You are determined to plan a fun summer vacation for your family. You’re just as determined to stick to your budget this year. Some of the best deals will lead you to the Caribbean, but there’s one thing that will give you pause: summer is hurricane season for the islands. Fortunately, traveling during the Atlantic hurricane season (which runs from June 1 to November 30) is not means you are doomed to stormy conditions.
The chance that your trip will actually be affected by a storm depends on where you stay in the Caribbean, and on some islands that chance is lower. Chase the sun and score a great deal on one of the following islands that rarely see hurricane action due to their southerly location and climate.
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Editor’s Note: Although hurricanes are rare on the islands mentioned in this article, you should still consider travel insurance and contact your hotel to ask for their storm plan so you don’t have to worry if you plan to visit.
1. Curacao
Best hurricane-free island for families with babies and young toddlers
With its own native language, a fruit found nowhere else in the world, and a UNESCO World Heritage Site made of sherbet-colored buildings, Curacao is truly a unique Caribbean island. From the beaches to the mountains, outdoor fun abounds. In the capital Willemstad, young and old can enjoy learning about history as you wander through streets full of European influences. Other attractions such as an ostrich farm, tropical gardens with a mini golf course and playgrounds, and a children’s museum will keep babies and toddlers busy.
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Lionsdive Beach Resort offers direct access to a private beach and a tranquil swimming bay where little ones can get a feel for the ocean without the big waves and strong currents. The resort also provides a high chair, baby monitor, crib, bottle warmer and stroller free of charge. Other highlights include two swimming pools, four on-site restaurants and dedicated family areas.
2. San Andrés
Best hurricane-free island for beach lovers
Colombia’s stretch of coastline and the islands including San Andrés (which is actually closer to Nicaragua) rarely come to mind for families planning a Caribbean vacation. But for beach lovers, this island, easily navigated by golf cart, offers no shortage of dream-worthy shores to dig your toes in the sand. You are sure to find your perfect beach on the mainland or in one of the small, adjacent bays that are just a short boat ride away. Keep your eyes peeled for floating bars (the kids can also cool off with a virgin piña colada).
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With its all-inclusive packaging and abundance of family-friendly amenities, the Sol Caribe Campo Hotel stands out among the limited resort options on the island. And despite being just minutes from the airport, the hotel retains an ‘off the grid’ feel with a private beach club. Features such as an all-you-can-eat buffet at breakfast, lunch and dinner (and ice cream!); three swimming pools, including a large pool with slides and a playground; and family-friendly entertainment all add to the value.
3. Barbados
Best for adventurous spirits
Although Barbados is not usually the first priority of families thinking of a Caribbean vacation, the region’s easternmost island is a playground for adventurous spirits. Here you can embrace your inner Indiana Jones in mystical caves, walk in a rainforest full of monkeys, go underwater in a submarine, ride a steam locomotive and take a sailing lesson.
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When it’s time to recharge, enjoy a traditional afternoon tea experience, one of the many British cultural traits you’ll see around the island once known as ‘Little England’. Barbados only became a republic in 2021 after more than 50 years of independence, but it remains within the Commonwealth and continues to exhibit its British influence.
With Turtle Beach by Elegant Hotels, you can enjoy the convenience of an all-inclusive pricing model with the intimacy of a boutique hotel. Marriott Bonvoy members will also appreciate the ability to book their stay with reward points. Little adventurers will thrive in the kids’ club, which connects local culture through language and cooking classes, as well as the jungle gym, kid’s pool and other family-friendly activities.
4. St. Lucia
The best hurricane-free island for nature lovers
Many people who have visited St. Lucia on a romantic getaway are surprised when I tell them that the island is an ideal place to take children. The same picture-perfect mountains framed by honeymoon suites can be a playground for hikers, with many short and easy trails suitable for all ages. Soaking in volcanic hot springs, mud baths and horse riding are among the most sought-after activities, while snorkeling and other water sports round out the active options for families.
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With its facade reminiscent of a Mediterranean coastal village, Windjammer Landing Villa Beach Resort might make you blink twice. However, everything about the resort feels unmistakably St. Lucian and it has creative ways to immerse families in the local culture, such as through its mascot Jacquot the Parrot. Other family highlights include movie nights on the beach, bedtime stories, a kids’ club and villas perfect for larger families. An all-inclusive package is also available.
5. Granada
Best for culture vultures
If the idea of renting a car and exploring a small island full of cultural gems sounds like your perfect vacation, add Grenada to your bucket list for family vacation ideas. Here you can set aside the built-up beaches in favor of pristine beaches, aromatic spice plantations and waterfalls hidden in the mountains. You can also sample local delicacies at the famous St. George farmers market, learn how to prepare treats during a family cooking class, swim or snorkel at shallow water beaches, and take a boat ride to Hog Island for a barbecue picnic.
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The excellent Mount Cinnamon is a boutique hotel with everything you need to complete the perfect family holiday. Notable features include a scenic botanical trail, swimming pool, private beach club, lawn games, water sports equipment and a Montessori kids’ club (check in advance to see if it’s open during your stay). And did I mention that each accommodation has its own veranda?
6. Aruba
Best hurricane-free island for thrill seekers
You don’t have to choose between a relaxing beach vacation or an action-packed tropical escape, because Aruba has it all. There’s even a private island – De Palm Island – that offers all-inclusive packages for fun, including a water park, banana boat rides, zip-lining and snorkeling. The country’s mostly flat terrain gives way to ATV, UTV (which allows for more passengers), and off-road Jeep adventures. A big bonus for families is Aruba’s wide range of family-friendly resorts, which are destinations in themselves.
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Renaissance Wind Creek Aruba Resort has something for just about every family, from spacious suites and 10 on-site dining options, to the variety of beaches, including one where flamingos roam and a separate stretch of coastline for kids. A youth club and babysitting service make it easy for adults to spend some time alone at dinner, the spa or the casino. Marriott Bonvoy members can also use reward points for their stay.
7. Trinidad and Tobago
Best for nature lovers
In Trinidad and Tobago you will never miss an opportunity to appreciate the rugged natural beauty of the two islands. While Trinidad has a built-up urban feel, neighboring Tobago is all about the beaches and rainforests. Wander through Tobago’s Adventure Farm and Nature Reserve, where you can learn about sustainable farming, see more than 50 species of birds, and pick your own mangoes and other citrus fruits. When it’s time to cool off, head to the Nylon Pool, an all-natural, shallow coral lagoon ideal for youngsters. Other unmissable experiences for families include the botanical gardens, Argyle Waterfall (an easy walk) and limestone caves.
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Tobago’s Castara Retreats is an intimate, family-run eco-resort made up of treehouse-style lodges (what kid hasn’t dreamed of sleeping in a treehouse?). Surrounded by a rainforest and two beaches, the property constantly surrounds you with nature while offering a truly local experience. Free travel cots are available for little ones aged two years and under.
8. Bonaire
Best hurricane-free island for snorkeling and diving enthusiasts
More than 85 dive sites make Bonaire a magnet for divers. The island is also home to numerous shallow coral reefs where you can snorkel or dive straight from the beach, without having to rent a boat. In addition to rarely experiencing tropical storms and hurricanes, Bonaire receives very little rain each year compared to other Caribbean islands. The beautiful weather combined with warm water temperatures and good visibility make the island a top choice for families who want to spend most of their time in the water.
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The beautiful Delfins Beach Resort offers an entry into the diving world of Bonaire and spoils you with spacious excavations, good food, two magna swimming pools (an environmentally friendly alternative to chlorine) and a private beach. The resort’s crown jewel, however, is its locally renowned dive center, which offers equipment rentals, air refills, training and more.
Life is a Beach on These 8 Caribbean Islands You Can Visit Safely During Hurricane Season, originally appeared on FamilyVacationist.com.
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The views and opinions expressed in this column are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect those of USA TODAY. FamilyVacationist.com and TourScoop.com 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. TourScoop includes guided group tours and tour operators, tour operator reviews, itinerary reviews, and travel gear recommendations.
This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: You can visit these Caribbean islands during hurricane season
