18 Most Beautiful Caribbean Islands to Visit

"The most beautiful Caribbean islands also have distinctive natural features-like St. Lucia's haunting coastal twin peaks, Dominica's untouched rain forests, and Harbour Island's Pink Sand Beach in The Bahamas. You can find nonstop flights to many of these destinations, but some of the more remote islands, such as Canouan in St. Vincent and the Grenadines, require an inter-island flight, ferry, or private charter to reach. That said, we think you'll find the secluded beaches and pristine landscapes are well worth the effort."

"From beaches to mountains and rain forests, family-friendly Puerto Rico offers a scenic and diverse environment. Trails in El Yunque National Forest lead through lush scenery to natural pools and waterfalls. Spread across roughly 270 miles of coastline, Puerto Rico's 300 or so beaches range from secluded coves to lively white-sand stretches with plenty of opportunities for swimming, diving, and water sports."

"Known for its many upscale resorts, villas, boutiques, and visiting yachts, tiny St. Barts is just 11 miles long and 2.5 miles wide, with heaps of white-sand beaches, lagoons, and inlets. An undersea nature reserve protects the shallow coral reefs surrounding the island. Snorkelers and divers can explore several sunken vessels as they swim among the colorful marine life. The capital, Gustavia, is a picturesque harbor town featuring waterfront promenades, historic buildings"

Caribbean islands feature stunning beaches, brilliantly blue waters, near-perfect weather, and well-preserved historical architecture. Each island has unique topography, history, and culture that enhance the setting. Distinctive natural features include St. Lucia's coastal twin peaks, Dominica's untouched rain forests, and Harbour Island's Pink Sand Beach. Many destinations offer nonstop flights, while remote islands such as Canouan often require inter-island flights, ferries, or private charters. Puerto Rico combines beaches, mountains, and rain forests with trails in El Yunque National Forest, roughly 270 miles of coastline, diverse beaches, and rare bioluminescent bays. St. Barts is known for upscale resorts, an undersea coral reserve, and the harbor town of Gustavia.

Read at Travel + Leisure