Why July Is The Best Month To Book Caribbean Villas For The Holidays

The best properties always get booked first. That's an adage that's especially true in the world of Caribbean villas, where villas with the best views, the best pools, the finest beaches, and the most luxurious appointments get snapped up first. When it comes to the islands, some of the most rarefied high-end homes can be found on St. Barts, Turks & Caicos, and Grand Cayman.

It may only be July, but it's not too early to be thinking of Christmas and New Year's – or, really, any of the high-season winter weeks through March 2027. These are the prime times for enjoying a privileged bolthole on a dreamy Caribbean island. Plan it this month, when most people are in summer mode, and you'll get a jump on the best places. Here are three hot island destinations known for their over-the-top villas.

St. Barts

St Barts is known as a haven for A-listers who want the very best and don't blink when confronted with the rates. Exotic Estates has a range of luxury villas on the island, including large properties that can accommodate families and friends. Flamands Sands Estate is on the beach of the same name, with a beachside pool, a tennis court, multiple terraces, and eight bedrooms that can accommodate up to 16 guests. If you have a smaller group, it can be rented as a four- or six-bedroom configuration. There are four bedrooms in the main home and another four bedrooms in the large guest house; there is also an additional staff room with two twin-size beds. The kitchen, living room, and dining room blend into one vast living space. You are steps from the sands of Flamands Beach and walking distance from several St. Barts dining spots in the Isle de France and Taiwana hotels.

Turks & Caicos

Coral House is one of several properties that WIMCO has in the Turks & Caicos, an island that may be the ultimate white-sand beach escape. This property on Grace Bay/Leeward has 7 bedrooms and can accommodate 14 guests. Architecturally, it was inspired by the work of the theatrical designer, Oliver Messel. Built to recall the 18th-century tradition of island plantation estates, it's indeed an elegant estate. The kitchen is open-plan, with multiple seating areas and a large family room. There's also a heated pool and a gym/fitness room. You're a few steps away from Grace Bay Beach, with its famous white sands and turquoise waters. This villa comes with a chef and butler.

Grand Cayman

Villas of Distinction has a large number of properties on Grand Cayman, an island known for its pristine beaches and its status as an international banking hub. Among their villas is Fischer's Reef , which is a mile from the Rum Point Club. It has seven bedrooms, multiple living and sleeping areas, and two levels, which offer quiet zones for sleeping kids or early risers. There's an oceanfront infinity pool, and the villa sits within a protected reef filled with vibrant marine life. There are two large living areas with oversized couches, a gourmet kitchen with seating for up to 20 guests across two ocean view dining tables. There's a lower-level kitchenette. The villa's property manager resides on-site in the small cottage near the gated entrance.

This article was originally published on Forbes.com