Tropical Destinations You’ll Love: From Surf to Sunsets to Beaches Resorts

Cue the swaying palm trees. Long-awaited peace, snacks your kids actually want to eat, and water adventures they’ll talk about for weeks. It’s the kind of family getaway that sticks with you in all the best ways.

The Caribbean just gets it. Big travelers, little travelers, and everyone in between can finally slow down. Maybe it’s swimming in calm, clear water or walking a quiet trail where the only sound is your kid asking another curious question. Every island gives you space to breathe a little easier. And there’s always something fun to do that doesn’t involve a screen. 

If it’s your first family trip or just the first one in way too long, it’s cool. You don’t need to overthink it. The Caribbean makes it easy with sunshine, good food, and a pace that finally matches yours.  

Not sure where to start? No worries. We’ll walk you through the spots worth checking out, what to pack, and a few tips to make the trip smoother for everyone. Because the good stuff starts way before you even take off.

Why Choose a Tropical Destination? 

There’s a kind of warmth you can’t quite explain. Part sunshine, part sea breeze, part finally having nowhere else to be. That’s what makes the best tropical spots feel like a breath of fresh air for families. It might be swapping morning alarms for seashell hunts or just seeing your kids light up over the little things. Either way, these places feel far from the everyday, and that’s exactly the point. 

Between chill time and choose-your-own-adventure moments, tropical getaways have a way of bringing everyone closer. And when everything’s already taken care of, like at Beaches Resorts, it gets even easier. Meals? Handled. Water parks and kids’ camps? Waiting for you. All you have to do is roll in, kick off your shoes and enjoy the Caribbean your way. 

Best Family-Friendly Tropical Destinations 

Picture: Calm, shallow waters and a fun-filled stay at Beaches Turks & Caicos.

Turks & Caicos 

There’s a lightness to life in Turks & Caicos. The soft sand, the clear water, and a rhythm that makes it easy for families to simply enjoy the moment. 

Snorkeling is a favorite here, especially around Providenciales (the main island). Grace Bay has that laid-back beauty families love, with shallow, calm waters and resorts like Beaches Turks & Caicos right along the shore. Try paddleboarding, sailing or hop on a boat to check out nearby islands that feel peaceful and open, with plenty of space to explore. 

If you’re into diving, you’ve got great options too. Bight Reef, Malcolm’s Road Reef, Smith’s Reef and Salt Cay are all local favorites, filled with colorful marine life and easy-going vibes. 
 

Expert tip: Turks & Caicos is an easy trip from most major East Coast airports. Once you land, slow things down and soak it all in—these are the moments worth holding on to. 

Jamaica 

Jamaica brings color, character and just the right kind of energy to a family vacation. Negril, Montego Bay and Ocho Rios each have their own flavor, but it’s Negril’s Seven Mile Beach that draws families back. The wide, sandy shore is great for letting kids roam a little while parents let true relaxation sink in. It’s also home to Beaches Negril, tucked right along the sand with everything close by.

At Beaches Negril, days feel easy and full. There’s the water park, of course, but also beach games, water sports, and spots where kids can hang out on their own schedule. Parents can kick back nearby, knowing everyone’s in good hands. And when it’s time to eat, everything’s within reach — kid-friendly dining options, familiar flavors, and a few surprises that even grown-ups will look forward to. 

Expert tip: Got younger kids in tow? Beaches Resorts offers certified nannies and thoughtful activities that feel more like play than programming. Think shell collecting, face painting and a little Sesame Street® magic mixed in. 

The Bahamas 

The Bahamas has a way of pulling you in. It’s not just the soft beaches or the clear water, though there’s plenty of both. It’s the feeling that time stretches out a little here, giving families a chance to breathe, explore and enjoy without the rush. You’ll even find rare pink sand beaches. Harbour Island is the spot for that, just a ferry ride from Nassau. If you stay closer to town, Cable Beach, Junkanoo Beach, Blue Lagoon Island and Cabbage Beach are all easy to get to and worth your time. 

If you're visiting between December and April, when the island is busiest, try something off the beach for a change of pace. A walking or food tour in Nassau gives you a taste of local life, and museums, galleries and forts add a little history to your day without feeling like homework. For something playful, Pirates Republic Brewing Company offers casual tours that older kids and adults can enjoy together.

Want to keep things simple? An all-inclusive stay makes it easy to settle in. At Sandals Royal Bahamian in Nassau, there’s even a private offshore island called Sandals Barefoot Cay. Just hop on a boat and spend the day somewhere quiet, breezy and away from the usual.

Adventure-Filled Tropical Destinations 

Grenada 

Grenada moves at its own mellow pace, but there’s plenty to see once you’re ready to explore. The island’s spice plantations bring the air to life, and waterfalls like Seven Sisters and Royal Mt. Carmel are worth the walk. Grand Anse Beach is a good place to start, with calm waters and more than enough room to relax. For something different, snorkel through the Underwater Sculpture Park or take in the views at Levera National Park. Stay at Sandals Grenada to keep the comforts close while the island’s natural side calls you out to explore. 

Curaçao 

Curaçao feels a little different in all the right ways. It’s part of the Dutch Caribbean (ABC Islands), so you’ll find European charm wrapped in island warmth. Walk the streets of Willemstad, where bright buildings and street art tell the island’s story. There are quiet coves for snorkeling, and family-friendly spots like the Ostrich Farm if you’re traveling with kids. Whether you’re looking to unwind or head out and explore, Curaçao’s blend of culture and coast gives you the space to do both. A stay at Sandals Royal Curaçao brings it all together, with the comfort of all-inclusive and the freedom to discover. 

Costa Rica 

Photo credit: Scupix/Shutterstock.com 

Costa Rica gives you a front-row seat to the wilder side of the tropics. Along the Caribbean coast, you’ll find rainforest hikes, riverboat rides and more wildlife than you can count. Sloths, monkeys and toucans are just the beginning. Head inland to see places like Arenal Volcano or take on zip-lining, whitewater rafting and canyoning if you’re feeling bold. From beach days to jungle treks, this is a destination that keeps things moving but never rushed. For families who like a little adventure mixed into their downtime, Costa Rica can be worth considering.

Belize 

Photo credit: Simon Dannhauer/Shutterstock.com 

Belize blends nature and culture in a way that’s easy to take in. Along the coast, you'll find small islands known as cayes, including Ambergris Caye and Caye Caulker. Calm waters and easy-to-reach snorkeling make them a popular choice. Inland, you’ll find Mayan ruins, national parks and wildlife like howler monkeys and jaguars. The Belize Barrier Reef is part of the second-largest reef system in the world and draws divers and snorkelers alike. The dry season, from December to April, brings the steadiest weather. It’s a destination for those who like their days a little more open, with plenty of ways to explore on their own time. 

Adults-Only Tropical Getaways 

Saint Lucia 

There’s something different about Saint Lucia, and it’s one of those things you feel from the moment you arrive. Maybe it’s the quiet hum of the island as you step off the plane, or the way the hills rise around you like they’ve been waiting. There’s a realness to it—something that invites you to let go, without making a big deal of it. 

You might catch a glimpse of the Pitons on your way to the resort, or pass through small villages with bright-painted houses and views that stretch to the sea. Whether you’re soaking in warm springs near Soufrière, walking a quiet beach, or just enjoying the shift in pace, Saint Lucia has a way of pulling you in without needing much from you in return. 

The all-inclusive Sandals Grande Saint Lucian sets the scene for a tropical vacation like no other. 

Maldives 

The Maldives is known for its calm turquoise waters, coral atolls and long stretches of quiet beach. Add in some overwater bungalows and it’s clear why this spot feels right for special getaways and big moments. If you’re able to make the journey, it really can feel like stepping into another world. 

Photo credit: Sven Hansche/Shutterstock.com 
 

But for most travelers, getting there means a long-haul flight and a price tag that adds up quickly. If you’re drawn to that sense of calm, connection and water all around you, there are Caribbean islands that offer Over Water Bungalows with far less effort and expense. For couples, that makes the choice a little easier. And with resorts like Sandals bringing that same peaceful energy closer to home, you don’t have to go halfway around the world to feel worlds away. 

Barbados 

Poolside views at the all-inclusive Sandals Royal Barbados. 

Barbados blends everyday island life with the kind of energy that invites you in. You’ll hear music in the streets, find markets worth wandering, and feel a sense of celebration whether it’s festival season (Crop Over in August) or just a regular Tuesday. For couples, it’s a place where laid-back afternoons can lead to lively nights without much planning in between. 

This island fits well for an adults-only tropical getaway. Couples looking to explore can head underground at Harrison’s Cave or catch a glimpse of green monkeys at the Wildlife Reserve. And when the day calls for less, Crane Beach or Dover Beach makes it easy to settle in. A cold coconut water hits the spot. So does staying at a beachside all-inclusive resort, where the view, the breeze and the quiet moments all work in your favor. 

Best Time to Visit Tropical Destinations 

The big question before any trip: When’s the best time to visit tropical destinations? The answer really depends on the kind of getaway you have in mind. 

In the Caribbean, the dry season runs from mid-December to mid-April. That’s also peak season, when the sun’s out most days and the weather feels just right. If you’re planning a winter escape, this is the sweet spot. 

But there’s beauty in the in-between too. Shoulder season gives you more breathing room and still plenty of sunshine. Even the rainy season has its charm. Showers tend to come and go quickly, and everything feels greener and quieter. You might even find a few flight or resort deals that make the timing feel just right. 

No matter when you go, once you land and the warm air hits your skin, things start to fall into place. And if a little rain shows up? You’ll be surprised how easy it is to just roll with it. 

How to Choose the Right Tropical Destination for You 

When you really think about it, there’s no single “best” island. It all comes down to who you’re traveling with and what kind of trip you’re after. Whether you’ve got kids in tow, you’re planning something romantic, or you’re chasing your next thrill, there’s a place that fits just right. Knowing what matters most to you is the first step in finding it: 

Families: Look for resorts with kids’ clubs, water parks and dining that keeps everyone happy. 

When you’re planning a trip with kids, ease matters. All-inclusive resorts take the guesswork out of meals, activities and downtime. The more options, the better, especially when it comes to food. Multiple restaurants mean fewer battles over dinner. Water parks, land and sea adventures, and evening entertainment go a long way too. And those kids’ clubs give little ones a taste of independence and parents a well-earned breather. Look for spots that are built with families in mind, like Beaches Resorts, where fun comes easy and support is always nearby. 

Couples: Think private beaches, cascading waterfalls, and just enough adventure to keep it interesting. 

Not every couples’ resort delivers, but the right one makes all the difference. In the Caribbean, adults-only Sandals Resorts are a go-to for a reason. Each one offers a different island vibe, from Jamaica to Saint Lucia, so you can choose what fits your mood. Pick a place where you can explore if you want to and fully unplug when you don’t. Waterfalls, catamaran sails and quiet corners to just be together all help turn a regular trip into something more. 

Adventure Seekers: Pick your island based on what gets your heart going. 

If you’re craving something active, be thoughtful about where you go. Not every island offers the same kind of adventure and settling for what’s easy can leave you underwhelmed. Look for tours or excursions that line up with what you actually want to try, whether that’s hiking, diving, zip-lining or river rafting. A good resort will help you set it all up so you can focus on the fun. For a mix of adrenaline and island beauty, Jamaica is a strong pick. Just be sure to choose a place that can keep up with you. 

Packing Essentials for a Tropical Vacation 

When you’re heading somewhere sunny, packing light makes it easier to move with the day. A few must-haves to keep things simple: 

● Lightweight clothing, swimwear, sunscreen and sandals
● Beach accessories like sunglasses, snorkel gear and waterproof bags
● A small first-aid kit, chargers and something to read just in case 

Keep it simple and save room for the memories you’ll bring back. 

Make One of These Tropical Destinations Your Own 

After reading about places like Turks & Caicos, Jamaica, and The Bahamas, it’s easy to start picturing your family in the middle of it all. Sun on your shoulders, feet in the surf, time finally unfolding at a slower pace. These aren’t just vacation spots. They’re opportunities to press pause, lean into what matters, and be fully present together. 

Whether you’re traveling as a family, a couple, or on your own, these destinations offer space to stretch out and reset. For families, Beaches Resorts bring everything into reach—from beachfront fun to built-in downtime. For couples, Sandals offers a more grown-up kind of getaway, where connection comes naturally. 

Wherever you go, and whoever you go with, the Caribbean has a way of bringing you back to yourself. All you have to do is start planning. 

Good to know: Wondering how to plan an all-inclusive tropical getaway or where to stay with family? Here’s where to start when it comes to booking your dream getaway: Beaches Resorts!  
 

FAQs: Best Tropical Destinations 

What are considered tropical destinations? 

Islands or coastal regions near the equator with warm weather, lush nature, and access to the ocean — ideal for sun-filled getaways. 

Which tropical destinations are best for families? 

Turks & Caicos, Jamaica, and The Bahamas are top family picks with Beaches Resorts offering kids’ clubs, water parks, and all-day dining. 

When’s the best time to visit tropical destinations? 

The dry season (mid-Dec to mid-Apr) is peak for sunshine. Shoulder seasons (late spring, early fall) offer better rates and fewer crowds. 

What makes Beaches Resorts great for tropical family vacations? 

Beaches Resorts bundle everything—meals, activities, childcare—so families can unwind and enjoy island life, stress-free. 

Are tropical destinations only for relaxing? 

Not at all! Many offer zip-lining, scuba diving, hiking, and cultural tours, especially in places like Grenada, Belize, and Costa Rica. 

How do I choose between Caribbean islands? 

Match your vibe: Jamaica for adventure, Turks for calm beaches, Curaçao for culture, and The Bahamas for pink sands and easy access. 

Do I need to speak another language? 

English is widely spoken across Beaches Resorts locations and Caribbean islands, making it easy for most travelers to get around. 

What should I pack for a tropical trip? 

Lightweight clothes, sunscreen, sandals, swimwear, sunglasses, and a beach bag. Add water shoes and waterproof cases for adventures. 

Can I travel to tropical destinations year-round? 

Yes! Rainy season showers are usually short. Even in off-peak months, the warmth, water, and laid-back pace are still worth it. 

How do Beaches Resorts help plan tropical getaways? 

From booking to arrival, Beaches offers curated experiences, concierge help, and activities for every age—making vacation planning a breeze. 

Picture: Thinking Jamaica for your tropical destination pick? Spend as much time beachside as you'd like at the all-inclusive Beaches Negril!*