5 Reasons The Caribbean Is A Winter Sun Holiday Wonderland

Is winter a good time to visit the Caribbean? We can confidently say yes, it is!

Escaping to a paradise island promises glorious sunny days and relaxing experiences whenever you visit. However, choosing the Caribbean for your winter holiday means you’ll enjoy a break from the chill of home and the only ice you can expect will be in your cocktails. You’ll be treated to exceptional resort amenities, such as pools, spa facilities and fitness centres, and be able to embrace the blissful delights of beachfront living. Each destination offers something unique, with exhilarating experiences awaiting in all. Climb mountains, swim in crystal-clear waters, tour impressive landmarks, feast on delicious local delicacies and soak up the sun on the soft, white sands of a Caribbean beach. With an average temperature of around 30℃ and little chance of rain as you’ve missed the official hurricane season, there’s really no reason to delay booking your getaway. Take a closer look at what else you can expect on a Caribbean winter holiday.

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Tropical Beaches

When you think of the Caribbean, you think of pristine, white-sand beaches and crystal-clear turquoise waters. Escape to the Caribbean this winter to experience these picture-perfect spots for yourself, swapping the grey UK for sun-soaked days of bliss. While on a holiday in Barbados, ensure you admire the unique pink-hued sand of Crane Beach. This expanse is perfect for stunning photographs and activities like surfing and bodyboarding. Water sports enthusiasts should also explore Saint Lucia’s Jalousie Beach. This haven is nestled between the two Piton mountains and is a sanctuary for coral reefs and marine life. Adorn some scuba gear and explore below the surface. For one of the top beaches in the Caribbean, you must visit the Dominican Republic. Located in Samana, Playa Rincon boasts soft sand and coconut trees. For an immersion into the Caribbean’s lively atmosphere, Grenada’s Grand Anse beach is surrounded by outstanding hotels, bars and restaurants.

Exotic Activities

Fill your days with a myriad of exciting activities. With divine year-round sunshine, the Caribbean is the perfect place to get active and explore the great outdoors. Thanks to the stunning beaches and inviting crystal-clear waters you can expect a variety of water sports to discover on your winter holiday. The most popular include kayaking, paddleboarding, surfing, glass-bottomed boat trips and dolphin-watching excursions. There’s also diverse coral reefs to discover while snorkelling and scuba diving, including at Doctor’s Cave Beach in Jamaica's Montego Bay, Long Bay in Antigua and the Mesoamerican Barrier Reef in Cancun – the second largest on the planet. Admire the Caribbean’s natural beauty while on a holiday to Saint Lucia. Hike to the top of the Gros Piton mountain to reveal awe-inspiring views or enjoy a relaxing mud bath at Sulphur Springs. There’s also world-famous golfing in the Dominican Republic and thrilling escapades in Harrison’s Cave Eco-Adventure Park, situated in the heart of Barbados.

Red Hot Nightlife

The good vibes don’t stop in the Caribbean, and if you’re seeking late-night revelry, you’re in the right place. Visit Cancun, the party capital of Mexico, on your out-of-this-world Caribbean holiday to experience a nightlife unlike anywhere else. Cancun is a favourite destination for spring breakers but the fun continues all year round, making for some lively winter sun holidays. Ensure you stop by the iconic Coco Bongo nightclub, located in the hotel zone. Similarly, the Dominican Republic’s Punta Cana region is famed for its booming nightclubs, while the capital, Santo Domingo, promises music and dancing in the streets of the Plaza de Espana. Saint Lucia’s three-day long Food & Rum Festival takes place in mid-January. Holiday at this time to experience creations from the island’s best chefs and rum makers. Rum plays a huge part in Caribbean identity, and you can enjoy it in various cocktails like the Bahama mama, Caribbean rum punch, pina colada and mojito.

Sizzling Cuisine

Chase away the winter blues with some of the Caribbean’s famous fare. Showcasing a blend of West African, European, South Asian, Cajun, South American and Middle Eastern flavours, you’ll be taken on a gastronomic journey like you’ve never experienced before. Due to the region being located in and around the Caribbean Sea and Atlantic Ocean, seafood plays a massive role in the local cuisine. A staple of any Saint Lucia restaurant is this island’s national dish, saltfish and green figs, while Barbados is home to the famous fish market, Oistins Fish Fry, that serves up authentic flavours. Holidays to Grenada should include a meal in the Aquarium restaurant. Overlooking the beautiful Magazine Beach and boasting sensational mountain views, you can enjoy fine dining or casual light bites. Head to Boston Bay on a Jamaica getaway, the supposed birthplace of jerk spice. This flavour is synonymous with the Caribbean and creates some tasty dishes that you won’t soon forget.

Warm Hospitality

There’s no better place on earth than the Caribbean to meet warm, inviting locals while on your holidays. Travellers are made to feel right at home when visiting the region, being welcomed to drink, dine and dance alongside the friendly residents. The Caribbean’s luxury hotels also promise exceptional hospitality and impeccable service right throughout your stay. You’ll find dedicated staff who work hard to take care of your every need while on your winter sun escape. You’ll stay in plush living spaces, be able to take advantage of outstanding leisure facilities and have the choice of a plethora of dining destinations serving local delicacies, international flavours and your favourite tastes from home. You’ll have the chance to immerse yourself in the Caribbean’s vibrant customs by taking part in a cultural class like cooking or cocktail making, as well as the opportunity to enjoy traditional activities and entertainment. What more could you possibly wish for?

“Don’t spend this winter feeling sad and gloomy in the UK, jet off to the Caribbean for an unforgettable holiday in gorgeous sun-soaked surroundings.

“You’ll be wowed by the beauty of islands like Antigua, Grenada, Saint Lucia, Barbados and Jamaica, with each destination offering one-of-a-kind experiences. Escape into nature, explore historical sites, relax on powdery beaches and lap up the luxury of your exceptional hotel.

“Dine in style wherever you stay, with an array of delicious eateries serving up mouthwatering dishes of local and international flavours. Make sure you wash it all down with a tantalising cocktail – we’d recommend something rum-based to get a true taste of the Caribbean!

“Winter holidays are the perfect remedy when you’re feeling blue and you can count on lovely, warm temperatures, sunny days and little to no rain while you make lifelong memories."

Sea Breeze Beach House, Barbados

The Caribbean sun shines down on this blissful all-inclusive resort that borders a signature white-sand Barbados beach. Perfect for family holidays and romantic couples’ getaways, you’ll have every amenity you could need plus more. Relax with a sumptuous spa treatment, get active with some water sports and dine on mouthwatering cuisine. Kids and teens can make friends in their exclusive clubs, while the grown ups can enjoy a moment of serenity in the adults-only jacuzzi.

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Royalton Antigua, An Autograph Collection All-Inclusive Resort

Escape to the paradise destination of Antigua for your Caribbean beach holiday and stay in unparalleled 5-star luxury. Feel powdery soft sand beneath your toes, splash in the cerulean waves and dine al fresco under the stars on your own private shoreline. Daytimes consist of energising activities like tennis, water sports and swimming, or spa treatments and lounging by the pool. During the evening, expect showstopping entertainment and dining on exceptional dishes in the restaurants.

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Royalton Grenada, An Autograph Collection All-Inclusive Resort

Set beside pristine sands and aquamarine waters, this 5-star haven promises untold luxury, relaxation and excitement. Make use of the amazing facilities, including the spa, fitness centre, swimming pool, open-air theatre and kids’ playground. Immerse yourself in the vibrant Caribbean culture through cultural dance and cooking classes, or dine on the local cuisine in the gourmet restaurants. There’s never a dull moment, with daily and nightly shows to suit guests of every age.

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The Crane Resort, Barbados

Escape to a fairytale when you stay in this magnificent Barbados hotel. Lining its own private beachfront, you can enjoy dips in the Caribbean Sea and sparkling aquamarine swimming pools. Begin your day with rejuvenating yoga or enjoy a stroll through the lush foliage across picturesque bridges. Little ones will love the Calypso Kids’ Club, as well as the ice cream shop. Choose from the array of fine-dining restaurants for dishes from across the globe, including Japan, Thailand and the Caribbean.

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Windjammer Landing Resort & Residences, Saint Lucia

Lap up the luxury of this dazzling Saint Lucia hotel, situated on a postcard-perfect coastline. White-washed villas await within lush gardens to take you on an enchanting adventure, with activities for children and grown ups alike. Get active with water sports like kayaking, snorkelling, sailing and paddleboarding. Get involved with cooking and mixology classes for a true taste of the Caribbean, before looking forward to showstopping evening entertainment and theme nights.

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Cap Maison Resort & Spa, Saint Lucia

Elegance and luxury is bursting from this verdant Caribbean paradise. Nestled amongst lush trees, you're only a stone’s throw from the bustling Rodney Bay area of Saint Lucia. Take advantage of the outstanding amenities both in your hotel and in the nearby resort, with an array of magnificent restaurants serving delicious fare from the Caribbean and beyond. Discover leisure facilities galore and a secluded sandy beach for you to make wonderful memories in the sunshine.

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Coconut Bay Beach Resort and Spa, Saint Lucia

Jet off to blue skies and swaying palm trees in Saint Lucia. All-inclusive bliss awaits to ensure you have the time of your life, dining on delicious food and drinking exotic cocktails. Wade in the crystal-clear waters of one of the many swimming pools, including an exclusive adult-only area or get active with some adventure activities. Children will love visiting the petting zoo and waterpark, while adults can enjoy trips to the spa and work outs in the fitness centre.

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Serenity at Coconut Bay, Saint Lucia

Luxury oozes from this divine adult-only escape of Saint Lucia's coastline. Prepare for exceptional facilities that will take your romantic retreat to the next level. Lounge poolside with a beverage in hand, relax with an indulgent spa treatment and dine on world-class gourmet cuisines. The beach is only steps away, where you can find catamaran cruise trips and other water sports fun. The spacious suites offer privacy and comfort, as well as all the facilities you need.

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