Belize doesn't have any large resorts with well-staffed children's programs. Nor will you find many activities or attractions specifically geared for the very young. Still, this English-speaking country is a great destination for families, especially if your children have an adventurous streak.

Day 1: Head for Hopkins

Arrive into Belize City and head straight to Hopkins Village. Settle into a comfortable suite at Jaguar Reef Lodge. Kids can play in the children’s pool while parents take advantage of the swim up Tiki bar.

Day 2: Go Garífuna

Sign up for a class in traditional Garífuna drumming and dancing at the Lebeha Drumming Center. Afterwards make use of the resort’s ample facilities and activity options, which include free sea kayaks, Hobie Cats, and snorkel gear. At night the entire family will enjoy seeing the glowing blue waters of the bioluminescence river tour.

Days 3 & 4: A Nearly Deserted Island

Head out to South Water Caye. The island here is tiny, and the kids will no doubt fantasize about being stranded on a deserted island. The waters here are extremely calm and protected by the barrier reef, which lies just offshore. This is a great place to introduce the family to snorkeling, and to head out in individual or tandem kayaks.

Days 5 & 6: Into the Dark

On your way back north, stop off at Ian Anderson’s Caves Branch. Accommodations here are plush but kid friendly (bunk beds in most suites), and the resort’s guided experiences lean towards the adventurous. Most revolve around the surrounding forest and the area’s namesake river, which runs through a series of underground caves. The cave tubing adventure is exciting for kids and adults alike, and sitting in an inner tube as it floats down a lazy river through caves means it’s easy to keep track of the whole family.

Days 7, 8 & 9: Sun & Fun in San Pedro

Head for Ambergris Caye, first stopping at the Belize Zoo for a quick face-to-face with jaguars and tapir. With its wide choice of hotels, resorts, and restaurants, there’s a whole range of activities and adventures available for the family on Ambergris Caye. Be sure to schedule in a snorkel trip to Hol Chan Marine Reserve and Shark-Ray Alley. More adventurous members of the family can try parasailing or windsurfing. Reserve 1 day for a visit to the Mayan ruins at Lamanai. You’ll also want to explore the mangroves on an American Crocodile Education Sanctuary (ACES) nighttime crocodile tour. Fly right from San Pedro to the international airport in Belize City in time for your return flight home.

Note: This information was accurate when it was published, but can change without notice. Please be sure to confirm all rates and details directly with the companies in question before planning your trip.