Hi all! My husband and I are looking for a place to relax for 6-7 nights in the end of March between jobs and need some help. We are deciding between Hawaii; Central America and somewhere in the Caribbean. Here is what we want: white sand and clear calm water, warm weather, delicious local food and some interesting culture would be a bonus. We don't really want to do the all-inclusive resort thing as we do want to sample local cuisine and culture. We don't want anywhere dangerous or stressful or overly touristy. We have been to Tulum Mexico a few times and love it, I have been to the Bahamas and did not like it at all, way too touristy. Any suggestions for a great relaxing trip would be great!!! Thank you!

We were just in Isla Holbox, Mexico in December and it fits your requirements! We loved it! The only thing is that it's at the point where the Gulf of Mexico meets the Carribean, so the water is slightly less clear than in Tulum/the rest of the Carribean side of Mexico, but that didn't bother us at all. It's still absolutely beautiful. You can click on my username to find the trip report.

We love Costa Rica, but for the most part, it doesn't have the white sand, clear blue water that you're looking for. Belize does though.

Belize has the blue water but the beaches aren't postcardish like Tulum's. The diving and snorkeling is awesome, though, and we love the inland options, too, like Maya sites and caving.

If all you want to do is relax on a beach, I'd go wherever the cheapest plane ticket and easiest itinerary is from your home city.

I do "nothing" every place I visit... this has worked for me most often in Puerto Vallarta Mexico, but also Cabo San Lucas and La Paz, in Negril Jamaica, on Oahu or Maui.

No reason to spend a lot of money and time going to some out of the way place to just lay on a nice beach.

St. John is another good option.

It really depends where you are coming from.

For me (in Seattle) the Caribbean is a big hassle to get to, while Mexico and Hawaii are relatively easy.

Greetings Lauren:

Little Corn Island in Nicaragua's Caribbean coast would fit the bill.

Cheers, Mike

You might have already gone, but I highly recommend Belize. Honeymooned there and it was spectacular and affordable.

Thanks everyone!!!

Also check out Isla Mujeres, Mexico. Great beaches, quiet little town.

Another suggestion for Isla Mujeres. There will, however, be tourists there.

(this post is from February of last year, my forum friends)

(oops February of THIS year sorry)