The Isles of Scilly is a place where nature delights at every turn and picturesque beaches tempt you with crystal clear waters. One of the most beautiful places you absolutely must visit is Great Bay on the island of St Martin's. Described by many as the most beautiful beach on the Isles of Scilly, this stunning beach is resplendent with white sand and turquoise waters reminiscent of Caribbean vistas. It's the perfect place for family relaxation, building sandcastles or searching for shells. Keep in mind, however, that the water can be chilly, so it's a good idea to bring wetsuits if you plan on taking a longer swim.

Another place the whole family is sure to enjoy is Old Town Bay on St. Mary's Island. This charming bay offers a gentle descent into the water, which is especially important for families with young children. The beach is easily accessible by steps and a ramp, and there's an Old Town Café nearby where you can relax and use the restroom. It's a great place for a picnic, swimming or just lazy sunbathing.

For those looking for a more thrilling experience, Shirley's Rock is a place that will provide a dose of adrenaline. This natural rock formation is a popular spot for jumping into the water, offering different heights - from 1 to as high as 8 meters. It's great fun for older children and teens, but remember to exercise caution and adjust the height to your skills. It's best to visit when the sea is calm.

For nature lovers, Carreg Dhu Gardens is a true oasis of peace and beauty. This community garden, run by volunteers, delights with a variety of plants and flowers. It's the perfect place for a family stroll and picnic, with numerous benches and resting areas. Children will enjoy exploring the bamboo areas, while adults will appreciate the tranquility and charm of the place. The garden is beautiful in every season and offers a fascinating lesson in botany for the whole family.

When comparing these attractions, it is worth noting that each has its own unique character. Great Bay and Old Town Bay are ideal for families looking for a typical beach experience, with Old Town Bay perhaps safer for the little ones due to its gentle descent into the water. Shirley's Rock is for more active, thrill-seekers, while Carreg Dhu Gardens offers a quieter alternative, ideal for days when the weather is not conducive to beachcombing. All of these places are free of charge, which is an added bonus for families planning a vacation budget.

The Scilly islands are not just about beautiful beaches and nature, but also a fascinating history that you can explore with your children. One of the most impressive sites is Cromwell's Castle on the Isle of Tresco. This 17th-century artillery fort offers an unforgettable experience for young and old explorers. You can climb to the highest gun platform on the roof for breathtaking views of the surrounding islands. It's a great opportunity to feel like the island's ancient defenders and imagine what life was like here hundreds of years ago. The castle is open year-round and is free of charge, making it a great attraction for families.

Not far from Cromwell's Castle is King Charles's Castle, another fascinating fortification from the 16th century. Although a ruin, its picturesque hilltop location offers spectacular views of the archipelago. It's the perfect place for a family picnic combined with a history lesson. Children will enjoy exploring the old walls and imagining life during the time of King Charles I.

For families who enjoy long walks combined with exploring history, Garrison Walls on St. Mary's Island is an excellent choice. These 17th-century fortifications surround the town of Hugh Town and offer a scenic walking route of about 2.5 kilometers. Along the way you can see numerous artillery batteries and enjoy beautiful sea views. This is a great opportunity to combine physical activity with learning about history.

When comparing these historical attractions, it's worth noting that each offers a slightly different experience. Cromwell's Castle is the most complete and interactive attraction, ideal for families with children of all ages. King Charles's Castle, though in ruins, offers a more 'raw' experience and may be particularly appealing to older children and teens interested in history. Garrison Walls, on the other hand, is for families who enjoy longer walks and want to combine sightseeing with physical activity.

All of these places are free, which is a big plus for families. In terms of accessibility, Cromwell's Castle and King Charles' Castle require a short walk, which can be a challenge for families with small children or strollers. Garrison Walls are more accessible and offer an easier walking route.

For families looking for more contemporary attractions, visit Tresco Abbey Garden, Shop & Café. This remarkable subtropical garden is home to more than 20,000 exotic plants from around the world. It's a place where children can learn about the fascinating world of botany and adults can admire the beauty of the carefully designed gardens. In the cafe you can meet tame birds that eat from your hand, which is sure to be an unforgettable experience for the little ones. Admission to the garden is charged (£18 per adult, as of 2023), but offers a full day of entertainment and education for the whole family.

When comparing Tresco Abbey Garden to historic castles, it's worth noting that it offers a more diverse and colorful experience, ideal for families with younger children or nature lovers. It's also more accessible for strollers and those with limited mobility.

The Isles of Scilly isn't just about beaches and historic sites - it's also a place for adventure! One of the most exciting attractions that is sure to be memorable for the whole family is Seal Snorkeling Adventures. This is a unique opportunity to swim in the company of wild seals in their natural habitat. The trip begins with a short trip by RIB boat to the Eastern Islands, where instructors provide all the necessary equipment, including high-quality wetsuits and snorkeling gear. In the water, you will have the opportunity to observe seals, which are extremely curious and often swim very close, playfully nibbling on swimmers' flippers. This is an experience that combines elements of nature education with an unforgettable adventure. The tour is suitable for children ages 8 and up, and it's best to check prices and availability directly with the organizer, as they may vary depending on the season.

For families who prefer land-based activities, the island of St. Martin's offers great opportunities. This picturesque island is famous for its beautiful beaches and spectacular views. You can take a family walk along the coast, admiring the Neolithic tombs and enjoying the view of the other islands in the archipelago. There is also a village store on St. Martin's where you can stock up on provisions for a picnic. This is an ideal place for families who enjoy an active vacation surrounded by nature.

Comparing the two attractions, it's worth noting that Seal Snorkeling Adventures offers a more intense and unique experience that may be particularly appealing to older children and teens. It does, however, require some physical fitness and swimming skills. The St. Martin's tour, on the other hand, is more versatile, suitable for families with children of all ages, including those with toddlers or strollers. It is also more flexible - you can plan the route and pace of the tour yourself.

For families looking for quieter activities, but still want to enjoy the beauty of nature, an excellent choice would be a visit to the Lower Moors on St. Mary's Island. This is a scenic nature trail that runs between Hugh Town and the Old Town. The trail is well-maintained, with benches and trash garbage cans, making it ideal for families with young children. It's a great place for bird watching and learning about local flora. A walk through the Lower Moors is not only an opportunity to get active, but also to learn about the local ecosystem.

When comparing Lower Moors with the previously mentioned attractions, it is worth noting that it offers the most peaceful and educational experience. It is ideal for families with young children or those who prefer less intense activities. Unlike Seal Snorkeling Adventures, it requires no special preparation or equipment, and compared to the St. Martin's walks, the route is shorter and easier.

In summary, the Isles of Scilly offer a wide range of activities for families of all preferences and abilities. From exhilarating snorkeling with seals to scenic island walks to quiet wildlife watching, there is something for every family. It is advisable to plan your stay to take advantage of the variety of activities on offer, matching them to the age and interests of your children and the physical condition of all family members. Regardless of the chosen activities, the Isles of Scilly guarantee an unforgettable experience and great memories of a family vacation.