13 Beautiful Beaches Across the Globe

With all due respect to mountain people, there's simply nothing in this world like a beautiful beach. Whether your personal beach style is rustic and remote or well-equipped and lively, our curated list offers a peek into some of the most beautiful beaches in the world. On any of these beaches, you can find some of the world's softest sand, clearest waters, or dramatic views that feel downright cinematic.

Saud Beach, Philippines

If you're searching for Southeast Asian beach bliss, super-mellow Saud Beach on the island of Luzon is a sure thing. Its white sand pitches gradually into the clear-as-glass water, like a real-world example of a zero-entry swimming pool. Swim in the peaceful waves, lunch under a thatch-roof cabana under the palms, or hire an outrigger for excursions on the water.

Hanalei Bay, Hawaii

Long before Hollywood put it on the tourist map (first with "South Pacific" in 1958, then "The Descendants" half a century later), Kauai's Hanalei Bay attracted locals for its near-mystical beauty. Its beaches — Wai'oli, Hanalei Pavilion, and Black Pot — are framed by jade-colored mountains rising 4,000 feet high. The area is popular with surfers in the winter, when the waves pick up size and speed.

Copacabana, Brazil

Perhaps the most famous beach in the world, glam Copacabana Beach has just about everything going for it: three miles of glorious golden sand, a party vibe, and a dazzling skyline of jagged mountains and Art Deco and modernist architecture. Even the beach boulevard, a Portuguese-inspired black-and-white mosaic design by landscape architect Roberto Burle Marx, is a visual knockout. The beach acts as Rio de Janiero's social hub (especially on weekends), with locals sunbathing, promenading, and playing volleyball, and vendors selling everything from popsicles and shrimp skewers to caipirinhas and ice-cold beer. Copa's glory days may be behind it — Leblon and Ipanema are now the chicer "it spots" — but the vintage appeal is part of its charm.

Cape Le Grand National Park, Australia

On the remote southern coast of Western Australia, 39 miles from the nearest city of Esperance, Cape Le Grand National Park is home to several distinctly beautiful beaches and bays. The Coastal Trail winds through heath-covered bluffs, visiting Hellfire Bay's granite boulders and clear blue waters and Lucky Bay, home to some of the world's whitest sand. For a bird's-eye view, hike the 1.5-mile, wildflower-strewn Frenchman Peak Trail.

Grayton Beach, Florida

There is no shortage of beautiful beaches in Florida, the peninsula-state that boasts 1,350 miles of coastline shared between the Gulf of Mexico, the Atlantic Ocean, and the Caribbean Sea. Since beaches in Florida can get quite busy, we recommend going off the beaten path and into the panhandle to Grayton Beach in South Walton, between Pensacola and Panama City. Boasting 400 acres of fine white sand and a unique lake within the sand dunes that's perfect for kayakers, you can enjoy a less developed Florida beach and the adjacent town scores extra points for its quirky persona.

Anse Source D'Argent, Seychelles

The word "Seychelles" conjures the very image of a dreamy, far-flung paradise. Luckily, the Seychelles reality every bit measures up to the fantasy, with exquisite beaches, intensely green nature reserves, and majestic wildlife at every turn. Anse Source D'Argent exemplifies the unique Seychellois beach formula, defined by a translucent lagoon perfect for snorkeling and wavy granite boulders that seem tossed onto the shore by ancient giants.

Whitehaven Beach, Australia

In terms of must-visit sites in Australia, Whitehaven Beach is up there with Sydney Opera House and Noosa National Park. From above, the destination's ever-shifting swirl of salt-white sand and brilliant blue water resemble a precious marbled jewel. Made of extremely fine, silica-rich quartz, the squeaky-soft sand is some of the smoothest and whitest in the world. To reach this paradise, you can fly into the Hamilton Island Airport and take a ferry to the Whitsunday Islands.

Le Morne, Mauritius

Go to just about any shore in Mauritius, and you'll find a reef-protected beach with calm, clear water ideal for swimming, kayaking, and snorkeling. Le Morne is particularly noteworthy for its two-and-a-half miles of sugar-soft sand (beaches in Mauritius are often rough with broken-up coral) densely lined with palm and pine-like filao trees. The sheltered lagoon waters stretch to the horizon and the kitesurfing conditions are perhaps the best in the world. For dramatic effect, the nearby Le Morne Mountain looms large.

Seven Mile Beach, Cayman Islands

Sand as soft as talcum powder; turquoise water as calm as a lake; water sports, beach bars, and luxury resorts: World-renowned Seven Mile Beach on Grand Cayman has it all. The beauty in a miles-long beach (albeit not quite seven miles — it's closer to five and a half) is that everyone's happy. Travelers looking for a social atmosphere and high-octane fun can find it in a snap, while those just wanting to plop under an umbrella with a good book have no shortage of quiet hideouts on the sand.

La Pelosa Beach, Italy

On the island of Sardinia, here's a beach that's beautiful and knows it. Between June and September, prospective beachgoers must pre-book and pay an entry fee online. There are also rules upon arrival, such as using beach mats under towels, no smoking, and wearing your wristband at all times. These rules prevent overcrowding so everyone can enjoy La Pelosa's bone-white sands and shimmering clear shallows. An Aragonese stone watchtower on neighboring Asinara island completes the scene. Other must-see Sardinian beaches include Porto Giunco, Spiaggia La Cinta, Cala Mariolu, and Spiaggia di Cala Coticcio.

Matira Beach, French Polynesia

The islands of French Polynesia are associated with beachy, tropical splendor. Matira Beach gets an honorable mention for its size, cleanliness, and incredible beauty — picture fluffy white sand, calm turquoise water as far as the eye can see, and lush volcanic hills peaking in the distance. Matira is Bora Bora's biggest public beach, yet its scene is mellow and subdued. Beachgoers are usually napping on towels, wading in the knee-deep water, or visiting the beach's boutiques and cafes.

Grace Bay Beach, Turks and Caicos

Turks and Caicos' Grace Bay Beach is consistently rated one of the top beaches in the world, and really, it's no wonder why. This magnificent beach has the sublime combo of white sand and warm azure sea. Topping it off is Princess Alexandra Marine Park just offshore, where snorkelers can peer in on the underwater world populated by majestic rays, green and hawksbill turtles, and dazzling fish of all colors of the rainbow. This may be one of the most popular beaches in the world, but there's plenty of room for everyone — between Grace Bay and neighboring Leeward and Bight beaches, visitors have seven continuous miles of beach to explore.

Praia de Marinha, Portugal

Golden sand and striking limestone cliffs are calling cards for beaches in Portugal's southern Algarve region. Picking the most beautiful is like splitting hairs, but special honors go to Praia de Marinha for its rustic, end-of-the-world appeal and lack of commercial build-up. Other quintessential Algarve must-visit beaches include Praia dos Três Irmãos, Praia de Benagil, Praia da Falésia, and the super-sheltered Carvalho Beach.

Best New Resorts 2019

Grand Memories Resort & Spa

Grand Memories Resort & Spa
Where: Punta Cana, Dominican Republic
When: November 2018
Why We Love: If the name doesn’t say it, the experience will. Vacation memories were made for this newly re-opened resort with its lush tropical landscape, endless hours of water park fun featuring seven thrill-seeking water slides, plus the bonus of playing at the Royalton Punta Cana.

Ocean El Faro

Ocean El Faro
Location: Punta Cana, Dominican Republic
When: February 2019
Why We Love: Entertainment when you want it, relaxation when you need it. The 5-star, all-suite resort blends the best of both with seafront views, an idyllic beach, calming interior design (including a meandering stream through the resort), plus a bowling alley, casino, family-friendly water park and more.

Royalton Antigua Resort & Spa

Royalton Antigua Resort & Spa
Location: Antigua
When: February 2019
Why We Love: Everyday cares drift away at Deep Bay as you experience vacation fun the way it was meant to be. Situated on a stunning private beach near historic Fort Barrington, the “next generation” of all-inclusive properties features plenty of relaxation opportunities plus access to family-friendly activities, eclectic restaurants, pools and recreational sports.

Sunscape Star Cancun

Sunscape Star Cancun
Location: Cancun, Mexico
When: April 2019
Why We Love: Sunscape’s newest addition provides plenty of entertainment options on-site and nearby, by land and on water. Play in one of four pools (including a surf pool and adults-only rooftop pool), stroll along the expansive beach, try a new watersport, play a round on a championship golf course or explore the Maya ruins.

Paradisus Playa Mujeres

Paradisus Playa Mujeres
Location: Cancun, Mexico
When: April 2019
Why We Love: When adults need a getaway, but want family memories too, look no further. Local art throughout the hotel and cuisine prepared with fresh local produce immerse you in the culture, while a family concierge and a host of kid-focused amenities– even a kid-friendly mini bar– keep everyone involved.

Lopesan Costa Bavaro Resort Spa & Casino

Lopesan Costa Bavaro Resort, Spa & Casino
Location: Punta Cana, Dominican Republic
When: May 2019
Why We Love: Taking “all-inclusive” to the next level with a 300,000-square foot entertainment center, shopping galore, a casino, concert venues and a bowling alley, the endless access to luxury and fun at the Lopesan Group’s newest all-suite resort are enough to consider booking a one-way ticket.

Sandos Playacar Beach resort Palm Bay

Sandos Playacar Beach Resort Palm Bay
Location: Playa Del Carmen, Mexico
When: April 2019
Why We Love: The tranquility of a remote, exotic oasis meets the luxe accommodations of an all-suite, all-inclusive resort. Bike or shuttle your way around this slice of paradise as you experience the spectacular beachfront and pools, a jungle-inspired spa with breathtaking cenotes, plus the amenities at Sandos Playacar Beach Resort.

Nickelodeon Hotels & Resorts Riviera Maya

Nickelodeon Hotels & Resorts Riviera Maya
Location: Riviera Maya, Mexico
When: Spring/Summer 2019
Why We Love: Ultimate playdate meets epic family vacay at Nickelodeon’s newest all-inclusive resort. With 276 oceanfront swim-up suites, meet-and-mingles with Nickelodeon favorites, 500,000 square feet of water park fun, plus mommy-and-me spa treatments, this resort is anything but cookie-cutter.

Dream Vacations - The Operach Team is a travel agency based in Overland Park, Kansas. We take pride in working with clients across the country who love to travel. We build vacation experiences that will create memories to last a lifetime.  Our team has specialties across a wide range of vacation options; custom Europe itineraries, Alaska, escorted tours, all-inclusive resorts, Disney, Caribbean, Hawaii, South Pacific, cruise holidays, and river cruises.   

We look forward to making your dream vacations come true!! 

Destination Battle: Alaska vs. Caribbean

We know, we can hear you already: “The Caribbean and Alaska are nothing alike… it’s like comparing apples and oranges!” It's true that these two popular destinations aren’t a straightforward comparison like the Caribbean and the Bahamas or the Eastern and Western Caribbean. But other than Alaska’s lack of tropical beaches and the Caribbean’s glacier deficit, both offer unique experiences for families, foodies, history buffs, nature enthusiasts, and adrenaline junkies that make it worth breaking down the pros and cons of each destination.

Weather

Let’s get the obvious difference out of the way: the Caribbean is warm year-round, while Alaska is much cooler (especially during the fall). But in the height of summer, when the temperatures and humidity in the Caribbean are most stifling, the cool, refreshing Alaska air can be a welcome respite.

Our Pick: Caribbean. Lovers of cold weather will love the Alaskan chill, but most people want sun and warmth on their vacation. Plus, you can sail the Caribbean during any season, which isn’t the case during the frigid Alaskan winter.


Shore Excursions

While you can always find active excursions in the Caribbean, all too often the destination is stereotyped by beach breaks and all-you-can-drink catamaran sailings. In Alaska, active and adventurous excursions are at the forefront: ziplining, kayaking, glacier hiking, dog sledding, and helicopter flightseeing are among the most popular choices. Plus, since Alaska is a US state, American cruisers can have peace of mind that vehicles and equipment comply with US-mandated safety standards, something that can’t always be said for excursions in Caribbean.

Our Pick: Alaska. The consistent quality of the excursions (and the companies operating them) is a breath of fresh air.


History & Culture

Most historical attractions in Alaska focus on the Alaskan gold rush at the end of the nineteenth century, and the native culture and history of the native Inuit people—the totems in Sitka National Historical Park (left) are a popular excursion for learning more about native Alaskan culture. The Caribbean has a special appeal for history buffs who like learning about the colonization of the New World as the historical focus usually ranges from the European conquistadors up through the plantation era. Plus, each island has its own local culture and unique history waiting to be explored.

Our Pick: Tie. It depends on what era of history you find more fascinating.


Food

When it comes to food, seafood is the main attraction in Alaska with salmon, crab, and halibut being the most popular. Spice lovers will be much more at home in the Caribbean, and most islands will have a signature dish or two worth trying while you’re in port: Jamaica’s jerk chicken, St. Lucia’s salt fish and green eggs, Trinidadian shark and bake, and crab callaloo in the Dominican Republic.

Our Pick: Tie. We love the variety of Caribbean dishes, but people who don’t like exotic or spicy food might find some of the delicacies a bit too hot to handle.


Nature & Wildlife

Sting rays, vervet monkeys and sloths are some of the more fascinating animals of the Caribbean. Many ports have rainforest tours, and there are a few natural wonders that shouldn't be missed. Still, the Caribbean’s wildlife offering pales in comparison to the whales, eagles, bears, sled dogs, salmon runs and massive rainforests of Alaska.

Our Pick: Alaska. True nature enthusiasts can enjoy themselves in the Caribbean, but Sting Ray City just can't match the rugged frontier of Alaska.



Cruise Itineraries

Alaska cruises are almost always seven-night sailings, either roundtrips from Vancouver or Seattle (visiting ports like Juneau, Skagway, and Ketchikan) or one-way cruises between Vancouver and Whittier or Seward which bring cruisers deep into the heart of Alaska, and serve as a stepping off point for tours to Mt. McKinley and Denali National Park.

Alaskan itineraries also offer the unique option of scenic cruising in destinations like Glacier Bay and Hubbard Glacier where you can sit up on the top deck or your balcony and take in the breathtaking scenery. With the possible exception of Panama Canal itineraries, scenic cruising simply doesn’t exist in the Caribbean.

Caribbean cruises are broken down into Eastern, Western, Southern, and Bahamas itineraries, and set sail from ports in Texas, the Gulf Coast, Florida, Puerto Rico and more. Sailings range from short 3-4 night sailings to standard 6-8 day cruises, to even longer 10-14 night sailings.


Our Pick: Caribbean. Once again, the wide range of options and ease of accessibility wins out.


Families

If cruising - as a rule, newer and larger ships tend to have better children’s programs than older vessels, which means that kids will have much more fun onboard your typical Caribbean cruise. On the other hand, scenic cruising in Alaska gives families a unique experience aboard the ship, and there are plenty of family-friendly excursions like dog sledding (left) or ziplining in port.

Our Pick: Tie. Kids will probably be happier in the Caribbean, but Alaska has more multi-generational appeal.



Price

This one isn’t much of a competition. There’s less total capacity in Alaska, so pricing tends to be higher, and airfare is higher for open-jaw flights and into Vancouver. There are not many last-minute values like you can get in the Caribbean, and when you do find them, it’s hard to find inexpensive airfare.

On the other hand, the Caribbean has a massive passenger capacity, so pricing is almost always lower and you have a solid chance of landing deals closer to the sail date. Plus, with Caribbean cruises leaving from ports in Texas, Louisiana, Florida, Maryland, and even New York, driving to the port is an option for plenty of passengers.

Our Pick: Caribbean. The ports are easier to reach for most cruisers, and prices are generally half the cost of an Alaska sailing.


Overall


Our Pick: Tie. The Caribbean is the most popular cruise destination in the world for a reason. The rich variety of ports combined with state-of-the-art ships mean you'll have new experiences waiting for you every time you go. Still, while Alaska isn’t a destination you’ll want to visit regularly like the Caribbean, a sailing to America's last frontier is a unique, once-in-a-lifetime experience, and should certainly be a must-do item on your bucket list.


Courtesy of Cruiseline.com

Harmony Aboard Royal Caribbean

I have been looking forward to our spring break aboard Royal Caribbean’s Harmony of the Seas for quite a while. We had sailed on her sister the Allure of the Seas a few years ago and were eager to see all the improvements.

The third Oasis-class ship to join the fleet, Harmony of the Seas, at 226,963 grt and with 5,479 guests (double occupancy), is nearly 1,700 tons larger and able to accommodate 100 more passengers than her sister Allure of the Seas, which previously held the record as the world’s largest cruise ship. And although all sisters are similar in design and features, Harmony of the Seas boasts her own new additions.

Royal Caribbean advertises the ship as its “biggest and boldest adventure to ever set sail,” and I certainly agree. She is geared toward families, couples, and anyone young at heart looking to inject a little adventure into their onboard experience.  Let’s look at what’s in store for those who take to the high seas aboard the world’s largest and arguably most impressive, technology-rich cruise ship.
First impressions of Harmony of the Seas (aside from the fact that she is huge) are fun, bold, and colorful.  The updated modern look and updates over her sisters are very well executed.  She is a true masterpiece in every sense and a feeling of excitement sweeps over you from the instant you step aboard and realize that adventure lies around every corner.

Each of her seven neighborhoods has a distinct feel and vibe, and each are adorned with some of the most incredible pieces of art at sea. Onboard amenities are similar to those found aboard the other Oasis-class ships as well as the line’s Quantum-class ships: spacious, tastefully decorated, and some of the most innovative must-dos at sea. The beauty of the design is that even with 6000 guests on board you never feel crowded!

Dining

When on the world’s biggest cruise ship, you expect a selection of astounding menus, and Harmony of the Seas certainly delivers on her dining options. With no less than 18 venues on board, there is something for everyone to enjoy.

Jamie’s Italian, from celebrity chef Jamie Oliver, is a new favorite of ours!  The service and food were truly outstanding.  The restaurant also benefits from a great location: right in the middle of Central Park, where you’ll also find Chops Grille, 150 Central Park, and Vintages Wine Bar. After dinner, grab a drink at the Rising Tide Bar for a unique perspective of the Royal Promenade, as the bar slowly ascends and descends between three decks.

We found one of our old favorite specialty dining options - Chops seemed to be a bit too busy for the holiday week.  Although the food lived up to expectation, the service suffered as they seemed to be at over capacity.

150 Central Park by Michael Schwartz had excellent food but frankly was a bit underwhelming for the price.

The Main Dining rooms delivered quality meals with exceptional service and the Windjammer buffet always had tasty selections at all hours of the day.


Activities

So much to do and so little time! 

Our active boys where always busy utilizing the Flowrider, waterslides, zip-line, mini-golf, ice skating, or rock wall. 

One of my favorites was participating in one of the most tech-heavy Escape Rooms on board – The Rubicon ($9pp fee).   If you have never done a good escape room they are a lot of fun as you work as a team to solve puzzles to escape your room within one hour.  I will not give away the puzzles but our group unfortunately perished in space as we failed. According to our ‘guide’ only 30% of the participants finish to ‘escape’. Despite our failure we had an amazing experience.



Onboard Entertainment

There’s no shortage of entertainment options aboard Harmony of the Seas. In fact, you might struggle to fit in everything you want to do. If there is one thing you must see during your cruise, however, it is Grease! The Musical. The production, which makes its debut at sea, is arguably one of the best aboard any ship. Let your hair down and sing along to classics such as “Greased Lightnin’,” “Summer Nights,” and “Look at Me, I’m Sandra Dee.”




Another show that shares the 1,380-guest Royal Theater is Columbus, The Musical! , which tells the hilarious, imaginary tale of Christopher’s luckless cousin Marvin, as he embarks on a wacky voyage to the Caribbean. This fun performance features a revolutionary set design and is also not to be missed.



The Fine Line and Hideaway Heist are shows that are performed at the AquaTheater, the distinct high-diving, acrobatic performance venue that was first introduced aboard Oasis of the Seas. The Fine Line features mind-blowing stunts, incredible acrobatic performances, and enough adrenaline to keep you gripped from start to finish. Hideaway Heist is fun for the whole family with its comical, 1950s holiday resort vibe.

Other entertainment options include The Attic, Harmony of the Seas’ nightclub, as well as the dance parties on the Royal Promenade that take guests back in time with ’70s, ’80s, and ’90s music. For something different, check out the ice shows in Studio B.

Other Great Spaces

If you want peace and quiet while relaxing in beautiful surroundings then find yourself a lounger in The Solarium. This is a stunning space and, unlike the Solariums aboard other ships, has sectioned breaks in the glass to allow fresh air to flow through. It also has its own bar, so there’s no need to venture far for refreshments. The views are stunning and it’s one of those places that lifts the everyday stresses from your mind the instant you step through the door.

On Land

Labadee – Royal Caribbean’s Private Island.  Visiting private islands is a favorite for us in the Caribbean – a great way to have a simple beach day. But our ‘beach day’ was not simple!  In fact, I think we were in the water a total 30 minutes.  My boys received a ‘Labadee Experience’ for Christmas which consisted of an all-day pass for the mountain coaster and a trip on Dragon’s Flight zip line.  he whole family enjoyed the mountain coaster where you control your own speed down the mountain.  Spectacular views and a thrilling ride!  Add a beach BBQ to round out a perfect day in the Caribbean sun,


Cozumel – We have been to Cozumel too many times to count so we were looking for a different adventure.  Cozumel Amazing Race was just the right type of excursion.  If you have ever seen the CBS show on TV the excursion was very similar.  We had clues we had to solve and then run to our next location.  The course had us going to off-the beaten path locations in Cozumel across almost 4 miles! There even was a clue that required us to take a boat for some snorkeling!   Being the competitive person I am we did not get off to a great start with the first clue … but we covered some lost ground and came in second among a field of 8 teams!


Top  Highlights

Ultimate Abyss: At 10 stories tall, it’s the tallest duo of slides at sea. Towering above the ocean waves by more than 100 feet, it’s not for the faint-hearted.

The Perfect Storm: This trio of waterslides spirals five decks above Central Park. Typhoon and Cyclone are racing slides and Supercell features a champagne bowl that swirls guests around until they come to the final splash.


Grease! The Musical: This is an absolute must-see in the Royal Theater.

Bionic Bar: Although it can take a while to get your drink when it’s busy, it is certainly worth trying at least once, just so you can say that you ordered a drink from a robot bartender aboard the world’s biggest cruise ship.



Signature Favorites: Set a time to try out Chops Grille, Jamie’s Italian, The Dog House, and the Schooner Bar.


Zip-Line: Fly high above the decks as you zip from one side of the ship to other. At 10 decks up and 120 feet above the Boardwalk, it’s not for those afraid of heights!



AquaTheater: Watch an impressive water acrobatics show at sea.

Studio B: A multipurpose studio complex that offers incredible ice shows featuring professional skaters from around the world.

In summary it was a fantastic week ... and we look forward to repeating our favorite activities and restaurants in October for our Dream Vacations National Conference aboard the Harmony of the Seas!

Which Caribbean Island Is Right For You?

There are more than 7,000 islands in the Caribbean that are part of more than 28 nations. Your average seven-night cruise can visit three to five of them—so how do you narrow down where you should go? While we’d argue there’s a reason to visit every destination available on a Caribbean cruise, some locales speak directly to a traveler’s vacation style, be it relaxed and indulgent or adventurous and on-the-go (and anywhere in between). If you’re wondering where to begin, we’ve gathered some thought-starters here. With nearly two dozen different locations from which to choose, we make it easy to find on the perfect one.

The Naturalist

Belize City, Belize: pure and vibrant.

To take in all of the natural beauty surrounding you in Belize, you’ll want to climb to the top of El Castillo; at 135 feet, it’s one of the tallest Mayan structures in this tiny nation. From the top, you can see the lush rainforest of Peten, the nearby mountains and even across the border into Guatemala. You also can explore the amazing Altun Ha pyramid, an ancient temple built as a symbol of Mayan honor and devotion to the Sun God. If you’re looking for Belize City’s “wild side,” look for flocks of toucans and parrots in the tree-tops, manatees along the coast, baboons at the Community Baboon Sanctuary, crocodiles and wild howler monkeys along the Old Belize River, and jaguars, pumas, ocelots and more at the esteemed Belize Zoo. Shore excursions include snorkeling along the barrier reef, cave tubing and a riverboat ride to get you up close and personal with nature.

The Romantic

Kralendijk, Bonaire: sweet, yet a little mysterious.

The main port on the island of Bonaire in the Caribbean Netherlands, Kralendijk is a picturesque and charming town lined with delightfully pastel stucco houses turned out in pink, orange and lime green. Scores of pink flamingos call the island home, but it’s what lies below the surface that makes the destination even more enticing. The city is widely considered a top diving destination in the Caribbean. For a sampling of what this dreamy island has to offer, enjoy snorkeling or diving among coral reefs, turtles and brightly colored fish in the protected Bonaire National Marine Park; tour the local salt flats and mountains; and don’t miss the local gastronomic delicacy, cactus soup.

The Cosmopolitan

Roseau, Dominica: stunning and chic.

The capital—and largest—city of Dominica, Roseau is a small and compact urban settlement. If you appreciate the finer things in life, we have two words for you: Champagne Beach. These effervescent waters produce an actual “fizz” from the volcanic sea floor. After swimming alongside parrotfish in bubbly waters, there are plenty of other ways to pass the time, including ogling the West Indian architecture in town while scouring the local boutiques. You also can treat yourself to the relaxing and therapeutic powers of Dominica’s natural mineral waters while surrounded by the island’s lush tropical vegetation.

The Adventurer

Roatan, Honduras: wild and untamed.

This narrow strip of land was born with an adventurous spirit, as it was once the domain of Spanish conquistadors and British pirates. Roatan lies in the Caribbean at the southernmost tip of the second biggest barrier reef in the world. Diving with sharks and snorkeling with pods of squid and other exciting sea life are popular pastimes, and excursions offer a survivor-style challenge course that will have you scurrying along jungle paths in the thick rainforest, crawling in mud ravines and climbing cargo nets and hills. If you prefer your challenges with altitude, the Adrenaline Zip-Line Adventure will take you soaring through the skies and between mountains on an exhilarating zip-line tour.

The Scholar

Puerto Costa Maya, Mexico: fascinating and soulful.

Costa Maya, once a trading post for the Mayan Empire, is located in the Mexican Caribbean and best known for its jungles, beaches, lagoons and ruins. While this corner of the Caribbean might look serious and sedate at first glance, there is a wealth of history to be explored. The ancient city of Chacchoben dates to 360 AD, when it played an important role in the distribution of such precious items as wood, jade and exotic birds. It was largely unexplored until 1999, but archaeologists now believe this fascinating locale was a thriving metropolis 1,500 years ago.

DIY Caribbean Tours

If a traveler has their heart set on seeing an island’s iconic sights, and time is limited, there’s nothing better than joining an organized tour that has a set itinerary and a strict timetable. A traveler with more time on their hands might have a different agenda. Could be they want to see the sights, but also have the option to explore a side street, chat with a stranger, or stop at a roadside stand – in other words, to let real life and serendipity seep into their travels. These self-guided tours could be either walking tours or self-drive adventures, depending on how closely sights are clustered together, and if the island is driver-friendly.

Discovering the Colonial Zone Santo Domingo

Santo Domingo, the capital of the Dominican Republic, is often referred to as the Oldest City in the Americas. Nowhere is this more evident than the city’s Colonial Zone, which is studded with architectural treasures from the 15th and 16th centuries. It’s a compact area, easily explored by foot.

Pick up a map and tick off the major sites, such as Columbus Palace, Ozama Fort, and the Casa del Cordon, the former residence of Christopher Columbus.

Take a break and sit on one of the benches in front of the Nuestra Senora Santa Maria de la Encarnación, the first cathedral in the New World, built in 1508. This is a great vantage spot to people-watch. It also places a traveler in prime position to change focus and stroll down Calle El Conde, the city’s major shopping district, also studded with restaurants and outdoor cafes.



Walking in Willemstad

Curacao’s Dutch heritage is on display in Willemstad, the island’s capital. The city dates back to 1634, and there are a variety of historic structures, such as Fort Amsterdam and the Fort Church museum.

A must-see is The Mikve Israel-Emanuel Synagogue, the oldest synagogue in the western hemisphere, famous for its sand floor. Take time to wander along the “floating market” selling colorful displays of fish, fruits and vegetables. It’s called the floating market because the produce has been brought by small boats making the 40-mile journey north from Venezuela.

Walking across the 552-feet pontoon Queen Emma Bridge (also known as the “Swinging Old Lady”) brings a traveler to the Otrabanda side of the city, where they can look back to view Curacao’s iconic sight – a cityscape of pastel-colored 18th century colonial houses.



Touring Old San Juan, Puerto Rico

There’s a lot of history packed into the seven square blocks of Old San Juan, founded by Ponce de León back in 1509. There are scores of historic buildings – including Casa Blanca, the former home of Ponce de Leon. But the Big Kahuna is definitely El Morro, an expansive fort offering superb sea views from its walls. Mixed in with the Spanish colonial history are trendy shops, restaurants, and cafes, offering a pleasant respite from sightseeing. Old San Juan’s narrow cobblestone streets can be steep, so wearing comfortable shoes is a must.





Taking a Spin in Saint Lucia

Saint Lucia is one of the most beautiful and romantic islands in the Caribbean. Couples especially will want to rent their own vehicle and set off to explore. Roads are winding, and the speed limit is most often a leisurely 30 mph. The scenery of Saint Lucia is the main player, and the coastal road that circles the island offers one amazing sea view after another.

 Main stops on any itinerary should include the drive in volcano in Soufriere; the soaring peaks of the volcanic twin Pitons, which can be viewed in the fishing town of Soufriere; and the lookout point at Marigot Bay. If driving on the left is a new experience, practice a bit on a quiet road before setting off.



Rolling Through Antigua

Antigua is rich in English heritage and is easily explored by car. Bypass the capital and harbor city of St. John’s and head out to the countryside. Here a traveler will find roads leading to historic sugar mills dating back to the 17th century (Betty’s Hope windmill is a standout).

Make a stop at the Devil’s Bridge, a blowhole shooting plumes of salt spray into the air; catch the sea views from historic Fort Barrington; and plan the drive so the last stop is at sunset, at the 500-foot vantage point of Shirley Heights, and wait for the green flash as the sun dips into the sea.

If it’s a Sunday drive you’ll be in luck, since Shirley Heights throws the island’s biggest party every Sunday, with island barbecue and live reggae and steel band music.

Happy Cruising!

Article courtesy of  USA TODAY