Are there any places left in the world... ok how about the Caribbean where can find an almost empty, private beach?

For religious reasons,,, if my family wants to sit out on the beach we need to be somewhat free of onlookers (modesty).

I would love to find a place where my sons can sit out and if they want can go snorkelling... Any ideas?

Well, there's always Musha Cay (http://www.mushacay.com/) in the Bahamas. You'll be paying for your solitude but it sure is hard to beat. If I win the lottery, this is where I'll be heading.

Great Scott, Laby. What a dream!

msalzbank, I suggest you consider Cumberland Island, GA and Hammock Beach, NC. Particularly during the off season you can still find yourself a private spot.

Another alternative is the beaches of Panama and St. John, USVI.

Musha Cay sounds incredible,,, but back to reality...

I am afraid that Ga and NC won't be warm enough in late January,,,

the search continues....

Many of the beaches in Treasure Beach, Jamaica are little known and virtually untrafficked, esp.those in Billy's Bay, Fort Charles and Great Bay. Might be right for you for privacy, snorkelling and a price that won't break the bank. See the community Web site at http://www.treasurebeach.net for a full spectrum of possibilities

Sorry, I didn't realize you were travelling in January. Panama will work.

hi m, i would like to suggest you look at long bay beach on provo in the turks and caicos. there are no resorts on this part of the island, yet you would be only 10-15 mins away from the main drag. and 20 mins from grace bay beach where all the activity is.
not sure how good the snorkeling is on long bay beach, but another spot that is usually fairly deserted is smith bay reef near the turtle cove marina, and has the best beach access snorkeling imho.
it is a small island but you would need to rent a car to stay on long bay (some of them have a jeep/car that is included in the rental price).
there are several rental villas on long bay beach - even a couple with pools which would ensure total privacy.
the day i was on this beach i saw one person in the distance and 2 very nice beach dogs!

Thanks for all the suggestions,,, I am hoping I can find something for a 2 night 3 day stay. Short little vacation and leaving from NY may be a little tricky. I can either stay at a hotel that we can go to the secluded area or one that has a villa/pool high walls,,

Darkwood beach on the island of Antigua.It was just me and my wife the day we went.Its kind of hidden so you`ll have to ask directions.It`s over a hill past a church and you can`t see the beach from the road but that`s what make`s it so quiet.

Thanks so much for the advice... I would love to have a few suggestions like this in other warm places... to check out different locations

Highly recommend St. Kitts. Beautiful island, breathtaking views and lots of private beaches. (Cockleshell, South Friars, Banana Bay)

www.discover-stkitts-nevis-beaches.com

msalzbank, there should be at least one beach on each island that would fit your bill for privacy issues; the problem is that usually those beaches pose a mild to major challenge to get to.

For long stretches of beach that also offer good snorkeling, check out the Out Islands of the Bahamas, Barbuda, and Anegada. Some of these have beaches that are miles long and chances are slim that you'll run into anyone. Perhaps Vieques or Culebra off the coast of Puerto Rico would also be good. (Remember that unless you're talking about a private island that all beaches in the Caribbean are technically public. So while many beaches are extremely secluded and FEEL private, there is always a small chance that someone else will happen upon them. But since those folks are likely ALSO seeking privacy, there's a good chance they would leave and seek another patch of sand for themselves.)

Treasure Beach area as TIverton says, could also work well for you in a private villa setup.

But with your time restaints, consider those islands with a direct flight from NY, or islands that you can get to with one short connection flying from NY.

Thank you for the GREAT INFO.

We really like Vieques. There are lots and lots of gorgeous beaches with nothing and nobody on them. Until 3 years ago the US Navy controlled 70% of the island, including all of the best beaches. When the Navy left their property became the largest nature preserve in the Caribbean. It is truly wonderful.

CoveCastles on Anguilla! Luxurious, quiet and very, very private.

Picking up on the religious aspect, has no-one in your church / community been able to give any suggestions. Or is the point too obvious, sorry if it is.

Don... not too obvious... but there are of no help...

thanks though,,