The Caribbean Islands have always been surrounded by an air of enigma. And while quite a few islands have been explored by many, there remains a lot that is yet to be explored to its full potential.
From a hidden cave that shines Prussian blue when sunshine hits it to jungle-wreathed mountains that tower high above the clouds, these 5 islands are the Caribbean’s best-kept secrets.
1. Anguilla
Edged with shimmering white-sand seashores shaded by coconut hands and sea-grape trees, Anguilla is the perfect island. Add to it colourfully painted, open-sided seaside bars serving scorching barbecues, feisty rum punches, and engaging, live reggae tunes, Anguilla is the Caribbean dream come true.
The eastern ends feature crystal-clean water and colourful reefs, which provide brilliant snorkelling locations, glass-bottomed kayaking spots, and cruising to other islets.
The 33 seashores, totalling 12 miles of powdery white sand is a delight on their own. And even if there is no bad choice, some All-time favourite spots include Little Bay in The Valley, Meads Bay and Shoal Bay East. For food fanatics, B&D’s BBQ in Meads Bay is a must-visit.
Anguilla is not just another shoestring vacation spot. With its range of luxury lodges and personal villas, it caters well to jet-setters yearning for an off the radar holiday.
2. Curacao
With its pleasant Dutch-colonial architecture, breathtaking artwork, culinary scenes and great museums, Curaçao might remind you of Europe. But this tiny island at the brink of the Caribbean is a treasure trove of wonderful, well-hidden beaches. Apart from that, its beautiful caves, first-rate snorkelling and diving spots, and a wild, undeveloped windward coast consisting of the periphery of prickly cacti and blue whiptail lizards make it a definite hidden gem.
Additionally, Curaçao has a surging financial system past tourism. Ergo, the town of Willemstad has factories, neighbourhoods and once in a while awful traffic. Catering to site visitors isn’t the number one purpose here, which lends the island greater authenticity than its buddies generally tend to offer.
So if you’re searching out a Caribbean vacation spot that’s busy putting its very own pace – an area wherein the adventuring tends to be a piece unbridled – Curaçao is proper for you.
Curaçao’s most majestic marvel is a hidden cave called the Blue Room. Located on the western shore, it is best reachable through the sea route. It features a beautiful phenomenon, wherein one can see sunrays refracting off the water’s floor. This turns the whole cave a stunning shade of Prussian blue. Navigating the cave may turn out to be a bit tricky, so a boat or snorkel is recommended.
For eating options, one can visit Jaanchie’s at the West End, Pop’s Place in Southeast Willemstad and Caña Bar & Kitchen in Willemstad.
3. St. Kitts and Nevis
This alluring two-island state combines quite a few splendid seashores with outstanding mountains, land and water sports, and rich history. The local tradition pleasantly revolves around striking out, drinking and communicating.
But if the twin islands provide a whole lot that’s similar, they vary in details. St Kitts is a bit onto the commercial side, from the fast-paced Basseterre and its big Port Zante to the celebration strip and accommodations of Frigate Bay.
Across the Narrows, a serene, tranquil Nevis awaits you. A better package for tourists than its partner, the island is anchored through a volcanic mountain, surrounded by a cluster of incredible seashores, with its tiny, colonial capital, Charlestown.
Both islands, however, have stunning trekking trails; While St Kitts has Mt Liamuiga, Mt Nevis is the mountain the other island is named after. Popular spots for traditional delicacies include The Gin Trap Bar & Restaurant in Northern Nevis and El Fredo’s in Basseterre.
4. Guadeloupe
An archipelago of over 12 radiant islands, Guadeloupe is a diverse region to visit, featuring everything from abandoned seashores to jungle-festooned mountains. The country’s fundamental islands appear like the wings of a butterfly, joined by multiple bridges and a mangrove swamp.
In the eastern end encompassing a couple of islands, the Grand-Terre has a string of seaside cities that provide world-class facilities to visitors, with beautiful stretches of sand to laze on and lots of activities.
As the “mainland” of this island, Marie-Galante, Les Saintes and La Désirade – all small offshore islands – provide visitors with a flavour of the island’s glory days. Popular seashores include Grande Anse and Plage de Los Angeles.
5. Martinique
Martinique is a mountainous island featuring rocky terrain, topped off by a still-fuming Mont Pelée, the volcano that famously worn out the previous capital of St-Pierre.
Offering a variety of landscapes and atmospheres, Martinique is an amazing island that boasts top-class beaches, top-notch hiking, first-rate culinary experiences, a tremendous array of sports and vibrant cultural life.
Avoid the engrossing capital of Fort-de-France and head north or south via any of the island’s fascinating routes. The rainforest of the north is the lovelier option, however, the south has its fair share of natural wonders and miles of splendid beaches.
Dining options include, but are not limited to, Le Fromager or Le Guérin, Le Vieux Foyal in Fort-de France, and St-Pierre or Ti Payot in Les Anses d’Ariet. Don’t neglect a pitcher of Ti-punch – a delightful mixture of rum, lime and cane syrup.
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