Photo Courtesy of Bolongo Bay Beach Resort

By Maryann Hammers

The sand is softer, the sun is brighter, and the sea is bluer in the Caribbean. And with your military discount, the rates are lower. What are you waiting for? Check out these deals.

St. Thomas, USVI

The family-owned 64-room Bolongo Bay Beach Resort offers a 30-percent military (active duty and veterans) discounton accommodations when you stay at least four nights in an ocean-view room. (You also can get the same discount on the resort’s all-inclusive rates.) Enjoy complimentary in-pool scuba lessons and nonmotorized water sports, including snorkel gear, kayaks, Hobie cats, and stand-up paddleboards. Stay five nights, and the resort will treat you to a free sunset cocktail cruise for two on board its 53-foot catamaran ($110 value). Discounted daily rates begin at $245 for two (regularly $350), plus tax and service charge. Valid through Dec. 23, 2017. You’ll need to book directly with the resort, using booking code “ Military.” Call (800) 524-4746.

Barbados

Sweetfield Manor, a luxury seven-room bed-and-breakfast, was built in the early 1900s and still maintains a plantation-house vibe. Perched atop a hill overlooking Barbados’ spectacular south coast, it’s nestled among tropical surroundings with a lagoon-style pool and hot tub with waterfall. Military members get a 20-percent discount (regular prices start at $236, so the military rate is as low as $189), including breakfast. You’ll need to book directly with the hotel and ask for discount code “Military2017.” (The same deal is offered to anyone over age 65 — use discount code Seniors2017.) Proof of past or present military service (or age) is required. Call (246) 269-7294.

Bahamas

Grand Lucayan on Grand Bahama Island offers all-inclusive rates, an expansive white-sand beach, an 18-hole championship golf course, three swimming pools, several bars and restaurants, and a spa and fitness center. Active duty military members can receive a 10 percent off their stay by presenting their ID to the front desk upon arrival. The discount can be applied to any package or specials, excluding the Florida or Bahamian resident rate option. The offer is valid through Dec. 31, 2017. Call (855) 708-6671.

Warwick Paradise Island - Bahamas , set along Nassau Harbour, is a new 250-room, four-star, adults-only, all-inclusive resort with views of Nassau and Paradise Island. The resort includes five dining options, two bars, and a full-service spa and salon. Active duty and retired military members get a year-round 10-percent discount off the lowest available promotional rate. Prices vary by travel dates and room category, but military rates start at about $334 a night. That includes all meals and snacks; alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages; Wi-Fi internet access; use of the fitness center; activities such as bocce, beach volleyball, and horseshoes; nightly entertainment; as well as gratuities, taxes, and surcharges. Call (888) 645-5550 and mention that you are an active duty or retired military member. Or book online and check the "military rate" box. Military ID is required at check-in.

Throughout the Caribbean

Divi Resorts offers veterans and active duty servicemembers a year-round 20-percent discountoff best available room rates at its stylish, friendly resorts on Aruba, Barbados, Bonaire, and St. Maarten. The deal can be combined with other current sales offers for even greater savings. Most Divi Resorts are all-suite properties, ranging from studios to two-bedrooms, with fully equipped kitchens, spacious living rooms and dining areas, and private balconies or patios with ocean, pool, or garden views. Each resort also features freshwater pools — some with swim-up bars — as well as on-site restaurants, tennis courts, kids’ activity clubs, water sports centers, and spas. Call (800) 367-3484.