When imagining a spa experience, what do you expect? Well, if you go to the Caribbean for a spa day, you’re in for a big surprise. From sugarcane body rubs to low-impact yoga and even dolphin therapy, there are some luxuries only the Caribbean can provide. If you have not yet had the pleasure of traveling to the Caribbean for a day at a spa, I would strongly suggest you book a flight.

When looking for the perfect spa, there are a few things to keep in mind, such as style, facilities and, of course, location. These three qualities have the potential to make or break your spa experience. Luckily, we are here to help steer you in the right direction. Below you will find our best choices for each of the categories listed above.

Location: Sugar Beach, A Victory Resort, St. Lucia
Are you searching for a spa with a great location? You cannot beat Sugar Beach, the crème de la crème of idealistic scenery. The hotel and spa have more than 100 acres of lush rain forest that slope down into a brilliant beach of stunning white sand. For those with a bit of an adventurous streak, Sugar Beach is close to the most premier diving spots on the entire island. Nestled in the World Heritage-listed Pitons, it is next to impossible to find a prettier destination for some much-needed rest and relaxation.

Facilities: Four Seasons Resort Nevis, Saint Kitts and Nevis
If you are looking for a truly one-of-a-kind spa experience, look no further. The Four Seasons Nevis not only has some of the most accommodating staff in all of the Caribbean, but it also prides itself on its wide array of different massages and rituals. With other options at the spa such as “Spa Under the Stars” and “Blissful Moments,” it would be hard to try everything in just one visit. Another great feature that took the cake for best facilities would be the Four Seasons’ herb garden, where  a bevy of local vegetation is used in the treatments and remedies.

Style: Sandy Lane Saint James, Barbados
Sandy Lane is all about luxury and lavish experiences; its spa is no exception. This is apparent when entering its magnificent marble reception area, lined with beautiful columns and winding staircases. Upstairs you will find treatment suites in which highly trained therapists will cater to your every need. With a mixture of different treatments accumulated from around the globe, you would be hard pressed to find an ailment that this spa could not treat.

There are some luxuries only the Caribbean can provide, and an afternoon at the spa will do wonders to relax and refocus positive energy.

— Andrew Risch, intern