If you’re looking for the perfect spot to escape for your next vacation, look no further than the islands of the Caribbean. Home to hundreds of islands, each with its own local flair and personality, you’re sure to find something to suit you and your travel buddies, whoever they might be. Some Caribbean islands are better for couples looking for a relaxing getaway, while others are perfect for people looking to party until the sun comes up. And if you’re traveling with family? There are a handful of Caribbean islands that rise above the rest as the best places to visit with kids. Here are a few of my top spots:
Jamaica
Whether you’re planning your first visit to the Caribbean or you’re a seasoned visitor, you can’t go wrong with a trip to Jamaica. Home to friendly and fun-loving locals, incredible weather, and affordable prices, it’s hard to have a bad time here. This lush island offers a seemingly endless array of things to experience, so you won’t need to worry about keeping your kids entertained. If you’re an active, adventure-loving family, you won’t run out of ways to stay busy, as between hiking through rainforests to find hidden waterfalls, ziplining through the canopy, and exploring on horseback.
And if you prefer something a little more laid back? Relax on a beach with a good book while your little ones build sandcastles or splash in the surf, or take advantage of the convenience you’ll find at one of the many world-class all-inclusive resorts on the island, packed with more than enough amenities to keep you and your family busy for a few days.
The Bahamas
Families will find it easy to have a great time in the Bahamas. With many direct flights and cruise ships arriving daily in Nassau, these islands are some of the most accessible in the Caribbean. Stay in Nassau to enjoy beautiful beaches and explore the island’s rich history, or cross the bridge to Paradise Island and experience Atlantis, one of the most well-known and family-friendly resorts you’ll find anywhere.
Some travelers are actually surprised to learn that Nassau is in fact NOT the only island in the Bahamas. Instead, you’ll find lots of other islands to explore if you’d prefer something slightly off the beaten path. You can snorkel with sea turtles and soak up the sun on Great Abaco Island, tour Grand Bahama by ATV, or make your way to the famous Pig Beach on Big Major Cay for a chance to meet the legendary water-loving pigs that live there.
Turks and Caicos
Home to some of the most pristine beaches in the Caribbean, stunning coral reefs, and plenty for visitors to see and do, Turks and Caicos have become a favorite for family-friendly travel, especially for those with a slightly larger budget. While it is known to be one of the more expensive spots in the Caribbean, Turks and Caicos is well-known for boasting one of the lowest crime rates in the region, making it a popular choice for families concerned about safety. Search for seashells on the sugar-white sands, snorkel and swim in the crystal-clear water, and indulge in some of the freshest seafood you’ll find anywhere.
While it’s hard to go wrong with a trip to any island in the Caribbean, there are certainly some that rise above the rest as top spots to enjoy with kids. These are just a few of my favorites!
