South America Meets the Caribbean, Isla Margarita, Venezuela

Just north of Venezuela lays Isla Margarita, or Margarita Island, possibly one of the best vacation destinations in the Caribbean. It offers visitors five star resorts, high quality dining, and some of the most beautiful beaches in the world. Best of all, vacationing here generally costs a fraction of the price in comparison to other popular Caribbean destinations. Despite its location in the Caribbean Sea, Isla Margarita boasts more of a South American flavor, rather than a typical Caribbean island. This makes things all the more interesting as you explore some of the best beaches and greatest shopping districts in the region. To start with, La Caracola beach, located in the Coata Azul sector of the major city of Porlamar, draws the highest number of young visitors. Along with white sandy beaches perfect for jogging the shoreline, getting a tan, or taking a dip, this city is full of fun things to do, and boasts a happening nightlife. Another popular beach is Playa El Yaque. Famous for its nonstop wind, it is known the earth over as one of the best windsurfing beaches in the world. In addition, its shallow water and minimal waves make it one of the best beaches for children to enjoy. Playa Puerto Cruz, with its kilometer long gorgeous beach, and warm oceanic water, offers visitors a great place to kick back and enjoy the natural beauty of the island. The lighthouse of Punta Zaragoza, located on this beach, is also a fun place to explore. Perhaps the most popular beach on the island, Playa El Agua, located in the north, offers visitors 4 kilometers of fine sand to stretch themselves out on. This tranquil location not only provides visitors with great scenery, it also has much to offer in the way of shopping, fine dining, and a great nightlife. One of the most amazing places to explore on Isla Margarita is the National Park of La Restinga. You can reach the 10 kilometer beach traveling by land through the Macanao peninsula or by boat. Crossing the Restinga Lagoon takes about 45 minutes, and is an extremely enjoyable voyage. The mangrove lagoon is full of wildlife, including parrots, pelicans, flamingos, starfish, and seahorses. Weaving through the channels and tunnels of the lagoon is a treat, and visitors are rewarded with even more amazing sights within the Park. Isla Margarita, dancing to its own beat, is a relaxingly beautiful vacation hotspot that should not be left undiscovered.