If you’re dreaming of a perfect family summer getaway by the sea, you’re not alone. The appeal of soft sand, clear blue skies, and the gentle rhythm of waves is irresistible. But for parents, choosing the right beach destination isn’t just about beauty—it’s about safety, convenience, and fun for all ages.
To make your choice easier, we’ve curated some of the best family-friendly beach destinations, along with seasonal recommendations, weather insights, and travel hacks to ensure a stress-free holiday.
Benidorm, Spain – Guaranteed Sunshine & Family Fun
Best for: Families with young children who love water parks and lively beach days.
Why Go? Benidorm’s long, sandy beaches and shallow, child-friendly waters make it an easy pick for families. Playa de Levante and Playa de Poniente are among the safest beaches in Spain, with lifeguards on duty and gentle waves.
Weather Insight: The weather in Benidorm boasts over 300 sunny days a year, with temperatures averaging 26-32°C (79-90°F) in summer. The sea is warmest in August and September.
Best Time to Visit: May to September for perfect beach weather. Avoid July & August if you prefer fewer crowds and lower prices.
Beyond the Beach:
- Aqualandia & Mundomar: Two of Spain’s top family-friendly water parks with thrilling slides, dolphin shows, and interactive marine experiences.
- Terra Mítica: A historical-themed amusement park with rides and shows for all ages.
Glass-bottom boat tours: A fun way for kids to explore marine life without needing to snorkel.
Family Travel Hack: Many hotels offer free stays for kids under 12—check directly with resorts for family-friendly deals.
Getting There: Alicante Airport (40 minutes from Benidorm) has direct flights from London, Manchester, and Birmingham.
The Algarve, Portugal – Golden Beaches & Hidden Coves
Best for: Families seeking adventure and scenic coastal escapes.
Why Go? The Algarve’s coastline is famous for dramatic rock formations, golden sands, and calm, clear waters; perfect for introducing kids to water sports. Praia da Rocha and Praia de Marinha are excellent family choices with shallow waters and nearby amenities.
Many resorts cater specifically to families, offering kids’ clubs and swimming pools, which means you can kick back while the children are occupied with age-appropriate fun.
Weather Insight: Expect warm 25-30°C (77-86°F) summers, with ocean temperatures around 20-24°C (68-75°F), ideal for swimming. July and August are the driest months.
Best Time to Visit: April to October offers great weather. July and August are peak tourist months, so book early for the best rates.
Must-Do Activities:
- Cave Boat Tours: Explore the stunning Benagil Cave, a magical experience for kids and adults alike.
- Dolphin Watching: Several Algarve boat tours offer a chance to see dolphins in their natural habitat.
- Resort Activities: Many family-friendly resorts include kids’ clubs, splash pools, and supervised activities.
Family Travel Hack: Book cave tours in advance during summer, slots fill up fast, and early mornings offer the calmest waters for a smoother ride.
Getting There: Faro Airport (serves direct flights from most UK cities).
Sardinia, Italy – Mediterranean Bliss for Families
Best for: Families who love crystal-clear waters, relaxed island vibes, and cultural exploration.
Why Go? Sardinia’s beaches feel like a slice of paradise. The calm, shallow waters of La Pelosa Beach make it ideal for little ones, while older kids can enjoy snorkelling and paddleboarding. Many of Sardinia’s family-friendly resorts also offer childcare!
Weather Insight: Sardinia has warm 25-32°C (77-90°F) summers. The sea remains swimmable until late October, making it perfect for early autumn escapes.
Best Time to Visit: June to September for peak beach weather. September is ideal—fewer crowds, warm sea, and pleasant temperatures.
Beyond the Beach:
Besides beach time, you can also explore Sardinia’s beautiful countryside, ancient ruins, and quaint villages. This variety of activities makes it an excellent choice for families who want a mix of relaxation and exploration.
- Explore Nuraghe Su Nuraxi: A UNESCO-listed ancient ruin that brings history to life.
- Traditional Gelato Tasting: Italy’s famous handmade gelato is a guaranteed hit with the kids.
- Agritourism Adventures: Visit family-run farms where kids can meet animals and try fresh local cheese.
Family Travel Hack: Rent a car, many of Sardinia’s best beaches are hard to reach without one.
Getting There: Cagliari or Olbia airports with connections via Rome or Milan.
Cornwall, UK – Staycation Beach Paradise
Best for: Families who prefer to avoid flights and enjoy the UK’s best beach experiences.
Why Go? Cornwall is home to some of the country’s best beaches, stunning cliffs, and some of the best surfing schools in the UK. Fistral Beach (Newquay) and Perranporth Beach are excellent for family-friendly surfing lessons.
Weather Insight: Cornwall’s summers are mild (18-24°C / 64-75°F), with occasional rain showers. August is the warmest month.
Best Time to Visit: June to September offers the best chance of warm, sunny weather. May and September are quieter but still warm.
All-Weather Attractions:
Okay, lets be honest and admit the weather may not play ball. Cornwall has plenty of attractions for a rainy or cloudy day options.
- Eden Project: A huge indoor rainforest, great for rainy days.
- Blue Reef Aquarium (Newquay): Home to sharks, turtles, and interactive rock pools.
- Tintagel Castle: A legendary Arthurian site with breath-taking views.
Family Travel Hack: Pack for all weather, Cornwall can be warm one minute and rainy the next.
Getting There: Easily accessible by car or train from London, Birmingham, or Manchester.
Family Travel Hack: Summer holidays can get very busy and the roads are narrow and not suitable for high traffic. But, a late Easter (like 2025) or May half-term could be ideal if you get some sunshine.
Other Nearby Beach Getaways for UK Families
If you’re based in the UK, long-haul beach trips can be a hassle. Here are easier-to-reach destinations:
- Normandy, France – Family-friendly beaches just a ferry ride away, with shallow tides and WWII history.
- Jersey, Channel Islands – A quick flight from Southampton with beautiful beaches and mild weather.
- Dorset & Devon, UK – Gorgeous coastal towns like Weymouth and Salcombe offer great beaches without the long drive to Cornwall.
Final Verdict & Travel Tips
- Best for Younger Kids: Benidorm & Sardinia (shallow beaches, kid-friendly activities).
- Best for Teens & Adventure Seekers: The Algarve & Cornwall (surfing, water sports, exploration).
- Best Staycation Choice: Cornwall (stress-free, no flights needed).
- Best for a Mix of Culture & Beach: Sardinia (history + Mediterranean beauty).
Travel Hack for Families: Book direct flights with short transfers to avoid long layovers with kids. All-inclusive resorts can save money on food and activities.
