Family Travel On Anguilla:
Kids Have Fun While Parents Relax

beaches,weddings,honeymoons,watersports,festivals,romance,accommodations,cuisine,sea,scuba diving,snorkelling,security,tranquility,beaches,caribbean,carnivals,inns,security,sightseeing,oceans,villas,exclusive,luxury,guesthouses,tranquility,quality,boatracing,chartersAnguilla is a vacation haven for parents and children alike - offering a variety of accommodations and activities to keep everyone happy. Anguilla's appeal for families also comes in the form of her people, among the friendliest in the entire Caribbean. There's a welcoming spirit that's shared with visitors, instantly making everyone feel right at home.

Apart from its 33 spectacular beaches, the island is home to several fun and interesting places for families to enjoy together, including Dolphin Fantaseas, Gavannah Cave and the Pump House and Salt Ponds of Sandy Ground, among many others. Snorkeling, fishing, boating, horseback riding, biking, and hiking are other diversions, perfect for families.

Dolphin Fantaseas, on Meads Bay offers a dolphin pool created to increase public education, maintain conservation and promote marine life appreciation. The pool offers swimming encounters and viewings. Gavannah Cave, in Katouche Bay is approached through a miniature rainforest, offering opportunities for bird watching and hiking. A trail is well marked and crosses a former 1800s cotton plantation and is the only closed canopy walk in Anguilla. The Pump House at Sandy Ground offers visitors a glimpse back into Anguilla's historic past when salt mining was the major industry. A tour of the Salt Ponds, which is also a prime area for bird watching, culminates in the newly converted Pump House Restaurant and Bar for a refreshing tropical drink.

Though best known for its five-star luxury resorts, Anguilla also offers many accommodation options, ideal for families, that won't break the vacation budget. Shoal Bay Villas (264) 497-2051 and KU (264) 297-2011, both located on the beach at stunning Shoal Bay East, feature fresh water pools, full kitchens, cribs and babysitting services. Rooms at Shoal Bay Villas begin at $165 summer season and $270 in the winter season. A Summer Special Package, inclusive of service and tax, offers 7 nights for the price of 5 with up to 2 children staying free. At KU rates begin at $110 summer season and $225 during the winter season. Arawak Beach Inn, located in Island Harbour, offers a free stay for children under 12 in their parents' room or 50 percent off the price of the second room. Rates start at $175 in winter and $95 in summer.

Located on Shoal Bay West, family-friendly Blue Waters' (264-497-6292) one-bedroom and two-bedroom apartments are each equipped with a full kitchen. Winter rates for a one-bedroom apartment are $250; $360 for a two-bedroom unit. Summer season rates are $125 and $175. Carimar Beach Club, located on beautiful Meads Bay, (800) 235-8667 offers twenty-four beachside condos fully equipped with kitchens for $140 in the summer season and $320 during winter season. The property also features numerous water sports, and babysitting. A Summer Special offers 7 nights for the price of 5. Paradise Cove (264-497-6603) is a tranquil hideaway for families searching for a quiet retreat. Amenities include a Kiddies' Playground and Pool (2 - 10 years), weekend "cookies and cream" parties and pizza making sessions. Each one- and two-bedroom suite provides a fully equipped kitchen. Rates at Paradise Cove begin at $165 for a one-bedroom suite and $290 for a two-bedroom suite during the summer season; rates are $250 and $420 during the winter.

Anguilla's luxury resorts also have something special just for the kids. Malliouhana Hotel & Spa features the Children's Place, a state of the art fun and water park, complete with pirate ship and spring boards for hours of imaginative fun. The supervised area is complimentary for on-site guests; visitors can enjoy the fun for $25.00 per person. Cap Juluca Hotel introduces a special Children's Club House for their young guests (3 - 11) from March 16 - April 30 and July 1 - 31. CuisinArt Resort and Spa has a children's playground and can organize activities upon request.

Anguilla is a destination full of fun activities for people of all ages - including children. Whatever your family's pleasure, the island of Anguilla certainly has something to fit your needs. For more information on these or other family accommodations or activities, contact the Anguilla Tourist Board at (800) 553-4939 or visit their website www.anguilla-vacation.com.