In Oahu, budding surfers young and old can take lessons with Hans Hedemann Surf, which has several locations on the island. The surfing school, which has coached its share of celebrities such as Adam Sandler and Cameron Diaz, offers private surfing lessons for kids under 13. For 1 or 2 hours, kids will start off with land lessons on safety and technique, and then hit the waves under the care of instructors who are trained lifeguards with CPR certification.

Where to stay in Oahu? One of the the surf school’s locations is at the Kahala Hotel and Resort, a member of Leading Hotels of the World. Children will love the hotel’s private dolphin lagoon, where they can watch or cavort with - depending on age - 6 bottlenose dolphins. The hotel’s Keiki Club - keiki is Hawaiian for child - keeps kids busy with lessons Hawaiian marine life, lei making and other fun activities.

Adults will appreciate Kahala’s spa, named Best New Hotel Spa by Departures in 2003. The spa is complemented by the CHI Health Energy Fitness Center, where personal trainers can assist with workouts, and where a daily menu of yoga, aerobics and Pilates will help stretch you out for those surfing lessons.

The Kahala Family package, valid from January 8 to December 20 2008, gives families two rooms with the second at 20% off. Included is a one-day pass for one child to the Keiki Club (worth $65). Rates begin at $720 per night (for two rooms).

Cabo La Estancia, a resort in Cabo San Lucas comprising privately owned condominiums, is trying to attract more families, with an offer for free roundtrip transfers (at a value of $190US) for the entire family for villa stays between January 5 and March 14. Guests will also receive a welcome amenity basket.

The resort, better termed a condo-hotel, includes resort-style facilities: restaurants, a 10,000 square foot spa, and a business center. Located right on the beach, the property also offers two infinity-style pools and, of ultimate importance, a Kids Program with structured activities such as shell hunting, Spanish lessons and face painting.

Rates begin at $325 a night and go up based on season and size of accommodation. For more information, call 310.577.8600 or click here.

Mandarin Oriental, Miami is welcoming families to the sultry city with its Luxurious Family Package, which include accommodation in 2 or 3-bedroom family suites. The suites also include several complimentary benefits: (more…)