Escape to a relaxing retreat with amenities and attractions for guests of all ages.
With magnificent natural wonders, beautiful turquoise waters, abundant watersports, white-sand beaches and convenient, kid-friendly lodging options, the Caribbean is an ideal vacation spot for families. Imagine yourself with a refreshing tropical cocktail in hand, your kids playing in the surf and the sun setting in the distance. Does it get any better than this? Yes, actually it can. You can elevate a carefree getaway with the gang by staying at one of the top family-friendly Caribbean resorts, where kid-approved amenities, activities and perks for the young — and the young at heart — abound. Check out these top family-friendly Caribbean resorts before you book your next escape.
Courtyard by Marriott Isla Verde Beach Resort
Puerto Rico
Courtyard by Marriott Isla Verde Beach Resort offers a tropical vacation setting the entire family will love. With an on-site casino, in-room refrigerators and microwaves, kid-friendly pools and waterfront hammocks, this beachfront resort was designed with families in mind. Plus, the popular Isla Verde area brims with versatile casual restaurants that cater to picky eaters, and the property offers easy access to Old San Juan and El Yunque National Rainforest. And at the end of the day, you can retreat to the secluded, beachfront property to unwind and recharge. Relax and admire the sunset overlooking Isla Verde Beach. Nightly rates in June start at around $180 per night.
Nisbet Plantation Beach Club
Nevis
Nisbet Plantation Beach Club offers a spectacular spot for families craving a healthy dose of adventure and relaxation. The cottage-style accommodations are spread evenly across fields of green grass. And families can partake in a variety of activities, from introductory scuba lessons in the pool, to horseback riding to hiking to snorkeling. Plus, children of all ages can learn how to weave baskets from palm fronds while sitting underneath coconut-shaded palms. What’s more, tennis, croquet, a beautiful pool, breathtaking views of St. Kitts and an array of amenities help create a tranquil atmosphere for a rejuvenating Caribbean getaway. Nightly rates during the summer season start at around $230 and include breakfast.
The Somerset on Grace Bay
Providenciales, Turks and Caicos Islands
The Somerset on Grace Bay in Turks and Caicos caters to families with a variety of kid-oriented amenities, including pre-arrival grocery shopping and private chef services. What’s more, the complimentary Caicos Kids Club offers a fun place for your kids to build sandcastles and explore while you relax by the pool. And the dedicated children’s pool and complimentary sunscreen bar up the convenience factor. Of course, no Caribbean getaway would be complete without a beautiful beach. The Somserset’s location on Grace Bay, with clear waters and powdery sands, make decompressing easier than ever. Spacious one- to five-bedroom villas are available, and nightly rates during the summer season start at around $585.
Atlantis
Paradise Island, Bahamas
Atlantis, which features a variety of properties on Paradise Island in the Bahamas, offers a dizzying array of family-friendly perks. From its on-site water park to its amazing beaches to its family-friendly pools to its breathtaking aquariums, kids are sure to stay happy and entertained throughout their stay. The ocean-themed destination is home to more than 50,000 sea creatures dwelling in on-site lagoons and protected areas. Dolphin Cay lets families interact with dolphins across 14 acres. And for teens, Crush nightclub offers an internet lounge and a cafe. Meanwhile, adults can enjoy the beautiful scenery and the world-famous casino. Nightly rates at Atlantis Royal Towers starts at around $280 during the summer season.
Tamarind by Elegant Hotels
St. James, Barbados
Families flock to Tamarind by Elegant Hotels and the island of Barbados for unforgettable beachfront experiences and tropical island fun. Tamarind offers nonmotorized watersports to keep the kids busy, along with snorkeling, surf lessons and stand-up paddleboarding. The entire family will enjoy the property’s three swimming pools, while adults only can retreat to a private pool. And the area offers prime access to one of the world’s most beautiful coastlines along Paynes Bay Beach, where the waves gently lap with crystal-clear waters. What’s more, kids stay free at Tamarind for the spring and summer of 2017; nightly rates start at around $475.
Frenchman’s Reef & Morning Star Marriott Beach Resort
St. Thomas, U.S. Virgin Islands
With no passports required for U.S. citizens, St. Thomas is the perfect spot for a convenient Caribbean retreat. At Frenchman’s Reef, kids will love night kayaking in the harbor with clear-bottom kayaks that are retrofitted with LED lights for spotting marine life, the dedicated Splash Zone area, the resort’s four pools and the direct beach access from the property. Plus, unlimited nonmotorized watersports, an on-site adventure center and proximity to local attractions such as the Butterfly Garden, Coral World Ocean Park and Blackbeard’s Castle make this resort even more appealing for families. Summer rates start at around $250 per night.
Four Seasons Resort Nevis
St. Thomas Parish, Nevis
The Four Seasons Resort Nevis, with its spacious oceanfront lodging options and perfect backdrop, makes an ideal family getaway location. With 50 villas (each appointed with two to seven bedrooms), the resort offers plenty of amenities and space for a multigenerational getaway. And the complimentary Kids for All Seasons program keeps children entertained, while the on-site infinity pools and beach promise to tucker out youngsters after a fun day outdoors. Nightly rates start at around $475 during the summer season, and you can save 30 percent by booking at least 60 days in advance. What’s more, Four Seasons is currently offering a promotion for up to 40 percent off select villas.
Divi Village Golf & Beach Resort
Oranjestad, Aruba
The Divi Village Golf & Beach Resort offers a supreme location across from popular Eagle Beach, along with family-friendly perks, including an on-site kids’ club, four freshwater pools, a water slide, a swim-up bar, tennis and golf learning centers. Plus, the resort offers a secluded atmosphere, yet it’s conveniently situated nearby popular attractions in the heart of Aruba. Luxury suites and villas are available, along with a convenient and high-value all-inclusive option for families who don’t want to plan (or budget for) meals. Nightly summer rates start at around $170 for a studio that accommodates up to four guests.
The Buccaneer
Christiansted, St. Croix
The Buccaneer in St. Croix sprawls across 340 luxurious acres. Kids can learn to snorkel or scuba dive, while teens and tweens can up their golf or tennis games. Plus, The Buccaneer offers a complimentary kids’ camp for children ages 4 to 12, with beach activities, treasure hunts, nature walks, crab races and more. And unlike many Caribbean properties, The Buccaneer offers rooms that can easily sleep a family of five. Family cottage suites, appointed with two bedrooms and a front lawn, are also available, as are cots, cribs, high chairs, beach toys, life vests and babysitters for hire. Nightly summer rates start at around $300.
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9 Top Caribbean Resorts for Families originally appeared on usnews.com
