Life with kids is never dull. What they loved last summer is suddenly old news. That’s why it’s essential to get creative when you’re planning family vacations. Keep it fresh and focus on destinations that are fun for the whole family. Believe it or not, there are spots your teens will love that are fun for parents and young ones alike!
Ready for the adventure of a lifetime? Here are six destinations teens are sure to love.
Destinations Beach Loving Teens Will Love: Hawai’i
Who doesn’t love Hawai’i? It’s the perfect balance of relaxation and adventure. Send your kids off for surfing lessons while you unwind at the beach. Places like Oahu are incredibly safe and kid-friendly. You can say aloha to the tiki bar while your teens go on solo walks to take Instagram shots to their heart’s content.
While it can be an expensive destination, most of your cost will be on the flight, especially if you do some smart planning. If you travel from January to February; May; or September to October, you can snag a cheap flight to Hawai’i. Opting for an Airbnb or similar option where you can cook your own food (hello, authentic Hawai’ian BBQ!) will also go a long way in cutting costs.
Check out our Hawaii Travel Guide and Hawaii – Best Family Hotels.
Adventurous Teens Will Love: Wisconsin Dells, WI
Knowns as the Water Park Capital of the World, this is a destination adventurous families and teens will love. Go ziplining or bumper boats then dry off while climbing the rock-climbing wall, screaming on the rollercoasters, and or racing on go-karts. This is one of the destinations teens will love with plenty for younger ones to do as well. And, when you are in the mood for something more low key, there is no shortage of pools to lounge by.
Thinking about driving? You need my essential tips for taking a road trip with kids.
Destination Any Teen Will Love: Japan
Japan is a true once in a lifetime adventure. From the history and culture of Hokkaido to the outdoor adventures of Minakami, this is one family trip to cherish for a lifetime.
There is nowhere on the planet like Tokyo and it is definitely one for your bucket list. The food, the people, the building– you can get off the subway anywhere in the city and just stand with your jaw dropped. Shibuya is a destination teens will love! Go to Harajuku Station then walk down Takeshita Street to take in the local youth culture.
Water Loving Teens Will Love: Belize
Latin America is full of dream destinations for teens. Belize has an edge over other places in Central America for a few reasons. First off, English is actually the official language of this former British colony. If your kids opted for French or German in school instead of Spanish, Belize is easier to get around.
The currency exchange is Belize is as easy as can be as well. Many places accept US dollars and even advertise their rates in USD. The local currency, the Belize dollar, is locked to a rate of one Belize dollar to two US dollars so the math is as simple as could be.
And, did I mention the country is drop-dead gorgeous? Covered by lush rainforests, gorgeous beaches, 450 offshore islands, and the stunning Belize Barrier Reef, this is a beach lover’s paradise. This is a destination teens will love from start to finish.
As if Disney World wasn’t enough to get kids of all ages excited, Orlando has it all. Beyond the theme parks, which Orlando has in spades, you can there is a vast array of activities. Kennedy Space Center is a must-see if your teen is interested in space. Gatorland was made for animal lovers. Be sure to do Boggy Creek Airboat Tour as well to connect with nature!
European Destination Teens Will Love: Italy
There are so many amazing destinations in Italy. Rome is an especially prime pick for teenagers. It is such an energetic city. Between the rich history, incredible food, and vibrant culture, it is truly a magical place. Trastevere is especially hip neighborhood, and it’s one of the destinations teens will love.
The Amalfi Coast is straight out of a postcard and ideal for a family road trip. Stop for boat tours over to Capri or along Sorrento then just soak in the sun.
There is nothing Italians love more than a celebration! That is why you will find festivals throughout Italy all year long. Wherever and whenever you are going, check the events calendar. The Culture Trip website has an awesome rundown of the best of the best festivals in Italy. It is such a unique cultural experience that it really is worth planning your trip around attending one.
So, where are you taking your family next? Tell me your fave teen-friendly destinations in the comments!
