Best Family Beach Vacations In South America: Most Kid Friendly Destinations
Best Family beach vacations in South America are a exhilarating mix of fun in the sun, samba rhythm, succulent sea food, and the exhilaration in the balmy air.
South America, with its Amazon Jungle and Andes mountains, is a diverse destination that can offer your children a unique understanding of the world. Its geology, ecosystems, history, and culture are all fascinating and can be life-changing for your kids. Plus, there are plenty of beaches and activities to keep them entertained.
From Machu Picchu in Peru to the Galapagos Islands in Ecuador, from Iguassu Falls on the Brazil-Argentina border to Easter Island off Chile, South America has it all for a truly unforgettable family beach vacation.
Local wildlife parks can be a great way to teach your children about the native species in their natural habitat, and restaurants provide a great opportunity for the whole family to explore local cuisines and try something new.
With long stretches of gorgeous sand beaches, water sports and outdoor adventures, you’re sure to find a breathtaking experience that will stay with your kids for a lifetime.

Is South America Safe?
Though security concerns cast a pall over some beaches, a family beach vacation in South America is one of the safest and most exciting things you could plan.
Till recently South America was considered taboo for family vacations due to its steamy reputation and security scares. But now most resort areas have wised up to the value of tourist dollars and cleaned up enough to make visitors welcome to their fabulous shores. Thus family beach vacations in South America are now no longer a rarity.
What is the safest South American country to visit with family?
The safest country to visit in South America is probably Chile. Santiago, the capital of Chile has a moderate crime rate for a city of its size and is considered comforting for tourists. Chile has been ranked the safest country in South America by the Global Peace Index and there are currently no travel warnings or alerts for Chile from the U.S. State Department. In fact, Chile consistently ranks as one of the top 30 safest countries in the world.
Other countries with low crime rates include Uruguay, Paraguay, Ecuador, Peru and Argentina. All these countries boast great beaches and luxurious resorts perfect for family vacations.
When is the Best Time to Visit South America?
The best time to visit South America depends largely on the type of vacation you’re looking for. If your goal is a beach getaway, then the months between December and March are ideal as they offer the most pleasant weather. This is also peak season, so prices may be higher than in other seasons.
For those looking for a more laid-back vacation, the shoulder seasons (April-June and September-November) are recommended. Prices tend to be lower during this time and fewer crowds mean you can really soak in all South America has to offer.
Can You Take the Kids to South America?
Absolutely! South American countries offer families plenty of activities and attractions that are perfect for kids. Whether it’s exploring the Inca ruins in Peru, seeing exotic animal and plant species in the Amazon, visiting hiking trails or relaxing on white sand beaches, there is something to keep everyone happy.
For those looking to make their trip extra special, consider joining a family tour which includes activities such as zip-lining, trekking through the jungle, or snorkeling in crystal waters.
No matter what type of trip you’re looking for, a family vacation in South America can be an unforgettable experience. From the spectacular cultural highlights to the stunning natural beauty and abundance of activities, it’s no wonder why this region has become a favorite for families around the world and on many adult travelers bucket lists .
Let’s Explore the Best Family Beach Vacations In South America with Kids
The best places to visit in South America with kids are often the ones that are most laid back and relaxed. The beautiful beaches of Brazil, Colombia, Ecuador and Peru offer a wonderful mix of culture, nature and adventure for any family looking for fun in the sun.
Brazil and Beautiful Beaches
Brazil is a great venue for a family beach vacation in South America. Brazil has more beaches than it knows what to do with, and this suits the purposes of the thousands who descend on its sunny coasts from all corners of the world.
A wide variety that includes family beaches, wild party zones, undiscovered inviolate beaches, upmarket beach resorts, and secluded beaches of the rich and famous means there’s plenty for everyone without stepping on each other’s toes.
For best family vacations in Brazil, you have three superb choices to pick from or enjoy one after the other. The famous beach Copacabana in Rio de Janeiro with its sugary beach, the Ipanema with its family friendly ambiance and the Santos Beach Garden are all winners. Buzios, named after a tiny conch shell, is known as the playground of the rich.
Over twenty beaches, ranging from the tranquil to the terrible, wrap around this peninsula offering wonderful family beach vacations. They come replete with water sports, great shopping, restaurants, stunning visual splendor great family attractions and a variety of fun entertainments.
Isla Margarita in Venezuela Family Vacation
The Geriba, Forno, and Azedinha top the list in terms of excitement. You will find people from all parts of the world quite at home here and having the time of their lives.
The other spots perfect for a family beach vacations in South America would be the Playa El Aqua on Isla Margarita in Venezuela. This is a piece of paradise embellished in emerald green and turquoise blue with strips of sand akin to powdered white sugar. The waters are so clear that you can see the bottom even when you wade deep in.

The Galapagos Islands of Ecuador – Explore Nature at its Best
If you want to enjoy a unique family vacation spot in South America, why not head for the Galapagos Islands. These volcanic islands sit atop an underwater mountain range and form part of the Republic of Ecuador.
To witness all the wonders of the Galápagos, including the giant tortoises, blue-footed boobies, and playful sea lions that inhabit the equatorial waters, you must embark on a group ship tour. This experience will surely amaze kids.
Its waters are a tropical paradise brimming with marine life, coral reefs and sea bird colonies offering great visual delights. Family beach vacations here offer activities such as kayaking, snorkeling, sunbathing, swimming and wildlife watching.
In Ecuador you may also need to choose between excellent beaches such as the Esmeraldas, the Salinas, the Montanita, and the Playas, all within short distance from the vibrant city of Guayaquil.
Cusco Peru and Machu Picchu – Sacred Valley Peru
Combine a family beach vacation in South America with a visit to one of the world’s most fascinating archaeological sites, Machu Picchu. Located high in the mountains at Cusco Peru, Machu Picchu offers a unique and memorable experience for any traveler.
One of the most famous landmarks in South America is the ancient site of Machu Picchu in Cusco, Peru. This World Heritage Site is an impressive Incan citadel nestled at the high altitude of 2,430 meters and set amongst the postcard-perfect Andes Mountains. The sacred valley , mountain and winding rivers of Machu Picchu make for a truly spiritual experience.
To fully enjoy your trip to Peru, it’s important to note that both Machu Picchu and neighboring city Cusco are situated at high altitudes, ranging from 8,000 to 11,000 feet. Therefore, it’s recommended that you keep your family hydrated and gradually acclimatize to the area. With some guidance, planning, and patience, your entire family can make the most of your trip.
If you’re looking for a more relaxed family beach vacation in Peru, the nearby beaches at Palomino Island are lush with sand and calm waters. Here you can find many activities such as swimming, kayaking, fishing or just lazing around with a good book in the sun. Cusco also has some great beaches, so you can enjoy the best of both worlds.

Also in Peru you will find the Amazon Jungle, a vast and lush rainforest that is home to many of the world’s most unique animal and plant life. A riverboat tour is a popular way to explore this area, with visits to indigenous villages providing an insight into the local culture.
For those looking for more adventurous activities, Peru has plenty to offer from surfing lessons and kite boarding to river rafting and zip lining.
Mar de Ajó in Buenos Aires, Argentina
According to our travelers, Mar de Ajó is a coastal town in the Buenos Aires region of Argentina that is very popular as a family-friendly tourist destination. This is due to the mild climate, with temperatures averaging 22ºC and rarely going over 32ºC, as well as the well-kept beaches. The waves are ideal for surfing, and the warm waters offer a safe environment for swimming.
The currents are gentle and there are many lifeguards, making it an ideal spot to teach children how to swim. If you need a place to stay, the there are many family hotels that offer spacious family rooms and a beachfront view.
But Mar de Ajó is much more than just a beach resort. Apart from water activities such as jet skiing or kite boarding, you can also enjoy horseback riding or visit local attractions such as the lighthouse and various museums in the area.
Columbia Family Vacations
Finally, Colombia is a great option for families looking for an unforgettable beach vacation in South America. Looking for a family vacation destination that has it all? Look no further than Columbia!
This country in South America offers something for everyone in the family, from the bustling city of Bogota to the picturesque coffee plantations in the countryside. Take the kids to explore the historic walled city of Cartagena, or venture deeper into the jungle to see indigenous tribes and marvel at the awe-inspiring Amazon rainforest.
And don’t forget about the beaches – Colombia has a long coastline with plenty of sandy shores to relax and play on. Whether your family enjoys relaxing on pristine white sand beaches or exploring remote tropical islands, you can find it all in Colombia. Some of the best beaches in Colombia are located near Cartagena, Barranquilla, and Santa Marta.
You can also explore the Caribbean Sea by boat tour or cruise and enjoy some spectacular scuba diving. No matter what type of family beach vacation you’re looking for, there’s something for everyone in Colombia.
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Visit these South American Countries for a Family Vacation You will Not Forget
Home to one of the most picturesque landscapes, unspoiled jungles, and panoramic beaches, South America, should be your next travel destination! South America’s diverse cultures, rich history, and vibrant cities are sure to offer something for the entire family. Whether you’re looking for a beach holiday, an adventure tour, or a cultural exploration, South America has it all!
From Peru’s ancient Incan ruins and Colombia’s Caribbean coastline to Ecuador’s Galapagos Islands and Brazil’s thrilling city life, the possibilities are endless! Our South America family vacation packages offer exciting experiences for everyone to enjoy.
From Machu Picchu in Peru and Iguazu Falls in Brazil to Salar de Uyuni in Bolivia, you’ll find plenty of incredible sites that are sure to leave your whole family breathless. And with a wide selection of exciting activities, such as snorkeling and whitewater rafting, your family is sure to have a once in a lifetime experience.
So if you’re looking for an unforgettable vacation filled with impressive sights, delicious food, and thrilling activities that will please everyone in the family, consider South America! With its vast natural beauty, unique culture, and rich history, South America can provide your family with memories that will last a lifetime.
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