We're considering a trip to Nevis and have read some disparaging comments regarding the beaches. Can someone comment as to how the beaches of Nevis compare with a similar volcanic island, such as those of Hawaii?

We are looking for a lovely, picturesque beach setting - but it does not have to consist of white sand and turquoise waters. THANKS!!

While not offering white sand beaches with dazzling turquoise water, Nevis does have beaches that are beautiful and lovely in their own right. The most frequented beach, Pinney's, where the 4S is located, is a lovely medium-golden sand and edged with palm trees. It is very tropical and picturesque. The water, while generally clear, is the much deeper blue associated with volcanic islands.

Newcastle Beach, where Nisbet is located, is much lighter in sand, offwhite, I would say, with a few darker streaks laced throughout. This beach is also lined with palm trees and very nice for walking. The water has more surf here than on the west coast.

Oualie Beach where the Oualie Beach Hotel is located, is probably third most frequented. The water here is very calm as it is in a cove, but the beach is very narrow here. Still a nice place to spend some time.

The only other beach I visited during my stay was Lovers Beach, near the airport, which was a totally deserted stretch of sand with fairly calm waters. The sand was beautifully marbled with light and black sand.

It seems to be that based on your last comments, that Nevis' beaches would not disappoint you.

Having just been to Nevis, I completely agree with ejcrowe's assessment! While Nevis' beaches may not be the jewels of the Caribbean, they were nice, clean, and my three kids thoroughly enjoyed the sand and sea.

In regard to Hawaii, I have been to Maui and Kauai in recent years. Generally, the surf is calmer around Nevis and the waters of the Caribbean are warmer and clearer than the Pacific. Also, the beaches were less crowded in Nevis. The snorkelling was better around Maui and Kauai.