Real-life family travel tips, cruise hacks, and points and miles guides from Sheila Hayes — helping families travel smarter, not harder, one trip at a time.
How to Get to the Black Sand Beach in Vieques, Puerto Rico (Playa Negra) If you’re looking for one of the most unique beaches in Puerto Rico, Playa Negra in Vieques belongs at the top of your list. This isn’t a “park-and-walk” kind of beach—but that’s exactly why it still feels wild and untouched. When we decided to go, I had no idea how much of an adventure it would actually be. This isn’t the kind of beach where you pull into a paved lot, grab your towel, and walk 30 seconds to the water. It requires effort — and honestly, that’s what makes it unforgettable. The first glimpse of the black sand against the turquoise water stopped us in our tracks. It didn’t feel touristy. It felt earned. Below is the exact, step-by-step route we used to get there, plus tips so you don’t miss the trail (or ruin your shoes). Ready? Let’s go! Step 1: Fly to San Juan, Puerto Rico Start by booking a flight into San Juan (SJU). This is the easiest jumping-off point for getting ...
Key West with Kids: Dolphin Encounters & Sunset Sails
🐬 Key West with Kids: Dolphin Encounters & Sunset Sails
Helping Families Travel Smarter & Stress-Free in the Florida Keys
Key West might be known for its party scene and vibrant nightlife, but it’s also an incredible destination for family-friendly adventures—especially on the water. If you're planning a trip to Key West with kids, here are two unforgettable experiences we highly recommend: a dolphin encounter and a sunset sail. Both are easy to book, hassle-free, and kid-approved!
🐬 1. Dolphin Encounter with Sebago Watersports
We had the chance to experience a dolphin watching and snorkeling trip with Sebago Watersports, and it was a total highlight of our trip. Here’s why:
Kid-Friendly Crew: The guides were so welcoming and patient with younger guests.
Kids enjoying a breezy ride while parents sip something cold.
Some cruises even include snacks or drinks. We chose a casual, open-deck sail with plenty of room for kids to move around safely.
📌 Tip: Bring a light jacket—it gets breezy!
👨👩👦 Why These Work for Families
✅ No long travel days or early wake-ups
✅ Great mix of relaxation and excitement
✅ Educational and awe-inspiring (hello, marine biology in action!)
✅ Easy to book in advance or same-day depending on the season
💡 Final Thoughts
Key West may not be the first place you think of for a kid-friendly getaway—but it should be. These water-based excursions gave us quality family time, incredible memories, and a new appreciation for Florida’s marine life.
Ready to plan your own adventure?
I’ve linked the exact tours we used below so you can easily book them too. 🐬🌅
