caribbean top tourist destinations

18 Best Places to Visit in the Caribbean

Written by Anietra Hamper Updated Mar 19, 2024

The Caribbean, with its nearly perfect tropical weather, beautiful beaches, turquoise water, and island breezes, is a top vacation destination almost year-round. There are thousands of islands throughout the Caribbean Sea that are popular places to visit for tourists, each with its own flair and appeal.

One of the reasons for the popularity of these islands is the range of all-inclusive resorts that make vacations easy. There are adults-only resorts, family resorts, and bungalows available for solo travelers.

In the Caribbean, it's easy to plan visits to several destinations on a single trip, whether you are island hopping on an excursion or taking a Caribbean cruise to multiple islands.

For help planning your vacation, read our list of the best places to visit in the Caribbean.

1. British Virgin Islands

2. u.s. virgin islands, 3. st. lucia, 4. dominican republic, 5. the cayman islands, 8. turks & caicos, 9. puerto rico, 10. antigua, 11. barbados, 12. anguilla, 13. curacao, 14. grenada, 15. st. martin, 16. st. vincent and the grenadines, 17. bahamas, 18. guadeloupe, map of places to visit in the caribbean, best time to visit the caribbean.

The British Virgin Islands are hands-down one of the best places to visit in the Caribbean. For starters, there are 60 islands that make up the BVI, so there is no shortage of places to explore, reefs to dive, and white-sand beaches to sink your toes into while on vacation.

The British Virgin Islands has a mix of tourists and enough activities and lodging to accommodate high-end luxury, all-inclusive preferences, and more rustic experiences.

Beaches are a big draw in the BVI, from the popular family-friendly Cane Garden Bay on Tortola island to the quiet and picturesque Deadman's Beach on Peter Island .

The azure Caribbean waters that surround the islands are clear and perfect for surfing, diving, snorkeling, sailing, and windsurfing. There are many excursions you can take from the islands, like dolphin tours and sunset cruises.

• Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in the British Virgin Islands

The U.S. Virgin Islands are top places to visit in the Caribbean because travel to them is easy, especially from the United States. The U.S. Virgin islands consist of St. Thomas , St. John , and St. Croix . It is easy to island-hop between the three for day trips.

St. Croix is the largest of the islands and attracts honeymooners and scuba divers to its waters. The island is only 22 miles long, with two cities and a nice cultural scene with artisans and architecture.

St. Thomas is the most diverse with regard to visitors, and it generally attracts couples and families to its beaches and cultural city center.

The island of St. John is the smallest island and more rustic than the other two. St. John has a lot of natural beauty beyond well-known beaches like Trunk Bay. Two-thirds of the island is protected national park land, so you will see the Caribbean in its most natural state.

• Read More: Top-Rated Attractions & Places to Visit in the US Virgin Islands

The tropical paradise of St. Lucia is one of the top honeymoon destinations in the Caribbean, and it is easy to see why. It has many posh resorts and is equally as relaxing as it is fuel for adrenaline junkies. The clean beaches are where most vacationers spend a majority of their time. Anse Des Sables Beach and Plantation Beach are two of the popular ones.

St. Lucia has many activities to take advantage of on the island, from ziplining through the rainforest to off-roading. It is a desirable island for diving trips and snorkeling excursions. The island has quiet natural beauty but it also has nightlife and restaurants in Rodney Bay .

The Dominican Republic is the second-largest Caribbean country and one of the most popular for vacationers and honeymooners.

It is easy to get to the Dominican Republic, which is one of the reasons it is one of the best places to visit in the Caribbean. It is a two-hour flight from Miami and an eight-hour trip from most cities in Europe.

If the beach is your focus, you have 250 miles of beautiful beaches to choose from on the island.

Some of the best places for tourists to visit include Punta Cana and Puerto Plata , where you will find many resorts and departure points for excursions, like snorkeling and diving.

A visit to the capital, Santo Domingo , is also worthwhile for a taste of history.

• Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in the Dominican Republic

The Cayman Islands are top islands to visit for those looking for epic diving experiences in the Caribbean.

The island chain is made up of Grand Cayman , Little Cayman, and Cayman Brac . Grand Cayman is the most popular island for vacationers, and it has a number of popular dive sites, like the Kittiwake Shipwreck and artificial reef.

Grand Cayman is also famous for the tranquil Seven Mile Beach , one of the best beaches in the Caribbean , and Stingray City, where tourists can get up close to the giant sea creatures that will eat food right out of your hand.

You can stay at one of the many resorts on Grand Cayman and make day trips to the other two islands during your stay.

• Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in the Cayman Islands

The crystal-clear waters of Aruba are ideal for a perfect island getaway. Aruba is not as popular as some of the other Caribbean islands, which makes it one of the best places to go because you can enjoy the island's beaches and attractions at their best without large crowds of people.

Swimming in the Caribbean waters is the top thing to do in Aruba. Eagle Beach and Palm Beach are two of the best beaches on the island .

Diving is also popular in Aruba. If you are a novice, you can take a diving lesson from your resort and head out for a day to explore some of the nearby coral reefs and shipwrecks.

For non-beach activities, Arikok National Park is a popular excursion , and the Aruba Ostrich Farm is a fun experience, especially for families.

• Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Aruba

By the time most vacationers leave Jamaica, they feel like a local.

Almost everywhere you go, you will be immersed in Jamaican culture, from the reggae music to the jerk chicken cooking on a roadside grill. Jamaica is a popular Caribbean destination because there are frequent flights to the island and many all-inclusive resorts, making it an easy vacation to plan.

While Seven Mile Beach in Negril is where you will likely spend part of your vacation, Jamaica is great for travelers who enjoy being active. Dunn's River Falls is just one of many breathtaking waterfalls in Jamaica , where you can swim in the water and hike up the falls. There are also guided excursions to Blue Mountains National Park and snorkeling.

Like most of the Caribbean, some times are better than others for a visit. The best time to visit Jamaica may be when you have free time, but otherwise you may want to consider the weather and storm season.

• Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Jamaica

Turks and Caicos was dramatically impacted by the 2017 hurricane season, but it is still one of the best places to go in the Caribbean, especially as it rebuilds and looks to attract tourists. There are 40 islands and small cays that make up Turks and Caicos.

Grand Turk is home to the only cruise ship port. Providenciales, or " Provo ," is known for its top-shelf luxury resorts and one of the best beaches in the world , Grace Bay.

Diving and snorkeling in the Turks and Caicos is recommended around spots like Bight Reef, which has spectacular underwater reefs and fish.

• Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in the Turks and Caicos Islands

Puerto Rico is one of the best Caribbean getaways because there are plenty of flights to the island, and it appeals to various kinds of vacationers.

The clear-water beaches are nice for families, the shops in San Juan attract cruise ship passengers, the secluded island of Vieques is a quiet place for couples, and the 25-foot waves at Tres Palmas beach in Rincon attract surfers from around the world.

Kick back with your beach towel on Flamenco Beach or hike up to the El Morro fortress, one of the top attractions on the island . At night, you can step out to enjoy the bioluminescent microorganisms that glow in Mosquito Bay.

The other nice perk of Puerto Rico is that there are often discount packages available year-round, even in the winter months, when other Caribbean islands hike their prices.

• Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in San Juan

The main draw of Antigua is its 365 beaches that range from calm, shallow waters that are nice spots for swimming to deep water that is ideal for snorkeling.

Dickenson Bay is one of the most popular beaches on Antigua for relaxing. If you are looking for more secluded beaches, the tucked-away sands at Hawksbill Bay are quieter and ideal for couples and honeymooners.

Non-beach activities on Antigua are numerous, which is why this is one of the best places to visit in the Caribbean. For a panoramic view of the island, hike to the top of Shirley Heights, where you can even see the Montserrat volcano. Another fun outing is going to St. John's Saturday Market, where you can buy unique souvenirs, from spices to crafts.

• Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Antigua and Barbuda

Barbados has a laid-back vibe for a quiet Caribbean vacation, and that is one of its greatest appeals. The beaches in Barbados , like picturesque Bathsheba, Carlisle Bay, and Dover, have pristine white sands, where you can spend the day relaxing in between swimming in the lukewarm water.

Spend an afternoon in Bridgetown and look at the old architecture as you buy spices from local street vendors.

Barbados is a fun island to explore, with many attractions and natural landmarks that are open for tourists. Harrison's Cave offers a nice tour to see the stalactite and stalagmite formations, and Animal Flower Cave is a sea cave that you can access on your own.

If you enjoy snorkeling, you will want to book a day excursion that takes you to see shipwrecks and swim with sea turtles.

The island of Anguilla offers one of the most authentic Caribbean experiences because cruise ships are not allowed on the island, so it is a bit less touristy.

Instead of large hotels, Anguilla has small villas on the beach. You will find some luxury resorts on the island if you are looking for additional pampering, but the overcrowded tourist scene that is common on some other islands does not happen in Anguilla.

Most vacationers on Anguilla hang out on one of more than 30 unspoiled beaches, like Meads Bay, Shoal Bay East, and Rendezvous Bay. Day-trip excursions are popular for snorkeling, diving, and eco-tours around the island.

• Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Anguilla

The island of Curacao is unique because instead of the subdued blue and green colors that you see on buildings on other islands, you will see a vibrant and colorful Dutch influence in the historic architecture. The port city of Willemstad has a fun energy and old European flare, but the beaches are still the main draw.

The snorkeling and diving are excellent on Curacao, and many coral reefs are easy to access. Cas Abao Beach and Playa Lagun are top beaches on the island. It is easy to rent water sports equipment on the island or take a diving lesson.

The draw of Grenada is the experiences that you will have on the island, besides the memorable imagery of its beautiful beaches. You can spend mornings beachcombing for shells and afternoons touring one of the island's spice plantations. You will want to visit the colorful harbor and walk St. George's beautiful streets.

Grenada has 45 beaches, but two-mile Grand Anse Beach is the most popular. There are several natural areas to hike, like La Sagesse Nature Center and the Grand Etang National Park. Be sure to plan a little time to visit one of the fun spots on the island, Market Square, where you can pick up souvenirs from local vendors.

• Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Grenada

The small island of St. Martin is a bit more active with tourists than some other Caribbean islands. It is a dual-owned island, so one side is French and the other side is Dutch.

The beaches are tranquil and plentiful, so you can try a new one each day of your vacation. Orient Bay, Mulley Bay, and Cupecoy Beach are popular, but there are plenty of others to enjoy.

There are many non-beach activities on St. Martin, like ziplining near the Pic du Pardis mountains, snorkeling, and sailing. Day trips to Anguilla are popular and easy to book from St. Martin. You can also do a catamaran tour around the island.

The 32 islands that make up St. Vincent and the Grenadines capture the pure essence of the Caribbean with their remoteness and quiet tropical breezes. These are popular islands for anyone who wants to just lay in a hammock beneath a shade tree or soak in the sun next to the turquoise water, and not do much else.

If you do feel like exploring, there are plenty of attractions and things to do , from snorkeling, sailing, and hiking, to island-hopping. The charm of St. Vincent and the Grenadines is their many hideaways and small islands, which will make you feel like you have the tropical paradise to yourself.

There are many boutique hotels and resorts on the islands. While December through April is the popular season to visit, you can find nice hotel discounts and the same 80-degree temperatures by planning your trip in May, June, or November.

The Bahamas are popular tourist islands with more than 700 of them dotting the Caribbean waters.

The capital city of Nassau is a common port for cruise ships, so you will find attractions to fill your time like shopping, beaches, markets, Paradise Island, and the Ardastra Gardens & Wildlife Conservation Centre.

Some of the other islands in the Bahamas like Exuma , Eleuthera , Harbor Island , and Abaco have spectacular things to do like fishing, relaxing on beaches, diving, swimming in hidden coves, and exploring natural parks.

You can find lots of all-inclusive resorts in the Bahamas that take the guesswork out of planning, whether you are going for a romantic vacation or a family getaway.

Lots of people like to head to the Bahamas for a winter getaway from mid-December through mid-April. That is the ideal time to go to enjoy the Bahamas' consistently perfect weather outside of hurricane season, but you will have higher prices and more crowds during those months.

Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in the Bahamas

If you are looking for a more secluded Bahamas vacation in an unspoiled setting, then Guadeloupe will appeal to you.

This French Caribbean island is more rustic than other islands. Guadeloupe is made up of Grande-Terre and Basse-Terre , two isles separated by the Salée River and a cluster of smaller islands. You can spend a full week in each region or divide your vacation into day trips visiting the top attractions and sightseeing destinations.

Some of the highlights in Guadeloupe include hiking and birdwatching at the Guadeloupe National Park, snorkeling at the Jacques Cousteau Underwater Reserve, and soaking in the tropical gardens at the Jardin Botanique de Deshaies.

Guadeloupe is covered in lush forests and picturesque waterfalls, so there is always a quiet place to escape to, even during the busy months of December through May when the weather is ideal on the islands.

The seasons in the Caribbean are somewhat similar, but some months will see more rain than others, and the experiences on the islands vary at different times of the year. Spring Spring is a nice time to visit the Caribbean. March and April are still in the high season window, so prices will remain at a premium but deals can be found outside of spring break.

There are still a large number of tourists in the early spring, especially with spring break schedules. Late spring, in May, ushers in the shoulder season, so it is a nice time to go, when you have a balance of great weather and lower prices.

Spring temperatures are very warm and there is little rainfall. Beach days are optimal, and swimming, snorkeling, and diving are great, with clear and calm water before hurricane season arrives in June.

Summer The summer months of June, July, and August are the low season in the Caribbean . This is the time to snag great deals on resort stays and take advantage of additional perks that are usually offered to attract tourists, like free nights and dinners. The tourist crowds are gone during the summer months, opening up availability at resorts and giving you more room on the beach.

Summer is also the start of the turtle nesting season , which generally goes through October. If you are traveling to see the turtles, then this is an ideal time to visit. Check with your specific islands of interest to get detailed information on nesting locations, schedules, and excursions. The downside to visiting the Caribbean during the summer months is that it is the beginning of hurricane season and hot. You may run the risk of encountering a major storm.

June has more rain than July and August, which are usually sunny months. The summer has higher temperatures (averaging in the mid-to-upper 80s Fahrenheit) and high humidity, which is uncomfortable for some travelers.

Fall The fall months in the Caribbean are still within prime hurricane season and less popular months for tourists. September, October, and November are on the Caribbean shoulder season so there are a few advantages of going just before the high season starts in December. You can get great prices for hotels and airfare during these months and there are fewer people on the islands.

Fall is a great time to look for last-minute getaway deals on resorts and Caribbean cruises.

One bonus of visiting during the fall is the shorebird migration, which takes place as birds make their way from their northern nesting sites to their southern winter sites in South America. This is an opportunity to see dozens of species that cannot be seen otherwise. You should refer to the migration details of the country that you plan to visit to more precisely target the timeframe for that region.

The caution for fall Caribbean travel is that it is still hurricane season . While most days will have mild and comfortable temperatures, lower humidity, and less rain than in the summer, there is always a risk of a hurricane or tropical storm. It is best to purchase trip insurance if you plan to travel in the fall.

Winter The winter months of December, January, and February are the best time to visit the Caribbean. These are the ideal months to travel, with the best beach weather, tours in full swing, and sites open on the islands ready to cater to tourists. The winter months have the least rainfall .

The Caribbean islands are an easy travel choice, especially for North American tourists wanting to escape from the snow and cold weather. Flights are frequent to the Caribbean islands, and with so many to choose from, it is easy to book a winter vacation. You will also have an abundance of Caribbean cruise options during these months.

The only downside to booking a Caribbean vacation in the winter is the cost. Since this is high season, you can expect to pay a premium for hotels and resorts, flights, cruises, and tours. Early Availability is also reduced during the popular months, but with so many islands to visit, you should have no problem if you plan several months ahead.

Early January is typically quieter than the rest of the winter after the Christmas crowds have gone home and before people plan winter vacations.

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More Caribbean Fun: Most people head to the Caribbean for the beautiful beaches , and there are thousands to discover, from The Bahamas to Cuba . The Caribbean is also a top vacation destination because it has some of the best luxury all-inclusive resorts in the world and is among the best places to go snorkeling in the world , so you can be assured of a relaxing and memorable vacation.

More on Bahamas

The 10 Most Visited Caribbean Islands

• Affiliate , Aruba , Bahamas , Cuba , Curacao , Dominican Republic , Guadeloupe , Jamaica , Puerto Rico , Things To Do , Top 10 , Turks & Caicos Islands , US Virgin Islands
• Ursula Petula Barzey
• June 10, 2023

Irresistible beaches, breathtaking landscapes, and a cornucopia of vibrant cultures continue to woo millions of visitors to the Caribbean region. From luxury getaways to affordable adventure trips and festivals, each Caribbean destination offers travelers its unique culture and appeal. 

Below are the top 10 most visited Caribbean islands , which account for 85% of visitors to the Caribbean region. As Caribbean destinations continue to rebound from the COVID-19 pandemic, the list of most popular Caribbean islands is ranked using 2022 data, and 2021 data is also provided to show the positive or negative changes in stay-over visitors.

Most Popular Caribbean Destinations

Based on 2022 data provided by the Caribbean Tourism Organization , the ten most popular Caribbean destinations include the Dominican Republic, Puerto Rico, Jamaica, Cuba, The Bahamas, Aruba, Guadeloupe, US Virgin Islands, Turks & Caicos, and Curaçao.

1. Dominican Republic 🇩🇴

Stay-Over Tourists:   Year 2022: 7,153,388 / Year 2021:  4,994,309

The Dominican Republic is the most visited island in the Caribbean. With its seemingly endless white-sand beaches, the Dominican Republic is a popular getaway for tourists searching for an idyllic vacation, plenty of outdoor adventure, and a tinge of colonial history. From its jaw-dropping cliffs to peaceful mangrove lagoons, it’s easy to fall in love with the Dominican Republic’s natural beauty and rich Spanish heritage. Bountiful palm trees complement the turquoise waters of popular Punta Cana to create the perfect postcard from this tropical destination. Outside Punta Cana, the  Dominican Republic  offers abundant aquamarine adventures at Bahía de las Águilas and the Samaná Peninsula.

Best Tours in Dominican Republic

• 🎨 Art & Culture: Half-Day Dominican Republic Cultural Tour
• 🥘 Food & Drink: 101 Oliver Rum Tasting and Pairing
• 🥾 Outdoor Activities: Adventure Bundle: Monkeyland, Ziplines & Buggies Punta Cana
• ⛵ Watersports: Small-Group Cruising and Snorkeling Catamaran Tour
• 🐎 Wildlife: Horseback Riding on a Punta Cana Beach

2. Puerto Rico 🇵🇷

Stay-Over Tourists:   Year 2022:  5,100,000 /  Year 2021:  1,664,866

Puerto Rico: 16th-century citadel in San Juan named Castillo San Felipe del Morro. Photo Credit: © Puerto Rico Tourist Board.

Puerto Rico jumps to the second most popular destination in the Caribbean. There is much to enjoy as Puerto Rico is an island with old Spanish charm and modern attractions and accommodations. Puerto Rico is home to the El Yunque Rainforest , the only tropical rainforest in the United States, and Casa Bacardi, the world’s largest rum distillery where the piña colada was invented. Its blissful beaches, 23 golf courses, and captivating culture attract scores of visitors to Puerto Rico every year. The island’s breathtaking beauty includes three of only seven bioluminescent bays in the world.

Best Tours in Puerto Rico

• 🎨 Art & Culture: Old San Juan City Walking Tour
• 🥘 Food & Drink: Old San Juan Sunset Walk & Taste Food Tour
• 🥾 Outdoor Activities:   Puerto Rico Guided Adventure in El Yunque Rainforest
• ⛵ Watersports:   San Juan Guided Snorkel Tour
• 🐎 Wildlife: Puerto Rico Horseback Riding through Secluded Beaches and Tropical Forests

3. Jamaica 🇯🇲

Stay-Over Tourists:   Year 2022: 2,206,928 / Year 2021: 1,464,399

Jamaica remains the third most visited island in the Caribbean. From Negril’s Seven Mile Beach in the west to breathtaking waterfalls in the east, Jamaica is well known as the playground of the English-speaking Caribbean. With more than 170 attractions spread over the island, there’s something for people of all ages to enjoy. Stroll the beaches of Montego Bay by day and dance to the latest reggae music at one of the city’s nightclubs. In Kingston, explore the life and work of the legendary Bob Marley at his namesake museum and have lunch at Usain Bolt’s Tracks and Records. Take a thrilling bobsled ride through the forest and go swimming with dolphins in the resort town of Ocho Rios. 

Best Tours in Jamaica

• 🎨 Art & Culture: Bob Marley Museum Tour from Runaway Bay
• 🥘 Food & Drink: Zimbali Mountain Cooking Studio
• 🥾 Outdoor Activities: Dunn’s River Falls Climb plus Ziplines, ATV, Horse Ride & Swim from Montego Bay
• ⛵ Watersports: Catamaran Cruise & Snorkeling Tour from Montego Bay
• 🐎 Wildlife: Bamboo Rafting and Horseback

Stay-Over Tourists:   Year 2022:  1,614,087 /  Year 2021:   356,470

Tourists from around the world are drawn to the mystique of Cuba, an island that boasts a pristine coastline, an abundance of parks, and several UNESCO natural reserves. Cuba offers an eclectic blend of old-world charm in its neoclassical and baroque architecture, mixed with post-modernist styles and natural landscapes. Havana is well known for its lively entertainment featuring jazz, Latin music, dance, and copious amounts of rum-flavored drinks.  Cuba   also has plenty of museums and art galleries that offer a window into the country’s rich history and culture. 

5. The Bahamas 🇧🇸

Stay-Over Tourists:   Year 2022:  1,422,422 /  Year 2021:  892,997

Bahamas: Exuma – Swimming with Pigs. Photo Credit: © Bahamas Tourist Board.

The beautiful island chain of  The Bahamas  is a haven for relaxation, and its sun-drenched beaches are among the world’s best. With its serene, laidback atmosphere, pristine waters, and rich, vibrant culture, the Bahamas is perfect for a quick weekend getaway or an extended tropical vacation. Take a trip to  The Exumas to see the swimming pigs   and explore other islands between sips of Bahama Mama, one of many rum-based cocktails on the island. When in The Bahamas, try the famous conch salad and craft beer from the Pirate Republic Brewery.

Best Tours in The Bahamas

• 🎨 Art & Culture: Nassau Historical Walking Tour
• 🥘 Food & Drink: Nassau Food Tasting and Cultural Walking Tour
• 🥾 Outdoor Activities: Pirate Jeep Tours Sightseeing Adventure!
• ⛵ Watersports: Nassau Sail and Snorkel Tour
• 🐖 Wildlife: Exuma Swimming Pigs Full-day Experience

6. Aruba 🇦🇼

Stay-Over Tourists:   Year 2022: 1,100,963 /  Year 2021:  806,534

Aruba: Family At Butterfly Farm. Photo Credit: © Aruba Tourism Authority.

Visitors to the Dutch enclave of   Aruba  can enjoy ultimate relaxation on its breathtaking white-sand beaches or embark on thrilling escapades to explore the natural landscape. The coastline offers abundant activities for the watersport enthusiast, including snorkeling, diving, and windsurfing. There are also many land-based options, such as horseback riding and hiking. When you’re done sunbathing at one of its uncrowded beaches, take a dip in the natural pool at the Arikok National Wildlife Park or stroll through the capital, Oranjestad, and gaze at the city’s unique colonial-era architecture. 

Best Tours in Aruba

• 🎨 Art & Culture: Aruba Downtown Historic and Cultural Walking Tour
• 🥘 Food & Drink: Aruba Sunset Cruise and Seaside Dinner
• 🥾 Outdoor Activities: Natural Pool, Caves & Baby Beach Aruba Jeep Adventure Tour
• ⛵ Watersports: Aruba Catamaran Sail with Snorkeling
• 🐠 Wildlife: Aruba Atlantis Submarine Expedition

7. Guadeloupe 🇬🇵

Stay-Over Tourists:   Year 2022: 817,000 /  Year 2021:  500,000 (estimate)  

The former French islands of  Guadeloupe  are a fascinating archipelago of 5 islands well known for their distinctive Creole culture, cuisine, and celebrations. The main island, Grande-Terre, has a vast limestone plateau fringed with magnificent, white sandy beaches and dozens of beautiful resorts. Head over to Basse-Terre, home to the Guadeloupe National Park, where the La Soufrière volcano can be found. Try Guadeloupe’s delectable creole cuisine, which serves a mouthwatering blend of flavors in dishes like Fricassée de Lambi – Queen Conch stew, and Calalou – a spicy soup of spinach, pork, and land crab. 

Best Tours in Guadeloupe

• 🎨 Art & Culture: Private Sightseeing Tour of Guadeloupe
• 🥘 Food & Drink: Visit Rum Distillery ( Distillerie Longueteau ) and Nature Spots (Bains des Amours and Bassin Bleu) in Guadeloupe with a Land Rover Guide
• 🥾 Outdoor Activities: Stand-up Paddleboarding at Babin Beach
• ⛵ Watersports: Sailing and Snorkeling Day Tour to Les Saintes
• 🐠 Wildlife: Seabob Rental in Guadeloupe

8. US Virgin Islands 🇻🇮

Stay-Over Tourists:   Year 2022: 800,073 /  Year 2021: 824,461 

There’s so much to do in the US Virgin Islands (USVI), from exhilarating adventures to tranquil relaxation and a host of activities in between. Island hopping between St. Croix, St. John, and St. Thomas is a breeze with regular ferries between the islands. Explore the rich cultural diversity of the islands through mouthwatering local dishes and historical European architecture. When you’re tired of exploring, laze away at the beaches by day, and enjoy the spectacular bioluminescent bays at night. Shopping is also a major attraction of the  USVI ,  thanks to a $1,600 duty-free allowance. 

Best Tours in St Thomas, US Virgin Islands

• 🎨 Art & Culture: The Best of St Thomas Private Sightseeing Tour
• 🥘 Food & Drink: St Thomas Food Tasting and Cultural Walking Tour
• 🥾 Outdoor Activities: Tree Limin’ Extreme Zipline
• ⛵ Watersports: Turtle Cove Catamaran Snorkel & Sail Adventure at Little Buck Island St. Thomas
• 🐠 Wildlife: Sea Trek Helmet Dive at Coral World Ocean Park

9. Turks & Caicos 🇹🇨

Stay-Over Tourists: Year 2022: 549,161 / Year 2021: 404,664

The islands of Turks and Caicos are truly among the world’s most incredible destinations. From the powdery white sand beaches to the radiant blue waters, you’ll marvel at the wonder of this magical archipelago. You can dive into the world’s third-largest barrier reef system in the  Turks and Caicos   and visit the world’s only Conch Farm. Don’t miss the chance to swim at the captivating Grace Bay Beach and spend an evening dancing to ripsaw music. Whether a family vacation or a romantic getaway, these mesmerizing islands provide many options to create perfect memories.

Best Tours in Turks & Caicos

• 🎨 Art & Culture: Discovery Tour and Treasure Hunt ( North and Middle Caicos)
• 🥘 Food & Drink: Evening Taste of Turks and Caicos Food Tour
• 🥾 Outdoor Activities: Love Buggy Island Tour with Lunch
• ⛵ Watersports: Half-Day Snorkeling Excursion in Grace Bay
• 🐠 Wildlife: Mangrove & Iguana Clear Kayak Tour

10. Curaçao 🇨🇼

Stay-Over Tourists:   Year 2022: 489,551 /  Year 2021: 264,992

Martinique: View of Saint Pierre Pelee. Photo Credit: © Martinique Tourism Board.

Like many of the islands in the Caribbean, Curaçao offers much more than pearly white beaches. The capital, Willemstad, is known for its brightly-colored buildings featuring historic Dutch colonial architecture. Discover the 1,500-year-old drawings inside the Hato Caves and hike the trails of Christoffel National Park for a spectacular view of the countryside. Dive into the underwater jungle of the Mushroom Forest and see the 10-foot, mushroom-shaped star coral. When you need a break from shopping for jewelry, cosmetics, and local souvenirs, stroll along the quaint pedestrian-only streets of Punda and get a taste of local food at one of its many cafes.

Best Tours in Curaçao

• 🎨 Art & Culture: The Curacao Full-Day Private Tour Experience
• 🥘 Food & Drink: Curaçao Cooking Class
• 🥾 Outdoor Activities: Curacao Half-Day ATV East Adventure Tour
• ⛵ Watersports: Full-Day Catamaran Trip to Klein Curacao With BBQ Lunch
• 🐢 Wildlife: Swimming with Sea Turtles and Grote Knip Beach

So, which of these top ten most visited Caribbean islands have you visited? And more importantly, which of these do you plan to visit next? Beyond their beautiful beaches, each of these most popular Caribbean islands has a wide range of top attractions just waiting to be explored!  Like all Caribbean destinations ,  they offer authentic and exciting experiences beyond sun, sand, and sea.

Recommended Books about the Caribbean

Note: Originally published on September 10, 2018, this post was updated on June 10, 2023.

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12 Best Caribbean Islands to Visit in 2024

Travel Advice

Updated: December 15, 2023

by Haley Parker

When choosing your next vacation, I’m sure a few things sound as appealing as a wonderful Caribbean holiday. Imagine cocktails, adventure, soft, white sandy beaches, crystal-clear turquoise waters, and palm-fringed beaches.

But choosing can be difficult. The whole Caribbean destinations area has more than 7,000 islands, keys, and islets, so I don’t know about you, but choosing the best Caribbean islands sounds like a feat too great for man. 

Narrowing down your options isn’t easy, and that’s where I come in. This is a comprehensive guide to the best islands in the Caribbean , and I promise, there’s an island or romantic vacation for everyone here. 

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My Bottom Line Up Front: The Best Island in the Caribbean 

Calling the best Caribbean island winner is no easy feat, with thousands of islands to choose from. After much consideration, there can only be one: St. Lucia . 

St. Lucia’ s beauty is epic. There are loads of activities for everyone – whether you visit while on your honeymoon or with your family. You won’t be bored.

My Selection Criteria for the Best Caribbean Islands 

When I decided to look into the best islands in the Caribbean region, I figured a checklist or selection criteria had always worked well for me, so why not trust this process again? 

To choose the best islands in this part of the world, I considered: 

• You, my dear reader. Every person is different – some want a chilled vacation where they laze and tan about on the beach, while others are into shopping, adventure, or cultural experience. My selection of the best Caribbean islands caters to all kinds of people. 
• How to get there. There are multiple flights from various U.S. cities to these islands, and where there are layovers and needing to take a ferry or boat, it’s more than worth it. 
• Where to sleep. Not everyone has the budget to stay in exclusive all-inclusive resorts, so I wanted to ensure there’s an accommodation option for every traveler – wealthy or on a budget. 
• What to do. The islands I chose offer a variety of activities to keep you and your family engaged – all vacation long. 
• The X factor. I also considered some of the lesser-known and smaller Caribbean islands for my guide. These islands offer something extra special in the uniqueness factor, ensuring they are a must-visit. 

12 Best Caribbean Islands 

Looking for the best island(s) to enjoy your vacation or trip? Here are the 12 best Caribbean islands for you! 

St. Lucia 

Best for: Those who love the outdoors 

When it comes to first impressions, St. Lucia easily wins. With the duo Piton Mountains rising out of the Caribbean sea, the beautiful famous beaches, and tropical rainforests, it’s a sight to behold. 

St. Lucia is ideal for honeymooners, couples, or those traveling with kids. It has something for everyone to enjoy. You can just chill at the beach, book a tour, partake in numerous water sports, hike through lush rainforests, or sample the local culture and Caribbean cuisine. 

Where to Go in St. Lucia  

• Soufrière 
• Anse Chastanet beach 
• Reduit Beach 
• Pigeon Island National Park
• Marigot Bay 
• Rodney Bay 

What to Do in St. Lucia

• Hike up Gros Piton or Petit Piton (or #both) 
• Walk the Tet Paul Nature Trail 
• Join the Gros Islet Beach Party every Friday night 
• Drive into a volcano 
• Take a mud bath in the sulfur spring pools 
• Stroll through the Diamond Falls Botanical Gardens 
• Book an ATV tour, a rum tour, or a tour of a sugar mill plantation
• Splash for fun at the Splash Island Water Park 

Consider These St. Lucian Accommodation Options 

• Sandals Regency La Toc
• Sandals Grande St. Lucian
• Sandals Halcyon Beach
• Calabash Cove 
• Stonefield Villas Resort 
• Sugar Beach 
• Royalton St. Lucia Resort and Spa

The Cayman Islands

Best for: A chilled or adventure-filled experience 

The Cayman Islands is home to 66,000 friendly locals. They live on any of the three islands that form the Caymans: 

• Grand Cayman – an elegant island 
• Little Cayman – a tranquil island 
• Cayman Brac – an island ideal for the adventurous spirits 

There’s something for everyone in the Cayman Islands. 

It may feel like you never left the U.S. when you vacay on these 102 square miles of islands; you get a South Florida vibe in the Cayman Islands. But it’s more chilled with less traffic. 

Where to Go in the Cayman Islands  

• Georgetown, the capital 
• Starfish Point Beach 
• Black Pearl Skate and Surf Park 
• Locked Inn Cayman 
• Cayman Craft Market 
• Oasis Aqua park 

What to Do in the Cayman Islands

• Visit the colonial forts like St James Castle 
• Explore the museums that chronicle Carib piracy and British maritime history 
• Be amazed at the stingrays, multi-colored iguanas, starfish, and endangered sea turtles 
• Get your tan on at sun-kissed beaches like Seven Mile  
• Attend al fresco parties at the Sunset House or cocktail parties at Billy Bones 
• Go scuba diving, deep diving in Cayman Trench, or snorkeling 

Consider These Cayman Islands Accommodation Options 

• The Residences at the Ritz Carlton 
• Treasure Cove Guest House 
• Holiday Inn Resort, Grand Cayman 

The Dominican Republic 

Best for: Souls that love nature 

If you know a little about the Dominican Republic (not to be confused with Dominica, which is also located in the Caribbean), you’ll know it’s an international golfers hub. However, this Caribbean island offers much more than getting your “tee” on.

The Dominican Republic shares its island with Haiti, so you may want to visit both if you have the time and resources. Choose to get your share of vitamin sea by visiting the beautiful beaches, or check out the colonial towns, mountains, rainforests, mangrove lagoons, and waterfalls. 

Where to Go in the Dominican Republic 

• La Romana for the best beaches and Bayahibe, an off-the-grid fishing village 
• Santo Domingo, the capital and UNESCO World Heritage Site 
• Punta Cana 
• Bavaro Beach and Macao Beach 
• The 3 Eyes National Park (Los Tres Ojos) 
• 27 Charcos (or waterfalls)

What to Do in the Dominican Republic

• Golf (#ofcourse) 
• Try out some water activities – snorkeling, diving, fishing, kayaking, or scuba diving 
• Horseback riding 
• Enjoy the vibrant nightlife in the capital
• Immerse yourself in the medieval era at Altos de Chavon
• See the stunning waterfalls (#ElLimon) 

Consider These Dominican Republic Accommodation Options 

• Boca Chica All-Inclusive Beach Resort 
• Calle El Conde (Old Quarter) 
• Hotel Riazor 

Jamaica  

Best for: Reggae fans 

Jamaica is one of the most famous Caribbean islands, and it’s for a good reason too. It’s #home to jerk chicken, reggae, and Bob Morley.  With nightlife and the smells of  jerk chicken , honeymooners kick back on beachside decks and sip Red Stripe to the sunset. Jamaica also offers soft, sandy beaches with pristine waters, delicious food at the local markets (soursop, ackee, and fried breadfruit), all-inclusive resorts, and action-packed activities.

Did you know? Rap music was initially created in Jamaica and became popular in the USA. 

Where to Go in Jamaica 

• Kingston, the capital 
• James Bond Beach 
• Seven Mile Beach 
• Frenchman’s Cove
• Bob Marley Museum  
• Blue Hole 

What to Do in Jamaica

• Hike through the Blue Mountains (where some of the best coffee in the world is sourced) 
• Be in awe of the Negril Cliffs 
• Explore the Ocho Rios jungle  or Seven Mile Beach
• See the birthplace of the legendary Bob Marley at Nine Mile 
• Soak up the rum in the Kingston bars while you enjoy the Rasta off-beat tunes
• Climb Dunn’s River Falls
• Enjoy an ATV ride along the beach

Consider These Jamaican Accommodation Options 

• Sandals Montego Bay
• Sandals Ochi
• Sandals Royal Plantation
• Sandals Royal Caribbean
• Sandals South Coast
• Sandals Negril
• Beaches Negril
• Beaches Ocho Rios
• GoldEye 
• The Half Moon 
• Secrets Wild Orchid Montego Bay

Turks and Caicos 

Best for : Those who are into water sports and stunning beaches 

The Turks and Caicos Islands are a British Overseas Territory consisting of 40-low-lying coral islands on an archipelago. Only eight of these islands and islets are inhabited. 

The Provinciales, the third largest paradise island, is busy with restaurants and cocktail bars, so if peace and quiet are more your scene, escape to the other islands in the archipelago. 

Combine that with the brilliant,  white sand beaches  that stretch for miles and it’s easy to see why its beauty continually captures the world.

Where to Go in Turks and Caicos  

• Cockburn Town, the capital 
• Grace Bay Beach – is considered to be the best in the world for its exceptional white sand and turquoise waters 
• Grand Turk for diving 
• Chalk Sound National Park  

What to Do in Turks and Caicos

• Try deep-fried conch clams 
• Go on a glass-bottom boat tour 
• Take a boat cruise to Little Water Cay (an iguana sanctuary), Water Cay (secluded beach), or Fort George Cay (sandbars and sunken cannons) 
• Hike through the thick mangrove forests (Bird Rock Trail is a must) 
• Enjoy water sports activities like stand-up paddleboarding, windsurfing, deep-sea fishing, snorkeling, and scuba diving with more than 200 dive sites to choose from 
• Horse riding at Long Bay 
• Free-dive at the Wall (an underwater plateau)

Consider These Turks and Caicos Accommodation Options 

• Beaches Turks and Caicos
• Grace Bay Club 
• The Palms Turks and Caicos 
• Blue Haven Resort 
• Villa del Mar 

Anguilla  

Best for: The ultimate chic vacation vibe 

Anguilla is a small Caribbean island with more than 30 picturesque beaches you can enjoy , with magnificent  coral reefs , Plus, the water is warm all year. (#coulditgetanybetter?) 

You’ll get all the local Caribbean authenticity you need in Anguilla; there are no high-rise hotels, casinos, or cruise ships (#embargo). So you have access to all the low-key beachfront villas, coral-filled waters, and pretty sandy beaches or white sand beaches. 

Where to Go in Anguilla  

• Heritage Museum
• Prickly Pear Cays  
• Shoal Bay East Beach
• Meads Bay 
• Rendezvous Bay 
• Scilly Cay 

What to Do in Anguilla

• Get a drink and enjoy the music at Dune Preserve, a funky-mellow bar owned by local celebrity and artist Bankie Banx 
• Enjoy a meal at Veya, a treehouse-style restaurant 
• Snorkel at Little Bay 
• Try various water sports like wakeboarding, sailing, and stand-up paddleboarding
• Sample the local BBQ in the Valley 
• Have a spa day at Aurora Anguilla, Malliouhana, or Zemi Beach House 

Consider These Anguillan Accommodation Options 

• Belmond Cap Juluca 
• Zemi Beach House, LXR Hotels and Resorts 
• Frangipani Beach Resort 

Best for: Those looking to experience the old-world charm 

Saba (pronounced “say-bah”) is a tiny island only five square miles away. The island is a special Netherland municipality. With four main villages (called The Bottom, Windwardshide, Zion’s Hill or Hell’s Gate, and St. Johns, you’ll immerse yourself in old Caribbean charm. 

Saba is “The Unspoiled Queen:” it has fewer than 2,000 residents and no traffic lights, cruise ships, casinos, fast-food joints, or high-rise hotels. 

You can reach the quaint Caribbean island via a 12-minute flight from St. Martin or a 90-minute ferry ride. 

Where to Go in Saba  

• Sea Saba’s Dive Shop 
• Five Square Gallery (for Saba lace ) 
• Jobean’s Glass Art Studio  
• Mount Scenery 
• Tide pools at Flat Point 
• Saba National Marine Park 

What to Do in Saba

• Climb the steps of the Ladder at Well’s Bay 
• Explore Mt. Scenery Trail and make your way to the highest point on Saba 
• See the neighboring islands of Montserrat, St. Kitts and Nevis, and St. Eustatius from St. John’s 
• Feel like you’ve time traveled and visit Crispeen Track
• Visit a sulfur mine 
• Check out Sandy Cruise Trail and take in the views of the Saban coastline and Diamond Rock 

Consider These Saban Accommodation Options 

• Queen’s Garden Resort & Spa 
• Juliana’s Hotel 
• The Cottage Club 

Best for: Spices, chocolate, and waterfalls 

Grenada is also called Spice Island. I can imagine the salty ocean air mixed with the wafts of nutmeg, cinnamon, vanilla, and other spices. 

If you haven’t heard about this Caribbean island, that’s okay. It is closer to Venezuela and not a tourist hotspot, which makes this island so utterly charming. You wouldn’t have to worry about overcrowded dive spots, beaches, or nutmeg plantations. 

Grenada has one main island and six smaller ones. Besides being known for its spices, Grenada is famous for its beaches, waterfalls, rainforests, chocolate, and colonial cities. 

Where to Go in Grenada  

• Sandals Grenada
• St. George 
• Grand Anse Beach 
• Morne Rouge Beach 
• Levera Beach 
• Seven Sisters Waterfall  

What to Do in Grenada

• Take a tour of one of the spice plantations (and buy some spices for home use) 
• Explore the Underwater Sculpture Park 
• Get to the tallest point in Grenada by climbing Mt. Saint Catherine 
• Hike through the Grand Etang National Park and Forest Reserve 
• Tube down Balthazar River 
• Shop at Market Square 
• Laze around on black and white sandy beaches 

Consider These Grenada Accommodation Options 

• Mount Cinnamon Resort 
• Spice Island Beach Resort 
• Royalton Grenada Resort and Spa
• Montserrat 

Best for: Ecotourists and nature lovers 

Montserrat , called the Emerald Isle, may sound like a French Caribbean island, but it’s British. It’s one of the least visited Caribbean islands, with around 8,000 visitors annually . In 1995, a volcanic eruption destroyed a lot of the island, which is still recovering. The severely affected areas aren’t open to tourists and form part of an exclusion zone. 

But that isn’t to say 10-mile-long Montserrat shouldn’t be one of the best Caribbean islands. The island sees mostly day visitors, but you can stay for longer too. 

Get to Montserrat via ferry or plane from Antigua. 

Where to Go in Montserrat  

• Montserrat Soufrière Hills Volcano Observatory  
• Plymouth, the former capital (the Caribbean’s Pompeii) 
• Lime Kiln Bay 
• Marguerita Bay 
• Foxes Bay 
• Bunkum Bay 

What to Do in Montserrat

• Indulge in a frothy Guinness at one of the pubs 
• Marvel at the volcano from Jack Boy Hill, or check out Garibaldi and views of Plymouth, Old Towne, and Salem 
• Enjoy a drink at the Runaway Ghaut 
• Hike any one (or all!) of the nine marked trails, like Dry Waterfall Trial (check out the Montserrat Petroglyphs), Oriole Walkway Trail, and Blackwood Allen Trail, and immerse yourself in the fauna, flora, and animal-life 
• Beachcomb at Woodlands Bay and spot the washed-out driftwood 

Consider These Montserrat Accommodation Options 

• Tropical Mansion Suites 
• Gingerbread Hill 
• Grand View Bed & Breakfast

Dominica  

Best for: A quiet getaway 

Dominica is like the Garden of Eden for the Caribbean because it’s so lush with rainforests, peaks and valleys, rivers (more than one for every day of the year), volcanic beaches, hot springs, and waterfalls. The undeveloped landscape will appeal to you if you love nature and are into green tourism. 

Where to Go in Dominica  

• Morne Trois Pitons National Park  
• Mero Beach 
• Scotts Head 
• Batibou Beach 
• Soufrière Bay Beach 

What to Do in Dominica

• Take in the Boiling Lake and go for a dip in one of the nearby waterfall pools 
• Go birdwatching at Caroni Bird Sanctuary or the Syndicate Parrot Reserve 
• Relax on the black sandy beaches 
• Swim in the Emerald Pool 
• Check out Victoria Falls 
• Enjoy the Caribbean sea turtles as they nest or hatch 

Consider These Dominican Accommodation Options 

• Jungle Bay 
• Fort Young Hotel 
• Beau Rive 

Guadeloupe 

Best for: Tourists and adventurers 

Like some other islands on this list, you may not have known about Guadeloupe’s existence. But you will surely now remember it. 

The Guadeloupe island is shaped like a butterfly, with wings spread over the two main islands (the largest ones) – Grande Terre and Basse Terre. Between the islands, you’ll find a few man-made bridges.

Grande Terre is the more touristy of the two islands, while Basse Terre is the wilder one. 

Where to Go in Guadeloupe  

• Pointe-à-Pitre, the largest city 
• Anse des Cayes 
• Plage de la Caravelle
• Pointe des Châteaux (Castle Point) 
• Damoiseau (rum) Distillery 

What to Do in Guadeloupe

• Explore the nightlife of Gosier 
• Be brave and check out Morne à l’eau’s haunting graveyards 
• Relax and get some vitamin sea at the Caravelle beaches 
• Hike to the tallest point in the Lesser Antilles – La Grande Soufrière (the Tall Lady; an active volcano)
• Find your inner Indiana Jones by sightseeing the ancient Arawak archaeological sites 
• Dive at one of the many spots on Basse Terre 

Consider These Guadeloupe Accommodation Options 

• Marco Polo Resort 
• Hotel Bakoua Les Trois Ilets 
• Le Jardin Malanga 
• La Creole Beach Hotel & Spa

Best for: Sampling Curaçao

I’d never have guessed that Curaçao is part of the Netherlands; it’s such a Spanish-sounding name! The Caribbean island is famous for Curaçao since it’s the birthplace of this delicious orange-flavored liqueur. The Lahara orange peels are used to make the liqueur, and it’s indigenous to the island. 

Curaçao is blessed with great weather all year round: perfect temperatures, sunny days, and cool trade winds. 

Where to Go in Curaçao  

• Chobolobo Distillery (where Curaçao is made) 
• Willemstad , the capital and a UNESCO World Heritage Site 
• Shete Boka National Park 
• Fort Amsterdam
• Jan Thiel 
• Christoffel National Park 
• Playa Lagun 

What to Do in Curaçao

• Explore the Hato Caves 
• Take in the multi-colored Dutch mansions in the capital 
• Fawn over the diverse fauna, flora, and more at the national park – the Lady of the Night orchid, cottontail rabbits, deer, hummingbirds, divi-divi trees, and the massive stone peak 
• Cross the Queen Emma Pontoon Bridge that links Otrobanda and Punda, the two halves of the capital 
• Go on a SCUBA excursion

Consider These Curaçao Accommodation Options 

• Sandals Curacao
• Curaçao Marriott Beach Resort 
• LionsDive Beach Resort Curaçao 
• Curaçao Avila Beach Hotel 

Caribbean Island FAQs 

Question: what is the nicest of the caribbean islands .

Answer: There are many nice Caribbean islands, but the nicest are St. Lucia, Anguilla, Aruba, Antigua, the Cayman Islands, Guadeloupe, Montserrat, Grenada, Jamaica, Saba, and Turks and Caicos. 

Question: What are the top 5 safest islands to visit in the Caribbean? 

Answer: Unfortunately, some Caribbean islands have gotten a rep for being unsafe, but it’s always up to you to stay safe when visiting another country. Nonetheless, the safest islands to visit in the Caribbean are: 

• Anguilla 
• St. Martin 
• St. Barts 
• The Cayman Islands 

Question: What is the least touristy Caribbean island? 

Answer: A few islands in the Caribbean offer an authentic, non-touristy vibe. These are Montserrat, Dominica, Guadeloupe, Saba, Curaçao, and St. Vincent and the Grenadines. 

My Final Thoughts on the Best Caribbean Islands 

You can visit thousands of Caribbean islands, and if that’s your #bucketlist, you won’t ever get bored. There’s plenty to do, see, and experience in the Caribbean. 

I love St. Lucia because it’s a versatile island – whether you want to be in awe of the mountains and the green forests, do something adventurous, or just chill and sip a cocktail (or three). 

Plus, the other guides on EpicCaribbean.com will further help you and give you the necessary information. Check out: 

• 4 Places to visit in the Caribbean without a passport
• 21 Best beaches in Jamaica  
• The ultimate guide to Caribbean island hopping  

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Which Caribbean Island Should You Visit?

Whether you’re looking for adventure, pristine beaches, family fun, or a budget getaway, there’s a perfect destination for your ideal caribbean vacation..

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Each Caribbean island has its own draw, like Anguilla’s long white beaches.

Photo by BlueOrange Studio/Shutterstock

The resurgence of travel to the Caribbean is hardly surprising. Despite all the shake-ups in tourism around the globe, the region’s sunny skies, turquoise waters, magnificent natural landscapes, engaging culture, cuisine, and historic sites remain intact and alluring.

Combine these elements with the Caribbean’s extensive air connections to U.S. gateways and the health and safety framework adopted across this tourism-reliant region, and it’s clear that Caribbean destinations will continue to top getaway wish lists.

From families seeking a cost-effective getaway to couples in search of the ultimate romantic getaway, here are the best Caribbean islands to visit based on an array of interests.

Beaches: Anguilla

Anguilla’s greatest treasure may be its magnificent beaches. Virtually all of the 33 found across Cove Bay, Maundays Bay, Rendezvous Bay, and Shoal Bay feature long coastlines, powdery white sands, and deep blue waters. The island’s small-scale character means the beaches are uniformly uncrowded.

Visitors can even take a powerboat trip from Road Bay in the Sandy Ground district to Sandy Island , a small sliver of white-sand beach eight minutes from the shore. The exclusive private island is ideal for an afternoon of easy relaxation sampling barbecue and the tasty local rum punch.

Premium resorts and gourmet dining are standard fare on this British overseas territory in the Caribbean’s Leeward Islands. The big local news is the November debut of the Aurora Anguilla Resort & Golf Club , a beachside luxury resort located on the grounds of the highly regarded former CuisinArt property.

The exclusive new resort delivers three suite categories, a collection of villas offering generous outdoor spaces, and a private jet fleet dedicated for guests’ exclusive use. Boutique property Frangipani Beach Resort and the Four Seasons Resort & Residences both reopened in November. All three are positioned along lengthy stretches of white-sand beachfront with panoramic Caribbean Sea views.

Luxury: Nevis

Encompassing a scant 36 square miles, Nevis offers travelers a fast-disappearing Caribbean experience with no tall buildings, crowds, warehouse stores, or chain restaurants. Its easygoing charm belies an outstanding collection of luxury resorts and high-end dining venues.

A singularly verdant island even by Caribbean standards, Nevis’s green hills surround 3,232 foot-high Nevis Peak at its center. Ruins of colonial-era sugar plantations dot the hillsides, and visitors can explore the landscapes and take in panoramic island views via hiking and ATV excursions.

Luxury resorts are diverse and plentiful here. The 350-acre beachfront Four Seasons Resort Nevis, the island’s largest property, reopened in November following a multi-year, multi-phased enhancement.

The resort features redesigned suites, more than 50 private vacation rental homes, three infinity-edge pools, a Robert Trent Jones II golf course, and a nine-court tennis facility. There are unobstructed Caribbean sunset views at the renovated Mango gourmet restaurant and an extensive collection of the Caribbean’s signature spirit at the Crowned Monkey rum bar.

Built on the site of a 300-year-old sugar plantation, Montpelier Plantation & Beach embraces a laid-back chic with gardens and a private beach equipped with hammocks, cabanas, and a beach bar. The resort’s Mill Privee restaurant serves imaginative, intricate takes on contemporary Caribbean cuisine.

Boutique luxury resort Golden Rock —which has just 11 spacious guest rooms—sits on 100 acres along the slopes of Nevis Peak, amid tropical gardens with views of nearby Antigua and Montserrat.

Locals and visitors alike can enjoy fine seaside seaside at Gin Trap restaurant , but Nevis is also home to casual beach bars, headlined by Sunshine’s Beach Bar and Grill , a stroll across Pinney’s Beach from the Four Seasons.

Water activities—like catamaran sailing, fishing, and diving excursions—are a great way to experience the British Virgin Islands.

Photo by Pete Niesen/Shutterstock

Ocean adventure: British Virgin Islands

The British Virgin Islands are a collection of 50-plus island s with diverse landscapes, serene beaches , and green hillsides. The main four are Tortola, Virgin Gorda, Anegada, and Jost Van Dyke, and visitors and residents can journey among them via an extensive system of local ferries.

Not surprisingly, water sports are extremely popular here . Travelers can check the BVI Tourist Board website for links to local operators that lead deep-sea fishing, paddleboarding, snorkeling, and diving excursions. Full- and half-day private boat charters are popular too: Groups traveling on one of Dream Yacht Charter ’s catamarans are treated to air-conditioned cabins with a staff including a captain, chef, and first mate.

The BVI are also home to unique marine sites, most notably the Baths National Park on Virgin Gorda’s north shore. The Baths’ massive granite boulders form sheltered beachfront pools and crevices perfect for exploring, wading, and creating infinite Instagram posts.

Food Fete, the BVI’s premier culinary celebration, returns this year with in-person events across the islands throughout November and December. A highlight will be the Anegada Lobster Festival November 26–28, which includes an island-wide scavenger hunt and tastings focused on Anegada’s spiny lobster, the island’s culinary specialty.

Culture: Puerto Rico

Puerto Rico’s unique heritage combines influences from the Indigenous Taino culture, the island’s centuries as a Spanish colony, and its long stretch as a key port in the transatlantic African slave trade, which profoundly impacted the island’s culture.

“The island’s African legacy manifests itself in all aspects of daily life,” says Dr. María Elba Torres Muñoz, director of the Instituto Interdisciplinario y Multicultural, General Studies Faculty at the University of Puerto Rico. “It is felt and lived in their songs, in the dance, their food, their bodies, their way of speaking, their vocabulary, the way of loving.”

Contemporary visitors can trace Puerto Rico’s African influences through creations on view in seminal collections at the Museo de Arte de Ponce , Museo de las Américas , and Museo de Historia de Caguas , or at the Samuel Lind Studio in San Juan’s colonial district. They can also taste it in dishes such as mofongo, bacalaitos, and pasteles that are based on African cuisine. Try authentic crab-based Puerto Rican cuisine at El Burén de Lula in Loiza, home to Puerto Rico’s largest Black population, a legacy of its 16th-century settlement by Yoruba people from the West African countries of Nigeria, Benin, and Togo.

Puerto Rico’s unique heritage can be seen across the island in its art and architecture.

Photo by Sean Pavone/Shutterstock

Romance: St. Lucia

Lush natural beauty, soaring mountain landscapes highlighted by the UNESCO World Heritage Pitons , and multi-hued sunsets make St. Lucia a paradise for couples and an ideal Caribbean romance destination.

The scenery creates a dreamy backdrop for St. Lucia activities that bring lovers together: Picture detoxifying mud baths and relaxing hot-bath treatments at the volcanic Sulfur Springs in Soufrière and strolls through the Botanical Gardens’ flowery canopy. Couples can also opt for more adrenaline-inducing pursuits, from helicopter tours to zipline and horseback excursions.

There’s plenty of romance in accommodations too. The suites at hilltop luxury resorts Anse Chastanet and Ladera were built with fourth “open” walls that overlook the Pitons.

Destination spa resort BodyHoliday reopened in October with programs that couples will appreciate, including (if they need some separate “me” time) a personalized Wellness Rehabilitation that incorporates relaxation techniques, fitness programming, holistic nutrition, and spa treatments. Beachfront sister property Rendezvous has also reopened with a focus on amenities and services designed to help couples to “reinvigorate” their relationships, including intimate, private beachfront dinners with chef-designed menus and “date nights” with champagne service and live entertainment. Couples planning destination weddings will find buy-out options here so they can create an on-property “bridal bubble.”

Family-friendly: Dominican Republic

Infinite stretches of coconut-palm-lined, white-sand beaches, and upscale resorts are de rigueur in the Dominican Republic’s Punta Cana district, the Caribbean’s all-inclusive resort kingdom and an easy win for families. Dozens of U.S. flights connect daily with the Punta Cana International Airport, and although the phrase “all-inclusive” can raise some travelers’ eyebrows, the combination of accommodations, cuisine, amenities, facilities, and activities makes this type of resort a hassle-free option, especially for family trips. You don’t need to be stuck on campus the whole time though; resorts’ tour desks can arrange off-property excursions, such as coastal catamaran tours.

Properties range from family-themed to adults-only and include branded properties familiar to sun-and-fun-seeking U.S. travelers.

Nickelodeon Punta Cana is a haven for families with its seven flexible accommodation categories, including two- and three-bedroom “super villas” measuring 2,200 square feet. Kids (and their parents) can cool off at the Aqua Nick water park. Plaza Orange features live entertainment and family-friendly movie premieres, while kids can meet their favorite Nickelodeon characters throughout the day at Character Central.

The “ecochic” Club Med Michès Playa Esmeralda is at the other end of the design spectrum. Located on pristine Playa Esmeralda, a barely touched coastal region surrounded by tropical forest, the property emphasizes sustainability across four distinct boutique “villages,” each offering customized environments, activities, and accommodations. It’s a family-friendly option, thanks to kid-focused amenities, but it also caters to parents who may need the occasional break at one of its adults-only areas.

For grown-ups looking to ditch the kids entirely, the D.R. has plenty of adults-only properties, including TRS Cap Cana Hotel , where they’ll find the Zentropia Palladium Spa & Wellness Centre, an Ibizan-style beach club, and à la carte eateries serving Argentinian and Japanese fare. Or they can check into Breathless Punta Cana and burn off a few calories under tall palms with beachside fitness classes, or pump up the jam at the resort’s swim-up bar and multi-level Freestyle Pool, featuring live DJ music and curated cocktails.

Bonus: Belize for Adventure

While Belize is not an island, its prime coastal location on the Caribbean Sea makes it feel like one. What’s more, the temperate weather, many direct flights from the U.S., and the fact that the country’s official language is English, all make Belize a great—and often overlooked—warm-weather vacation option. The country is a wonderland of natural attractions, with extensive cave systems, lush jungles, and world-class dive sites. Combined with diverse cultures and historic treasures, Belize stands at the forefront of Caribbean adventure destinations.

Belize is a nexus for Maya, Caribbean, Garifuna, and even Mennonite cultures. English is the official language, although Belizean Creole is the most widely spoken.

The Maya civilization flourished in the region from 1500 B.C.E. through 1200 C.E., leaving behind archaeological sites now open to visitors. Several are located within Belize’s caves, which are accessible via guided tours that can range from easy walks to challenging excursions that require spelunkers to squeeze, crawl, climb, rappel, and swim through different sections.

Cave’s Branch Adventure and Jungle Lodge offers adventure-themed stays in the Belizean rain forest. Travelers can select their degree of exposure to nature, with “tree house” accommodations located 200 feet above the Caves Branch valley or jungle bungalows and cabanas located deep within the rain forest and equipped with separate air-conditioned and screened-in rooms, plus outdoor showers.

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Home » Travel Guides » The Caribbean » 25 Best Caribbean Islands to Visit

25 Best Caribbean Islands to Visit

From the alabaster-white beaches of Bermuda in the north to the cactus-topped desert inland of the ABC Islands in the south, the windswept coves and surfing reefs of Dominica in the east to the jungle-dressed tips of Cuba and the Antilles in the west, the Caribbean has long been a treasure trove of things to do and see.

Combining adventure with relaxation, hundreds of years of colonial history with enthralling Arawak culture, West Indian spices with European gastronomic flair, honeymooners with hill walkers, budget backpacker haunts with some of the most exclusive hotels on the planet, it’s got something for every type of traveler.

It’s got everything from Cuban cigarillos to magma-spouting mountains, not to mention countless airbrushed beaches of pristine sand and shimmering turquoise sea. See you in the rum bars!

Let’s have a look at our list of the best Caribbean islands to visit:

Start on the Jamaican north shore, where powdery white sands run their way along the coast from the ivory stretches of iconic Seven Mile Beach, past the sheer-cut Negril Cliffs, through the luxury uber-resorts of Montego Bay, around the gushing Dunn’s River Falls, and out to where famous James Bond Beach gives way to the jungles of Ocho Rios in plumes of swaying coconut palms, juniper bushes, mangrove and tamarind.

Further in the east and the mighty Blue Mountains rise in verdant swathes of jungle, Jamaican boas swinging from the vines and the scents of coffee beans wafting along the undergrowth.

Then, on the inland hills, visitors can seek out the birthplace of legendary Bob Marley at Nine Mile, or simply opt to flit between the rum bars of Kingston listening to the master and his steel-drum, Rasta off-beats.

Mo’Bay, meanwhile, pulses with nightlife and the smells of jerk chicken, while honeymooners kick back on beachside decks and sip Red Stripe to the sunset.

Also see : Best things to do in Jamaica

2. Turks and Caicos

If it’s beaches you’re after (and let’s face it, what traveler to the Caribbean isn’t?), then Turks and Caicos is perhaps the perfect spot.

A peppering of over 300 tiny islets in the midst of the Lucayan Archipelago, many of the TCI (as it’s known for short) are little more than just sand banks or rugged pillars of rock that rise above the waters of Caribbean Sea.

The salt-washed jetties of Cockburn Town might be the capital, but it’s laid-back Providenciales that draws all the crowds.

And why not? This U-shaped speck of land comes fringed by alabaster-white Grace Bay, punctuated with luxurious five-star resorts, imbued with old pirate carvings from the 19th century, and ringed by coral gardens just waiting for the intrepid SCUBA diver.

Oh, and it’s the home of the island’s deep-fried conch clams too! Further afield and the TIC offers up uber-romantic honeymoon suites on their own private island, beaches like Malcolm Beach, and the glowing turquoise currents of Chalk Sound to boot!

Also see : Best things to do in Turks and Caicos

3. St. Lucia

St. Lucia is like the child that refused to conform.

Instead of settling down to be overgrown by mangrove and palms, it rose and rose, peaking with the mighty duo of the Pitons, or rising to a whopping 950 meters with the jungle-dressed Mount Gimie at its heart.

Then there are the bubbling volcanic springs and mud pools, forever carving and changing the interior of the island around Soufriere.

And talking of little Soufriere on the south coast, it’s here that travelers will discover the gorgeous cove of Anse Chastanet, hidden between cliffs and promontories and clusters of coastal waterfalls.

The north of the island continues to offer up beauties too, like the golden powder of Reduit Beach and the strong bulwarks of Pidgeon Island National Park – home to fortresses raised by the British during the Seven Years’ War.

Also see : Best things to do in St. Lucia

A tumultuous past and political penchant for communism has meant Cuba has remained something of an off-the-beaten-track option for travelers in the Caribbean until only recently.

The latest news is a loosening of travel and import restrictions from America, both expected to bring hordes of new tourists to the so-called Pearl of the Antilles.

There’s certainly no shortage of pulls.

For one, the capital at Havana oozes a vintage charm.

Cadillacs bump up and down the streets and peeling stuccoed frontispieces circa 1925 give way to the off-beats of samba, rumba and songo aplenty; cigar smoke puffs out of the speakeasies and the sun-splashed Malécon is strutted by all sorts! Leaving the Che monuments and Spanish streets behind, the greater island offers up picture-perfect beaches at Varadero, ecotourism amidst karst mountains in Pinar del Río, breathtaking vistas in the Viñales Valley – the list goes on!

Also see : Best things to do in Cuba

5. Antigua and Barbuda

Separated by a short gap of sky-blue Caribbean Sea in the midst of the Leeward Islands, the duo that makes up Antigua and Barbuda represent one of the region’s most well-rounded tourist draws.

In St. John’s parish, the small and tight-knit capital of the archipelago, there are cricket grounds and bobbing cruise ships on the horizon, while the slap and click of casino chips is never too far away.

For the best intro to the rest of Antigua (the larger of the two islands), most travelers will scale up to Shirley Heights Lookout, where the pearly-white of beaches, the deep green of the palm forests and the occasional bloom of bougainvillea spread out to reveal Falmouth and English Harbour – two of the earliest colonial towns here.

Stone churches atop cliffs belie the English influence, while old sugar plantations await inland.

And then there’s Barbuda: a mecca for sailors and swimmers in search of real seclusion.

Also see : Best things to do in Antigua and Barbuda

6. US Virgin Islands

The USVI aren’t your usual Caribbean paradise.

That’s not to say they don’t have all the ubiquitous shimmering sands and aquamarine-hued waters.

It’s to say they have other things up their sleeve too! A mecca for yachters, the trio of Saint Croix, Saint John and Saint Thomas, together with countless smaller specks of rocky land like Water Island, Thatch Cay and Hassel Island, offer up a pick and mix of little coves and cliff-backed inlets to explore by boat.

Then there’s Salt River Bay, a verdant bloom of mangrove forests that spills into the cobalt blue and pretty underwater corals of Buck Island Reef.

Rum distilleries come ten to the penny too, while pretty remnants of Danish rule still stand above the palm trees and the ferns. Yep, this one’s a real top choice!

Also see : Best things to do in the US Virgin Islands

Cacti-topped Aruba shares much with its Latin American neighbors.

After all, this gem-shaped island on the far southern reaches of the region is closer to the mainland than it is to many of the other salt-washed islands of the Caribbean.

Let’s start with the weather, which remains unusually steady and warm, unperturbed by the hurricanes and cyclones that wash through the Atlantic belt.

The 300 days of sun and soothing shore waters ensure a steady stream of snowbirds from the US, who can be seen reclining on the sands of Baby Beach in the south, the windblown rocks of Hadikurari, shaded Arashi, or the reef-ringed likes of Boca Catalina right throughout the year.

Then there’s Aruba’s dusty, desert-like interior, peaked over by the lookouts of Haystack Mountain, and the island’s curious Papiamento lingo, fusing Spanish and Dutch, Creole and Portuguese.

Also see : Best things to do in Aruba

8. Dominican Republic

From the swaying palms and rugged cliffs of Los Haitises in the east to the old mineshafts and dusty trailheads of the Sierra de Bahoruco in the west, the surfing hotspots of Cabarete and Puerto Plata in the north to the urban sprawl of Santa Domingo and its concomitant colonial treasures in the south, the Dominican Republic has plenty of tricks up its sleeve! For most, the piece de resistance is Punta Cana, where strips of white sand run along the windward coast like glistening ribbons in the moonlight, punctuated only by the occasional luxury resort, its infinity pools butting up right to rollers of the Atlantic.

Others will aim for the beautiful coast of Cibao, and hop between fishing towns and salt-washed cays.

Others still will go intrepid and seek out the ridges and hikes of the Enriquillo Valley, and indelibly green Armando Bermúdez. The choice is yours!

Also see : Best things to do in the Dominican Republic

Grenada is the Spice Isle: a land of nutmeg and vanilla pods and fragrant wafts of cinnamon that twist and turn in the sultry Carib air, rolling down in breezes with the trade winds to the pretty bays of Grand Anse and the shiny white sands of Morne Rouge Beach.

Volcanic in origin, the island spikes and dips with the cones of Mount Saint Catherine and the grass-rimmed crater lakes of Grand Etang alike.

Waterfalls gush and carve the landscapes too, running swiftly over the rocks at Royal Mount Carmel and flowing in moss-clad steps at the Seven Sisters, accessible only by winding hiking trails through the mountains.

Oh, and let’s not forget the human side of things: the lively local fish fries of Gouyave; the River Antoine brewing house – home to some of the oldest rum labels in the world.

Also see : Best things to do in Grenada

10. The Bahamas

Spread out over a whopping 470,000 square kilometers of ocean between where the beaches of northern Cuba give way to the Lucayan isles, The Bahamas connect the Caribbean with the coastal reaches of the United States – and more specifically, the Sunshine State of Florida.

Since the late 18th century, these glistening cays and sand bars have been joined with the Commonwealth.

The British made a colony here after ousting bands of buccaneers and pirates from the shores, leaving the elegant neoclassic looks of the Bahamian Parliament and the juggernaut walls of Fort Charlotte in their wake.

More recently, the rich and famous came, settling their yachts between the coves of New Providence and the beachfront villas of Paradise Island, or slapping poker chips on the Atlantis casino floor.

Don’t worry though, The Bahamas are for everyone: ecotourists flock to the reefs of Grand Bahama, beach-hunters for the secluded inlets of Long Island, sports fishers and divers straight to the coral gardens of Bimini.

Also see : Best things to do in The Bahamas

11. St. Martin

Cut in two halves by an international border, the pretty island of St. Martin (that’s Sint Maarten or Saint-Martin depending whether you’re from the north or the south) remains uber-popular with cruise shippers and sun seekers, not to mention the crowds of gamblers and shoppers that hit its shores each year in search of the Vegas-style games rooms and duty free shopping in Cole Bay, Phillipsburg and the rest of the Dutch side.

Meanwhile, sands shimmer and shine against an electric-blue sea at Orient Bay in the north, cocktail joints spill into the tide at Mullet Bay, and the footsteps of pirates still mark the untrodden and secluded smuggler’s coves of Pinel Island in the east.

Marigot’s markets are popular too, while the fusion of Dutch and French cultures makes for a truly interesting mix.

Also see : Best things to do in St Martin

12. Puerto Rico

Defended by the age-stained bulwarks of colonial forts and crenulated, cannon-holding palisades, washed over by some of the wildest surf spots in the Caribbean (think the legendary likes of Tres Palmas, Rincon and the Middels), trodden by the likes of Christopher Columbus and the marauding pirates of the great seas, and shaped by American and Spanish history alike, Puerto Rico is unquestionably one of the jewels of the region.

The UNESCO-attested capital at San Juan is a real treat, awash with Baroque churches, the mighty El Castillo fort and the shimmering beaches of Condado.

It has a party side too, with oodles of Senor Frogs and spring breaker bars bursting from the cobbled streets after dark.

Go east to find the beautiful Luquillo beaches and the frog-spotted forests of El Yunque, or south to see off-the-beaten-track Ponce, complete with curious multi-coloured cathedrals and some of the emptiest sands on the island.

Also see : Best places to visit in Puerto Rico

13. Barbados

In Barbados, the waves lap like rhythmic samba beats against the soft, soft sands of Alleynes Bay or Brandons Beach; the palm trees sway in the Atlantic trade winds of the rugged east coast, the wild surf swells spattering the boulders of Bathsheba and Cattlewash with salt and whitecap water.

In Barbados the yachts bob in the harbours of UNESCO-attested Bridgetown, and potent rum is sipped between the distilling tanks of Mount Gay.

In Barbados, the flying fish become frying fish with a scotch bonnet top in the earthy holes-in-the-wall, and luxurious all-inclusive resorts loom on the clifftops, their infinity pools just edging over the shore.

In Barbados, there are millionaires and backpackers alike, some kicking-back with pina coladas on sunning terraces, others hiking the jungle trails, SCUBA diving the reefs and enjoying the local rum shacks on the streets. Barbados is, simply, awesome!

Also see : Best things to do in Barbados

14. Guadeloupe

Nestled in the middle of the Lesser Antilles, Guadeloupe is the tropical Caribbean chart-topper that no one’s ever heard of.

Shaped like a butterfly, the destination spreads its wings over two large main islands: Basse Terre and Grande Terre.

These are joined at the hip with a series of manmade bridges, and each offer up a different medley of treats.

On Grande Terre is where travelers will find the heady nightlife and stylish fashion outlets of Gosier, giving way to the shimmering beaches of Caravel and the haunting graveyards of Morne à l’eau.

Basse Terre, the larger of the two isles, is a wilder place.

Dressed in jungle that springs in one thousands shades of green from the volcanic soils, it’s cut-through by countless waterfalls, towered over by the mighty tops of La Grande Soufrière (the tallest mountain in the whole Lesser Antilles chain!) and peppered with ancient Arawak archaeological sites.

Also see : Best things to do in Guadeloupe

15. Bermuda

Fabled for its place on one point in the mysterious Bermuda Triangle (although perhaps people might not mind going missing here!), this hook-curve of land is actually not, strictly speaking, in the Caribbean at all.

Instead, it bridges the gap where the Caribbean Sea meets the North Atlantic, giving it an altogether different character to many of the islands on this list.

Take the beaches, which are hued in pink thanks to powdered corals, and lapped by waves of frothy Atlantic rollers.

The topography is rugged, with rocky walls rising straight from the ocean to host clifftop golf resorts at spots like Tucker’s Point, while the climate maintains a steady sultriness and pleasant humidity, from December to December.

There are also glaring similarities to the Caribbean, like the colonial Englishness, which still sprouts up in Bermuda’s hearty country pubs and oozes from the whitewashed mansions of St George.

Also see : Best things to do in Bermuda

16. Cayman Islands

Join smiling locals, flapping endangered sea turtles, blooming ghost orchids, multi-coloured iguanas, and some of the richest folk to ever raise mansions on the edge of the Caribbean Seas on the trio of isles that form the Caymans.

Enfolded between Cuba and Jamaica, it’s hardly surprising that these sun-kissed spots look the part.

There are gorgeous beaches, going from Seven Mile on Grand Cayman (one of the most popular) to the untouched, seaweed-dressed sands of little Cayman Brac.

There are formidable colonial forts, like St. James Castle, and museums chronicling British maritime history and Carib piracy in George Town.

Treasures lurk underwater at Stingray City (guaranteed stingray viewing!), while uber-rare turtles wait in the pools of Boatswain’s Beach.

And at night the hedonism takes over, with al fresco parties at the legendary Sunset House, and rum-packed cocktails aplenty at Billy Bones!

Also see : Best things to do in the Cayman Islands

17. British Virgin Islands

The British Virgin Islands poke their jungle-clad heads above the swells where the North Atlantic Ocean meets the Caribbean Sea.

Blown over by the perpetual trade winds, these crown territories have long been a mecca for the chino-wearing, well-to-do sailor, raising a flapping sail and weaving designer yachts amidst the empty coves and crevices that line the moneyed tax haven of the VI archipelago.

However, in recent decades the spot has also entered the mainstream more and more, with intrepid types focusing on the endangered hawksbill colonies off Ginger Island, the blooming colours of the coral gardens, and awesome SCUBA spots, like the sunk RMS Rhone.

There’s surfing opportunities on Apple Bay, while the whitecaps all around Anegada isle offer windsurfers some long and challenging rides.

And when it’s time to relax, be sure to hit the glimmering crystalline waters of the so-called Baths, hidden between black volcanic boulders on the edge of Virgin Gorda.

Also see : Best things to do in the British Virgin Islands

Where other Caribbean islands are all about luxury resorts and bespoke cocktails, designer brands and well-to-do hotel suites, Haiti is more about one thing: adventure.

This half of Hispaniola has certainly had its troubles, from devastating earthquakes to coup d’etats, but that can’t change the rugged cliffs and palm-fringed beaches of Jacmel, nor the turquoise-blue waters of Labadee, where cruise ships now dock by their thousands.

But for all intents and purposes, Haiti remains an off-the-beaten-track option with oodles of hidden surprises.

Check out the soaring walls of the Citadelle Laferrière, the largest fortress in the Americas that oozes tales of slave revolts and colonisation alike.

Then there are the gorgeous sands of Cape-Haïtien, the pirate retreats of Tortuga, the dense Forêt de Pins and its hiking trails – the list goes on.

Yep, Haiti looks like it’s set to become one of the Caribbean’s top draws in the 21st century!

Also see : Best things to do in Haiti

19. St. Vincent and the Grenadines

Saint Vincent is the kingpin of its eponymous archipelago, shaken like a pepper pot to release the empty and secluded reaches of the smaller Grenadines to the south.

And what a kingpin it is! Clad in swathes of emerald rainforest, it’s got biodiversity to rival anywhere in the Americas: hummingbirds flit between magenta orchid blooms; waterfalls crash through tropical glades; turtles and dolphin pods weave past each other amidst the deep-blue waters.

Tourist wise, there are much fewer folk here than in say St. Lucia just to the north.

Some do come however, to explore the lagoons and sparkling cays of the Grenadines, or to honeymoon with views of Bequia Beach, or on the isolated Tobago Cays.

Others will strap on the SCUBA gear and go underwater, flitting between Bat Cave and the endless schools of frogfish and barracudas.

Also see : Best things to do in Saint Vincent and the Grenadines

20. Montserrat

Hailed by many as the Pompeii of the modern era, Montserrat was ravaged back in 1995 when the mighty dome of the hitherto quiet Soufrière Hills mountain exploded in plumes of magma and ash, covering the pretty little English-flavored capital of Plymouth with flows of volcanic rocks and stone.

The people who lived there – many descendants from Irish immigrants in the 1600s – largely moved to the northern section of the island, which is now the only safe place to visit outside of the so-called Seclusion Zone.

But travel to tiny Montserrat has and always will be an adventure.

Proudly off-the-radar of the typical Caribbean luxury trail, this mountain-topped speck in the Lesser Antilles is a place for hitting empty trails and driving empty coastal roads.

You’ll find the likes of isolated Rendezvous Bay, jungle-spotted volcanic massifs deep in the Central Hills, see multi-coloured thrushes amidst the trees, and dive in young coral gardens.

Oh, and drink frothy Guinness in hearty Gaelic pubs!

Also see : Best things to do in Montserrat

21. St. Barts

Home to some of the most luxurious hotel resorts and exclusive boutiques on the planet, St.

Barts has a certain air of importance that often works to keep away the casual visitor.

But you don’t need to be a billionaire oil fat cat to enjoy this one. (It just helps a little.)

There’s no question that the prize is worth paying for though…glistening sands hide between the green headlands at Shell Beach and uber-romantic Flamands, snorkelers trawl the waters at Colombier, and cocktail-sippers chatter the days away in designer bikinis between the bars of Grand Cul-de-Sac.

Evening sees the SCUBA divers and submarine tourers emerge from the depths to enjoy fresh lobster cuts, while Gustavia – the capital – has countless private yachts and bespoke fashion shops in its midst.

There’s also a charming Francophone edge to this overseas territory of Paris’, with elegant haute and fine-dining just two examples of the European influence.

Also see : Best things to do in St. Barts

22. Trinidad and Tobago

Unlike most all of its Caribbean neighbors, the duo of Trinidad and Tobago has a special economic trump card: oil.

Yep, thanks to the refineries and booming fossil fuel industry here, tourism has remained firmly in the backseat. That’s not to say it’s a bad place to come.

On the contrary: it’s perfect if you want something a little less in the way of Disneyland tropics and something more in the ilk of wild Carib backcountry.

Trinidad is the largest isle, its hills cascading in blooms of coconut palms down to beautiful beaches like Maracas, Chagville and Las Cuevas.

Tiny little Tobago, meanwhile, is even more undeveloped.

It’s got Pigeon Point and Englishman’s Bay – both picture-perfect images of exotic beaches, the sort you could find in a travel brochure.

Travelers can also see the whitewashed remains and canons of Fort George, go turtle seeking on Matura Beach, or join the raucous celebrations of the archipelago’s Pre-Lenten Festival – a medley of Brazilian colour and carnivalesque dances that’s one of the biggest cultural dates on the Caribbean calendar!

Also see : Best things to do in Trinidad and Tobago

23. St. Kitts and Nevis

St. Kitts and Nevis is sculpted volcanic hills covered in blankets of tropical green.

St. Kitts and Nevis is historic sugar plantations clad in ages of moss and crumbling colonial fortresses where canons rust in the salt sea breezes.

St. Kitts and Nevis is about soaring Mount Liamuiga and its brooding volcanic cone.

St. Kitts and Nevis is the eye-opening dive sites of the Monkey Shoals and the gliding sea turtles of Frigate Bay Reef, it’s the English-style churches and regal fountains of Basseterre; the striking remains of Brimstone Hill and sheer-cut black cliffs that drop to a wavy ocean.

St. Kitts and Nevis is a fine balance of adventure and relaxation, gorgeous tropical vistas and interesting – if occasionally brutal – colonial history.

In short, St. Kitts and Nevis is a well-rounded holidaying spot in the middle of the sun-splashed Lesser Antilles.

Also see : Best things to do in St. Kitts and Nevis

24. Martinique

A patchwork of virgin forests and rising volcanic mountains, cascading coastal hills and the occasional powdered cove where the Caribbean Sea drifts in and out at regular intervals, Martinique combines the beauty of the tropics with all the refinement you’d expect of a French overseas territory.

For example, there are exhibitions dedicated to the artistic output of Paul Gauguin (who came here in the late 19th century) set in the shadow of the steaming top of active Mont Pelée.

Then, countless folds of empty sand going from Grand Anse to Anse Turin are met by the rugged, moss-clad walls of the Gorges de la Falaise (the Caribbean’s answer to Greece’s Samaria Gorge), and curious mashups of spice-packed Tamil curries mix with Francophone pastries on the streets of Fort-de-France.

Also see : Best things to do in Martinique

25. Curaçao

The elusive ‘C’ of the ABCs makes its home between the cacti-spotted reaches of Aruba and the shimmering reefs of Bonaire.

There, just a stone’s throw from the Venezuelan coast, it rises from the cobalt waters to display multi-coloured Dutch mansions in Willemstad (a UNESCO World Heritage Site besides), craggy boulders and cliffs and swimming sea turtles at the Shete Boka National Park, boat-bobbing harbours at Fort Amsterdam, floating markets and cactus-topped hills for walking.

Given the diversity, it’s hardly surprising that Curaçao draws a really broad range of travelers.

Some come to kick-back in luxury resorts like the Hyatt with its private beach at Barbara, others will dive into awesome Playa Kalki, explore the hanging stalactites of the Hato Caves, or case out the colonial history at spots like the Maritime Museum and Postal Museum in the capital.

Also see : Best things to do in Curacao

25 Best Caribbean Islands to Visit:

• Turks and Caicos
• Antigua and Barbuda
• US Virgin Islands
• Dominican Republic
• The Bahamas
• Puerto Rico
• Cayman Islands
• British Virgin Islands
• St. Vincent and the Grenadines
• Trinidad and Tobago
• St. Kitts and Nevis

The top 10 things to do in the Caribbean

Dec 21, 2022 • 11 min read

The sulfur springs at St Lucia's drive-in volcano are an excellent place for a mud bath © Marina113 / Getty Images

The Caribbean is a favorite vacation destination for many travelers because of its gorgeous beaches, lively festivals and diverse geography. The region is home to thousands of islands and cays, with 13 independent countries and twice as many dependent territories for travelers to explore. 

While a trip to a Caribbean island is sure to include palm trees and sandy beaches, each island stands out for unique reasons. Shaped by their multicultural history, numerous languages and exceptional cuisine, even neighboring islands have striking differences. Here are some of the most unforgettable experiences across this breathtaking archipelago.

1. Jamaica 

Best for history 

Jamaica ’s powerful impact on the world cannot be denied. The island has been a popular vacation destination for decades, and it’s the birthplace of reggae, jerk seasoning and Blue Mountain coffee , among many other things. The tiny island known for its blissful beaches also has many carefully preserved historic sites that tell the story of Jamaica’s history.  

Montego Bay is Jamaica’s most popular destination with travelers, with major hotels and resorts dotted along the coast. Off the resorts, Montego Bay has several museums and historic sites for travelers to explore, such as the National Gallery of Jamaica , the oldest established museum in the English-speaking Caribbean. The gallery has a collection of contemporary and modern art as well as preserved artifacts from the Taino population, who were the first to inhabit the island. 

Another stop travelers should consider is the Greenwood Great House , a former plantation dating back to the late 1700s with an extensive collection of antiques, library books and musical instruments from Jamaica’s colonial era. Visitors should also take an afternoon to tour the Appleton Estate , a rum distillery that dates back to 1749. A tour includes a short film on the distillery's history, a walk through the sugar cane fields and a stop in the tasting room to sip on the flavorful aged rum. 

Best for culture  

Curaçao is the largest of the three islands that make up the ABC Islands ( Aruba , Bonaire  and Curaçao), a family of Dutch islands in the Southern Caribbean. While every island has its own distinct culture, Curaçao stands out because of its diverse population, unique terrain and global cuisine. 

Curaçao’s population comprises 40 to 50 nationalities, and most residents speak at least four languages: Dutch, English, Spanish and Papiamento – a local Creole language that’s a mix of Dutch, Portuguese and Spanish. Curaçao’s geography is unique as well. The island has beautiful beaches, a desert landscape that can be explored by quad bike, and a fascinating cave system on the island's southern tip. 

Willemstad , Curaçao’s downtown capital, is full of bright Dutch colonial homes, vibrant street art, and fantastic museums. Curaçao’s cultural diversity is also evident in its global dishes. From fried fish at Plasa Bieu’s casual food hall-style diner to roadside goat burgers at Williburger, Dutch poffertjes at The Pancake Sensation , and Italian housemade pasta at Serafina   – the island is a true melting pot of cultures. 

Planning Tip: Curaçao is generally outside the hurricane zone, which makes it an ideal destination to visit in the fall months.

3. Turks and Caicos

Best for beaches 

While the award for the best beach is nearly impossible in an area made up of hundreds of islands, Turks and Caicos has some of the most sought-after beaches in the Caribbean. The string of islands is located about 575 miles southwest of Miami and experiences an average of 350 days of sunshine, so nearly every day is a beach day. There are over 100 islands and cays in Turks and Caicos, many of which are uninhabited – but with some planning, you can visit several beaches on your trip. 

Travelers should start with the famous Grace Bay in Providenciales , which is also the location of most of the island’s hotels and resorts. Considered one of the top beaches in the Caribbean because of its dazzling turquoise water, expansive shoreline and soft, white sand, you could spend your whole vacation here. Other popular beaches in Providenciales are Bight Beach, less than 10 minutes south of Grace Bay, and Leeward Beach, a less crowded beach area five minutes north of Grace Bay. 

To access some of Turks and Caicos’ more secluded beaches, you’ll have to travel by water taxi, boat charter or a day trip arranged by a hotel. Head to Middle Caicos for a day trip to the tranquil Bambarra Beach  – also the name of the island's  rum, which was named for the group of African settlers who first arrived in Middle Caicos in the 19th century. Or travel by ferry to North Caicos to Whitby Beach or Hollywood Beach, where you’ll likely have the entire beach to yourself. 

4. St John 

Best for snorkeling 

St John is part of the US Virgin Islands , which also include the islands of St Thomas and St Croix . The smallest of the three, St John, is accessible by ferry from St Thomas, and about two-thirds of the nearly 20 square mile island is a designated national park. St John also has some of the clearest, warmest waters in the Caribbean and vibrant marine life, which makes it an ideal spot for snorkeling. 

St John’s excellent snorkeling spots include Trunk Bay , which is also the home of an underwater snorkeling trail. Visitors can follow the 400ft underwater trail that includes signs about the reef and the native plants and animals that inhabit the area. Other great spots include Maho Bay , where snorkelers regularly spot sea turtles, and Honeymoon Beach , where tropical fish and coral are abundant. 

Planning Tip: St John does not have an airport. Most travelers fly into the Cyril E. King Airport in St Thomas and then take a ferry to St John. 

5. Cayman Islands 

Best for Food 

The Cayman Islands consists of three main islands –  Cayman Brac , Grand Cayman  and Little Cayman – but most travelers head to Grand Cayman, the most developed of the three islands, where they flock to Grand Cayman’s Seven Mile Beach for its calm, crystalline water. Additionally, the island is a fantastic food destination. 

The Cayman Islands has an eclectic culinary scene and exciting food festivals year-round.  Food hotspots include fine seafood dining at Blue by Eric Ripert , conch fritters and ceviche at Tillie’s ,  sushi at W oto  and kangaroo sausage at Australian diner  Tukka. A visit to Grand Cayman should also include a taste of turtle, the national dish of the Cayman Islands, which can be found in versions of savory soups, burgers or steaks. Food festivals are another great way to experience Cayman’s cuisine. 

October marks Restaurant Month and Cocktail Week with restaurant specials around the island, and January’s Cookout Festival brings chefs and wine and spirits experts from around the world.  

Planning Tip: The Cayman Islands uses the Caymanian dollar, with CI$1 equal to US$1.25. Though US dollars are widely accepted, expect higher prices here than on other Caribbean islands.  

6. Puerto Rico 

Best for nightlife 

Some Caribbean islands are best for laying out on the beach, and while you can certainly do that in Puerto Rico , the nightlife in the capital, San Juan , shouldn’t be missed. During the day, Old San Juan invites travelers to stroll down cobblestone streets, check out museums and tour the Spanish forts El Morro and San Cristóbal . And at night, the city has a number of excellent bars and entertainment venues. 

Visitors should start with La Factoria, one of San Juan’s most popular bars, which is actually a labyrinth of six different bars – each with its own drink menu and vibe. Other great bars include Jungle Bird , a tiny tiki bar with great drinks, and El Batey, a classic dive bar. The Mezzanine offers classic cocktails like Patria Libre (rum over coconut water ice cubes) with a second-story view of Old San Juan. Travelers should also head to La Placita de Santurce , a marketplace by day that turns into a lively outdoor block party when the sun goes down. 

Planning Tip:   Two restaurants have claimed to be the birthplace of the piña colada – The Caribe Hilton Hotel and the restaurant, Barrachina.   If you have time, check out both locations and enjoy the island’s smooth signature drink made with coconut cream,  pineapple juice and rum.

7. Barbados

Best for festivals  

Barbados is the birthplace of rum (Mount Gay Distillery has been producing rum for nearly 300 years ), so it’s understandable why the tiny island is also big on festivals and island-wide celebrations. While Barbados has no shortage of great beaches – there are over 80 to choose from – some of Barbados’ best activities are on land. 

One of the island’s most popular events is Crop Over, which historically marked the end of the sugar cane season. The event dates back to 1780 and takes place at the end of July. The festival features concerts, arts and crafts, and the grand finale, The Grand Kadooment, a carnival that takes over the streets of Bridgetown with revelers in colorful costumes, mile-high speakers with booming music, and food and drinks. 

In November, the island also puts on a world-class Food and Rum Festival with local and top chefs around the world participating. October marks the Barbados Jazz Excursion , a weekend filled with concerts and a benefit golf tournament. 

Planning Tip: If you plan on playing mas (short for masquerade) by joining one of the masquerade bands for Crop Over, plan early. The colorful costumes are custom-made months in advance, and popular bands sell out quickly. 

8. St Kitts 

Best for adventure 

St Kitts is a lush, mountainous island formed by volcanic activity that will appeal to adventure travelers. The island has its share of white sand and rich black sand beaches –  the result of volcanic rock deposits. For a high-altitude adventure, visitors can hike Mt Liamuiga, a dormant volcano on the island's western end. At nearly 3800ft, it’s one of the highest peaks in the Caribbean. 

St Kitts also has an extensive network of trails and caves that will take hikers past waterfalls, craters and the island's native verdant monkeys. Travelers can also step back in time with a ride on the St Kitts Scenic Railway . Originally built to transport sugar across the island, the three-hour ride gives passengers a scenic, 30-mile tour of the island. Other ways to traverse the island include a dune buggy or quad bike tour that will take riders past Old Road Town, the first English settlement in the Caribbean, and Brimstone Hill , the UNESCO Heritage fortress. Thrill seekers can also zip line over the rainforest or go horseback riding on beaches or mountain trails. 

Planning Tip: The best view in St Kitts is atop Timothy Hill, located about 4 miles from the capital city of Basseterre, where you can see both the Atlantic Ocean and the Caribbean Sea and neighboring Nevis. 

Best for hiking

Antigua ’s claim to fame is its 365 beaches – one for every day of the year. But those who venture beyond the beaches will be rewarded with several great hiking excursions. Between Antigua and its sister island Barbuda, there are over 65 named mountains and hills, many of which make excellent hiking trails. 

Antigua’s most well-known mountain is Mt Obama , formerly named Boggy Peak. This peak is the highest elevation on the island, extending 1319ft into the air. Those who make it to the top are privy to panoramic views of Antigua and neighboring Montserrat . Mt Obama is considered an intermediate trail, and the three-hour round-trip hike can be strenuous, especially on a hot day. 

More low-key hikes around Antigua can be found by heading to Nelson’s Dockyard National Park and following the trails that lead past landmarks like Pigeon Point Beach and historic attractions like The Blockhouse, a former British military fort. Hikers can also work up a sweat on the Pillar of Hercules hike, which starts at the end of Galleon Beach  and leads hikers to a majestic limestone formation. 

10. St Lucia 

Best for nature  

St Lucia is one of the most geographically stunning islands in the Caribbean. The Pitons, the twin volcanic peaks, are its most recognizable landmark, and the island also has tons of other natural attractions. For first-timers, the Pitons are a must-explore destination, and travelers can explore the natural wonders by a boat ride, snorkeling the surrounding waters or hiking to the top of Gros Piton – the larger (but more navigable) of the two peaks. 

At St Lucia’s Sulfur Springs , located in the historic town of Soufrière, travelers can take a mud bath and then rinse off in the steaming springs. St Lucia’s interior rainforest is also fantastic for exploring. The Edmund Forest Reserve is an 18,000 sq ft park ideal for spotting the St Lucian parrots and orioles native to the island. 

The island also abounds with waterfalls. While there are several impressive cascades, Sault Falls (also known as Dennery Falls or Errard Falls) is an off-the-beaten-track 50ft waterfall with a swimming hole that’s best explored with an experienced guide.

This article was first published March 2022 and updated December 2022

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The 28 Most Beautiful Places in the Caribbean, From Jamaica's Waterfalls to the Streets of Cuba

By Caitlin Morton

Hidden lagoons, staggering mountains, European-inspired architecture: The Caribbean’s 7,000-plus islands and sea-facing coastlines offer so much more than just gorgeous beaches—although it certainly doesn't suffer in that department. And while many islands continually get battered by hurricanes and travel to other islands (i.e., Cuba) has been muddled by travel bans, the region is still one of our favorite places to visit on the entire planet. Take a tour of the most beautiful places in the Caribbean, including natural wonders, underwater sites, and some of the world’s dreamiest hotels .

This article has been updated since its original publish date.

Stingray City, The Cayman Islands

If it’s pristine beaches you’re after, look no further than the Cayman Islands (Grand Cayman, Cayman Brac, and Little Cayman), which have some of the best stretches of sand in the entire Caribbean. But some of the islands’ best sites are actually found under the water’s surface, just past those white shorelines. Make sure to pay a special visit to Stingray City off of Grand Cayman, to snorkel with the rays in shockingly clear water.

Willemstad, Curaçao

Although Curaçao has often been dwarfed by its sister island, Aruba, there are plenty of reasons to visit the “middle child” of the Dutch ABC Islands. For starters, the 17th-century, UNESCO-protected capital city of Willemstad is as pretty as it is historic. With its pastel-colored Dutch and Portuguese-inspired buildings, the architecture here will impress you from every angle.

Englishman’s Bay, Tobago

The dual-island nation of Trinidad and Tobago is about as far south as you can get in the Caribbean, located only seven miles from Venezuela. While Trinidad is best known for its vibrant Carnival celebrations , Tobago is the place to go for snorkeling and beach bumming. On the leeward coast of the island, the crescent-shaped, rainforest-backed Englishman’s Bay is a particularly stunning spot to swim in the warm Caribbean waters.

Renaissance Island, Aruba

The second largest of the Dutch ABC islands, Aruba is one of the Caribbean’s best islands for beaches —and you’re guaranteed to find a great hotel on nearly every stretch of sand. For a more intimate beach experience, head to the privately-owned Renaissance Island, complete with shallow coves, overwater bungalows, and—best of all—a population of bright pink flamingos.

María Casbas

Jessica Chapel

Madison Flager

Bonaire National Marine Park, Bonaire

Only 50 miles from South America, Bonaire is the farthest east of the ABC Islands. And while the island has a dry, rather foreboding desert landscape, its true beauty can be found just below the surrounding waters. The entire coral reef around Bonaire is a national park (Bonaire National Marine Park), with brightly colored coral and wildlife ranging from nurse sharks to seahorses and friendly green turtles.

Old San Juan, Puerto Rico

You can find world-class beaches all over Puerto Rico, but the island is perfect for architecture lovers as well: Old San Juan remains one of the best-preserved examples of Spanish Colonial architecture in the Caribbean, with brightly painted buildings and cobblestone streets that could launch a thousand Instagram stories.

Morne Trois Pitons National Park, Dominica

You can find some great beaches on Dominica , sure, but the real appeal of the island lies a bit further inland. We’re talking about the Morne Trois Pitons National Park, a tropical rainforest with some of the best flora and fauna in the entire Caribbean. The park is perhaps best known for its boiling lake and hot springs, but we’d just as happily visit for the giant ferns, colorful flowers, and chance to hike through a cloud forest.

Crane Beach, Barbados

Located on the rugged east coast of Barbados, the pink shoreline of Crane Beach is flanked by lush vegetation and turquoise waters. The beach is known for its boogie board–ready waves and luxe hotels where you can dry off after pulling yourself out of your beach chair. We’re particular fans of The Crane , one of the oldest operating hotels in the Caribbean.

Lighthouse Reef, Belize

Located about 50 miles off the coast of Belize City, this Caribbean Sea atoll boasts beautiful coral and shallow turquoise waters—but it is probably most famous for the Great Blue Hole, a 1,000-foot-wide, perfectly circular sinkhole that draws scuba divers from around the world. But even if you don’t feel like diving into the unknown, you can still enjoy the Lighthouse Reef’s snorkeling sites, colorful fish and birds, and sandy islands covered in coconut trees.

La Samanna, A Belmond Hotel, St. Martin

St. Martin (the French side of the dual-nation island of St. Maarten/St. Martin) is all about relaxation, good food, and some of the best hotels in the Caribbean. Case in point: Belmond La Samanna , a 5-star beachfront resort beloved by the international jet set (and our readers). In late 2018, the resort unveiled a retro-chic refresh of its rooms, villas, and public spaces, filled with breezy teal-and-coral decor and ocean views—plus plenty of private beach cabanas with complimentary champagne.

The Pitons, St. Lucia

The scenery of St. Lucia can be summed up in one jaw-dropping site: a duo of striking spires known as the Pitons. The two volcanic peaks—Gros Piton and Petit Piton—are the most iconic landmarks on the island, and visitors can enjoy them in a variety of ways. An absolute bucket list experience has to be actually hiking the mountains, an activity that takes the better part of a day. If you prefer to keep your feet at sea level, plop a towel down at Sugar Beach , set dramatically (and conveniently) between the two Pitons.

Grace Bay, Turks and Caicos

Far and away one of the best places for a quick escape, Turks and Caicos checks almost every box, from private island spa retreats to miles of empty beaches and crystal-clear water. The island of Providenciales in particular has some of the world’s loveliest white sand beaches, namely 12-mile Grace Bay on the north shore. (Be sure to pack sunglasses: When we say white sand, we mean blindingly white sand.)

Old Havana, Cuba

From the pastel buildings of Old Havana to the rich green moss of Metropolitan Park, Havana is as colorful as it is energetic. Most of the city’s architecture appears frozen in the 1950s—and you can lean into that old-school vibe by taking a vintage car tour or sipping a Hemingway Daiquiri in a jazz club.

The Baths, Virgin Gorda

Virgin Gorda is the third largest of the British Virgin Islands , with natural beauty covering virtually all of its 8.5 square miles. The island offers quiet beaches and coves and flora-filled national parks. Perhaps the prettiest (and most popular attraction), though, is the Baths, a seaside area where huge granite boulders form scenic saltwater pools and grottos.

Belle Mont Farm on Kittitian Hill, St. Kitts

St. Kitts is known for its sugarcane fields and well-preserved Brimstone Hill fortresses, but the island also houses some of our favorite luxury hotels. For sophisticated lodgings with a view, book a stay at Belle Mont Farm on Kittitian Hill , a 2015 Hot List winner. Situated on the northwestern slopes of Mount Liamuiga, some of the resort’s biggest draws are the private plunge pools and outdoor clawfoot tubs overlooking the sea.

Shirley Heights, Antigua

Antigua mixes tropical beauty with British history—just look at the candy-colored colonial buildings and much-touted 365 beaches to choose from. Overlooking the English Harbour (which fills with boats during the island’s annual yacht regatta), Shirley Heights should be on your itinerary: Soaking in the views of that curved coastline is a truly unforgettable experience.

Altos de Chavón, Dominican Republic

For an uncanny slice of Europe in the Caribbean, head to Altos de Chavón , an exact replica of a 16th-century Mediterranean village located in the Dominican Republic. This charming little village opened to the public in 1982 and remains a popular tourist attraction thanks to its restaurants and artisan shops, 5,000-seat amphitheater (Frank Sinatra and Elton John have held concerts here, among many others), and unparalleled views over the Chavón River.

Mount Scenery, Saba

Winning the award for “most literally named natural wonder,” Mount Scenery is an active (but generally quiet) volcano on the tiny island of Saba, topping out at 2,877 feet. Hiking the mountain takes about three hours round-trip, and it’s well worth the effort for the abundance of jungle vegetation, cloud forests, and all-encompassing views of the island you’ll see along the way.

St. George’s, Grenada

St. George’s could easily be mistaken for an Italian coastal town , with brightly colored houses and churches lined up along the turquoise water. But unlike Italy, travelers can get to Grenada’s capital city from New York in under five hours, leaving more time to enjoy the island’s coral reefs, buzzing food markets, and vendors selling local nutmeg and cinnamon.

Tobago Cays, St. Vincent and the Grenadines

No visit to St. Vincent and the Grenadines would be complete without a day (or 10) devoted to sailing . You’ll never be far from land here, but most excursion boats anchor at Tobago Cays—and for good reason. The marine reserve comprises five uninhabited islands that are exceptional, even by Caribbean standards.

Four Seasons Resort Nevis

Frequently voted one of the best resorts in the Caribbean by our readers, Four Seasons Resort Nevis is a serene hideaway tucked away on Pinney’s Beach, one of the most beautiful stretches of sand on the island. Expect pastel guest rooms with mahogany furniture, a spectacular infinity pool lined with sunny yellow beach chairs, and an open-air restaurant overlooking the ocean. The hotel is the perfect spot to explore Nevis, which often doesn’t get quite as much attention as its sister, St. Kitts (but definitely should).

Terre-de-Haut, Guadeloupe

It’s easy to see why Guadeloupe has long been a favorite vacation spot among French tourists—particularly the small cluster of islands known as Îles des Saintes (or Les Saintes). Terre-de-Haut is the largest of the islands, and is almost like a miniature Rio de Janeiro, with incredible beaches and mountains tucked into its two square miles. Make sure to check out the reefs rich with marine life off of Pain de Sucre (Sugar Loaf Beach), and climb up the 170-foot Sugar Loaf Hill for a once-in-a-lifetime photograph.

Les Salines, Martinique

The relatively large island of Martinique belongs to France, making it feel even more faraway and exotic as you put your French skills and euros to good use. And with beaches like Les Salines, located just south of Sainte-Anne, the island also happens to be one of our favorites for sand and surf. The pristine white sand at Les Salines stretches on for miles, while palm trees line the shore and provide plenty of shade for those hoping to stay for the entire day.

Dunn’s River Falls, Jamaica

If Jamaica’s Dunn’s River Falls look familiar, you may have spotted them on the big screen : The falls appeared in the very first James Bond film from 1962, Dr. No , when Ursula Andress seductively emerges from the water. Hollywood fame aside, the watery attraction is a must-visit for any Jamaican itinerary. The small pools that collect in the tiers of travertine rock have become a popular place to take a soak, while the bigger rocks surrounding the falls attract lines of people wanting to jump into the water.

Gustavia, St. Barts

While any mention of St. Barts tends to conjure up images of Rolexes and caviar, the tony territory has enough natural beauty and scenic views to give any 5-star hotel a run for its money. One of the best ways to explore the island is to start your day with a morning walk around the capital, Gustavia, a tidy collection of old, red-roofed buildings clad in volcanic stone. Soak in the views before stopping into one of the town’s great restaurants or fish markets.

Altamer Resort, Anguilla

The British Overseas Territory of Anguilla is the place to get away from it all. And there’s no better place to go off the grid than Altamer Resort, located on the famously gorgeous Shoal Bay West beach. The resort features private villas with sunny bedrooms, curated artwork, and swimming pools right outside the door. Plus, the ultra-modern, Myron Goldfinger-designed buildings are unlike anything you’ll see anywhere else in the Caribbean.

Trunk Bay, St. John

Sitting in the northwestern corner of the Virgin Islands National Park , Trunk Bay is undeniably one of the most beautiful places in the Caribbean—if not the world. Calm, clear water and a 225-yard-long underwater trail for snorkeling are big draws, as are hiking trails up and into the surrounding greenery, filled with the ruins of historic sugar cane plantations.

Tayrona National Park, Colombia

Located on Colombia’s northern Caribbean coast, Tayrona National Park is home to pre-Hispanic ruins, tropical rainforests, and some of the country’s most beautiful beaches. While the palm-shaded beaches may be the biggest attraction, the park is also popular among birdwatchers and wildlife enthusiasts eager to see monkeys, lizards, and Andean condors in their native habitat.

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50 Best Caribbean Destinations Ranked by Traveler Preference (with Map)

• 4 Pinterest

The Caribbean – think sun-kissed beaches, mesmerizing turquoise waters, and a cultural tapestry that never ceases to amaze. But with so many gorgeous spots dotted across this paradise, the burning question is: which ones are capturing the most hearts lately?

Well, we’ve been digging deep into our own data to find out just that. This isn’t just any list; it’s a roundup of the 50 best Caribbean destinations , both island and coastal, shaped directly by your searches and bookings. Yup, every search, every click, and every booking you made on our platform played a part in this.

How did we weave together this list?

• Booking Histories: By meticulously combing through users’ booking histories, we’ve been able to pinpoint the destinations that consistently emerged as favorites, painting a picture of the regions that are genuinely preferred.
• Browsing Behavior Analysis: By keeping tabs on your browsing antics, from the destinations you searched for to the amount of time you lingered on specific pages and the content that made you click, we’ve gleaned insights into which regions truly spark interest.

Following this analysis, we allocated a popularity percentage to each destination , serving as a direct indicator of its appeal to our user base.

Whether you’re an old soul of the Caribbean’s charm or a fresh explorer ready for a splash, here’s a peek into the Caribbean destinations that are setting hearts aflutter.

Ready to set sail?

1 – Cancún, Mexico

Popularity score: 94.02%

Cancún is not just about glitzy hotels and vibrant nightlife; it’s a gateway to some of Mexico’s most extraordinary treasures.

Imagine exploring ancient Mayan ruins, diving into hidden cenotes, and lounging on powdery white beaches that stretch as far as the eye can see.

If you’re seeking a blend of adventure and relaxation, Cancún is calling your name!

• Cancún tours

See also:  Fun things to do in Cancún , Best Snorkelling Spots in Cancún , Best Cancún Excursions and Day Trips , Best Cancún tours ,  Best Theme parks in Cancún

2 – Montego Bay, Jamaica

Popularity score: 91.70%

Step into Montego Bay, where the beaches are as warm and welcoming as the locals.

This Jamaican gem offers unparalleled snorkeling experiences, the hauntingly beautiful Rose Hall Great House, and the unique, bustling Hip Strip for your shopping and entertainment needs.

Montego Bay is the epitome of a laid-back yet exciting Caribbean escape.

• Montego Bay tours

See also:  Fun things to do in Jamaica

3 – Punta Cana, Dominican Republic

Popularity score: 88.04%

Punta Cana, a captivating destination, boasts some of the Caribbean’s most pristine beaches, perfect for leisurely soaking up the sun or engaging in exciting water sports.

Beyond the shore, travelers can venture into lush ecological reserves and hidden caves, each telling tales of the island’s rich history and biodiversity.

If you crave a vacation that’s both relaxing and adventurous, Punta Cana should be on your radar.

• Punta Cana tours

See also:  Fun things to do in Punta Cana

4 – Playa del Carmen, Mexico

Popularity score: 87.61%

Playa del Carmen serves up a cocktail of lively nights, majestic beaches, and shopping delights that’s hard to resist.

Ever wandered along Fifth Avenue? If not, picture a street come to life with trendy boutiques, tempting food spots, and bars filled with energy.

And don’t forget: just a stone’s throw away, you’ll find eco-parks and Mayan ruins, each brimming with stories from the past.

• Playa del Carmen tours

See also:  Fun things to do in Playa Del Carmen

5 – Cartagena, Colombia

Popularity score: 86.06%

Every visit to Cartagena is a swirl of colonial romance mixed with irresistible Caribbean energy.

Beyond the city’s iconic pastel-colored buildings and cobblestone streets, you’ll find enchanting local markets, innovative gastronomy, and the beguiling Rosario Islands—pristine Caribbean paradises that are only a short boat ride away but feel like a world apart.

• Cartagena tours

See also:  Fun things to do in Cartagena

6 – Tulum, Mexico

Popularity score: 84.03%

Tulum, nestled along the Riviera Maya, is where history whispers among the waves and contemporary charm dances with traditions.

With every step on its sandy pathways, there’s an ancient ruin beckoning or a laid-back beach cafe inviting.

Whether it’s the mystique of the Mayan temples or the relaxed aura of beachside cabanas, missing out on Tulum feels like overlooking a vibrant hue in a masterpiece of a palette.

• Tulu’um tours

See also:  Fun things to do in Tulum , Fun things to do on the Riviera Maya

7 – Havana, Cuba

Popularity score: 80.72%

Have you ever strolled through a city that seemed to be a real-life novel? That’s Cuba for you.

It is made to be so by the vibrancy of its buildings, the beat of its music, and most importantly, the friendliness of its people.

Every vintage car roaring by or every imposing fort in Old Havana brings history to life. Have you missed this city?

You can’t find anything like its vibe and the good spirit of its people anywhere else, so it’s like letting a beautiful melody pass you by.

• Havana tours

See also:  Best Holiday Destinations in 2023

8 – Cozumel, Mexico

Popularity score: 79.78%

The extraordinary Caribbean island of Cozumel provides travelers with a glimpse of authentic Mexican culture as well as breath-taking natural beauty.

Famous coral reefs are waiting beneath the light waters of Cozumel, making it a diver’s paradise.

Explore the ancient Mayan ruins on land or indulge in the mouthwatering flavors of local cuisine.

Passing up this experience would mean missing out on a wealth of adventures and the true flavor of Mexico. It is both panoramic and mouthwatering.

• Cozumel tours

See also:  Fun things to do in Cozumel

9 – Ocho Rios, Jamaica

Popularity score: 76.90%

Ocho Rios, in Jamaica, is the country’s entryway to the breathtakingly beautiful Caribbean with its golden beaches and lush, rolling hills.

This location is jam-packed with culture, adventure, and relaxation, from the beautiful Dunn’s River Falls to the buzzing artisan markets.

You would be missing out on the opportunity to immerse yourself in a tapestry of exhilarating experiences and the tranquil, picturesque views that capture the very soul of the Caribbean if you chose not to go.

• Ocho Rios tours

10 – Roatán, Honduras

Popularity score: 75.97%

Roatán, a glittering gem in the Honduran Caribbean, extends an open invitation to you.

It is home to vibrant coral reefs that are ripe for exploration by both eager snorkelers and divers.

You can find pristine white sand beaches here as well as a distinctive fusion of Garifuna, Afro-Caribbean, and Spanish cultures, each of which is represented by mouthwatering cuisines and entrancing musical rhythms.

• Roatán tours

11 – St. Lucia

Popularity score: 75.05%

Want a little piece of paradise? Your sun-drenched adventures will be beautifully framed by St. Lucia’s dramatically tapered Pitons mountains.

Engage in the Creole culture of the island and let the steel pan drums’ symphony lead you to secluded waterfalls and geothermal springs, each of which bears witness to the island’s volcanic origins.

• St. Lucia tours

See also:  Fun things to do in St. Lucia

12 – The Bahamas

Popularity score: 71.72%

Picture this: 700 islands, each whispering its own adventure or serenity story.

That’s the Bahamas for you. While each island sings the vibrant tunes of Junkanoo festivals, they also promise shores painted in hues of pink for sun lovers, and underwater wonderlands of coral reefs and deep-blue caverns for those who seek the thrill of the dive.

• Bahamas tours

See also:  Fun things to do in Bahamas , Fun things to do in Nassau

13 – Santa Marta, Colombia

Popularity score: 71.45%

Between the sparkling embrace of the Caribbean and the watchful gaze of the Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta mountains lies the enchanting Santa Marta, Colombia.

Peel back its layers, and you’re introduced to the whispers of Tairona and the hidden treasures of Ciudad Perdida, deep within the verdant jungles.

Every hidden beach, every tucked-away cove, paints a picture of romance. So, if you’ve got a travel story to write, make sure Santa Marta is a chapter you relish, whether you’re chasing adventures or moments of tranquility.

• Santa Marta tours

14 – Puerto Plata, Dominican Republic

Popularity score: 70.24%

Imagine a place where golden shores meet stories of old – that’s Puerto Plata in the Dominican Republic for you.

You’ll find yourself swaying to the merengue, the island’s heartbeats transformed into dance. But there’s also a quieter allure, found in the time-honored Victorian buildings that grace the streets.

Whether you’re soaking up tales at Fort San Felipe or sinking your toes into the soft embrace of Amber Cove’s sands, Puerto Plata weaves a melody that’s both a nod to its past and a celebration of the now.

• Puerto Plata tours

15 – Sosúa, Dominican Republic

Popularity score: 68.88%

There’s a magnetic pull to Sosúa that’s hard to resist. It’s where tantalizing beaches meet the soulful essence of the Dominican.

Dive beneath its waves to uncover underwater wonders or let loose and dance the merengue beneath a canopy of stars.

Between its spirited markets and calming shores, Sosúa offers a beautiful dance of contrasts, echoing the very essence of Dominican life.

• Sosúa tours

16 – Aruba, Netherlands

Popularity score: 67.53%

Ever wished for a perpetual summer? Aruba might be the only place that comes close.

There, the sun feels like a gentle embrace and the ocean seems to hum a lullaby.

If you dig a little deeper, you’ll discover a fusion of Dutch charm and Indigenous spirit. Would you like to spend the day relaxing? The location is Eagle Beach.

Are you feeling daring? The National Park of Arikok calls. Aruba is similar to that friend who understands when you need to unwind or experience a little excitement, all served with a touch of European elegance.

• Aruba tours

See also:  Fun things to do in Aruba

17 – Falmouth, Jamaica

Popularity score: 67.51%

Falmouth, the undiscovered jewel of Jamaica, entices visitors with its Georgian architecture and brilliant bioluminescent lagoon.

Imagine exploring its colonial streets, savoring hot jerk chicken from a roadside stand, or relaxing on a bamboo raft down the Martha Brae River.

Falmouth offers more than just a place to stay; it also offers a genuine Jamaican experience just waiting to be woven into your travel stories.

• Falmouth tours

18 – Negril, Jamaica

Popularity score: 67.11%

Have you ever found yourself amidst Negril’s spellbinding golden sunsets? If not, trust me, it’s a sight to behold.

Imagine strolling along the Seven Mile Beach, each step sinking into the powdery white sands. But Negril is so much more than its scenic charm.

It dances to Jamaica’s beat, radiating its energy, its passion.

Whether you’re up for an adventure or just want to chill and take in the vistas, Negril promises a Caribbean experience stitched together with unforgettable moments.

• Negril tours

19 – Fajardo, Puerto Rico

Popularity score: 66.27%

In Fajardo, every wave tells a different story.

Sink your toes into the soft sands of Seven Seas Beach, immerse yourself in Puerto Rico’s coastal beauty by paddling through the bay’s captivating bioluminescent glow, or learn more about the fascinating history of the iconic Cabezas de San Juan Lighthouse.

Fajardo is the perfect blend of relaxation and cultural immersion, promising an unforgettable Caribbean holiday.

• Fajardo tours

20 – Turks and Caicos, British Overseas Territories

Popularity score: 66.10%

Ever daydreamed about where you might find the world’s most jaw-dropping coral reefs?Let me introduce you to Turks and Caicos.

Beyond its tranquil blue shores, it’s a paradise for marine enthusiasts.

Dive in, and you’re floating alongside the globe’s third-largest coral system. It’s not just an underwater thrill – it’s a story in every ripple, a secret in every shade of blue, all while the island’s serenity cradles you.

• Turks and Caicos tours

See also:  Fun things to do in Turks and Caicos Islands

21 – San Juan, Puerto Rico

Popularity score: 66.01%

San Juan is a vibrant fusion of the old and new, so missing it is a loss.

Here, vibrant Spanish colonial architecture and a thriving nightlife coexist. Explore the historic El Viejo neighborhood of San Juan.

Let the forts and streets with ocean views tell their stories, and savor the unrivaled mofongo that the neighborhood restaurants are so proud to serve!

• San Juan tours

See also:  Fun things to do in San Juan , Fun things to do in Puerto Rico

22 – Belize City

Popularity score: 65.85%

Peace and exciting excursions are both available in San Ignacio, a mysterious location in the center of Belize.

It feels as though you’ve entered a living book in places like the Xunantunich Ruins and the dense rainforests, which hum with nature’s untold tales.

When you immerse yourself, get lost, and truly experience this location as opposed to just admiring it from a distance, you can feel the heartbeat of a place eager to share its enthralling tales.

• Belize city tours

See also:  Fun things to do in Belize

23 – U.S. Virgin Islands

Popularity score: 64.25%

Ever thought about what you’re missing by not visiting the U.S. Virgin Islands? It’s like leaving behind a chance to sway to the calming island beats and uncover hidden nooks amidst vibrant greens. Every island promises its own kind of magic.

From the serene stretches of sand in St. John, bustling vibes of St. Thomas markets, to the wild heartbeats of nature parks filled with wonders.

• U.S Virgin Islands tours

24 – Barbados

Popularity score: 61.36%

Picture this: You’re standing on the shores of Barbados, an Eastern Caribbean treasure where the best of nature and energetic culture collide.

Missing the thrill of Bathsheba Beach, the calming beauty of pearly sands, or the echoes of Bridgetown’s history? Ah, what an experience that would be!

Here, it’s the welcoming Bajan smiles paired with some dreamy landscapes.

• Barbados tours

See also:  Fun things to do in Barbados

25 – Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic

Popularity score: 59.44%

Imagine overlooking the bustling life of Santo Domingo! This capital, the very soul of the Dominican Republic, weaves ancient stories with today’s vibrancy.

The Zona Colonial holds tales of yesteryears, while the streets come alive with foot-tapping merengue beats. And oh, the culinary journey here? Simply unparalleled.

Santo Domingo is a city that never runs out of surprises.

• Santo Domingo tours

26 – San Ignacio, Belize

Popularity score: 58.50%

Ever daydreamed about uncharted adventures? San Ignacio in Belize might just be the answer.

By not being here, you’re skipping the magic of the ATM Cave, getting lost in the tales of the Xunantunich Mayan ruins, or savoring that farm-fresh meal amidst the whispers of the jungle.

This town isn’t just a destination; it’s a living postcard bursting with sights waiting to be seen.

• San Ignacio tours

27 – Antigua and Barbuda

Popularity score: 57.57%

Have you ever wanted to pause time so that you could enjoy life’s small pleasures? Your best bet might be Antigua and Barbuda.

Imagine a different beach for every day of the year, with joyful celebrations, cricket cries, and sultry tunes filling the air.

Nelson’s Dockyard, for example, can take you back in time while the underwater world below teases you with fascinating mysteries.

This pair is more than just a place to go, it’s a blank canvas ready for memories to be painted.

• Antigua and Barbuda tours

28 – Saint Kitts and Nevis

Popularity score: 57.36%

Ever danced under the Caribbean sun in Saint Kitts and Nevis? Here, untouched nature and deep-rooted culture come together in an enticing dance.

Picture standing in the shadow of the grand Brimstone Hill Fortress, feeling its stories of yesteryears seep into your soul, or wandering through vibrant rainforests filled with nature’s own melodies.

As the sun bows, the sky explodes in shades of gold and ruby. The island’s vibe? A heartwarming mix of Caribbean flair, African rhythm, and European charm that promises a world of discoveries.

• Saint Kitts and Nevis tours

29 – Runaway Bay, Jamaica

Popularity score: 57.01%

Want to truly escape to the Caribbean? Let Jamaica’s hidden gem of Runaway Bay take your breath away.

Imagine beautiful beaches where the sand almost kisses the water, and the allure of the Green Grotto Caves.

Reggae is playing everywhere you look, island food is spicy, and people are smiling and waving to you.

This isn’t just another place to go; it’s an experience, a feeling, and the hushed promise of new adventures every morning.

• Runaway Bay tours

30 – La Romana, Dominican Republic

Popularity score: 56.40%

Imagine the sun showering its golden warmth on you as you laze on the elegant beaches of La Romana.

Beyond the beaches, the lively Mercado Público pulses with colors and the tempting fragrances of Dominican dishes.

Dive a little deeper and uncover the mysteries of Cueva de las Maravillas, rich with age-old Taino engravings, or chase the thrill at some of the world’s best golf greens.

Simply put, La Romana is a treasure trove of experiences, each more enticing than the last.

• La Romana tours

31 – Cayman Islands

Popularity score: 56.38%

Each island in the Cayman Islands offers a distinctive but complementary experience for the discerning traveler, creating a symphony of three paradisiacal notes.

The largest of the three islands, Grand Cayman, seduces with its urban vibes and famous Seven Mile Beach, a beautiful stretch of sand.

Discover Cayman Brac’s serene, untainted beauty or lose yourself in Little Cayman’s serene, laid-back charm, where undulating waves whisper secrets and vibrant coral reefs explode with a myriad of colors and marine life.

• Cayman Islands tours

See also:  Fun things to do in Cayman Islands , Fun things to do in Grand Cayman

32 – Sint Maarten/Saint Martin, Netherlands/France

Popularity score: 56.36%

An intoxicating blend of Dutch efficiency and French élan, the island of Sint Maarten/Saint Martin is a sun-drenched, cultural mosaic where the joy of living is celebrated daily.

Imagine sipping exquisite wine while gazing out at marinas dotted with yachts, as the gentle breeze carries whispers of adventures from Fort Louis and Loterie Farm’s treetop adventures.

From indulging in duty-free shopping on the bustling Front Street to lounging on the iconic Maho Beach, watching as planes land astonishingly close overhead, every moment on this dual-nation island is an invitation to embrace the delightful unpredictability of life and travel.

• St Maarten tours
• St Martin tours

See also:  Fun things to do in St. Marteen

33 – Costa Maya, Mexico

Popularity score: 55.70%

Ever had a conversation about Costa Maya in Yucatán? It resembles turning the pages of an explorer’s journal.

Dive into the Mesoamerican Barrier Reef’s vivid depths or walk the Mayan trails that the jungles are so adamant about keeping hidden.

And when the buzz of life becomes a little too much? The best view of the sky creating a masterpiece is waiting for you on those tranquil beaches.

Where rhythms, stories, and treasured memories converge is Costa Maya.

• Costa Maya tours

34 – Limón, Costa Rica

Popularity score: 55.59%

Limón, Costa Rica is more than just a place to visit; it’s a canvas painted with an amazing combination of lush, verdant rainforests and immaculate, golden beaches that beckons you to embark on an exhilarating adventure amidst nature’s finest works of art.

Experience its vibrant Afro-Caribbean culture while navigating through its busy markets, or set out on a rafting trip down the challenging Ro Reventazón while listening to the symphonic calls of the wildlife.

The captivating Veragua Rainforest Park offers an up-close encounter with the untamed beauty and vibrant life of the tropics through its abundance of exotic wildlife and majestic waterfalls.

• Limón tours

See also:  Fun things to do in Costa Rica

35 – Samaná, Dominican Republic

Popularity score: 55.58%

Dive into Samaná, a magical place in the northeastern embrace of the Dominican Republic.

As coconut trees lead you to secluded beaches like Playa Rincón, where the ocean paints azure strokes, feel the rhythm of the place.

But that’s just the beginning; the majestic El Limón Waterfall, hidden by untamed mountains and forests, beckons, and the serene Samaná Bay assures heart-rending winter whale songs.

Samaná is more than just a place to go; it’s a sensation, a captivating tale just waiting to be experienced.

• Samaná tours

36 – St. Barts

Popularity score: 55.57%

St. Barts is more than just a place to visit in the Caribbean; it’s an adventure. Here, elegant opulence and breathtaking natural beauty blend harmoniously.

The beginning doesn’t end with the beaches and their inviting waters and soft sand. Foodies, get ready to fall in love—the island is a culinary paradise with French influences.

Beyond eating and unwinding, what else? A colorful patchwork of hopping markets, historic forts, and hip shops, each offering a piece of St. Barts magic.

37 – Bonaire, Dutch Special Municipality

Popularity score: 55.43%

If there’s a Caribbean whisper that calls to explorers of all kinds, it’s Bonaire.

Every dive is an adventure through nature’s art gallery as it explores the vivid display of marine biodiversity that lies beneath its waters and is protected and treasured.

On the ground, Bonaire proudly displays its history in every nook and cranny, on every plate, and during every rhythm-filled celebration.

A trip to Bonaire is more than just a quick stop, it’s an immersion into a captivating world that stays with you forever.

• Bonaire tours

38 – Martinique, France

Popularity score: 55.15%

Martinique offers a lovely fusion of French style and the carefree Caribbean spirit.

Fort-de-France is home to lively markets where you can indulge in a sensory extravaganza of exotic fruits and spices. On the other hand, areas like Les Salines offer serene beaches for unwinding.

For the intrepid, the towering Mount Pelée volcano offers not only a strenuous hike but also a vantage point from which to view the island’s diverse topography, which includes dense forests and old plantations.

• Martinique tours

See also:  Fun things to do in Martinique

39 – Bermuda, British Overseas Territories

Popularity score: 54.72%

Sunkissed and spectacular, Bermuda is the epitome of life’s finest pleasures waiting to be unearthed by avid explorers like you.

From the famed, ethereal pink-sand beaches like Horseshoe Bay to the mystical Crystal Caves, each corner of Bermuda promises a canvas of unforgettable moments and Instagram-worthy snapshots.

Engage in exhilarating water sports, explore UNESCO World Heritage sites in St. George, or simply bask in the island’s infectious, laid-back vibe, Bermuda extends an irresistible invitation to experience the mesmerizing amalgamation of British, American, and Caribbean cultures.

40 – Placencia, Belize

Popularity score: 54.00%

Wishing for the ideal fusion of local culture and the beauty of nature? Placencia is the solution.

The Caribbean kisses its beaches, and the Maya Mountains keep watch.

But there’s more to it than just the scenery; you can also explore the Belize Barrier Reef, take a deep dive, and savor the fresh seafood catch of the day as the stars twinkle overhead.

• Placencia tours

41 – British Virgin islands

Popularity score: 53.72%

Imagine a location where each step is in time with the song of the ocean. For you, the British Virgin Islands.

Every day is an adventure around here, from tales of secret bays to breath-taking mountaintop views.

Set sail in clear waters, seize a piece of unspoiled paradise, and relax on stunning beaches. Why not sing with the island chorus?

42 – Guadeloupe, France

Popularity score: 53.01%

When you enter Guadeloupe, it’s like embracing a one-of-a-kind symphony of unspoiled natural beauty, vibrant culture, and irresistibly mouthwatering cuisine that all harmoniously blend together under the warm Caribbean sun.

Here, you aren’t just a guest; you’re a part of a vibrant life scene where each day unfolds like a masterpiece filled with thrilling adventures, from climbing the majestic La Grande Soufrière volcano to savoring the electrifying rhythms of Gwo Ka music.

Guadeloupe won’t let you down if your taste buds are itching for a culinary adventure. The island offers a delightful fusion of French elegance and tantalizing Creole flavors, creating a dance of flavors and aromas that tell stories of the island’s rich heritage and the friendliness of its people.

43 – Grenada

Popularity score: 52.87%

Grenada is the unsung hero of the Caribbean, luring visitors with its bewitching combination of mountainous landscapes, lush rainforests, and pristine beaches.

It is immersed in an enchanting blend of spice-scented breezes and sunlit waters. Explore the heart of the island by strolling through St. George’s bustling market squares, where the nutmeg scent fills the air and the city’s vibrant colors and sounds paint a picture of lifelong memories.

Grenada invites you to let go and find happiness in its enchanted embrace, whether you’re diving into the mesmerizing underwater sculpture park, hiking through the lush Grand Etang National Park, or simply enjoying the sunset with a glass of the island’s legendary rum in hand.

• Grenada tours

44 – Ambergris Caye, Belize

Popularity score: 52.77%

If you’ve never experienced the tranquil allure of Ambergris Caye, you’re missing out on a destination that is a symphony of breathtaking natural beauty and vibrant local culture.

As the largest island in Belize, Ambergris Caye is the epitome of a tropical paradise, offering white, sandy beaches and crystal-clear waters teeming with an array of colorful marine life.

Here, the ancient mysteries of the Mayan ruins seamlessly blend with the pulsating rhythms of Caribbean life, promising an adventure that is as relaxing as it is exhilarating.

• Ambergris Caye tours

45 – Saint Vincent and the Grenadines

Popularity score: 52.59%

Have you yet to be enchanted by Saint Vincent and the Grenadines’ untainted charm?

With its alluring combination of lush volcanic landscapes, sparkling blue lagoons, and exquisitely secluded beaches, this alluring group of islands beckons. A visit here promises a wide range of unforgettable experiences, from sailing along the idyllic Tobago Cays to taking part in the pulsating energy of the nearby Vincy Mas carnival.

Each island here presents a distinct tapestry of vibrant culture and arresting natural beauty.

• Saint Vincent and the Grenadines tours

46 – Trinidad and Tobago

Popularity score: 52.45%

If Trinidad and Tobago haven’t been on your travel radar, get ready for an exhilarating discovery of a lifetime.

From the hypnotic steelpan rhythms at the renowned Carnival to the serene, unspoiled beauty of Tobago’s Pigeon Point, these twin islands serve up a dazzling cocktail of cultural richness and biodiversity, offering a feast for the senses.

Every moment spent here unfolds into an enchanting story against a backdrop of lush rainforests, mangrove swamps, and coral reefs, luring visitors with its plethora of hidden gems and vibrant, contagious energy.

• Trinidad and Tobago tours

47 – Cabarete, Dominican Republic

Popularity score: 52.31%

Cabarete, tucked away on the Dominican Republic’s northern coast, is not just a hidden gem; it’s also a colorful canvas with wind-swept beaches and an array of adventure activities just waiting for you to try.

Cabarete promises a tapestry of unforgettable experiences, from kitesurfing amid the dance of the Atlantic breezes to exploring the mysterious El Choco National Park with its secret caves and lagoons.

Its bohemian nightlife, where each dusk is celebrated with a symphony of laughter, music, and the irresistible aroma of Caribbean cuisine wafting through the palm-fringed shores, will be missed.

• Cabarete tours

48 – Anguilla, British Overseas Territories

Popularity score: 51.74%

With its ribbon of snow-white beaches and calm turquoise waters, Anguilla, a glittering jewel in the British Overseas Territories, extends a warm invitation and creates a tranquil tapestry that whispers luxury and relaxation.

Here, you’re not just a guest—you’re an honorary islander basking in the rays and swaying to the beat of the captivating calypso and reggae music that permeates the air.

Snorkeling on the island will allow you to interact with the magnificent marine life, or you can let the allure of the art galleries, which showcase the island’s diverse cultural heritage, lead you on a journey of discovery and connection with this idyllic paradise.

• Anguilla tours

49 – Dominica

Popularity score: 50.45%

With its symphony of roaring waterfalls, meandering trails through ancient rainforests, and mountains that tell tales as old as time, Dominica, known to travelers as the “Nature Island,” beckons.

Every step you take on this lush island reveals a new secret, whether it’s a secret hot spring waiting to welcome you into its warm embrace or lively markets resonating with Creole music and bursting with handcrafted goods and exotic spices that dance under your nose.

Immerse yourself in the diverse tapestry of cultures, where the Kalinago people extend their hospitality by sharing legends and crafts that reveal the essence of the island.

50 – Curacao, Netherlands

Popularity score: 50.09%

You can find a canvas of vivid colors and experiences in the Southern Caribbean called Curacao, which is more than just a drink.

Imagine taking a stroll through the old streets of Willemstad, where Dutch architecture meets buildings with pastel colors to create a singular, stunning backdrop. You can relax on the island’s secluded, sun-drenched beaches or dive into the island’s crystal-clear waters to discover a world of vibrant coral reefs teeming with life.

Curacao is a place where every corner sings a different song, promising an unforgettable symphony of adventures and breathtaking sights that you won’t find anywhere else.

• Curacao tours

Final thoughts

We hope you enjoyed our list of the most popular Caribbean destinations.

What are your thoughts? Do you agree with that listing? Any guesses on what the next trendy spots to visit in the Caribbean might be?

Don’t hesitate to share your top picks in the comments below.

Happy travels!

• Destinations

25 Best Places to Visit in the Caribbean

Last Updated By VI on March 18, 2024 in Things to Do in the Caribbean & Places to Visit

Saint Lucia

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Saint Lucia is an island nation characterized by the dramatic mountains on its west side known as the Pitons. Visitors staying in Saint Lucia can settle down in a luxurious resort and spend their days lounging on gorgeous volcanic beaches or go diving to explore coral reefs beneath the blue waves. Inland, a hike along one of the humid green rainforest trails may lead tourists to stunning waterfalls or lush green forestscapes. There are plenty of tour companies in Saint Lucia, which can offer visitors zipline experiences, Jeep tours, horseback riding, boat tours, and more.

Discover more: Romantic Getaways in the Caribbean

St Thomas is the most cosmopolitan of the three US Virgin Islands, and its capital city, Charlotte Amalie, offers resorts, shopping, fantastic cuisine, and a thriving nightlife. Visitors can climb the 99 Steps above Charlotte Amalie for a spectacular view of the island and the Caribbean Sea or take the Skyride 700 for an even higher view. History buffs can check out Fort Christian, built in the 17th century by Danish and Norwegian settlers on the island. On land, there are zipline tours, hiking trails, and bicycle tours, and on the water, Saint Thomas offers marine animal adventures at Coral World as well as snorkeling, scuba diving, and even submersible scooter tours.

San Juan , the capital city of Puerto Rico, dates back centuries to its time as an island fortress in the 16th century. Still in recovery from the devastating effects of Hurricane Irma, San Juan is still open for tourists, and as a US territory, American travelers have the opportunity to visit the Caribbean with no passport required. A walk around Old San Juan will reveal brightly painted colonial architecture, cobblestone streets, and beautiful plazas, and in New San Juan visitors will find beachfront resorts, lots of shopping, and a vibrant nightlife. Tours of the old fort, museums, galleries, and some delicious food will round out a trip to this excellent city.

Jamaica is a popular resort destination, with a busy cruise ship port and countless high-end all-inclusive resorts to choose from. A swim, dive, or snorkel in Montego Bay Marine Park will reveal colorful reefs and abundant fish, and a ride on horseback along the shores of the beach is both thrilling and picturesque. On land, visitors to Montego Bay can explore some of the massive and historical plantation houses, with their expansive gardens and grandiose architecture, that feature so prominently in Jamaica's history in the sugar trade.

Antigua and Barbuda is a Caribbean nation made up of two large tropical islands as well as several smaller islands. Sandy beaches and sunny weather are practically a given, but Antigua and Barbuda is also well known for the colorful reefs located just off its coasts as well as the green, diverse rainforests on the islands. The capital city of St. Johns, on the island of Antigua, is a bustling port city with plenty of cultural and historical museums, outdoor markets for crafts, souvenirs, and local specialties as well as an abundance of food and nightlife options.

A guided day tour of the island (either on land via foot or a Jeep or underwater via submarine!), a scuba diving lesson, horseback riding on the beach, and watching the sun set below the horizon from the white sands of the beach or from an outdoor table at a romantic restaurant are all some of the adventures that await in beautiful Aruba.

Plenty of cruise ships put into port at Barbados, but it's also a great destination on its own. Located in the eastern Caribbean Sea, the island of Barbados is an independent British Commonwealth nation with a lot of history. Its towns and cities are filled with gorgeous colonial architecture, and a visit to a museum will illuminate visitors about some of the events of Barbados' storied past. An island safari, aboard an open-air Land Rover, will guide visitors on an exploration of some of the most beautiful natural wonders of the island, while tours of fascinating places like underground Harrison's Cave or the mysterious Garrison Tunnels will add an air of intrigue and adventure to your vacation.

These three small islands in the western Caribbean are just the place for some snorkeling, sunbathing, and deep sea fishing. On Cayman Brac, visitors can try their hand at fishing and bring back their catch for chefs to cook fresh that very day. On Grand Cayman, a day at the Cayman Turtle Farm or relaxing on Seven Mile Beach is the perfect recipe for a great day, while on Little Cayman, the smallest of the three islands, visitors can find seclusion and tranquility on an empty beach or while bicycling down paths where they will meet more native iguanas than other people.

Nature abounds on the island nation of Dominica , where hikers, divers, fishers, and nature enthusiasts come to be amazed. Rated one of the top 10 destinations in the world for diving, underwater Dominica offers views of volcanic craters, colorful fish, and sheer drops into undersea abysses. On land, the beauty of Dominica's rainforests is jaw-dropping, with natural hot springs and even volcanic Boiling Lake. Hikers can explore volcanoes, streams, waterfalls, gorges, and more, and at the end of the day, go back to a world-class resort, hotel, or rental property for a good night's sleep before the next exciting day arrives.

A vacation in a country known as the "Spice Isle" is pretty much guaranteed to be anything but bland. Granada, nicknamed "The Spice of the Caribbean" because of the large nutmeg plantations on the island, offers an invigorating experience to its visitors, with sandy beaches for sunbathing, fish-filled coral reefs for snorkeling and scuba diving, and beautiful, tranquil landscapes for exploring on foot, by bicycle, or with a guide. From rafting down the rapids of a rainforest river to relaxing in the sun on the white sands of Grande Anse Beach, Grenada can offer a lot to travelers looking for any type of holiday.

The capital city of Cuba, Havana is an old city with Spanish colonialist roots that can be seen in its impressive 16th century architecture. Visitors to Havana can explore Old Havana, the oldest district in the city, which is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site. In Old Havana, they will find Castillo del Morro, La Cabaña, the Plaza de Armas, and many of the museums and cultural centers Havana has to offer. There's always something to do in Havana, including watersports like diving or boating, hiking or exploring the nearby natural beauty of Cuba, or taking part in one of the many cultural events or seasonal markets that take place in the city center.

Part of a rugged group of volcanic islands known as the Lesser Antilles, Martinique is an overseas territory belonging to France. On its eastern coast is the mighty Atlantic Ocean, and on its western border the warm waves of the Caribbean Sea. Martinique's picture-perfect palm trees, white sandy beaches, and sunsets are the very image of an ideal Caribbean holiday, and visitors can take part in diving, snorkeling, kite surfing, jet skiing, and kayaking, to name a few options. Its unique and delicious Caribbean and French-infused cuisine is delicious, and the diverse and vibrant island culture, including music, festivals, and events, is evident at every turn.

Good to know: Best Time to Visit Nassau - the Weather Year Round

This town on the western coast of Jamaica is a popular destination for tourists that offers a bit more of a relaxed atmosphere than the hustle and bustle of Montego Bay. After a lovely afternoon spent bathing in the warm sun at Seven Mile Beach or exploring the Negril Lighthouse for excellent views of the coast, visitors to Negril can trek to the Negril Cliffs to watch the sun set. Resorts with picture-perfect views of the shimmering blue Caribbean waters are in ample supply in Negril, and tourists can enjoy their days at these resorts or strike out into the green Jamaican wilderness to find lush waterfalls, hidden lagoons, or green tropical landscapes.

The port town of Ocho Rios in Jamaica was once a busy fishing village. It has since grown into a busy tourist destination with cruise ship ports and high-end resorts, and it is a great base for exploring some of the most beautiful attractions Jamaica has to offer. At Columbus Park, visitors can see the supposed site where Christopher Columbus first set foot on land as well as a number of artifacts from Spanish explorers and settlers. Tourists can also swim with dolphins and stingrays at Dolphin Cove, climb a terraced waterfall at Dunn's River Falls, or spend a day or evening relaxing and enjoying James Bond Beach or Reggae Beach.

Located on the north coast of the Dominican Republic, Puerta Plata is well known for its many beautiful beaches, like Playa Dorada, Playa Cabarete, and Playa Sosua. A cable car tour from the top of Mount Isabel will offer visitors the opportunity to see the entire city, as well as some stunning ocean views, from above. Visitors to Puerto Plata can also swim with dolphins at Ocean World Adventure Park, explore the 16th century Spanish fort Fortaleza San Felipe, or check out some of the many art and history museums in the city to learn about Dominican culture.

A resort town in the Dominican Republic, Punta Cana is located on the island's eastern edge, and is well known for the 20-mile stretch of beaches along its coast. La Costa del Coco, or the Coconut Coast, is the largest tourist region in Punta Cana and comprises an entire area filled with exquisite resorts. Visitors to Punta Cana will of course enjoy the white sand beaches but will also have lots of opportunities to try ziplining, sailing, or windsurfing. Those looking to explore the wilderness of the Dominican Republic can book a Jeep tour or even rent an ATV for a day of adventure.

Of the three US Virgin Islands, Saint John is the smallest, but its size doesn't stop it from being a fantastic destination for a Caribbean holiday. Still recovering from the devastating impact of the 2017 hurricane season, Saint John's waters are home to dolphins, turtles, and an abundance of tropical fish, and its forests are the habitat of cuckoos and hummingbirds. More than half of the island is occupied by Virgin Islands National Park, a veritable paradise of forests and wildlife, so Saint John is an excellent choice for travelers who want to see some of the stunning tropical nature of the Caribbean.

Saint Kitts and Nevis are two islands in the eastern Caribbean that together form the nation of the same name. These volcanic islands are characterized by the tall mountains that make up their land, often seen shrouded in mist and clouds, and on the island of Saint Kitts, and the dormant volcano Mount Liamuiga is a stunning centerpiece to the island's beauty. Tourists in Saint Kitts and Nevis can explore crater lakes, hike through rainforests, or see the eerie ruins of historical sugar plantations, which were once important to the island's early industry. Offshore, visitors can dive to find ancient shipwrecks or snorkel to see colorful tropical fish.

Santo Domingo, the capital city of the Dominican Republic, is one of the oldest and most historic cities in the Caribbean. Originally founded in 1494, the city of Santo Domingo contains a walled town center, called the Zona Colonial, with cobblestone streets, beautiful old buildings, and the first cathedral to have been constructed in the New World by European settlers. Some of the buildings here, like the Alcazar de Colon Palace, have been refitted as museums or business spaces, and while on a walk through the streets and plazas of Santo Domingo, visitors can stop for a drink or a bite to eat from a number of delicious cafes and restaurants.

Tortola, the largest island in the British Virgin Islands, or BVI, as it is known by locals, is a beautiful place with white sandy beaches, hidden coves, and lush green forests. Yet another Caribbean destination that was struck hard by Hurricane Irma, Tortola is making a speedy recovery, working hard to rebuild the homes, buildings, and businesses that make the BVI a great destination. Visitors to Tortola can enjoy a day on the water, spent on a kayak, on water skis, or in a fishing boat. Resorts, hiking, and local residents who are friendly and welcoming make Tortola a perfect destination for a relaxing, beautiful Caribbean getaway.

The beautiful island nation of Trinidad and Tobago is an excellent choice for travelers, and adventurers. Those looking for a party can visit during the famous Carnival season for music, drinking, bright costumes, and revelry, and travelers looking for a different kind of adventure can check out some of the country's nature, like the stunning Argyle Falls, Salybia Beach, Gasparee Cave System, or the Three Pools Trail in Trinidad's Northern Range. Bright and varied wildlife, historical and beautiful architecture, and centuries of fascinating history are just a few of the other offerings on the table in Trinidad and Tobago.

Varadero, located on the narrow strip of land known as the Hicacos Peninsula in the country of Cuba, is a lively resort town with over 12 miles of coastline and stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean everywhere you turn. Hotels, spas, and golf courses are in abundance here, making Varadero a great place to relax and soak up a few rays on the beach. Visitors looking for nature or adventure can check out the Reserva Ecológica Varahicacos, a nature reserve located on the peninsula, which contains some ancient burial caves and plenty of hiking trails.

• 1. Saint Lucia
• 2. Saint Martin, Caribbean
• 3. Saint Thomas, Caribbean
• 4. San Juan, Caribbean
• 5. Montego Bay, Jamaica
• 6. Antigua and Barbuda, Caribbean
• 7. Aruba, Caribbean
• 8. Barbados
• 9. Cayman Islands
• 10. Dominica
• 11. Grenada, Caribbean
• 12. Havana, Caribbean
• 13. Martinique, Caribbean
• 14. Nassau, Caribbean
• 16. Ocho Rios
• 17. Puerto Plata
• 18. Best Places to Visit in the Caribbean: Punta Cana
• 19. Saint John, Caribbean
• 20. Saint Kitts and Nevis, Caribbean
• 21. Santo Domingo, Caribbean
• 22. Places to Visit in the Caribbean: Tortola
• 23. Best Places to Visit in the Caribbean: Trinidad and Tobago
• 24. Varadero, Caribbean

From the ancient forts and city of Santo Domingo to the world-class resorts in Aruba to the volcanic craters and hiking trails of the island of Dominica, the Caribbean has something to offer everyone.

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• The Caribbean

25 Most Beautiful Places in the Caribbean — From Emerald-colored Sinkholes to Private Islands

The Caribbean is chock-full of photogenic spots.

Courtesy of Yemaya Reefs

Lush paradise, turquoise waters, idyllic getaway — these are all phrases often used to describe the Caribbean. And though this collection of countries in the middle of the ocean contains a shared allure of natural wonders, each one also has its own history and cultural traditions. 

I’ve been fortunate to visit a number of Caribbean nations , bordered by white, black, and pink sands below swaying palms, and it never grows old. The vendors with freshly plucked coconuts and plastic cups filled with dark rum to enjoy as the sun sinks into sherbet-colored clouds. A plate of jerk chicken pulled from a charcoal-fired pit on the side of the road and splashed with mango chutney to cool the scotch bonnet. A parade of smiles and feathers and palatable joy as revelers make their way down the road for Carnival Tuesday. These are all moments that make the Caribbean beautiful.

Below, you’ll find a list of places that expand on that idea, from sustainable, jungle-shrouded hotels without any crowds to flavorful, farm-to-table experiences tucked on quiet hillsides. We tapped two Caribbean experts — writer, editor and on-air travel expert Sarah Greaves-Gabbadon and author and chef Adrian Forte — to help us compile a list of 25 of the most beautiful places in the Caribbean.

Tahiti Beach, Bahamas

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Located on the southern end of Elbow Cay in the Bahamas, and only accessible by foot, boat, or bike, Tahiti Beach stays with you long after you've left it. “As many times as I’ve been to the Caribbean and to the Bahamas, you’d think I’d be immune to the beauty of this sandbar, which disappears at high tide. But its silky white sand, surrounded by a swath of iconic Bahamian blue, stuns me every single time,” says Greaves-Gabbadon. Alaska Airlines also recently launched a number of nonstop flights from my hometown of Los Angeles to Nassau, so I’ll be heading back to the country for Carnival next year. 

Canouan, St. Vincent and the Grenadines

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Untouched by cruise ships and crowds, Canouan is a 3.2-square-mile island in the Grenadines, just a 40-minute plane ride from Barbados. It's home to the jungly Soho Beach House and the coral-hued beachfront Mandarin Oriental . Snorkeling here is also supreme, with water so vibrantly blue, it glows.

Petit St. Vincent, St. Vincent and the Grenadines

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With 135 acres of private coastline floating in the Grenadines, Petit St. Vincent is a luxury resort with just 22 cottages steps away from cerulean waters. “Posh but unpretentious, this all-inclusive private island resort is a bit of a haul to reach (from Miami, it takes two planes, a golf cart, and a boat), but the journey is worth it,” says Greaves-Gabbadon. “When I’m not reading on the porch of my cottage (all serviced by butlers in a fleet of Mini Mokes), I like to hike up Marni Hill, laze on any (or all) of the four beaches, or sip a rum punch at the beach bar, Goatie's.”

Jakes Hotel Treasure Beach, Jamaica

Jeremy Francis

I can close my eyes and see the roads from Kingston — bumpy and winding — but worth the three-hour drive to reach this slice of solitude on Jamaica’s south coast. You won't find high-rise hotels or crowds here. Upon arrival, it’s a straightaway to my home away from home at Jakes , a boutique hotel with seaside bungalows and villas spread about Treasure Beach’s rugged coastline. Spend a day at Jakes' poolside bar, order a rum punch, and repeat. In the morning, have a filling breakfast of ackee and salt fish with fried plantain at the property’s restaurant. And, if you love to read like I do, come for the biannual Calabash International Literary Festival , a weekend that includes communing with some of the world’s greatest literary minds as they read from their work with lapping waves in the background. 

Sheer Rocks, Antigua

Courtesy of Sheer Rocks

Located on a cliffside on Antigua’s west coast, this is dining with a view taken up a notch. “It doesn’t get much sexier than this waterfront restaurant at Cocobay Resort, where you can dine in cabanas built into the cliff’s edge and swim in ocean-view plunge pools between courses,” says Greaves-Gabbadon. 

Stush in the Bush, Jamaica

This plant-based, farm-to-table experience is offered in the hills of St. Ann, near Ocho Rios. Here, the flavors of Jamaica are presented as a love letter to the surrounding terrain that produces the food. Owners Chris and Lisa Binns seek to connect visitors to the earth at every turn, with a farm tour and rustic dinner of rotating dishes that have included a Jamaican mezze board of crispy plantain chips, coconut-crusted yams, and pineapple croquettes.

Wild Cow Run, Turks and Caicos

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Grace Bay in Providenciales sees its fair share of visitors — and for good reason: The white-sand beach rivals those seen in the Maldives.

But go beyond Provo and you’ll reach Middle Caicos, the largest of the islands in Turks and Caicos, with a wild beauty of its own. “Few visitors ever venture far enough to see this wild and wonderful beach, secreted at the southern tip of Middle Caicos, so I feel fortunate to have been introduced to it by a resident,” says Greaves-Gabbadon. “Walk through the stand of casuarina trees shielding the beach from the road and you’ll be rewarded with quite a sight: two miles of completely deserted, blinding-white sand that meets gin-clear water, knee-deep for almost a mile out. If beach was a religion, this would be its cathedral.”

Jardin de Balata, Martinique

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Known for its world-class rums, Martinique has a slew of impressive beaches, too, from Le Diamant to Les Anses-d'Arlet. For a trip away from the island’s sandy shores, head to Jardin de Balata and learn why Martinique is called the “Island of Flowers.” At this thriving, three-hectare botanical garden just outside the capital of Fort-de-France, more than 3,000 varieties of flora and fauna bloom brightly. Take a canopy ride for panoramic views. And for cultural events, there's Martinique’s three-day Carnival in February, where I’ve recently learned the crowd is entirely part of the parade in what's called a vidé . 

Grand Fond Natural Pools, St. Barts

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On an island known for its exclusivity and luxury, visitors can opt for an adventure that only requires a good pair of walking shoes and a bathing suit. After a 30-minute walk along a winding path, you’ll reach two natural pools enclosed by craggy rocks jutting from the sea. If the waves are strong, it's best to watch from a distance, but on a clear day, floating in the emerald-colored water is simply magical. 

Blue Hole, Jamaica

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One of the most sought-after locations in Ocho Rios, Jamaica, the crystal-clear waters of the Blue Hole are surrounded by vegetation and a hilly interior. “This is a series of natural limestone sinkholes and lush untouched forestry. I visited with my fiancé and a few of our closest friends. The view from the top of the tropical falls is stunning, and if you’re the adventurous type like me, jumping off a 30-foot cliff makes you feel like you can conquer anything afterward,” says Forte. 

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Nicknamed the “Nature Island,” Dominica is home to rain forests, bubbling rivers, ocean kayaking trails, and rushing waterfalls. A few of the island’s most beautiful natural wonders include Morne Trois Pitons National Park, Champagne Reef, and the Botanic Gardens. For an eco-friendly retreat, check into Coulibri Ridge , a 14-suite, off-the-grid luxury hotel that uses solar energy as its main power source and features an open-air yoga pavilion. For a black-sand beach escape, my favorite pick is Secret Bay , set on a secluded cliff with residential-style villas that have their own plunge pools. In February, the streets become filled with revelers for Dominica’s Mas Domnik Carnival celebration, which includes music competitions, a variety of parties, and masqueraders dressed in bright regalia. 

Nayara Bocas del Toro, Panama

Courtesy of Nayara Bocas del Toro Treehouses

With 16 overwater villas, this adults-only eco-resort on a private island along the Caribbean coast does not disappoint. Flanked by three miles of coral reefs teeming with sea life, snorkelers will have lots to explore at Nayara Bocas del Toro . Kayak, paddleboard, and swim directly from your room, but not before enjoying Caribbean breakfast classics like johnnycakes. Some villas here include glass floor panels for viewing underwater life, while two one-bedroom bamboo tree houses tower some 40 feet above the ground. The property also boasts the world’s first overwater beach, suspended on stilts and stretching 90 feet long by 20 feet wide.

Port of Spain, Trinidad

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You’ve likely seen images of Trinidad’s Carnival — one of the greatest and most beautiful traditions in the Caribbean — but you may not know its origin, which is rooted in rebellion and celebration against all odds by enslaved West Africans. Today, Trinidad’s capital, Port of Spain, draws travelers from around the Caribbean, Europe, and even Japan to party into the early morning — rum in hand. My favorite moment of it all is J’ouvert — a call to meet the rising sun, bodies splashed in powder and paint — and Caesar’s Army’s A.M. Bush — a wild party that takes place in an open field. A word to the wise: Get tickets early, as Caesar’s Army events are always the most popular during Carnival. In 2024, the energy is sure to be as magnetic as ever.

Pigeon Point, Tobago

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Easily one of the most picturesque beaches in the Caribbean , Pigeon Point contains all the elements of a postcard-perfect day: sugary white sand, strikingly turquoise water, and palm trees swaying slowly above it all. Located on the southwestern tip of Tobago, it’s a popular place for sunbathing and water sports, without much foot traffic or noise. 

Oil Nut Bay, Virgin Gorda

Courtesy of Oil Nut Bay

Tucked in the North Sound area of Virgin Gorda in the British Virgin Islands, Oil Nut Bay is 400 acres of luxurious relaxation. Visitors here will find a beach club with three pools and a swim-up bar; Nova, an overwater restaurant; and hiking trails with views overlooking the Caribbean. One of the villas, Compass Rose , spans 3,653 square feet and features two swimming pools. Another way to see the British Virgin Islands? The Moorings offers chartered catamarans and yachts to various destinations around the region, including Virgin Gorda, the less-frequented coral island of Anegada, and Saba Rock.

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Nicknamed the Caribbean’s “Spice Isle” because of its abundance of cinnamon, nutmeg, and more, Grenada lures visitors with fewer crowds than neighboring islands, beautiful Grand Anse Beach, the history of Jab Jab during Carnival season (when bodies are splashed in black oil and paint as a symbol of Black pride), and an addictive plate of crabback at BB’s . To take in the island's beauty, drive up to Fort Frederick for a panoramic view. Want to learn more about the island? My favorite guide, Roger Augustine , provides the best tours on the island. When it’s time to find a hotel, my first choice is always the Black-owned Spice Island Beach Resort . Six Senses La Sagesse will also open in early 2024, stretching across 38 acres in the bucolic parish of St. David. 

Jade Mountain, St. Lucia

Courtesy of Jade Mountain

Set between two beaches on St. Lucia’s southwestern coast, Jade Mountain offers views that seamlessly blend into its cliffside location above the Piton Mountains, plus rooms with 15-foot ceilings, infinity pools, and 24-hour butler service. Even from a distance while approaching by boat, it’s easily one of the most striking hotels in the Caribbean . Looking for a honeymoon location? This is it. It will be hard to leave your room, but if you do, the village of Soufrière, filled with great restaurants like Orlando’s and the island’s famous Sulphur Springs, is not far. 

Yemaya Reefs, Little Corn Island

Past rows of mangroves and jungle, Yemaya Reefs on Little Corn Island reveals itself some 50 miles off Nicaragua’s eastern coast. Step onto the sand and head to one of 16 individual casitas, some with plunge pools. Everything here is intimate, from the service to the communal yoga pavilion and thatched-roof restaurant. The food at Yemaya Reefs is particularly impressive, with dishes that celebrate Afro-Nicaraguan influences like gallo pinto (rice and beans) and rondón , a filling coconut-based stew with root vegetables and seafood like fish and crab. To get to Yemaya, you’ll need to take a 90-minute flight from the capital city of Managua, then a 30-minute boat ride from Big Corn Island — all of which can be coordinated with the hotel. 

Pinel Island, St. Martin

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A tropical nature reserve located just off the coast of St. Martin, Pinel Island checks off all the boxes for a memorable beach day: soft white sand, beachfront restaurants, and a number of water activities. The best way to spend the day here? Grab a table or beach lounger at Karibuni and choose from dishes like octopus ceviche or a platter of conch boudin and cod fish fritters. The ocean views are worth admission alone. 

Flamenco Beach, Puerto Rico

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When I first visited Flamenco Beach on the island of Culebra, I stood still for a few moments, knowing the short plane ride I feared was well worth this remote slice of beach in front of me. The horse-shaped bay with shallow turquoise waters can be reached via a 15-minute flight or a 1.5-hour ferry. Upon arriving, there are a number of food stalls to enjoy as well. 

Ambergris Cay, Turks and Caicos

Courtesy of Ambergris Cay

This 1,100-acre private island is a place to get away from it all, with 17 bungalows, eight villas, and a collection of privately owned homes and luxury accommodations. You'll share the place with sunbathing iguanas and, if you’re lucky, a few whales in the distance. My favorite rooms are the beachfront suites with private plunge pools and an unobstructed view between the front door and the ocean.

La Cabane, Barbados

If you’re looking for the perfect Caribbean afternoon, this is your place. It includes all the necessary elements: good rum and wine; a pristine, uncrowded beach; and, of course, easy vibes. La Cabane on Barbados’ west coast provides a St. Tropez-style beach club experience without any unnecessary frills. Walk barefoot and order a lobster. While you wait, take a dip in Batts Rock Beach just steps away, and don’t leave without a rum punch. Another favorite? Cutters. “I’ve frequented Barbados for the last five years consecutively to attend the Food and Rum Festival. I can say, without a doubt, the best experience I’ve had on the island is at Cutters . They make the best rum punch in the world, using the best ingredients, including freshly pressed sugar cane for their simple syrup” says Forte.

Guana Island, British Virgin Islands

Courtesy of Guana Island

Total seclusion is king at this private island in the British Virgin Islands. “There are private-island resorts and then there’s Guana Island , a private-island resort that’s so exclusive, non-guests can’t even swing by for a drink or dinner. The result? A luxe, low-key getaway that’s reliably tranquil, and whose seven beaches you’ll share with a maximum of 31 other (lucky) guests,” says Greaves-Gabbadon.

Emara Estate, Turks and Caicos

Courtesy of Emara Estate

For a gorgeous group getaway located on eight acres, check into Emara Estate in Providenciales. This 17-bedroom villa is tucked away on its own private peninsula, nestled between tropical trees. “It’s one of the most beautiful private villas I’ve been to — and it was also formerly owned by legendary musician Prince Rogers Nelson,” says Forte.  

Piton Mountains, St. Lucia

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Sprouting from the Caribbean Sea like a scene from Jurassic Park , these two volcanic plugs on St. Lucia’s southwestern coast leave me in awe every time I see them. While winding the hillsides of the country, the mountains peak out at various turns, but my favorite spot to view them is by boat or from the sand at Sugar Beach, A Viceroy Resort . Afterward, head to the town of Soufrière and have lunch at Fedo’s. (Tip: Don’t skip the fresh juice of the day.)

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These Lesser-Known Caribbean Destinations Are True Island Paradises

Posted: June 6, 2023 | Last updated: February 20, 2024

Get off the beaten track in the Caribbean

Harbour Island and Eleuthera, The Bahamas

Harbour Island in The Bahamas has been touted as the best place for a tropical escape , and sister island Eleuthera is every bit as enticing. The twin islands are only separated by a narrow stretch of water and a five-minute ferry ride, but both offer something entirely unique. While Harbour Island is a charming seaside town decorated with New England-style architecture, Eleuthera is a wild and beautiful stretch of land, home to pristine beaches and rocky alcoves.

Both islands have dreamy stretches of sand, in the form of Twin Coves Beach on Eleuthera and Pink Sand Beach on Harbour Island. The latter was even named the second-best beach in the world by Alpha Travel Insurance in 2019. Looking at a range of factors, including visitor ratings, average water temperatures and average number of sunny days, the company declared Pink Sand Beach a must-visit.

Aside from stunning shorelines, the twin islands have plenty to offer. Stroll through the streets of Harbour Island's Dunmore Town, soaking up its colorful clapboard houses; take a short boat ride to St. George's Cay, off the northern tip of Eleuthera, where the charming fishing village of Spanish Wells can be explored; and don't miss Queen's Bath and Glass Window Bridge, two of Eleuthera's greatest treasures.

Three airports service Eleuthera, and Harbour Island is a mere ferry trip away, making it an easy alternative option for those seeking sun, sea and seclusion. Plus, each spring Eleuthera usually hosts the All That Jazz Festival, while January is The Bahamas International Film Festival – both of which are well worth making the trip for. If you're looking for picture-perfect views and total tranquillity, book yourself into French Leave Resort in Governor's Harbour on Eleuthera.

Saba, Lesser Antilles, Dutch Caribbean

Just a 12-minute flight south of Sint Maarten, this forested five-square-mile (13sq km) island oozes low-key tropical charm. Rising dramatically out of the ocean, Saba is a dormant volcano that's worlds away from the flashy resorts and mass tourism of many other Caribbean isles. A vacation here is all about hiking, diving and, most importantly, chilling out.

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The Dutch, Spanish, French and English all squabbled over Saba, and it was finally colonized by the Dutch in 1816. It's now part of a special municipality of the Kingdom of the Netherlands, along with Sint Eustatius and Bonaire. You can delve into the island’s history and hear stories about its past life as a haunt of pirates at the Dutch Museum of Saba.

You won't find sandy beaches on this island, but it does have some of the region’s best snorkeling and diving opportunities. In Saba Marine Park, you can duck beneath the water's surface to spot hawksbill turtles, barracuda, colorful sponges and coral ridges. Above ground, hikers can pass through beautiful cloud forests and enjoy panoramic views from the top of Mount Scenery, the island’s highest point.

Check into the  Cottage Club Hotel , a serene spot with a stunning location on the outskirts of Windwardside. With Mount Scenery as a backdrop, the hotel's fragrant tropical gardens house a string of charming little cottages, built in traditional Saban style, and a lovely swimming pool with dreamy sea views.

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Sint Eustatius, Dutch Caribbean

Those who have discovered this little jewel don’t like to share it. Sint Eustatius in the Dutch Caribbean – known locally as Statia – is just six-miles (10km) long and three-miles (5km) wide, with a population of just over 3,000. It’s dominated by the Quill, a dormant volcano that looms over the isle, and is a favorite with hikers. The walk up the peak, which rises to around 2,000 feet (601m), and the descent into its semi-tropical rainforest-filled crater, is nothing short of spectacular.

Landed upon by Christopher Columbus in 1493, Statia changed hands 22 times between the French, Dutch and the English, until the Dutch eventually won out in 1816. The teeny isle is still peppered with forts, including the restored Fort Oranje, which dates from the 17th century. The island's diminutive capital Oranjestad, split by a cliff into an upper and lower town, is well worth exploring too.

Many ships met their fate around these waters and wreck dives are one of Statia’s big attractions. The island's marine park has 36 dive sites, including huge anchors, walls, pristine coral reef and volcanic pinnacles. Keep a look out for blue beads as you dive: they were used as trading currency by the Dutch West India Company and can still be found in the waters around Statia whenever a storm stirs up the sand. Local legend has it that if you find one you’ll be sure to return.

Big resorts are not a thing here, and the island is all the better for it. Rent an apartment in Oranjestad , or book in to The Old Gin House (pictured), a quaint hotel just a short walk from town and near the beach. Surrounded by bougainvillea and swaying palm trees, the idyllic property boasts oceanfront suites with superb views – be sure to head to the beachside restaurant for a sundowner too.

Carriacou, Grenadines

Carriacou has a distinct culture, with its music and vibrant festivals stemming from the islanders' African and European heritage – one to look out for is the Carriacou Maroon and String Band Music Festival, usually held every April. Be sure to visit the fascinating village of Windward too, which was once home to a group of Scottish boat builders, who settled here in the 19th century. Boat building and launching ceremonies remain a tradition and the island also normally hosts an annual regatta.

Much like those of its big sister Grenada, Carriacou’s beaches are white-sand stunning. Paradise Beach, a gorgeous stretch of sand in the village of L’Esterre, is a particularly lovely spot. It’s not all about lazing on the sand, though. Snorkelers and divers love the shallow reefs just off shore here, and hikers can enjoy some lovely walks such as the High North Nature Trail, a coastal woodland path hemming the High North National Park. Follow it to get to the idyllic secluded beach of Anse La Roche (pictured).

Here's what to do in Carriacou's big sister, Grenada

Another must is zipping over to sister island Petite Martinique (pictured) by speedboat – you can walk or hike around the tiny isle in around an hour, or ascend the 750-foot (230m) Piton for incredible views. There are several hotels on Carriacou as well as some lovely Airbnb properties such as  pastel-colored Green Cottage at Bayaleau Point Cottages , overlooking Windward Bay.

Cayman Brac, Cayman Islands

Overshadowed by glitzy big sister Grand Cayman and bijou baby sister Little Cayman, this rugged isle is the most down to earth of the three. This is where the locals say you’ll find the real Caymanian culture and where they come to get away from it all.

Tourism is not a big thing here – instead the residents tend to work in quarries or fish for a living. There are, however, a couple of lovely places to stay, including  Le Soleil d’Or , a 4-star hotel with a 20-acre organic farm.

This trio of islands, which lie around halfway between Cuba and Honduras, are renowned for diving, with over 300 marked sites, high visibility and an array of marine life. Cayman Brac is no exception and has some world-class diving on offer, and some great wreck dives in particular. The wreck of MV Captain Keith Tibbetts, a Russian-built Cuban naval frigate, which sunk off the island's northwest coast in 1996, is one of the most popular spots. There’s also easy access to shallow underwater scenery for snorkelers.

Hiking is another highlight of a vacation on this craggy isle, and visitors can enjoy cliff walks around the 140-foot (43m) bluff or "brac" (from which it takes its name) that drops dramatically into the sea. There are also caves to explore and trails that slice into the island's green center. Cayman Brac is a favorite with birdwatchers too, and there are over 200 species to spot – don’t miss the National Trust Parrot Reserve, which is home to the endangered Brac parrot.

Iles des Saintes, Guadeloupe Islands, French Antilles

Known as Les Saintes, this quiet French archipelago, located around 10 miles (16km) southwest of Guadeloupe, is made up of seven islets and two inhabited islands, Terre-de-Haut and Terre-de-Bas. Originally inhabited by fishermen from Brittany and Normandy, the French-speaking isles are fairly well-known in France but little-visited by other tourists. Larger cruise ships don’t come by these isles and, as a result, they ooze more seaside village charm than they do chic Caribbean resort luxury.

Slip into the slow-paced way of life by chartering a boat to sail around the isles. When the mood strikes, drop an anchor at one of the little bays for a snorkel, or to stretch out on the sands. You can even venture into the verdant inland. The two-hour hike from sparsely-populated Terre-de-Bas’ Grande Anse beach to the top of the Morne Abymes bluff is a very rewarding trail. Look out for iguanas scuttling in the bushes.

Meanwhile, Terre-de-Haut, the most populous island, is home to some great beaches, a ruined fort and a good few laid-back bars and bistros. Hire a scooter or electric car (there are very few cars on the island) to wind your way up to Fort Napoléon, which is perched on a bluff nearly 400 feet (122m) above the bay. It has staggering views across the island and Les Saintes Bay, an UNESCO-listed beauty. 

There are some gorgeous places to stay here, including charming antique-filled  Les Petits Saintes . Set above Les Saintes Bay, it has lush tropical gardens, a fabulous pool and a French chef dishing up sophisticated cuisine – as you’d expect in a French outpost, the food here is a highlight.

Take a look at the world's beautiful beaches from above

Bequia, St. Vincent and the Grenadines

Bequia is the second-largest of the 32 islands and cays that make up the island state of St. Vincent and the Grenadines, after the capital island of St. Vincent. But it's still bijou by anyone’s standards at just seven square miles (18sq km). This pretty-as-a-picture isle has a lot going for it: long golden stretches of sand, colorful little villages dotting the lush green hillsides and a strong sense of its own cultural identity.

Port Elizabeth is the entry point for passengers coming by ferry from St. Vincent and the other Grenadines, so it’s not quite as sleepy as some other spots on this list. But this does mean there's a fairly lively restaurant and nightlife scene here, should you want it – the local rum punch is a must-try! Elsewhere on the isle, though, the pace is much more relaxed.

There’s a cluster of small hotels, including luxury boutique  Firefly Plantation Bequia , which is set on a centuries-old sugar plantation, plus a good range of self-catering options on the beach, in the hills or in villages. Rent a car to pootle about the island’s attractions (the Old Hegg Turtle Sanctuary is a must), stopping to explore wildly beautiful little bays, or to follow one of the many walking trails.

Unsurprisingly the diving here is excellent, so head out by boat to get acquainted with the local marine life. Alternatively, stay above the surface on a sailing trip – a picnic and swim on the nearby deserted island of Isle de Quatre makes for a wonderful excursion. If you'd rather simply embrace the island’s unhurried lifestyle, slip into a hammock and gaze out at the seriously gorgeous Grenadine views.

Nevis, St Kitts and Nevis

A lack of cruise ships and all-inclusive resorts has ensured that lush little Nevis has retained its old-fashioned Leeward Islands charm. But there's still plenty going on. Here, travelers can partake in everything from horseback riding to yoga retreats, watersports and lavish spas – there are also a wealth of historic sites well worth exploring.

For one, the historic capital of Charlestown is a wonderful place for a wander, thanks to its handsome 18th and 19th-century buildings and laid-back vibe. Inland, there are many gratifying trails into the isle's thickly forested interior, which is home to hummingbirds and monkeys.

The ascent to Nevis Peak, the green dormant volcano that dominates the island, beckons serious hikers, but if it’s lounging you’re after then Pinney’s Beach is the place to go. Nevis’ lovely long stretch of sand has none of the crowds of big sister St Kitts, but it does have shacks serving up delicious cocktails...

These are the world's most remote inhabited islands

Once you've watched the sunset, you can retreat to one of Nevis' gorgeous hotels. Many of the island's old plantations have been converted into small and stylish inns, including  The Hermitage , a family-run inn in the oldest wooden house on Nevis. Meals here are something else – served on the veranda of the 17th-century house, which overlooks mango and palm trees, the menu is full of local specialties and produce grown on site, as well as locally-caught seafood and a mammoth rum catalog.

Not to be confused with the Dominican Republic, Dominica lies between Guadeloupe and Martinique. Known as 'Nature Island', it doesn't have stretches of vanilla-white sands – but it does have forest trails, wildlife adventures, boutique hotels and Boiling Lake, the world's second-largest hot spring.

Along with your bikini you’ll need to pack your walking boots as Dominica has plenty of hiking trails, including the Caribbean's longest, the Waitukubuli National Trail. A boat tour along the Indian River will take you through the rainforest with the chance to see native frogs and birds too.

Of course, the lush tropical isle is also home to its fair share of breathtaking waterfalls, natural hot pools and National Parks, making it a fantastic option for outdoor explorers. While the island was badly damaged during Hurricane Irma in September 2017, it has recovered well over the past couple of years and welcomes tourists with open arms.

If big 5-star, all-inclusive resorts are what you’re after, this isn’t the island for you. Here, you’ll find a smattering of boutique and independently-owned hotels, such as Secret Bay . Located near Portsmouth on the northwest coast, this rainforest resort boasts secluded clifftop villas, on-call chefs and secret beaches. Not too shabby then...

Check out the coolest hotels on Earth

Anguilla, Eastern Caribbean, British Overseas Territory

This squiggle of an island might be a mere 35 square miles (91sq km), but it has 33 pristine beaches and luxurious hotels aplenty. In fact, it's a favorite haunt for celebs such as Kevin Bacon, Beyoncé and Mariah Carey. But the island, some seven miles (11km) north of Sint Maarten, is more than just a celebrity hot spot – it also retains a gloriously independent Caribbean spirit and a burgeoning food scene.

As you’d expect, the main activities on the island center around the beaches, with the many shipwrecks making it popular for snorkeling and scuba diving. Yet those who prefer to take a load off can simply unwind on the sand and take a dip in the island's crystal clear, bathwater-temperature waters whenever they feel the need...

Anguilla has only really seen tourism take off in the past two decades, but the island was sadly devastated by Hurricane Irma in 2017. The good news is that it's now recovered and back open for business, and there's everything from more rustic small holdings to sleek resorts, such as Zemi Beach House (pictured), to stay at. Luckily, you won’t find cruise ships packed with tourists – getting here usually involves an hour’s propeller plane from neighboring Antigua.

Music fans should head here in March for the annual Moonsplash festival – it's been taking place since the 1990s, featuring a line-up of local reggae artists. August's Anguilla Summer Festival (pictured), with its colorful parades and all-day beach party, is another reason to make the trip.

Now discover the incredible private islands that are surprisingly affordable to rent

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Protect Your Trip »

The 9 best gay cruises for 2024 (+ planning tips).

Dance parties, drag queen performances and fun destinations await on these LGBTQ voyages.

The Best Gay Cruises

Courtesy of The Cruise with La Demence

Embark on an all-gay or LGBTQ-friendly cruise for excellent entertainment, food and excursions.

Whether you are looking to hop aboard a Pride Week cruise with a major line or sail away with a smaller company that specializes in LGBTQ voyages, the following cruise operators promise a fun, safe and memorable vacation.

(Note: While many of these cruise lines sail to LGBTQ-friendly ports of call, travelers should research destinations to learn more about cultures, customs and safety in each location and determine what's right for them.)

Virgin Voyages

Atlantis events, brand g vacations, celebrity cruises, royal caribbean international, the cruise with la demence, source journeys.

Gabriel Goldberg | Courtesy of VACAYA

Founded by avid travelers Randle Roper, Patrick Gunn and John Finen, VACAYA bills itself as the first all-LGBT travel company in the full-ship charter/resort buyout sector of the travel industry to launch in more than 25 years.

"[VACAYA] was sparked by our own vacations, where we all had encountered two very different experiences," says Gunn. "The all-gay cruises were liberating, empowering and fun, but limited to a small spectrum of people. And while everyone loves a good time, there's more to a memorable vacation than just parties. Mainstream vacations offered more activities and destinations, and were accessible to a diverse set of people, but didn't always feel like a friendly, judgment-free environment."

As such, VACAYA set out to bring LGBTQ travelers from across the spectrum together in a welcoming, inclusive setting, while offering varied onboard activities and immersive itinerary options. Cruisers will enjoy traveling to ports around the world, in the Caribbean , the Galápagos, Europe , Antarctica and more. You can participate in shipwide events ranging from themed deck parties to performances by LGBTQ entertainers to rejuvenating yoga classes. Note that VACAYA's cruises are for adults only.

Previous cruisers had abundant praise for VACAYA's voyages, highlighting the company's responsiveness when booking and the kindhearted staff, as well as the genuine connections they made with other passengers on board. Many were also impressed by the events and entertainment options throughout their sailings.

In 2024, VACAYA will offer a number of voyages worldwide. The seven-night Caribbean Cruise on Celebrity Apex in February will sail round-trip from Fort Lauderdale, with several fun-filled days at sea in addition to stops in Puerto Rico, the U.S. Virgin Islands and Antigua. In August, VACAYA has a 12-night river cruise in Northern Europe on board Advance by Transcend Cruises; this sailing includes the Amsterdam Pride event. The 11-night Antarctica expedition on Atlas Ocean Voyages' World Navigator in December 2024 is sold out, but you can join the waitlist.

Courtesy of Virgin Voyages

The Virgin brand has long been known for its celebration of the LGBTQ community, and cruise line Virgin Voyages is no different. The strictly adults-only cruise operator aims to provide a unique experience, with onboard tattoo parlors, impressive live entertainment, and dining options that include more than 20 eateries and menus created by Michelin star chefs. This line gets the stamp of approval from previous LGBTQ cruisers, who praise the ships' gender-neutral bathrooms, diverse staff and onboard shows with resident drag queens.

Virgin Voyages offers gay-specific sailings through travel companies like Atlantis Events, but its more mainstream itineraries still offer a welcoming, inclusive atmosphere that attracts LGBTQ cruisers year-round. Virgin hosts a number of events during Pride Month each year, including deck parties and interactive social media campaigns.

"Each June here at Virgin Voyages, we like to go big for Pride Month with larger-than-life events … all monthlong," the cruise line says in a statement on its website. "It's an important time for us – both internally within our crew and for our sailors – to honor and celebrate the LGBTQ community; who for so long has had to continually fight for equality and the right to be seen, heard and included."

Virgin Voyages sails to a variety of LGBTQ-friendly countries, including New Zealand, Greece and Spain. In June 2024, consider a seven-night sailing aboard Scarlet Lady departing from Barcelona with stops in Marseille and Cannes in France as well as Spain's Palma de Mallorca and Ibiza.

Read: The Best Cruise Lines for the Money

The world's largest gay and lesbian travel brand, Atlantis Events was founded in 1991 and welcomes more than 20,000 travelers annually on LGBTQ vacations. For its all-gay cruises, Atlantis charters megaships from popular lines like Royal Caribbean International , Norwegian Cruise Line and Virgin Voyages in addition to smaller vessels with companies like Oceania Cruises so cruisers will have a fully immersive experience.

On board, travelers can enjoy all the perks these ships have to offer (think: pools, hot tubs, sports courts and plenty of dining choices), plus special events like drag performances, motivational speakers, LGBTQ movies on demand in each cabin and high-energy circuit parties across the ship.

"As an LGBTQ cruiser, you're looking for a ship with lots of entertainment, including dance parties and events," says Marcos Martinez, founder of Men Who Brunch, a Black gay lifestyle blog. "One of the best cruise [lines] for gay cruising is Atlantis, since you'll be able to meet hundreds of attractive men and party all day and night on the ship."

Atlantis hosts primarily gay men; women make up about 5% to 10% of bookings, according to the Atlantis website. Previous cruisers said the atmosphere on board was fun, friendly and welcoming, though some noted that the company's customer service could be better, especially when it comes to details about the cruise.

Due to the company's popularity, its three 2024 cruises are already sold out.

Read: The Best Cruise Lines in the Caribbean

Courtesy of Brand G Vacations

Specializing in all-gay river cruises – and now luxury ocean liners – Brand g Vacations was founded in 2011 and explores destinations all over the world. Chartered river cruises typically welcome between 40 and 200 LGBTQ passengers (and their straight allies), which allows cruisers to get to know one another in a smaller setting. Guests tend to skew more mature (think: 40 and older), and the line attracts both men and women.

Onboard entertainment differs slightly from larger ocean voyages: Expect more cabaret-style entertainment than massive all-night dance parties. Cruisers will also enjoy performances by drag queens, gay Broadway stars and more, on top of typical river cruise perks like sightseeing and lavish meals. Past guests recommend choosing Brand g if you're looking for a well-planned, relaxed and luxurious experience over a busier, more party-heavy vacation.

Brand g aims to provide a nearly all-inclusive cruise experience , with Mercedes or small van airport transfers, upscale hotel stays prior to embarkation, and unlimited alcoholic beverages as well as meals included in the fare. As such, prices tend to be on the high end. Plus, cruisers can feel good about their trip knowing that Brand g donates to causes in the U.S. and around the world that assist LGBTQ refugees, AIDS organizations, LGBTQ centers and more.

In 2024, Brand g sails through unique waterways around the world, including the Amazon, the Loire, the Danube, the Mekong, and the Columbia and Snake rivers in the Pacific Northwest. The line's small cruise ship charters also take guests to Iceland, Spain, Morocco, Italy, Croatia and other European destinations.

Read: The Top River Cruise Lines

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Courtesy of Celebrity Cruises

Celebrity Cruises sets the scene for an excellent vacation for gay travelers, from its extravagant annual Pride parties to its daily LGBTQ programming throughout the year. The mainstream line has received numerous awards for its inclusivity, receiving accolades from the Cruizie Awards, TTG Travel Awards and Travel Weekly's Magellan Awards for being one of the best cruise lines for LGBTQ passengers.

LGBTQ cruisers can start their vacations off on a high note with a special welcome party on the first night of their voyage to meet other travelers on board. After night one, there are other social events for gay cruisers to party and hang out together. Additionally, Celebrity Cruises was the first cruise line to legally marry a couple at sea in 2018, and it continues to perform same-sex marriages on its ships.

Past cruisers enjoyed their voyages with Celebrity, noting that the line was welcoming, the food was delicious, and there were plenty of areas to hang out as a group with fellow LGBTQ passengers or other companions throughout the ship.

Although all itineraries are gay-friendly, consider booking a sailing during Pride Month in June for an extra special experience. Onboard entertainment during this month includes guest entertainers, a flag raising ceremony, Celebrity's signature Pride Party at Sea and more. The Italian Riviera & France cruise will depart from Barcelona on June 8, 2024, on the new Celebrity Ascent; this 10-night Mediterranean sailing stops at ports in France, Italy and Malta. Private travel companies like VACAYA also charter Celebrity ships for all-gay voyages throughout the year.

Read: Cruise Packing List: The Top Essentials for Any Cruise

Getty Images

Specifically marketed toward lesbians and LGBTQ women, Olivia has hosted more than 350,000 travelers by land and sea over five decades. Cruisers can choose between river voyages or ocean sailings to destinations around the world. On the lesbian cruises, expect a mix of nostalgic decade-themed dance parties, folk singers, writing workshops, karaoke and other activities. Cruisers can also relax poolside, spend some time in the onboard spa or take it easy in one of the ships' lounges.

Travelers who are looking to connect with others who share similar backgrounds can do so in one of Olivia's specialized programs. There are group and solo traveler meetups, as well as programs like Sisters, which is for LGBTQ women of color; Gen-O, for cruisers 40 and younger; Women in Uniform gatherings, for veterans and those currently in the armed forces; and events for OWLs (which stands for "older, wiser lesbians"). Past cruisers on Olivia's voyages report feeling a true sense of community and belonging on board, resulting in a fun, carefree trip.

In June 2024, set sail with Olivia from Edinburgh, Scotland, to Dublin on Windstar Cruises' Star Legend. Or, visit the islands of Tahiti on the line's Star Breeze in September. Other cruise itineraries include Alaska, the Greek Isles, Mexico and the Panama Canal.

Read: The Best Girls Trip Ideas

Courtesy of Royal Caribbean International

Royal Caribbean International provides a welcoming and inclusive experience for LGBTQ travelers. The popular cruise line frequently partners with Atlantis Events to offer all-gay voyages throughout the year, but even the standard sailings earn praise.

Highlights of the sailings are the ships' entertainment options (including the Tony Award-winning musical "Mamma Mia!") and attentive staff, according to past cruisers. Itineraries typically include LGBTQ meetups at the beginning of each cruise for gay travelers to meet like-minded passengers. Outside of the sailing experience, Royal Caribbean has also publicly committed to supporting the LGBTQ community throughout the year, and it was the first cruise line to earn the title "Gay Traveler Approved" from GayTravel in 2016.

In 2024, consider a Royal Caribbean voyage that sails to gay-friendly destinations. "Puerto Vallarta, Mexico, [is] full of gay bars, clubs and gay beaches," says Martinez. Hop aboard Navigator of the Seas in May for a seven-night sailing round-trip from Los Angeles that stops in Cabo San Lucas, Puerto Vallarta and Ensenada, Mexico. Navigator of the Seas also hosts a seven-night itinerary throughout the year that calls on Mazatlan, Mexico, as well.

Ready to plan a cruise? Find the best value sailings on  GoToSea , a service of U.S. News.

Courtesy of The Cruise With La Demence

According to past cruisers, if you're looking for one of the best party scenes on the open seas, consider an all-gay cruise with La Demence. Powered by a popular gay nightclub in Brussels with the same name, La Demence – French for "the madness" – primarily caters to a European crowd. Most passengers are male, though women are also welcome.

On board, passengers should expect to dance the night away at massive deck parties that last into the wee hours of the morning. The line prides itself on its top-notch DJs, impressive light setup and electric party atmosphere. Previous cruisers had high praise for the itineraries – which exclusively visit gay-friendly locations – as well as the fruity cocktails, themed nights (costumes strongly encouraged) and glamorous entertainment. Enjoy unique events like drag bingo, high heel runs and more.

La Demence sails every summer to European destinations like Greece, Italy and Malta. The 2023 cruise was chartered on Royal Caribbean's Explorer of the Seas. Fares include all food and nonalcoholic beverages, plus access to all parties, shows and the onboard gym.

Read: The Top Party Cruises

Source Journeys has been planning luxury vacations for LGBTQ travelers for more than 20 years. The Miami-based company, with the vision of founder and chief executive officer Craig Smith, offers small group land tours and full-charter cruises for like-minded travelers with a focus on giving back to the communities they visit. The company also supports LGBTQ organizations, such as the National Gay & Lesbian Task Force and the Human Rights Campaign.

Past guests of their tours say their fellow travelers were as fun and interesting as the destinations. They appreciated the excellent personalized planning for the trips by Smith and his life partner, Rafael Rodriguez.

The company's cruises in 2024 include a seven-night Galápagos sailing in late September on a Relais & Chateau luxury yacht: Ecoventura's new ship, Evolve. The intimate ship accommodates just 20 passengers. Source Journeys is also offering a seven-night river cruise through Burgundy and Provence, France, in June on Avalon Waterways' Avalon Poetry II, as well as a seven-night voyage from Venice along the Dalmatian Coast. This ocean cruise scheduled in August is chartered on Star Clippers' masted sailing ship, Royal Clipper.

Frequently Asked Questions

When it comes to gay cruising, gone are the days of discreet "Friends of Dorothy" meetups. The term – a euphemism that dates back to the 1950s – was once used to indicate gay social events on daily cruise line programs, without explicitly calling out members of the community on board. It's a far cry from today's LGBTQ cruising industry, which loudly and proudly celebrates passengers from all walks of life.

According to experts, LGBTQ cruising is a market that will only continue to grow. Travelers can take their pick between cruise operators tailored specifically to queer communities and major cruise lines that offer festive Pride celebrations and inclusive onboard entertainment. As travel on the high seas continues to grow in popularity for vacationers, gay and lesbian travelers should consider setting sail on a fun-filled cruise vacation for their next trip.

When planning a cruise, vacationers should first consider what their ideal sailing looks like.

Gay-friendly vs. all-gay sailings: Cruisers should think about whether they'd like to travel aboard a gay-friendly mainstream line – such as Celebrity Cruises or Virgin Voyages – or opt for an all-gay, full-ship charter with a third-party vacation company.

"Each and every LGBTQIAPK person has a different level of comfortability in their 'outness,' " says Patrick Gunn, co-founder and chief marketing officer of LGBTQ vacation company VACAYA. Of VACAYA's all-gay charters, he adds, "For one magical week, our community gets to be the majority and live life out loud in the blissful utopia VACAYA creates on a gay cruise. That single change from being an always-minority to a sudden majority can have a profoundly positive real-world effect on individuals."

• Travel style: Some cruise operators (think: Atlantis Events and La Demence) are known for their electrifying all-night parties, which may be perfect for gay groups of friends. Meanwhile, other companies like VACAYA and Olivia look to provide a more diverse selection of activities, ranging from tea dances (LGBTQ parties that, historically, included tea service) to philanthropic service activities to immersive onshore experiences.
• Ports of call: Some of the most LGBTQ- and gay-friendly destinations for cruises include: Fort Lauderdale, Florida; Sydney; Barcelona, Spain; Taipei (Keelung), Taiwan; Helsinki; Quebec City; Auckland, New Zealand; Mykonos, Greece; Reykjavik, Iceland; Amsterdam; Tel Aviv, Israel; Buenos Aires, Argentina; and San Francisco. Countries that gay travelers may want to avoid include the Maldives, Jamaica, Morocco, Malaysia and Haiti, as homosexuality is illegal in these destinations.

Why Trust U.S. News Travel

Gwen Pratesi has been an avid cruiser since her early 20s. She has visited destinations around the globe on nearly every type of ship built, including the newest megaships, luxury yachts, expedition vessels, traditional masted sailing ships and intimate river ships on the Mekong River. Pratesi covers the travel and culinary industries for major publications, including U.S. News & World Report.

You might also be interested in:

• The Best Cruise Lines
• The Top Solo Cruises (No Supplement Fare)
• The Top Themed Cruises
• The Top 3-Day Cruise Itineraries
• The Best Cruise Insurance Plans

Vacation Ideas for Every Traveler

Tags: Travel , Cruises , Vacations

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