My husband and I would like to know what you all consider to be the best resorts for families. We have a 13 year old son and the vacation is really for him to experience a nice beach and some activities unlike what we have at home. We live in California and the beaches here do not compare to those in the Caribbean (clear, clean, warm water, etc.). I come from Trinidad and we don't have any nice beaches to talk of and I'm not familiar with the other Caribbean islands that much as I grew up in the US. <BR><BR>I've been trying to do some research in the meantime and was leaning towards Grand Cayman or St. John. I've looked into Bermuda although it's not in the Caribbean. But if anyone has any ideas please let me know. However, we don't want to visit Jamaica due to the safety precautions.<BR><BR>Thanks.

No advice for me? Are most here couples only?

Alison-<BR>The Westin in St.John has plenty of activities for children or stuff that a 13 year old would enjoy. They have a kids club although he'd probably to old for that...but ther were tons of coordinated activities for the whole family at the pool and beach when I was there in June. You can book excursions on site as well. I think you would enjoy it.

Alison,<BR>St. John is an absolute dream. We have taken our boys to St. Thomas, Virgin Gorda, Cooper Island, St. John and St. John is great for kids/families. So many beaches that are easily accessible. We (husband and I, alone) stayed at Caneel Bay, but there are many choices for villa rentals that would suit your family of three. When we go back(I have a family of four, son-6yrs. and son-13yrs. old) we are going to rent a house and go any and everywhere from day to day. <BR>Make wonderful memories on your family vacation.

Thanks for the advice. I appreciate it!

Any of the Beaches properties have a lot of activities for kids. There is one in Provo that is very popular.

I'm going to offer a different choice. I have 2 boys, ages 9 and 12 and we just returned from the Fiesta Grand in the DR and they had a ball. The beach was incredible For kids, I think an AI is the way to go for several reasons, first, lots of other kids there. This resort had family suites, so there were plenty of kids around. I think this might be especially good for an only child.<BR><BR>Second, lots of activites that you don't have to pay extra for, archery, basketball, mini golf, sailing, kayaking, ping pong, contests. Most boys do not like just sitting on the beach, even though the parents do. Our kids were busy and happy all day.<BR><BR>Also lots of dining options and unlimited dringks and snacks., if your son wants 5 pina coladas every day(non-alocholic of course), it's nice to say sure go ahead, we're on vacation and not shell out $ 10 a pop.<BR><BR>While my husband and I would never go the AI route alone, for a family vacation it can't be beat. My kids have been on cruises, to Disneyworld, Universal and every year we rent a beach house. Think carefully about just how much there will be do do in Grand Cayman or St. John for your son all day long. Most parents know that keeping kids occupied is the key to a successful vacation. Even in paradise kids can say "I'm bored, there's nothing to do". The AI was their best vacation yet. I'm planning a trip to the Mayan Riviera for February.

Last year we stayed at the Paradisus in Cozumel. They had a nice childrens program and snack bar where they could more or less help themselves. They even had their own pool.