Maybe it's due to pent-up demand, maybe it's due to earlier back-to-school that gives parents time to plan ahead: whatever the reason, family beach vacations are selling fast. Click above to jump to family beach resorts at TWKids. Um, can't believe you need to book so soon?

Book QUICK for Caribbean Family Resort Vacations

According to family travel expert, Sally Black, Mom Executive Officer of VacationKids, it's time to hurry up and book Christmas.

"Due to 9/11, the war and SARS many major airlines have cut back or consolidated flights in order to maintain profits. This means there are simply less airline seats available to families who want to travel during peak holiday travel times of Dec 19, 2003 thru Jan 3, 2004. Many of the direct charter flights to destinations like Mexico and the Caribbean are already sold out. Holiday travel to most tropical destinations we expect will be sold out by Labor Day."

Sobering words indeed, for procrastinators and last-minute travelers like yours truly. And there's more:

"Smart Parents start planning spring break and Easter vacations as soon as they receive their school calendars in Sept. This way they get the best pick of direct flights and their choice of hotel rooms. Family of five friendly hotels usually sell out quickly so plan ahead."

If you feel you've missed the boat, you might try this angle:

"If your school district gives your kids time off for teachers meetings or has long weekends, say around Martin Luther King weekend or Memorial Day weekend, consider letting the kids miss a day or two of school in order to take advantage of travel savings and avoid peak travel times."

All in all, the message is clear: plan as early as you can for resort vacations.

Head to Caribbean Family Resorts at TWKids to check out some choice family beach resorts. Or click to see latest Caribbean beach resort deals.