Island Hopping with the Tribe: A Family Guide

Taking kids to an island sounds idyllic—building sandcastles, swimming in the sea. But without planning, it can be a logistical nightmare of strollers stuck in sand and teenagers complaining about wifi.

Here is how to match the island to the age group in 2026.

The Baby/Toddler Phase (0-3 Years)

The Challenge: Nap times, strollers, safety, and gear. The Strategy: Minimal movement. Pick one base and stay there. Best Islands:

  • Mallorca, Spain: Paved promenades (stroller friendly), excellent hospitals, shallow beaches (Alcudia), and easy access to diapers/formula.
  • Menorca, Spain: Even quieter and calmer.
  • Oahu, Hawaii: Waikiki is very accessible, and the infrastructure is US-standard. Tips:
  • Carrier over Stroller: On many islands (Greece, Thailand), strollers are useless on cobbles or sand. Bring a quality carrier.
  • Shade: Buy a pop-up UV beach tent. You can’t rely on finding an umbrella.
  • Pool: A pool is easier than the ocean with a baby.

The “Wonder Years” (4-9 Years)

The Challenge: Boredom and energy. They want to do things. The Strategy: Action and animals. Best Islands:

  • Bali, Indonesia: Monkey Forest, Waterbom Park (best in Asia), easy surfing lessons, and culture that loves kids.
  • Fiji: The “Bula” spirit. Fijians adore children. Kids clubs here are legendary (weaving palm fronds, crab hunting) and often free.
  • Crete, Greece: Dinosaur parks, pink sand beaches (Elafonisi), and history (Knossos) that feels like a myth. Tips:
  • Life Jackets: Bring your own well-fitting life vest. Boat operators often only have adult sizes or broken kid sizes.
  • Snorkeling: Practice in the bathtub before you go. The mask can be scary at first.

The Tweens and Teens (10-17 Years)

The Challenge: “This is boring” and wifi withdrawal. The Strategy: Independence and “Cool Factor.” Give them freedom. Best Islands:

  • Gili Air, Indonesia: No cars. They can ride bikes safely around the island with their new friends. It feels adventurous but is safe.
  • Malta: English-speaking, safe, and full of history that looks like Game of Thrones.
  • Aruba: Very safe. Teens can wander the hotel zone, get smoothies, and try kitesurfing. Tips:
  • Wifi: Check the hotel wifi speed before booking. It matters to them.
  • Certification: This is the perfect age to do the PADI Junior Open Water course together. It builds confidence.
  • Involve Them: Let them plan one day of the itinerary. If they chose the hike, they won’t complain (as much).

General Family Survival Tips

  1. Direct Flights: Island hopping (ferries) is exhausting with kids. Choose an island with an airport if possible.
  2. The “Hangry” Kit: Always have snacks. Island ferries get delayed. Shops close for siesta. Be self-sufficient.
  3. Reef Shoes: Mandatory for kids. Prevents cut feet on rocks/coral and stops the tears.

The “Single Parent” Solo Trip

Traveling alone with kids?

  • Choose a Resort: All-inclusive resorts (like in Antigua or Saint Lucia) take the pressure off cooking and cleaning.
  • Find Other Kids: Pools are social magnets. If your kid makes a friend, you get a break.
  • Safety: Teach your child the name of your hotel and your room number immediately.

Flying with Kids to Islands

  • The “Island Hopper” Flight: Small propeller planes can be loud and scary for sensitive ears. Bring noise-canceling headphones.
  • Sea Sickness: If taking a ferry, dose the kids with Dramamine (check age limits) before getting on board. A vomiting child is a holiday killer.

Essentials Packing List for Kids

  1. Rash Guards: Full sleeve. Sunscreen fights with kids are exhausting.
  2. Water Shoes: Crocs or reef shoes. Hot sand and sharp rocks are everywhere.
  3. Goggles: Salt water stings eyes. Pool goggles make swimming fun again.

4. The “Tech Rules” on Vacation

Screens are a tool, not a babysitter (mostly).

  • The Agreement: Agree on screen limits before you leave. “No screens at dinner” or “Screens only on the plane.”
  • Content: Download movies about the destination (e.g., Moana for Polynesia, Finding Nemo for Australia). It builds hype.

5. Medical Prep for Kids

  • Ear Infection Drops: Kids in pools = ear infections. Bring drops (swimmer’s ear).
  • Rehydration Salts: Kids dehydrate faster than adults.
  • The “Comfort Item”: Don’t forget the favorite teddy bear. If it gets lost, the holiday is over. Put an AirTag on it.

Traveling with kids is harder, yes. But seeing them spot their first turtle or jump off a pier makes the extra luggage worth it.