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See Why Costa Rica is Like No Place in the World
Costa Rica is like no place in the world. From almost every vantage point, rainforest vistas tumble into picture-perfect inlets and coves that punctuate the shoreline.
With activities including canopy zip-lining, kayaking through mangrove estuaries, catamaran cruises, rafting, horseback riding, sea kayaking, hiking, birding AND local wildlife featuring monkeys, tropical birds, iguanas and sloths, there is no place like Costa Rica.
Please contact me for more ideas and to book your travel to Costa Rica today!
Costa Rica - Popular locations and places to know
Costa Rica - Facts
1. Because Costa Rica is close to the equator, sunrise and sunset are at the same time every day. That's right 365 days a year!
2. It is the most bio-diverse country in the world with over 900,000 species of wildlife, 900 of them are birds. You're likely to catch a sighting in natural habitats, national parks, and volcanic areas.
3. Costa Rica's national anthem is played on every radio station daily at 7am.
4. It's the hummingbird capital of the world! There are over 50 species that call Costa Rica home.
5. Costa Rica is Spanish and translates to “rich coast.” Why? It's said that the country's founder, Christopher Columbus, believed the area was filled with precious metals.
Some of the top activities Costa Rica has to offer...
You want to visit Costa Rica! Awesome, we can help get you there. But one of the questions we’ll ask in helping you do so is what you’d like to see and do there. Relax? Explore nature? Seek adventure? All the above and more? Probably. There is just so much available, we’ll need to have a serious discussion on what your priorities are. To help we’ve put together a list of eight of the best activities to do during your visit. After reading let us know what’s on the top of yours!
8 Great Activities Costa Rica Has To Offer
1. Hiking – An activity that likely is top of mind when you think of Costa Rica and there certainly is no shortage of places to do so. Volcanoes, beaches, cloud forests – the choice is yours. Once that’s settled, think about the level of difficulty you’re comfortable with. These two things will help in the best recommendation. Additionally, it is suggested you consider guided hikes. Your expert leader will be able to provide general assistance and a trained eye to spot wildlife.
2. Surfing – Surfers from around the world frequent Costa Rica year-round because of its warm waters and waves. Choose your coast – Pacific or Caribbean, select your level of experience – beginner, intermediate, or advanced. We can even make some recommendations. If you’re in need of a lesson, they’re typically easy to find, even just by stepping foot on some beaches!
3. Snorkeling and Scuba – Wildlife sightings aren’t limited to land. There are 7,000+ marine species that can be found in Costa Rica’s surrounding waters. So, it is no surprise that it is on the top of the list for water activities. If you’re a snorkeler, think about if you’d like to do so by boat or shore. If a diver, we can help recommend dive sites. Just let us know your level of experience.
4. Whitewater Rafting – Costa Rica provides a stunning background for this adventure. There are a few areas that would be recommended if this is something you’d like to do. Beginner or advanced, let us know what intensity of rapids you’re comfortable with, and we can point you in the right direction. If the kiddos are up for the challenge, there are some options that are suitable for them too. It’s a great family activity!
5. Visit Waterfalls – Some of the most picturesque sights in Costa Rica can be found at its numerous waterfalls. After all, there’s something so magical about water cascading over a cliff to the pools below. There are plenty of options to choose from, just keep in mind a few things. Some falls will require a hike to access, entrance fees will vary, and some allow swimming while others do not. Also consider a guided tour if you won’t have access to a rental car during your stay.
6. Zip Lining – If you’ve Googled “excursions in Costa Rica” you’ve likely seen a picture of someone effortlessly flying over green canopy, rivers, and cliffs. It’s a very popular activity that can be found all over the country. You should expect a safety demo and a short hike. Then you’ll glide line by line, each getting a little longer than the one before. If you’re an adrenaline seeker this is a must do! If not, we wouldn’t recommend it. Do not invest money in something if you’re not 100% comfortable with.
7. Bird Watching – It isn’t unusual for people to travel to Costa Rica for this very reason. Some enthusiasts even build a whole itinerary around this activity. There is 900+ species and most often seen will likely be toucans, macaws, and hummingbirds. Because the country is so eco-diverse, make a couple of watching stops. Don’t forget your binoculars and camera!
8. Yoga – Yes, you read that right! Costa Rica is indeed a haven for yoga lovers. You could see or take a class quite literally anywhere – a resort, beach, volcano, or rainforest. If you’re a beginner, give it a try at least once. If you’re a wellness enthusiast and it’s your reason for travel, it belongs on your list. Think wellness retreat, group trip for your studio, location for instructor training or continuing education.
There you have it, some of the best that Costa Rica has to offer! Of course, there’s a ton more that isn’t listed, so if you have any questions let us know. If you’re ready to explore all that Costa Rica has to offer, please feel free to reach out!
23 Great Excursions & Tour Package Options For Costa Rica
The Monteverde Cloud Forest is the epicenter of cloud forest exploration and the pride and joy of ecotourism in Costa Rica. With over 400 unique bird species, Monteverde is an especially treasured destination for birding.
Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve Hike Transfer to the Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve for a hike through the high elevation forest with professional naturalist guides! Trek through the misty forests’ dense vegetation and majestic trees. You will see giant prehistoric tree ferns, trees covered with blooming bromeliads, and many of the species of birds that call Monteverde home. Keep an eye out for the shy Resplendent Quetzal bird!
Monteverde Sky Tram & Trek Zipline Tour The tour starts with the Sky Tram, a ride on the cableway up to the platform where the Trek zip line adventure begins. This is one of the most extensive canopy tours in the country, with 2 very long cables and 11 cross-sectional zip lines. After zipping through the treetops, you will have time to unwind and enjoy the panoramic views from 2 observation decks. **Height and weight restrictions apply. Inquire for details.
Central Pacific Coast of Costa Rica Jacó and the surrounding Central Pacific Coast of Costa Rica is peppered with spectacular national parks and beaches, offering a breadth of coastal experiences and wildlife viewing opportunities. A mountainous shoreline with strips of sandy beaches overlooking a sparkling expanse of blue are characteristics of the Central Pacific coast. The region is home to the popular surf town of Jacó, Playa Herradura, Carara Biological Reserve, and the Tarcoles River.
Tortuga Island Catamaran Cruise Early this morning you will transfer by ground to Puntarenas. Enjoy a snack-type breakfast en route before boarding a catamaran for a cruise through the Gulf of Nicoya to Tortuga Island. Just 12 nautical miles from Puntarenas, Isla Tortuga is a sanctuary of white sand beaches and turquoise waters, home tropical birds, and flora typical of the Costa Rican Central Pacific area. Spend the day swimming, snorkeling, or just relaxing under the shade of palm trees on this beautiful island. A tropical lunch will be served on the island.
Horseback Riding with Ocean Views & Waterfalls After your equipment and safety instructions, depart on your horseback journey to the waterfalls. Along the way you will see farms and get a closer look at nature as you ascend through the rainforest. You may be able to spot toucans, Scarlet Macaws, and White-faced capuchin monkeys. Upon arrival to the swimming area, your guide will set you up with fresh fruit and water, and you will have time to relax and enjoy the waterfalls.
Costa Rica’s south Caribbean coast Costa Rica’s south Caribbean coast is lined with perfectly imperfect beaches swaying palm trees. The clear, turquoise water welcomes swimmers, sunbathers, surfers, and snorkelers. This off the beaten path area managed to fly under the radar of Costa Rica’s tourism boom. It continues to remain a pristine beach and rainforest destination with a unique, Caribbean culture of its own.
Snorkel & Hike Cahuita National Park Cahuita National Park is a nature lover’s playground full of land and sea adventures. Start your adventure at the beach, climbing on board the boat for a ride out to the local coral reef. You will then have roughly 2 hours in two different parts of the national park to snorkel in the ocean, depending on the weather. After, fuel up with tropical fruit on the beach before heading out on a hike through the coastal rainforest. Since the park is home to an abundance of diverse wildlife, chances are good that you’ll spot monkeys, tropical birds, sloths, iguanas, poisonous dart frogs, and other interesting creatures.
Jaguar Rescue Center, Bri Bri Chocolate Tour, & Waterfall Hike Start with an educational visit to the Jaguar Animal Rescue Center, which serves as a refuge and rehabilitation center for many local animals, including wild cats, monkeys, snakes, and sloths. Then, witness organic chocolate made from scratch by a member of the Bri Bri indigenous tribe— from plant to plate! The Bri Bri have a long history of chocolate production in the Puerto Viejo area. Finally, head about 30 minutes outside of town to a breathtaking Puerto Viejo Waterfall for a hike and refreshing swim.
Pacuare River Whitewater Rafting: Class III-IV You’ll depart your Puerto Viejo hotel early in the morning for a drive to the Rios Tropicales Operations Center. Here you will enjoy a Costa Rican breakfast before heading to the put-in on the banks of the Pacuare River. Here, your guides will give you rafting & safety instructions. Then, you’ll begin to paddle 14 miles deep into the heart of one the primary rainforest. As you master the river’s wild rapids, you’ll pass through densely vegetated rainforest gorges and pristine waterfalls. After this adrenalinepacked adventure, you’ll return to the operations center to change and have lunch. Return to your hotel late in the afternoon.
Costa Ballena The stretch of South Pacific Costa Rica coastline from Dominical to Ojochal, known as the Costa Ballena, is Costa Rica’s up-and-coming beach and rainforest destination. The South Pacific Coast is more remote than other areas of the country, sitting just north of the Osa Peninsula. Pristine rainforest, miles of ocean views, and solitude are some of the South Pacific’s most magnificent features.
Marino Ballena National Park Sea Kayak & Snorkel This tour begins at low tide as the waves shift to one side of the Whale's Tail, which is a good spot for snorkeling. Paddling to this point will take between 30 to 45 minutes. The snorkeling portion of the tour will take between 45 minutes and 1.5 hours and will give you the opportunity to see a variety of fish and coral species, such as Giant Conch, starfish, Parrotfish Snapper, Damsels, eels, Moorish Idol, Surgeons and various types of coral species. Catch a wave and ride back into shore on your kayak. Then, enter a small mangrove forest in Ballena Marine Park where it is possible to spot sea birds, toucans, and some small reptiles.
Whale & Dolphin Combo Tour (seasonal) Board a boat from Punta Uvita Beach and visit the famous Punta Uvita Whale’s Tail, Ballena Island, Tres Hermanas Islets, and Ventana Sea Caves. During the tour, you will search for Humpback Whales (seasonally) and two different species of resident dolphins. The boat will pass near the caverns of Ventanas Beach where you can observe wonderful rocky formations and the amazing caverns that were carved out by the ocean over thousands of years. **Tours during the dry season (January – Feb) include a short session of snorkeling on the reefs of the Marino Ballena National Park
Half-Day Sportfishing Put your sport fishing skills to the test on this half day tour. The waters off the Osa Peninsula on the South Pacific coast of Costa Rica are rich in nutrients, and there is a great variety of fish such as mackerel, roosterfish, snapper, and tuna. The inshore fishing is done within a few miles off the shores of Bahia Ballena.
Manuel Antonio Located on the Central Pacific coast of Costa Rica, Manuel Antonio remains one of the country’s best beach and rainforest locations. Manuel Antonio National Park is the main attraction of the region, with monkeys, tropical birds, and iguanas comprising a large portion of the wildlife population. From almost every vantage point, rainforest vistas tumble into picture-perfect inlets and coves that punctuate the shoreline.
Damas Island Estuary Boat Tour Explore one of Costa Rica’s most unique environments from the comfort of a boat! As you glide through the Damas Island Mangrove Estuary, you might spot curious families of monkeys as they migrate across the mangrove ecosystem in search of food and adventure. You might also see tropical seabirds, turtles, a range of reptiles, and maybe even a caiman or two! You will wind through acres of pristine Costa Rican estuary as guides explain why the mangrove eco-structure so vital to Costa Rica and the world. This tour will end with a relaxing yet rewarding meal.
Damas Island Mangrove by Kayak Paddle gently through the inland waterways of the Damas Island Estuary, one of the most unique eco-systems on the planet. This important ecological area is where the salt waters of the ocean meet the fresh waters of tropical rivers, creating a periodically submerged forest of hanging roots. On the banks, you might spot local inhabitants, like the Sally light foot crab, boa constrictors, silky anteaters, monkeys, lizards, seabirds, and sometimes even crocodiles!
Coastal Sea Kayaking Paddle your way around the Manuel Antonio coastline on this active kayaking tour. Beginning at the port of Quepos, you will start your adventure by paddling south. From a vantage point only possible in kayaks, you’ll catch awe-inspiring glimpses of Manuel Antonio’s breathtaking cliffs as we follow along the coastline. Depending on the tide, you may stop off for a snack at a secluded beach. Then, paddle close to tropical rock formations, where shorebirds are known to nest. This fun half-day on the water is a great way to explore the area and get moving!
Rainmaker Reserve Hike Located about 30 minutes from Manuel Antonio, this private rainforest reserve is a great place to experience local wildlife, like birds, butterflies, frogs, and lizards. Explore the Rainmaker trails with your guide, who will teach you about the history and biodiversity of the reserve and its inhabitants. After this, you'll have a chance to navigate the canopy bridge system and experience the rainforest from an elevated perspective.
Nocturnal Jungle Walk This unique guided adventure is 2 hours to be a part of one of the most fascinating ecosystems in the country – the nocturnal tropical wet forest. Get in contact with many of the nocturnal inhabitants of the Wildlife Refuge, such as the kinkajou, the armadillo, or various snakes! With more than 30 identified snake species, you’ll learn about which are dangerous and about their natural history. You’ll also have the chance to visit the Tropical Aquatic Gardens, which is home to a variety of frog and toad species.
Local Flavors Cooking Class Learn how to prepare classic Costa Rican dishes on this local food adventure! First, you’ll head to a farmers’ market in nearby Quepos to find the best ingredients for your dishes. Then, visit a nearby ranch to meet the culinary team and search the organic garden for some final ingredients. Finally, begin preparing your Costa Rican staples, following local recipes. You’ll cover everything from tortillas to “picadillo” (minced meat and veggies with spices).
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Back by popular demand! The ultimate guide to ensure a stress free, hassle free and fun vacation in Costa Rica! Our Costa Rica guide shows popular locations and places to know, packing list, best times of year to visit for certain activities, local customs and sayings, and so much more. Download our guide today!
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See Why Costa Rica is Like No Place in the World
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An expert destination wedding travel agent near me with five star luxury travel packages with a luxury travel company, Vincent Vacations.
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Lia planned my destination wedding in May to El Dorado Royale and it was the most amazing experience! -Haley McCarthy
3 week custom trip to New Zealand, Australia and Fiji
Lia went above and beyond planning a 3 week custom trip to New Zealand, Australia and Fiji for us. She even let us drive her car to Dallas when our OKC flight got cancelled at the last minute. Thank you. -Candace Adolphson Haggard
Disney Cruise for our Group! Amazing!
We just got back from our Disney Cruise through Vincent Vacations and had a blast! Lia walked through the details with me and answered all my questions! She prepared us for what we could expect so we were delightfully prepared for fun things like Pirate Night and Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique. We had a blast!! Thanks Lia! -Justin and Erin Cornell
Vincent Vacations is the best travel agency you can find. Lia Vincent has been planning our vacations for over ten years. I can't tell you how many times she has gone the extra mile to help my husband and me. One time we were headed to Europe. All flights were cancelled. Lia got on the phone and when a flight on a different airline opened up she got us booked. Lia even checked in us to make sure we made it. In Europe she researched and researched to find us perfect accommodations and restaurants. She and her staff learn about your likes and plans the perfect vacation. I don't know when she sleeps. She plans the best vacation for each client. Her clients are like family. If you want a top notch travel agent and vacation call Vincent Vacations. I can't tell you how many times I have referred her to other people. Thank you Vincent Vacations! You truly are the best! -Debbie Straughn
Destination Wedding Puerto Vallarta
We had an amazing experience with our destination wedding trip to Puerto Vallarta. We especially loved the resort with its great views and terrific food/service. It was the best trip we have ever been on! -Cary & Tiffany Hawkins
50+ Group Destination Wedding!
Lia Vincent and team booked and coordinated booking and travel for 53 guests and my husband and I for our destination wedding November in Montego Bay Jamaica! They were amazing to work with and helped us pick the best all-inclusive resort that was perfect for our group! I don't know what we would do without them! -Leah Flynn-Smalley
Greece regularly ends up in articles and lists for things such as top destination, top searched country, and most beautiful. But for a first-time visitor to Greece, deciding on which town or island to visit can be overwhelming. Each has its own historical significance and beauty.
Of course, Athens is a must-visit city with the famed Acrop-olis and Parthenon as pictures don't do them justice. And on mainland Greece, you can also see Mount Olympus and Thessaloniki.
Some parts of the country can be reached as a port of call on a cruise. Or you can make your own cruise itinerary by taking advantage of hydrofoil ferries that have routes be-tween the more know islands like Santorini, Mykonos, and Crete. Islands give you a great mix of historical archaeo-logical sites as well as relaxing beaches and unforgettable sunsets.
There is something for every kind of traveler in Greece which is why it deserves to be on every travel bucket list.
Where to visit
Greece is a top destination for many people. It is no wonder why with its creation of the Olympic games, ancient ruins, beautiful islands, and fabulous food. But how do you decide where to visit on a vacation to Greece? Here are eight regions of Greece to help you pick your top options for your next vacation.
Ionian Islands Located west of mainland Greece, the Ionian islands are most known for Corfu and Ithaca. Corfu is a lush green island and has influences from its Venetian, French and British rulers of the past. This is where you want to go for cultural heritage, music and art. Ithaca, though not a typical Greek vacation stop, is most famous for Homer’s Odyssey. You can see Ithaca and how it inspired Homer on a day trip via boat.
Northern Mainland Greece The northern mainland region of Greece is best known for historical and religious connections such as Thessaloniki and Mount Olympus. Thessaloniki is considered a cultural capital and is a popular destination on most Greek vacations where you can enjoy great seafood, beautiful coastlines, and historical experiences like the Byzantine Baths, see a statue of Alexander the Great, and dig into religious history. Mount Olympus is known as the home to the 12 Greek gods in mythology and is also home to beautiful flora and fauna throughout its hiking and trekking trails.
Attica Attica is the birthplace of western civilization rich in history. This region is famous for its archaeological sites and monuments. This region is home to Athens, the capital of Greece, where you can access the Parthenon, Acropolis, Temple of Zeus, and many great museums.
Peloponnese This region is most famous for Corinth and Olympia. Corinth has a rich history of being at the center of many political and religious battles. It was a Roman colony established by Caesar in 44BC and is known to Christians because of Paul’s letters in the New Testament of the Bible. A trip to see the ancient city ruins is worth your time. Olympia, as you likely know, is home of the Olympic games which began in 776BC. Olympia is home to the Temple of Zeus, the Temple of Apollo, and the Archaeological Museum. See where the original games took place and marvel at where the temples of the gods once stood.
Saronic The cluster of islands in the Saronic region are a picturesque image of Greece. Think no cars, island hopping by boat, private coves, and cobblestone pedestrian-only streets. Aegina is the most popular island in this region with its close proximity to Athens on the mainland. It is also home to the famous Aphea Temple, one of three sites in the “holy triangle.” This site is part of an equilateral triangle formed with the Parthenon and the Temple of Poseidon.
Cyclades The Cyclades region is one of the more popular regions for vacationers as this is home to Santorini and Mykonos. But don’t limit yourself to just these well-known islands. There are 33 different islands in this region. Mykonos is known for its luxury holiday experience with both a bustling cosmopolitan city life as well as its breathtaking views of the coast. Santorini has a bit of everything including excellent gastronomy experiences, the famous white buildings with blue rooftops that are the perfect backdrop to unforgettable sunsets, and an active volcano.
Crete Crete is Greece’s largest island and has a bit of everything for the traveler. On this island, you can see ancient archaeological sites, enjoy perfect sandy beaches, and hike through steep gorges. Two of the most popular towns to visit include Chania, the capital town closest to the Samaria Gorge and Heraklion that is home to the Koules fortress.
Dodecanese The Dodecanese islands are the southeastern set of Greek islands. The more popular places to visit in the region include Rhodes, a popular cruise stop for its beaches and gastronomy. Those looking for that perfect Instagram photo will want to include Symi in their travels. This island is known for how its village has such a traditional architecture of two-and three-story stone houses.
So, what kind of Greek experience are you seeking? Do you have visions of that perfect photo with the white buildings with blue rooftops in Santorini? Do you want to see ancient cities and ruins like Athens?
I would love to chat with you about Greece and help you decide on which regions are just right for your next vacation and how to best pair them together.
Top Greek Food to Try
Greek food is something special! Even the most discern-ing traveler can find something that is worth the calories. Here are the top dishes and drinks that are a must try on your next trip to Greece.
Moussaka this is a traditional dish made of spiced meat, usually lamb or beef, cooked in tomato sauce and then layered with fried eggplant and bechamel sauce.
Souvlaki - this popular dish is a marinated meat (chick-en, pork, beef, or lamb) served on a skewer and often eaten with warm pita bread
Tzatziki - a simple dip made with yogurt, dill, cucumber, olive oil, and lemon. This dip is a fantastic addition to any appetizer or main dish.
Choriatiki - this is a Greek salad served with almost ev-ery meal. A classic version of this salad has cucumbers, tomatoes, olives, and feta cheese. It is served with oil and vinegar on the side to accommodate each person's dressing preference.
Kleftiko - a traditional slow-roasted lamb dish that in-fuses lemon, olive oil and garlic.
Spanakopita – A popular savory pie made with spinach, feta cheese, onions, and eggs, all wrapped in layers of crispy phyllo dough. It's perfect as a light snack or an appetizer.
Dolmades – These stuffed grape leaves are often filled with rice, pine nuts, and sometimes ground meat, seasoned with lemon and herbs. A refreshing and satisfying starter!
Top Greek Drinks to Try
Ouzo – This iconic anise-flavored spirit is often enjoyed as an aperitif. When mixed with water, it turns a milky white color and pairs well with meze (small appetizers).
Retsina – A traditional Greek wine that has been flavored with pine resin, giving it a unique and earthy taste. It's perfect for pairing with grilled meats and seafood.
Greek Coffee – Strong, thick, and served with foam on top, Greek coffee is typically enjoyed slowly. Don’t forget to savor the grounds left at the bottom of the cup—it’s all part of the experience!
Metaxa – A smooth amber spirit that blends brandy with muscat wine and a variety of botanicals. It's often sipped neat or over ice as a digestif after a meal.
Mastika – A liqueur made from mastic resin, harvested from the mastic trees on the island of Chios. Its aromatic, slightly sweet flavor is best enjoyed cold.
Ready to explore the beauty of Greece? Start planning your adventure today and check out our other posts for more tips on navigating this stunning country!
Join our family as we review Utopia of the Seas, from Royal Caribbean.
We were on the first sailing of this beautiful ship. It’s the 2nd largest cruise ship in the world.
At a quick glance, it has the largest dry slide at sea, plenty of connecting stateroom options for those traveling together, 21 dining venues, 23 bars, 8 hot tubs, 5 pools, and 3 waterslides, making it a hub for entertainment and relaxation.
Royal Caribbean’s latest ships are split in design, which allows for more open space, more balcony cabins, and more natural light.
One of the areas that takes advantage of this is Central Park, with a lush garden, real trees and plants, spanning over 20,000 square feet.
The Utopia of the Seas features the largest variety of stateroom types of any cruise in the world, offering several unique family-friendly cabins designed to cater to families of many sizes, providing a fun and comfortable cruise experience.
#1 for families: The Ultimate Family Suite
This suite spans two stories, has a slide to travel in between the kids bedrooms down to the living room below and a whirlpool on the balcony.
Sleeps up to 10 guests, with an air hockey table, 85 inch TV, 3 video game consoles, 100 foot Lego wall, and more.
#2 for families: Aqua Theater Suites
These suites are unique as you can watch the shows in the Aqua Theater from the balcony. They sleep up to 8 guests, located in the back of the ship, they have large wraparound balconies that overlook the Aqua Theater, providing a direct view of the performances.
You can watch high-diving and acrobatic performances, including the show 'Aqua 80 Too,' which is a musical tribute to the 1980s.
#3 for families: Crown Loft Suites
Sleeps up to 4 guests, with a 2 story design and a balcony.
Coastal Kitchen restaurant access, concierge services, Suite Sun Deck access, priority embarkation/disembarkation, and more.
#4 for families: Ultra Spacious Ocean View Rooms
These rooms sleep up to 6 guests and feature a master bedroom with a king bed, a second bedroom with two twin beds that convert to a queen, and a double sofa bed in the living room.
- **Large balcony**: The balcony is spacious, perfect for lounging and taking in the ocean views.
The Utopia of the Seas offers a wide range of family-friendly entertainment and activities:
The ship features five pools, including two resort-style pools and one with a sloping beach entry on the top deck, providing plenty of opportunities for families to relax and have fun in the water.
The Wonder Playscape is a thrilling space for kids with slides, climbing walls, puzzles and other interactive features.
The ship's Adventure Ocean Youth Program provides full days of supervised activities and entertainment for kids aged 3 to 11, all complimentary to guests. The Royal Babies and Tots Nursery also offers care for the youngest cruisers for a fee.
Teens will enjoy the swanky hangout with daily programming like disco parties and game nights. The ship also has a Royal Escape Room and laser tag for family fun.
Dining options are plentiful, with over 20 unique venues including the Windjammer buffet, Sorrento's Pizza, and the Southern-inspired Mason Jar restaurant. Family-friendly dining options like My Family Time Dining are also available.
The Ultimate Family Suite offers a sprawling three-bedroom layout that can accommodate up to 10 guests, with amenities like an in-suite cinema, karaoke station, and a two-story slide.
Overall, the Utopia of the Seas is designed to provide an exceptional family vacation experience with a wide range of entertainment and activities for all ages.
Utopia of the Seas is the sixth addition to Royal Caribbean's award-winning Oasis Class fleet. The world's largest ship with the world's best features just got even better.
We were some of the very first guests at the grand opening of Sandals St Vincent.
This was our first trip to the island of St. Vincent. We were blown away by the friendliness and warm hospitality of the locals.
Want to hear our review about this resort and the unique features only offered at Sandals Resort St Vincent? Buckle up.
With the island itself, there are so many experiences to be found on St Vincent. Easily explore nearby islands like Bequia, Canouan, and the Tobago Cays. Due to the marine life, St Vincent is nicknamed the Critter Capital of the Caribbean. And it doesn't stop there. Hike to the island's volcano, fish for conch, visit the headquarters for the Pirates of the Caribbean movie.
Sandals St Vincent has overwater villas, 11 dining options, two that are unique to this location, five bars and one of a kind accommodations.
Flight time from Miami is about 3.5 hours and once on island, the drive to the resort is about 45 minutes.
Some of the resorts top features:
301 rooms and suites tucked away on its own private cove bordered by lush forest and a gently flowing river.
A choice of eleven (11) dining options, three of which are exclusive to Sandals St Vincent.
Sandals first Water Taxi transfers for all Butler Elite guest arrivals.
Sandals first innovative suites featuring separate Media Rooms and Fitness Rooms with equipment.
Sandals first one of a kind Two Story Overwater Villas and Two Bedroom Beachfront Butler Villas.
Located to the south of Saint Lucia and north of Grenada in the Eastern Caribbean, St Vincent is comprised of the main island of St Vincent and a chain of 32 smaller islands known as the Grenadines. Lush and vibrant, pure, and undisturbed, ripe for discovery!
Tucked away on its own private cove and bordered by a lush forest and gently flowing river is Sandals newest all-inclusive resort in St Vincent where you can step off the beaten path and explore the little-known wonder of the Caribbean.
Pure and undisturbed, the island of Saint Vincent is nestled between two seas at the edge of the lesser Antilles its natural beauty untouched and ripe for discovery. The peaceful azure waters, majestic rainforests, and stunning white-sand beaches are a richly colorful backdrop for exciting new experiences.
Stroll along meandering rivers that empty into azure seas. Hike through the rainforest to survey the crater atop La Soufrière. Explore ancient petroglyphs created by long-ago cultures. Or dive into the waters surrounding Anchor Reef to admire the unique black coral found nowhere else. Here among the natural splendor of Sandals St. Vincent, it’s these moments of shared discovery that bring you closer together.
Our Trip Tease podcast, Episode 8, with an overview of our experience at the Sandals St Vincent resort.
ACCOMMODATIONS:
Number of Rooms & Suites: 301
Number of Room Categories: 15
Resort Size: 50 Acres
3 UNIQUE RESTAURANTS
Parisol: Type of Cuisine: Beach Club (Grill) Breakfast (a la Carte): 8:00 a.m. – 11:00 a.m. Lunch (a la Carte): 12:00 p.m. – 6:00 p.m. Capacity: 90 Dress code: Resort Casual
Buccan: Family Style Type of Cuisine: Local Dinner (a la Carte): 6:00 p.m. – 9:30 p.m. Capacity: 60 Dress code: Resort Casual (Reservations required)
Gatsu Gatsu (also at Sandals Curacao): Type of Cuisine: Izakaya & Handroll Bar Dinner (a la Carte): 6:00 p.m. – 9:30 p.m. Capacity: 60 Dress code: Resort Casual
SAILING CAPITAL
When the owner of Sandals, Adam Stewart, first sailed around St. Vincent on the Lady Sandals yacht, he was sold on the resort's location. Due to St Vincent's remote setting of the Eastern Caribbean, this is one of the sailing capitals of the world.
Sandals St Vincent is in a lesser known part of the Eastern Caribbean, which is why boaters love it. Tucked away on its own private cove and bordered by lush forest cliffs, a river, majestic rainforests, stunning white sand beaches are a richly colorful backdrop and provides for a great jumping off point for all your exciting new experiences at Sandals St Vincent.
St Vincent features Sandals first, one of a kind, two-story overwater villas. These offer a true, innovative and luxurious accommodation experience. These exceptional villas are perched above the crystal clear Caribbean waters, providing a unique connection to the natural surroundings. Spacious bedroom with see-through glass floors allowing you to admire the marine life below. And a tranquility soaking tub on the lower level.
The Red Lane Spa at Sandals St Vincent Resort, offers a truly Caribbean spa experience, inspired by the island's natural beauty and traditions. Signature spa treatments like tropical infused skincare, body care treatments and aromatherapy massages that embrace the unique location of St Vincent for weddings. The Red Lane Spa provides bridal packages with services like massages, manicures and pedicures, hair and makeup to help brides look and feel amazing on their big day.
Buccan is a unique dining concept only available at this Sandals. It is an open air family style restaurant featuring the richest local cuisine of Saint Vincent and the islands. It aims to provide an immersive cultural experience by embracing the casual, community oriented nature of St Vincent through its family style, food and service.
The Parisol Restaurant is a beachside dining experience that offers entertainment along with its delectable cuisine. Located on the beach features a variety of dishes showcasing the fresh, local ingredients and flavors of St Vincent and the Caribbean.
BEACHFRONT VILLAS
Just steps from the pristine white sands of Sandals St Vincent's shores, your beachfront villa welcomes you with an oversize patio and private pool, where you can take in the serene ocean views or retreat to your well-appointed 1 or 2 bedroom suites with king sized bed, lavish bathroom and separate media room.
For some cozy downtime with the added indulgence of butler service, this is Caribbean living the way you dreamed it to be.
Ready to book now? Or want to learn more about Sandals St Vincent? Contact our award winning Sandals Resorts travel agency.
BARS: There are nine (9) bars/cocktail lounges Butch’s Island Chophouse Bar 6:00 p.m. – 9:30 p.m. Gatsu Gatsu Bar 6:00 p.m. – 9:30 p.m. Three Jewels Rum Bar 4:00 p.m. – 1:00 a.m. Sora 6:00 p.m. – 9:30 p.m. Beach Bar 10:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. Lobby Bar 10:00 a.m. – 12:00 a.m. Swim-up Pool Bar 10:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. Plaza Bar 10:00 a.m. – 12:00 a.m. Parisol Beach Club Bar 10:00 a.m. – 12:00 a.m.
THEME NIGHTS & WEEKLY EVENTS: Sundays Big Drum Celebrations Mondays Vincy Sun Tuesdays Movie Under the Stars Wednesdays Island Vibes Plaza Party Thursdays Carnival Celebration Fridays Light Night & Candlelight Concert Saturdays Rhythm Lounge
The map includes all main features and areas of the resort including the dive shop, to the Heart-Shaped Pool, to the Rum Bar!
LAND SPORTS: Volleyball Board Games Shuffle Board Bocce Ball Pool Croquet Cricket Table Tennis Chess Board
WATERSPORTS: Scuba Diving - Certified Divers Two (2) free dives per day – Certification Card must be produced. Discover Scuba Diving (DSD) - Available for beginners at an additional fee. International Certification also available at an additional fee. Glass Bottom Boat Sailing Paddleboards Waterskiing Hobie Cats Snorkeling PADI® Scuba Diving Scuba Diving Kayaking Wakeboarding Snuba Knee boarding Open Daily: 8:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.
POOLS & WHIRLPOOLS: Four (4) Freshwater Pools, and Two (2) Whirlpools
Ready to book now? Or want to learn more about Sandals St Vincent? Contact our award winning Sandals Resorts travel agency.