Empty beaches, azure water, towering peaks—what’s not to love?

BY CAITLIN MORTON AND MEREDITH CAREY

 Condé Nast Traveler

Dreaming of a tropical winter escape? The Caribbean islands have a little bit of something for everyone, from the brag-worthy hiking trails in St. Lucia to the pastel rainbow of 17th-century buildings in Curaçao. And don’t forget about the resorts, which number among the absolute best in the world.

With this in mind, we’ve selected the most beautiful Caribbean islands for travelers—whether you’re interested in nature, food, or just those pristine beaches—to help you plan your next warm-weather getaway.

Let the daydreaming begin.

• Anguilla
• Your first stop on this British Overseas Territory (just north of the dual-nation island of St. Maarten/St. Martin) should be Shoal Bay, Anguilla’s most famous beach. The blindingly white shore offers soft sand and non-touristy restaurants, plus an offshore reef for snorkelers and divers.
• For the ultimate luxurious hideaway, book a suite at the newly renovated Belmond Cap Juluca—resort perks aside, the enclave offers unbridled views of Maundays Bay’s vanilla sands and blue waters.
  
• Antigua
• Antigua mixes tropical beauty with British history—just look at the candy-colored colonial buildings and much-touted 365 beaches to choose from. The island is also a must-visit for any sailing fans out there. During the first two weeks of April, hundreds of yachts from around the world converge for the island’s annual Classic Yacht Regatta and Sailing Week. On race days, people gather atop Shirley Heights to get the best views of the boat-filled English Harbour.
• Even if you visit on non-yachting holidays, Shirley Heights should be on your itinerary: Looking out over the harbor’s curved coastline is a truly unforgettable experience, with Sunday BBQs to boot.
  
• Aruba
• Nearly every hotel along Aruba’s leeward beaches is a winner, but it’s a waste not to venture off this developed stretch. The island’s beaches are some of the best in the entire world, like powder-fine Eagle Beach and unspoiled, undeveloped Arashi. The Arikok National Park, comprising 18 percent of the island, is a hidden treasure—a cactus-filled landscape well worth exploring.
  

To read about the other 18 islands click here. 

You might also enjoy this article on St. Thomas or this article on Curaçao