There’s something special about a family beach trip. The sun, the sand, the shared moments, and the laughter all come together in a way that helps you slow down, reconnect, and truly enjoy one another.
As a Bermudian, I grew up surrounded by the Atlantic Ocean and some of the most breathtaking beaches in the world with their soft pink sand, gentle coves, and turquoise water that looks almost unreal on a calm day. That experience taught me early on that a good beach isn’t just beautiful, it also feels welcoming, safe, and enjoyable for everyone in the family.
Now, as a parent of a toddler and a 10-year-old, I see beaches through an entirely new lens. I’m always thinking about where the water stays calm enough for little ones, where older kids can explore without wandering too far, and which beaches naturally bring families together instead of spreading everyone out.
The destinations in this guide are chosen with those things in mind. They offer the kinds of experiences that help families make memories, whether you prefer peaceful mornings, adventure-filled days, or simple moments spent playing together in the sand.
Below are the Best Family-Friendly Beaches to Visit in 2026, including some of our personal favorites and a few dreamy destinations we can’t wait to explore.
1. Horseshoe Bay, Bermuda
Horseshoe Bay is one of those beaches that photographs beautifully, but being there in person feels like stepping into a living postcard. The main stretch can get lively, but the real magic for families happens in the quiet little cove tucked along the side.
As a Bermudian, I’ve always loved how naturally this cove protects younger swimmers. The rocks break the waves gently, creating calm, shallow water where toddlers can splash while parents stay close and enjoy the moment right alongside them.
My older child loves exploring the tide pools and looking for tiny fish, and we do it together as a family, creating small adventures safe within a contained space. The pink-tinged sand and clear blue water make it easy to slow down and appreciate how beautiful nature can be.
Horseshoe Bay offers that perfect balance families look for; a breathtaking beach that also feels welcoming, manageable, and tailored for family connection. It’s no surprise that it remains one of my top recommendations for 2026.
2. Shelly Bay Beach, Bermuda
Shelly Bay is a beach parents fall in love with the moment they arrive. The water stays shallow for such a long distance that it feels almost designed with babies and toddlers in mind.
As a Bermudian, this has always been my go-to spot for relaxed family mornings, because the gentle water encourages little ones to explore with confidence but always with parents right beside them.
There’s something special about being able to walk knee-deep into clear, calm water and still feel completely in control of your surroundings. Older kids enjoy the soft sand and open space to run and play, while toddlers enjoy being held, splashing, and laughing as the smallest waves brush the shore. There is also a small playground that encourages more play, climbing and fun for all ages.
Every time we bring our kids here, it feels like the pace of life slows down in the best way. Families who visit Shelly Bay often say they didn’t realize a beach could feel this peaceful and safe, and honestly, that’s exactly why it’s one of my top picks for 2026.
3. John Smith’s Bay, Bermuda
John Smith’s Bay is a local favorite that often surprises visitors with its quiet beauty. It’s a little less crowded than Horseshoe Bay, but still offers that iconic Bermuda clarity and color.
The mornings here are especially lovely, calm water, soft breezes, and the kind of light that makes everything feel serene. When my family visits, my older child enjoys playing at the shoreline while my toddler sits in the sand next to us, exploring seashells and tiny pieces of coral.
We always stay close together, and the layout of the beach naturally supports easy supervision. It’s a great spot for families who want a peaceful environment without giving up the joy of gentle waves and beautiful scenery. John Smith’s Bay gives families the space to interact, talk, laugh, and enjoy the simple pleasure of being outdoors together.
It’s a wonderful representation of Bermuda’s natural charm and a lovely family-friendly destination for 2026.
4. Myrtle Beach, South Carolina
Myrtle Beach has become one of our family’s go-to travel spots in the U.S. because it offers so much variety in one place. The beaches are wide, giving families plenty of space to play safely and comfortably together.
We’ve built countless sandcastles here, taken long walks at low tide, and ended our evenings watching the most gorgeous purple sunsets stretch across the sky. The boardwalk gives older kids something fun to look forward to, while toddlers enjoy the soft sand and shallow entry points near the water’s edge.
As parents, we love that everything is close: restrooms, food, entertainment, and places to warm up or take breaks as needed. Myrtle Beach is ideal for families who want a beach trip that blends relaxation with activities all while keeping the family close and engaged. It’s no surprise that this remains one of the top family-friendly destinations going into 2026.
5. Wrightsville Beach, North Carolina
Wrightsville Beach has a clean, peaceful, family-centered atmosphere that makes it easy to unwind. The shoreline is soft and inviting, and during calmer parts of the day, toddlers can play at the water’s edge with parents right beside them.
Our family enjoys collecting shells, drawing pictures in the sand, and taking slow walks where the kids can explore without feeling rushed. Everything about Wrightsville feels simple and refreshing, from easy parking to nearby food options.
It’s the kind of beach where families naturally stay close together because the environment encourages a slower, more intentional pace. The beauty here is not just in the scenery, but in the moments you create as a family. If you’re looking for a destination in 2026 that feels peaceful yet full of possibility, Wrightsville Beach should absolutely be on your list.
6. Clearwater Beach, Florida
Clearwater Beach is one of those destinations that instantly puts families at ease. The soft white sand feels like powdered sugar, and the water is warm, gentle, and usually calm enough for little ones to enjoy right at the shoreline with parents close by.
What makes Clearwater especially appealing for families is how walkable and convenient everything is having restaurants, restrooms, shaded spots, and fun activities are all within easy reach. Our family loves places where transitioning from playtime to snack time doesn’t feel like a mission, and Clearwater delivers beautifully.
Older kids enjoy watching dolphins in the distance or trying beginner-friendly water activities with supervision. Parents appreciate the lifeguards on duty and the clean, well-kept environment. And when the sun dips low, the sunsets here are stunning, bright oranges, soft pinks, and reflections that shimmer across the calm water.
It’s a wonderful destination for families looking for a relaxing beach vacation with plenty of comfort and ease built in.
7. Hilton Head Island, South Carolina
Hilton Head Island offers a peaceful, laid-back beach experience that’s perfect for families who want to slow down and reconnect. The beaches here are wide and flat, making them ideal for long family walks, biking near the shoreline, or simply spreading out a blanket and enjoying time together.
When we visit beaches like this, we find it so easy to stay close as a family, kids can explore shells, chase birds, or splash at the water’s edge while parents enjoy the calm atmosphere right beside them. Hilton Head is also known for its nature-centered activities, like dolphin-watching tours and gentle kayaking experiences, all of which can be wonderful shared moments.
The pace here is slower than high-traffic tourist beaches, which many families appreciate. The environment invites connection, curiosity, and togetherness in an easy, unhurried way. If you’re looking for a 2026 beach destination that combines natural beauty with a peaceful vibe, Hilton Head is a top contender.
8. Coronado Beach, California
Coronado Beach is a stunning West Coast gem that feels luxurious yet surprisingly family-friendly. The golden sand sparkles due to its natural mica content, giving the entire beach a dreamy glow that kids tend to notice right away.
Families love Coronado because the waves are usually gentle enough for safe supervised play near the shore, and the wide, spacious beach gives everyone room to relax without feeling crowded. My favorite thing about beaches like Coronado is how effortlessly they bring families together because it easily facilitates activities such as building sandcastles, playing tag along the waterline, or simply sitting close while watching the waves roll in.
The nearby Hotel del Coronado adds a touch of charm and history, making the backdrop feel almost magical. Parents appreciate how clean and well-maintained the area is, and older kids enjoy exploring the long stretches of shoreline. Coronado Beach is a beautiful choice for families who want a calm, scenic coastal experience in 2026.
9. Hanalei Bay, Hawaii
Hanalei Bay is one of those beaches that stays in your heart long after you leave. Surrounded by lush mountains and gently curving coastline, it feels like stepping into a peaceful tropical dream.
Families love the wide sandy areas that provide plenty of space to play together, along with calmer sections of water where kids can splash safely with parents right beside them. While my family hasn’t visited yet, it’s easy to see why Hanalei Bay is a bucket-list destination for so many families, the scenery alone makes every moment feel special.
Older kids will enjoy beginner-friendly activities like paddleboarding (with adult supervision), while toddlers can enjoy playing in the sand or sitting with parents near the edge of the water. The overall atmosphere is calm, warm, and deeply inviting. If your family is dreaming of a once-in-a-lifetime tropical getaway in 2026, Hanalei Bay is a beautiful place to start imagining.
10. Puerto Vallarta, Mexico
Puerto Vallarta blends natural beauty with vibrant culture, making it an unforgettable family travel destination for 2026. The beaches here tend to have warm, clear water, and many areas are sheltered enough for safe supervised play near the shore.
Families appreciate how accessible everything is. Resorts, restaurants, activities, and shaded areas are all within reach, making transitions throughout the day smooth and stress-free. One of the best parts of Puerto Vallarta is the variety it offers: parents can enjoy relaxing ocean views while kids play in the sand, and older children may enjoy gentle water excursions designed for families.
The sunsets here are incredible, deep oranges and pinks that feel like they were painted just for you. As a family, these moments feel grounding and meaningful, reminding you why you made the trip in the first place. Puerto Vallarta is the perfect blend of convenience, beauty, and warm coastal charm for 2026 family travel.
FAQ: Best Family Beach Destinations for 2026
What makes a beach truly family-friendly?
A family-friendly beach offers calm water, clean sand, convenient amenities, and plenty of space for everyone to enjoy together. Parents should be able to supervise easily, and kids should have areas to safely explore without overwhelming crowds or strong waves.
Beaches with lifeguards, restrooms, food options, shade, and nearby parking are especially helpful for families with young children. Most importantly, a family-friendly beach encourages togethernessm playing in the sand, splashing at the shoreline, and enjoying simple moments side by side.
Are the beaches in Bermuda good for families with young children?
Yes, Bermuda has some of the best beaches in the world for families, especially those with young children. Many beaches, like Horseshoe Bay’s cove, Shelly Bay, and parts of John Smith’s Bay, offer natural protection from waves, making the water calm, shallow, and beginner-friendly.
As a Bermudian and a parent, I love how these beaches support safe, supervised play while still offering beauty and adventure for older kids. Bermuda’s beaches are also incredibly clean and well-kept, which adds to their appeal for families.
Which U.S. beaches are best for families in 2026?
Myrtle Beach, Clearwater Beach, Wrightsville Beach, Hilton Head, and Coronado Beach are all wonderful options. Each offers something different: Myrtle Beach is vibrant and full of activities, Clearwater is warm and calm, Wrightsville is peaceful and simple, Hilton Head encourages slower-paced family connection, and Coronado offers soft sand with beautiful scenery. Families can choose based on the type of experience they want like relaxation, attractions, natural beauty, or a little of everything.
Are tropical destinations like Hawaii or Mexico safe for families?
Yes, many tropical destinations are very family-friendly, especially well-known beaches like Hanalei Bay in Hawaii or the resort areas around Puerto Vallarta. These places often offer calm sections of water, supervised swimming areas, and amenities designed specifically for families.
As with any beach trip, parents should always stay close to children near the water, but these destinations generally offer a safe and relaxed environment for families of all ages.
What should families look for when choosing a beach for toddlers?
When traveling with toddlers, look for beaches with shallow water, gentle waves, clean sand, shaded areas, and easy access from parking to the shoreline. Safety and comfort matter most at this stage.
Beaches like Shelly Bay, Clearwater Beach, and Horseshoe Bay’s protected cove are great examples of toddler-friendly environments. Parents should also consider nearby facilities like restrooms, changing areas, and shaded spots for breaks throughout the day.
When is the best time to visit these family-friendly beaches?
The best time to visit most beaches is during late spring through early fall, when water temperatures are warm and weather conditions are stable. However, destinations like Bermuda, Florida, and Mexico can offer beautiful beach days outside peak season as well.
Families who want fewer crowds may enjoy visiting in shoulder seasons, May to early June or late August into September, while still enjoying pleasant conditions.
How can families stay safe at the beach with young children?
Supervision is the key to beach safety, children should always be within arm’s reach near the water. Choose beaches with lifeguards when possible, and look for calm areas where waves are gentle and predictable.
Applying sunscreen regularly, keeping everyone hydrated, and taking breaks in the shade can help everyone enjoy the day comfortably. Staying close together as a family ensures safety while supporting shared experiences and memories.
Final Thoughts: Plan Your Next Family Beach Adventure
Every family beach trip becomes part of your story like tiny footprints in the sand, shared laughs in the waves, slow walks at sunset, and moments where time seems to stretch just a little bit longer. Choosing the right destination can make all the difference, and the beaches in this guide each offer something special for families looking to reconnect, relax, and enjoy the beauty of being together.
Whether you’re dreaming of Bermuda’s calm turquoise coves, the lively boardwalk energy of Myrtle Beach, the peaceful shores of Wrightsville Beach, or a tropical escape like Hanalei Bay or Puerto Vallarta, your next memory-filled getaway is closer than you think.
Take your time exploring what each destination offers, think about what your family enjoys most, and trust that the best trips aren’t the most complicated, they’re the ones spent side by side. When you’re ready to start planning, explore our full destination guides for tips, ideas, and family-tested insights to help you make the most of your beach adventure.
Your next unforgettable shoreline moment is waiting.