By Bob Curley
CJ Contributor

St Vincent and the Grenadines isn’t your typical Caribbean vacation destination. The lush, volcanic island of St Vincent is by far the largest land mass in this archipelago nation, yet may be the least visited despite its innumerable waterfalls and hidden coves that provided the backdrop for the Pirates of the Caribbean movies more than a decade ago.

Of course it’s also become truly accessible thanks to the opening of its new Argyle International Airport, which now, for the first time ever, has facilitated nonstop flights from the United States and Canada to St Vincent.

St Vincent has just a handful of small resorts, but the island’s vibrant culture (it has one of the top Carnival celebrations, VincyMas, in the Caribbean) make it a great destination for those who value authenticity in their travels. If it’s luxury you’re looking for, set your sights (and sails) on the Grenadines, a string of destinations that includes Bequia with its rich history of boatbuilding, the playboy hideaway of Mustique, and private islands like Palm Island and Petit St. Vincent.

Palm Island, one of the top resorts in the Grenadines.

Palm Island We had a hard time taking a bad photo on Palm Island, especially on the private island’s broad sandy beach jutting into some of the most picture-perfect tropical waters you can imagine. Guests have five beaches to choose from in all, so it’s not hard to disappear for a few hours by paddling to a secluded spot and making it all your own for the day. A private launch puts nearby Union Island within easy reach, and there’s tennis, diving, spa services, and all-inclusive drinking and dining at Palm Island’s two restaurants, in your room, or on the beach.