"Family vacations in the Caribbean are as fun as it gets. I look forward to the first morning breakfast with a view. It's when it sinks in...ahhh, vacation! I hit the beach as early as I can. I swim, snorkel and go on a family-friendly tour in the afternoon. While kids get busy building sandcastles, I get some much appreciated down time to sip something tropical under a swaying palm tree."
Best Family Vacations in the Caribbean:
1. Relax on the beach in Aruba
Rating: ★★★★★
Location: Aruba, Caribbean
Recommended For: Families with kids, snorkelers
What I Love: ♥ "Aruba is known for its crystal-clear waters and sandy beaches. We spend most of our time on the beach. Snorkeling was amazing. "
- Swim at family-friendly beaches like Arashi and Baby Beachs.
- Snorkel with the whole family at Mangel Halto and Boca Catalina.
- Visit the Butterfly Farm, Ostrich Farm, and Donkey Sanctuary.
- Learn about local history at the Aloe Factory and Museum. Or check out the artifacts at the Archeological Museum of Aruba.
Cost: Varies by activity; many resorts offer family deals that incorporate local attractions.
Best time to visit: Year-round sunshine makes Aruba ideal anytime. 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. There are 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.
2. Swim with dolphins in The Bahamas
Location: The Bahamas, Caribbean
Recommended For: Families, beachgoers, day trippers, and island explorers.
What I Love: ♥ "Pristine beaches. Lots of sun. Plenty of adventure. "
- Play in the clear blue waters. We were swimming, paddleboarding, boating, and snorkeling all day long.
- Explore with local tours. Spot dolphins, iguanas, birds, and vibrant marine life.
- Visit family-focused attractions like plant preserves, and cultural museums. We ventured outside the resort areas and found great local marketplaces, shopping and dining.
- Discover 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. Pack sun protection (we like UV clothing in addition to sunscreen which you can buy locally).
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.
Review:★★★★★ "My Bahamas trip was an absolute dream. The beaches had the softest white sand and the clearest turquoise water I’ve ever seen. I loved snorkeling first thing in the morning before other people got to the beach. "
3. Go snorkeling and scuba diving in Bonaire - 3 hours by plane from Miami
Location: Bonaire, Southern Caribbean (100 miles north of Venezuela)
Recommended For: Scuba divers, snorkelers, nature lovers.
What I Love: ♥ "Coral reefs just steps from the shore. Flamingos taking flight over salt flats. Pristine beaches and Dutch island vibe."
- Dive into the Bonaire National Marine Park, a top destination for scuba divers and snorkelers from around the world.
- Explore Washington Slagbaai National Park’s caverns.
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. Bonaire is located outside the hurricane belt. October through April offers especially great water visibility and mild winds for snorkeling and diving.
Local tips: Bonaire uses the U.S. dollar.
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 here. Bonaire is small and easy to navigate.
4. Explore historic towns and nature in Puerto Rico
Location: Puerto Rico, Caribbean (U.S. territory)
Recommended For: Families, nature lovers.
What I Love: ♥ "Puerto Rico delivers big on family adventure. Think rainforest hikes, picnics, and snorkeling! "
- Play and learn at the Museo del Niño (Children’s Museum).
- Hike through El Yunque National Forest to waterfalls.
- Boat to nearby Gilligan’s Island for a fun family day trip.
Cost: Many activities are free or low-cost. Museum and national park entry fees are modest. Boat and other tours 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.
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