CNN

The Obamas will head to Martha’s Vineyard next month.

WASHINGTON (CNN) – It's official: the first family is heading to Martha's Vineyard in Massachusetts for some vacation next month.

White House aides confirmed on Friday night what had been rumored for months but had been kept under wraps for security and other reasons, including the fact that vacation plans are very sensitive in the middle of a painful recession.

The aides said President Barack Obama, first lady Michelle Obama and daughters Sasha and Malia will spend the final week of August together in Martha's Vineyard, a favored vacation spot for then-President Bill Clinton and his family in the '90s.

Aides have privately held open the possibility that Mrs. Obama and the girls may arrive at the vacation spot a few days earlier while the president works on a variety of issues, including his push for health reform.