Are We There Yet? Family Vacations with Autistic Children

Although planning a family vacation with children may make any parents pull out his or her hair, it can be a rewarding experience for everyone in the end. It is no different if you have an autistic child in the family. The important thing to remember is that you need to be prepared for whatever life throws your way. To an autistic child, vacations can be scary and confusing, or they can be a great learning experience, leaving behind wonderful memories the entire family can enjoy.

First, choose your location based on your autistic child's needs. For example, if he or she is sensitive to sound, an amusement park is probably not the best idea. Quieter vacations are possible at small beaches and by going camping. Overall, you should be able to find a location that everyone in the family enjoys. Once there, plan out your days accordingly. For example, you may want to see attractions very early or late in the day to avoid crowds. You also might want to consider taking your vacation during the off-season, if you children's school work will not be disrupted. These gives your autistic child more comfort if he or she is nervous in crowded situations, and provides you with piece of mind. When choosing a location, also note how far it is from you home. How will you get there? If you have to deal with an airport, remember that security may have to touch your child and be prepared for this.

Choose a location and activities that everyone can enjoy, but also that provide learning and social interaction opportunities for your autistic child. For example, a child that does not like touch sensations may enjoy the soft sands of a beach, and the waves can provide a very different kind of feeling for him or her. Being outside, a beach is also a great place for your child to yell without disrupting others. Children who are normally non-responsive may benefit from a museum , where they can ask questions and you can ask questions of them.

Remember that most people on vacation at the location you choose will have never dealt with autism before. Try to be understanding of their ignorance-but also stick up for your child if he or she is being treated unfairly. Know your child's constitutional laws, and also be willing to compromise. For example, if a restaurant is reluctant to serve you after your child caused a scene there last night, explain the situation and ask if it would be possible to take your food to go, even if this is normally not done. Try not to be rude to people; staring often happens, but instead of snide comments or mean looks, ignore them as much as possible and focus on having a good time with your family

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Beach Holidays for Fun in the Sun

Everyone loves beach holidays!  The little ones can dig in the sand and splash in the lapping waves.  The older ones can swim, get a tan, or just relax.  The inquisitive types can explore for sea life, tide pools, and drift wood.  The warm breezes and natural beauty are invigorating and restorative.  Any trip, however, can cause discomfort if you do not plan well.  Here are things you can do to make your beach holidays easier, safer, and more meaningful.

In many parts of the world, people head for their beach holidays in the family car. When planning a trip, it's always a good idea to give the car a good cleaning out first. This will give you more room for your luggage.  Stock you glovebox, too, with a few first aid and comfort items, such as sunblock, acetominiphen for headaches, a roll of antacids, a few cough drops, and a few bandaids.  Don't forget a couple of scrunchies or pony-tailers for long hair. Get the tires checked and replace any that are likely to go flat.  Get an oil change if it's getting close.  Road trips are not much fun when they include breakdowns.  And whatever you do, make sure you have a map and a place to keep it handy.

Travelling with kids is always a challenge.  They may be particularly excited and impatient when they know they are going on beach holidays.  Make sure they have cool water bottles and healthy snacks to munch.  Try a simple car game to make the time pass.  Many kids like looking for letters of the alphabet on signs.  If several people get involved it can be quite fun.

With beach holidays particularly, there is always a need to provide for skin safety.  Be particularly careful about being in the sun for long stretches of time between 10:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m.  Use a sunblock with a high SPF rating and replace it after getting wet or drying off with your towel.  The towel you choose can make a difference too.  Thick towels get heavy and tend to trap a lot of sand.  You may find you like thin towels at the beach.  Wear sunglasses to protect your eyes and some sort of foot protection to keep your feet from being burned on the hot sand.

With a little preparation your beach holidays can be enjoyable and problem-free.  When you arrive home you will be relaxed, refreshed, and ready for work. Take a minute to unpack and get your laundry going.  It won't belong until the kids will be shouting, "When can we go on beach holidays again?"

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Waikiki Beach Vacation

Located on the sun drenched Hawaiian Island of Oahu,
Waikiki Beach is one of the most famous and well
known beaches in the entire world, with luxurious
hotels and beach clubs set right on the beach.  The
famous Kalakaua Avenue, which runs parallel to the
beach, offers you a shoppers paradise with fine
restaurants and nightly entertainment.

Waikiki Beach is also known for its gentle waves
which are ideal for beginner surfers.  You can rent
surboards and gear on the beach, even take lessons
if you have never surfed before.

Catamaran rides to and from Diamond Head are also
offered by several different companies as well,
with depart times varying.  Other activities on
your vacation include kayaking, swimming, and
outrigger canoeing.

Restaurants
There are several restaurants located right on
Waikiki Beach, such as Duke's Canoe Club and the
Surf Room.  When the evening sets in, you can enjoy
a romantic dinner while you watch the sun set over
the beautiful and amazing Pacific Ocean.

Waikiki Beach hotels
As you travel along the beach from west to east
beginning in Diamond Head, you'll encounter several
first class hotels such as Hilton Hawaiian Village,
Sheraton Waikiki, Outrigger Hawai, the Royal
Hawaiian Hotel, and several others.

The Waikiki difference
While there are several other spots for your beach
vacation, few manage to capture the beauty and
tranquility that Waikiki offers.  Hawaii has long
been known for a tropical paradise, with Maui being
an excellent example.  Hawaii offers several beaches,
with Waikiki being one of the best.

If you've been looking for the ideal place for your
beach vacation, you shouldn't hesitate to go to
Waikiki.  You can find discounts on hotel rooms
at different times of the year, making it the
perfect opportunity to check out everything Hawaii
will provide you and your family with.

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Tropical Beach Vacation Ideas

Tropical beaches and tropical islands are located
within 23 1/2 degrees either north or south of the
equator.  They enjoy warm weather year round with
plenty of sunshine and warmth.  Depending on where
you are headed, there are many tropical destinations
around the world, including Hawaii, Fiji, the
Caribbean, and Bora Bora.

Hawaii
The Aloho State of Hawaii offers you several
different islands and beaches.  Oahu Island is
the most popular, home to the infamous Waikiki Beach
and Honolulu, the state's capital.  Maui offers
you several luxury resorts, 16 golf courses, and
a 10,023 foot volcano.  Molokai and Lanai can both
be reached by ferry from Maui, or you can simply
fly there from Honolulu.

Hawaii's Big Island is the largest of all islands,
featuring Volcanoes National Park, with amazing
waterfalls and breathtaking beaches.  Kauai is
known for it's tropical vegetation and has even
been used for setting of many Hollywood movies.

Caribbean Islands
The Caribbean Islands are comprised of many different
large and smal islands, including the Bahamas,
Jamaica, Barbados, the Virgin Islands, British
Virgin Islands, and Anguila, just to name a few.

The Caribbean Islands offer splendid beaches,
crystal clear water, and warm weather.  The
vacation activities include diving, swimming,
snorkeling, sailing, and even fishing.

Fiji
The island of Fiji is comprised of many tropical
islands that are famous for their azure waters
and sandy beaches.  There are several resorts for
you to choose from, including the Fiji Islands
Resort and the Yasawa Island Resort.

Bora Bora
Bora Bora is one of the most amazing islands in
Tahiti, which is located south of the equator - in
the same time zone as Hawaii.  The beaches here
are protected by coral reef.  The tropical island
of Bora Bora is home to several resorts, and
breathtaking scenery.

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Top Beach Vacation Spots

No matter what season it may be, taking a beach
vacation is both fun and relaxing.  There are many
beaches all over the world to pick from.  You can
choose from a white sandy beach, lava rock beach,
secluded beach, or a popular beach - as the choice
is entirely up to you.

1.  Polo Beach - Hawaii
The Polo Beach of Hawaii is a sandy beach with
clear water, making it ideal for swimming and also
snorkeling.  It's located in South Maui and fronted
by the Fairmont Kea Lani Maui, which is a luxury
beach vacation resort.

2.  Seven Mile Beach - Jamaica
The Seven Mile Beach of Negril is the longest stretch
of white sand in Jamaica.  Located near Negril on
the western tip of Jamaica, this beach is truly an
awesome sight to behold.  Here, you can find your
favorite stretch of the beach and coconut palm
tree and just relax near the ocean.  You can also
stay at the Caves, which is located very close to
the beach.

3.  Atlantis Paradise - Bahamas
Here, you can experience the white sandy beaches of
the Caribbean.  Atlantis Paradise gives you long
romantic walks on the beach or the chance to play
in the water at the resort.  This paradise offers
you tropical climate with your own personal slice
of heaven - something every beach lover will truly
appreciate.

4.  Heron Island - Australia
Located on the Great Barrier Reef, Heron Island
beaches offer excellent swimming and snorkeling
with truly amazing marine life.  The tropical
island of Heron offers scuba divers over 20
different diving sites.  You can forget the stress
of everyday life here and just immerse yourself in
wonder.

5.  Madeira - Portugal
The beach here at Reid's Palace Hotel is quite the
rocky beach, with sharp black rocks.  You can spend
time lounging by the pool taking in the views, or
swimming in the ocean.  The weather here is
pleasant most of the time, making your beach vacation
something you'll remember for a long time to come.

6.  Miami Beach
A great spot for movie stars and fashion models,
Miami Beach offers plenty of sandy beaches, several
restaurants, and night long parties at one of the
local nightclubs.  If you are looking for the
ideal place to stay, The Tides is a luxurious
hotel with many spectacular views.  Miami Beach
is also popular in the United States - one of the
best beach vacations out there.

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The Perfect Vacation

A beach vacation is something all of us can use, as
it provides time away with the family, friends, or
just that special someone.  Beach vacations are also
a great way to unwind from the pressures of life, and
just have a blast.

All around the world, there are literally hundreds of
places that you can choose for your beach vacation.
You can choose from beaches in the United States, or
choose to go overseas to more tropical climates and
romantic beaches.

Those of you who are looking to get away with a husband
or wife, would find the Maui to be the perfect beach
vacation.  Located in Hawaii, Maui is one of the most
romantic beaches in the world.  Also well known for
honeymoons, Maui offers you plenty of breathtaking
beaches with plenty of other things to do as well.

Another well known area for a beach vacation for
couples is the Virgin Islands.  The Virgin Islands
have been a popular vacation spot for many years,
offering couples the chance to get away from it all
and just spend some well deserved and well needed
time together.

For a family beach vacation, there are many places
you can go.  One of the most popular is California,
as there are many other things to interest the kids
as well.  There are several beaches in the state,
with Huntington beach and plenty of attractions as
well, including Sea World and the San Diego Zoo.

When you choose the perfect beach vacation, you
need to choose a spot that will cater to who you
are taking with you.  Couples wouldn't want to go
to a family resort destination, while families
wouldn't want to go to a couples resort that offers
plenty of romance.

No matter where you decide to go, you can rest
assured that there are plenty of locations for you
to choose from.  You can search online using a
search engine, which can help you locate deals that
are simply too good to pass up.

Before you decide to rush off to your beach vacation,
you should plan first.  Decide on where you are
going, research your destination spot, and make
sure that it offers something for everyone.  Beach
vacations are truly inspiring, although it also
helps to have other activities available as well.

Once you plan your beach vacation very carefully,
you'll be more than ready to take off to your
destination and relax.  You'll enjoy yourself much
better if you plan carefully, which will also help
to remove a lot of the stress that can be involved
with planning for a beach vacation - or going on
your destination unprepared.

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Taveuni Palms Fiji

The Taveuni Palms in Fiji is an intimate retreat
offering two private guest houses, a secluded sandy
beach, and even a freshwater swimming pool.  The
island has many spectacular things to offer, such
as scuba diving, kayaking, snorkeling, hiking, and
many other vacation activities.

The Taveuni Island has always been known for its
unique and colorful sea life, tropical fish, and
amazing varieties of soft and hard coral.  The
Rainbow Reef, Great White Wall, Purple Wall, and
Zoo dive sites are all within easy reach of the
Taveuni resort.

The Great White Wall reef offers a tunnel with two
exits, one at 33 feet and another at 88 feet. When
you swim through it, you'll notice a white glow
that is given off by the soft corals that seem
to surround you.

You'll also find two dive centers that are minutes
from Taveuni Palms, which offer you dive equipment
and certified diving instructors.  From beginners
to expert divers, you can have a lot of fun scuba
diving on your beach vacation.

Rooms and suites
The two seperate beachfront villas at Taveuni Palms
in Fiji come with their own staff to help make
your vacation a bit more relaxing.  The staff
will make your dreams come true, as they offer
full room support.

Each seperate villa offers a pool, two bedrooms,
a fully equipped kitchen, two bathrooms, and a
very unique indoor/outdoor bathroom.  The outdoor
deck is equipped with chairs so that you can spend
time outside as well, taking in the surrounding
views of the ocean.  The spectacular sunsets will
turn into tropical nights - with stunning starlit
skies.

Your personal maid at the villa will provide you
with daily cleaning service, laundry service,
fresh flowers, and evening turn down.  The maids
here are very professional, making your stay at
the Taveuni Palms in Fiji one you'll remember
for years to come.

The resort will also provide you with your own
private chef, kitchen, and bar staff who will
provide your daily meals, which are included in
the cost of your stay.  This way, you don't have
to eat out - your food will be prepared for you
at the resort.

Getting to Taveuni
To get to Taveuni Palms, fly to Nadi International
airport in Fiji.  From there, catch a connecting
flight to Taveuni Island where the Taveuni Palms
staff will meet you at the airport, five minutes
from the hotel.

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Sandy Lane Resort

A luxurious beach resort in Barbados, the Sandy Lane
resort is a paradise for honeymooners.  Offering a
combination of privacy, numerous activities, and
first class service, the resort is located on the
west coast of the island of Barbados.  Sandy Lane
also offers three golf courses and a 47,000 square
foot spa.  The resort also offers a white sand beach
and the Caribbean Sea.

The island of Barbados offers tropical climate with
year round temperatures that stay between 75 and
85 degrees.  The non stop flights to Barbados take
around 4.5 hours from New York City, making the
island one of the best beach vacation spots from the
East Coast.

The country club at Sandy Lane Resort is a golfers'
paradise.  The resort spa, fronted by a waterfall
and swimming pool, offers guests a combination of
relaxing and healing therapies from the Far East,
Caribbean, and even Europe.  For the ultimate in spa
indulgence you should try one of the nine VIP
treatment suites with a private landscaped garden
and three hydrotherapy pools.

The 112 resort rooms are both luxurious and very
spacious, with each one offering a plasma television
and high speed internet access.  The hotel also
provides 24 hour room service, and maid cleaning
service twice a day.

If you plan to go on a family vacation, the resort
offers the Tree House Club, which is a special
facility designed for children 3 - 12.  Kids here
can experience exciting thrills, such as swimming
with turtles and easter egg hunts.  The resort
will also offer you and your family a number of
exciting water sports, tennis, and even shopping.

The signature restaurant, L'Acajou, serves French
cuisine that features fresh island seafood and
other local treats.  The restaurant also offers
you an open air setting on the waterfront, that
offers you breathtaking panoramic views.

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Ocracoke Island Vacation

Accessible by only ferry, private boat, or by air,
Ocracoke Island seems to make time stand still on
it's 16 mile island.  What really makes this island
special is that over three quarters of it is protected
Cape Hatteras National Seashore property.

Within Ocracoke Island North Carolina, there are
many different houses, schools, parks, and numerous
boat ramps and places for beach access.  The community
is very friendly here, making it a perfect beach
vacation spot for the entire family.

For everything practical and not so practical you'll
need while your away from home, you can find it here
on Ocracoke Island.  From beach chairs and boards to
manicures and massages, and rental cars to finding a
caterer - you can find everything you need to make
your beach vacation a dream come true.

For nearly 12 continuous miles, the dunes and marsh
lands of the island are untouched, providing a home
for birds, deer, muskrats, rabbits, and other wild
animals.  The several beaches on the island are some
of the last pristine beaches left in America.  Fishermen
and anglers are allowed to drive on the beach, with
surf fishing being truly great here.

If you visit Ocracoke Island in the summer, you'll
find that there is always something to do.  The
island has a happening nightlife as well, which
is perfect for those who want more than just the
beach on their vacation.

If you live close to North Carolina, Ocracoke Island
is possibly closer than you may realize.  Those of
you who have been looking for the perfect beach
vacation can find it here.  All you have to do is
book a hotel then let the good times roll.

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Oahu Vacation Ideas

The island of Oahu in Hawaii is both beautiful and
diverse.  A majority of people are drawn here to
the excitement of Waikiki Beach with its colorful
clubs and taste filled restaurants.

The island activities around Oahu range from
surfing lessons and canoeing to swimming with the
dolphins and scuba diving.  No matter what you or
your family like to do on vacation, you can find
something for everyone on Oahu island.

Adventure
Those that like adventure can choose from a wide
variety of water sports and land activities on
Oahu.  If you would like to spend your vacation in
or near the water, you should try surfing, scuba
diving, or windsurfing.  The land activities here
include hiking through rain forests, biking along
the mountain ranges, even parachuting.

If you happen to be staying on Waikiki Beach, there
are many shops that rent outrigger canoes, surf
boards, and other gear on the beach.  You can even
go to the Kapiolani Park for tennis, archery, and
even jogging.

Romance
Romantic beach vacations on Oahu Island range from
renewing your wedding vows to luxurious beach service
at one of the several hotels.  If you've never
tasted pink beer or champagne, Mai Tai Bar is the
place you should check out.

If you would rather stay in a more secluded area,
Kahala Mandarin Oriental is 10 minutes away from
Waikiki Beach and offers a long sandy beach, great
service, and swimming with the dolphins - which is
something everyone is sure to enjoy.

Family beach vacations
Oahu is a destination that offers many different
activities for the entire family.  You can choose
from children's programs at Waikiki Beach hotels,
hands on programs, and a variety of watersports.
The Honolulu Zoo, the Waikiki Aquarium, and the
See Life Park of Hawaii are just a few of the
attractions the whole family can enjoy together.

The Waikiki Beach is shallow and water is calm
almost year round, especially in the winter months
when the surf stayes under three feet.  There are
certain parts of the beach that have a life guard
on duty watching over swimmers and surfers.

Culture
If you are interested in Hawaiian culture on your
beach vacation, Oahu Island offers a selection of
museums, historical attractions, and several
exhibits.  With several villages and culture
exhibits, you can learn anything you desire about
the culture of Hawaii.

When the time comes for your beach vacation, the
island of Oahu is a dream come true.  The entire
family will love it here, with the island also being
perfect for just a lovers vacation.  If you've
never had the pleasure of going to Hawaii - there
is no better time than now.

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Myrtle Beach

North Myrtle Beach is an excellent beach vacation
that offers endless stretches of powdery white
sand and the crystal blue Atlantic Ocean.  These
are all but the beginning of what a truly great
vacation in Myrtle Beach, South Carolina is all
about.

No matter if you are looking for a relaxing break
from your daily routine or a vacation filled with
activity, you'll find it all and then some in Myrtle
Beach.  There is something for your entire family
here, including miniature golf, water parkers, fine
dining, shopping, and a lot more.  Golf lovers will
find paradise in choosing from over 80 pro courses
in the Myrtle Beach/North Myrtle Beach areas.

When the sun goes down in Myrtle Beach, the fun
doesn't stop.  Several fine dining restaurants
will tempt you with their delicious food.  After
you have dinner you can visit one of the many night
clubs in Myrtle Beach that offers a dazzling array
of entertainment that includes comedy, country
music, rock 'n' roll, and of course the shag music
that the beach is so very well known for.

Tucked away from the hustle and bustle of life
you'll find endless stretches of sandy beaches
with the sounds and smells of the ocean.  The salt
water marshes here are full of shrimp, crab, oysters
and even fish.  No matter what you do, you can't
help but relax as the ocean breeze caress the
amazing landscape of North Myrtle Beach.

Located just eight miles north of the Myrtle Beach
area, North Myrtle Beach offers beaches that are
less crowded, the pace is much slower, and fewer
high rise hotels help to maintain a family oriented
atmosphere.  Here, you can take early morning
strolls along the ocean and discover the endless
treasures that nature has left for you and your
family to enjoy.

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Maui Beaches

The island of Maui is home to some of the most amazing
beaches.  Some beaches offer swimming all year round,
while others are best for surfing or snorkeling
during certain times of the year.  Depending on
where you choose to stay, there are always some
famous beaches nearby.

West Maui beaches
If you drive along the west coast of Maui from Lahaina
to Kapalua, you'll see many breathtaking beaches
along the coast.    Kaanapali Beach will offer
you over three miles of white sand with a variety
of watersports, including surfing, sailboating,
and even catamaran rides. On the north end of
the beach is Black Rock, which is well known for
snorkeling.

Visitors like the sandy beach at Napili Bay,
because there are no high rise buildings around,
and the bay is protected well from waves.  The
Kapalua Resort in west Maui is home to Kapalua
Beach, Oneloa Bay Beach, and the D.T. Fleming
Beach.

South Maui Beaches
The rule with Hawaii and Maui is that the further
south you travel, the less crowded the beaches
will be.

Kihei offers you a series of beaches along the
six mile coastline, some even offering lifeguards,
restrooms, and picnic areas.  Polo Beach and
Wailea Beach offer both restrooms and equipment
rentals.  Or, if you prefer a more secluded beach,
you should visit Maluaka Beach at the Maui
Prince Hotel - where you may even encounter some
green sea turtles.

A few miles past the Maui Prince Hotel is the
Big Beach of Makena, which is one of the best
beaches on Maui.  As the name implies, the beach is
quite large, and best of all - empty.  It offers
white sand, picnic facilities, and even restrooms.

East Maui Beaches
The beaches of East Maui are unlike others in
Hawaii.  Surround by lush scenery, the beaches are
secluded, scenic, and very colorful.

Hamoa Beach is a must visit if you plan to visit
East Maui.  As you approach the beach from the
main road, you'll walk past colorful plants and
palm trees surrounding Hamoa Beach.  Just off Hana
Highway is Hana Bay Beach, which offers black
volcanic sand.

The Red Sand Beach is difficult to get to, you'll
need to find a narrow path along the coast.  The
beach offers plenty of swimming and snorkeling,
and you should be the only one there - which is
great for those looking for privacy.  Even though
it is hard to get to, Red Sand Beach is truly one
of a kind.

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Laguna Beach California

Perfectly situated midway between Los Angeles and
San Diego in southern Orange County, Laguna Beach
is a popular weekend vacation in Southern
California.  Offering seven miles of coastline
with sandy beaches and palm trees, Laguna Beach
is the perfect beach vacation getaway.

There are 30 beaches and coves that visitors can
explore either on foot or by kayak.  The activities
here include sailing, bird watching, beach volleyball,
surfing, and even scuba diving.

The Laguna Beach also enjoys warm weather year round
with an average high of 69 degrees in January and
77 degrees in July.  Popular activities for the outdoors
here include romantic picnics, hiking, cycling,
tennis, golf, and even botanical garden tours.

Laguna Beach is also home to an active artist
community with almost 100 galleries that showcase art
pieces by local and international artists.  There
are many festivals here in the summer, some of
which are known around the world.

For those who enjoy shopping, Laguna Beach offers
a wide selection of unique shops that sell hand
crafted jewelry, antiques, and other things that you
won't find anywhere else.

With the perfect weather year round, Laguna Beach
in California offers you the perfect location for
your beach vacation.  Kids enjoy playing in the
sand at one of the several beaches, while parents
enjoy sun bathing and taking in the views that
Laguna Beach is very well known for.

If you've thought about taking a beach vacation in
the near future, Laguna Beach is perfect.  There
are several hotels for you to choose from, many
of which offer discounts during the year, depending
on when you visit.  There's something for everyone
here, even if your family is hard to please.

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Kona Village Resort

The amazing and relaxing Kona Village Resort is
located on the western coast of the Big Island of
Hawaii.  Offering you breathtaking views and plenty
of things to do, the Kona Village Resort is a
beach vacation come true.

If you are planning to relax, unwind from the
pressures of life, and get closer to nature, Kona
Village Resort is the ideal place to go.  This
vacation resort caters to couples seeking romance
as well as families looking to spend quality vacation
time together.

The Polynesian style cottages have no phones or
television sets.  This way, guests can spend their
days trying out new activities, exploring the rich
Hawaiian marine life in the bay, or just spend time
relaxing time on the beach.

The resort offers 125 individual bungalows that
are spread out across 82 tropical acres.  They are
all different in style, size, and view.  The south
side of the resort offers palm trees and tropical
foliage, while the lagoon side features wildlife,
and the north side features a unique lava flow.

When it comes to dinner, you'll have a choice of
two oceanfront restaurants.  The cuisine is light
with an emphasis on fresh island vegetables and
fish.  On Friday, the resort hosts the infamous
and legendary Lu'au, which has been a Hawaiian
tradition for many years.

The Kona Village Resort is located on 82 acres
of tropical heaven with a large beach - private
for guests.  You can explore the resort bay
that is teeming with wildlife, including the
Hawaiian grean sea turtles and blue tangs.

If you visit the resort between December and April,
you may even catch the North Pacific humpback
whales as they migrate from Alaska to Hawaii -
right off the beach.  Almost every night at the
resort, you can see the manta rays swim into the
light in front of the Hale Moana restaurant.

There are several different activities to choose
from here as well, including snorkeling, kayaking,
and sailing.  The Kona Village resort will even
organize daily volleyball games and glass bottom
boat tours.  If you choose, you can even play
tennis, go fishing, or even scuba diving - in
the crystal clear Hawaii water.

The Kona Village Resort in Hawaii is another fine
example of everything Hawaii has to offer you on
your beach vacation.  Hawaii is a beach vacation
paradise, with something for the entire family.
If you've been looking for the ideal vacation spot,
Kona Village is where you'll want to spend almost
all of your time.

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Huntington Beach California

One of the very best getaways for a beach vacation
in California is sunny Huntington Beach.  With many
diverse sports such as surfing, biking, boating,
skateboarding, fishing, golf, tennis, and beach
volleyball - everyone can get into the game and find
something to enjoy.  Even after the sun goes down,
you'll find something to do on Huntington Beach.

Even the briefest of family beach vacations to
Huntington Beach should include a visit to the
International Surfing Museum, where some of the
most treasured surfing artifacts are stored.  

Other attractions ideal for Huntington Beach include
the Huntington Beach art center, and the surfers
hall of fame.  There are plenty of other things to
do here besides the beach, which is perfect for
families who want more to do than swim.

Kids of all ages will enjoy a trip to Huntington
Central Park, which is one of the largest city parks
in Southern California.  With picnic tables,
barbeques, restaurants, sports complex, the
Adventure Playground, and even a golf course, this
is a great place to spend some time away from
the beach.

Huntington Beach is also within short traveling
distance to many of Southern California's most
popular attractions and sights.  Disneyland,
Knott's Berry Farm, Wild Rivers Waterpark, and
the Aquarium of the Pacific are all less than 20
miles away from Huntington Beach.  After a fun
day of exploring and riding rides, the beach is
an ideal place to return to.

With a lot to offer you and a lot of things to do
nearby, Huntington Beach is one of the best areas
Southern California has to offer.  There is always
something to do for your entire family, even if
your family is hard to please.  Huntington Beach
is that good - and your family will soon see that!

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vacation Ideas

Nothing in the world beats a family beach vacation,
whether it's at a deluxe resort, or a simple
campground on the beach.

Below, are some ways you might do your vacation:

Caribbean Beach Vacation
1.  Families flock to Jamaica and the
Dominican Republic for their all inclusives with
watersports and kids clubs.
2.  At some resorts the kids programs are
outstanding, with separate leaders and activities
for many different age groups.
3.  Pool complexes - some resorts have
waterparks.
4.  The prices can be high, although they
will drop from May to December.  Hurricane season is
in those months as well, although most resorts offer
weather guarantees.

Mexico Beach Vacation
Even though tourists zip down to Mexico and do
what they want at a condo or small hotel, beach
vacations at all inclusive resorts are still the best
way to go for families.

The Riviera Maya, an hour south of Cancun, has
the second largest barrier reef in the world.  It
also has many activities for families to explore
outside of the resort.  You can rent a car, hire
a taxi, or even take a public bus.

Hawaii Beach Vacation
When you go to Hawaii, you shouldn't expect to
find all inclusive resorts in the Aloha state.
Hawaii is known for lush luxury resorts, such as
the Grand Wailea on Maui, or the properties on
the Big Island's Kohala Coast.

To find more affordable options in Hawaii, the
Waikiki Beach area is breathtaking, fun for the
entire family, and offers several different lodging
options.

With plenty of options available to you and your
family, vacation ideas on the beach are always
something to look forward to.  There are many beaches
out there, all you have to do is find the one that
fits your needs - and your budget.

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Hamoa Beach Vacation Paradise

The black sand of Hamoa Beach is one of the best
beaches on Maui.  The water isn't too rough, there
are no rocks in the surf, the crowds are minimal,
and the nearby scenery is amazing.  For a beach
vacation, Hamoa Beach is tough to beat.

Hamoa Beach is about a five to ten minute drive
from the town of Hana.  The drive is easy to make,
with lots of great scenery along the way.  There
isn't a parking lot, so you'll need to park on
the side of the road and walk down the steps to
the beach.  Parking isn't normally a problem
because the beach is never crowded.

There is a beach hut on Hamoa Beach that rents
body boards, snorkeling equipment, and even gives
out towels to guests of the Hotel Hana Maui.
There are also beach chairs and umbrellas that
are for guests only.

Unless you are a guest and want a chair, the best
spot on Hamoa Beach is on a big towel right in
the center of the black sand.  There's plenty
of shade on the beach, so you won't have any
trouble getting out of the sun when you have had
your fill of it.

The water at the beach isn't rough and there are
no rocks to cut you as you swim.  The waves here
can get quite large, although they are easier
to swim in than other beaches on the island.

Hamoa Beach is an excellent beach vacation spot,
offering something for the entire family.  There
is always something going on here, no matter
what time of year you visit.  For a beach vacation
that never lets up - Hamoa Beach is where you
need to be.

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Family Beach Vacation In Maui

Located on the southwest side of Maui, the Fairmont
Kea Lani Maui overlooks the amazing waters off of
Polo Beach.  The beach here is the center of all
water activities such as snorkeling, sailing,
kayaking, and even windsurfing.

Visitors here can play on any of the Wailea Golf
Club's three championship golf courses or enjoy
a game of tennis at any of the 14 courts the tennis
center offers.  Parents that are tired can get some
much deserved personal time with a massage at the
Spa Kea Lani.

The resort accommodations are either suites or
villas, so there is no need to squeeze your entire
family into a tiny room.  There suites here are a
minumum of 840 square feet and offer a separate
living room and marble bathroom with a separate
tub for soaking.

The private two levels villas here are minutes
away from the beach and are between 1,800 - 2,200
square feet as well.  The villas are ideal for
larger families as they offer a full service
kitchen and a private courtyard with a plunge pool
and barbeque for grilling out.

Keiki Lani is also the hotel's activity center
for kids as well.  It's a state licensed facility
for children between the ages of 5 and 13, giving
parents a break from watching their kids.  Here,
children can enjoy painting coconuts, building
sand castles, exploring the tide pools, learning
how to dance hula, and even making real flower
leis.  The activity center can accommodate up to
19 children, so be sure to call ahead and reserve
a space for your children.

Rates
The rates for stay start at $325 per night for a
suite.  One of the benefits of a family vacation
here is the special deals that are almost always
available.  The Fairmont Kea Lani Maui has several
packages available for family vacations.

If you are planning to explore the island with
the kids, you'll save a lot of money by taking a
package that includes a free rental car.  This way,
you can explore the island at your will without
having to worry about paying any extra money.

For a family vacation, Maui is truly a one of a
kind destination.  There are many different things
to do here for everyone in your family, even if they
are indeed hard to please.

Once your family experiences Maui and everything
there is to offer, you'll never look at beach
vacations the same way again.  Maui has that kind
of power - especially when it comes to warm weather
and pleasing people from all over the world.

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Family Beach Vacation Ideas

All across the world, there are several locations you
can choose for your family beach vacation.  Below,
you will find many different locations, and what
they will offer you and your family.

Maui
Throughout the West Coast of Maui, you'll have many
choices for your beach vacation.  If you plan to
enjoy golf, the Kapalua Resort is a great choice,
as guests will receive 30% lower golf rates than
those who don't stay at the resort.  The resort
also includes the Kapalua Bay Hotel, Kapalua Villas,
and the Ritz-Carlton Kapalua.

One bay over from the Kapalua Bay is the Napili Kai
Beach Resort, which is a low rise family resort
that offers comfortable beach front condos.  The
Napili Kai also offers complimentary programs for
children ages 6 - 12 from mid June to the end of
August, during Easter and Christmas.  The condos are
seconds away from the beach, and they include
kitchens as well as laundry facilities.

If you prefer a more secluded area, the Maui Prince
hotel is located in a quiet setting surrounded by
two scenic golf courses and a large sandy beach
that kids never seem to get enough of.

Mololai family adventures
The island of Molokai is filled with empty beaches,
no traffic lights, and few tourists.  Many tourists
visits only for a day or so, with some going to
the island because they assumed they were going to
Molokini (which is a snorkeling site near Maui).

The island of Mololai is accessible by ferry from
Maui or by plane from Honolulu.  The island is
ideal for those who like the outdoors with a twist
of adventure.  When you visit here, you shouldn't
expect shopping or nightlife.

Florida
The Breakers Hotel in sunny Palm Beach Florida has
a spa, golf course, and a 1/2 mile sandy beach.
There is also a seperate pool for the kids, a family
entertainment center, and a kid's program.  Families
can reserve up to five adjoining rooms while
children under the age of 16 can stay for free in
the same room as their parents.

If you decide to take your beach vacation in Orlando,
the Loews Hard Rock Hotel offers you plenty of
beach and amusement rides, with a 240 foot slide
and a white sandy beach.

California
With several family beach vacation resorts in
California, the Hotel Del Coronado is among the most
famous.  The hotel offers many different facilities
for families, including lessons in kayaking, surfing,
tennis, and biking.

Georgia
The barrier islands in Georgia offer ambiance,
sandy beaches, and a laid back prospective to life
as you know it.  Jekyll Island offers you miles
of paved bike path with three 18 hole golf courses,
which is perfect for golf enthusiasts.

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Family Beach Vacation At Atlantis

Located on Paradise Island in the Bahamas, the
Atlantis Paradise Island offers so many activities
that it's probably one of the only resorts in the
world where you'll need a map to even get around!

The accommodations here range from moderately
priced to very expensive.  Families on vacation
here should consider staying in the Coral Towers,
which is the most centrally located tower at
Atlantis.  The Coral Towers is also closest to the
Predator Lagoon and the Lagoon Pool as well.

Atlantis Paradise Island Resort is also packed with
activities for guests of all ages.  The eleven
pool areas, miles of sandy beach, and Neptune's
Water Toys Hut give guests access to many water
based activities.  Neptune's provides non motorized
water sports which include water bikes, pedal
boats, kayaks, and even snorkeling equipment rentals.

Parents will adore
Atlantis has two different programs for children,
the Aqua Tots program and the Discovery Channel Camp.
The Aqua Tots program was designed for children 3
years old and up, while the discovery camp is for
kids 4 - 12 years old and ranges from a 1 hour
program to one that includes lunch and even dinner.

Kids love
All kids love the six different water slides and
the marine exhibits.  This can keep kids busy for
hours and hours, and are pretty fun for the parents
as well.  In order to enjoy the slides, kids must be
at least 48 inches tall.

A beach vacation at Atlantis is something your
entire family will love.  There is something here
to keep everyone occupied, from the beaches to fun
on the slides.  If your family enjoys the best of fun
and the beach, Atlantis is something your whole
family will enjoy - and love coming back to.

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