Secret Vacation Spots in the Caribbean

Unrevealed Path In St. Croix

St. Croix is the hidden gem of the U.S. Virgin Islands, a place where tourist traps don't exist. With a marvelous topography, mysterious rainforest and a florid and lush coast that resembles the volcanic beauty of popular places such as Hawaii, St. Croix is a rare destination in the Caribbean. On top of it all, the island — which is twice the size of St. Thomas — is beautifully preserved by those who call it home and dotted with charming 18th-century stone sugar mills. The east has a rich desert ecology, with a clear pristine coast set in a natural reserve. This is where you'll find the colonial town of Christiansted, the gorgeous Buck Island Reef and the secluded Isaac Bay, with a trail that takes you to wondrous beaches and mountains. On the west coast, you'll find the rainforest, Sandy Point National Wildlife Refuge, rum distilleries and historic Frederiksted town.

Ancient Light In Puerto Rico

With a blend of Spanish, African and Taíno cultures, along with a more recent and undeniable American influence, Puerto Rico shines and captivates more than any other island in the Caribbean. Its historic town of Old San Juan is the most famous in the area, with an ancient fort overlooking the ocean, cobblestone lanes leading to secret cafés and the glitz of newly opened restaurants and bars. But beyond San Juan, there's much to enjoy. The east coast beams with golden stretches of sand kissed by light blue waters. Luquillo and Fajardo are especially popular among visitors and locals, offering delicious seafood, live music and access to the tiny isles of Palomino and Icacos. The west is known for its lush terrain and panoramic ocean views, surf culture and slower pace. In the center of the island, you'll find authentic local culture and food, the ruggedness of a much bigger country and the spirit of the local jíbaro and jíbara. To the south, there's more culture and colonial beauty in towns like Ponce, and the allure of local fishing will you draw you into villages and towns like Salinas.

Hidden Healing Volcano In St. Lucia

Many say that St. Lucia is eye candy for the traveler. I could write thousands of words trying to explain why and still would not do it justice, though I'll still try. Imagine giant peaks that surge from the sea to create a view so cinematic, it looks photoshopped. You blink a few times to make sure it's real. You're in a special genre of paradise, one that only a few get to see because St. Lucia is not part of the touristy maps. The island is incredibly rich in culture and breathtakingly lush, and this has attracted a lot of environmentalists and creatives, which in turn means that art and conservancy have filtered into everything, from shops to eateries to beach shacks. Nothing is cookie-cutter or mainstream here. All corners of St. Lucia exude a particular brand of island finesse.

Secret Villages In Roatán

Roatán is a secret treasure of the Caribbean — a gorgeous and remote snorkeling and diving Honduran paradise. The coast is home to an astounding amount of diverse coral and tropical fish, and its beaches are made of dreamy white sand landscapes lapped by a sea of multiple shades of green and blue. You can see mountains full of pines from the water, with trails waiting to be explored. This is an island serious about conservation, culture and tradition. And you can take part in the wonder and beauty by just sauntering along its streets and beaches.

If you want to explore Roatán a little deeper and visit what tourists often miss, then head to the classic villages. Oakridge, in particular, is a perfect stop. Known as the Venice of Roatán, the villagers have been moving around in water taxis and small canoes for years, getting to and from their colorful houses built on stilts on the waterfront with views of the jungle hills. This area is still unspoiled and feels like old Roatán, providing a glimpse into a simpler time. Look for the fishermen by the water selling fresh fish to nearby restaurants. One of my favorites is BJ's Backyard, famous for its wahoo steaks. In the afternoon, you'll also find live bands playing in bars. Stop by and socialize with the locals for an experience like no other.