Planning a family vacation to the Caribbean can be difficult, especially when you have children or family members of different ages. Fortunately, Sandals Resorts and its family-friendly brand, Beaches, offer the best options for luxury all-inclusive family getaways.
Starting with Sandals, all Sandals Resorts are adults-only (18+). However, Beaches Resorts have been explicitly designed for families of multiple generations, so if you're wondering, "Are kids allowed at Sandals Resorts?" The answer is both yes and no, depending on their age.
For those over the age of 18, there are a few multi-bedroom suites at Sandals Saint Vincent and Sandals Negril. For those with children under 18, Beaches Resorts offers the kid-friendly alternative with all the luxury and inclusivity that Sandals is so well known for, along with adult-only amenities.
Today, we will go through the best Sandals family resorts, including resort locations, activities, dining options, and destination tips to help you book the perfect vacation.
As Sandals Chairman's Royal Club Diamond Elite travel experts, our travel agents have specialized in Sandals resorts for more than 15 years and were recognized by Sandals as the top US travel agency in 2024. If you have questions or would like assistance with making your dream family vacation a reality, let's connect!
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Top Considerations for Choosing a Sandals Family Resort
Not all all-inclusive resorts are family-friendly, and knowing what to look for can make a massive difference in your vacation experience. Here are some key points to keep in mind when choosing a Beaches or Sandals Resort for your family:
1. Room Configurations & Bed Sizes
Sandals Resorts: Feature king-sized beds only (ideal for couples).
Beaches Resorts: Offer multi-bedroom family suites and accommodations with bunk beds for kids.
2. Family-friendly amenities & Activities for your Caribbean Adventure (Beaches)
Kids clubs, Pirate Island Waterparks, and pools
Certified nannies and babysitting services (costs start at $20.00 per hour but will also vary by resort)
Snorkeling, paddle boarding, and beach games
3. Dining Options for Picky Eaters & Foodies (Beaches and Sandals)
Buffets and casual dining for kids
Fine dining restaurants for parents
Unlimited snacks and drinks
4. Beach & Pool Access
Private beaches with calm waters for younger kids
Pools with swim-up bars for parents
Waterslides and lazy rivers for family fun
Best Sandals Resorts for Families (Beaches Resorts)
If you're looking for a Sandals family resort with children under the age of 18, Beaches All Inclusive Family Resorts —the family-friendly arm of Sandals, is the place to be.
For those with adult-aged children looking for the best Sandals resort, our number one recommendation is Sandals Grande St. Lucian. It has the most amazing views on a picturesque calm water white sand beach with multiple room categories to choose from, along with complimentary transfers between Sandals Halcyon Beach and Sandals La Toc.
Here are the top all-inclusive Beaches Resorts for families.

Location: Grace Bay, Providenciales, Turks and Caicos Islands
Best For: Large families, kids of all ages, water activities
Beaches Turks & Caicos is a massive all-inclusive resort known for its pristine white-sand beaches, endless dining options, and a 45,000-square-foot water park.
This is one of the few Sandals destinations in the Caribbean where there is not an adults-only Sandals Turks and Caicos. However, Beaches Turks and Caicos offers adult-only dining experiences and is a great place for families traveling with adult-aged children. Combined with the world-class beach, this is an ideal destination for all families who want an incredible luxury vacation experience.
Why Families Love It:
Pirates Island WaterPark with slides and a lazy river
Sesame Street® characters and kids' activities
21 gourmet restaurants with international cuisines
Scuba diving & snorkeling included
Adult Only dining options
Ready to Experience Beaches Turks and Caicos? Book your stay now!

Location: Negril, Jamaica
Best For: Laid-back families, beach lovers, nature enthusiasts
Beaches Negril is perfect for families who want a relaxed beachfront experience with plenty of adventure and nature excursions on one of the Caribbean's best beaches.
What Makes It Special:
Located on Negril's famous Seven Mile Beach
Glass-bottom boat tours and kayaking included
Kids' and teens' clubs with supervised activities and game rooms
World-class spa and relaxation zones for parents
Guests of Beaches Negril have full access to Sandals Jamaica Negril, which is only a 5-minute drive or 30-minute walk up the famed Seven Mile Beach.
Ready to Experience Beaches All-Inclusive Negril? Book your stay now!

Location: Ocho Rios, Jamaica
Best For: Active families, golf lovers, adventure seekers
As one of the top golf resorts, Beaches Ocho Rios offers the perfect mix of relaxation and adventure for families who love exploring.
Top Features:
Free golf lessons & unlimited golf at Sandals 18 Hole Championship Golf Course & Country Club
Watersports like windsurfing, paddleboarding, and snorkeling
Family-friendly entertainment, including reggae nights
Multiple Pools and whirlpools for kids and parents
Exchange privileges are allowed with Ocho Rios Sandals. However, transportation is not included.
Ready to Experience Beaches Family Resort in Ocho Rios? Book your stay now!
Beaches Runaway Bay (Opening Soon!)
Location: Runaway Bay, Jamaica
Best For: Families looking for new and modern resort experiences
This soon-to-be-opened Beaches Resort in Jamaica promises to offer state-of-the-art amenities, including:
Brand-new water park
Expanded kids' entertainment program
Luxury beachfront accommodations
Are Kids Allowed at Sandals Resorts?
Sandals Resorts are for adults only (18+), making them ideal for couples, honeymoons, and romantic getaways. However, families looking for a kid-friendly Sandals experience should opt for Beaches Resorts, which are designed for families with children and include:
On-site babysitting services
Teen and pre-teen clubs
Sesame Street® character experiences
What's Included in a Beaches Family Vacation Package?
One of the most significant advantages of choosing a Beaches Resort for your family vacation is that everything is included in your stay on one of the world's two most beautiful Caribbean islands. Unlike traditional hotels, where you may have to pay extra for dining, activities, and entertainment, Beaches Resorts provides an all-inclusive experience where your family can enjoy unlimited food, drinks, activities, and entertainment without worrying about additional costs.
From luxurious accommodations to world-class dining and entertainment, here's a detailed breakdown of what you can expect when booking a Beaches Resorts family vacation package.
Ready to Experience Your Next Beaches Family Vacation? Book your stay now!
Accommodations: Comfort and Space for the Whole Family
Unlike many all-inclusive Caribbean resorts that primarily cater to couples, Beaches Resorts are designed for families of all generations, offering spacious accommodations to ensure everyone has room to relax and every request is taken care of.
Spacious family suites with breathtaking ocean views, perfect for watching the sunrise or sunset from your private balcony.
Bunk bed options for kids are available in select rooms, ensuring that even your younger ones have a comfortable space.
Multi-bedroom suites for larger families or groups traveling together, with separate living and sleeping areas.
Swim-up suites that provide direct pool access from your patio so your family can enter the water anytime.
Concierge and Butler-level suites offer personalized service, private check-in, and VIP amenities.
Kid-friendly room designs with colorful décor, family-friendly layouts, and added privacy for parents.
Dining & Drinks: Culinary Experiences for the Whole Family
At Beaches Resorts, every meal, snack, and drink is included, ensuring that your family can have a great time enjoying cuisines and flavors without worrying about extra costs. With multiple restaurants at each resort, there's something for every taste and dietary preference.
All-Inclusive Dining Options
There are multiple restaurants featuring international cuisines, including Italian, Japanese, Caribbean, American, French, and seafood specialties.
Casual dining options, such as beachfront grills, pizzerias, and buffets, are perfect for families on the go.
Adult-only fine dining experiences for parents looking to enjoy an elegant night out.
24-hour food options, including in-room dining for butler-level rooms, poolside snacks for everyone, and late-night bites.
Kid-friendly menus with familiar options like burgers, pasta, pizza, and smoothies.
Healthy and allergy-friendly meals, ensuring that dietary restrictions are accommodated.
Unlimited Premium Drinks & Snacks
Unlimited premium alcoholic beverages for adults, including cocktails, wine, beer, and top-shelf liquors.
Unlimited non-alcoholic drinks for kids, including fresh juices, milkshakes, smoothies, and mocktails.
Swim-up bars where parents can relax while kids enjoy a nearby pool or splash zone.
Unlimited snacks are available throughout the day, from fresh fruit and pastries to chips and ice cream.
Entertainment & Activities: Endless Fun for the Whole Family
One of the highlights of a Beaches Resort vacation is the wide range of activities available for every age group. Whether your family enjoys relaxing on the beach, engaging in exciting water sports, or participating in organized entertainment, something is always happening.
Themed Kids' Camps & Supervised Activities
Certified Nannies & Babysitting Services is available for parents who want to go out for a night or spend a relaxing day at the spa.
Themed kids clubs and toddler programs are divided by age groups and offer crafts, games, and educational activities.
Beaches Resorts exclusive Sesame Street® partnership, where kids can interact with their favorite characters.
Teen clubs and game lounges provide supervised spaces where older kids can play video games, listen to music, and socialize.
Movie nights on the beach, popcorn, and comfy seating under the stars.
Evening family-friendly entertainment, including live shows, fire dancers, and beach bonfires.
Sports & Fitness for the Whole Family
State-of-the-art fitness centers offer group fitness classes and personal training sessions from professionals.
Tennis and basketball courts are perfect for friendly family competitions.
Beach volleyball and soccer games are often organized by resort staff.
Mini-golf and table tennis provide more casual recreational activities for families.
Watersports & Beach Fun: Adventure Awaits
One of Beaches Resorts' most significant selling points is that many watersports and beach activities are included in your stay—activities that would typically cost extra at other resorts.
Unlimited Water Sports & Ocean Adventures
Certified Scuba diving excursions with professional instructors are included at no extra cost (a huge benefit, as many resorts charge separately for diving).
Snorkeling tours allow families to explore the marine life of the Caribbean.
Paddleboarding and kayaking are perfect for families who enjoy being on the water together.
Hobie Cat sailing offers an exciting way to experience the open sea.
Glass-bottom boat tours provide a unique way to see tropical fish and coral reefs without getting wet.
On-Site Water Parks & Pool Fun
Water park access included multiple pools, water slides, lazy rivers, and splash pads.
Giant tipping water buckets and interactive play areas for younger kids.
Swim-up bars and poolside cabanas offer relaxation for parents while kids enjoy the water.
Family-friendly pools, including shallow areas for toddlers and activity pools for older kids.
Exclusive Perks That Make Beaches Resorts Stand Out
Complimentary Airport Transfers
Unlike many resorts where transportation is an extra charge, Beaches Resorts offers complimentary airport transfers so your family can start their vacation stress-free, and for those in butler-level rooms, you will receive private transfers in a luxury SUV.
No Resort Fees or Hidden Costs
One of the biggest frustrations with other resorts is hidden Wi-Fi, room service, or resort amenities fees. Everything is included at Beaches and Sandals Resorts, ensuring you get an actual luxury all-inclusive experience in some of the most gorgeous tropical settings.
Private Beaches with Full-Service Loungers
Beaches Resorts are located on some of the best beaches in the Caribbean. They offer exclusive access to private stretches of sand with full-service loungers, umbrellas, and beachside dining.
Full-Service Red Lane® Spa (Additional Cost)
While spa treatments are not included in the standard package, parents can enjoy world-class spa services, such as massages, facials, and aromatherapy treatments.
Why Families Choose Beaches Resorts Over Other All-Inclusive Resorts
Many families ask, "Are Sandals Resorts family-friendly?" The answer is not for families with children under the age of 18 —but Beaches family-friendly resorts provide the best alternative.
Beaches offers:
The only all-inclusive luxury resort brand designed specifically for families.
A kid-friendly atmosphere with adult-level luxury ensures kids and parents enjoy their stay.
More included activities than any other family resort, from unlimited scuba diving to full-service kids' programs.
A stress-free experience with no hidden fees, making it easier to budget for your vacation.
If you're looking for a luxurious, all-inclusive family getaway, Beaches Resorts should be at the top of your list.
Insider Tips for Booking a Sandals Family Resort
Book early for the best deals—especially for the holiday season.
Take advantage of resort credits for spa treatments and excursions.
Stay at Beaches Turks & Caicos if traveling with toddlers—it has the most kid-friendly features.
Plan excursions ahead of time to ensure availability.
Utilize the Sandals Select Rewards program to earn loyalty points that can be used to discount future stays.
Each week, Sandals will feature a special Sandals 777 deal, which will offer a 7% discount in 7 room categories for 7 days. Even if you've previously booked, we recommend checking this promotion weekly to see if your reservation matches, and if so, Sandals will reprice your existing reservation! (on bookings that are not paid in full)
FAQs
Are Sandals Resorts suitable for families?
Yes, they are. However, Sandals Resorts are adults-only, while Beaches Resorts are designed for families. If you're traveling to a Sandals resort as a family who wants to room together, we recommend the multi-bedroom accommodations at Sandals Negril and Sandals St. Vincent. Our top recommendation for those open to having multiple rooms is Sandals Grande St. Lucian, Sandals Montego Bay, and Sandals Dunn's River.
Do Beaches Resorts offer babysitting services?
Do Sandals Resorts offer babysitting services?
Which Beaches Resort is best for large families?
What is the best Sandals Resort for large families?
Can kids attend a wedding at Sandals Resorts?
Are all meals and drinks included in Sandals family packages?
What's the family version of Sandals?
What is the average age of guests at Sandals Resorts?
The Perfect Sandals Resort is Waiting For You
If you're looking for the best all-inclusive family resort, Beaches Resorts is the perfect Sandals alternative. Whether you choose Turks & Caicos, Negril, or Ocho Rios, you'll get a luxury vacation with all the amenities and activities your family needs.
At Rivage Travel, we're here to help you book the ultimate family getaway.
Contact us today for exclusive deals on Beaches and Sandals Resorts!
About the Authors

Jonathan and Angela
Based out of Atlanta, GA, Rivage Travel is a boutique travel consultant group dedicated to providing personalized travel experiences. Owned by husband and wife duo Jonathan and Angela, our love for travel brought us together during a trip to Sydney, Australia. Our work is based on over 15 years of professional experience, hundreds of hours of travel industry certifications and training. We've been honored by Sandals Resorts as a top US travel agent with their highest honor of a Sandals Chairmans's Club Diamond Elite travel expert, and we look forward to using our experience to earn your business today and in the future.
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