Ways to Travel
The 15 Best Family Resorts In Florida 2025

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Whitney Bruno, Forbes Staff
Forbes Vetted
The best family resorts in Florida capitalize on the sunshine state’s breezy beaches, offering everything from oceanside lounging to thrilling waterslides that will keep the kids entertained all day. The best part? “Many of Florida’s resorts will make you feel like you’ve been transported to the Caribbean—without needing a passport,” says Anna Fader, founder of family travel website Mommy Poppins and author of The Young Traveler’s Journal and Activity Book.
Our top recommendation is The Breakers Palm Beach, a classic retreat that has catered to guests young and old for over 100 years. For those heading to Orlando, the Wyndham Grand Orlando Resort Bonnet Creek is an all-in-one getaway close to Walt Disney World, while in the Florida Keys, Cheeca Lodge & Spa, a tropical island resort with activities for all ages, is not to be missed. Ahead, the best family resorts in Florida in 2025.
Editor’s Picks:
Best Family Resort In Florida Overall: The Breakers Palm Beach
The resort’s stretch of private beachfront is a big draw, and four pools sit oceanfront, including a zero-entry family pool.
The Breakers
The Breakers Palm Beach
Who Will Love It: Parents who appreciate endless family-friendly amenities
All-Star Amenities: Family Entertainment Center; private beach; oceanfront pools; childproofing services; baby equipment; 10 on-site restaurants
What Not To Miss: “Petite” pampering treatments at the spa for kids ages 6 to 17
Location: Palm Beach
Since 1896, The Breakers has been one of Florida’s best addresses, blending modern amenities with architecture modeled after the Italian Renaissance. From endless activities (including bike riding, junior golf and tennis) to childproofed suites decked out with cribs, strollers and bottle warmers, every inch of this beachfront getaway caters to guests young and old. Plenty of sun-soaked adventures await at its four, ocean-facing pools and private beach—but on the small off-chance that boredom strikes, head to the Family Entertainment Center to top the leaderboards at an array of arcade games, shoot hoops on the basketball court or score a hole-in-one on the nine-hole mini-golf course. Once you’re all worn out, stop by for family dinner at The Italian Restaurant, an authentic eatery serving fresh pasta and brick-oven pizzas; here, parents can sip on fine wines while children play nearby.
Best Family Resort In Orlando: Wyndham Grand Orlando Resort Bonnet Creek
Book a family bunk room and the kids will have an area for themselves with their own TV.
Wyndham Grand Orlando Resort Bonnet Creek
Wyndham Grand Orlando Resort Bonnet Creek
Who Will Love It: Families who want to stay close to Disney while still enjoying a retreat away from the parks
All-Star Amenities: Five pools; two lazy rivers; pirate-themed waterslide; playground; 18-hole putt-putt course; fitness center; spa
What Not To Miss: Watching Walt Disney World fireworks from the fire pit
Location: Orlando
Looking to stick close to Walt Disney World? The Wyndham Grand Orlando Bonnet Creek Resort is just a few miles from theme parks, so close that you can view their nightly fireworks shows from the property. Shuttles to and from the parks can also be booked at the front desk. On-site, families can enjoy an 18-hole putt-putt course and playground, plus additional perks from the nearby Club Wyndham Bonnet Creek (think: two lazy rivers, five pools and a pirate-themed water slide). For the ultimate kid-friendly suite, reserve a family bunk room with a separate bunk bed area for the kiddos and a private TV. Restaurants, bars and a buffet are all available throughout the premises to satiate any cravings, and when you’re ready for a bit of R&R away from your tribe, check out the Blue Harmony Spa for holistic body treatments and massage therapies.
Best Family Resort In Fort Lauderdale: Pelican Grand Beach Resort
A private beach offers opportunities for sandcastle building and other family fun; beach games are included in the resort fee.
Pelican Grand Beach Resort
Pelican Grand Beach Resort
Who Will Love It: Families who love ‘round-the-clock activities on a calmer stretch of sand
All-Star Amenities: Private beach; lounge chairs, beach games; zero-entry pool; paddleboard rentals; spa; kids’ camp; snorkeling lessons
What Not To Miss: Occasional visits from a storytelling mermaid at the zero-entry pool
Location: Fort Lauderdale
Home to the only lazy river in Fort Lauderdale, activities at the Pelican Grand Beach Resort promise plenty of all-day splash action, which Fader praises: “Families need to be flexible to work around the different needs and moods of everyone in the group, and this is one of the best resorts allowing them to create the experiences they want or need day to day,” she says. The resort’s rotating list of activities includes sandcastle contests and coconut races down the lazy river, while at the Funky Fish Ocean Camp, marine biologists walk kids through tailored snorkeling lessons at the pool and beachfront. Its award-winning children’s program also includes tie-dyeing, boogie boarding, and arts and crafts. After spending all day in the sun, spacious suites that evoke a charming, coastal aesthetic await; grab a cone from the resort’s old-fashioned ice cream parlor, The Emporium, on your way in.
Best Family Resort In Palm Beach: Palm Beach Marriott Singer Island Beach Resort & Spa
Accommodations are condo- and penthouse-style suites ideal for larger tribes.
Marriott Singer Island Beach Resort & Spa
Palm Beach Marriott Singer Island Beach Resort & Spa
Who Will Love It: Families looking for spacious accommodations, incredible beaches and a robust kids’ club
All-Star Amenities: Spa; cabanas; infinity pool; kids’ club; water slide; grotto; two restaurants; babysitting services
What Not To Miss: Sipping on Caribbean-inspired cocktails at the poolside Lagoon Cantina, where you can unwind while keeping an eye on the kids as they play in the water
Location: Palm Beach
Fader is a fan of this Palm Beach retreat’s kids’ club. “If I’m looking more for a chill location on a beautiful beach,” she says, “I’m going to pick a place like this one, which has an amazing kids’ club that will keep them busy while I enjoy the gorgeous beaches.” Indeed, the Palm Beach Marriott Singer Island Beach Resort & Spa’s Kid’s Zone hosts supervised games and arts and crafts lessons for kids ages four to 12, and even partners with the Loggerhead Marinelife Center for educational sessions on sea turtle conservation. This gives grownups plenty of time to enjoy beach cabanas by day, or a coveted parents’ night out by evening (babysitting services are available Thursday through Sunday from 6 to 10 p.m.). If that wasn’t enough, accommodations here are condo- and penthouse-style suites ideal for larger broods, complete with full kitchens, washer/dryers and living and dining areas.
Best Family Resort In Miami: Loews Miami Beach Hotel
At the SoBe Kids Club, kids can take part in arts and crafts, STEM activities and other experiences curated by the Miami Children’s Museum.
Loews Miami Beach Hotel
Loews Miami Beach Hotel
Who Will Love It: Luxury-seeking parents who don’t want to skimp on family friendly amenities
All-Star Amenities: Beach with private play area; butler service; baby equipment; zero-entry pool; kids’ club; five restaurants and lounges; cabanas; kid-friendly mani pedis at the spa
What Not To Miss: Starlit movie nights on the Americana Lawn
Location: Miami Beach
At this iconic hotel in the middle of Miami’s Art Deco district, the Miami Children’s Museum and Frost Museum of Science have teamed up to deliver a jam-packed assortment of activities (like STEM experiments, crafts, cooking classes and more) at the SoBe Kids Club. Elsewhere, you and the kiddos can spend hours lounging or playing games in an air-conditioned cabana at the pool or beach; a personalized butler will be available to provide snacks and small bites. Other kid-sized dining delicacies can be enjoyed at the Italian restaurant Rao’s (which serves favorites like rigatoni bolognese and linguini carbonara) or at Miami Joe Coffee Co., where you can scoop up locally crafted ice cream. Complimentary swim diapers, floaties and sunscreen are also provided on request.
Best Family Resort In The Florida Keys: Cheeca Lodge & Spa
Accommodations include private villas ideal for family travel, with one or two bedrooms, full kitchens and plenty of room to spread out.
Cheeca Lodge & Spa
Cheeca Lodge & Spa
Who Will Love It: Outdoorsy families who love being out on the water
All-Star Amenities: Two family pools; adults-only pool; 1,200-foot private beach; watersports facility; Camp Cheeca kids’ club; private villas; butler service
What Not To Miss: Cocktails at the open-air Tiki Bar
Location: Islamorada
Located in the “Sportsfishing Capital of the World,” the Cheeca Lodge & Spa is a hub for a wide variety of watersports that the whole family can enjoy, from fishing and paddleboarding to sailing far into the Atlantic Ocean sunset. Snorkeling tours—both private and large group excursions—regularly depart from the resort, and equipment rentals are offered should you need any. Camp Cheeca is also on-site to entertain children ages five to twelve with crafts, sports and scavenger hunts; drop the kids off at the program before heading to the spa to experience the tropical body wraps, facials and massage treatments of your dreams. When booking your stay, you can choose between 243 elegant suites (several of which have stunning ocean views and free-standing soaking tubs) or 11 fully furnished private villas, outfitted with washing machines and enough room to sleep six.
Best Family Resort On The Gulf Coast: Hyatt Regency Coconut Point Resort & Spa
Kids will probably be big fans of the resort’s three-acre waterpark, with five waterslides, multiple pools and a palm tree–lined lazy river.
Hyatt Regency Coconut Point Resort & Spa
Hyatt Regency Coconut Point Resort & Spa
Who Will Love It: Adventurous families who enjoy day-long excursions and waterpark thrills
All-Star Amenities: Three-acre water park with pools, waterslides and a lazy river; kids’ camp; excursions; watersports rentals; spa with meditation pool; five restaurants and bars
What Not To Miss: Watching dolphins while taking a ferry to a private island paradise paradise
Location: Bonita Springs
The crown jewel of the Hyatt Regency Coconut Point Resort & Spa is its massive, three-acre waterpark—a.k.a., the largest resort poolscape in southwest Florida. Between its multiple pools, winding lazy river, and five waterslides (including an inner tube slide and a twisty pair of dueling ones), children will never want to leave; adults are welcome to observe the fun from the comfort of a sleek, poolside lounger. Another highlight is the resort’s excursions: Families can hop on a private ferry to the nearby Big Hickory Island to mingle with dolphins up-close and lounge on calm, white sand shores, embark on the high-speed Key West Express for a day of shopping and touring the Conch Republic or join a guided kayak excursion, sunset cruise or fishing trip to make unforgettable memories.
Best Family Resort On The Panhandle: Hilton Sandestin Beach Golf Resort & Spa
At the beach, families can rent standup paddleboards and kayaks for exploring the emerald-green waters.
Hilton Sandestin Beach Golf Resort & Spa
Hilton Sandestin Beach Golf Resort & Spa
Who Will Love It: Families longing for ample watersports, spacious rooms, babysitting services and a close proximity to other attractions
All-Star Amenities: Watersports rentals; three pools; spa; fitness center; four restaurants; tram service throughout the Sandestin resort area
What Not To Miss: Family photography sessions on the beach courtesy of Hannah Drew Photography
Location: Miramar Beach
After extensive, $35-million renovations, this full-service beach resort stuns with stylish, upgraded suites, a beachfront deck and a revamped spa (now complete with updated treatment services and lounge amenities, as well as a couples’ suite). Outside, expect hours of fun in the sun with a variety of watersports, beach volleyball and three pools (including a dedicated toddler swimming area). Inside, cribs, pack-and-plays and bunk bed suites make your stay all the more convenient when your family needs room to spread out. The resort also partners with a trusted, local babysitting service—perfect for those days when you can use a little extra “me” time, or for evenings when you long to indulge in the premium wines, expertly aged USDA prime steaks and sophisticated atmosphere at Seagar’s, Northwest Florida’s first AAA Four Diamond steakhouse.
Best Beachfront Family Resort In Florida: Omni Amelia Island Resort
There’s a family-friendly pool, nautical-themed splash pad and adults-only pool all surrounded by the largest pool deck in northeast Florida.
Omni Amelia Island Resort
Omni Amelia Island Resort
Who Will Love It: Nature-loving families who can’t get enough of the beach
All-Star Amenities: Beach games; family-friendly pool; adults-only pool; gaming lounge; 18-hole mini-golf course; bike rentals
What Not To Miss: Guided kayaking, biking and nature tours at the Amelia Island Nature Center
Location: Fernandina Beach
For those seeking a more isolated stretch of sand, Omni Amelia Island Resort checks all the boxes. It’s located on a barrier island off the coast of Florida, where beaches can be relatively uncluttered and offer sweeping, picturesque views of the Atlantic. “There are so many activities at this resort to keep the whole family busy,” says Fader, who cites this as one of her top family-friendly Florida destinations. Days can be filled with water-wading, lounging and sandcastle-building, and away from the beach, there’s plenty of other family fun to be had at the resort’s golf experiences: the 18-hole Heron’s Cove Adventure Golf mini-course and the beginner-friendly 10-hole Little Sandy Course. Bike rentals are also offered if you want to explore around the island. If guided experiences are preferred, head to the Amelia Island Nature Center to join nature-focused discovery tours led by naturalists, who walk families through everything from sea turtle sightings to shark tooth hunting.
Best Family Resort In Florida For Activities: JW Marriott Marco Island Beach Resort
Three miles of Gulf Coast beach are at your leisure, as are multiple pools and a water slide.
JW Marriott Marco Island Beach Resort
JW Marriott Marco Island Beach Resort
Who Will Love It: Families who like having a wide variety of options to stay entertained during their vacation
All-Star Amenities: Sunset yoga; bike rentals; kids’ camp; fitness center; whirlpool; spa; waterslide; gulf-view suites; 12 restaurants; nightly fire dancing shows
What Not To Miss: The dolphin-watching eco-tours aboard a 45-foot catamaran
Location: Marco Island
Having visited this property many times as a kid, Florida-based family content creator Brie Mazin loves taking her kids to the JW Marriott Marco Island Beach Resort. “It’s one of those resorts where you never need to leave the property,” she says. “They have it all: So many dining options, a game room, bowling alley, an indoor shopping mall and more.” Families will never be bored with the vast array of indoor and outdoor activities here: Three miles of Gulf Coast beach are at your leisure, as are multiple pools and a water slide. Each of the resort’s twelve restaurants spans global cuisines, but our favorite kid-friendly options are at Mosaico, an al fresco Mediterranean dining experience serving brick-oven pizzas and handcrafted gelato. When your long day of adventure ends, Mazin recommends heading back to the beach to watch a Balinese-inspired fire dancer light up the night sky.
Best High-End Family Resort In Florida: Four Seasons Resort Orlando At Walt Disney World Resort
This AAA Five Diamond Award-winning property also offers a spa, golf course and multiple restaurants to keep grownups busy.
Four Seasons Resort Orlando At Walt Disney World Resort
Four Seasons Resort Orlando At Walt Disney World Resort
Who Will Love It: Families who want the Disney experience to never end—even away from the parks
All-Star Amenities: Waterpark; family pool; adults-only pool; complimentary kids’ club; game room; Michelin-star steakhouse; fitness center; spa; golf course; tennis courts
What Not To Miss: Character meet-and-greets at the Ravello restaurant every Thursday and Saturday
Location: Orlando
After a day full of magical experiences at the Walt Disney World Resort, families can take a complimentary shuttle back to the nearby Four Seasons Resort Orlando, where the action-packed excitement continues. The luxury getaway is home to a five-acre water park with plenty of slides, pools and a lazy river. Suites on the property—which include deluxe accommodations with direct views of the parks—are elegant and modern, outfitted with luxe linens to ensure a comfy night’s rest. In the morning, kids can meet-and-greet with their favorite characters while chowing down on waffles and omelets at Ravello, the on-site Italian eatery that holds Good Morning Breakfasts with Goofy & Pals every Thursday and Saturday. While admission to Disney World isn’t required to stay at this resort, its proximity to and affiliation with the parks make tickets highly recommended.
Best Value Family Resort In Florida: Kimpton Vero Beach Hotel & Spa
There’s also an oceanfront pool ideal for cooling down after a family bike ride or workout at the fitness center.
Kimpton Vero Beach Hotel & Spa
Kimpton Vero Beach Hotel & Spa
Who Will Love It: Value-conscious families who still want an unforgettable vacation
All-Star Amenities: Complimentary chairs and umbrellas; oceanfront heated pool; complimentary baby gear; educational programs; watersports rentals
What Not To Miss: Snapping complimentary pics with your furry friend during the resort’s Pet Polaroid event
Location: Vero Beach
With nightly rates as low as $200, Kimpton Vero Beach Hotel & Spa offers great value for its family-friendly amenities and experiences. On the beach, you’ll find complimentary chairs and umbrellas, tours, cabanas and watersports rentals; in your suite, you’ll have access to complimentary infant equipment like baby tubs, playards, bassinets and infant seats (limited quantities available upon request). Some rooms feature full kitchens, while others captivate with terraces that center you right in front of the turquoise waters. Every season, a rotating schedule of activities keeps the whole family entertained: Guests can join the new Turtle Talk series for a complimentary educational program from sea turtle experts or reserve the Stargazing on The Sea package to join a private river cruise led by a local astronomer.
Family Resort In Florida With The Best Pools: Orlando World Center Marriott
At the Falls Pool Oasis, the swimming pool and splash zone are ideal for younger kids, while two waterslides offer thrills for older kids.
Orlando World Center Marriott
Orlando World Center Marriott
Who Will Love It: Families who plan to never leave the pool
All-Star Amenities: Lagoon-style pool; seven waterslides; lazy river; splash zones; arcade; mini-golf; shuttle service to the Disney theme parks
What Not To Miss: Observing the nightly, electrifying laser light shows as they light up the sky
Location: Orlando
If pool time is a priority, look no further than a stay at the 200-acre Orlando World Center Marriott, a premier destination known for its sprawling water park and pool oasis. Despite the resort’s proximity to popular Orlando attractions like Walt Disney World, Universal Studios and SeaWorld, you’ll have difficulty tearing the kids away from its River Falls Water Park: a vibrant aqua playground with three adrenaline-pumping waterslides. Whether you’re grabbing an inner tube to conquer the Boomerango slide—which propels riders 20 feet in the air towards a plunge pool—or floating down the winding, 575-foot River Falls Lazy River, you’re guaranteed an epic afternoon of soaking in the sun. The whole family can experience additional aquatic escapades at the resort’s lagoon-style swimming pool, which features two additional body slides and a splash zone for the little ones.
Best Family Resort In Florida For Adventurous Families: Island Grand At Tradewinds
You’ll need a vacation from your vacation after enjoying everything that’s included with a stay.
Raif Fluker
Island Grand At Tradewinds
Who Will Love It: Thrill-seekers of all ages
All-Star Amenities: Beach cabanas; five pools; four restaurants; kids’ camp; inflatable surf simulator; touch tank experience; mini-golf; paddleboats; nightly s’mores
What Not To Miss: Dining, lounging and playing with the family on your own personal AquaBana
Location: St. Pete Beach
With all that’s included in your stay at Island Grand At Tradewinds, you’ll never want to leave the resort. There’s something for everyone: thrill seekers will go crazy for the beach zipline and inflatable surf simulator; sporty folks will appreciate the volleyball, beach games, mini-golf experiences; watersports fiends can try their hand at jet skiing or hop on a banana boat; small kids will be dazzled by the family pirate shows and floating waterpark. The diverse assortment of activities means you’ll always be occupied. Still, when you’re finally ready for a more laid-back afternoon, a complimentary beach cabana awaits for basking in the ocean breeze. The resort shares amenities and its beachfront with the neighboring RumFish Beach Resort, so you’ll get double the experiences for the price of one stay.
Best Family Resort In Florida For Outdoorsy Families: Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge
Wildlife Field Guides are in each room to help you identify each critter you come across, and additional programs run by animal experts are on-site for even more educational fun.
Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge
Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge
Who Will Love It: Animal-loving families who enjoy being immersed in nature
All-Star Amenities: Four savannas teeming with African wildlife; pools; waterslide; educational wildlife programs; s’mores campfires; movie nights; playground; arcade; painting activities; shuttles to the Walt Disney World parks
What Not To Miss: Observing zebras, giraffes, gazelles, flamingos and more from the comfort of your suite
Location: Lake Buena Vista
Vacations don’t get any more unique or memorable than a stay at Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge: an expansive, premium getaway with its own savannas, where over 200 animals across 30-plus species roam free. “The resort adds a whole level of fun to a Disney vacation,” says Fader, “and perks like early admission at the Walt Disney World theme parks make the stay worth it.” Wildlife Field Guides are in each room to help you identify each critter you come across, and additional programs run by animal experts are on-site for even more educational fun. Once you’ve had your fill of animal-viewing for the day, spend time in the 11,000-square-foot Uzima pool, shaded by palm trees, or cruise down the waterslide to cool off in the sun. Suites and guest rooms are decked out with warm hues and African-inspired textiles. “Plus, they also have two- and three- bedroom villas that are great for larger groups,” says Fader.
Why Trust Forbes Vetted
The Forbes Vetted travel team has researched, written and reported on a wide variety of hotels and resorts across the globe.
How We Chose The Best Family Resorts In Florida
We conducted extensive research on top-rated hotels across the state, factoring in testimonials, hotel rewards and family-friendly amenities.
What To Consider When Choosing The Best Family Resorts In Florida To Stay At
Florida family resorts vary widely in experiences and amenities, so your vacation may look very different depending on where you end up booking. Before reserving your room, here are some key things to consider:
Family Size
“Multigenerational travel is hot and resorts are increasingly adding options for larger villas,” says Fader. For larger groups, seek out properties with spacious accommodations that have enough amenities to make you feel like you’re staying at a home away from home. For instance, the Cheeca Lodge & Spa, Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge and Palm Beach Marriott Singer Island Beach Resort & Spa all offer villa, penthouse and/or condo-style residences perfect for larger families. Most come equipped with full kitchens and washers and dryers for convenience.
Mazin also recommends reserving accommodations during quieter months when planning a trip with many people. “You can find the best rates when it’s off-season,” she says, “and sometimes Florida families are given special offerings.”
All-Inclusive Vs. À La Carte
Whether you book an all-inclusive package or choose to pay for individual meals depends on what you prioritize: value or convenience. For value, à la carte pricing is typically the way to go. “Sometimes families have picky eaters or end up paying for things they don’t use,” says Mazin. For those on the more budget-conscious side, à la carte options alleviate the stress of having to consume your money’s worth. They’re easier on your wallet so you won’t have to, as Fader puts it, “pay $25 per person for a breakfast buffet where your child will eat only one pancake.”
On the other hand, all-inclusive experiences can be ideal for those who don’t want to ruminate on costs while relaxing on their holiday. “I hate having to nickel and dime on vacation and constantly worry about whether this or that activity is ‘worth it,’” adds Fader. “Sometimes, not worrying about money is a great investment.”
Amenities And Activities
A majority of resorts have a comfortable blend of adult and kid-oriented attractions, while others skew on the more kid-friendly side (such as themed getaways like Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge.) “We need lots of options for a family resort to be truly great,” says Mazin, “like engaging kids’ activities, wellness options for parents, spacious rooms and easy dining options.” For Mazin—and other wellness-focused adults—a spa is always a fantastic benefit.
To ensure the whole family will have something to be entertained by, look for kids’ clubs and waterparks: They’ll unlock hours of fun for the kiddos, plus give extra parental relaxation time for when you need it. “They’re both mega-perks because it’s nice to know our kids are safe while we have a bit of adult time,” says Mazin. Plus, if you’re staying in a theme park haven like Orlando, “On-site water parks always keep the fun going back at the resort,” says Fader.
About Whitney Bruno, Your Florida Family Resorts Guide
I am a New Jersey-based editorial assistant working across the beauty, fashion, travel and home & kitchen categories here at Forbes Vetted. As a Caribbean descendant, I’ve spent ample time lounging on the beach since I was young, including multiple trips to Florida. I graduated with bachelor’s degrees in English and Psychology from Amherst College and attended the Columbia Publishing Course. In addition to Forbes Vetted, my work can also be found in Make Muse and The Common.
Ways to Travel
Sundarbans Introduces Ali Banda Eco-Tourism Center as a Must-Visit Destination for Nature Lovers Seeking Peace and Adventure

Published on
August 9, 2025 |
The Sundarbans, a UNESCO World Heritage site and the largest mangrove forest in the world, is poised to become an even more sought-after destination as the Ali Banda Eco-Tourism Center undergoes significant development. This new initiative, designed to attract both domestic and international visitors, is a part of the larger effort to boost eco-tourism in the region.
Known for its extraordinary biodiversity and untouched beauty, the Sundarbans has long been a haven for nature lovers and wildlife enthusiasts. To enhance the travel experience while promoting conservation, the Department of Forest Division has focused on improving infrastructure at key eco-tourism spots within the Sundarbans. Ali Banda Eco-Tourism Center, located in the Sharankhola Range, is now at the center of these plans.
Ali Banda offers a quick and affordable getaway for travelers seeking to explore the mangrove forest. Visitors can embark on a scenic journey, reaching the center in just under an hour from the Sharankhola Range headquarters by engine-powered trawler. For those with limited time, the Ali Banda Eco-Tourism Center, paired with the nearby Supati Wildlife Sanctuary, presents an ideal day-trip option to experience the wild beauty of the Sundarbans.
The center has been carefully designed to cater to the needs of tourists without disrupting the delicate ecosystem of the area. A 50-foot-high observation tower has been installed, offering sweeping panoramic views of the vast mangrove forest. To ensure a deeper connection with nature, a one-kilometer footpath has been developed, enabling visitors to explore the area on foot and experience the forest up close.
In addition to these enhancements, several other facilities have been established to provide a more comfortable and engaging experience for visitors. These include public restrooms, a circular hut for resting, souvenir shops, ticket counters, paved walkways, a sturdy concrete jetty, and two crocodile ponds. The addition of a fenced enclosure for deer adds a unique touch to the center’s wildlife offerings. The proximity of Ali Banda to local communities has made it an appealing destination for travelers seeking a convenient yet immersive nature experience.
The accessibility and affordability of Ali Banda make it a standout option for those looking to visit the Sundarbans without straining their budget or time. Travelers from Dhaka and other regions of Bangladesh will soon have an easy opportunity to take a day trip to this developing eco-tourism destination, which promises an unforgettable encounter with nature.
As part of the broader strategy to promote sustainable tourism, the Forest Division has restricted access to more remote sections of the Sundarbans, including popular spots like Kotka, Kochikhali, and Hiron Point. This step is aimed at preserving the ecological balance and ensuring the long-term sustainability of the region. Meanwhile, new eco-tourism centers have been established at locations like Dhan Sagar and Harbaria, further expanding the eco-tourism network in the region.
Once fully operational, the Ali Banda Eco-Tourism Center is expected to draw significant numbers of visitors, making it a cornerstone of Sundarbans eco-tourism. The development will also provide a boost to the local economy, generating employment and business opportunities for nearby communities.
The Sundarbans is renowned for its rich array of wildlife, including the majestic Royal Bengal Tiger, Irrawaddy and Ganges dolphins, and countless bird species. With growing interest in eco-tourism, other well-established spots in the Sundarbans, such as Karamjal, Harbaria, and Hiron Point, continue to be popular with tourists.
As the Ali Banda Eco-Tourism Center nears completion, plans for further infrastructure development and attractions will ensure that the destination remains at the forefront of sustainable tourism. This initiative reflects a strong commitment to preserving the Sundarbans’ unique ecosystem while providing visitors with an immersive and eco-friendly experience that showcases the region’s unparalleled natural beauty.
Ways to Travel
Dog Owners Urged to Check Beach Rules Before Booking Cornwall Holidays

As August reaches its peak holiday season, Park Holidays UK is urging dog owners to double-check local beach rules before booking or heading to the coast. Seasonal restrictions are now in place across many parts of the UK, with dozens of popular Cornwall beaches included.
Cornwall’s Seasonal Dog Bans
In Cornwall, restrictions typically run from July to 31st August, enforced daily from 10 am to 6 pm. Several beaches have full summer bans during this time, including:
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Polzeath Beach
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Porthmeor, Porthgwarra, Porthgwidden, Porthcurno
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Porthleven West, Sennen Beach, Swanpool and Trevone
Violating these Public Spaces Protection Orders can lead to fines of up to £1,000. View our article for a full list of dog beach restrictions here.
Warnings for Other UK Holiday Destinations
Similar restrictions apply elsewhere in the UK. In East Sussex, major seaside towns such as Brighton & Hove, Eastbourne, Seaford, Hastings, and parts of Bexhill and Camber Sands have bans from 1st May to 30th September.
In Wales, Caswell Bay in Swansea enforces a ban from 1st May to 30th September, while across the UK hundreds of beaches operate seasonal restrictions during this period.
Advice from Park Holidays UK
Kelly Johnstone, Head of Brand & Content at Park Holidays UK, said:
“We understand dogs are part of the family, and nothing beats that seaside splash! But with beach dog bans active this August, it’s really important to check local rules before you book or travel. That helps avoid surprises and keeps everyone safe and welcome.
“Many of Park Holidays UK’s coastal holiday parks remain dog-friendly, often situated near beaches that are off-leash outside restricted hours, or totally accessible to dogs year-round, such as; St Osyth Beach near Seawick Holiday Park in Essex, or Pevensey Bay Beach near Pevensey Bay Holiday Park in Sussex*”
Planning Ahead for a Stress-Free Holiday
Park Holidays UK encourages dog owners to plan trips around these restrictions and recommends checking local council websites or using resources such as The Beach Guide for up-to-date rules before travelling.
This approach ensures that every member of the family – including the four-legged ones – can enjoy a safe and welcome break by the sea.
Ways to Travel
Italians turn away from private beaches amid debate over rising prices | Italy

Italians appear to be snubbing beaches this summer, amid claims they are rebelling against the high prices charged by the owners of private beach concessions.
Going to the beach and renting cabins, loungers and parasols – usually at the same location – has long been an ingrained habit of Italian summer holiday culture.
But this year’s season began with a notable fall in beachgoer numbers after private resorts along Italy’s two long stretches of coastline recorded a decrease of between 15% and 25% in June and July compared with the same period in 2024.
The problem is not so much the weekend, when beach resorts are often congested, especially those close to cities such as Rome, but during the week. Those who do go are also spending less on food and drink.
Fabrizio Licordari, the president of Assobalneari Italia, an association representing beach clubs, blamed the decline on the high cost of living and its consequences on spending power.
“Even with two salaries, many families struggle to reach the end of the month,” he told Ansa news agency. “In such circumstances, it’s natural that the first expenses to be cut are those for leisure, entertainment and holidays.”
The drop in attendance, however, also coincides with increases in the cost of private beach resorts and the growing rebellion against their dominance of Italian shorelines, which has left very little space for free beaches.
The cost of renting a sunlounger is a recurring topic of discussion, and rightly so – on average, it costs 17% more than it did four years ago, according to figures this week from the consumer group Altroconsumo. On beaches in the Lazio region, for example, it is difficult to rent two loungers and an umbrella for less than €30 (£26) a day. That rises to about €90 in the popular resort of Gallipoli in Puglia.
The actor Alessandro Gassmann stoked the debate after sharing a photo of a beach with deserted loungers on his Instagram page and writing alongside it: “I read that the season is not going well. Maybe it’s because the prices are exaggerated and the country’s economic situation is forcing Italians to choose free beaches? Lower the prices and maybe things will get better.”
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Maurizio Rustignoli, the president of Fiba, the Italian beach resorts federation, argued that reports of high price rises were “misleading” and that, where they occurred, it was by only a small percentage. He added that people in return benefited from services including security and lifeguard supervision.
But the consumers association Codacons said going to beach resorts had become “a drain” on people’s finances and accused the concession owners of “shedding crocodile tears”.
The beaches might be losing custom, but areas in the mountains, especially the Dolomites, have had a significant rise in visitor numbers, with some areas fearing overtourism. According to a report this week in the newspaper Il Messaggero, more Italians are venturing to the mountains for their holidays, partly as a way to escape increasingly hot summers caused in part by the climate crisis.
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