Hi,
I am planning a Caribbean trip myself for this summer. Me and my husband are going alone this time We have 3 kids, 10, 8, and just 5. We have taken summer vacations with them since they were babies. Mostly car trips out west. We are planning on taking the kids on a caribbean vacation next year, so I've been kinda looking at family friendly options to.

What I've found for us is Caneel Bay Resort in St. John, US virgin islands for the whole family. I haven't been there, but all the pics online look great and great comments too. It has a childrens program for those times you want a little alone time with your husband or to do something that the kids aren't able to do. It is a beautiful resort with great beaches and snorkeling. Take a look at it. Getting to St. John shouldn't be difficult either, which is a plus with kids! St. John has great off beach snorkeling for the kids.

I think me and my husband are going to go to Virgin Gorda this time; no kids ( Little Dix Bay Resort ). You need a passport and there is a little more travel involved. There are some isolated islands, and it just seems so romantic.

Good luck with your planning. Don't sweat it, the kids will have a great time anywhere! Give them a beach, water toys, and maybe a mask and snorkel. They will love it!

Thanks for your response! A 'grown-up' vaca sounds great! My husband and I actually went to Caneel Bay before we had kids, maybe 8 years ago. We loved it! I didn't even think about it as an option for this time with the kids, but I will look at it again. I didn't realize they had kids programs. The snorkeling was awesome. And we had someone take us out on a boat to Tortola, Jost van Dyke (sp?), etc. Super vaca. And I know a bunch of people, including my parents I think, who have gone to Little Dix and loved it. Thanks for your input...I do keep telling myself that they are just happy at the prospect of going away and I am sure they will just play in the water all day. Good luck with your planning!

i've been to several islands. i come home from each thinking what a wonderful experience i had! so take a breath & remember your kids aren't as critical as we adults.
caneel is a great resort for any vacation.
2nd choice would be t&c beaches. great beach & tons to do for the kids. may be too pricey though.
another option could be fdr pebbles resort on jamaica. your kids get a dedicated nanny for the duration of your stay

thank you, virginia! i just read your post out loud to my husband. makes a lot of sense. : ) would you consider a beaches in jamaica?