Top Family Friendly Holiday Destinations from Singapore [2026]

Planning a family holiday can feel a little overwhelming, especially when you’re trying to balance flight times, budgets, kid-friendly activities, and weather all at once. To make things easier, I’ve rounded up some of the best family-friendly holiday destinations that offer easy flights, great value, and plenty of fun for all ages.

Short Haul: Quick Getaways (< 4 Hours Flight)

Sometimes you just need a fuss-free break, something close enough for a weekend escape but still refreshing enough to feel like a real holiday. These short-haul family destinations under 4 hours from Singapore are perfect for school holidays, long weekends, or even spontaneous trips.

Bali, Indonesia: The Classic Island Escape

• Flight Time (From SG): ~2.5 hours
• Best For: Beach resorts, nature escapes, kids’ clubs, cultural activities
• Approx. Budget (SGD/day): S$120-220
• Best Months to Visit: May-September

Bali is one of the easiest and most reliable short-haul family destinations, especially if you focus on Nusa Dua or Ubud. Nusa Dua offers calm, shallow beaches and large beachfront resorts with kids’ clubs. Meanwhile, Ubud is perfect for those who want a mix of nature, gentle adventure, and hands-on cultural experiences. With good weather, family-friendly dining, and plenty of space to unwind, Bali is a no-stress island escape suitable for all ages.

Best Things to Do in Bali with Kids

• Snorkelling or glass-bottom boat rides in Nusa Dua
• Visiting ethical animal encounters like the Bali Bird Park
• Taking part in Balinese craft workshops (painting, wood carving, batik)
• Enjoying resort kids’ clubs and family pool days

Pro Tip: When planning your visit, consider booking your flights to Bali and Bali hotels in advance to secure the best rates.

Phuket, Thailand: Beaches & Elephant Sanctuaries

• Flight Time (From SG): ~1.8 hours
• Best For: Easy beach breaks, waterplay resorts, ethical elephant encounters, island-hopping
• Approx. Budget (SGD/day): S$120-200
• Best Months to Visit: December-March

Phuket offers warm weather, shallow waters, and plenty of family-focused resorts. Parents love how effortless the trip is, short flight, quick transfers, and endless food options, while kids enjoy resort pools, waterparks, and animal experiences. For a quieter stay, families often choose Kata, Karon, or Mai Khao instead of Patong. With ethical elephant sanctuaries, calm beaches, and easy day trips to islands like Coral Island or Phang Nga Bay.

Best Things to Do in Phuket with Kids

• Visit an ethical elephant sanctuary (no riding)
• Spend a day at Splash Jungle Waterpark or Andamanda Phuket
• Take a boat trip to Coral Island or Phang Nga Bay

Pro Tip: When planning your visit, consider booking your flights to Phuket and Phuket hotels in advance to secure the best rates.

Johor Bahru & Desaru, Malaysia: No-Fly Road Trip Options

• Flight Time (From SG): No flights needed (road trip)
• Best For: Budget-friendly family breaks, theme parks, beaches, waterparks
• Approx. Budget (SGD/day): S$80-160
• Best Months to Visit: February-September

JB is perfect for quick weekend getaways packed with malls, cafés, and family attractions, including the ever-popular LEGOLAND Malaysia. Desaru, just a scenic drive away, offers a more relaxed seaside vibe with wide beaches, kid-friendly resorts, and one of the region’s best waterparks. Whether you’re travelling with toddlers, school-age kids, or teens, this no-fly option keeps travel simple while offering plenty of activities to fill your days.

Best Things to Do in Johor Bahru & Desaru with Kids

• Spend a full day at LEGOLAND Malaysia (Theme Park + Water Park)
• Visit Desaru Coast Adventure Waterpark for slides & wave pools
• Take part in resort activities such as archery, cycling, and kids’ club

Pro Tip: When planning your visit, consider booking your hotels in JB in advance to secure the best rates.

Penang, Malaysia: Culture & Food for Older Kids

• Flight Time (From SG): ~1.5 hours
• Best For: Cultural experiences, street art, food adventures, heritage stays
• Approx. Budget (SGD/day): S$100-180
• Best Months to Visit: December-April

Penang is perfect for families with older kids and teens who love exploring new foods, wandering through vibrant streets, and learning about local culture. George Town’s colourful shophouses, street art trails, and quirky cafés make it a fun and walkable city, while Batu Ferringhi offers family-friendly resorts and beaches for downtime. With a mix of museums, markets, and easy outdoor activities, Penang strikes a great balance between education and entertainment.

Best Things to Do in Penang with Kids

• Visit Entopia by Penang Butterfly Farm
• Ride the Penang Hill funicular for panoramic views
• Visit The Habitat Penang Hill for nature walks & canopy bridges

Pro Tip: When planning your visit, consider booking your flights to Penang and hotels in Penang in advance to secure the best rates.

Medium Haul: Asia-Pacific Adventures (5-8 Hours Flight)

When you’re ready to venture a little further without committing to a long-haul journey, these medium-haul family destinations within 5-8 hours from Singapore offer the perfect balance. They open the door to cooler climates, seasonal experiences, theme parks, and vibrant cities。

Tokyo & Osaka, Japan: Theme Parks & Safe Streets

• Flight Time (From SG): ~7 hours
• Best For: Theme parks, city adventures, character cafés, seasonal experiences
• Approx. Budget (SGD/day): S$180-300
• Best Months to Visit: March-May, October-November

Tokyo and Osaka are two of the most exciting family-friendly cities in Japan. Tokyo impresses with its neon cityscapes, character cafés, kid-friendly museums, and Shinjuku and Shibuya, perfect for children who love animation, tech, and interactive experiences. Osaka charms families with its welcoming vibe, delicious street food, and easy access to Universal Studios Japan.

Best Things to Do in Tokyo & Osaka with Kids

• Spend a magical day at Tokyo Disneyland & DisneySea
• Visit teamLab Planets or teamLab Borderless for immersive art fun
• Enjoy thrilling rides at Universal Studios Japan in Osaka
• Wander Osaka’s Dotonbori for street food like takoyaki & okonomiyaki
• Take seasonal trips: cherry blossom picnics, autumn foliage walks, or winter illuminations

Pro Tip: When planning your visit, consider booking your flights to Tokyo and hotels in Tokyo in advance to secure the best rates.

Gold Coast, Australia: Theme Parks & Nature

• Flight Time (From SG): ~7.5 hours
• Best For: Theme parks, wildlife encounters, beachside family fun, nature trails
• Approx. Budget (SGD/day): S$220-350
• Best Months to Visit: April-October

The Gold Coast combines sun-drenched beaches with thrilling theme parks and abundant wildlife experiences. Families love the easy-going atmosphere, safe swimming spots, and the variety of attractions that cater to children. From interactive marine parks to rainforest walks and coastal adventures, the Gold Coast offers the perfect mix of outdoor fun and entertainment.

Best Things to Do on the Gold Coast with Kids

• Explore Sea World, Dreamworld, and Warner Bros. Movie World
• Visit Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary to feed kangaroos and cuddle koalas
• Take a scenic ride on the SkyPoint Observation Deck
• Enjoy family-friendly water activities like paddleboarding or kayaking

Pro Tip: When planning your visit, consider booking your flights to Gold Coast and hotels in Gold Coast in advance to secure the best rates.

Seoul, South Korea: Culture, Seasons & Shopping

• Flight Time (From SG): ~6 hours
• Best For: Culture, themed cafés, K-Pop experiences, seasonal festivals
• Approx. Budget (SGD/day): S$160-260
• Best Months to Visit: April-June, September-November

Families can explore palaces, museums, and lively shopping streets by day, then enjoy interactive themed cafés, street performances, and seasonal festivals. The city’s efficient transport system makes it easy to move between attractions, while a wide range of accommodation options. Seoul is especially appealing for families who love K-Pop culture, hands-on activities, and seasonal outdoor adventures.

Best Things to Do in Seoul with Kids

• Explore Gyeongbokgung Palace and watch the royal guard ceremony
• Visit Lotte World or Everland Theme Park for rides and shows
• Take a cable car ride at Namsan Tower for panoramic city views

Pro Tip: When planning your visit, consider booking your flights to Seoul and hotels in Seoul in advance to secure the best rates.

Perth, Australia: The Nearest Western City

• Flight Time (From SG): ~5.5 hours
• Best For: Beaches, wildlife encounters, outdoor adventures, relaxed city vibes
• Approx. Budget (SGD/day): S$200-320
• Best Months to Visit: September-April

Perth is a relaxed family-friendly destination perfect for those seeking sun, sand, and nature without the crowds of eastern Australia. Its wide, calm beaches and scenic parks make it ideal for children, while nearby wildlife parks and nature reserves offer hands-on learning experiences. Perth also provides easy access to family-friendly day trips, including the famous Rottnest Island and Swan Valley. It’s a great choice for parents who want a balance of exploration and downtime.

Best Things to Do in Perth with Kids

• Explore Perth Zoo and meet native Australian animals
• Take a day trip to Rottnest Island to see quokkas and cycle around
• Try kayaking, paddleboarding, or dolphin spotting along the coast

Pro Tip: When planning your visit, consider booking your flights to Perth and hotels in Perth in advance to secure the best rates.

Haul: Bucket List Trips (> 10 Hours Flight)

For families ready to embark on truly unforgettable adventures, long-haul destinations open up a world of experiences that go beyond the usual school holiday escapes. From exotic wildlife and pristine beaches to iconic landmarks and immersive cultural journeys, these trips require a little more planning—but reward you with memories that last a lifetime.

Switzerland: Nature & Snow

• Time (From SG): ~13 hours (usually with 1 stop)
• Best For: Mountain adventures, scenic train rides, family hiking, winter sports
• Approx. Budget (SGD/day): S$350-500
• Best Months to Visit: June-September (summer), December-March (winter)

Switzerland is the ultimate long-haul family destination for those who love breathtaking scenery and outdoor adventures. From snow-capped Alps to pristine lakes, families can enjoy a mix of gentle hikes, scenic train rides, and cultural experiences in charming towns like Lucerne, Interlaken, and Zermatt. The country is also exceptionally family-friendly, with well-organised transport, safe hiking trails, and plenty of kid-oriented activities.

Best Things to Do in Switzerland with Kids

• Take a scenic ride on the Glacier Express or Jungfrau Railway
• Visit Swiss Science Center Technorama for interactive exhibits
• Experience snow activities: skiing, sledding, or building snowmen in winter

Pro Tip: When planning your visit, consider booking your flights to Switzerland and hotels in Switzerland in advance to secure the best rates.

London, UK: History & Harry Potter

• Flight Time (From SG): ~13 hours (non-stop)
• Best For: Museums, historical landmarks, theatre, parks, educational experiences
• Approx. Budget (SGD/day): S$300-450
• Best Months to Visit: March-May, September-October

London is a classic long-haul family destination that combines history, culture, and fun in one vibrant city. From world-famous landmarks to interactive museums, the city offers activities that appeal to kids of all ages while providing parents with plenty of sightseeing opportunities. London is especially well-suited for families who enjoy educational trips with entertainment, as children can explore castles, science museums, and theatres while absorbing British history and culture.

Best Things to Do in London with Kids

• Explore the Natural History Museum and Science Museum
• Visit Tower of London and meet the Beefeaters
• Take a ride on the London Eye for panoramic city views
• Discover Harry Potter Studios for behind-the-scenes magic

Pro Tip: When planning your visit, consider booking your flights to London and hotels in London in advance to secure the best rates.

Los Angeles, USA: The Ultimate Disneyland Experience

• Flight Time (From SG): ~15 hours (usually with 1 stop)
• Best For: Theme parks, family entertainment, beaches, outdoor adventures
• Approx. Budget (SGD/day): S$350-500
• Best Months to Visit: March-May, September-November

Los Angeles is a quintessential long-haul family destination for those seeking sunshine, excitement, and endless entertainment. LA also serves as a great base for short day trips to nearby attractions like Disneyland, Universal Studios Hollywood, and Santa Monica Pier. With a mix of urban fun, outdoor activities, and cultural experiences, Los Angeles offers a memorable long-haul holiday packed with variety for the whole family.

Best Things to Do in Los Angeles with Kids

• Spend a day at Disneyland Resort or Universal Studios Hollywood
• Explore Griffith Observatory and hike Griffith Park trails
• Relax at Santa Monica Beach and ride the Ferris wheel at the pier

Pro Tip: When planning your visit, consider booking your flights to Los Angeles and hotels in Los Angeles in advance to secure the best rates.

Best Cheap Family Holidays in Asia

Travelling as a family doesn’t have to break the bank. Across Asia, there are plenty of budget-friendly family holiday destinations that offer fun, culture, and relaxation without the high costs.

Beijing, China: History, Ancient and Modern

• Flight Time (From SG): ~6 hours
• Best For: Historical landmarks, cultural experiences, museums, family-friendly city tours
• Approx. Budget (SGD/day): S$100-250
• Best Months to Visit: March-May, September-October

Beijing is a fascinating family-friendly city where history meets modernity. From the Great Wall and the Forbidden City to interactive museums and bustling markets, the city offers plenty of opportunities for families to learn, play, and experience Chinese heritage firsthand. Beijing’s efficient transport, child-friendly attractions, and rich cultural experiences make it an ideal destination for both educational and leisurely family holidays.

Best Things to Do in Beijing with Kids

• Walk along the Great Wall of China (Mutianyu or Badaling sections)
• Explore the Forbidden City and Imperial Palace grounds
• Experience hutong tours via rickshaw for local culture

Pro Tip: When planning your visit, consider booking your flights to Beijing and hotels in Beijing in advance to secure the best rates.

Sanya, China: Beach Resorts

• Flight Time (From SG): ~4.5 hours
• Best For: Beaches, family resorts, water activities, tropical escapes
• Approx. Budget (SGD/day): S$100-250
• Best Months to Visit: November-March

Sanya is a perfect family-friendly beach destination in China, offering warm tropical weather, calm waters, and plenty of resort options that cater to children and parents alike. It’s ideal for families who want a relaxing holiday with sun, sand, and sea without travelling too far. Many resorts provide kids’ clubs, pools, and family-oriented activities.

Best Things to Do in Sanya with Kids

• Swim and play at resort pools and kids’ clubs
• Enjoy family-friendly water sports like kayaking and paddleboarding
• Sample local seafood at beachfront restaurants

Pro Tip: When planning your visit, consider booking your flights to Sanya and hotels in Sanya in advance to secure the best rates.

Da Nang & Hoi An, Vietnam: High Value, Great Food

• Flight Time (From SG): ~2.5 hours
• Best For: Beaches, heritage towns, cultural experiences, family-friendly resorts
• Approx. Budget (SGD/day): S$100-180
• Best Months to Visit: February-May

Da Nang and Hoi An offer a perfect blend of relaxation and culture for families seeking an affordable Asian getaway. Da Nang has wide, sandy beaches and kid-friendly resorts, ideal for young children to play and unwind. Just a short drive away, Hoi An enchants families with its UNESCO-listed Old Town, lantern-lit streets, and hands-on cultural experiences like lantern making and cooking classes.

Best Things to Do in Da Nang & Hoi An with Kids

• Take part in a family-friendly cooking class in Hoi An
• Visit the Ba Na Hills and ride the famous Golden Bridge
• Enjoy boat rides along the Thu Bon River

Pro Tip: When planning your visit, consider booking your flights to Da Nang and hotels in Da Nang in advance to secure the best rates.

Langkawi, Malaysia: Duty-Free & Nature

• Flight Time (From SG): ~1.5 hours
• Best For: Beaches, duty-free shopping, nature adventures, family resorts
• Approx. Budget (SGD/day): S$100-160
• Best Months to Visit: November-March

Langkawi is a family-friendly island escape that combines beautiful beaches, lush nature, and the convenience of duty-free shopping. Its calm waters and wide sandy shores are perfect for young children, while older kids and teens can enjoy activities like cable car rides and wildlife encounters.

Best Things to Do in Langkawi with Kids

• Ride the Langkawi Cable Car and walk the Sky Bridge
• Explore Langkawi Wildlife Park & Bird Paradise
• Take a mangrove tour at Kilim Karst Geoforest Park

Pro Tip: When planning your visit, consider booking your flights to Langkawi and hotels in Langkawi in advance to secure the best rates.

Essential Tips for Travelling with Kids

Plan Ahead: Choose destinations, accommodations, and activities that are family-friendly.

Pack Smart: Bring essential items like snacks, water, extra clothes, wipes, medication, and favourite comfort items. Include entertainment like tablets, colouring books, or travel games to keep kids engaged.

Organise Documents: Keep passports, visas, tickets, and insurance details easily accessible in a travel folder or pouch. Include copies in case of emergencies.

Book Family-Friendly Transport: Pre-book car seats, strollers, or airport transfers. Check if airlines offer priority boarding or bassinets for infants.

Safety First: Always have a plan in case someone gets lost. ID wristbands for younger children, emergency contacts, and teaching kids to identify staff or local authorities.

Engage Kids in Planning: Involve older children in selecting activities or sightseeing spots. This keeps them excited and invested in the trip.

Start Planning Your 2026 Family Adventure

Travelling with family is about creating memories that last a lifetime, and with the right planning, it can be both fun and stress-free. By choosing family-friendly accommodations, planning age-appropriate activities, and following essential travel tips, you can make every journey enjoyable for both parents and children. So pack your bags, embrace the adventure, and start exploring the world together.

FAQs About Top Family Friendly Holiday Destinations

Where is the cheapest family holiday destination from Singapore?

Some of the most budget-friendly family holidays from Singapore include Johor Bahru & Desaru, Malaysia, Penang, Malaysia, and Da Nang & Hoi An, Vietnam. These destinations offer affordable accommodation, food, and family-friendly activities, making them ideal for a short getaway or school holiday on a budget.

Which country is best for a trip with toddlers?

For families with toddlers, destinations like Bali (Nusa Dua), Phuket (Kata or Karon beaches), and Langkawi are perfect. Calm beaches, spacious family resorts, and kids’ clubs make it easy to keep little ones entertained and comfortable.

Where can I go for a cool weather summer holiday?

If you’re looking to escape the heat, consider Switzerland, New Zealand. These destinations offer cooler climates, scenic landscapes, and outdoor activities suitable for children.

What are the best kid-friendly vacations near Singapore without flying?

Johor Bahru & Desaru are ideal for no-fly family trips. You can enjoy theme parks like LEGOLAND Malaysia, waterparks, beaches, and family resorts, all within a few hours’ drive from Singapore.