Stretching out in the warm sun on a fine white sand beach with the calming rhythm of the welcoming waves lulling you into a midday nap beneath swaying palm trees. Sound like paradise? Well, it is! Exploring the Beauty of Caribbean Islands Divers and snorkelers like to explore the Bonaire marine park and bird watchers visit the Bahamas to catch a glimpse of flamingoes. From the exhilarating horse racing of Barbados to Monserrat’s active volcano watching to the famed nightclubs of Puerto Rico, the choices are great. With British, French, Dutch, and Spanish history, the mix of fascinating culture touches everything from the language to the customs to the flavors of the cuisine.You could spend a lifetime exploring the sandy shores (yes, please!), but we have narrowed it down to two top Caribbean vacation destinations: the Dominican Republic and the U.S. Virgin Islands (U.S.V.I.).So which one is your island escape? Grab your piña colada and let’s find your personal paradise! The Lure of the Islands: Explore Top Caribbean Destinations The Majestic Appeal of Punta Cana, Dominican Republic It’s almost too good to be true. The Dominican Republic looks the part of a postcard-quality photo with its perfectly sunny pristine beaches, always-warm climate and and lazy palm trees bending over the endless turquoise sea. But the vacation experience also matches the visuals; the DR is a rich cultural experience with a mix of indulgence and simple natural beauty.Famously visited by Christopher Columbus in 1492, the Dominican Republic shares the island of Hispaniola with Haiti and is the second-largest Caribbean nation. The untouched landscape of rocky cliffs, powerful waterfalls, secluded lagoons, and rainforest vegetation is home to unlimited outdoor activities. You can delight in parasailing, surfing or many other water sports you can imagine, and even some that will be new to you. Land sports including organized team athletics are elevated in this island environment. From local exotic fruit to the natively grown cocoa and coffee, the tastes are fresh and sumptuous, and the people are lively and welcoming.Tropical everything is part of what makes the DR completely magical. Time to step into your real-life postcard vacation come true!Insider Tip: While Spanish is the official language of the Dominican Republic, English is also spoken throughout the areas frequented by tourists. U.S. residents should remember to travel with passports. Where to Stay in Punta Cana Sports Illustrated Resorts Marina & Villas Cap Cana A carefree vacation? You deserve it!Positioned perfectly on the eastern shore of the island, you’ll find the gem of Punta Cana. Be one of the earliest vacationers to stay at Sports Illustrated Resorts Marina & Villas Cap Cana, the first in a planned collection of branded resorts featuring access to world-class athletic activities.The palm tree-lined sensational resort is ten minutes from an international airport and easily accessible. Immersed in a water-wonderland, your getaway is complimented by an inland marina and aquatic sports from jet-skiing to parasailing. It’s a first-class spot for sport fishing, where you can cast your line into the crystal clear water. Discover underwater marine creatures on a deep-sea dive or bask in the Caribbean sun on the white sand beach. For spectacular clifftop views, explore the terrain by hiking the trails, riding horseback or zip around on e-bike. Consider this to be your luxury home base for your sports training or nearby tournament.As the first Extra Holidays all-inclusive resort, Sports Illustrated Resorts Marina & Villas Cap Cana does it right with unlimited fun and countless amenities on property. Splash around in your choice of four outdoor pools or try your luck at the on-site casino. From casual local eats to upscale dining, the restaurants, bars and BBQ area on property are convenient for poolside treats or a special dinner. For a full stay, visit the spa, work out in the fitness center or let the kids enjoy playtime in the kids’ club.Vacationing groups of up to eight can relax in the expansive villas. From the studio villa to a three-bedroom unit, enjoy kitchen facilities and separate living spaces. Gaze on your ocean view from the furnished balcony or chill out in the air conditioning with WiFi and television service. Stays in the luxurious Elite Villas include VIP benefits from swim-out facility access, bathrobes with slippers and personalized butler services.With elite amenities and special guest perks throughout the property, it’s the ultimate relaxation vacation!Insider Tip: Inquire about all the detailed benefits of booking a VIP Elite Villas which also include private dining and entrance to exclusive events. It’s well worth the upgrade! Beaches and Water Sports Cap Cana Sports CityGOLF: Punta Espada Golf CourseFISHING: Marina Cap CanaEQUESTRIAN: Los Establos Equestrian City Sports, sports, and more sports! Punta Cana has increasingly become a sporting mecca, attracting enthusiasts and athletes alike. Enticed by the often idyllic weather conditions and vacation-themed atmosphere, athletes worldwide flock to the area to compete and enjoy a leisurely holiday. Your group will have a ball at Cap Cana Sports City, a professional and amateur complex of venues and facilities to accommodate athletic events, training sessions and travel team tournaments. Compete in your favorite sport and let the staff arrange the showcase or event on the professionally maintained multi-purpose fields, baseball/softball fields, training areas and spectator spots. Sporting events and paradise are a winning combination!Go fish! The epicenter of the Cap Cana sporting area is the Marina Cap Cana, a picturesque catch-and-release marina with state-of-the-art offerings. Come for the unsurpassed Caribbean fishing and stay for the harbor lifestyle. With 150 slips, yachts can receive full service of captain and crew. From professional tournaments to family outings, feel the thrill of reeling in Sailfish, Tuna, Wahoo and White Marlin against the magnificent Dominican Republic sky.Striking green fairways bordered by a turquoise blue shoreline is the distinguishing style of Punta Espada Golf Course, a design work of art. Challenge yourself to the Jack Nicklaus signature 72-par course, ranked by Golf Week Magazine as the top course in Mexico and the Caribbean. The masterpiece golf course uses the natural features of the coast from cliffs to beaches, to lagoons in crafting each special hole. Every turn reveals an even more majestic view of the tropical coast. After just a couple of holes, you’ll agree that should be on every golfer’s bucket list. When your workout buddy has four hooves and a mane, you’ve come to the right place at Los Establos. The full professional equestrian center is equipped for multi-disciplinary horse riding athletics with stables, arena and fields. Competitions accommodate Polo, Race, Jump, Paso Fino, Reining and Dressage and include a complete staff. With an eye for international standards, Los Establos embraces the horse world from instructional opportunities to veterinary services to guided guest trail rides. Giddy-up for vacation fun! Insider Tip: When you book a team sports experience at Cap Cana Sports City, ask about all the extras offered. Your team could enjoy a welcome kit, transportation to the facility, opening and closing ceremonies and award presentations. Scape Park at Cap Cana Talk about all-inclusive - this experience park brings all the best of the Dominican Republic together in one sensory spot! Start with adventurous sky-high fun cruising along a thrilling zip line ride! Choose from eight intense lines over and through the trees and along a steep cliff. For a splashier way to zip line, hang on and take a speedy plunge into a refreshing eco-pool. Native animals rule this outdoor playground! Visit with engaging local farm animals or enjoy a reptile encounter with the rhinoceros iguana, a species only found on this island. Your exotic parrot selfie is a must for your IG! Take a nature walk to visit the period homes of the ancient people and historic groups who have created the local culture. Curious travelers explore the depths of the Iguabonita Cave with its shadowy chambers, winding tunnels and impressive rock formations. Or climb high above to the famed Farallon Cliffs for a repelling tour you’ll be recounting to all your friends.The jewel of Scape Park is the elusive Hoya Azul, a 40-foot deep clear blue cenote for swimming. The jungle hike, bridge crossing and cliff walking required to visit are well worth the trek to take a mystical dip in the famed “Blue Hole.” If you’re ready to just chill, do it DR-style on a sunshine catamaran cruise where you’ll stop on a sand bar for a much-needed cocktail and wade in soothing waist-deep water. Be sure to take lots of pictures or no one will believe you did all this in one place!Insider Tip: A cenote is a natural sinkhole that creates an underground lagoon of clear fresh water, historically honored by ancient people. The Dominican Republic boasts an impressive cave system dotted with hundreds of cenotes just right for vacation exploration.Beaches Bavaro Beach Kite Beach in Cabarete Macao Beach It’s always beach season in Punta Cana! As one of the essential ingredients of paradise, the beach is a must-do on an island vacation. But in the Caribbean, we’re not just talking ANY beach; here you’ll step onto the most idyllic spots you can imagine. Since we know you’d love to live at the beach, we’ve hand-picked a select few for tropical fun! Widely considered one of the top three best beaches in the world, Bavaro Beach raises the (sand) bar! Here you can walk for miles on the jaw-droppingly gleaming white sand that touches the tips of clear blue waves. Spend all day sunbathing, swimming and surfing or hop on a boat for a snorkeling trip near the reef to spy fish in the sparkling water.As a top spot for kitesurfing, the town of Cabarete features several popular beaches to learn and fine-tune your skills! The aptly named Kite Beach has the expert instructional and rental facilities for kite boarding, kite surfing and foil kiting suited for the beginner through expert enthusiast. Natural reef conditions, strong winds and no rip current produce ocean conditions that will inspire you to join in on this dynamic sport.In north Punta Cana, go where the surfers go to the vibrant waters and crescent shoreline of Macao Beach. Windy conditions along with ivory sand and epic waves beckon everyone from vacationing families to locals. Speed across the sand and take in the coastal views from an energetic dune buggy. This will quickly become one of your all-time favorite beaches. Local Delights: Indulge in the Best Caribbean Cuisines Citrus Fusion Cuisine Travel dining can often be “hit or miss,” but this Punta Cana favorite is a sure-fire winner! Conveniently located on the Bavaro main street, Citrus Fusion Cuisine is a celebratory blend of American, Italian and local Caribbean dishes for an international treat. The lively atmosphere and attentive staff make everyone feel welcome. Dive into the diverse menu to find American classics, island delights and options that include gluten-free, vegetarian and vegan. Come ready for adventurous cuisine highlighting spicy ceviche made with mahi mahi or octopus. Meat lovers will savor the precisely cut beef or chicken dishes seasoned with aromatic herbs. Well-made standbys from burgers to soup and salads are elevated with local ingredients for a Caribbean twist. With zesty appetizers, hearty pasta and risotto choices and a generous selection of fresh sushi, it won’t be easy to choose just one entree. No worries! If you visit Citrus early in your stay, you’ll have time to return (again and again) for another top-notch meal! Insider Tip: Dine on a night offering specials like Sushi Mondays and Sangría Fridays. Attractions and Activities NIGHTLIFE: Coco Bongo Punta Cana¡Vamos al antro! Dress up in your sparkliest outfit and join in the hottest fiesta in the DR at Coco Bongo! The late-night hotspot lives up to its worldwide reputation as THE island mega-party. You’ll be captivated by the Vegas-style performance of acrobats, musicians, impersonators and dancers. Immerse yourself in the extravaganza of laser lights, blizzards of confetti and heart-pounding music. The flamboyant dance parties of themed revelry invite you to join in and move to the beat. It’s your chance to get loud and let go! Be as wild as you dare and make it the best night of your life.Insider Tip: The nightly shows at Congo Bongo are a phenomenon! Themes include modern movies, cover band tributes and beach parties. Check ahead to see which one to experience. SHOP: Plaza San Juan Shopping CenterPunta Cana vacationers can take the day off from the beach and shop big at Plaza San Juan Shopping Center. The contemporary indoor mall hosts 60 shops and counting from brand name apparel to local artisans. Popular for finding your next favorite swimsuit or footwear, the shopping center offers some of the best prices in the area. Bargain hunters enjoy haggling for souvenirs like DR rum, handmade cigars or traditional Taino art. Be sure to bring plenty of cash and visit the center’s banks or currency exchange houses. The onsite supermarket is a great place to find Caribbean coffee, sweet treats of the area and ingredients for the next home-cooked meal. If you’re looking for more than just shopping, you can watch the latest flick at the seven-screen movie theater or take the kids to the outdoor game area. It’s a shopper’s dream! More Ways to Explore the Dominican Republic • Bavaro Runners Sugarcane Safari Tour: Hop aboard a rugged Jeep and spend the day touring what make DR unique. From a visit to a sugarcane plantation and a stop at a cigar factory to a horseback riding jaunt and a moment at Macao Beach, you’ll soak in the local culture.• Whale Watching: Right here in the DR, take a once-in-a-lifetime chance to see the majesty of the humpback whale in its natural habitat from mid-December through April. Whale watching tours off the Samaná Peninsula near Punta Cana take you close to the action and even offer personal swimming encounters with these giant creatures.• Salto El Limón: A must-see waterfall adventure! Venture on a 1.5 mile walk or horseback ride through the coconut trees and pineapple plants and take in the magnificent scene. You’ll be enthralled at the 50-foot falls and get a chance to cool off at its refreshing water pool.• Casino Dominic: Raise the stakes on your vacay! This high-class game venue with slot machines, roulette, blackjack tables, live music and exceptional dining is worth the indulgence.• Juanillo Grill and Beach Club: Beach dining at its best! With its signature pizza and pasta menu, the laid-back eatery pairs Mediterranean, Caribbean and Asian culinary influences with and stunning views of the sea.• Blue Mall Punta Cana: Browse the internationally recognized brand names on your wish list in air-conditioned comfort of this upscale shopping location. With plenty of delicious dining options and a large-event amphitheater on site, this modern venue is an experience! Island Hopping from the Dominican Republic Isla Saona: Take a speedboat or catamaran from Punta Cana to explore the unspoiled outdoors on the isolated island beach and Cotubanamá National Park. The natural swimming area is a special place to spy starfish and you can look for ancient cave paintings at Cueva del Puente. Cayo Levantado: Known as a romantic island for couples, this secluded hideaway off the northern coast of the Dominican Republic is the optimal place for lounging on the warm sand with a cocktail and gazing into one another’s eyes in the shade of a palm tree. Cayo Arena: From northwest DR, board a boat to the island and take a jaunt for an engaging snorkeling experience discovering the colorful coral reefs. Swim among the schools of fish and other sea life to join in on aquatic fun. Experience the Unique Charm of St. Thomas, U.S. Virgin Islands It’s a Caribbean trifecta! Three stunning islands make up the U.S.V.I. bringing triple the island vacation experiences. St. John is a natural escape filled with national parks and places to fish, dive and hike. At St. Thomas, learn of pirate history, shop for local goods in capital city Charlotte Amalie and spend the rest of your time at the beach. St. Croix is known for its natural reef and the underwater activities it attracts as well as its unique dining. The U.S.V.I. is one of the easiest places to island-hop as the ferries and small planes make it convenient to visit one after another. American guests will be glad to know that a passport is not required.While each island brings its own travel identity, they all attract guests with year-round warm tropical weather, some of the world’s best beaches and the top goal of relaxation. The minute you step onto the shore, you’ll feel life slowing down to a welcoming easy pace. Set your watch to island time and get used to the calm contentment.The U.S.V.I. has a colorful past of being governed by seven different nations and each has left its historical mark on the area. You’ll find European, African, West Indian, and local influences in the 18th century forts, the educational museums and the customs of the islands. The cultural legacy peppered with tales of explorers and pirates is one of the most special things about the area. Year-round carnivals offer a captivating look into the celebration of the people in colorful displays of costumes, music and pageantry.A nature-lover’s heaven, the untouched island landscape is breath-taking. Hiking through the rich vegetation to catch a hilly island view or witnessing the sea turtle hatchlings emerge for the first time are life-changing experiences. Take in the natural wonders on a horseback ride, a snorkeling dive or a zip line adventure. Each vantage point is a photo-quality view more eye-catching than the next. Find out why the U.S.V.I. is called “America’s Paradise.”Insider Tip: Guests who rent cars should note that traffic runs on the left-hand side of the road in U.S.V.I. It’s the only place in the United States that uses this convention. Where to Stay in St. Thomas Margaritaville Vacation Club by Wyndham - St. Thomas Escape your every day and dive into a stay full of relaxation and chilled-out fun! Parrotheads know the name - Margaritaville Vacation Club by Wyndham - St. Thomas takes its inspiration from famed musician Jimmy Buffet and his iconic laid-back attitude. This resort takes it to another level as St. Thomas is the ideal place to spend the day barefoot on the beach with a drink in hand, taking it easy. Spacious suites are ready for your visit! From a studio to a two-bedroom, the units accommodate up to eight in your group. Everyone will love the playful decor and bright colors throughout. All rooms include a kitchenette with refrigerator, coffee maker and even a Frozen Concoction Maker® for your next margarita. The extra space allows everyone to spread out comfortably. Many suites include balcony to let in the refreshing island breeze.Resort-style amenities all over the property will keep you active and engaged in island activity. Take your pick of colorfully decorated pools surrounded by palm trees and ocean views. Not far from the bubbling hot tub is the 5 O’Clock Somewhere Bar where you can order a frosty refill. Take the family to dinner at the beachside Margaritaville Restaurant and look for a Cheeseburger in Paradise on the menu.Step from the resort right onto the sand and take a leisurely beach stroll. You won’t have to look far to find water sports from windsurfing to sailing or fishing to snorkeling. Spend time with the kids making a sand castle you’ll always remember, then nap in a swaying seaside hammock. Exploring the island of St. Thomas will keep you busy with its historical landmarks, peaceful foliage and incredible duty-free shopping. Or make your way back to the resort for some much-needed time doing nothing at all!With so many St. Thomas attractions at your doorstep and leisure on your itinerary, you’ll leave your cares behind the minute you step foot at this memorable resort!Insider Tip: Hop on a safari taxi to get around St. Thomas and become acquainted with the 32-square mile island. Attractions and Activities TO DO: Aqua Marine Dive CenterIntroducing the underwater world of the Caribbean! Aqua Marine Dive Center is your window into the vast expanse of the ocean floor and its teeming aquatic life. Suited for the expert SCUBA diver or the beginner considering certification, this program brings safe instruction and ocean discovery. Each dive gives access to notable marine attractions including tropical fish, rays, sea turtles and even shipwrecks. Snorkeling trips launch in the daytime for sparkling clear visibility or during sunset to experience the shadowy mystery of the sea by flashlight. You might even spy nocturnal sea life like octopuses, squid and certain crustaceans. With the diversity of marine creatures and varied spots to visit, each dive is different and spectacular! Insider Tip: Diving is also for kids! Children aged ten and older are able to be SCUBA certified. Younger kids can experience what it’s like to use gear to breathe underwater in the Bubblemaker Program. TO DO: Pirate’s Treasure MuseumAhoy, mateys! Come aboard to spend the day doing everything pirate. The Pirate’s Treasure Museum is a playful ode to the raiders of the sea. Caribbean history is full of the tales of swashbuckling heroes and villains as they caroused their way through the islands. Learn how these marauders shaped the culture of the U.S.V.I. The exhibits are one-of-a-kind compelling showcases of how pirates lived their everyday lives and sought out adventure. Cannon balls, pistols and swords are just a few of their weapons displayed for your viewing. Check out the sailing tools, ship’s bells, doubloons and ancient coins recovered from actual pirate shipwrecks, particularly the SS Republic which had a storied travel log of voyages and a cargo of treasure. You’ll experience the timely sailing technology and see how pirates navigated the sometimes tumultuous weather of the area. Don’t finish your visit without posing for a photo of yourself looking the part of a pirate of the Caribbean. You’ll feel ready to sail the high seas with your whole crew! Insider Tip: Check out the virtual reality system to learn about deep-sea treasure recovery! Shopping and Dining Like a Local DINE: St. Thomas SocialRecently making its mark on the U.S.V.I. dining scene, St. Thomas Social combines the upscale lounge with exceptional menu for a trendy new vibe. The restaurant takes its social cues seriously, presenting stunning views of the yachts in the peaceful harbor and modern DJ music that inspires mingling and unexpected interactions. The intentional menu has a distinct Mediterranean feel using fresh local Caribbean ingredients. Elegant tapas include oysters on a half shell, chicken kabobs and Octopus á la Pancha. Select pastas such as Cavatelli Bolognese are richly flavored and satisfying. Highlighting the menu are the main courses featuring Swordfish Milanese, Prime + Ribeye and Veal España complimented by potato puree and grilled asparagus. Pair your meal with your usual libation or try something new from the thorough drink menu. Choices range from international red and white wine offerings to European sparkling wines to memorable cocktails such as Spiced Rum Punch and St. Thomas Sunshine, using local influences. Come back for the award-winning brunch that employs a breakfast twist of smoked salmon avocado toast, Social Steak and Eggs and even a Brunch Burger. Happily wash it down with everyone’s favorite bottomless mimosas and you have a great start to any St. Thomas vacation day!Insider Tip: Partner and Executive Chef, Sunil Sharma served an internship under renowned chef, Gordon Ramsay. He has earned Two Michelin Stars from his cooking experience in New York City. SHOP: Main Street in Downtown Charlotte AmalieSt. Thomas is thought to be the shopping capital of the Caribbean, with its variety of crafted goods and high-end merchandise, all duty-free! Main Street in Charlotte Amalie draws in area shoppers, vacationers and guests coming in from the bustling cruise ship ports. Plan to spend the day perusing the specialty items and finding an artsy souvenir. Shoppers ooh and aah over the impressive selection of top-of-the-line jewelry from stately watches to quality gold pieces. Visit boutique shops for exotic perfume, beauty products and name-brand handbags. Take-home items like alcohol and tobacco are some of the most popular. It’s common to negotiate or haggle for the best price, particularly with family-owned merchants. Increasingly, art galleries have brought new creativity to the area for those taking in the work or looking to buy. Allow some extra time to meander the streets as the people watching here is unmatched!Insider Tip: Serious shoppers plan their bargain-hunting ahead of time. Search for store maps like this to get your game plan ready for optimum buying! More Ways to Explore U.S.V.I. • Drake’s Seat and Magen’s Bay: A beach-goer’s dream, Magen’s Bay features a signature coastline of waving palm trees and powdery white sand. Grab a drink from the nearby oceanside establishments before heading up to Drake’s Seat, the famed 360º overlook of explorer Sir Francis Drake. Try to time your climb with the vivid sunset for a magnificent view of the bay!• Skyride to Paradise Point: Get your phone ready for selfies from the best vantage point on the island. Ride the gondola tram to the top of Paradise Point and observe the panoramic view high above the boats in the harbor of St. Thomas. On a clear day, you can see all the way to St. Croix and Puerto Rico.• Phantasea Tropical Botanical Garden: Stroll the calming paths and take your time admiring the over 1,200 species of flowers, plants and trees, a third of which are native to U.S.V.I. On your walkable visit through the greenery of the grounds, count the variety of orchids or sit among the bromeliads to read a book. Such a peaceful hideaway!• 99 Steps and Blackbeard’s Castle: Residents of Charlotte Amalie use “step streets” like these to traverse the hilly town. Count the actual number of 18th century steps on your way to Blackbeard’s Castle (Skytsborg Tower), a legendary lookout of the notorious pirate. While not officially open to the public due to hurricane damage, the attraction is a historical marvel to behold.• St. Thomas Yacht Club: Look for fair winds and calm seas from this distinguished sailing epicenter. The award-winning club offers top-notch sailing lessons and hosts a considerable amount of rousing regattas. The on-site tennis program is a great place to challenge your partner to a match.• Duffy’s Love Shack: Dubbed “a bar that serves great food,” this landmark tiki bar serves up signature cocktails like Pirates Painkiller and the famous Flaming Volcano alongside tasty grub from Jerk Chicken Caesar Salad, Love Tacos and Caribbean Pu-Pu Platter. Casual company and good times come with every meal!• Mountain Top Duty Free: Shopping with a view! And not just any view; take in the expanse of Magens Bay from the highest point on St. Thomas. Make the steep drive up the mountain and be rewarded with a jumbo-sized duty-free souvenir and keepsake shop served with a must-drink world famous Banana Daiquiri. Island Hopping from the U.S.V.I. St. Croix: The largest of the U.S.V.I. trio, St. Croix attracts vacationers to its dreamy beaches and divers to its natural coral reef. Home to the twin Colonial-inspired towns of Christiansted and Frederiksted, you’ll find exceptional shopping and dining options. Action-packed activities such as off-roading adventures and bioluminescent kayak tours are crowd-pleasers. Take a visit to a sugarcane plantation and learn more about this sister island. St. John: Island life at St. John is full of nature from untouched beaches to a plethora of National Park hiking trails through lush foliage. Along your trek, be sure to search for petroglyphs left behind by the indigenous Taino people. Snorkeling is a must-do with unparalleled access to brilliant coral, fish and ray viewing, in the clear Caribbean water. Water Island: The one-mile square foot island is often thought of as the fourth U.S.V.I. and it fits right in! With its signature white sand shoreline and contrastingly blue waves, you won’t be able to resist the quick ferry ride over. Call ahead to rent a golf cart to scoot around to enjoy the hilltop views, shaved ice and local eats! Buck Island: Many people visit the tiny U.S.V.I. island for the rare and beautiful elkhorn-coral barrier reef and the marine life ecosystem it supports. Snorkeling and boating are popular around the marine protected area, while picnicking and hiking through the vegetation are fun land activities. Family time or couples’ escapes to the Caribbean are dream vacations come true. Your loved ones will always remember your time in paradise and will be asking to return!
