For Kids

Southampton [1] beaches are free, nonstop attractions for children—and usually offer more than enough to occupy all ages. Whether they’re swimming, snorkeling, bodysurfing, building sandcastles, or simply puttering about between surf and sand, children seem to be perfectly content to spend days on end at the beach, even after their parents may have had enough. Horseshoe’s main beach, its “Baby Beach,” and shallow West Whale Bay [2] a few miles west, are all kid favorites. Memo to parents: Don’t forget the sunblock!

Its unfortunate name notwithstanding, Death Valley Playground (Middle Rd., opposite Terceira’s Port Royal Esso Station) is a fun, safe place for kids to let off steam. Maintained by the Parks Department, the small site entertains kids with swings, slides, and activity structures for toddlers as well as older children. Shady benches and a picnic table sit alongside, and a large playing field lies adjacent. Located next to the busy main road, there’s no peace and quiet here, but the little ones don’t seem to mind. There is plenty of parking space, but there are no public toilets.

Gibbs Hill Lighthouse [3] is also a fun trek for kids old enough to hike up the tower’s 185 steps. There are platform breaks, so it’s not too arduous for children five and older. At the top, they’ll enjoy spying on all the white-roofed cottages and trying to figure out where things are in the panorama far below.