The Caribbean is one of the most popular destinations for vacationers from around the world. From the many independent islands to the coasts of Mexico and Central America, there are a wide variety of choices for travelers to choose between when planning their beach vacations. Among the options, however, are some gems that you should consider when making your travel plans.
Beach Destination # 1: Barbados
Barbados was once an English colony but is now a thriving independent nation. Located in the southern Caribbean, nearby islands include Trinidad and Tobago as well as St. Lucia. Because of the upscale air the island exudes, Barbados is considered a prime choice for honeymooners. Travelers can find everything from simple motels to all-inclusive resorts to timeshare condos when they book travel to Barbados. With a dry and temperate climate, Barbados is also known for its white sand beaches and the abundance of water sports made possible by the terrific waves of the Atlantic Ocean and Caribbean Sea.
Beach Destination # 2: The U.S. Virgin Islands
If you want to plan the ideal Caribbean beach vacation without even technically leaving the United States, then the U.S. Virgin Islands is the perfect destination. Three islands comprise the U.S. Virgin Islands. They are St. Croix, St. Thomas and St. John. The smaller Water Island is also a part of the U.S. Virgin Islands. All part of the same territory, each island offers its own unique destinations and amenities. The U.S. Virgin islands are located just to the east of Puerto Rico.
St. Thomas is home to the famous Blackbeard’s Castle. Although it is unknown if the pirate known as Blackbeard ever visited St. Thomas, this tower was used as a vantage point to spot incoming ships and is now a part of a hotel on the island. St. John is a very wealthy island which benefits from restrictive development laws, making it a highly exclusive destination within the Caribbean. For the well heeled traveler, this is the perfect destination. St. Croix is the largest of the U.S. Virgin islands and is home to several environmentally protected areas including the beautiful Green Cay National Wildlife Refuge as well as the Sandy Point National Wildlife Refuge. Water Island was long used by the United States government for various testing programs. Although it is primarily a residential island, visitors may venture there for a more personalized U.S. Virgin Islands experience.
Beach Destination # 3: The Cayman Islands
Known as the most famous tax haven in the world, the Cayman Islands are also home to some of the most beautiful beaches and some of the most upscale accommodations within the Caribbean. One of the biggest draws is scuba diving, which is made possible by the impossibly clear waters that surround the island. A British Territory, the Cayman Islands include three islands: Grand Cayman, Little Cayman and Cayman Brac. Many cruise ships choose the Cayman Islands as a port of call, most commonly going into Grand Cayman. Grand Cayman is also home to the famous Seven Mile Beach. Topped by coral sand and bounded by many upscale resorts, this is a must-visit part of the island. If you visit the Cayman Islands, make time to visit the two smaller islands instead of just Grand Cayman. There are many beautiful attractions throughout this destination.
Beach Destination # 4: The Bahamas
Easily the most well-known destination in the Caribbean, the Bahamas are visited by millions of tourists every year and are also visited by cruise ships on a regular basis. The Bahamas truly caters to the tourist trade, with events organized throughout the region’s popular travel season, which lasts from December to April. Yet thanks to its temperate climate, you can visit the Bahamas at nearly any time of the year, however, and experience great weather and a terrific atmosphere. Whether you are looking for a couples-only resort, an all-inclusive resort, or a family-friendly time share, the Bahamas has cost-effective options to suit any need. Several hundred islands comprise the Bahamas, but only several are inhabited and used as tourist destinations. The popular destinations that you may consider include Grand Bahama, New Providence, and Harbour Island. Be prepared for adventure in the Bahamas as the pace can be fast and the variety of opportunities endless.
Regardless of the beach destination you choose, you are sure to find vibrant nightlife, shopping, dining, entertainment, golf and water sports to suit your personal tastes. Sample the local and international flavors unique to the cultures of the Caribbean. Whether you are looking for an action-packed vacation or secluded lazy days on the beach, there is a Caribbean beach vacation waiting for you!
Mike Cole is a freelance writer who writes about vacation deals and the travel industry in general, often discussing specific aspects of the travel industry such as a travel agent.
