With the craziness of the holiday charter season behind us, now’s the time for yacht crew to squeeze in some much-needed respite before it all starts again with the coming of the new season. At FunAir, we understand that Christmas and New Year are just another work day for many yachties based in the Caribbean. The need for a Caribbean getaway to blow off some steam is hitting hard, and the call for sun loungers and adventure has never been stronger.
If packing a bag and throwing a dart seems too extreme, read on to discover FunAir’s favourite places in the Caribbean to let loose and unwind. When we’re not thinking about superyacht toys, we’re usually thinking about travelling, so whether it’s a luxury travel oasis where you get waited on hand and foot or a remote cabin with only mother nature for company where you can really explore the Caribbean, we have you covered.
Best for Parties
Beachfront Condo – St Lawrence Gap, Barbados
With Barbados known as one of the elite party islands in the Caribbean, what better place to stay than right in the centre of one of its liveliest neighbourhoods? This beautiful two-bedroom beachfront condo sits right in the heart of St Lawrence Gap and features a private beach and shared pool. Once the sun goes down the streets are alive with famous rum bars, buzzing restaurants, beachside clubs and open-air parties, so it’s the perfect spot for those looking to get in on the action.
Find out more here.
Water Beach Hotel – Puerto Rico
As the birthplace of the Pina Colada and commonly known as the nightlife capital of the Caribbean, Puerto Rico is a must-visit for anyone looking to party. The Water Beach Hotel sits right on the sand at the exclusive corner of Isla Verde Beach, offering direct access to the beautiful beach. Its modern eco-zen atmosphere is inviting and refreshing, and the rooftop bar is the perfect spot to start the evening before heading to the nearby clubs or the buzz of the old town.
Find out more here.
Best for Romance
Tensing Pen – Negril, Jamaica
With its unplugged rooms, spa, and yoga pavilion, this beautiful hotel could sit in either of our Romance or Relaxing categories. However, it’s the breathtaking views, private coves, and intimate settings which won its place in the romance category. Relax by the pool, watch for dolphins, take in the sensational sunsets, and even cliff jump from the bridge before dining at the intimate open-air restaurant that overlooks the gemstone colours of the Caribbean Sea. The resort sits just a 7-10 minute car ride from the bustling famous 7-mile beach, and yet the tranquil atmosphere will have you believe it’s a million miles away.
Find out more here.
La Vega, Dominican Republic
For nature-loving couples, this one-bedroomed AirBnB is the perfect mix of romance and adventure. Exchange sea views for a mountain outlook and gaze out over the lush, green hillside from the bed, the dinner table, the balcony lounge, and even the private hot tub. This property serves views from all angles. Its intimate setting truly feels like an escape from the world whilst, in reality, it’s only a short drive from the city and all its conveniences. The communal space includes a swimming pool, beer house, and beautiful waterfall just a fifteen-minute hike away.
Find out more here.
Best for Groups
Noord – Aruba
This beautiful three-bedroom, three-bathroom property is nestled in the heart of Aruba’s vibrant Sabana Liber neighbourhood. The villa’s interior claims a smooth blend of contemporary design and Caribbean accents, with natural light filtering through the large windows. Paired with its own private pool and impressive BBQ area, your group can be as relaxed or active as desired. The property sits just minutes away from Aruba’s pristine beaches, buzzing nightlife, and top-class dining, so whether your crew fancies a relaxing getaway or a few days of letting loose, this villa offers the perfect spot.
Find out more here.
Villa Colette – Dominican Republic
This stunning thatched villa in the Dominican Republic sleeps up to eight people in three bedrooms, offering the perfect escape for groups looking to hide away and enjoy the surrounding nature. This property offers the best of both worlds as it’s located right next to the picturesque beach of Las Ballenas and a close walk to the town with all its amenities, bars, restaurants and shops. The inviting private pool will keep you refreshed and entertained, whilst the lush garden will awaken the senses and provide some much-needed zen. There’s plenty of space to socialise and entertain, with a terrace, patio, lounge, dining room, and BBQ area.
Find out more here.
Best for Adventure
Tropical hillside studio – Trinidad & Tobago
Keen hikers and adventurists will be in their element staying at this Airbnb. Take a break from the ocean and head inland to the footfalls of El Tucuche, a sacred mountain in Amerindian lore. This cosy and ambient apartment offers everything needed to escape the modern world. Trek and explore the nearby mountains and lush foliage on foot, or simply enjoy the views from the terrace. The world is your oyster.
Find out more here.
Hideaways of Tibay Heights- Dominica
A small collection of handcrafted treehouse-style, open-air cottages provides the perfect base for adventure seekers and nature lovers to explore the beautiful Island of Dominica. The unique, nature-inclusive cottages offer stunning views of the island’s rainforest meeting the azure Caribbean Sea. Close to the nearby beaches and everything else, there’s plenty for active types to do, with swimming, snorkelling, scuba diving, kayaking and paddleboarding all on offer. Or, discover a magical sea cave, wander along one of the many nature trails, do some bird or whale watching, go horseback riding, visit waterfalls, hot springs or the Boiling Lake or get involved with cooking classes or yoga sessions, all of which your hosts can help organise.
Find out more here.
Best for Zen and Relaxation
Spirit of the Valley – Nirvana – Vermont, St. Vincent & Grenadines
If the simple and solitary life is what’s needed after a hectic few weeks, or months, spent on charter, then this cottage in Vermont, St. Vincent & Grenadines, could be the golden ticket. Landscaped gardens surround this private and spacious stone villa, and its orchard boasts golden apple, papaya, mango, guava, avocado, soursop, and star fruit trees. The jalousie windows frame views of the sea and surrounding mountains. Previous guests gush at the tranquil and magical atmosphere and lush garden. Spend your days hiking and finish with a sunset yoga session at this cottage aptly named Nirvana, which was once a yoga studio.
Find out more here.
Dreamcatcher – San Juan, Porto Rico
Dreamcatcher is San Juan’s only vegetarian hotel and features 19 bespoke rooms, all featuring beautiful tropical terraces. This multi-award-winning full-service boutique hotel is just a stone’s throw from the beach. Here, the main focus is relaxation, with each room thoughtfully designed to provide deep rest and reenergizing vibes. Each room is beautifully unique with its own individual touches, such as stained glass windows, swinging hammocks, outdoor showers, writing nooks, and outdoor soaking tubs. There’s plenty to do in the local area, and staff are happy to help book soothing experiences such as guided hikes, waterfall adventures, in-room massages, yoga under the stars, surf lessons, and snorkel excursions.
Find out more here.
Best for Luxury
Villa Mirabelle – Terres Basses, Collectivité de Saint-Martin, St. Martin
This waterfront home sits on St. Martin’s Simpson Bay Lagoon. Spend your time off the yacht in pure luxury and feel what it’s like to be the guest for once. This property features five bedrooms and can sleep ten guests, making the nightly price drastically cheaper if you have enough mates to split the bill with. The perfect spot to rest, recharge and Instagram it all, with a beautiful infinity pool, sunloungers and covered terrace overlooking the bay. The decadent inside provides a wealth of space for entertaining and relaxing. Pile on the luxury by inviting a private chef to cook for the group. Or head to one of the nearby fine dining establishments.
Find out more here.
Teddy – St. Barts, St. Barthélemy
If it’s luxury you want, where better to go than St. Barts? This Airbnb Luxe is a sophisticated villa that sits high above the lagoon of Grand Cul De Sac, offering breathtaking views of the ocean. The villa features dark woods and creamy interiors that make full use of the stunning views, an infinity pool with luxurious sun loungers, outdoor showers, outdoor dining and lounge areas, and two bedrooms to accommodate up to four guests. So spend your time off the yacht in the lap of luxury and make the most of your holiday.
Find out more here.
Wherever and however you choose to spend your next vacation time, we hope our list leaves you feeling inspired to treat yourself to something extra special. We’d love to know if you decide to visit any of our recommendations or if you have any of your own to add to the list. Email us at [email protected] or connect with us on social media. Check out our website to browse our range of superyacht inflatables and bring even more fun to your yacht.
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