Ready to add a splash of adventure to your summer holiday? From windswept sails to sun-soaked tennis courts, our award-winning activity holidays feature 12 brilliant ways to keep your family happy, healthy, and high-spirited during your break.
Why choose summer sports on holiday?
At Mark Warner, we believe in making every moment count. Staying active on your getaway isn't just about fitness and wellbeing—it's about crafting memories that'll have you smiling for years to come.
Picture this: you're mastering the art of waterskiing, the sea breeze in your hair, your family cheering from the shore. Or maybe you're whizzing around the local roads, using bikes you'd never have access to back home. These are the moments that turn a good holiday into an unforgettable one.
But it's not all about trying new things. If you're already a pro at windsurfing, why not level up with some foiling at Aeolian Village Beach Resort? Our resorts offer the latest gear, so you can push your skills to new heights. And let's not forget the food—our locally sourced dishes and fresh salads will keep you fuelled for all your adventures.
Best of all? You're kick-starting healthy habits in the most enjoyable way possible. No more struggling to fit exercise around your busy life. Here, it's part of the fun. Plus, if you've always dreamed of learning to sail or scuba dive, then there's no better time to tick it off your bucket list.
So whether you're a solo traveller looking to meet like-minded folks, or a family seeking to bond over new experiences, our summer sports holidays have got you covered. Just imagine scuba diving at Kamari Beach Resort, exploring underwater worlds you never knew existed.
Now that's what we call a holiday.
The best sports for the summer holidays
Ready to make a splash on your next getaway? Here are our top dozen summer sports that'll have you leaping out of bed each morning, eager to dive into the day's adventures.
1. Kayaking
Fancy gliding across crystal-clear waters, soaking up stunning coastal views? Kayaking is a low-impact sport that is perfect for all ages and fitness levels, offering a full-body workout while you soak up the scenery.
2. Sailing
There's nothing quite like the feeling of harnessing the wind's power to propel you across the water. Whether you're a complete novice at sailing who’s keen to learn the ropes on a Royal Yachting Association (RYA) course or an experienced sailor, our expert instructors will help you find your sea legs. The Greek islands and the Aegean coast in Turkey offer some of the best sailing conditions in the world, with warm winds and stunning archipelagos to explore.
3. Windsurfing
Windsurfing combines the thrill of surfing with the power of sailing for an exhilarating ride. It's a fantastic full-body workout that'll improve your balance, core strength, and cardiovascular fitness. You can windsurf at any of our resorts, but for the ultimate windsurfing experience, head to our Aeolian Village resort in Greece where you can take in the stunning coastline as you partake in one of our RYA courses.
4. Tennis
Serve up some holiday fun with a game of tennis. Tennis is a brilliant way to stay active, improve your agility, and enjoy some friendly competition. It’s also a great social sport, perfect for meeting new people or enjoying quality time with family and friends. We also offer lawn tennis association (LTA) courses for both kids and adults, as well as the opportunity to join our social mix-ins with other guests.
5. Padel
Padel is a fast-growing sport that is like tennis's fun, laid-back cousin. Played on a smaller court with solid rackets, it's easier to pick up than tennis but just as addictive. Play a game of padel on our newly built padel courts at our Kamari and Aeolian Village resorts.
6. Cycling
Want to explore your holiday destination while getting fit? Hop on a mountain bike or road bike! Our resorts offer free use our bikes and guided cycling tours, making it easy for you to soak up the local sights and sounds.
7. Scuba diving
Dive into a whole new world beneath the waves with scuba diving. Come face-to-face with colourful marine life and discover hidden treasures in the clear waters around our resorts.
8. Rowing
Rowing is a fantastic full-body workout that builds strength, endurance, and teamwork. Early morning sessions are particularly magical, with calm waters and stunning sunrise views (exclusively available at our Aeolian Village and Paleros resorts).
9. Pickleball
Pickleball is a fun, fast-paced sport that combines elements of tennis, badminton, and table tennis. It's easy to learn—but challenging to master. Head to our Phokaia Beach Resort to try out this addictive sport on our dedicated pickleball courts.
10. Stand-up Paddle Boarding
Looking for a zen way to explore the water? Stand-up paddle boarding (SUP) offers a unique blend of core workout and peaceful exploration. As you glide across the water, you'll improve your balance, strengthen your core and upper body, and enjoy stunning views of the coastline.
11. Waterskiing
Waterskiing, which we offer at our Lemnos, Paleros, and Phokaia resorts, is an exhilarating way to skim across the water's surface as you whizz behind a speedboat. It's also a fantastic workout for your legs, core, and arms. Just remember to hold on tight and enjoy the ride!
Note that this activity is a paid-for extra that’s not included in the price of the holiday.
12. Wakeboarding
Similar to waterskiing, just not as fast, wakeboarding sees you glide across the water's surface on a single board, pulled by a motorboat, for an incredible full-body workout that improves balance, strength, and flexibility. Whether you're a complete beginner or looking to polish your skills, you're in for an unforgettable ride. Wakeboarding is available at our Lemnos, Paleros, and Phokaia resorts.
Note that this activity is a paid-for extra that’s not included in the price of the holiday.
FAQs about active holidays
Got questions about active holidays? Not to worry—we’re here to help.
How do I pick the right summer sport for my holiday?
Choosing the right summer sport is all about knowing yourself and what you enjoy. Are you a thrill-seeker or do you prefer a more relaxed pace? Do you love being in the water or would you rather stay on dry land? Consider your fitness level and any physical limitations. Don't be afraid to try something new—our instructors are here to help you discover new passions. Remember, the best sport is one that puts a smile on you and your family’s faces.
Are there any safety aspects to consider?
Safety is our top priority at Mark Warner. All our activities are supervised by qualified instructors who will provide thorough safety briefings, and we maintain our equipment to the highest standards. However, it's crucial to listen to your body and not push beyond your limits. Always wear appropriate safety gear and follow instructor guidelines. Importantly, make sure you have comprehensive travel insurance that covers the activities you plan to participate in—it's better to be safe than sorry.
Will all equipment be provided?
Absolutely. We believe in making your active holiday as hassle-free as possible. That's why we provide all the gear you'll need for our sports and activities. Whether you're hitting the tennis court or riding the waves, we've got the right equipment waiting for you. Just pack your swimsuit, trainers, and a can-do attitude, and we'll sort out the rest. Less luggage for you, more fun for everyone.
Are there summer sports options for all fitness levels?
Of course! We've designed our activity programme to be as inclusive as possible. Whether you're looking for a gentle introduction to a new sport or seeking to push your limits, we've got options for you. Our range includes low-impact activities like yoga or stretch classes and leisurely cycling, as well as more intense options like tennis and waterskiing. Plus, many of our activities can be adjusted to different fitness levels. Our goal is to help you have fun and feel good, whatever your starting point.
Ready to make a splash this summer?
If you're itching to turn your holiday into an unforgettable adventure, look no further than Mark Warner. We’ve been running award-winning beach and ski holidays since 1974, so we know a thing or two about active holidays.
Whether you're dreaming of sun-soaked tennis courts or snow-capped ski slopes, we've got you covered. If you have any questions then please don’t hesitate to get in touch or book your next family holiday today and start making those summer memories.
Find further blogs
The benefits of family tennis holidays
How to make a family holiday fun for the whole family
