There’s something magical about a family road trip—the freedom to explore at your own pace, the shared laughs along the way, and the joy of discovering new places together. A well-planned road trip can turn into one of the most memorable family vacations, especially if the journey includes scenic routes, interactive stops, quirky attractions, and kid-friendly adventures.
Here are some of the best family road trip routes around the world, each offering unforgettable experiences for kids and adults alike.
1. Pacific Coast Highway, California, USA
The Pacific Coast Highway (PCH) is one of America’s most iconic road trips, stretching along California’s stunning coastline.
Family Highlights:
- Monterey Bay Aquarium: A world-class aquarium that fascinates kids with sea otters, jellyfish, and a giant kelp forest.
- Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk: Rides, games, and seaside treats make this a perfect pit stop.
- Elephant Seal Rookery: At Piedras Blancas, families can watch hundreds of elephant seals lounging on the beach.
The dramatic coastal views, easy roadside stops, and beach towns like Carmel-by-the-Sea make this a perfect family-friendly drive.
2. Great Ocean Road, Australia
The Great Ocean Road offers breathtaking coastal scenery and wildlife encounters, making it ideal for a laid-back family road trip.
Fun Stops:
- Twelve Apostles: Towering limestone stacks that are especially photogenic at sunset.
- Koala Spotting at Kennett River: Kids will love spotting wild koalas in the eucalyptus trees.
- Beaches and Lighthouses: There are plenty of family-friendly beaches and historic lighthouses along the way.
This route offers short driving distances with plenty of opportunities for picnics, beach play, and wildlife sightings.
3. Garden Route, South Africa
The Garden Route is a treasure for families, with mountains, forests, beaches, and family-friendly towns along the way.
Top Family Stops:
- Knysna Elephant Park: A safe, ethical encounter with rescued elephants.
- Cango Caves: Fun cave tours with options suitable for younger children.
- Plettenberg Bay: Great beaches and adventure parks.
The Garden Route is known for its variety—whether your family loves beaches, animals, or light adventure, this trip has something for everyone.
4. Ring Road, Iceland
For families who love natural wonders, Iceland’s Ring Road offers waterfalls, glaciers, black sand beaches, and geothermal pools.
Kid-Friendly Stops:
- Seljalandsfoss Waterfall: You can walk behind this beautiful waterfall—a thrilling experience for children.
- Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon: Spot seals and floating icebergs from the shore.
- Blue Lagoon: A warm, soothing geothermal spa that’s family-friendly.
Distances between stops can be long, but the scenery is so captivating that even kids stay engaged.
5. South Island, New Zealand
New Zealand’s South Island offers some of the most family-friendly road trips in the world, with safe roads and breathtaking landscapes.
Family Highlights:
- Queenstown: Fun activities like the Skyline Luge and lake cruises.
- Franz Josef Glacier: Easy walking trails to glacier viewpoints.
- Punakaiki Pancake Rocks: Fascinating rock formations that will amaze kids.
The roads wind through mountains, past pristine lakes, and along wild coastlines, making the journey as enjoyable as the destinations.
6. Loch Lomond and The Trossachs, Scotland
For a more relaxed road trip, Scotland’s Loch Lomond area offers peaceful countryside, castles, and charming villages.
Family Stops:
- Loch Lomond Shores: Shopping, boat rides, and a sea life aquarium.
- Stirling Castle: An interactive, family-friendly castle with costumed guides.
- Easy Nature Walks: Trails around the loch are suitable for young children and offer great picnic spots.
It’s a gentle drive through green hills and historic towns, perfect for younger families.
Family road trips are about creating shared memories, enjoying the journey, and finding joy in unexpected places. Whether you’re driving along California’s rugged coast, through New Zealand’s mountains, or past Iceland’s waterfalls, each mile brings new opportunities to bond as a family.
With plenty of kid-friendly stops, scenic detours, and fun-filled attractions along the way, these road trips are perfect for families who love adventure and togetherness.
