The Cheapest Caribbean Islands to Find Your Paradise Caribbean Without Crowds: Quiet, Beautiful Beaches Nicaragua's Corn Islands may not be your first pick when you think of planning a Caribbean getaway, but they could be ideal if you're craving quiet and solitude. Tourists do not feel like tourists for very long, as the locals warmly welcome newcomers and are eager and proud to show off the islands natural beauty and unique culture.. Or Mayreau there, or Canouan. Although it's only five and a half miles long, not seven, this stretch of sandy shore is flawlessly beautiful. While the main island has plenty in common with mainland US, the eastern island of Vieques feels like something else altogether. Benefits offered correct at the time of writing but may be amended at discretion of the vendor. Posts may be sponsored by the proprietor or brand being appraised. When I reached Willemstad, the local port for my vacation in Curacao, I wondered if I had landed in a European city by taking the wrong cruise ship. This is a place where the desert landscape and unhurried pace wash over you. Stay at Le Sereno, an intimate beachfront hotel and spa, combining simplicity, elegance, and five-star service in 37 suites and three spacious villas all overlooking Grand Cul de Sac, the bite-shaped cove on the eastern coast. Tuvalu. At a little over five kilometers square (two square miles), the island is certainly small but beautiful and green. By: Meredith Rosenberg Related To: Travel's Best View The Gallery 1 / 10 St. Vincent and The Grenadines It has some of the prettiest beaches in this part of the Caribbean, tucked into small coves that feel readymade to be discovered. Picture this: A remote island with no crowds, white powdery sand (as clichd as it sounds), peace and quiet, and a deep blue swimmable ocean. Further south, its all about castaway dreams on Petit St Vincent, Palm Island or Young Island, where your luxury cottage might come without TV, phone or wi-fi for proper peace and quiet. When it comes to a divers paradise, its hard to top Bonaire. The island is quiet and laid back and is truly a diver's paradise. Best for glowing seasFor Europeans, Puerto Rico may well feel like an undiscovered destination altogether, but this nearly-but-not-quite US state is full of life. The beach also happens to be one of the prettiest on the island. Here are the best packages from Caribbean Warehouse* and Tui*. Pricing for The Villas at Stonehaven, Beach at the Frangipani Beach Resort/Oyster. Visitors can travel the island by foot, golf cart or bike; grab a snorkel and go scuba diving to explore the underwater sea park; bask in the sun on the islands untouched, serene beaches; sail the ocean blue, or grab a bite at one of the local restaurants. Palm Island in St. Vincent and the Grenadines. How to get there: Nearby Antigua offers flights, ferries, and chartered helicopters to Montserrat. Visitors will enjoy the peaceful vibe, while they hike historic paths used by earlier generations who used to farm the mountains slopes, and enjoy the undisturbed flora and fauna. Aves Island. This cozy spot one of the best places on Earth to escape the cold is set between the towering Pitons, which serve as a dramatic backdrop for lounging under palm trees or taking a dip. Enter dates to see prices. The islands only structures are the five luxury beach villas and the private beach club and restaurant/bar/pool, meaning youll be surrounded by nothing but miles of untouched turquoise sea. With every new group of guests, our friendly staff lines up on the dock eager to greet them in a receiving line, says Maya Allemeersch, general manager at TIR. Who wouldnt want that kind of reception? Clapboard-cute Hope Town on Elbow Cay makes a pretty base, with its candy-striped lighthouse and picket-fenced lanes. Its certainly one of the more upmarket islands on this list, and you shouldnt expect any bargain deals on Anguilla. "The property is clean, well maintained, rooms are comfortable and quiet, and plenty of animals on property including Bebe (beautiful macaw) and a large Koi pond.". Best for doing nothingNot regarded as part of the traditional Caribbean island set, Nicaraguas Corn Islands are nonetheless indisputably in the relevant sea. 9 Secret Caribbean Resorts That Are Pure Paradise - Southern Living If a quiet, crowd-free beach in the Caribbean sounds like the perfect getaway, our luxury travel experts have come up with some inspirational suggestions for the ultimate blissful Caribbean escape. In fact, only the southwest corner, particularly the area around Grand Anse, is focused on tourism. The interior of the island features "The Bluff," a limestone outcrop that stands tall along the length of the island, which provides an abundance of caves and hidden pathways for visitors to explore. Friendly people, pristine beaches with beautiful blue waters, and lush tropical rainforests make this island spectacular. Known as The Nature Island, most of this gorgeous island is covered in tropical rainforest scattered with glorious waterfalls. Head to this tiny island to explore one of the world's brightest bioluminescent bays (where microorganisms emit a blue glow from the water), along with undeveloped beaches and unspoiled nature. 51:14. Nevis This tiny, lesser-known sister island of St. Kitts packs a lot of enchanting adventure into its 36 square miles. Best for daredevilsSome islands feel emptier because of their remoteness, while others feel undiscovered. This island is known for popular beaches like Smuggler's Cove, its luxury resorts and private villas, and its ample historical sites and museums. 10 Overlooked Caribbean Islands for Winter Escapes With mountains of rainforest and miles of tropical beaches, Martinique has a little something for everyone. | Aug. 8, 2019, at 9:00 a.m. Table of Contents 1 / 32 Credit View as article These stunning Caribbean islands will keep you busy and take your breath away. Named Isla de Aves in Spanish, (meaning "Island of the Birds") Aves Island lies west of the Lesser Antilles in the Caribbean. How to get there: Miami offers direct flights into Martinique, and ferry service is also available from Guadeloupe. I rented a beach chair and placed it under a gorgeous ancient tree, ordered a rainbow sangria from the nearest bar and did what you're supposed to do when you visit quiet Caribbean vacation spots: just chill. St Kitts & Nevis. Quiet Vacation Spots in the Caribbean | Royal Caribbean Cruises The Pitons - St Lucia. How to get there: Cat Island is accessible by flight or ferry from Nassau. St. John is the smallest of three islands that make up the, The West Indies hideaway of Barbados is lush, tropical and filled with a mix of luxury properties, family friendly hotels and. Anguilla was one of the islands that were heavily impacted during 2017s brutal hurricane season. Crown Point is the nearest town, and guests here will want a rental car to reach beaches like Pigeon Point (the islands nicest). It's very safe, and guests enjoy the laid-back, slow pace of local life. I sat by the lake in the dark and took a minute to unwind. This island boasts an array of luxury resorts and fine dining establishments along with unspoiled beaches and natural beauty you come to expect in this part of the world. How to get there: Avianca and Copa Airlines fly directly to San Andrs from Colombian cities like Barranquilla, Bogot, and Cartagena. These 30 islands can help you get away from it all with picturesque beaches and lush green foliage plus the brilliantly blue Caribbean Sea serving as your backdrop. Caribbean holidays: the best quieter islands and resorts Its capital, Funafuti, features a conservation area . Vieques is home to free-roaming horses (owned by locals) who enjoy the laid-back Caribbean life, as well as the Punta Mulas Lighthouse, the bright blue waters along the Playuela beach, and a number of boat and scuba tours for aquatic adventurers. With steep mountains and impenetrable dense vegetation, from above it appears like a chunk of the Amazon jungle floating in the ocean. We were entering Pigeon Island, an islet that used to be surrounded by water until 1972 when it was connected to the mainland thanks to a causeway. It is easily the most exclusive of the Caribbean Islands and comes with a distinctly French flavor. We offer free upgrades, free breakfasts, deals, and special benefits. While Nevis flies under the radar, those who visit once tend to return again and again, says Greg Phillip, CEO of the Nevis Tourism Authority. If you crave some peace and quiet, consider these under-the-radar Caribbean islands. Curaao Best Places to Stay Nestled between Aruba and Bonaire near the Venezuelan coast, Curaao isn't likely to experience a hurricane. The catch? In fact, it has no beaches at all. If you crave some peace and quiet, consider these under-the-radar Caribbean islands. Unlike with other boat rides in the Bahamas for which you can book a ticket, securing a spot on a passenger mail boat requires a step-by-step process. 8 top places to visit in the Caribbean - Lonely Planet Today, it's easy to reach the historic island for a dive into St. Lucia's past. Bonaire is located in the Leeward Antilles in the Caribbean Sea, just above South America but beneath the hurricane belt. The Caribbean might be best known for its beryl-blue lagoons and palm-stooped beaches, its honeymoon hotels and reggae-echoing jerk towns, but it's also something of an undiscovered surfing mecca.. Shannas Cove Resort is located on Cat Island, 130 miles southeast of Nassau. White-sand Apple Bay is a surfing hotspot where you'll find some of the best riding waves and swells in the Caribbean. No other beach is more quintessentially Aruba than Eagle Beach. 13 Best Caribbean Vacations Outside the Hurricane Belt I tried the cactus vodka because the bartender described it as being smooth with a spiny character. In a rainforest setting, this upscale ecolodge overlooks the Atlantic and is just 9 km from the Central Forest Reserve, 10 km from the geothermally heated Boiling Lake, and 42 km from Douglas-Charles Airport. The beaches on St Barts are peaceful, pristine, and white sand. 30 Beautiful Caribbean Islands to Visit Part 1 - The World's Greatest the most gorgeous pink sand beaches in the world. Its a stones throw from the protected Johnny Cay Natural Regional Park, the Cueva de Morgan hidden cave and the San Luis coast, known for its white-sand beaches and out-of-this-world snorkeling. Pull up a chair on the white sand beach, listen to island music and enjoy a giant grilled lobster as you stare at the azure sea and prepare for your next swim. The . Come with U.S. News on a tour of J.K. Place Roma. Yes, that means you could hike for hours and not see another soul. This is a good choice for families, especially with older children: activities include horse-riding on the beach, mountain-biking and, in the summer, watching turtles nesting. It is no secret that Aman Resorts is one of our favorite luxury hotel brands and Amanyara is certainly one of the best luxury hotels in the world. The Best Caribbean Islands To Avoid Tourists - Culture Trip Right off the island, snorkelersand scuba divers can explore some impressive sea life at Horseshoe Reef, as well as eerie shipwrecks at Wreck Alley. The island also has a lively dining scene that has made it something of a foodie destination in the region. Taking the mail boat in the Bahamas - Lonely Planet If you love scuba diving, then Bonairelocated in the Leeward Antilles off the coast of Venezuelais the Caribbean island for you. 30 Beautiful Caribbean Islands to Visit - U.S. News Travel Black Friday All-inclusive Vacation Deals Too Good To Miss You can in St Vincent: the 32 islands and cays of the Grenadines are a last bastion of old-school RnR, with a gentle vibe that will best suit honeymooners and romancing couples. Spending time hiking the quiet areas of Aruba to connect with both nature and these native donkeys was a highlight of my trip. We would also like to send you exclusive promotions, competitions and content from The Times and Sunday Times and selected partners. Travel the World and Haggle Like a Local. With touches like welcome gift bags left on your bed and a blissfully uncrowded beach, Curacaos Baoase Luxury Resort has a lot going for it. Guests of the Hope Town Harbour Lodge, an Ascend Hotel Collection member, can take advantage of the hotels beachfront location, as well as walk to the historic downtown area, numerous shops, and restaurants. The beaches here have the reputation of being among the top beaches in the Caribbean for their azure-colored waters and white sands. The island gets the balance just right between being geared up for holidaymakers while keeping tourism development low-key (and low-rise). How to get there: Cayman Brac is a 30-minute plane ride from Grand Cayman. Please try again. The islands main towns have just under 2000 inhabitants combined, and with little to no crime, Saba has that cozy, small-town feel. Stalagmites and stalactites hung from above and protruded from below creating a toothy, mouthy cavern. A visit to a dive shop helped me understand the conservation efforts there, and I learned how to protect this mesmerizing place while also relishing in its relaxing beauty. Want to unwind in an exotic but accessible tropical paradise? Beach at the Four Seasons Resort Nevis/Oyster. For adventure, wellness and culinary excellence, theres nowhere better than Nevis. Other than the Four Seasons Resortthe only large property on the islandthe other accommodations consist of boutique plantation resorts, such as the Golden Rock Inn. Come with U.S. News on a tour of Hotel Wailea in Maui. Only-in-Jamaica spots to visit include. Unhurried and unspoiled by mass tourism, these easy-going Caribbean islands have lashings of old-fashioned charm and are the perfect antidote to some of the region's overdeveloped and congested isles. The warm, sandy beaches and all-inclusive resorts beckon, tempting beach bums from around the world, especially those who live in colder climates. Anguilla's Sandy Island is a tiny paradise perfect for a daytrip. THE 10 BEST Quiet Resorts in Caribbean - Tripadvisor About 40 miles east of Puerto Rico, If getting away from it all is your bottom line, head to. The island is also home to more than 200 bird species, including the red-footed booby, the brown booby, and the Cayman Brac parrot. The beautiful Caribbean island of Saba (just south of St. Maarten) is mountainous, green and incredibly scenic. is far from a budget getawayits where the rich and famous go to escape. Encompassing some of the most remote islands on the planet, Tuvalu is an independent nation in the South Pacific. Prior to 1997, this particular island, located three miles off the coast of Belize, had no namebut became known as Cayo Espanto (or Horrible Island) because local fishermen believe it to be cursed. The surf can be rough on windy days . I can now say I drank a cactus. The ferry from Guadeloupe arrives right into the main village, the residents of . Two top things to do here involve going up, as in a hike to Mount Christoffel at 1,230 feet, and going down, as in diving to see one of the most famous shipwrecks in the area, the Superior Producer. Least-Crowded Islands in the Caribbean | Reader's Digest Pricing for Blue Horizon Boutique Resort. From Puerto Rico to the Grenadines, each of these islands has just the right mix of surf and sand for wannabe castaways. Curacao is also a major diving and snorkeling hub, as the waters off of its coast are home to a stunning array of reefs. That's why the region can offer all sorts, from the bombing barrel waves right down to the . The historic island of Bimini sits 50 miles off the coast of Florida, making it the closest Bahamian island to the United States. The Pitons, two famous side-by-side mountains that dominate St Lucia, are the priority calling point for most. Because of the modernization of the island, they were unable to do this safely, and the sanctuary was created to offer them a home. One of the few hotels on Vieques that actually abuts the sea, youll get amazing views, visits from wild horses, and quaint vibes galore here. Colombier Beach in St Barts (Alamy) 3. 10 Secluded Caribbean Islands to Visit | Miles Away - CheapOair While youll still find a laid-back, barefoot vibe at Harbour Village Beach Club, the hotel puts an extra layer of polish on your stay. EUGENIO CELEDON VIA FLICKR // CC BY-ND 2.0. Best Caribbean Islands For A Relaxing Vacation For the 24th consecutive year, this municipality of the Netherlands has been recognized as the No. Once known as the Spice Island, Grenada is still one of the largest producers of nutmeg in the world. And, with a population of approximately 11,000 (last reported in 2011,) there is no shortage of tranquil spots (and curious Green Vervet Monkeys). For more details about how we use your information, view our Privacy Policy. And thats precisely the point. Would you like to receive these? This sleepy island five-square miles around (with just under 2,000 year-round residents) is called The Unspoiled Queen, because its authenticity recalls what the Caribbean used to be: quiet, peaceful and quaint. How to get there: St. Maartens Juliana Airport has direct, 12-minute flights into Saba. A drive around the island was in order after my nap, so I headed north to the Crystal Caves the spooky limestone caves found deep within the heart of Grand Cayman. Ravaged by Hurricanes Irma and Maria in 2017, there was a time when it wasnt clear if Vieques would or could recover. We are no longer supporting IE (Internet Explorer) as we strive to provide site experiences for browsers that support new web standards and security practices. Anguillas tourism product is specialwe have no all-inclusives, and no mega resorts, so our tourism product is one that lends itself to the customized experiences that todays travelers seek, says Donna Banks, chairperson, Anguilla Tourist Board. Our editors and experts handpick every product we feature. Here, we recommend a handful of little-known destinations that might not have the glitz and glamour of some Caribbean hot spots, but where you'll find secluded beaches, breathtaking . Sign up to receive information about our special offers and deals. The island prides itself on its no-tan-line personal option due to the total privacy. Music For a Quiet Life by Aner Andros on Apple Music Highlights include the mountainous rainforested interior, waterfalls, foodie farm stops (nutmegs, cocoa, rum) and the capital St Georges as pretty as a postcard, with Georgian buildings rising above a natural harbour. Ferry service is also available from Kingstown. Youll also have to get here by boat, as there is no airport or nearby islands with airports. This is perhaps one of the most jaw-dropping beaches in this part of the world and for good reason. #21 Best Value of 398 Quiet Resorts in Caribbean. If you buy something through our links, Oyster may earn an affiliate commission. Each of the islands seven villas come equipped with their own private dock area, allowing for tranquil fishing, snorkeling, and splashing. If I could describe Grand Cayman in one word, it would be: cinematic. Today they offer a pure sort of tourism, a genuine hammock-under-palm-trees sort of destination. All Rights Reserved. The island was spared a direct hit during the devastating 2017 hurricane season, and is all the better for it. Trek to the Emerald Pool, Trafalgar Falls, and Victoria Falls and snorkel Champagne Reef with geothermal activity that makes the water bubble like a bath. Little Cayman is only a mile wide and 10 miles long, making it perfect for vacationers who crave a quaint, quiet getaway far from the crowds that congregate on Grand Cayman. "I would not have it any other way, it's a blessing," she told me. With its modern Caribbean decor, amazing amenities, and generous all-inclusive packages, its hard to top one of Grenadas most luxurious hotels: Spice Island Beach Resort. She's been exploring coastaldestinations around the world for more than a decade, always searching for authentic experiences toshare with her adventurous readers. Slathering yourself in a mud bath at the Sulphur Springs, then rinsing off in the warm volcanic water; hiking the Tet Paul Nature Reserve for views of the volcanic peaks and nearby Martinique and St. Vincent, and watching the sunset from your suites private terrace. Head to Dominica for crowdless beaches and days exploring the rainforest and mountains. Hotels on Bonaire are simple affairs, with a laid-back vibe and sometimes limited amenities (except, of course, for those associated with diving). Quiet Resorts in Caribbean Enter dates to find the best prices Check In / / Check Out / / Guests Popular 5 stars 103 39 All-Inclusive 4 Family-friendly 294 Property types Resorts 398 All-inclusives 248 B&Bs & Inns 4 Specialty lodgings 2 Show more Amenities Free Wifi 220 Breakfast included184 Pool 375 Free parking 341 Show all Best for footprint-free beachesWere talking a stupefying 700 frangipani-scented islands to choose from, each brimming with flour-fine beaches, glassy bays and coves framed by silver buttonwood trees. We like to say that youre only a stranger here once because our warm and welcoming people will make you feel like family. St Lucia has long been a popular choice for honeymooners, but the mountainous island has plenty of hiking opportunities to satisfy those more adventurous, too. With a population of zeroexcept for the brown-footed boobies and frigate birds that roam the half-mile areaBird Island can accommodate six guests, who can expect total privacy during this staff-free experience. Owned by famed artists Brice and Helen Marden, this property features spectacular tropical gardens and guests can book a 300-year-old sugar mill that has been transformed into a magnificent guesthouse with loft. How to get there: Flights are available from Barbados, Puerto Rico, and St. Vincent. No. The sleepy counterpart to the sister island of St. Kitts, Another honeymoon getaway, this privately owned island is home to. Jill has traveled to 36 countries and is always planning her next domestic or overseas adventure.