San Andrés · With kids

Fifteen minutes by boat to a sand island with a sheltered lagoon on the near side; the ocean side has surf and is not for paddling. Ages 4+.

A sandbar where the water stays knee-deep between two cays, with rays and small fish. Boats run all morning from the North End. Ages 3+.

A rocky cove on the west coast with a jumping platform, a slide into the sea and shoals waiting for bread. Ages 7+.

A slow circuit over the barrier reef for children who will not put their face in the water; about ninety minutes. Ages 3+.

There is little shade on the cays and the sun is fierce by ten. Tap water is not for drinking, and hurricane risk peaks September to November.