Skip to main content

Top 10 U.S. Family Vacations

Make memories with Exclusive Resorts' top 10 recommendations for family vacations in the U.S. From San Francisco to Sea Island and everywhere in between, find your place to get away — together.

Retreating somewhere special with loved ones is an important annual tradition for many of our Members. See our top recommendations for your next family trip — let's start planning.

DEER VALLEY, UTAH

Pack your skis, hiking shoes, or golf clubs for a stay at Deer Valley, a Member-favorite destination. Your unforgettable mountain getaway is comprised of luxe living, ski-in/ski-out access, and Park City's lively Main Street — a hotspot for dining, shopping, and celeb spotting. While skiing is the winter activity of choice, venture out and try dog sledding, a unique adventure for the whole family. Glide through snow-covered meadows, aspen groves, and evergreen forests on private trails in the Wasatch Mountain Range. Children will love meeting all of the friendly sled dogs. Come summer, the valley comes alive with activities from hiking to fly‐fishing to outdoor concerts to horseback riding. Year-round, be sure to make a visit to the Utah Olympic Park, home of the 2002 Winter Olympics and an official training facility for the USA Olympic Team. It offers everything from casual spectating to the opportunity to bobsled, zipline, extreme tube, and more.

There’s so much more to Utah than snow-covered peaks and world-class skiing. Explore the perfect summer weekend in Deer Valley with this curated itinerary of insider travel experiences designed for the entire family.

Offering prime access to Deer Valley’s natural playground, our four-bedroom, ski-in/ski-out vacation homes at Ironwood are ideal during any season. Après-ski or golf, sip sunset cocktails from your private hot tub prior to heading into town for fine dining, casual family fare, or ski town nightlife. If you're seeking an authentic yet refined mountain retreat, our three-bedroom suites in Montage Deer Valley give you first tracks with unrivaled ski‐in/ski‐out access, relaxation at Utah's largest spa, and five dining options (including a pub with bowling alley).

MAUI, HAWAII

There are few places in the U.S. (or the world) more family-friendly and beautiful than Maui. With its idyllic beaches, approachable hiking trails, and kid-centric tours and activities (think surfing lessons with Hawaiian Paddle Sports and getting up close with sea life at Maui Ocean Center), the island is full of things to do that adults, teens, and children can enjoy together. Experience the tropical wonder of Maui to the fullest while vacationing at the Club’s residences located at Montage Kapalua Bay resort and Ho'olei Villas at Grand Wailea. Located on the island's northwestern edge, Montage Kapalua Bay keeps kids front of mind with their Paintbox Kids' Club Program, where children ages 5‒12 years stay busy with arts and crafts, outdoor adventures, and more. While the kids learn and play, adults will enjoy Kapalua Club's two championship golf courses, 8,500-square-foot Lagoon Pool, and extensive trail system. Come evening, gather together in one of the Club’s seven ocean-facing, three-bedroom residences, each of which features a spacious lanai to relax after a day of fun. 

At Ho’olei Villas on Maui's southern shores, Members will have access to Grand Wailea, conveniently located next door. At check-in, children will receive a Grand Passport, which lists all educational opportunities on the property and has spaces for sticker "stamps" to add after completing each of the activities. Additionally, kids can pretend to be Tarzan with the swing rope at Wailea Canyon Activity Pool, which is made up of nine individual pools spanning six levels connected by a lazy river as well as the world's only water elevator. Adults will enjoy the Hibiscus Pool and cabanas on Wailea Beach, as well as the eight three-bedroom townhome-style residences in the Ho-olei gated community. 

Relaxation or adventure? We combine both in one unforgettable three-day weekend itinerary in Maui, Hawaii

VAIL, COLORADO

A world-renowned resort, Vail's chalet-inspired buildings and cobblestone streets with high-end boutiques and fine dining give it a European vibe — but the variety of ski terrain and epic hiking make it a year-round retreat, whether it's an action-packed family getaway or relaxed mountain escape you seek. 

Our newly redecorated three-bedroom ski-in/ski-out vacation homes at Arrabelle at Vail Square are located right next to Eagle Bahn Gondola — ideal for families and first-track seekers. And, with slope-side ski valet service, forget schlepping gear to and from. Every residence features gourmet kitchens, spacious living rooms with fireplaces, and large bedrooms (some with bunk rooms just for the kiddos). Play games, read fireside between ski runs or hikes, and stare at epic mountain views. Members staying at the Arrabelle also have access to the RockResorts Spa, private fitness center, outdoor pool and hot tubs, and on-site restaurant — Tavern on the Square. 

Vail owns bragging rights as being Colorado’s largest ski resort, offering more than 5,000 skiable acres. From its legendary Back Bowls to its freestyle terrain parks, the mountain has something for everyone. Here is your insider guide to Rocky Mountain bliss.

NEWPORT BEACH, CALIFORNIA

Inspired by the grand villas of the Venetian countryside, Pelican Hill® in Newport Beach feels like a slice of Italy tucked away in Orange County. From the groves of olive trees and rows of lavender to the 1.1 million hand-cut glass mosaic tiles lining the bottom of the Coliseum Pool, each detail reflects the timeless class of the Italian Renaissance era. The high-end resort features two golf courses designed by Tom Fazio, an award-winning 22-treatment room spa, six dining options, and a dedicated kid's pool with a bubble jet fountain and sand play areas.

Guests ages 4‒12 are invited to partake in Camp Pelican™, where indoor and outdoor activities entertain and stimulate the imagination. The Club's five three-bedroom villas are perfect for families and boast open floorplans, stunning views, and décor reminiscent of a Tuscan estate, including Italian limestone fireplaces. Think of it as your own European escape, conveniently located on the Pacific Coast.

This beach-lovers paradise is a prime getaway for golf fanatics and those looking to soak up some oceanside R&R. Find it all in this insider three-day vacation itinerary.

LAKE TAHOE, CALIFORNIA

Discover your family’s outdoorsy side all year long. Winter in Lake Tahoe brings a blizzard of activities, including world-class skiing and snowmobiling, while summer sees plenty of hiking and boating on the pristine blue lake. Tahoe offers non-stop adventure for adrenaline junkies and serenity seekers alike. 

Tucked into the forest, our luxe, four-bedroom ski-in/ski-out vacation residences sit mid-mountain at Northstar, a ski area lauded for its family-friendly terrain, adventure parks, and sophisticated alpine village atmosphere. Each residence boasts a media room outfitted with Sonos sound systems, private hot tubs, and fire pits. Get ready for nights of games and s’mores post-mountain together time. The nearby Tree House is also ready for family fun with a heated outdoor pool, fitness center, game room, and lounge.

Find your slice of mountain paradise with this three-day summer travel itinerary for a family-friendly weekend by — or on — the lake.

NANTUCKET, MASSACHUSETTS

There's a reason the Cape Cod area is synonymous with relaxation and respite in so many people's minds. The region is the epitome of East Coast beach living — especially Nantucket. This charming island sits just 30 miles off the coast of Cape Cod and is home to picturesque sandy beaches, a charming main village known locally as "Town," and an abundance of history. 

The overall effect of Nantucket is to travel back to a simpler time. Cedar-shingled buildings line leafy, cobblestone streets. Hundreds of structures date back to pre-Civil War days. Lighthouses dot the coastline. Boats of all shapes, sizes, and colors nestle together in harbors. Everything here is easily accessible without a car thanks to the island's extensive bike trail system. It is as unique a place as they come, and a truly authentic New England experience.   

Members can soak up all of Nantucket's charms in one of the Club's three centrally located abodes: Touch of Grey (six bedrooms), Art House (six bedrooms), and Watercolors (five bedrooms).  

For a luxury beach holiday look no further than America’s most exclusive vacation spot: Nantucket. With its vibrant whaling history, beautiful beaches, and family-friendly activities there is no better idyllic summertime getaway. This is one perfect week in Nantucket.

JACKSON, WYOMING

There are a lot of iconic American mountain towns, but Jackson Hole is having a serious moment. With the majestic Teton Mountain Range as your dare-to-look-away backdrop and a cowboy culture that actually still feels authentic, there are many reasons why urbanites are flocking to this majestic mountain haven. Here’s how to get in all the action.

Jackson Hole is one of the, if not the, best ski destinations in the United States — one of those unforgettable travel experiences that brings its A-for-adventure game all winter long. But regardless of the season or how you define “adventure” (because heli-skiing is not for everyone) this charming mountain town offers fun for all — be it of the sport, culinary, or shopping variety.

Explore now — an essential itinerary to make your long(ish) weekend really count.

SAN FRANCISCO, CALIFORNIA

Home to tech giants, copious parks, and an epic culinary scene, SF makes for the most unique city vacation neighborhood by neighborhood. A trip to Pier 39 is always a classic — watching the sea lions lounge in the sun never hesitates to bring about a smile. Just a 15-minute walk from the residences along Fisherman’s Wharf, eat fresh crab, grab some sourdough bread from Boudin, and play like a kid again with boardwalk games. See SF from the water on sunny days by renting a kayak from City Kayak out of Pier 40 for a paddle. Group tours are available if you prefer to follow the leader. Pause to take in stunning city views, and look up in awe as you paddle right under the Bay Bridge.

Golden Gate Park is infamous for family-fun. Walk along the many paths and make a stop at California Academy of Sciences, one of the largest and most eco-friendly natural history museums in the world. Tour Rainforests of the World, with colorful butterflies and birds flitting about within a 90-foot diameter dome, take a trip to space with a show at the Planetarium, and explore hermit crabs, sea stars, and other California creatures hands-on at the Discovery Tidepool. Be sure to visit Calude, the rare white alligator!

Stay at our two-bedroom luxury homes at Fairmont Ghirardelli Square, which feature city or bay views. The rooms are quite spacious for city living and are within walking distance of many neighborhoods and attractions — including family-friendly Fisherman's Wharf. Easily explore the further reaches of town with a house car and chauffeur, while amenities like butler service and private wine storage tempt you back at day's end. Adults will also love time at their own at the City's copious award-winning restaurants. Your Concierge can help secure reservations at top trendy spots.

San Francisco is one of the best vacations for food lovers. You’ll leave your heart — and taste buds — at these Golden City restaurants.

NEW YORK CITY, NEW YORK

There are few cities packed with as much adventure, excitement, and energy as New York City. From sparkling skyscrapers to the lush green expanse of Central Park, it's a city unlike any other — with so much to do, there is never a dull moment.

A stay at one of the Club's 14 two-bedroom luxury residences at Park Avenue Place in Midtown East means you'll be perfectly situated to experience some of the city's best kid-friendly destinations. There's the Central Park Zoo, with its iconic sea lion show and Outdoor Adventure educational experience and Scavenger Hunts designed for small groups. On the other side of the park, adults and kids alike will be awed by the displays at the American Museum of Natural History. Learn about every aspect of nature with immersive activities, movies, and tours — each combining education with excitement.

SEA ISLAND, GEORGIA

Sea Island has been a top luxury destination for travelers seeking first-class hospitality and exceptional service since 1928. The only resort in the world to receive four Forbes Five-Star awards for 12 consecutive years and the only resort in the U.S. to host a G-8 Summit of world leaders, Sea Island is both glamorous and comfortable. The ageless resort is located on five miles of private beach on the southeastern coast of Georgia and features a tennis center, yacht club, 65,000-square-foot spa, three championship golf courses — including Plantation, home of the PGA Tour's RSM Classic — and several other world-class amenities.

The Club’s 14 four-bedroom residences can comfortably sleep 10 people, making them ideal for a multi-generational getaway. Each boasts a spacious kitchen and communal gathering spaces, a screened-in porch, private plunge pool, and is a short walk to The Cloister’s numerous resort amenities and restaurants.