Our 4 top picks for a summertime Caribbean getaway

It’s been a long winter, and an even more frustrating spring. Snow and hail in May? Get us out of here.

The benefits of heading anywhere south of the American border during summer months is that most places won’t be too crowded. For those people who vacation in the winter to get away from the cold and get some sun on their skin, but stay home all summer, you’re grateful. It just means more beach for you.

Summer travel in the Caribbean is also a steal. Even the most luxurious of hotels offer room and villa discounts, as well as spa and activity packages to entice vacationers. Whether you’re trying to plan a private and romantic getaway with your partner, or organizing a family trip before everyone escapes into their own summer plans, we’ve got your best bets.

Plus, when you get home there’s no temperature shock! The reality is that while people worry that a Caribbean vacation would be too warm, the ocean air makes it cooler than it even is in big cities. Being stuck inside during hurricane season is a real fear, but our picks below generally only see a nice cool rain in the afternoon before the sun peaks right out again. Our favourite summertime Caribbean getaways are all easily accessible via a charter flight, and because it’s the Caribbean, you can be there within a few hours.

Aruba

If you’re looking for a completely well-rounded beach vacation, then Aruba is the place. With two of the best white sand beaches in the Caribbean, casinos, bars, Las Vegas style nightly shows and outstanding restaurants, then you won’t be disappointed.

The pros of going during the summer is the ease with which you can claim a chickie (hut) if you’re staying at any of the resorts on the beach, and that there are less people around for some quiet relaxation.

Where to stay:

There are 11 luxury hotels on the island, however, according to U.S. News’ list of the Best Hotels in Aruba, Bucuti & Tara Beach Resort is the best of the best. With secluded views of Eagle Beach and a relaxing, kid-free environment, this is the adults’ getaway that you’ve been dreaming of all winter.

If you’re planning a family getaway, the Ritz-Carlton‘s marbled bathrooms, beautifully appointed rooms, and a plethora of activities for both the adults, teenagers, and kids in your clan. Located on sandy Palm Beach, room views overlook the silky blue sea.

Barbados

Barbados is an activity seekers dream. Whether you’re looking to catch some waves at Bathsheba (Soup Bowl) on the west coast, or charter a deep sea fishing boat, you certainly aren’t restricted to sitting on the beach all day.

Home of the oldest rum distillery, a trip to Barbados is incomplete without sampling some of the oldest and most revered rum. Tastings and distillery tours abound, but it’s just as easy to find yourself a rum and coconut cocktail on any beach, or in any restaurant. Purchase shots and bottles of St. Nicholas Abbey and Mount Gay rum from one of many rum shops dotted throughout the island, and don’t forget to bring some home.

Where to stay:

Forbes touts the beauty and luxury of Sandy Lane on the western coast due to the prestigious amenities, golf course, and a hotel spa that was named #1 in the Caribbean by Travel + Leisure. With beautiful grounds and family suites with direct beach access, Sandy Lane is the perfect resort for a family or group getaway.

St. Thomas (U.S. Virgin Islands)

With $1,600 duty-free exemption, St. Thomas is a great spot to go to enjoy some beauty and warmth, and get some shopping done. As a port for cruise ships, however, you’ll have to time your shopping excursions for days when the ships aren’t at port.

The U.S. Virgin Islands

Where to Stay:

If the luxury and personal service of a Marriott hotel is what you’re looking for, you’re in luck in St. Thomas. With two Marriott’s holding our top 5 place on Charlotte Amalie, the Marriott’s Frenchman’s Cove was listed as a 2016 Traveller’s Choice Winner by TripAdvisor because of their attention to service, and fantastic tropical views.

St. Lucia

A destination with the most potential for hurricanes or tropical storms on our list due to the rainforest nature of the island, a summer vacation to St. Lucia is still a beautiful experience. With most travellers having experienced little to no rain, your chances of getting rained out increase throughout August and September.

If you’re looking for natural diversity, however, St. Lucia has it all. You can hike the Pitons mountains one morning, be in a rainforest that afternoon, and get back to the resort in time to watch the sunset over the beach.

Where to stay:

If you’re looking for an extravagant and romantic way to spice up your relationship and truly pamper your partner, Rendevous couple’s resort really is the best romantic holiday. While their packages are geared towards honeymooners, you can absolutely customize a package that is sure to woo your love. From private charter helicopter tours, breakfast in bed, picnics and sunset cruises, love blossoms here.

Summertime getaways are the perfect chance to escape the stifling heat of the summer in the city, and a great time to charter private jet flights for a family or romantic holiday. From beaches and shopping to deep sea fishing and surfing, our favourite spots in the caribbean are perfect year-round. Give us a call today to get the ball rolling on your private jet charter and get out of your suit and into a bathing suit!

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