Eco-tourism  : Costa Rica

Not technically a Caribbean island, Costa Rica borders on both the Atlantic and the Pacific. Enjoy the beauty of lush forests, protected eco-areas (great for birdwatchers) and friendly people. There's a volcano (Arenal), hot springs, horseback riding, a butterfly farm, plus some scuba diving. Costa Rica is too big to see in one visit, but the Papagayo area lets you explore mangroves, coral reefs, lots of interesting animals (lizards, monkeys, butterflies and more), a couple of conservation areas and more. An oasis of calm among its Central American neighbours and ecotourism heaven, it's also mostly coastline, with beaches galore.