The Best Points Hotels in the US for Kids and Families

Dec 5, 2024 at 4:30 PM
Once a parent, family vacations undergo a significant transformation compared to the pre-kid years. Traveling with children presents unique challenges, but it's essential to show them the world. Instead of halting travel, adjusting the approach is a better strategy. One thing that remains unchanged is the opportunity to splurge at high-end hotels using points. Many of the best hotels in the country go the extra mile in catering to young guests, making vacations easier and more relaxing for parents.

Unlock Family Fun with These Exceptional Hotels

Waldorf Astoria Monarch Beach Resort & Club

The Waldorf Astoria Monarch Beach resembles a Tuscan countryside estate with its grand entrance and manicured gardens. Located just outside Laguna Beach, California, it's a favorite among families. Spacious rooms starting at 535 square feet, multiple pools, lawn games, a kids activity room, an exclusive beach club, and nightly music performances make it a haven. The hotel also has Ahma & Co, a postpartum retreat center. Rates start at $714 or 95,000 Hilton Honors points per night.

From the moment you arrive, the polished and upscale atmosphere welcomes you. Families can enjoy the various amenities while their little ones have a blast. It's a place where both parents and kids can create lasting memories.

Laguna Cliffs Marriott Resort & Spa

With its Victorian-style red roof and slate blue clapboard siding, the Laguna Cliffs Marriott Resort feels like a New England hotel. Overlooking Dana Point's bustling harbor and Doheny State Beach, it offers a unique experience. Multiple splash pads, a shallow kiddie pool, a children's putting green, and daily activities keep kids entertained. There's also a room for games and art projects, and movies with free popcorn and soda. A playground across the street and Baby Beach nearby add to the fun. Marriott Bonvoy members receive extra perks. Rates start at $252 or 40,000 Marriott Bonvoy points per night.

The hotel's sophisticated ambience combines with kid-friendly features to create a perfect getaway. It's a place where kids can have a great time while parents relax.

Fairmont Orchid, Hawaii

Set along 32 lush oceanfront acres on Hawaii's Big Island, the Fairmont Orchid is a stunning hideaway. It has a rare swimmable sandy cove beach where kids can swim in calm waters and rent water sports equipment. There's a large lagoon-style pool and free cultural activities like hula lessons and lei making. At some on-site restaurants, kids eat free with parents. Fairmont Gold rooms offer exclusive lounge access and other perks. Rates start at $586 or 35,000 Accor Live Limitless points per night.

The hotel's natural beauty and family-friendly amenities make it a top choice for those seeking a quieter getaway. It's a place where kids can connect with nature and have fun.

The Ritz-Carlton, Amelia Island

The Ritz-Carlton on Amelia Island is a coastal elegance sanctuary. Its Ritz Kids program focuses on the natural wonders of the island with supervised activities like hikes, tidal pool exploration, and crafts. There are children's menus, play areas, and fun add-on experiences. Upgrading to a club room provides lounge access with complimentary food and cocktails. Rates start at $823 or 50,000 Marriott Bonvoy points per night.

Guests can enjoy the hotel's grace while their kids immerse themselves in nature and have a memorable stay.

Grand Hyatt Scottsdale Resort

The newly rebranded Grand Hyatt Scottsdale Resort caters to everyone from golfers to spa-seekers. It's like a wonderful summer camp with monthly activities like field games, face painting, and art projects. There's also pickleball, tennis, a rock climbing wall, and a renovated pool complex. Rooms are spacious, and suites and casitas offer more room. Rates start at $404 or 21,000 World of Hyatt points per night.

With its diverse activities and comfortable rooms, it's a great choice for families looking for a fun and relaxing vacation.

Hyatt Regency Lost Pines Resort and Spa

Set outside Austin, this expansive resort is full of kid-friendly perks. It has animal mascots like miniature horses and a playground. There are also arcade games, bike rentals, and a massive water park with a lazy river and waterslides. Camp Hyatt provides supervised fun for kids while parents enjoy spa or golf. Rates start at $294 or 21,000 World of Hyatt points per night.

The resort's Texas-sized offerings ensure that kids have a blast and parents can relax.

JW Marriott San Antonio Hill Country Resort & Spa

Nestled on 600 acres in Texas Hill Country, this JW Marriott has a 9-acre water park with a lazy river and slides. Kids can join supervised parents-night-out programs and enjoy activities like slime making and jumbo backyard games. There's also a Dr. Seuss-themed ice show. Rates start at $388 or 40,000 Marriott Bonvoy points per night.

The combination of water park fun and other activities makes it a great destination for families.

Holiday Inn Resort Orlando Suites — Waterpark

When it comes to treating kids like VIPs, this Holiday Inn is a top pick. It has a zero-entry lagoon with splash pad and waterslides, and a large water park. It offers a complimentary shuttle to Walt Disney World and activities like minigolf and arcade games. All-suite rooms range from one to three bedrooms with bunk beds. There are five on-site eateries. Rates start at $80 or 13,000 IHG One Rewards points per night.

It's a great alternative to Disney hotels, providing a theme park-like experience at a lower cost.

The Ritz-Carlton Oahu, Turtle Bay

Renowned from the movie "Forgetting Sarah Marshall," the Ritz-Carlton Oahu on the North Shore has multiple pools, waterslides, and beaches. Kids can enjoy kayak tours, outrigger canoe rides, and various water activities. There are also lei making and hula lessons. Upgraded club bookings offer lounge access and complimentary meals. Rates start at $903 or 67,200 Marriott Bonvoy points per night.

The hotel's offerings go beyond water play, providing a diverse range of experiences for kids.