8 under-the-radar places to visit in Caribbean

Few places compare to the Caribbean when it comes to sun, sea, sand and surf.

The bluest of blues and turquoise waters make for some of the world’s best beaches. It is paradise. No hurries, no worries, just relax – it’s no wonder around 30 million people a year head to the Caribbean for a respite.

While the Dominican Republic, Jamaica, Puerto Rico, and the Bahamas are hot spots, the Caribbean is also home to locales without hordes of tourists and some where there is more wildlife than people. So, if you’re in the mood for the beauty without the bustle, here’s where to go.

1. Kamalame Cay, the Bahamas

Best for a luxurious private island getaway 

Some things are worth waiting for. Get to Nassau, hop on a commuter flight, take a cab to the dock and board a water taxi that takes you to Kamalame Cay, a private island in Andros in the Bahamas. The resort is near the world’s third-largest barrier reef with acres of coconut palm groves and vegetation that competes with the bluest sea for what is most awesome.

If you want an island escape, this might just be it. The bungalows, villas, cottages, and beach houses are spread out for miles. Wheel around in your golf cart on white sand roads and it’s mostly you and Mother Nature with just enough people to have a little atmosphere. Activities include everything from deep-sea fishing and kayaking to playing tennis and cycling. If you’re in chill mode, watch a movie at the alfresco cinema, climb in a hammock along the beach or head to the Bahamas’ only overwater spa. You’re also in good hands at the Great House restaurant, where the conch fritters, Asian barbecue spareribs, and the coconut green vegetable curry are crowd-pleasers.

Make sure you venture back to Andros, with its underwater cave systems and the highest concentration of blue holes in the world. One of the most popular is Captain Bill’s Blue Hole in Blue Holes National Park. After a short drive, make your way through the pine forest, get up your nerve and jump from the platform into the fresh water. For a quieter experience, head to the Androsia Batik Factory where you can learn about the art of batik-making and try your hand at it.

2. Bluefields, Jamaica

Best…