Bonaire, a small island in the southern Caribbean, has bountiful reefs that begin just yards offshore, so kids don’t need to endure long, stomach-churning boat rides to find the fish. At many resorts, children ages five to nine can strap on a modified vest to learn snorkeling during a Supplied-Air Snorkeling for Youths program, while wannabe divers ten and older can go underwater with a guide on a Discover Scuba course.

Kids seven and older can also spend time with Sea & Discover. Marine biologist Caren Eckrich combines classroom sessions on corals and fish behavior with snorkeling. She also books family tours.

After everyone is pruned from all the underwater exploration, there is plenty of fun to conquer on land, from bird watching along the shore to hiking in Washington-Slagbaai National Park. An added bonus: Bonaire’s nature conservation efforts set a great example for budding environmentalists.

Where to Stay:
Buddy Dive Resort offers one-, two-, and three-bedroom apartments with kitchens. Package deals typically include a rental vehicle, unlimited air for shore diving, and daily breakfast buffets. Children 12 and under can sleep on a rollaway or share a room with adults for free.

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