Discover the hidden gems of the Caribbean beyond the typical tourist trails. From the lush rainforests of Costa Rica and the pristine archipelagos of Panama to the ancient Mayan heritage of Mexico and the vibrant culture of Colombia, Central and South America offer some of the most untouched and breathtaking coastal destinations in the world.
Whether you are seeking world-class scuba diving, eco-adventures in national parks, or simply a tranquil escape on white sandy beaches, this guide explores the diverse beauty and rich biodiversity of the Caribbean coastlines across the Americas.
When you think about the Caribbean, white sandy beaches, turquoise, crystal clear oceans and a chilled-out vibe spring to mind. While Barbados, The Bahamas and The Caiman islands automatically come to mind, did you know that the Central and South American Caribbean beaches are the most untouched, lesser-visited spots in the Caribbean that you can visit? Here is a pick of the most stunningly beautiful Caribbean destinations that Central and South America has to offer!
Costa Rica
Costa Rica is packed with volcanic mountains, lush valleys, and virgin tropical rainforests supporting a diverse mixture of plant and animal life. Costa Rica has preserved almost one-quarter of its land area as national parks or preserves. Some of the exciting shore excursions options revolve around these national parks and are the gateway to the Caribbean coastline. Tortuguero is every eco-tourist's fantasy, and travellers can experience any number of outdoor activities.
Sixteen of Costa Rica's endangered animal species inhabit the Tortuguero National Park, and Tortuguero's beaches are perfect for sunbathing if you’d rather enjoy a relaxing day along the Caribbean coast. Cahuita National Park is an excellent place to camp, if you don't mind the sounds of monkey chatter. Further down the coast, dramatic sunrises and parties await you in Puerto Viejo, while in Manzanillo, a protected area with tropical rainforests, palm swamps, coral reefs, and of course, idyllic Caribbean beaches, can be found.
Panama
Panama´s Caribbean coast is nothing short of pristine, with untouched virgin beaches and a more off the beaten track experience. The pick of the Bocas del Toro archipelago, is Starfish point where of course starfish are indeed abundant. Red frog beaches unique miniature rainforest setting results in some of Panama's richest island biodiversity including of course, the red tree frog.
Not many travellers make it all the way to the San Blas Islands on Panama´s North Eastern Caribbean coast which is a shame. Many of the most pristine island beaches in all of the Americas are located in this San Blas archipelago where almost every island is surrounded by glorious white sand.
Mexico
The Yucatán Peninsula is the ancient heartland of the Maya in Mexico. Lining the warm waters of the Caribbean Sea, coastal destinations such as Tulum Beach and Playa del Carmen are famous worldwide for a reason. Head into the rainforest-thick interior and you can find the archaeological ruins of Chichén Itzá as well as number of animal species who call this paradise, home.
Qintana Roo in typical fashion is also en exellent option for Caribbean white sandy beaches, Mayan temples and second to non wildlife viewing opportunities. Playa del carmen is the a good area for to base yourself for all of the above!
Belize
Belize may be a tiny country between Mexico and Guatemala in Central America, but it is rapidly becoming one of the most popular destinations along the Central American Caribbean Coast.
Visitors to Belize can enjoy everything from world-class scuba diving and snorkelling on the second largest barrier reef in the world, with destinations like Hol Chan and the Great Blue Hole, to explorations of the abundant rainforest, including ancient Maya archaeological sites such as Caracol; The geography, biodiversity and rich cultural heritage makes Belize an excellent Caribbean vacation option, their official language is even English!
Colombia
From pristine beaches to snow-capped mountains, discover the impressive landscapes of Colombia’s Caribbean coast. From the cobblestone streets of Cartagena’s walled city, to the mangrove swamps in La Boquilla; the tropical Caribbean Rosario Islands to Lost Cities in Santa Marta;
You can find deserted pristine beaches, lush virgin jungle in the Tayrona National Park, and most of all, traditional Colombian charm and friendliness of these incredible people. From indigenous tribes to the palenqueras selling fruit, to a salsa class in Cartagena. This Caribbean country is beautiful, historical, cultural and Caribbean, all rolled into one!
