The Belize Barrier Reef — the second largest in the world — sits just offshore from palm-fringed cayes. Ambergris Caye for snorkeling and nightlife. Placencia Peninsula for a quieter, more authentic Caribbean vibe. Caye Caulker for backpackers (“go slow” is the official motto). The snorkeling and diving here rival anything in the Caribbean.

Costa Rica delivers on every front: Pacific surf breaks at Santa Teresa and Tamarindo, wildlife-rich Caribbean coastline at Tortuguero, cloud forest at Monteverde and volcano-heated hot springs. The “pura vida” lifestyle is genuine — this is one of the happiest countries on earth, and the beaches back it up entirely. Infrastructure is solid by regional standards.

Panama is the only country where you can watch the sun rise over the Pacific and set over the Caribbean (or vice versa) in a single day. Bocas del Toro is a Caribbean archipelago of stilted villages and turquoise water. Santa Catalina is a surf mecca on the Pacific. The Pearl Islands deliver remote luxury. Panama City itself is a surprisingly sophisticated gateway with world-class food.

Nicaragua remains Central America’s best-kept secret — world-class Pacific surf breaks, some of the most affordable prices in the region, and a fascinating colonial history in Granada and León. Playa Maderas, Playa Hermosa and Popoyo are iconic surf spots. Ometepe Island, an active volcano rising from a giant lake, is one of the most unique destinations in all of Latin America.