Leeward Islands
Leeward Islands
There is probably no place on Earth where luxury and astonishing nature form such a close union as they do in the Leeward Islands. Thousands of sandy beaches and coves to explore yachting, verdant rainforest trails to enjoy hiking, and warm weather that provides perfect sailing conditions are some of the reasons sailing elites flock here each year while chasing the Sun.
Antigua
Start your unforgettable adventure in Antigua, where you can explore the privately owned Green Island found just afoot of Nonsuch Bay. Enjoy private, creamy white sand beaches and later head to Nonsuch Bay for some unparalleled cuisine. The island of Antigua, referred to as Wadadli by locals, is home to 365 dreamy coves - it would take you a year to see them all - situated along the 50 miles of endless sandy shores. Candy-pink sands and baby blue waters make the beaches of Antigua seem almost like a hallucination.
Shirley Heights is the place to absorb marvelous panoramic views of the enchanting shores, while those interested in some gourmet cuisine should visit the Jacqui O's Beach House at Saint Mary - you will be guaranteed a spectacular view, as well as the softest lobster there is.
If you're in the mood for a real marine adventure, try power snorkeling on Turtle beach. Aside from seeing exotic turtle species, shipwrecks, corals, conch, rays, and tropical fish all make snorkeling around this area a wonderful underwater adventure.
Make sure to explore the street markets of this paradise island. Shop for some local black pineapple that will serve you as a snack as you sail across the translucent waters to discover neighboring islands.
Barbuda
Famous for salmon-colored sand beaches, most of your holiday photos from Barbuda will look photoshopped. Explore Warwick Long Bay Beach, nature's best color palette to snap some impressive shots of the astonishing tropical nature. Together with Antigua, this island is part of a small country with a vibrant cultural heritage, a mix of African traditions, and colonialist influence. Cricket, rum, and dancing are pillars of the emerging Creole culture of the island known as Wa'omoni before the arrival of Christofer Columbus.
Endless stretches of quiet sandy beaches are what make this island stand out, as you can easily find yourself completely alone in a cove so gorgeous that it would be overcrowded with tourists anywhere else on Earth.
Heavily impacted by Hurricane Irma, the still-recovering island of Barbuda has a very different atmosphere than nearby Antigua. Codrington is the only town found on land, with a modest 1,500 inhabitants and few restaurants. Making a donation to help rebuild this oasis is very welcome, and investors are even offered citizenship!
Nevis
Drop your anchor in one of the founding fathers of America, Alexander Hamilton's birthplace to enjoy some inland adventure. The beguilingly stunning island is a mix of Eden-like beach scenery, relaxing rainforest sounds, golden sand, and upscale restaurants, yet more relaxed than some of the surrounding destinations. The best-kept secret of the Caribbean is the place to go when looking for some nonchalant luxury - whether you're looking to golf at the Four Seasons or explore the real wilderness by hiking through the rainforest, Nevis has it all.
The name of the island is actually just short for Nuestra Senora de Las Nieves, which translates to Our Lady of the Snows, because of the cloud-covered mountain. Contrasts and abundant nature is what make this island so charming. Once called the queen of the Caribbean, the history of Nevis is not that sweet - home to once highest-earning sugar plantations, the local inhabitants were enslaved and made a fortune for the British. To explore the history of the Nevis, visit Charlestown, one of the best-preserved examples of colonialist architecture - the many houses that remain from the Georgian era are charming stroll-destinations, while Eden Brown Estate is where you'll find remainings of sugar and cotton plantation fields and monuments many believe are haunted.
St Kitts
Authentic Caribbean food and iridescent waters are not the only reasons to explore the wonderful island of St Kitts. It's also home to a UNESCO-protected heritage site, Brimstone Hill Fortress National Park, where you'll find a well-preserved British military fortress that offers a glimpse into the history of St Kitts but also provides spectacular views of the shores.
Cockleshell Bay is the place to take in stunning tropical scenery - snorkel to explore the waters breaming with starfish, stingrays, and colorful fish. Monkeys can also be spotted on this heavenly getaway to complete the impression of an exotic oasis. The capital of St. Kitts and Nevis, Basseterre also offers several lovely beaches, and it is also the oldest town in the Caribbean. Founded in 1627 by the French, this small port town offers both contemporary enjoyment and insights into the struggles with colonialism. Visit the National Museum, St. George's Anglican Church, the Circus area, and Independence Square to learn about the history of this island or simply enjoy the bountiful marinas, natural beaches, and numerous activities such as snorkeling, diving, and even golfing.
St. Barts
The ritziest spot in the Caribbean is famous for being the high society's favorite hideaway. Yachting elites visit this tropical oasis each year to enjoy 22 sandy beaches, and celebrities soak the sun unbothered by their fame - Beyonce, Jay Z, and the Kardashians are just some of Saint Barthelemy's regular guests. Yet, even though this island is known to attract mega-yachts each year, especially around Christmas, the island has kept a nonchalant vibe. Anse du Gouverneur Beach on the south side of St. Barts is known for its cerulean waters and domineering white reef and offers some seclusion to those who'd like to explore nature and enjoy some seclusion.
Swaying palms and glittery waters of Saline beach hide one of the island's best restaurants - L'Esprit is a romantic hideaway where chef Jean-Claude Dufour prepares mouthwatering meals that are often the result of a fusion of local and french cuisine.
Deciding on one beach would be very difficult to do since they all have a specific charm - mojito fused parties are regularly held in the famous Shell beach, while Colombier Beach, where Rockefeller once owned property, is better for days of quiet relaxation. If you feel you're underdressed for the glamorous atmosphere of St. Barts, shop in the capital Gustavia's many refined boutiques - household brands such as Cartier, Hermes, Prada, and Ralph Lauren are all found here, as well as local designer shops that sell the island's official uniform, caftans, such as Lolita Jaca.