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We created Mango Tree just for you.
And we’ve made it our mission to become the experts in traveling to the Caribbean with kids, especially to the characterful islands that offer more than just big all inclusive resorts.
Maybe it’s your first big international trip with kids — maybe it’s your tenth. Wherever you are in your journey, you want to do it right.
The beaches, clear blue waters, and relaxing vibes of the islands are calling your name. But unlike the pre-kid days, you don’t feel comfortable jettig off to a random island. With limited time away with your family, you want to be absolutely confident you’re spending your money wisely and heading to a Caribbean island that actually works well for families.
But the thing is: Your kids are constantly changing, and so are you! The best Caribbean islands for toddlers might not be the best island to visit with kids who need adventure sports, waves, or great snorkeling.
After visiting more than a dozen kid friendly islands since 2022 (and researching many, many more for clients), it’s become clear that finding the best Caribbean island with kids is really a matchmaking game.
In many ways, you can’t go wrong. Every Caribbean island offers something unique. Frankly, we haven’t been to one with kids that felt like a bad choice.
But our goal is to help you narrow down the choices and easily decide which of the kid-friendly Caribbean islands is best for YOU. So we’ve rounded up our 20 favorites and broken them out by age group — baby, toddler, elementary, and teen.
Let’s cut through the information overload and get to the point.
first things first…
Download our Intro Guide to Caribbean Family Travel
Best Caribbean Islands For Families with Babies and Toddlers
1. French Saint Martin
We know several families who have returned to the French side of Saint Martin again and again, having had fantastic trips with kids of all ages. Much as we love exploring new Caribbean destinations, St. Martin is one we’ve been tempted to revisit.
A top reason to love St. Martin: The villas. French Saint Martin has an extensive inventory of gorgeous villas, which somehow remain more affordable than those in other top Caribbean destinations for kids.
We recommend Saint Martin for babies and toddlers because this is often a great age to travel with friends, or to bring the grandparents along, and the villas in Saint Martin make that easy. Plus, in our experience Saint Martin feels like one of the safest Caribbean islands with kids, due to it’s friendly people and ease to get around.
And, of course, if you prefer a hotel experience, you’ll find that too. We have a personal favorite boutique hotel in Grand Case, where you’ll have both beaches and food at your fingertips. Recent clients have raved about the set-up here for little kids, with a zero entry pool and calm beach area.
Another great thing about tackling Saint Martin with little kids is that it’s easy to get around by car. The is and has 37 different beaches, many of them calm and swimmable with littles. There are tons of family friendly restaurants — the French crepes and pastries are a bonus – and of course there’s also plenty do in Saint Martin beyond the beach.
2. Turks and Caicos
Providenciales – the entry point to Turks and Caicos – is widely considered to be one of the best islands in the Caribbean for families. Its international airport has some of the shortest and most frequent direct flights from many East Coast cities. The convenience factor of Turks and Caicos is hard to beat, which is why it’s a top choice for many families with babies and young kids in particular.
What’s more, 3-mile long Grace Bay Beach is consistently ranked as one of the best beaches in the world. It’s a calm, kid-friendly beach dotted with luxury family resorts and easy access to snorkeling. If sparking blue water is on your wish list, you’ll find it here.
One thing that really makes Turks & Caicos a uniquely great Caribbean destination for families is that many of the luxury hotels have suites with multiple bedrooms and full kitchens. Grocery shopping in Turks and Caicos is easy. And on top of all that, there are plenty beachfront restaurants nearby that the whole family will love.
With a great selection of luxury resorts – some with kids clubs! – a calm beach, and easy access from major U.S. cities, we think Turks and Caicos is one of the best Caribbean islands to visit with toddlers in particular.
If you are traveling with older kids, and looking to break up your trip with something more adventurous, take a quick and easy ferry to relatively empty Middle Caicos. Stay at Dragon Cay Resort and wake up to some of the best views anywhere.
3. Antigua
Antigua is perfect for parents who want to unwind and relax. The island has several small, all-inclusive resorts, that offer the serenity and calm of a boutique hotel but the amenities of a larger resort.
And there is still plenty to do. Antigua is known for its 365 beaches — one for each day of the year — offering plenty of chances to explore and making this one of the best family vacation spots in the Caribbean.
Another highlight of a family trip to Antigua would be the weekly barbecue at Shirley Heights, which offers the best view on the island (shown above). On Sundays, the great food and live music create a festive atmosphere that is perfect for family fun. It’s low-key, minimal commitment, and little kids will love the steel drums.
Antigua also offers a snorkeling experience that caters to younger travelers, which makes it an especially good trip for the under 5 crowd. Long Bay Beach, on Antigua’s east coast, has marine life on a reef in shallow water. In fact, the reefs are so shallow that you can walk to them, and even kids who can’t swim yet may be able to see fish and practice with snorkel masks.
Antigua is largely a resort island — yes, you’ll explore, but you’ll also get a chance to take a breath at a boutique family hotel and stay put. The resort-focus aspect of the island gives new parents comfort and a sense of safety and easy, making it a great choice for a multigenrational trip or trip with babies.
4. The dominican republic
The Dominican Republic is the ultimate quick and easy Caribbean getaway with kids. For families with active kids looking to get off for a few days to a resort with waterslides, pools, and entertainment, the Dominican Republic will always be a solid choice.
Punta Cana reigns when it comes to large, all-inclusive resorts. We tend to get our clients away from the biggies, though, and recommend fully staffed villas just a skip and a hop from the airport for multigenerational trips with little kids. These have an added level of class and comfort at a similar value.
We also have to emphasize that there’s way more to explore in the DR than cruise-ships-on-land! (Need convincing? We can give you several reasons not to join the Punta Cana AI possy.) The Samana Peninsula, for example, is an adorable beach town with whale watching, wild beaches, and hiking opportunities for older kids. And it happens to have one of our favorite boutique family hotels — with great shallow pools for little siblings — which will satisfy even the most discerning tastes.
5. Bahamas
While the islands of the Bahamas are not technically located in the Caribbean Sea, they are part of the Caribbean region — and they’re one of the ultimate tropical destination for families, so we couldn’t leave them off this list.
Nassau on New Providence Island is the most easily accessible Bahamas destination.
But Nassau is most recognizable for its massive mega-resorts like The Atlantis and Baha Mar — and frankly, those are not are jam, Mango Tree fams.
Don’t fret, we’ve hunted and found some smaller gems in Nassau too for a quick getaway with a baby, plus some stellar local cuisine.
But even though the journey may be a little longer, we really recommend the more remote Out Islands where the real magic of the Bahamas happens. You’ll find amazing family-friendly resorts waiting for you in the Exumas and we also love Harbour Island and Andros for some very cool luxury resorts that welcome babies and toddler (and older kids too).
If you want blue water as far as the eye can see, and shallow sloping beaches for small kids, where you’ll feel safe with your kids at the beach, these are the islands for you.
6. Grand Cayman
Simply put, Seven Mile Beach on Grand Cayman is known as one of the Caribbean’s best, with calm waters that are great for young kids, and also snorkeling enthusiasts.
For an English-speaking destination, with lots of shops and restaurants, and direct flight options, Grand Cayman is a top choice for a first family trip to the Caribbean.
The luxury hotels on Seven Mile Beach are a good fit for families with little kids, who simply want to take it easy on a great beach. As your kids get a little older, venture beyond the resorts for animal encounters like the turtle sanctuary, and starfish point.
7. Jamaica
Jamaica is one of the bigger Caribbean islands and has multiple, distinct tourist areas. You could take several different family trips here and have a great experience each time. The thing we love most? The warmth of Jamaican hospitality.
If you’re looking for an easy all-inclusive resort to visit, with a kids club and all the frills, Jamaica’s Montego Bay has endless options. But you’re probably catching our vibe at this point — these mega resorts simply aren’t are favorite. We regularly book clients at a handful of smaller luxury hotels in the Montego Bay area, but steer clear of the biggies.
If you head to Jamaica, we’d love to encourage you to venture a little further, and try the infamous seven-mile beach in Negril. We can help you choose between Montego Bay and Negril if you need a little nudge to go the extra mile.
Or head completely off the beaten path to Jake’s Treasure Beach to see Jamaica’s undiscovered south coast — one of our absolutely favorite spots and we’d love to talk your ear off about it. Did I mention the villas come with chefs and the option to book a nanny for the little ones?
For older kids, Jamaica has much to offer beyond beaches and resorts. These can include river rafting, cliff jumping, and hiking the Blue Mountains. (Bring me home some coffee, please!) It’s also one of just a handful of Caribbean islands where you can go horseback riding in the water.
8. St. Barths
St. Barts is often thought of as a destination for the wealthy and famous, and it’s true that the island has its share of designer shops and luxurious resorts. However, St. Barts is also an under-the-radar choice for families. Take a baby to St. Barths, for example, and you can enjoy the chic beach clubs with your little one in tow before they need lots of kid-focused activities — a throw back to your pre-kid self.
When in St. Barts with kids, it’s all about the slow pace, the beaches, and the animals. And the luxury resorts are out of this world. It’s a great choice for an easy, quiet vacation. And of course, no trip to St. Barts would be complete without trying some of the delicious French-Caribbean cuisine.
The island is home to some of the best beaches in the Caribbean, with calm waters and powdery white sand that is perfect for play. Kids will especially love the beach on the airport side of the island to watch the planes fly in — they come quite close!
St Barts is also full of animals. Kids can see iguanas, turtles, snails, hermit crabs, pelicans, and schools of colorful fish in the shallow beach areas. Start your mornings with a nature walk or hike to get some energy out and explore the island’s wildlife.
Best of all, because St. Barts is relatively small, it’s easy to get around without a car, making it a stress-free vacation destination for families.
9. Bermuda
Bermuda may not technically be in the Caribbean, but it earns a spot on any list of the best Caribbean islands with kids—especially younger ones. With calm, shallow waters and soft pink sand, the beaches here are perfect for toddlers and little swimmers. Plus, it’s less than two hours from New York, with an easy airport and quick transfers to most hotels.
For little adventurers, there’s more to explore beyond the beach. Hop on a glass-bottom boat, wade into the water with a snorkel, or visit the Bermuda Underwater Exploration Institute, a kid-friendly museum with exhibits on marine life and shipwrecks. Even preschoolers can enjoy wandering through Crystal Caves, a real-life treasure hunt.
Yes, Bermuda can be expensive—which is why many visitors only stop on a cruise. But it’s worth more than a quick visit. With the right planning, you can make a longer stay work for your family. And we’ve got tips to help you do just that.
10. St. Kitts and Nevis
We often get requests for islands that allow families to head beyond the beach. If that sounds like you, St Kitts may be the right Caribbean island for your family.
Saint Kitts is steeped in history, and the land-based activities seem endless. With little kids, start with Brimstone Hill Fortress, perhaps one of the Caribbean’s best forts for kids. This massive stone fortress with maze-like ramps and stairs will certainly help kids burn off energy. Families with young children can also hop among the black sand beaches on the island’s Caribbean side, or just relax at one of the best luxury Caribbean resorts for families.
Adventurous families can zipline through the jungle, ride horses on the beach, or ATV through the rainforest. And grandparents will love the scenic trainway — just note that it’s geared towards cruise ship passengers so doesn’t always operate on days the cruise ships aren’t in town.
Of course, when it’s time to relax, the beaches won’t disappoint. St Kitts has mostly black sand beaches, but Nevis has the white sandy stretch of Caribbean dreams. Plus, Nevis is the equivalent of a one-horse town in the Caribbean, with no stoplights, and is one of the safest Caribbean islands for families.
Best Caribbean Islands for Families with Elementary-Aged Kids
11. Grenada
Grenada was my first Caribbean love—and the inspiration for the name Mango Tree Travel. Tucked just north of Trinidad, it’s full of charm, flavor, and authentic island vibes that go way beyond the resort experience.
This is a place where families can connect with the real Caribbean. Stay at one of our favorite boutique hotels with a local feel, and then get out and explore: the produce market in St. George’s is one of the best in the region, overflowing with tropical fruits, vegetables, and—true to its nickname, the Spice Island—every spice imaginable. If you like to cook or want your kids to see where flavors come from, Grenada’s a winner for your family.
For little ones, Grand Anse Beach delivers with calm water and soft white sand. But Grenada really shines for families with older kids and teens who want to be active. Think: hiking to waterfalls in the rainforest, touring chocolate and spice estates, snorkeling over an underwater sculpture park, or even river tubing through the jungle.
There are no high-rises or mega-resorts here—just small restaurants, quiet beaches, and space to slow down. It’s under-the-radar, but that’s part of the magic. A bonus for parents: there’s a major medical school near many hotels, which can bring a little peace of mind.
One note—driving here is not for the faint of heart. If you’re not comfortable on narrow island roads, we’ll help you arrange a driver so you can relax and enjoy the adventure..
12. Bequia, St Vincent & The Grenadines
If you’re looking for one of the best Caribbean islands with kids, and you’re a family willing to go a little farther for something charming and real, turn your eyes towards Bequia.
A handful of small, lush hills plunge down into white sand bays that are perfect for smaller swimmers. The island is located in the Grenadines, just south of St. Vincent. Bequia is best accessed by a 1-hour ferry from St. Vincent, although there are also direct charter flights from Barbados and St. Lucia. It requires a journey but it’s totally worth it if you have a week or more for your Caribbean family vacation.
Once on the island, visitors will love the throw-back Caribbean charm. While there is plenty to do, the pace of this tiny island is relaxed and relaxing. Families will have no choice but to slow down. Check out our complete guide to Bequia with kids for all the details, including where to stay and what to do.
If you’re intrigued but wondering where to stay, Bequia Beach Hotel is one of our all-time favorite Caribbeanfamily resorts. The family vacation we spent there, when our kids with 8 months and 4 years old, was one of our best. Kids and parents alike will love the saltwater pool and well-prepared Caribbean fare (there is also an on-site Italian restaurant during the busy season). The hotel offers easy access to the island’s best beach for kids, Princess Margaret beach.
For a slower, laid-back trip off the beaten path, Bequia is absolutely one of the best islands to visit with kids.
13. Curacao
Curacao island (pronounced Cure-uh-sow) is often overlooked as a top Caribbean travel destination. But especially for families seeking to stretch their travel dollars a little further, it’s one of our favorite choices.
Here’s what in store for you in magical Curacao: Pristine beaches tucked into small coves. Accessible snorkeling. A day trip to a deserted island. A colorful capital city Willemstaad offering a wide range of culinary treats and little Amsterdam vibes. Myriad family hotel options in Curacao, ranging from some of the most affordable beachfront resorts in the Caribbean to ultimate boutique luxury.
We especially recommend Curacao for families who have angst about getting bored on a beach vacation, because there are epic Curacao itineraries we can put together with tons of activities. It’s also a fabulous choice for hurricane season travel, as Curacao is outside the belt.
Because of its location, Curacao is often compared to its sister Dutch islands of Aruba and Bonaire. Yet in many ways, the three could not be more different. The ABC islands each have something unique to offer your family, so sometimes with older kids we actually love to recommend and island hop.
14. Virgin Islands
I’ll admit it: I used to write off St. Thomas, entryway to the US Virgin Islands. The cruise ship crowds and shopping scene just weren’t my thing. But after a recent family trip, I changed my tune—the Virgin Islands—both the British and US sides— deserve a spot on any list of the best Caribbean islands for kids, especially older kids who can tolerate an island hopping adventure.
St. Thomas is easy to reach (no passport required), with short flights from many U.S. cities. It’s a great base for a week of adventure: beach-hopping, snorkeling, ziplining at Tree Limin’ Extreme (ages 5+), and a visit to Coral World Ocean Park for little marine life lovers. Stay near the east end at one of our favorite Virgin Islands hotels and you’re perfectly positioned to hop on ferries to St. John and the British Virgin Islands.
St. John feels like a different world—quiet, natural, and ideal for school-age kids and up. With 60% of the island protected as national parkland, it’s all about hiking, beach days, and turtle-spotting at Maho and Trunk Bay. Most accommodations here are villas, which work well for multigenerational families who want space and flexibility.
If you’re up for true island-hopping, the British Virgin Islands are a magical collection of cays and small islands best explored by boat. From the granite boulders of Virgin Gorda’s Baths to private island resorts with castaway vibes, it’s a paradise for families with a sense of adventure—and we can help make the logistics feel easy.
15. Bonaire
It’s always a treat to find a remote Caribbean destination that’s not overly developed or touristy. But often, those destinations are either hard to get to, or hard to navigate. After all, that’s what keeps the tourists away. Bonaire feels like a secret, and yet it’s somehow easy. That combination is why we think Bonaire is one of the best Caribbean islands for kids.
You will know the moment you arrive that you’re in a very special place. Compared to its more populated neighbors, Aruba and Curacao, Bonaire is quiet, with only a fraction of the population. The town of Kralendijk is colorful and lively – but compact enough that you will never more than a few blocks away from the ice cream shop in the middle.
It’s all about the sea here. Since 1979, the waters surrounding Bonaire have been part of a national marine park, and the marine life is the best we’ve seen in the Caribbean. The wildlife is abundant and accessible to kids — flamingos, iguanas, crabs, reef fish, and more are at your fingertips all day. Take your kids to explore Bonaire’s best beaches, and you’ll often be the only people around.
And yet, Bonaire makes it easy for families at every turn. Customs is quick, the airport is small, and you can be at your hotel within an hour of landing in Bonaire. The U.S. dollar is widely accepted. The hotel staff is friendly, warm and welcoming. And the island’s small size, and flat landscape, makes it easy to explore.
16. Roatan
When you think of Honduras, you might not immediately imagine a kid-friendly Caribbean island. But Roatan, Honduras is truly a hidden gem for family travel, and every one we send their with kids has a fantastic time (including us!).
There’s nothing fancy about Roatan, and that’s why we love it. This little island packs in a ton for kids, from animal encounters to snorkeling in crystal-clear waters, all without pretense or fuss. For a detailed account, check out our blog post on why Roatan is great for kids.
Roatan is known for its diving, but the reef starts just off-shore. What that means for parents traveling with little ones is that the off-shore snorkeling is phenomenal. Young swimmers can wade into the water and see the reef teeming with colorful fish.
At West Bay Beach, a particularly great spot for families, low-key restaurants line the sand, offering a relaxed atmosphere and affordable prices.
Beyond the beach, there are plenty of activities for kids in Roatan. Your little travelers will also love meeting the island’s friendly monkeys, sloths, and iguanas. And, perhaps best of all, Roatan remains an affordable destination, even as other Caribbean islands have become increasingly expensive. So if you’re looking for best tropical family vacations on a budget, be sure to add Roatan to your list! And don’t miss our complete guide to Roatan for families for tips on where to stay and what to do.
17. St. Lucia
Saint Lucia has perhaps the most recognizable coastline in the Caribbean: The Pitons rise dramatically from the Eastern Caribbean sea and reach for the sky. Along with Dominica, Martinique, Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, and Grenada, Saint Lucia is one of the Winwards Islands that run north to south and make up the southern arc of the Caribbea chain. Each of these islands shares the same volcanic geology.
St Lucia probably is most well known for its romantic boutique hotels (and we’ve been known to recommend it for an anniversary trip or two). But those gorgeous resorts, up on the hillside with picturesque views, would also be a perfect base for an active family trip full of snorkeling and hiking.
We recommend St. Lucia for older kids rather than little ones because typically quite a long journey is required from airport to hotel (1-2 hours) on windy roads. It’s best experienced with slightly older kids who can tolerate that discomfort and where mom can be more relaxed.
Beyond that, though, Saint Lucia’s riches would be lost on those with tiny travelers who simply want to putter around beachside. Known for its mountainous interior and underwater world, it’s the ultimate Caribbean destinations for older, adventurous kids.
18. Dominica
When it comes to Caribbean island vacations, Dominica — not to be confused with the Dominican Republic — is often overlooked in favor of more mainstream destinations like Jamaica and the Bahamas.
Dominica’s dramatic oceanside cliffs, rich history and culture, and great hotel options offer something unique for families looking to get off the beaten path. It may be the best island in the Caribbean for families looking for an active and adventure-packed vacation. It doesn’t surprise us in the least that Travel and Leisure placed Dominica at the very top of the best Caribbean islands list several times.
Dominica’s network of hiking trails, waterfalls, and natural pools are unparalleled in the region, making it the perfect place for nature lovers. There are also opportunities for whale watching, snorkeling, and swimming. (Rainforest spa, anyone?)
In terms of accommodations, your options range from some of the region’s best luxury resorts to family-owned eco-cottages. You can also find small boutique hotels with private pools. Whatever you’re looking for you can find it in Dominica.
Because Dominica is not your beach-lounge type of vacation, this island may be best enjoyed with elementary-school-aged kids rather than toddlers and babies.
19. Puerto Rico
Puerto Rico makes many families’ lists of top travel destinations. You’ll almost always see the most affordable Caribbean flights to this destination, direct from many U.S. cities. Plus, no passport required also means no long lines at customs. It’s a great place to practice some Spanish if tyour kids are learning it in school.
Most families make a stop in San Juan. This charming city has so much to offer: colorful buildings, accessible beaches, delicious gelato, and cobblestone streets and plazas to discover. El Morro and San Cristobal are two of the most popular forts in the Caribbean, and they offer great city and ocean views.
We recommend spending no more than a day or two in San Juan with kids. Then, get out and explore the island’s natural beauty, from the beaches of the East Coast, to the hills of El Yunque National Forest, to the crashing waves of Rincon, a surfer’s paradise.
El Yunque is the only tropical rainforest in the U.S. National Forest system, and it’s an amazing place to hike and see waterfalls with kids. The El Portal Visitor Center is a great starting point, and from there you can choose one of several different trails depending on your fitness level and how long you want to hike.
Or, take the road less traveled, and head west to the surfing mecca Rincon, which has a more bohemian atmosphere. Your kids will love hunting for shells on the beach and watching surfers from the point at the town’s lighthouse.
20. Barbados
Barbados blends calm Caribbean beaches with a little extra polish. It’s one of those rare islands where you can spend your morning snorkeling with sea turtles, your afternoon exploring a local rum distillery by train, and your evening enjoying beachfront fish sandwiches—without ever feeling rushed. It’s that balance of ease and culture that makes Barbados one of the best Caribbean islands for families.
The Platinum Coast on the west side of the island is made for kids. The beaches are calm, swimmable, and full of gentle snorkeling spots where even toddlers can safely wade in. But venture a little beyond the beach, and Barbados delivers all the activities your kids need: green monkeys at the Wildlife Reserve, underground tram rides through Harrison’s Cave, and even the chance to see racehorses swimming at sunrise.
And the food? Incredible. Whether you’re brunching on the beach while your kids play in the sand, or grabbing a fish cutter from a roadside stand, Barbados makes it easy to eat well without the stress. T
Best of all, Barbados feels welcoming and safe from the minute you land. The airport is well-connected, driving is simple, and locals are quick with a warm smile and a Bajan phrase to make you feel like you belong. For families ready to explore beyond the usual all-inclusives, Barbados is a final Caribbean standout to round out this list.
Frequently Asked Questions
The best Caribbean islands for a relaxing vacation are Antigua, Turks and Caicos, Barbados, and the Bahamas. These island spots all offer a slow pace and gorgeous white-sand beaches.
The best Caribbean islands for island hopping are the ones with nearby neighbors. We love combining the ABC Islands; the Virgin Islands; Saint Martin, Saint Barths and Anguilla; Saint Kitts and Nevis; and Guadeloupe, Dominica, and Martinique. The Grenadines are also another terrific option.
There is no single “safest” Caribbean island, but some islands consistently rank higher than others. If a secure-feeling and easy vacation will help you feel confident about your choice to travel, we recommend looking at the British Virgin Islands, Anguilla, Barbados, and Saint Martin as good starting points for your Caribbean travels.
Now you’re speaking our love language! If you’re seeking out a hidden destination in the Caribbean that feels like you’ve discovered a great secret, we’d recommend Middle Caicos, Dominica, Bequia, or Guana Island.
Schedule a complimentary discovery call so we can tell you all about them!
All-inclusive resorts for families in the Caribbean are really clustered in four main destinations: Jamaica, the Dominican Republic, Mexico, and Antigua.
If you’re looking for an all-inclusive resort with kids, start with those destinations for the most options!
Let Mango Tree Find Your Island
The bottom line: You can’t go wrong in the Caribbean! There are so many kid-friendly Caribbean islands perfect for memorable family vacations.
But if this list of ideas sent your brain into overdrive, or if decision-fatigue has you shutting your laptop, let us take the hassle out of your travel planning. We’ll get you to the Caribbean while minimizing stress and hassle at every stage.
