Sometimes, the journey is all about the place you end up. Imagine staying in secluded beach bungalows or glamorous mountain retreats. There are inns hidden in far-off, untouched lands and romantic lodges deep in the bush. These places are truly special and known as the world’s best luxury getaways.
I talked to travel experts worldwide to discover these hidden gems. They’re so amazing, you might not want to leave your luxurious villa. You could relax on a private beach in Polynesia, a place that a Hollywood star found magical1.
How about staying in an “adventure spa” inside Chile’s famous Torres del Paine National Park1? Or, making your partner smile with love notes in Mexico, written on messages in a bottle found on the resort’s beach1? You can also visit the Kenyan reserve where Out of Africa was filmed2, feeling the same romance shown in the movie.
Don’t forget the Canadian wild, where you can be close to nature in a luxury tent1. This is just a peek at what’s waiting for you worldwide. From the Swiss Alps to the green jungles of Indonesia. Let’s not miss the beauty of private islands in the Maldives, Seychelles, and the Caribbean.
Key Takeaways
- Discover secluded beach bungalows, glamorous mountain retreats, and romantic lodges for extraordinary luxury escapes.
- Explore Chile’s Torres del Paine National Park from an “adventure spa” retreat or channel the romance of Out of Africa in Kenya.
- Experience the Canadian wilderness from the comfort of a luxurious tented suite or unwind on a private beach in the Polynesian islands.
- Find splendor across the world, from the Swiss Alps to the Indonesian jungle and the private islands of the Maldives and Seychelles.
- Discover family-friendly vacation ideas, kid-friendly destinations, and budget-friendly getaways for your next adventure.
Secluded Beachfront Retreats
In the 1960s, Marlon Brando bought Tetiaroa, a private island in French Polynesia. He wanted to keep the island’s beauty and diverse life safe. After his time filming there, he worked to maintain its allure.3 Today, The Brando stands on this legacy. It’s a resort where each of the 35 luxury villas has its private beach. You’ll find a plunge pool, outdoor dining spot, and a media room. There’s also a spa, two top-notch restaurants, an organic farm, a tennis court, library, cultural center, and a research station.3 The Brando excels not just in luxurious accommodations but also in its efforts for sustainability. It cools its villas with seawater and turns food scraps into garden fertilizer. The hotel also runs a foundation. This helps to preserve the island’s rich cultural past and secure its future, especially in the absence of written history.
Las Ventanas al Paraiso is a top pick for couples looking for a romantic getaway. The resort offers an array of romantic experiences. This includes a private cinema night on the beach and drawn sensory baths. You can enjoy a carriage ride to Los Cabos desert or relax in a private cabana with a plunge pool. Additionally, they provide unique services like love note hide-and-seek and couples’ cooking classes. Also, a special ultra-dramatic wedding proposal package is available, offering a cinematic surprise proposal.4 With such lavish services, there’s little reason to leave your villa or suite. Yet, you might find interest in the local Mexican gastronomy. The resort offers barbacoa dinner and a chance to taste tequila in a blind test. For the adventurous, they organize special experiences. This includes whale watching tours. All this thoughtful planning aims to keep guests fully entertained on the premises throughout their stay.
Exotic Wildlife Encounters
Imagine exploring the Galapagos from a luxury lodge. The Pikaia Lodge is on top of an extinct volcano. From there, you can see the savannah, a mountain range, and the Pacific Ocean.5 A guest once said, ‘This place is better than Jurassic Park.’ This lodge offers eco-adventure tours on land. You can pick between three to seven-night packages. Activities might include exploring lava tunnels, visiting organic coffee farms, or relaxing on beautiful beaches.
Each package includes a yacht trip. During the trip, you can hike, kayak, or snorkel on the remote Galapagos islands. Back at the Lodge, enjoy the infinity pool, spa, and miles of trails for walking or biking. Plus, there’s a private area for giant tortoises, so you can often spot them.
Little Kulala, Namibia
Little Kulala in Namibia is a unique safari spot in the Namib Desert. You can stay in one of the 11 “kulalas”. These are thatched lodges with private plunge pools and rooftop star beds. They have views of the stunning desert landscapes.
During your stay, take part in game drives, nature walks, and trips to the Sossusvlei dunes. You can also experience the Dead Vlei and balloon safaris over the desert. The lodge has a spa, gym, wine cellar, and interpretive center. It’s a great way to experience Namibia’s wild beauty in luxury.
Private Island Escapes
Laucala Island in Fiji is a gem in the South Pacific. It covers 3,500 acres of beauty. You’ll find turquoise lagoons, sandy beaches, and green mountains there. Kristen Korey Pike, CEO of KK Travel Worldwide, describes it this way.6 The island’s villas look like traditional Fijian homes but with a touch of luxury. They have thatched roofs, natural materials, and private gardens. The modern part includes infinity pools, chefs just for you, hot tubs, and a golf buggy. You can explore the island’s coconut groves with it. “There are five places to eat, a spa on a hill, an organic farm, and a golf course. It’s an ideal spot for privacy and a genuine adventure,” Pike continues.6 Laucala Island is perfect if you love the outdoors. You can do many things like horseback riding and kitesurfing. Both Pike and Andrea Malis suggest trying the DeepFlight Super Falcon submarine.
Luxury Glamping Adventures
In the Canadian Rockies, there’s a hidden treasure for those seeking wilderness with a touch of luxury.7 The Clayoquot Wilderness Resort offers the perfect mix: unspoiled nature meets five-star dining and luxury ‘glamping’ experiences.7 Here, you’ll find 20 luxury tents filled with old-world charm, complete with antique furniture, fine china, and even heating to keep you warm.7 And for that added comfort, 15 tents feature private bathrooms with modern amenities like heated floors and indoor and outdoor showers.
At this resort, the adventures are endless and tailored to each guest’s preferences.7 You can choose from activities like kayaking on rivers, watching wildlife ranging from bears to whales, and horseback riding.7 For the more adventurous, options like zip-lining, clay shooting, mountain biking, and relaxing in hot springs are also available.7 Oh, and there’s a spa on-site to unwind after your thrilling days.
Over-Water Villa Getaways
Velaa Private Island introduces an escape like no other, aiming for “beyond luxury.” It’s a mix of contemporary design, natural seclusion, and top-notch technology.8 Guests can pick between a beachfront or ocean-stretching villa, each featuring private pools and terraces. While this hideaway is in the Maldives, there’s plenty to do. Explore the spa, water sports, or the climbing wall. You can also find calm in a beach meditation or in the realm of books in the library. Don’t miss the chance to taste wines from Velaa’s wine cellar. The resort even has its own submarine and a unique golf academy, set up by Jose Maria Olazabel.
Resort | Location | Overwater Villas | Key Features |
---|---|---|---|
Aruba Ocean Villas | Savaneta, Aruba | 13 | Jacuzzi tubs, open-air showers, dining areas8 |
Royalton Antigua | Five Islands Village, Antigua | 6 | Swim-out infinity plunge pools, overwater hammocks, butler service8 |
St. George’s Caye Resort | St. George’s Caye, Belize | 6 | Belizean hardwood ceilings, air conditioning, private porches with hammocks8 |
Sandals South Coast | White House, Jamaica | N/A | Outdoor terraces, soaking tubs, lounge chairs, scuba diving, kayaking8 |
Sandals Grande St. Lucian | Gros-Islet, St. Lucia | N/A | Glass panels to view marine life, vaulted ceilings, outdoor showers, soaking tubs, personal butler service8 |
El Dorado Maroma | Playa del Carmen, Mexico | 30 | Glass-bottom floors, hot tubs for two, outdoor showers, decks with infinity pools, all-inclusive amenities8 |
Rosewood Mayakoba | Playa del Carmen, Mexico | N/A | Ultra-luxurious overwater lagoon suites with butler service, plunge pools, location between mangroves and coast8 |
Family-Friendly Vacation Ideas
Seeing the world through a child’s eyes is magical. Let’s create unforgettable moments you’ll talk about for years. Imagine spotting a sneaky leopard on an African safari9. Or watching your kids enjoy soft snow during a luxury family ski trip. You may prefer making memories with baby footprints on a beach.
I cater luxury family trips to suit you. Every little detail is thought about, making sure your journey goes without a hitch. Whether arranging for a crib at your hotel or hosting fun days for kids so parents can relax at the spa. I’ve got it all covered.
Multigenerational Trips
My team is ready to set up a stress-free, fun-filled vacation for your entire family. We offer childcare and special adventure days for teens. With our luxury family vacations, everyone will be happy. The best trips start with a great idea.
Are you dreaming of a sunny beach vacation? Or maybe an adventure to remember? I’m here to help you plan the perfect escape, be it a tropical paradise or a thrilling adventure.
Educational Travel Experiences
Traveling with the family can be hard, but our experts make it easy to find the perfect place to stay. We know the best spots, from five-star hotels with kids’ clubs to villas with private pools. Let us make your family travel experience magical.
We can plan an amazing vacation for you, whether you’re into African safaris9, ski trips in the French Alps, or fun at a tropical beach. Just tell us what you like, and we’ll do the rest.
Outdoor Adventures for Families
San Diego in California has a great deal on attractions through the Go City All-Inclusive Pass9. Bar Harbor in Maine is perfect for outdoor lovers, with beaches and trails9. Winter Park offers summer family fun like hiking and climbing walls9. Pittsburgh is a paradise for kids, with its zoo and the Children’s Museum9. Myrtle Beach is full of mini-golf and water activities for families9. In Gatlinburg, you can try biking and rafting next to a national park9.
Lisbon in Portugal has 10 free museums, making it affordable for families to visit9. Vienna, Austria, gives free entry to many top attractions with the Vienna Pass9. Punta Cana in the Dominican Republic has beautiful beaches and flights from many places9. Washington, D.C., lets you see great sights for free, like the National Zoo9. Victoria, in Canada, has parks and adventure parks for the family9. Morro Bay in California offers whale watching and beach activities9. In Rincón, Puerto Rico, surfing and beach relaxation are a big draw9. Mackinac Island in Michigan is special because it’s car-free with plenty of history9. The Grand Canyon’s North Rim is lovely in the summer, with cooler temperatures and wildlife9.
Aspen Snowmass, Colorado, is a great pick for family vacations10. Cedar Point Amusement Park is a thrill for ages 6-18, with miles of roller coasters10. In 2024, Denver, Disney World, Wyoming, and Waikiki are top spots for families10. Legoland in New York is perfect for young kids and is autism-friendly10. The San Diego Zoo is an ideal spot for kids up to 11, with a wide range of animals10. Sesame Place is perfect for little ones, especially those between 2-510. The Strong National Museum of Play in New York is great for children aged 4-12, with interactive exhibits10. The Wizarding World of Harry Potter is a hit with kids from 8-13, making the books come to life10.
Ranch Retreats with Activities Galore
Set on a 37,000-acre cattle ranch in western Montana, Paws Up combines nature with luxury. Your stay can be in a grand ranch estate or a luxury tent. Both options offer unique experiences and top-notch amenities like heated floors in the tents’ bathrooms.
This location boasts the finest horses, luxurious tented suites, and numerous activities on the land and in the river.11
The Resort at Paws Up, Montana
Adventure lovers will find a lot to do at Paws Up. Activities include archery, horseback riding, and hot air ballooning. There’s also clay shooting, skiing, and many more.11 Paws Up customizes activities for each guest, mixing relaxation with adventure.
At the North Bank Camp dining lodge, guests enjoy meals with scenic views and modern designs.11 The Resort also hosts special weekends with celebrity chefs, wine tastings, and photography workshops to make stays memorable.11
Paws Up features six glamping camps with dining pavilions. The North Bank Camp offers glamping tents with chandeliers and marble bathrooms. Each tent includes heating, air conditioning, and heated towel racks.
Guests at the Resort can try axe throwing, horseback riding, and more thrilling activities.11
The Resort includes 28 luxury homes for wider family or group stays. These homes have up to four bedrooms for groups of any size.11
Lavish Alpine Resorts
The Chedi Andermatt, Switzerland
“Tucked away in the Swiss Alps, Andermatt used to be a quiet, traditional ski spot,” says Kristen Korey Pike, CEO of KK Travel Worldwide.12 But things changed when The Chedi Andermatt opened. “Now, with 105 rooms and lots of luxuries like a big spa and a walk-in cheese room, Andermatt is a top ski choice in Switzerland,” Pike explains.12
At The Chedi, rooms have leather chairs and wood floors. They even have fireplaces and artwork from a famous painter. The hotel also boasts a spa with saunas, a special area for skis, and an ice rink.
African Safari Splendors
Africa’s landscapes are huge and varied, perfect for luxury travel adventures.13 You can see endless plains in Serengeti and huge mountains in Rwanda.14 These areas are full of amazing wildlife like lions and gorillas.13
Exclusive lodges and camps let you get close to nature. You might spot the Big Five, watch elephants up close, or see the wildebeest migration.14 Experts will guide you, and you’ll enjoy top-notch service throughout your journey.13
Find thrilling adventures or quiet wildlife moments in Africa.13 Your trip will be unforgettable.
15 Southern Africa family trips are special. They mix wildlife with meeting local people.15 Madikwe is perfect for families because there’s no malaria.15 At Vergenoegd, over 1,000 ducks help keep pests away in the vineyards.15 Muizenberg, with its calm waves, is great for kids learning to surf.15
There are many activities for families, from cooking to tracking animals. Safari trips can be from 5 to 14 nights.15 Grosvenor Tours offer Explorer Safari, part of a trusted travel group.15 With 60 years’ experience, they create custom luxury trips in Africa. They make sure you stay in the best places for an amazing safari adventure.15
Tropical Beach Paradises
I love exploring the world’s tropical beaches. One favorite is Bora Bora, in French Polynesia. It’s known for its overwater bungalows, stunning blue lagoons, and greenery. This island truly feels like a tropical paradise.16 The luxury hotspots here, such as Matira Beach and Mount Otemanu, offer amazing experiences. This includes staying in overwater bungalows and sailing on private yachts. Other activities are dining in top restaurants, snorkeling, and enjoying spa days.
The Maldives is another top pick for luxury travelers.17 It’s famous for its beautiful islands, clean beaches, and overwater villas. Here, travelers can find peace surrounded by natural beauty. They can also dive into vibrant marine life and try various activities. The Maldives is especially loved for being safe and family-friendly.
These two spots, Bora Bora and the Maldives, are a dream for anyone looking for a top-notch beach vacation.18 While trips can range in cost, from $2,075 to $11,045, they are truly unforgettable. Both places offer stunning beauty, great places to stay, and plenty of things to do. They are perfect for anyone who wants to experience luxury and relaxation on their holiday.
FAQ
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Source Links
- https://www.forbes.com/sites/forbes-personal-shopper/article/best-summer-vacation-destinations-for-families-in-the-us/
- https://elevatedestinations.com/activities/family/
- https://www.travelandleisure.com/best-beach-resorts-for-families-7229159
- https://www.parents.com/fun/vacation/ideas/best-beach-resorts-for-families/
- https://www.familyvacationcritic.com/best-resorts-that-get-you-close-to-animals/art/
- https://www.kiwicollection.com/blog/best-island-vacations-for-kids/
- https://tinybeans.com/the-countrys-best-family-glamping-experiences/
- https://travel.usnews.com/features/top-overwater-bungalows-around-the-world
- https://www.travelandleisure.com/trip-ideas/summer-vacations/affordable-family-vacations
- https://www.today.com/shop/40-must-see-places-take-your-kids-they-re-grown-t74481
- https://welltraveledkids.com/montana-ranch-vacation-paws-up/
- https://www.travelandleisure.com/best-family-resorts-in-the-us-8623326
- https://www.kimkim.com/c/10-days-in-south-africa-family-friendly-itineraries
- https://elevatedestinations.com/destination/africa/
- https://explorersafari.com/experience/family-holidays/
- https://travel.usnews.com/rankings/best-caribbean-family-vacations/
- https://kidslovetravel.net/en/tips-tricks/top-10-tropical-islands-for-a-family-holiday/
- https://www.zicasso.com/l/de/family/dt/tropical