If you need sun, beach, and relaxation, a vacation to the Caribbean could be just the ticket. U.S. News has developed a list of the top locations in the Caribbean for a break based on user votes, expert insights, and considerations like proximity to beaches, tourist attractions, and pleasant hotels. Vote for your favorite vacation spots so we can better analyze them for next year’s list. And if you need a place to stay, I highly recommend the Best Hotels in the Caribbean « (Note: The coronavirus epidemic may impact travel to certain of the following locations.)
St. Lucia
St. Lucia’s two Pitons, which are part of the island’s landscape and have been listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, make it one of the most picturesque places in the Caribbean. The Gros and Petit Pitons add two volcanic plugs to the island’s splendor. This Caribbean destination, with its powdery white sand beaches, lush green trees, and secluded villas, is our top pick for honeymooners and other romantic vacationers.
If you’re searching for a luxury private villa in St. Lucia, we highly recommend either of the two facilities we stayed at. Guests at Calabash Cove, an adults-only, boutique all-inclusive resort and spa, may relax knowing they will not have to worry about a thing. This hotel was perfect for a romantic getaway, and we had a wonderful time. The views from Stonefield Villas Resort overlooking Petit Piton are stunning. It was one of the original resorts in the Soufriere area and is run by a local family.
U.S. Virgin Islands
The U.S. Virgin Islands have been called “America’s Caribbean Paradise.” It is here that you can experience the unique culture of the Caribbean by watching moko jumbies (stilt walkers) perform at a Carnival parade, listening to the lilting patois of a Creole language, or smelling the spices in a saltfish pate (all without losing cell phone reception). Choose to spend some time on St. Thomas, St. John, or St. Croix, or visit all three! That way, you can pack a lot of colonial history, spa time, and pristine environment into your trip.
You may find unique experiences on each island. St. Thomas is recognized for its luxury, from the megayachts in the port to the upscale boutiques along Main Street (nicknamed “Rock City” for its mountainous, rocky landscape). St. John, only a short boat journey away to the east, is a popular destination for honeymooners and ecotourists due to its gorgeous beaches and over 7,000 acres of parks. Finally, St. Croix, a small island in the southern Caribbean Sea, is a great place to learn about the colonial period and the era of slavery. The Cruzan Rum Distillery may also be found on this island.
Trinidad And Tobago
As a rule, the Caribbean islands attract many visitors every year. When it comes to Trinidad and Tobago, though, tourism isn’t a top priority. This is mostly because of the oil found on the islands, which provides the bulk of the island’s revenue. However, if you’re searching for a less hectic vacation than the rest of the Caribbean, go as far as Trinidad & Tobago. In these inland waterways, you’ll find tranquil beaches shaded by coconut palms. Unfortunately, the Chaville, Maracas, and Las Cuevas beaches are among the most frequented by car tourists.
Exuma Cays Bahamas
Our mouths fell as we saw the breathtaking scenery below as we flew over the Exumas from Nassau in the Bahamas. There are 365 islands and atolls in the Exuma Cays in the Bahamas, and the surrounding seas are brilliant turquoise. Covering an area of 176 kilometers, the waterways here are pristine.
Though they are more properly located in the Atlantic, The Exumas are sometimes included with the Caribbean Islands, and we could not leave out our favorite island paradise. You can swim with sharks, meet the local pigs, and dive in the strange Thunderball Grotto, which seems like its own multicolored fishbowl, all in the Exumas, making it one of the greatest places to experience wildlife in the Caribbean. Embrace Resorts on Staniel Cay is a fantastic option if you’re seeking a place to stay. An excellent getaway for couples in the heart of the Exumas, it is locally owned and runs.
Cayman Islands
The picturesque Cayman Islands remain a popular destination in the Caribbean for those searching for excitement and tranquility. Divers are drawn to the area’s coral reefs and shipwrecks in the same way beach bums are drawn to rum punch. Families with young children take advantage of Stingray City’s interactive swimming experiences while newlyweds trek along the 200-year-old Mastic Trail. The Cayman Islands are the perfect destination for chilling out in whatever manner you see fit.
About 150 miles south of Cuba lies a trio of islands known as the Cayman Islands. The biggest, Grand Cayman, is home to several huge resorts offering all-inclusive packages, ideal for individuals who value convenience over customization and don’t mind crowds. However, some of the greatest diving in the Caribbean may be found on the less visited Cayman Brac and Little Cayman.
Many more Caribbean islands await exploration. Unfortunately, all of them can only be compiled into one article. We have yet to go to every wonderful Caribbean island, but we’re looking forward to doing so as we continue to cross more off our list. Lastly, read more about travel around the world here.
