If you’re looking for the experts on family travel to the Caribbean, you’ve found your people.
Mango Tree Travel came to life in 2022 with a vision: Get parents away from characterless all-inclusive resorts and help them see the real Caribbean, and to find the best Caribbean islands and hotels for families. (See our original top blog post here: 20 Best Caribbean Islands With Kids (By Age Group – recently updated based on our last three years of Caribbean trip planning and research!).
Why? The Caribbean offers so much more than just great beaches. Every island has unique traditions, flavors, and experiences beyond the typical resort stay. We empower families to move past cookie-cutter all-inclusives to travel in more meaningful and rewarding ways with kids — but in a way that feels approachable and also like a true vacation.
From reggae in Jamaica to French-Caribbean fusion in Saint Martin, the variety of cultures to discover in the Caribbean with kids is astounding. You’ll find varied local histories and European influences across the region, each adding its own twist to food, music, and way of life.
Of course, we won’t forget the classics that make Caribbean family travel a no-brainer: stunning blue sea, incredible underwater life, powdery beaches, perfect weather, and total relaxation with a cocktail in hand.
Whether you’re looking to unwind or seeking outdoor adventures like snorkeling, hiking, or zip-lining with your kids, the Caribbean has it all. So plan a trip with us today, or start exploring a little below to see where the waves might take you.
We took our 18 month old daughter to our favorite Caribbean island, along with 3 other families. She still keeps a photo from that first Caribbean trip in her room.
That first trip led to dozens of others over the next several years, as Mango Tree came to life. She’s now snorkeled with turtles, ziplined above beaches, learned to sail, and taken classes with local artisans.
The islands will always have a special place for our family, and we can help you find the right one for you and yours!
– Lee, Founder of Mango Tree Travel
Sometimes you just want to unwind on a beach, whereas other times your family might have more of an appetite for exploring local culture or for adventure. The Caribbean offers endless possibilities for every kind of trip. Here are just a few of the reasons to head to the Caribbean with kids:
Tortola, British Virgin Islands
$ – most rooms under $500
$$ – most family rooms $400-$1000
$$$ – family rooms $1000+
Willemstad, Curacao
$ – most rooms under $500
$$ – most family rooms $400-$1000
$$$ – family rooms $1000+
Willemstad, Curacao
$ – most rooms under $500
$$ – most family rooms $400-$1000
$$$ – family rooms $1000+
Las Terrenas, Dominican Republic
$ – most rooms under $500
$$ – most family rooms $400-$1000
$$$ – family rooms $1000+
Grand Anse Beach, Grenada
$ – most rooms under $500
$$ – most family rooms $400-$1000
$$$ – family rooms $1000+
Bequia, St. Vincent & The Grenadines
$ – most rooms under $500
$$ – most family rooms $400-$1000
$$$ – family rooms $1000+
When you fly to Saint Thomas (USVI) or Tortola (BVI), you reach the doorstep to a world of island exploration. No matter which way you look, other islands beckon you to visit. Hop around the islands with your kids to find your favorite.
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Roatan is one of our favorite Caribbean islands for families. Known as a scuba diving destination, the kid-friendly activities are overlooked. Hold a sloth, snorkel from the beach, zipline through the trees, and spend your nights in a luxury boutique hotel.
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Explore St. Martin's diverse foodie scene, where Creole and Caribbean flavors await at beachfront restaurants across the island's many beaches. Spend your days hopping between walkable towns and seaside spots, enjoying a glass of wine with ocean views while your kids play in the sand nearby.
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Introduce your kids to the colorful underwater world of Bonaire, where the vibrant coral reefs are just steps from the shore. Often overlooked by families, Bonaire offers calm waters and abundant marine life, perfect for both beginners and seasoned little snorkelers to explore together.
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Discover why Grenada is known as the Caribbean's "Spice Island" by visiting its vibrant local markets, filled with fresh produce and fragrant spices like nutmeg and cinnamon. Grenada offers a hands-on food experience perfect for families who love to cook together - and our favorite hotels have rooms with kitchens to take advantage.
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This is our go-to beach bag for island getaways: It comes in multiple cool patterns, is water resistant, folds down into a suitcase, and can fit tons of travel toys and snacks.
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If you want to get your kids comfortable snorkeling, getting them their own gear will get them excited, involved, and give them a practice in the pool.
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Give your kids extra confidence for ocean swimming, beach walks, and snorkeling with water shoes to keep them sure-footed. These low profiles shoes are easy to pack and come in lots of colors.
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We've tried a lot of face sunscreens, and these clear sunscreen sticks are really the best no-tears solution. Goes on wet or dry, and reef safe too!
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There’s a new gem in the market for mom swimsuits! Change of Scenery, an accessible but luxurious resort wear and swimwear line, designed by Jamie Banks, working mom of three, will make you feel fantastic on your next beach trip.
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Our founder spent hundreds of hours researching the best lightweight, waterproof baby carrier with sun protection for her Caribbean travels, and this is the winner. Beach naps baby.
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Table of Contents If you’re coming up on a decade of marriage, chances are you have small kids at home and are in desperate need of a romantic getaway without kids. Lucky for you, we’ve got a whole slew of 10-year anniversary trip ideas. We’re ready to plan your romantic vacation when you are. Travel […]
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Table of Contents Let’s get one thing straight: I’m not wild about the term “bucket list.” Phrases like “bucket list vacations for families” or “family travel bucket list” treat travel experiences like something to check off a list. And that’s really not our style here. That said, “bucket list travel” has come to mean the […]
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Table of Contents Feeling like there must be more to the Bahamas for families than BahaMar and The Atlantis? You’re right, and we’re here to help you find it. If you’re planning a family trip to the Bahamas, please skip the cookie-cutter resorts that are basically mini versions of Disney. The boutique hotels in the […]
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Table of Contents Compare Caribbean islands to find the perfect destination for your next family vacation. Planning a trip to the Caribbean can be exciting but also overwhelming with so many islands to choose from. We’ve traveled to dozens of islands, with our kids and without, and have our pulse on the energy and vibe […]
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Table of Contents Learn how to plan a Caribbean vacation with kids that’s anything but cookie-cutter. Your time is too precious to do it the boring way. Our primary goal at Mango Tree Travel has always been – and will always remain – to help parents plan easier and better family vacations. For us, that […]
Learn MoreI just got home from a trip to Jamaica planned by Mango Tree Travel, and it was perfect. The hotel was beautiful, and every activity was perfect for my 6 year old daughter. She had an amazing time and – the really amazing part – I came home feeling refreshed, like I got a real vacation! Any mom knows that’s the real test of a trip with kids. Lee knows so much about the Caribbean, and it’s clear how much she cares about each family and finding the perfect spot just for them. Her enthusiasm is infectious, and I am already excited for my next Mango Tree trip!
Christine, Mom of 2, Jamaica 2022
Our trip was amazing! St. Martin felt like the perfect destination for our first Caribbean vacation and for our kids’ current ages. . . . We did lots of fun stuff, but felt like there was enough that we didn’t quite get to that we could easily see ourselves going back! Thank you SO much for everything! I am already pestering my husband about when we should start planning next year’s spring break trip. 😉
Cristina, Mom of 2, Saint Martin 2023
Known for its stunning Grace Bay Beach, Turks and Caicos is a perfect choice for families seeking a luxury Caribbean getaway. Its calm waters, luxury resorts with kids' clubs, and easy access from major U.S. cities make it an ideal spot for toddlers and young kids. Plus, there’s plenty of beachfront dining and activities to keep the whole family entertained.
For families seeking adventure and an authentic Caribbean experience, Grenada is a hidden gem. Known as the Spice Island, it offers lush rainforests, waterfalls, and the calm, kid-friendly waters of Grand Anse Beach. Grenada is perfect for families of all ages who want a mix of relaxation and outdoor exploration.
Bonaire is a quiet, unspoiled island perfect for families who love snorkeling and wildlife. The marine life is extraordinary, and kids will be captivated by the flamingos, iguanas, and colorful reef fish. With its easy navigation and charming town of Kralendijk, Bonaire is a great option for water-loving families seeking an off-the-beaten-path destination.
Jamaica offers a wide variety of family-friendly activities, from all-inclusive resorts in Montego Bay to laid-back beach days in Negril. Families with older kids will love the island’s adventurous side, with river rafting, cliff diving, and even horseback riding in the ocean. Plus, Jamaica’s warm hospitality and rich culture make it a must-visit for families of all ages.
Antigua boasts 365 beaches, so your family will never run out of places to explore. Its calm, shallow waters are ideal for young swimmers, and the island’s small, all-inclusive resorts make it easy for parents to relax. Families will also love the lively Sunday barbecue at Shirley Heights, with music and incredible views.
Curacao is a vibrant island offering families a mix of colorful culture, secluded beaches, and accessible snorkeling. Its capital, Willemstad, is a great place to explore with kids, with plenty of family-friendly restaurants and shops. Curacao’s calm waters and affordable resorts make it an excellent option for families looking for a budget-friendly vacation, especially during hurricane season.