The Caribbean, known for its white-sand beaches, turquoise waters and mouthwatering cuisine, is on most people’s travel wish list – and it’s easy to see why. The region offers an idyllic escape thanks to its stunning natural beauty, warm climate, rich tapestry of culture and welcoming people.
With so many destinations to choose from, it can be hard to know where to start. That’s why we’re here to guide you with our run-down of some of the gems in the Caribbean crown, so you can discover the perfect place to book for your 2025 getaway. Whether you want to relax on a sunlounger at an all-inclusive (Sandals Resorts boasts 17 resorts across the region, with packages including unlimited activities, top-notch food and drinks, all at no extra cost) or to go off the beaten track, here’s where you should be heading.
For adventure and relaxation: Saint Vincent
Can’t decide between adrenalin highs or chilled-out zen? Saint Vincent is the perfect destination for you. Much of the island is made up of rainforest, so when you’re lounging on the beach, the lush landscape and tropical wildlife is never far away, all ripe for exploring. Hike up the ashy foothills of La Soufrière – the island’s active volcano – for a spectacular look inside the crater, which last erupted in 2021, or dive or snorkel among the black coral reefs to swim with rainbow-coloured fish.
Nestled in one of the secluded coves sits the newest resort from luxury hotel group Sandals – a brand synonymous with the Caribbean (and for good reason: it was founded in Jamaica and is still run by the same family to this day). Surrounded by rainforest, it’s still close to the action for those who want to find it. If relaxing is more your thing, there are five swimming pools to lounge beside – one of them a giant infinity pool overlooking the bay – and a tranquil spa where you can enjoy riverside massages to a soundtrack of flowing water and birds chirping.
For history and culture: Curaçao
Curaçao, a gem in the Dutch Antilles, is full of rich history and breathtaking landscapes, offering an ideal escape for both adventurers and honeymooners. Located just 40 miles off the coast of Venezuela, this charming island is home to around 150,000 residents who speak four languages: Papiamento (the official language), Dutch, Spanish, and English. There is plenty of fascinating history and culture to explore in Willemstad, the colourful capital. With its brightly painted buildings and distinctive red slate roofs, the Spanish ‘discovered’ this island in 1499, before it was seized by the Dutch in 1634.
Stay at select suites at Sandals Royal Curaçao and enjoy complimentary hire of one of the convertible Mini Coopers to leisurely traverse the island’s dry, flat terrain, where you can encounter a delightful array of wildlife, including colourful birds and roaming goats.
For reggae beats and BBQ cuisine: Jamaica
Jamaica, one of the biggest islands in the Caribbean, has so much to offer that it’s hard to know where to start. From renowned beaches like Seven Mile and Doctor’s Cave in Montego Bay, powdery white sands are plentiful, but it’s also rich in culture. Known as the birthplace of reggae, the island’s musical history is world-famous and Bob Marley’s legacy is celebrated everywhere, from live reggae at beach bars to the iconic Carnival.
It’s also home to an abundance of waterfalls, such as Dunn’s River, a spectacular cascade perfect for climbing and swimming and the location for a new Sandals resort – the group’s seventh on the island where the brand was born. Each has its own unique characteristic: the South Coast resort features stunning over-water villas reminiscent of the Maldives for example, while Montego Bay, the original Sandals resort, has a Tahitian-style pool and a jerk shack to dine on local cuisine.
For endless beaches: Antigua
Antigua’s biggest claim to fame is its 365 beaches – one for every day of the year! From secluded coves like Half Moon Bay to stunning long beaches like Dickenson Bay, there’s no shortage of white sand and turquoise water. It’s also renowned for its sailing scene, hosting the annual Antigua Sailing Week, an international regatta.
Along with watersports, it also has a historical connection to the British Empire, with sites to visit, such as Nelson’s Dockyard (a UNESCO World Heritage site) and many well-preserved 18th-century naval buildings and forts. Plenty of activities are available, from hiking to see the Pillars of Hercules (a limestone rock formation) to kayaking through the mangrove inlets of the North Sound Marine Park and snorkelling near Great Bird Island, where the crystal-clear waters make it easy to spot stingrays and turtles. Foodies will be kept happy at Sandals Grande Antigua, situated right on the beach of beautiful Dickenson Bay, with 11 restaurants and seven bars to choose from, offering everything from Pan-Caribbean dishes to Teppanyaki-style meals and French patisserie.
Book your perfect Caribbean getaway now with Sandals Resorts
