Entertaining the kids during the half term is no easy feat, especially when the winter weather wards off outdoor fun with cold, drizzly days. But what if you could swap sludgy wellies for sun-kissed shores for the week?
Make February half term breaks with the kids memorable for all the right reasons, when you browse our handpicked list of the best far-flung family holidays. From the buzzing metropolis of Dubai to balmy Barbados, these winter sun destinations are perfect for whisking away tiny tots and demanding teens alike to palm-strewn shores - and there’s not a muddy park bench in sight.
Dubai: Atlantis The Palm
BEST FOR: ADVENTURE SEEKERS
Dubai half term holidays are a hit with the whole family. A city that truly dazzles, this cosmopolitan hub is not only aimed at the luxe traveller - it’s a city of huge family-friendly pedigree, too. Peppered with a clutch of postcard-perfect beaches, watersports, city-sized shopping malls, and a plethora of major attractions and excursions, there’s entertainment abound for all ages. Most of which can be found within the four walls of your hotel.
An Arabian icon, Atlantis The Palm boasts a prime position on the crescent of Palm Jumeirah and it offers everything from star-studded dining to splash-tastic thrills at the Aquaventure Waterpark. Endless adventures await at Atlantis The Palm - rightfully crowned one of Dubai’s most exclusive resorts - from aquatic experiences like deep diving in The Lost Chambers Aquarium to fun, food, and festival-inspired entertainment at Wavehouse.
The resort’s exceptional accommodation invites guests to step into ocean-inspired luxury, with interconnecting room options for families, while the diverse (and delicious) dining scene serves up everything from casual bites perfect for discerning diners to Michelin-starred menus crafted by world-renowned chefs. If you can drag yourself away, Dubai’s famous landmarks - including the Burj Khalifa, Dubai Mall and traditional souks are just a short drive away - while LEGOLAND lovers can reach the theme park in just 30-40 minutes.
Oman: Alila Jabal Akhdar
Another Arabian gem in the mix, Oman may not be as popular as its famed UAE neighbour - but it certainly deserves a spot on the family holiday map. A must-visit for nature enthusiasts, this dreamy destination boasts infinite rolls of gleaming golden desert, powder-white beaches lapped by cerulean waters, and fascinating cultural landmarks.
A secluded mountain escape awaits at the sought-after Alila Jabal Akhdar. This exceptional resort whisks you 2,000 metres above sea level to the heart of the Hajar Mountains, promising a secluded getaway that screams R&R. There’s no better way to switch-off from the school run than by soaking up the culture in this Middle Eastern jewel. Complete with a fabulous restaurant, an on-site bar that guarantees a gorgeous sunset, and a pamper-worthy spa - you’re sure to feel daily stresses melt away.
Want to explore? Get your Great Outdoors on when you take on the Al Hajar Mountains, where hiking and climbing is the order of the day. Perhaps you prefer your thrills on four wheels? If so, why not try exciting dune bashing followed by a slower-paced star-lit camping session amid the shelving dunes of Wahiba Sands…
Mauritius: LUX* Belle Mare
There’s no denying that holidays in Mauritius are a total paradise. Palm-fringed sands that twinkle pretty and pearlescent once the sun catches, turquoise waters teeming with marine life, and a laid-back approach to island life - that’s what February half term breaks are all about. Whether you’re a kid off school or a parent off, well, typical half term parenting, let’s say, your shoulders are sure to relax once you’re basking on a tropical beach.
A whole new world awaits once you check-in to the island’s spirited hotel, LUX* Belle Mare. Complete with exquisitely designed suites and villas, unmatched dining (including a 3D experience), a sensational wellness suite and the largest swimming pool on the island - guests are sure to have peace and tranquility in spades. With a fun-loving kids’ club and specially crafted menus too, this resort is a haven for guests young and old.
It’s not all lazy days though, besides the beaches this isle has a wealth of family-focused activities to try your hand at - from exciting watersports like snorkelling amongst pristine coral reefs and paddleboarding, to exploring the wonders and wildlife that call the island home.
Barbados: Fairmont Royal Pavilion
BEST FOR: CARNIVAL CULTURE
The perfect destination for families, nothing says long-haul fun in the sun like a Barbados February half term break. You know you’ve arrived in the Caribbean when you’re met by out-of-this-world beaches, tantalising local cuisine and - one for the parents - a rum punch, preferably in each hand. It’s half term after all, you deserve it…
Fairmont Royal Pavilion is the Bajan hideaway you never knew you needed. A haven of flawless hospitality and family-friendly experiences, this premium resort is surrounded by gorgeous green foliage and has direct access to the beach - meaning paradise awaits just a few steps from your suite. Speaking of which; each elegantly-appointed room, suite, and private villa offers ultimate comfort with scenic sea views to match, so you can guarantee a good night’s sleep ahead of tomorrow’s adventures. And with three on-site restaurants, you can indulge in ‘straight off the beach’ garms or don your fancy glad rags with casual and fine dining venues available.
Earning its nickname as the Platinum Coast, the island plays host to over 92km of palm-fringed sands, so you can bet your bottom dollar you’ll have plenty of beach fun during your time here. Just think of the sandcastles you could make! Venture a little further and you’ll discover the island’s colourful, carnival vibe - hop in a taxi and in 15 minutes you can catch a glimpse of Holetown Festival, an annual celebration with live music, parades, food stalls and more.
Maldives: Soneva Jani
With almost 1,200 islands and a double chain of 26 atolls scattered across the Indian Ocean like twinkling jewels, the Maldives boasts an immeasurable type of natural beauty that, quite frankly, doesn’t even have to be seen, to be believed. This dreamy destination serves up the best of both worlds - romantic retreats and family-wide adventure - with captivating coral reef explorations, once-in-a-lifetime diving experiences, cooking classes, kids’ clubs and beyond.
One of many stunning five-star resorts within the archipelago, Soneva Jani is an exclusive retreat framed by a crystal-clear lagoon and long blonde beach. As another day in paradise begins, the young (and young at heart) can soar into action courtesy of the uber-cool overwater villa slides, ready to launch you straight into the ocean! Fancy a couple’s massage or romantic lunch? The Den is the resort’s ultimate children’s club. This 1,500sqm playground for the imagination houses inimitable and interactive experiences for kids of all ages, including sensory play, a library, cinema, LEGO stations, a dressing-up room and even cooking lessons ahead of Soneva’s sought-after Junior Masterchef competition!
As a busy day of sunrise yoga, snorkel adventures, and fascinating wildlife activities comes to a close, it’s time to refuel at the on-site restaurants, with everything from fine dining to feasting on the sand.
School Half Term Dates 2026
Not confident on when exactly the February half term dates fall? Schools across the UK will typically break up on either Friday 13th February or Friday 20th February. Now that’s in the calendar, all you have to do is pick a destination and pack your bags.
From sun-kissed sands to majestic mountainscapes, each of our far-flung destinations are fit for your February half term holidays. Bursting with child-friendly activities from underwater excursions to desert camping underneath the stars and thrill-seeking theme parks, unforgettable memories are sure to be made together.
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