Trying to plan a family holiday with a teenager can be a real challenge. As a parent, you want to create lasting memories and have a fun and relaxing time, but your teenager may not be quite as keen. But fear not! With a little creativity and some cunning planning, adventure holidays with teenagers are possible.

Adventure holidays with teenagers: Give your teen a say

First of all, forget about the usual family holiday activities, like visiting museums and going on guided tours. Your teenager will only roll their eyes and yawn at the thought of these “boring experiences”. Any good adventure holiday with teenagers needs excitement. Look for destinations and activities that will get their adrenaline pumping and their hearts racing. Think bungee jumping, surfing or ziplining – anything that will make them forget their rule about family time being a cringe.

Next, involve your teenager in the planning process. Ask them what they want to do and where they want to go. This will give them a sense of ownership and control, and they will be more likely to engage and enjoy the holiday. Don’t be afraid to compromise and make some concessions – after all, it’s their holiday too.

Finally, remember to have a sense of humour and don’t take yourself too seriously. A family holiday with a sulky teenager can be frustrating, but it can also be hilarious. So, laugh at the absurd moments and enjoy the ride. 

Top choices for adventure holidays with teenagers

Think about where you want to go. Do you want to explore a new city, hit the beach or venture into the great outdoors? Thailand is a popular destination for adventure holidays with teenagers, but what about other exciting options that could be new to your family. Think Fiji, or Costa Rica.

Adventure holidays with teenagers in Thailand

In Thailand, you and your teens can explore the beautiful Phang Nga province, known for its stunning beaches, crystal-clear waters and limestone cliffs. Some exciting activities to try include sea kayaking through the stunning Phang Nga Bay, snorkelling and scuba diving in the crystal-clear waters, and hiking through the lush jungle. You can also visit the vibrant city of Chiang Mai, where you can try your hand at rock climbing, zip-lining, and elephant trekking.

Learn about the local culture by visiting temples and museums, trying your hand at traditional crafts and activities, and participating in festivals and celebrations. You can also sample the delicious local cuisine, which is known for its spicy and flavorful dishes, such as tom yum soup, pad thai and green curry. Be sure to try some of the local fruits and desserts, such as mangoes, durians and sticky rice with mango.

Read: A Phang Nga Bay travel guide – what to see, when and how

Dream adventure holidays in Fiji

In Fiji, you and your teens can enjoy the stunning natural beauty of Dawasamu, located on the island of Taveuni. This region is known for its pristine beaches, lush forest, and abundant wildlife. Some fun activities to try include surfing and stand-up paddleboarding on the waves, hiking through the rainforest to see the beautiful waterfalls, and snorkelling and diving to see the colourful marine life. 

You can immerse yourselves in the local culture by visiting traditional Fijian villages, where you can learn about the customs and traditions of the Fijian people. You can also experience the Fijian way of life by staying in a traditional bure (thatched hut) and enjoying local Fijian cuisine, such as kokoda (raw fish marinated in coconut milk), palusami (steamed taro leaves with coconut cream) and yaqona (kava ceremony).

Try Costa Rica for an adventure holiday with teens

Costa Rica is a popular destination for adventure holidays with teenagers, offering a wide range of exciting activities and breathtaking landscapes. Costa Rica is home to some of the longest and highest zip-lines in the world, offering an exhilarating way to explore the canopy of the rainforest. 

Or, surf Costa Rica’s Pacific and Caribbean coasts, with some of the best waves in the world. Whether you’re a beginner or a pro, there are plenty of surf schools and spots to choose from. 

The cloud forests of Costa Rica are a nature lover’s dream, with a rich diversity of flora and fauna. You and your teenagers can explore the forests on foot or by raft, and even stay overnight in a remote eco-lodge.

The Arenal volcano is one of Costa Rica’s most iconic landmarks, and it offers a range of adventure activities, such as hiking, rappelling and horseback riding. You can also relax in the hot springs, which are believed to have therapeutic properties.

Adventure holidays with teenagers are the perfect way to create lasting memories and bond as a family. From bungee jumping and surfing to hiking and cultural experiences, there’s something for every teenager to enjoy. 

So why not plan a thrilling adventure holiday today? Your teenager might even crack a smile!