dianne1217

we are looking for suggestions for Caribbean resort possibly with great activities like an amazing waterpark to take kids next year. we would be flying from major airport in NYC area -- JFK, Newark or LaGuardia and direct flights are always preferred. Also, would consider US based resort

genio67

We took our 5 and 7 year old kids to Aruba this past winter and stayed at the Tamarijn resort. While there was no big water park or even a slide in the pool, our kids loved it. There were some kids activities but what they really loved was the beach during the day and dancing to the music at night. The all inclusive feature was very convenient with the kids. Being able to walk out the sliding door of our room and onto the beach was great and made it easy to go back and forth whenever necessary. The beach is gorgeous and there are several pools to choose from since you can also use the Divi resort. Aruba felt very safe and a comfortable island to explore. We took our kids to an animal farm and snorkeling and there is also a butterfly farm and a donkey sanctuary. I believe there is also a waterpark somewhere on the island. We were not looking for a mega resort with tons of activities, so we were very happy with the Divi/Tam resort.

KVR

The Marriott in Aruba has a really nice pool and is family friendly. There is a kids waterpark on DePalm Island. There has been talk of the Island building a larger waterpark, but I don't think it has come to light yet.

The Beaches resorts in Jamaica and Turks and Cacios has amazing pools. They are pricey resorts though.

The Iberostar Rose Hall Suites in Jamaica.

Coconut Bay Resort in St. Lucia.

Sunset Jamaica Grande in Ocho Rios and Montego Bay has a waterpark, but the resorts themselves gets iffy reviews.

Barcelos in the DR and Riveria Maya, Mexico.

blamona

Beaches Turks and Caicos always voted best in Caribbean.

It has direct flights from NY.

When a little older, can't beat Atlantis. (most rides require 8 years old and certain heights)

genio67

I am not sure how many other islands have this set up, but we went through U.S. customs in Aruba. It made a big difference with young kids to get that over with before the flight. When we arrived home in NY we walked off the plane, picked up our luggage and right to our car service just as if we arrived from a domestic flight. With tired 5 and 7 year old kids , that was a great perk.