5 Caribbean Hot Spots Your Family Will Love

Everyone could use an extra dose of sun, sand, and sea. Think “vacation” (or heaven), and you’re instantly transported to a white, sandy beach with crystal blue water. The kiddos are frolicking by the shore while you work on your tan, fruity drink with a paper umbrella in hand.

Go ahead, start packing and book your trip ASAP – y’all deserve it! Here are some beaches in the Caribbean that are sure to please. (Warning: You might never want to leave!)

St. Lucia

This Caribbean hotspot is made up of volcanic beaches, rainforests, mountains, and waterfalls galore. St. Lucia is a gem for outdoor adventurists – try your hand at ziplining, hiking, or diving! This is an excellent location for families with older kids.

The athletically inclined should check out the two Piton mountains—plan for a strenuous climb up Gros Piton. It may not sound like it, but Petit Piton is actually for more advanced hikers! You’ll need ropes, anchors – the whole shebang. If you can make it to the peaks of these two mountains, you’ll be stunned with a breathtaking view of the Caribbean!

Ready for a rainforest hike? With over 19,000 acres of rainforest, there’s a hike for everyone. Go for short treks, or day-long hikes. Take in the huge ferns, wild orchids, and exotic birds flying overhead.

After all that hiking and climbing, your muscles will be ready for some rest. Drive up to the Sulphur Springs and release your inner child in the 110 degree sulphuric mud pools.

Cayman Islands

On the Cayman Islands, you’ll find sugar white sands, crystal clear blue waters and some of the best diving in the world. Cayman is also very affordable – so pack up the family and get ready for some fun in the sun!

Seven Mile Beach, located just north of Georgetown, is considered one of the most beautiful beaches in the world. Come for the day or stay at one of the resorts. Along Seven Mile Beach, you can rent water sports equipment, snorkel, relax at one of the bars, or munch on a conch fritter.

The shallow sandbar known as “Stingray City” is about a 40 minute boat ride from shore. Kids love this place! There are several companies that offer tours– guides, who will join you in the water, will instruct you on how to interact with the stingrays. Get up close and personal as you pet, kiss, and even get stingray hugs! This is a once in a lifetime experience.

Eden Rock is a short walk down from the cruise ship pier. This is an easy snorkeling location for all ages. Bring your own gear, or simply rent them there (lockers are also available). Climb down a ladder and be surrounded by parrotfish and barracuda. Take your time swimming over some of the prettiest coral reefs in the Caribbean.

Turks and Caicos

Forty islands make up this island chain. All have spectacular beaches and coral reefs, making it a true Caribbean hot spot.

The island nation has three main sections: Salt Cay, the best diving in the region, Grand Turk, the largest of the islands, and Providenciales, where you’ll find the nicest resorts and the cruise ship docks.

In Providenciales, check out Grace Bay. This fantastic beach is 12 miles of beautiful, pristine sand. Do some snorkeling and then check out the shops.

Salt Cay is where you want to go diving. Most sites are close to shore with depths of up to 7000 feet. And if you’re there sometime between December and April, you might be lucky enough to see migrating humpback whales.

U.S. Virgin Islands

If you’re without a passport, check out St. Thomas, St. John, or St. Croix. This chain of U.S.-held islands has sunny beaches and mountains. It’s always a great Caribbean spot for families.

In addition to natural beauty, St. Thomas is known for its great duty-free shopping finds – indulge in jewelry, watches, and fine linens! St. Thomas is the largest of the U.S. Virgin Islands. The harbor is full of yachts of all sizes which makes for fun sightseeing. And while you’re there, try out Coki Beach; full of fish, water sports, and entertaining vendors.

St. John is for the nature lovers. Here you’ll find 7,000 acres of national parkland for you and the kids to explore. Virgin Islands National Park offers 22 hiking trails for you to try, plus Trunk Bay and Cinnamon Bay, two of the prettiest beaches you’ll ever see. Both offer snorkeling, changing facilities, and campgrounds.

St. Croix has beautiful beaches and old sugar cane plantations for you to explore. While you’re there, check out the Cruzan Rum Distillery which originated on the island. You’ll learn how rum is made, get to try some samples (the best part) and buy some to take back home (to make the best part last!).

The Bahamas

Hop on a quick flight from Miami to check out the 700 islands and cays that make up the Bahamas. This archipelago in the Atlantic is family-friendly with affordable hotels, beautiful beaches, and activities like snorkeling and swimming with dolphins.

Check out Cable Beach while you’re there. You’ll be surrounded by soft sand and crystal clear water; restaurants and changing facilities. If that doesn’t make for the perfect day with the family, I don’t know what will!

Ever been to an island in the Caribbean? Share your favorite haunts and activities with us in the comments below!