When it comes to a family vacation full of fun in the sun, the Caribbean is particularly appealing with picture-perfect weather, beautiful beaches, and vibrant cultures. Direct flights from many East Coast airports to popular Caribbean islands such as Jamaica, Aruba, the Bahamas, Grand Cayman, and the Dominican Republic mitigate the need for parents to deal with the stress of running through the airport to catch a connection. Once you touch down in paradise, family-friendly beach resorts with water sports, kids clubs, splash pads, playgrounds, endless activities, and multiple restaurants guarantee guests of all ages will find something to smile about.
To help you pick the right spot for your crew, we’ve rounded up 15 of the best family beach resorts across the Caribbean for every travel taste. (Prefer all-inclusive resorts? Give this article a read.)
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Atlantis Paradise Island, Bahamas
Want to win extra cool points with the younger generation? Bring the whole crew to Atlantis Paradise Island. This legendary resort boasts six beaches, kids and teens clubs, junior aquarist trainer day programs, the Predator Lagoon tunnel, the world's largest open-air marine habitat at Dolphin Cay, a movie theater, and a 141-acre water park with waterslides, the longest river ride in the Bahamas, an aqua-play fort, and 11 swimming pools.
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Rosewood Le Guanahani St. Barth, St. Barts
Parents (and by extension, children) who like luxury love Rosewood Le Guanahani St. Barth. As one of the largest and most well-equipped resorts on St. Barts, travelers can expect a slew of family-friendly amenities — including two pools, placid beaches, snorkeling, the Rosewood Explorers club for kids ages four to 11, babysitting services, and a world-class spa — in a plush, private setting.
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Dorado Beach, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve, Puerto Rico
Dorado Beach, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve, in Puerto Rico makes a splash with luxury lovers of all ages. You’ll find plenty of water sports, pools, sandy beaches, and activities like bike tours through endangered Pterocarpus wetlands to keep everyone busy — and, more importantly, happy. Kids can learn Taíno arts and crafts while parents steal away for a spa treatment or to play a round of golf.
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Four Seasons Resort and Residences Anguilla, Anguilla
Anguilla is the ultimate sun-splashed family vacation destination — especially if you’re checking into the splurge-worthy Four Seasons Resort and Residences Anguilla, which offers three sparkling pools, large villas to spread out in style, a sports pavilion, a private beach club, volleyball, rock climbing, stand-up paddle boarding, kayaking, and dedicated kids and teen programs.
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Kimpton Seafire Resort + Spa, Grand Cayman
Located on beautiful Seven Mile Beach, the Kimpton Seafire Resort + Spa very much looks like a sophisticated, contemporary hotel you’d check into before becoming parents — except it’s actually great for families. Kids always have a blast doing crafts, snorkeling, and playing games at Camp Seafire. Teens will enjoy being left to their devices — which, in this case, probably means grabbing a kayak or paddle board.
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Aurora Anguilla Resort & Golf Club, Anguilla
Newcomer Aurora Anguilla Resort & Golf Club instantly made its mark with spacious suites, swimming pools, a splash pad and playground, kids menus at the restaurants (so even picky eaters won’t have trouble finding something yummy to devour), and family-friendly activities — ranging from pickleball clinics to s'mores bonfires. The enormous spa and Greg Norman-designed golf course act as a refuge for parents.
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Rosewood Little Dix Bay, British Virgin Islands
If you’re not a fan of sharing stretches of sand with multiple hotels and day trippers, you’re sure to enjoy the privacy of having a secluded crescent-shaped beach basically all to yourself (and a few other guests) at Rosewood Little Dix Bay. The soft sand and calm water are great for little kids. The resort also supplies babysitting and nanny services as well as cribs, monitors, high chairs, play tents, and strollers upon request.
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Cheval Blanc St-Barth, St. Barts
Any child — or parent, for that matter — who gets to vacation at Cheval Blanc St-Barth should consider themselves very lucky. Situated right on the sand, this swish resort spoils young guests with beach picnics, chef-created baby purées and special kids dishes, pint-sized spa treatments, and aqua-osteopathy for bubs, plus spacious villas and suites with private pools.
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Half Moon, Jamaica
Families flock to Half Moon because of the private beaches, pool, equestrian center, youth tennis clinics, and the chance to see sea turtles hatch (May through August). A major highlight for kids is, not surprisingly, the colorful children’s village, which features a playground and all sorts of age-appropriate activities, from scavenger hunts and story time to horseback riding and sailing.
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Four Seasons Resort Nevis, Nevis
While Nevis isn’t the easiest place to reach, many families feel it’s worth the extra effort to vacation at the Four Seasons Resort Nevis. The largest and most luxurious property on the island has a top-rated kids club with a playground, a huge list of activities — including mini golf, kite making, and movie nights — excellent food, and multi-bedroom villas. When it’s time for parents to clock out, a spa and rum cocktails await.
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Round Hill Hotel and Villas, Jamaica
No parent in history has ever had to sell their child on going to Round Hill Hotel and Villas. That’s because this top-rated Montego Bay resort provides heaps of fun activities — soccer, tie-dyeing, board games, foosball, painting, and water sports — and kid-approved menu options. An on-site nanny program, spa, gourmet dining, and shaded beach loungers are certainly draws for grown-ups.
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Park Hyatt St. Kitts Christophe Harbour, St. Kitts
Whether your dream family vacation looks like building sandcastles on a golden beach or floating in an adults-only pool and doing a rum tasting while the kids are entertained at Island Fort by Camp Hyatt, Park Hyatt St. Kitts Christophe Harbour delivers. The suites with private pools and sundecks are particularly ideal for traveling with children (especially if you have little ones who still need a midday nap).
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Oil Nut Bay, British Virgin Islands
Even just getting to Oil Nut Bay — a 400-acre private island paradise that’s only accessible by boat or helicopter — is something families won’t soon forget. With calm waters for snorkeling, a beach club, three pools, tennis courts, water sports, huge villas, an on-site rescue barn, and an interactive nature center, time spent together at this multi-generational resort promises fond memories to last a lifetime.
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Grace Bay Club, Turks and Caicos
Picture this: an upscale all-suite resort that’s also kid-friendly and sits on one of the most beautiful beaches in the world. Sounds pretty perfect, right? That’s the exact setup at Grace Bay Club, a family favorite that wows with direct access to white sand and tranquil, turquoise waters, plus a pool, a photography concierge to capture priceless vacation moments, field trips to conch farms, and foraging excursions.
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Hilton Aruba Caribbean Resort & Casino, Aruba
The Hilton Aruba Caribbean Resort & Casino wins over families with its palapa-studded beach and action-packed activity schedule. There’s also a kids club and evening activities such as dive-in movies and s’mores. Once kiddos are sound asleep after a full day of ping pong, cornhole, horseshoes, stand-up paddle boarding, and bingo, many parents enjoy hitting the slot machines and blackjack table.
FAQs
The Best Family-friendly Beach Resorts in the Caribbean? ›
Barbados. The safest and most child-friendly island in the Caribbean, Barbados is perfect for family vacations. The tourist industry is a huge part of the island's economy, so visitors of all ages are warmly welcomed by locals.
How do I choose an all inclusive resort for my family? ›- Call a Travel Agent. Travel agents are extremely well-versed in all-inclusive resorts. ...
- Consider Adults-Only vs. Family-Friendly. ...
- Compare Included Amenities. ...
- Check Out the Location. ...
- Determine the Size of Resort Best for You. ...
- Compare Beaches. ...
- Look Into the Resort's Atmosphere.
Barbados. The safest and most child-friendly island in the Caribbean, Barbados is perfect for family vacations. The tourist industry is a huge part of the island's economy, so visitors of all ages are warmly welcomed by locals.
On which 2 Caribbean islands are beaches resorts located? ›Bringing Everyone Closer Together. Your perfect family getaway awaits you at Beaches all inclusive Resorts in Jamaica and Turks and Caicos.
Is Sandals resort adults only? ›Sandals caters strictly to adults, so the entire resort is yours to stay and play.
Do all-inclusive resorts charge less for kids? ›Depending on the all-inclusive resort, you may need to pay a surcharge for your kids depending on their ages. Where some all-inclusive resorts let kids stay free with paid adults, others charge extra for kids over 12 or a half-rate for those older than 15.
Should I pay for an all-inclusive resort? ›Yes, all-inclusives are worth it for travelers who just want to relax on their honeymoon or vacation. When you stay at an all-inclusive resort, all meals and beverages are usually already paid for, as are many onsite activities.
Where to avoid in Caribbean? ›Cities such as Kingston, St. Andrew Parish, and Montego Bay have been especially listed as high-risk areas due to rising levels of crime and violence. The U.S. Department of State recommends reconsidering travel here.
What is the safest friendliest Caribbean island? ›Barbados. Considered one of the safest places in the Caribbean for families, Barbados is an independent British Commonwealth nation and welcomes around 1 million visitors each year. The tourism industry is a huge part of the island's economy, and the locals are said to be some of the friendliest in the entire Caribbean ...
What is the prettiest island and beach in the Caribbean? ›Providenciales, Turks & Caicos
Turks & Caicos is a well-known destination in the Caribbean, though its star is the island of Providenciales. Its massive Grace Bay Beach, often called the world's most beautiful, features calm, turquoise waters emblematic of the region.
Which Caribbean island has the best beaches? ›
Anguilla is often named as having the best beaches in the Caribbean – which is no small feat given the stiff competition. The small island boasts over 30 picture-perfect beaches, dotted with luxury places to stay.
Is beaches or Sandals cheaper? ›Overall, Sandals Resorts tend to be more expensive than Beaches Resorts on a per-person basis. This is partly because Sandals Resorts offer a more luxurious experience, with higher-end amenities and accommodations like swim-up suites and bungalows.
Can kids come to Sandals Resort? ›Why can't I take the kids? Because we wanted to make your vacation as romantic and relaxing as possible, only couples may stay at Sandals.
Is clothing optional at Secrets resorts? ›Is Secrets Resorts clothing optional? Secrets Resorts are not clothing optional. Neither are Sandals resorts. You can find clothing-optional beaches at Couples resorts in Jamaica.
Why are Sandals resorts so popular? ›Why do people like Sandals resorts so much? There are many reasons, including the gorgeous tropical settings, the swanky suites, the sheer number of included activities, the fabulous food, the romantic atmosphere, and the excellent service.
Is it rude not to tip at all-inclusive resorts? ›While tipping may not be required at some all-inclusive resorts, many guests prefer to do so. In the event that you would like to tip staff during your all-inclusive vacation, it is important to find out in advance whether staff would even be allowed to accept those tips.
How much should I pay for an all-inclusive? ›All inclusive prices vary by resort and location, however the average price for an all-inclusive vacation ranges from $200 to $600/day (remember this usually includes airfare). There are cheaper all inclusive resorts out there, but their quality can reflect the lower price point.
How to save money on an all-inclusive resort? ›- Use A Travel Agent or Booking Site.
- Investigate Off Season Travel.
- Use Regional Airlines Whenever Possible.
- Bring All the Essentials!
- Take Advantage of Children's or Family Programs at Resorts.
- Plan Your Own Tours.
- Don't Over-Extend Yourself or Others.
- Read The Fine Print Very Carefully.
You'll Get the Best Price, Without Any Hidden Fees
Reality is, hotels tend to offer the best rate when guests book directly with them. At the same time, hotels are very clear about their prices in order to avoid any misunderstandings that might affect the guests' experience.
Early or late: Either book very early (nine months or more in advance, especially if you want to stay during peak seasons like Christmas and New Year's) or take a chance on last-minute deals. Buyer Beware: Beware of deals too good to be true, particularly last minute sales.
What is the #1 Caribbean island? ›
The Dominican Republic is the most visited island in the Caribbean. With its seemingly endless white-sand beaches, the Dominican Republic is a popular getaway for tourists searching for an idyllic vacation, plenty of outdoor adventure, and a tinge of colonial history.
Which Caribbean islands are not worth visiting? ›On the basis of crime rates, some of the least safe Caribbean Islands to visit include Puerto Rico, Haiti, Trinidad and Tobago. As we noted though, most crime in the Caribbean is an internal problem and is linked to inner-city areas well away from tourist resorts.
Which side of the Caribbean is better? ›In short, the Eastern Caribbean offers more of a cultural, historical, and shopping experience, where as the Western Caribbean offers better water sports, beaches and fun in the sun. You maybe wondering where the Bahamas falls in to play. The Bahamas is usually included inside Eastern Caribbean itineraries.
What is the least violent Caribbean island? ›Montserrat. This island has the lowest crime rates in the entire Caribbean. In Montserrat most visits are trouble-free.
What Caribbean island is the least expensive? ›1. The Dominican Republic. The Dominican Republic is one of the most affordable islands in the Caribbean, with options that will suit any traveler. If you're after a luxury all-inclusive vacation, you can score great deals on resorts in destinations like Punta Cana, La Romana, and Puerto Plata.
What is the least visited island in the Caribbean? ›Montserrat. Despite its French-sounding name, Montserrat is actually part of Britain. The United Nations World Tourism Organization listed Montserrat as one of the least visited countries in the world, making it the least visited island in the Caribbean.
Where is the Caribbean for kids? ›The Caribbean Sea sits between the islands of the West Indies and the coasts of Central and South America. It is a section of the Atlantic Ocean. The sea was named after the Carib Indians.
Where is the safest place for family vacation? ›- Finland. This Nordic country tops the “Safety and Security” index in the WEF Travel and Tourism Competitiveness Report, and ranks 15th in the IEP Global Peace Index. ...
- United Arab Emirates. ...
- Iceland. ...
- Oman. ...
- Hong Kong. ...
- Singapore. ...
- Norway. ...
- Switzerland.
The island of Nauru also claims the title of least visited. Part of Micronesia, its nearest neighbor, Banaba Island in Kiribati, is still almost 200 miles away. Nauru is the place to get off the grid in its truest form.
What is the #1 most beautiful beach in the world? ›About 220 miles off the coast of Brazil, Baia do Sancho is regularly deemed the world's best beach. UNESCO designation and careful government protections keep it and the entire Fernando de Noronha archipelago pristine.
What is the most naturally beautiful Caribbean island? ›
St.
Lucia is arguably the most beautiful of all Caribbean Islands with its two UNESCO World Heritage designated Pitons standing proud. The Gros and Petit Pitons are two mountainous volcanic plugs that definitely contribute to the island's beauty.
1. The Maldives. The Maldives, located in the Indian Ocean, have around 1,190 islands and sandbanks. A lagoon with crystal clear water encircles all the islands, which are protected by a reef structure that is home to an array of underwater life.
Which Caribbean island has the cleanest beaches? ›The beaches in Aruba are said to be the cleanest and widest in the Caribbean.
What is the most underrated Caribbean island? ›Grenada, known as the “spice island” because of it's lengthy history with spice traders and nutmeg crops, remains one of the Caribbean's most underrated islands. It's at the southern tip of the Grenadines, and now's the perfect time to go, as it just added a big, new modern resort to the mix.
What is the #1 island in the US? ›Rank | Island's Name | Location |
---|---|---|
1 | Hawaii Island (the Big Island) | Hawaii |
2 | Kodiak Island | Alaska |
3 | Puerto Rico | Puerto Rico |
4 | Prince of Wales Island | Alaska |
You're much more likely to sprain an ankle in a sandal than a tennis shoe, and forget moving heavy objects.
What is the cheapest month to go to Sandals? ›Especially the 7-7-7 deals are popular to get discount upon discount. If you're looking to cut costs, it might be more effective to book outside of peak season, which takes place around mid-December to mid-April. Outside this period, you will find more availability and lower room rates.
What age is a child at Beaches Resorts? ›From the smallest newborn to those up to 24 months, your baby is in the very best hands at Beaches. Luxurious, climate-controlled nurseries-filled with cribs, strollers, high chairs, rocking chairs and everything your little one could ever need await to cradle them in the very lap of luxury.
Is Negril or Ocho Rios better? ›If you're looking for more of a secluded beach experience, Ocho Rios is the better choice. However, if you want more of a party atmosphere, then Negril is the way to go!
How to choose Sandals for kids? ›Babies and toddlers (0 to 2 years): it is important not to buy sandals that are too big, as this can inhibit their motor development. You should therefore leave no more than 1 cm of room for growth. Closed sandals: we recommend 1 to 1.5 cm of room for growth. Open sandals: we recommend 1 cm of room for growth.
Do any secrets resorts allow kids? ›
The Secrets resorts are adults-only, so no children.
What happens at secret resorts? ›Unique experiences: Each resort offers unique activities to explore such as surfing, golf, water sports, cultural exploration and art, dance and cooking classes. Gourmet cuisine: Savor every bite and sip with unlimited gourmet dining and top-shelf drinks from around the world.
What is the average age at Secrets resorts? ›10 answers. We are all Adults Resort, ages 18 and over. Average age will be 25-65. over a year ago.
What does a week at Sandals cost? ›What does a week at Sandals cost? The cost of a week at Sandals can vary widely depending on the resort you choose, the level of room you want, and the time of year you travel. On average, a 5-night stay at Sandals can cost about $2800 to $4800, and a 7-night stay at Sandals can cost from $4000 to $8500 per couple.
What is the average age of Sandals guests? ›Having traveled to a number of Sandals Resorts, the majority of the guests are in the range of 30 to 40. My wife and I are in our 60's and feel very comfortable there. We always meet couples in their late 40's through 50's. there is always a nice older crowd, but that is the smaller crowd as a percent of guests.
Why is Sandals no tipping? ›The tipping policy at Sandals resorts says that most Sandals staff are not to be tipped, because their tips are part of your all-inclusive rate. In fact, if they are caught receiving tips, they could be fired, so be aware of this.
What to look for when looking for all-inclusive resorts? ›- Swim-Up Bar. ...
- Adults-Only Pools and Other Areas. ...
- Multi-generational Family Time. ...
- The Beach. ...
- Multiple Included Restaurants. ...
- Spa and Wellness. ...
- Work-from-anywhere Services. ...
- Treating Yourself to Upgrades.
Most of the time, it works out cheaper to package everything together - flights, transfers, resorts, insurance - than it is to purchase everything separately.
How much extra money should I bring to an all-inclusive resort? ›For a one-week stay at an all-inclusive resort, a couple should budget to spend about $150 US (or the local currency equivalent) total in tips. This means that you should bring about $20 in small bills with you to spend on tips throughout the day.
How far out should you book an all-inclusive vacation? ›Early or late: Either book very early (nine months or more in advance, especially if you want to stay during peak seasons like Christmas and New Year's) or take a chance on last-minute deals.
What is the best day to check into an all-inclusive resort? ›
Ideal Check-In Day
Consider the start date of your vacation if you want to save some extra cash on your trip. In general, Sunday is the least expensive day of the week to begin your stay at a hotel. In fact, settling in on a Sunday can save travelers up to 19% on overall room rates, compared to mid-week check-ins.
How far in advance should I plan a vacation? For big and important trips, start planning 6-12 months in advance. This will give you time to find the best price on airfare, lodging, and activities.
Is it better to book all-inclusive early or last minute? ›If you are completely set on a particular destination or hotel, it's probably best to book well ahead of time and get an early-bird discount. Last-minute deals can come up anywhere, anytime and sometimes it's not the destination that you would naturally gravitate toward or one have even considered as an option.
Does all-inclusive mean tip? ›Generally, you won't be expected to tip at the time of purchase since part of the beauty of an all-inclusive resort is not having to worry about bringing credit cards or cash to the beach or pool. Some resorts will charge you a daily tip amount while some prohibit tipping altogether.
What is a good amount of money to take on vacation? ›How much should I budget for a vacation? Many people set aside 5-10% of their net yearly income for leisure travel, but this can vary greatly based on the type of vacations they're planning. Another popular budgeting option is the 50/30/20 rule: 50% of net income is spent on things you need.
What day of the week is the best time to book a vacation package? ›If you're traveling on a Tuesday or a Wednesday, it's going to be a lot cheaper.” The fares tend to be lower than on a Friday or Sunday, which are peak travel days, especially for international flights.
How many nights should a vacation be? ›According to a study published in the Journal of Happiness Studies, your vacations should be at least 8-14 days long, with the ideal length being eight days. The study looked at many respondent's experiences while on their vacations.