Why Visit the Caribbean At This Time of Year?

The Caribbean is one of the most bucket list-worthy destinations on the planet, a collection of more than 7,000 islands, reefs, and cays ripe for exploration. With a tropical location, lush natural wonders, luxurious accommodations, and a wealth of land and water-based pursuits, it is the perfect winter escape.

If you’re weary of the chilly winds of winter and the dark, dreary nights and mornings, pack your suitcase and make tracks for warmer climes.

Here are some of the top reasons why now is a perfect time to jet off or sail to the Caribbean for a vacation.

It's Hot

While most of the world is shivering in their blankets as the snow falls and winter temperatures plummet, you can be lying on a sun-kissed beach basking in the warm rays of the sun. The breezes are gentle; there are few rain showers, and the average winter temperature ranges from 24 to 28 degrees Celsius (75 to 82 degrees Fahrenheit). Meanwhile, the average sea temperature ranges from between 25 and 27 degrees Celsius (77 to 81 degrees Fahrenheit), ideal temperatures for swimming.

It's Beautiful

From hidden coves, lagoons, and green-covered mountains to brilliant white shorelines, multi-colored reefs, and fantastic rock formations, the Caribbean is packed with breathtaking natural beauty and some of the most spectacular scenery in the world. At this time of year, the weather is hot but not too hot to explore. Hike the Pitons, two volcanic peaks on St. Lucia, tour limestone caverns in Barbados, and visit the dense rainforests of Jamaica.

There's Plenty to See and Do

Whatever type of vacation you want, you'll find it in the Caribbean. Among the most popular activities are:

Island-hopping fun - the Caribbean is a hub for multi-island trips, supported by an excellent sea and air transport infrastructure that link the main islands to their neighbors. See the jaw-dropping Trafalgar Falls on Dominica one day and go on a spice plantation tour on Grenada the next.

Scuba diving - venture beneath the waves for an undersea world brimming with marine life of every color imaginable. Among the top diving spots are the Cayman Islands for scores of coral reefs, walls, and shipwrecks, the Bahamas for its turtles, sharks, and rays, and Cozumel, Mexico for the Mesoamerican Barrier Reef.

Whale watching – now is an excellent time to go whale watching in the Caribbean. Mid-January to mid-March is considered the peak season for viewing the gentle giants as they migrate to the warmer waters of the Caribbean to breed and give birth. Good whale-watching spots include Grenada, the Dominican Republic, and Caicos. During this time of year, you're virtually guaranteed to spot the magnificent creatures.

Wildlife spotting - as well as whale and dolphins, you may well glimpse thousands of bird species overhead as they migrate south for the winter.

Watersports - jump into some of the best waters in the world to enjoy an abundance of water-based activities against stunning backdrops. Parasailing, jet-skiing, waterskiing, windsurfing, tubing, and wakeboarding are just some of the thrilling watersports on offer.

Sunbathing – visitors are spoilt for choice with an extensive range of gorgeous beaches. Dip your toes in warm waters, stroll along sandy shores and enjoy mesmerizing sea vistas while sipping on delicious cocktails. Some of the most attractive Caribbean beaches include Shoal Bay, Anguilla, Hopkins Bay Beach, Belize, Playa Rincon, Dominican Republic and Grand Anse Beach, Grenada.

Deep relaxation – with dreamy beaches, the Caribbean already exudes relaxation, but you can chill out even more with somebody pampering in any of the state-of-the-art spas that are dotted all over the region. Get away from it all by surrendering your body to blissful treatments and experiences in a range of tranquil settings.

You can also unwind in nature's own spas. Head to the island of Virgin Gorda among the British Virgin Islands for The Baths. This beach area encompasses granite boulders, which form sheltered sea pools on the beach's edge.

You Can Take Advantage of Travel Bargains

Treating yourself to a Caribbean vacation at this time of year sounds expensive, but it doesn't have to be. Travel Beyond Here is offering its members massive savings on Caribbean cruises, resorts, hotels, and activities. With discounts of up to 60% on hotels, members pay the lowest prices anywhere in the world. For more information about how you can save money while enjoying a warm winter vacation in the Caribbean, click here.