By Sarah Greaves-Gabbadon
CJ Travel Editor
While the definition of “sexy” is different for everyone, there are some Caribbean resorts whose uniquely captivating combination of style, ambiance and good old-fashioned romance should put them at the top of every list of steamy must-stays. Browse our pick of the top 10 sexiest Caribbean hotels, and start planning your own sensual sabbatical now (after all, Valentine’s Day is less than four months away!)
Jade Mountain, St Lucia
Our sources tell us that Amy Winehouse held the record for the longest continuous time sequestered with her sweetie in the plush three-walled sanctuaries at this Soufriere hillside resort, which each have their own Pitons-view plunge pool. Can’t say we blame her.
Secret Bay, Dominica
One of the sleekest places in the region, the boutique Secret Bay is perched on a Dominican cliffside above the aptly-named Secret Beach. It’s all about privacy and finding oneness with the natural environment.
Jake’s, Jamaica
Maybe it’s the pastoral, off-the-beaten-path south coast location. Maybe it’s the laidback vibe and colorful cottages/love nests. Or maybe it’s my own memories of romantic long weekend at this boho-chic seaside resort many years ago. Either way, Jake’s has got the barefoot-sexy vibe down pat.
The Cove Atlantis, Bahamas
A slick adults-only poolside scene, scantily clad beautiful people, and a throbbing lounge-music beat combine to make the beach club Cain at the Cove a sexy spot for the see-and-be-seen set.
Sandals LaSource Resort, Grenada
Sandals has been taking the lead on Caribbean romance for decades. Its new Grenada resort overflows with tropical passion, particularly in the Skypool oceanview suites.
Palm Island, St Vincent and the Grenadines
From the maritime journey from the airport at nearby Union Island to the spectacular beaches, Palm Island is a private island resort seemingly designed for romance.
The Caves, Jamaica
“Effortlessly sexy” best describes this Negril boutique where you can dine in a candlelit cave; canoodle at sunset in bathtub carved into the cliff; or take the plunge together (literally) into the blue below from a cliff’s edge diving platform.
Amanyara, Turks and Caicos Islands
Sexy is served with a side of sleek sophistication at this retreat on Provo’s secluded northwest coast. Sequestered in one of 38 pavilions perched on the ironshore, you’ll have no trouble bringing your sexy back.
O:live, Puerto Rico
In San Juan’s Condado district, this boutique newcomer is a perfect fit for visitors who crave city slickness with their sun, sea and sand. The open-air rooftop bar is a dreamy spot to watch darkness fall over the city – and your lover’s eyes light up.
Four Seasons Resort, Anguilla
The sexiest of evenings begin at Viceroy’s Sunset Lounge, where the only thing that outshines the well-heeled, well-dressed clientele is the sun setting over the resort’s two beaches. Plush Kelly Wearstler-designed rooms and villas are the “ne plus ultra” in resort chic; if you can’t get lucky here, throw in the towel.
Eden Rock, St Barth
It’s only fitting that one of the Caribbean’s sexiest destinations should have an appropriately sexy hotel. The island’s oldest resort, Eden Rock, delivers with a stunning beachfront location in St. Jean and luxury suites and over-the-top private villas that make irresistible French-Caribbean love nests.
Round Hill, Jamaica
Old-school sexy and easy elegance is what this Montego Bay mainstay is all about. The private-club ambience, unpretentious vibe, and classic Ralph Lauren styling make this “cottage colony” a mecca for amorous aristocrats.
La Toubana Hotel & Spa, Guadeloupe
Dial up the “ooh-la-la!” at this French-Caribbean retreat in Sainte-Anne where you won’t know where to look first: across the hilltop infinity pool to the island of Marie-Galante; down the hill to the curvaceous white-sand beach; or into your lover’s eyes.