Easter is fast becoming one of the most popular times of the year for our Little People Families to enjoy their 'main holiday' of the year. Whether you're seeking adventure, relaxation, or cultural exploration, this time of year offers fantastic opportunities to discover exciting destinations that are at their best during Easter. In this blog, we share some of our top choices for a family adventure at Easter.

Take part in a water festival

Where: Thailand

Flight time from the UK: 11 hours 30 minutes

If you visit Thailand in April, you could be lucky enough to take part in the Songkran Festival, the Thai New Year celebration, which transforms the streets into a water-soaked playground. Join locals in the joyous water fights that symbolise the washing away of the previous year's misfortunes and the welcoming of a new beginning.

Experience the spectacle of traditional Thai rituals, such as the pouring of scented water over Buddha statues, and enjoy the lively processions featuring vibrant floral displays and cultural performances. Don't forget to arm yourselves with water guns and buckets to fully take part in the spirited festivities!

We love to begin our journey in Bangkok, the bustling capital city, where modernity seamlessly blends with tradition. Explore the majestic Grand Palace, home to the revered Emerald Buddha, and witness the intricate craftsmanship of Thai architecture.

When you’re ready for some relaxation, head south to the pristine beaches of Phuket, Krabi, or Koh Samui, where crystal-clear waters and powdery sands await. Spend lazy days basking in the sun, snorkelling amidst vibrant coral reefs, or embarking on a family kayak adventure through mangrove forests.

Alternatively, for more exploring, journey north to Chiang Mai, known for its lush jungles and majestic mountains. Trek through verdant rainforests, encounter majestic elephants in ethical sanctuaries, and discover hidden waterfalls where you can cool off amidst nature's splendour.

You’ll find more inspiration on what’s possible on a Thailand Family Holiday here.

Find a slower pace of life

Where: Bali

Flight time from the UK: 15 hours 15 minutes.

April in Bali heralds the transition from the rainy season to the dry season, bringing with it clear skies, balmy temperatures, and a sense of rejuvenation. It’s an ideal time to escape to the island paradise and immerse yourself in its rich culture and stunning landscapes before the onset of the summer crowds.

Start your family adventure in Ubud, the cultural heart of Bali, where lush rice terraces, sacred temples, and vibrant arts scenes await. Visit the iconic Ubud Monkey Forest, where mischievous macaques roam freely amidst ancient temple ruins, offering endless entertainment for both children and adults.

For a change of pace, venture inland to explore Bali's lush interior, where emerald-green rice paddies, cascading waterfalls, and volcanic landscapes await. Hike through the picturesque Campuhan Ridge Walk, go river rafting on the Ayung River, or cycle through the scenic countryside, stopping to interact with friendly locals along the way. End your days by heading to the island's stunning beaches, such as Kuta, Seminyak, or Nusa Dua, where golden sands and azure waters provide the perfect backdrop for a day of sun, surf, and sandcastle building.

You could also consider visiting neighbouring Lombok as part of your trip.

Spot Leopards in a National Park

Where: Sri Lanka

Flight time from the UK: 11 hours 25 minutes

The Easter holidays are a great time to visit Sri Lanka as the country celebrates both Easter and Sinhala/Tamil New Year. You will find a number of celebrations, including traditional games, cultural performances, and processions, as well as the chance to savour some delicious festive foods.

This period is considered peak season, and you can expect good weather along the west and southern coasts. However, it’s a good idea to book as early as possible, as many boutique hotels tend to book up well in advance.

For those seeking a more adventurous holiday, go hiking amidst the lush tea plantations of Ella, where cascading waterfalls and panoramic views await at every turn. Zip-line through the treetops of the rainforest canopy in Kitulgala or brave the rapids of the Kelani River on an exhilarating white-water rafting expedition.

Experience moments of tranquillity and reflection amidst Sri Lanka's sacred sites and religious landmarks. Visit the Temple of the Tooth Relic in Kandy, where a sacred tooth relic of the Buddha is enshrined amidst intricate carvings. Or embark on a safari adventure in one of Sri Lanka's many national parks, where you can spot majestic elephants, elusive leopards, and a myriad of bird species in their natural habitat. Take a boat safari along the mangrove-lined rivers of Madu Ganga, where you can glimpse crocodiles, monkeys, and vibrant tropical flora.

End your trip at one of the beautiful boutique hotels along the south coast and enjoy some time on the beach, swimming with turtles or meeting the stilt fishermen of Weligama.

You can find some ideas of what is possible here.

Drive the famous Pacific Coast Highway from LA to San Francisco

Where: California

Flight time from the UK: 10 hours 25 minutes

This is arguably one of the best road trips in the world, and although you can drive the route without stops in around 7 hours, it’s the stops along the way that will make your California family holiday. From beautiful scenery and dramatic landscapes to relaxed beach towns, hip cities, and the odd quirky attraction, there is so much variety along the way.

For the ultimate Californian adventure, you can consider continuing on the Highway to Portland or Seattle. However, on a two-week holiday, we think this route will give you more than enough to see.

Our self-drive itinerary starts with a few days in LA to visit the theme parks or see some of the city's other famous landmarks, before taking stops along the way in Santa Barbara. Explore the beauty of Big Sur, head inland to Yosemite National Park and Lake Tahoe, and end with some time to explore San Francisco. You can view our suggested itinerary here.

Walk in the cloud forests of Monteverde

Where: Costa Rica

Flight time from the UK: 11 hours 45 minutes

Easter in Costa Rica, known locally as Semana Santa, is a time of significant cultural and religious observance. You can witness traditional processions and celebrations in towns like San José and Cartago, giving you a glimpse into local culture and traditions. Don’t miss the opportunity to indulge in local culinary delights, such as gallo pinto (a rice and beans dish) and fresh tropical fruits, which are sure to please even the pickiest eaters in your family.

Begin your Costa Rican adventure on the stunning Pacific or Caribbean coastlines, with their beautiful beaches. Tamarindo, on the Pacific side, is perfect for families looking to relax and enjoy water activities. With its gentle waves, it's an excellent spot for beginner surfers and safe for young swimmers. On the Caribbean side, the vibrant town of Puerto Viejo offers snorkelling, exploring coral reefs, and witnessing the unique blend of Afro-Caribbean culture. Although you may be away for Easter, you can still enjoy a beachside Easter egg hunt too.

During your trip, we highly recommend a visit to the Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve, where you can walk along hanging bridges, explore butterfly gardens, and take guided night tours to see nocturnal creatures. Or, for a more exhilarating experience, take a zip-line tour through the canopy—this eco-adventure offers a safe yet thrilling way to experience the treetops and view the diverse ecosystem from a unique perspective. River rafting on the Pacuare River is another exciting option, providing both adrenaline and the chance to see the country's lush interior from a different vantage point.

You can read more about Costa Rica Family Holidays here.

Haggle in the souks of Oman

Where: Oman

Flight time from the UK: 7 hours

In our view, Oman is a gem on the Arabian Peninsula, offering an extraordinary destination for a family holiday. More traditional in appearance than some of its neighbouring countries, it boasts stunning landscapes, a rich history, and warm hospitality.

With favourable weather conditions across its diverse landscapes, the coastal areas offer perfect beach weather, the deserts provide a thrilling yet comfortable adventure, and the mountains offer a refreshing and cooler escape.

After spending time haggling in the souks of Muscat, head to Jebel Akhdar, also known as the Green Mountain. This area is renowned for its terraced gardens, lush landscapes, and cooler climate. During Easter, the region is particularly beautiful with its blooming roses.

The coastal town of Sur offers a unique cultural experience with its maritime heritage. Known for its dhow-building yards, you can visit the boatyards to see skilled craftsmen constructing traditional wooden dhows using time-honoured techniques.

Nearby, the Ras Al Jinz Turtle Reserve offers an exciting opportunity for families to witness nesting turtles on the beach, providing a memorable and educational experience.

To make the perfect adventurous family holiday at easter see what other experiences in Oman are possible here.

Cherry Blossom Paradise in Kyoto

Where : Japan

Flight time from the UK: 12 hours

Visiting Kyoto during the cherry blossom season is a magical experience; however, as the cherry blossom is out for such a short time, it requires some planning to make sure you catch it. We would also recommend having other activities in mind to make the most of your time here.

The ancient capital of Japan, Kyoto, transforms into a breathtaking canvas of pink and white blossoms, which are the stars of springtime here. Popular viewing spots such as Maruyama Park, the Philosopher's Path, and Kiyomizu Temple provide stunning views and delightful places for family picnics under the blooming trees.

Strolling through these scenic areas, you can take part in hanami (flower viewing) picnics, where families gather to enjoy the beauty of the blossoms while savouring traditional Japanese snacks and sweets. The gentle falling of cherry petals creates the perfect opportunity for unique family photos.

Beyond the cherry blossoms, Kyoto offers a wealth of other experiences, such as visiting the iconic Fushimi Inari Shrine, famous for its thousands of vermilion torii gates winding up the forested mountain. Children will love the sense of adventure as they explore the pathways and spot the various fox statues. Another must-see is the Arashiyama Bamboo Grove, where towering bamboo stalks create an otherworldly atmosphere. Nearby, you can enjoy a scenic boat ride on the Hozu River or visit the playful monkeys at the Iwatayama Monkey Park.

We would be happy to arrange a number of interactive workshops for you, where you can participate in a traditional tea ceremony and learn about the customs and etiquette of this ancient practice. Alternatively, try your hand at Japanese calligraphy or take a cooking class to learn how to make sushi and other local delicacies.

We have access to specialist guides that can make you Japanese family holidays that little bit more special. See some of our example itineraries here.

Experience Hoi An Full Moon Festival

Where : Vietnam

Flight time from the UK: 11 - 12 hours

Although Easter offers favourable weather for travelling across much of Vietnam, you will find the best weather conditions in the central regions, with warm temperatures, mostly dry conditions, and plenty of sunshine. This makes it ideal for a mix of beach relaxation, cultural exploration, and enjoying outdoor activities, whether you're wandering through the charming streets of Hoi An, soaking up the sun on Da Nang's beaches, or exploring the historical sites of Hue.

If Easter coincides with the Hoi An Full Moon Festival, visitors can experience this unique event where the town is illuminated with lanterns and traditional performances take place along the river.

Da Nang boasts beautiful beaches such as My Khe Beach, which is perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and water sports, while nearby Hoi An also has An Bang Beach, which is quieter and great for families.

We can help to design the perfect Vietnam itinerary, taking into consideration the interests of your family. Find out more here.

Experience cultural gems to desert adventures

Where : Dubai

Flight time from the UK: 7 hours

With its iconic skyline, luxurious shopping malls, and thrilling attractions, Dubai has long been a popular destination for families to visit during the Easter holidays. Dubai also boasts several lesser-known cultural activities that provide a deeper insight into its rich heritage.

We would be happy to arrange a guide for a walking tour of Al Fahidi Historical Neighbourhood, also known as Al Bastakiya. This district offers a stark contrast to the modernity of Dubai’s skyscrapers. Here you can wander through narrow lanes lined with traditional wind-tower architecture and discover art galleries, museums, and cultural centres. The charming, quiet streets offer a peaceful change from the bustle of the city.

One of our favourite places to visit is Dubai Creek, with traditional souks and some of the best local restaurants. It offers a glimpse into local life as it used to be. A ride on a traditional abra is a must here—these wooden boats have been used for centuries to ferry people between Deira and Bur Dubai. The short ride offers panoramic views of both old and new Dubai.

Alternatively, head off into the desert for an exhilarating 4x4 desert adventure before spending the evening riding camels, trying traditional Bedouin cooking, and learning about falconry, an important part of Emirati heritage. As the sun sets, enjoy an authentic Bedouin dinner under the stars while listening to folklore tales and traditional music.

For more ideas on what to do in Dubai with young children you can read our blog here.

Visit a unique ecosystem

Where : Galapagos Islands

Flight time from the UK: 15 hours

Easter is an excellent time to visit the Galápagos Islands, with warm and sunny weather perfect for outdoor adventures and water activities. Temperatures range from 24°C to 31°C, making it an ideal period to explore the islands' pristine beaches, snorkel with sea lions, and embark on boat trips to spot the unique wildlife the Galápagos is famous for, including giant tortoises, marine iguanas, and colourful bird species.

For families looking to make the most of the Easter holidays, the Galápagos offers a wide range of exciting activities. The calm seas and clear waters are perfect for swimming, snorkelling, and kayaking, allowing both children and adults to get up close to the incredible marine life. As Easter falls outside the peak season, you can enjoy the beauty of the islands without the crowds. Whether you're hiking through volcanic landscapes, visiting remote islands, or simply relaxing on the beach, the Galápagos provides an unforgettable setting for an adventurous family holiday that is both educational and fun.

We love nothing more than talking about family holidays, so if you would like to know more about any of these destinations please call us on 0118 3360363 or get in touch through our contact us page.

For more inspiration you can visit our Destination pages or read some more of our blogs.

If you have found this blog post useful please share it with your family and friends.

You can also read more of our family holiday inspiration by following us on social media on Instagram and Facebook. Or Join our Mailing list.

Where to go for Adventurous Family Holidays at Easter