drako

Looking at these two islands to vacation with our 2 year old. We are looking for a nice relaxing place with a beautiful beach. We have gone to other islands in the caribbean and have been disappointed, so this time we want to get it right. We are looking for the beautiful turquoise blue water and I think both have them but pictures can be very deceiving. Is one island more child friendly than the other? Any recommended resorts? We are looking for a moderately priced hotel/resort/condo. We want to be on the beach so we can go back to the room frequently and the afternoons for our daughter to take her naps. I know food is expensive on both islands but is one more reasonable than the other. We are looking to have a kitchen to prepare some meals at home. Does one island have a better grocery store? Also, are there resaurants available for delivery or take out on either island?

Lastly, I hear Beaches is great for families. We have been to a Sandals resort and LOVED it. I know the up front cost is more but it maybe about the same after we pay for food on the islands and at restaurants. I just don't know if we will get to use all that Beaches has to offer since our daughter is only 2. Do we save it for when she is older and can use the water slides, etc? I don't think we would leave her in childcare at this age.

Thanks in advance. We just want to make sure we make the best decision on our vacation since we don't go away too often. Any advice is appreciated. I have looked at prior posts but still am uncertain.

GeorgeR

I can comment about Grand Cayman but no about Turks and Caicos. Seven Mile Beach is beautiful with crystal clean water. The beach is relatively uncrowded. I would consider renting a condo,in the north or central part of the beach. You can save a large amount of money on food. Many condos have washer and dryers in the unit, which would make your life easier with a young child.

The supermarkets on the island have everything you will find in a US supermarket. Also, some restaurants deliver.

The experience will be different than a all-inclusive. If you are looking for a lot of action you will not find it on Grand Cayman. If you looking for a relaxing quiet vacation

virginia

i agree that your daughter is too young to make Beaches worthwhile.
i've been on provo 3 times & gc once. i like both islands a lot but prefer provo as it's a bit more laid back. price wise they are about the same. each has plenty of dining options in all price ranges. i think provo has a delivery service. i prefer the water color in t&c - it is more unique - kind of tourquoise color & it's stunning. also good for little ones as the reef breaks any waves.
i'd give provo the nod for your family because most of the resorts have condo style units. very convenient to have a full kitchen & nice deck to hang out on when your daughter is sleeping. the sands is nice as it has screened porches.

JeanH

Although I've never been to either, I'd base at least part of my decision on when you'll be traveling. Turks is pretty far north, which is one of the main reason we've never been. I don't think you can guarantee true beach weather there in the middle of winter.

drako

Thanks for the replies. The reason why we selected those is it's a short flight from the NE (which is important with a 2 year old). We are planning on going in the fall. I am leaning towards TCI since the beach is supposedly beautiful. I know we have the risk of hurricanes but we pretty much would have that for any island that time of year.

KVR

We have been to GC twice and T & C once. From what you are describing, I would go with T & C. To us, GC is more about snorkeling and going to all the snorkel spots. T & C has more water related activites that might work better with a child. I think the condo choices in T & C are more plentiful also.

Beaches sits on a very narrow area of beach and get quite crowded. It it totally over price for what they offer and if your child can not particpate in most of it because she is too young, it is not worth it.

Look at The Sands at Grace Bay. Very child friendly.

carol2791

As a Brit Gradmother who has been to both Islands but only T & C with grandkids, I would choose here. Grace Bay is the best beach, flat,golden sand and no waves, very safe.

Having used Beaches, I agree that your Daughter is too young, I would go with The Sands. Re food shopping IGA supermarket have opened a beautiful deli type market on Grace Bay within walking distance of most condo's. In the fall it will be a lovely temperture for the beach. Enjoy.