Where to go for Adventurous Family holidays in May halfterm
Sail the backwaters of Kerala
Where: India
Flight time from the UK:
May marks the end of the summer season in Kerala, with temperatures ranging between 25°C to 35°C (77°F to 95°F). The early onset of the monsoon can bring occasional showers, providing a refreshing break from the heat. This time of year is lush and green, May brings the final flourish of Kerala’s summer, where the days are warm and humid, and the early monsoon rains breathe life into the landscape. This gentle shift in seasons transforms Kerala into a lush, green paradise — ideal for slow travel and meaningful exploration. The natural world flourishes, and the occasional showers add a magical freshness to your journey.
Often called the “Venice of the East,” Alleppey’s famed backwaters are best explored from the comfort of a private houseboat. Drift along palm-fringed canals and quiet lakes, passing vibrant villages where life unfolds on the water’s edge. A night aboard offers a rare window into daily life in Kerala, as well as the chance to spot kingfishers, herons, and otters in their natural habitats.
Cultural encounters are just as rich inland. Children will be captivated by a performance of Kathakali, Kerala’s traditional dance-drama known for its ornate makeup and expressive gestures. In Thekkady, a boat safari on Periyar Lake brings the possibility of seeing elephants and deer along the shore, all set within the misty hills of the Western Ghats.
Kerala also celebrates Vishu, the Malayali New Year, in early May during some years — a vibrant celebration filled with fireworks, flower arrangements, and traditional feasts, adding a festive dimension to your stay if your travel dates align.
Whether as a serene standalone escape or a calming follow-up to the energy of India’s larger cities, Kerala offers a rich, peaceful rhythm perfect for a half-term break or a longer restorative retreat.
Learn about the traditions of the Samurai in Kyoto
Where: Japan
Flight time from the UK:
It is a captivating time to experience Japan as a family, with mild weather, blossom-filled gardens, and a cultural calendar alive with celebration. It’s also the moment just before Japan shifts into summer — a wonderful sweet spot for families seeking enriching and comfortable travel.
One of the season’s key highlights is Golden Week, a national holiday stretch that runs from late April into early May, when the country bursts into colour with festivals and family celebrations. The spirit of the season peaks with Children’s Day on May 5th, when streets and homes are adorned with vibrant carp streamers to celebrate the hopes and strength of the next generation. It’s a heartwarming and visual delight for families travelling with children.
Kyoto, with its serene shrines and refined cultural heritage, offers a particularly memorable experience during this time. One of the oldest and most elegant festivals in Japan, the Aoi Matsuri (Hollyhock Festival), takes place in mid-May. In this graceful procession, participants dressed in exquisite Heian-period costumes make their way from the Imperial Palace to the Kamo Shrines — a moment that feels as though history is unfolding before your eyes.
While in Kyoto, a private guided visit to Nijo Castle, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, allows children to step into the world of the samurai and learn about the Edo period in a hands-on, engaging way. The beautifully preserved interiors and secret nightingale floors make it a wonder for adults and children alike.
Families can also enjoy a peaceful stroll through the enchanting Arashiyama Bamboo Grove, where towering green stalks create a dreamlike setting, before taking a traditional boat ride along the Hozu River, drifting between forested hills. For more playful moments, Iwatayama Monkey Park offers a gentle hike and the chance to observe wild macaques up close in their natural mountain habitat.
Kyoto in May is a place of beauty, history, and wonder — a destination where every experience feels crafted with meaning. To explore beyond Kyoto, our bespoke journeys can take your family deeper into Japan’s lesser-known treasures.
See the turtles hatching in Tortuguero
Where: Costa Rica
Flight time from the UK: 11 hours
May is a lush, green month in Costa Rica — the start of the rainy season, but also a time of rejuvenation and low-season benefits. Fewer visitors, lush rainforest canopies, and more affordable hotel rates make this an inviting time for families looking to experience the country’s remarkable biodiversity without the crowds.
On the Caribbean coast, Tortuguero National Park comes to life during sea turtle nesting season. From March to October, various turtle species — including green, leatherback, and olive ridley — arrive to lay their eggs on Tortuguero’s quiet beaches. Night-time guided walks offer a respectful way to witness this extraordinary natural event, sure to inspire wonder in every age group.
Beyond Tortuguero, the Nicoya Peninsula on the Pacific Coast offers beautiful beaches and warm surf. May is the last month of the year when you can swim with giant manta rays off the Catalina Islands, a thrilling marine experience perfect for confident swimmers and teens.
Costa Rica also celebrates Corpus Christi Day on 29th May, marked by colourful processions and traditional festivities. These celebrations offer families the opportunity to engage with local culture in a joyful and authentic way.
From rainforest wildlife encounters to Pacific beach days, Costa Rica in May delivers a tropical adventure rich with both meaning and magic.
Watch the Geysir
Where: Iceland
Flight time from the UK:
While many associate Iceland with winter’s frozen landscapes and northern lights, May reveals a different side — a land of vibrant colour, long daylight hours, and uncrowded natural wonders. This shoulder season offers mild weather and blooming wildflowers, perfect for adventurous families eager to explore without the chill.
The famous Golden Circle route is an excellent introduction to Iceland’s geological drama. Families can walk among geysers at Geysir, watch the mighty Gullfoss waterfall cascade into a glacial canyon, and stand on the tectonic divide in Thingvellir National Park.
In May, marine life also begins to flourish. Whale-watching tours from Húsavík or Reykjavík offer the chance to spot humpbacks and minke whales in the chilly North Atlantic. With smaller crowds and longer daylight hours, excursions feel more intimate and flexible for young travellers.
May also marks the start of Iceland’s festival season, including First Day of Summer celebrations and local food festivals that pop up across the countryside, celebrating nature’s return and community life.
For families looking to combine raw natural beauty with adventure and cultural warmth, Iceland in May offers an unforgettable experience beyond its wintery fame.
Have a safari adventures in Maasai mara
Where: Kenya
Flight time from the UK: 8 hours
May is the beginning of Kenya’s green season, when rains taper off and the plains of the Maasai Maraburst into vibrant life. Fewer visitors and lush vegetation make this a truly special time to experience a family safari. Wildlife is abundant, the landscapes are photogenic, and the atmosphere is peaceful — ideal for travellers seeking a more exclusive feel.
Children and adults alike will be spellbound by the sight of elephants roaming freely, giraffes grazing acacia trees, and lions lazing in the sun. Game drives at this time of year offer excellent viewing of the Big Five — lion, leopard, elephant, rhino, and buffalo — with minimal competition from other vehicles.
Many luxury lodges and tented camps now offer child-friendly safari experiences, with specially designed wildlife talks, junior ranger programmes, and interactive Maasai cultural encounters. Children can learn how to track animals, make traditional beadwork, or join in storytelling around the campfire.
May also coincides with community celebrations in some Maasai villages, where guests may be welcomed to observe ceremonial dances and traditional rites. It’s a powerful way for families to connect with Kenya’s cultural heritage alongside its wildlife wonders.
Discover ancient wonders
Where: Greece
Flight time from the UK: 3 hours 30 minutes
May in Greece offers the best of both worlds — sunny, comfortable weather and fewer crowds than the busy summer months. It’s an ideal time for families to immerse themselves in history and island charm, with landscapes blooming and cultural life at full rhythm.
In Athens, families can explore the Acropolis and its world-class museum, where interactive exhibits bring ancient myths to life. Beyond the capital, a journey through Nafplio, Delphi, or the Peloponneseprovides rich stories, crumbling ruins, and views worthy of legends.
On the islands, Naxos and Paros stand out for their family-friendly beaches and relaxed pace. Santorini, famous for its volcanic caldera, also offers hiking trails and archaeological sites like Akrotiri— a preserved Minoan city buried under volcanic ash.
May also features many Orthodox religious festivals, often tied to Easter (depending on the year) or Saints’ Days, where local towns come alive with processions, music, and shared feasts. These intimate, off-the-beaten-track experiences add local flavour and warmth to your stay.
Greece in May combines sunshine, storytelling, and sea air for an effortlessly enriching family escape.
Feel the magic of a Sacred Valley
Where: Peru
Flight time from the UK: 14 hours
May marks the beginning of Peru’s dry season, making it the ideal time to explore the majestic Sacred Valley and the ancient citadel of Machu Picchu. Clear skies and moderate temperatures create the perfect conditions for cultural discovery and gentle adventure in one of South America’s most awe-inspiring settings.
Base yourselves in the Sacred Valley, where children can enjoy workshops on traditional pottery, weaving, and Andean farming techniques. Visits to vibrant local markets introduce young travellers to Quechua culture, colourful crafts, and native foods.
Take the scenic train to Machu Picchu, where a family-friendly guide can help bring the ancient Incan city to life. For more active families, gentle treks in the surrounding mountains offer both panoramic views and fascinating archaeological stops.
May is also a month of celebration, with the Fiesta de la Cruz taking place across Andean towns, including Cusco. Expect traditional costumes, music, and processions — a joyful way to experience Peru’s cultural heartbeat.
A journey through the Sacred Valley in May combines ancient history, local connection, and extraordinary natural beauty — a soulful choice for families with a love for learning and exploration.
Island paradise and wildlife
Where: Philippines
Flight time from the UK: 15 hours
May signals the end of the dry season in the Philippines, with hot, sunny days and clear, calm seas — ideal for beach-hopping and wildlife adventures. This is the time to explore the country’s dazzling archipelago, where each island offers its own natural and cultural riches.
In Palawan, families can kayak through limestone lagoons, snorkel over pristine coral reefs, or visit hidden coves by boat. Donsol, on Luzon’s southeastern coast, offers the extraordinary chance to swim alongside whale sharks — a thrilling yet ethical marine experience, available until the end of May.
In the highlands, the dramatic rice terraces of Banaue, carved into the mountains over 2,000 years ago, offer not just stunning views but also cultural immersion. Visiting with a local guide, families can learn about the Ifugao people and their deep connection to the land.
Local festivals, such as Pahiyas in Lucban (celebrated in mid-May), transform villages into colourful artworks made of rice, fruit, and woven leaves — a joyful and visual way for children to connect with Filipino heritage.
With its warmth, hospitality, and diversity of landscapes, the Philippines in May is a hidden gem for families seeking an alternative tropical escape.
See stunning National Parks and cities
Where: Canada (Banff, Vancouver, Toronto)
Flight time from the UK: 8 hours
Spring arrives in full bloom across Canada in May, offering families the chance to explore its natural wonders and vibrant cities with comfortable weather and a sense of renewal.
In Banff National Park, turquoise lakes begin to thaw, hiking trails open up, and wildlife such as bears, elk, and marmots emerge from hibernation. Families can enjoy scenic gondola rides, gentle nature walks, and even snow play in the higher elevations.
Vancouver, nestled between mountains and ocean, offers the perfect balance of urban charm and outdoor access. The Capilano Suspension Bridge, local food markets, and kayaking in English Bay provide adventure and culture in equal measure. Over in Toronto, interactive museums, science centres, and island bike rides offer family-friendly fun paired with big-city energy.
Many Canadian cities host spring festivals in May — such as the Canadian Tulip Festival in Ottawa or Vancouver’s Children’s Festival — providing colourful, creative moments tailored for little travellers.
From emerald forests to glassy lakes and skyline views, Canada in May feels expansive, welcoming, and full of promise for families ready to reconnect with nature and each other.
Discover the cultural richness and beaches of Bali
Where: Bali
Flight time from the UK: 17 hours
May is a beautiful time to explore Bali and nearby Lombok. Arriving just before the dry-season rush, you'll enjoy warm weather, fewer crowds, and landscapes still lush from the recent rains — the perfect conditions for a relaxed and enriching family escape.
Bali captivates with its deep-rooted traditions and natural beauty, offering an inspiring mix of culture, adventure, and relaxation. Beyond iconic highlights like Tanah Lot and the Sacred Monkey Forest, you can discover quieter corners of the island that feel truly special. In the serene Sidemen Valley, for instance, you can wander through rice terraces and traditional villages, where life moves slowly and the views are cinematic. For a more spiritual experience, a local priest can guide you through a private purification ritual at Tirta Sudamala, one of Bali’s less-visited sacred springs.
Children will love taking part in Balinese cooking classes hosted in family homes, learning how to prepare satay over coconut husk fires or crafting sweet pancakes wrapped in banana leaves. Time your visit with the Tumpek Uduh ceremony — a meaningful celebration where locals make offerings to trees and plants in gratitude for nature’s gifts. It’s a beautiful, quiet festival that often welcomes visitors with genuine warmth.
Just across the water, Lombok offers a more laid-back and untouched atmosphere, ideal if you are seeking space and tranquillity. You can visit traditional Sasak villages to learn about ancient weaving techniques, take a gentle rainforest walk to the twin waterfalls of Benang Stokel and Benang Kelambu, or spend the day island-hopping around the quiet southern Gilis, where shallow reefs and white sands make for unforgettable private snorkelling adventures.
Both islands are home to exceptional family-friendly resorts, where elegant villas, dedicated kids’ programmes, and bespoke cultural excursions allow you to relax deeply while your children are fully engaged. With a growing number of eco-conscious properties, you can also choose to travel with purpose — supporting local communities and conservation efforts without compromising on comfort or luxury.
Bali and Lombok in May offer more than just beautiful beaches — they provide the space to slow down, connect as a family, and experience Indonesia’s timeless culture with all the ease of five-star service.
Discover our bespoke itineraries and exclusive family retreats.
Luxury beaches and coral planting
Where: Maldives
Flight time from the UK: 10 hours
May in the Maldives ushers in the off-peak season — a quieter, more exclusive time to enjoy the islands, when the turquoise waters remain warm, the resorts feel even more serene, and luxury escapes become more accessible. For families, it’s a golden window to experience this dreamlike destination without the bustle, yet with all the benefits of five-star service and tropical sunshine.
Often seen as a honeymoon favourite, the Maldives has in recent years become a haven for discerning families, with select properties offering immersive, child-friendly experiences in truly breathtaking settings. We’ll guide you to resorts where children can snorkel straight from the villa deck, discovering kaleidoscopic fish and coral gardens in the shallows, or where teens can join a guided diving excursion or learn paddleboarding in calm lagoons.
More than just a beach destination, the Maldives is also becoming a leader in marine sustainability, offering families the chance to engage with conservation in meaningful, age-appropriate ways. Many resorts host coral restoration workshops, where children can work alongside marine biologists to plant new coral and learn about reef ecology. Visits to on-site marine research centres offer interactive lessons in turtle rehabilitation and ocean preservation, while eco-boat excursions with naturalists invite guests to witness wildlife such as manta rays and dolphins — always with a focus on ethical, low-impact travel.
The cultural calendar is quieter in May, but guests may experience the end of Ramadan, marked by Eid al-Fitrcelebrations. Some resorts acknowledge the occasion with traditional Maldivian feasts, music, and gentle festivities — a warm cultural touch for those wishing to connect with the islands beyond their shores.
Resorts combine barefoot elegance with world-class facilities, including spacious overwater and beach villas, family pools, curated kids’ activities, and spa treatments designed for younger guests. Whether you’re seeking uninterrupted relaxation, educational experiences, or a mix of both, the Maldives in May delivers with grace, privacy, and purpose.
Discover our curated portfolio of sustainable, family-friendly escapes across the atolls, and let us tailor your journey to suit every member of your family — from toddlers to teens.
Tropical family fun
Where: Mauritius
Flight time from the UK: 12 hours
In May, Mauritius enters its dry season — a time of clear skies, soft sunshine, and balmy breezes, creating ideal conditions for a luxurious family getaway. With its powdery white beaches and gentle lagoons, the island provides a picture-perfect backdrop for both restful days and lively explorations.
The calm, reef-protected waters are perfect for younger children to swim safely, while older children and teens can venture further afield, snorkelling vibrant coral reefs, paddleboarding along the shoreline, or spotting colourful marine life through the floor of a glass-bottom boat. May also tends to fall outside of the busy tourist period, offering a more serene and exclusive feel across the island’s top resorts and beaches.
Mauritius’ rich multicultural heritage — blending Creole, Indian, Chinese, and French influences — comes to life through its vibrant street markets, music, and cuisine. Families can take part in immersive experiences such as visits to fragrant spice gardens, cooking traditional Mauritian dishes together, or exploring the island’s colonial history through private tours of restored sugar plantations.
Inland, the Pamplemousses Botanical Garden offers a magical setting for children to discover giant lily pads and centuries-old trees, while a guided walk through Black River Gorges National Park may reveal rare wildlife like the pink pigeon or long-tailed macaque. For a taste of adventure, a dolphin-watching excursion in Tamarin Bay, followed by a secluded beach picnic, creates memories that will linger long after you return home.
Mauritius also hosts several cultural events in May, including Cavadee, a Tamil Hindu festival observed with colourful processions and temple offerings — a unique opportunity for culturally curious families to witness a deeply spiritual and visually striking tradition.
Family-friendly luxury resorts here take things to the next level, offering kids’ clubs designed around Mauritian culture and nature, spa experiences for younger guests, and gourmet dining with dedicated children’s menus and beachside ease.
Let us create a bespoke itinerary that brings together Mauritius’ natural beauty, cultural colour, and laid-back luxury for a family holiday filled with warmth and discovery.
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