The Caribbean: Experience The Coastline Like A Local
The Caribbean is one of the most sought-after locations for a luxury vacation and yacht charter itinerary. Sun-drenched days on endless white sandy beaches, time spent in luxurious resorts, and proximity to island hops on a yacht add to the island's allure, but there is much more to uncover beyond the postcard-perfect scenes.
The islands' rich cultural heritage and natural beauty offer various opportunities for discovery, both on and off the beaten track, while the vibrant local traditions, cuisines, and festivals add to the authentic experiences found here. Here, we have put together a guide to some of the more popular Caribbean islands' best-kept secrets:
St Barths Secret Spots
Famed for its glamorous beach clubs, St Barths is among the favorite islands in the Caribbean to visit; however, beyond these hotspots where celebrities and the elite frequent, there are areas to go to avoid the crowds. Colombier Beach, for example, is only accessible by boat or cliffside hike and is one of the most serene bays, perfect for lazy afternoons and snorkel adventures.Â
For an insight into island traditions, head to Corossol, a charming and traditional fishing village where colorful boats and local craftsmanship can be found. On the island's eastern and wilder Atlantic side, Grand Fond is loved by surfers and those looking for some escapism - a short walk from the beach, the natural pools make up the spectacular landscape.Â
365-Exploration Of Antigua
With a beach for every day of the year, Antigua is the island made for beach days. While the island's main stretches of sand are well-known, there is a selection of quiet and local hideouts perfect for relaxation and exploration. Some secluded beaches with fewer crowds include Carlisle Bay Beach, Rendezvous Bay, and Galley Bay Beach. Locals head to Turner's Beach for an incredible sunset, where beach bars serve rum punches to complement the sunset skies.
If you manage to tick off all of Antigua's beaches, just a short hop from the island is Barbuda - Antigua's smaller sibling - where you will find the 17-mile beach, a pink-tinged sandbar where you can spot numerous exotic birds and wander for hours in peace.
Sail St Vincent And The Grenadines
To truly experience the Caribbean's coastline like a local, head to the island chain of St Vincent and the Grenadines. Hailed as the "true Caribbean," these 32 islands and cays are a sailing haven. Cruising from St Vincent to idyllic spots like Bequia, Mustique, Mayreau, and Union Island, each with a unique character.
Further south is the uninhabited islets of The Tobago Cays Marine Park, an unspoiled area of coral reefs, turtles, and crystal-clear waters - perfect for snorkeling, paddle boarding, and enjoying these more isolated locations of the Caribbean.
Underwater Adventures In The BVIs
The British Virgin Islands (BVI) are known for their sandy shores and calm sailing waters, but the best-kept secrets are below the water's surface. While most divers head for the popular wrecks, there are plenty of lesser-known spots to dive into. Alice's Wonderland is a vibrant Ginger Island reef known for its dramatic corals and colorful marine life.Â
Other spots can be found at Norman Island, with a chance to spot the elusive eagle rays, and its untouched reefs offer excellent snorkeling. For those wanting to delve into watersports, North Sound has calm conditions for kayaking, windsurfing, and paddleboarding - all away from the busier anchorages.
Explore St Lucia's Lush Interior
The towering volcanic peaks and UNESCO World Heritage Site of St Lucia's Pitons offer more than just a picturesque view from cruising the coastline. Those looking for an adventure can hike Gros Piton or the more challenging and slight scramble up Petit Piton, giving you the best view of the rugged coastline and rainforest.
After hiking, soothing tired muscles can be done in the warm, mineral-rich waters of Sulphur Spring or the more off-the-beaten-track New Jerusalem Mineral Baths, a collection of natural pools.
Uncover Barbados' Intriguing Past
When you think of Barbados, rum cocktails and palm-fringed beaches spring to mind; however, there is much more to the island. You can explore the island's intriguing history at the Barbados Museum and Historical Society, housed in a former British military prison, or explore Holetown - where the British colonists first landed.
For an under-the-radar spot, visit Harrison Point Lighthouse on the rugged northern coast, where you can climb to the top for panoramic views.
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