Travel

Stunning Rustic-Luxe Beach Retreats in the Caribbean

It’s been a hectic holiday season, and as much as we love this time of year, we’re ready for a break! Assuming we’re not alone, we’ve decided to share a list of our favorite rustic-luxe Caribbean retreats. Fewer crowds, intimate spaces, and unspoiled tropical vistas are the hallmarks of these hotels, and these secluded spots are the places we like to visit when we’re looking for a low-key getaway.

— Alex Creange, Oyster.com

Ladera Resort, St. Lucia

2015-01-07-ladera.jpg

The first hotel in St. Lucia to introduce the “missing fourth wall,” Ladera Resort set the bar high for luxurious accommodations on the island. With its trademark open-air, treehouse-style villas, stunning Piton views, and exceptional service, Ladera is easily one of St. Lucia’s most exclusive properties — and rates are often half the price of other similarly luxurious hotels (ahem, Jade Mountain). Though it’s not located on the beach, the hotel provides a free shuttle to the pristine white sands of Jalousie Beach, and almost all villas come equipped with private plunge pools. There are no TVs, A/C units, or telephones, but missing these amenities simply adds to Ladera’s rustic appeal.

Cocobay Resort, Antigua

2015-01-07-cocobay.jpg

Perched on a bluff overlooking the Caribbean Sea, Cocobay Resort is a boutique-style, all-inclusive resort with authentic Caribbean charm. Private, colonial style cottages dot the 10-acre property, where rooms have exposed wood beams, private decks with hammocks, and gorgeous Caribbean views. There are two stylish infinity pools, and guests have access to a lovely white-sand beach. Cocobay is an adults-only property, and sees a lot of wedding parties and honeymooners, so guests can expect a rather tranquil stay.

Natura Cabanas, Dominican Republic

2015-01-07-naturacabanas.jpg

Owned by a hospitable Chilean expat, Natura Cabanas is a secluded retreat on the north coast of the Dominican Republic. The low-key, intimate property features spacious, eco-friendly bungalows with stone walls and brightly colored Caribbean accents, delicious, fresh, food, and a stunning private beach with soft sand and clear waters. Families and couples who’d rather stay away from the cannon ball contests and impromptu dance competitions of large-scale all-inclusives will appreciate Natura’s laid-back atmosphere. There is no air-conditioning, the pool is small, and the grounds are a bit buggy, but the price is more than fair for what you get.

Tensing Pen, Jamaica

2015-01-07-tensingpen.jpg

With an intimate collection of 17 cottages, Tensing Pen is where guests come to unplug. Rooms lack any sort of technology, and you’ll find most vacationers lounging poolside with nothing more than a large stack of books and some sunscreen. Tensing Pen’s cliff-top location offers breathtaking views of Negril’s West End, where guests will be treated to some of Jamaica’s best sunsets. The staff here is small, but personable, and the hotel is within walking distance of some of Negril’s best bars and restaurants. Although children are welcome here…

Read more…

Back to top button