There are many great luxury resorts in the Caribbean. There are many great family resorts in the Caribbean. But not all of members of the former group are also members of the latter group, and vice versa. But there are certain luxury resorts that aren’t just great for couples’ getaways. These resorts have the luxury credentials — but, crucially, they’re also terrific for kids. Here are our favourites in the region for 2014.
Four Seasons Resort Nevis
This superb resort has world-class golf, food, tennis, water sports and more; for the kids, there’s an emphasis on organic, creative programming for kids, from a sea turtle conservation programming to its “Camp Nevis,” featuring everything from dialect lessons to water sports and themed nights, all led by the property’s wonderful activities director, Mac Kee France.
St Regis Bahia Beach — Puerto Rico
One of Puerto Rico’s leading luxury resorts, the St Regis has what’s called “Family Traditions at St Regis,” which organizes family activities like El Yunque National Park hikes, with a focus on creating memories for the entire family. And, as a luxury resort, the property even pampers its youngest guests, with child-sized robes, slippers and the like.
Ritz-Carlton Grand Cayman
This Grand Cayman classic is a haven for foodies, set on a perfect Caribbean beach. And its signature children’s programme was created by Jean-Michel Cousteau’s Ocean Futures Society, focusing on water, land, culture and environmental responsibility.
Viceroy Anguilla
This spectacular property in Anguilla is a sleek, modern take on Caribbean luxury; for the kids, there is Viceroy’s Generation V programme for kids 4-11, focusing on activities like nature walks, treasure and scavenger hunts, cookie and cupcake decorating classes and more. There are also special activities for teens and family programming as well.
Beaches Turks and Caicos — Turks and Caicos Islands
The Providenciales-based resort’s new Key West Luxury Village is the perfect combination of relaxed luxury and fun for the whole family. Indeed, Beaches has become famous for its family-friendliness for a reason — there’s simply always something new to do.
The Reef Atlantis — Bahamas
Beyond the main resort at the Atlantis lies the Reef, a luxury enclave that provides all the space families need and access to Atlantis’ renowned parks and activities, from its famous water slides to the dolphin lagoon.
Half Moon — Jamaica
Half Moon’s old-fashioned West Indian luxe is complemented by its own children’s “village” focused around the character Anancy the Spider, featuring a pool, a sand box, play areas, a canteen and learning programmes.
Bitter End Yacht Club — British Virgin Islands
This British Virgin Islands institution has a special BEYC Kids programme, from junior sailing instruction to special trail hikes and sporting activities like a Beach Olympics.
Casa de Campo — Dominican Republic
Casa de Campo has a cornucopia of programmes for all ages, including for toddlers, kids, “tweens,” teens and more, from horseback riding to puppet shows.
Hard Rock Punta Cana — Dominican Republic
The luxurious Hard Rock, one of our favourite Caribbean all-inclusives, says it focuses on “rockers of all ages,” and it’s true, with everything from mini-golf, the chance to join a musical band and a rock climbing center.