Searching for the ideal family vacation? Look no further! The Caribbean and Yucatan Peninsula are home to some of the best family resorts in the world. From deluxe accommodations and a wide-variety of activities, to special programs that are exclusively for the kids, these Caribbean hot-spots offer the best of all worlds: luxurious relaxation, unique and exotic experiences, and non-stop action for youngsters of all ages. Big or small, young or old, these five resorts will ensure everyone in your family has an unforgettable vacation.
Casa de Campo
Dominican Republic
The Casa de Campo is practically an entire country unto itself. Spread out over hundreds of acres on the Eastern side of the island, this resort has an incredible array of activities for everyone in your family, whether it be horseback-riding, kayaking, or simply enjoying the beach as a family. Plus, there is a team of employees that will ensure the kids are not only looked after, but that they have the time of their lives. Best of all, the Casa de Campo offers accommodation options perfectly suited for families, from adjoining rooms to spacious villas with multiple bedrooms for a home away from home.
Half Moon
Jamaica
Named for the idyllic crescent-shaped beach it overlooks, the Half Moon is a memorable escape for families. Catering to children of all ages, the Half Moon offers a children’s pool, watersports and, of course the beach. But things get even more exciting at the new Dolphin Lagoon, where families can actually swim with the magical creatures. Plus, there’s the Children’s Village, where kids can enjoy everything from puppet shows, swimming pools, and arts and crafts, to a good old-fashioned sandbox—filled with sand from the local beaches. The accommodations offer variety too, including luxuriously appointed rooms as well as private villas.
Fairmont Mayakoba
Cancun, Mexico
Located just south of Cancun and spread over 45 acres of oceanside lagoons on a spectacular stretch of beach, the Fairmont Mayakoba has some of the most unique activities you’ll find. Where else can you embark on an excursion into the cenotes (giant wells carved by water into limestone rocks), venture inland on one of the numerous hiking trails or explore an underground river system? The choice is yours. On top of it all, Mayakoba’s Discovery Club children’s program will dazzle any kid’s senses with its Mayan theme. Kids explore the jungle, make their own Penacho headdress, or search for the secret “wishing stone.”
Westin St. John
U.S. Virgin Islands
The perfect family vacation awaits at the Westin St. John. The resort is practically the definition of “fun for the whole family,” with activities as diverse as iguana feeding and scavenger hunts—not to mention St. John’s famous snorkeling. There are daily snorkeling excursions for adults, kids, and entire families. Back onshore, the kids have their very own resort to enjoy. Club Coqui, for the youngsters, offers arts and crafts, sandcastle contests and board and video games. The Teen Center gives older kids a place to hang out and make new friends over a game of air hockey or while watching movies on a giant flat screen TV.
Westin
Grand Bahama Island
The Westin Grand Bahama Island has it all: luxuriously appointed rooms, incredible service, and grounds so expansive—seven and a half acres to be exact—that it is impossible to run out of things to do. With activities ranging from snorkeling to unique new experiences like banana boat excursions, the Westin Grand Bahama Island ensures that all the family will have an unforgettable trip. Plus, the Westin shares its grounds with a sister resort and grants its guests access to its amenities, giving visitors twice the attractions and activities. There’s also the Westin’s renowned Kids Club with all sorts of activities. Best of all, the Westin Grand Bahama is close to home—only 30 minutes from Miami—so your vacation can start right away.