Strictly from the perspective of gay popularity, there are better beaches around the world than those in the generally conservative Caribbean. But in terms of sheer splendor, it's hard to find a more magical place for relaxing in the sun than this vast archipelago of lush, foliage-choked islands fringed by sugary-white, talcum-soft beaches.

If you look a little, you definitely can find some spots to sun yourself among fellow lesbians and gays in the Caribbean. Just exercise discretion when it comes to cruising and baring your buns: Key West this is not.

Here's a roundup of especially wonderful and gay-frequented beaches in the Caribbean, from glitzy San Juan, Puerto Rico's Condado, to exclusive St. Barts' clothing-optional Saline Beach.

CONDADO BEACH, SAN JUAN PUERTO RICO
This bustling stretch of sand lies close to the heart of Puerto Rico's largest city, a short cab ride from historic and charming Old San Juan. The gayest spot is just outside the fabulous Atlantic Beach Hotel ($70-170), which has a festive beach bar and café.

This is about the only stretch of sand in the Caribbean where you're extremely likely to find other gay couples lounging about.

Don't miss :
On Puerto Rico's tiny and queer-friendly isle of Vieques, just off the northeast coast. The small beach in the village of Esperanza opens onto a glorious bay and is a favorite hangout among guests of the area's many gay-friendly inns.

CUPECOY BEACH, ST. MARTIN/SINT MAARTEN
Sun worshipers flock to this hot spot on the Dutch side of one of the Caribbean's favorite gay retreats. Cupecoy is the gay beach, usually jammed with nude, toned bodies.

MEGAN'S BAY BEACH, ST. THOMAS, U.S. VIRGIN ISLANDS
Away from the bustle of cruise ships and duty-free shops that crowd St. Thomas' commercial hub, Charlotte Amalie, Megan's Bay Beach is a lovely stretch of sand with sea grape trees; the calm bay is perfect for a soak.

Don't miss :
On the quieter sister island of St. Croix, the pristine beach just south of the town of Frederiksted lies within walking distance of the gay-oriented Sand Castle on the Beach resort.

SALINE BEACH, ST. BARTS
This island known for attracting jetsetters, fashionistas and other fabulous creatures couldn't be more gay-friendly, even if there's not exactly a defined gay scene, per se. Same-sexers are pretty much welcome everywhere, including 1,000-foot Saline Beach -- where nudity is permitted.

SUNSET WATERS BEACH, CURAÇAO
Cosmopolitan Curaçao, with its Dutch allegiance, ranks among the most gay-friendly islands in the southern Caribbean, and the island has dozens of fine beaches. Although none claims to be a definitive gay mecca, the broad, magnificent nudist beach below Sunset Waters Beach Resort definitely pulls in plenty of gays and lesbians. Moreover, it's a stunning stretch of sand, and all sorts of beach equipment can be rented here, from paddleboats to aqua-bikes.