Family Vacations in the Caribbean

Location: Aruba, Caribbean

Recommended For: Families with kids, beach lovers, snorkelers, animal enthusiasts, and cultural explorers.

What we Love: "Aruba blends crystal-clear waters and sandy beaches with animal fun and interactive museums—perfect for families who want to balance chill time with adventure and discovery."

• Swim and wade at family-friendly beaches like Arashi and Baby Beach, known for calm, shallow water safe for kids.
• Snorkel with the whole family at Mangel Halto and Boca Catalina—great spots to spot colorful fish in calm Caribbean waters.
• Visit the Butterfly Farm, Ostrich Farm, and Donkey Sanctuary for hands-on animal encounters that delight all ages.
• Learn about local history at the Aloe Factory and Museum and explore artifacts at the Archeological Museum of Aruba.

Cost: Varies by activity; many resorts offer family deals and attraction packages.

Best time to visit: Year-round sunshine makes Aruba ideal anytime, but December to April offers the driest and most popular season.

Local tips: Book activities through your hotel—many offer bundled deals for family attractions. Bring reef-safe sunscreen for the beaches and snorkeling spots.

Distance: Easily accessible via Queen Beatrix International Airport, with direct flights from major U.S. and European cities.

How to Get Around: Taxis and rental cars are widely available. Many family-friendly attractions are a short drive from resort areas.

Location: The Bahamas, Caribbean

Recommended For: Families, beachgoers, wildlife lovers, snorkelers, day trippers, and island explorers.

What we Love: "From pristine beaches to wild iguanas and mysterious caves, the Bahamas are a tropical playground for families who want sun-soaked fun with a touch of adventure."

• Play in the clear blue waters with family-friendly activities like swimming, paddleboarding, boating, and snorkeling.
• Explore the wild side with local tours to spot dolphins, iguanas, birds, and vibrant marine life in their natural habitats.
• Visit family-focused attractions like plant preserves, cultural museums, and local marketplaces for shopping and dining.
• Discover natural wonders in the island’s many caves, including Indian Hole Point, Bolling Hole, and Ten Bay Cave.

Cost: Varies by island and activity. Many resorts and tour companies offer family packages and excursion bundles.

Best time to visit: December through April for dry, sunny weather and the best beach conditions. Summer offers fewer crowds and travel deals.

Local tips: Book nature and boat tours early, especially during high season. Always bring sun protection, water shoes, and bug spray for cave exploring and nature hikes.

Distance: Easy access from the U.S. East Coast with direct flights to Nassau, Freeport, and other major islands.

How to Get Around: Inter-island flights, ferries, taxis, and rental cars are all common. Many tours offer hotel pick-up.

Location: Bonaire, Southern Caribbean (100 miles north of Venezuela)

Recommended For: Scuba divers, snorkelers, nature lovers, birdwatchers, windsurfers, and those seeking a peaceful, eco-rich getaway.

What we Love: "Bonaire is like a Caribbean postcard come to life — coral reefs just steps from the shore, flamingos taking flight over salt flats, and pristine beaches all wrapped in a laid-back Dutch island vibe."

• Dive into the Bonaire National Marine Park, where healthy reefs and vibrant marine life make this a top destination for scuba divers and snorkelers worldwide.
• Explore Washington Slagbaai National Park’s caverns, lagoons, beaches, and trails rich in tropical flora and fauna.
• Watch for flamingos, parrots, and pelicans while windsurfing or relaxing along the coast—Bonaire is a birdwatcher’s paradise.
• Relax at white-sand beaches under hurricane-safe skies with near-perfect weather year-round, and stay in luxury at the Harbour Village Beach Club.

Cost: Varies by activity and accommodation. Marine Park entry fees apply for divers and snorkelers; park and nature reserves may also require day passes.

Best time to visit: Year-round, thanks to consistent temperatures and a location outside the hurricane belt. October through April offers especially great water visibility and mild winds.

Local tips: Rent a truck to access park trails and remote dive sites. Bonaire uses the U.S. dollar and is known for its safe, easy-going atmosphere—ideal for families and solo travelers alike.

Distance: Direct flights available from major U.S. and Dutch cities. Approximately 3 hours from Miami, FL.

How to Get Around: Rental cars are the best option for exploring beaches, dive sites, and inland trails. Bonaire is small and easy to navigate.

Location: Dominican Republic, Caribbean

Recommended For: Families, beach resort vacationers, nature explorers, and adventure-loving kids and teens.

What we Love: "With everything from mangroves to mountains, zip lines to snorkeling, and kid-friendly luxury resorts, the Dominican Republic is a one-stop paradise for families who want variety with a side of sunshine."

• Stay at all-inclusive beach resorts like Punta Cana Resort and Eden Roc Cap Cana, where families enjoy kid-approved fun and five-star comfort.
• Play in warm turquoise waters—perfect for kayaking, snorkeling, boogie-boarding, and swimming with little ones.
• Explore nine distinct ecosystems that include beaches, freshwater lagoons, mangrove forests, and tropical scrublands.
• Adventure at Eden Roc’s on-site park featuring zip lines, hiking trails, animal encounters, and off-road buggy rides for thrill-seeking families.

Cost: All-inclusive resorts vary in price; many family activity packages are included with stays. National park entry fees are minimal.

Best time to visit: December through April for dry weather and peak resort programming. Summer offers more deals but comes with higher humidity.

Local tips: Many resorts offer childcare and supervised kids’ clubs—perfect for parents to unwind. Be sure to sample local Dominican food and try a family horseback ride along the beach!

Distance: About 2 hours by plane from Miami, FL. Direct international flights available to Punta Cana, Santo Domingo, and other cities.

How to Get Around: Resort shuttles, private transfers, and taxis are common. For exploring off-property, consider booking guided tours or renting a car with child safety seats.

Location: Cayman Islands, Caribbean

Recommended For: Families, foodies, snorkelers, beach lovers, and wildlife enthusiasts.

What we Love: "With world-class cuisine, warm shallow waters, and interactive marine attractions, the Cayman Islands blend luxury and laid-back charm into a perfect island escape for all ages."

• Dine at over 200 restaurants ranging from 5-star gourmet to casual beachside grills featuring freshly caught seafood and island-grown produce.
• Relax on the famous Seven Mile Beach on Grand Cayman—a wide stretch of public sand with calm, clear water ideal for swimming and snorkeling with kids.
• Visit family favorites like Stingray City, where you can safely wade and interact with stingrays in shallow waters, and the Cayman Turtle Farm to learn about and even hold sea turtles.

Cost: Resort and dining prices vary widely; many family resorts offer packages. Entry fees apply to select attractions like Stingray City and the Turtle Centre.

Best time to visit: December to April for dry, sunny weather. May through November offers better deals but may bring brief tropical showers.

Local tips: Book popular tours in advance during peak season. Try local specialties like conch fritters or Cayman-style fish for a taste of island flavor the whole family can enjoy.

Distance: About 1.5 hours from Miami, FL by air. Direct flights available from several major U.S. cities.

How to Get Around: Taxis and rental cars are common. Many resorts are within walking distance of Seven Mile Beach and major attractions.

Location: Jamaica, Caribbean

Recommended For: Families, nature lovers, adventure seekers, art enthusiasts, and beachgoers.

What we Love: "Jamaica’s island rhythm blends perfectly with family fun—offering lush gardens, playful attractions, and cultural gems that turn every outing into a memory-making adventure."

• Wander through the serene Ras Natango Gallery & Garden to see native birds, tropical plants, and vibrant local artwork in a peaceful hilltop setting.
• Play at Kool Runnings Adventure Park with waterslides, laser tag, go-karts, and activities tailored to kids and teens.
• Ride horseback along sandy beaches or raft down the scenic Martha Brae River for a relaxing view of the island’s interior.
• Sail the Jamaican coastline on family-friendly tours that include snorkeling, swimming, and island stories shared by local guides.

Cost: Attraction and tour prices vary. Many resorts offer all-inclusive packages that include activities for kids and families.

Best time to visit: November to mid-December and January through April for dry weather and family resort deals.

Local tips: Book adventure park tickets ahead during peak seasons. Combine nature with culture by supporting local artists at the gallery gift shop.

Distance: About 1.5 hours from Miami, FL by plane. Direct flights available to Montego Bay, Kingston, and other major hubs.

How to Get Around: Taxis, private transfers, and resort shuttles are widely used. Consider hiring a driver for full-day excursions to multiple attractions.

Luxury Family Vacations in the Caribbean:

Location: Martinique, French Caribbean

Recommended For: Families, nature lovers, cultural explorers, animal lovers, and scenic cruisers.

What we Love: "Martinique blends lush landscapes with French-Caribbean charm—offering hands-on gardens, friendly zoo encounters, and breezy catamaran cruises perfect for families looking to explore and relax."

• Stroll through Jardin de Balata, a botanical paradise featuring over 3,000 species of tropical plants, playful birds, treetop walkways, and a gift shop for nature-inspired souvenirs.
• Visit Zoo de Martinique, an easy-to-navigate wildlife park home to animals from three continents—ideal for younger children and animal enthusiasts alike.
• Explore Fort-de-France, Martinique’s capital, with family-friendly museums, beautiful cathedrals, libraries, shopping, and an open-air market bursting with local flavors.
• Sail with Kata Mambo on a full-day catamaran tour around the island, complete with swimming stops and a delicious island-style lunch on board.

Cost: Entry fees vary by activity. Jardin de Balata and the zoo charge modest admission. Kata Mambo tours are full-day experiences and include meals.

Best time to visit: December through April for the driest weather and most active family programming. Summer is warmer with fewer crowds.

Local tips: Bring comfortable walking shoes for garden paths and zoo trails. Book Kata Mambo catamaran tours early—spots fill quickly in high season.

Distance: Accessible via direct flights from Paris and other Caribbean islands; 4–5 hours from Miami via connecting flights.

How to Get Around: Rental cars are the most convenient for exploring the island. Taxis and tours are available for key attractions and city visits.

Location: Nevis, Caribbean (part of the Federation of St. Kitts and Nevis)

Recommended For: History lovers, slow travelers, cyclists, cultural explorers, and couples looking for a peaceful island experience.

What we Love: "Nevis may be small in size, but it’s huge in charm. With lush mountains, colonial-era forts, and scenic roads perfect for biking or a carriage ride, this hidden gem gives you an authentic Caribbean escape—without the crowds."

• Tour the island in a single day by bicycle, foot, or a nostalgic horse-drawn carriage, taking in ocean views and green volcanic slopes along the way.
• Visit historic sites like Fort Charleston, Nevisian Heritage Village, Fort Ashby, and the Heritage Great House to learn about the island’s colonial and cultural legacy.
• Enjoy relaxing spas, boutique shopping, and waterfront dining that embraces the island’s unhurried, welcoming vibe.
• Set sail on a boat tour around the island to see Nevis Peak from the water and possibly spot dolphins along the way.

Cost: Entry to heritage sites is modest. Boat tours, spa services, and dining vary by vendor. Many guesthouses and inns offer personalized packages.

Best time to visit: December through April for dry, breezy weather and calm seas. Summer is quieter and more budget-friendly.

Local tips: Visit early in the day for walking and cycling tours to beat the heat. Many attractions are close together, so combining history, dining, and beach time is easy and relaxing.

Distance: Accessible via water taxi or ferry from St. Kitts (approx. 10–15 minutes). Flights also available via regional hubs like Antigua or San Juan.

How to Get Around: Rent a bike or arrange a taxi tour for the day. Carriages and walking tours are popular in Charlestown and surrounding areas.

Affordable Travel:

Location: Puerto Rico, Caribbean (U.S. territory)

Recommended For: Families, nature lovers, beachgoers, and anyone looking for a tropical getaway with no passport required for U.S. travelers.

What we Love: "Puerto Rico delivers big on family adventure—think rainforest hikes, interactive museums, island picnics, and snorkeling-friendly beaches all within easy reach."

• Play and learn at the Museo del Niño (Children’s Museum), a three-story wonderland of hands-on exhibits and creative fun for all ages.
• Hike through El Yunque National Forest, the only tropical rainforest in the U.S. National Forest System—home to waterfalls, parrots, and lush trails perfect for family adventures.
• Relax at the beautiful beach in Guánica on the island’s southwest coast, ideal for wading, snorkeling, picnicking, and calm water play.
• Boat to nearby Gilligan’s Island for a fun family day trip complete with mangrove exploration and shallow, crystal-clear waters perfect for kids.

Cost: Many activities are free or low-cost. Museum and national park entry fees are modest. Boat tours to Gilligan’s Island vary by operator.

Best time to visit: December to April for the driest weather. Summer is lush and green with fewer crowds but may bring occasional rain.

Local tips: Rent a car to explore beyond San Juan beaches. Bring reef-safe sunscreen and water shoes for beach and nature outings. U.S. dollars and phone plans work here with no international fees for most providers.

Distance: About 2.5 hours from Miami, FL by plane. Direct flights available from major U.S. cities.

How to Get Around: Rental cars are the best way to explore the island. Taxis and ride shares are common in urban areas like San Juan.

Location: St. Lucia, Eastern Caribbean

Recommended For: Honeymooners, all-inclusive resort lovers, beach vacationers, and parents looking for a mix of kid fun and grown-up relaxation.

What we Love: "St. Lucia blends luxury and family-friendly fun like a pro. Waterparks, kids clubs, and stress-free all-inclusives mean everyone in the family gets what they need—fun for the kids, downtime for the parents."

• Stay at Coconut Bay Beach Resort & Spa for budget-friendly all-inclusive fun—think water slides, lazy river, and kids’ activities just steps from the beach.
• Relax while your kids enjoy supervised fun at kids clubs at resorts like St. James Club Morgan Bay or The Landings.
• Explore more of the island with concierge-arranged family excursions, from nature hikes and ziplining to snorkeling tours and beach days—with transportation included.

Cost: All-inclusive family resorts range in price depending on amenities and season. Excursions may be extra if not included in your resort package.

Best time to visit: December through April for dry, sunny weather. Summer is lush and more budget-friendly but can be humid and rainy.

Local tips: Book kids clubs and spa services in advance, especially during peak season. Don’t miss the beachside sunset views—some resorts even offer family bonfire nights.

Distance: Approximately 4.5 hours by direct flight from Miami or 5 hours from New York City.

How to Get Around: Resort shuttles and hotel-arranged transfers are convenient for most outings. Taxis and rental cars are available for more independent exploration.