Considering a long-haul holiday? Mumsnetters love these 7 destinations for family escapes

Made your way around the Med? Explored Europe’s best bits? Fancy somewhere a little more exotic but unsure where to head? We can help with that. 

The world is a big, beautiful place and just because you have kids doesn’t mean that you can’t venture far and wide. Yes, you’ll have to contend with a lengthy flight but Mumsnetters are on hand with tips on how to keep kids entertained on a plane, and you’ll be rewarded with incredible backdrops on arrival, setting you up for a family holiday to remember. 

And many of the destinations on this list offer great value while you’re there - particularly in southeast Asia - allowing you to soak up flavours and sights on a budget. 

We’ve turned to the Mumsnet Holidays forum for intel on long-haul destinations that cater well to families. From Mauritius to Mexico, we’ve rounded up tropical hotspots that are perfect for a spectacular escape with the kids. 

1. Mauritius 

Why Mumsnetters love it

I really like Mauritius as a winter sun destination with kids, direct overnight flights and no jetlag. The Beachcomber chain of resorts are perfect as they all do 2 bedroom apartments and kids clubs.” minipie

I've been, fabulous place. Big enough island to do some interesting day trips, gorgeous beaches, friendly people. Definitely recommend you go!” reallyneedtosleep

We stayed at Hotel Zilwa on the east coast. Wonderful Mauritian company and excellent ethics regarding sustainability. Family friendly and was our best holiday ever. Our kids were 6 & 11 when we went.” bert3400

Off the southeast coast of Africa in the Indian Ocean, Mauritius is the stuff of desert island dreams. Palm-fringed beaches, sapphire waters and lush mountains combine here for a truly tropical escape. Mauritius is also home to a slew of luxury resorts, many of which are fully geared up for family stays with kids’ clubs and pools, and little ones are sure to love snorkelling and turtle hunting in the calm, sparkling waters. Temperatures stay warm all year round, plus it’s only three hours ahead of the UK - a major selling point in terms of swerving jet lag with juniors. 

How long is the flight to Mauritius from the UK? 11.5 hours 

Time difference: +3 hours 

-Mumsnet user, bellsbuss

Where to stay: Trou aux Biches Beachcomber Golf Resort & Spa

2. Costa Rica

Why Mumsnetters love it

Went with a 10 and 11 year old and had an amazing time, rainforest, ziplines some very high up like at Diamante, horse riding through jungle, waterslide through jungle, active volcanoes, hot springs, sloths, toucans, monkeys, one of the best holidays we've had.” Penguinsa 

We went last summer with teens, it was absolutely wonderful. Zip lining, night hikes, sea kayaking, whale watching, incredible wildlife everywhere.” tobyj

I've been to Costa Rica with the children when they were 9 and 10 I think and we all absolutely loved it. They especially loved the wildlife, sloths, raccoons, coati, gecko, monkeys, toucan, the rainforest and the really high ziplines." Silkiebunny

For a technicolour tropical escape, consider heading to Costa Rica where you’ll find jungles teeming with exotic wildlife, cloud forests and out-of-this-world beaches. It’s a great option for active families that like to pack their days full of exciting excursions but also appreciate the appeal of a beautiful stretch of sand to kick back on. From whizzing through treetops on a rainforest zip-line to relaxing in hot springs, Costa Rica provides the backdrop for a family holiday to remember. It’s better suited to older kids than babies or toddlers as you’ll want to take full advantage of all the adventurous activities on offer and you’ll need to factor in yellow fever vaccinations. Mumsnetters rave about this Central American hotspot for holidays with teens and pre-teens. 

How long is the flight to Costa Rica from the UK? 11.5 hours 

Time difference: +7 hours 

Where to stay: Riu Guanacaste, Playa de Matapalo

3. Barbados

Why Mumsnetters love it

We have been as a family with primary age children. It's easy to get around on the buses , amazing snorkelling. Beautiful island, lovely locals, safe, I can’t think of anything wrong with the place.” H1Drangea

I love Barbados, by far the best Caribbean island I have been to. Have been pre-kids and with a 5 and 10 year old and we all loved it. It is expensive though, all inclusive would always be my choice and then you can still go out and about when you choose.” DonnaDonna0

Driving is easy (left and everyone is super courteous) definitely think about getting a car some of your stay. It's a small island and easy to explore. It will be fab one of our best holidays - the people are so friendly end it's such a safe and happy place.” huddersfieldgoneaway

With year-round sunshine, glorious white sand beaches, kid-friendly resorts and direct flights from London and Manchester, Barbados is a brilliant long-haul beach escape. Small in size, it’s easy to explore, and if you’re thinking of hiring a car, you’ll be pleased to know that people drive on the left for a stress-free transition from UK roads. The beaches are of course a highlight - the tranquil west coast offers plenty of family-friendly options and those on the south coast are protected by reefs. Mumsnetters rave about catamaran trips, surfing and snorkelling on the island. And don’t miss a spot of rum tasting for some authentic Caribbean flavours. 

How long is the flight to Barbados from the UK? 9 hours 

Time difference: +5 hours 

Where to stay: Sea Breeze Beach House by Ocean Hotels, Maxwell

4. Thailand

Why Mumsnetters love it

We did Bangkok and Koh Tao with our kids when they were 3/8/13 and absolutely loved it. The Thais adore children which makes the whole experience so much more enjoyable and relaxing, the island part was especially good.” PomsInOz 

I [visited] with my three children. We did Bangkok for two nights then Phuket for nine nights. It’s our last night tomorrow. It’s been AMAZING! We’ve visited an elephant sanctuary and did a fantastic private boat trip around phi phi islands.” Thischarmlessgirl  

It's a great family destination. Go! It's brilliant with young children and the Thai people love children. You will have a fantastic time.” Theyweretheworstoftimes 

Islands, temples, noodles, beaches, markets and festivals, oh my! Thailand has lots to offer adventure-seeking families. From bustling Bangkok to the paradise islands of Koh Samui and Phuket, it’s well worth stretching your holiday allowance to squeeze in as much as possible as there’s so much to see in the southeast Asian nation. Thankfully it’s cheap and easy to get around and kids will love trundling through cities on tuk tuks and island hopping on traditional longtail boats. The food is incredible (and affordable!) and even if your kids can’t handle spicy dishes, they’ll probably be up for snacking on spring rolls, sticky rice and sweet banana pancakes. December to March is the dry season so Thailand is a great option for a family holiday over the Christmas or February half-term breaks.   

How long is the flight to Bangkok from the UK? 12 hours 

Time difference: +6 hours 

Where to stay: Ao Nang, Krabi

-Mumsnet user, Holidaymum485958

5. Maldives

Why Mumsnetters love it

I took my kids there when they were 4 and 2 years old…we had a great time! Sandy beaches and snorkelling, boat trips and swimming, the kids (and us adults) loved it! My husband and I took it in turns to go scuba diving and the resort was really kid friendly.” BighairandIdontcare

Lots of islands have kids clubs and activities now. But the place is a giant beach and aquarium so if they can snorkel that might keep them amused most of the time. It's my favourite place in the world - enjoy!” eurochick 

We stayed on Bandos which was a quick speedboat transfer. Was family friendly and we had the best time there.” Hilly17 

Getting to the Maldives is an adventure in itself. The initial flight to Male may take around 10 hours but your kids will no doubt perk up when boarding a SEAPLANE! or a SPEEDBOAT! to reach your final destination. And what a destination it is - expect softly swaying palms, sugar-white sands and shimmering waters. The island nation is home to 1,000+ coral islands and while many of the resorts cater very well to honeymooners, you’ll find plenty of hotels that are incredibly welcoming to families too. Of course, a slice of paradise doesn’t come cheap but it’s more of a once-in-a-lifetime trip rather than an annual escape and staying in an overwater bungalow with your brood will be hard to top when it comes to the family holiday memory bank. 

How long is the flight to the Maldives from the UK? 10.5 hours 

Time difference: +4 hours 

Where to stay: Lily Beach Resort & Spa

6. Mexico 

Why Mumsnetters love it

Mexico is fab. We took the kids at 10 and 12 and had an amazing time. Most of the hotels are excellent. There are lots of different parks there with activities to suit young and old. There are historical sites if that interests you too.” madasamarchhare

Brilliant place for kids. I’ve been lots with work and on grown up holidays, but the best one by far was with my kids who were 11 and 7 at the time. In 2 weeks we fit in forest, mangroves, hobicat sailing, cave swimming, snorkelling, dolphin watching and turtle hunting.” backinthebox

Mexico is amazing. We stayed at the Grand Bahia Tulum with kids ranging from 2-8 and every one of them loved it. Flight was no problem as more comfort long haul. Excursions excellent.” BakewellGin1

Gorgeous beaches, incredible food and world-class resorts combine in sun-splashed Mexico, making it a top destination for families looking to soak up a little bit of everything. And kids can expect a warm welcome. It’s a top pick if you’re looking for an adventurous escape but also like the comfort of a luxury all-inclusive hotel and there’s no shortage of top-notch properties in Mexico, particularly in popular hubs like Cancun and Riviera Maya. Beyond the beach, you’ll find archaeological treasures, amazing street food and stunning swimming spots - don’t miss a dip in a traditional cenote (a freshwater cave pool). If you can track one down with a zipline you’re sure to score extra parent points.  

How long is the flight to Mexico from the UK? 10.5 hours 

Time difference: +7 hours 

Where to stay: Hotel Xcaret Mexico, Playa del Carmen

7. Sri Lanka

Why Mumsnetters love it 

Beaches are fabulous. Transport is cheap, get around by car with driver (your hotel will arrange one) or tuktuk. We found it a lovely place to visit, everyone was really friendly and helpful, we hope to go back and explore the north.” Rattysparklebum

We went when the kids were 3, 7 and 10. It was a great country to travel with little kids & would be great with teens too. I would take public transport at least part of the time tbh, they will find the experience interesting! We took the train, buses & tuk tuks mostly.” WarningOfGails

We went to Kandy for 3 nights, visited Sigyria and an elephant sanctuary then went down to Bentota for a week. From there we visited Galle, a turtle sanctuary, swam, saw elephants galore and had an amazing time.” Soontobe60

Although it’s blessed with a bevy of beautiful beaches, Sri Lanka is not a fly-and-flop destination. There are just too many fun things to see and do and amazing places to explore (although you’ll definitely want to factor in some beach time in between excursions!). With a lush interior home to tea plantations and safari parks, culture-packed cities dotted with sacred temples and bustling markets and no fewer than eight World Heritage sites, there’s plenty to keep families busy in this Indian Ocean idyll. And it’s affordable once you’re there, especially when it comes to eating and travelling. Mumsnetters recommend a trip on the Colombo to Badulla railway, said to be one of the most beautiful train journeys in the world where you can expect to see waterfalls, tropical forest and sun-drenched sands from your window (making for an awe-inspiring game of I Spy). 

How long is the flight to Sri Lanka from the UK? 11 hours 

Time difference: +4.5 hours 

Where to stay: Hotel Riu, Ahungalla

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About the author

Rachel Erdos is an Editor at Mumsnet where she commissions, edits and writes content with a focus on family travel.

She has written hotel reviews, features and destination guides for top publications including the Guardian, Four Seasons Magazine, Travelzoo, Visit Britain and Visit London. She loves nothing more than researching and writing about fun things for families to do in destinations near and far, as well as trawling the Mumsnet holiday forum for inspiration for her next trip away with her husband and two kids.