More beach resorts are offering pools with water slides, no-cost children's programs and other amenities that make them affordable alternatives for families looking for one-stop vacations, says Parents magazine.
The magazine evaluated more than 200 beach resorts in the United States and the Caribbean, based on room rates and other costs, quality of children's programs, family activities, pool and beach area and other factors.
''Our winners are practically rolling out the red carpet for families on a tight budget,'' said Sally Lee, editor-in-chief. 'Great kids' programs and perks are no longer exclusive to resorts with high price tags.''
The resorts that made the list offer seven-night vacations, May-September, for prices ranging from $129 to $500 a night (all-inclusive, with meals and activities covered). Details at www.parentsmag.com.
The resorts are Sheraton Grand Bahama Island Our Lucaya, Bahamas; Club Med Punta Cana, Dominican Republic; South Seas Island Resort, Captiva Island; Atlantis, Paradise Island, Bahamas; Disney's Vero Beach Resort; Beaches Negril Resort and Spa, Jamaica; Hilton Hawaiian Village, Honolulu; Ocean Edge Resort & Spa, Brewster, Mass.; Loew's Coronado Bay Beach Resort & Spa, San Diego; and Rio Mar Beach Golf Resort Casino & Spa, in Rio Grande, Puerto Rico.
