Family
Outdoor Adventures for Every Age
By Kat Johnson
Girl-jumping
,

Sailing off the coast of Maui, exploring the reefs in Koh Samui, fishing at Georgia’s stunning Lake Oconee — these adventures are sure to surprise and delight travelers of all ages.

1
Explore a Treasure Island

The isle of Maui is known for its lush scenery, majestic cliffs and world-famous beaches but the ocean itself offers a host of exhilarating adventures beyond surfing. At The Ritz-Carlton, Kapalua, you can book a number of excursions at sea for your family. December to May is prime whale-watching season in this part of the Pacific. An expert guide can lead you to prime spots and teach you and your family about the wonders of these large, beautiful sea creatures. You can also snorkel among turtles and urchin. For an extra special treat, ask the concierge to book a sunset sail aboard an elegant catamaran with local appetizers and an open-bar serving (virgin or alcoholic) island drinks.

Shore Whale Watch
2
Bond Over Time-Honored Traditions

As children get older and life gets busier, quiet moments together become an even more rare and treasured occurrence. While staying at The Ritz-Carlton Reynolds, Lake Oconee, have the concierge book an excursion to Lake Oconee for a day of incredible fishing — and quality time together — with an expert guide on a pontoon. When you’ve had your fill of casting lines, enjoy a peaceful boat tour of the lake or try your hand at water skiing, jet skiing, or wake boating. In the summer, grab a seat by the lake for live music and a fireworks display that’s reflected in the lake’s still waters.

Children Jumping Off Dock
3
Discover the Diversity of Earth's Wildlife

For most kids, the wonders of nature can be found anywhere there’s a bit of dirt, grass and water. But to spark a lasting sense of awe and appreciation in your youngster’s eyes, journey to Thailand, where a land of otherworldly natural beauty awaits. The Ritz-Carlton, Koh Samui is a scenic boat ride from Angthong National Marine Park, an archipelago comprised of 42 different islands. Around those islands, you’ll find reefs teeming with a kaleidoscopic array of exotic wildlife, hikes to waterfalls and hidden coves, and empty white beaches made where you and your family can enjoy afternoons in the sun.

The Ritz-Carlton, Koh Samui Aerial View
4
Conquer the Slopes Together

As any parent can attest, there is nothing quite as joy-inducing as watching your child master a skill for the first time. The colorful country of Kazakhstan has gorgeous runs and a rich sense of culture — the sort of experience perfect for teaching your children to ski while also opening their minds to the greater world. The Ritz-Carlton, Almaty is located nearby the renowned Shymbulak, which sits in a picturesque canyon of the Tian Shan mountain range. The largest ski destination in Central Asia, these slopes sit 7,000 feet above sea level and are perfectly suited for amateur skiers. When not skiing, enjoy the hotels delicious dining and admire the breathtaking landscapes, which are on display from the hotel.

Ski Vacations
5
Marvel at the Wonders of the Deep

There may be no better way to spark a love for nature in your kids than by getting up-close-and-personal with wildlife — the more exotic the better — and there may be no better way to do just that than through the Ambassadors of the Environment program at The Ritz-Carlton, Grand Cayman. With activities ranging from a night snorkeling expedition and paddling through magical mangroves to snorkeling your way around a shipwreck and exploring underwater reefs, there’s truly an adventure to be had for families of all ages. Follow it up with a boat tour of Stingray City, a small patch of shallow sandbars on the North Sound of the island where large but friendly stingrays gather and await visitors. 

night snorkle - ambassadors of the environment
6
Caravan Through the Desert

Think a desert ride aboard a camel is only found in storybooks and movies? Turn your little ones’ dream adventure into reality at The Ritz-Carlton Ras Al Khaimah, Al Wadi Desert, where families can ride into the sunset together on these iconic (and gentle) animals. Your guided tour takes you through the stunning desert landscape to a sunset observation point, where light refreshments are served as you enjoy the desert views and create unforgettable memories. After you return to the resort, enjoy bedtime stories under the stars together before calling it a night.

Camel Riding Couples amongst the Dunes
Journey Farther
Recommended for You
Family at Penha Longa Resort
Family
6 Beloved European Getaways
Discover the perfect place for family getaway
Family
The Art of the Vacation