Fair Wind Big Island Kealakekua Snorkel Cruise review

Note: The Big Island is tourism-ready and Fair Wind is open for business after Hawaii's recent lava flows. Snorkeling on the west coast of Hawaii (the Big Island) is always a hit due to the incredibly clear water on the dry side of the island, and there’s nowhere better than Kealakekua Bay. This calm, sheltered bay is the home of the Captain Cook Monument and is well known for its clear water, … [Read more...]

Best snorkeling beaches in Kauai North Shore

One of the best activities in the Hawaiian islands is snorkeling in Kauai. Need to know where to go? Read on for our top snorkeling beaches on Kauai's North Shore, compiled after a week of sampling (I know, rough job, right?). Here's what we found out: Anini Beach: This was the first beach we visited on Kauai, and it did not disappoint. Because it’s surrounded by reefs, Anini is very calm and … [Read more...]

Dominican Republic with kids: Power snorkeling at Sosua Beach

During our Fathom cruise in the Dominican Republic, we knew we wanted to both visit a local beach and take a snorkeling trip. We were able to do both during a power snorkeling trip with Wild Play Adventures. Usually, we opt to skip official cruise excursions in favor of booking privately. You get a more personalized experience, usually for less. However, in the case of our DR trip, the … [Read more...]

Things to do on the Great Barrier Reef with kids

The Great Barrier Reef is a magical place to visit. Most parents wouldn’t think that it is safe to tour Australia’s natural wonder with kids, but there are actually quite a few things you can do. Introducing them at a young age helps them learn about the biodiversity and the beauty first hand. There are over 6,600 species of flora and fauna that live in the Great Barrier Reef; this includes 1,500 … [Read more...]

How to see the Na Pali Coast Kauai: Holo Holo Charters

Wondering how to see the Na Pali Coast Kauai? There are four ways to see the famous (and roadless) Na Pali Coast along Kauai’s west shore. Families can take a helicopter tour, kayak tour, hike the Kalalau Trail, or take a chartered sailing tour. We opted for two of the four: we hiked several miles of the trail (the entire 11 miles requires a permit), and saw more of the coastline via … [Read more...]

Warm weather vacations to book now

Ready to get away from cold winter weather, but a 'lie on the beach' vacation isn't quite your style? The following warm weather vacations at family-friendly resorts offer some of the best snorkeling and scuba diving for kids and teens. Stay active, be warm!   Casa Marina, A Waldorf Astoria Resort, Key West, Florida: Tucked away on Key West’s southern edge along the largest private … [Read more...]

ATV adventures and snorkeling with Punta Venado

There are as many Riviera Maya eco-tours as there are amazing natural wonders along this part of the Caribbean, and each offer something a little bit different. We've reviewed the fast-action activities with Alltournative, but for a change of pace, a day with Punta Venado offers both ATV adventures and snorkeling, plus relaxation. Don't worry: the kids will still be highly entertained with … [Read more...]

A day with Alltournative tours: Tulum and Jungle Maya adventure with tweens and teens

Mexico's Riviera Maya is rich with geological and cultural excursions for active families. It's system of cenotes (underground rivers) and abundance of Mayan ruins are accessed by many tour operators, but which one to pick? We spent the day with Alltournative Tours, a leading eco-archaeological guide service specializing in active, adventurous tours. Like most local tour companies, … [Read more...]