What would beaches be without what lies just offshore, and specifically, under the surface of the clear blue water? We love beaches that offer a little something to see, in case we get tired of baking on our towel. These 5 beaches are our favorites for what lies beneath, from coral formations to turtles to barrrrrrrrrrrracudas (don't worry, they don't bite)…
Sandy Lane, Barbados
This beach, home to some of our favorite and most luxurious villas, attracts the rich and famous for good reason. Not only is the sand soft and lovely, Sandy Lane is perfect for a casual snorkel, with coral reefs just offshore and plenty of sea life to check out. When you're done in the water, the land is great for people watching, so there's always something to look at. Villas in this area:
- Mon Caprice (above)
- Landfall
The Baths, Virgin Gorda
- Sol Y Sombra (above)
Trunk Bay, St. John
What's not to love about Trunk Bay, which actually offers an underwater marked trail explaining the various sights. The water off this beach is warm and clear, great for families, and also has all the convenient basics (snack bar, changing rooms, etc) to get you through a whole, peaceful day. Oh, and it's been voted one of the 10 most beautiful in the world. Villas in this area:
Chalk Sound, Turks and Caicos
So we're cheating a bit here, but while Chalk Sound isn't technically ringed with beaches, the snorkeling offered by this warm, shallow lagoon with the most impossibly turquoise blue water more than makes up for it. When you're tired of exploring by flipper, hop in a kayak and while away the day, stopping at the little cays and islets along the way. Villas in this area:
- La Percha
- Villa Seacliff (above)
Akumal, Riviera Maya
Sea turtles, fish, and…barracudas? There's nothing to fear in the water off Akumal, which teems with sea life not far from shore. Offering snorkel equipment rental right there, as well as a good selection of small bars and restaurants, it's a great day trip even if you're not staying right on this beach. If so, all the better! Villas in this area:
June is beach month here at Luxury Retreats! Follow the daily countdown of our Top 30 Beaches here. For more information on all our properties, contact us at 1-877-993-0100 (North America), 1-514-393-8844 (International) or E-Mail to sales@luxuryretreats.com
