Anse Lazio was voted the best beach in the world but it is in the Seychelles. We were there last June and during two weeks we did not see even one child except on weekends some beaches are popular with local people but they are so friendly and gentle.

Can I ask for recommendations re:best beach with shade, forest "protection"? Much as I love expanses of white sand, I need/prefer to sit among trees in the shade when I'm not swimming. Most pix of Anguilla look to me like the only shade you'd get would be from an umbrella. Comments? Suggestions?

My spouse and I spent 2 weeks in Guadeloupe this past spring. It was wonderful. The people were very friendly, and the food was superb. The island has gorgeous beaches and also mountains and a rain forest--something for everyone. If you go, be certain to visit the outer islands also.

<BR>crane beach in barbados is <BR>magnificent,like walking on <BR>flour,very clean

Considering St. Lucia (Ladera and Jalouise Hilton) for Honeymoon in May '01. Have heard great feedback on the forum. My question is, while i've heard about the beaches, how is the WATER itself? Is it clear and sandy bottom (i.e. Grand Caymen or even Miami Beach) or dark and filled with rock and coral? Would love to hear feedback. Also, have read some concerns about Jellyfish??????

We spent our honeymoon in the Turks & Caicos on Provodeciales. Grace Bay has 12 miles of white sand overlooking a calm bay. I ran barefoot on the beach every morning. They have the complete spectrum of hotels. Snorkeling (underwater trails) and scuba are excellent. There isn't much to do there but relax and enjoy the sun and sand so if you mind peace and quiet go somewhere else. It is a bit expensive, we'd love to go back but were on a honeymoon budget last time.

Are there areas of Puerto Rico with nicer beaches than others? <BR>Thanks. Going for the first time.

Paul - some places that fit your bill would include Anse Chastenet on St. Lucia, Hotel St.Barth Isle de France on St. Barts, La Cocoteraie on Guadeloupe, and Grace Bay Club on Turks and Caicos.

Silla - La Caravelle beach at Club Med on Guadeloupe is not only one of the prettiest beaches in the Caribbean, but is full of royal coconut palms (one of the reasons, in fact, why the beach is so beautiful). There is abundant shade for those seeking it (like me!), and plenty of sun for those who aren't. You don't need to be staying at the Club Med to use this beach - it has public access. <BR> <BR>Palm Beach on Aruba is another pretty beach with good shade - at least, in front of the Hyatt!

Re Cuisinart and discounted rates: <BR>We have found their rates competitive with other top resorts on the island. This island can be expensive but worth it. There is no friendlier island. Obviously rates after June 1 are less..and they have 3 night and 5 night packages. There are few discounts here. IN the end, you get what you pay for. Email for more info.

I would highly recommend renting a villa and a jeep for a week. My wife and I are going back for our 3rd time in 2 years and we don't like to repeat vacations. Off season rates are not bad. We had a beautifull private home with a large pool and hot tub under the stars for 2000.00 for a week the jeep was 350.00 Some sites to check out are caribbeanvilla.com & islandgetawaysinc.com & cateredto.com If you have any questions feel free to E-mail

ANYBODY BEEN TO CASA DEL MAR BEACH????? <BR>

CAP JULUCA on Anguilla - you will not be disppointed!

Silla, <BR>Look into Barcelo Bavaro Resorts in Domincan Republic. My husband gets burnt in the shade so we always look for palm trees. The beach is beautiful with many, many trees for shade. There are five Barcelo Resorts together with many different restaurants (all inclusive)and different room rates. The food is island standard, not gourmet, but there are a few better restaurants, also. There were not many children and they were very quiet. If you are looking for a good charter rate call TNT or look up Barcelo Resorts on the net.

I'm not seeing anything about <BR>St. Martin beaches. What's the <BR>scoop? How's Grand Case?

Not sure if Sandy Lane in St. James, Barbados has completed renovation, but that was an excellent hotel (even before they put the additional millions into it for renovations).

I am from Anguilla and I can tell you that the best beach there is Shoal Bay. They also have a hotel right on the beach. The beaches are mostly deserted so it will be very private if you want privacy. Also, check out Malliouhana and Cap Juluca.

Well, St Martin is not known for it's Beaches. <BR> <BR>I Stayed at Grand Case Beach club a while back. The Beach is small, narrow, semi private, yet practically unpopulated during the off season. It was also kept in very good condition. Nice sand, coral reef as well. You can rent limited amounts of equipment from the store on the property. Grand Case is primarilly known for having some of the best food in the Caribbean. It's the home of the Lolos (the ones in Marigot are terrible). <BR> <BR>Orient Bay was a good day trip. It's THE resort area on the French side. They have all the stuff you'd ever want. Most restaurants have a large shack on the beach for drinks/food, chairs and umbrellas you can rent for the hour or the day. Great Siesta, with music, food, drinks. Got to the Bikini Beach Bar/Restaurant. A bit more relaxed. Other places were really expensive and elite.

BARBUDA one hotel.17 mile beach.heaven

Anguilla has the most - in number - of luxurious resorts on one island. The beaches are great and the food is wonderful. <BR> <BR>Malliahouna, Cuisinart and cap Jaluca would not be disppointing. <BR> <BR>Consider Cambridge Beaches in Bermuda - I don't know if they allow children. They have 7 coves - much like Caneel - and a wonderful spa. Weather there does not get warm enough until June for swimmming.