Five Family-Friendly Vacation Destinations

Red Tricycle

If you're itching for a vacation but nervous about traveling with kiddies in tow, chill out. We have some suggestions for fab family-friendly vacations.

Kids Skiing_Rosen
Kids Skiing_Rosen

1. Lake Tahoe, CA: If you've taken a season or two off while pregnant or toting around a pre-walker, you're probably itching to get back on skis. Hopefully you can trade off with another family member in keeping the kiddos occupied, but with all the fun activities to do with kids up in the Sierra, you may be content to spend another year away from those moguls. The snow's on its way to the mountains, and it's time to get the chains on the tires and head to Lake Tahoe!

2. Sunriver, OR: It's no secret why families love to vacation in Central Oregon…you're (almost) guaranteed to have nice weather. The Bend/Sunriver area boasts over 300 days of sunshine per year (yep, even in the winter) and is brimming with activities for families. Mt. Bachelor and the winding Deschutes River provide an inspiring backdrop to your outdoorsy excursions. Here's our picks for Sunriver & Bend.

3. Cannon Beach, OR: Whatever the season, there's just something special about the Oregon Coast. With charming towns and sandy beaches up and down 101, there's plenty of fun to be had; rain or shine. With a relatively do-able drive (approx 4-5 hours from the Seattle area), you can go for a few days or stay for a week. Consider staying in kid-friendly Cannon Beach, where arts & nature blend together in this quaint but wildly popular town.

4. Maui, HI: When its time to feel the sand between your toes again, pack up the family and sand toys for palm trees, tropical drinks and breezes on the playground island of Maui. Direct flights touch down in the kite surfing Mecca of Kahului, Maui a 5-1/2 hour flight from the west coast.

5. Loreto, MX: More low-key than Cabo and Puerta Vallarta, Loreto is an ideal spot to chase away the winter blahs. After a quick stopover in LA, you can fly directly into Loreto and be on the beach in under two hours. Located on the gulf side of the Baja peninsula, the tranquil water sets the tone for a relaxing holiday with kiddies in tow.