With its year-round mild temperatures, the beautiful southern coastline of Gran Canaria is a family favourite for those seeking a cultural European escape from colder temperatures. Whether you’re after picturesque fishing villages full of local charm, golden sandy beaches or prestigious golf courses, this balmy side of the Atlantic is suitable for all types of holidaygoers. There’s plenty to keep everyone entertained, from boat and submarine trips to exploring prehistoric caves and enjoying the local markets. And resorts in areas like Puerto de Mogán (also known as Little Venice), Meloneras in the sunny south or the cosmopolitan capital Las Palmas are wonderfully set up for families, with pedestrian-friendly promenades, lively marinas and an abundance of restaurants that cater just as well to children as they do to parents where local cuisine is packed with Spanish, African, and Latin-American influences – think fresh seafood, comforting stews and crowd-pleasing papas arrugadas con mojo for younger diners. 

For exploring the Algarve in style, be sure to pack outfits in lightweight fabrics for sightseeing, swimwear for beach days, and soft knits for cooler evenings set against a backdrop of terracotta rooftops and the beautiful Atlantic sunset.

Forecast: Expect mild winter temperatures ranging from 18 to 24 °C (64 to 75 °F), perfect for outdoor activities like hiking, biking, and exploring charming villages on foot.

Where to stay: Seaside Grand Hotel Residencia is a luxury family-friendly resort with pools, gardens, a dedicated kids’ zone, and plenty of entertainment. It’s conveniently located near Maspalomas’ sand dunes, beaches, and local markets.

Where to eat: For fresh Canarian cuisine that kids will love as much as adults, try Restaurante El Centro in Las Palmas.

What to wear: Versatile outfits, like linen jumpsuits and shorts sets, swimwear layered under floaty trousers, and light chinos with tees. Don’t forget sunglasses.

Sun-drenched coastlines, turquoise Caribbean waters and vibrant resort living: Mexico’s Riviera Maya is a luxurious yet wonderfully family-friendly choice for a winter escape. Stretching south from Cancún, this jaw-dropping strip of coastline has all the comforts of five-star living with a sense of adventure thrown in. Here, all-inclusive resorts sit between powder-soft beaches and jungle landscapes, offering everything from kids’ clubs and calm swimming lagoons to indulgent spas and world-class dining for foodies of all ages.
 

Areas such as Playa del Carmen, Puerto Aventuras and Akumal are particularly well suited to families, with beautifully designed resorts, walkable beachfronts and activities that cater to every generation. Days can be spent snorkelling with turtles, discovering ancient Mayan cities or exploring eco-parks before dressing up for sunset dinners under the palms. And their packing list is just as fun! Breezy linen sets, colourful dresses and swimwear with matching cover ups is all they need.

Forecast: Temperatures in February range between 20 and 28 °C (68 to 82 °F) with minimal chance of rainfall and moderate humidity.

Where to stay: Grand Velas Riviera Maya is perfect for families, with spacious suites, kids’ clubs, multiple pools and activities designed for children of all ages, while parents can enjoy the spa and gourmet dining.
 

Where to eat: For fresh Mexican flavours with broad appeal, try La Cueva del Chango in Playa del Carmen, where tacos, quesadillas and tropical treats are served in a garden setting.
 

What to wear: Colourful outfits, fun swimwear and light layers for cooler shaded excursions. Don’t forget a sun hat and comfy sandals with adjustable straps.

Home to calm beaches, incredible resorts and a sun-soaked coastline, Dubai is a confident choice for families looking to escape the winter chill back home. Set along the Arabian Gulf, this dynamic city blends beachfront relaxation with headline-grabbing experiences, providing sunshine, comfort, convenience and excitement all in one place. 
 

Dubai’s food scene is as diverse as its incredible choice of activities, with everything from relaxed beachfront cafés to international restaurants designed with younger diners in mind. Areas such as Jumeirah Beach, The Palm and Dubai Marina are particularly well suited to families, offering calm beaches and resorts packed with kids’ clubs, waterparks and shaded pools. Days are filled with choices galore! You’ll be splashing at Atlantis Aquaventure, wandering aquarium tunnels, gliding across the desert on a gentle safari and enjoying sunset strolls along the beach. And if you’ve got older children, try heading out for dinner a little later and watch the city lights come alive. For packing, they’ll be grateful for breathable fabrics, like cotton and linen, sun-ready separates for daytime exploring, light layers for air-conditioned hotels and malls, plus relaxed evening wear for those picture-perfect memories against Dubai’s famous skyline.

Forecast: Winter temperatures in Dubai average around 23 °C (73 °F), compared to highs of 40 °C (104 °F) in the summer, making it the perfect time to enjoy the outdoors. February is considered Dubai’s wettest month, but rainy days are few and far between, and you can expect plenty of sun and moderate humidity.

Where to stay: Atlantis, The Palm is a luxurious family-friendly hotel with one of the world’s largest waterparks on site!

Where to eat: For a relaxed setting that caters to diners of all ages, try The Beach at JBR, where casual restaurants sit along a pedestrian-friendly promenade by the sea.

What to wear: Lightweight outfits for sunny days, swimwear with UPF50+ protection, plus breathable layers for evenings and air-conditioned spaces. A packable raincoat is also a good idea.