12 Off-The-Beaten Path Caribbean Islands for a Peaceful Retreat
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It is no secret that the Caribbean is a highly sought-after destination. With pristine white sand beaches, vibrant local cultures, sublime weather, lush coral reefs, fantastic green scenery, and exotic cuisines, the Caribbean keeps attracting tourists with varied interests.
With so much to offer, the Caribbean receives so much love from travel enthusiasts worldwide. That means that some of the most popular spots in the Caribbean are overrun with tourists, making it ideal for people looking to chase landmarks and tourist hotspots but not for travelers looking for peaceful retreats.
However, amidst numerous tourist hotspots, off-the-beaten Caribbean islands still exist that experience smaller crowds and have unspoiled nature, which is perfect for peaceful retreats. Looking to go on a tranquil escape and rejuvenate your body and mind? Look no further than these 12 under-the-radar Caribbean islands.
Saba Island, Netherlands
Known as the unspoiled queen of the Caribbean, Saba is rich in biodiversity that any nature enthusiast will love. Crisscrossed with over 20 self-guided hiking trails, hikers of all levels will have a time of their lives on this island. Another perfect way to escape the hustle and bustle of life is by exploring the lush rainforests that cover the steep slopes of the island.
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Beyond hiking, immerse yourself in the island’s rich cultural heritage by visiting its four laid-back villages: St. John’s, The Bottom, Zion’s Hill, and Windwardside. Saba Island is an excellent destination if you find peace in picture-perfect and undestroyed nature.
Read also: Incredible Hidden Beaches in the Caribbean
Little Cayman, Cayman Islands
Go beyond the Grand Cayman and explore the serenity that the Little Cayman has to offer. Being one of the least developed islands in the Caribbean means that Little Cayman is a perfect destination for travelers looking for off-the-grid opportunities.
Start your vacation on this unspoiled island by hitting the 3-mile-long Salt Rock Nature Trail, which gets you up-close with butterflies, wildlife, and native plants.
If you fancy scuba diving, visit famous sites such as Jackson’s Bight and Blood Bay Marine Park. Preston Bay is the perfect spot for snorkelers looking for shallow snorkeling spots. Beach lovers will love the tranquility and privacy of sunbathing at Point of Sand and Owen Island.
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Your trip to the Caymans is not complete without visiting The Booby Pond, which is home to a vast colony of red-footed boobies(Sula Sula). It is a charming destination for bird watchers.
Read also: Untouched Caribbean Islands
Carriacou, Grenada
Carriacou, the second largest island in Grenada, is home to some of the most unspoiled coral reefs in the Caribbean, thereby earning the title ‘Isle of Reefs.”
With over 30 diving sites, Carriacou is a haven for diving enthusiasts, whether you are a seasoned diver or an amateur. Some popular diving sites include Sharky’s Hideaway, Barracuda Point, Arc Du Velo, Whirlpool, and Gun Point Ridge.
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Diving aside, discover Tyrell Bay Beach, Anse La Roche Beach, and Paradise Beach, where you can relax or engage in various water sports such as kayaking, swimming, and snorkeling. With smaller crowds, you are guaranteed tranquil moments on Carriacou beaches.
Read also: Caribbean Attractions Other Than Beaches
Great Exuma, Bahamas
Your trip to the Bahamas is not complete without visiting the Great Exuma Island, the largest of the Exuma islands. Start your vacation at this Bahama’s gem by traveling to George Town (the capital of the Exumas), where you can visit St. Andrew’s Anglican Church or check out the Exuma markets.
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For those seeking a coastal escape, visit this island’s spectacular sandy beaches, such as Cocoplum Beach, Tropic of Cancer Beach, or Emerald Bay Beach. Here, you can swim, snorkel, kayak, or even relax while sipping a tropical drink. Stop by Hooper’s Bay, where you can watch turtles swim in turquoise waters.
Read also: Must-Visit Beaches in the Caribbean
Montserrat, British Overseas Territory
Montserrat Island is a perfect destination for travelers seeking a tranquil coastal escape. It features some of the epic snorkeling and diving spots in the world, key to them being Rendezvous Bay.
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New Beach, Isle’s Bay Beach, Woodlands Beach, and Lover’s Bay Beach are some of the best places to soak yourself as you admire crystal clear waters. You can snorkel, swim, or even kayak in these destinations if you please. Water adventures aside, you can hike the Dry Waterfall Trail, an opportunity to connect with nature and the island’s culture.
Read also: Visa-Free Caribbean Destinations
Dominica
Nicknamed the Nature Island, Dominica stands out from other Caribbean Islands, thanks to its untouched landscapes and diverse flora and fauna. If you are looking for an unspoiled natural outdoor experience, this is the place to be. You will be treated to eye-catching views of rainforests that run for as long as your eyes can see.
With 365 rivers at your disposal, you will have numerous exploration and watersport activities to engage in. Beyond rivers, you can relax by the island’s picturesque and undestroyed beaches. A top choice, Hampstead Beach is a postcard-worthy spot for tranquility seekers, as it has lush greenery, shimmering sands, and a wide range of wildlife, including rare turtle species.
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If you like hiking, hit the Caribbean’s longest trail, Waitukubuli National Trail, and enjoy unparalleled views of the dramatic mountain landscape, Kalinago villages, waterfalls, and rivers.
Read also: Incredible Hidden Beaches in the Caribbean
Tobago, Trinidad and Tobago
Unlike Trinidad (its twin island), Tobago is a low-key location that goes under the radar. Many tourists explore Trinidad’s vibrant culture and call it a trip, missing the picture-perfect and peaceful Tobago. With minimal mass tourism, Tobago is an excellent destination for travelers seeking more serene opportunities to explore stunning scenery in a laid-back atmosphere.
Tobago is a treasure trove of idyllic beaches such as Englishman’s Bay Beach, No Man’s Land Beach, Black Rock Beach, and Store Bay Beach.
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The Main Ridge Forest Reserve is a paradise for nature seekers. It offers fantastic opportunities to soak in the beauty of undamaged rainforests and encounter different wildlife species. Hikers will have numerous adventure opportunities with rugged terrain, rolling hills, and scenic trails.
Read also: Spectacular Hiking Trails in the Caribbean
Nevis, St.Kitts and Nevis
Although Nevis is one of the smallest islands in the Caribbean, it has plenty to offer as an untampered destination. From green vegetation to long stretches of uncrowded beaches, many aspects set Nevis apart as a peaceful retreat destination. If you are a beach lover, visit pristine beaches such as Lovers Beach, Cades Bay Beach, Pinney’s Beach, Windward Beach, and Herbert Beach.
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You can do many other laid-back activities in Nevis, such as visiting the Botanical Garden of Nevis, hiking the Nevis Peak, or visiting the History Museum of Nevis.
Read also: Insta-worthy Spots in the Caribbean
Vieques Island, Puerto Rico
In Puerto Rico, visit Vieques Island, a small heaven on earth, thanks to its lavish resorts, picturesque beaches, and unique flora and fauna. Swing by Vieques National Wildlife Refuge and interacting with 16 federally listed animal and plant species. The sanctuary also offers excellent birdwatching, hiking, kayaking, and horse-riding opportunities.
The island is also blessed with incredible beaches that offer perfect opportunities to connect with the sea waters. If you want to relax on uncrowded beaches, try Playa Caracas Beach, Pata Prieta (Secret Beach), La Chiva Beach, and Playa La Esperanza Beach.
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The Mosquito Bioluminescent Bay is another magical place you do not want to miss when visiting Vieques Island. The bay contains microscopic dinoflagellates that emit blue-green light, creating a picture-perfect scenery you will likely not experience elsewhere.
Read also: Amazing Sunset Viewing Spots in the Caribbean
Little Corn Island, Nicaragua
Devoid of cars, motorcycles, or airports, Little Corn Island is absolutely one of the best-kept remote tropical islands in the Caribbean. For diving enthusiasts, Blowing Rock is a perfect destination, as you will get personal and up close with epic marine animals such as Caribbean reef sharks, stingrays, barracuda, moray eels, and reef fish.
The island is also home to amazing snorkeling points where snorkelers can encounter nurse sharks, sea turtles, and stingrays.
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With limited means of transport available, the best way to explore this island is by foot as you soak up the beauty of the blue waters of the Caribbean. A day by Otto Beach guarantees you much-needed relaxation. Its laid-back ambiance is perfect for a beach picnic, reading a book, or paddle boarding.
Read also: Family Vacation Destinations in the Caribbean
San Andres Island, Colombia
With a diverse ecosystem of geysers, reefs, cays, and gloves, San Andres Island is an ideal hideaway for snorkeling, diving, and exploring outdoor environments. Begin your holiday here by visiting Playa Spratt Bight Beach, where you can bask in the sun, swim in the turquoise waters, or stroll on the beautiful white sand.
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Away from the beach, visit San Andres Ecological Park and marvel at this island’s beautiful wildlife. Laguna Big Pond is another laid-back spot perfect for those who want to see some of the untouched portions of this island.
Read also: Hidden Gems in the Caribbean
Barbuda, Antigua and Barbuda
Famous for having unique caves, pink sand beaches, and pristine waters, Barbuda is one of the most untouched islands in the Caribbean, as its sister island, Antigua, often overshadows it. When in Barbuda, kickstart your vacation by visiting the Frigate Bird Sanctuary and enjoy magnificent views of birds of different species nesting in their natural habitat.
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If you like soaking yourself on the beach, explore 17-Mile Beach, Spanish Point Beach, and Princess Diana Beach. Go beyond conventional exploration and discover the mysteries of Indian Cave, located in Two Foot Bay National Park. History buffs in Barbuda, don’t miss the Martello Tower, the oldest tower in the Caribbean.
Read also: Caribbean Islands for Adventure
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Rachel is a content writer interested in creating engaging narratives on travel, home management, personal finance, and parenting. When free, you can catch her writing for her personal blog, flawlesshorizon.com, watching TikToks, or exploring hidden gems in her city.
