I got to take a sneak peek at the new Elephant Valley at the San Diego Zoo Safari Park, and I can sum it up in one word: WOW. I took my daughter with me to check it out, as she adores animals but has refused to visit zoos since she was a little girl. She hates seeing animals locked up in small enclosures. I do too. But, in keeping with the whole ethos of the San Diego Safari Park, the Elephant Valley is more of a biological preserve and conservation area than it is a traditional zoo. We were both so impressed—and thrilled!

It’s almost 13 acres of wandering, playful elephants. It’s educational, beautiful, and thoughtful—taking into account the needs and comfort of both elephants and humans. Here’s the scoop on the new Elephant Valley, including when it opens, what ages this is best for, and how much tickets cost.

For another animal adventure near San Diego, check out my visit to the Oasis Camel Dairy. For complete San Diego coverage, don't miss our San Diego Family Travel Guide.

I live in LA, so for tropical vacations, we tend to head to nearby Hawaii. But we took the long flight to the Caribbean this fall, and I have to say, I’m sorry we waited so long. For a fantastic mix of awesome adventures, gorgeous beaches, relaxing cabanas, stunning nature, great food, loads of animals, and a plethora of activities for kids and the whole family, you can’t beat the island of St. Lucia. Yes, the island famous for honeymooners and romance is actually a wonderful family vacation.

We stayed at the all-inclusive Coconut Bay Beach Resort and had maybe the most perfectly balanced tropical family vacation I’ve ever experienced. Think chocolate tasting/making, drive-in volcano, snorkeling with endangered turtles, and the best Kids Club I’ve seen.

Below, I’m sharing the real insider stuff. Not just the list of top things to do, but the details: what you need to pack (and what to not pack!), which days you should plan on adventures and which you should lie by the pool, and even what to eat.

Check out our complete Guide to Caribbean Family Vacations. Now, here are my tips on making a trip to St. Lucia with kids a rousing success:

Hit these slopes near Chicago for family-friendly snow tubing this winter season.