Palm trees, azure ocean waves, and pristine sands, there’s plenty of reasons why travellers choose to chill out on the shores of the Caribbean’s picturesque islands. The perfect place to retreat during the northern hemisphere’s frigid winters, and an equally affable escape during the warmer summer months, the region attracts visitors year round.
Looking for the most picture perfect places to stay in the Caribbean? Here’s my guide. picture perfect places to stay in the caribbean
#1 NEVIS
Having lived on the island for the last nine months I must trump Nevis as the most idyllic island in the Caribbean. Historic sugar plantations (restored and remodelled) litter the steep slopes of the volcanic peak that dominates the landscape, and the coastline remains largely undisturbed affording visitors a true taste of rural island life.
Looking to experience the island’s rich history? Check into the Montpelier Plantation & Beach and relax amid the grounds of a once thriving plantation property. Lovingly restored it blends old and new with the vibrancy of Caribbean living to offer a luxurious island retreat.
#2 GUADELOUPE
A French overseas territory, Guadeloupe is comprised of two tropical islands separated by a strait and connected by bridges. Covered in lush sugar cane fields and verdant tropical jungles, the island is the most luxurious of the French West Indies.
From exclusive 5-star villas and resorts, to bed and breakfasts, and homestays, travellers with any budget will find a number of accommodation options on Guadeloupe. Ideal for honeymooners, families, or solo travellers this flourishing island paradise is a wonderful choice for anyone seeking a Caribbean escape.
#3 BARBUDA
The sister island to Antigua, Barbuda lies between the breathtaking sapphire waters of the Caribbean Sea and the Atlantic Ocean. If paradise is what you’re seeking on your next getaway then these small, charming powder white beaches are the place to be.
Home to only a few accommodation options, this undeveloped nirvana is the perfect place to unwind and recharge. Check into the Balinese styled Barbuda Belle and relish in the remote appeal of this island hideaway situated amongst the mangroves of the Codrington Lagoon Park.
CARIBBEAN TRAVEL GUIDES ON WANDERLUSTERS
Dreaming of an island escape? Read my Caribbean travel guides for tips and inspiration.
#4 GRENADA
Home to one of the largest producers of Nutmeg and Mace, Grenada is known as “The spice of the Caribbean”. Famous for the 2-mile stretch of immaculate white sand and tranquil waters of Grand Anse Beach, this secluded, less crowded island has everything needed for a luxurious vacation.
With five luxury hotels to choose from, two of which hold best hotel awards, Grenada’s picturesque landscapes are worthy of exploration. Picturesque, colourful towns sit aside some of the clearest, bluest water in the Caribbean, what’s not to love?
#5 BARBADOS
The “most British” of the Caribbean islands, Barbados boasts a rich history, vibrant landscape, and infectious soca beat that resonates from north to south. Affectionately known as “Little England”, afternoon tea is a ritual, cricket is the national pastime, and dressing for dinner is a firmly entrenched tradition.
Known as Barbados’ Platinum Coast, the west is home to manicured beaches, mill-pond calm ocean, and luxury resorts. Plan to stay on the west coast if you have a flexible budget and are keen to sample the very best of island life. Insider’s guide to visiting Barbados.
For the ultimate Barbadian retreat check into Cobblers Cove Hotel or the Coral Reef Club. Both properties are the epitome of West Indian elegance and offer a Caribbean charm like nowhere else on the island.
#6 CUBA
Now that it is easier for Americans to take the 90-mile trip from Florida to Cuba, the Spanish influenced island is fast becoming a popular choice for travellers searching for sun, sea, and sand. With 56 reefs, divers can immerse themselves in the thriving marinescapes that populate the shallows and beach lovers can enjoy days of discovering little known stretches of uninhabited sands.
All-inclusive hotels are all the rage here but to really experience the culture, food, and rich heritage of the island, consider staying at a locally run “casa particular” or bed and breakfast.
#7 ST VINCENT AND THE GRENADINES
With its beautiful waterfalls, lush rainforests, endless white beaches, and theatrical natural beauty, the islands of St. Vincent and the Grenadines offer a quintessential Caribbean escape. They are so perfect Disney chose them to film Pirates of the Caribbean…if that’s not a confirmation for staying there then nothing is.
Visitors to the islands can experience innumerable all-inclusive, 5-star, or homestay accommodations on any budget. Who knows, you just may see a pirate running along their shores!
Regardless of the time of year you plan to visit the shores of the Caribbean will not disappoint. Endless picture perfect views and plenty of cultural heritage can be found, the only difficulty comes in deciding which idyllic island to visit.
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Electrical safety
Remember that if you plan to travel with camera kit to photograph your trip you’ll need to make sure you have the correct electrical adaptors to charge your equipment on site.
Whether you’re looking for electrical safety information relating to Barbados, Antigua, or any of the other Caribbean islands, check out the ‘Travel Adaptors’ page on the Electrical Safety First website.
Electricity supplies worldwide can vary from anything between 100V and 240V. It can be extremely dangerous to use an electrical appliance that is rated at a voltage different from the supply.
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Do you have a favourite Caribbean Island? Leave a comment below.