There isn’t a place on earth more unique than the Caribbean, where towering mountains roll into tropical forests and pristine beaches offer a gateway to coral reefs teeming with life. A cornucopia of nature, both on its islands and in the crystal-clear sea, it’s one of the most exhilarating places for adventure, exploration and watersports — and with around 100 inhabited islands, the choices are endless.
Whether you’re looking for a trip that’ll impress your mates, a romantic trip for your other half, or to unleash some pent-up energy on a solo break, we’ve picked some of our favourite thrill-seeking spots (and all-inclusive Sandals Resorts) to help you narrow it down.
Mountain Climbing In Saint Lucia
The postcard-perfect skyline of Saint Lucia is dominated by twin green giants: the verdant, volcanic Pitons. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, these twin mountains rise steeply from the south-west coast of the island, offering incredible views at the summit.
Gros Piton is a serious bucket-list climb and is the only Piton sanctioned by the government for hiking (Petit Piton is shorter than its brother but almost vertical in parts, and therefore extremely dangerous). Stroll along the untouched Anse L’Ivrogne Beach, before heading inland through tropical forests. Filled with 148 plant species and dozens of birds, you’ll truly feel at one with nature here. Standing at 771m, it’s a moderate climb that can be challenging in its second half, and a guide is strongly recommended.
Watersports in Saint Vincent and the Grenadines
Saint Vincent and the Grenadines is made up of 32 islands and cays, and it would frankly be rude to visit one without jumping across to some of the others. The main island, Saint Vincent, is known for its idyllic beauty and laid-back vibe — the perfect spot to be at one with nature. From March 2024, it will be home to a brand-new luxury, adults-only Sandals Resort (voted the World’s Leading All-Inclusive Resorts at the World Travel Awards 27 years in a row) set across 50 acres, surrounded by blue waters one side and lush rainforest the other.
As with all Sandals Resorts, guests are offered unlimited free scuba diving (qualified divers only), giving an opportunity to see exquisite coral reef and sea-life before retiring to your swanky accommodation at the end of the day. For non-divers, a short ride from the resort is the Byahaut Bat Cave — a prime spot for otherworldly kayaking and snorkelling.
Further down the archipelago, Tobago Cays is home to a large population of turtles, who happily swim side-by-side with snorkellers. Nearby Union Island is one of the best places in the world for kitesurfing, thanks to its optimal conditions. Day trips can be booked to both islands, but if you’re able to, there’s nothing like chartering a boat and island-hopping at your leisure.
Cave Exploring in Curaçao
Hidden gem Curaçao is tucked away 40 miles north of the Venezuela coast in the southern Caribbean Sea. Almost every beach on the island is a snorkelling or diving site, though it’s worth taking a trip to the Blue Room Cave on the western coast. Illuminated with a surreal blue glow (a result of the sun penetrating its underwater entrance) it’s like swimming in stained glass. With a flourishing fish population, this is a seriously cool spot for snorkelling. If the water is high, it’s a two-metre dive to enter the cave, meaning it’s one for strong swimmers only.
Waterfall Climbing In Jamaica
The original inhabitants of Jamaica named the island Xaymaca (land of river and springs). No doubt inspired by the majestic Dunn’s River Falls, which resemble a palatial staircase. It may look man-made, but the steps were naturally formed by water, and are continually rebuilt by the flowing river. A truly unique site and an exhilarating climb.
The best way to experience Dunn’s River Falls is the “wet climb” — walking up its steps, through the water — which is commonly done via human chain, due to its slippery nature. It’s recommended to book a tour, like the Dunn’s River Falls Tour by Island Routes, which includes a catamaran cruise. If you’re staying at an all-inclusive resort, like Sandals Dunn’s River, staff can help plan your visit.
To explore Sandals Resorts and discover the best offers, visit the Sandals website or call 0800 742 742.
