ljv; I think the coral is best at St. John. It also has the most to offer in terms of non-snorkelling activities. A close second for me would be the general Grenadines area, particularily Tabogo Cays. I'd stay at Bequia and branch out from there. Finally, Bonaire is known to have great coral as compaired to the rest of the carib. Hope this helps.

the abacos are supposed to be about the best snorkeling in the bahamas. not sure you'd find much for 'other diversions' as the out islands are kinda quiet.
bequia is a long long way from tobago cays. closer islands include palm, union and mayreau. snorkel is said to be outstanding, but you must day trip there by boat or do live-aboard. you could combine some time on union/tobago cays with a stay on st. vincent or barbados to find alternate activities.
bonnaire is known as a good snorkel destination.
you might consider grand cayman or vieques but not much besides water activities on either - obviously much more on gc as it's more developed.
guadeloupe has some good snorkeling and has lots to see/do.
if your family loves corals maybe you should get scuba ceritfied.

Thanks for all the input. We've been to St John's and loved it. Last time there was about 10 years ago.

Virginia, my husband and older daughter are scuba certified. I and my younger daughter both have severe asthma and are very hesitant to scuba.

Any feedback on the BVI?

Thanks

The B.V.I.'s have several good snorkel spots but you have to charter a sail or power boat at $500-$800/day to go to Norman, Cooper Islands and the Indians. VG unfortunalely has very little due to coral bleaching except for the Baths but that would not be a reason to stay on VG. St. john around caneel and watermelon Key (need a tour boat to take you there) are still quite good but not what they were 10 years ago. In the Bahamas the best snorkeling actually in on the reef off Andros Island. It is the 3rd largest Barrier Reef in the world after Australia and Belize.A rustic but nice place on Andros is Small Hope Lodge which caters to divers, snorkelers and bone fishing.

i must bow to stan. if he says andros is best then it i assume it is.

IJv; I should add that there is nothing else to do on Andros Island except enjoy the beach and the watersports and socialize with the guests. It is really a hidden gem so the few resorts are never at capacity except in April and May.