October half term is close enough to start thinking seriously about an escape to the sun. The good news is that a family break doesn’t have to mean a long flight or a return to the full heat and crowds of summer.
Around the Mediterranean, Málaga, Crete and Malta offer beaches alongside plenty to explore beyond them. Lanzarote brings volcanic landscapes and surf lessons, while southern Türkiye pairs its coast with markets, water parks and family resorts. Morocco offers another change of scene as the intense summer heat eases.
Whether you want a few easy days by the sea or an active half term with the kids, these six destinations are worth considering for an autumn sun break.
Malaga, Costa del Sol, Spain
Andalusia tops the list for a family autumn sun break
Andalusia is always a good choice for a family holiday in the summer, but as slightly cooler autumn weather arrives, the region becomes markedly quieter.
We like the city of Malaga on the Costa del Sol for reliable sunshine, big sandy beaches, cute seaside chiringuito and amazingly rich culture.
Not only does Malaga have a stunning coastline, but it’s also Pablo Picasso’s birthplace and home to the impressive Museo Picasso. Centre Pompidou’s first international outpost is here too.
Or if you like your culture a little more ancient, Castillo de Gibralfaro dates back to the 14th century, lords it over the city and serves up amazing views and great kid-shaped adventuring this autumn.
Average temperature for October: 23°
READ MORE: La Zambra: the luxury Andalusian resort that genuinely loves your children
Balos Beach, northwest Crete
Crete always delivers family autumn sun breaks
Steeped in history, blessed with sunshine and spoiled when it comes to food, Greece has long been a firm family favourite.
Crete is the country’s largest island and the furthest south, has both Europe and North Africa in its climate mix, and is a top choice for an active and adventurous family autumn sun break.
Average temperature for October: 24°
READ MORE: Fodele Beach & Water Park takes Crete family holidays to another level
Blue Lagoon, Comino, Malta
Make it Malta for an island hopping half term
Malta’s idyllic in October; the weather’s lovely and everywhere is quieter than in summer – even the beautiful beaches. Though the appeal of Malta isn’t solely focused on its coastline.
The country has a complex and fascinating history which runs through everything from grand cities like Valletta to hilltop towns, dramatic forts and striking architecture.
Just a short ferry ride from Malta, the island of Gozo is home to beautifully restored farmhouses converted into family self-catering villas. Many are available year-round, offering a cosy base for an October half-term break, though prices vary by property and travel dates.
Average temperature in October: 24°
READ MORE: Where’s hot in October? The best family holiday destinations for guaranteed sun
The Cactus Garden, Lanzarote
Pick Lanzarote for buzzy autumn sun break vibes
Despite covering an area of only 800 km², Lanzarote manages to pack in a startling amount of things to see and do for families. Upbeat towns provide the base for a holiday filled with extraordinary experiences.
The island’s long been a destination for art lovers, thanks to the work of world-famous artist and Lanzarotean, César Manrique. Also, it’s no secret that the Canaries are reliable (and easy to reach) for year-round sun, so it’s never really quiet here, even in October.
But that 365-day holiday vibe could be just what you’re looking for on a long-awaited family break this year. October half term is also great for kids’ surf lessons on the dramatic west coast.
Average temperature in October: 24°
READ MORE: Lanzarote: love notes from a small Canary Island
Kapugargin, Dalaman, Türkiye
Southern Türkiye serves fun on a family autumn sun break
Southern Türkiye’s coast, AKA the Turquoise Riviera, is an enchanting world of water parks, street markets, exquisite food and glistening beaches. It’s also a melting pot of different cultures and boasts a history as colourful as the spices used in its delectable array of dishes.
Though you could be forgiven for wanting nothing more than to while away your days lounging on white sand beaches, there’s much to explore on this stunning coastline.
Dalaman is a great base for an autumn sun break, thanks to its lovely weather, family resorts and bustling town centre. Plus, it hugs a glorious stretch of coastline that’s almost as famous for rejuvenating mud baths as for incredible water sports.
Average temperature in October: 24°
READ MORE: Find family activity holidays in Türkiye, Portugal and the Maldives
Chefchaouen ‘Blue City’, Morocco
Morocco is closer than you think for half term breaks
Despite being separated from Spain by just a short stretch of water, Morocco is a completely different world, with a distinct and beguiling culture, a rich history and a set of traditions as old as its golden shores.
Its coastline is 1,000 miles long and littered with gorgeous beaches, charming little fishing towns and spotless family-friendly resorts.
By October, the stifling summer temperatures have long passed, ushering in a far more bearable climate that allows for top-to-bottom exploration of the country and days spent reclining on the sandy beaches.
Average temperature in October: 24°
READ MORE: Covering all bases: the delights of travelling with teens in Morocco
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