My kids want an island vacation

[klfrech]

Having just returned from DW, my teenage boys have decided they'd like to go somewhere different next year. Although I would love a beach vacation, I'm afraid that we might get bored, simply because we have always done very active vacations.

Anyone have any suggestions? I'm not a fan of cruises, so am thinking more of an island that has plenty to do.

 

[FSUDisneyGirl]

Atlantis in the Bahamas is really fun. It's a beach vacation, but with LOTS to do (the slides through the sharks are amazing!) at the resort, and also you have the rest of the island to explore. Fun!My teenage cousins went last year and they had a GREAT time!

 

[DawnCt1]

Then let it be....MAUI!

 

[MM27]

Have you been on a cruise? I know people that have a bad idea of what it will be like, but depending on the cruiseline, you can opt for a very active type of ship (Royal Caribbean is a good example) or a more relaxed "adult" type atmospher. You can see a couple of different islands and there are excursions that will fit in with the active lifestyle of your family.

 

[klfrech]

I really don't like cruises. I've been on two and have gotten sick on both of them. I'd prefer to stick to one island, if possible.

Although I love Maui (hubby and I went there on our honeymoon), I'd like to try something a bit closer to home.

I've heard good things about St. Thomas. Anyone have any experience?

 

[christineann]

St. Thomas is beautiful, and so is Grand Cayman. We had a great time at both (we love beach/water activities).

 

[roliepolieoliefan]

Beaches Turks and Caicos. Pricey but worth it!

 

[Iott Family]

How about trying the outer banks region of NC? We love the emerald isle, pine knoll shores, altantic beach area. We have thought about heading to the Duck area this next trip or giving Virginia Beach a try with its close proximity to amusement parks and tourist traps!
There is plenty to do if you want activity from speed boat rides out to cape lookout, to deep sea fishing, parasailing, renting a catamarine for the day, sight seeing, shopping in beaufort area, taking a ferry ride over to bear island from hammocks beach state park. If you just want to chill at your beach house might I suggest getting ocean front so you are mere steps from the beach and you can smell the ocean calling you! You can wind surf, body boarding, wake boarding, building sandcastles, sunbathing, wave diving.....................taking a nice long nap in a hammock just 10 feet from the ocean. Ahhhh! Its the life!

 

[kaytieeldr]

So, um, can the kids afford an island vacation?

 

[klfrech]

Yes, as a matter of fact, they can. Thanks for asking.

 

[MoniqueU]

Beaches Turks and Caicos. Pricey but worth it!

This is always my first choice as well. I don't get bored there at all.

 

[Laugh O. Grams]

We rented a beautiful home on Great Guana Cay, Bahamas last year, along with a boat and a couple golf carts and had a ball. Fishing, swimming with dolphins, beautiful beaches. If you want excitement, you can take the boat to any numbers of surrounding islands that are 20 minutes away, or if you just want to lounge on the beach, there's that as well.

 

[Uuaww]

St. Thomas is rated the worst island in the world... It is just full of tourists and tourist junk. If you are rich, go to St. Barts, if you are on a budget, Turks and Caicos is a bit better. St. John is nice b/c it is US-owned and very relaxing. St. Croix (where I live) is more of a relaxing vacation as well, not a whole lot of activities. Dominica is the most beautiful of the islands. St. Martan is probably the most active of the island with stuff to do.

I know the West Indies pretty well, just avoid St. Thomas and if you have any questions ask.

 

[njprincess601]

I second the Atlantis. My teenage brother LOVES it. It's big enough that they can have some freedom. The resort practically has a waterpark built into it. It's a really fun vacation. You get the beach vacation with plenty to do!

 

[kaytieeldr]

Yes, as a matter of fact, they can. Thanks for asking.

Sorry about that - I was being funny (at least, I thought I was being funny). NOT prying into your - or their finances in ANY way. As in: if the kids want an island vacation, the kids should pay for the island vacation.

 

[gina2000]

If you enjoy non-stop action, you may want to consider an All-Inclusive on an island.

Also, many islands have specialties.....some islands are known for snorkelling, some for dining, some for golf. You should sit down and decide exactly what everyone's expectations are before you start to plan.

 

[Darcy03231]

Rather than an island, I would suggest the Mexican Riviera. Lots to do and see. Not only are there water activities, such as snorkeling, scuba, snuba, kayaking, jetskis, etc. you can go and see the ruins, explore the rainforest, zip line, take Mexican cooking classes, dance classes, etc.

 

[klfrech]

Regarding Atlantis and the Bahamas: I've considered it, but was wondering about nighttime activities. I've heard that there isn't much to do past 6 p.m.

 

[pearlieq]

Sorry about that - I was being funny (at least, I thought I was being funny).

I got your joke. I thought it was funny!

 

[MOMTOCUTESTDOGEVER]

I got your joke. I thought it was funny!

Me too!