Almost any resort offers interesting outings (at an extra charge.) Some guests, however, like to explore on their own, and some resorts offer good oppportunities.
In the Caribbean:
- St John USVI: rent a jeep and explore the huge National Park, or a couple of towns. Trunk Bay-- part of the National Park-- has a "snorkeling trail".
- Also in the USVI: on St. Thomas, guests at family-friendly Frenchman's Reef can take a shuttle boat to the colonial town of Charlotte Amalie to visit a historic fort plus shops and restaurants. (Would-be drivers take note: St. Thomas is left-hand drive, as are Barbados, Bahamas, and Jamaica.)
- Curacao: guests at Breezes Curacao can take a free shuttle to the fascinating Dutch colonial town of Willemstad, and feel comfortable walking around for sightseeing. Or take a 10-minute walk to Seaquarium. Visitors can also rent a car and drive to good snorkeling spots.
- Aruba is another good island for renting a car. Great snorkeling spots; interesting Dutch Caribbean town of Oranjestad.
- St. Kitts is so tiny you can explore by taxi: take a trip to the rain forest, or Turtle Beach for snorkeling; or Brimstone Hill fortress. Or take a short ferry ride to the island of Nevis.
- Jamaica: not recommended to explore on your own; but Countrystyle Community Tours will pick you up at any resort for a customized escorted tour to see "the real Jamaica". Also, Jamaica's Tourist Board has a "Meet the People" program: visitors are met at their resort to visit with a family.
