The Caribbean's family destination

The Lazy Parrot bills itself as a mini-resort, and that's exactly what this bright pink accommodation is. Sitting atop La Cadena Hills, this cheerful country inn offers air-conditioned rooms, proximity to the beach and Smiling Joe's Restaurant. Families who enjoy beach, snorkeling and diving make this their home base.

A warm welcome greets you at the Casa Isleña Inn, a former oceanfront home that's been turned into an "island house" with a Spanish accent. Each of the nine air-conditioned rooms has a TV, and the inn's beach is seductive. Sitting around the oceanfront pool, winter guests can see humpback whales migrating through Aguadilla Bay and Mona Passage.

Right on the beach, Villa Confresí Hotel & Restaurant lures families with attractive yet moderately priced facilities. Pool tables and video games entertain everyone, while older children and their parents can sign on for snorkeling, diving, kayaking, banana-boat riding and fishing. You may even spot whales swimming by from your perch on the terrace.

If your vacation involves just you and your significant other, look for luxury -- in the form of antiques, exotic woods and marble baths -- define the Horned Dorset Primavera. Often called Puerto Rico's best-kept secret, this award-winning property, known very much for its splendidly serene environment, recently added 22 indulgently appointed guest rooms to its existing 33. Visitors enjoying the inn's pampering often spoil themselves silly by dining in the property's new Blue Room, a beautiful restaurant featuring over-the-top meals by chef Aaron Wratten. Snuggled into the hills, the seven-acre hotel features three pools and a secluded beach.

Zach Stovall/Caribbean Travel & Life

The new Pineapple Inn appeals to family with its low-key style. Located on Corcega Beach, the Pineapple Inn delights with a private garden and a swimming pool. With air-conditioned rooms, satellite TV, refrigerators and private bathrooms in all rooms, the Pineapple Inn is a good place to stay for families who want to explore the Rincón area then return to a relaxing environment.

Suite Success

"Where Luxury Meets Privacy" may sound like the tagline of an adults-only delight, but at the Paradisus Puerto Rico, that promise extends to families, too. Nestled into the Miquillo de Río Grande Peninsula on the island's northeastern coast, Paradisus is Puerto Rico's first and only all-suite, all-inclusive resort -- meaning families have plenty of space to spread out, and they'll know in advance what their vacations will cost. For one set price Paradisus guests get to stay in one of 20 two-story bungalows. Children will spend their days participating in family-oriented activities while parents steal away to the spa, fitness center and amphitheater. Kiddie and adult pools, tennis, two 18-hole golf courses, dance classes, a casino and water sports are more options, many of which are included in the price of a stay.

Puerto Rico Vacation Resources
Puerto Rico Paradores: www.GoToParadores.com
Porta del Sol Puerto Rico: www.GoToPortaDelSol.com
Rincon Tourism: www.rincon.org

Can it be this easy to have a tropical yet comfortable family vacation? You bet. Puerto Rico's diverse and plentiful wonders make it easy and enticing to explore beyond the shore.

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