JoyM

I am looking for a 5 day get a way for two moms and their teenage (15 and 16) daughters. Something a little exotic and exciting with snorkeling, maybe diving, maybe hiking, island music. We may make it our own photo safari. Perhaps lively enough for the girls to meet other teens and "lose the parents" and maybe cozy beach bars for the moms to "lose the kids". Thought about Atlantis but not sure we want the mega-resort thing. Don't want something too family friendly with lots of toddlers. This would be early June (after school lets out) so we know it would be hot but maybe the rates are better. Rates at Atlantis are doable but would be at the top end of out price range. Any other ideas or thoughts. Don't know much about Roatan- wonder if it would be too boring for the kidos.

JoyM

Moms are sisters 48 and 50. Athletic, would like to teach our girls island appreciation!

schmerl

Although Atlantis would be great fun it won't teach the girls "island apprciation". You may want to consider Mexico's Riviera Maya where you could visit Mayan ruins, zip line, snorkel in cenotes, etc. The all inclusive resorts in that area would have LOTS of activities to keep your teens busy.

humptynumpty

Generally, The Bahamas has two worlds.

Mega resort world : based mainly on Grand Bahama or around Nassau. Which to be honest are anything but our thing.

Out Islands world : the remaining 700 plus islands are absolutely beautiful but very low key. Generally you make your own enjoyment, there are few resorts but the seascapes, beaches, sealife and coral are amazing. We have been to The Abacos twice and there is life there (restaurants etc) but it is laid back and casual. Our 5 year old absolutely loves it and spends most days asking when we are going back.

However, the Out Islands are not everyones idea of fun.

In summary, The Bahamas offers experiences at either end of the spectrum. If you don't want either it may be worth considering The Turks & Caicos, Mexico or The Caymans.

ishkribbl

Funny you said that at the end, humptynumpty- as I was reading what she said she wanted I was thinking maybe the Caymans might be a better fit. I have not been there in quite a while but I know they stay popular with my friends and their teenagers of similar age. As much as I love the out islands, they aren't for everyone and every circumstance.

Also, I am not sure I would have let my 15 or 16 year old girl too far out of my sight in Nassau, Paradise Island or Mexico- it all depends on where you are. I came close to going to Roatan this spring but had to cancel so I have not been- did lots of research though- I think we would have loved it, not sure about teenagers (we were booked for 4 days at Anthony's Key and 4 days at Barefoot Cay)but it might be a place to consider if they are outdoors lovers (ziplining, beaches, diving/snorkeling, dolphin institute, etc.) AK has some good package deals, too. Have a great time whatever you choose!!

virginia

if you would consider maya riviera coast -
http://www.occidentalhotels.com/grand/Xcaret.asp
is connected to this marine fun park (not as crazy as atlantis)
http://xcaret.com/
you can daytrip to tulum, coba or chichen itza.
locogringo.com has tons of info on the whole area.

qwovadis

www.runawayhill.com my fav have been a bunch.

Harbor Island awesome for this

cute little island great beach perfect 3 miles pink sand

great diving small enough for teen girls to wander

and explore safety very pretty...

Angelina's Starfish Restaurant

for best conch/lobster in the world a do not miss for me.

Happy Hunting

qwovadis

www.anthonyskeyresort.com

Roatan nice good diving a bit more action

a little dodgier with teen girls Harbor Island

better vibe a bit safer prettier for me.

girlonthego

I agree that the cayman islands would be a better choice for low-key island with beach bars and beautiful water. I felt very safe there as well. I would pick a resort hotel so that the girls could meet up with other kids possibly. The westin is a pretty good size hotel and there is huge ritz there. The marriott was a smaller property, small pool and not many kids when we went.
Island had great food and friendly people.