Best Caribbean Resort for Families?

[flora]

We are thinking about taking a Caribbean vacation this summer. I know it will probably be
hot but it seems that the prices are better in summer. We have three kids, ages 3, 5 and almost 8. Along with enjoying some family time together, my husband and I would like a break from the kids, so a kids program would be great so everyone can have fun doing their own thing.

But we really don't have a clue where to go. I'd love to hear from other families on their favorite resorts and why they like them. We are interested in both inclusive and not inclusive, and can spend a decent amount of money, but really can't afford anything like the Four Seasons level of resort. Thanks for any advice you might have!

[LittleNomads]

Flora,
I have listed some options available for family travel in the carribbean on my travel blog http://littlenomads.com/destinations/caribbean/

Cheers
James

[Monica May]

I've also used the main family travel forum.com site for all kinds of ideas on Caribbean travel - I liked the Westin hotels and the Hyatts that I stayed in -- both in Mexico and the Caribbean, so check those out.

[travelguy01]

Hello, I just got back from visiting Nassau 2 weeks ago on a cruise. While I was there I did learn about an awesome resort called the Atlantis. I would recommend at least taking a look under vacations here. www.globechoicetravel.com Hope this helps in any way!

[Monica May]

I adore the Atlantis, too in the Bahamas near Nassau. Or I guess I should say that my kids love the Atlantis. Its such a big hotel and has a zillion rooms so it's crowded by we stay at the Embassy Suites next door and still get to use all the fab pools.

ANother favorite of mine is the Westin grand Cayman because it's right on 7-mile beach - it's a little expensive, but rent a car so you can go to other restaurants and not have to pay resort restaurant prices.

we also love Aruba, because it's actually really safe, despite all the bad press is had recently. really pretty beaches, and they have quite a few condo style resorts which have more space.

We even like to go to the Carib in the summer when it's hot and just relax with a book for the hottest part of the day. The Westin's all have kids clubs so the kids can fool around there or come back to the room.

[taylor]

I like the Atlantis but it's too crowded for me. Our favorite is the Buccaneer on St Croix. It's been owned by the same family for a long time so has a friendly feel - not corporate at all. It's had children visitors for a long time and is really low-key and pretty. Kind of an old-world resort that enjoys having kids without pandering to them with too much flash and dash. It's a little pricey but check for specials. It's really gorgeous and has good beaches and nice pools.

[matthew26]

Here's a place where my buds and I stayed. http://www.luxurylink.com/luxury-hotels/belizean-dreams.html?productId=111068

I remember seeing three or four families with young kids in the area so I guess it's an OK place.

Matthew26 talked about a really nice place in Stann Creek, but if Flora wants to go to Belize (more rustic than these other Carib resorts like Atlantis, by far...) then she should head to Jaguar Reef, on the same coast. It's much more active with families and they set up fun daytrips to explore jungles and nearby beaches.

I think an affordable alternative to many Caribbean islands is Cancun and Mexico's Riviera Maya. There is a ton to do there, it's nice in summer --hot but breezy, with a tropical shower at least once daily while the sun shines -- and there are many, many B&B options around Playacar. There are also moderately priced all-inclusives like the Crown Paradise, and European owned chain resorts that have amenities like all the Hyatts and Westins, but more of an international flair.

Take a look at http://www.familytravelforum.com/articles/cat/129, which is where all the Caribbean and Mexico resorts are reviewed, and you can a lot of choices.

[emelia]

The good resorts can be very expenisve, if you go to Barbados the Mango Bay is excellent, though quite exprensive for a resort hotel, there are more affordable Barbados hotels and beach resorts but the coast of mexico would be cheaper. You would find plenty of reasonable prices hotels and resorts in Cancun but I do not know if that sort of destination would suit you or not.

[flora]

Thanks for all the good ideas!
We are going to try the Buccaneer - and I'll let you know what we think!

[fellowtraveller]

I just returned last week from this resort in Santa Clara, Cuba. The beach was beautiful and the pools were great. There was a wonderful kids club and it wasn't too crowded this being slower season. Highly recommended!

[Snobell]

Barcelo is a large chain, based in Spain, with properties worldwide including all-inclusives in the Dominican Republic and Mexico. Barcelo features kids' clubs and Children's Parks.

[jakegumpol]

Originally Posted by Snobell

Barcelo is a large chain, based in Spain, with properties worldwide including Las Vegas Strip Hotels, San Diego Hotels and all-inclusives in the Dominican Republic and Mexico. Barcelo features kids' clubs and Children's Parks.

Barcelo is an excellent resort for children. All inclusive is a great way to go when traveling with kids. They are always hungry yet eat very little when it comes down to meal time.

[simonrodrix]

The Top 10 Caribbean Resorts for Families

1. Atlantis - Paradise Islands, Bahamas
2. Almond Beach Village - St. Peter, Barbados
3. Westin and Sheraton at Our Lucaya Beach & Golf Resort - Grand Bahama Island
4. Four Seasons Resort - Nevis
5. Holiday Inn Sunspree Resort - Montego Bay, Jamaica
6. Beaches Turks & Caicos Resort & Spa
7. Beaches Negril Resort & Spa - Jamaica
8. Club Med - Punta Cana, Dominican Republic
9. Club Med Caravelle - Guadeloupe

[Ruusta]

how was the buccaneer flora?