April 2020 - Sailrock Resort

Is Vacationing In the Bahamas the Same as the Caribbean?

[vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text css=”.vc_custom_1602108471219{margin-bottom: 0px !important;}”]A vacation to the Bahamas or the Caribbean offers a lot of similar activities. You can sunbathe, shop, parasail, scuba dive, swim, and eat some of the most delicious cuisines in the world.

Friendly islanders and a slower pace will go a long way in contributing to your trip as well, encouraging you to unwind and take things easy.

With a variety of things to do, see and enjoy, the choice of the Bahamas vs Caribbean islands is about your financial resources and how much time you have to spend before heading back to the office.

The Basics

Sailrock Beach, South Caicos

The Caribbean is a group of islands in the Caribbean Sea. They lie south of the United States between the North Atlantic Sea and the Gulf of Mexico. There is some overlap, especially with the way cruise ships group the region, but can roughly be divided into Southern, Eastern, and Western regions.

Southern

The southern region, known as the Lesser Antilles, is broken up into two separate regions, the Windward Islands and the Leeward Islands.

Named for the trade winds that merchants and explorers relied on to sail across the Atlantic to the Caribbean, the Windward Islands can include Martinique, St. Lucia, Grenada, St. Vincent and the Grenadines.

The Leeward Islands, where trade winds come after reaching the Windward Islands, tend to include Saba, Saint Martin, the Turks and Caicos, Antigua and Barbuda, Montserrat, Dominica, and Guadeloupe.

Eastern

Islands in this region include the Dominican Republic, U.S. Virgin Islands, British Virgin Islands, Puerto Rico, St. Kitts, Antigua, Turks and Caicos, Guadeloupe, St. Barts and Anguilla.

Western

This area includes the islands of Jamaica, the Cayman Islands, Mexico, Belize and Honduras

The Bahamas is a group of more than 2,000 islands and cays that stretch across 500 miles of the Caribbean Sea. Nassau, on New Providence, is the capital of this amazing archipelago, and there are a few main islands that have beautiful beaches, and amazing culture, history, and activities.

New Providence
Paradise Island
Grand Bahama Island
Bimini
The Abacos
Eleuthera
The Exumas
The Berry Islands
Andros

As you can see from the islands in the Bahamas, many are quite famous. If you choose to go there you will definitely have a lot to do.

The Caribbean island nations have other islands to visit as well. For example, Turks and Caicos has 40 islands alone. It can be a bit overwhelming to think about.

Woven into the fabric of both the Bahamas and Caribbean islands are rich histories, communities, and celebrations. There are stunning beaches, unbelievable mountains, lush rainforests, and mysteries on the Caribbean Sea’s coasts still yet to be discovered. You may find yourself in a hot spring one moment, only to walk past an active volcano the next.

Best Time to Visit

In the Bahamas, weather is generally warm throughout the year, but it does rain in the fall and late summer, and hurricane season is from June to October. If you aren’t a spring breaker, you may want to avoid the March to mid-April time period.

Similar to the Bahamas, the Caribbean islands have a hurricane season and more rainfall around the same time periods, though some there are a few islands that don’t see much of a hurricane season because they fall outside of the hurricane belt.

Regarding the Bahamas vs Caribbean’s best times to visit, the prices for both will be highest during the winter season, of course. This is when many people from the north, suffering from the cold and snow, head to the warmth and sun the region has to offer.

The Beaches

Sailrock Beach Hammock

There’s nothing like the beach when you live in the cold. To compare the Bahamas vs Caribbean beaches, though, feels unfair because there are so many more options within the Caribbean.

That’s not to say that the Bahamas don’t have some of the best Caribbean beaches in the world, because they do – you can even swim with pigs here. There are just less of them to choose from.

In the Caribbean, can’t miss beaches are:

Bathsheba Beach in Barbados is an adventure beach where you can surf and see the “Soup Bowl,” a natural phenomenon that lures photographers from around the world.

Grace Bay Beach in the Turks and Caicos is thought to be one of the most spectacular beaches in the world. South Caicos also has some of the best waters for snorkeling and has one of the largest reefs to explore, not too far from Sailrock resort.

Seven Mile Beach in the Cayman Islands has a great scene. Some of the biggest all-inclusive resorts are here and there are fun activities of all kinds.

The Bahamas, not to be outdone, offers:

Pink Sands Beach in Harbour Island is where the sands are actually pink and very gorgeous. Rather expansive, you can find privacy, horseback ride, or soak in the sun.

Cabbage Beach in Nassau feels like you’ve entered another world entirely, pretty much a paradise island, though the name is a bit off-putting.

Treasure Cay Beach in North Abaco lets you bond with the marine life and is much less crowded than those on Exuma.

Cruises

Many times, cruise ships offer certain Caribbean regions that will include the Bahamas or skip it altogether. If you are deciding if you want a cruise ship that only goes to the Bahamas, consider these factors.

Though they are geographically similar, weather in the Bahamas is more temperate around winter.

There are only two major ports in the Bahamas so a Bahamas-only cruise tends to be shorter and less expensive, usually lasting 3-4 nights.

Itineraries that include Southern Caribbean and Bahamas itineraries attract many more repeat customers than those that separate the two completely.

When it comes to the Bahamas vs Caribbean cruises, the vibe you will get is going to be pretty comparable, but a Bahamas-only experience will have much less variation than if you went to islands with different cultures, history, foods, and traditions.

If you want affordable, short sailing trips, the Bahamas cruises are the way to go, but for a more diverse experience and a true winter escape, look for voyages with Southern, Eastern and Western itineraries.

Choose Your Destination!

There’s really no way to compare the Caribbean to the Bahamas as they share many similarities. No matter where you go, you can find the best Caribbean beaches, swim with colorful sea critters, and take in some of the best food, music, and people.

The only choice to make when it comes to the Bahamas vs Caribbean islands is which region should you start your trip.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column width=”1/2″ css=”.vc_custom_1602711975427{border-top-width: 1px !important;border-right-width: 1px !important;border-bottom-width: 1px !important;border-left-width: 1px !important;border-left-color: #005487 !important;border-left-style: solid !important;border-right-color: #005487 !important;border-right-style: solid !important;border-top-color: #005487 !important;border-top-style: solid !important;border-bottom-color: #005487 !important;border-bottom-style: solid !important;border-radius: 10px !important;}” offset=”vc_col-lg-offset-3 vc_col-md-offset-3 vc_col-sm-offset-3″][vc_column_text align=”center” css=”.vc_custom_1602712091542{margin-bottom: 0px !important;padding-top: 20px !important;}”]

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A Happy Plight: Turks and Caicos vs Grand Cayman – Where to Go

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Turks and Caicos vs Grand Cayman: Which Luxury Vacation Is For You?

A sparsely populated string of islands located on the southern tip of the Bahamian Archipelago with some of the world’s most stunning beaches, reefs, and privacy or the mecca of glitzy shopping, Seven Mile Beach and tons of opportunities to play around as the wealthy do.

Turks and Caicos and Grand Cayman are both known for offering some of the best Caribbean experiences you can have, full of luxury, warm waters, and cocktails, but which one will be the island you land on?

What a fantastic dilemma to have. Lucky you.

The Basics

Providenciales, or Provo, is the epicenter of the Turks & Caicos (TCI). Tons of flash, world-class resorts, and cruise ships make their way to this island. Divided into two groups by the Columbus Passage, Grand Turk and Salt Cay are to the east, while Provo, West, North, South, Middle and East Caicos are to the west.

TCI is an English-speaking country that accepts the United States dollar (USD) as well as Visa, American Express, and Mastercard in most locations. When traveling, carrying cash is recommended, especially if traveling to other parts of the islands.

Grand Cayman is the largest of the Cayman Islands as well as the most visited by tourists. Having decided to remain under British rule, the English-speaking island has cultural influences from the West Indies, American, and England.

Very diverse, safe, and developed, Grand Cayman at one point was known for its lax banking and tax laws that brought lots of money into the small island. Though times (and laws) have changed, the feeling of wealth is apparent.

Best Time to Visit

The main factors to consider when planning a trip to the Turks and Caicos are hurricanes and accommodation pricing, though, for some, mosquitoes can also be important.

February, March, and April provide you with the best combination of availability, prices, and weather. From late August to early November, prices in TCI are the highest, and availability for accommodations is pretty low.

If you are concerned about hurricanes, mid-August through September are statistically the times a hurricane is most likely to strike TCI, though few hurricanes strike the country. Passing tropical storms and flight delays due to storms are far more common.

Most people plan to visit Grand Cayman during the winter as this is when the climate is most pleasant to sit on the beautiful beaches and rainfall is minimal, with April and May being the driest months. For the best pricing, May through July is when accommodation rates and crowds are at their lowest.

Similar to the Turks and Caicos, the best prices are during the rainy season, when strong winds, hurricanes, and storms are common.

Atmosphere

Sailrock Resort

One of the main Turks and Caicos vs Grand Cayman comparisons comes down to the way the islands look and feel. This could be a deciding factor for you.

Grand Cayman is an extremely popular tourist destination, but you’ll be pleasantly surprised that even with the heavy development and tourism, it doesn’t have the same vibe you’re likely to find on other Caribbean tourist destinations.

There’s upscale tourism here, close to the high-end travel in Hawaii. The local culture is vibrant, lending a unique and rich character to the entire island. Rest assured, the prices very much so reflect the high-end feel.

While this location no longer eludes traveler’s radars as it once did, Turks and Caicos still feels like a hidden paradise, even with Provo, especially Grace Bay Beach, being an escape for many tourists.

An easy-going pace, seclusion, and spectacular beaches have turned this archipelago into a true destination for luxury living and tourism. When you visit, you feel a laid back, sophisticated air of Caribbean heaven that feels authentic to the culture and tourism industry. The prices are also higher here than in most of the Caribbean but are lower than Grand Cayman.

Nightlife

The activities available to you are closely linked with each destination’s overall atmosphere. Here is what you can look forward to.

Neither Grand Cayman nor Turks and Caicos have a wild, raucous nightlife. There are no casinos at all in Grand Cayman and Provo only has one small casino. Both have a wide selection of bars, restaurants, cruises, and bonfires to take part in.

The hotels of Grand Cayman often have events that tourists go to, and Seven Mile Beach has all-inclusive resorts, bars, and restaurants where you can find lots to do once the sun has set. Grace Bay Beach also has a few all-inclusive resorts which will have some after-dark events from time to time.

For the most part, however, these family-friendly destinations are more about the comforts and amenities of kicking back on the beach or participating in the number activities available.

The Beaches

Sailrock Beach Hammocks

Caribbean islands have some of the best beaches. Grand Cayman’s Seven Mile Beach is one of the most well-known, and most beautiful. Many hotels and resorts are found on this stretch of beach and there are many watersports, a perfect place for kids to go wild. If you want to escape the crowds, Sandy Point and Point of Sand on Little Cayman, are gorgeous reprieves.

Grand Cayman is also home to the infamous Stingray City, one of the coolest things most people will ever do, and a popular destination. Even if you’ve been close to stingrays before, there is nothing like snorkeling with the playful creatures in Grand Cayman.

Turks and Caicos

In the Turks and Caicos, Grace Bay Beach is another of the best Caribbean beaches you have to see to believe. Picture-perfect does not do it justice – the brilliant white sand and turquoise-blue waters are unrivaled and offer some of the best snorkeling and scuba diving spots in the world. This is also where you can find some of the most exclusive villas and private homes for rent in Providenciales.

Parrot Cay is an awarding winning retreat that is reachable by catamaran and offers another of the world’s most beautiful beaches. It is also where many celebrities have built vacation homes when they need a true getaway. Over in South Caicos, Sailrock Resort offers private villa rentals, shallow blue waters perfect for more fantastic snorkeling, and a quiet haven as well.

Both locations offer a ton of water sports operators and beautiful waters, sands, and amenities.

Even though Grand Cayman will have more tourists everywhere, it is a testament to the island that it never feels touristy in a bad way, and experiences will still be awesome.

The Turks and Caicos, on the other hand, is all about luxury, privacy, and exclusiveness. Provo has fewer resorts than most islands, opting for private rentals.

Choose Your Destination!

The Turks and Caicos vs Grand Cayman – different islands offering a few different things, there is no wrong choice here.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row el_class=”pt32 pb32″][vc_column width=”1/2″ css=”.vc_custom_1602711608529{border-top-width: 1px !important;border-right-width: 1px !important;border-bottom-width: 1px !important;border-left-width: 1px !important;border-left-color: #005487 !important;border-left-style: solid !important;border-right-color: #005487 !important;border-right-style: solid !important;border-top-color: #005487 !important;border-top-style: solid !important;border-bottom-color: #005487 !important;border-bottom-style: solid !important;border-radius: 10px !important;}” offset=”vc_col-lg-offset-3 vc_col-md-offset-3 vc_col-sm-offset-3″][vc_column_text align=”center” css=”.vc_custom_1602711653704{margin-bottom: 0px !important;padding-top: 20px !important;}”]

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Caribbean Showdown: Turks and Caicos vs. Aruba For Your Next Vacation

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Turks and Caicos vs Aruba: Which is Right for You?

You’ve narrowed your choices of Caribbean islands down to two destinations: Turks and Caicos or Aruba. They both are incredible places and offer great weather, beaches and plenty of activities to keep you engaged and happy.

Now you’re stuck.

Find out what makes each destination so special to help make your Turks and Caicos vs Aruba choice a bit clearer.

The Basics

The Turks & Caicos (TCI) is a British Overseas Territory. Their official language is English and the US dollar is the only currency accepted there. Though they drive on the left side of the road, like the British, the country uses the same electrical plugs and voltages as the United States.

Consisting of a network of 40 islands and cays, think of the Turks and Caicos Islands as having three distinct personalities. Providenciales, or Provo for short, is where luxurious resorts and hotels are. Grand Turk is the country’s cultural and historical center and Salt Cay is where some of the best diving in the world can be done.

Aruba is a constituent country of the Netherlands. Their official languages are Dutch and Papiamento, a local language, but most Arubians speak four languages minimum, including Spanish and English. The Arubian florin is their currency but the US dollar is accepted widely.

Aruba has a landscape that is closer to an arid-desert than a tropical paradise, but predictable weather year-round, tons of resorts, and very friendly people have made this Dutch-influenced Caribbean island one of the most popular destinations in the region.

Best Time to Visit

Sailrock Resort West Facing Aerial

Between April and May is the best time to head to Turks and Caicos. You’ll get better prices and find fewer people. The weather is great all season, hovering in the 80s, but hurricane threats and higher rainfall occur from June to November. Peak travel, like most Caribbean destinations, is from December to March.

Visit Aruba between April and August; it has a huge window of opportunity to get better pricing during this time. There’s also little threat of tropical storms occurring around this time because the island sits well outside of the hurricane belt. If you come between January and March, expect prices to skyrocket.

When it comes to Turks and Caicos vs Aruba, regarding the best months to visit, Aruba gives you more flexibility. Both, thankfully, have nonstop flights from the United States.

Atmosphere

When you arrive in Aruba, you’ll quickly understand why it’s often referred to as One Happy Island. Its people are some of the warmest and friendliest faces you’ll see in the Caribbean. The mood in Aruba is lively and engaging.

In the Turks and Caicos Islands, you’ll experience an easy-going, low-key, and laid-back vibe. The people are genuinely friendly, but there is plenty of opportunities to simply chill out in some of the most beautiful scenery. Things move at a relaxed pace and you feel comfortable enough to completely disengage from it all. Sophisticated, luxury tourism.

Nightlife

As the main tourism island, Provo is where you’ll find the most to do in the Turks and Caicos. Small nightclubs and bars tend to be the most popular activities, but sunset cruises, beach bonfires, and special events also draw people in.

For a more party environment, you’ll have to head to the all-inclusive resorts like Club Med, an adult-only affair, or Beaches Turks and Caicos. At these places, you can dance until the early morning. It also features a small casino and slot machines at a few bars.

After dark in Aruba has a little bit of everything. There are party buses and party boats, Vegas-style shows, casinos, and salsa dancing. The hotels will also host beach barbecues and happy hours. You can walk down the Palm Beach strip and find lively clubs, beachfront lounges, shopping, and even some great street art. It can sometimes feel like you’re in a small city in Florida, which many people enjoy.

The Beaches

This is what the Turks and Caicos vs Aruba comparison is really about – the beach. Both have not only the best Caribbean beaches but the best you’ll find on the globe. So, who has the better beaches?

Famed for flat beaches of white sand, Aruba has some of the most beautiful beaches on the planet, luring millions of tourists every year. Palm Beach and Eagle Beach are two of the most popular, housing the island’s biggest resorts, but Rodger’s Beach and Andicuri Beach offer more privacy. Aruba is prone to trade winds and the beaches tend to be breezy for that reason, but most windsurfers love it.

Besides windsurfing, Aruba’s warm surf is great for numerous water sports like snorkeling, kitesurfing, sailing, water skiing, and more.

In the Turks and Caicos, the waters are beautiful enough to bring an adult to tears. Grace Bay Beach and Parrot Cay are consistently ranked among the best in the world and celebrities choose Parrot Cay to build second and third homes on – it’s that beautiful. All of the beaches are open to the public but there is plenty of room privacy to be found when you want it.

The waters of the Turks and Caicos are great for water sports too. Some of the most popular being, diving, snorkeling, yachting, fishing, paddle boarding, horseback riding in the surf, or walk puppies down the shore.

Accommodations

Sailrock Resort North Facing Aerial

Aruba is known for its huge resorts, particularly the high-rise hotels found on the shores of Palm Beach. There are places like the Hyatt, Marriott, and three all-inclusive resorts. Options for private homes and villas and apartment rentals are available if you need more budget-friendly options.

There are far fewer resorts in the Turks and Caicos than Aruba, that’s part of its exclusive feel. Grace Bay Resorts, on Provo, has multiple properties and they are beautiful, but they don’t come cheap. Airbnb is always an option or you can try a different island altogether. Sailrock, on South Caicos, has private beachfront villas that can be rented out and provide the same beauty as Provo, only there’s more privacy and quiet.

Choose Your Destination!

The Turks and Caicos Islands vs. Aruba isn’t about which has the best Caribbean beaches, weather, or nightlife. They both have similar offerings but do it distinctly.

Head to the Turks and Caicos if you want to have a more tranquil vacation with an air of luxury and traditional Caribbean vibe.

Aruba has lots of luxury to offer as well, but there’s a higher amount of energy and almost an American feel to it.

The choice is yours![/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column width=”1/2″ css=”.vc_custom_1602711344046{border-top-width: 1px !important;border-right-width: 1px !important;border-bottom-width: 1px !important;border-left-width: 1px !important;border-left-color: #005487 !important;border-left-style: solid !important;border-right-color: #005487 !important;border-right-style: solid !important;border-top-color: #005487 !important;border-top-style: solid !important;border-bottom-color: #005487 !important;border-bottom-style: solid !important;border-radius: 10px !important;}” offset=”vc_col-lg-offset-3 vc_col-md-offset-3 vc_col-sm-offset-3″][vc_column_text align=”center” css=”.vc_custom_1602711335050{margin-bottom: 0px !important;padding-top: 20px !important;}”]

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Which Of The Best Caribbean Beaches Will You Visit Next?

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10 of the Best Caribbean Beaches

Some of the best beaches in the world are in the Caribbean. Melt into the blindingly white soft sands of the Bahamas or Grenada, have underwater adventures with sea creatures in the Cayman Islands’ ultra-clear waters or catch amazing waves surfing in Barbados – you will find exactly what you want in the Caribbean.

With so many beautiful places to kick back and relax, how do you even begin to make a choice? You can always island-hop, visiting all of the best locales until you find your perfect sandy beach – the ultimate bucket list thrill.

Don’t have the time or energy for that? No problem. Think about what living your best beach life feels and looks like, then match your preferences with these expert tips. You’ll be able to choose the best Caribbean beaches for your next vacation, and the one after that, too.

Experience the Caribbean

Caicos Bank, South Caicos

There is so much to do and see in the Caribbean islands that are more than beaches or water sports. There are jungles, forests and mountains, and amazing places to white river raft or deep dive in sublime blue waters in search of treasure, or more likely, rum.

You may think you know which island is perfect for your next vacation until you hear about an adventure on another. This travel guide to the Caribbean islands offers a snapshot of what the islands offer to help you plan a trip that is exactly what you’ve been dreaming of.

Anguilla

A country that has managed to escape untouched by casinos and mega-resorts, it is just as beautiful as any of its neighbors. When you want a true vacation away from it all, you can enjoy a beautiful, remote Caribbean experience here.

The Bahamas

700 islands make up this country, with the most visited being Bimini, Abaco, Nassau, Grand Bahama Exuma, and New Providence. Close to the U.S., it is often a key stop on many cruises.

Visit to see some of the most magnificent pink sand beaches on the planet, swim with pigs, and gamble.

Dominican Republic

With a population of over 10 million, there is so much to do when you’re tired of the beach. Vibrant Santo Domingo is a historic spot full of excitement and is quite affordable. You can also find cigars as good as Cuba’s.

Turks and Caicos

Sailrock Beach, South Caicos

For gorgeous never-ending turquoise waters and snorkeling these islands are a top choice. Providenciales, the largest island, offers something for everyone and has world-renowned resorts and beaches. This island is also home to the popular Parrot Cay.

For seclusion, never-ending watersports, and world-class dining in an authentic Caribbean setting, South Caicos should be your choice. South Caicos is home to the 5-star Sailrock Resort and East Bay Resort. Just 20-minutes away from Providenciales, both resorts include island-hop flights with stays.

Haiti

First thoughts aren’t of white sand and fruity drinks, but there’s some amazing surfing to be done and history to discover. Here you can experience Afro-Caribbean culture and art at its purest.

Cayman Islands

Known for its lenient tax and banking laws, these three islands have some of the finest beaches in the Caribbean. Seven Mile Beach on Grand Cayman is a highlight for tourists, but there are real adventures for scuba divers on Cayman Brac.

Martinique

As one of the Caribbean’s most cosmopolitan destination, the French influence is alive and well. French fashions, live music, and gourmet beach cuisine can be found here. Surprisingly, it is still one of the lesser-visited islands.

Jamaica

Obviously, everyone should go for the reggae! But Negril’s popular beaches and famous cliff divers should be a great distraction. Another affordable find, it also has the world’s foremost adult resort – Hedonism II.

Antigua and Barbuda

Two distinct experiences are to be had here. Antigua is the traditional Caribbean Americans think about. Barbuda, however, is all about the wildlife that includes native deer, deep-sea fishing, and a bird sanctuary.

The British Virgin Islands

Internationally known for the boating scene, there some fantastic private-island resorts. Besides beautiful beaches, stumble around in the rainforests or protected national parks.

U.S. Virgin Islands

The long-time stomping grounds of seafarers, visitors come here to drink, drink in the fabulous white sand beaches, and shop. In that order.

Grenada

One of the few hidden gems of the Caribbean, gorgeous beaches abound but its mountainous terrain has amazing hiking trails, a nature preserve, and a rainforest offer true wonders.

St. Kitts and Nevis

Nevis is a paradise yet to be spoiled by over-development and is perfect for romantic getaways. St. Kitts has a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the historic Brimstone Hill Fortress National Park.

Guadeloupe

Francophiles will love the natural beauty and authentic culture. Uncrowded beaches and watersports as well as a national park and hiking trail that leads to an active volcano. It’s spectacular.

St. Barts

A playground for the rich and famous, high-end shopping, gourmet dining, and exclusive locations and secluded beaches are the norm.

Luxury in the Caribbean

Paddleboarding in South Caicos

Behind Europe, the Caribbean is where the wealthiest people travel to let their hair down. Get a glimpse at how a few islands compare when you need a little pampering.

Aruba and Turks and Caicos

Aruba is loved for its beaches, friendly people, and gorgeous sunsets. The joyous mood of the island is infectious and there are a lot of festivals taking place throughout the year. Aruba has some of the most amazing private islands and retreats as well.

Known for an array of watersports, everything can be done in this island’s waters, including kiteboarding, windsurfing, snorkeling, boating, kayaking, fishing, and diving. It also has mountains for hiking or having an off-road adventure. It’s not uncommon to see all-terrain vehicles and Jeep rentals.

There’s an American vibe to Aruba in the sense that you’ll see fast-food chains, cruise ships, casinos, and lots of nightlife. The look and feel of the hotels are familiar, too, if you’re from the States.

Turks and Caicos

Many people fall in love with the Turks and Caicos because it is seriously stunning. It also has a sophisticated vibe. Besides having some of the most gorgeous water you’ll ever have the pleasure to lay eyes on, it has any number of secluded beaches, restaurants, and cays to explore.

Providenciales also has some of the best Caribbean beaches with luxury hotels and resorts, but there are seven other islands besides Providenciales to get lost in, too. In fact, South Caicos has one of the Caribbean’s leading luxury island resorts.

If privacy is what you’re looking for, which usually does go along with luxury, the Turks and Caicos is the place. It tends to be more expensive than many islands but also has far fewer resorts and many more private villas. Shared pools and overcrowded restaurants and beaches don’t happen here at the same rate as in Aruba.

Overall, there is less development in the Turks and Caicos compared to Aruba, though it is well on its way. When it comes down to the Turks and Caicos vs Aruba, you may find that age plays a big role as well as the charm and appeal you need on that particular vacation.

Turks and Caicos or Grand Cayman?

Sailrock Beach, South Caicos

The Turks and Caicos vs Grand Cayman is a relaxing dilemma to have.

Let’s start with Seven Mile Beach, one of the most well-known beaches in the world. It’s a gorgeous place and has waters that surely rival those found in the Turks and Caicos. The waters can be a little rough at times and there are both good and not-so-great areas to stake claim to.

Grace Bay Beach, in the Turks and Caicos, is also one of the top beaches. No matter where you sit, stand, or jump, you are going to get a beautiful view. The sands are soft and only get softer as the water touches it. There are no rocks and shells to worry about so going barefoot 100% of the time is possible. Known for its snorkeling, the waters are pretty shallow offshore for a decent distance, which can be frustrating for some.

Both slices of paradise offer similar activities. You can parasail, kayak, paddleboard, and more. In the Turks and Caicos, marine life is all around and lots of boat tours you’ll love. However, Grand Cayman has a little something called Stingray City that is simply amazing. You’ll never see so many friendly stingrays.

It isn’t hard to find delicious cuisine in either place, but the food in Providenciales and the atmosphere it has can suck you in. There are a lot of restaurants to choose from, but you won’t find anything like fast food, for the most part.

Grand Cayman

Grand Cayman has far more dining options, and while there are some pretty incredible places, there’s more of a wow factor in the Turks and Caicos, but that will be different for everyone.

What’s indisputable when it comes to the two countries is the prices. The Turks and Caicos Islands are expensive, but Grand Cayman has prices that make you wish they simply weren’t listed at all.

Then there’s the overall vibe of the two destinations. Grand Cayman is busy. Very busy. Right when you come off the highway, traffic can be shocking. You may feel as if you are in an American city, as it can take two hours to drive 20 miles. The Turks and Caicos Islands have the kind of charm that makes you feel like you can completely relax, wind down and disconnect.

In Grand Cayman, anything you want, from chain restaurants to shopping, are within your grasp. The Turks and Caicos Islands have a more relaxed, chill vibe more closely associated with the Caribbean luxury most think of.

The Bahamas or the Caribbean?

Often the Bahamas is thrown in with the Caribbean, mostly because of the similarity of atmosphere and culture, but the Bahamas is actually in the Atlantic. For the most part, people consider themselves Caribbean, but not all.

Once again, let’s start with one of the most important things: which has better beaches. Everyone knows by now this is an impossible question to answer as they both have some of the most spectacular shores on the planet.

What can be said about the Bahamas vs Caribbean comparison is that, unlike the Caribbean, the Bahamas sands are not white, they are mostly tan. The Bahamas do have a few beaches with pink sand that are simply incredible, however. The only thing that can truly be said is that there are more beautiful beaches to choose from in the Caribbean.

If you are deciding between which cruise to take, you’ll want to know about the bars, and the Caribbean is full of them. You can watch Jamaica’s fearless clear divers while you sip planter’s punk in Negril or have drinks in a chic St. Barts lounge, where you may be lucky enough to see celebrities hanging out.

There are rustic beach bars in the British Virgin Islands that a barfly would never dream of leaving.

It would be foolish to act as if drinks aren’t available in the Bahamas. Nassau has seriously posh places like the One and Only Ocean Club and Dune Bar, but when you’re not there, you will be on a cruise line’s private islands, which don’t have the same character as other places in the Bahamas.

Cruises

A lot of cruises in the Bahamas are designed primarily for families with children. They feature playgrounds, water slides, mini cars, and faux archaeological digs to keep kids entertained. The Caribbean has a lot of family-friendly activities, but nothing as specific for children in that manner. Most of the offerings are geared toward adults.

When comparing these two, it’s usually about which cruise is better, especially with a family, because traveling with kids can change things. It’s a tough choice, but both are going to be a great time, whether you are traveling with a family or not.

Top 10 Best Caribbean Beaches

What makes a great beach all depends on the traveler. Is it the Instagram-worthy natural beauty that ranks a beach among the best? While that is certainly a requirement, but – depending on your mentality – privacy, accessibility, seclusion, shade, extracurricular activities, unique scenery, and who you’re traveling with may also play a role.

Travel to any of these best Caribbean beaches for your most memorable sand-and-sun experience yet.

1. Shoal Bay, Anguilla

Though Anguilla only stretches across 16 miles of flat land, it has some of the most stunning beaches in the Caribbean, and Shoal bay is one of the best. Open to the public, its 2 miles of silvery sands are the stuff of legend. Visitors love the soothing waves of the blue sea, flawless sand, convenient on-site equipment rentals, and famous local eateries.

You can walk the length of the beach, enjoying beautiful serene views. After that, grab some grilled mahi-mahi from Elodias Beach Bar or BBY from Uncle Ernie’s – don’t forget to wash it all down with some rum punch.

2. Trunk Bay, U.S. Virgin Islands

Postcard-perfect, Trunk Bay, located on St. John, is one of the island’s most breathtaking beaches and its offshore coral reefs are some of the most well-preserved attractions. Silky soft white sands and warm waters lure visitors to this dreamy escape.

Thanks to well-maintained facilities that include showers, snorkel equipment, and chair rentals, you can bask in the sun, visit the Underwater Trail’s 225 yard-long reefs or see how you fare at some underwater photography. If you want to get away from the water, explore the park instead; it has ruins of historic plantations and many hiking trails.

3. Sailrock Beach, Turks and Caicos

Sailrock Beach Hammocks

South Caicos is only a short 20-minute island-hop flight from Providenciales and is home to some pristine Caribbean beaches. The crown jewel of these beaches is Sailrock Beach. Located on the western side of the island, Sailrock Beach is free of crowds, has plenty of watersports activities, and a gorgeous beachside restaurant called the Cove Restaurant and Beach Bar.

Take a Hobie-Cat sailboat out for a ride in the Caicos Bank, lounge on one of the many Sailrock hammocks, or grab some delicious conch fritters from the Cove Restaurant and Beach Bar. Sailrock Resort even hosts weekly bonfires with s’mores and other fire-cooked snacks to enjoy while the sun sets over the Caicos Bank.

4. Pink Sands Beach, Bahamas

It’s such a shame to only choose one, but Pink Sand Beach is a favorite among travelers. While the Bahamas islands have plenty of bright white sand, not so here (as you could have guessed). The rosy hued-blush sands aren’t the only reason this beach is a worthwhile visit. It’s also huge. Three miles long and 50 to 100 feet wide, you can relax in a lot of places while watching the sunset.

You have a lot of options here, too. For relaxation, you can swim or even test your horseback riding skills, opt for privacy away from the resorts by finding a secluded area on the expansive beach or you can hit up several bars and beach eateries for non-stop camaraderie.

5. Bathsheba Beach, Barbados

Rugged, untouched, and wild are just a few words to describe Bathsheba’s shoreline. Surfers and photographers run here to catch killer waves and to see the “Soup Bowl,” a name for the mesmerizing natural phenomenon that occurs when waves crash onto the huge boulders and white sand.

Located 14 miles from the capital city, this beach isn’t for sipping rum punch and daiquiris. The rolling surf and eye-popping rock formations are for those who want action and adventure. Grab a rum punch and soak in one of the shallow pools, take a revitalizing stroll, sailing or paddle out into the wild and breezy waves.

6. The Baths, British Virgin Islands

Virgin Gorda’s top attraction, get there by land or sea. Wading through colorful coves and granite boulders will be an experience you’re unlikely to forget. Climbing through the grottoes and crevices and over the gigantic boulders of The Baths isn’t too intensive but it can be slippery, so sneakers or swim shoes are typically encouraged.

Once you reach the clearing at the rocks, you’ll be at Devil’s Bay, a stunning beach. Plop down on the super-soft sand and start sunbathing or meet new critter friends snorkeling in the turquoise shallow waters. Don’t forget to check out the Cathedral Room, a natural pool in a small cave.

7. Seven Mile Beach, Cayman Islands

Lauded as one of the top beaches in the Caribbean, take just one look at the shore’s crescent shape or one sniff of the silky coral sand and you will feel the same. Even with very large crowds, visitors find it impossible not to love the soft sand and calm waves.

You’ll never get bored here either as there are many things to do. Besides taking a walk along one of the most beautiful shores, you can snorkel or stand-up paddleboard.

Many of the best resorts are on Seven Mile along with restaurants and casual beach bars. There are even restrooms, showers, and a playground for the little ones.

8. Ffryes Beach, Antigua

With enough beaches to see a new one every day of the year (yes, Antigua has 365 beaches), choosing just one isn’t easy. 20 minutes from St. John by bus, Ffryes Beach has the powdery sands, chill laid-back Caribbean vibe, and gentle surf that makes you want to stop using all the muscles in your body and melt into the sand. Get there by bus to enjoy a perfect day at the beach with a nice drink and good food.

Here, it’s all about relaxation and beauty, though the cruise ships being in port can turn it into an excursion destination.

9. Eagle Beach, Aruba

Don’t expect the swagger of Palm Beach here; this unassuming beach has an offhand charm that outshines its more famous (and more crowded) counterpart. With miles of calm waters, clean shores, and fantastic weather, it is truly a beauty you cannot miss.

Free to the public, you swim in the gentle surf, lie out in the sand or get your adrenaline going with paddle boarding or jet skiing activities.

10. Horseshoe Bay, Bermuda

The pale pink sand and bright turquoise waters are gorgeous. They are also famous, bringing in visitors from across the globe. Scores of bathrooms, snorkel rentals, eateries, and lifeguards have made this one of Bermuda’s most popular seaside retreats.

Horseshoe Bay has a hidden secret though: Port Royal Cove. The cove’s pink sand is soft and perfect complemented by dramatic rock formations. There’s also shallow water that young kids will find perfect. A nearby equestrian center even provides trail rides to the private cove.

Which Caribbean Island Is Right for You?

Asking yourself “which Caribbean island should I visit?” is a great question because it means you know that while every Caribbean island has beautiful waters, shores of white sand, and plenty of delicious rum, that is pretty much where the similarities end.

Within the many islands of the Caribbean is a place for every type of traveler. What kind of traveler are you?

Hiking

Often called the Nature Isle, Dominica is recovering nicely after being hit by hurricanes, and the unspoiled waterfalls and rainforests again offer limitless opportunities for hikers. The most challenging and most famous trek of all is the journey to Boiling Lake. It takes a day to complete and leads to one of the largest hot springs in the world.

Watersports

Sailrock Resort Complimentary Watersports

Turks and Caicos is a place to consider. It has one of the longest barrier reefs in the region and is the ideal destination for underwater exploration. Kayak in the mangrove forests or try kiteboarding in Long Bay Beach.

The Road Less Traveled

The Dutch island of Saba, a dormant volcano, is perfect for those who seriously, truly want to get away from it all. The island is only five square miles with a population of 2,000 people and is surrounded by coral reefs and marine parks. This is not the place to go if you want the beach, there are very few here, with one being a “wandering beach” that is only visible if the conditions are just right.

No Sleeping on Vacation

When the sun goes down, Curacao is one of the places you need to be. Beach clubs, annual festivals, casinos, and famous DJs are a standard night here.

Romance

St. Lucia is where the honeymooners go due to its sheer beauty, white beaches, and lush rainforests.

Beachbummin’

Beach bars, hotels, calm waters, and plenty of sun are here for you in Aruba. You’ll never have to leave the beach for a snack or drink again.

Fun with the Family

Safe, clean, and very close to the U.S., the Bahamas has a lot of choices if you are on vacation with the kids. Atlantis mega-resort is here and Grand Bahama has some gorgeous beaches for the kids and casinos for when they’re asleep.

When You Want It All … On a Budget

Don’t turn Jamaica into a cliché. It has the reggae and the beaches, but it’s bigger than you think. From the posh resorts to their distinct urban culture on over to the more adult-themed play areas, you’ll have a complete trip here.

Bonaire is another great location where you can have fun no matter how much money is in your pocket. It is one of the southern Caribbean’s more interesting islands and is famed for its offshore diving. The main city, Kralendijk, has a fascinating history and is walkable.

Low Key Luxury and Isolation

On Antigua, you can find resorts ranging from lavish to modest. Little beaches can be found throughout the island so if someone sits too close to you on the beach, you can just find another one.

The Best Caribbean Beaches Are Waiting

Remarkable beaches and warm weather make the Caribbean a fantastic place to visit just about any time of the year. Whichever beach wins your heart, the remarkable culture, terrain, and atmosphere of your chosen island will only enhance the trip further.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row el_class=”pt32 pb32″][vc_column width=”1/2″ offset=”vc_col-lg-offset-3 vc_col-md-offset-3 vc_col-sm-offset-3″ css=”.vc_custom_1602710127630{border-top-width: 1px !important;border-right-width: 1px !important;border-bottom-width: 1px !important;border-left-width: 1px !important;border-left-color: #005487 !important;border-left-style: solid !important;border-right-color: #005487 !important;border-right-style: solid !important;border-top-color: #005487 !important;border-top-style: solid !important;border-bottom-color: #005487 !important;border-bottom-style: solid !important;border-radius: 10px !important;}”][vc_column_text align=”center” css=”.vc_custom_1602710148373{margin-bottom: 0px !important;padding-top: 20px !important;}”]

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