Negril’s cliff-side retreats, like the Caves Hotel & Spa, are the perfect antidote to stress. At this adults-only haven, you can stay in one of 12 colorful cottages, kayak the coast, and wind down at the Blackwell Rum Bar, which is tucked in a sea cave and accessible via a coral staircase. “Dinner inside the cave,” said one T+L reader, “has to rank as the most romantic experience anywhere.”
With its secluded beaches and intimate resorts, this region has always been a hit with couples. Our readers’ favorite places to get away range from a glamorous 1950s icon on St. Bart’s to two posh hillside retreats with Piton views on St. Lucia.
It’s not just spectacular sea views that made these 10 resorts the most romantic in the region. Readers raved about the amenities (personal infinity-edge pools, butler service) and a certain quality that transforms even the travelers, seducing them the moment they arrive.
Every year, the Travel + Leisure World’s Best Awards survey asks readers to weigh in on travel experiences from across the globe—to cast their votes for the top islands, airlines, cities, spas, and more. Readers scored the top resort hotels in the Caribbean according to the friendliness of the people, food, value, activities and sights, natural beauty, and—unsurprisingly—romance.
What all the resort hotels on our list have in common is an ability to foster privacy and tranquility, even in some of the most popular beach destinations on Earth.
10. Cap Juluca in Anguilla
Readers return time and time again to this Moroccan-inspired resort (louvered windows, tiled floors, arched doorways) for the talcum powder-white sands fringing Maundays Bay and Cap Juluca’s fine dining restaurant on the water’s edge. For honeymoon-worthy romance, book a beachfront three or five bedroom beachfront villa.
9. Eden Rock in St. Bart’s
“If there was a place on earth that could be called paradise, this would be it,” said one T+L reader, who recalled watching dolphins from his or her ocean-facing villa. Book a Harbour House or De Haenen suite for your best chance at catching a similar view.
8. Round Hill Hotel & Villas in Montego Bay, Jamaica
A-listers love Round Hill, which has white-on-white oceanfront guest rooms and 27 villas, most equipped with a personal pool. Afternoons can be spent at the luxury spa, Ralph Lauren-designed cocktail lounge, or strolling between the property’s coconut, pineapple, and fragrant allspice groves.
7. GoldenEye in Oracabessa, Jamaica
“Everyone who works there just feels like they’re your friend,” remarked a pleased T+L reader in this year’s survey. It’s easy to see how you can feel at home in this incredibly private, 22-room hotel (which began as James Bond creator Ian Fleming’s personal retreat). You’ll spend your romantic get away seeking out hidden coves and private beaches by glass-bottomed boat or jet ski, 007-style.
6. The House in Barbados
Despite being a luxury property serving champagne breakfast, The House maintains a casual, laid-back vibe. So-called personalized service ambassadors are experts at making sure couples have a stress-free getaway. You shouldn’t want for anything during your stay here.
5. Ladera Resort in St. Lucia
As the only hotel set within the island’s UNESCO World Heritage Site, you can’t really beat the Piton mountain views at this T+L editor honeymoon-approved resort. If you really want to strike a few sparks, go stargazing in the private pool, dine 2,400 feet over the ocean, and unplug. An electronics-free room makes the last bit especially easy.
4. Kamalame Cay in Andros, Bahamas
With only 27 rooms and nine villas spread across a 96-acre private island. Kamalame Cay is the place to go if you don’t want to see anyone but your significant other. An exalted restaurant and overwater spa don’t hurt, either.
3. Jade Mountain in St. Lucia
“Jade Mountain is the reason that we should add more stars to the system, because it’s in a class all on its own.” Suggested T+L reader Kellie MacDonald. “Forget Paris,” she added. “This is the most romantic place on Earth.”
2. Petit St. Vincent Island Resort in St. Vincent & the Grenadines
“Petit St. Vincent is sheer heaven,” said a pleased survey taker, noting there are “more than twice as many as guests, [and] places on the beaches that seem totally private. For romance…Petit St. Vincent is perfect.”
1. The Caves Hotel & Spa in Negril, Jamaica
Negril’s cliff-side retreats, like the Caves Hotel & Spa, are the perfect antidote to stress. At this adults-only haven, you can stay in one of 12 colorful cottages, kayak the coast, and wind down at the Blackwell Rum Bar, which is tucked in a sea cave and accessible via a coral staircase. “Dinner inside the cave,” said one T+L reader, “has to rank as the most romantic experience anywhere.”
