Picking a Caribbean Island?
 

I'm planning a Caribbean Island vacation that fits the following criteria. I'm happy to research it more specifically from here (already done more than my fair share of scanning), but I'm hoping to get some good leads and ideas on islands from ye Fodor's experts.

I'm looking for an island that offers great beaches: #1 criteria. Not a big fan of big resorts. Happier with something less luxurious, though still willing to spend some money. Beach will fill days with dipping in the ocean and laying on the beach. Would like a location with more than one option for dinner at night, so we don't rely on the same place all the time... but not necessarily really busy or lively.

The small group travelling will be two 30-something couples and one 60-year old mother. Thus, no need for family friendly.

Thoughts? THANKS.

(I realize you could probably make a case for any island - so maybe I'm looking for a favorite. Just need a starting place.)

Anguilla: 33 unbelievable beaches and about 80 restaurants, many of which are in the "great" category. Check out www.anguillaguide.com to look at the beaches/restaurants. Ku on Shoal Bay East may be just what you're looking for.

My first thought was Anguilla also.
Turks and Caicos have some great beaches too. There are many places to stay that are not large resorts. I would check into both of these places and then look for your smaller hotel.

Anguilla or Turks and Caicos. You will probably find more hotel selection in varying price ranges in T&C.
Anguilla has several beaches to explore. On T&C the main beach is Grace Bay but you can also visit a couple other beaches. Anguilla tends to be pricier in general than other islands.

Thanks! I'd been thinking maybe Anguilla, but T & C is a new one. What about Barbados?

(Other ideas still very welcome too.)

i'd say t&c is perfect for what you are seeking. most all resorts are directly on grace bay beach so you could dip, sun and go back/forth to your room to your hearts content. tons of great restaurants. re: the beach. its stunning. blindingly white, oh so soft sand. water in unbelievable colors of tourquoise. wonderful snorkeling. not a crowded island. actually very low key. look at www.provo.net and www.wherewhenhow.com for all the general info and this link for a good island map: http://www.aquamarinebeachhouses.com/map.htm
in particular you might like the grace bay club, turks and caicos club, or coral gardens which has the best snorkeling reef just 10' off the sand.

Barbados is a wonderful island, with a wide variety of hotels, beaches, sightseeing, and restaurants (both hotel and independent). Beaches are smaller than those on islands like Anguilla, T&C known for their beaches. But Barbados beaches are generally very pretty with consistantly warm water. Check out the class act that is Coral Reef Club--family owned for some 50 years, low-rise plantation style resort. See www.barbados.org and www.coralreefbarbados.com

Anguilla is lovely. Although not Caribbean, Bermuda is great, too.

Barbados has several lovely boutique hotels ( few children) but smaller beaches than Anguilla but pretty, several lush areas for a tour or two (some interested attractions to breakup baking on the beach and a numbner of very good restaurants (free standing and a few hotel dining rooms-Sandy Lane, expensive but worth it)I like T&C but the island itself has little personality. Almost the same for Anguilla. We have visited all 3 2 t0 3 times over the past 8-10 years.