The Sky’s the Limit With FamilyMoons

Have you ever tried finding a babysitter for a few hours, nevermind a few days? Given that remarriages account for half of the 2.3 million marriages each year in the United States, and nearly 65 percent of those include children, according to the Stepfamily Association of America, it’s no wonder many couples tying the knot tied up the loose ends and decided to bring the kids along on what’s called a FamilyMoon. They’re worth checking out just for the balance of relaxation and activities.

Twenty eateries, 12 bars and six outdoor pools, as well as a water park, a spa and a gym, make this close to a mini city—but it’s actually more like a mini country with themed sections like the French or Italian village (plus Key West and the Caribbean). Boasting a 12-mile beach with turquoise waters, a 45,000-square-foot waterpark and all-inclusive rates in each room category that starts with free WiFi, flat-screens and game consoles, plus pull-out sofas and bunk beds, there’s plenty to do for all ages. Younger kids will like educational activities with Sesame Street characters and the kids club, and older kids can opt for the Xbox Play Lounge or Scratch DJ Academy.

Photo: Four Seasons Costa Rica

Adventures by Disney with AmaWaterways

Sure, most will probably think river cruising is just for Grandma and Grandpa — but Ama’s latest matchup should make you reconsider. You can forget the massive Disney ships plying the Caribbean, because with just 200 travelers or so onboard, Old World Europe is at your fingertips — and footsteps. Explore up to four countries on one itinerary that includes family activities like biking along the Danube, onboard cooking lessons in the galley, performances with the Vienna Boys choir and more. Some ships (like AmaViola) have even been outfitted for adjoining family-style rooms.

Shamwari Game Reserve, South Africa

Go far beyond the zoo at Shamwari Game Reserve, where luxurious, family-friendly accommodations and the opportunity to see elephants, lions, rhinoceros and Cape buffalo in their natural habitat awaits. The Kids on Safari all-inclusive packages include stays at a traditional African lodge. Riverdene Family Lodge features nine rooms with connected luxury accommodations, a supervised play room, a jungle gym, a swimming pool and relaxation areas for parents; and the Sarili Lodge for families with older children overlooks the riverside plains and features a heated pool.

Domes of Elounda, Greece

A virtual living history lesson with fantastic food, Greece is a timeless choice for couples and families. Domes of Elounda Resort features decidedly modern accommodations, with suites and villas only at a price tag meant for special occasions. The water is always within reach, with beach access to the Aegean, an outdoor pool and spa and fitness center, with tennis, watersports and biking (or go for a mini hike with a picnic lunch from one of four on-site restaurants). Indoor and outdoor play areas, along with a supervised kids club, beckon the little ones, as does the nearby Amazonas Animal Park zoo.

If you think you can’t find penguins in Hawai’i, think again — Hilton Hawaiian Village on Waikiki Beach’s Penguin Club for kids ages 5 to 12 immerses the little ones with stories, arts, crafts, games and the music of our 50^th state. There are 3,000 rooms in multiple towers for several different kinds of accommodations, and the hotel also has a wedding chapel so both nuptials and the honeymoon can conveniently be held in the same spot.

Photo: Four Seasons Costa Rica

Four Seasons Resort at Peninsula Papagayo

With a plethora of outdoor adventures, Costa Rica is always a great family trip, but now the experience is just a bit more romantic thanks to a recent renovation of the Four Seasons Resort and even more family-friendly suite configurations. Besides relaxing and an excellent kids program that means the new Mister and Missus can get some alone time, there’s two volcanic-sand beaches, kayaking, stand-up paddleboarding, snorkeling and scuba lessons, a Trail of Giants guided nature tour and a fishing trip that includes cooking your catch with a chef.