Spring Break in the Caribbean (Woo!)
Some things are classic for a reason, and one of those things is spring, on the beach, in the Caribbean. While you’re technically allowed to travel to other parts of the world for spring break, sugar sand beaches, butler service, glass-clear waters, and a rum punch are all points in the “Why would you?” column. Read on for some of our all-time favorite Caribbean hotels - after all, if it ain’t (spring) broken, don’t fix it.
For the Best Beaches
Anguilla
A 16-mile stretch of pure Caribbean paradise, Anguilla is all about R&R. Not for the stir-crazy, Anguilla is a destination to set down your bags, kick up your feet, and lay on the beach -- there are 33 to choose from, after all. With friendly locals, a surprisingly diverse dining scene, and storied hotels, Anguilla is a dream beach vacation, come to life. The island's rich cultural heritage is evident in its vibrant festivals and delicious fusion cuisine, but what truly sets Anguilla apart is its laid-back, friendly atmosphere. Flip-flops are the footwear of choice, and time moves to the rhythm of reggae. Whether you're enjoying a beachfront barbecue, dancing to live music, or simply basking in the gentle sea breeze, Anguilla's welcoming vibe ensures you leave feeling relaxed and rejuvenated.
Where to Stay: Cap Juluca, a Belmond Hotel
Anguilla’s most iconic property, Cap Juluca became a member of the Belmond family in 2018. Revived by the art of Belmond hospitality, the hotel looks better than ever, with interior décor that reflects its iconic Moorish exteriors and Caribbean locale. Arabasque tiles and lantern pendants are meticulously mixed with navy damask and flaxen ropework to create a look that’s uniquely Cap Julucan. Outside, the marshmallow-white sand of Maundays Bay stretches in a perfect crescent, as palm trees strung with hammocks create the quintessential island vibe. On-site dining includes a decades-old island institution, an upscale Italian eatery inspired by the Belmond’s sister property in Venice, and a toes-in-the-sand beach bar that's perfect for sunset cocktails.
For Activities
Dominican Republic
Sharing the island of Hispaniola with Haiti, the Dominican Republic was “discovered” by Christopher Columbus in 1942, and attracts visitors for its huge diversity of natural resources. The mountainous island has white-water rapids, rain forests full of wild orchids, fences of multicolor bougainvillea, and, of course, gorgeous beaches. Like nearby Cuba and Puerto Rica, the DR has a vibrant, Spanish culture that gives it a little more flair than many other Caribbean islands.
Where to Stay: Amanera
No, this isn't Sri Lanka, or Thailand, or Indonesia. This is the Dominican Republic. If you're feeling like your eyes have betrayed you then you clearly haven't been to Amanera yet. Located on the DR's wild northern coast, where the Rio San Juan meets the Atlantic, Amanera is housed within the Playa Grande Resort, an untouched jungle paradise known for top notch golf and -- you guessed it -- a really big beach. In typical Aman fashion, the resort offers activities like medicinal walks and mangrove kayak tours, but if you ask us, the best spot in the house is on the glorious golden sand, morir soñado in-hand.
For the Best Vibes
Jamaica
Originally defined by glamorous sun-seekers such as Ian Fleming, Elizabeth Taylor, and Richard Burton, Jamaica was known as posh retreat during the mid-twentieth century. However, an alliance with Cuba during the Cold War took it off a short list of chic places for the American elite and headlines of poverty and unrest unfortunately continued for decades to come. But recently, a stylish crowd has discovered Jamaica all over again, returning to the iconic properties that made the culturally vibrant island so desirable in the first place.
Where to Stay: Goldeneye
Seduced by Jamaica's sublime golden light, creatives of all kinds have flocked to GoldenEye for decades -- this is where Ian Fleming wrote "Casino Royale," where Sting composed "Every Breath You Take," and where Chris Blackwell founded Island Records...just to name a few. Luckily you don't have to be an acclaimed novelist or multi-platinum artist to be seduced by this corner of paradise. In fact, once you knock back a few Red Stripes and take a moonlight dip off Santa Maria Island, you'll start realizing why Jamaica seems like the answer to it all.
For History
Nevis
Just to the west of Puerto Rico sits Nevis, a thirty-six square mile island where all 12,000 residents seem to know each other. Although the island is small, its tropical vibe is rich with charm. The island boasts one of the largest orchid collections in the Caribbean and the locals are some of the kindest people you will ever meet. Enjoy the gorgeous beaches and range of activities at this quintessential Caribbean retreat.
Where to Stay: Four Seasons Nevis
A luxury mainstay on the low-key island of Nevis, the Four Seasons embodies the liming spirit of the island, where buildings rise as tall as palms and rum shacks line windswept beaches. Welcoming guests since 1991, the resort has managed to fly under the radar of Caribbean travelers for decades -- and regulars would like to keep it that way. The beloved property, sprawled across acres of lush greenery fronting the white sands of Pinney's Beach, feels like an ode to yester-year Caribbean, with its gingerbead-trimmed Great House and pastel-hued guest rooms. Popular with families thanks to a robust roster of on-site activities and villa-style accommodations, the Four Seasons keeps guests occupied with an 18-hole Robert Trent Jones course, Peter Burwash courts, outdoor movie screenings, poolside yoga classes, island tours, and sweet introductions to local traditions, like Dominoes lessons.
For Ease of Access
Nassau, Bahamas
Steeped in a legacy of piracy and British colonial influence, the city offers a charming blend of pastel-hued colonial architecture and a spirited Bahamian culture. Known for its postcard-perfect beaches, Nassau beckons visitors with pristine shores, exceptional snorkeling and diving, and lively Junkanoo festivals. Local cuisine delights the senses, with conch salad and fried fish among the highlights. Explore the historic streets of downtown Nassau, visit iconic landmarks, and shop for authentic Bahamian crafts at the Straw Market. Nassau's physical beauty spans from Cable Beach to the unspoiled Clifton Heritage Park, and boat trips to the Exuma Cays offer unique encounters with swimming pigs. In Nassau, you'll discover a vibrant island vibe, where reggae rhythms and warm smiles infuse your days with the essence of the Bahamas.
Where to Stay: Rosewood Baha Mar
The most sophisticated hotel in the Baha Mar complex, the Rosewood Baha Mar is an exclusive enclave, where guests come to relax in quiet surrounds. The 237 room property features elegant décor reminiscent of a Bahamian estate, with colonial toile wall coverings, decorative coral, and woven straw accents. From the stately lobby, a grand lawn stretches toward the ocean, where terraced pools are surrounded by cushioned lounge chairs and white cabanas. Two restaurants and a swanky Manor bar serve a variety of cuisines, and Rosewood guests have access to dozens of additional eateries across the Baha Mar property.
For Golf
Christian Horan Photography, Four Seasons Resort Costa Rica at Peninsula Papagayo
Barbados
With a cultural history as rich as its landscape, Barbados is made up of 11 parishes, only two without the stunning coastline that wraps around the entire country. The island has more luxury properties per square mile than any other Caribbean island, but beyond beach time, travelers can explore plantations, botanic gardens, and an amazing diversity of wildlife in the island's lush interior. Although the Spanish discovered it, Barbados became a British Colony and still benefits from a chic, old-world-English vibe. The island can be sceney for those who want it- especially in exclusive St. James- but also has the capacity to feel incredibly laid-back.
Where to Stay: Sandy Lane
Once a beloved vacation spot for British royalty, Sandy Lane remains a favorite resort destination among the most elite travelers in the world. The formal service verges on extravagant, the grounds are pristinely landscaped, and the swath of beach is one of the most gorgeous in the world. Amenities are also over-the-top, and from the three golf courses and exquisite country club to the four restaurants to the collection of boutiques, Sandy Lane exceeds all expectations.
For Groups
Mustique
Once the most private of private islands - where you had to be known and pre-approved to even be granted landing rights at the tiny airport (and it helped to be royal, too)- Mustique has evolved into the same thing only different. It's open to everyone but still feels like a best-kept secret. The laid-back island is a mere three and a half miles square, sparingly sprinkled with villas ranging from small, breeze-filled hideaways created 40 years ago by chief architect, Oliver Messel, to extravagantly chic abodes that could easily pass as boutique resorts. However, there is in fact only one hotel on Mustique and only one bar worth going to- Basil's, of course!
Where to Stay: A Private Villa
Mustique boasts an array of stunning villas - Yemanja is a tropical sanctuary with seven bedrooms, beachfront access, and lush, palm-lined gardens. Its airy, open-plan design, and dramatic infinity pool make it ideal for relaxation. Heron Bay stands out for its colonial charm, with a beachfront location, private gardens, and elegant interiors. Obsidian is airy and bright, with nautical nods and gardens dotted with breezy pavillions. Messellia, named as a nod to Mustique’s original designer, has stately four-poster beds and marble bathrooms, all surrounded by a fringe of palms. Finally, imposing Hummingbird is perched on a hill, with clean, minimalist interiors complimented by pops of color and stone detailing, stunning sea views, and an infinity pool that seems to merge with the horizon. All villas come with full staff for a tailored stay.
For Leaving the Kids at Home
St. Barth’s
With a vibe reminiscent of the Cote d'Azur, St. Barth's entices travelers with its one-of-a-kind Caribbean ease. A trip to St. Barth’s is all about succumbing to luxury, relaxation, and a French joie de vivre – not that that’s hard, on an island where days are spent aboard yachts and nights are tuned to the sound of spirited cabarets. Sure, kids are welcome here, and they’ll have a great time - but we like it even more as a grown-up getaway. With frivolity as your guide, let the wind carry you from Gustavaia, to Baie St. Jean, to the Cote Sauvage – your only requirement is landing at Nikki Beach on Sundays.
Where to Stay: Eden Rock St. Barth’s
In 1951, Rémy de Haenen, the first person to land a plane on St. Barth’s, decided to put down roots and buy a hilly outcropping above Baie de St. Jean. His home later became the island’s first hotel, hosting guests such as Baron de Rothschild, David Rockefeller, Brigitte Bardot, and Howard Hughes. One of the chicest addresses on the island over the ensuing decades, in November 2019, the hotel made its triumphant comeback after the devastating effects of Hurricane Irma in 2017. The new Eden Rock features 37 redesigned rooms and suites, with contemporary beach-chic décor and plush amenities. Everything about the hotel's topnotch location remains the same, with a gorgeous stretch of beachfront and easy access to local shops, bars, and restaurants.