What could be better than feeling the warm sand between your toes, as you listen to the turquoise waves crashing against the shore, while palm trees sway gently in the wind overhead. The only thing that could top it is watching your little ones as they turn over their sand-filled buckets to create castles and paddle in the cool sea water. Whether you have toddlers or teenagers, if this sounds like your idea of heaven, then here are five places you might want to consider for your family summer holiday this year:
- Halkidiki
Halkidiki is the most popular tourist destination in northern Greece and it is easy to see why. Along the stunning coastline you will find lush green Mediterranean forests that take you down to sandy golden beaches and blue sea that stretches as far as the eye can see. It is made up of three small peninsulas, known as the three legs of Halkidiki. Kassandra is the liveliest and most popular of the three smaller peninsulas, while in Sithonia you will find more secluded coves. Head to Hanioti beach for snorkeling or Vourvourou beach for watersports.
- Fuerteventura
Situated in the Atlantic Ocean, just 100km from the African coast, this is the second largest of Spain’s Canary Islands. White-sand beaches and year-round warmth make this the perfect destination for beach bums. You will find El Cotillo on the edge of a fishing village and untouched by tourists, making it the perfect place for a peaceful day so you can relax with a good book while your little ones splash in the sea. You could also head to Caleta De Fuste, where calm currents and shallow waters are ideal for families.
- Malta
Malta is the perfect place for a family-friendly holiday and there are plenty of beaches to choose from including golden sand, red sand, rocks, blue lagoons, and inland seas. You will find the main resorts and larger beaches in the north of Malta, while the quieter and more secluded beaches are off the beaten track, right at the tip. Gonzo is worth a visit just to see the unusual red sand that is surrounded by countryside
- Croatia
Croatia is one of the sunniest spots in Europe and much of its appeal comes from the coastline which stretches for 1,778 kilometres. Head to Dubrovnik which was once described by George Bernard Shaw as “the pearl of the Adriatic”, with the playwright also saying “those who seek paradise on Earth should come to Dubrovnik”. Here picturesque pebbled beaches lead out to crystal clear water, which is perfect for a spot of diving with coral reefs, caves, and shipwrecks just waiting to be explored.
- Barbados
If your budget allows, then why not head to the beautiful Caribbean beaches of Barbados? With the Caribbean Sea to the west and the Atlantic Ocean to the east you will find a wide variety for you to explore. The island is circled by coral reefs, which is not only perfect for snorkeling, but also helps produce clean, fine-grained sand. The west coast is best suited for those looking to alternate between sunbathing and paddling in the shallow waters. Ju Ju’s Beach is perfect for swimming and you will find a reef close to shore where you can swim with turtles.
So, which beach will you and the kids visit next?
