Go Island Hopping Without Leaving Arlington

Tired of gray skies and the end-of-winter blues? Dreaming of warm breezes, fruity drinks, and that sun-kissed feeling? Good news: you don’t need a passport — or even a suitcase. Arlington has its own little island-hopping circuit, and all it takes is a day (and maybe a rideshare) to make the rounds.

First stop: Taste the Islands at Caribbean Grill

Start your staycation with a meal that transports you straight to Havana. Caribbean Grill is a family-owned restaurant that has been serving Arlington since 1993, and it remains one of the best-kept secrets on Lee Highway. The menu is anchored by Cuban, Caribbean, and Latin American cuisine, with standout dishes like rotisserie chicken, black beans and rice, fried yuca, and Cuban sandwiches. Regulars rave about the chicken sandwich — tender, flavorful meat in crusty, buttery bread — and the friendly, attentive staff. Pro tip: call your order in ahead of time, because lunchtime gets busy. Caribbean Grill is located at 5183 Langston Boulevard

Next stop: Sip Something Tropical at Tropical Smoothie Cafe

After all that jerk chicken and fried yuca, you’ll want something cool and refreshing. Head over to Tropical Smoothie Cafe in Virginia Square, where the motto is “born on a beach” — and the menu lives up to it, with fresh, made-to-order smoothies, wraps, flatbreads, and bowls designed to boost your mood. Think mango, pineapple, coconut, and acai — all the flavors of a resort poolside bar, conveniently located at 3811 N. Fairfax Drive. They even serve breakfast all day, so you can fuel up with an acai bowl or a tropical smoothie any time you roll in.

Final stop: Get That Glow at Palm Beach Tan

No island trip is complete without a tan. Wrap up your staycation at Palm Beach Tan in Clarendon, where you’ll find tanning beds, custom spray tans, red light therapy, and infrared sauna — everything you need to look and feel your sun-kissed best. Monthly memberships help you keep the vacation glow going long after spring break ends. Find them at 2900 Wilson Blvd, Suite 105.

So there you have it — your Arlington island-hopping itinerary, no flight required. Aloha! 🌺