If you’ve been craving sunny skies, sandy beaches, and new experiences in the months ahead, you’ll want to keep reading.
Here are five destinations that might tempt you to travel.
Pacifica Riviera, Panama
Visit this family-friendly seaside resort for water fun that includes kayaking, sailing, snorkeling, water skiing, and boating, as well as other sporting experiences such as tennis, volleyball, cycling, jogging, a fitness trail, and horseback riding throughout the property’s nature parks.
You’ll want to make time to visit the Animal Conservation Center and tee off on an 18-hole Jack Nicklaus-designed championship golf course.
The 118-room Buenaventura Golf & Beach Resort keeps guests cool with seven swimming pools and four plunge pools. In a nod to its eco-conscious guests, the resort has entered into a carbon-neutral aviation partnership with Green Cloud and offers on-site electric vehicle chargers for battery-powered cars. Moreover, the chef-led restaurants focus on farm-fresh ingredients and serve only the freshest fish.
for further information:
Discover the spices of the Caribbean
Do you shop on the island and crave a new experience? Consider the hidden gem known for its aromatic spices and organic chocolate.
Located in the eastern Caribbean, the trio of Grenada, Carriacou and Petite Martinique attracts family travelers eager to explore waterfalls, underwater shipwrecks, sculpture gardens, pristine beaches and chocolate factories.
Visit a historic fort, sample spices, and take a sailing lesson. Choose from all-inclusive resorts, condo villas and condos, or boutique retreats.
For more information: www.PureGrenada.com
Catching the Florida Keys
Hunt for big bonefish, tarpon, and a permit in the Florida Keys, one of the world’s best spots for saltwater fishing. Practice side casting and work that double distance. Then prepare to be mesmerized by the coral reefs, flats and blue waters of these southern waters.
Islamorada, which consists of six islands and has been described as the “Sport Fishing Capital of the World,” is a popular spot for keen anglers. Backcountry and saltwater fly fishing is said to have been launched in this Florida community.
Key Largo, the longest island in the archipelago, is said to host more than 600 species of fish.
For more: www.fla-keys.com
Pigeon Point Lighthouse, Pescadero, California.
Just 50 miles south of San Francisco, enjoy panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean while you and your family learn how sailors once navigated California’s central coast with the help of the 116-foot lighthouse.
Be on the lookout for whales, dip into the tide pools and catch the stargazing show above. An affordable option on the beachfront, this unique hostel offers vacation-style accommodations spread over several buildings, ideal for groups of family and friends.
Cook your own meals in the fully equipped kitchen. Free date talks are offered on weekends.
For more: www.NorcalHostels.org
Learn to scuba dive in the Cayman Islands, Cayman Brac
From this small, family-friendly Caribbean island, your clan can enjoy a diving vacation that includes exploring the 70 named dive sites in the waters around Cayman Brac as well as the Russian Frigate and Bloody Bay Wall near Little Cayman.
At Brac Reef, the on-site dive shop provides personal attention to the soon-to-be-certified diver as well as the experienced diver.
The all-inclusive beachfront resort offers free bicycle rentals to explore the island, spa services and volleyball. While exploring, note that the lush green forests all around Cayman Brac are home to endangered macaws, brown boobies, and peregrine falcons. When planning your trip, ask about special packages for families.
For more: www.BracReef.com, www.PADI.com.
Lynn O’Rourke Hayes (LOHayes.com) is an author, family travel expert, and enthusiastic explorer. Gather more travel info on Twitter @lohayes, Facebook, or via FamilyTravel.com.