The best resort destinations for families

When you’ve got a young, energetic family, staying at a resort can provide the perfect balance between entertainment and relaxation. Here are some of the world’s best family-friendly resorts.

Jumeirah Dar Al Masyaf in Dubai, UAE

Jumeirah Dar Al Masyaf is an ambitious resort, on a mission to provide everything a family could need to make the most of Dubai. The resort’s private beach is only a 3-minute walk away (making it easy to put toddlers down for an afternoon nap without having to rouse the entire family) and Sinbad’s KiDs Club helps energetic children burn off some energy. Active parents will love the chance to go jet-skiing, diving, golfing and swimming, while those in need of some serious R&R can enjoy the onsite Talise Spa and choose between 40 different restaurants for a leisurely lunch.

Four Seasons Resort Orlando at Walt Disney World Resort in Orlando, USA

Elegant relaxation and Disney World aren’t an obvious combination but this Four Seasons Resort manages to combine both to create the ultimate family-friendly package holiday. The resort’s rooftop Spanish steakhouse, spa services and golf course created a relaxing atmosphere and children will love the Disney Character-themed breakfast. A family pool (complete with its own water slide) offers hours of entertainment and the resort’s free transfer service to Disney World will make your stay even more seamless.

Ocean 22 by Hilton Grand Vacations in Myrtle Beach, USA

A waterfront resort in one of Myrtle Beach’s most popular areas, Ocean 22 offers easy connections to the city’s Boardwalk and Promenade, its beaches, waterparks and Ripley’s Aquarium. That said, the temptation never to leave Ocean 22 itself is strong. An indoor and outdoor pool (with multiple poolside bars and delis), ocean views and being 5 seconds on foot from the beach make it easy to see why families love this resort.

Dollywood’s DreamMore Resort in Pigeon Forge, USA

The Dollywood DreamMore Resort is famous for good food and locals from the mountain town of Pigeon Forge regularly drop in for traditional southern fare at on-site restaurant, Song & Hearth. Other options include Miss Lillian’s BBQ Corner, Lumber Jack’s Pizza, Dogs N Taters and Crossroads Funnel Cakes, all of which are excellent fuel for days spent in the resort’s pool. Kids of all ages love the outdoor pool waterfalls and splash pad, while parents can’t get enough of the DreamMore’s spa with seasonal hot tub.

JW Marriott San Antonio Hill Country Resort in San Antonio, USA

Golfing families will find it difficult to tear themselves away from the immaculate courses and extracurricular activities at the JW Marriott San Antonio Resort. On hot days, the resort’s seven restaurants and bars offer the perfect location to camp out in the shade and enjoy a long, lazy lunch while kids join the resort’s children’s club. Families who prefer to spend their days on the green will find equipment and instructors available for every kind of golfer.