The Caribbean is sure to evoke picture perfect images of beautiful beaches and island cocktails garnished with pineapple slices and toothpick umbrellas, but there’s far more than just the beach life on offer. If you’re wondering what to do in the Caribbean to create the most unforgettable yacht charter adventure, consider including these top ten Caribbean activities in your future travel plans.
1. Grenada’s Underwater Sculpture Park
Nestled beneath the surface of Grenada’s Moliniere Bay, the Underwater Sculpture Park features over 65 sculptures designed to captivate divers and snorkelers. From a man at his typewriter to a circle of schoolchildren, these installations create a surreal underwater landscape. Accessible directly by boat, this site blends art and marine conservation, making it a must-visit for anyone exploring Grenada by yacht.
This unique underwater art installation not only captivates divers but also serves a dual purpose, encouraging coral growth and promoting marine conservation, helping preserve the natural beauty of Grenada’s coastlines. For another conservation-focused experience, visit the Cayman Turtle Centre in Grand Cayman, where you can learn about turtle rescue efforts and interact with these beautiful creatures while supporting marine life preservation.
2. Hike The Pitons
The subject of countless travel brochures and Caribbean bucket lists, St. Lucia’s Pitons are two near-identical peaks covered in lush vegetation and lined with accessible hiking trails that uncover some truly monumental views. A trek to the top of the Gros Piton (the larger of the two) can be easily achieved by anyone comfortable with moderate exercise in a half-day or less.
For the adventure seekers, St. Kitts offers another challenge with a hike up Mount Liamuiga, one of the tallest peaks in the Caribbean. Surrounded by dense rainforest, the reward is extraordinary views of neighboring islands.
3. Puerto Rico’s Bioluminescent Bay
The largest of Puerto Rico’s best-kept secret Spanish Virgin Islands – Vieques – is where you will be able to experience the magic of bioluminescent Mosquito Bay. Truly a natural wonder and a treat for the senses, this glowing underwater phenomenon occurs when Dinoflagellates, or “dinos”, bounce off each other and produce bright bursts of blue light. It really is something spectacular that every visitor must see for themselves.
To witness the full brilliance of the bioluminescence, it’s best to visit on a moonless night. The darker the sky, the brighter the blue glow of the water as the organisms react to movement.
4. Beach Bars on Jost Van Dyke
From the friendly faces and cold drinks at Foxy’s Tamarind Bar in Great Harbour to the world-famous “Painkiller” cocktails and good island vibes found at Soggy Dollar Bar in White Bay, Jost Van Dyke offers quite a few can’t-miss hot-spots during any BVI vacation.
Without a doubt, these two beach bars become instant favorites of visitors from all across the globe and neither ever fails to disappoint. And for those who have yet to experience the “healing effects” of a BVI “Painkiller” – a bold concoction of rum, pineapple juice, cream of coconut, and orange juice, topped off with freshly ground nutmeg – boy are you in for a treat!
5. Witness the World’s Only Drive-In Volcano
Located near Soufriere in St. Lucia, Sulfur Springs is commonly known as “the world’s only drive-in volcano.” That’s because tourists can literally drive right up to the edge of the spring to see the lava-heated steam rising from its surface.
The water here is far too hot for swimming, but if you travel a few hundred yards downstream, you can wade in cooler waters rich with soothing mud, similar to what you’d typically find in a luxury spa. (Photo by D G Brown on Flickr.)
6. St. Martin’s Maho Beach
Known for its incredible photos of commercial jets flying straight overhead the stunning shoreline below, Maho Beach is just one of style-savvy St. Martin’s many treasures that every visitor must experience up-close. Located on the Dutch side of the island, this internationally-famous beach lets you indulge in world-class relaxation while nearby Princess Juliana International Airport treats you to the occasional adrenaline-rush and memorable Kodak moment.
Flights typically land during the late morning to early afternoon, so plan your visit during these times to catch the most action overhead. The airport posts a schedule for larger jets, which are the most thrilling to witness.
7. Dive and Dine in Anegada
If you’re wondering where to visit in the Caribbean for some of the best lobster, look no further than Anegada in the British Virgin Islands. This island is especially unique because it’s completely flat and surrounded by one of the world’s largest barrier reefs. Not only is this a prime snorkeling spot, but it’s also home to some truly tasty clawed cuisine. Visit any time during the season (between November and July) and stop by a restaurant like the Lobster Trap or Potters by the Sea for a mouthwatering feast of fresh-caught lobster.
The horseshoe-shaped reef that surrounds Anegada is known for its pristine coral formations and vibrant marine life. Popular dive sites include the Anegada Reef and “The Wall,” where you’ll encounter colorful fish, sea turtles, and the occasional stingray. Snorkelers can enjoy calm, clear waters just off the coast, with easy access to shallow reef areas perfect for beginners.
8. Indulge in French Caribbean Cuisine
The Caribbean is a veritable melting pot of cultures, and the French are no exception, especially when it comes to their influence on cuisine in this spectacular region. For some of the best, visit the French side of St. Martin or St. Barts. Both of these areas are home to world-class restaurants like Le Chanteclair (St. Martin) and stores like La Cave de Saint Barthelemy (St. Barts), which features more than 200,000 bottles and 300 varieties of French wine.
On these islands, traditional French Caribbean dishes like accras de morue (salt cod fritters), boudin créole (spiced blood sausage), and colombo (a curry dish influenced by Indian immigrants) are must-tries. Finish your meal with a dessert like flan coco (coconut flan) or tarte à la banane (banana tart) to complete your culinary journey.
9. Shirley Heights
Shirley Heights is one of Antigua’s most iconic landmarks, offering panoramic views of English Harbour, neighboring islands, and the shimmering Caribbean Sea. Accessible by a scenic nature trail, this historic lookout is the perfect spot to catch a sunset or enjoy Antigua’s lively Sunday parties with live music and local cuisine. It’s an essential stop on any Antigua sailing itinerary. It’s a perfect spot to witness the stunning sunset as the golden hues transform the sky and sea.
Shirley Heights is also well-known by the locals for hosting the most epic parties on Antigua, especially on Sundays. If you’re itching for a taste of the island’s premium party scene, visit on a Sunday evening and enjoy live music, typically a blend of reggae and steel drum bands, while sipping on bottomless rum punches. The atmosphere is festive, with dancing that lasts well into the night.
10. Explore The Baths
When it comes to the Caribbean’s most beautiful natural attractions, The Baths reign supreme. Located on the island of Virgin Gorda in the BVI, this massive crop of smooth granite rocks forms a labyrinth of covered passages and seawater baths, perfect for snorkeling, kayaking, stand-up paddle boarding, or simply relaxing in a one-of-a-kind natural setting.
The Baths can get crowded, especially in the high season (December to April). To enjoy a quieter experience, visit early in the morning or later in the afternoon when the tour boats have left. You’ll have more space to explore and take in the natural beauty without the crowds.
Plan Your Caribbean Bucket List Adventure
From diving beneath Grenada’s underwater sculpture park to hiking St. Lucia’s iconic Pitons, the Caribbean offers endless adventures beyond its stunning beaches. Whether you’re seeking thrills like exploring a drive-in volcano or indulging in the finest French Caribbean cuisine, these must-do activities promise an unforgettable experience.
Ready to plan your Caribbean bucket list adventure? Explore our sailing destinations and create your perfect getaway with The Moorings—your next unforgettable journey starts here.
Contributor
Leslie Montenegro
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