Escape to the Caribbean: exploring the allure of its most coveted islands

As the peak Caribbean season approaches, those looking to escape colder climes will soon be heading for the region’s sun-drenched beaches, warm waters and lively social scene. From world-class dining and wellness retreats to tranquil escapes and vibrant cultural events, the Caribbean continues to offer an unmatched winter escape. Our experts explore some of the region’s most sought-after islands, examining what makes each destination unique, and why their lifestyles hold such enduring appeal for international buyers and holidaymakers alike.

5 bedroom villa for sale in Lower Carlton, St. James, Barbados. Guide price $15,000,000

Barbados

Barbados continues to hold strong appeal as a luxury destination. In 2024, the island welcomed around 704,340 stay-over visitors, a 10.6% rise on 2023 and marginally above pre-pandemic levels, helped by direct flights from the UK, US and Canada.

As highlighted in Knight Frank’s Barbados Luxury Market Digest, many buyers start as visitors - renting first, then purchasing as they look for a long-term base. This trend is driving activity at the top end of the market: sales of US$2 million-plus properties by Terra Luxury, Knight Frank’s partner on the island, surged 67% year-on-year between July and October 2025.

“The lifestyle is what draws people in, but it’s the community that keeps them here,” says Andrew Blandford-Newson, Associate in Knight Frank’s International team. Barbados attracts a cosmopolitan mix of residents from across the Caribbean and internationally. “There’s a huge amount happening, from championship golf and polo to horse racing and international cricket. People can truly switch off here, but there’s also a strong business presence thanks to the favourable tax environment.”

7 bedroom villa for sale in Sandy Lane, St James, Barbados. Guide price $8,950,000

The island’s landscape is equally varied: calm, white-sand beaches and turquoise waters on the West Coast, and a wilder, more dramatic coastline to the east. Dining options are just as diverse, from fine restaurants to authentic eateries. Blandford-Newson highlights Speightstown as a neighbourhood to watch: “It’s charming, laid-back and authentic. I love a local spot there called Caboose - they do an incredible fish cutter sandwich.”

Buyer preferences are shifting toward practical homes suited to longer stays, with the convenience of lock-and-leave living and hotel-style amenities. This is fuelling demand for branded residences, with two major schemes underway: Pendry Residences Barbados, offering 46 fully furnished private villas with resort access, and Hyatt Ziva, scheduled to open in 2027.

6 bedroom villa for sale in Old Fort Bay, New Providence, Bahamas. Guide price $11,000,000

Bahamas

A growing trend toward full-time relocation is also evident in the Bahamas, says James Davies, Partner in Knight Frank’s International team. As outlined in the Bahamas Luxury Market Digest, limited inventory in prime locations continues to underpin the market’s resilience. On Harbour Island, beachfront homes range from US$2.5 million to US$15 million, reflecting tight supply and strong global appeal. In Bimini, branded residences typically start at US$3.5 million and rise to around US$8 million.

The archipelago’s established lifestyle remains a major draw, from cutting-edge wellness centres and championship golf to world-class fishing and a renowned yachting scene. Davies notes a rise in families settling full-time, supported by improved education options: “A decade ago there were only one or two high-quality schools in Nassau; now there are several.”

7 bedroom house for sale in Lyford Cay, New Providence, Bahamas. Guide price $12,000,000

Ease of access adds to the pull, with direct flights to the US, Canada and the UK. “If you live in one of the prime private estates, you can be off a private jet and through your front door in about 30 minutes, or if flying commercially within an hour,” he says.

Lifestyle also remains one of the defining factors. “Fishing is huge - especially blue marlin tournaments in the Abacos, which draw major names,” Davies explains. “Golf is also a big part of the lifestyle. You’ve got championship courses at Albany and Lyford Cay, plus natural beauty that’s hard to beat. Some beaches really are among the best in the world.”

3-4 bedroom villa for sale in Grand Cul-de-Sac, St. Barts. Guide price €7,700,000

St Barts and Mustique

What St Barts lacks in accessibility, it makes up for in privacy, seclusion and an exclusive and rarified way of life. “You don’t arrive by accident,” says Davies. “Everyone has to make a bit of an effort to get there - whether you’re flying in from Antigua, San Juan or St Martin or simply arriving by yacht. That creates a certain atmosphere. And despite the glamour, it remains remarkably low-key.”

Villa for sale in Lurin, St. Barts. Guide price €26,500,000

St Barts’ nightlife is legendary, supported by iconic beach clubs such as Eden Rock, Nikki Beach and Cheval Blanc. New arrivals, including cult Brooklyn pizzeria Lucali, Bar des Prés by celebrated chef Cyril Lignac, and the high-end wellness complex Domaine Padel, are set to further elevate its luxury offering as peak season begins.

Flamands remains one of the island’s most sought-after areas. The St Barts Luxury Market Digest reports recent headline sales, including a €54 million beachfront villa, while other prime enclaves such as Gouverneur and Domaine du Levant have seen transactions between €25 million and €45 million.

“We all know the island’s nightlife, but the appeal goes far beyond that,” he says. “You can spend the day surfing or hiking and still end up dining in a beach club or restaurant that rivals those in any global gateway city. It’s a rare blend - and it’s exactly why people fall in love with St Barts.”

5 bedroom villa for sale in Mustique, Saint Vincent and the Grenadines. Guide price US$25,000,000

Even smaller - and equally challenging to reach - is Mustique, which is precisely what underpins its appeal. “It offers a relaxed luxury unlike anywhere else. You can go there to truly escape,” says James. “Yet for all its seclusion, the island still has a vibrant social scene, from tennis tournaments to music festivals. And of course, there’s the legendary Basil’s Bar, where CEOs and movie stars can rub shoulders with royalty - completely privately, without paparazzi and far from the public eye.”

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