3 Luxury Tropical Destinations For Family-Friendly to Adult-Only Getaways
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Looking for the ultimate tropical escape that goes beyond the typical Caribbean or Mexico getaway? If you're looking to plan a high-end island experience that’s worth the long flight, but you're not sure which destination is the best fit for your travel style, this guide is for you.
After more than a decade as a luxury travel advisor, I’ve helped clients plan hundreds of tropical getaways—from easy week-long resets to more extended adventures that call for special attention to detail. And while there’s no one-size-fits-all paradise, I often find myself recommending one of three destinations when a client is looking for that farther-flung, extraordinary beach trip: Tahiti, Fiji, and the Maldives.
Whether you're a couple seeking serenity and alone time, a family looking for a seamless setup that caters to everyone, or an adventurer craving variety, here's how to choose between three of the world’s top luxury tropical destinations.
Hi, I’m Whitney! I am the principal travel advisor and founder of Undiscovered Sunsets, connecting curious, open-minded travelers to experiences around the world. We plan travel a little differently here—we let your passion & purpose shape the trip. Say “goodbye” to generic guide books and checklists and plan your next trip with professionals who can open up the world in unexpected ways.
Maldives private islands and overwater bungalows
The Maldives might be a far trek from the United States, but it’s worth it - and with intentional planning, some purposeful layovers can help round out this trip. (One of my favorite honeymoons I’ve planned was to the Maldives that included a few nights stop-over in Istanbul. This itinerary helped break up the long flight and gave the couple the chance to see another destination!)
When it comes to peaceful, serene, romantic tropical getaways, the Maldives delivers. You get that classic overwater bungalows experience, and resorts that offer incredible service, food, and experiences. I send a lot of couples to the Maldives for honeymoons and anniversaries, but it’s a great location for families as well.
When I plan Maldives trips, it's usually for couples or travelers who want to stay put, settle in, and soak up every moment of stillness. That said, there’s still plenty to do: world-class snorkeling, spa treatments, gourmet dining, and some of the best diving on the planet.
Important logistics to consider: The Maldives is the furthest destination on this list from the U.S., with travel times often exceeding 22 hours from the East Coast. After your international flight, you’ll need a seaplane or speedboat transfer to reach your resort. It’s a commitment—but one many travelers are happy to make for access to some of the best luxury Maldives resorts in the world.
Luxury Maldives resorts I love to send clients:
Hurawalhi Island Resort - a luxurious, adults-only tropical resort
Soneva Jani - an overwater sanctuary that welcomes travelers of all ages
Tahiti island hopping & French-Polynesian Charm
For a little more adventure, travelers who like to move around often choose Tahiti.
Tahiti isn’t just one island—it’s a gateway to dozens of experiences across French Polynesia. Think lush mountains, turquoise lagoons, and a rhythm that encourages you to explore. When clients tell me they want a tropical trip that’s a bit more adventurous—with culture, variety, and plenty of movement—this is where I send them.
Island hopping is common, with itineraries often including Moorea and Bora Bora, plus lesser-known spots like Taha’a or Rangiroa. Overwater bungalows are iconic here (especially in Bora Bora), but what sets Tahiti apart is the ease with which you can go beyond your resort—hike to waterfalls, explore a local market, or take a catamaran out at sunset.
I normally send groups of adults, families with grown children, and adventurous couples to Tahiti. While there are definitely family-friendly resorts, it’s not the first destination I’d recommend for younger travelers.
I’ve written more in-depth about my own stay in Bora Bora, and how the island-hopping experience creates a sense of adventure most beach vacations don’t offer.
Important logistics to consider: Tahiti is approximately 8 hours from Los Angeles with direct flights available. Once you land, additional short flights or boat rides may be needed depending on your itinerary. While Bora Bora offers stunning resorts, hotel options on other islands in Tahiti can range from charming to rustic, so if you are looking for a more design-forward, ultra-luxury property, you may want to adjust your expectations or consider an alternative tropical destination.
Fiji for couples, families & multi-gen travel
Fiji is the destination I most often describe as the “best of both worlds.” It’s luxurious, yes—but it’s also warm, welcoming, and incredibly versatile. I’ve sent honeymooners, multi-gen families, friend groups, and solo travelers here, and it works beautifully for all of them.
What stood out to me personally on my recent family trip to Fiji was how naturally the local culture embraces hospitality. Resorts here are known for offering complimentary nannies, kids clubs, and thoughtful touches that make family travel feel truly relaxing (yes, it’s possible!). And yet, the resorts themselves are stunning, with views and activities that give you a good mix of relaxation and adventure.
Pro tip: My family stayed at the Jean-Michel Cousteau resort, which offered an excellent kids program for my toddler.
And if you're a scuba diver (or ever wanted to get into it), this is your place. Scuba diving in Fiji is world-class, with easy access to marine preserves and pristine coral reefs. Some resorts even offer the certification courses onsite, starting as young as 8 years old. You can also surf, paddleboard, or visit local villages for a deeper cultural connection.
Important logistics to consider: Fiji is about 11 hours from Los Angeles with direct flights available from the West Coast (and now a direct flight from Dallas-Fort Worth to Fiji is available as of December 2024.)
Fiji is an ideal destination for travelers seeking a luxury beach trip with less travel time than the Maldives, but more cultural and family-friendly infrastructure than Tahiti. I’ve shared more about my own stay in Fiji here, including what made the trip so special for both couples and families traveling together.
So, Which Tropical Paradise is Right for You?
Choose the Maldives if you're a couple seeking serenity, top-tier service, and want to snorkel right off your private deck.
Choose Tahiti if you’re craving adventure, culture, and variety—with a side of beach.
Choose Fiji if you're traveling with family or a group and want luxury with a warm, welcoming atmosphere.
Each of these luxury tropical destinations offers something unique—and unforgettable. The key is matching the destination to your travel style, so your time in paradise feels as effortless as it is extraordinary.
Ready to plan your perfect island escape? Let’s design the ultimate luxury beach trip that’s tailored to you.
Whitney Shindelar
Undiscovered Sunsets was a long time in the making, even if I myself didn’t realize it. During my time at the University of Northern Iowa, I studied abroad in New Zealand. Upon graduating, I bought a one-way ticket to France, lived with a French family and studied with classmates from Turkey, China, Russia, Germany, Italy, and everywhere in between. In 2010 I began teaching English as a foreign language. This job quickly took me to China, where English teachers were in high demand and within three years, I began working in a 5-star hotel, speaking Mandarin throughout most of my day. In total, I lived abroad for 7 years.
I consider Undiscovered Sunsets to be the perfect mélange of my personal experience traveling the world and my professional experience working in the hospitality industry.
I look forward to designing your next adventure!
