When you think of the Caribbean, the first things that come to mind are most likely turquoise waters, relaxed vibes and swaying palm trees. But there’s much more to a trip to this part of the world than just lounging on a sunlounger, admiring the views and sipping cocktails. The Caribbean offers a wide variety of other exciting activities to try, such as windsurfing, waterskiing, scuba diving, and snorkelling to explore the stunning coral reefs. Here are a few of the must-try activities you can enjoy.
Snorkelling
Snorkelling provides a magical and easily accessible way to experience the Caribbean’s underwater world, with crystal-clear seas, breathtaking coral gardens, and vibrant tropical fish. Some of the best snorkelling spots in the Caribbean include the Exumas in the Bahamas, Molinere Bay in Grenada with its underwater sculpture park, and the coast of Antigua, which is surrounded by reefs. However, the most unbeatable snorkelling experience can be found in the beautiful waters around Curaçao, where the Curaçao National Marine Park is a paradise for snorkelers. All-inclusive holidaymakers at Sandals Resorts, such as Sandals Grenada, Sandals Emerald Bay, and Sandals Royal Curaçao, can also enjoy snorkelling.
Waterskiing
For an adrenaline rush, head to Montego Bay or Negril in Jamaica, where the perfect conditions await for waterskiing and wakeboarding. Sandals Resorts in these locations, including Sandals South Coast, Sandals Grande St Lucian, and Sandals Halcyon Beach, offer all-inclusive holidays that include these activities. They provide professional, purpose-built waterskiing boats to make your water adventures even more thrilling.
Windsurfing
The steady trade winds, abundant sunshine, and warm waters of the Caribbean make it a prime destination for windsurfing and kitesurfing. Barbados is particularly renowned for windsurfing, with excellent opportunities for wave riding on beaches such as Silver Sands and Silver Point. Jabberwock beach in Antigua is another favorite spot with reliable onshore winds, while Anse de Sables beach in St Lucia is ideal for windsurfers and kitesurfers of all skill levels. Sandals customers can indulge in windsurfing at Sandals Resorts like Sandals Grande St Lucian and Sandals Halcyon Beach.
Kayaking
For a less strenuous activity, try kayaking off one of the Caribbean’s pristine white sand beaches, such as Grand Anse in Grenada or Mullins beach in Barbados. Antigua and St Lucia also offer great opportunities for kayakers to paddle to secluded beaches protected by reefs or across sparkling waters framed by the Pitons’ spires.
Standup paddleboarding
There are few better places to try standup paddleboarding than the warm, calm, turquoise waters of the Caribbean. It’s a fantastic way to get out on the water and embrace the fun of potentially toppling off. Sandals Resorts, including those in Antigua and Jamaica’s Montego Bay, offer standup paddleboarding as one of their many water sports included in their all-inclusive holidays.
Scuba diving
The Caribbean waters are home to some of the world’s most beautiful scuba diving spots. Dive into a world of wrecks and spectacular coral reefs, where the warm waters of the Gulf Stream allow for an abundance of marine life, from parrotfish to eagle rays and sea turtles. Sandals Resorts offers certified divers the opportunity to dive up to two times a day (excluding arrival and departure day). Their resorts in Barbados, Grenada, and St Lucia provide access to incredible dive sites, such as Barbados’ 27 dive sites and St Lucia’s Keyhole Pinnacles.
Glass-bottom boats
If you’re not keen on snorkelling or scuba diving, you can still experience the extraordinary underwater world of the Caribbean by taking a trip on a purpose-built glass-bottom boat. Sit back and watch as tropical fish, turtles, and coral gardens glide beneath you. Glass-bottom boat trips are available at select Sandals Resorts in Jamaica, Grenada, and Barbados.
Surfing
Although Caribbean beaches are usually known for their calm waters, you can still find great spots for surfing. Barbados is the best island in the Caribbean for surfing, with world-class waves at Bathsheba beach in the north-east and more gentle breaks at Dover beach for beginners. In Jamaica, Boston Beach and Makka beach are popular surfing destinations, with Makka Pro Jamaica hosting the island’s largest professional surfing competition.
Golf
The Caribbean boasts prestigious golf courses just a short distance from the beautiful white beaches. Sandals guests have access to four of these courses in Jamaica, the Bahamas, and Santa Lucia, with all green fees included. Sandals Emerald Bay in the Bahamas features the Caribbean’s longest course, designed by golfing legend Greg Norman, offering stunning views along the coast.
To find out more information or to book your Caribbean holiday, where you can enjoy a variety of water sports as part of a luxury, all-inclusive package, visit the Sandals Resorts website.