I would like to take my family to the Carribean area (I know, its big, that's why I'm posting) for Chistmas holiday 2014. Never been and would appreciate advice on best destinations. We went to Maui and loved it, but too far for this trip, ideally looking for a "mini-Maui" that offers:

Good SCUBA for certified divers, and a chance for non-certified divers to join us
Nice beaches
Reasonably priced
Accomodations with kitchen so we can be self-sufficient
Activities - water and land (sailing, snorkeling, hiking, biking)
NOT looking for luxury accomodations, just a place to sleep.
Good restaurants and shops a plus

Any advice from some experienced caribbean travelers? I'm also open to Dominican, Mexico, etc. but decided to start here.

Thanks!