t SNUBA diving among coral reefs
With its abundance of beaches, nature reserves, and cultural and historical venues, the Caribbean is a fun-filled wonderland for kids. Many islands have family-focused resorts. Plus, the islanders adore children, and interacting with island children will add to your own youngster’s delight.
t SNUBA diving among coral reefs
Thunderstorms don’t have to put a stop to the enjoyment of a Caribbean vacation, with scores of museums and educational venues to keep youngsters entertained. Havana’s Planetario Mercaderes No 311 features high-tech interactive exhibits on the universe. Or why not take the kids SNUBA diving among the coral reefs off Sint Maarten.
The Caribbean’s soft sands and warm turquoise waters make the perfect playground for kids of all ages. Children’s packages at all-inclusive resorts include building sandcastles and treasure hunts. And family-friendly beaches such as Punta Cana, in Dominican Republic, offer snorkeling, volleyball, plus giant dominoes and other games.
Youngsters have plenty of opportunity to release their inner Jack Sparrow in settings recalling the heyday of pirates and Buccaneers. Experience a thrilling light-and-sound show pirate raid at Pirates of Nassau in The Bahamas. Party aboard a vessel with Aruba’s Jolly Pirates. Or make merry during Pirates Week in the Cayman Islands (piratesweekfestival.com).
Adventure parks offer heaps of fun when kids tire of the beach or when the sun doesn’t shine. Splash to your hearts content at Martinique’s Aqualand, with its wave pool, water slaloms, and pirate galleon. Saint Lucia’s inflatable Splash Island Water Park (saintluciawaterpark.com) has lots of obstacle-course style features to keep kids amused.
Scores of museums and historic buildings including Pre-Columbian petroglyphs, slave-era plantations, and colonial castles allow children to explore the Caribbean’s diverse history. Witness the living indigenous heritage at Kalinago Barana Aute village, on Dominica; visit Citadelle Laferrière, in Haiti; and savor a ride on the St. Kitts Scenic Railway Tour.
Insider Tip
Most all-inclusive beach resorts have kids’ clubs with special programs for little ones, older children, and teens. Choose a family-focused resort for a fulfilling vacation .