Torn between a vacation that promises adventure, exploration, and new horizons or one that is focused on rest, relaxation, and self-care? It doesn’t have to be an either or decision. The Caribbean offers a wealth of resorts, where both are on the menu.

SOULFUL RETREATS, CARIBBEAN RESORTS

Words by Natasha Were.

AMANERA, DOMINICAN REPUBLIC

Perched on a cliff top, with the ocean stretching out before it and the jungle behind it, this intimate Aman resort focuses on reconnecting with nature, whether through outdoor massages, moonlit yoga classes, or surfing the perfect wave. Taking wellness beyond facials, wraps and body treatments, the Spa offers opportunities to embark on signature multi-day healing journeys inspired by the island’s shamanic traditions and herbal remedies, all designed to reignite passion and renew purpose. www.aman.com

DORADO BEACH, A RITZ-CARLTON RESERVE, PUERTO RICO

A former plantation and now a private eco-resort, Dorado Beach is situated in a 50-acre reserve of lush forest and golden sands on Puerto Rico’s coast. Between the championship golf course, nature trails, water park, two beaches and countless water sports, you could be on the go from sunrise to sundown – or use the time to unwind at the unique, nature-inspired Spa Botanico. Set into tropical gardens dotted with warm and cool pools, waterfall showers and steam pavilions, it’s a magical place to spend languid days discovering plant-based remedies and surrendering to the healing hands of expert therapists. www.ritzcarlton.com

AMANYARA LUXURY RESORT & RETREAT, TURKS & CAICOS

Situated on the shores of a secluded 1,800-acre nature reserve in Providenciales, TCI, Amanyara is a serene tropical hideaway, offering both restorative wellness retreats and opportunities to improve all-round fitness and sporting performance. Wellness concierges help guests find their path to vitality – whether through yoga, Pilates, breathwork, tennis or boxercise – and spa therapists pamper with island-inspired treatments, including a ‘purification journey’ targeting face, mind and muscles. www.aman.com

SUGAR BEACH, A VICEROY RESORT, ST LUCIA

Nestling between St Lucia’s sensational Pitons, encompassing pristine rainforest and white sand beaches, this former sugar plantation is a place of rare wonder. Extending over 100 acres of lush mountains and stunning shoreline, accommodation options include hillside cottages, beachfront bungalows and tropical garden suites. Active days can take in first-rate snorkelling and diving in the bay, challenging mountain hikes or baths in mineral springs, while rest days are reserved for the rainforest spa, with its tree-house treatment rooms and delicious menu of services inspired by local foods: sugar and ginger scrubs, coconut and coffee wraps, and so much more. www.viceroyhotelsandresorts.com

KIMPTON SEAFIRE RESORT + SPA, CAYMAN ISLANDS

If staying close to home is more restful than packing and flying, treat yourself to the gift of wellness right on Seven Mile Beach. In July, the Kimpton Seafire Resort + Spa hosts the Seafire Wellness Festival with four full days of yoga, meditation, workouts and workshops. Led by a line-up of wellness experts, guests are free to choose which activities they wish to participate in and can nourish themselves inside and out with healthy meals, juices, smoothies, and indulgent treatments at the sensational Spa at Seafire. www.seafireresortandspa.com

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