We are two families with kids ranging from 15-21 and are looking for a Christmas week destination. Please, no all-inclusives, but a place that will allow for relaxation, good beach, snorkeling and the opportunity to explore something new. We've all been to Jamaica several times, so we're looking for any other place. I know, I'm somewhat vague, but do you have any suggestions? Do you know of a wonderful resort, or villa to rent, or ??? Many thanks in advance! I'm afraid we might be too late for Christmas week at this point!

It's not in the Caribbean but in Belize. Check out the Jaguar Reef Lodge. Oh you will get to explore a lot of "something new" - it is an exciting place to stay where you can relax or have a lot of fun adventures. Goto http://www.jaguarreef.com/

Grenada - we went there when I was 15, 19 and 21...all times I was so enchanted with this island that if I can I make it my number one travel destination as a 33 year old. It has everything everyone would like - lively atmosphere without crazy out of control party scene...beautiful pristine scenery - places to relax while others live a lively day...easy walking to shopping and dining at most hotels...and Ivan the Terrible (hurricane) did not break the island in fact seemed to force many spots to upgrade there facilities...And beaches to satisfy any taste...take a day trip and realize Grenada has something to offer all!

I hope you chose this island and love it as much as I do!

Thank you both for your reply.
Travelchatter, where in Grenada do you stay? Do you have a recommendation for accommodations?

Go to THE BAHAMAS for the holiday. Several of the outislands would be fun and the kids will LOVE Junkanoo, which is a sort of parade/mardi gras/whistle contest with LOUD music and drums.

An island I can recommend would be Harbour Island, very safe for all the kids, lots to do, beautiful beach and some lovely places to stay.

All the resorts are on the smallish side, so you would need to book immediately.

Try some of these websites:
www.myharbourisland.com (rentals)
www.romorabay.com
www.coralsands.com

The island is very festive over the holidays, lots of lights and christmas trees and the nicest people you could ever hope to meet.

Have a great vacation.

St. John is a beautiful island with very good snorkeling. 2/3 of it is National Park and it is not over built. It has good restaurant an easy access (via ferry) to shopping on St. Thomas. The atmosphere is very casual and the and it is safe to walk around town at night. We stayed at the Westin (expensive) and toured the island by jeep. With children your age I would rent a villa (more reasonable and beautiful homes). It is very typical to do this on St. John. The following are a couple sits that show you villas.

http://www.destinationstjohn.com/about.htm

http://www.caribbeanvilla.com/villas.html

The New Horizons boat trip was a lot of fun for my family:

http://newhorizonscharters.com/

Thanks to all for your input! I'll check these out and let you know what we decide.