It's one thing to organize a girl's trip or a romantic getaway with your partner. But planning a vacation for a big family, where interests and ages span across multiple generations takes a completely different approach. Coming from an enormous family where my dad is the oldest of three and my mom is the middle-sibling of five, I get it. Toddlers need naptime, teens need screen time, and grandparents might just need some “me-time” to enjoy a cup of morning coffee in peace. But, once you finally have everyone together splashing in a lake or grilling surf-and-turf while lounging poolside, you'll understand why these trips are pure gold. Most families aim for one or two vacations a year, depending on work, school, and budget, and a big multigenerational trip often becomes the “main event” for the year. I created this guide with location ideas, tips, and more to help take some of the guesswork and logistics out of planning for large family vacations, so you can focus on what matters: enjoying more time together. Top Destinations for Vacations for Large Families – Theme Park Family Vacation Spots There's just something magical about theme parks. Adults get to feel like kids again, kids get to lead the charge, and everyone leaves with a little more laughter in their hearts (and probably a souvenir or two). Theme park destinations are some of the best multigenerational family vacations in the country for a reason: they offer excitement, inclusivity, and activities for every age and interest. With roller coasters and character meet-and-greets, giggling through group photos, and plenty of built-in adventures to be had, these places are top-tier for large family getaways. Orlando, Florida: The Theme Park Capital of the World Orlando is the MVP of theme park family vacations, and for good reason. This sunny Central Florida city is bursting with energy, excitement, and enchantment for all ages. With iconic theme parks like Walt Disney World® Resort and Universal Orlando Resort, Orlando is truly a playground for the whole family. But what some don't realize is that the parks are just one piece of this dynamic and unique city, making it a great destination to return to and have a different experience each time. You'll find airboat tours, kayaking in natural springs, some of the country's best shopping, and even coastal beaches all within an hour's drive. One week, you're riding the Hogwart's Express to pick out a wand in the Wizarding World of Harry Potter, and the next, you're having fried gator tail after an exhilarating airboat ride through Central Florida's rivers and lakes. Orlando is a choose-your-own-adventure kind of place, with magic around every corner. Where to Stay: Club Wyndham Cypress Palms 5324 Fairfield Lake Dr., Kissimmee, FL 34746 | (407) 397-1600 Located just 8 minutes from Walt Disney World, this lakeside escape is both relaxing and family-friendly. Spacious suites (4–8 guests) make it easy for cousins, siblings, and grandparents to crash comfortably. Amenities include an outdoor heated pool, hot tub, fitness center, picnic areas, and a cozy activities center for family downtime. FIND DATES Club Wyndham Star Island 5000 Avenue of the Stars, Kissimmee, FL 34746 | (407) 997-8000 Just 10 minutes from Disney and packed with perks. With a tranquil garden and lakefront charm, Star Island feels like a mini-resort. With an arcade center, water playground, deli/snack bar, tennis and volleyball courts, and spacious suites for 4–8 guests, it's a one-stop fun zone for every generation. FIND DATES Westgate Vacation Villas Resort 7700 Westgate Boulevard, Kissimmee, FL 34747 | (800) 428-1932 Only 7 minutes from Disney, this is a haven for large families—with suites that sleep up to 10! Kids go wild for Shipwreck Island Water Park, while adults appreciate the 14 pools, 13 hot tubs, fitness center, theater, and lakeside dock. And, the on-site Disney Planning Center makes organizing park days simple. FIND DATES Anaheim, California: Theme Park Magic in the Heart of SoCal If you're looking for a West Coast destination that's equal parts fun, sunshine, and convenience, Anaheim is your golden ticket. Located about an hour South of Los Angeles, this family-friendly hub is best known as the home of the original Disneyland Resort. But trust me when I say, the magic here extends far beyond Main Street, U.S.A. With year-round sunshine, palm-lined streets, and easy access via John Wayne Airport, Anaheim is an ideal destination for families flying in from all over. Plus, you're just a short drive from other SoCal favorites like San Diego, Los Angeles, and Huntington Beach, which makes it a perfect launch pad for extended family adventures. Skip through Disneyland, watch the little ones light up in Disney's California Adventure Park, or go old-school wild at Knott's Berry Farm—one of Southern California's most underrated parks. Anaheim delivers that dreamy, nostalgic vibe paired with adrenaline-packed thrills drenched in sunshine. Where to Stay: Peacock Suites 1745 S. Anaheim Blvd., Anaheim, CA 92805 | (714) 535-8255 Right in the center of the action, Peacock Suites is about an 8-minute drive from Disneyland and 14 minutes from Knott's Berry Farm. This colorful and comfy space offers roomy suites that sleep 4–8 guests. There's something for everyone, from the heated outdoor pool and two hot tubs to the rooftop sun deck (perfect for that post-park wind-down). Kids will love the game room, and adults will appreciate the fitness center and convenient Disney Shuttle. FIND DATES Club Wyndham Dolphin's Cove 465 W. Orangewood Avenue, Anaheim, CA 92802 | (714) 980-0830 Just a quick 8-minute drive from Disneyland and 15 minutes from Knott's, Dolphin's Cove feels like a relaxing mini-retreat after a big day of rides and character hugs. It's serene, palm-fringed, and full of charm. The spacious suites (sleeping 4–8) make it easy for big families to spread out. Amenities include an activities center, fitness room, outdoor heated pool, mini golf, and a putting green for those competitive cousins. And yes, there's a Disney shuttle so you can save your steps for the parks. FIND DATES WorldMark Anaheim 201 West Katella Avenue, Anaheim, CA 92802 | (714) 399-1340 Want to stay close to the magic and have a little extra room to breathe? WorldMark Anaheim is your answer. It's about an 8-minute drive to Disneyland and 14 minutes to Knott's Berry Farm, and the multi-room suites sleep 4–8. You'll find thoughtful family-friendly touches like an activities center, kid's pool, and heated outdoor pool. The rooftop sundeck offers city views (and maybe even a peek at the fireworks!), while the fitness center and outdoor hot tub make sure parents and grandparents can sneak in some relaxation too. FIND DATES Branson, Missouri: Theme Parks, Ozark Views, and Good Ol' Family Fun If you're craving a destination that serves up equal parts thrills, tranquility, and throwback charm, Branson, Missouri should be at the top of your list. This treasure of the Ozarks offers some of the best multigenerational family vacations in the USA. Where else can you zipline through the trees in the morning, catch a variety show in the afternoon, and cap the day with s'mores under the stars? Branson has a little bit of everything: a gorgeous natural backdrop, an endless lineup of family attractions, and a wholesome, joyful vibe that just feels good. It's the kind of place where grandparents, grandkids, and everyone in between can find their kind of fun. Top Theme Parks in Branson Include: Silver Dollar City: Classic rides, crafts, and country charm. Bigfoot Fun Park: Giant swings and mountain coasters. Shepherd's Adventure Park: Ziplining and ATV adventures. Fritz's Adventure: An indoor thrill park like no other. Dig Town: Yes, actual construction equipment you can operate. Branson's Wild World: Wildlife park with reptiles, wolves, and more. Where to Stay: Club Wyndham Branson at The Falls 3165 Falls Pkwy, Branson, MO 65616 | (417) 336-4993 This peaceful, wooded resort is like a warm hug after a long, joy-packed day at the parks. Nestled just 13 minutes from Branson's main theme park area, it's ideal for families who want to blend nature and nostalgia. Multi-room suites sleep 2–6 guests. You'll find in-suite washer/dryers (a lifesaver), dining areas, free Wi-Fi, and an outdoor seasonal pool. Plus, the barbecue area is a great place to gather the whole family for grilled eats and storytelling under the stars. FIND DATES Club Wyndham Branson at The Meadows 110 Willow Bend Drive, Branson, MO 65616 | (417) 336-4993 Need more space? This resort has you covered. Just 14 minutes from the park scene, it offers multi-room suites for up to 10 guests, making it one of the best large family vacation options around. It's a mini-world of fun all on its own, with something for everyone. Kids can run wild at the playground or splash around in the seasonal children's pool. Teens can challenge each other to a game of bocce ball or basketball, while those seeking relaxation will love the outdoor and indoor pools, soothing sauna, cozy fire pit, and outdoor hot tub. FIND DATES Westgate Branson Woods Resort 2201 Roark Valley Road, Branson, MO 65616 | (800) 428-1932 Just 13 minutes from the theme parks and surrounded by gorgeous Ozark scenery, this resort feels like a forest retreat that still keeps you close to all the action. With multi-room suites for 2–8 guests, it's ideal for large family getaways. The kiddos will love the playground, foosball, and pools, while grown-ups will enjoy on-site dining, free self-parking, and fitness amenities. And if you've got a big crew driving in? There's even free bus and truck parking, because Branson welcomes families in every shape and size. FIND DATES Top Destinations for Vacations for Large Families – Beach Family Vacation Spots There's nothing quite like a beach vacation to bring a big family together. It's the ultimate unplug-and-reconnect setting: the salty breeze, the sound of waves rolling in, sand between your toes, and absolutely zero pressure to be anywhere other than here. Beach trips give everyone a chance to be themselves, at their own pace. It's also one of the few vacations where doing nothing is just as meaningful as doing everything. Build a sandcastle. Watch the sunrise. Try paddleboarding. Or simply float in the ocean while your nephews bury your legs in sand—and I say this from experience: they'll laugh harder than you. The beach is nature's playground, and it's just waiting to be explored. Here are some of the best large family getaways that offer both sand and smiles. Myrtle Beach, South Carolina: Where Family Fun Meets Shoreline Bliss Myrtle Beach is the kind of place where beach chairs and boogie boards come standard. Stretching along South Carolina's stunning Atlantic coast, it offers miles and miles of shoreline that's a dream for building sandcastles, catching waves, or curling up with a good book while the kiddos chase crabs. Beyond the beach, there's a vibrant boardwalk overflowing with shops and entertainment, amusement parks like Broadway Grand Prix, the all-ages adventure of Ripley's Aquarium, and Broadway at the Beach, a family-friendly hub for food, fun, and fireworks. Where to Stay: Club Wyndham SeaWatch Resort 151 Sea Watch Drive, Myrtle Beach, SC 29572 | (843) 692-9311 If you're dreaming of an oceanside escape that feels both serene and spectacular, SeaWatch is the move, with multi-room suites that fit 4–10 guests. Set right on the beach and surrounded by ponds and lakes, this resort feels like a peaceful oasis just steps from the sand. Kids can splash in the indoor and outdoor pools, chill in the game room, or play at the bocce ball court. Adults will love the private boardwalk to the beach, on-site dining, and options to relax in the indoor or outdoor hot tubs. FIND DATES Westgate Myrtle Beach Oceanfront Resort 415 South Ocean Boulevard, Myrtle Beach, SC 29577 | (800) 428-1932 Talk about prime location. This resort is beachfront bliss, right down the road from the buzzing Myrtle Beach Boardwalk. Just a few miles from Broadway at the Beach, it makes day trips and dinner plans a breeze. The spacious multi-room suites sleep 2–8 guests, so there's plenty of space to stretch out after a long beach day. Families will appreciate on-site dining, an outdoor pool, a kid's water play area, and practical touches like free parking and laundry facilities. It's a perfect combo of playtime and convenience, complete with an ocean breeze. FIND DATES Destin, Florida: Sugar-White Sands and Sunshine for All Destin is like a postcard come to life. Shimmering turquoise water, powdery white sand, and that easy-breezy Gulf Coast charm that instantly makes you feel like you're on vacation mode. Nestled along Florida's Emerald Coast, Destin is a dream destination for large family getaways. Why? Because it mixes beachy bliss with all kinds of family-friendly adventures. Known for its spectacular weather year-round and jaw-droppingly beautiful beaches, this city gives everyone a reason to smile. Little ones will love playing in the gentle surf or seeing dolphins on a boat tour, teens can explore adventure zones like Wild Willie's or zip around at HarborWalk Village, and the grown-ups can enjoy a little R&R under a palm tree. A chill adult beverage optional but highly encouraged. Where to Stay: Club Wyndham Beach Street Cottages 2974 Scenic Gulf Dr, Destin, FL 32550 | (850) 269-3056 Tucked along a quiet stretch of coast, these charming little beach cottages are just across the street from the sand. And yes, they're as cute and cozy as they sound. The one-bedroom suites sleep up to 6 guests, with bunk beds, a master bedroom, and a sleeper sofa that's made for movie nights. Add in a mini kitchen, oversized bath, and balcony, and you've got everything you need for a peaceful, homey stay. Outside the suite, there's a heated outdoor pool, picnic and BBQ area, and access to nearby tennis courts and golf courses. FIND DATES Club Wyndham at Majestic Sun 77 Seascape Dr., Miramar, FL 32550 | (850) 269-3000 If you're dreaming of a beach vacation that feels equal parts resort and retreat, Majestic Sun delivers. With multi-room suites that sleep 4–6, this waterfront stay is just right for families looking for a little extra space and a whole lot of ocean views. The resort is set amid gorgeous scenery and offers a long list of amenities to keep everyone happy: a fitness center, basketball courts, a catch-and-release pond, an 18-hole golf course, and even a lake for quiet morning walks. The outdoor seasonal pool is a hit with kids, and the BBQ and picnic areas are made for sunset family dinners under the stars. FIND DATES St. Thomas, US Virgin Islands: A Passport-Free Slice of Paradise If your family's idea of the perfect vacation includes crystal-clear waters, white-sand beaches, and a fruity drink in hand, pack your bags immediately for St. Thomas. It's the tropical getaway that feels like an exotic escape without even needing a passport. That's right: this Caribbean gem is part of the US Virgin Islands, which means you can hop on a plane and step straight into paradise with your whole crew, no extra paperwork required. But this dreamy destination is more than just a pretty beach (though the beaches are next level). St. Thomas offers a little bit of everything for families: with water sports and snorkeling adventures, historic landmarks like Fort Christian, and interactive gems like The Pirates Treasure Museum and the Virgin Islands Children's Museum for the youngest explorers. Where to Stay: Margaritaville Vacation Club - St. Thomas 6080 Estate Smith Bay, St. Thomas, USVI 00802 | (340) 775-8300 This one's a tropical haven in every sense. With breezy, laid-back vibes and everything you need in one place, this resort makes it easy to settle in and stay put. Multi-room suites sleep 2–6 guests. And if you don't feel like venturing far, you don't have to. There's on-site dining (5 o'Clock Somewhere Bar and Margaritaville Restaurant), a beachfront location, outdoor pools, a fitness center, and even laundry facilities to keep everyone fresh through the entire trip. FIND DATES Limetree Beach Resort by Club Wyndham 100 Frenchmans Bay, Charlotte Amalie, STT 00801 | (340) 776-4770 Tucked away on a secluded 24-acre beachfront on Frenchman's Bay, this resort strikes the perfect balance between peaceful escape and island accessibility. It's got that quiet, cozy feel that's almost like your own private beach, but you're still just a short ride away from all the fun and culture of Charlotte Amalie. The multi-room suites sleep 2–4 and come with kitchenettes and split-level living areas, giving your family space to relax and recharge. And when it's time to play, there's a swim-up bar, pickleball courts, a fitness center, beach cabanas, and tennis courts, not to mention an on-site bar and restaurant. It's the kind of place where you can completely unwind without ever feeling disconnected. FIND DATES Club Wyndham Elysian Beach Resort 6800 Estate Nazareth St., St. Thomas, USVI 00802 | (340) 775-1000 You'll find the resort right in a yacht-filled cove, surrounded by lush hills and the sparkling Caribbean Sea. It's peaceful, picturesque, and just the right amount of luxe for families who want to soak in the island life. The studio suites sleep 2–4, making it a great option for smaller family groups or extended stays. Here, you'll have exclusive beach access, casual on-site dining, an outdoor hot tub, swimming pool, and even tennis courts. FIND DATES Top Destinations for Vacations for Large Families – Mountain Resorts and Outdoor Adventures If your family loves the idea of crisp morning air, starry night skies, and wide-open landscapes, then mountain destinations might just be your perfect escape. The adventurers can chase waterfalls while hiking, the loungers can soak in the scenery, and the kids can spend hours collecting sticks and making forts. In the mountains, life slows down, but the fun doesn't. The Smoky Mountains: Scenic Views, Fresh Air, and Family Bonding The Great Smoky Mountains are the kind of place where every turn offers something new to marvel at—misty blue peaks, winding forest trails, and wildlife sightings that feel like magic. Located along the Tennessee-North Carolina border, this region is packed with family-friendly outdoor activities like hiking, biking, fishing, golfing, scenic drives, and more. Outdoor enthusiasts can explore cultural gems like Cades Cove, a peaceful valley with an 11-mile loop with wildlife, horseback riding, and discovering preserved pioneer cabins. For thrill-seekers and theme park fans, Pigeon Forge brings the excitement with attractions like Dollywood, the Titanic Museum, and WonderWorks. Where to Stay: Club Wyndham Smoky Mountains 308 Collier Drive, Sevierville, TN 37862 | (865) 774-3960 This resort delivers big on views and value. With multi-room suites that sleep 4–8 guests, it's ideal for large families needing space to stretch out after a long day of hiking or sightseeing. Perched high above the rolling landscape with panoramic mountain views all around, you'll be right in the heart of the outdoors. And the amenities list is impressive: heated indoor and outdoor pools, a fitness center, playgrounds, mini golf, sauna, picnic areas, and fire pits for evening s'mores and storytelling. FIND DATES Club Wyndham Great Smokies Lodge 1425 Old Knoxville Highway, Sevierville, TN 37876 | (865) 286-6480 Set against a lush, green Smoky Mountain backdrop, this lodge has its own 18-hole golf course right in the backyard, plus a golf driving range for the future pros in your family. The spacious suites sleep 4–8 guests, and the list of amenities is stacked: indoor mini golf, a fitness center, indoor hot tubs, on-site dining, and both an indoor and outdoor water park (yes, seriously!). It's the kind of place where no one gets bored, even on a rainy day. FIND DATES Westgate Smoky Mountain Resort & Water Park 915 Westgate Resorts Rd, Gatlinburg, TN 37738 | (800) 428-1932 Nestled right into the mountains, it offers a cozy-lodge-meets-elevated-retreat vibe. Your backyard is the wilderness, and the views are jaw-dropping. The multi-room suites sleep 4–8, and there's plenty to keep everyone entertained with heated outdoor pools, hot tubs, BBQ grills, and a trolley that takes you straight to Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge. And did we mention the on-site water park? It's basically a vacation within a vacation. FIND DATES The Pocono Mountains: An East Coast Escape with All-Season Adventures Nestled in the heart of the Northeast, the Poconos Mountains are the perfect mix of outdoor excitement and peaceful woodland charm. Just a few hours from major East Coast cities like New York, Philadelphia, and Boston, the Poconos are an ideal drive-to destination for families looking to reconnect without needing a passport or a cross-country flight. And the best part? The Poconos are a year-round playground. In the warmer months, think hiking, biking, boating and fishing. If you had to pick just one activity and you're up for one unforgettable adventure, I can't recommend whitewater rafting enough. Pocono Whitewater invites the whole family through scenic rivers and leafy trails or adrenaline-packed rapids. When winter rolls in, it's all about snow tubing, skiing, snowboarding, and cozy cabin vibes with cocoa in hand. You'll see wildlife, stargaze without city lights, and finally slow down enough to breathe in the fresh mountain air. For a day of family-friendly slopes and snow play, Camelback Mountain Resort is the go-to spot with activities for all ages. Whether you're planning a holiday reunion or a summer family reset, this is one of the best multigenerational family vacations in the USA for those craving equal parts adventure and tranquility. Where to Stay: Club Wyndham Shawnee Village 5242 Buttermilk Falls Road, Shawnee On Delaware, PA 18301 | (570) 421-1500 If you've ever dreamed of waking up in the woods, surrounded by towering trees and the sound of birdsong, welcome to paradise. Located along the scenic Delaware River in Pennsylvania and tucked deep within the Poconos, this resort offers the ultimate wilderness immersion—while still being just minutes from town. The multi-room suites sleep up to 8 guests, which makes it perfect for large families looking to stay close, but not too close. Amenities include basketball and bocce ball courts, a playground, fitness center, indoor hot tub, heated indoor and outdoor seasonal pools, outdoor mini golf, pickleball, and a fire pit for evening hangouts. FIND DATES Pocono Mountain Villas By Exploria Resorts 2157 River Road, East Stroudsburg, PA 18302 | (800) 428-1932 Want a little more variety and extra space? This resort has it all. With spacious suites that sleep 2–10 guests, it's tailor-made for big families and multigenerational groups. And the activities? Let's just say you won't hear “I'm bored” once. Families can enjoy a private 18-hole golf course, zip lining, horseback riding, tubing, and even a resort arcade for rainy days. There's also on-site dining, a fitness center, pools and hot tubs, mini golf, laundry services, and free parking. And to top it all off? A resort shuttle to help everyone get from A to B without the family caravan chaos. FIND DATES The Rocky Mountains: Big Skies, Bigger Views, and Family Adventures for Days The Rocky Mountains stretch majestically across the American West, offering jaw-dropping scenery, wildlife sightings, and a playground of year-round outdoor adventures. Families who want to unplug, explore, and feel like tiny dots in a vast, awe-inspiring landscape have plenty to look forward to, from 350 miles of hiking trails 350 in Rocky Mountain National Park to a bird's-eye-view soaring above the clouds more than 8,000 feet high on the Estes Park Aerial Tramway. What makes the Rockies made for large family vacations? The sheer variety. In summer, you can hike alpine trails, fish in glacial lakes, bike rugged paths, or zipline over wildflower meadows. In winter, it's all about skiing, snowboarding, tubing, and snowshoeing your way through powdery wonderlands. And throughout the year, you'll find elk, moose, eagles, and if you're lucky, a few mountain goats showing off on the rocks. Easily accessible from Colorado, Utah, Arizona, New Mexico, and other mountain time zone states, the Rockies are a natural wonderland that feels both wild and welcoming. Here, nature is the main attraction, and your family the VIP guests. Where to Stay: WorldMark Estes Park 701 Riverside Dr, Estes Park, CO 80517 | (970) 577-7517 Found along the Big Thompson River, this charming mountain escape is like stepping into a postcard. With cabin-style accommodations and panoramic views, it offers the perfect basecamp for exploring Rocky Mountain National Park just a short drive away. The comfortable suites sleep up to 6 guests, making it great for mid-sized family groups. Amenities include a playground, fitness center, indoor hot tub, outdoor seasonal pool, BBQ area, Wi-Fi, and even movie rentals for cozy nights in. FIND DATES WorldMark Granby Rocky Mountain Preserve 1280 Ten Mile Drive, Granby, CO 80446 | (970) 887-1800 Looking for a stay that's as grand as the mountains themselves? This resort has spacious suites for 2–12 guests, making it one of the best large family vacation spots in the region. Set against the dramatic backdrop of the Continental Divide, this resort has everything from ski and mountain bike storage to an outdoor hot tub, seasonal outdoor pool, BBQ area, and fitness center. It even offers access to the Grand Elk Golf Club for those who like their vacations with a side of green fairways. FIND DATES Club Wyndham Pagosa 42 Pinon Causeway, Pagosa Springs, CO 81147 | (970) 731-8000 Want a unique Rocky Mountain experience? Head to Pagosa Springs, where nature meets nurture thanks to its famous geothermal hot springs. Located along the Pinon Lake Reservoir, this resort provides a tranquil lakeside retreat with mountain views in every direction. Suites sleep 4–6 guests and include access to a variety of family-friendly amenities: an activities center, basketball court, mini golf, a golf driving range, and an 18-hole golf course. There's also ski and bike storage, an indoor heated pool, tennis and volleyball courts, and BBQ areas. FIND DATES Accommodation Options for Large Families When you're traveling with a big crew, the place you stay can make all the difference. You need space. You need comfort. And let's be honest, you need a little help keeping everything running smoothly. That's where family-friendly accommodations and resorts really shine. Forget cramming into hotel rooms or juggling multiple bookings. Multi-room suite-style resorts are the sweet spot for large families. They bring the ease of hospitality with the cozy comforts of home. When you find the right one, it's like your vacation starts the moment you unpack. Why Suite-Style Resorts Beat Rentals and Hotel Rooms (Especially for Big Families) WorldMark Granby Rocky Mountain Preserve Club Wyndham Great Smokies Lodge Club Wyndham Cypress Palms Sure, home rentals have their moments. But when you're traveling with a large family, suite-style resorts just make everything easy. Why? I say this from personal experience: because they take care of the little details so you can focus on making memories. At a resort, you get a consistent experience that's like a hybrid of all the perks of a rental and a hotel. You know you'll have all the essentials stocked, like towels and dishware. You have amenities like pools and hot tubs that are always sparkling, and there's usually a snack bar just a few steps away. Need an extra pillow? Call the front desk. Want the kids to burn off some energy while you relax in a hot tub? Done. And, I can't tell you enough how much having a full kitchen helps by saving on cooking meals together, unlike hotel rooms where you're lucky to have a microwave to reheat leftovers. Plus, resorts offer something that most rentals can't: that getaway feeling. With tropical landscaping, staff who remember your name, and amenities that make every day feel like a treat, it's the resort magic that gives your trip that extra shimmer. And the privacy? That's built in too. While rentals can sometimes leave you side-by-side with strangers (and maybe their barking dog), resorts are designed with your comfort and space in mind. You can spread out, enjoy a peaceful night's sleep, and still come together for the best parts of the day. Essential Tips for Planning the Perfect Large Family Vacation Planning a vacation for a big family can feel a little like herding cats with various dietary and activity preferences. But with the right processes in place and a little prep that goes a long way, it doesn't have to be stressful. Here are a few tried-and-true tips to help you plan a large family getaway that feels less like a logistical puzzle and more like the adventure of a lifetime. Start Planning Early (Seriously… Earlier Than You Think) The early bird gets the beachfront suite with the ocean view. When you're coordinating multiple people, multiple rooms, and multiple preferences, starting early is key. Booking in advance not only gives you more options, but it also helps you stay within budget, and avoid the stress of last-minute decisions. Pro-tip: Reserving your accommodations directly through the Extra Holidays website makes for a seamless experience. Budgeting Effectively for a Large Group When traveling with a big family, transparency and communication are everything. Start by creating a shared financial organizer (a spreadsheet, a Google Sheet, or even a budgeting app) where everyone can see expected costs and contribute where appropriate. Set your budget early and discuss comfort levels. Some families choose to split costs, while others designate one person to handle lodging and another to cover meals or activities. No matter what your system looks like, having those conversations early makes things smoother later. And it avoids awkward moments when the check arrives at dinner. Pro tip: Build in a “fun fund” for ice cream runs, souvenir splurges, and spontaneous adventures. Those little moments are often the ones that matter most. Create a Group Chat with Key Decision-Makers Every great group trip has that one thing that keeps it all together: the group chat. Apps like WhatsApp are my go-to vacation planning, and allows everyone to chime in, drop links, vote on excursions, or share ideas in one easy thread. Plus, it creates a digital scrapbook of the journey, so even the planning process becomes part of the memory-making. Engage All Members of the Family When Possible A great large family vacation isn't about doing everything together. It's about making space for everyone to enjoy the experience in their own way. The fun happens when there's a little something for everyone. Build your itinerary with flexibility in mind. Some family members might want to lounge by the beach with a book, while others crave ziplining through the trees or exploring a museum. Let the little ones run wild at the pool while grandparents relax in the shade. Just make sure that whatever the day holds, there's always a plan to come back together, especially around mealtimes. It's Time to Bring Everyone Together At the end of the day, large family vacations aren't just about where you go—they're about what you build together while you're there. The inside jokes. The epic cannonballs. The one meal where every single person made it to the table on time. These moments become the stories your family retells for years. Bookmark this guide and start planning your getaway today with Extra Holidays.
