Where the Caribbean meets the rainforest

Venezuela holds one of the most diverse coastlines in the Caribbean, stretching from the turquoise archipelagos of Los Roques to the mangrove-fringed cays of Morrocoy National Park. Unlike the crowded resort strips of other destinations, most of Venezuela's beaches require a little effort — and reward you with near-total solitude.

The water here runs unusually warm year-round, fed by the Caribbean current, and visibility in the outer archipelagos regularly exceeds 30 metres. Coral reefs, seagrass meadows, and pelagic drop-offs sit within a short boat ride of each other.

Beach season runs year-round, but December through April brings the driest weather and calmest seas. Venezuelans take to the coast during Semana Santa and the July school holidays — plan accordingly if you prefer quiet.

• Los Roques: 350 islands in a protected UNESCO-nominated biosphere
• Morrocoy: coral cays by day, flamingo lagoons at sunset
• Margarita Island: kite surfing hub with reliable trade winds
• Choroní: colonial village 10 minutes from black-sand beaches
• Most remote beaches require boat access — that's what keeps them pristine