as relaxing as I first envisioned it to be. Sure, there were some long nights, but we'd be sleepy at home, anyway – so we might as well be on vacation! In our eyes, it was totally worth it.  

So, depending on if you'd prefer a kick-back beach vacation or crave something more adventurous, this list of the best vacations to take with babies will help you live out your travel goals. 

How we chose the best family vacations for babies

I've been a travel writer and editor for the past six years, and I'm also a mom to a 2-year-old and 4-year-old. We've taken vacations with our babies everywhere from Maui, Hawaii, to Lisbon, Portugal. 

I didn't just rely on my experience traveling with kids to compile this list. I combed the BabyCenter Community and spoke to a dozen of my travel-loving mom friends for their input as well. 

Finally, I spoke to three travel experts for additional tips and tricks:

• Chirag PanchalOpens a new window and Amanda BatesOpens a new window, experienced travel advisors with ForaOpens a new window, a company that plans vacation getaways for families

• Dominique Parrish, a family travel writer and founder of the blog Well Traveled ChildOpens a new window 

Based on what I learned, all of the vacation options listed below meet the following criteria: 

• Family-friendly. Whether that's having cribs on request or the option to book a full kitchen to make easy meals, all of these destinations have plenty of family-friendly lodging options – not to mention a welcoming culture that appreciates little visitors.

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• Safe for families. This is one of the top concerns for families traveling with babies. Each of these destinations is considered safe to visit based on expert opinion and travel advisories.

• Easy (enough) to get to. While you may have to fly with your baby to reach some of these destinations, it's certainly doable. (You'll have to make that trip to French Polynesia another time!)

• Expert-recommended. Each of these destinations came recommended by expert travel advisors, professionals in the industry, and myself, a travel writer – plus BabyCenter Community members, too.

Best Hawaiian getaway: Maui, Hawaii

Photo credit: Hawaii Tourism Authority (HTA) / Matthieu Duchier

Growing up in Southern California, I spent a few family vacations in Maui that provided some of the best memories I have as a child. I wanted to pass along the same tradition to my littles, and so far we've taken two family trips to Maui – one when my daughter was 6 months old, and another when my son was 4 months old (and my daughter was 2). To say that we are in our "happy place" when there is an understatement. 

The island's relaxed pace (compared to say, Waikiki on Oahu) is ideal for families with babies. Plus, flights run there frequently, unlike some of the more remote islands. Both of our babies enjoyed splashing in the pools (most hotels have beautiful ones), not to mention dipping their toes in the sand. Just make sure your baby doesn't eat a mouthful! 

As for activities beyond the water, there are plenty of hiking opportunities, like in Iao Valley State ParkOpens a new window or Wai'anapanapa State ParkOpens a new window, if that's your style. We like to stay in Ka'anapali, an area of the island that has a lovely, stroller-friendly path – ideal for naptime walks.  

A family favorite resort for us is the Westin Nanea Ocean Villas on Ka'anapaliOpens a new window. It has a great splash pool for little ones, plus two-bedroom villas that come equipped with spacious kitchens, making it easy to enjoy meals on your own lanai (or balcony) while your baby sleeps. Apartment and condo rentals are also plentiful on the island, and they can be a more affordable option. (Check out this rentalOpens a new window at Ka'anapali Shores, just steps from the beach.)

Heads up: The historic town of Lahaina suffered a devastating fireOpens a new window back in 2023. While the town is closed for tourists, you can instead visit Pa'iaOpens a new window, a small town with lots of local businesses. Another tip? One BabyCenter Community member recommends bringing (or renting) a stroller in case you need one to carry your baby and pool gear around your resort, as some tend to be rather large properties. 

Parents say: "I would always pick Maui as it's more relaxing, better beach and better water, less crowded. Very beautiful and lots to do." 

"Marriott Wailea Beach ResortOpens a new window on Maui [is] beautiful and has three pools, including a super fun pool with slides (two for little kids and two for bigger kids)."

Best Midwest destination: Branson, Missouri

Photo credit: Branson Convention & Visitors Bureau

This outdoorsy, fun-filled Ozarks town is known for its live shows and entertainment. Some even call it the "family-friendly" version of Las Vegas. Parents with babies can enjoy a stroll down Branson LandingOpens a new window (an open-air promenade), a day relaxing at one of the town's three lakesOpens a new window, and a trip around the iconic ferris wheelOpens a new window (which has no age minimum). 

Some parents even take their older babies to see Dolly Parton's StampedeOpens a new window, a dinner and horseback-riding show. (Pro tip: Choose the earliest dinner performance possible so bedtime isn't disrupted.) 

Branson is also a relatively affordable destination – especially if you live within driving distance. The Ozarker LodgeOpens a new window, for example, is a new family-friendly boutique hotel that provides a free baby crib to use during your stay, and it can cost less than $200 a night (even on the weekends). 

Heads up: During the summer months, Branson can get too hot for a baby, so BabyCenter Community members advise booking a hotel or apartment rental with air conditioning. Also, if you choose to see a show (which Branson is famous for), make sure you bring ear protection (like noise-canceling headphones) for your little one, another community member recommends.

Parents say: "The people there are very nice, and it is a good family place to visit … The caves are wonderful, some you even ride through, lots of shopping, a riverwalk, etc.

Best desert retreat: Palm Springs, California

Photo credit: Visit Greater Palm Springs 

Looking to escape cold weather with your baby? Consider planning a trip to the Southern California oasis that is Palm Springs. I first visited Palm Springs when I was a baby, and I've since had so much fun taking my own children there. 

A favorite activity for our little ones is The Living Desert Zoo and GardensOpens a new window, which allows you and your baby to get a glimpse at the creatures that love warm-weather climates. Even if your little one is too young to name the animals they're seeing, witnessing a giraffe chomping on leaves or a rhinoceros resting in the shade will still fascinate them (and you, too!). There's also The Children's Discovery Museum of the DesertOpens a new window, which has a new toddler zone opening in July 2024. 

For a break from the heat for your baby – and some history and art for you – stop by the Agua Caliente Cultural MuseumOpens a new window, which focuses on the Agua Caliente group of Cahuilla Indians. 

As for where to stay, the JW Marriott Desert SpringsOpens a new window is known to be especially family-friendly – not only do they have beautiful pools for your baby to splash in (and cribs available to borrow), but you can book a relaxing, fun-for-the-whole-family boat ride that cruises around the property's lagoons. 

Heads up: Palm Springs is, of course, a desert, and in the summer months it can get downright hot in the afternoons. If that's when you're visiting, know that mornings are the best time to do outdoor activities with babies. Spring and fall are more pleasant times to sightsee, as it's warm and comfortable most of the day. 

Parents say: "I took my son to Palm Springs when he was 18 months, [and] we rented a house with my parents so he could nap in the room while we hung out by the pool. I had a good time, and he loved being out in the warm weather."

Best New England vacation: Bar Harbor, Maine

Photo credit: Dobbs Productions and Bar Harbor Chamber of Commerce

Score a delicious lobster roll and immerse yourselves in nature when you stay in this quaint New England town located just a few miles from the famed Acadia National ParkOpens a new window. 

"With its proximity to Acadia National Park, parents can enjoy scenic hikes and drives while their baby takes in the beauty of the outdoors," says Parrish. There's also plenty to do in Bar Harbor: "The town itself offers a variety of family-friendly activities, from whale watching tours to visits to the Abbe MuseumOpens a new window, ensuring that there's something for everyone to enjoy," she adds. 

The Abbe Museum explores the history of the Wabanaki Nations, the native people of Maine. Adults can even take turns kayaking or stand-up paddle boarding while the other partner enjoys some time on shore with the baby.

As for where to stay, if you want to go the more outdoorsy (yet still baby-friendly) route, consider "glamping" at Terramor Outdoor ResortOpens a new window, which offers free use of cribs, private bathrooms, and a cozy lodge for extra comfort. For a more traditional hotel, The Inn on Mount DesertOpens a new window is right in the center of Bar Harbor and also offers free crib use, plus a game room for families who also have older children. 

Heads up: To break up the drive, stop in Portland, Maine, which also has plenty of baby-friendly activities (like visiting the famous Portland Headlight LighthouseOpens a new window). If road trips aren't a good fit for your family, you can fly into Bangor, which is 50 miles from Bar Harbor, and then rent a car. Also, one Baby Center Community member warns that June is black fly season in MaineOpens a new window, so you (and your baby!) might want to wear light-weight long sleeves and pants if visiting that month. (Also, talk to your pediatrician about bug spray options.) 

Parents say: "Acadia is one of my most favorite places in the world, and I have traveled through 80 countries."

Best charming city trip: Asheville, North Carolina 

Photo credit: iStock.com / jaredkay

Want a cultural city vacation that won't overwhelm your baby? Think about booking a trip to Asheville. "The city offers a variety of activities suitable for all ages, including stroller-friendly walks through the historic downtown area, visits to child-friendly museums like the Asheville Museum of ScienceOpens a new window, and exploring nature in nearby parks such as the Blue Ridge ParkwayOpens a new window," says Parrish. You can even take a tour of the grand Biltmore EstateOpens a new window, or stroll the extensive gardens while your baby naps in a carrier or stroller.

And you won't have to worry about where to stay or what to eat (or drink!) when you're there. "Asheville also boasts a plethora of family-friendly accommodations and dining options, ensuring a comfortable and convenient stay for parents and their little ones," Parrish adds.  There are several family-friendly breweries, like Highland BrewingOpens a new window and Sweeten Creek BrewingOpens a new window in the area, with space for your little one to toddle. 

As for hotels, BabyCenter Community members recommend Omni Grove Park InnOpens a new window and rave about its spa services (in case your partner can watch your little one while you get a treatment). Guest rooms are family- and pet-friendly, if you want to bring your pup along, too. 

For a place that's a little more walkable, The Windsor Boutique HotelOpens a new window is right in town and offers only "all-suite" rooms, so families have lots of extra space to spread out. It provides complimentary board games to borrow (a great activity for parents during naptime), plus cribs available on request. 

"Overall, Asheville provides a perfect blend of culture, adventure, and relaxation, making it an excellent choice for a family vacation with a baby," adds Parrish.

Heads up: Many BabyCenter Community members recommend visiting Asheville in the fall, when the leaves change colors. Also, beware that parking in downtown Asheville can prove challenging, so bring your patience with you if you're planning on parking there (and your hotel doesn't come with a spot). Know, too, that Asheville is more than its downtown; be sure to explore other areas of the city like South Slope, River Arts District, and the Montford historic area.

Parents say: "I go every year or two. It's such a nice, laid back place. Lots of affordable hotels, but rent a cabin if you can! Usually my favorite stop is the Biltmore WineryOpens a new window, but there's a lot to do at Biltmore besides that. Get the audio walking tour if it's your first time … And get a car and drive out into the mountains." 

Best West Coast vacation: Laguna Beach, California 

Photo credit: Visit Laguna Beach / Kenny Eliason on Unsplash

If relaxing on the beach and wandering around cute coastal shops and art galleries sounds like your idea of fun, then Laguna Beach should be on your radar. It's a personal family-favorite vacation destination, and for good reason. "There are beautiful beaches with calm waters and clean sand, lots of outdoor activities, and family-friendly activities," says Panchal. 

In addition to strolling around the stores and visiting the Laguna Art MuseumOpens a new window, Panchal also suggests taking a day trip to LegoLandOpens a new window or DisneylandOpens a new window (or both) if you're also traveling with a toddler or older kids. (Laguna Beach is located between the two.)

There's no shortage of great dining experiences – even with a baby – in Laguna either. "Many of the restaurants in Laguna Beach cater to families and have outdoor seating, which makes it easy for babies in strollers," says Panchal. 

As for where to stay? "The Montage Laguna BeachOpens a new window does a wonderful job catering to families with children – I had a recent experience where a family stayed at one of their villas, and the hotel staff went above and beyond to make the trip special," says Panchal. The hotel made Mickey and Minnie Mouse cookies baked with the kids' names on them, provided custom baby slippers, had a fun indoor play tent, and more. The hotel is easily accessible to a beach, and they also have a small children's pool. 

For a more walkable choice, check out Capri Laguna on the BeachOpens a new window. It's more of a boutique option right on the sand, and feels remote even though you're still in the heart of everything. Plus, they have travel cribs and in-room microwaves available, as well as an outdoor pool. 

Heads up: Southern California hotels can get expensive, especially if you're looking at properties right on the beach. One BabyCenter Community member says, "Inexpensive and beach hotels do not go together in Southern California." If you're looking to save money, search for hotels set back from the water. Also, know that Southern California is known for "June gloom" – or overcast, cloudy skies, so avoid that month if you're hoping for sunshine.

Parents say: "There’s a beach in [nearby] Dana Point called Baby Beach that is a cove with lifeguards that’s safe for babies and toddlers. It’s really fun! We went to Disneyland for a day as well. There’s all sorts of fun things to do out there! We loved every second of our trip and would totally do it again! We did it when [our son] was 8 months old and again when he was 18 months old." 

Best destination in Florida: 30A Florida

Photo credit: Walton County Tourism Department

Situated on Florida's panhandle, this scenic stretch of small beach communities is the perfect place to relax with your baby and feel like you're a world away. In case you haven't heard, the name 30A refers to the road that allows you to access these picturesque seaside towns. 

"30A in Florida is gorgeous!" Bates says. "I would recommend Alys Beach, Rosemary Beach, or Inlet Beach in that area – all are super family-friendly and walkable with a stroller." Not only can you kick back and enjoy some mellow beach days, but you can also fill up on delicious Southern food including at George's at Alys BeachOpens a new window. And if you want to escape the heat, shop for your little one at Gigi's Fabulous Kids' Fashions & ToysOpens a new window or get a good cup of Joe at Amavida Coffee RoastersOpens a new window in Rosemary Beach.  

Many BabyCenter Community members suggest renting homes or condos along 30A (especially if you're traveling there with a bigger group), but there are also plenty of family-friendly hotels and resorts if that's more your speed. The Lodge 30AOpens a new window is a stylish and reasonably priced hotel. Plus, it has a pool for your baby to splash in and offers kitchenettes that are great for stocking snacks or storing milk. 

For an on-the-sand option (which can be more expensive), check on Pearl HotelOpens a new window, a luxury hotel in Rosemary Beach that has high chairs at its restaurant and a large green lawn for older babies to toddle around on.

Heads up: Some readers note that there can be a lot of traffic in the area – especially away from the beach. "I wouldn't go too far from the beach (like the Fort Walton area)," says one BabyCenter Community member. "The traffic is horrific." Also, if you want to rent a house in the summer, it may require booking a minimum of five to seven nights (so stick to a hotel in the area if you want a shorter getaway).

Parents say: "We used to live there. Such a beautiful area! ... If you can, stay in a beachfront hotel." 

Best international getaway: Punta Mita, Mexico

Photo credit: iStock.com / BCWH

For a tropical retreat that's not too far from home – as in, not an extremely long flight for your baby or with huge time changes to adjust to – Punta Mita ranks at the top of the list. It's less than a three-hour flight from Dallas to Puerto Vallarta, for example, and then it's less than an hour-long drive from there. "As a destination, one cannot feel safer, and it caters to adults as well as children,"says Panchal.

Compared to other tropical destinations (that might attract spring breakers and party-seekers), it has more of a family vibe, which is refreshing when traveling with a baby. "Especially for new parents, it can be an amazing place to unwind and escape the hustle and bustle of a larger, more traditional resort," Panchal says. 

There are plenty of activities for adults, whether that's golf, whale watching, or even releasing sea turtle hatchlings into the seaOpens a new window that will make your trip rewarding. Plus, baby-friendly perks at many resorts can help keep your little one happy.

For example, at the luxury Four Seasons Resort Punta MitaOpens a new window, kids under 5 eat for free (great if your little one has started solids), plus they have babysitting services and cribs available on request – not to mention tons of activities for older kids if you have them. 

For a cheaper option, you can rent an apartment in Punta Mita, like at Punta Mita Surf LodgeOpens a new window – which has stylish units, cribs available, and a full kitchen in each apartment that's handy for making your baby's meals.

Heads up: If your baby drinks formula, use bottled water to prepare it when traveling in Mexico. Also, you'll want to bring your baby's own car seat, in case your rental or car service from the airport doesn't have one available to use.

Parents say: "We stayed at the Four Seasons, which was gorgeous and had a beautiful beach – Punta Mita in general has lots of beaches that are safe for swimming! The town of Sayulita is nearby, which is really cute and has good surf lessons and a laid-back vibe."

Best outdoorsy vacation: Moab, Utah

Photo credit: iStock.com / jose1983

The perfect spot to experience the great outdoors, this Southeastern Utah town is surrounded by national parks (specifically ArchesOpens a new window and CanyonlandsOpens a new window), red-rock formations, and the Colorado River. Plus, it has plenty of creature comforts, like beautiful resorts and artsy shops to explore, that make traveling with a baby more fun. 

The scenic town is the ideal launchpad for low-key adventures with your baby, whether that's hiking an easy trail (and spotting those iconic stone arches you see all over Instagram), birdwatching, or simply cooling off in your hotel pool with your baby while you take in the breathtaking red rocks. There are also beautiful drives, like visiting "Island in the SkyOpens a new window" if hiking with a baby isn't your thing. For older babies (that are 1 or more years old), consider a stop at Moab GiantsOpens a new window, an interactive museum that features life-size replicas of the dinosaurs that used to roam the area.

As for where to stay, the Hyatt Place MoabOpens a new window and SpringHill Suites by Marriott MoabOpens a new window both have pools and a splash playground for babies and toddlers to enjoy, family rooms equipped with extra space, and cribs available upon request (not to mention all-important air-conditioning for hot days).  

Heads up: If you plan to put your baby carrier backpack to use for some hikes on this trip, make sure you're going during a time that doesn't get too hot (i.e. the summer), one BabyCenter Community member suggests. Another recommends getting a little fan and avoiding direct sunlight if you're visiting during a hotter month (and bringing bug spray). 

Parents say: "Plenty to do outdoors, absolutely gorgeous, two national parks and a state park, all of which have some easy hikes, and the town has tons of restaurants and cute shops. We've gone the past two Octobers and had fantastic weather."

"Arches is gorgeous by the way, definitely go. And go on hikes, just not long ones." 

Best European destination: Algarve, Portugal

Photo credit: iStock.com / Balate Dorin

Of all the places I've traveled to with my little ones, no location has been more baby-friendly than Portugal. (It's consistently rated as one of the most family-friendly places in Europe). My husband and I honestly felt like celebrities as we toured everywhere from Lisbon to Porto with our 5-month-old, getting escorted to the front of lines and greeted with friendly smiles from strangers. 

If you have the time to take an international trip with your little one, think about visiting the Algarve, a coastal region in the very south of Portugal, named Europe's leading beach destination in 2023 by the World Travel AwardsOpens a new window. Not only will you get plenty of sand and sun (the area is known for its striking cliffs and caves, too), but you can also visit a number of charming fishing villages, and of course enjoy some fresh seafood. 

There are dozens of baby-friendly resorts in the area, like the Vilalara Thalassa ResortOpens a new window, which features apartment-style rooms (complete with a full kitchen), five pools, and a private beach, plus green space galore if you have a little one who loves to toddle around. 

For an in-town stay in a coastal village that's full of character, check out The Salty LodgeOpens a new window in Lagos. It's a five-minute walk from the beach, and there are plenty of activities (that you and your partner can trade off taking part in), whether it's learning to surf or taking a yoga class.  Each spacious apartment features a high chair and baby cot available upon request. 

Heads up: You can fly straight to Faro International Airport in the Algarve from New York, but if you plan on traveling on to Lisbon, that's about a three-hour drive. We went with our daughter when she was about 5 months old, and she hung out in the baby carrier while we explored the city. Also, BabyCenter Community members suggest avoiding visiting the Algarve in August when it gets too hot (especially for your baby); also know that some hotels and restaurants do close during the winter off-season. 

Parents say: "Vilamoura in the Algarve is great for families. The old town is lovely too and a little more authentic." 

Factors to consider when planning a family vacation with a baby

Compared to traveling with a friend or partner, there are a lot more factors to consider when vacationing with a baby (sometimes, enough to make your head spin). Still, I don't regret traveling with my babies for a minute! Here, discover some of the key things to think about in your planning process:

• Time of year. If you're traveling with a baby, chances are you don't have a strict "vacation schedule" like parents of school-age children may have, and thus you can take advantage of the shoulder season, typically April to May and then September to October. This is when prices tend to drop, and the weather skews milder than the thick of summer (thus, great for babies – and your wallet). 

• Weather. Later summer months (think July and August) may be too hot for your baby, especially in desert and beach locations, so think about picking a different time to go. Likewise, it might be too cold for many outdoor activities in February in, say, Maine.  

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• Getting there. If your baby doesn't like long road trips, consider what's within a shorter radius. Also, you know your baby best – so if you plan on flying, you'll want to assess whether your baby would be up for a longer flight or if a shorter one is a better fit. 

• Activities for you and your baby. It's your vacation, too, so you'll want to make sure there are enough experiences on your trip that you'll actually enjoy, whether that's spa treatments at the hotel or surf lessons at the beach. (You trade off childcare duties with a partner or another travel companion so each of you can get some me time.) You'll also want to make sure there are plenty of activities you can do together with your baby.  

• Transportation at the location. You'll need to figure out how you'll get around once you're there, whether you'll take public transportation, drive, or hire cabs (if that's the case, you'll need to bring your own car seat or use a car service that offers them).

• Buffer days at the end of your trip. It can be a bit of a challenge to get back into your rhythm at home after traveling with a baby. So, think about giving yourselves an extra day or two post-trip to tackle laundry or get everyone's sleep routine back on track before "normal" life starts up again.