Hidden in the pristine waters of St Vincent and the Grenadines, the island of Bequia is like stepping back in time into old school Caribbean charm. Its shores are untouched by the mass developments seen on most other islands, goats, chickens and dogs still wander the streets and its beaches are among the most pristine in the Caribbean.
There are a host of activities to be enjoyed from diving trips (The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge dived here when they visited nearby Mustique) to picnics on Spring Top, which offers stunning views across the surrounding islands. In the island’s main village of Port Elizabeth there are host of quirky restaurants – including Tommy’s that serves delicious lobster pizza. Or you can venture to Jack’s Beach Bar at St Margret’s Beach for an afternoon of drinking cocktails in the sun.
If you are looking for romantic hideaway on this charming island, then head to Bequia Beach Hotel. The colonial styled property is packed with retro touches – including vintage suitcases and a hot air balloon basket as the reception desk – and has its own private stretch of perfectly white sand. It also offers a spa, for some post-wedding relaxation, and two restaurants.
For the ultimate escape, the hotel offers the use of its own superyacht – 34.5 metre Star of the Sea – to explore the surrounding islands. Plans are also underway to build a jetty that can accommodate private yachts up to 50 metres. Until then if you want to visit by superyacht you can moor out in Port Elizabeth and tender into the buzzing village.