Choosing Family Resorts in the Caribbean

You’ve decided on a family vacation in the Caribbean; now comes the hard part: choosing the ideal resort, one with programming that the kids will love and amenities and services that the adults can enjoy in their precious alone time. A travel agent can help you narrow down the overwhelming number of options.

To get you started, here are three questions to ask as you look for the right resort for your family.
  

Paddleboarding and other nonmotorized water sports come as part of the all-inclusive package at Dreams Dominiscus La Romana in the Dominican Republic. Courtesy of Dreams Dominiscus La Romana

DOES THE RESORT OFFER ACCOMMODATIONS TO SUIT YOUR ENTIRE FAMILY, WHETHER IT’S A PARENT AND CHILD, THREE GENERATIONS OR ANYWHERE IN BETWEEN?
You’ll know if a resort caters to multigenerational vacationers by their room types and in-room amenities. Among the options, there might be stand-alone family cottages and suites with multiple bedrooms—great not only for overnight sleeping but also for naps. If you’re traveling with teens, you may prefer separate guestrooms; however, you’ll want to keep them close, so find a property that will guarantee adjacent rooms.

Family-friendly features can range from kitchenettes to mini-refrigerators and microwaves, pull-out sofas to bunk beds, and even private outdoor areas that expand your living space, such as a front lawn, balcony or your own pool.
  

With a dedicated Kids Concierge, Atlantis Paradise Island Bahamas makes it easy to entertain the younger set. Courtesy of Atlantis Paradise Island

ARE THERE FEATURES THAT APPEAL TO ALL AGES IN YOUR GROUP?
From meals to activities, you’ll want to inquire if the resort has what you need for every generation in your group. That could include a spa, golf and shopping for the adults as well as supervised kids programming or nanny services. Are there pools where you can spend time together as a family but also an adults-only pool to enjoy when the kids are involved in an activity?

Kids clubs are essential for keeping children entertained and meeting new friends while giving parents guilt-free time to unwind. But not all kids clubs are created equal. Ask if there are separate clubs for the age groups you have, what activities they offer, the hours they operate and whether use of the club is included with your stay.

Dining is an important consideration, too. The adults will likely want multiple restaurants for diverse cuisine and extensive wine lists, while familiar food may save the day with the younger crowd.
  

Dreams Punta Cana Resort & Spa boasts one of the largest free-form pools in the Dominican Republic. Courtesy of Dreams Punta Cana Resort & Spa

WHAT’S INCLUDED, AND WHAT’S AN ADDITIONAL FEE?
Whether you decide to stay at an all-inclusive resort or a more traditional family resort, learn what is included in your stay and what will cost extra. Even non-all-inclusive properties may offer breakfast and free use of bicycles, kayaks, paddleboards, snorkel gear and equipment to play soccer, tennis and other sports.

For kids who might skip from one activity to another quickly, having some options included with your room rate will help your wallet while giving them freedom to, say, decide after 10 minutes that snorkeling isn’t for them.

Asking the right questions will help to guarantee that you (and your travel agent) find the right resort for your family’s sun-soaked Caribbean vacation.