Top Caribbean Resorts

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.

Getting there

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.

Imagine swimming to the edge of your in-room infinity pool and gazing outward. You see an unparalleled panoramic view of the Caribbean Sea surrounding the lush Piti and Gros Piton mountains. This is St. Lucia’s Jade Mountain resort. This is your dream come true.

Words can’t do justice to this breathtaking island sanctuary, situated on the southwest coast of one of the most beloved Caribbean islands. Simply put, this adult-only luxury resort offers you a truly unmatchable experience. Upon arrival, you’ll be whisked away to one of 24 rooms – Star, Moon or Sun Infinity Pool sanctuaries or a Sky Suite. All rooms feature infinity pools or Jacuzzis, 15-ft. ceilings and, here’s the kicker – no fourth wall, giving you a complete view of the island, mountains and sea. The bathrooms are part of the open-floor plan, making your shower and bath time views just as enjoyable as the view from your king-size bed. Once you get over the initial shock of the beauty of your room, check out the rest of the resort. Dine on the elite Jade Cuisine in Jade Mountain Club, stroll the expansive grounds and stop by Kai en Ciel, Jade Mountain’s boutique spa and fitness studio.

Highlights

The resort is techno-free. There are no TVs, radios or Internet access in the sanctuaries. Guests are encouraged not to use cell phones in public.

Getting there

Jade Mountain is located on St. Lucia, 18 miles from the Hewanorra International Airport and 30 miles from the inter-island Vigie Airport. Taxi and helicopter services can be arranged.

Fun facts

Jade Mountain architect and owner Nick Troubetzkoy owns the neighboring Anse Chastenet resort and offers guests access to both resorts’ amenities.

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.

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.

Which do you prefer: stepping into a warm, bubbling tub of water enclosed by a secluded cave or jumping from a platform carved from a cliff and into wavy turquoise waters? At The Caves Resort, you don’t have to choose. This Negril luxury resort is your ultimate Caribbean destination.

Situated on 10 acres of lush landscape on the west end of Jamaica, The Caves Resort is made up of 12 cliffside accommodations, ranging from one-bedroom cottages like the One Drop with its A-frame and inset couch overlooking the ocean to a four-bedroom, five-bathroom deluxe villa like the thatch-roofed Clandestino. Handcrafted, one-of-a-kind artwork, nightly turn-down service and refrigerators stocked with beverages, coffees and teas will help you feel relaxed and rightly pampered. But if your luxury cottage and villa amenities aren’t enough, you’ll definitely get some R and R at the seaview Aveda Amenity Spa, recently voted one of the Top Five Jamaican Spas by Ocean Magazine. A saltwater swimming pool, yoga classes and guided snorkeling tours will only heighten your mood. Spend an unforgettable night sipping on The Cliffhanger, the resort’s signature cocktail, and dine on authentic Jamaican cuisine in comfortably-furnished natural caves and cliff-side alcoves. We promise, you won’t want to leave!

Highlights

The Aveda Amenity Spa offers a variety of facial and body treatments in unique settings, like poolside, oceanside and in a secluded cave.

Getting there

The Caves Resort is a one-hour car ride from the airport in Montego Bay and 15 minutes from the Negril Aerodrome. Ground transportation can be arranged directly with the resort.

Fun facts

The Caves Resort sits on fossil-ridden cliffs created by ancient volcanic activity.

Peter Island Resort offers plenty, but it doesn’t have everything. It doesn’t have a single parking lot, greasy fast food restaurants or noisy TVs. Most importantly, it never has a guest who wants to leave. Which makes sense, considering its 1,800 private acres of uninhibited island beauty.

As the largest private island in the British Virgin Islands, Peter Island has a lot to work with. Miles of hiking trails, 20 secluded coves and five white sand beaches make for a true island getaway. Deadman’s Bay, the resort’s biggest and most impressive beach, is lined with swaying coconut palm trees and fringes calm waters that are perfect for windsurfing, sailing and snorkeling. Nearby are the tennis courts, watersports pavilion and fitness center, as well as the Beach Bar and Grill. Let’s not forget about the top-notch accommodations. Choose from an Ocean View Room with private balconies and garden patio access to the resort’s sparkling, oversized pool, or the Beach Front Suites overlooking Deadman’s Bay complete with a hammock. For larger groups, private villas ranging from three to six bedrooms are an option. You can even arrive by your own yacht and store it at the resort’s 15-slip marina!

Highlights

The resort offers a 10,000-square-foot luxury spa with suites that include private veranda patios and large deep plunge hydrotherapy soaking tubs.

Getting there

The best way to fly to the British Virgin Islands from North America is via San Juan, Puerto Rico (SJU). Guests visiting from Europe can fly nonstop direct to Antigua daily on major carriers.

Related Onsite Offerings

Snorkeling, SCUBA diving, sportfishing, hiking, St. Thomas shopping, helicopter tours and daily island tours.

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 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.

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.

Discover the unique and unforgettable destination of the Turks and Caicos when you stay at East Bay Resort. Located on stunning white-sand shores overlooking the turquoise waters of the Atlantic Ocean, this Caribbean retreat beings together unparalleled luxury and endless activities for the most memorable vacation you will ever have.

Sink your toes in the sand and soak up the sun, experience some of the best adventures in the waves including kayaking, paddle-boarding, and fishing, or dive under the surface to explore the magical sea life on a snorkeling trip. Onsite you will find 86 beachfront suites and 16 traditional rooms, all with incredible views and modern amenities to make you feel right at home.

Address

1 Fourth Street, South Caicos, South Caicos TKCA 1ZZ

Highlights

Families looking to get away from it all are in for the time of their lives at East Bay Resort. This fantastic Caribbean retreat rests along the shores of the Atlantic Ocean, and offers not only luxurious accommodations but exciting activities that the kids and the kids-at-heart are sure to love. Learn how to stand-up paddle-board, kite surf the waves, or cast your line on a deep-sea fishing trip. The options are endless!

Related activities

As home to the third largest coral barrier reef in the world, Turks and Caicos is a popular Caribbean diving retreat. A diving experience here features great visibility up to 100-feet, incredible underwater "walls," and normally calm seas that make transportation to diving locations a breeze.