They’re not villas, they’re bungalows — small, typically one-story cottages that evoke the archetypal dream of Caribbean travel — just you and yours in a detached dwelling in plain view of the sea. And at these hotel properties in the Caribbean, you can find just that — your own private Caribbean bungalow, cottage, hut, casita, or whatever you prefer to call it. See 11 of our favourites.
Petit St Vincent — St Vincent and the Grenadines
This is one of the best hotels in the Caribbean — period, with 22 ocean view cottages, each of which grants absolute, luxurious privacy on a private island in the Grenadines.
Compass Point — Bahamas
This Nassau resort is a collection of 18 colourful huts right on the turquoise water of the Bahamas. A boutique gem on the quiet northwestern coast of Nassau.
The Caves Negril — Jamaica
This isn’t just a beautiful portfolio of 12 cliffside cottages and suites — it’s actually an all-inclusive, too, with all the trappings of Island Outpost luxury.
Matachica — Belize
This resort on Ambergris Caye in Belize has a total of 25 casitas (and one two-bedroom villa), but while they ooze rustic charm they come with all the amenities you need.
Le Domaine du Rocher Noire — Guadeloupe
Guadeloupe has quite a few tucked away jewels, and Le Domaine du Rocher Noir is one, with a group of four airy bungalows, or “carbets,”furnished in rich woods.
Cocos Hotel — Antigua
Cocos has a collection of 26 cottages, each of which is a standalone bungalow, with comfortable, decidedly Caribbean furnishings.
Nisbet Plantation Beach Club — Nevis
This beachfront resort in Nevis is a combines the vibes of an old plantation-style resort and a beachfront hotel. Each room has about a quarter acre of land around it, with 36 cottages in all.
Jungle Bay — Dominica
This resort is more of an eco-boutique, with hardwood cottages that are more like treehouses. The property has 35 units in total.
Fond Doux Resort & Plantation — St Lucia
Fond Doux is a throwback to a different time — a paean to old West Indian charm. The resort has 12 cottages, each a mix of wood, colour and a truly organic feel.
Christophe Harbour — St Kitts
They’re a bit of a secret, but the Christophe Harbour development has four exquisite bungalows available for hotel stays, for guests looking at real estate opportunities. Stay at one of these and check out the possibilities.
Cotton Tree — Grand Cayman
The only hotel of its kind on the island, Cotton Tree has four beautifully-appointed, modern cottages with boutique flair.