Family travel 5: Jump-start your vacation plans

Do your family vacation plans need a jump-start? Here are five destinations to consider.

The Dunes on the Waterfront,Ogunquit, Maine

Tap into the texture of a vintage-style family vacation. It’s a holiday that celebrates slow mornings, gentle sea breezes and a cozy cottage. Experience the charms of Maine during your stay at this resort where 21 cottages sit aside a tidal river and a short jaunt to the Atlantic Ocean. Paddle to the sea on your own or hop aboard the cabana boat for a colorful ride. Splash in the heated pool or ride a cruiser bike into the small coastal town of Ogunquit (the name comes from the Abenaki language, meaning “beautiful place by the sea”). There you can explore a picturesque harbor area or stroll the Marginal Way, a breathtaking mile-long paved walking path along the ocean cliffs. Each evening, nestle into Adirondack chairs circling a fire pit to share your best moments of each day.

For more: www.dunesonthewaterfront.com

Brac Reef, Cayman Brac

From this small, family-friendly Caribbean island, your clan can enjoy a dive vacation that includes exploring the 70 named dive sites in the waters around Cayman Brac as well as the Russian Frigate and the Bloody Bay Wall near Little Cayman Island.

The on-site dive shop provides personalized attention and valet services for the soon-to-be certified as well as the seasoned diver.

The all-inclusive beachfront resort also offers free bike rentals to explore the island, spa services and volleyball. While exploring, note that the lush green forests throughout Cayman Brac are home to endangered parrots, brown boobies and peregrine falcons. When planning your trip, ask about special packages for families.

For more:www.clearlycayman.com

Autocamp, Joshua Tree, California

Each of the nine AutoCamp experiences strive to combine the best of midcentury design with modern amenities, all curated to enable guests to connect with their surroundings.

Among your options is a stay on 25 acres in the heart of Joshua Tree. Expect the best elements of camping and luxury, combined to create a glamping experience in a remarkable setting. Stay in modern Airstream suites and luxurious tents with boutique-style amenities.

The project was designed for minimal impact on the environment, incorporating low water use, native plantings, xeriscaping to minimize irrigation, on-site water treatment, a heavy reliance on solar power, and dark sky-compliant lighting to preserve the clear view of stars. Autocamp welcomes family members of all ages from “newborns to great-great grandparents.”

For more: www.autocamp.com

The Resort at Longboat Key Club, Longboat Key, Fla.

Soak up the sun with a stay at the Resort at Longboat Key Club, a 410-acre beachfront playground near Sarasota. A recent renovation means you can expect soothing colors and fresh touches while you ponder how best to spend your time in this tranquil oasis. While the kids enjoy arts, crafts, ice cream socials and sporting activities with Camp Loggerhead counselors, grown-ups can play tennis on award-winning courts, enjoy spa time or take advantage of beach yoga followed by shopping. Golfers will want to tee it up on the tree-lined Harbourside course beside Sarasota Bay or the Links of Longboat bordering the Gulf of Mexico. Join the kids for movie nights, beach barbecues or a nature walk. Head into town for shopping, museums, dining and music performances.

For more: www.longboatkeyclub.com; www.visitsarasota.org

Four Seasons Hotel, Sydney, Australia

Headed Down Under? Why not take the kids? The Four Seasons Sydney welcomes families to their central location in the historic Rocks district overlooking the iconic harbor, and within walking distance of top restaurants, shopping, the ferry terminal and can’t miss sites including the Opera House and Harbour Bridge. A Family Fun package includes a welcome gift for kids, daily breakfast, passes to the zoo, in-room movies and movie snacks, and kid-friendly bath amenities. You’ll want to up the festive factor with a cozy in-room tent.

For more: Four Seasons Hotel Sydney

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This story was originally published March 9, 2026 at 9:56 AM.