Best Beaches
BarbadosBarbados can cater to a deep-pocketed crowd (the historic Sandy Lane resort has entertained royalty and can cost more than $1,000 a night), but there are plenty of options for nonroyals. The best beaches — think exotic pink sand — are on the west coast. Stay at the Fairmont Royal Pavilion (doubles from $519,
www.fairmont.com/royal
pavilion). Bougainvillea Beach Resort (doubles from $162,
www.bougainvillearesort.com) is on the island’s south side.
St. Lucia “St. Lucia is attracting people who don’t have the herd mentality,” says Porter. The beaches are unspoiled, and the island also has rain forests and volcanoes. Anse Chastanet Resort (doubles from $280,
www.ansechastanet.com) offers rooms beachside as well as in the tropical hills.
Turks and Caicos Islands This cluster of islands has gone from off-the-map to of-the-moment. The main draws are the coral reefs and the high-end hotels on perfect strips of sand. Grace Bay Beach, in Provo, is the most popular area; stay at the Regent Palms Turks and Caicos (doubles from $425,
www.regenthotels.com), or try the cheaper Sibonné Beach Hotel (doubles from $110,
www.sibonne.com) — same sand, less money.
Best Food and Culture
AnguillaAnguilla, part of the British West Indies, is a haven for people who want exquisite food served by the beach. The CuisinArt Resort & Spa (yes, that Cuisinart; doubles from $400,
www.cuisinartresort.com) offers cooking classes, not surprisingly. Or check out the sleek Kú hotel (doubles from $180,
www.ku-anguilla.com). For fresh seafood, eat at Blanchards.
St. Martin/St. Maarten “Because half of it is Dutch and half is French, you feel like you’re in Europe,” says Veith. Stay on the French side, which is quieter. (The Dutch side is a port for cruise ships.) The Grand Case Beach Club (doubles from $145,
www.grandcasebeachclub.com) is a short walk from the town center. Eat French-Creole food at L’Hibiscus.
