Caribbean Beaches | Travel with the Crows

Caribbean

Discover the Ideal Caribbean Vacation: Tailored Tips for Midlife Adventurers

Selecting the perfect one-week Caribbean vacation is exciting but also overwhelming with so many islands, resorts, and experiences to choose from. If you’re in midlife, the priorities for your vacation might be different than when you were in your 20s or 30s. Whether you’re looking for relaxation, adventure, or a mix of both, it’s all about finding the right destination that suits your personal preferences, budget, and travel style. We love the Caribbean and have been to many of the islands. Here’s our guide to help you find the Caribbean escape that’s perfect for you.

Define Your Ideal Getaway

Before diving into specific destinations, spend time thinking about what you want from your Caribbean vacation. The Caribbean has over 700 islands, with approximately 100 or so inhabitable. These islands offer everything from luxurious resorts and all-inclusive packages to more intimate, off-the-beaten-path experiences.

Ask yourself these questions:

Do you prefer lounging on the beach or being active with water sports and excursions?
Are you looking for a romantic escape, a solo trip for self-reflection, or an adventure with friends?
Do you value luxury or is staying on budget more important to you?
Are you interested in exploring culture and local food, or are you content staying on a resort property?

Knowing your priorities will help you narrow down your choices to islands and experiences that fit your travel style.

Consider Travel Time and Accessibility

When planning a one-week vacation, travel time and accessibility matter. Direct flights from major U.S. cities can save time and hassle. Some Caribbean islands, like the Bahamas, Puerto Rico, and Jamaica, are easy to reach with multiple direct flight options, making them ideal if you want to maximize your time at the destination. For those willing to connect or spend more time in transit, islands like St. Lucia or St. Kitts offer a more remote and secluded vibe.

If you’re trying to minimize jet lag and travel fatigue, check out islands that are close to home and easy to get to, especially if you’re flying from the eastern U.S. or Canada. Destinations like the Cayman Islands or the Dominican Republic are great choices if you’re short on time but want a more exotic feel than closer destinations like Florida.

Types of Caribbean Getaways: Which One Speaks to You?

The Caribbean has something for every type of traveler. Here are a few getaway styles to consider:

a. Luxury Lovers

If your idea of a vacation is being pampered in a five-star resort with personalized service, spa treatments, and gourmet dining, islands like St. Barts, Anguilla, and Turks and Caicos are great options. These islands cater to a more upscale crowd with plenty of high-end accommodations.

Grace Bay, Providenciales, Turks and Caicos.

Recommended Islands:

St. Barts – Known for its chic vibe, this island offers luxury shopping, gourmet dining, and stunning beaches. It’s ideal for couples seeking romance and privacy.
Anguilla – A quieter, lesser-known destination, Anguilla has some of the best beaches in the Caribbean, perfect for relaxing in peace without the crowds.
Turks and Caicos – With pristine beaches and crystal-clear waters, Turks and Caicos is perfect for those who love water activities and upscale resorts.

Adventure Seekers

For the more adventurous, consider islands that offer plenty of excursions and outdoor activities like hiking, snorkeling, scuba diving, and exploring historical sites. Islands like Puerto Rico, the Dominican Republic, and St. Lucia have a wealth of adventure opportunities while still offering beautiful beaches for some relaxation time.

Saint Lucia, West Indies – Anse Chastanet Beach and the Pitons

Recommended Islands:

Puerto Rico – This U.S. territory is not only convenient (no passport needed for U.S. citizens), but it offers a mix of outdoor adventures, from hiking in El Yunque National Forest to exploring historical Old San Juan. Don’t miss the bioluminescent bays.
Cayman Islands – Famous for sites like the Kittiwake wreck and Stingray City, you will find spectacular wall dives and diverse marine life.
St. Lucia – Famous for its twin Piton mountains, St. Lucia is a great spot for those who love hiking and exploring nature. It also has stunning beaches and luxurious resorts, so you get the best of both worlds.

Laid-Back & Low-Key

If you’re looking for something more peaceful and laid-back, consider islands that are less developed and cater to travelers who enjoy nature and seclusion. These destinations often offer boutique hotels and smaller resorts for a more intimate experience.

Recommended Islands:

Nevis – This tiny, less-visited island is perfect for those who want to truly get away from it all. With a small-town charm and beautiful landscapes, Nevis is ideal for a peaceful retreat.
Grenada – Known as the “Spice Island,” Grenada offers a mix of stunning beaches, waterfalls, and rainforests. It’s less touristy than other Caribbean islands, making it perfect for a relaxing getaway.
Barbuda – Part of Antigua and Barbuda, this island is known for its pink sand beaches and low-key vibe. With few tourists and quiet surroundings, it’s ideal for unwinding in nature.

All-Inclusive Enthusiasts

For those who prefer to have everything taken care of, all-inclusive resorts can be a stress-free option. Many Caribbean islands offer a variety of all-inclusive options, allowing you to enjoy gourmet food, drinks, and activities without worrying about the final bill.

Recommended Islands:

Jamaica – With numerous all-inclusive resorts, Jamaica is perfect for those who want to experience Caribbean culture, food, and music while enjoying the ease of an all-inclusive stay. You’ll find everything from family-friendly options to adults-only resorts.
The Bahamas – Another great option for all-inclusive resorts, the Bahamas offers everything from large resorts with endless activities to smaller, more intimate properties.
Aruba – Aruba’s consistently pleasant weather makes it a top pick for all-inclusive getaways. The island’s relaxed vibe and stunning beaches provide the perfect backdrop for a week of all-inclusive pampering.

Decide on Budget and Season

Your budget will play a significant role in selecting the perfect destination. Fortunately, the Caribbean offers options for every price range. If you’re looking to splurge, opt for islands like St. Barts or Anguilla, known for their luxury resorts. If you’re traveling on a budget, consider destinations like the Dominican Republic, where there are plenty of affordable accommodations, or Puerto Rico, where U.S. citizens won’t need to factor in the cost of a passport or foreign exchange rates.

Another important consideration is the time of year you’re traveling. The Caribbean’s high season is from mid-December to mid-April, which means higher prices and larger crowds. If you’re looking for a deal, traveling during the shoulder seasons (May-June or September-October) can offer lower rates, though you’ll want to keep an eye on the weather, as hurricane season runs from June to November.

Personal Interests: Culture, Food, and More

If you’re a traveler who loves to immerse yourself in the local culture and food scene, you’ll want to choose an island that offers rich cultural experiences. Puerto Rico and Cuba are known for their vibrant cultures, music, and delicious cuisines, while the Bahamas and Barbados offer lively festivals and events throughout the year.

Foodies might enjoy destinations known for their unique culinary offerings. Jamaica is famous for jerk chicken, while the Dominican Republic has delicious street food like empanadas and fried plantains. Meanwhile, islands like St. Martin and Guadeloupe offer a blend of French and Caribbean cuisine, perfect for those looking for a gourmet experience.

Sustainable and Eco-Friendly Travel

For eco-conscious travelers, selecting a destination that focuses on sustainability is key. Some Caribbean islands have been leading the way in eco-tourism and sustainable practices. Consider destinations like Dominica, known for its focus on protecting natural resources, or St. Kitts and Nevis, which have made strides in sustainable tourism initiatives.

Conclusion

No matter your travel style or interests, the Caribbean has a destination that’s perfect for you. Whether you crave luxury, adventure, or a relaxing escape, this diverse region offers something for everyone. By considering your personal preferences, budget, and the kind of experience you’re looking for, you can plan the ideal one-week Caribbean getaway that will leave you refreshed and inspired.

Caribbean

Must-Visit Beaches in the Caribbean

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The Caribbean is home to some of the world’s most beautiful beaches, each with its own unique charm and appeal. The turquoise-clear waters, white-sand beaches, and tropical weather make the Caribbean a popular destination for beachgoers. In this post, we highlight the 10 must-visit beaches in the Caribbean. But first, let’s have a look at the various regions of the Caribbean and which islands are in which region. The breakdown of these regions is not perfect as you will read, but we hope it does provide a generalized overview.

Caribbean Regions

Numerous islands, islets, and cays make up the Caribbean, each with its own unique history, culture, and geography. Here is a brief overview of the islands in each region of the Caribbean.

Greater Antilles

The larger islands of Cuba, Haiti, the Dominican Republic, Jamaica, and Puerto Rico refer to the Greater Antilles subregion.

Lesser Antilles

The Lesser Antilles is a subregion of the Caribbean that includes the smaller islands stretching from the Virgin Islands in the north to Trinidad and Tobago in the south. We can further divide the Lesser Antilles into two groups:

Windward Islands

The Windward Islands include the islands of Dominica, St. Lucia, St. Vincent and the Grenadines, Grenada, and Martinique. For the purposes of this post, Trinidad and Tobago are grouped with the windward islands. Some people may also consider them to be geographically considered part of the southern Caribbean.

Leeward Islands

The Leeward Islands include the Virgin Islands, Anguilla, St. Martin, St. Barts, Antigua and Barbuda, Montserrat, Guadeloupe, and St. Kitts and Nevis.

Bahamas

The Bahamas is a group of islands located in the Atlantic Ocean, east of the Florida coast. Interestingly, the Bahamas is not technically a part of the Caribbean Sea. But, we consider it a Caribbean destination due to its proximity and cultural similarities.

Turks and Caicos

The Turks and Caicos Islands are a British Overseas Territory located southeast of the Bahamas.

Cayman Islands

The Cayman Islands are also a British Overseas Territory but located in the western Caribbean Sea.

Aruba, Bonaire, and Curaçao (ABC Islands)

These three islands are located off the coast of Venezuela and are part of the Kingdom of the Netherlands. Sometimes people refer to the ABCs as the Dutch Caribbean.

Barbados

Barbados is situated to the east of the Windward Islands. Some may consider Barbados to also be part of the Lesser Antilles.

The Caribbean is a large, diverse area consisting of many islands. Each one is different than another. And each island has its own must-visit beaches. The hard part is deciding where to go or where to start! We have narrowed down the list to 10, only as a place to begin!

10 Must-Visit Beaches in the Caribbean

Seven Mile Beach, Jamaica

This is one of the most famous must-visit beaches in the Caribbean. Seven Mile Beach in Negril, Jamaica, is one of the most famous beaches in the Caribbean. Fortunately, we don’t have to worry about pirates anymore, which is what made it famous initially. Now visitors go for the soft sand and calm waters.

There are several sections to this beach, each with its own vibe. You will find the western end of the beach quieter and more secluded, while the eastern end is livelier and more crowded. But, overall, this is one of the most laid-back areas of Jamaica. And, don’t miss the sunsets!

Eagle Beach, Aruba

Like many beaches in the Caribbean, Eagle Beach, on the island of Aruba, is known for its powdery white sand and crystal-clear waters. The beach is wide and spacious, providing plenty of room for visitors to spread out and enjoy the sun.

Eagle Beach is also home to several species of sea turtles, which come ashore to nest between the months of March and September. Visitors can witness these beautiful creatures in their natural habitat by joining a guided tour or simply keeping a respectful distance.

In addition to swimming and sunbathing, visitors to Eagle Beach can also enjoy snorkeling, windsurfing, and parasailing. The beach is also home to several bars and restaurants, serving delicious Caribbean cuisine and tropical cocktails.

Grace Bay Beach, Turks and Caicos

Grace Bay Beach is located on the island of Providenciales and is known for its crystal-clear turquoise waters and soft white sand. It is considered one of the most beautiful must-visit beaches in the Caribbean and the world. It has won numerous awards, including being recently named by TripAdvisor as the #1 beach in the world.

The beach is over 12 miles long and offers plenty of space for sunbathing, swimming, and other water activities such as snorkeling, scuba diving, kayaking, and paddleboarding. A barrier reef protects Grace Bay Beach which keeps the water calm and shallow. The coral reefs just off the beach are also home to a variety of marine life, including colorful fish, sea turtles, and even dolphins.

Pink Sands Beach, Bahamas

Pink Sands Beach is located on Harbour Island. True to its name, the sand is pink. This happens when particles of coral mix with the white sand. The beach is about 3 miles long and while it’s not as calm as Grace Bay Beach, the gentle waves and picturesque sunsets are sure to please everyone. The destination is popular with beach lovers, honeymooners, and those looking for a quiet and relaxing vacation.

Palm trees and other vegetation provide plenty of shade for visitors. There are also a few small beachfront hotels, restaurants, and bars along the beach, offering visitors a chance to relax and enjoy the views.

Trunk Bay Beach, US Virgin Islands

Trunk Bay Beach is located on the island of St. John in the U.S. Virgin Islands. Visitors often consider it to be one of the most picturesque beaches in the world. The sand is soft and white, the water is warm, and then there is a stunning coral reef.

A scenic overlook view of Trunk Bay, St. John, US Virgin Islands

Trunk Bay Beach is part of the Virgin Islands National Park where visitors can explore an underwater trail that takes them through a colorful coral reef. You will see a variety of marine life, including tropical fish, sea turtles, and stingrays.

In addition to swimming, snorkeling, and sunbathing, you can also hike a nature trail. The trail takes visitors through a lush forest to a scenic lookout point, offering stunning views of the beach and surrounding islands.

Facilities at Trunk Bay Beach include showers, restrooms, and a snack bar, making it a great place for a day trip from St. Thomas. Arrive early to avoid the crowds during peak season and rent a beach chair. You can also rent snorkel gear if you don’t have your own.

Magens Bay Beach, St. Thomas

We may be a tad partial but believe this is definitely one of the must-visit beaches in the Caribbean. Oh, gosh, this is such a beautiful beach! Magens Bay Beach in St. Thomas is about a mile long. It has calm waters, making it an ideal spot for swimming, paddle boarding, and other activities. The beach is also popular with snorkelers, who come to explore the nearby coral reefs and see tropical fish, sea turtles, and stingrays.

St Thomas, US Virgin Islands. A view with lush green forest and blue waters of the Magens Bay — St Thomas, US Virgin Islands. Magens Bay

One of the unique features of Magens Bay is its horseshoe shape, which helps to protect the beach from strong currents and waves. It’s not surprising to see a few motor yachts and sailboats in the harbor.

Facilities at Magens Bay include restrooms, showers, and changing rooms. There’s also a small snack bar and a gift shop selling souvenirs and beach gear. Visitors can rent beach chairs and umbrellas, or they can bring their own.

Magens Bay Beach is part of a larger park, which includes hiking trails, picnic areas, and a botanical garden.

Cane Garden Bay Beach, British Virgin Islands

Cane Garden Bay Beach is located on the island of Tortola in the British Virgin Islands and is known for its palm trees, soft white sand, and crystal-clear waters. About a mile long, this beach offers space to stretch out, relax, and enjoy the sun, sea, and sand. The beach is also popular with water sports enthusiasts, who want to kayak, paddleboard, and snorkel.

A view of Cane Garden Bay on Tortola in the British Virgin Islands

Palm trees and plenty of shaded areas line the beach, thanks to the many thatched umbrellas and beach chairs that dot the shoreline. There are several beachfront restaurants and bars that serve local cuisine and tropical drinks, making it a popular spot for both visitors and locals.

The beach includes restrooms, showers, and changing rooms. You may also see a few vendors selling souvenirs and beach gear.

Half Moon Bay Beach, Antigua

Half Moon Bay Beach is located on the eastern shore (Atlantic side) of Antigua in Saint Philip Parish. This crescent-shaped beach is about a mile long and is surrounded by lush green hills and cliffs. It offers visitors plenty of seclusion for escaping the crowds.

The waves can be quite strong at Half Moon Bay Beach, which makes it an excellent location for bodysurfing and boogie boarding. If you are looking for calmer waters, visit Jolly Beach, located on the western side of Antigua.

Facilities at Half Moon Bay Beach are limited. There is a small parking area and a few vendors selling snacks and drinks. There are no restrooms or changing rooms on the beach.

Anse Chastanet Beach, St. Lucia

Anse Chastanet Beach, on the island of St. Lucia, is a beautiful stretch of sand known for its stunning views of the Pitons. The famous Pitons are two volcanic peaks rising side by side. The area is considered a natural UNESCO World Heritage site. The views of the Pitons from Anse Chastanet Beach make it one of the most photographic spots in the Caribbean.

This beach is also home to a marine reserve, where visitors can see a variety of sea life, making the area perfect for snorkeling and diving.

You will find several high-end resorts nearby, including the Anse Chastanet Resort. In addition to the resorts, you will find a range of options for dining and bars. This is a public beach with free access and free parking. Visitors can use the nearby restroom facilities, and visit the hotel’s restaurant, dive shop, and bar.

Grand Anse Beach, Grenada

Many people consider this two-mile stretch of beach to be one of the most beautiful in the world. Located on the island of Grenada, Grand Anse Beach is easily accessible from St. George’s by water taxi, regular taxi, or public minivan.

This popular beach attracts a large number of tourists each year, including many that arrive in port by cruise ship. On these days, in particular, the beach can be a hub of activity. Still, Grand Anse is able to maintain its natural beauty and surroundings.

You will find plenty of restaurants, bars, and sunbed rentals along the beach. Recent visitors have reported aggressive sales pitches by local vendors. As in other places within the Caribbean and beyond, your best bet is to politely but firmly say “No thank you” and keep walking.

Conclusion

What is provided in this post about the must-visit beaches in the Caribbean is simply the tip of the iceberg. Many beautiful beaches stretch across the Caribbean, each with its own unique charm and appeal. Whether you’re looking for a peaceful retreat or an active vacation, we know there is a beach in the Caribbean that is perfect for you.

If you do plan to visit the Caribbean soon, make sure to read our post on travel mistakes to the Caribbean and how to avoid them!

Of course, we think one of the best ways to see the various beaches is by sailboat. The Moorings is our company to use for sailboat rentals in the Caribbean. If you need advice locating the perfect Caribbean beach or planning a getaway, let us know. We are happy to help you plan your next visit to the Caribbean!

Caribbean

Find Your Perfect Caribbean Getaway

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There is more to the Caribbean than sun, sand, and tropical drinks. The region is made up of many distinctive islands, each with its own culture, cuisine, and activities. From the Mayan ruins to the vibrant nightlife of Nassau’s Atlantis, the Caribbean is an amalgamation of unique experiences waiting for you to explore. We hope that by sharing our personal insights, we will help you find your perfect Caribbean getaway.

The Caribbean is one of our favorite places to visit. The warm waters and distinct locales call us to return year after year. We can’t say that one location is better than another. But, certainly, there are a few islands we have visited numerous times. When I think about why we return again and again to those destinations it is primarily because of the people, the culture, and the cuisine.

But, enough about us! Let’s examine a few stunning destinations to help guide you in creating the perfect Caribbean getaway.

Aruba

Aruba is 1 of 3 islands located off the coast of Venezuela that is part of the Kingdom of the Netherlands. These 3 islands, Aruba, Bonaire, and Curaçao, are sometimes referred to as the Dutch Caribbean and also as the ABC Islands.

You may also have heard Aruba referred to as ‘One Happy Island’. I don’t know about you, but this brings a smile to my face. This small island has a reputation for being a welcoming and joyful place for travelers to visit. It is an ideal vacation spot for the entire family, solo travelers, honeymooners, and LGBTQ travelers.

Travelers are often concerned with hurricanes that may disrupt their Caribbean vacation plans. This is especially between the months of May and November. But, it’s good to know that Aruba has the lowest precipitation levels among the 700 Caribbean islands. And, its location is beyond the hurricane zone, which generally ensures a pleasant climate throughout the year.

Aruba offers exciting diving opportunities. There is also Flamingo Island, a sanctuary for donkeys, and a choice of 40 pristine beaches. Aruba will effortlessly tick all the boxes for tourists. On top of that, the island speaks four languages, namely Papiamento, Dutch, English, and Spanish, which makes it a friendly and hassle-free destination for visitors to navigate.

The island also boasts a low crime rate. This is because Aruba has a stable political climate, and a strong economy, which contributes to its overall sense of security and stability. Safety is a major factor for travelers right now so visiting Aruba may be the perfect Caribbean getaway choice for you.

Mexico

Quintana Roo is a state in the eastern part of the Yucatan Peninsula in Mexico, that borders the Caribbean Sea to the east. Like many U.S. citizens, we have made numerous visits to Quintana Roo. We traveled there certainly because the beaches are beautiful, but also because the time required to travel there was minimal.

Twenty-five years ago Cancun proper was still making a name for itself. And, beyond Cancun to the south, there was very little activity. Now, this region is packed with a wide range of resorts, hotels, and attractions, from the secluded Tulum ruins to the lively Cancun clubs.

Cancun’s Zona Hotelera is a bit crowded. You might want to explore further south towards Playa Del Carmen and beyond. You will still find spacious luxury resorts, but also charming boutique hotels, tranquil stretches of beach, and captivating ruins with a rich history.

Safety is an issue to be concerned about when visiting Quintana Roo and many other areas of Mexico. We have personally never experienced any issues, but at the present, the U.S. State Department has issued a Level 4 to Quintana Roo, which means Do Not Travel.

If you do decide to visit the area, however, here are a few tips to keep safe:

Be aware of your surroundings
Use reputable transportation
Avoid excessive drinking
Look for places with good reviews and ratings
Stay informed of potential safety risks or travel advisories.

Occasionally, hurricanes are a problem in this area during the summer and fall months. We recommend purchasing travel insurance just in case you need to make last-minute changes to your getaway.

If you want to learn more about Cancun or perhaps want to explore the Pacific Ocean side of Mexico, check out this blog post.

Bahamas

The Bahamas span over 100,000 square miles and boast some of the best beaches imaginable. The closest point in the Bahamas to Miami, Florida is only about 50 miles (80 kilometers) away. The country is made up of an archipelago of more than 700 islands and cays. This offers visitors an array of experiences, from the capital city of Nassau to the picturesque Eleuthera. You might want to swim alongside friendly pigs in Exuma. Or enjoy a fish fry at Arawak Cay, or dive into the barrier reef surrounding Andros.

The Bahamas has a tropical climate with warm temperatures year-round, with the average high temperatures ranging from 75°F (24°C) in January to 89°F (32°C) in August. The coral reefs make the Bahamas a popular getaway for scuba diving and snorkeling.

One of our favorite Caribbean foods is Conch, which is the national dish of the Bahamas. Similar to calamari, Conch meat can be prepared in several ways, but Conch fritters are a must-try in our books!

Atlantis, located in Nassau, is the place to visit if you are looking for 24-hour excitement and entertainment. This mega-resort includes five distinctive hotels, a dolphin habitat, a marine park, a 141-acre waterpark, a casino, a marina, a golf course, a theater, and a shopping mall. It is highly recommended for families, honeymooners, and solo travelers.

Hurricanes also make their way across the Bahamas, so be prepared if you travel during hurricane season. It is also important to stay alert and follow common sense when it comes to safety.

Belize

Belize is a small country located in Central America. It is bordered by Mexico to the north, Guatemala to the west and south, and the Caribbean Sea to the east. The capital of Belize is Belmopan. But, the primary tourist spot is Belize City, located on the coast.

If you are interested in a Caribbean getaway, you will want to experience the beautiful beaches, coral reefs, and diverse marine life. This region is home to many small islands, known as Cayes, and several coastal towns and villages. One of the most popular destinations is the island of Ambergris Caye, located just off the coast of Belize City.

Ambergris Caye

Ambergris Caye is known for its beautiful beaches and snorkeling and diving opportunities. Visitors can take a boat tour to the Hol Chan Marine Reserve. Here you will see a variety of marine life, including sea turtles, rays, and sharks. Renowned for hosting the second-largest barrier reef globally, Belize attracts divers, snorkelers, and biologists year-round who visit to discover its diverse ecosystem and UNESCO World Heritage sites scattered across the island.

Another popular destination on the Caribbean side of Belize is the town of Placencia. Placencia is located in the southern part of the country. It is known for its long, sandy beach and laid-back vibe. And is a popular spot for travelers looking to unwind and relax. Take a boat tour to the Silk Cayes Marine Reserve where you can snorkel or dive among coral reefs and see a variety of marine life.

Although the likelihood of a hurricane making landfall in Belize is relatively low, the country is still located in the hurricane belt. It is important for visitors to be aware of the potential risks. and to take necessary precautions. In terms of safety, Belize is generally considered a safe country to visit. However, be aware of petty criminal activities, such as theft and pickpocketing. Keep valuables in a safe place, be aware of your surroundings, and avoid walking alone at night.

Jamaica

Jamaica is the third-largest English-speaking country in the Americas, following the United States and Canada. It is one of the countries we have visited numerous times over the years. The island’s rhythm is palpable through its reggae music, jerk chicken, and delicious rum punch!

Negril

If soaking up the beach is high on your priority list, we strongly recommend you visit Negril and stay on or near Seven Mile Beach. This beach is one of the most famous beaches in the Caribbean. Incredibly beautiful, the beach is divided into several sections, each with its own vibe. The western end of the beach is quieter and more secluded, while the eastern end is livelier and more crowded. Visitors can enjoy a variety of activities, including swimming, sunbathing, snorkeling, parasailing, and jet skiing.

In Negril, you will also not want to miss the stunning sunsets. As the sun sets over the Caribbean, the sky is painted in shades of orange, pink, and purple, creating a stunning backdrop for an evening stroll along the beach.

Ocho Rios

Another option is to visit Ocho Rios, which is on the opposite side of the island. This area has a different vibe but is just as beautiful. Besides lying on the beach, you will want to visit Dunn’s River Falls & Park. The highlight is climbing the falls so bring appropriate footwear if you plan to make the climb. Over the years the area has expanded and now includes a zipline, a beach for lounging, a kid’s splash pad, and nature trails for hiking.

In addition to the potential for hurricanes, you should also be aware of other safety concerns. The country has a high crime rate, particularly in urban areas such as Kingston and Montego Bay. Take precautions such as staying in well-lit and populated areas, not carrying large amounts of cash or valuables, and avoiding wearing flashy jewelry or clothing. As I said, we have traveled there many times, and honestly, we have never had a problem, but we know other visitors have.

If you are interested in Jamaica, we highly recommend you read our blog post entirely on finding the best getaway spot in Jamaica.

Dominican Republic

The Dominican Republic is located two hours south of Miami. It is a treasure trove of natural wonders, with national parks, rivers, beaches, and ancient relics. While popular tourist destinations like Punta Cana and Puerto Plata are a great way to unwind, there’s so much more to discover in this vibrant country.

During the winter mating season, Samana Bay comes alive as thousands of humpback whales come to play. Santo Domingo, the capital, is one of the oldest cities in the Caribbean, with a charming walled historic core known as the Zona Colonial, where you can find buildings dating back to the 1500s. Meanwhile, Barahona, often referred to as ‘the Caribbean’s Bride’, boasts some of the most stunning beaches and landscapes in the region, and an array of outdoor adventures thanks to its diverse ecosystem.

Like other islands in the hurricane belt, it is important to be prepared if you choose to visit the Dominican Republic during hurricane season. You might remember the country was hit hard in 2017 by both Hurricane Irma and Maria.

The country has a high crime rate, particularly in urban areas such as Santo Domingo and tourist destinations such as Punta Cana so stay alert. The Dominican Republic has also been in the news in recent years due to reports of illnesses and deaths of tourists from causes such as food poisoning and drinking tainted alcohol. Be cautious when consuming food and drinks and only patronize reputable establishments.

Nearly all these islands in the Caribbean have the potential for hurricanes and safety concerns are important to consider anywhere you travel. However, these islands remain popular getaway destinations for travelers. The beaches are beautiful, the culture is vibrant, and there are natural attractions everywhere.

Conclusion

Are one of these islands the perfect Caribbean getaway? If not, well, the good news is that these islands only represent the tip of the iceberg when it comes to the Caribbean!

I’d love to chat more about finding your perfect Caribbean getaway tropical vacation! Feel free to reach out to me: travelwiththecrows@gmail.com.