It wasn’t until he laid eyes on a Buc-ee’s billboard somewhere on I-75 that my five-year-old son first uttered those words that parents dread: “Are we there yet?” For as thrilled as he’d been to embark on his first road trip, the boy’s patience started wearing thin around the fourth hour of our journey, but we assured him that a vacation experience unlike anything he’d ever imagined was so close that he’d probably be there before his next Scooby Doo movie concluded.

We’d had our eyes on Reynolds Lake Oconee for a change of pace vacation destination as far back as 2019, but other than what our friends in Atlanta had told us about their favorite staycation spot, we didn’t know what to expect. We’ve always been an island family, and our son has already been to the Bahamas more times than I had by age 18. So, when we started planning a getaway to this almost mystical community, set between Atlanta and Augusta, we first had to not only convince our beach boy that life on the lake is just as good as the Caribbean Sea, but also that a six-hour road trip could be as pleasant and convenient as a one-hour flight.

Gulp.

Even Mary Kay Ash would have struggled to close this deal, but we assured him with every “are we there yet?” that he was in store for something truly special. Little did we know that we were, too.

Every Moment Feels Like a First Impression

The first thing you’ll notice about Reynolds Lake Oconee, other than the old school, My Cousin Vinny vibe of taking a two-lane road into town, is the landscaping. There’s not a square-inch of this community that doesn’t rival Walt Disney World in terms of colorful flowers and impeccably maintained shrubbery. It’s no wonder why the Instagram account pays tribute to the artists responsible for maintaining the natural beauty of the region.

As beautiful and serene as it all seems, it’s all still packed with so much character, charm, and energy. One of the things I love most about visiting new places in the Caribbean and Mexico is meeting people and learning about the history of their cities, and this was no different. Well, other than the fact that it’s a far quicker flight and I don’t need a passport. But this is a place that was chosen as one family’s retreat more than 100 years ago, so it’s almost poetic how it has grown into one of the best all-ages vacation spots on the East Coast, if not in the entire U.S.

From the shopping areas and restaurants to the golf courses and sporting grounds, you’d be hard-pressed to find one spot that doesn’t elicit first-sight gasps or utterances of “Wow” and, for me, “Holy moly.” It’s not so much a concept designed to make people want to return year after year, as much as it’s one that was conceived to make us never want to leave.

An Overwhelming Sense of Familiarity

At the heart of this vacation experience is a very familiar name: The Ritz-Carlton Reynolds, Lake Oconee. It’s undoubtedly a brand we’ve all come to expect the best from, but at the same time this is not your typical Ritz. At least it doesn’t feel like one. When you check into this sprawling lakeside retreat, it feels like someone took a summer camp, mixed it with a country club, and added a dash of ski lodge. It’s… amazing.

One knock on this property that we’d heard ahead of this visit was how the pool was too small for so many families, so we had a hearty laugh when we learned that we were a week early for the grand opening of the brand-spanking-new family pool. The greatest cliché we hear in the travel industry is “they’ve thought of everything,” but this Ritz really has, and there’s an overwhelming sense of pride in that—especially with the way employees go out of the way in making young guests feel like the most important people on the planet.

We saw it every step of the way—little snacks delivered to the room, servers “sneaking” kids extra treats, hotel staff stopping on a dime to help teach a child who has never held a fishing pole how to catch his first catfish (he caught six in an hour!). And that’s what makes this entire community feel like a home away from home, even for first timers.

It’s not an artificial warmth with a forced smile. This is immense pride in a bigger picture, and it shows in every element. The best example occurred when I was having dinner at the National Tavern. In between sampling the phenomenal whiskey menu (the pecan old-fashioned is one of the best cocktails I’ve ever sipped) and devouring the signature char-grilled pork chop (with a grit cake and chili corn relish that I can still taste weeks later) I silently marveled at how this restaurant was packed with residents who’d simply arrived for dinner and cocktails, but turned the evening into one giant party simply because Harris English and Kramer Hickok ended up in a playoff for the ages at the Travelers Championship.

If it feels like everyone knows each other, it might be because they do, but it’s more likely because Reynolds Lake Oconee makes everyone happy to be there and appreciate their surroundings. And the way that they include complete strangers in the fun is as special as it is generous.

This is Way More than a Golf Destination

If you tell someone that you’re visiting Reynolds Lake Oconee, there’s a good chance they’ll mention golf. With six absolutely amazing courses (five public and one that we can only play as members or, more likely, in our dreams) and the mind-blowing Kingdom of Golf, you should expect to have that conversation; however, it shouldn’t limit expectations for anyone who doesn’t play. And while I didn’t think it was possible, there’s one element that possibly outshines the links and maybe everything: the Sandy Creek Sporting Grounds.

Describing just how massive this whole community is feels impossible—it’s huge. HUGE! Almost as if it’s the first place on Earth and the rest of the world has yet to be built around it. So, when you consider all of the neighborhoods, the Ritz-Carlton property, every golf course, and obviously the water, it’s impossible to imagine there could be much else. But set within 100 acres of forests, hills, and even more water is this showcase of outdoor adventure that is guaranteed to turn even the biggest city slicker into Wyatt Earp.

Led by director, designer, and international shooting champion Justin Jones and bolstered by a spectacular crew that features a legitimate superstar in Jasper Copeland, the Chief Shooting Instructor, the sporting grounds pushes this destination over the top in terms of not only excitement and adventure, but also possibilities. It’s not every day that we choose places that offer clay shooting courses and games, archery, and fishing, especially not with a team of instructors as friendly and especially patient as this.

But the absolute cherry on top is the off-road course that takes guests on a unique tour of the surrounding natural beauty—on a well-designed course, naturally—in a Land Rover Discovery or the new and thrilling Jeep Rubicon vehicles that the staff was especially eager to show off when I visited.

For family getaways, bachelor or bachelorette parties, milestone birthdays and celebrations, or, heck, even a destination fantasy football draft, this is a next-level experience that takes some people out of their element, in the best way possible, and introduces them to unbridled excitement. For others who are more familiar with these activities, it provides new challenges.

And for everyone, it means new memories. A true win-win scenario.

The post Reynolds Lake Oconee Ascends the Throne as the Ultimate Vacation Playground appeared first on Islands.

Perhaps you’ve heard of these islands off the coast of Florida, but unless you’ve actually visited during previous getaways, you don’t fully understand how amazing they can be and the quality of experiences they provide. The Sunshine State is famous for its beautiful beaches, but the best beach vacations take place on these under-the-radar islands that will make visitors want to leave their home states behind for good.

Take a look at these unexpected coastlines, private-island resorts, and secret beaches in Florida and see if you can find a spot for your towel—just try not to let the word get out too much.

Amelia Island

Located north of Jacksonville, Amelia Island edges coastal Georgia and is truly one of the best beach vacations in Florida. Take the Amelia River Cruise for a scenic tour of the barrier island—beachgoers will love the surf, sea oats and sand dunes. Find sharks’ teeth along the shore and at the pier at Fort Clinch State Park, and sample true southern hospitality with a stay at one of Amelia Island Plantation‘s tranquil villas.

The island beckons with 13 miles of beaches and well-preserved historic district of Victorian architecture steeped in Old Southern charm. June through August is peak beach season with warm temperatures and a temperate ocean; the shoulder or “secret” season of late fall and early winter is a favorite for those seeking fewer crowds and better bargains. Heading into December, temps can drop into the 30s at night, so pack that jacket—but if you’re in search of a deal, it’s the absolute best time to go.

Alligator Point

This rural beach community in the Big Bend is shaped like an alligator, hence the name. Not exactly an island, but Alligator Point’s skinny peninsula does measure about 1,000 feet wide at one point. Its unpopulated shoreline, low-rise beach houses (many rentals), and more than 100 part-time residents make this island the perfect place for Florida getaways.

Fisher Island

Follow I-395 till you reach Terminal Isle—your destination is the auto-ferry headed for the historic island set on Biscayne Bay off a busy Miami Beach causeway. Just seven minutes from the mainland, this enclave is where big rollers reside and vacay. At the Fisher Island Club & Resort, stay at luxe circa-1925 cottages of the Vanderbilt estate and tee off at a seaside golf course.

Gasparilla Island

Cross an unassuming toll bridge onto this charming Gulf coast barrier island—home to the classic 1913 Gasparilla Inn & Club. This Boca Grande hideaway screams Old Florida, and the Inn’s adorable cottages are ideal for families seeking an unforgettable time on Florida islands. Don’t miss a visit to Banyan Street for its namesake trees, and stop by funky Temptation for lunch. (Be sure to traverse the island via golf cart—it’s how the locals do it.)

Jupiter Island

Ginormous private homes with names like “T. Woods” and “C. Dion” on their mailboxes occupy the lion’s share of this private barrier island’s 3.6 miles. However, there’s plenty here to entice mere mortals beyond the gilded gates: miles of secluded white-sand beaches and the Hobe Sound National Wildlife Refuge, a breeding site for the Atlantic loggerhead sea turtle.

Marco Island

On Marco Island, you’re on the edge of the Everglades, but with a vibe this tropical, you’d never know it. The six-mile island boasts canal-lined streets and a usually-empty crescent-shaped sandy beach that faces the Gulf of Mexico. Keep the Florida islands theme going, and head into the Ten Thousand Islands with Marco Islands Water Sports, which sends a small caravan of WaveRunners through the Everglades’ mangrove maze.

Merritt Island

Come here to feel the ground rumble during a shuttle launch at Kennedy Space Center on the north end of this barrier island. On the other end of the spectrum, the Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge is home to some of the most impressive wildlife in Florida—featuring the state’s best birding sights and appearances by elusive Florida panthers.

Palm Island

A three-minute ferryboat ride across the Intracoastal Waterway drops you and your car on Palm Island. (It’s the only access to this very narrow, seven-mile-long isle nestled in the Charlotte Harbor area of Southwest Florida.) The Palm Island Resort‘s villas are just steps from the Gulf of Mexico. You’ll find plenty of seashells and birds of all sorts—like terns, pelicans, egrets, and more—to watch.

St. Vincent Island

Undeveloped St. Vincent Island on the northwest Gulf of Mexico invites you to its sand ridges, tidal marshes, and pine forests, where native white-tailed deer and endangered red wolves enjoy a life unfettered. It’s offshore from the mouth of the Apalachicola River, famous for Florida oysters. Stay at The Gibson Inn in Apalach—as the locals call it—for a weekend outdoors and one of the more unique weekend getaways in Florida.

Sunset Key

Just 500 yards off Key West, this man-made island is home to Sunset Key‘s 40 guest cottages. Ferry over for a sunset dinner on the sands at Latitudes for Florida lobster and locally caught yellowtail snapper or go ahead and rent a cottage for the experience of living on a private island. Boats to and from Key West run 24 hours a day for late mainland fun.

Big Talbot Island

Big Talbot Island will wow you with its dramatic 20-foot bluffs that define its jagged Atlantic shoreline. Paired with a sandy stretch nicknamed Boneyard Beach for the skeletons of cedar and oak trees, this state park is a nature photographer’s dream. You can stop at neighboring Little Talbot Island State Park, where salt marshes abound.

Cedar Key

Nestled in the less developed Big Bend area of the state, this rustic Gulf of Mexico fishing village and artists’ colony delivers peace and quiet. Bird-watch from a kayak, fish from the town’s pier, eat fresh clam chowder made from farm-raised local clams, and just kick back at one of the many cozy vacation rentals (you won’t find any high-rises here) that make this one of the best beach vacations in Florida.

Pine Island

Drive across a bridge with a grand name—the “World’s Most Fishingest”—into Matlacha, a colorful art-gallery community that leads to Pine Island. A few miles more and you’re at the island’s only four-way stop, where mangroves, charming cottages, fruit-tree nurseries, and the occasional eatery dot the streets. Stay at the Tarpon Lodge for a classic Florida vacation experience that includes everything from golf to exploring the Great Calusa Blueway.

Little Palm Island

Step onto the boat, turn off your cell phone and prepare to meet true paradise. Little Palm Island is 2.5 miles off Overseas Highway in Little Torch Key, near Key West, but it feels like a secluded, self-contained universe. On the boat trip over to Little Palm Island, the resort’s staffers help the outside world fade from your mind by encouraging you to drink their complimentary signature cocktail, the Gumby Slumber (refreshing rum and fruit juices topped with coconut shavings).

Grant Island

This fun destination is known to locals by a few names: Grant Island, Grant Farm Island, or the far more alluring VIP. That’s Vacation Island Paradise for those who have never heard of this spot, which is set in the Indian River Lagoon and just a short boat ride from the mainland in South Brevard. There are no bridges, and plans for a causeway were forgotten years ago, but there is a community full of people who couldn’t be happier to have ended up here.

While the other islands are all great places to visit, VIP is the kind of destination where tropical travelers and even Floridian mainlanders would love to find a home and settle down for the rest of eternity. Just don’t get your hopes too high—homes here aren’t put up for sale very often.

The post These Florida Islands will Make Travelers Dream of a Permanent Vacation appeared first on Islands.

Some islands are quintessential summer playgrounds—Mackinac Island is one of them. Home to just 500 year-round residents and open to visitors from May to October, this Northern Michigan vacation spot is known for its stunning natural beauty and uniquely nostalgic ambience: pastel-hued Victorian architecture, a waterfront town (with 13 fudge shops!) and a penchant for 19^th century modes of transport (there are no cars, just bicycles or horse-drawn carriages). 

Whether you are visiting by ferry from Mackinaw City or during a port call while cruising the Great Lakes on Viking Expedition’s new 378-guest ship Viking Octantis, this picturesque 3.8 sq. mi. island—the name means “place of the great turtle” in the native Anishinaabek language and is pronounced Mack-in-awe—offers plenty of activities. The island has history (it played a key role in the War of 1812), cinematic fame (the 1980 film Somewhere in Time starring Jane Seymour and Christopher Reeve was filmed here), stunning lilac bushes (at their peak in the first three weeks of June) and a landmark hotel (featuring the longest front porch on the planet). It’s also small enough that you can see most of the island on a day trip. 

But when you only have a day here, you’ll need to spend it wisely. Here are the 10 top activities for making the most of your Mackinac Island getaway.

Sip Michigan craft beer

Mackinac’s first craft brewery and distillery opened in 2020 and features a spacious tasting room and eatery that’s also family friendly (there’s a kid’s menu). Great Turtle Brewery & Distillery produces its beer and distilled spirits in partnership with Right Brain Brewery in Traverse City and Les Cheneaux Distillery on the Eastern Upper Peninsula. 

Customers can taste a wide array of options—including a flight of four 4 oz. samples with names like Mackinac Summer Sour and Peeling Happy Orange Wheat Ale. Spirits-lovers can opt to try vodka, gin, rum or whiskey in an array of cocktails. Food-wise, be sure to order the delicious Smoked Whitefish Hushpuppies.

Bike the perimeter

One of the best ways to enjoy Mackinac’s scenic shoreline is to rent a bicycle and pedal your way around its 8-mile perimeter Lakeshore Road. It’s impossible to get lost, you don’t have to dodge car traffic and the scenery ranges from colorful Victorian houses to serene pebble beaches lapped by vivid lake water. It’s also a great way to see landmark Arch Rock. 

Ryba’s Bicycle Rentals (from $11 per hour for a three-speed bike) has two locations in town on Lakeshore Road, so just head left or right and start pedaling to see the sights.

Embrace old-fashioned horse culture

For anyone who adores horses, Mackinac is a dream destination. Home to about 600 equine residents in summer, the island is known for its guided horse-drawn carriages pulled by magnificent steeds (including Percheron and Belgian draft horses), but visitors can also head out on guided and unguided trail rides with Cindy’s Riding Stable and even drive their own buggy with Jack’s Livery Stable. Carriage museums, stables and a blacksmith shop built in the 1880s offer atmospheric insights into Mackinac’s car-free past and present.

Admire Arch Rock

One of the landmarks viewable on a circle-island bike ride, Arch Rock is just a 15-20 minute walk outside of town. It can be admired from the roadside, or you can climb the 207 wooden stairs up the Spring Trail to a viewing platform that gets you up close to this 146-foot-tall and 50-foot-wide natural stone bridge. Another way to visit is to book a carriage ride that takes you to the viewing platform.

Kayak Lake Huron 

To enjoy Mackinac’s Island’s beauty from the water, visitors can book a guided kayak excursion with Great Turtle Kayak Tours, which range from two-hour medium-level paddles to see Arch Rock to four-to-six-hour advanced paddles that circle the entire island. Custom private tours are also available via kayak and stand-up paddle boards can be rented.

Visit the Grand Hotel

A National Historic Landmark and a cinematic legend, the Grand Hotel dates to 1887 and features the world’s longest porch (at 660 feet, it features almost 1,400 flowering geraniums) and 388 individually decorated rooms known for their vivid retro-inspired décor. More than 150,000 guests stay here each summer season and enjoy access to the 500,000-gallon Esther Williams swimming pool (named for the star who filmed the 1947 movie This Time for Keeps here). 

But the Grand Hotel’s biggest Hollywood claim to fame is as the film set for 1980’s Somewhere in Time. The romantic time-travel movie, starring Jane Seymour and Christopher Reeve, still has a strong fan following more than four decades later and aficionados meet here each October. (Note: The Somewhere in Time gazebo is no longer on the hotel grounds; it can be visited behind Fort Mackinac.) 

Non-guests can only enter the Grand Hotel and explore the grounds, porch and lobby if they pay a $10 per person fee ($5 for ages 6-9 and free for ages 5 and under). The Main Dining Room, Sadie’s Ice Cream Parlor and the hotel’s golf course are open to non-guests. 

Learn the art of skipping stones 

The stone-strewn beach and blue-green waters of Windermere Point are the setting each 4^th of July for Mackinac Island’s W.T. Rabe Stone Skipping Competition—which draws “professional” stone skippers from all over the world who can achieve 20-plus skips per throw—but visitors can enjoy this free activity at any time. 

Admittedly, the technique used to skip smooth, flat stones over the water’s surface takes some practice, but kids and adults alike certainly enjoy trying.

Play golf or mini golf

Mackinac Island is home to two unique golf courses: the Wawashkamo Golf Club, a nine-hole links course designed in 1898 that is the oldest continuously played course in Michigan (it was built on a portion of an 1814 battlefield), and The Jewel at the Grand Hotel, which requires a horse-drawn carriage ride between the front and back nines. 

But there is also family-friendly mini-golf at The Greens of Mackinac at Mission Point Resort. The lakeside resort course features 18 holes—and after dark, there’s even glow golf with glow-in-the-dark balls and poles. 

Indulge in some fudge

Visitors disembarking ferries in town will notice a very distinct aroma in the air (no, not horse manure, although they’ll get whiffs of that at times, too!). It’s the ultra-sweet smell of fudge—because 10,000 pounds are produced every day during the peak tourist season by the island’s dozen or so fudge shops. 

The fudge-making tradition dates back to the 1880s (Murdick’s was the original purveyor) and today there’s a wide array of fudge flavors—from butter pecan to chocolate caramel sea salt—sold by Murdick’s as well as Ryba’s, Joann’s, Kilwins, May’s and Sanders.

Tour Fort Mackinac

History lovers will find plenty to enjoy on this island that so enthusiastically embraces its 19^th century past. Fort Mackinac, located on a bluff and founded during the American Revolution, was captured by the British during their first battle on American soil during the War of 1812; a bloody battle to regain control in 1814 failed, but the fort was returned to the U.S. after the war. 

Today, there are 14 original buildings with historic displays as well as live re-enactments, cannon salutes and more.

The post 10 Ways to Spend a Day on Mackinac Island appeared first on Islands.

A long, long time ago, way before every bombshell du jour had “-gate” attached to it, there was simply Watergate. How long ago? Without whipping up one of those “wanna feel old” memes, the granddaddy of all political scandals turns 50 this year, and normally that wouldn’t mean much to a tropical travel website, but there’s no denying that the hotel at the center of all that drama has whipped up one of the best travel deal concepts of the year.

In addition to two overnight experiences, guests of The Watergate Hotel can enjoy Gaslit-themed cocktails—the Whistleblower, Post Worthy, and Smoke & Mirror—that pay tribute to the people involved with exposing the dastardly plot, and the original arresting officers, John Barrett and Paul Leeper, are even available to give private tours of the one and only Scandal Suite. Room 214 is where E. Howard Hunt and G. Gordon Liddy were situated as their team of burglars failed to execute the wiretapping of the Democratic National Committee’s headquarters. It was also given a new look in 2017 by costume designer Lyn Paolo of the TV series Scandal.

The Deals: The “Make Sure the Recorder is Off” experience includes a 50^th anniversary welcome amenity, two Gaslit cocktails from The Next Whisky Bar with a Richard Nixon playing card drink ticket, breakfast for two at Kingbird, and the Scandal Suite private tour. But for the authentic experience, the “Cover Up” package lets guests stay in the Scandal Suite while enjoying the aforementioned perks and also receiving a plush “Cover Up” robe as a souvenir.

If only the Howard Johnson hotel hadn’t been turned into luxury condos, or else guests there could book room 419 and watch Attack of the Puppet People like Alfred Baldwin was doing when he failed to spot the police arrive.

The Time: These experiences can be booked between now and June 30, 2022.

The post The Watergate Hotel Celebrates the Scandal’s 50th Anniversary with a Pair of Deals appeared first on Islands.

Aloha means hello and goodbye, and in this case that’s hello to a tropical dream vacation and goodbye to regular rates. Hilton invites guests to book at Hilton Hawaiian Village Waikiki Beach Resort on the island of Oahu or Hilton Waikoloa Village on Hawaii (or both if they’ve got the time) and keep a little extra money in the budget for extra fun.

The Deal: Guests can take advantage of up to 40 percent off best available rates, but blackout dates may apply.

The Time: The offer is good from Friday, January 7, through Wednesday, January 26, and is valid for stays through December 16, 2022.

The post Hilton Offers Up to 40 Percent Off at Two Hawaiian Resorts appeared first on Islands.

Because it’s going to take more than a few days to experience all the city has to offer, Sheraton New Orleans Hotel has a deal that will give guests all the time they need.

The Deal: The Extend Your NOLA Weekend package offers guests the opportunity to extend their Big Easy weekend getaways with great savings. If they stay 3 nights, guests can save up to 15 percent off regular rates; if they stay 4 nights, guests can save up to 20 percent.

The Time: This deal is good from now until June 30, 2022.

The post Take a Long Weekend to Enjoy Sheraton New Orleans Hotel appeared first on Islands.

Our editors and writers scoured the globe to find the best all-inclusive resorts based on standout offerings, from top-notch dining options and cool bars to over-the-top suites and white-glove butler service. We also asked our readers to vote for their favorites in each category. We’re proud to present the winners of the 2020 Islands All-Inclusive Awards.

Tropical vacations don’t cater exclusively to adults, which is why there are plenty of all-inclusive resorts that have a wide range of activities for the whole family to enjoy. With waterparks, kids’ clubs, and even slick teen lounges, these resorts have something for everyone in the family.

Winner, Editors’ Choice: Ocean by H10 Vista Azul

Those looking to get away with the whole family will fall in love with Ocean Vista Azul, a modern luxury resort situated along the legendary white sand beaches and crystal-clear waters of Varadero, Cuba. With five-star amenities, gourmet dining, and top-notch service, Ocean Vista Azul will provide a wholly satisfying experience for the most discerning of travelers. Its why the resort is described as truly a diamond in the rough.

Kids will have a blast at the resort’s Miniclub Daisy, a daily program designed for ages four and up, while parents indulge in some much-needed alone time. Attentive and experienced counselors oversee a myriad of fun activities for kids and tweens including beach recreation, exploratory walks through the tropical grounds, children’s shows and entertainment, and even a mini disco!

For families who like to play together, Ocean Vista Azul also provides a wide variety of land and water sports for kids and adults of all ages.

Winner, Editors’ Choice: Barceló Bávaro Palace

Located in the heart of Punta Cana lies Barceló Bávaro Palace, an all-inclusive luxury gastronomic hotel set along one of the finest beaches in the entire world. Here, the Caribbean Sea transforms into a crystal-clear, natural swimming pool thanks to a vibrant coral reef that protects the coastline.

In addition to the unique Dominican culinary experiences Barceló Bávaro is known for, there are also a wide range of activities perfect for families and kids of all ages. The swimming pool area features hammocks, waterfalls, and more for peak adult relaxation—while the Barcy Water Park allows kids to frolic among castles and water slides.

The resort also offers a new Pirates Island Water Park that’s perfect for the whole family to enjoy, complete with a wave pool and even more daring rides. When the sun goes down, adults can partake in evening activities such as a nightclub, casino and live entertainment.

Winner, Editors’ Choice: Grand Sirenis Punta Cana

The recently renovated, completely refurbished Grand Sirenis Punta Cana is a perfect destination for a family holiday. Consisting of two separate hotels—the Grand Sirenis Cocotal Beach Resort and Grand Sirenis Tropical Suites—this spectacular five-star resort nestled into the coconut groves of Punta Cana had a little something for everyone.

Kids, in particular, will have an absolute blast at the resort’s Sirenis Aquagames Punta Cana—a 40,000 square-foot water park boasting a 40-foot-tall tower, where adventurous guests can ride two water tube rides, two open toboggans, the kamikaze, and free fall twister. For the little ones, the park has a children’s area with water jets and sprinklers.

Winner, Readers’ Choice: Beaches Turks and Caicos

As Beaches Turks and Caicos proudly states, the last of the true exotics is first for families. You’ll find no shortage of activities for kids of all ages at this incredibly family friendly Caribbean getaway. This amazing all-inclusive resort boasts a 45,000-sq. ft. Pirates Island Waterpark, complete with waterslides, water cannons, whirlpools, lazy river rides, as well as kid-friendly pools and swim-up soda bars. Beaches, Turks and Caicos also comes complete with an Xbox Play Lounge, arcade, and disco for teens, and the little ones can cavort with their favorite Muppets at Caribbean Adventure with Sesame Street.

Meanwhile, moms and dads can unwind at the resort’s Caribbean-inspired Red Lane Spa, enjoy a romantic, private candlelight dinner served under the stars. At night, the teen disco transforms into an adults’ hot spot, where champagne bottles are popped and top shelf liquors are poured.

The post Best All-Inclusive Resorts for Families: Islands 2020 All-Inclusive Awards appeared first on Islands.

Beyond the mega-resorts, Hawaii’s Big Island also offers you and your crew condo hotels, lodges and more — letting you choose just the right fit for your family vacation to Hawaii. Here are the ten best Big Island hotels and resorts for families.

Hilton Waikoloa Village

The Hilton Waikoloa Village impresses from the moment of arrival at the grand, open-air lobby. Set on the Kohala Coast 40 minutes north of Kailua-Kona, this resort sprawls across 62 acres, including its own private beach. We love that this Hilton caters to water lovers, with a shallow, protected 4-acre lagoon that makes for easier swimming and paddle boarding when the ocean is rough. And, yes, water sports are included.

Onsite, you’ll also find three pools and a 175-foot waterslide. Kids ages 5 to 12 can take part in Club Keiki, which includes games as well as exploring the island’s ecosystems. Children will get a kick out of taking the tram and canal boats around the property, and seeing the dolphins at the onsite sanctuary — even if you don’t spring for the experience of feeding or swimming with them, you can still watch.

Moreover, this Hilton knows how to add value, giving families the option of discounted packages that let you add breakfast for four each morning, or get credits for extra entertainment, such as a luau night.

The Westin Hapuna Beach Resort

The Westin Hapuna Beach Resort is exactly what you picture when you imagine a tropical Hawaii getaway. The main hotel opens to two winding pools with ample seating, leading to a wide, white-sand beach.

For families who crave beach and pool time, this is heaven — you’ll stop only to refuel poolside at the Naupaka Beach Grill. The resort also offers half- and full-day kids’ club programming for younger guests ages 5 to 12, allowing parents to take advantage of the Arnold-Palmer-designed Hapuna Golf Course as well as the Hapuna Spa.

Fairmont Orchid

The Fairmont Orchid expertly blends the resort experience while the culture of Hawaii. The 540-room beach resort is set on 32 acres fronting Pauoa Bay. Six restaurants, a spa, and 24-hour fitness center are all found onsite.

As one of the best Big Island hotels for families, the Fairmont offers a kids program — the Keiki Aloha Adventure — offered by the half and full day for youths ages 5 to 12. Children of all ages will enjoy the resort’s hula and ukulele lessons, hikes to local petroglyphs and turtle talks, offered at no additional charge. Plus, a complimentary photo session with Pacific Dream Photography means you can take home a new family portrait as a souvenir.

Sheraton Kona Resort and Spa at Keauhou Bay

Guests who choose the Sheraton Kona Resort and Spa at Keauhou Bay, 20 minutes south of Kailua, prefer it for its more authentic-Hawaii vibe. This 508-room property is still one of the most affordable for families, in large part because the Sheraton isn’t trying to compete with mega-resorts. The hotel pool faces the ocean, and offers a waterslide and kids’ zone with a splash deck. Best of all, we love that the pool is open 24 hours a day — a nice option for jet-lagged kiddos (and parents) waking up at 4 a.m.

Steps from the pool you’ll find ocean swimming, but with a lava-rock entry. The Sheraton also offers Club Le’ale’a, a zone for younger kids with games and activities; however, parent supervision is required. Adults aren’t required at the Keiki Cave, a hangout for tweens and teens with foosball, ping-pong, air hockey, shuffleboard and Nintendo Wii. And although the property sits 20 minutes south of the town of Kailua, but the hotel offers free shuttles to connect you with the action.

Four Seasons Resort Hualalai

One of the most upscale properties on the Big Island, the Four Seasons Hualalai delivers the service, privacy and five-star experience you’d expect from the only AAA Five Diamond-rated property in all of Hawaii. We love that the resort offers seven pools, with more than enough seating and shaded canopy tents for all families staying at the hotel.

The white-sand beach is the stuff of postcards. Snorkeling and tide-pool experiences are found on site, giving you more entertainment options without leaving the property. Should you want it, the property offers a Kids for All Seasons program, with games and experiences planned all day for kids ages 5 to 12; programs for tweens are also available.

As for dining, choose from five restaurants, including ‘Ulu Ocean Grill, ranked as the best on the island for its fresh, fusion fare, such as lemongrass barbecue chicken and the roasted mahi-mahi with brown butter kabayaki, sourced with local ingredients.

Courtyard by Marriott King Kamehameha’s Kona Beach Hotel

Courtyard by Marriott King Kamehameha’s Kona Beach Hotel is one of the best deals in Kailua-Kona. This 452-room property is located in the heart of town, just next to the Kailua Pier. If you’ve planned on any things to do out on the water, including parasailing, snorkeling day trips, glass-bottom boat tours or a trip inside the Atlantis Submarine, then this location couldn’t be more convenient.

The hotel itself is right on the water, but note that the caramel-color sand beach is on the small side. Snorkeling, kayaking and luau shows three nights a week are all available at an added charge. What is free is the massive collection of games, including ping-pong, bocce ball, giant Jenga, shuffleboard and corn hole.

Note that overall, this property is better suited to older children or families not needing daycare as there is no kids club available or babysitting available through the hotel.

Mauna Kea Beach Hotel

Not only is Mauna Kea Beach Hotel one of the best Big Island hotels for families, but the property’s beachfront location is hard to beat. Found 40 minutes north of Kailua-Kona, the resort sits on one of the best beaches on the Big Island, opening to flat, turquoise water. Families will appreciate the soft-sand entry and the width of the beach, which allows groups to spread out with ample space.

Daily activities on the beach, including shell art, lei-making and hula, are all included. Mauna Kea Keiki Club is also available, with half- and full-day programs available for kids ages 5 to 12. Onsite, you’ll also find tennis, golf, a spa, plus watersports such as paddle boarding and sailing. As a bonus, we love that room service is available for breakfast, lunch and dinner for those times when rounding up the troops for a sit-down is too much.

Hilo Hawaiian Beach Hotel

For families looking for a base in Hilo, the Hilo Hawaiian Beach Hotel offers great value. This 286-room, eight-story hotel is sandwiched between the ocean and the Lili’uokalani Park and Gardens, a 24-acre grounds with Japanese gardens, fishponds and a teahouse.

The hotel is on the water, but its location is a rocky stretch of coast — which makes for a tougher entry for small children, but offers a much more enjoyable snorkeling experience. Overall, we like this property for its quiet feel, as well as its quick access to waterfalls and other natural attractions.

Aston Kona by the Sea

We chose Aston Kona by the Sea as one of the best Big Island resorts for families for its one- and two-bedroom condos. In addition to the extra room to spread out (and have some privacy), families can save money by staying in and cooking a dinner or two — or every night of the trip. The resort also offers barbecue grills for dining alfresco near the pool that overlooks the ocean.

This resort sits oceanside on a rocky beach, but the property has added a man-made sand beach held in place with a retaining wall. While the Aston does not have an onsite restaurant or a kids club, it is located on a cove that’s ideal for snorkeling and surfing — so some entertainment is included.

Kilauea Lodge

Kilauea Lodge, located in Volcano Village near Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, packs a ton of charm thanks to its former life as a YMCA camp. The whole property has been overhauled since then, with the 12 rooms and four cottages entirely revamps and updated. (All the fireplaces, wood walls and personality remain.)

We like this property for families as the grounds allow for ample exploration, and the rooms are spacious, with couches that pull out into beds. Onsite, you’ll also find a restaurant, where breakfast is included, as well as a hot tub.

The post Best Big Island Hotels and Resorts for Families appeared first on Islands.

At Sundial Beach Resort & Spa on beautiful Sanibel Island in Florida, you can dine, sleep, relax, and play, all without ever having to leave the premises. Sign us up! As if that didn’t convince you, here are 7 of our favorite things about Sundial that make it the perfect place for your next family vacation.

1. Accommodations

No matter the size of your group, Sundial has accommodations for everyone. They offer studios, one-, two-, and three-bedroom condominiums with beautiful views and fully equipped kitchens.

2. Daily Activities

Yep, daily. Make your own tie-dye t-shirt, play some poolside bingo, or go on a nature walk with the Sanibel Sea School…there’s an activity for everyone, including kids! You can find the full calendar of events here.

3. Shelling

You can’t go to Sanibel and not go shelling-it’s what Sanibel is known for! The resort is located just steps away from the Gulf, so you can walk right out to the beach and hunt for beautiful shells.

4. Dining

Eat breakfast, lunch, (and maybe second lunch? C’mon – it’s vacation) and dinner with five family-friendly dining options, all without even having to leave the resort. Treat yourself to dinner at Shima Japanese Steakhouse & Sushi Bar, or keep it casual at Sea Breeze Café, Turtle’s Pool & Beach Bar, or pizza at Slice of Paradice. Or try Sundial’s newest addition, Shima Grab N Go, offering a rotating sushi menu.

5. Bikes, Paddleboards, and Kayaks

Get your fill of adventure during your stay with on-site bicycles (including surreys and kids’ bikes), paddleboards, and kayaks-all available at the activities center and complimentary for guests. This is the part where you work off that second lunch.

6. Marketplace

With Bailey’s Marketplace on-site, you’ll never need to leave the resort for anything you may need. They have everything from homemade fudge to sunscreen (two things we can’t live without now that we mention it…), plus grocery items you can pre-order and have delivered. Food waiting in your room when you get there? Now that’s how you do vacation.

7. Tennis & Pickleball

Whether you’ve been playing for years or just want to start learning, Sundial’s six HydroGrid clay tennis courts and twelve PlexiCushion pickleball courts are fun for every skill level. Play in a tournament or take lessons with the resort’s resident pros. You’ll be swinging like Serena in no time.

Ready to book your trip to paradise? Learn more about Sundial Beach Resort & Spa’s amenities, recreational activities and on-site activities at SundialResort.com!

The post 7 Reasons Sundial Beach Resort & Spa is the Family Vacation of your Dreams appeared first on Islands.

Explore the Waimea Canyon (nicknamed the Grand Canyon of the Pacific), see the rugged mountains of the Napali Coast on a snorkeling trip, spot humpbacks breaching on a whale-watching tour and catch a glimpse of monk seals sunbathing on the sand.

You’ll also find beaches with lifeguards and surf schools, kid-friendly hiking trails, parks and playgrounds — even freely roaming chickens. Now that we’ve convinced you to take your next family vacation to the Garden Isle, here are the best Kauai hotels and resorts for families.

Waipouli Beach Resort & Spa by Outrigger

Waipouli Beach Resort & Spa by Outrigger is a condo-style property located in Lihue near the airport — so your crew won’t have to endure a long car ride after a long flight. Families should opt for a one- or two-bedroom unit (bonus: each has at least two bathrooms) to take advantage of the full kitchen with a convection oven, microwave, refrigerator and dishwasher. Each unit also includes a washer and dryer to keep your swimsuits and beachwear fresh, and the property is within walking distance to grocery stores to stock your kitchen.

Kids will love spending the day in the lazy river pool with water slides and a sandy zero-entry that winds through the 2-acre resort. Nearby, spot Kauai’s resident monk seals hanging out on Waipouli Beach, and browse the shops and restaurants at Coconut Marketplace.

Sheraton Kauai Resort

With a prime location on Poipu Beach, the Sheraton Kauai Resort is an ideal home base to truly appreciate all that is Kauai. Each day the staff offers free introductory surfing and snorkeling lessons on the beach, and complimentary scuba lessons are available in the pool for anyone ages 10 and above.

Nighttime tours during low tide provide an incredible learning opportunity about tide pools and unusual marine life. Kids will also enjoy the weekly luau with dancing, food and storytelling.

Grand Hyatt Kauai Resort and Spa

There’s no need for parental guilt when you leave the kiddos at Grand Hyatt Kauai Resort & Spa‘s Camp Hyatt, one of the best Kauai resorts for families. Between lei making, hula lessons, shell bracelet making, volcano crafts and parrot talks, they’ll hardly register your absence.

Counselors also supervise playtime in the multilevel pools, laced with lazy rivers, waterfalls, caves and a water slide. When it’s time to retire, opt for a family-friendly suite to have some privacy once the youngsters are asleep.

Princeville Resort

Located on Kauai’s north shore right on Hanalei Bay, the sunsets at Princeville Resort (formerly the St. Regis) are worth the price of admission. The beach is suitable for children, as protection from an offshore reef generally keeps the shallow water calm, except in the winter months.

Kids can spend the day playing at the Keiki Pool, while supervising parents can take in the surrounding views of Makana Mountain and Hanalei Bay. The beachfront resort also features an onsite spa and nearby Princeville Makai Golf Club, so mom and dad can have some “me” time as well.

Kauai Marriott Resort

In addition to family-friendly heated outdoor pool — one of the largest in Hawaii — plus a designated children’s pool for the littles, the Kauai Marriott Resort fronts Kalapaki Beach, one of the best beaches in Kauai. Six restaurants on the grounds should satisfy your pickiest eater, but if not, dozens of locally owned restaurants are within walking distance in Lihue. Another bonus for families: the resort offers a free shuttle from the airport.

Whalers Cove

Whalers Cove is an ideal Kauai resort for families thanks to its one- two- and three-bedroom condo-style accommodations. One-bedroom oceanfront accommodations have an incredible 1,400 square feet of space, with a master bedroom and king-sized bed, living room, dining room and full-sized and fully equipped kitchen. Shopping services will have your kitchen stocked with whatever you like prior to your arrival.

Rent bicycles nearby and explore all the things to do on Kauai‘s sunny south side of the island. Sample Hawaiian-style hot dogs and shave ice at Puka Dog, and spend the day swimming and snorkeling at Poipu Beach Park.

The Westin Princeville Ocean Resort Villas

While The Westin Princeville Ocean Resort Villas is not located directly on the beach, the ocean view from its perch atop a 200-foot cliff more than makes up for it. Plus, a complimentary shuttle transports guests back and forth to Hanalei Bay for beach access.

Accommodations range from studios to two-bedroom villas, and each is furnished with all the comforts of home, making it one of the best Kauai resorts for families — think kitchenettes or fully equipped kitchens, a washer and dryer, and the Westin’s signature Heavenly Bed. Free Wi-Fi, free parking and no resort fee add to the value.

Kids will love their own pool that features a slide and water-spewing turtles (while parents have a choice of three additional pools), plus every Tuesday is family movie night: spread a blanket on the big lawn overlooking the Pacific for a film under the stars.

Koloa Landing Resort at Poipu Beach

The pool at Koloa Landing Resort is something your kids will talk about for a long time. Waterfalls and multiple levels, spray jets and bridges — it’s a vacation in itself.

An activity lawn includes volleyball, soccer and miniature golf. Cribs and high chairs are delivered to your villa at no extra charge. Note that this is not a beachfront property, but the resort has a van that will deliver you to Poipu Beach whenever you like.

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