7 family-friendly Caribbean islands for your next vacation

With its pristine beaches, tropical forests, and turquoise water, it's no wonder the Caribbean has been a family vacation fave for decades. But with so many islands to choose from, it can be daunting to find the right fit for your crew. To help, we’ve compiled a list of some of the best Caribbean islands for those traveling with kids, from an underrated gem known for natural wonders to an isle full of fascinating history. Whether you're traveling with teens or toddlers, there's an option for you below.

Jamaica is well-trodden territory when it comes to family vacations for a reason. Yes, there are stunningly blue waters and spacious sandy beaches—but there's plenty of adventures to be had, too. On the island's northern coast, explore the Green Grotto Caves by Discovery Bay, soak in the natural beauty of Dunn’s River Falls and Park in Ocho Rios, or spend an afternoon at Mystic Mountain adventure park. (There's scuba diving, ATV riding, and river rafting on tap, too.) In between exploits, fill up on jerk chicken at Scotchies in Ocho Rios and oxtail at Sweet Spice Restaurant in Negril. And, if you stay at Royalton Negril, you don’t even need to leave the resort to have a blast, since there’s a mini waterpark and kids’ club on site.

Puerto Rico is great for American families in need of an easy getaway, since U.S. citizens don’t need a passport to visit and San Juan is just two hours from Miami and less than four hours from New York City, by plane. After some time on the island’s beautiful beaches, explore the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Old San Juan, with its cobblestone streets, colorful buildings, and historic forts like Castillo San Felipe del Morro and Castillo de San Cristobal. Then head outside the capital to hike through El Yunque National Forest or go zip-lining at JungleQui Zipline Park in the forest; try a surfing lesson in Rincon, on the island's west coast; or spot turtles on a snorkeling trip outside of San Juan. Adventurous families should take the 45-minute ferry from Ceiba and overnight on Vieques, an island off the east coast, for a bioluminescent kayaking tour in Mosquito Bay.

If you're looking for more of a fly-and-flop vacation for your family, there are fantastic all-inclusive resorts outside of San Juan, like the 500-acre Wyndham Grand Rio Mar Golf & Beach Resort and the Hilton Ponce Golf & Casino Resort, which boasts an oceanfront playground.

Families with active teens should head to Dominica for an off-the-beaten-path experience. The youngest Caribbean island at just 26 million years old, it’s nicknamed the Nature Island for its lush rain forests, plentiful waterfalls, and volcano-fed hot springs. The island is also home to one-of-a-kind attractions like the Waitukubuli Sea Trail—the only sea kayaking trail in the Caribbean. The 37-mile route winds along the island’s western side and takes seven days to complete on a TRAK tour, with stops to visit local communities and soak in the island’s natural splendor along the way.

As far as where to stay, Dominica features a range of family-friendly accommodations, from eco resorts like the Hibiscus Valley Inn to luxury hotels like InterContinental Dominica Cabrits Resort & Spa, each with pools, restaurants, and activities for all ages.

If you want your beach vacation with a side of history, head to Barbados. Beyond its stunning natural setting, the island has an abundance of cultural experiences that are engaging and educational for adults and children alike. Explore the colonial architecture in Bridgetown, tour the Barbados Museum & Historical Society, or browse work by local artists in the Gallery of Caribbean Art in Speightstown. When you’re ready to head outside, check out the Barbados Wildlife Reserve or take a submarine ride to spot vibrant coral, tropical fish, and even a sunken ship. Base your stay at Sugar Bay Barbados, which caters to families with young kids, with amenities like a kids’ club and babysitting services.

Aruba’s biggest draw may be its azure waters, but the island is more than just pretty beaches. Everyone in your family can find something to love here, from the vibrant murals in artsy San Nicolas on Aruba's southern edge to the incredible dining scene with fresh seafood, toes-in-the-sand restaurants, and traditional fare like pastechis (savory stuffed breakfast pastries). The more adventurous can opt for ATVing, horseback riding, and Jeep safaris to caves and natural pools in the island’s desert-like interior, while little ones will love attractions like the Butterfly Farm and the Aruba Ostrich Farm.

Families will feel at home at resorts like The Marriott’s Aruba Surf Club, which has a lazy river and waterslide, and the Hyatt Regency Aruba Resort Spa and Casino, featuring a popular kids’ club called Camp Hyatt.

It takes just 45 minutes by plane to reach the Bahamian capital of Nassau from Miami, and three hours by ferry to get to Bimini, the closest island in the archipelago to the U.S., making it a no-brainer for families looking for a quick getaway. It's a spectacular place to take aspiring naturalists, thanks to the Bahamas' aquariums and zoos that offer entertainment for all ages. Want to get out on the water? Take a glass-bottomed boat tour through Nassau Harbour to spot colorful marine life.

All-inclusive resorts abound in the Bahamas, but The Royal at Atlantis Paradise Island is particularly great for families thanks to its five miles of white-sand beaches and the iconic Aquaventure waterpark, with thrilling slides, river rides, and 11 pools spread over 141 acres.

For a mix of breathtaking beaches, historic sites, and outdoor recreation, try the Dominican Republic. Families can lounge on the sand and swim in the calm waters at Boca Chica; tour landmarks like the Alcázar de Colón castle and Fort San Felipe; or hike through lush national parks and rain forests like Los Haitises National Park. There are also a wealth of accommodations here, including kid-themed resorts like Nickelodeon Hotels & Resorts Punta Cana and properties like Casa de Campo, which has private 3- to 10-bedroom villas that are perfect for large families traveling together.