There’s more to the Caribbean than just the beach. Indeed, some of the Caribbean’s greatest places to stay are perched not on the sand but in the hills and at the edge of sweeping cliffs.
At these hotels, it’s about finding a different perspective, about seeing the Caribbean in a new way — about life on the edge. There’s something both exhilarating and tranquil about staying somewhere on a cliffside, with the height and the natural environment combining for a unique kind of vibration.
For a different kind of Caribbean resort experience, try one of these Caribbean “cliffside” hotels.
Secret Bay, Dominica
Long one of our favorite hotels in the Caribbean, this spectacular clutch of ultra-modern, eco-conscious villas is set at the edge of a cliffside overlooking the stunning Secret Beach and, in the distance, the main islands of Guadeloupe.
Four Seasons Resort and Residences Anguilla
The former Viceroy property on Barnes Bay is now a Four Seasons, and that’s taken a beautifully-designed hotel and made it even better. But the star of the show remains the hotel’s prominent location on a cliff above the beach, with wonderful vistas of both Barnes Bay and Meads Bay. It will be hard not to spend every day of your stay at the Sunset Lounge and its adjacent cliffside infinity pool.
Strawberry Hill, Jamaica
Still one of the best-kept secrets in Jamaica, this Island Outpost resort is positioned on a 26-acre retreat 3,000 feet above sea level, with a simply remarkable cliffside infinity pool and one of the island’s best restaurants, too.
The Crane, Barbados
This historic 252-room Barbados resort is perched above the lovely pink-sand Crane Beach, boasting a pair of pools that each takes advantage of its privileged position (none more marvelous than the “Historic Pool,” 50 feet above the beach.
The Caves, Jamaica
Perhaps the Caribbean’s greatest boutique all-inclusive (there are just 12 rooms), this Negril institution is seemingly carved right into the famous cliffs of Negril, from its Blackwell Rum Bar (set inside a cave) to a pair of private dining options that are both set inside caves underneath the cliffs.
Ladera, St Lucia
The hotel that pioneered the three-wall room concept, this legendary St. Lucia resort is set on a cliffside overlooking the magnificent Pitons, with spectacularly designed rooms and a bar and restaurant that boast some of the Caribbean’s most miraculous views.
Frenchman’s Reef & Morning Star Marriott Beach Resort, St. Thomas, USVI
If any hotel is worth staying at for the views alone, it’s this. This famous (and affordable) St. Thomas resort has a simply sparkling collection of views, whether you’re wading in the infinity pool or downing a Cruzan Single Barrel at the bar patio overlooking the green hills of the island.