Dream Destination Caribbean

With the promise of pristine beaches, warm aquamarine water and unlimited activities, the Caribbean beckons couples in search of rest and rejuvenation as well as adventure. Each of its tropical isles, from the Bahamas to St. John to Aruba, has something unique to offer. We reveal 10 of our favorite hideaways, where the two of you can revel in the romantic, luxuriously laidback vibe that keeps the Caribbean cool.

The Bahamas

This extensive island chain is home to 700 islands and islets, each with its own distinct flavor and appeal. on Nassau/Paradise Island, the most developed area in the archipelago, the jet set finds its comfort zone at posh resorts while families, fun-seekers, and gamblers have their temptations as well. Dinner for Two: Dine on succulent sushi at the world-renowned Nobu at Atlantis. Beach Lovers: Three miles of white sands and calm waters off Paradise Island's Cabbage Beach provide the perfect combination of romantic vistas and watersports. Pleasure Trip: From Nassau, take a boat or seaplane to the secluded out islands. Snorkel the pristine reefs of the Exumas, fish the shores of Andros or explore the rich cultural heritage and ecological wonders of Grand Bahama island. After Dark: The vibe is laidback and sophisticated at Pure nightlife in nassau. Snuggle up in a private bamboo cabana until the music calls you onto the dance floor.

Turks and Caicos Island

Eco-travelers find their niche in this string of tranquil islands. The turquoise waters tempt scuba divers and snorkelers onto coral reefs teeming with colorful fish and ocean giants like manta rays and humpbacks. On land, bird watchers get an eyeful in protected national parks. Providenciales (a.k.a. Provo) offers the most to visitors seeking "city" life, with golf, shopping and luxury hotels, as well as some of the most beautiful beaches in the world. Dinner for Two: The ocean breeze stirs the palm fronds overhead at Coco Bistro, a romantic seaside restaurant that brings french flair to favorite local dishes. Beach Lovers: Sapodilla Bay Beach on the west coast of Provo lends a peaceful refuge on sugary white sand with shallow waters perfect for taking the plunge. Pleasure Trip: J&B tours whisks couples away to a deserted beach for a private picnic. After Dark: Groove to an island beat at Lone Star Bar and Grill, where live music draws a crowd on Fridays.

Jamaica

The Caribbean comes alive in Jamaica's plantation houses turned grand hotels and funky thatched-roof bars spilling the sounds of reggae onto the streets. Sun-drenched beaches and thrilling watersports lure most visitors to Jamaica, but many may be surprised to find a lush, mountainous terrain that unveils rivers and waterfalls spilling through verdant valleys. Newlyweds, families and beach bums alike find plenty to fill their day in Montego Bay, Ocho Rios and Negril. Whether hiking through a virgin jungle or sipping rum punch on the beach, Jamaica's rhythm appeals to all walks of life. Dinner for Two: Perched high above the sea with panoramic views of Port Antonio and beyond, Mille Fleurs raises Caribbean fare to a new level in a romantic setting. Beach Lovers: Placid, crystal clear waters make doctors Cave Beach the perfect spot for a day in the sun. Pleasure Trip: Explore Jamaica's wilder side while riding a raft down the Great River. After dark: in July, music feeds the soul at the fourday Reggae Sumfest in Montego Bay.

Dominican Republic

Boasting the oldest Spanish city in the Americas, the Dominican Republic has an added appeal for history buffs-if they can break away from the idyllic beaches, first-rate golf courses and magnifi- cent mountains, rivers and waterfalls. In Santo Domingo's Zona Colonial, the architecture remains as Columbus envisioned it 500 years ago, but the natural beauty of Puerto Plata, Playa Grande and Punta Cana (a golfer's paradise) also beckons newlyweds looking for adventure or uninterrupted bliss. Dinner for Two: Feel the ocean breeze while dining on exceptional Mediterranean cuisine at Sivory Punta Cana's Laveranda Restaurant. Beach Lovers: The secluded Playa Bahoruco hints at the undeveloped Caribbean beach of yesterday. Pleasure Trip: At Rancho Isabella on the Samana Peninsula, a horseback ride under the full moon ends with a Dominican feast on the beach. After Dark: Head to Club Guacara Taina in Santo Domingo, where the young and hip dance to merengue and international pop in a subterranean grotto turned disco.

Puerto Rico

Like its neighbor the Dominican Republic, Puerto Rico's attraction is in its blend of Spanish Colonial history and the unsurpassed beauty of its beaches and forests. Late night partygoers will revel in San Juan's nightlife, as will sophisticated travelers looking for five-star resorts and fine dining. Outside the cosmopolitan city, there are hundreds of sun-soaked beaches, each with a distinct personality (Rincon on the west coast is a surfer's mecca), and miles of hiking trails for the eco-traveler. Dinner for Two: In Old San Juan, Nuevo Latino cuisine is served in a lushly landscaped courtyard at the Parrot Club. Beach Lovers: At the picturesque beach town of Boqueron, get a taste of local life on the shores of a tranquil, palm-fringed bay. Pleasure Trip: Explore El Yunque's vast rainforest by foot. After Dark: Feel the beat of Puerto Rico at Anfiteatro Tito Puente in San Juan, savoring live music under the stars.

St. John

The pace slows down in scenic St. John, where snorkeling fins and hiking boots are all that's needed to explore the Island's bountiful gifts. Twenty miles of trails lead naturalists through a pristine national Park that dominates more than half of the island. At the park's edge, the protected waters offer a glimpse of healthy coral gardens and their colorful denizens. In addition to the five-star resorts, the town of Cruz Bay affords some amenities, but St. John's true appeal is the invitation to get back into the rhythm of nature. Dinner for Two: The elegant Turtle Bay Estate House at Caneel Bay serves up panoramic views and inspired American cuisine by candlelight. Beach Lovers: Cinnamon Bay Beach promises the quintessential Caribbean experience with breathtaking vistas and glistening aquamarine waters. Pleasure Trip: take the five-mile ferry ride to St. Thomas for a day of shopping in Charlotte Amalie. After Dark: Live music spills from the waterfront bars of Cruz Bay, where the nightlife is as laidback as the Island's Inhabitants.

Antigua

Prevailing winds have made this celebrated Island a gathering spot for sailors from around the world (every April, Sailing Week brings them in droves), but the raw beauty of Antigua's beaches and its numerous historical sites are just as big a draw. Picturesque English Harbor is a hub of activity for sailors and history buffs, and St. John's, the Island capital, attracts visitors to its cathedral, museum, casinos and lively farmers markets. Dinner for Two: Get a taste of Island life at George in St. John's, serving updated Caribbean classics in an historic family home. Beach Lovers: Watch the sun set over calm waters from seaside Johnson's Point/Crab Hill. Beach bars and a ruined fort offer diversions from sun and surf. Pleasure Trip: Antigua's first sugar plantation, Betty's Hope, gives visitors a glimpse of the Island's colonial past. After Dark: Local 14-piece steel bands entertain at casual Admiral's Inn in English Harbor.

St. Lucia

Looking like an island plucked from the South Pacific, St. Lucia exudes romance and passion. Waterfalls cascade through miles of pristine rain forest (a bird-watcher's haven), mountains rise dramatically dramatically from the sea, and underwater, the reefs at Anse Cochon and Anse Chastanet dazzle divers. Yachting is also big here, especially in Marigot Bay, where palm-studded coves and fishing villages create a perfect retreat. Dinner for Two: The view from the Edge, a romantic waterfront restaurant in Rodney Bay, meets its match in the highly touted "Eurobbean" cuisine. Beach Lovers: Bask in the breathtaking scenery at Anse des Pitons, a perfect crescent beach between the towering Pitons on Jalousie Bay. Pleasure Trip: A Jungle Biking tour of colonial ruins, forests, rivers and beaches brings visitors closer to the heart of the island. After Dark: The quiet village of Gros Islet comes alive on Friday nights when people dance in the streets to soca and reggae music at a traditional "jump up".

St. Vincent & The Grenadines

Sleepy St. vincent and the long chain of emerald isles that extend to the south (The Grenadines) remain unspoiled by tourism and its trappings. There's an air of exclusivity in the islands-aristocrats and celebs take refuge here-and although you won't find much in the way of nightlife, shopping and fine cuisine, you will cherish the tranquility of its unadulterated beauty. Dinner for Two: Take a five-minute boat ride to Young Island Resort Restaurant off St. Vincent for an evening of fresh Caribbean cuisine. Beach Lovers: For powdery-soft sand beaches, head to tiny Canouan Island in The Grenadines. Pleasure Trip: Explore these islands and their enchanting anchorages by yacht. Numerous charter services provide the crew and food for the ultimate in luxury. After Dark: Basil's Bar on Mustique is a popular stop for sailors and a hangout for the rich and famous that call the island home.

Aruba

This Dutch-influenced island off the coast of Venezuela is the active traveler's dream destination. Diving, windsurfing, gambling, golf and nightlife are just some of the attractions on Aruba. Deluxe resorts line the sugar-white beaches north of Oranjestad, the island's capital, and inland, the stark desert terrain showcases exotic cacti, bizarre boulder formations and wildlife sanctuaries. Dinner for Two: Dine alfresco at Flying Fishbone in Savaneta, where fresh seafood is served on the beach under a canopy of stars. Beach Lovers: Just south of busy Palm Beach is Eagle Beach, a beautiful stretch of soft sand that offers palapas, picnic areas and bars in a more relaxed setting. Pleasure Trip: Explore Aruba's Arikok National Park by the light of the full moon. After Dark: The party never stops at Oranjestad.s bars, discos, casinos, and high-energy Vegas-style shows like Let's Go Latin at the Crystal Theater.