Scattered throughout the Caribbean Sea are hundreds of tropical islands and host to some of the world's best luxury hotels. With plenty of beaches to visit and uncharted waters to explore, the Caribbean offers unexpected surprises around every turn. Most known for luxury cruises and vacation spots among celebs, these islands have been referred to as "Paradise"; heaven-on-earth.
Each of these properties provides ultimate service and pristine accommodations fit for any traveler; as well as a variety of destination interests. Jamaica is known for its friendly people, jerk chicken and reggae music. Puerto Ricans sing of their flavorful dishes, Spanish heritage and alluring weather. As the second largest Caribbean nation, the Dominican Republic has long been associated with tasty sugar production. And finally, the US Virgin Islands pose a picture-perfect setting with its white sandy beaches and exceptionally blue waters. Whichever city you choose, you are sure to enjoy international cuisine, spectacular views and the natural beauty of the exotic Caribbean.
Here are our picks for the top five hotels in the Caribbean:
Hard Rock Hotel And Casino Punta Cana: Offering one of the largest and best casino's around, the Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Punta Cana, delivers an all-inclusive experience that is sure to live up to legendary rock and roll vibe. The resort features 15 pools, 9 restaurants, a Nicklaus designed golf course, and an astonishing Spa all designed with you in mind.
1600 Blvd. Turístico del Este
km 28 #74, Macao
Municipio de Higüey
Punta Cana, Dominican Republic
800.628.0368 HardRockHotelPunaCana.com
The St. Regis Bahia Beach Resort: Luxury is defined within the walls of The St. Regis Bahia Beach Resort in the beautiful country of Puerto Rico. The sparkling sea and romantic Caribbean setting has this hotel on Condé Nast Traveler's 2011 Hot List. Experience what many already know, this lavish resort boasts an ideal state of relaxation with 139 magnificent rooms with brilliant ocean views. The finest details and utmost service are guaranteed at The St. Regis.
State Road 187 kilometer 4.2
Rio Grande, Puerto Rico
00745
787.809.8000 StRegisBahiaBeach.com
Aquamare: Aquamare's five-bedroom villas are surrounded by lush landscape with breathtaking views of the Sir Francis Drake Channel, demanding attention at every turn. The secluded villas offer access to the private Beach Park and your own private dream home away from home. Each villa is designed with a private waterfront infinity pool, local stonework, rich hardwoods, and 30-foot vaulted ceilings for maximum luxury.
Plum Bay Road
The Valley
VG1150, Virgin Gorda
877.510.0954 VillaAquamare.com
Roaring Pavilion THEE Divine Villa by LaCure Villas: A one-of-a-kind estate, Roaring Pavilion THEE Divine Villa by LaCure Villas is located in Jamaica on James Bond Beach located between Ocho Rios and St. Ann's Bay. With its décor, service, wellness facilities 8,000 square feet of living space, this villa is sure to impress. Guests have sweeping views of the Caribbean and outdoors, a temperature controlled Great Gatsby-style pool, purified by skin-friendly salts. A true Caribbean gem.
James Bond Beach
St. Ann's Bay Jamaica
808.826-9644 LaCureVillas.com
The Westin St. John Resort & Villas: The Westin St. John Resort & Villas is a refreshing 47-acre tropical hideaway on the palm-lined shores of the smallest of the developed US Virgin Islands. Its rich culture and history paired with the luxury accommodations within the hotel have been celebrated by Starwood's loyalty members; nominating the hotels as Best Beach Resort and Best Island Paradise.
P.O. Box 8310
St. John, Virgin Islands 00831
US Virgin Islands
800.517.8865 WestinResortStJohn.com