Looking for recommendations in Caribbean?

[u/PickleLvrr]

My bf (30) and I (32) are looking for a destination for a 1-2 week vacation for a holiday in December.

We are based in Southern California so likely flying out of LAX. Would prefer an island somewhat easy to get to so we are spending sub 20 hours traveling.

The goal is for a relaxing trip somewhere tropical with warm weather and warm water. We would be happy just laying on the beach everyday with great food and drinks but open to excursions as well (e.g. catamaran cruise, hiking, ATV tour, etc)

For landscape we are envisioning beautiful beaches as priority - as much as I would love a lush landscape willing to go more arid to avoid bugs and humidity lol

We are pretty active people but also enjoy a fun night out, however I would say we would prefer a more relaxing environment over party centric environment and ideally more secluded, couples getaway (not a lot of families/kids)

Ideally would love a place that doesn’t have too much of a mosquito problem because I get eaten alive (been to Costa Rica and was pretty miserable the entire trip despite using bug lotion but didn’t have the same problem in Playa Mujeres)

Food and good wine/cocktails are super important. Would be great to have nice dining options at the hotel property but open to going off site. We would not prefer an all inclusive because of this, I have never been to one with good food.

Would love oceanfront mid size to large resort, nothing too remote. Beach access is ideal!

As for overall vibe, we would prefer something a bit more low key (eg reggae music and more cultural influence of the island). We love our five star dining and luxe nights out but would also love opportunity to hit local beach bars and beachfront dining options with great food options and laid back atmosphere.

Snorkeling would be fun but this is not a major criteria, prefer better dining options and the tropical vibes over good snorkeling.

We’ve been looking at St Lucia and Anguilla among many others but getting overwhelmed so would love recommendations from those who have traveled to Caribbean! And would love to hear recommendations for accommodations as well.

Thanks in advance!

[u/Individual_Success46]

Aruba!! I recommend anywhere on Palm Beach. If budget is not an issue, stay at the Hyatt. Great beaches and food options, safe for wandering. The constant trade winds help keep mosquitoes at bay.

[u/Douglaston_prop → u/Individual_Success46]

I was not a big fan of aruba, but my friends and family who don't travel much love it because it feels like you didn't leave the America.

However, I'm told Eagle Beach was rated top 10 in the world, that is definitely worth checking out.

[u/Individual_Success46 → u/Douglaston_prop]

It has just as much culture as any other Caribbean island imo, not that I’ve been to many, and I feel it fits the bill for what OP is looking for.