4 Convenient Caribbean Destinations for Families

If you’re contemplating a trip to the Caribbean,
you might think that bringing the kids along is bound to be hassle-prone. But new
conveniences and affordable options in popular Caribbean destinations are
offering new reasons to reconsider. Of course, some Caribbean destinations are more convenient than others.
Some offer a wide variety of flight options, while others offer enticing all-inclusive resorts and free family-friendly attractions. If you’re toying with the idea of a family trip to the Caribbean,
consider these four destinations for kid-friendly lodging and activities, as well as accessibility.

Puerto
Rico

While it’s true that San Juan offers top-notch beaches and a storied city center that is atypical of most beach destinations, that’s not Puerto Rico’s only selling point. Unlike other destinations in the Caribbean,
U.S. citizens don’t need a passport to visit San Juan – or anywhere else in Puerto Rico for that matter. And
for a family of four yearning to visit somewhere that doesn’t require traveling overseas, that’s a huge convenience – and offers huge potential
savings. Better yet, many popular U.S. destinations offer direct flights to San
Juan, another major selling point if you’re traveling with younger ones in tow.
 

Where to stay: The Caribe
Hilton hotel offers a winning combination of convenience and luxury. With its
own private beach and close proximity to downtown San Juan, the Caribe Hilton grants
you access to both the ocean and the city.

Jamaica

Jamaica, with its
plentiful direct flight options from popular airports across the U.S., is another
Caribbean destination that should be on the short list for families seeking a
stress-free getaway. Plus, kids will love splashing around in calm ocean
waters, snorkeling and checking out the island’s abundant wildlife. Grab a beach
chair along the world-renowned Seven Mile Beach and indulge in a rum punch while
the kids play in the calm surf or get your hearts racing with an exhilarating
adventure through Dunn’s River Falls and Park.

Where to stay: The all-inclusive Iberostar Rose Hall Beach offers an economical and scenic accommodation option for visiting clans. And as an added bonus, the resort is only a 15-minute drive from the
airport.

Punta
Cana, Dominican Republic

Punta
Cana offers a wide array of hotels and all-inclusive resorts that cater
specifically to families. Plus, many resorts are all-inclusive, making Punta
Cana an ideal spot for those who want all meals, drinks and entertainment to
be rolled into one affordable price. And as far as budget-minded families are concerned, Punta Cana offers plenty of
affordable all-inclusive options. What’s more, a wide range of American cities offer direct
flights to Punta Cana, making it a great choice for travelers craving convenience.

Where to stay: Families looking
for an upscale retreat should consider the Majestic Colonial Punta Cana for its
prime beachfront location, diverse dining options and kid-friendly perks.

Nassau,
Bahamas

Nassau is a popular
tourist destination for both land-based vacationers and cruise enthusiasts. With
close proximity to places across the U.S., Nassau is one of the most convenient
destinations in all of the Caribbean (a direct flight from Miami only takes an
hour) and with plentiful U.S. cities offering direct flights to the Bahamas, it’s just a short
plane ride away for many Americans.

Where to stay: Beyond the
sprawling, kid-friendly Atlantis Paradise Island Resort, the British Colonial Hilton of
Nassau sits on a beautiful stretch of sand near both downtown and the cruise
port, creating a perfect vacation for those who enjoy relaxing beach days and plenty
of people-watching.

The Bottom Line

Plenty of exciting destinations await those willing for
an outside-the-box vacation. And the Caribbean might be a lot closer –and
a whole lot more affordable – than you think.