Sky-blue waters, sandy beaches, sun shining, the wind gently blowing. That’s the kind of scenery we mostly dream of, cause it seems too ideal to exist in the real world. But some places won’t disappoint even the greatest dreamers. Here’s a list of Southern Caribbean Islands, proving reality can sometimes beat the imagination.
Table of Contents
Trinidad and Tobago
Not very touristy as for the Caribbean, Trinidad and Tobago have a lot of unspoiled charm. Even though there are oil refineries and industrial areas, if you visit Trinidad and Tobago, incredible landscapes will sure draw more of your attention. Thanks to the fact tourism are not everything the islands rely on, there aren’t so many crowded places, and once you reach the wondrous regions, you can thoroughly enjoy them. Caroni Swamp, an extensive mangrove wetland, is a home for various species of birds, some of them indigenous. It’s a must-see for bird-watchers. On the North coast of Tobago, there’s the marvelous Buccoo Reef, colorful and lively, with the nylon pool (a thin layer of crystal water) on its top. You can take a ride on a glass-bottom boat to see these wonders. Tobago is one of the most vibrant of south Caribbean islands, mostly because of the annual Carnival celebrations. Each year before the Ash Wednesday, the island changes into a huge party. In April Tobago hosts a jazz festival. The event is relatively new but has quickly become an essential part of the calendar. Both Trinidad and Tobago have gorgeous beaches with powdery sand and clear-blue waters.
Barbados
The Rich culture and a bounty of natural beauty, classy resorts and small, cozy hotels, in Barbados there’s everything one needs to have a perfect vacation. Add ideal conditions for kite surfing and scuba diving, and you have not only a beach paradise, but also a great place for water sports enthusiasts. Catamaran cruises tours offer a possibility to snorkel with turtles, while fine golf courses and botanical gardens wait till you decide to step back on the land. Barbados is known for producing excellent rum, so don’t forget to have a taste of it. Mount Gay Rum is the most famous domestic brand; you can buy it in rum shops or have a drink at a bar.
St Lucia
In the north of the island, Rodney Bay offers lots of charming, romantic hotels as well as big, fanciful resorts. South of the island, on the other hand, is rather rural and mostly covered with plantations. That’s also where you should head to look for some secluded, pristine beaches. St Lucia’s landscape is made of blue waters and lush greenery, with majestic twin Pitons in the background. Gros Piton and Petit Piton are two mountainous volcanic plugs overlooking the lovely island. Saint Lucia, form all southern Caribbean islands, is the best one for a honeymoon or peaceful, but luxurious holidays. The island combines comfort with nature and a variety of activities.
Saint Vincent and the Grenadines
Do you want to spend your holidays on the beautiful southern Caribbean islands, enjoy stunning nature and unearthly views, but crowds of tourists are not your favorite thing? Saint Vincent and the Grenadines is a perfect place then. In comparison to most of the Caribbean, the country is not very popular among tourists. There are some resorts and guest-houses, just enough to make you comfortable. Saint Vincent, the main island, together with small islands and tiny islets (Grenadines), is located north of Trinidad and Tobago. Some of the Grenadine islands belong to Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, while the rest is a part of the island nation of Grenada. As for the activities offered by St Vincent, beaches take the first place. The white sand, blue waters, peaceful atmosphere, and tranquility is a real piece of Caribbean heaven to be found on Earth. For more experiences, you can hike the Vermont Nature Trail or climb the La Soufriere Volcano.
Aruba
Aruba is one of the most touristy Southern Caribbean Islands, with a variety of exotic, luxurious resorts and lots of Americans escaping winter in the United States. You surely don’t have to worry about lack of things to do or places to stay. To make holidays more enjoyable, you can always leave the resorts for a while and go exploring. The island’s capital, Oranjestad, is a lovely town to stroll. Many events take place there, such as the annual carnival celebration, Soul Beach Music Festival (three nights of outdoor concerts, mostly reggae) and Bon Bini Festival (folkloric dance and music). On the edges of the island, you can still find quiet beaches and pristine nature. The scenically located California Lighthouse in the very north of Aruba is one of the most charming places, as well as the Natural Pool (Conchi), a gorgeous pool hidden in a remote area, formed by rocks and volcanic stones. Donkey Sanctuary and Aruba Ostrich Farm guarantee some fun for children. Summing up, Aruba is a perfect place for various, comfortable holidays.
Bonaire
Bonaire is a paradise for divers and surfers. If you like one of these water sports then you should definitely go to Bonaire. Bonaire offers many accommodations especially for divers. For example, you can rent diving equipment, have bottles filled and dive with guides. You also get to know other people who love diving. Your diving vacation in a diving resort will certainly be all about diving. Make sure you buy a STINAPA E-Ticket before entering the water. This applies not only to divers, but everyone over 12 years old needs a STINAPA ticket. The reason you have to pay to enter the water is because the underwater world is a protected area. It belongs to a national park. The underwater world is so beautiful that it is okay to pay. And you have to think like this, this money is used to protect this beautiful nature for all guests who want to visit the island again.
Bonaire does not have many beautiful sandy beaches. So if you don’t like water sports, this island is less suitable. Bonaire does have a beautiful nature park where you can make an excellent tour by car. Or go for a walk to spot some animals.
In the center you will find Kralendijk, the capital of Bonaire. Kralendijk is a pleasant town where you will find nice shops, restaurants and bars.
Curaçao
Waters is surrounding the island areas intensely blue as the famous Curaçao liqueur, especially if you dive. Yes, Curaçao offers lots of fantastic diving sites, it also has beautiful, hidden beaches, lively towns, and a rich history, still speaking through the old buildings and fascinating museums. Curaçao is one of those southern Caribbean Islands that can meet the expectations of various travelers. There’s night-life for those who want to party, seclusion for those who look for silence and nature, culture for art and history-lovers and plenty of possibilities to snorkel, dive or swim. If you can’t decide what your priority is, or you want it all, then Curaçao is the best choice.
Grenada
Consisting of three bigger islands and some tiny pieces of land, Grenada is called “The Spice Island.” The name’s not accidental, as you’ll notice as soon as you arrive in Grenada. The smell of nutmeg, ginger, and cloves floats in the air, adding something unique to the atmosphere. You can not only taste heavenly dishes made with the use of these delights but also visit spice estates, gardens, plantations, and factories.
Rum and chocolates are also on the list of Grenada’s finest gems. The island is known for unique cuisine, but its landscapes and historic sites are extraordinary as well. Idyllic sandy beaches, waterfalls, lakes and tropical gardens, it’s an exotic paradise.
