Magnificent mountains, beautiful beaches and elegant cities
Tucked up against Spain's lush northern coastline, Cantabria is a gloriously unsung region. Atlantic waters lap a coastline of rugged cliffs and beaches of creamy sands, while the emerald countryside rises sharply in the south-west to become the serrated Picos de Europa mountain range.
At the heart of this so-called 'green coast' is the elegant city of Santander, presiding over neighbouring medieval towns, quiet fishing villages, and a surprising Gaudí masterpiece. And inland, green valleys and sheer limestone peaks are laced with walking routes and flecked with stone villages hunched down against the elements.
Cantabria is also compact, meaning you can combine beach and mountains, hiking and history all in one trip. And the diverse scenery makes for incredible cuisine, too – from fresh seafood to stout cheeses, hearty stews, and locally raised beef.
Kick off your Cantabrian adventure in Santander, a longtime favourite of Spanish royalty and the perfect base for exploring the region's 136 miles of coastline. It has a distinctly aristocratic air, with grand mansions, patio restaurants and Alfonso XIII's summer residence, Palacio de la Magdalena.
Known as the 'bride of the sea', Santander's refined old town contrasts with its bustling fishing district and surprising contemporary quarter, crowned by the Renzo Piano-designed Centro Botín cultural space.
The Centro Botín, Santander's seaside cultural space. Photograph: Stéphane Aboudaram
While Santander has its own crescents of golden sand, it's worth exploring the rest of the Cantabrian coast. Head east and you'll find Noja, just 25 miles away, a quaint town set between the sea and mountains, where 17th-century villas and mansions overlook two sandy beaches. Farther on is Castro Urdiales, once a Roman settlement and characterised by its medieval old town.
Or you can head west, where Santillana del Mar sits just 18 miles away from Santander, revelling in its title as one of Spain's most beautiful towns. Considered a national monument for its medieval architecture, it's also notable for the nearby Altamira caves, famed for their prehistoric cave art – one of the finest examples in the world. You can find out more about the 14,000-year-old paintings at the museum.
The stunning Gaudí-designed El Capricho
Just 9 miles west, you'll find Comillas, a pretty coastal town of cobbled streets, tree-dotted squares and modernist architecture. Make a beeline for El Capricho, a Gaudí-designed summer house seemingly plucked straight from the pages of a fairytale. Then, just 6 miles on, the picturesque fishing village of San Vicente de la Barquera features serene beaches and the breathtaking backdrop of the snow-dusted peaks of the Picos de Europa.
If you're looking to explore at a slower pace, follow a section of the Northern Way, one of the routes that make up the Camino de Santiago pilgrimage, which links together many of these coastal towns and villages.
Head inland and you'll discover the rugged peaks and vibrant valleys of the Picos de Europa, Spain's first national park. You can hike through the park at your own pace, with more than 30 self-guided walks, dipping into villages where local life seems perennially unchanged. This is the only national park in Spain that is inhabited, and its cultural heritage is as important as the nearly 2,000 species of plants and the wildlife that ranges from roe deer and grouse to Egyptian vultures, golden eagles and the Iberian wolf.
The Picos de Europa national park. Photograph: DanielYou don't have to be an expert hiker to experience the mountains at their best. You can reach a height of almost 2,000 metres in just four minutes via the Fuente Dé cable car. From there, the impressive Picos crags provide an exhilarating backdrop for leisurely hikes between villages.
The pretty medieval town of Potes, set in the mountain's foothills and criss-crossed by waterways, makes an excellent base for mountain exploration.
Whether you're hiking or cycling, surfing the coast, or simply strolling around medieval towns, you're sure to work up quite the appetite. Luckily, Cantabria's landscapes have a lot to offer when it comes to inspiring ingredients.
On the coast, you can dine on spider crab and goose barnacles, king prawns, sweet langoustines, and fresh anchovies. Local favourites include sorropotún de bonito, a tuna stew cooked with onions, peppers, garlic and stale bread; baked sardines; parsley-rich hake in green sauce (merluza en salsa verde); and rabas (fried squid).
In the mountains, meats and cheeses take centre stage. Look out for wheels of smoky quesucos de Liebana or Picón Bejes-Tresviso. Tudanca cattle is famed for its flavourful meat, and you'll also find game, such as wild boar and venison. For pork, try cocido montañés, a meaty feast consisting of chorizo, pork ribs, beans, potatoes and leafy greens, or cocido lebaniego de Potes, a stew made with chorizo, chickpeas and cabbage.
Delicious authentic Cantabrian food includes cheeses such as Picón Bejes-Tresviso and, on the coast, freshly-caught sardines. Photographs: Alamy; Stocksy United
Cantabria's distinctive cuisine is a reflection of the varied landscapes that define this underrated region. And its compact size means you can combine Atlantic surf and ancient pilgrimage routes, mountain wildlife experiences and rich culture all in one trip.
With regular ferries from both Plymouth and Portsmouth to Santander, it's easy to reach Cantabria. It means you can take your car and pack it up with bikes, hiking gear and even the family dog for your trip. And with comfortable cabins and great facilities, the holiday begins when you step aboard.
Brittany Ferries' ships sail the route from Plymouth to Santander, with just one night aboard flagship ferry Pont-Aven. Restaurant choices range from self-service to fine dining Le Flora, serving langoustines, smoked salmon and champagne. Guests can also enjoy the choice of two cinemas, a video games room, swimming pool and leisure area.
There are also two sailings a week from Portsmouth, both across two nights. Restaurants and bars serve up snacks and Spanish cuisine. Relax on the sundeck, shop the boutique, and let the little ones have fun in the play areas. The cabins on these ships have the largest and most comfortable beds in the fleet.
From country cottages to beachfront hotels, there's an impressive range of package holidays available to book through Brittany Ferries.
Find out more about travelling with Brittany Ferries
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San Francisco Chronicle
3 hours ago
- San Francisco Chronicle
A ‘hidden gem' on San Francisco Bay is waiting to be explored
Sometimes, when the world closes in, the best thing to do is to go on a small adventure, perhaps to an island with trees, trails, beaches and wild animals — only a 30-minute ferry boat ride from the heart of the city. The destination is Angel Island State Park on the largest natural island in San Francisco Bay, perfect for a day trip into another world. It's accessible only by boat, so it has that unique feel that comes only to islands, a feeling of isolation. There are picnic areas and trails all over, little glens and benches to take in the spectacular view of San Francisco glittering across the bay, the Golden Gate Bridge and Mount Tamalpais. Angel Island is about the same size as Muir Woods National Monument, which draws over a million visitors a year and requires reservations. Angel Island has 200,000 visitors in a good year, so it's seldom crowded. 'Truly a hidden gem,' the state park website says. Casey Dexter-Lee, an interpretive ranger who has worked on Angel Island for 25 years, said more visitors are welcome. 'We ask people to tell their friends about Angel Island,' Dexter-Lee said. 'Tell three more people. It's truly a magical place.'' It's ideal for a quick escape, too. The Golden Gate Ferry runs four weekday round trips from the San Francisco Ferry Building, three on weekends. The Angel Island ferry runs three trips on weekdays in the summertime and six on weekends. The last boat leaves the island at 5 p.m.; there are no overnight accommodations unless you get a camping reservation. 'At night, you practically have the island to yourself,' one camper said. The island is a good place for exploring, too. The ferries land at Ayala Cove, where Spanish sea captain Juan Manuel de Ayala anchored the ship San Carlos in 1775, 250 years ago this August. The San Carlos was the first European ship to enter San Francisco Bay, and Ayala sent his pilot, Jose Canizares, to chart San Francisco Bay. He made the first survey of the bay and a copy of the chart is displayed in the old quarantine building near the ferry landing. The Spanish made contact with local Miwok people who welcomed them to their land. Little did they know what was to come. Ayala's ship was followed by British, Russian and American ships, by Mexican cattle ranchers and by Americans after 1846. The U.S. Army came during the Civil War to build a fort and gun battery on the west side of the island. Much of it is in ruins now, but some of the fort has been preserved. A bigger and better fort was built on the eastern side of the island — Fort McDowell, named for the Civil War general who was in command at Bull Run. Fort McDowell is a huge old concrete garrison, a hospital, a mess hall, a prison, spooky looking, abandoned and empty. If there are ghosts and bitter memories on the island, they are at the Immigration Station, where approximately 300,000 immigrants to the United States were detained between 1910 and 1940. About a third of them were Asian; 100,000 Chinese, 70,000 Japanese, 8,000 south Asian. There were also some Europeans: Russians fleeing the Bolsheviks, Jews escaping Nazis and political refugees without proper documents. It was a place of hope and despair; at Ellis Island in New York, Europeans were welcomed to the United States. At Angel Island, many Asians were turned away because of anti-Asian immigration laws. A sign near the main building describes it: 'Angel Island came to symbolize discrimination and exclusion instead of welcome.'' The immigration station and the barracks where the immigrants lived are a historic site and open to the public. But if Angel Island has its dark stories, it's hard to remember them on a sunny summer's day when people are hiking, riding bikes and eating lunch in the little café. 'I came here to work because it was a place I wanted to be,'' said Sandra Freeman, who is the general manager of the Angel Island Co., which runs the park concessions. 'It's slow on the weekdays, but you should come on the weekends. We'll have music, and we have a new chef. We'll have oysters.'' Weekdays were perfect for Dan Bednarczyk, one of the staff at the Ranch camp, a nonprofit based in Tiburon and Belvedere. He and other staffers were managing a gaggle of kids from San Francisco and Marin out on the island for a day camp. 'I have 142 kids today,' he said. 'We do different things, sometimes kayaking, sometimes hiking, sometimes a fashion show,' he said. 'Today is fishing day. We give them some cheese for bait and there they are.'' Sure enough, the camp staff had kids lined up on the boat dock with poles and hopeful expressions. Did they ever catch anything? Bednarczyk offered the enigmatic smile that is the hallmark of summer camp counselors the world over. 'Fishing teaches patience,'' he said. The children and adults who had spent the day on the island crowded on the boat sailing back to real life, full of tales they'd been told: how Angel Island has deer that come out at night, raccoons that live in the island forests, how a single coyote swam across Raccoon Strait from the Tiburon Peninsula one night in 2017. Then another coyote made the trip, a litter of pups followed and now Angel Island has a coyote population. One of Dexter-Lee's favorite stories is about the seldom seen Angel Island Mole, a mammal that lives underground. These moles — scientifically known as Scapanus latimanus insularis — evolved separately from mainland moles when the sea level rose about 10,000 years ago and the rising waters flooded the valley between what became an island and the Tiburon Peninsula. These island moles are slightly larger and have darker fur than their mainland brethren. 'This is the only place in the world they are found,' she said. That's what I like about Angel Island. It's one of a kind.
National Geographic
6 hours ago
- National Geographic
Beyond the beach, Antalya makes for a cultural city break
This article was produced by National Geographic Traveller (UK). Gateway to the Turkish Riviera, Antalya basks in the sunshine on the country's southern Mediterranean coast, hugging the gulf that bears its name. Modern but with a picturesque, ancient heart, the city centres around a Roman-era harbour and the lattice of cobblestone lanes that make up the old town Kaleiçi (meaning 'within the castle'), which is dotted with centuries-old mosques and restored Ottoman houses. It's here that locals pause for long mezze lunches beneath waves of fuschia bougainvillea, or sit with an ice cream to soak up the sight of the Taurus Mountains rising in the distance beyond the bay. Much like Rome, this is a city that wears its history on its sleeve, with stretches of two-thousand-year-old walls, imposing gateways and historic mansions scattered liberally throughout its core. The nearby ruins of the ancient cities of Perge and Aspendos offer a glimpse of the power that this region commanded over the centuries — Perge, in particular, was one of the most important outposts of its era — while a vast necropolis, discovered by accident during the construction of a shopping mall, lies sandwiched between modern developments. Modern but with a picturesque, ancient heart, the city centres around a Roman-era harbour and the lattice of cobblestone lanes that make up the old town Kaleiçi (meaning 'within the castle'). Photograph by Aisha Nazar The majority of travellers in search of a classic beach break tend to head to the Lara neighbourhood, to the east, where dozens of gargantuan hotels and all-inclusive resorts loom over a five-mile-long stretch of sand. You're more likely to find locals in Konyaalti, to the west, home to another great swathe of beach but backed by low-rise apartments. There are smaller, more intimate boutique hotels here, alongside rustic lokanta diners serving home-style cooking to hungry workers and traditional restaurants spilling out onto the pavements on the otherwise quiet residential streets. Predominantly, Antalya has been seen as a summertime destination, with its sizeable student population lending it a young, buzzy feel that pairs well with its breezy beachside location. But in recent years, the city has begun to attract visitors year-round, even in winter when temperatures can still brush the low 20s and more hotels are keeping their doors open. Whatever time you visit, you're practically guaranteed to find warm sunshine, clear aquamarine seas and good food — from simit, the sesame-studded take on bagels, to yoghurty Turkish eggs for breakfast and platters of grilled fish, freshly caught from the Mediterranean, for lunch. What to see and do Hadrian's Gate & the Kaleiçi: Start your exploration of Antalya's picturesque old town at second-century Hadrian's Gate, a trio of imposing arches set into the original outer walls of the city and built to celebrate the visit of Emperor Hadrian. Step through them and the modern city fades into a maze of streets flanked with historic Ottoman houses and carved wooden balconies, family-run restaurants and bars serving mezze dishes and fresh fish on mounds of ice. Some streets lead down to the Roman harbour, while others wind past minarets and ancient bakeries up to viewpoints and leafy squares that look out over the sea. Much like Rome, this is a city that wears its history on its sleeve, with stretches of two-thousand-year-old walls, imposing gateways and historic mansions scattered liberally throughout its core. Photograph by Aisha Nazar The Şehzade Korkut Mosque is an architectural gem in Kaleiçi (also known as the Kesik Minare Cami) that began life in the second century as a Roman temple — before being converted into a Byzantine church, a mosque, a church again and then back into a mosque. Photograph by Aisha Nazar Bay-hopping by gulet: Gulets — traditional wooden boats — sail from the Roman Harbour each morning, offering everything from two-hour drifts along Antalya's spectacular coastline, with a stop at the Lower Düden Waterfalls, to full-day tours. It's a scenic way to get your bearings, as well as snorkel in the quiet bays that fringe the pyramid-shaped Suluada Island, at the westernmost end of the Gulf of Antalya. Choose your boat on the day (most depart around 10.30am); lunch is usually included. Perge Ancient City: A 20-minute drive north east from Kaleiçi, first-century Perge is second only to Ephesus — Turkey's most famous ancient site, near Izmir on the Aegean coast — in terms of size and scale. Allow at least a couple of hours to explore beneath the imposing Hadrianus Arch, walk between the colonnades and stand in the middle of the vast stadium, which feels straight out of the Gladiator film set. Enough of the site has been restored to make it easy to visualise how it would have once looked — a must-visit, even if you aren't usually a history fan. Antalya Museum: Before visiting Perge, it's worth calling into the ancient city's imposing museum, home to hundreds of marble statues of Roman deities taken from the site, which give a real insight into how extraordinary the city would have been in its heyday. Alongside the statues, the 13 galleries house Byzantine mozaics, intricately carved sarcophagi and Paleolithic relics, including tools and human and animal remains. Exhibits extend into the leafy gardens, where peacocks — including a rare, all-white bird — stroll between the cafe tables. Hadrian's Gate is a trio of imposing arches set into the original outer walls of the city and built to celebrate the visit of Emperor Hadrian. Photograph by Aisha Nazar The Upper Düden Waterfalls tumble through tranquil, leafy parkland, 20 minutes' drive from the city centre. Photograph by Aisha Nazar Upper Düden Waterfalls: While the Lower Düden Waterfalls cascade directly into the sea in the Lara district, nine miles upriver the Upper Falls tumble through tranquil, leafy parkland, 20 minutes' drive from the city centre. A walkway is carved into the rockface around and behind the falls, opening out into a waterside path that leads down to a clutch of restaurants with decked terraces over the water — an idyllic spot for a mezze lunch or cold Efes beer. Şehzade Korkut Mosque: This architectural gem in Kaleiçi (also known as the Kesik Minare Cami) began life in the second century as a Roman temple — before being converted into a Byzantine church, a mosque, a church again and then back into a mosque. The space inside is unadorned, making the remnants of its past incarnations — including the Roman arched entrance and the remains of the church masonry — all the more remarkable. Like a local Promenade under the palms: Kept shady by rows of palms, the leafy Konyaalti Beach Park is sandwiched between the brilliant sea and a long road lined with apartments and places to eat. It has showers for those who take a dip, while the row of bars and restaurants — set on lawns and decked terraces between the trees — offer everything from ice-cold beer to fresh seafood. Stop by the Old Bazaar to buy saffron, aci biber (dried chilli flakes) and other spices, and small souvenirs to take home. Photograph by Aisha Nazar Turkish coffee can be enjoyed from kiosk near the Lower Düden Waterfalls. Photograph by Aisha Nazar Eat in the fish market: Located next to the Lower Düden Waterfalls, Balik Çarşisi is Antalya's modern fish market. Trestle tables packed with local families fill the cavernous space; it's noisy, rustic and alcohol-free, but the choice and freshness of the seafood is unbeatable. Browse the Bazaar: The market held every Tuesday in Konyaalti's Liman neighbourhood is a more local affair than the Old Bazaar — the city's main marketplace, north of Kaleiçi — with stalls selling fruit and veg, clothes, shoes and homewares. Pick up a gozleme (a warm flat bread filled with feta cheese or spiced potatoes) to enjoy as you browse the place. Where to go shopping Faruk Güllüoğlu: Of all the Turkish desserts, none are more famous than baklava — layers of filo pastry filled with chopped nuts and coated in a sweet syrup. A box from Faruk Güllüoğlu — Antalya's most popular bakery chain — is often taken as a gift by local people when visiting relatives. Choose from traditional pistachio, kuru baklava with its thicker syrup or cevizli, filled with cinnamon and walnuts. The Old Bazaar: Hung with jewel-hued lanterns and Ottoman-print scarves, this is the main market in the city and is located just north of Kaleiçi. Come to buy saffron, aci biber (dried chilli flakes) and other spices, and small souvenirs to take home. It's popular, so haggle hard and don't be afraid to walk away if the price doesn't suit. 07040 Muratpaşa Shaded by palm trees and popular with locals; Koori Tex in Kaleiçi is a family business specialising in cotton products. Photograph by Aisha Nazar Koori Tex: Among the Kaleiçi's endless souvenir shops, this neat, cream-walled boutique sells chic cotton scarves, muslin dressing gowns and linen dresses. All the fabrics are organic — plus, the lightweight cotton towels on sale are perfect for the beach. Where to eat Parlak: Family-run for three generations, Parlak, just off the main shopping street Kazim Özalp Caddesi, is most famous for its grilled chicken, slathered in butter and cooked over open flames. Book a table on the new outdoor terrace and begin with piyaz white bean salad and spicy, finger-shaped sis kofta meatballs and finish off with a glass or two of raki, Turkey's aniseed-flavoured spirit. Ayar Meyhanesi: On a cobbled corner of Kaleiçi, this open-air restaurant is famed for its mezze — yoghurt-rich dips, smoky aubergine salad, crispy borek (spinach and cheese pie) and filo cigarettes stuffed with feta and parsley — along with fish like turbot, grouper and sea bass, grilled and butter-soft. Live Turkish music adds to the atmosphere and it's mellow enough that you can still chat without having to shout. Antalya Balık Evi: Snag an outdoor table at this popular fish restaurant directly opposite Lara's sandy beach and dine on classic Turkish dishes with a creative twist. Among them is grilled octopus with soy and balsamic, and candied pumpkin baked with sugar and walnuts — deliciously sticky and super-sweet. Parlak is located off the main shopping street Kazim Özalp Caddesi, and is most famous for its grilled chicken, slathered in butter and cooked over open flames. Photograph by Aisha Nazar After hours Off Cocktail Bar: One of the most innovative cocktail bars in the city, Off in Lara is cool and contemporary, with a chic wood-and-rattan interior and a drinks menu encompassing sours, shots and the classics. The house originals are numbered from 1-11; the No 10 — tequila, lemon juice, chilli and grapefruit — has a particularly spicy kick. Filika Cafe Bar: A long-time favourite with locals as well as visitors, Filika morphs from chilled-out cafe by day to lively bar by night, with tables spilling onto a Kaleiçi street and regular live music. It's not the place to come for an evening of mellow jazz, but rather a fun, mixed group of people and a crowd-pleasing menu of reasonably priced cocktails. 251 Soul: Part of the Akra Hotel on Lara's long, beachy strip, 251 Soul is a rare musical find in Antalya, focusing on blues, jazz and soul seven nights a week. Dimly lit, with small, circular tables and a gleaming bar, it specialises in dry-as-a-bone martinis. There's more than a hint of speakeasy style, attracting a young, trendy crowd. Snag an outdoor table at the popular fish restaurant, Antalya Balik Evi, and dine on classic Turkish dishes with a creative twist. Photograph by Aisha Nazar The pool at Tuvana hotel is surrounded by bougainvillea and pomegranate trees. Photograph by Aisha Nazar Where to stay Tuvana: The owners of Tuvana grew up in Kaleiçi and restoring this cluster of 18th-century Ottoman houses surrounding two peaceful courtyards has been their passion project. Rooms range from small and simple, with exposed stone walls and wooden beams, to spacious suites with crisp white walls, gilt-framed mirrors and scarlet drapes. All have access to the good-sized pool and palm-shaded bar terrace, with the second courtyard home to the excellent Seraser restaurant. Ruin Adalia: Part adults-only hotel, part museum, these five Ottoman houses sit above a Roman archaeological site — the largest in Kaleiçi, with ancient walls and masonry accessed via a wooden boardwalk. Above, chic rooms with muted gold furnishings and duck-egg fabric feel cool and airy, while the pool and plant-filled terrace area is a peaceful oasis in the middle of the old town. Su Hotel: This contemporary hotel in Konyaaltı is an all-white temple to minimalism, from the extraordinary monochrome lobby to the bedrooms framed with jet-black curtains. The exception lies in the aptly named Red restaurant, which is decked top-to-toe in bright scarlet shades. There's also a world-class spa and pretty, lounger-fringed pool here, while the rooftop bar is the ideal place for sundowners come nightfall. Getting there & around: Antalya-based airline SunExpress flies direct from Gatwick, Liverpool and Birmingham to Antalya. Alternatively, airlines such as Jet2, EasyJet and British Airways fly direct to Antalya from airports across the UK. Average flight time: city's modern tram system offers a direct connection between the airport and the city centre; take the AntRay tram to the central tram station, from where it's a short taxi ride to further points in the city. Antalya is a big city — from Lara to Konyaalti or Kaleiçi can take up to 40 minutes — so it's a good idea to download the AntalyaKart Mobil transportation app to make use of the excellent bus service. Buses can be paid for by contactless payment or via an AntalyaKart card (available from vending machines at stations), which can be topped up. Taxis are also plentiful; always make sure the meter is set and running when you begin your journey to ensure a fair price. When to go: Antalya gets very hot and busy in June, July and August, the peak summer months, when temperatures can top 40C. The shoulder seasons — May to June and September to October — are more manageable, with the mercury rarely dipping below 25C and fewer crowds. Increasingly, Antalya is becoming known as a winter sun destination, with November and February to March still seeing temperatures in the low to mid 20s. December and January can still be pleasant, although there is more likelihood of rain. More info: DK Top 10: Turkey's Southwest Coast, Dorling Kindersley. £8.99 How to do it: Fly direct to Antalya with SunExpress. Stay at the Tuvana boutique hotel, which has doubles from £85, B&B. This story was created with the support of Sun Express, the Tuvana Hotel, Parlak Restaurant and Published in the July/August 2025 issue of National Geographic Traveller (UK). To subscribe to National Geographic Traveller (UK) magazine click here. (Available in select countries only).
USA Today
11 hours ago
- USA Today
These 10 dreamy Caribbean resorts make family travel feel effortless
As a mom who's traveled frequently since my now-teenage daughter was a baby, I know there are lots of extra touches to look for at resorts so that everyone in the family feels like they're truly on vacation. Sometimes, all you can afford for vacation is a quick getaway, but when you have the time and money for something truly special, nothing beats a luxury Caribbean resort for a never-fail family vacation everyone can enjoy. These resorts might offer generous rooms to spread out, pools that are fun for the kids, restaurants to please every palate, or kids' clubs where young travelers want to spend time. And at the best luxury resorts in the Caribbean, you don't have to pick one quality over any other. Combining their appealing amenities and luxe lodging with beautiful beaches and tropical settings is a recipe for a dream getaway. WATER WORLDS: Who doesn't love a lazy river? These 14 family resorts have the best ones in the US (Updated for 2025) 1. The Ritz-Carlton, Grand Cayman - George Town, Grand Cayman Best sure-thing luxury Caribbean resort Caribbean resorts don't come any more luxe than The Ritz-Carlton, Grand Cayman. Start with its setting on the famous Seven Mile Beach on Grand Cayman, the largest of the Cayman Islands. Then consider its elegant guest rooms and suites done up in coastal modern-meets-British Caribbean style. A long list of amenities and activities at the property includes basketball, tennis, and pickleball courts; kayaks, standup paddleboards, water hammocks, and other beach gear; a Greg Norman-designed nine-hole golf course; and a newly enhanced indoor-outdoor fitness center. AFFORDABLE LUXURY: Kids stay free at these 11 family-friendly all-inclusive resorts If you're vacationing with toddlers, the little ones might be most impressed by Starfish Cay, with its zero-entry pool and waterslides. Adults will appreciate the on-site spa and Blue by Eric Ripert, the Caribbean's only Forbes Five Star restaurant. And everyone in the family can learn about the natural beauty and cultural traditions of the Cayman Islands through the activities offered by Jean-Michel Cousteau's Ambassadors of the Environment program. 2. Fairmont Mayakoba - Playa del Carmen, Mexico Best Caribbean luxury resort in Mexico A recent top-to-bottom renovation has made Fairmont Mayakoba an even more appealing destination for a luxe family escape. This Riviera Maya resort takes cues from its tropical forest setting, with 401 rooms and suites done up in soothing nature-inspired hues and wood tones, some of which overlook the resort's canals or stretch of Caribbean beachfront. Complimentary bicycles, on-property transportation, a bird-watching boat tour, and various water sports and beach activities are included in the resort fee, and you can also opt for an all-inclusive dining package. The Maykana Beach Club offers a stunning setting for enjoying the resort's waterfront, with multiple food and beverage options and an infinity pool surrounded by lounge chairs and cabanas. There are additional pools set right on the sand, and a kids club by the beach gives grownups an opportunity to sneak off for a cocktail. A second kids club is located by the resort's sprawling pool area, where there's a waterslide for young guests and plenty of room for relaxation if that's more your speed. The restaurants throughout this luxury resort look ripped out of the pages of a design magazine, but the kids will still find plenty to munch on, especially at La Laguna's impressive breakfast buffet. 3. Zemi Beach House - Shoal Bay, Anguilla Best boutique luxury resort Get away from it all by booking a beachfront guest room or suite at this 77-room boutique hotel set on six acres on the island of Anguilla. Both the grownups and the kids will enjoy a stay at Zemi Beach House, where amenities include an infinity pool with an aquarium window, tennis courts, a spa, and a beach concierge who can help everyone explore the water with complimentary snorkeling gear or by paddling a kayak. SAIL IN STYLE: 7 best all-inclusive cruise lines in the world The hotel's island-inspired kids club is open daily and offers fun activities for kids ages four to 12, like cooking lessons, arts and crafts sessions, and "mermaid" and "merboy" swimming experiences. The kids club also hosts movie nights once or twice a week, which means the adults can enjoy a night out at the hotel's hip Bohio Bar and Sushi Lounge or a cocktail at the Rhum Room, which features a collection of 140 small-batch, single-estate rums. 4. Scrub Island Resort, Spa, and Marina - Scrub Island, British Virgin Islands An unforgettable private island escape If you're a fan of the outdoors but aren't a fan of roughing it, head to Scrub Island Resort, Spa, and Marina in the British Virgin Islands. Start by booking one of the resort's luxury villas, which offer full kitchens, private pools, and views that provide the perfect backdrop for morning coffee or an afternoon cocktail. TAKE YOUR PICK: 12 amazing all-inclusive family resorts for every age and interest At Donovan's Beach, the family can get out on the water for some kayaking, standup paddleboarding, and snorkeling. A short walk takes you to the quieter North Beach, a 1,000-foot stretch of sand ideal for relaxing with a good book or taking a dip in the Caribbean or beachside pool. The lagoon-style, multi-tiered Pavilion Pool offers fun for all ages with a waterslide, waterfalls, and swim-up bars, and you can also take the ferry over to Marina Cay for efoiling and other water sports or a fun waterfront meal. The resort can also help arrange tours and activities like sailing lessons, snorkeling tours, and day trips to nearby islands. 5. Atlantis - Paradise Island, The Bahamas Best resort for families who like nonstop action Atlantis has firmly established itself as one of the Caribbean's iconic resorts, drawing families, couples, and other travelers to its sprawling, jaw-dropping property on Paradise Island off the coast of Nassau. It's a luxury Caribbean resort where options abound, with more than 40 food and beverage spots (including the new Cocodrilo, the resort's first Mexican restaurant), 14 pools, five miles of beach, and five different lodging choices. The Coral was designed with families in mind, with beachy-chic guest rooms and suites and a location close to all the kid-friendly fun, while the villas at Harborside provide more space for larger families to spread out. CARIBBEAN DREAM: 10 great all-inclusive family resorts in the Caribbean Kids and teens will be huge fans of Aquaventure, a 141-acre playground of waterslides and a river ride, and Dolphin Cay, where guests can learn about and interact with dolphins and other marine life in a variety of ways. Atlantis keeps rolling out new and refreshed experiences, too, like the first resort location of Shake Shack, a scavenger hunt that takes players to 12 different spots around the resort, and a new mini-golf course and sports bar. 6. Sugar Beach, A Viceroy Resort - Soufrière, St. Lucia A luxury Caribbean resort for families who just want to chill out Located on the southwestern part of St. Lucia, Sugar Beach, A Viceroy Resort sits on more than 100 acres of tropical forest and boasts a white-sand beach leading into the Caribbean Sea. Book a villa, beachfront bungalow, or one of the residences on the property (like the new Spice of Life ultra-lavish nine-bedroom villa residence), and the whole family will enjoy butler and turndown service, plunge pools, and private patios. Embrace your athletic side on the tennis courts, beach volleyball court, or during scheduled fitness classes, or hit the beach for some windsurfing, kayaking, or snorkeling. Kids ages four to 12 can head to the V Team Kids Club for nature walks, arts and crafts projects, sandcastle building, and other fun (and supervised) activities, while the Spice Club Program for tweens and teens offers activities like kayaking, paddleboarding, table tennis, video games, and billiard tournaments. Babysitting services are also available (at an additional charge), so parents can make some time to try a cocktail at The Cane Bar or book a massage in one of the treehouse-style gazebos at The Rainforest Spa. 7. Le Barthélemy Hotel & Spa - Gustavia, Saint-Barthélemy, French West Indies Best celebrity-style luxury resort in the Caribbean St. Barts isn't just for celebrities, models, and other movers and shakers. Families can enjoy a luxurious escape at Le Barthélemy Hotel & Spa, a Parisian-chic boutique property set along the island's scenic Grand Cul de Sac. The kids can start the day at Le Barth's Amis St. Barth breakfast buffet, offering juice, cereals, and breakfast cookies. Once the family is sufficiently fueled, it's time for some kayaking, snorkeling, swimming, or sandcastle building at the hotel's gorgeous stretch of beach. An infinity pool overlooks the shore, providing another spot for cooling off or lounging with a great beach read. GO SOUTH: Tropical beaches? Good drinks? Kids clubs? These all-inclusive Mexican resorts have it all The whole family can indulge in some self-care, since children ages eight and up can enjoy age-appropriate treatments like gentle massages and facials at Le Spa at Le Barthélemy. Parents and kids can also book duo treatments for some memorable together time. The hotel's Haute Couture Concierge helps guests book activities and car rentals for exploring the island, and babysitting services can be arranged so the grownups can enjoy drinks at Seven Stars Bar. And when it's time to wind down, guest rooms and suites offer tranquil, tastefully decorated spaces for relaxing and taking in ocean or garden views. 8. Carlisle Bay - Saint Mary Parish, Antigua A top luxury resort for soaking in the Caribbean scenery The elegant yet still family-friendly Carlisle Bay on Antigua incorporates its bayfront-meets-rainforest setting into every element of its design and amenities. Think tennis courts surrounded by lush tropical vegetation, an open-air yoga pavilion, restaurants with views of the Caribbean Sea, and suites with balconies or covered terraces with day beds for lounging amid all that natural beauty. And a refurbishment underway will only make that all even better. NO PASSPORT NEEDED: 15 best all-inclusive resorts in the U.S. for families Carlisle Bay's kids club offers age-appropriate organized activities throughout the day for two- and three-year-olds, four- to seven-year-olds, and eight- to 12-year-olds. The kiddos might embark on a nature or beach walk, craft with clay and beads, or mix up some mocktails. The whole family can take advantage of complimentary kayaks, standup paddleboards, snorkeling equipment, and other non-motorized water sports or head out to explore the island on a horseback riding or zip line tour (for an additional fee). You can opt for an all-inclusive or bed-and-breakfast package, and children up to 12 years old eat and stay free. 9. Rosewood Little Dix Bay - Virgin Gorda, British Virgin Islands Best luxury Caribbean resort for families traveling with babies Private sailing lessons. Instructor-guided snorkeling safaris. Island scavenger hunts. Private tennis lessons. Those are just a few of the ways your family can spend its vacation time at Rosewood Little Dix Bay, a refined but still relaxed luxury resort set on 500 acres of Caribbean beachfront property on Virgin Gorda. Guest rooms and suites blending Caribbean style with mid-century-modern design all overlook the ocean. CLOSE TO HOME: 25 best family resorts and hotels in the U.S. The resort provides a range of amenities for tiny travelers, including cribs, highchairs, baby bathtubs, and even diaper pails. Guests can enjoy butler service, complimentary bikes, and chauffeured golf cart transportation around the resort, which can bring you to the beach for some kayaking, the Pavilion Pool for some swimming, or the spa for an island-inspired treatment. A kids program called Rosewood Explorers is the place to be for school-aged kids; immersive activities include Caribbean folk arts and crafts, cooking classes incorporating ingredients grown at the resort's sustainable garden, and trips down to the water to learn about local marine life. 10. Salterra, a Luxury Collection Resort & Spa - South Caicos, Turks and Caicos Best new luxury Caribbean resort Opened in March 2025, Salterra, a Luxury Collection Resort & Spa, sits in a prime spot on Turks and Caicos' less-trafficked South Caicos island. The resort's 100 guest rooms and suites take cues from the natural setting, incorporating regionally sourced materials like native wood and coral stone and featuring floor-to-ceiling windows and spacious balconies for taking in the views. And the resort's use of renewable energy sources, an industrial composting system, and other sustainability measures help protect its scenic location. TURQUOISE WATERS: The 10 most beautiful Caribbean beaches (and where to stay near each) Families can enjoy beach, pool, and spa time at the resort or get out on the water for some kayaking, snorkeling, and bone fishing. A complimentary kids club leads fun educational activities for young guests ages four to 12. The resort also offers a Salt Discovery Experience, where guests can learn about the island's salt trade heritage while also observing local wildlife, and coral reef restoration workshops in partnership with the South Caicos Coral Reef Consortium, where visitors can help leave the destination even better than they found it. New direct flights from American Airlines flying from Miami to South Caicos every Wednesday and Saturday make it easy to get to the property. For a family vacation splurge, these luxury Caribbean resorts have all the ingredients of a dream getaway originally appeared on More from FamilyVacationist: The views and opinions expressed in this column are the author's and do not necessarily reflect those of USA TODAY. and are owned and operated by Vacationist Media LLC. Using the FamilyVacationist travel recommendation methodology, we review and select family vacation ideas, family vacation spots, all-inclusive family resorts, and classic family vacations for all ages. 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