Caribbean Gems that Fly Under the Radar
When asked to name a favorite Caribbean destination, most would be quick to say the usual (fabulous!) suspects: Jamaica, Bahamas, Saint Barts, etc. While those should and do get all the deserved love, there are some lesser known but just as pristine islands in the Caribbean you should look into next time you want to truly escape. Below are our top five.
Vieques and Culebra
Known as Puerto Rico’s Best Kept Secret, the nearby islands of Vieques and Culebra are just a short boat ride away from the mainland and the most readily accessible of the islands we will focus on today. Perfect for a day trip if you are staying in Puerto Rico or for an extended stay, these islands are secluded, lush and offer excellent water activities such as snorkeling, diving, and kayaking. Vieques is home to Mosquito Bay, the brightest bioluminescence effect in the world , so make sure you book an evening kayak tour while visiting.
Vieques and Culebra, Puerto Rico
Iles de Saintes
Dreaming of some French sophistication without taking an international flight? The island of Iles de Saintes (commonly referred to as Les Saintes) is a Caribbean island with a French feel: Oui, s'il vous plaît! One of seven islands in the archipelago of Guadeloupe, Iles de Saintes boasts white sand beaches, sailing and boating opportunities, and French and Creole bistros dotting the shoreline to enjoy while watching picture perfect sunsets. Truly heaven on earth.
Iles de Saintes, Guadeloupe
Canouan
Less than 4 square miles large but home to a massive coral reef, Canouan is one of the 32 islands that make up St Vincent and the Grenadines. Canouan means “The Island of Tortoises” and you will spot many in their natural habitat across the landscape. The easy lifestyle of the island and almost otherworld feel, as well as some amazing accommodations such as the Mandarin Oriental Canouan, earns Canouan a top spot on our list.
Canouan Island, St Vincent and the Grenadines
Saba
A part of the municipality Kingdom of Netherlands since 2010, the small island of Saba is made up of four main villages: The Bottom, Windwardside, Zion’s Hill, and St Johns. Nicknamed “The Unspoiled Queen of the Caribbean”, the island is known for its natural ecotourism. If you are interested in diving, the island offers some of the best in the world with over 150 species of fish to be observed. About as untouched as you can get in paradise, Saba might be perfect for you if you truly want to see the Caribbean in its natural state.
Saba, Kingdom of Netherlands
Jost Van Dyke
A true gem in the British Virgin Islands, Jost Van Dyke attracts docked boaters and those coming for day trips from other nearby Caribbean Islands, giving it a lively, beach party feel; although, you can most certainly stay for an extended visit at one of the beautiful resorts and villas on the island. If you are only there as a day-tripper, dock at White Bay Beach on Jost Van Dyke and stroll along the beach, stopping at well-known beach bars The Soggy Dollar and Seddy’s One Love for painkillers and people watching. I was lucky enough to visit here in March of 2022 and cannot wait to go back someday! It is an absolute “Must-Do” in the Caribbean!
White Bay Beach, Jost Van Dyke, British Virgin Islands
These five glimpses into paradise have me contemplating my next trip! How about you? Have you traveled to the Caribbean? If you haven’t and are ready to experience beauty unlike any other or have and are dreaming of returning to a beach lover’s haven, look into one of these lesser known islands. We are always here to help you plan your next getaway!
