4 of the Most Family-Friendly Destinations in Southeast Asia

If you’re looking for family-friendly holiday ideas that blend a little culture with mouth-watering cuisine, turquoise waters and soft, sandy beaches, Southeast Asia should be top of your list. These four places are great for an all-ages escape.

Bali, Indonesia

From lush greenery to tropical beaches, there’s plenty to love about Bali. Head to Nusa Dua on the east coast for family-friendly resorts equipped with all the frills, such as kids clubs, waterslides and shallow toddler pools. Or base yourself in Seminyak on the west coast and plan a day trip to Ubud, an hour north, where you can explore Monkey Forest, rice fields and exquisite temples. There’s a wide range of villas for rent here, and many offer breakfast on the terrace and private plunge pools.

Krabi, Thailand

Families of all ages can hang out on the beach at Ao Nang, take a longtail boat ride to Railay Beach, visit the market or tour nearby islands by boat. Because this seaside city is a transit hub for tourists making their way south to spots like the Phi Phi Islands, it’s also a great place to hang out until you decide on your next destination if your travel style is a little more freewheeling.

Langkawi, Malaysia

Despite loads of activities for kids of all ages to enjoy, this archipelago has still managed to stay slightly off the beaten track. Designated a UNESCO Global Geopark, Langkawi offers families the chance to combine a beach vacation with plenty of outdoor discovery. Gather the troops for a visit to the Langkawi Wildlife Park, ride the SkyCab cable car for sweeping views of the island or steady your nerves as you stroll the SkyBridge, suspended 100 metres above the ground.

Koh Rong Samloem Island, Cambodia

If you’ve got older kids who like to explore and can handle a bit of travel from one place to the next, Cambodia has a great mix of history, culture and natural splendour. Start your Cambodia travels in awe-inspiring Angkor Archaeological Park, then jump on a one-hour plane ride to Sihanoukville and a quick ferry to Koh Rong Samloem for an idyllic escape, complete with lush rainforest and calm waters as far as the eye can see.

For more inspiration, read about the family-friendly Thai island you haven’t heard of in the fall 2019 issue of CAA Magazine.

Ready to set off for Southeast Asia or another far-flung destination?

Here’s how to make long-haul flights with kids easier and a fun quiz on what can fly with you.

Plus, get our tips on tasty ways to save money on food when you travel.

Image credit: Ragnar Vorel/Unsplash (hero), Rado Slav/Unsplash, Evan Krause/Unsplash, Jesse Vermeulen/Unsplash and Ko Hon Chiu Vincent/UNESCO