Hiltons in Caribbean
 

We are looking to use Hilton Honors points for a family vacation in the Caribbean (or Mexico on whose board I'll post a "sister message") We are twenty-somethings with three young children (8, 5, and an infant) and would appreciate a nice beach and/or pool, rooms/suites on the large side, and a destination that is kid-friendly but laid-back. Any recommendations appreciated.

We used points at the Caribe Hilton in Puerto Rico last April. The complex is nice has pools, several restaurants and a small beach that has breakers so the kids can swim and snorkel. Hilton Honors have their own tower with snacks and drinks provided and continenal breakfast.
We really enjoyed our stay here. The room wasn't too large though. We had two adults and two teens and it was crowded.

We loved our stay (using points)in Hawaii. they are by far the best Hiltons to use points at. My DH was diamond and we stayed at the Honolulu Hilton Hawaiian Village in the Ali towers. Then, we went for 8 nights to the Big Island and had a great room at the Waikoloa Hilton. It is a super resort with tons of restaurants and pools and you don't have to leave the resort. We went April 06. We would go back just to go to the big island's hilton again.

Now, there is a new Hilton in Barbados. I am not sure how it is, but it is only about one year old.

You didn't say when you were planning your vacation, but if you're not going during the very cold months, you would be ok with the Bahamas. With children it would also be a shorter flight. There is a Hilton located in Nassau. The resort is on beachfront and very close to shopping, the straw market, Nassau Harbour and historical sites. The hotel includes both rooms and suites, many with ocean views. Rooms on executive floors include a private lounge that serves complimentary continental breakfast, drinks and canapes. The property also includes a beachfront pool, a spa, tropical gardens and casual restaurants, including poolside dining.

Thanks to you both! We actually agree with the assessment that Hawaii has the best options, but as we are now living on the East Coast, the shorter flight times to the Caribbean and/or Mexico(with 3 kids) is definitely our priority. We have stayed at the Caribe and find it OK, but I read that Barbados is a very nice island for a weeklong visit...and that the Hilton in the Bahamas has a private beach but it is near Nassau which I did not like at all when I visited for a day on a cruise...still staying open minded as to location, dates, and others' opinions! Thanks agin for taking the time

You might also take a look at the Embassy Suites in Dorado in Puerto Rico. It's a nice hotel, though it's begun charging a stupid and annoying resort fee (like many of the hotels in Puerto Rico). But you can probably use your po9ints there. It's a good family resort and an all-suites property that's also fairly new.