For many CJ readers, there’s no greater pleasure than finding a new small island in the Caribbean, a beach-filled paradise far removed from the hustle and bustle of the world — and even more laid-back than some of its larger Caribbean neighbors.
Once you find one of these places, they instantly become your second home.
Here are five small islands to try right now.
Anegada
It sounds like a fantasy: powder-white sand beaches; sparkling water; and a remarkably large lobster population. But Anegada, the far outpost of the British Virgin Islands, is very much real, and it’s waiting for you, with small hotels, classic beach bars and endless beaches. (The Anegada Reef is a fun, easygoing hotel with a great bar.)
The Firefly hotel in Mustique.
Mustique
There’s a bit of mystery about this place in the heart of the Grenadines, as it’s such a celebrity haven that it works hard to preserve its guests’ privacy. But behind that aura is a wonderful beachy island, with sweeping villas and boutique hotels like Firefly and The Cotton House.
Jost Van Dyke
You may know it as the home of the world-famous Soggy Dollar Bar, but this British Virgin Islands outpost has so much more, from its gorgeous white-sand beaches to throwback small beach hotels and cottages (we like the White Bay Villas.)
Terre de Haut
This French Caribbean island in the Guadeloupe archipelago is equal parts Breton fishing village and Caribbean island, with charming architecture, a lovely, walkable small town and a remarkably diverse collection of beaches, from its Pain-de-Sucre bay to more exotic stretches of sand like Grand Anse. Try the closest thing to a “resort” on the island, the Hotel Bois Joli.
Little Cayman
Long one of the best-kept secrets in the Caribbean, this tiny islet is starting to get some increased attention, thanks to world-class diving, a dearth of people (a population of less than 200) and the sort of off-the-grid vibe you just can’t find in the Caribbean anymore.