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Budget-friendly Spring Break destinations you haven’t thought of

March 15, 2021 By Amy Hagstrom

Planning a Spring Break vacation? With only a week or so off school, it can be hard to find a vacation that’s both easy to plan and easy on the wallet. Below, we have over a dozen ideas throughout the US, Caribbean, and Mexico for budget-friendly Spring Break destinations.

Desert destinations:

An easy way to enjoy a warm-weather vacation while saving money is to head to the desert instead of to the beach. Bonus points if you can easily drive to any of these California and Southwest locations:

Borrego Springs:

Never heard of it? I’m not surprised! This oasis in Southern California is generally off the radar, but a great fit for active families. Head to the Palm Canyon Hotel & RV Resort, a boutique clamping resort where families can stay in vintage Airstreams and hike trails location less than two miles from the resort. February, March, and April is the time to come to see wildflowers, and always, the night sky displays brilliant views.

Death Valley National Park:

Located an easy drive from Las Vegas, NV, Death Valley is our top pick for outdoorsy families looking for a warm-weather destination. Camp in the park to save money, or stay at Furnace Creek Resort. Our kids love the wide open grassy spaces, the tennis and basketball courts, and the spring-fed pool. In the park, multiple hikes await: go in the mornings and evenings and spend the middle of the day swimming!

Scottsdale, Arizona:

Family travel website Global Munchkins recommends Scottsdale for spring break…even if you’re not a baseball fan. For a splurge, stay at the Westin Kierland Resort and get a full water park for the price of your stay. Be sure to take kids to the fun shops and dining options in downtown Scottsdale, and visit Phoenix, and sure, spring training, while you’re in the area!

Tip: Pick up youth baseball equipment to ‘get in the game’ before a trip to watch spring training!

On the way to… destinations:

Let’s get real: sometimes, you’re spring break trip is really just a stopover en route to Grandma’s house, a sporting event, or a longer vacation. We’ve compiled the best ‘on the way to…’ locations from top bloggers.

Bowling Green KY:

Often a stopover on the way to Florida or other southern locales, Bowling Green, Kentucky is right on I-65 and is home to an astounding 21 cave tours in the immediate area. Road Trips for Families highlights the best, along with dining and lodging recommendations in the city. If nothing else, be sure to see Mammoth Cave National Park, and perhaps stop at an area museum. You can even at at a dairy and see a car museum on the same day!

West Georgia:

Already vacationing (or living) in Atlanta or St. Simon’s Island? Field Trips with Sue has a full itinerary of West Georgia for an affordable spring break getaway. Highlights include Providence Canyon, Gaines (complete with frontier fort) and the Warm Springs pools. This type of tour offers kids a lesson in history and ecology without them realizing they’re learning…away from school.

French Lick Springs:

For those in the middle of the country, AdventureMom suggests taking a chance on scenic French Lick Springs Resort, Indiana. This resort is known for its stunning architecture, but it also offers activities year round (not just in the summer months). Families can have kids join the kids club, play foot golf, learn about the history of the hotel, and swim in the pools year round. Oh, and parents can get a spa treatment.

Beach destinations:

Want to be warm and feel sand between your toes? You can still book a beach vacation at spring break affordably! Here’s where to go:

St. John, USVI:

Going to the Caribbean for spring break may not seem like a new idea, but St. John is an unique location you may not have considered. Trekaroo recommends spending your Virgin Islands vacation on St. John because of its low-key, quiet atmosphere, and the many outdoor activities afforded. Virgin Islands National Park is here, complete with multiple hiking trails and beaches, and snorkeling is abundant. Stay in a vacation home to save money!

Ventura, CA:

Just an hour north of Los Angeles, Ventura County West is an easy-to-reach section of the California coastline. Families get both seaside charm and inland adventure. Don’t miss the whale migration at this time of year, taking place through mid-April. When we visited, we used Island Packers; rates start at $37 for adults and $27 for kids. Time your visit right, and you may also see the Celebration of the Whales Festival (March 20, Oxnard) or the California Strawberry Festival (May 21 & 22, Oxnard). Either way, definitely head out to the Channel Islands!

Zihuatanejo, Mexico:

I’d never heard of Zihuatanejo until it was recommended by Pint-Sized Pilot: see the top 10 things to do in this Mexican beach destination! This authentic, non-touristy resort village is quiet, scenic, and affordable with local eats. Visit Zihuatanejo markets, enjoy its festivals, and play in its beaches. It’s located on the Pacific side of Mexico, by Ixtapa.

Loreto, Mexico:

Located on the gulf side of Baja California, Loreto is a great pick for families who want to find an alternative to the all-inclusive resort scene. Walking On Travels recommends finding accommodations in town in her Loreto travel guide, to take advantage of local dining opportunities and the town vibe. Snorkeling, whale watching, and swimming is not far away!

Ski destinations:

Haven’t gotten enough ski days in yet? I’m with you! Some of our favorite spring break ski destinations are smaller, hometown resorts that won’t break the bank.

June Mountain:

Located adjacent to Mammoth Mountain in Northern California, smaller June Mountain offers affordable lift tickets and lessons amid the most scenic runs out there. In the backyard of Yosemite National Park, June also has a very friendly atmosphere…the lodge is cozy and warm, the instructors cheerful and not rushed, and the lift lines are usually nonexistent. Stay near Mammoth to get the best of both worlds!

Angel Fire:

Heading to New Mexico this spring break for some warm sunshine and some skiing? Get both by combining a trip to Santa Fe with a stay at Angel Fire. Trekaroo recommends this ski resort because of its great amenities for families at The Lodge and the ability to night ski here (a big plus for teens). For spring breaks without much snow, there’s a wide variety of summer activities at Angel Fire as well.

City destinations:

We love city vacations, and during spring break, we like to head somewhere that’s less likely to have frigid temperatures and snowstorms. These outside-the-box ideas fit the bill!

Seattle, WA:

Blog With 2 Kids in Tow recommends Seattle and neighboring Bainbridge Island as a temperate getaway with both an city and outdoor-venture vibe. Kids love taking the ferry, checking out the city markets, and burning energy in the excellent city parks. If the weather turns rainy, as it does in this part of the state often, several high-quality kids museums and science museums await.

Tallahassee, Florida:

Don’t overlook Tallahassee for family fun in a warm-weather environment. Family Travels on a Budget recommends this nature-studded city for its zip-lining, kayaking, and hiking. Wakulla Springs State Park offers river boat tours, and in the winter and early spring, it’s possible to spot manatees as they migrate up the river. Horseback riding and lighthouse tours are also on offer for families.

Bonus spring break pick:

The Burren, Ireland:

Ireland Family Vacations, the expert on all things families and Ireland, recommends this unique part of Ireland specifically during the spring. During this low-tourist season, families can spot baby animals in nature sanctuaries, go on cliff walks, and try kid-friendly foodie tours. Learn more at Ireland Family Vacations!

Want even MORE ideas? Here are an additional 18 spring break destinations!

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Where to go for spring break: affordable spring break ideas for families

February 25, 2019 By Amy Hagstrom

If you live in a cold climate like me, you’re probably ready for some fun in the sun. Or maybe you get plenty of blue sky, and want to experience snow one last time before summer. Either way, we have budget spring break ideas for you. Read on to learn where to go for spring break in the U.S….without breaking the bank.

Then, check out our often-overlooked spring break ideas, compiled with additional family travel experts!

For sun and sand:

Want a sun-kissed vacation, but can’t afford a trip to Hawaii or Mexico? Opt for the desert or Caribbean instead! Pack swim suits and sunscreen for the following family-friendly desert destinations:

1. Palm Springs, California: House rentals abound in the greater Palm Springs area, or resort stays include all the amenities you’d expect: multiple pools, golf courses, kids’ clubs, and fine dining. Just outside the city, hiking

and Jeep touring abounds. Where to stay? Our pick: Westin Mission Hills, where kids can take advantage of the SPG Kids Pass for free snacks and drinks and fun activities on-site.

2. Phoenix, Arizona: An easy flight from most airports along the west coast, Phoenix and nearby Scottsdale enjoy warm temperatures year-round and fun activities for kids like horseback riding and hiking. Lounge poolside all day, or hit the links while the kids enjoy their own children’s programming. Where to stay: try the JW

Marriott Desert Ridge Resort and Spa to score big points with the kids as they hit the lazy river and Nickelodeon Activity Zone. In nearby Scottsdale, the Westin Kierland Resort is king.

3. Punta Cana, Dominican Republic: this Caribbean destination was slow to gain popularity with families, but now the word is out. Punta Cana all-inclusive resorts tend to be cheaper than their other Caribbean counterparts, and the beaches are every bit as nice (and the water every bit as warm). Where to raise your beach umbrella: Dreams Punta Cana, where kids love the water play structure, and adults love the luxury of never having to worry about where the next meal is coming from.

4. Laguna Beach, California: Nearby Disneyland Resort may be packed with families during spring break, but the Pacific seaside town of Laguna Beach is much quieter. March is still considered a shoulder season for coastal towns, so you can snag a good room rate in most cases. Hit the beach if the weather permits, but if you visit during typical spring fog or clouds, opt to go whale watching instead.

Snow and mountains:

Need one more ski or snowboard fix before summer? The major ski resorts will be crowded (and demanding spring break rates) but smaller resorts will welcome your family with open arms. The following destinations are big enough to provide great ski schools and childcare, but small enough to be affordable.

1. Lake Tahoe, California: Think you can’t find affordable skiing in Tahoe? Think again! With so many resorts in a small area, competition is steep…which is a good thing for guests. A few extra miles from the lake, family-focused Sierra-at-Tahoe sits just past South Tahoe, an easy commute from San Francisco or Sacramento. Because Sierra-at-Tahoe does not offer on-site lodging, the crowds stay away, but you won’t suffer: cozy HomeAway vacation cabins are only a few miles away. The resort has one of the best layouts for families, with all runs ending in a common bowl for easy meet-ups.

2. Vermont: Vermont is home to both family-friendly champion Smuggler’s Notch and classy Stowe, plus offers plenty of outdoor fun in addition to skiing should the weather cooperate. We love Smuggs even during busy spring break, because this family resort is always offering great deals for parents. Stay, ski, and keep your kids in camp or lessons for one low price.

City escapes:

If you’re city touring, it doesn’t much matter what the weather is like, so head to less-than-ideal-in-spring urban areas to soak up culture instead of sun. Spring break is a great time to tour museums, aquariums, and historical sites when school field trips are at bay.

1. New York City: The Big Apple is exciting no matter what the season, and families can find great deals in March and April. Take in a Broadway show or spend your time in the best family-friendly museums. Not sure where to stay? Try Affinia 50, where families can enjoy some of the largest rooms in Manhattan, family gaming nights, and a relaxing guest lounge.

2. Chicago, Illinois: Check out Shedd Aquarium or the Lincoln Park Zoo, then bundle up and head to Millennium Park free of crowds. Take advantage of shoulder season discounts, and hit as many museums as you can. Stay at the Four Points by Sheraton where families get a big bang for their buck. It’s located right on the Magnificent Mile and includes all the amenities you’ll want after a busy day sightseeing.

3. San Francisco, California: Yes, it may still be brisk by the bay, but hotel room rates will be low, Alcatraz tours will be uncrowded, and you probably won’t have to wait for a cable car. Check out nearby Muir Woods in Marin County, beautiful in all seasons, and take a drive along Highway 1 to see the California coastline. Stay at Omni San Francisco to be located right on the cable car line and mere blocks from colorful Chinatown.

Women and wine: Mother’s Day wineries to visit in Oregon

May 7, 2018 By Amy Hagstrom

The best Mother’s Day I ever spent wasn’t during an expensive vacation or at a fancy spa or restaurant. It was at a winery a few miles from our home. We packed up the whole family, and drove along the Applegate Wine Trail from Jacksonville, Oregon, stopping along the way to taste Southern Oregon wines, enjoy the spring temperatures, and let the kids play near the inviting Applegate River and in budding vineyards.

Wineries that welcome moms and kids in Oregon:

We love the trend we’re seeing toward family-friendly wineries. I’ve noted this shift everywhere from California to South Dakota, with wineries adding dining options, lawns to play on, games for kids, and even organized events and activities. By no means is this an exhaustive list, but a few of our favorite Oregon wineries that embrace the whole family include:

Willakenzie, Willamette Valley

Willakenzie is the place to be on sunny days in the Portland area, to use their outdoor paths and ample outdoor space. Let kids run around the estate looking for hawks and longhorn cows, walk through vineyards (ask first!) and talk to staff…they’re highly kid-friendly. The tasting room itself is large and the wines are excellent. Can’t get here for Mother’s Day? Willakenzie has food truck weekends not to miss, starting Memorial Day weekend.

Troon Vineyard, Applegate

I was introduced to Troon during their annual Easter Egg hunt and celebration…it doesn’t get much more kid-friendly than that! We’ve since returned for their Mother’s Day brunch, which is a must-do for Southern Oregon families. On any day, their tasting area spills from indoor to outdoor, with lots of seating, rolling lawns, outdoor games for kids, and room to explore.

Red Lily, Ruch

Red Lily is located in the Applegate Valley, not far from the quaint town of Jacksonville. The best thing about it: Red Lily is located on a creek, with space to wade and swim in the summer months! It’s also under the flight path of hang gliders, so kids can keep an eye on the sky while playing. Families can bring picnics to eat by the river, or enjoy a glass of wine in their casual but comfortable barn interior.

Abacela, Roseburg

At Abacela, not only are kids invited, but family dogs are, too! Owners are asked to pick up after their animals, of course. This winery is one of the very best in the region, in my opinion, and is situated in a lovely spot overlooking the surrounding countryside. Pick up a bottle to enjoy while the kids play, or do a tasting flight while they throw a ball for the dog!

Stoller, Dundee

At Stoller, you’ll find a Frisbee golf course, tire swing ready-made for the kids, and plenty of Adirondack chairs awaiting your family. The views stretch from Yamhill to Mt. Hood, and the winery boosts 100% estate-grown fruit. Don’t want to leave at the end of the day? Three houses are available to rent on the property.

How to celebrate the ‘Oregonian way’ from afar:

We’re lucky in Southern Oregon to live in a winery-rich region, but mothers everywhere can enjoy Oregon wines. Consider a Cellar 503 membership for Mother’s Day! We recently wrote about Cellar 503, explaining how this wine membership works and who can join. The short answers: Cellar 503 offers Oregon wine to members every month, and it’s for everywhere, everywhere!

Cellar 503 is known for celebrating women winemakers! Included in past wine club selections are the winemakers of EdenVale Winery in Medford, Day Wines and Maysara Wines of Willamette Valley, and Hip Chicks Do Wine of Portland. Cellar 503 selected the women who make wine at these wineries because of their skill and artistic expression and to elevate women in this traditionally male space. Congrats!

Spring travel wear picks and 60% off Aventura Clothing

April 24, 2015 By Amy Hagstrom

I’m an ambassador for Aventura Clothing because I believe this brand is one of the absolute best in women’s travel clothing. Their clothing is affordable, comfortable, stylish, and high-quality, plus can easily be mixed-and-matched on travel days. Many items are made of organic cotton, which I find packs well and doesn’t wrinkle. Every spring and fall, Aventura Clothing comes out with a new line. Here are my favorite picks from this spring.

The first 20 readers to like the Pit Stops for Kids Facebook page or follow us on Instagram will receive 60% off Aventura Clothing in their next order! Details below.

Rory dress:

We’ll start with my absolute favorite. Aventura has many cute summer dresses on offer this spring, but if you can only buy one, make it the Rory. This organic cotton blend is stretchy, soft, and so flattering! It’s very simple, too, which makes it a great travel piece. The Rory can be paired with a cardigan or even a hoodie on cooler days, or worn solo in summer. It’s meant to be active, so go ahead and run to catch that train. You can dress it up with a scarf and nice shoes and it’ll be ready to go out at night, too. I’m going to need one in at least two colors!

Hartley hoodie:

Layering is key when selecting travel clothes, so you need at least one good hoodie in your suitcase. I usually have two. The Hartley hoodie doesn’t look like an afterthought: it’s bright, cheerful, and high quality, so it looks like part of your ensemble. It comes in really pretty jewel tones with a stretchy, flattering fit, with nice detailing on the arms. Oh, and it’s organic cotton, too.

Rowan capri:

I like to be comfortable when I travel, and the Rowan capri lets me feel like I’m wearing my favorite sweat pants on the plane or in the car, not a cute pair of capris. Thanks for the travel hack, Aventura! The Rowan also comes in a short, and has a stretchy drawstring waistband. I’ve found the Rowan runs big, so order down a size if you want it to be fitted. Comes in five neutral colors so one pair will go with several tees or hoodies.

Tillie top:

The Tillie top was kind of a departure for me. It’s an organic cotton tee, so you get the softness and comfort, but also has an interesting back detail: a polyester Georgette back panel. This detail adds interest to the tee, and dresses it up a bit, so it can easily go from day outing to a nice brunch or cocktail hour. There’s a cute front pocket and floral detail on the neckline, too. Basically, the Tillie is the tee that isn’t. Comes in gray or flamingo, which is actually more like a tangerine. I definitely recommend the latter.

Add a few basics like tees and a pair of jeans, and you have the makings here for a weekend away. All the above was packed in my carry-on for a recent review trip to Texas, and served me well!

Don’t forget about accessories!

It’s easy to pack a scarf or two, a belt, or a strappy pair of sandals, and these details go a long way toward changing up any outfit for a second wear or evening attire. Wear a hat on the plane to save room in your luggage!

Monica fedora:

Oh my. This fedora is so adorable, even if you’re not the hat type (I totally am). It’s colorful and cheerful while still remaining understated enough to go with multiple outfits. I wouldn’t pack a fedora in luggage (will hat boxes ever make a comeback?) but if you can wear it to and from a destination, do so! It looks great on any causal outdoor excursion while traveling, and saves you from potential bad hair days, too.

Saphira infinity scarf:

I am a huge fan of infinity scarves. Even I, the least fashion-forward person I know, can figure out how to wear one! And infinity scarves make any outfit, even a tee and jeans, look classier. Plus they take next to no room in your bag. The Saphira is lightweight, with a burnout floral design that’s very understated. I got the white, which doesn’t show the floral at all unless you look closely.

Studded belt:

A belt, much like a scarf, can make any outfit look more complete, and therefore, makes you look more pulled together on a travel day. The Aventura studded belt has just enough detail to make it interesting, but not so much that it’s a focal point of your outfit. I pair mine with jeans and khaki pants.

Bienne capri leggings:

Here’s another travel hack, ladies: when you really want to wear that cute sun dress but it’s too cold outside, pair it with Bienne capri leggings. Like all Aventura leggings, the Bienne is super warm and very comfortable (they never sag…I promise!), but made to be worn in spring with a pair of ballet flats or sandals. The shirring at the bottom really completes the look. I am in love with these leggings, since every other spring day in Oregon is more like winter.

Want to take 60% off your next Aventura order (including sale items)? Be among the first 20 readers to like our Facebook page or follow us on Instagram. Simply follow, then leave a comment below with your user name. I’ll send you an unique coupon code good for 60% off one order!

Travel gear we use: sun protection clothing for kids and adults

April 11, 2014 By Amy Hagstrom

Today in Travel Gear We Use, we’re talking about best sun protection clothing for kids and adults. If your family plans to visit a warm-weather spring break destination, it’s time to make sure you have the right gear to protect everyone from the sun. Our sun protective clothing picks will last you through the whole summer, unless your kids outgrew them first!

Sun Day Afternoons clothing and hats:

Sunday Afternoons has sun protective clothing and hats for the whole family. We love their packable hats, like the Sun Tripper Cap with a foldable brim, and my husband prefers their Charter Hat. Young kids can be outfitted in wide-brimmed hats with SmartStrap–which uses an adjustable toggle and breakaway clip– like the Play Hat, and clothing ranges from long or short-sleeved shirts for the whole family to pool onesies.

Columbia sun protective shirts:

For on the trail or while traveling, I love the lightweight feel of Columbia Tamiami II Long Sleeve Shirt. Columbia wear is affordable, always returnable, and easy to order online…win, win, win! I can’t get my kids to wear collared, button-down shirts while on vacation, no matter how comfortable, so instead, I trick them into sun protection with Columbia’s Adventureland Long Sleeve Tee. While we’re on the subject, my older kids refuse sun protective wide-brimmed hats (they looked so adorable in them as little ones!) so they opt for bandanas or cowboy hats while under the sun. As long as something is on their heads, I don’t really care!

Exofficio cover-ups:

My favorite sun protection for a day near the pool is my Exofficio Women’s Sol Cool Hoody. Incredibly thin, very flattering, and always appropriate, the Sol Cool is the perfect go-to cover up for swimming that transitions well to the pool-side restaurant or even onto a hiking trail.

Madrone headwear for men:

My husband has absolutely fallen in love with his Madrone Navigator hat. This is a miracle, as he usually isn’t willing to wear anything on his head except a baseball cap. The Navigator offers full sun protection, a chin strap, and great ventilation. He’s worn it everywhere from on the river while fishing to hiking in California deserts. It can be found currently at CampMor for $49.

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All of the above picks are linked to the lowest possible pricing on Amazon. All are affordable for families with growing kids!

Find more gear in the Travel Gear We Use series (click below):

How to find kid-friendly golf courses from California to Florida

March 26, 2014 By Amy Hagstrom

Ever since my three kids–now 14, 12, and 9–took up golfing, we’ve planned some of our family vacations around the sport. Parents who golf–or parents of golfers–understand the unique challenge in finding golf courses for kids: you want to experience unique or famous golf courses while on vacation, but you also need to find courses that meet the needs of your kids. Nothing ruins your concentration (and enjoyment) on a premier golf course faster than feeling the pressure from a golf marshall to pick up your child’s ball or move along faster. If you’re packing your kids’ clubs on your next family vacation, here’s a rundown of kid-friendly golf courses across the country:

pga-tour-kids

Note: hover here for more info on buying golf clubs for kids.

Naples Beach Hotel and Golf Club:

Naples, Florida is considered the ‘golf capital of the world’. While golfers will find a dizzying array of course options here, the public course at the Naples Golf Club is low-key and relaxed, perfect for kids. Play nine holes or 18, and rest-assured that you don’t need to stay at the resort to get a good rate. The course enjoyed a full refurbishment in 2011, making it one of the top courses in the city, despite accessibility.

Chardonnay Golf Club:

The Chardonnay Golf Club in Napa, California shines for family golf with low-cost rental clubs, golf camps for kids, and golf academies. What this means for visiting families: your kid won’t be the only one out on the links. For adults, the course challenges as it winds through 150 acres of vineyards. Chardonnay is semi-private.

Mount Snow Golf Club:

Located in West Dover, Vermont, Mt. Snow offers junior golf academies for as little as $12/session, making it easy for vacationing families to join the fun without worrying about spending a lot of cash on an ongoing program. And nearby, Smuggler’s Notch Resort offers a Junior Intro to Golf activity as well as kid-centric mini-golf and driving ranges.

Grand del Mar Golf Resort:

At the Grand del Mar, kids 13-17 golf for half price, and kids 12 and under play free with adults (when availability permits). Junior rentals are complimentary, and golf pros are very pro-family. Despite the welcome of children, the course is very challenging and a destination for serious golfers.

Tips for finding a kid-friendly golf experience anywhere:

No matter where you’re headed on vacation, kid-friendly golf courses can be found. Here’s what to look for:

Nine hole courses (ideally partnered with a premiere course)
Resorts with putting courses (perfect for young children in place of the ‘real’ deal)
Clubs with discounted rates for kids (this lets you know children are welcome)
Clubs with PGA Tour Academy programming, such as Oregon’s Pronghorn Club
Courses designed to circle back to the club house at hole 9 (allowing kids to stop early)
Courses attached to kid-friendly resorts, where childcare and kid programming will be on offer

This post is published in partnership with Trivago.com.

Top three hidden gems of the Caribbean for families

July 22, 2013 By Amy Hagstrom

As a top destination for cruises and tours, the Caribbean has no shortage of enticing tropical landscapes and attractions. The region’s predictably warm, balmy weather and aquamarine sea attract visitors year-round. And yet, the Caribbean still harbors some lesser-known places which can offer a more low-key excursion. These are not the types of places you’ll find all-you-can-eat buffets or “tourist trap” restaurants and souvenir stands. These are hidden gems.

Away from the attractions most tourists flock to, these three places still exude untouched natural beauty. Visitors can dine in solitude or swim in pristine waterfalls. These three quiet escapes provide alluring tranquility amid the natural beauty of the islands.

1. Dominica: Isle of Delights

Dominica is an island whose beauty is founded on its unspoiled natural setting. The island has been subjected to much less development than many of its island neighbors. Made up mostly of rainforest, the island is known for the abundance of deep green jungles filled with exotic flora and fauna. The island boasts over 365 waterfalls, springs and rivers, all of which beckon visitors inland from its soft sandy swaths of beach.

The island’s rugged inland terrain is marked by volcanic activity, providing warmth for several hot springs and even a boiling lake unfit for swimming but frequented by intrepid hikers. The Morne Trois Pitons National Park is a World Heritage Site that features a mix of Dominica’s tropical flora and fauna and volcanic rock formations. The hit film “Pirates of the Caribbean” was filmed on and around Dominica, adding to its mystique as an island of intrigue and drama. Those hoping to catch a glimpse of Captain Jack Sparrow might be disappointed — he is, after all, a fictional character — but might be delighted by the actual sparrows in the sky, as Dominica is a hotbed for tropical bird-watching.

2. Saba: Suspended in Time

Because the island of Saba receives fewer than 25,000 visitors a year, it manages to maintain a timeless natural mystique. The nearby islands, St. Maarten and St. Bart’s, just a stone’s throw away, are both frequented by major cruise companies making them far more crowded than Saba. Visitors will first notice that Saba is lacking in resorts and fancy shops. There are no designer retailers to be found. However, Saba makes up for the lack of posh shopping by offering up its own variety of lushness in the form of gorgeous nature and eco-tourism.

Saba represents the original, raw beauty of the Caribbean, prior to commercialism and human intervention. The beauty of Saba is not limited to its lush hills or secluded beaches — it extends underwater to the surrounding sea. Saba is actually one of the world’s top destinations for scuba diving and is considered among the best spots on earth for underwater exploration. For such a tiny island, Saba boasts a dizzying diversity of beautiful aquatic life. Adventurous visitors can spend the morning underwater exploring Saba’s rocky reefs, and then in the afternoon ascend its tallest peak, Mount Scenery. Above water and below, Saba’s ecology is inspiring, timeless and well-preserved. Its beauty highlights the fragility of a region impacted by heavy tourism.

3. Los Roques: Radiant and Lovely

Officially under the jurisdiction of Venezuela, Los Roques is an archipelago that is designated as a national park. The magnificent marine ecosystem of Los Roques is protected by the national park status, and is just a short hop from the capital city of Caracas. Los Roques has become a popular destination for nature lovers seeking to explore its unique flora and fauna. The island welcomes tourists who support its small local economy and offers several friendly inns. Visitors can also opt to stay in posadas, which are former houses of island fishermen and have been renovated for use by tourists. The Los Roques experience is both more rugged — and more radiant — than many other destinations in the Caribbean.

About the Author: Louise Barnes is a travel writer and author of several books about Caribbean history. She enjoys exploring options for Caribbean excursions on Expedia where she finds deals on vacation packages.

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