My husband and I are planning a week in the Caribbean in early January and would love recommendations on which islands to consider. We have been to St.Martin, Barbados and Jamaica. We like: great beaches, water sports/boating, snorkeling, fishing and exploring the islands & local culture. Not of high importance: Loud bars, casinos, 'cruise ship' ports and shopping. Any recommendations would be greatly appreciated!

Not sure if price is a consideration but if you use Puerto Rico as your jumping off point, it is usually one of the least expensive islands to fly to in the Caribbean and you can catch a flight (or take ferries) to BVI or USVI for $200 or less. The Virgin Islands in general have superb snorkeling and some are islands are very lowkey depending on what suites you best.

I also recommend the BVI. Virgin Gorda is my favorite, but I also suggest hopping to some of the other islands for day trips.

Have you considered Anguilla? The best beaches in the Caribbean definately. No shopping so to speak of, and NO casinos. Nightlife is very quiet there. I"m not sure about boating-however I did see a large catamaran in Rendevous bay this last time around, so maybe there is boating and I just don't know of it. Anguilla is beautiful and the people are the greatest!!!

How about Provo T&C, Grace bay is arguably the best beach in the entire caribbean, the island offers tons of water sports, boat excursions to cays, awesome snorkeling, in fact next to Grand cayman possibly the best snorkeling in Caribbean.
other islands to consider are Aruba and ST John USVI.

I would second the Anguilla option. Fabulous beaches and unbeatable dining experiences. What also makes Anguilla attractive, is the ability to easily visit neighbouring islands on days trips, such as Saba, St Eustatius and St Barths.

Thanks to all who have responded. So many choices! We had also considered the Bahamas (maybe Eleuthera/Harbor Island) but I am unsure of how warm/cold it may be in early January.