How to Get Big Savings at Small Caribbean Islands Right Now

PHOTO: The Curacao Marriott Beach Resort & Emerald Casino is offering travelers a complimentary nights and “Sand Dollar” credits. (Courtesy of Marriott Beach Resort & Emerald Casino)

The many smaller islands that dot the Caribbean may lack the sprawling all-inclusive resorts and mass tourist attractions found at islands that log the largest number of tourists, but they have numerous other charms. In fact, the most intimate Caribbean destinations feature the secluded beaches, slow pace, friendly residents and outstanding natural environments that make Caribbean vacations so appealing in the first place. A few resorts at these smaller islands are currently offering value-oriented packages.

For example, the Sands at Grace Bay resort in Providenciales, Turks & Caicos is offering travelers a “Fourth Night Free” deal for stays from May 1 through Dec. 20, 2014. Under the offer, rates start at $195 per night. Guests will also receive free use of water sports equipment including kayaks, windsurfing equipment, stand-up paddle boards, snorkeling gear, and bicycles for island exploration.

The resort features three free-form swimming pools and a tennis/basketball court. The resort’s studio and suite accommodations feature modern kitchens and appliances, screened-in balconies, washer and dryers in most units and free Wi-Fi.

Another Providenciales property, the Seven Stars Resort is offering a 50 percent discount off ocean front rooms to travelers who make reservations by April 30, 2014. Couples seeking a day of seclusion can hop aboard Seven Stars’ 29-foot catamaran, Lady Tamara, for an excursion to one of Turks & Caicos’ secluded cays to experience their own private island for the day. Couples can enjoy a day all to themselves complete with a prepared picnic lunch, cold refreshments, umbrellas, chairs and beach supplies for a full- or half-day.

Guests who visit Dominica’s Rosalie Bay Resort during sea turtle season save 33 percent on their stay. Discounted daily rates start at $157.50, double occupancy and include complimentary daily breakfast, Wi-Fi, yoga classes and nature walks.

Endangered sea turtles are beginning to arrive and nest on the resort’s protected black sand beach in an annual ritual during which, hundreds of sea turtles will travel thousands of miles to lay eggs on the same beach where they were born.

Guests can witness 800-pound sea turtles crawling ashore to nest, and hatchlings scurrying out to sea. Travelers are also invited to participate in the sea turtle conservation efforts by helping patrol the beach to protect nesting turtles, assisting researchers in collecting data.

The Curacao Marriott Beach Resort and Emerald Casino is offering travelers a complimentary fifth night following a four-night stay through Dec. 20, 2014. The resort is also offering a daily resort credit of $50 which can be used toward spa treatments at the resort’s Health Club or at the resort’s on-site restaurants, including the Portofino Restaurant, Boardroom Beach Bar and Seabreeze Swim Up Bar and Restaurant. Under the offer, rates start at $159 per night.