The 8 Best Vacation Destinations for Large Groups

For a stress-free vacation that involves sun, sand, and margaritas, look no further than Cabo San Lucas. Particularly for U.S. dwellers, it's a convenient destination, as many airports offer direct flights to Los Cabos. Groups can choose their resort type -- luxury, family-friendly, or party -- to fit their style, and many area properties have stand-alone villas that can easily accommodate large parties. Additionally, all-inclusive hotels make costs and dining a breeze, as there won't be fights about choosing where to eat or worrying about the price of every meal and drink. Still, don't be afraid to encourage the group, or go off on your own, to explore the charming and culture-packed San Jose del Cabo area. Other don't-miss activities include viewing Land's End rock formation and whale migration from January to March.

There's a reason many couples choose Tuscany for a destination wedding: it's beautiful, offers an abundance of history and culture, and has countryside hotels that can fit big groups. Whether your group decides on a spot in the museum-packed Florence, the rolling hills dotted with vineyards of Pienza, or the seaside town of San Vincenzo, there's no shortage of sights and stunning cities throughout the region. Consider booking a farm stay -- preferably one that you can rent the entire property -- for a more intimate, familiar vibe. Many apartment-type hotels are convenient for those looking to cook some of their own meals. Just don't forget to buy local wines such as Chianti and Brunello di Montalcino.

For ski-loving groups or hiking enthusiasts, Park City, Utah is a suitable vacation destination year-round. About a 40-minute drive from Salt Lake City, it offers three distinct ski areas: Park City Mountain is better suited to a party crowd, Deer Valley is posh, and The Canyons is the most family-friendly. All, however, offer great opportunities for snow-based activities, cozy après-ski lounging, and enjoying quality dining. While it's known for fresh, powdery snow that makes for excellent skiing and snowboarding (it hosted the 2002 Winter Olympics), summertime brings golfing and farmers' market fun, and shoulder seasons mean more affordable rates. The area is packed with large condo-style properties that are ideal for big groups.

A popular holiday spot for British families and couples, The Algarve is located along the southern coast of Portugal. It attracts travelers with its sunny weather, striking coastline, historic towns with photo-worthy architecture, and cheap prices compared to similar destinations. Being within a three-hour flight from much of Europe makes it particularly convenient, and once there, well-maintained roads and tourism professionals that can speak many languages are pluses. Some areas are undeniably touristy, but nightlife in Albufeira, great golf resorts in Portimão, and the historic town of Lagos are excellent draws for family reunions, golf getaways, and party groups. 

For something a bit more exotic, yet still tourist-friendly, Phuket, Thailand offers jaw-dropping beaches, buzzing bar-filled Patong, and a rainforest with scenic waterfalls. Although some areas of Phuket are perhaps a bit too saturated with tourists for some, it's the largest island in Thailand, so groups can find the atmosphere and setting that calls to them most. Plus, it's easy to reach from Bangkok, and is sprinkled with Buddhist temples, museums, and authentic eateries for a good introduction to Thai culture. Adding to its allure is the fact that many luxury properties with multi-bedroom villas come at extremely affordable rates, so groups can get a good bang-for-their-buck here.

Whether a family, bachelorette group, or college friends, Costa Rica is a good destination for large parties, so long as everyone enjoys the outdoors. We particularly like the Manuel Antonio area, as it's home to the lush national park of the same name, ample wildlife like howler monkeys, beautiful beaches suitable for snorkeling, and easily accessible by car. Hotel options like Tulemar Resort offer gorgeous kitchen-equipped villas with spacious living rooms and outdoor terraces, making group dinners a breeze. The plethora of pastimes available -- horseback riding, zip-lining, scuba diving, and hiking -- means travelers can choose between a wide variety of activities, and break up into smaller groups depending on how they want to spend their days.

Despite it being well-known for its Red Light District and legal marijuana, Amsterdam is a suitable destination for groups that aren't bachelor and bachelorette parties. The friendly, English-speaking locals can help make navigating the somewhat tricky city easier, and the pervasive laid-back atmosphere is great for getting into vacation mode. Party-minded groups can make use of the aforementioned offerings; museum-lovers can explore the well-regarded Anne Frank House and Van Gogh Museum; and shopping enthusiasts can pop between the multiple markets spread across the city. Don't miss a canal boat tour, and many companies can accommodate small private charters to large groups.

Columbia is having a surge in tourism, and the coastal city of Cartagena is leading the charge. With its vibrant nightlife, historic 16th-century Walled City, and lounger equipped beaches, it checks off all the boxes for a culture-filled and scenic getaway. Although it's perhaps best suited to young adults who want to sightsee during the day and explore the numerous tapas bars and salsa clubs by night, many families and older groups will find plenty to keep busy. The UNESCO-designated Walled City has palaces-turned-museums, quaint cafes, former convents, and colorful colonial architecture covered in bougainvillea. Year-round warm weather, apartment-style and hostel accommodations, and affordability are additional pros for group travel.

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