My husband and I will be going to Trinidad, Barbados, Antigua, Martinique and St. Thomas on the Ocean Princess in April. We are mainly interested in going to the beach and doing some shopping. What beaches would you recommend, how far away from the cruise ship are they, and what's the best way to get there?

Not been on your ship... in St. Thomas go to MAGENS BAY... one of top 10 beaches in the world... great cove! $5 pp by taxi + $2 to get in... Don't forget to pack a small cooler to transport drinks from the ship for your beach outings! $3 bottled water for sale on ship...ugh! Bring your own from home, or "bottle" tap water from tap on board--- water is fine! Hate Martinque- lousy French people... but Oriental Beach is beautiful--- once again taxi ride, but forgot rate....$10???? Good luck! Pick up Fodor in book store or library, and read each islands' section--- best info!

Need to clarify that Orient Beach/Bay <BR>is in St. Martin, not Martinique. <BR>In St. Thomas, also suggest the <BR>beach at Coki Point (near Coral <BR>World) which is a great place to <BR>snorkel! I also heard, but haven't <BR>visited it yet, is Sapphire Beach, <BR>at the Sapphire Resort. I believe <BR>you can get a day pass (or a ship <BR>sponsored shore excursion) there. <BR>JanGail <BR>

I don't know where the ships dock at any of these places so can't help you there. <BR> <BR>In Trinidad I would avoid Port of Spain and go elsewhere. <BR> <BR>In Barbados head to a west coast beach. Or rent a vehicle and drive to the top of the island (more secluded beaches toward that end if it's the same as when I was there some time ago), then back down by Bathsheba. Do a bit of shopping in Bridgetown. <BR> <BR>Antigua has many beaches but you may want to consider visiting Nelson's Dockyard also. <BR> <BR>My memory of Martinique is that it was rather lush and beautiful, but if they have great beaches, I didn't find them. Enjoyed shopping in the town though. <BR> <BR>

In Antigua, Darkwood beach is very nice. Its pretty, clear, calm, water, and practically deserted. Not much to see for snorkeling though. You can get a cab to take you there. I think its about 30 minutes from the cruise pier.