Things to Do in Caribbean

High atop a hillside overlooking the harbor of Nassau is the British-colonial Fort Charlotte—the largest fort in Nassau. Constructed in the late 18th century for a battle that never took place, this historic site offers picturesque views, hidden underground passages, a waterless mote, remote dungeons and even authentic canons. Guides are available to help travelers navigate through subterranean halls far below the fort, but well-place signage and plenty of light means visitors can just as easily explore the grounds on their own.

Forested white-sand beaches and sapphire-blue water make Flamenco Beach (Playa Flamenco) as picturesque as a Caribbean postcard. Hidden away on the island of Culebra, just off the coast of Puerto Rico, Flamenco is a hot spot for water adventures. With its colorful aquatic life, beachside bars serving up cocktails, and flamingo-filled lagoons, this strip of sand provides an ideal day trip for those looking to go beyond the bustle of San Juan.

The Basics

Beach bums can spend a day at Flamenco Beach sinking their toes into sugar-like sand and splashing in the waves, taking breaks to order smoothies or piña coladas from waterfront food stands. Those looking for more adventure can rent snorkel gear to explore Flamenco’s highly regarded coral reefs and observe underwater creatures such as parrot fish and sea turtles. High-speed catamaran cruises run from Fajardo, Isla Verde, and San Juan, often stopping at nearby Culebrita Beach, Playa Tortuga, or the other La Cordillera Islands. Guided tours make it easy to access the gear needed for a good time, while ensuring access to Culebra’s picture-perfect sights. 

Things to Know Before You Go

• Facilities at the beach include showers, restrooms, lockers, and picnic tables, as well as a selection of kiosks and beach bars.
  
• Beach chairs and umbrellas are available for rent.
  

How to Get There

Flamenco Beach is located on the northwestern shore of Culebra Island, about 17 miles (27 kilometers) east of mainland Puerto Rico. Ferries leave Fajardo (about a 90-minute drive from San Juan) for Culebra several times a day and take about 90 minutes; plan to arrive several hours before your desired departure. For a smoother trip, take a 30-minute flight from Isle Grande Airport just outside San Juan. If visiting Playa Flamenco directly from Culebra Harbor or the airport, take a taxi or rent a car to access the beach. Book a guided tour to have all the logistics handled for you.

When to Get There

Flamenco Beach is busiest in winter and spring, when it’s best to visit on a weekday or arrive early to avoid crowds. The Caribbean waters are warm year-round, and although low season visitors can enjoy fewer crowds and cheaper prices, visiting during hurricane season (June through November) means boats might be canceled due to weather.  

Beach Brigade 

The US Navy used Flamenco Beach as a practice ground from just before World War II until the 1970s. A pair of old US army tanks remain, abandoned on the northern edge of the beach. A reminder of Puerto Rico's military past, the rusted tanks have become something of a local landmark, spruced up with colorful graffiti, most notably a swirling green and yellow design painted by local artist Jorge Acevedo.

Journey down to the far south of Antigua to see one of the island's oldest and most beautiful historic districts, English Harbour. This tiny (population of 759), but scenic settlement is a great place to wander around in and enjoy the old-fashioned buildings while learning about the nation's colonial roots.

The El Yunque Rainforest is the only tropical rain forest under the protection of the US Forest Service and also the largest nature reserve in densely populated Puerto Rico. The site is situated in the mist-wreathed Luquillo Mountains, where year-round precipitation ensures lush, green landscapes and a healthy diversity of animal life. This includes mongoose, non-venomous snakes, the rare Puerto Rican parrot, and the Coqui frog, whose distinctive croak provides El Yunque's soundtrack.

As enticing as it sounds, Emerald Pool is a tranquil grotto in the rainforest. On hot days it’s a cool spot for a refreshing splash under the waterfall splashing into the pool. You’ll find it’s quietest to visit in the mornings.

A 15-minute boardwalk through the rainforest leads to the pool, alive with the birdsong of hummingbirds.

The Dominica Botanic Gardens are a beloved area of green space in the capital of Roseau. Established by the British in 1890, it was originally planted to maintain reserves of the various crops farmers grew on the island. Today the gardens comprise 40 acres along the south edge of the city, situated at the base of Morne Bruce. You can explore an oasis of tropical flora and fauna that is home to more than 50 types of native plants and imported trees. While here, keep your eyes open for the Sisserou Parrot, Dominica’s national bird. In 1979 Hurricane David did considerable damage to the gardens, and you can still see some of the carnage in the form of a bus that was crushed beneath a baobab tree.

Dunn's River Falls is a spectacular White River waterfall near Ocho Rios in Jamaica, where cold mountain water cascades 1,000 feet (300 meters) down naturally terraced steps. Those interested in geology will be fascinated with the way the world-famous falls renew themselves via regular deposits of calcium carbonate and sodium, while movie movie buffs will recognize them from films such as ‘Dr. No’ and ‘Cocktail.’

The Basics
While there’s plenty of swimming, sunbathing, and sightseeing opportunities at the falls, many visitors make it a goal to climb the 600-foot (182-meter) terraced falls. You can do so independently or with a waterfall guide on a Dunn's River Falls tour. Guided options are popular for the safety precautions and assistance provided by the local guides during the trek. Stop at one of the lagoons, admire the natural wonder from the top, and be sure to take a dip to cool off.
 
Families will enjoy the swim; the water is mountain runoff and fairly cold, which is perfect on particularly hot days. The site is also close to Ocho Rios' land and sea attractions, restaurants, and the Caribbean coast. Many Dunn's River Falls tours combine a visit to the falls and park with river tubing, a shopping tour in Ocho Rios, a party cruise, or a stop at the Blue Hole or Luminous Lagoon.

• Those who don’t wish to climb the falls can hang out at the observation deck, made for sunning and viewing.
• You’ll find a snack bar and souvenirs for sale on the premises.
• Wear water shoes or sandals suitable for the slippery rocks.
• Bring cash for entrance fees (if visiting independently) and a waterproof camera.

How To Get to Dunn’s River Falls
Dunn's River Falls are about three miles (4.8 km) from Ocho Rios and about 70 (112 km) from Montego Bay. While it's a rapidly growing resort area and a popular cruise line excursion stop, the falls are relatively unspoiled, the hiking is spectacular, and both the wildlife and the rainforest foliage are abundant.

When to Get There
First thing in the morning is your best bet at this popular tourist attraction. While partying vacationers are sleeping off last night’s tropical cocktails, you can get a jump on the hike to the top without huge crowds. If you can avoid a day when cruise ships are in town, you'll be glad you thought ahead.

One of the best places to go on the island if you want fantastic views of the shimmering Caribbean waters, Fort James sits in an ideal position overlooking St John's Harbor. Built by the British in 1706 to protect the harbor, the fort was intended to prevent the French from invading the island.

Take a step back into the wilds of Jamaica with a drive through the incredibly lush and tropical Fern Gully. A towering tunnel of ferns and tropical overgrowth, this rainforest is so full and green that it has become one of the most noteworthy attractions in all of Jamaica.