The Best Caribbean Honeymoon Destinations, from boutiques to large resorts across the islands.
By Sarah Greaves-Gabbadon
CJ Travel Editor
Seclusion, tranquility, sultry nights tempered by cool ocean breezes … the Caribbean defines romance and honeymoons. The Caribbean and honeymoons amplify one another — each makes the other better. The Caribbean did not invent the honeymoon but has perfected the concept. From second honeymoon packages to destination weddings where the honeymoon is included, the Caribbean has innovated, refined and continues to enhance the honeymoon experience. These are the Best Caribbean Honeymoon Destinations.
Jamaica
It’s true what they say: Once you go to this classic Caribbean destination, you know. There’s nowhere quite like Jamaica, where the air seems to be filled with reggae-flavored romance. Hole up with your sweetie at lovey-dovey roosts such as Sandals’ couples-only resorts; Mo’Bay’s Round Hill and Half Moon; or stylish Port Antonio boutique, Geejam.
Barbados
This sophisticated southern Caribbean gem has beautiful beaches; a low-key laidback vibe; and some of the finest waterfront restaurants in which toast (with Mount Gay Extra Old rum, of course!) to your future. On our honeymoon hotel list: Colony Club; adults-only The House; and the spanking new Sandals Barbados.
Anguilla
High-end but low-key; sophisticated but casual; and with more than a month’s worth of some of the most alluring beaches … How much do we love Anguilla? Let us count the ways. Check in to any resort here (Cap Juluca, Anacaona, and Viceroy are solid choices) and we guarantee you won’t want to check out.
St Lucia
Station yourself within sight of the iconic spires of the Pitons and you can’t help but feel the magic of one the Caribbean’s most intoxicating isles. Canoodling couples will love intimate inns such as Ladera and Hotel Chocolat, and the three-walled suites at Jade Mountain are ground zero for baby-making.
Nevis
Tiny and tranquil, unpretentious and unhurried, this old Caribbean-style outpost is a great choice for couples who want nothing to distract them from each other. Plantation inns such as Montpelier and Golden Rock are perfect locations for a hillside honeymoon; the plush Four Seasons offers beachfront luxury.
Martinique
The French claim to have invented romance, and on this idyllic isle the sumptuous food, curvaceous beaches, national joie de vivre and plenty of rhum agricole combine to prove them right. With new flights from all over the US its easier than ever to reach, and hotels such as Plein Soleil and Cap Est make it harder than ever to leave.
Providenciales, Turks and Caicos Islands
Beaches, beaches and beaches. Did we mention beaches? From 12-mile-long Grace Bay to the milky turquoise waters of Chalk Sound, Provo has a bevy of beaches on which you can play out all your “From Here To Eternity” fantasies. The dining is world-class, and resorts such as the posh Regent Palms and cloistered Amanyara are perfect for luxe leisure. So are the lovely Ocean Club Resorts.
Antigua
Sail into the sunset (and your new life together) on this island that’s famous for its sailing tradition; penchant for partying; and year’s worth of comely coves. Stylish twosomes will appreciate the sleek design aesthetic at Carlisle Bay and Curtain Bluff is a classic choice you can later return to with kids in tow. Or you can go for a luxurious, all-inclusive getaway at Galley Bay.
Dominica
Escape from everything and discover each other in this nature lover’s paradise that’s tinged with a touch of adventure. Pass the days hiking, snorkeling and kayaking, and then relax and reconnect in a plunge pool for two in a plush villa at cliff-top Secret Bay.
St John
Sixty percent of this U.S. Virgin is a national park and you’ll fall 100 percent in love with its unspoiled beaches, challenging hiking trails, and acres of pristine parkland. Outdoorsy couples with a taste for luxury should check out the Westin St John and Caneel Bay.