Montserrat Island And Other Caribbean Secret Islands
I’m just as guilty as everyone else when planning my island vacation. I tend to go with what I know and where I’ve been before. It’s very easy to go with an island or resort you or others have been to, and who can vouch for it having exactly what you are looking for. But this year, I’m challenging myself to look beyond the obvious. So I did a deep dive and found some hidden gems of the Caribbean that I’ve added to my list of places to explore.
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Montserrat Island
Montserrat, set in the Leeward Islands, is often overlooked in favor of more famous neighbors like Antigua and St. Kitts. But, it offers a mix of lush rainforests, volcanic landscapes, and rich culture, making it a fascinating destination for travelers.
How Do You Get to Montserrat Island?
The island is accessible by air with regular flights from Antigua, provided by airlines like Fly Montserrat and SVG Air. Alternatively, travelers can take a ferry service, also from Antigua, which provides a scenic voyage across the Caribbean Sea to this secluded paradise.
Is It Expensive to Travel to Montserrat Island?
Traveling to Montserrat can be moderately priced, depending on your choice of accommodations and activities. The cost of flights from Antigua is generally affordable. Don’t expect fancy resorts. Most of the places to stay are family owned hotels. There are also plenty of cute bed & breakfast hotels to stay at. There very few upscale villas. The overall expense is comparable to other less-commercialized Caribbean destinations.
Is Montserrat Island Worth Visiting?
Absolutely! I recommend visiting the active Soufrière Hills Volcano or the Montserrat Volcano Observatory. Of course, Montserrat has amazing beaches and trails. But it is the seclusion and privacy that make it the top choice for me.
Dominica: A Nature Lover’s Paradise
Dominica, often known as the “Nature Island,” is located in the Lesser Antilles near Martinique and Guadeloupe. Unlike its sandy neighbors, Dominica has more of a rugged terrain. It is filled with lush rainforests, deep gorges, and rushing rivers. It definitely gives more of an adventure-traveler vibe.
Why Dominica Stands Out in the Caribbean
What sets Dominica apart is its commitment to preserving its natural environment. The island’s government and local communities have gone to great lengths to protect its unique ecosystems. They have an extensive network of trails and protected areas, including the Morne Trois Pitons National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site. The park features the boiling lake, hot springs, and stunning waterfalls.
St. Kitts and Nevis: A Blend of History and Island Charm
Located in the Leeward Islands, St. Kitts and Nevis might not draw crowds like Antigua or St. Lucia, but they hold a similar vibe. These islands are steeped in history. They are home to ancient sugar plantations, colonial architecture, and historic forts.
Brimstone Hill Fortress National Park in St. Kitts, a UNESCO World Heritage site, offers a deep dive into the military architecture and history of the colonial era. Nevis Peak in Nevis and Mount Liamuiga in St. Kitts are great for hiking, through lush rainforests.
A Hub for Luxury and Leisure
The islands have also become known for their luxury tourism. Exclusive resorts and exquisite boutique hotels provide high-end accommodations. The Four Seasons Resort Nevis is always on our list for fine dining, and exceptional service. St. Kitts and Nevis have a rich cultural scene. The annual St. Kitts Music Festival and Nevis Culturama are places where local and international artists showcase music and art.
Tobago…The Best Hidden Gem
Tobago is the smaller of the two main islands that make up the Republic of Trinidad and Tobago. However, Tobago is a great place for nature lovers and beachgoers. The island’s Main Ridge Forest Reserve is one of the oldest protected areas of rainforest in the Western Hemisphere. It has miles of hiking trails through dense greenery where numerous species of birds, including the rare Tobago parrot, make their home.
Pristine Beaches and Marine Life
Tobago’s beaches are considered some of the most beautiful in the Caribbean. The famous Pigeon Point with its iconic thatch-roofed jetty is a popular place to visit. And the secluded Pirate’s Bay, which is accessible only by boat or a steep descent down a cliffside, is an Instagrammable spot! The surrounding coral reefs are filled with colorful marine life and provide excellent opportunities for snorkeling and diving. Check out the area around the Buccoo Reef.
Grenada: The Spice of the Caribbean
Grenada is growing in popularity in the Windward Islands like her neighbors St. Vincent and the Grenadines. Known as the “Island of Spice,” Grenada is the world’s second-largest producer of nutmeg. Its capital, St. George’s is where more resorts are establishing as their base of operations because of their world-class beaches. Grand Anse Beach, a two-mile stretch just south of St. George’s, is a perfect example, with crystal clear waters and a variety of water sports. The surrounding waters offer excellent opportunities for scuba diving, including the renowned Underwater Sculpture Park, which combines art with environmentalism in an underwater gallery of sculptures that act as artificial reefs.
Luxury Stay With Sandals Grenada
For those seeking ultimate luxury in Grenada, Sandals® Grenada on Pink Gin Beach is your spot! The resort offers unlimited fine dining across 10 distinct restaurants and unlimited premium drinks at six bars, including a swim-up option. Each room has a well-stocked bar with top-shelf wines and liquors. And the “Skypool” suites include private infinity pools with breathtaking views. Additionally, every suite comes with complimentary WiFi, and top-tier options come with personal butler service.
The resort is packed with activities and amenities to keep guests entertained, from PADI-Certified SCUBA diving and various water sports to tennis and a state-of-the-art fitness center. Nightly live shows provide vibrant entertainment options. Located just minutes from Maurice Bishop International Airport, Sandals Grenada includes convenient roundtrip airport transfers. Guests can also enjoy extra luxuries such as romantic candlelight dinners, local tours, and treatments at the award-winning Red Lane® Spa, making it an all-encompassing luxurious Caribbean retreat.
Will It Be Montserrat Island Or Another Hidden Gem?
I know that it is easy to just go with a familiar resort, on an island that you trust. But I challenge you to think outside the box, and try something new! If you need any help with finding a hotel, resort, or tours in any of these hidden Caribbean islands, just book a call! We’re always happy to help!
