November is a perfect time to plan a family getaway. In many parts of the country, the weather is getting colder, and it is time for you to see the sun. If you've been dreaming of driving down a sunny road by the ocean, with palm trees and clear blue water, you can make this dream a reality. Get started with planning your November getaway, and keep these seven destinations in mind!
Top 7 Family Getaway Destinations In November
Plan a special trip to Carmel-by-the-Sea with your family, and stay in a vacation rental like this one near the ocean!
1. Carmel-by-the-Sea, California
Often referred to as Carmel, this seaside oasis provides mild weather all year long. Drive the exquisitely scenic 17 Mile Drive for unparalleled views of the Pacific Ocean. Just south of Carmel, you will find plenty of easy hiking at Point Lobos State Park. Keep a sharp eye out for seals, sea otters, and gray whales! To the north, Monterey has many family friendly activities. Don’t miss the spectacular Monterey Aquarium, which is one of the only aquariums in the world to display bluefin and yellowfin tuna!
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2. Vancouver, British Columbia
Pack your passports and head just north of the boarder to Vancouver, BC! Tourists have mostly left the city, leaving plenty of space for your family to explore. Though it’s a bit chilly outside, it is still comfortable enough to walk around and take in this clean and cosmopolitan city. For a break from the rain, explore the flora and fauna at Bloedel Conservatory. Children will love the Kids Market at Granville Island, a shopping center with stores dedicated to kids. It’s complete with an Adventure Zone playground!
Book the perfect vacation rental in Carmel!Book the perfect vacation rental in Carmel!
3. Oahu, Hawaii
While most of the mainland begins to feel the biting winter cold, Oahu enjoys temperatures in the mid-80s. Airfare drops considerably in the offseason, allowing families to budget in more fun activities. Kids of all ages will enjoy a tour of the Dole Plantation, which features a maze, train rides, and sweet treats. Families with older children can try snorkeling! Dolphin Excursions Snorkel Adventure provides a boat tour and snorkeling with spinner dolphins.
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4. Kingston, New York
As the days get shorter, this Dutch town comes alive! Kingston is famous for its Sinterklaas festival, which honors the Dutch Saint Nicholas tradition. In the weeks leading up to Christmas, children are transformed into kings and queens, honored as “bearers of the light.” Kingston hosts many events in preparation for the Sinterklaas parade, including crafts, eating traditional Dutch treats, and a send-off celebration for Sinterklaas.
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Combine the fun of Austin with the quiet beauty of a lake getaway at this three-bedroom house on Lake Austin.
5. Austin, Texas
Austin, known for its art, food, and live music, is especially pleasant in November. It enjoys temperatures between 68 and 75 degrees, and relatively little rain. Austin was ranked one of the safest cities by the FBI, and its no smoking ordinance give it the reputation of a clean air city. Visit the Austin Steam Train Association to take a ride on a real vintage passenger train—some are themed as Thomas the Tank Engine or a trip to the North Pole. Thinkery Austin Children’s Museum has hands-on exhibits for infants, preteens, and everyone in between.
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6. Myrtle Beach, South Carolina
Myrtle Beach has over 60 miles of Atlantic coastline, perfect for swimming, wading, or just building a sand castle. There are festivals and events nearly every weekend, including an outdoor art festival, tree lighting celebration, and “turkey trot” fun run! The Family Kingdom Amusement Park is a seaside park offering thrill rides, arcade games, and entertainment. Visit Brookgreen Gardens for beautifully maintained grounds, boat rides, and a zoo.
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7. Flagstaff, Arizona
Flagstaff’s unique combination of mountains and desert is sure to keep an adventurous family busy. The Sunset Crater Volcano National Monument has several accessible trails for children and adults. Kids under 16 get in for free! Arizona Snowbowl is a family-friendly ski resort that offers lessons for first-time skiers and snowboarders. Flagstaff’s proximity to the Grand Canyon make it a perfect family destination. Take the hour-and-fifteen-minute drive to this infamous landmark, and enjoy it without the droves of tourists.
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This article was written by Missy Fackler.