Top Caribbean Island Vacations

Sprawl out in the sand at Bahama's best kept secret! At Paradise Island Beach Club, the roaming Atlantic Ocean, rustling palm leaves, and almost endless sandy shores combine to create the perfect tropical vacation!

Resting on the pearly white sands of the world famous Cabbage Beach, Paradise Island truly is your tropical paradise! Each two-bedroom/two-bathroom lodging features ocean views and an ocean of amenities. Step out onto the private patio and soak in the scenery, stay in touch with the world with cable television and Wi-Fi, or dive into one of two beachfront swimming pools. Bring the family for tropical fun or your loved one for a romantic getaway! If it's salt water you seek, step just outside your door and enjoy a wealth of aquatic activities in the Atlantic Ocean. Observe the vibrant sea life on a snorkeling expedition, dive into the gentle waves for a swim, or stroll along the shore in search of shells. Leave the quiet beaches for some excitement in the capital city of Nassau, which features delectable dining, sensational shopping, and historic landmarks like the Queen's Staircase, a 102-foot staircase constructed in honor of Queen Victoria. Paradise is just outside your door!

Address

Garden View & Ocean Ridge Drive, Nassau, Bahamas

Average temperature

There's truly never a bad time to visit this seaside paradise! The mean temperatures are in the 70s and 80s all year round!

Related activities

Stuart Cove is the largest and most famous diving company in the Bahamas. Experience the marvels of the Bahamas underwater world!

Within St. Lucia’s only private harbor, The Landings freehold luxury residential properties has elite access to the gorgeous sandy beaches of Rodney Bay on this popular Caribbean island. The resort’s 19 acres offers 228 varying units for vacationers and residents alike.

This place is breathtaking! One- to four-bedroom apartments and condos speckle the lush grounds, while all have beautiful water views. Why so grand? Well, as St. Lucia’s first freehold luxury waterfront residential development, The Landings provides not only luxury resort amenities and activities, but a chance to fulfill your dream of living in the Caribbean. A tennis and health club, seven swimming pools and your own private yacht harbor create the ultimate place to kick back and relax. And with 24-hour concierge service, your every need will be met. After a treatment in the 7,000-sq.-ft. spa, join your friends at the St. Lucia Golf and Country Club with your complimentary membership, only minutes away on the island.

Highlights

St. Lucia is known for its rich blend of historical French, African and English cultures.

Getting there

St. Lucia has an international and a regional airport, with regular direct flights from the UK, the US and Canada. The Landings is also accessible by sea and helicopter.

Fun facts

The Landings opened in December 2007.

For ultimate pleasure – whether it’s a round of golf on the Jim Fazio-designed 18-hole championship course or adventurous snorkeling in the Caribbean’s largest coral reef – visit Raffles Canouan Resort. This Canouan Island resort in the Grenadines offers 200 glorious acres of pure bliss.

You’ll know you’ve arrived at a five-star resort when you step inside the Raffles Canouan. More than just a resort, this vacationer’s paradise is a total island community. A challenging par 72 golf course, the resort’s signature Amrita Spa rooted in the ancient Sanskrit legends and The Moorings, the nearby world-renown yachting company, make for a unique island experience, both on and off the resort grounds. Play blackjack, roulette and craps at the European-style gaming center Villa Monte Carlo and let the kids enjoy the programs and fun provided by the Sugar Palms Kids Club. With so much to do, you’ll be happy knowing there is a deep soaking tub waiting for you in your one- or two-story room or suite located either in the orchestra or mezzanine levels of the resort’s amphitheater setting. Personality Suites feature private swimming pools. European, Italian and fresh Caribbean cuisine can be found at the resort or on the island.

Related activities

The Canouan Dive Center is based in Grand Bay and offers SCUBA diving and snorkeling adventures that feature coral reefs and shipwrecks.

Getting there

Canouan Island can be reached by air from North America and Europe through six gateways with connections to Canouan’s airport. No taxi services are available but there are free resort shuttles.

Related Onsite Offerings

The Raffles Villa, consisting of a main house and guest cottage, offers guests a true villa experience as well as an on-call butler and chef.

Known as a “Caribbean Sanctuary with a Playful Edge,” the Nikki Beach Turks and Caicos Resort and Beach Club guarantees that you’ll experience the Caribbean as it was meant to be. And with personal assistants awaiting your arrival to the resort’s 432 gated acres, something tells us they’ll fulfill their promise.

This 48-suite luxury resort offers a great alternative to the usual beach resorts. Besides being surrounded by the aquamarine Caribbean Sea, you can set sail on your yacht and store it at the world’s first-ever ecologically-friendly mega-yacht marina boasting 110 slips. The ultra-chic suites are equipped with European-designed kitchens and flat screen HDTVs, and the expansive infinity pool is surrounded by VIP cabanas and private bottle services. Ah yes, the personal assistants. When you make your reservation with Nikki Beach, you will have direct contact with a personal assistant prior and throughout your stay. They will help with arranging limo services, private tours, mini bar preferences and even pillow menu selections. They might even help you pick out an outfit to wear dancing at the Nikki Beach Club or for a nightcap at the Nikki Beach Ultra Lounge. If this doesn’t make you feel like a rock star, nothing will!

Getting there

Nikki Beach is on the island of Providenciales. Flights from major international gateways use the Provo International Airport (PLS). Call the resort for shuttle, helicopter and ferry services.

Fun facts

Nikki Beach will be opening a casino and a 16,000-sq.-ft. spa and fitness center in 2010.

Related Onsite Offerings

Taste the signature Cantaloupe Soup or Whole Red Snapper dishes at the world-renown Café Nikki Restaurant.

For a tropical vacation that stands leagues above the rest, there's no better choice than Vista Oceana. This exciting and exotic Costa Rica destination takes you to the charming town of Manuel Antonio, and offers some of the most breathtaking panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean.

Vista Oceana is located next to one of the most incredibly breathtaking beaches in the world: Espadilla Beach. You'll never want to leave this marvelous country after you've spent an afternoon at Espadilla Beach. When you're not soaking in the sun down by the water's edge, you'll want to relax in your luxurious master suite, equipped with kitchenette, spacious living room, flat screen television. wireless internet and air conditioning. The property also has a gorgeous swimming pool area with a sunken BBQ pit. Don't be surprised to get a visit from a macaw or monkey--these exotic animals love entertaining guests! There are 1,000 reasons to make Vista Oceana your island vacation destination!

Highlights

Vista Oceana is located very close to Manuel Antonio National Park, as well as the public beach at Playa Espadilla. Spend your afternoon soaking up the sun on the breathtaking beach, diving in for a swim, or enjoying fun water sports ranging from surfing to deep-sea fishing.

Fun facts

Manuel Antonio National Park is one of the smallest national parks in Costa Rica at only 4,900 acres. The park ranges in elevation from sea level to 160 meters. It protects rain forest, beach, and mangrove habitats.

When we think of historical locations, rosy-hued sand and 1800s pastel clapboard houses aren’t usually the first things that come to mind. But at Pink Sands Resort, you’ll be among one of the oldest communities in the Bahamas – known for its beautiful beach and incomparable island hospitality.

The 20-acre resort comprised of 25 quaint yet lavish cottages is located in Harbor Island, part of the Out Islands of the Bahamas. We’re pretty positive that all you’ll need on your island vacation will be cordially provided for you in your one- or two-bedroom Ocean View or Garden View rooms and on the grounds of this luxury resort, but we think you’ll like the surrounding areas too. After a candlelight Caribbean bistro dinner at the onsite Garden Terrace Restaurant, you just might want to relax in the oversized freshwater swimming pool and ready yourself for a day of sunny adventure on the nearby Eleuthera Island. Or try out bone, reef and deep sea fishing in the aqua Atlantic Ocean. Rather stay in Pink Sands? Meander along the pathways through the lush gardens and official bird sanctuary and arrange an oceanside massage. Don’t wait – the unspoiled Bahamas beauty is waiting for you.

Related activities

SCUBA diving, snorkeling, island tours, boat rentals and picnics.

Getting there

Pink Sands Resort is located 50 miles east of Nassau on Harbour Island, 20 minutes from the North Eleuthera International Airport (ELH) by land and water taxi transportation.

Related Onsite Offerings

Pink Sands Resort’s two-bedroom Bimini Cottage offers a more secluded stay with a private Jacuzzi on the expansive deck overlooking the beach.

You’ll agree with the Travel Channel’s rating of Anguilla as having “the world’s best all around beach” when you arrive at Cap Juluca on Maunday’s Bay. The distinct Moorish architecture and enchanting Moroccan décor of this newly-renovated Caribbean resort make for an unforgettable getaway in the Bahamas.

The resort’s 179 acres of tropical landscape and beaches embodies pure island beauty. It was also voted by Travel Channel as one of the World’s Sexiest Beaches in 2008, and you’ll understand what they mean when you feel the powdery sand between your toes. Nothing makes you feel prettier than being surrounded by more than 60,000 vibrantly flowering plants. And the Executive Chef Rene Bajeux, one of only 50 French Master Chefs in the U.S., encourages the romance with the delicious menus of the resort’s four restaurants, including Pimms, Spice, Blue and Maundays Club. You’ll be inspired by the Pan-Asian and Eurobbean (blend of European and Caribbean flavors) cuisines during your beachfront experience. After a delectable meal and a stroll along the Herb Garden Walking Trail, you be ready to kick off your sandals and relax in one of 18 separate beachfront villas with amenities like 40-inch LCD flat panel TVs, solariums and private, covered terraces.

Highlights

For ultimate seclusion, stay in one of six private pool villas ranging from one to five bedrooms and offering double tubs and covered terraces.

Related activities

Cap Juluca is located in the Eastern Caribbean, just seven miles from St. Maarten’s Julianna International Airport. Charter boats and sea shuttles can be arranged with the resort.

Related Onsite Offerings

Windsurfing, water skiing, kayaking, tennis courts, aqua golf driving range, fitness center, croquet lawn, library and children’s programs.

They say variety is the spice of life, but we’d be content to hole up in our No. 5 spot’s sheltered coves and recline on its pristine beaches for all eternity. How long you stay on Grenada is up to you, but don’t say we didn’t prepare you for this Caribbean island’s awe-inspiring splendor!

We know what you’re (soon to be) thinking. We practically just told you not to stray from Grenada’s scenic coasts, and now we’re going to ask you to forsake these Caribbean beaches in favor of inland adventures. Call us fickle if you dare, but we think Grenada’s tropical waterfalls are a must-see on your Caribbean island vacation. We started with the relatively-accessible Annandale Falls and worked our way in from there. Next was the trio of scenic cascades known collectively as Concord Falls. And you’ll work the hardest for the last stop, Royal Mt. Carmel Falls, but when you behold its 70-ft. twin cascades, we think you’ll agree it was worth the hike! But let’s go back to that “spice” we first spoke of. Exotic flavorings – nutmeg, cinnamon, ginger and tumeric, to name a few – are all harvested from Grenada’s fertile soil. It’s an impressive feat, but one that isn’t all that surprising. This is the Isle of Spice, after all!

Related activities

Hiking, biking, kayaking and birdwatching can all be enjoyed on this fair Caribbean isle.

Fun facts

Since its discovery in 1492, Grenada’s land has been used primarily for agricultural purposes. Sugar cane, sweet grass and exotic spices are among the fruits of this Caribbean island’s labors.

Related Onsite Offerings

If you’re dreaming of a Caribbean island wedding, but have yet to choose the destination for your wedded bliss, we suggest adding Grenada to your venue short list!

Jaw-dropping. Divine. Perfect. We could go on and on about Grace Bay Club, the Turks and Caicos Islands’ first luxury, all-suite hotel. In fact, we think we will. The 11 acres of beachfront property boasting family-friendly villas and an adults-only hotel area give you the best of both worlds.

The Hotel at Grace Bay Club, geared toward couples, features one-bedroom suites with private balconies, twice-daily maid service and fresh-cut flowers and fruit inside your room upon arrival. Families will love the spacious resort living at the Villas at Grace Bay Club with nearly 50 feet of ocean front. For the ultimate luxury stay, try the 3,600-sq.-ft. penthouses. Oceanfront showers that open into an outdoor terrace and private outdoor Jacuzzis are only two features that push the accommodations above and beyond anything you’ve experienced in the Caribbean. If you aren’t already convinced about staying at Grace Bay Club, then we know the Infiniti Bar will push you over the edge – literally. Known as the longest bar in the Caribbean, it stretches 90 feet to the ocean’s waves. Outdoor beach beds, personal concierge services and the Kid’s Town educational programming and amenities make this resort a must on your Caribbean vacation.

Getting there

Travelers can enjoy easy access to Providenciales direct flights from several international destinations.

Fun facts

The Turks and Caicos Islands cover a total of 193 square miles.

Related Onsite Offerings

Real estate, four restaurants and bars, Anani Spa, fitness center, yoga and a beachside pool.

With nearly 50 years of successfully accommodating and entertaining royalty, celebrities and leading international businesspeople, Sandy Lane Resort has gained a reputation as a premier Caribbean resort. Three outstanding golf courses and a 47,000 sq.-ft. spa are featured at this Barbados getaway.

Host of the 2006 World Golf Championships-Barbados World Cup, Sandy Lane boasts the Green Monkey, the Country Club and the Old Nine courses made up of a variety of holes created for all skill levels. The 55,000-sq.-ft. Clubhouse features a fine dining and panoramic views of the courses. Not a golfer? That doesn’t mean that Sandy Lane isn’t for you! The spa offers treatments that blend traditional cultural therapies from the Caribbean, the Far East and Europe and the resort’s seven boutiques and salon make for an exciting shopping experience. Choose from 112 spacious rooms and suites in the Orchid, Dolphin, Turtle and Seahorse wings. Rooms include vanities, marble bathrooms and stunning views of the garden and the Caribbean Sea. The Sandy Lane Treehouse Club is dedicated to children three to 12 years old and offers a fun and safe environment for your kids while you unwind.

Getting there

Sandy Lane offers nine restaurants and bars, including the signature L’acajou, featuring international wine and cuisine and fresh island seafood.

Fun facts

Tiger Woods married his wife, Elin Nordegren, at Sandy Lane Resort in 2004.

Related Onsite Offerings

For a private villa experience, stay in the Villa At Sandy Lane, featuring five bedrooms and its own butler, chef, housekeeper and night security.

Take your oceanfront vacationing to the next level when you stay at Villa Calypso. Sleeping up to 10 guests on the beautiful Sapodilla Bay, this property will set the bar high for all future beach vacations you take.

The home is set up beautifully as a traditional style, with a light color palette that keeps an easy-going feeling. A spacious upper level contains a screened porch with comfortable lounging furniture so you can bask in the pristine views of the shimmering turquoise waters. Each bedroom features its own private bedroom which is a perfect setup for a family or a group of friends trying to take advantage of the warm Caribbean sun. The outdoor grilling area has plenty of space to prepare a meal and is close enough where you can walk back indoors and take a breather in the air-conditioned house.

Address

Ocean Point Dr Five Cays Settlement, Turks and Caicos Islands TKCA 1ZZ

Related activities

Plan ahead and experience the Caribbean to its fullest form. Short 20 to 35 minute flights out of Provo can take you to any handful of other islands for an excursion where you can take in more incredible views, mystifying nature, and vibrant culture.

Related Onsite Offerings

If the weather is not cooperating, unwind and curl up in the living area with a television, entertainment center, and stereo system.

Villa Turquesa offers a unique blend of luxurious amenities with a laidback island setting. Set on the shores of Sapodilla Bay, this beach vacation destination will wash all your worries away as you can enjoy the fresh ocean breeze and the soothing sound of ocean waves rolling on the shore.

The property has an open layout and is an expansive 4,750 square feet. Vaulted ceilings and dazzling furnishings, and a professional kitchen round out the rest of the interior. The beautiful hardwood floors seamlessly transition from room to room that all feature outstanding views of the turquoise waters from every room. Explore the coast, bring your clubs and play a round of golf, or just relax on the property and take in the tropical climate. Whether you are with family, friends, or on a romantic getaway, Villa Turquesa’s splendor and amenities will offer a chance to experience the Caribbean like never before.

Address

Ocean Point Drive Five Cays Settlement, TKCA 1ZZ

Related activities

You’ll have instant access to the water whether you choose to take a dip in your very own infinity pool overlooking Sapodilla Bay or trek down to the white sand beach of Taylor Bay.

Related Onsite Offerings

From the comfort of your own dock, you will be able to catch a scuba boat or have a kayak delivered so you can do a little exploration of the coast yourself.

Take in outstanding oceanfront views along with high-end amenities at Villa Sol Y Luna.

This contemporary architectural masterpiece is ideal for indoor and outdoor living. Nearly 25 feet of unscreened sliding glass doors open up to the deck and infinity pool, where you are still overlooking the turquoise waters of the ocean. Indoors, you’ll have access to a gourmet kitchen that is fit for chefs, as well as a surround sound entertainment system and wireless internet throughout. Just steps from your accommodation is Taylor Bay, a sandy white beach offering a sheltered setting with shallow waters. After you enjoy dinner, climb up to the rooftop terrace to observe an unforgettable sunset. You’ll like royalty on this island stay!

Address

29 Ocean Point Dr Wheeland Settlement, TKCA 1ZZ

Extra Stops

While there, be sure to visit Chalk Sound National Park. This area covers half the island and is home to numerous animal species.

Related Onsite Offerings

The property also has access to a dock, where you can catch a scuba boat and explore the magnificent coral reef.