The end of the summer holidays and darkening of the evenings can prove quite demoralising for parents and children alike. That's why it is so important to give yourselves something to look forward to, to break up the countdown to the Christmas holidays.
With thinning crowds and school calendars offering a window, October half term is the perfect time to whisk the family away on a luxury getaway. Whatsmore, there are still plenty of stunning holiday destinations to take into consideration which are still basking in glorious sunshine at this point in the year.
We challenged our luxury travel specialists to come up with a top 5 list of the best holiday destinations for families in October that provide something for all ages and inclinations. With their unique mix of adventure, relaxation, culture and child friendly fun, these 5 holiday destinations are well worth considering when it comes time to book your October half term getaway.
1. Dubai
When considering the best holiday destinations for families in October, Dubai often tops the list. As summer's intense heat softens, the city becomes ideal for family exploration. The blend of architectural marvels and immersive entertainment ensures no member of the family feels left out.
In October, temperatures typically settle into a more comfortable range, creating the right sort of climate for both beach time and sightseeing. You can divide your days between lounging on Jumeirah's pristine beaches and discovering indoor marvels such as IMG Worlds of Adventure, the world's largest indoor theme park, or cooling off at Aquaventure Waterpark. These experiences add thrills without overextending younger ones.
Luxury family resorts in Dubai frequently offer children's clubs, movie nights and tailored family activities. This gives parents the rare opportunity to enjoy some alone time where they can treat themselves to spa treatments or refreshing cocktails at the nearest bar. Toddlers and teens alike will find plenty to explore, from interactive museums to evening shows and musical fountains. For families searching for best holiday destinations in October for families, Dubai's blend of high end amenities and nonstop entertainment makes it a compelling option.
2. Florida
If you are looking for the best holiday destinations with kids in October, then Florida is a perennial favourite. A favourite with families for generations, it provides a nearly unrivalled playground of fantasy, nature and sunny climes.
Of course, Walt Disney World Resort and Universal Orlando are two of the major draws with both being full of magic, rides, parades and immersive experiences that captivate both the young and the young at heart. But Florida's appeal extends well beyond the theme parks. You can go off the beaten track to explore the Everglades - an astonishing ecosystem where families can glide through marshes, spot alligators and learn about the region's native wildlife.
Florida also offers gorgeous beaches, water sports along its Atlantic and Gulf coasts and vibrant city culture in places like Miami with its art deco charm. In October, the weather is warm but more forgiving, and the humidity is easing. This creates ideal conditions for days full of fun adventures.
The luxury resorts and villa retreats in the area also cater superbly for families with facilities such as private pools, games rooms and fun children's clubs. With so much to see and do, Florida easily earns its place among the best holiday destinations for families in October.
3. Bali
Those searching for a more exotic escape would be wise to consider a getaway to Bali which is unquestionably one of the most enchanting places to visit in October with Family. October falls toward the end of the dry season, bringing warm days, frequent sunshine and plenty of opportunities for both relaxation and fun family activities.
In Bali, children can discover lush jungles, dramatic volcanoes, terraced rice paddies, sacred temples and playful monkeys in the forests of Ubud. For those craving water fun, many child friendly resorts offer surf schools, poolside games and cultural craft workshops like basket weaving or Balinese dance. Family river rafting, wildlife encounters and beach excursions all blend beautifully with opportunities to unwind in luxury spa sanctuaries or quiet garden villas.
Because Bali tends to be less crowded in October than in the peak summer months, families can experience the island at a more relaxed pace. Resorts often offer immersive family programmes, making it one of the best holiday destinations in October for families seeking a nice balance between adventure and serenity.
4. Morocco
Among the destinations that are often overlooked for family travel, Morocco offers a captivating mix of exotic landscapes, cultural richness and adventure. All of this makes it an excellent candidate in the list of best holiday destinations with kids in October.
As the intense summer heat fades, October becomes an ideal window to explore in a comfortable climate. Part of Morocco's appeal lies in its diversity. You may want to wander through labyrinthine medinas, sip mint tea in riads or watch lively street performances in city squares.
Families can also journey beyond the cities to experience desert dunes in a 4×4, trek to Berber villages or enjoy scenic drives through Atlas foothills. Coastal towns like Essaouira offer a gentler seaside alternative, where the sea is still warm and windsurfing or kitesurfing lessons beckon.
Luxury family hotels in Morocco often host evening film nights, magical storytelling sessions and children's programming alongside cultural excursions, making the destination both manageable and enchanting for families. For those seeking one of the best holiday destinations for families in October, Morocco offers a memorable contrast, from desert to sea to city.
5. The Canary Islands
The Canary Islands are ideal if you are looking for the best holiday destinations in October for families thanks to its year round sunshine and a laid back atmosphere which makes travel with children effortless.
October in the Canary Islands offers pleasantly warm temperatures without the high summer crowds, ensuring plenty of space to enjoy the islands' beaches, beautiful parks and family friendly resorts.
Tenerife is a favourite, where little ones can splash away at Siam Park, often considered one of the world's very best waterparks, or meet dolphins and parrots at Loro Parque. Gran Canaria offers sweeping golden beaches and volcanic landscapes perfect for family hikes, while Lanzarote's Timanfaya National Park fascinates tourists of all ages with its lunar-like volcanic terrain. Fuerteventura's breezy coastline makes it a perfect spot for water sports lessons, with plenty of tutors to choose from offering everything from beginners surfing sessions to kayaking and paddleboarding.
The islands are famous for their luxury resorts which cater especially well for families, offering kids' clubs, entertainment programmes and spacious villas which are perfect for multigenerational family holidays. With short flight times from the UK, the Canary Islands tick all the boxes for the best places to visit in October with family - easy, sunny and packed full of activities for all ages.
Which Destination is Best For Your Family?
Choosing which one of these five destinations is best for your family ultimately depends on your interests. If your children thrive on theme parks and entertainment, Florida is potentially unmatched.
Families who enjoy mixing culture, beaches, nature and downtime may find that Dubai, Bali or Morocco can offer the perfect balance. If you are looking specifically for a short haul option with guaranteed sunshine and easy logistics, the Canary Islands may well be hard to beat.
All five of these destinations shine in October, providing warm but more comfortable climates, smaller crowds compared to peak months and an engaging array of experiences for people of all ages. If you are looking for a more tailored suggestion, then please feel free to get in touch with one of our luxury travel specialists who will be more than happy to help you find the best holiday destinations in October for families such as yours.