Island Hopping in the Caribbean: A Journey to Remember

As I write this, I’m en route to Hawaii but my heart remains anchored in the Caribbean, where I recently embarked on an unforgettable island-hopping adventure. Over the course of my journey, I visited St. Maarten, St. Kitts, St. Lucia, Barbados, Grenada, Trinidad & Tobago, Aruba, and Curaçao. Each island left its unique mark, but some moments linger more vividly than others—moments that celebrated the Caribbean’s vibrant beauty, rich culture, and timeless charm.

Revisiting Familiar Shores

Having previously explored St. Maarten, St. Kitts, and Aruba, I decided to keep things simple this time around. My focus was on relaxation, and the luxurious beaches of these islands provided the perfect backdrop. In St Maarten, I lounged on the luxurious sands of Mullet Bay, sipping on fresh coconut water while gazing at the turquoise sea. St Kitts offered a serene escape at Cockleshell Beach, where the view of Nevis at a distance was captivating as ever. 

Discoveries Across the Island

St. Lucia

St. Lucia, with its dramatic landscapes and lush beauty, had long been on my travel bucket list. While I had hoped to hike the UNESCO World Heritage Site of the Pitons and add it to my collection of great hikes, time and weather conspired against me. However, this slight detour led me to another unforgettable experience—the breathtaking Marigot Bay. My journey to Marigot Bay began with a scenic drive through St. Lucia’s undulating hills and vibrant greenery. The road meandered through dense rainforests, quaint villages, and open stretches that offered glimpses of the sparkling Caribbean Sea. Each turn revealed a new postcard-perfect view, and lush landscape. St. Lucia’s unspoiled beauty, from its towering palm trees to the bursts of colorful flowers along the roadside, was a constant reminder of the island’s charm.

Marigot Bay: A Dream Realized

When I arrived at Marigot Bay, it felt like stepping into a painting. Known as one of the most beautiful bays in the Caribbean, it was a serene haven surrounded by emerald hills that dipped into calm, turquoise waters. Marigot Bay isn’t just a feast for the eyes; it’s a playground for the adventurous. I had the opportunity to dive into its crystal-clear waters, and it was nothing short of magical. The bay’s charm lies not only in its natural beauty but also in its quiet elegance - The yachts bobbing gently in the harbor & the soft rustle of palm trees. 



Exploring the Rustic Barbados


Barbados is a destination that seamlessly blends rich history with natural beauty. Its capital, Bridgetown, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a treasure trove of colonial architecture and cultural landmarks. However, during my visit, I chose to step away from the bustling city streets and explore the island’s rustic countryside on a photography tour.


The tour promised to unveil the raw and unfiltered essence of Barbados, and it did not disappoint. Our journey began in the Scotland District, a rugged and picturesque region on the island’s eastern side. Known for its rolling hills and dramatic landscapes, this area provided stunning backdrops that felt untouched by time. The contrasts between the lush greenery and the blue Atlantic Ocean in the distance were mesmerizing—a photographer’s dream.


Next, we captured the charm of traditional chattel houses, iconic symbols of Barbadian heritage. These small, colorful wooden homes, designed to be movable, stood as a testament to the island’s history and resilience. Their vibrant hues and intricate details made for some truly captivating shots.


The highlight of the tour was the breathtaking view of the Atlantic Ocean from the cliffs. The vast expanse of water meeting the rugged coastline was awe-inspiring, reminding me of nature’s power and beauty.


Our final stop was Bathsheba Beach, a haven for surfers and nature enthusiasts. The beach’s unique rock formations, shaped by years of relentless waves, were as striking as they were photogenic. Watching the waves crash against the shore, I felt a sense of tranquility that only the ocean can bring.




Grenada: The Spice Island’s Rugged Beauty


Grenada, often called the Spice Island, offered a blend of adventure and natural beauty. I ventured into the mountainous terrain of Grand Etang National Park, where I was rewarded with sweeping views and a sense of awe at the island’s rugged landscape. Fort Frederick, perched 1,900 feet above sea level, provided panoramic vistas of the Atlantic Ocean. However, it was during a waterfall-chasing adventure that I truly experienced Grenada’s wild side. A sudden downpour turned roads into rivers, creating temporary waterfalls cascading down the mountains  - a humbling reminder of the island untamed nature.

Colorful city of St George- the view from Ft. Frederick 


Trinidad & Tobago: A Blend of Charm and Nature


In Trinidad, I was captivated by the charming streets of Port of Spain, where stunning colonial-era architecture told stories of the island’s rich past. Driving through the city, I couldn’t help but admire its historical buildings and unique character. 


One of the highlights of my visit was the Royal Botanical Gardens, a peaceful retreat filled with lush greenery and vibrant flora including the double Chaconia, a rare flower blooming just in time for the Christmas season. . Along the way, I passed through the Queen’s Park Savannah, home to the world’s longest roundabout—a fun fact that added to the city’s allure. It seems Port of Spain holds its fair share of Guinness World Records!


Of course, no trip to Trinidad would be complete without a scenic drive to Maracas Beach. The winding roads offered stunning views of the lush mountains and coastline, and the destination itself was worth every mile. The golden sands, turquoise waters, and famous bake and shark made for a quintessential Trinidadian experience.


Maracas Beach

Aruba

My first visit in Aruba had been an adventure, exploring both onshore and offshore treasures. This time, I intended to bask solely in the sun—though fate had other plans. While Aruba was meant to be a restful pause, the island’s energy pulled me into a new experience. Two adventurous spirits I met convinced me to join them in exploring Baby Beach, a hidden gem on the island’s southeastern edge.

Our day began with a hike to the California Lighthouse, where sweeping views of Aruba’s rugged coastline left us breathless. From there, we made our way to the famed beaches. We spent time marveling at the bustling energy of Palm Beach before settling on Eagle Beach, home to the iconic divi-divi tree. Here, I let the warm sands and tranquil waters wash over me, soaking up the sun and serenity.

Divi-Divi tree


Curaçao: A Colorful Finale


My last stop was Curaçao, and its vibrant capital, Willemstad, was an absolute delight. I began my exploration on the Otrobanda side of the city, taking in the lively atmosphere before crossing the iconic Queen Emma Pontoon Bridge. Known as the “Swinging Old Lady,” this hinged bridge connects Otrobanda to Punda and offers stunning views of the harbor and the colorful waterfront buildings.


In Punda, I continued my walk to the floating marketplace, where local vendors sold fresh produce and handmade crafts. Along the way, I discovered charming art galleries that showcased the island’s creativity and culture.


To round out my visit, I hopped into a cab to experience the Queen Juliana Bridge, the tallest bridge in the Caribbean. The panoramic views from this vantage point were simply breathtaking. Driving through the island, I also passed vibrant housing units adorned with painted murals, a testament to Curaçao’s love for art and color


NOTE

All photos by the author 

Published Jan 3, 2025


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