The Caribbean is an ideal vacation spot for travelers of all types.
But, there are some places that stand out for the whole family
Here are some suggestions for the best Caribbean islands for families.
US Virgin Islands
Want to visit the Caribbean but your kids don’t have a passport? Well, look no further than a trip to the stunning U.S. Virgin Islands where you won’t need that passport at all.
Bring the whole family and explore the Virgin Islands National Park or Trunk Bay in St. John. For those who want to avoid big crowds, head over to Water Island.
Turks and Caicos
The beautiful island of Turks and Caicos has long been known as one of the most family-friendly islands in the Caribbean.
You would do yourself and your family a disservice if you didn’t make your way over to Amanyara Resort on the island of Providenciales in the Turks and Caicos chain. How could you go wrong with a resort whose name is translated as ‘peaceful place’?
Even better, they run a children’s camp for ages 5-14 that is environmentally based. Everything is hands on, including the kayak rides and the snorkeling.
Grand Cayman, Cayman Islands
If you’re going to splurge, you might as well do it here at the Ritz-Carlton.
First of all, it is located on Seven Mile Beach, one of the most famous beaches in the world.
But it also boasts the Ambassadors of the Environment program created by Jean Michel Cousteau, son of the famous marine explorer Jacques Cousteau. There are such things as exploring a mangrove forest and nighttime scuba diving for the whole family. And it has a Greg Norman-designed golf course for those who enjoy the links together as a family.
Seven Mile Beach (Photo via Sarah Greaves-Gabbadon)
Barbados
The best part about Barbados is it can be inexpensive depending on your choice of accommodations and when you go. Although that is probably true for every Caribbean island.
Moreover, the locals have an understanding of how tourism works and are very friendly toward families.
If you have older children, they will surely enjoy Harrison’s Cave and everything there is to explore it. If the children are on the younger side, they will definitely enjoy the clear water and the exploration of the local marine life.
Bahamas
When people think of the Bahamas, they usually think of Nassau and Atlantis Paradise Island. However, the Bahamas are a string of 700 islands, giving families plenty of options to explore no matter which island they decide to stay on.
That said, did you know that Atlantis has water slides that rival any in the world? Not to mention a family-friendly beach. The 141-acre water park is one the whole family will enjoy. An excursion out to Exuma to swim with the pigs is another great option for a memorable family outing.
Family going down waterslide at Atlantis Aquaventure (photo via Atlantis Aquaventure) (Photo Credit: (photo via Atlantis Aquaventure))
Puerto Rico
Another spot for families without a US passport, Puerto Rico is easy to get to, has beautiful beaches, and lots of fun for the family.
In addition to the beaches, you could spend a week in old San Juan soaking in the history and the Latin culture. Don't forget about all the shipping. And don’t forget to try the classic Puerto Rican street food mofongo. You can thank us later.
Get off the beaten path as well by trying Isla Verde or Culebra. You can also snorkel among sea turtles or take a dip in the bioluminescent bay.
Dominican Republic
The all-inclusive resorts in Punta Cana and Cap Cana are the place to be in the Dominican Republic for families. Fill up on the food and soak up in the sun by the beach or the pool.
In addition to things like mountain biking and surfing and white-water rafting, the Dominican has something that few other Caribbean islands do: a new theme park in Katmandu Park Punta Cana.
Jamaica
This island nation rightfully advertises itself as chill. It might have the best vibes in the Caribbean.
Even the crowded markets in Ocho Rios have a laid-back feel.
The all-inclusive resorts are especially appealing for families. Even though Jamaica can be vibrant and colorful with its food and music, there is still room for a family vacation. This is the third-largest island in the Caribbean. Family-friendly activities include rafting down one of its rivers and standing under one of the country’s fantastic waterfalls.
Oh, and don’t forget the zip-lining!
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