The word comes to us from the Taíno people: amaca. These woven strands evolved from fishing nets into chairs, beds, and carry sacks. Sailors slung them in the holds of their trading vessels and jungle explorers carried them in lieu of bedding.
Today, hammocks evoke relaxation and provide a perfect place to rest or nod off for an afternoon nap as a sea breeze tempers the heat of the day. Whether suspended over lush green grass, beachfront or just outside your private palapa, a hammock is always a welcome sight when you arrive at a Caribbean resort.
Viceroy Riviera Maya, Mexico
Just north of Playa del Carmen, the Viceroy Riviera Maya sits hidden from the world behind a veil of jungle foliage. Once inside, the tropical forest vibe is complemented by a high level of luxe and impeccable service. Your room is a freestanding palapa, and just outside awaits a patio where you can relax in absolute seclusion. Next to your private plunge pool and outdoor seating is the hammock—yours whenever the urge hits to swing, nap, read a book, or sip a cocktail. Early evening is ideal, with the light of a lantern nearby and a slow-turning fan overhead.
Presidente InterContinental Cozumel Resort & Spa, Mexico
At the Presidente Intercontinental Cozumel Resort & Spa, you can walk right from your room to one of the finest beaches on the island of Cozumel, where hammocks swing under the thatched roofs of palapas set close to the water’s edge. Or, you could grab a book and a cool libation and go no farther than your sea-view patio, where your own private hammock awaits. This is also the perfect place to unwind after a day of beaching it or scuba diving, perhaps sharing some time with a significant other while watching the sunset over the Mexican mainland.
Nisbet Plantation Beach Club, Nevis
Suspended between sand, sun, and sky, and just steps away from the gentle lapping of the Caribbean, the iconic beachfront hammock at the Nisbet Plantation Beach Club awaits. Climb in, lay back, and take in the magnificent views of Nevis Peak and the distant hills of St. Kitts. Should hunger or thirst set in, you’ll want for nothing, as the amenities of the club are just steps away. Take a refreshing dip in the pool, order up a nosh and enjoy it with a water view at Coconuts, or indulge in an adult beverage at the Sea Breeze.
Four Seasons Resort, Nevis
The expansive grounds of the Four Seasons Resort include acres of manicured green lawns and a coconut grove that fronts Nevis’ favorite stretch of saffron-colored sand: Pinneys Beach. Halfway between room and shore, a collection of perfectly spaced hammocks invites you to stop and linger. Partial shade and hints of an onshore breeze keep the air at a pleasant temperature. When the urge strikes you, it’s just a short stroll over to the Cabana for lunch or a libation, and an equally short walk to the beach, where you can take a dip and then return to doing absolutely nothing.
Peter Island Resort & Spa, British Virgin Islands
Hammocks grace the logo at Peter Island Resort & Spa, so it’s no surprise to find them scattered across this private island. Some sit isolated on a secluded stretch of sand, others provide grand views of the ocean and surrounding islands of the British Virgins. The resort’s ocean view A-frames open to a palm-shaded front lawn ideal for strolling barefoot or swaying in a hammock between the trunks. Arriving by water taxi, private boat, or helicopter, guests find themselves removed from the cares of the outside world, but not from the resort’s full range of creature comforts and activities.
Bitter End Yacht Club, Virgin Gorda, British Virgin Islands
At the Bitter End Yacht Club, a hammock is waiting just for you on the wraparound porch of your timber-and-stone hillside cottage. If you want to take your relaxation closer to the action, head for the resort’s white sand beach, where you can stretch out with a view of the shoreline as balmy trade winds waft around the point and sunshine sparkles on the shallows. This crescent of sand is a focal point for water activities, launching sailors and kayakers into the sounds, and accommodating landing parties that come ashore for a meal or a drink.
