Mediterranean
The 20 Best Family and Group Destinations in the World for 2026
Imagine a holiday where every moment is a shared adventure, where the sea breeze carries away your worries, and laughter fills the air.
At Sunsail, we understand the magic of bringing loved ones together on the water. That’s why we’ve meticulously crafted our Family and Group Travel Index to effortlessly guide you to the world’s top 20 destinations for unforgettable holidays for different types of families, friends and groups.
From charming historic towns in the Mediterranean and beautiful beaches with shallow waters in the Caribbean to thrilling theme parks in North America, each of the destinations on the list is renowned for its diverse range of activities. This aligns with the top family travel trends for 2026, which include multigenerational, adventure and experiential travel.
How did we create our family and group travel index?
We have used a range of online search data, Tripadvisor reviews, information from official tourism boards, and geological data to rank destinations based on the following factors:
- Accessibility – How easy the destination is to travel to and around, and how easily available local amenities are.
- Popularity – Family and group holidays are often sociable and lively, with lots of opportunities for young children to make new friends. The more popular a destination is, the more chances there are for this to happen.
- Safety – How safe the destination is for tourists and particularly for young children (e.g. do local beaches have lifeguards on duty and shallow waters?)
- Activities – You may have different age groups and interests within your party, so there needs to be a diverse range of activities to cater to all travellers.
- Beaches – Are local beaches clean, safe (shallow, calm waters) and easy to get to? We have also scored each destination against how accessible local beaches are for pushchairs, wheelchairs and people with mobility issues.
- Family-friendly accommodation – What percentage of available hotels, resorts and other accommodation is catered towards families?
How it works
- Each destination has been ranked against these factors and given a score out of 28.
- The higher the score, the more ideal the destination is for family and group holidays.
- Any destination that received the same score as another has then been ranked based on average yearly temperatures.
From Sardinia and Ibiza to the BVI and St. Lucia, there’s a family-friendly destination for everyone to fall in love with, and we hope that you can use our list to inspire your next trip.
The 20 best holidays for families and groups
1. Sardinia
Topping our list with a score of 26 out of 28, Sardinia effortlessly blends stunning natural beauty with the kind of family-friendly comfort that makes every moment ashore as blissful as your time at sea.
Unlike many overcrowded Mediterranean hotspots, Sardinia balances lively resorts with peaceful coves, perfect for travelling with both younger kids and older teenagers.
Picture your family laughing as you splash in the crystal-clear, calm waters of Cala Brandinchi, a beach so pristine it feels like your own private paradise. It’s also described by travellers as “perfect for families with small children because the bay protects the waters so it’s really calm”. Learn more about the best beaches in Sardinia.
Sardinia’s reputation for safety and welcoming hospitality, along with its unspoiled landscapes and vibrant culture, makes it the ultimate holiday destination for families, groups and everyone in between.
Want to discover the treasures of Sardinia for yourself? Set sail on an idyllic yacht charter with Sunsail and explore the wonders of the Tyrrhenian Sea. Casting off from our base in Cannigione, you’ll make magical memories with all the family as you sail along the world-class Emerald Coast. Build a quote and start planning your relaxing family or group holiday today.
With Sunsail, you’re not just visiting a destination; you’re setting the stage for authentic connections and cherished memories along the world-class Emerald Coast
2. Ibiza
With 20.4 million Instagram posts under the hashtag #Ibiza, and average yearly temperatures of 18 °C, Ibiza is officially the second best holiday destination for families, scoring 26 out of 28.
Ibiza seamlessly blends world-class entertainment with a welcoming, laid-back atmosphere, making it a standout choice for families and friends seeking both excitement and relaxation together.
Ibiza has a total of seven Blue Flag beaches, including family-friendly paradise, Cala Llonga. Travellers rave about its facilities, cleanliness and safety for children, with one Tripadvisor review saying: “The beach is spotless and has a few bars and food places on. Toilets are also on the beach, as is a good kids’ play park area. Few shops nearby. This beach is shallow with no waves and has a pedalo with slides to hire. There is also a lifeguard on duty.”
3. Lake Garda
Rounding up the top three on our list of the top 20 destinations for family and group travel is Lake Garda, an enchanting lakeside setting, with a score of 26 out of 28 and average yearly temperatures of 14 °C.
What sets Lake Garda apart from other destinations is its incredible variety of activities, from theme parks like Gardaland and gorgeous vineyards to mountain trails and historic towns.
Being the largest lake in Italy, and having the third highest percentage of family-friendly accommodation out of every destination on the list, it’s no wonder that Lake Garda has made the top three. With its welcoming atmosphere, stunning scenery, and endless opportunities for fun, Lake Garda ensures every age group is entertained and well-catered for.
If you’re looking for other incredible water-based holiday hotspots in Italy, we offer yacht charters in Sardinia, Procida and Sicily. Learn more about the best places to sail in Italy.
4. Cornwall, UK
Next on our list of the best destinations for groups and families is Cornwall, scoring 26 out of 28, with average yearly temperatures of 10 °C.
Boasting over 400 lovely beaches, charismatic seaside towns, and a wide range of activities such as surfing and coastal walks, Cornwall caters to all ages and interests.
If you want beautiful blue skies and warm weather during your holiday, the best time of year to visit Cornwall is during the summer months. However, April-May and September-October can also bring similar conditions, but with fewer crowds if you want a quiet family getaway.
Love the sound of a fun-filled family or group staycation? Take the hassle out of travelling and book a yacht charter in the UK. Discover some of the best sights the UK has to offer, from Portsmouth to the Isle of Wight and beyond.
5. Iceland
Are you a group of adventure seekers? Perhaps you’re a family who prefers ‘coolcations’ to hot, sunny getaways.
With chilly average yearly temperatures of just 5 °C, and countless thrill-seeking activities on offer, such as ATV tours, river rafting, glacier walks, and volcano tours, Iceland is an incredible alternative to a beach holiday, which is why it’s scored an impressive 25 out of 28.
6. Crete, Greece
Home to over 130 Blue Flag Beaches (the highest number out of all the destinations we researched), it’s no surprise that Crete has made our list of the top family-friendly holiday destinations, scoring 24 out of 28.
As the largest of all the Greek islands, there’s something new to discover around every corner. From secluded beaches with crystalline waters to delicious local cuisine, Crete has something for everyone in your group to enjoy.
We offer three bases in Greece, one in the cultural wonderland of Athens, where the whole family can learn about ancient history, another in scenic Corfu, where you can explore the beautiful Ionian Islands, and a third in gorgeous Lefkas, a true sailing paradise.
7. Mallorca
Scoring a fantastic 24 out of 28, Mallorca is a sensational holiday destination loved by young families, big groups and everyone in-between.
With 15.8 million Instagram posts using the hashtag #Mallorca as of September 2025, this incredibly popular destination is ideal for social groups and families looking to make new friends on holiday.
Whether you want to sunbathe on one of the 30 Blue Flag beaches or spend your days exploring historic towns, Mallorca is a wonderful destination for families and groups.
8. British Virgin Islands
From switching off and unwinding on unspoiled beaches, to island hopping, snorkelling and scuba diving in crystal-clear waters, there’s something for everyone on a holiday in the British Virgin Islands, which is why it’s scored 23 out of 28.
This is where everyday moments transform into incredible shared experiences, from exploring the majestic Baths on Virgin Gorda to sipping a sundowner at the world-famous Soggy Dollar Bar. Alternatively, try your hand at scuba diving at the Coral Gardens, one of the best diving spots in the Caribbean. Learn more about this sensational destination in our guide to the BVI.
With brilliant year-round weather conditions, a laid-back Caribbean vibe, and turquoise waters that need to be seen to be believed, it’s the perfect destination for families and groups looking for a long-haul holiday to remember. Imagine switching off completely on unspoiled beaches, island hopping through turquoise waters, and discovering vibrant marine life while snorkelling.
Whatever you choose to do, experience the magic of the BVI on a yacht charter with Sunsail. Take the helm or hire a Skipper as you explore this gem and discover why it’s known as the sailing capital of the Caribbean. Let Sunsail’s 50 years of experience guide you through the sailing capital of the Caribbean, creating a holiday you’ll talk about for years. Build a quote and book your family BVI charter today.
9. Tenerife
With an amazing score of 23 out of 28, and average yearly temperatures of 22 °C, the ninth best destination in the world for family and group holidays is Tenerife.
Tenerife is a very popular hotspot, with over 12 million Instagram posts using the hashtag #Tenerife. It offers the best of both worlds, with plenty of stunning beaches and family-friendly resorts for anyone looking for a restful, relaxing holiday, and national parks, water parks and hiking trails for active groups.
10. Lefkas, Greece
Lefkas is a standout destination for families and groups, scoring 23 out of 28. Lefkas is one of the most well-connected islands in Greece, as it’s connected to the mainland by a floating bridge, and is only a short sail away from popular islands such as Kefalonia and Meganisi. Each day, you can embark on a new adventure, uncovering some of Greece’s hidden gems.
The island also boasts some of the best beaches in Greece, with stunning white cliffs and turquoise waters, such as Porto Katsiki and Egremni. It’s renowned for its family-friendly beaches, including Nidri Beach, which has shallow, calm waters and a variety of facilities, making it ideal for travelling with young children.
For older kids and adults, you can enjoy kayaking, scenic hiking trails, windsurfing, kitesurfing, snorkelling, wandering around traditional villages, and so much more.
Want to discover this glorious Greek island for yourself? We offer bareboat, skippered and flotilla sailing holidays around the Ionian Sea, starting from our base in Lefkas. Build a quote today and start planning your family-friendly adventure itinerary.
11. Dubrovnik, Croatia
It’s no surprise that Dubrovnik has made our list of the best family and group travel destinations, scoring 23 out of 28.
Learn about the rich history of Old Town and walk along the iconic Walls of Dubrovnik. Swim in the shallow waters of Šulić Beach, ideal for children as it “has a lifeguard present” to keep everyone safe, according to a Tripadvisor review. Sail across to peaceful Lokrum Island and visit the botanical garden. Scuba dive, snorkel and swim in the glistening Adriatic Sea.
Everyone in your group will find something to enjoy, whether you love history, beautiful beaches, adventures, incredible cuisine, or all of the above.
Set sail around the pearl of the Adriatic on a Dubrovnik yacht charter with Sunsail. Take the helm and put your sailing skills to the test, or hire a skipper so you can relax on deck with the rest of your group while they navigate the open waters.
Looking for a quiet, tranquil holiday in Croatia, away from the crowds? We also have a charter base in Agana, where you can still easily reach popular hotspots such as Split, but you can return to a peaceful slice of heaven whenever you want.
12. Bali
With 64% of the accommodation available through Tripadvisor being classified as family-friendly, and over 76 million posts under the hashtag #Bali, it’s no wonder that the stunning island of Bali has made our list of the best family and group destinations, scoring 22 out of 28.
Surrounded by the Indian Ocean to the south and east, and the Bali Sea to the north, Bali is a delight for water-loving families. You can swim, snorkel, sail and scuba dive at idyllic beaches, including Samur Beach, which is considered ideal for families, with one Tripadvisor review saying: “The sand is soft and clean, and the waves are generally calm, making it a safe and enjoyable spot for kids to swim and play along the shore”.
13. The Bahamas
With a score of 22 out of 28 and average yearly temperatures of 26 °C, you and your family will be sure to have a sizzling summer holiday in The Bahamas.
The Bahamas is home to more than 700 islands and cays, and over 2,000 incredible beaches. Imagine yourself soaking up the sun on pristine, white sands, before going swimming in the calm, sparkling blue waters. With so many beaches to choose from, there’s an option for every kind of traveller, from secluded coves with no one else in sight to popular hotspots lined with lively beach bars.
If you’re looking for a hot, sunny, beach holiday that feels like stepping into a postcard, The Bahamas might be the destination for you. Discover the beauty of The Abacos on a yacht charter with Sunsail.
Switch off and unwind on unspoiled beaches, fall in love with jewels such as Green Turtle Cay, and spend the evening as a group at lively Nipper’s Beach Bar and Grill, where you’ll experience wonderful food and spectacular ocean views. Build a quote and book your idyllic Bahamas yacht charter today.
14. Scottish Highlands
Are you looking for an active holiday that’s closer to home? Scoring 22 out of 28, the Scottish Highlands takes the 14th spot on our list of the world’s best group and family destinations.
Will you hike up Ben Nevis, the UK’s highest peak? Perhaps you’ll spend a day learning about Scotland’s rich history at Eilean Donan Castle. You may even explore the famous Loch Ness, which has some of the best walking and cycling trails in the UK.
15. St. Lucia
Stunning St. Lucia is a paradise for nature-loving families and groups, scoring 21 out of 28.
Spend your holiday spotting Leatherback Turtles, St. Lucia Warblers and beautiful reef fish. Hike through the rainforest, taking in the magnificent landscape and feeling at one with nature. Relax, unwind and rejuvenate in the mud baths at Sulphur Springs. Climb the iconic Pitons and experience the world from new heights.
It’s no secret that St. Lucia is home to some of the world’s most breathtaking beaches, but there’s also the natural, wild side just waiting to be explored. Whether you all want to go hiking, scuba diving and bird-spotting, or some of you prefer sunbathing and a gentle swim, St. Lucia allows you to do both, which is why it’s so fantastic for groups.
Set sail around St. Lucia with Sunsail and experience this Caribbean gem like never before. Build a quote and start planning your St. Lucia yacht charter today.
16. Lanzarote
The second Canary Island to make it onto our list of the most family-friendly destinations in the world, Lanzarote scores an impressive 21 out of 28.
Much like Tenerife, Lanzarote is renowned for its family-friendly resorts, national parks and sandy beaches. For the explorers among you, take a trip to Cueva de los Verdes, a mesmerising system of volcanic tunnels.
17. San Diego, California
The first US destination on our list is the glorious Californian city of San Diego, which has almost 36 million Instagram posts under the hashtag #SanDiego, and scores 21 out of 28.
What makes San Diego stand out for families is the excellent facilities that make beach days easy, convenient and stress-free. Many of the beaches in San Diego, such as La Jolla Shores, have lifeguards, volleyball nets, firepits, playgrounds and more.
18. Corfu, Greece
Scoring an amazing 21 out of 28, Corfu is the third Greek island to make it onto our list of the top family-friendly and group destinations.
Corfu is home to so many different types of beaches. Some are sandy, while others have pebbles, ideal if people in your group prefer one type over the other. Some beaches, such as Nissaki Beach, offer incredible snorkelling opportunities for experienced swimmers, while others, like Agios Georgios Beach, have very shallow waters which are ideal for younger children. Some are off-the-beaten-track and offer peace and quiet, while others are busier and more sociable.
Want to island hop around the Ionian Islands on a world-class yacht, visiting Blue Flag beaches, bustling harbours, cosmopolitan towns, admiring Venetian architecture and taking part in thrilling watersports? Book a Corfu sailing holiday with Sunsail and enjoy everything, from ancient history to stunning waters and scenic ports.
19. Menorca
Scoring 21 out of 28, Menorca has everything, from hidden coves and ancient coastal paths to charming towns and breathtaking sea caves.
It’s the perfect destination for group holidays where everyone has different interests. Spend the day tucked away in the breathtakingly beautiful cove, Cala Mitjana. Climb up Menorca’s highest peak, El Toro, and take in the picturesque, panoramic views of the island. Wander around the historic old towns and harbours of Mahón and Ciutadella de Menorca, immersing yourself in local culture.
20. Orlando, Florida
Taking the final spot on our list of the world’s best family and group travel destinations is Orlando, scoring a fantastic 20 out of 28.
Home to some of the world’s most famous theme parks and water parks, including Walt Disney World, Universal Studios and Busch Gardens, Orlando is a paradise for groups of all ages. Whether you’re visiting with friends or family, ride thrilling rollercoasters, take an exhilarating airboat tour, get competitive over mini-golf, or hire a car and drive an hour out to watch rockets launch at the Kennedy Space Center.
Ready for your next adventure?
Whether you are already planning a fun-filled family holiday to one of our 20+ worldwide destinations, or still looking for inspiration on where to book for your annual group getaway, we hope our list of the best family and group destinations in the world helps you find somewhere you can all relax, explore and create memories for life.
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