The ANU Club is the largest independent holiday provider in the world. With ANU you can enjoy a year of unlimited access to a portfolio of over 32,000 resorts and hotels in over 100 countries including the United States, the Caribbean, Thailand, Australia and New Zealand, South Africa, the Far East, Spain, Portugal, Italy, France, Germany and the U.K.
All together, the Caribbean islands are about 90,000 square miles of landmass, roughly half of it hilly or mountainous and the other half flat land. Most of the islands are a gloriously scenic combination of the two landscapes, circled by sandy beaches, which themselves are surrounded by the crystal-clear waters of the sea.
The Caribbean is known for its gorgeous weather, friendly people, beautiful beaches, and lively activities. Whether you prefer a quiet island off the beaten path, or one of the region's more famous destinations - with lot's of attractions and lively nightlife , the Caribbean has something for everyone.
One aspect of the Caribbean that cannot be overlooked is the gorgeous beachfront scenery it offers. From the pristine white sands of Aruba and many other islands to the colourful pink and black sands found throughout the region, you may never feel as though you've seen it all. And, of course, it's hard to ignore the crystalline waters that edge these sandy stretches of heaven. However, this is just the beginning of what the Caribbean has to offer, so many travellers choose to spend time inland as well.
Nature in the Caribbean can mean everything from volcanic peaks to deep valleys, natural springs, rainforests, and even deserts. The islands each offer their own unique wildlife and beautiful plants for travellers who spend a bit of time inland. Natural beauty is the selling point for many of the Caribbean islands, especially those popular with eco-tourists.
And, of course, over the years the European squabbles over these beautiful islands resulted in an incredible mix of architecture and history. With sights ranging from British naval yards to Spanish cathedrals, and forts on many of the islands, those interested in colonial history will certainly find something fascinating. Even before the Europeans found the islands, however, native tribes made their homes on the islands, and their influences can be found in everything from island names to important ruins, like the Mayan ruins in Mexico.
Most Caribbean destinations boast stunning beaches with pure white sand and warm, clear water. Some are dotted with coconut palms while others have a backdrop of craggy cliffs. You can sunbathe, photograph the panoramic landscape, collect shells, or enjoy the crystal waters.
Caribbean island beaches are a truly distinct pleasure.
Part of the fun of visiting the Caribbean is exploring the region and stumbling upon a hidden gem or discovering your own special places that you'll want to visit again and again. To that end, you may want to find a beach that's off the beaten path or less well-known. Or you may be eager to visit a legendary shore. The list of beaches in the Caribbean is seemingly endless, but the following recommendations will get you started on your journey of island discovery:
Antigua
The locals here say there is a beach for every day of the year. Two of the best known are Half Moon Bay and Dickenson Bay. Half Moon Bay gets its name from its crescent moon shape; it's part of a national park so there are plenty of outdoor activities for families including snorkelling and wind surfing. Dickenson Bay is also child-friendly. Water sports equipment is readily available for rental at both places.
Aruba
One of the Caribbean's most popular beaches is one travel publications consistently name one of the twelve best beaches in the world for its superior swimming and sailing conditions, and other charms. Aruba's Palm Beach is the epicentre of Aruba's tourist industry, so expect crowds, especially in the winter months.
Bahamas
People have flocked to this hot spot for years, largely because of its exciting beaches. Paradise Island (Nassau), once called Hog Island, has been developed into a major tourist area. You'll find a wide variety of shops, restaurants, water sport equipment rental facilities, and even a casino on the island. Arawak Cay and Adelaide Village are Nassau's more secluded alternatives. They're dotted with quaint, pastel-coloured shacks and huts where the local artisans sell all manner of wares.
Barbados
A beach lovers, paradise. The government of Barbados has mandated that all beaches provide public access, so you can sample the island's entire coastline if you wish. On the west coast of the island, also called the Gold Coast, you'll find spectacular white-sand beaches with calm, turquoise waters, top-notch snorkelling, and rental shops offering water skis and motor boats.
Cancun, Mexico
This never-ending Caribbean coastline is mostly occupied by major resorts and hotels, but there are several public access points as the beach here is technically government-owned. Most major hotels employ lifeguards for their corners of the beach. The shore facing the Bahia Mujeres on the windward side of the island is considered best for swimming because of calmer waters.
Guadeloupe
The beaches here are covered with white sand punctuated by rich colours like ocher and honey. You'll occasionally see black volcanic sand as well. Topless sunbathing is considered acceptable at most hotels on the island; Pointe Tarare is the region's most well-known nude beach. Most public beaches in Guadeloupe have limited facilities.
Jamaica
A Caribbean paradise populated with resorts and adventurous vacationers. At The Seven Mile Beach of Negril, you may even encounter nude sunbathers. The beaches of Jamaica are beautiful, but less conducive to family outings. The area offers numerous restaurants, water sports rental facilities, and other vendors.
Puerto Rico
Inviting Luquillo Beach is very popular with the locals (expect more crowds on the weekends) and public facilities are excellent here: you'll find campsites, lifeguards, parking lots and rest rooms. Rustic beach shacks are perfect for a picnic lunch. You can lounge beneath a shady coconut palm tree or try your hand at one of numerous water sports offerings.
St. John, U.S. Virgin Islands
Trunk Bay is a favourite Caribbean cruise ship destination. Snorkelers also flock to this great diving spot. Trunk Bay has ample facilities including telephones, picnic spots, lockers for valuables storage, rest rooms, parking areas, and souvenir and snack shops. This gorgeous beach is an ideal place to snap postcard-quality photographs, and lifeguards are on duty so swimming is safe.
St. Thomas, U.S.Virgin Islands
Heart-shaped Magens Bay is consistently rated one of the world's top ten beaches. The public facilities are extensive at this family-friendly beach. You can bask in the calm waters or enjoy a scenic hike along the beach. Sapphire Beach of St. Thomas affords magnificent views of St. John and the British Virgin Islands across the Caribbean Sea; you'll also find plenty of water sports rental equipment there.
The Reef at Atlantis, Nassau
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Located on Paradise Beach, The Reef Atlantis features luxurious studio,
1-bedroom and 2-bedroom suites with all the conveniences and comforts of
home with a full kitchen or kitchen area complete with linens, cookware,
table settings, dishwasher and refrigerator.
Admire incredible views from your suite, or step outside and enjoy miles of
white sand and gorgeous blue waters. Plus, unleash a world of magic and
wonder as you discover Atlantis. World-class restaurants, luxury shopping,
the Caribbean's largest casino, fantastic water sports, thrilling slides and
rides, Dolphin Cay, hundreds of species of sea animals at the Marine
Habitat, and so much more - all ready to discover, right at your fingertips.
The key to your room unlocks a world of amazing discoveries. Spend your
vacation beachside, all while having the ability to embark on an adventure
filled with wonder and excitement at Atlantis.
Aquaventure - Immerse yourself in a revolutionary water experience with
thrilling water slides and a one-mile long river ride.
Dolphin Cay - Swim, wade and interact with these amazing animals in one of
the best and largest in-land marine habitats in the world.
The Dig - A labyrinth of chambers and twisting streets depicting Atlantean life 11,000 years ago.
Marine Habitat - Atlantis boasts the largest open-air habitat in the world,
home to more than 50,000 fascinating sea animals representing over 200
species including sharks, manta rays, turtles and many others.
Remarkable Restaurants - The largest selection of celebrity chef cuisine in
the Caribbean including Bobby Flay's Mesa Grill, Nobu Matsuhisa's
world-famous Nobu and the exquisite gourmet creations of Jean-George
Vongerichten at Café Martinique.
Shopping - An impressive array of duty-free shops at the Crystal Court and
Marina Village. Browse shops with haute couture, local handicrafts and
exclusive Atlantis merchandise.
Casino - The innovately designed Atlantis Casino is the largest in the
Caribbean with 1000 slot machines and 100 gaming tables.
Facilities
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