Looking for a family getaway close to home? Check out these nearby islands and local spots for the perfect holiday. 

Planning a tropical family holiday doesn't have to mean long-haul flights, jet lag, or complex logistics. There are plenty of island-style getaways close to South Africa that are ideal for travelling with children – whether they’re toddlers, teens, or in between. From Mauritius to Zanzibar and even local gems like KwaZulu-Natal with the Wild Coast Sun, these destinations offer sandy beaches, kid-friendly resorts, and the kind of downtime parents crave. 

Key Takeouts: 

1. Mauritius, Zanzibar, Seychelles, and Mombasa are top tropical family holidays close to South Africa. 
2. Blue Marlin Hotel and Wild Coast Sun offer affordable, local alternatives to island holidays. 
3. The best island to take a baby to? Consider the Seychelles for calm beaches and easy access to medical care. 
4. The west coast of Mauritius and North Zanzibar have calmer waters during peak school holidays, making them more suitable for younger kids. 

Mauritius: Easy, Reliable, and Family-Tested 

A perennial favourite for South African families, Mauritius holidays tick all the right boxes: direct flights, short travel time, calm lagoons, and all-inclusive resorts with kid-friendly amenities. Many hotels offer complimentary kids’ clubs, early mealtimes, and shallow-entry beaches. The west coast of Mauritius tends to have calmer seas and less wind during school holidays, especially in July and December – ideal for younger swimmers. 

Top tip: Pack reef-safe sunscreen for kids – it’s better for both their skin and the environment, especially when visiting Mauritius' beautiful coral reefs. 

Zanzibar: Culture Meets Coastline 

A Zanzibar holiday isn’t just about the beach. Families can explore Stone Town’s maze-like streets, enjoy spice farm tours, or take a boat to Prison Island to see the giant tortoises. Resorts on the north and east coasts, like those offered through Thompsons Holidays, are particularly family-friendly and often include beachfront family rooms and supervised kids’ activities. The north coast typically has calmer water, making it a better choice for beach days with little ones. 

Top tip: Pack water shoes for kids – some Zanzibar beaches have coral and shells close to shore. 

Seychelles: Laid-back Luxury with Little Ones 

The Seychelles is often considered a romantic destination, but it's also one of the best island holidays for families with babies or toddlers. Many beaches have natural shade from palm trees and shallow, calm waters. Plus, it’s malaria-free and has good healthcare – giving parents peace of mind. Base yourself on Mahé for the shortest airport transfer and explore nearby islands via quick boat trips. The Victoria Botanical Gardens in Seychelles have a tortoise enclosure that children can feed – it’s a hidden gem. 

Top tip: Choose a beachfront chalet close to amenities – many are buggy-friendly and save you long walks with a pram. 

Kenya’s Coastline: Mombasa Magic 

Mombasa, especially Diani Beach, combines the best of both worlds – coastal relaxation and nearby wildlife viewing. You can relax in a beachfront resort one day and visit Shimba Hills National Reserve the next. Mombasa is also an ideal add-on after a Kenyan safari. Chapati-making classes offer a hands-on way for kids to experience the culture. 

Top tip: Visit Mombasa Marine National Park – the snorkelling from glass-bottom boats is shallow enough for small kids and supervised by licensed guides. 

Close to Home: Blue Marlin Hotel & Wild Coast Sun in KwaZulu-Natal 

Not quite an island, but for South Africans who prefer to stay local, these KwaZulu-Natal options capture the island-holiday spirit without the passport. The Blue Marlin All-Inclusive Seascape in Scottburgh has sea-view family rooms and a huge pool deck just 45 minutes from Durban.  

Wild Coast Sun offers direct beach access, a water park, and plenty of family-focused entertainment. During off-peak periods, these resorts are quieter and more affordable – a good option if your family has flexible travel dates. 

Top tip: Pack scooters or bikes for kids – both resorts have wide walkways and lawns perfect for burning off energy. 

Which island getaway is right for your family? 

Here’s a quick guide to help you choose based on your needs: 

• Shortest flight times: Mauritius and Zanzibar are direct and under 4 hours from Johannesburg, making them ideal for younger kids who don’t sit still for long. 
• Travelling with a baby? The Seychelles offers calm beaches and compact island resorts with medical facilities nearby. 
• Beach + safari combo: Mombasa, Kenya is perfect if you want to pair white-sand beaches with wildlife viewing in one trip. 
• No flights required: For South African families after a beachy environment without leaving the country, the Wild Coast Sun or Blue Marlin All-Inclusive Seascape are solid self-drive or fly-in options. 
• Budget-conscious? Zanzibar delivers excellent value, and Thompsons Holidays packages include meals, family-friendly accommodation, and airport transfers to keep it stress-free. 

Let’s get you there 

Whether you're dreaming of a tropical family holiday abroad or something closer to home that still feels like an island holiday, these nearby getaways tick all the boxes. The best part? Thompsons Holidays can help make the planning process easy, with packages that include flights, hotel transfers and meals. 

Because when it comes to travelling with children, the simpler the better – and these destinations know how to deliver just that.