Planning a vacation to the Caribbean? Before you book your flight, keep in mind not all Caribbean islands are created equal. Some are the perfect backdrop for a honeymoon, while others are best suited for night owls and after-hours fun. Use this guide to pick the perfect island for you.
Romantic couple’s getaway
The thought of whisking your significant other off to the Caribbean might imply that the romance is guaranteed, but some Caribbean isles are definitely more suited for romance than others. After all, beaches filled with would-be spring breakers or sand-crazed kiddos can easily dampen the romantic mood. For an unspoiled couple’s getaway, escape to the secluded resorts of St. Lucia, where rooms offer views of pristine green hills and beautiful blue waters. Intimate resorts abound in the Grenadines, as well, where celebs and royalty retreat for romance. For a truly indulgent getaway, the British Virgin Islands will spoil you and your loved one – for a pretty penny.
Family-friendly
All-inclusive family-friendly resorts are something of a Caribbean specialty, especially in Jamaica and the Bahamas. Jamaica offers plenty of fun activities for the entire family, too: Dolphin swims in Luccea, climbing waterfalls at Dunn’s River, and ziplining through the rain forests are just a few of the family-friendly activities in Jamaica. Aruba is another island bursting with family-friendly resorts and activities, including horseback riding and water sports.
Single and ready to mingle
The Caribbean offers an island for every type of solo traveler, whether you’re looking to lay low or meet other travelers while flying solo. The tranquil beauty of Belize is perfect for the solo traveler looking to unwind, though you can still get your adrenaline rush with local ziplining tours or by climbing ancient Mayan ruins. Grand Cayman is another top choice for solo travelers, thanks to its safe atmosphere and continual influx of carefree cruisers.
Under the radar
Sometimes, you just want to relax when you’re on vacation. For the low-key Caribbean getaway, your best bets are the quiet beaches of Anguilla, the lush rain forests and cozy shores of Grenada or the tropical, undiscovered hills of St. Lucia.
Fun after dark
Looking for bars, nightclubs and dance floors to party the night away? Consider Aruba, where the locals and tourists are always ready to party, or San Juan in Puerto Rico, where you can take your pick of casinos, dance halls or bars. Expect to party until the break of dawn on weekends.
(Main image: d3bz)
