Ready for a tropical getaway, but not sure where to go? Mexico’s Cozumel and Cancun are beautiful, but if you are ready to see more of the Caribbean, we’ve got your travel inspiration ready. From pink sand beaches to barrier reefs, these six spots have so much to offer.
St. Lucia
Disney fans will enjoy lounging on the white sand beaches at Marigot Bay and keep your eye out for the natural arch made famous in Pirates of the Caribbean: The Curse of the Black Pearl.
For the adventurers, head to the Pitons, two mountainous volcanic spires which offer phenomenal views and hiking. Or the more adventurous can try ziplining through the rainforest canopies near St Lucia’s capital city, Castries.
Belize
Discover blue waters, green mountains, and pristine beaches in this Caribbean paradise. The 25-kilometre-long golden sand coast is home to luxury resorts.
Or pack your snorkelling gear and see a 10,000-year-old barrier reef off the Belize coast. It spans nearly 300 kilometres, making it the second largest in the world.
One of the best ways to discover Belize from the sea and land with Royal Caribbean Cruises. On board, choose from adventures like river tubing through limestone caves and past waterfalls, or trek along ancient Mayan ruins.
Antigua
This stunning Caribbean spot boasts a beach for every day of the year. That’s right, Antigua has 365 beaches. Whether you want to party in the sand, or build sandcastles with your little ones, Antigua has a beach for that.
Away from the beaches, visit Shirley Heights for stunning panoramic views of the island. A restored military lookout, Shirley Heights is also home to a weekly Sunday party that draws tourists and locals alike. Enjoy views of the sunset with a barbecue and local music.
Barbuda
Antigua’s sister island Barbuda is a laid-back island paradise. The lesser-known island is home to gorgeous beaches and lagoons. A must see is 17 Mile Beach, noted for its clear waters and pink-tinged sands.
For avid birders, visit the Frigate Bird Sanctuary in Codrington Lagoon. Located close to the main settlement on the island, the lagoon is accessible by boat and stretches along the west coast of Barbuda.
Grand Cayman
Discover Grand Cayman with Celebrity Cruises. Book an excursion to the Queen Elizabeth II Botanic Park, home to the rare blue iguanas. Or, for the ultimate marine life experience, book an excursion to Stingray City Sandbar. Meet and pose for pictures with the local marine life, including friendly stingrays.
While in Georgetown check out the beautiful Seven Mile Beach with its white sand, brilliant blue waters, and coral reefs. If you’d rather see the marine life from a distance, book an Oculus Glass Bottom Boat excursion. The 45-minute tour lets you explore shipwrecks and the reef without getting wet.
Turks and Caicos
This archipelago nation is home to amazing beaches and marine wildlife. Visit Salt Cay in the winter for the chance to witness humpback whales as they migrate to the shallow waters near Turks and Caicos.
For beach lovers, Turks and Caicos is home to some of the best beaches in the Caribbean. Visit the world-famous Grace Bay Beach. With soft white sand beaches and spectacular snorkelling around the coral reef, Turks and Caicos needs to be on your Caribbean bucket list.
Escape to paradise
Sunseekers speak with a CAA Travel Consultant for expert advice on which tropical destination is best for you. Visit bookcaa.ca or call 1-800-705-1803 for more information.