Caribbean

6 easy and fun Caribbean island vacations for families

Last updated 19th December 2023

If you’re craving some easier than average winter sun, think fun Caribbean island vacations. We’ve found six of the most kid-friendly islands and some irresistible resorts where families come first. Take a look.

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Bahamas: an archipelago of fun Caribbean island vacations

Think about the Bahamas for fun Caribbean island vacations complete with pink sands, warm seas and some of the clearest waters on the planet. With 14 main islands, plus hundreds of outer islands and cays to choose from you can have any type of family trip you like, from pared-back minimalism to all-inclusive luxury. And if your kids are adventurous they’ll love swimming, sailing, and snorkelling colorful coral reefs, whale-watching tours and island hopping to the Exumas for some iguana spotting. Average daytime temperatures of 78°F in February.

Tempted by the Bahamas? We recommend The Royal at Atlantis on Paradise Island in Nassau

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Grenada: the spice island with a chilled and beachy vibe

Grenada is one of the most chilled Caribbean vacation islands for families. It’s known as ‘the spice island’, so you can expect subtle aromas of nutmeg to float past as you relax on the untouched beaches. And the vibe might be laid-back, but there are still plenty of family activities here from underwater sculpture park snorkelling to rainforest hiking or paddling in natural pools and waterfalls. Average daytime temperatures of 83°F in February.

Like the sound of Grenada? We recommend Mount Cinnamon Resort on Grand Anse Beach

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Jamaica: the coolest of Caribbean adventures for families

Known for its blue lagoons, mountains, rainforests and stunning beaches, Jamaica is famously beautiful. This reggae, rum and jerk chicken laced island is also wonderfully laid-back and quite possibly the most kid-friendly place in the Caribbean. If you have younger kids, so many Jamaican resorts have action-packed children’s clubs and a fleet of nannies on-site. And older ones will be totally down for exploring John Crow Mountains, Martha Brae River rafting or roaring down Dunn River Falls. Average daytime temperatures of 85°F in February. 

Ready to go? We recommend Hilton Rose Hall Resort & Spa in Montego Bay 

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Antigua: the island with a beach for every day of the year

Caribbean island vacations don’t come much more charming than Antigua. There’s a beach here for every day of the year, so you can take pick from popular shores to hidden coves. Head to the capital Saint John’s for its colorful buildings and bustling markets. And don’t miss the historic restored harbour and incredible hiking trails at Nelson’s Dockyard National Park. Average daytime temperatures of 82°F in February. 

Charmed by Antigua? We recommend all-inclusive St James’s Club & Villas in English Harbour Town

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Dominican Republic: fun Caribbean island vacations for older kids

The Dominican Republic is one of the most exciting Caribbean countries for older children. Its coastline of sugary sand beaches is matched by thrilling outdoor adventures. Families can try everything from 4×4 jungle trekking to high-octane watersports. Whale watching in Samana Province is an unforgettable experience – it’s one of the world’s top places to see humpback whales from January to March. And even exploring the World Heritage Dominican Republic capital, Santo Domingo, is amazing fun for kids. Average daytime temperatures of 83°F in February.

Tempted by the Dominican Republic? We recommend all-inclusive Barcelo Bávaro Palace in Punta Cana

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Barbados: the easy island holiday for wildlife keen kids

Barbados more than lives up to its reputation as the ‘culinary capital of the Caribbean’. But it’s also a great fun island for families. Head to Harrison’s Cave, where you can travel by tram into the heart of a mountain. Catch an Atlantis Submarine and see incredible reefs, without getting wet. Or take young animal lovers to Barbados Wildlife Reserve to meet monkeys, birds and reptiles, many of which roam freely here. Average daytime temperatures of 84°F in February.

Ready to discover Barbados? We recommend all-inclusive Crystal Cove by Elegant Hotels in Saint James 

Looking for more fun family vacation ideas for 2022? Take a look at 11 of the most magical places to take kids before they grow up. And don’t forget to follow Family Traveller on Instagram and Facebook for even more family vacation inspiration.