Caribbean Hot Spots…and I Don’t Mean the Beach

Every Caribbean island has that one place that you just have to check out while you’re there. That spot that even the locals love to visit. Here’s some of my top picks.  After all, there’s more to a Caribbean island than just gorgeous beaches!

Arikok National Park on Aruba: I visited this park by taking an all-day shore excursion via jeep.  The ride was a blast but dusty and bumpy.  Still, it’s a really fun way to see the area. Covering almost 20 percent of the island, Arikok National Park is home to a variety of unique attractions and cultural heritage sites, including spectacular caves, original Indian rock drawings, and unusual land formations. Bring a swimsuit to splash around in the Natural Pool.

Dunns River Falls in Ocho Rios, Jamaica:  It’s been years since I climbed the falls; twenty of us holding hands while carefully navigating the slippery rocks heading up the falls!  It was challenging and at one point I almost brought the whole line down with me when I misstepped, (I've always been a bit clumsy), but it was exhilarating! There's even a path along the side of the falls for those that don't want to be that adventurous. Water shoes and a waterproof camera are a must.

Nelson’s Dockyard on Antigua: Voted Best Attraction in the Caribbean by USA Today, Nelson’s Dockyard is still used today as a working dockyard for numerous yachts and ships. Fully restored to its original splendor, the 18th- and 19th-century buildings of the Dockyard house modern amenities such as shops, hotels, and marina businesses.

The Pitons of St. Lucia: A landmark of St. Lucia visible for miles, Petit Piton and Gros Piton are twin volcanic spires majestically soaring out of the sea. Whether you hike up, drive through, or cruise around them the scenery is quite spectacular! If you do choose to hike the trip is about 2 miles in distance but here are resting stations along the way. It’s tough but doable.  Make sure you have plenty of water.

Jardin de Balata on Martinique: There is so much beauty here! Stroll the winding paths through manicured gardens, or traverse suspended pathways in the trees. So many beautiful flowers and different types of palm trees. Lots of hummingbirds; I can’t remember the last time I saw one at home on Long Island.