caribbean travel itinerary

Caribbean Travel Guide

Looking for an in-depth Caribbean travel guide ?

Then you’re in the right place!

The islands of the Caribbean are high on any traveler’s list for their gorgeous beaches, rich culture, and laid-back vibes. This region is truly the perfect place for a relaxing vacation for those who want to get away from it all.

Of course, the Caribbean is much more than its beaches. In fact, there’s a Caribbean destination for every kind of traveler out there.

Whether you’re an action-oriented traveler looking to hike the world — such as by exploring the hiking trails in St. Thomas — or want to explore as many cultures as you can, you’ll find something exciting in the Caribbean.

On this page, you’ll find complete travel guides for several Caribbean destinations, including Antigua , The Bahamas , the Cayman Islands , Puerto Rico , and more.

We’ve compiled some of the best things to do in each location as well as tips on hotels, activities, and food.

Plus, we’ve answered some of your most burning questions about budgets, safety, planning, and other travel considerations for the region.

Keep reading for some serious travel inspiration and to dive into resources that will help you with planning a trip to the Caribbean islands.

Note that this travel guide to the Caribbean contains affiliate links to trusted partners!

Caribbean Map

Use this Caribbean travel map to begin planning your trip!

Click here for an interactive version of the above map.

Antigua Travel Guides

Antigua is home to some of the best places to travel in the Caribbean , a few of which are highlighted here.

12 Antigua Adventures For An Unforgettable Caribbean Trip

Hiking In Antigua: Take In Breathtaking England Harbour Views From The Pillars Of Hercules Trail

Antigua Solo Travel: How To Have An Amazing Luxury Wellness Getaway For One

Bahamas Travel Guides

Traveling to the Caribbean ? Don’t miss these incredible Bahamas travel experiences!

Stingray Feeding, Conch Penis & Pig Roasts At Chat ‘N’ Chill Beach In The Exumas

Swimming With Nurse Sharks In Compass Cay, Exumas, Bahamas

Swimming With Pigs At Big Major Spot Cay In The Exuma Cays, Bahamas

Is The Exuma Archipelago The Quirky Sister Of The Galapagos?

16 Best Bahamas Breakfast Foods You Must Try

Cayman Islands Travel Guides

No Caribbean tourism experience would be complete without visiting the Cayman Islands. Here’s why.

Beyond Grand Cayman: Discovering Cayman Brac In The Caribbean

Delicious Lionfish: Responsible Eatings In The Cayman Islands

Things To Do In The Dominican Republic

Visit the Caribbean — specificially the Domincan Republic — for an amazing vacation. Here’s how.

How To Spend One Awesome Day In Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic

Exploring Punta Cana Outdoors Beyond The Beach Resorts

Exploring Sustainable Adventure In The Resort Destination Of Punta Cana

How To Have An Epic Dominican Republic Road Trip

Dominican Republic Hiking: 12 Amazing Trails Not To Miss

3, 5 & 7 Days In Punta Cana Itinerary (Best Things To Do!)

Things To Do In Guadeloupe

If you’re planning a vacation to the Caribbean islands you’ll want to put Guadeloupe on your itinerary.

Driving Around Guadeloupe: Travel Guide + Itinerary

Things To Do In Mexico

Enjoy the Mexican Caribbean with these helpful guides:

3, 4 & 7 Day Cancun Itinerary (Best Things To Do In Cancun!)

6 Best Beaches In Holbox, Mexico (Stunning!)

23 Best Things To Do In Holbox Island, Mexico (Sample Itinerary Included!)

15 Best Beach Clubs In Holbox Island, Mexico

Is Holbox Worth Visiting? What You Need To Know Before Booking

Best Time To Visit Holbox Island, Mexico

Things To Do In Puerto Rico

Want to travel in the Caribbean ? Puerto Rico has so much to offer, like…

This Is What Happens When You Travel Puerto Rico Solo (Itinerary Included!)

Farm-To-Table Dining On The Water At The W Retreat & Spa Vieques Island

Top Booze Experiences In Puerto Rico

Charco Prieto Waterfall: Hiking To Puerto Rico’s Secret Waterfall

Things To Do In St. Lucia

Looking for Caribbean travel tips ? Here’s one: Don’t miss visiting St. Lucia and having the following incredible experiences.

Adventurous Couple’s Guide To Marisule, Castries & Rodney Bay, St. Lucia

6 Secret Beaches To Visit In St. Lucia

Adventurous Couple’s Guide To Soufriere, St. Lucia

Cocoa Experiences At Saint Lucia’s Hotel Chocolat

An Amazing Solo St. Lucia Wellness Retreat At BodyHoliday Resort

3 Romantic Hotels In St. Lucia That Aren’t Sandals

An Unforgettable Romantic Getaway For One At St. Lucia’s Jade Mountain Resort

Things To Do In St. Thomas

If you’re looking for fun things to do in the Caribbean in St. Thomas, don’t miss:

Hiking In St. Thomas: 5 Amazing Trails Not To Miss

Trinidad & Tobago Travel Guides

Trinidad and Tobago is home to some top Caribbean points of interest , and these guides can help you explore them.

Trinidad And Tobago’s Best Outdoor Experiences

Learning To Stand Up Paddleboard In Tobago

Taking The Scenic Route: Driving Up North Coast Road In Trinidad

Are You A Trinidad Or Tobago Traveler?

6 Signs You’ve Survived A Trip To Trinidad And Tobago

12 Things You Didn’t Know About Trinidad And Tobago

Caribbean Travel Tips

Make your Caribbean vacation even more memorable with the help of the following travel guides!

13 Best Caribbean Islands For Solo Travel (+ Tips!)

3 Best Luxury Caribbean Wellness Retreats

20 Best Beach Destinations For Solo Female Travelers (Caribbean & Beyond!)

Caribbean Tours

Book an experience with a Caribbean tour guide and get to know the culture through a local.

• Majestic Gros Piton Hike (Cap Estate, St. Lucia)
• Sailing and Snorkeling Day Tour to Les Saintes (Saint Charles, Guadeloupe)
• Trinidad Rainforest Hike to Waterfall (Port of Spain, Trinidad)
• Argyle Waterfall with Adventure Farm (Crown Point, Tobago)
• Nicole’s Table – Cooking with Rum (Saint John, Antigua and Barbuda)
• Rum, Reggae & Rhythms Tour (With Cable Beach Visit!) (Nassau, Bahamas)

Caribbean Hotels

Click here to browse hotels in the Caribbean!

Prefer self-contained stays? 

Click here to check out unique local rentals!

You can also use this map to search for local stays:

Don’t eat meat? Check out these top vegan resorts in the Caribbean !

Caribbean Travel Insurance

It doesn’t matter if you’re traveling solo or with a group on a Caribbean tour. When visiting the Caribbean — or any other country in the world — make sure to get travel insurance to protect your health and safety.

In my opinion, the best travel medical insurance for travelers is SafetyWing as they’ve got a large network and offer both short-term and long-term coverage — including coverage if you’re traveling for months as well as limited coverage in your home country).

Additionally, SafetyWing is budget-friendly and offers $250,000 worth of coverage with just one low overall deductible of $250.

With coverage, you’ll have peace of mind as you embark on your Caribbean itinerary.

Click my referral link here to price out travel insurance for your trip in just a few clicks .

Renting A Car In The Caribbean

Renting a car in the Caribbean?

Use Discover Cars to quickly compare your car rental options.

Caribbean Travel Guide FAQ

Below, find answers to frequently asked questions about traveling to the Caribbean

Q: What are the Caribbean travel destinations?

There are 29 different island nations and destinations you can visit in the Caribbean. These include:

• Aruba (one of the best Caribbean islands for solo travel !)
• Antigua and Barbuda
• The Bahamas
• British Virgin Islands (including Tortola, Virgin Gorda, Anegada and Jost Van Dyke)
• Cayman Islands
• Cuba (note: U.S. citizens can only travel to Cuba with an organized and licensed tour group)
• Dominican Republic
• Puerto Rico
• Saint Barthelemy (aka St. Barts)
• Saint Kitts and Nevis
• Saint Lucia
• Saint Martin/Sint Maarten
• Saint Vincent and the Grenadines
• Sint Eustatius
• Trinidad and Tobago
• Turks and Caicos
• U.S. Virgin Islands (including St. Croix, St. John, and St. Thomas)

There are also parts of Latin America that are considered to be within the Caribbean — for instance, here is an epic itinerary for Cancun if you’d like to visit the Mexican Caribbean!

Q: How many islands are in the Caribbean?

The Caribbean region contains 700 islands organized into 28 different island nations. Not all of these islands are inhabited or accessible but that still leaves a lot to explore in this beautiful area!

Q: How do you travel between Caribbean islands?

One of the best ways to travel between Caribbean islands is by ferry or boat. Several companies offer ferries between Caribbean islands, particularly those that are closest in distance to each other. For example, there are several weekly ferries between Puerto Rico and the Dominican Republic as well as daily service between the US Virgin Islands and the British Virgin Islands.

If you’re planning on spending a few days in each destination and want to plan your own itinerary, ferries are the way to go. Another great way to island-hop is via cruise ship. Though you won’t have much control over your itinerary, cruises are a great way to visit several Caribbean islands in a short amount of time, particularly those not easily accessible by ferry.

Direct flights between Caribbean islands can be hard to come by but are available. You’ll have the most luck finding flights for a Western Caribbean island-hopping adventure between islands like St. Martin and Guadeloupe.

Q: What is the best month to go to the Caribbean?

Winter and early spring are considered the best times to go to the Caribbean. The dry season makes for beautiful warm weather without the humidity and threat of hurricanes that the summer season brings.

Winter is also peak tourist season in most Caribbean destinations, so places tend to be more crowded and prices can be higher.

If you’re looking for the best prices — and the quietest beaches — you may want to hold off until May once Spring Break season and the Easter holidays have passed.

Q: What are the most dangerous Caribbean islands?

Though beautiful and culturally rich, Jamaica has a reputation for being one of the most dangerous Caribbean islands. The country has a high homicide rate compared to the global average and crime is common in certain areas. As such, a trip to Jamaica may require a higher level of vigilance than other destinations.

The Dominican Republic and Trinidad and Tobago have similar reputations for crime. Most state departments recommend exercising increased caution in these countries.

Q: Which Caribbean islands are the cheapest to visit?

While the Caribbean is known for its lavish beach resorts, you can find some great deals when traveling to certain islands. Your money will go farthest at up-and-coming destinations in the Southern Caribbean like Martinique, Curacao, Trinidad, and Tobago, and Grenada. Here, you can enjoy free beach access, delicious street food, and reduced hotel rates as well as each island’s unique cultural offerings.

Puerto Rico is also a less expensive option in the Caribbean for American travelers, as many low-cost American airlines offer regular flights to the island.

Also note that when planning a Punta Cana itinerary you can find great deals on all-inclusive vacations, especially if you travel outside of peak season.

Q: What is the cheapest month to go to the Caribbean?

The least expensive months to travel to the Caribbean are June through November, during the heart of hurricane season. Though while you’ll find some great deals on hotels and flights during this time, you’ll need to contend with the humidity and the risk of severe storms.

The best way to avoid any bad weather during this time is to visit islands outside of the hurricane belt such as the ABC islands of Aruba, Bonaire, and Curacao.

Q: What are some top Caribbean points of interest?

The top points of interest for any Caribbean island are usually its beautiful beaches! You’ll find some of the most gorgeous beaches throughout the Caribbean, with soft white sand and clear waters perfect for snorkeling and swimming. Relaxing on the beach is the number one activity in the Caribbean for a reason.

Beyond the beach, many Caribbean islands have other natural wonders to explore, like towering volcanoes and lush rainforests. You’ll find some great hiking throughout the region, so make sure to get out and explore!

Oh, and you can’t miss the incredible luxurious Caribbean wellness retreats across and islands!

Q: What is the rainy season in the Caribbean?

The rainy season in the Caribbean takes place through summer and fall, from June 1st to November 30th.

Q: What are the West Indies islands?

The West Indies islands are comprised of three major groups of islands: the Greater Antilles (Cuba, Jamaica, Haiti, Dominican Republic, and Puerto Rico); the Lesser Antilles (the Virgin Islands, Anguilla, Saint Kitts and Nevis, Antigua and Barbuda, Montserrat, Guadeloupe, Dominica, Martinique, Saint Lucia, Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, Barbados, and Grenada); and the North American and South American continental shelves (The Bahamas and Turks and Caicos to the North, Trinidad and Tobago, Aruba, Bonaire, and Curacao to the South).

What would you add to this Caribbean travel guide?

Nomadic Matt's Travel Site

Travel Better, Cheaper, Longer

Caribbean Travel Guide

Last Updated: August 30, 2023

The Caribbean is one of the most popular travel destinations in the world. It’s made up of over 5,000 islands, reefs, and cays, each with its own unique attractions and price ranges. Especially popular with North Americans fleeing the winter, the Caribbean is perfect for beach bums, honeymooners, and anyone looking to soak up the sun and enjoy the outdoors.

Unfortunately, there is a misconception that a vacation to the Caribbean is an expensive affair and that only luxury travelers and honeymooners can visit.

But that couldn’t be further from the truth. After all, this is a huge and diverse region and every island has something unique to offer. Sure, you can splash out here if you want. But you can also visit the Caribbean on a budget. It won’t be dirt cheap, but it doesn’t have to break the bank either.

With so many places to choose from in the Caribbean, you can definitely find an island that suits your interests and budget. Trust me. I’ve been to a lot of the countries in this part of the world (I love a good beach!).

This Caribbean travel guide can help you plan your trip, save money, and make the most of your time in these stunning tropical paradises!

Table of Contents

• Things to See and Do
• Typical Costs
• Suggested Budget
• Money-Saving Tips
• Where to Stay
• How to Get Around
• How to Stay Safe
• Best Places to Book Your Trip
• Related Blogs on the Caribbean

Click Here for Country Guides

Top 5 things to see and do in the caribbean.

1. Sail around the Virgin Islands

Spend a few days sailing to the remote islands that ferries don’t visit in the BVIs. You’ll get away from the crowds and discover hidden snorkeling spots. There’s ton of sailing options around this part of the world. Here’s how you can sail on the cheap .

2. Visit Havana, Cuba

Often eliciting images of revolutionary heroes, Havana is the largest city in the Caribbean. Lately the city has emerged as a tourist hotspot, rich in history, architecture, and culture. Wander the colorful streets of Old Havana, visit the Plaza de la Revolución, and walk the Malecón sea wall.

3. Hike the Pitons in St. Lucia

The Pitons are two dormant volcanoes: Gros and Petit Piton. The Gros Piton hike is a challenging two hours from 600 feet above sea level to the summit at 2,600 feet. You must have a guide, which costs $50 USD. Petit Piton is more difficult. A guide is also needed, which costs $70 USD.

4. Swim with pigs in the Bahamas

This group of world-famous pigs and piglets live on Pig Beach. Nobody knows how they got there as Big Major Cay is uninhabited and the pigs are not native to the island. Boat tours leave from Nassau and start around $220 USD for a full day. (Just be careful — they bite!)

5. See Trunk Bay, St. John

Frequently voted one of the best beaches in the world, Trunk Bay is picture perfect with white sands and clear water. It does cost a few dollars to get onto the beach, but the coral and marine life you see while snorkeling makes it all worthwhile.

Other Things to See and Do in the Caribbean

1. sample rum at the mount gay rum distillery in barbados.

Barbados is the birthplace of rum and Mount Gay is the oldest continuously running rum distillery in the world (they’ve been doing it for over 300 years). For $20 USD you can learn about the history and home of Mount Gay and taste a selection of their finest rums. You get huge discounts on their rum at the end too!

2. Learn about Reggae’s roots in Jamaica

Jamaica is home to reggae music, and there’s little chance of you going anywhere in Jamaica without hearing Bob Marley blaring in the background. Make the pilgrimage to his museum, the large house on Hope Road in Kingston, where he lived and worked between 1975-1981. You can learn more about the iconic Rastafarian’s life, with glimpses into his recording studio and bedroom. Admission is $25 USD.

3. Splash around Dunn’s River Falls in Jamaica

This is the most popular visitor attraction in Jamaica. Located in Ocho Rios, these falls cascading over plateaus are 600 feet high and are absolutely stunning to see up close. For those who are adventurous, you can climb up them (it’s a bit slippery but not hard). If not, you can simply walk up the regular trail. Bring your bathing suit so you can swim in one of the many azure pools at the base of the falls. Entry $24 USD. You can also zipline nearby if you’re an adrenaline junkie (prices start at $25 USD).

4. Go snorkeling or diving

Divers and even snorkelers can visit shipwrecks and coral reefs in the waters surrounding the islands. In the Bahamas, the Tongue of the Ocean is an oceanic trench that runs along the entire length of the Andros Island coast. The wall of the trench leads to an almost 6,000-foot drop to the seabed where divers can get up close and personal with reef sharks as they swarm in to feed. Two-tank drives start from $120 USD. St. Lucia is another great place to explore the ocean for its clear waters and a vast array of sea creatures, including parrotfish, trumpet fish, and needlefish (especially in the Anse Chastanet Reef). Diving here costs start around $110 USD for a two-tank dive and snorkeling costs around $60 USD.

5. Go zip-lining in St. Lucia

If you’re looking for an adventurous break from sun-tanning, try ziplining through the rain forest canopy. Adventure Tours St. Lucia has a total of 12 lines, including the highest, longest, and fastest line on the island. There are also five net bridges and lots of opportunities to catch some gorgeous views over St. Lucia. A full day of ziplining is $90 USD.

6. Relax on Antigua

Antigua is one of the largest Caribbean islands, with over 365 pink and white beaches (including Dickenson Bay and Pigeon Point Beach). If you’re into sailing, sign up to be a deckhand or observe Sailing Week at the end of April, the world-renowned regatta featuring 150-200 yachts and more than 1,500 participants.

7. See the world’s “wickedest” city in Jamaica

Most travelers don’t venture into Jamaica’s eastern parish of Portland — it’s an area off the tourist trail and a nice alternative to the crowds on the coast. But if you do come here, the reward is quiet beaches, endless natural beauty, and friendly locals who aren’t afraid to chat you up. While you’re here, visit the Blue Lagoon, see Somerset Falls, and eat your weight in tasty jerk chicken in the town of Boston.

8. Kayak around the islands

One of the best ways to explore these islands is by water. One of the best kayaking experiences is with Clear Kayak in Aruba . Their clear-bottomed kayaks let you see the reefs and coral beneath you as you explore. Prices vary by island (and sometimes your hotel may have some rent them out), but you can expect to pay around $100 USD for a full-day tour.

9. Pretend you’re a pirate in Bahamas

If you’re looking for more pirate culture, check out the Pirates of Nassau Museum in the Bahamas. The Golden Age of Piracy lasted for around thirty years, from 1690 to 1720, and much of that was centered around the Bahamas (specifically Nassau). You can walk around replica pirate ships, visit the dungeon, and learn through interactive exhibits about how pirates like Blackbeard set up base here between 1690 and 1720. Admission is $13.50 USD.

10. Go nude at Salomon’s Beach in St. John

Once a secluded nude beach, authorities have been cracking down in recent years on anyone caught not wearing clothing (fines are around $100 USD). Nevertheless, many people push their luck anyway and hit the sand in nothing but their birthday suit. There are usually just half a dozen people here at a time, though it’s often deserted too. Are you bold enough to risk getting fined?

11. Lose yourself in the clouds in Jamaica

Holywell National Park is Jamaica’s only national park. It lies in the Blue Mountain region and offers several short treks that take you up into a cloud forest brimming with colorful birds (like hummingbirds!) and screeching monkeys. The hike to the summit is challenging and takes around seven hours (and costs $20 USD). There are also coffee plantations and farm tours available here too (costing around $25 USD). A short drive from Kingston, this tropical park can easily be visited in one afternoon. Park entrance is $10 USD. You can also book a night in one of the many cabins in the park for around $85 USD per night.

12. Celebrate Carnival in St. John

St. John’s Carnival takes place in late June and traditionally culminates with a 4th of July parade, as Islanders also celebrate the United States’ Independence Day. It features mocko jumbies, calypso music, the crowning of Ms. St. John, and the Carnival King. Spectacular fireworks are shot into the air at the festival. It’s a huge party and the island fills up so be sure to book your accommodation in advance.

13. Explore the Hato Caves in Curaçao

These caves were once hiding spots for escaped slaves who would hide in them for weeks or even months at a time. Before the arrival of Europeans and the slave trade, the indigenous used the caves and left petroglyphs. You can take a guided tour and see the stalagmites, stalactites, and cave drawings, which date back over 1,500 years. Admission is $9 USD, including the tour.

14. Visit the Baths in the British Virgin Islands

The Baths are a beach area on Virgin Gorda. After crawling through a tiny opening, you’ll be surrounded by gigantic granite boulders nestled on each other with streams of water flowing all around them. After wading through, enjoy the calm and beauty of Dead Man’s Beach.

For information about specific destinations in the Caribbean, check out these guides:

• British Virgin Islands
• Saint Lucia

Caribbean Travel Costs

Accommodation – There aren’t many hostels or campgrounds to be found in the Caribbean as most islands don’t cater to budget travelers. For the ones that exist, a bed in a dorm with 4-6 beds costs about $30 USD per night. A dorm with eight beds or more costs from $20 USD per night. Private rooms start at about $40 USD per night. Expect basic amenities like free Wi-Fi and self-catering facilities.

Budget hotels with private bathrooms start at about $80 USD in St. Lucia, $40 USD in Jamaica and $110 USD in Curaçao. Most affordable hotel rooms on St. John start from $230 USD per night. Free Wi-Fi is standard and some hotels also include free breakfast.

Airbnb is widely available all over the Caribbean. In Aruba , private rooms cost around $45 USD per night on Aruba and $60 USD in the Bahamas, while on St. John they start from about $110 USD. A full apartment on Curaçao starts at about $250 USD per night. Aruba averages about $110 USD per night for an entire apartment, while it’s as high as $200 USD per night in the Virgin Islands. As you can see, prices vary drastically!

Food – Food in the Caribbean varies depending on the island, though some staples are common across the region, including rice and beans, plantains, sweet potatoes, coconut, chicken, and fish. Seafood, naturally, plays a huge role. Influences from Africa and Europe abound, so expect an amalgam of fresh produce, seafood, meat stews, grilled meats, dumplings, and dried fish.

Many hotels and resorts around the Caribbean include free breakfast for guests. In Aruba, a sandwich at a café starts from about $3.50 USD, while you can grab a ham-and-cheese sandwich at Superfoods around the same. In the BVIs, the cheapest meal I saw around the islands was a small sandwich that cost $10-15 USD. However, you can find fresh fruit and fruit juices at food stalls all over the place for $1-2 USD.

A fast-food combo meal (think McDonald’s) costs $8-10 USD. In general, $10-15 USD gets you a fish or chicken plate or a burger, and a meal of conch fritters or a large plate of peas and rice costs from $7 USD.

For main courses, steak, fish, or seafood, you’re looking at $20 USD or more. At a mid-range restaurant, expect to pay between $35-50 USD for a fish or steak main course, and a glass of wine to wash it down is about $10 USD. A beer starts from $2 USD at most restaurants.

Avoid restaurants near cruise ports and resorts as prices will be much, much higher.

If you plan to cook your own meals, basic groceries for the week cost around $60-80 USD. This gets you basic staples like rice, beans, seasonal produce, and some meat or fish.

Backpacking the Caribbean Suggested Budgets

Prices for Caribbean travel vary greatly depending on where you are. You can find islands to fit any budget, but some places (like the Virgin Islands) is much harder to do on a shoestring.

If you’re backpacking the Caribbean, my suggested budget is about $75 USD per day. This budget covers a hostel dorm or camping (when available), cooking all of your meals, limiting your drinking, and sticking to mostly free activities like relaxing at the beach.

For places like Bahamas , British Virgin Islands , and St John , budget closer to $100 USD.

A mid-range budget of about $190 USD per day overs staying in a private Airbnb, eating out for some of your meals, doing some inter-island travel, enjoying a few drinks, taking the occasional taxi to get around, and doing more paid activities like diving or kayaking. In the more expensive islands add at least $75-100 USD to this budget.

On a “luxury” budget of about $355 USD per day in the cheaper islands or $400-500 USD in the more expensive ones, you can stay in a hotel, eat out for all your meals, take taxis everywhere, do more inter-island travel, drink more, and do any activity you want as often as you want! This is just the ground floor for luxury though. The sky is the limit!

You can use the chart below to get some idea of how much you need to budget daily, depending on your travel style. Keep in mind these are daily averages – some days you spend more, some days you spend less (you might spend less every day). We just want to give you a general idea of how to make your budget. Prices are in USD.

Caribbean Travel Guide: Money Saving Tips

While the individual country guides have more specific information on how to save money for each destination in the Caribbean, here are some general tips to help you backpack the Caribbean on a budget:

• Look for discounts and deals – Most individual Caribbean countries have whole sections dedicated to seasonal discounts and deals on their website (mostly for accommodations). Do a quick search, and see what you come up with. Packaged deals are especially popular.
• Use hotel points – Got hotel points? Use them! Hotels like Marriott and Hilton are found all over the Caribbean that can be booked with points. Free is always better than spending money. Here’s how you can get started earning points today!
• Stay with a local – To save money on accommodation, use Couchsurfing. You’ll not only get a free place to stay but you’ll get to meet a local who can share their insider tips and advice with you.
• Shop around – If you’re going snorkeling, shop around for the best price as equipment and tours can vary widely even along one beachfront. Consider bringing your own gear since rentals add up.
• Time your trip right – First of all, avoid spring break. If you visit during the American spring break season in March, everything costs 25% or more (not to mention you have to have to deal with all shenanigans those kids cause). That’s not the only thing to bear in mind, though. Prices can be as much as 50% cheaper for accommodation and activities in off- and shoulder seasons, so avoid the peak season to save money.
• Enjoy nature – Relax on the beach, go for a hike, or take in a sunset. The Caribbean’s natural beauty is breathtaking and free, so drink it in!
• Hitchhike on boats – Want to hop around the Virgin Islands? Hitchhike on the boats and save thousands of dollars. It’s easier to do than you think. Here is how to get started.
• Book online and in advance – If you’re planning on going diving, or doing any other expensive activities, be sure to check online for discounts beforehand. Some companies offer discounts for direct bookings. Also, last-minute accommodation bookings cost a fortune. If you can, book as far in advance as possible.
• Eat and drink locally – You’re on an island, local specialties such as grouper, mahi-mahi, and snapper are less expensive than other seafood options (plus, they’re fresh)! Imported alcohol can be expensive so sticking to local liquor if you’re going to be drinking keeps your costs down.
• Look for local deals and discounts and find free stuff – Some of the islands have discount cards available for purchase or tourism websites with a section for package deals and discount offers. Also, it’s worth finding out which bars offer happy hours and when to save money. In addition, many hotels offer free use of snorkeling equipment, include free breakfast, and arrange free or cheap organized excursions. Always ask to see what free stuff is available!
• Cook your own meals – Eating out for every meal ruins your budget. Cook your own meals to save money. It won’t be fancy, but you can use those savings for fun activities instead! In some places, BBQing on the beach is a popular local activity to add some variety to the cooking at home scene.
• Watch your transport costs – Taxis on many of the islands can really put a dent in your budget so avoid them if you can. Consider renting a car if public transportation options aren’t comprehensive enough for your plans as it may save money in the long run.
• Bring your own snorkel gear -Snorkel rentals can cost $7-10 USD per day. If you plan on doing lots of snorkelling, bring or buy your own equipment and it will pay for itself.
• Get dropped off – Taking a day sail but plan on heading to the next island after? Most tour companies will drop you off at no extra charge if the island is nearby.
• Travel with friends – Since accommodation is so expensive, I wouldn’t recommend going to these islands alone. If you do, your expenses are going to skyrocket. It’s much better to go with someone so you can split costs.
• Use local currency – When possible (and applicable), I recommend paying for anything in the local currency. You tend to get a better exchange rate than if you use stronger international currencies.
• Don’t drink the tap water – The tap water isn’t always safe to drink here. Bottled water adds up (and is bad for the environment) so bring a reusable bottle. LifeStraw make a bottle with a built-in filter to ensure your water is always clean and safe.

Where to Stay in the Caribbean

Here are my favorite budget-friendly places to stay in the Caribbean:

• Hostel Room Aruba (Aruba)
• E Cas di Zoe (Aruba)
• The Towne Hotel (Bahamas)
• La Bamba (Curaçao)
• First Hostel Curaçao Curaçao)
• Mobay Kotch (Jamaica)
• Raggamuffin Hostel & Coffee Bar (Jamaica)
• Casa del Vega (St. Lucia)
• Somewhere Special Guesthouse (St. Lucia)
• Coconut Coast Villas (St. John)

How to Get Around Caribbean

Flying – Regional airlines can get you just about anywhere you need to go, especially to smaller airports in the Caribbean. Some of the best airlines include:

• Bahamas Air
• Caribbean Airlines
• interCaribbean
• Pineapple Air
• Jet Air Caribbean
• and Western Air

These routes are not exactly budget-friendly however. For example, a one-way flight from Nassau to Eleuthera starts from $105 USD, Curaçao to Kingston starts from $280 USD, and Barbados to Antigua is $200 USD. Flights between the Virgin Islands start from $245 USD each way with a stopover. One way from Aruba to Curaçao starts from $130 USD. Most islands don’t have direct flights between them every day so you need to be flexible with your transfer dates.

Ferry – The Caribbean surprisingly doesn’t have a lot of inter-island ferry transportation, but the ones available are more economical than flying (and more scenic). Some ferry companies include:

• Bahamas Ferries
• QE IV Ferry
• Road Town Fast Ferry
• L’Express des Iles

In the Lesser Antilles, you can take inter-island ferries between many of the islands, from the Virgin Islands all the way down to Trinidad and Tobago. There are ferries between the U.S. Virgin Islands and the British Virgin Islands; Anguilla, Saba, and St. Martin; and Dominica, Guadeloupe, Martinique, and St. Lucia; Antigua and Barbuda and Montserrat; and St. Kitts and Nevis.

A lot of people make St. Maarten their base so they take short ferry trips to Anguilla, Saba, St. Eustatius, and St. Bart’s. For example, the service from St. Maarten to Anguilla is from $20 USD each way.

In the Bahamas, ferry services range between $62-175 USD. A ferry ride between St. Lucia to Guadeloupe is from $113 USD. Ferries between the Virgin Islands cost as little as $8.15 USD each way.

The Bahamas also has mail boats (mailboatbahamas.com) that sail to the lesser inhabited islands, departing from Nassau to places like the Out Islands and Grand Bahamas, and you can hitch a ride overnight.

Sailing – The Caribbean islands see countless people who rent charter boats, hire captains, or sail their own boats around for as long as the wind can carry them. If you play your cards right, you can hop on someone’s boat — for FREE! You’d be surprised how often there’s a captain looking for some company on a sail, especially in exchange for cleaning or cooking.

If you’d rather do a sailing tour, there’s no shortage of them starting from about $130 USD per day.

When to Go to Caribbean

December to April are the busiest months across the Caribbean, and this is when hotel rates are the highest as people from the north flee harsh winter temperatures. On the other hand, the water visibility is perfect for diving and snorkeling. Average daily highs during this time are around 30°C (87°F).

May to November is the off-season across the Caribbean when accommodation and activity rates are up to 50% lower than in the peak season. The beaches are much less busy during this time, and temperatures are still hot and pleasant — averaging up to 32°C (89°F) in places like Curaçao and Aruba and 27°C (80°F )in the Bahamas.

In some places, you have to consider hurricane season (between June to the end of November). Places like the Bahamas and the Virgin Islands are in the hurricane belt, but other islands like Curaçao and Aruba are outside the hurricane zone. If you visit during hurricane season, make sure you have comprehensive travel insurance.

How to Stay Safe in Caribbean

The Caribbean is very safe for backpacking and solo traveling, but there are scams and petty crimes you should watch out for. Avoid wandering around certain areas alone at night, like Kingston (Jamaica) or San Nicolas (Aruba).

When on crowded public transportation, always keep an eye on your belongings. Never leave any valuables unattended on the beach either.

Solo female travelers should generally feel safe here, however, the standard precautions apply (don’t leave your drink unattended at the bar, never walk home alone intoxicated, etc.).

Be sure to pack sunscreen, including biodegradable sunscreen if you plan on snorkeling in coral reefs. You also need mosquito repellent, especially in certain areas where the risk of dengue fever or the Zika virus is high. Check to see if the U.S. State Department has any travel advisories listed for where you’re headed.

If you’re hiking, stick to the well-marked trails and bring lots of water. Armed robberies sometimes happen on less busy trails, so keep an ear out for any warnings in the area.

When it comes to eating and drinking, dysentery and hepatitis are risks when it comes to consuming contaminated food and water. Check the Center for Disease Control website for any warnings before you travel!

Scams are rare but can occur so check out my list of common travel scams to avoid so you can be prepared.

Always trust your gut instinct. Make copies of your personal documents, including your passport and ID. Forward your itinerary along to loved ones so they’ll know where you are.

The most important piece of advice I can offer is to purchase good travel insurance. Travel insurance protects you against illness, injury, theft, and cancellations. It’s comprehensive protection in case anything goes wrong. I never go on a trip without it as I’ve had to use it many times in the past.

Caribbean Travel Guide: The Best Booking Resources

These are my favorite companies to use when I travel. They consistently have the best deals, offer world-class customer service and great value, and overall, are better than their competitors. They are the companies I use the most and are always the starting point in my search for travel deals.

• Skyscanner – Skyscanner is my favorite flight search engine. They search small websites and budget airlines that larger search sites tend to miss. They are hands down the number one place to start.
• Hostelworld – This is the best hostel accommodation site out there with the largest inventory, best search interface, and widest availability.
• Booking.com – The best all around booking site that constantly provides the cheapest and lowest rates. They have the widest selection of budget accommodation. In all my tests, they’ve always had the cheapest rates out of all the booking websites.
• Get Your Guide – Get Your Guide is a huge online marketplace for tours and excursions. They have tons of tour options available in cities all around the world, including everything from cooking classes, walking tours, street art lessons, and more!
• SafetyWing – Safety Wing offers convenient and affordable plans tailored to digital nomads and long-term travelers. They have cheap monthly plans, great customer service, and an easy-to-use claims process that makes it perfect for those on the road.
• LifeStraw – My go-to company for reusable water bottles with built-in filters so you can ensure your drinking water is always clean and safe.
• Unbound Merino – They make lightweight, durable, easy-to-clean travel clothing.
• Top Travel Credit Cards – Points are the best way to cut down travel expenses. Here’s my favorite point earning credit cards so you can get free travel!

Caribbean Travel Guide: Related Articles

Want more tips for your trip? Check out all the articles I’ve written on Caribbean travel and continue planning your trip:

9 Ways to Explore the Caribbean Sustainably

My 16 Favorite Things to Do in the Virgin Islands

Bermuda: The Impossible Budget Destination? Maybe Not!

How to Save (and Not Save) Money in the Virgin Islands

I Didn’t Like Curaçao (But I Didn’t Hate it Either)

The Best Places on Costa Rica’s Caribbean Coast

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• A Beginners Guide To Island...

A Beginner's Guide to Island Hopping in the Caribbean

Freelance Caribbean Writer

You can easily take in a string of delicious Caribbean destinations on a single trip by mastering the art of island-hopping. Our guide to small island-hopping shows you how with must-visits and travel tips and learning more about the Caribbean culture.

Did you know you can now travel with Culture Trip? Book now and join one of our premium small-group tours to discover the world like never before.

The close proximity of the Caribbean’s small islands makes them ideal for a hop, skip and a jump from one to the other in a daisy chain of island explorations. Fancy diving down to a shipwreck in Aruba one day and getting up close with flamingos on Guadeloupe the next? Then read on…

Where to visit in the Caribbean

The island of St Martin (or St Maarten) is a great destination to start exploring the eastern side of the Caribbean. It’s divided roughly down the middle between the French Republic and the Kingdom of the Netherlands, and so it offers visitors a two-nation vacation. The Dutch side of the island is known as the party side for hosting the Heineken Regatta, a four-day sailing race with concerts and other festivities. Meanwhile, in true French fashion, the other side of the island features quaint, romantic restaurants , designer boutiques and nude beaches .

From St Martin, journey to the islands of Anguilla and enjoy its secluded coves, before heading to St Barts to do some celebrity spotting and Saba , which is known for its diving site at Saba Marine Park. Puerto Rico, the jewel of the Caribbean, is also a popular choice. The island is known for its cuisine – a mixture of Spanish, African, and Taino – plus its strong rum.

Elsewhere, you can get pretty much anywhere in the Caribbean from San Juan (thanks to regional carriers such as Cape Air and Seaborne), and a number of islands are even closer by ferry and plane, such as Culebra, Vieques, British Virgin Islands and the US Virgin Islands. The Dominican Republic is also only a very short flight away.

You can do all the island-hopping you want in the Guadeloupe Islands and stay within the same territory. This beautiful archipelago has five islands within easy reach by ferry and air from the main island of Grande Terre/Basseterre, each with its own character and flavor, from tiny Terre-de-Haut to beach paradise Marie Galante. From Guadeloupe, you can easily access the islands Dominica , Martinique and St Lucia below and Montserrat , St Kitts and Nevis , and Antigua and Barbuda.

The so-called ‘ABC’ islands of Aruba, Bonaire and Curacao , at the western edge of the Leeward Antilles chain, are also a popular island-hopping loop. Aruba is a popular tourist destination with several big-name beach resorts; Bonaire is best known in scuba-diving circles for its spectacular undersea life; Curacao charms with its Dutch-influenced architecture.

Must-visits on your multi-island trip

St Martin is famed for its white-sand beaches but there’s one that stands out from the rest. Maho Beach, which lies near the airport, is where tourists come to photograph planes passing just feet above their heads as they swoop in to land. If you prefer natural wonders, catch the ferry to Pinel Island in St Martin’s Nature Reserve, where you’ll find palm-fringed sands and shallow waters ideal for snorkeling . To learn about the island’s Dutch heritage, take a trip to Fort Amsterdam near Philipsburg. Here, you can explore the ruins of this former military base and take in sweeping hilltop views.

There’s no shortage of historic sites in Puerto Rico . Start by touring grand La Fortaleza, the governor’s official residence, which was built between 1533 and 1540 to defend the harbor. Continue to the island’s longest-serving settlement, Old San Juan, a National Historic Site filled with 16th-century fortresses, cathedrals and cobbled streets. For a change of pace, you can hike rainforest trails to crashing waterfalls in El Yunque National Forest or relax in hillside thermal hot springs in Coamo. When the sun goes down, marvel at Puerto Rico’s bioluminescent waters in Mosquito Bay, which light up when touched.

If you’re visiting Guadeloupe , don’t miss Jardin Botanique. This seven-acre haven, in the heart of the islands, showcases exotic Caribbean flora and birdlife. Think bamboo forests and pink bougainvillea, flamingos and arboretums. If you can drag yourself away from Guadeloupe’s pristine beaches, spend a day at Carbet Falls in the National Park. These three waterfalls cascade down a mountain surrounded by tropical rainforests and hiking trails. Looking for the perfect sunset? Then head to Pointe des Châteaux, a clifftop peninsula on the eastern end of Grande-Terre where you can watch waves crash onto the rocks.

Divers flock to Aruba to explore its famous Antilla Shipwreck, a German war ship blanketed in coral and tube sponges. Aruba’s other key attraction is swanky Renaissance Island where pink flamingos tip-toe through the shallows. Hop over to Bonaire for more unspoilt Caribbean sands, including 1,000 Steps Beach and Klein Bonaire, a tiny uninhabited islet set in a marine park where turtles nest. Nearby Curacao is the perfect place to get a glimpse into the Caribbean’s Dutch past in its capital Willemstad, Unesco-listed for its colorful colonial architecture. Don’t miss Curacao’s Hato Caves either, which were formed over 300,000 years ago from marine coral limestone and contain Amerindian Arawak cave drawings.

How to travel

There are a few options for island-hopping in the Caribbean. The most popular is booking a cruise, but you can easily go it alone and create your own island-hopping loop by taking advantage of the numerous ferries that go back and forth between all of the islands.

Alternatively, charter a boat – it’s not as expensive as you might think. You don’t even need to know how to sail as many come with skippers included in the price.

Catching a flight should be your last resort. Though traveling by air to the smaller islands in the Caribbean is relatively inexpensive, it’s not environmentally friendly. This option makes sense only in cases where the islands have a significance distance between them.

Safety tips

If you are wondering when is the best time to visit Caribbean, this is what we recommend – it’s best to plan your island-hopping loop in either spring or at the beginning of summer, when the weather is calm. The Atlantic hurricane season starts in early June and runs until the end of November, while most of the storms hit during peak hurricane season between August and October.

Meanwhile, all major Caribbean islands have excellent mobile coverage. But for those islands with a very small population, such as Culebra and Vieques near Puerto Rico, a portable radio might come in handy. Sunscreen, mosquito repellant and bottled water should too always be in your luggage.

Amy Blyth contributed additional reporting to this article.

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The Ultimate Guide to Caribbean Island-Hopping

See recent posts by Lilly Graves

Ever dream of visiting multiple islands in the Caribbean on the same vacation, without sharing space with hundreds (er, thousands) of cruisers who are on the same ship and trip? You’re off to a good start. The close proximity of the Caribbean islands makes it the perfect base for a freedom-filled island-hopping adventure with various activities, cultures, and island vibes to choose from. From golden sandy beaches and water sports to barefoot restaurants and rum shops, this famously laid-back Caribbean lifestyle is ideal for a tailor-made trip—and there are several itineraries ranging from budget-friendly to splurge-worthy. Below we’ve listed four Caribbean island-hopping itinerary ideas, along with some tips and tricks. 

Caribbean Island-Hopping Itinerary #1: Use Public Ferries

Though not technically part of the Caribbean (it’s actually part of the North Atlantic), the Bahamas exudes everything you think of when dreaming of a Caribbean vacation. The island group is comprised of more than 700 stunning subtropical islands as well as thousands of cays. Of course, having your own boat or prop plane to explore the Bahamas is the best-case scenario, but if you’re not part of the one percent, we’ll give you a transportation option that is easy-peasy and won’t break the bank: the public ferry.

Nassau: Begin your adventure in the country’s capital, Nassau, 184 miles from Miami. This bustling capital city hub provides a nice mix of city and island life, as well as Bahamian culture and lifestyle. You can either stay a night or two on this island (New Providence) or head to neighboring Paradise Island—home of the Atlantis mega-resort and its gigantic waterpark, as well as a handful of other properties. If you don’t stay on Paradise Island, make sure to head across the bridge, which charges a nominal fee, and spend some time on Cabbage Beach. This is one of the world’s most famous stretches of sand for a reason.

Harbour Island: Now that you’ve seen two of the country’s more popular islands, next, take a morning ferry from Nassau to Harbour Island, via BahamasFerries.com, where you’ll find small island charm and long stretches of soft pink sand. There are some wonderful boutique hotels here that offer easy access to the beach. You can also spend time wandering through the quiet streets looking for pastel-hued cottages and unique architecture with nothing more than the occasional chicken and golf cart in your path.

Eleuthera: Since Harbour Island is located just off a much bigger island—Eleuthera—you can head there next, by water taxi (a short and cheap ride) to finish the trip in the pineapple capital of the world. Locals say that the Gregory Town pineapple claims to be the sweetest on the planet, and it is believed that the Bahamas was the first country to produce the fruit. While here, visit the Glass Window Bridge—a thin pathway connecting the rough Atlantic Ocean and the calm waters of the Bight of Eleuthera for striking photo ops. From here, take the ferry back to Nassau.

Exuma: You can finish the trip in Nassau (that’s four key islands) or continue the journey (optional) through more remote areas of the Bahamas. For instance, take another ferry from Nassau to Georgetown (Exuma Island), or jump on a 40-minute commercial flight to Great Exuma, via Bahamasair . Either way, the Exumas consists of 365 islands and is known for swimming pigs, nurse sharks, colorful fish, coral reefs, and other marine life, as well as boating excursions, on-island tours, and miles of rarely-visited beaches—in other words, plenty of Caribbean activities to keep you busy for days.

Our Bahamas Hotel Pick : The Cove at Atlantis

Caribbean Island-Hopping Itinerary #3: Book Through a Tour Operator

For the easiest island-hopping itinerary, book through a tour operator. Sure, this alleviates some of the adventure factors of planning your own trip, but you’ll still be on your very own multi-island vacation without the cruise ship crowds. Check out companies like Abercrombie & Kent, G Adventures , or the U.K.-based company Tropic Breeze for various sailing excursions and options.

One affordable G Adventures sailing trip ($1699 at the time of publishing) buys an unforgettable eight-night trip sailing around St. Lucia and St. Vincent and the Grenadines. Since resorts are generally so expensive year-round, sleeping on a catamaran keeps costs low AND allows easy access to hidden coves, isolated beaches, and snorkeling sites. Oh, and the cook makes fresh Creole cuisine for a taste of island life every night. Yum.

Our St. Lucia Hotel Pick: Sugar Beach, A Vicer oy Resort

Caribbean Island-Hopping Itinerary #3: Plan your Own One-Way Adventure

So you consider yourself a savvy trip planner and want to create your own Caribbean island-hopping itinerary? That can be tricky. Finding direct flights between Caribbean islands can either be difficult, expensive—or both, but there are options. This sample itinerary allows you to see four French Caribbean islands, accessed with affordable, direct, one-way flights—in one fell swoop.

St. Martin: You’ll arrive first at St. Martin, an island divided between the French Republic and the Kingdom of the Netherlands. We recommend staying on the French side due to its romantic restaurants, charming boutiques, and sandy beaches (the Dutch side, where you’ll fly into, is known as the party side).

St. Barts: After a few days on St. Martin, hop aboard a quick 15-minute flight to St. Barts, where you’ll land on one of the shortest runways in commercial aviation. If this sounds scary, you can choose the efficient 45-minute ferry crossing from St. Martin instead. However you choose to travel, arriving at St. Barts (or St. Barths as the locals call it) will offer laid-back luxury and French refinement. Spend a few days exploring some of the 16 beaches, each with its own distinct personality, and of course chic boutiques and restaurants. (In other words, prepare to splurge a bit more on this leg of the trip.)

Guadeloupe: From St. Barts, take a one-way flight to Guadeloupe. This French territory with 12 islands offers plenty of deserted beaches and jungle hikes. The main two islands (joined by bridges) are Basse-Terre and Grande-Terre, which form a butterfly shape from above.

And beyond: Depending on how much time you have, from Guadeloupe, you can access other islands like Martinique, St. Lucia, and Antigua by purchasing affordable, one-way flights on carriers like LIAT and Caribbean Airlines .

Our St. Barths Hotel Pick: Cheval Blanc Saint Barth

Caribbean Island-Hopping Itinerary #4: Charter a Private Boat

Chartering a private sailboat or yacht to enjoy a Caribbean island-hopping vacation for a small group or family is about as dream-worthy (and splurge-worthy) as it gets. Check out family operations like BlueFoot Travel for direct bookings, or Ritzy Charters , which acts as a community marketplace for yacht and sailboat charters. You can browse a dizzying array of options to choose your perfect boat and crew with photos and reviews. It’s like booking your own private cruise.

The British Virgin Islands and U.S. Virgin Islands are some of the top places to sail in the Caribbean, thanks to excellent trade winds, crystal-clear blue water, and intricate coral reef systems. The B.V.I. and U.S.V.I. are also a lot closer together than many other island destinations, with travel times often under an hour. Whichever locations you decide to add to your yacht charter itinerary there are plenty of exciting things to do on every island.

One eight-day sample itinerary sets sail from St. Thomas where you’ll cruise to a beach in Trunk Cay, part of the U.S. Virgin Islands. Offshore you can snorkel at the Coral Reef Underwater Park Trail, which has underwater signs explaining the types of sea life you may encounter. On land, hike trails leading to old sugar plantations, or visit the snack bar on the beach. From there, sail to a friendly marina in Tortola with cafes, bars, shops, and restaurants, and then continue to a chain of southern islands in the B.V.I. Peter Island, the largest of the seven, is a popular spot for yachts and has a number of beautiful beaches for water sports like kayaking, snorkeling, stand-up paddleboarding, and scuba-diving amongst the offshore reefs.

Your next stop is The Baths on Virgin Gorda, a beach full of fascinating geological formations where you can swim, snorkel, and explore until you work up an appetite. Later, on Jost Van Dyke, you’ll find some of the best places on the trip for nightlife and live music. You’ll then visit the lush landscapes of St. John’s Virgin Islands National Park, which covers nearly all of the island. Hiking trails wind their way through the vegetation and down to the pebble beaches. There are even ancient petroglyphs carved into the rocks along the Reef Bay Trail. Aside from its natural and historical attractions, you can also find nice shops for souvenirs and upscale restaurants. The trip culminates back in St. Thomas where you’ll bid your crew (and new friends) a final farewell.

Our U.S. Virgin Islands Hotel Pick: Frenchman’s Reef & Morning Star Marriott Beach Resort

Additional Caribbean Island-Hopping Tips & Tricks

When planning your own Caribbean island-hopping itinerary, make sure to stay at least two nights at each destination. Though ambitious types might want to cross as many places (and Instagram posts) off their list as possible, you’ll be missing the point. Caribbean vacations are meant to be relaxing.

Once you get a price quote for any tour or private transfer, it’s worth the effort to call around and get additional quotes. Be sure to ask about extra charges like dock, airport, and takeoff fees.

Many flights between islands could be on a prop plane. When it comes to riding in a prop plane, don’t be shy to ask about safety. Any reputable operator should have safety information readily available, and won’t mind answering questions about their pilots. Fliers should ask if the pilot (especially if there is no co-pilot) has any health issues and if the operator (or the plane itself) has had any accidents or incidents in its history.

When chartering a boat or booking a tour, do ask about customizing the itinerary. Many companies will try to accommodate your preferences.

Pack smart! When it comes to multiple car transfers, ferries, and small planes, weight matters. Don’t expect to bring two weeks of stuff for a week of vacationing in the Caribbean. If need be, consider doing some laundry by hand while you’re in one place for a few nights. You’ll travel lighter and happier!

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Ultimate CARIBBEAN ISLANDS Travel Guide

The concept of the Caribbean Islands seems relatively simple at first. It’s a geographic area that defines the islands within the Caribbean Sea and would be considered part of North America .

But actually, it’s much more than this, because the Caribbean is a part of the world that is not just defined by geography, but by the deep-rooted politics, languages, and cultures of the 28 different nations that encompass over 7000 islands.

And that’s before you even begin to look at the broader definition of the Caribbean, which can include any of the Central and South American nations which have long coastlines that line the Caribbean Sea.

It’s a complex beast, and the complexity is vividly displayed across the multitude of different countries that can be included under Caribbean Islands travel, some of which are technically in the Atlantic!

The Caribbean Islands themselves are generally grouped into distinct regions.

The Lucayan Archipelago is found in the north-west, bordering the Atlantic, and comprises the Bahamas and Turks and Caicos.

The Greater Antilles is where you will find the Caribbean’s largest islands, including Cuba, Hispaniola, Puerto Rico, Jamaica and the Cayman Islands.

The Lesser Antilles comprises the easternmost islands of the Caribbean, which in turn is split into three more groupings, which are the Leeward Islands, Windward Islands and the Lesser Antilles.

Luckily, cruise ships had the sense to place all these different groupings into more sensible geographical groupings, and the Caribbean can be easier defined for travel purposes in terms of the Western, Eastern, Northern, and Southern Caribbean areas, as well as their historic designations.

Destinations

Caribbean travel: quick tips, don’t visit the caribbean without:.

UNIVERSAL TRAVEL ADAPTER

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REUSABLE WATER BOTTLE

CARIBBEAN ISLANDS BUCKET LIST

Parasailing in barbados.

Getting a birds-eye view of the Caribbean is an experience you will not forget! From that height you can see deep into the ocean, spotting turtles, sharks, and large fish. You also get a unique view of the coastline making this a must-do in Barbados. 

CHASE WATERFALLS IN DOMINICA

Dominica is an island of nature and one of our favorites in the Caribbean! The lush interior features some of the largest waterfalls of all the islands and hiking to them is a true adventure of discovery that you cannot miss. 

EXPLORE HAVANA, CUBA

Havana is a real-life time capsule and not something you can see every day. Steeped in history, culture, and architecture, this is one of the most unique places in the Caribbean. Beyond Havana, you’ll find places like Trinidad and Vinales that will offer you wonder and intrigue.

MORE THINGS TO TRY IN THE CARIBBEAN

There is no shortage of great things to do in the Caribbean during your visit and the biggest problem you’ll face is fitting them all into your itinerary.

Each city has it’s own offering and unique things to check out during a visit, so be sure to look at our city guides once you decide where you’re itinerary will take you.

GO ZIP LINING IN ROATAN:   Soaring above the lush jungles of Honduras is a definite highlight of any Caribbean itinerary. The course in Roatan is built with several segments, meaning this adventure lasts much longer than any single zip line. You’ll get to be above the tree canopy with incredible views of the ocean.

SLOW DOWN IN CAYE CAULKER:  It’s all about island time when you visit  Caye Caulker, Belize . There are some yummy local restaurants, white sand beaches and some fantastic snorkeling to be had here. It is also a great place to access the Hol Chan Marine Park from.

SEE THE STINGRAYS IN GRAND CAYMAN:  Stingray City is steeped in history, as this sandbar has always been a place where fisherman clean their catch. As a result, many stingrays gather in this area and you have the opportunity to snorkel and swim with them. If you do this, though, be respectful and do not touch them.

GO DEEP SEA FISHING:  While it’s possible to go deep-sea fishing on any number of Caribbean Islands, we have gone in Cozumel. We recommend booking a half-day charter with a group of friends. The crew will take care of all the hard work and you get to enjoy the run of reeling in the catch.

VISIT BRIMSTONE HILL FORTRESS IN ST KITTS:  Lesser known than the massive forts in Puerto Rico is this fortress located in St Kitts. Brimstone is strategically placed in the center of the island at the highest point, giving spectacular views of the island. Much of the fort is intact, including large rows on cannons that point out over the sea.

HIKE IN EL YUNQUE RAINFOREST:  El Yunque is the only tropical rainforest that is part of the USA, and it covers a large portion of the eastern side of Puerto Rico. This park is full of fantastic hiking trails, drives, scenic overlooks and waterfalls to enjoy during a visit.

SAIL THE VIRGIN ISLANDS:  This is one of the top activities to do in the Caribbean, and the Virgin Islands, both the US and British, offer prime clusters of islands for sailing trips. You’ll visit the larger port towns and stop in the popular bays. However, you’ll also find yourself enjoying sandbars with only the people on your boat. This experience offers a great balance for experiencing the islands.

BEACH HOP IN ANTIGUA:  Antigua touts itself as having as many beaches as there are days in the year, so you should have no problems spending your days hopping from one glorious beach to the other. Just make sure you leave time to visit Shirley Heights and learn about the history of the island too.

TOUR MASSIVE FORTS IN PUERTO RICO:  Puerto Rico offers up some of the most impressive and massive forts in the Caribbean. Acting as a strategic stronghold, the Spanish fortified the entire coastline of what today stands as the capital city of San Juan. It is possible to tour and visit the first today, learning the colonization history that goes along with them.

SLIDE DOWN DUNN RIVER FALLS IN JAMAICA:  This has to be the singular most famous natural attraction in the Caribbean. Dun River Falls breaks free from the jungle in central Jamaica, leaving a prime opportunity to use it as a waterslide into the pool below. It’s the perfect place to cool off when you’re in the tropics. Just note, it’s popular and you won’t be alone.

CARIBBEAN FESTIVALS

The Caribbean is always a lively and colorful place, and each country and each island has its own unique festivals and celebrations throughout the year.

In February it’s  Carnivale  season across the Caribbean Islands, as many countries hold celebrations and let loose just before Lent begins. Great Carnivals to attend are in Puerto Rico and Cuba.

Christmas and New Year  are always a great time to be in the Caribbean, while across the region you can find different festivals every month.

In November, you can experience the  Pirate Festival  in the Cayman Islands, in June Barbados holds their lively  Crop Over Festival , while in May, Grenada hosts a loud and lively  Drum Festival  that attracts musicians from across the Caribbean.

PLAN THE ULTIMATE CARIBBEAN ISLANDS ITINERARY!

Popular regions in the caribbean islands, western caribbean.

The Western Caribbean is one of the most popular itineraries when it comes to Caribbean Island travel. This area includes all of the Caribbean islands that lie in the western part of the sea, so that means  Cuba , Jamaica, and the  Caymans . The western portion though, also includes the Caribbean coast of Mexico, in particular, destinations such as  Cancun  and the  Mayan Riviera . It also includes the Honduran island of  Roatan , and potentially  coastal Belize  too.

SOUTHERN CARIBBEAN

The Southern Caribbean is made up of the islands of Aruba, Curacao, and Bonaire, which are all found just off the coast of South America. Travel in this region can also take into account trips that count southeastern Caribbean Islands travel in the itinerary too, so places such as Trinidad and Tobago, and Grenada

EASTERN CARIBBEAN

The Eastern Caribbean is anything east of Cuba, beginning with Hispanola, which is an island divided between the nations of Haiti and the Dominican Republic. This is where you’ll find many of the most iconic destinations in the Caribbean Islands, including classic places such as  Barbados , Trinidad and Tobago,  Antigua , the  US Virgin Islands , and many more. You can find a range of languages, cultures, and heritage, and each island is very different from its neighbors.

COASTAL CARIBBEAN

This area comprises the mainland coastal areas that are often included in many Caribbean travel itineraries both by land and sea. This area spans Mexico, Belize, Honduras, Nicaragua, Costa Rica, Panama, Colombia, Venezuela, and their satellite islands that pepper the Caribbean Sea.

NORTHERN CARIBBEAN

The Northern Caribbean is really the Greater Antilles, which includes all the large islands such as  Cuba  and  Puerto Rico  (which also fall into itineraries covering eastern and western routes). It can also count the islands further to the north, which are technically in the Atlantic, such as the Bahamas and the  Florida Keys . There’s a fair amount of overlap when it comes to Caribbean Islands travel planning but don’t let this deter you, especially if you’re cruising. You really cannot go wrong with any of the islands.

CARIBBEAN TRAVEL BUDGET

Setting a budget for travel to the Caribbean is highly dependent on your travel style. It is possible to visit just about anywhere in the Caribbean Islands on any budget and still have a great trip. That said, you can make your trip as basic or as luxurious as you desire.

To help you set your budget, we’ve included some base range price estimations for travel within the islands. Of course, keep in mind that prices can fluctuate based on seasons, availability and festivals.

ACCOMMODATION:  Varies by type and rating. Generally, you can expect  a local guesthouse to be around $100 USD per night,  mid-range hotels  from $200 USD per night and  luxury hotels  to be from $300 USD per night.

ATTRACTIONS : Costs vary. Snorkel and mask rental is approximately $10 USD per day. ATV island tour, from $75 USD. Kayak tour, from $50 USD. Many natural attractions are free though.

TRANSPORTATION:  The most popular method of travel around the Caribbean Islands is by bus or rental car. The  local bus  $3 USD.  Car rental  varies by length of time and generally average around $25 USD per day for a compact. Taking the  interisland ferries  will vary depending on route, but tend to be around $80 USD (Antigua to Barbuda).

FOOD:  Food will vary widely depending on your tastes and what restaurants you choose to visit on your trip. Generally, though, you can expect to find  street food or local restaurants  for around $5 to $15 USD per meal, take a meal in a  resort or hotel restaurant  for $30 USD per person and pay around $3 USD for a  beer .

150 USD PER DAY

Staying in cheap hotels in the offseason, eating local food, or cooking own food and transport to a few attractions.

250 USD PER DAY

Staying in nicer hotels. Eating restaurant meals. Enjoying a few tours, attractions, and activities each day of your trip.

400 USD + PER DAY

Staying in resorts with beach views, in peak season. Enjoying lots of activities and eating out or staying all-inclusive.

WHERE TO STAY IN THE CARIBBEAN ISLANDS

Below you will find some of the places we have stayed during our travels in the Caribbean. These are individual properties that we enjoyed and would recommend to other travelers.

HOW TO GET AROUND IN THE CARIBBEAN

There are a few ways to get around the Caribbean Islands during a visit, including cruises, ferries and flights. Despite most of the islands being small, there is a surprising number of ways to island hop. That said, it won’t be cheap and may require connections on other islands. Plan ahead and be flexible.

CRUISES:  The classic way to fulfill your Caribbean Islands travel plans, is to join a cruise. In fact, if you are looking to see lots of different islands in a short space of time, then this is the best option, even if you aren’t a fan of cruise ships. There are countless itineraries you can join, with some taking in just the Western Caribbean or the Eastern Caribbean, and longer, extended cruises taking in the all the islands imaginable.

BUS:  Most islands will have public buses available, although you’ll find that generally, they are just used by locals. It’s a great experience though, and although the public buses can be crowded, you can get around for a fraction of the cost of a taxi or of car hire. 

CAR RENTAL:  On the islands themselves, you might want to consider renting a car to get around. Most islands – aside from the larger islands in the north, such as Cuba – can be driven around in a day, and you’ll be able to stop off and explore as and when you like. Check out  Discover Rental Cars  for great deals.

FLIGHTS:  Many of the islands are connected to one another by light aircraft, or in the case of bigger islands, by more traditional air carriers too. Many routes will see aircraft stopping off at different airports across the Caribbean, and in general, you can find routes from most islands. The main carriers in the region are LIAT and Caribbean Airlines. From further afield, many islands are also connected to South America ,  Central America , North America, and Europe . There are plenty of direct flights to larger islands, but others may require changes, and may not have regular international schedules.

FERRIES:  While it would seem that island hopping should be an easy way to travel around the Caribbean, in fact, it’s quite a challenge, and it wouldn’t be possible to visit every single island out there just using boats or ferries. Several islands are connected by Caribbean ferries – such as Antigua and Barbuda, and many of the islands in the Bahamas – but many more are not. If you have time and endless amounts of patience, then you can try and catch mail boats and cargo ships across the Caribbean, or you can try and hitch rides on yachts, but you will need an adventurous spirit and no fixed plans for this to work.

TOP CARIBBEAN TOURS

West indies explorer cruise.

11 Days from San Juan, Puerto Rico Visits: Puerto Rico, BVI, St Kitts, St Lucia, Barbados, Antigua, Dominica & USVI

ICONIC SOUTHERN CARIBBEAN CRUISE

13 Days from Miami, Florida Visits: Florida, Aruba, Curacao, St Lucia, St Kitts, US Virgin Islands & Puerto Rico

THREE ISLAND CARIBBEAN TOUR

10 Days from Worthing, Barbados Visits: Barbados, Grenada & St Lucia

WHEN TO VISIT THE CARIBBEAN ISLANDS

Being spread across the equator, the Caribbean region experiences warm weather all through the year, with consistent temperatures ranging from 25 to 30 degrees celsius.

Alongside the warm weather, rain can generally be easy to predict in the Caribbean, with most of it falling between June and November, and the worst occurring in Hurricane Season.

Hurricane Season  runs in the Caribbean from June to November, coinciding with the wet season, however, the worst only hits the islands between August and October, and these are the months to avoid.

Head south though, between August and October and you can still safely visit islands like Trinidad and Tobago, which generally avoid any hurricanes.

The  busiest time for Caribbean Islands  travel is always from December to May, when the weather is warm, but not overbearingly hot and the weather is dry. There’s almost no chance of rain, and so it’s the perfect time to visit.

In particular, December and January are always exceptionally busy, as tourists flock to the Caribbean to escape the cold weather in the Northern Hemisphere, and especially so during the Christmas holidays when families have time off from work.

PACK LIKE A PRO ON YOUR NEXT CARIBBEAN TRIP!

Safety in the caribbean islands.

Safety can vary from island to island. If you are staying in touristy areas or resorts, then you’ll be quite safe from harm, but you will want to keep an eye on your personal belongings, as opportunistic theft can be a problem.

In some of the cities on particular islands, you may want to stay clear of certain districts and be careful at night, while some destinations – such as Haiti – just have downright terrible reputations all around.

With travel to more than 100 countries on all 7 continents, we have plenty of advice to ensure your trip goes smoothly! Be sure to check out:  25 Essential Safety Tips for Travel

CARIBBEAN ISLANDS TRAVEL: BOOKING RESOURCES

Caribbean travel guide: related articles.

Looking for more info? Check out all the articles we’ve written on travel to Caribbean and start planning your dream trip.

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Island Hopping The Caribbean—How To + Itinerary Ideas

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This guide to Caribbean island hopping is authored by Leo (with some additions by me, Nina!)

Island hopping in the Caribbean is a great way to visit numerous places in one area on the same vacation. The best part is that Caribbean island hopping is pretty easy to do yourself, so you can forget about sharing space with hundreds (or even thousands) of other people on a giant cruise ship – unless that floats your boat!

There are endless activities, cultures, and coastal vibes to choose from when you go island hopping in the Caribbean. Because this chain of islands sits so close together, it’s the perfect place to pack a lot into a short trip.

The Caribbean lifestyle is ideal if you’re looking for a unique vacation. It has everything from golden pristine beaches and water activities to barefoot restaurants and rum stores, and there are a lot of different itineraries you can choose from.

From budget options to luxurious getaways, relaxing beach trips, and more adventurous escapades, the Caribbean will not disappoint!

Below, we’ve put together a few ideas for a Caribbean island-hopping journey, how to hop from island to island, and some insider tips to make your trip a breeze.

Table of Contents

Public Ferries

Cruise ships, charter or rent a private yacht or boat, harbour island, st. martin/saint maarten, and even further:, resources for your trip:, the british virgin islands, antigua and barbuda, the u.s. virgin islands, caribbean island-hopping travel guide #4: turks and caicos, caribbean island-hopping travel guide #5: montego bay, jamaica, check your visas, when to go island hopping in the caribbean, set up a base, don’t rush, compare quotes, safety first, 15 best beaches in turks and caicos and where to stay nearby, 17+ things to do in turks and caicos for the adventurous, things to do in jamaica: a 2-week itinerary, best things to do in guadeloupe on an adventurous 4 days itinerary, a mini guide to anguilla: things to do, beaches, & more, 5 incredible anguilla resorts and villas to stay in, adventurous things to do in antigua and barbuda + tips, 8 things to do in dominica and how this trip changed my life, how to get around while island hopping the caribbean.

Whether you’re on a backpacker’s budget or hoping to go all out while island hopping the Caribbean, there are a few different ways to get from point A to B.

Many conjure images of massive cruise ships or opulent yachts when they think about island hopping in the Caribbean. While these are both viable options (more info on both below), one of the lesser-known ways to get around this archipelago is via public ferry.

While this may not be the greatest option if you are hoping to travel long distances in a short amount of time, if you are simply hoping to hop over to the nearest island, public ferries are a great way to go. The best part is that the ferries are extremely affordable!

There are many options for traveling via public ferry across the Caribbean, with services available in the Bahamas, various British, French, and Dutch overseas territories, St. Lucia, the Virgin Island, and more!

Note that while services on some islands are extensive, other islands have no ferry service at all. You may need to do a little research in advance if you plan on island hopping via public ferry, but the bucks you’ll save make this option worth it!

Cruises are one of the most tried and true methods of island hopping in the Caribbean. If you want to sit back and relax without worrying about how to get to your next destination, then taking a cruise is a great option. There are many options at various price points, so finding an itinerary that suits your travel needs should be no problem.

If money is no object, you can charter or rent a private boat or yacht for your island hopping extravaganza. Options are endless for sailing around the Caribbean, whether you want to do it yourself or hire someone else to take the wheel.

Another way to bop around while island hopping in the Caribbean is by taking flights between islands. While it’s a cheap and fast approach to Caribbean island hopping, flying should only be done as a last resort or if the distance you are traveling is significant.

While it may seem like the best way to go since it’s so speedy (some flights are only 15 minutes of actual flight time!), the small planes traveling between islands can be downright terrifying. And anyway, who wants to spend their island getaway stuck in airport security lines?

Caribbean Island-Hopping Travel Guide #1: The Bahamas

When daydreaming about a Caribbean getaway, many picture the Bahamas. This chain of islands has all the quintessential attributes you imagine when you think of a vacation in these parts. The islands comprise more than 700 beautiful subtropical islands and many smaller islands called cays.

You can start your trip in Nassau, just 184 miles from Miami, Florida. This thriving country’s capital hub has a good mix of city and island life and many Bahamian traditions and culture.

You can stay in New Providence for a night or two or head over to Paradise Island – home to Atlantis’ gigantic and vast water park.

Even if you don’t stay on Paradise Island, check out Cabbage Beach. You’ll have to pay a small fee to cross the bridge onto the island, but the beach is good enough to justify the minuscule price. This is among the world’s best-known beaches for a good reason.

Visitors can also visit Blue Lagoon Island, which is officially called Salt Cay. It is a beautiful private island with a calm lagoon, great beaches, and lots of water and land-based activities for the whole family to appreciate.

The island is only three miles from Nassau and is easy to get to by boat from Nassau’s historic harbor. It has everything you would expect from a tropical island, like swaying palm trees, white-sand beaches, crystal clear water, verdant natural vegetation, vibrant tropical birds, and colorful coral reefs.

Here you can enjoy snorkeling, scuba diving, water skiing, fishing, and sailing. Blue Lagoon Island is also a sanctuary for the dolphins and sea lions of Dolphin Encounters, where tourists can socialize with dolphins and sea lions in their natural ocean habitat.

→ Book a parasail adventure over Cabbage Beach.

After visiting Nassau, you can catch a morning ferry to Harbour Island. Here you’ll find small island allure and lengthy strips of soft pink sand. There are several fantastic boutique hotels in this area that are very close to the beach, and they’re all excellent.

You will probably spend most of your time at Pink Sands Beach swimming and lying in the sun. It’s heaven on earth. While it would be easy to laze on these scenic sands indefinitely, be sure to walk along the coast, where you can find many other cute boutique hotels, diners, and jaw-dropping homes.

Visitors can also roam through the quiet streets, searching for pastel-colored cottages and unique architecture while having fun with the occasional chickens wandering around.

Next up on your Caribbean island hopping tour is Eleuthera. Harbour Island lies just outside this much larger island, so Eleuthera is a great next stop.

Eleuthera is known as the pineapple center of the world, and residents say that the Gregory Town pineapple is the sweetest on the planet. It is thought that the Bahamas was the first nation to grow the fruit.

While here, visit the Glass Window Bridge – your Instagram feed will thank you! This small bridge connects the rough Atlantic Ocean with the serene waters of the Bight of Eleuthera and seeing them side by side is quite stunning.

You can end your trip back to Nassau or venture to more remote parts of the Bahamas. The Exuma Islands is an excellent option for a more far-flung adventure, and you can get here via ferry or chartered plane.

The Exumas have 365 islands, and they’re known for their swimming pigs , nurse sharks, and other marine life. There are also boating adventures, on-island trips, and miles of hardly ever visited beaches to keep you entertained for days.

Caribbean Island-Hopping Travel Guide #2: The French Caribbean islands

Also known as the French West Indies, the French Caribbean islands boast quintessential island vibes, each with its own flare.

When you get to St. Martin, you’ll be in the middle of a split island between France and the Netherlands. Many choose to stay on the French side because of its intimate restaurants, absolutely adorable shops, and pristine beaches.

On the other hand, the Dutch half of the island is renowned as the party side.

However, even though a lot is going on, St. Martin and St. Maarten still have a stress-free vibe, starting with how easy it is for you to get from one end of the island to the other.

So start your day with a few rays on a quiet Dutch beach. Then, wander down a French-side mountain in the afternoon. Afterward, you’ll be more than ready to sneak back to the border for a night at the casinos.

A quick 15-minute flight will take you to St. Barts, where you’ll land on one of the shortest landing strips in commercial aircraft. You can also take a 45-minute ferry ride from St. Martin instead, which might be preferred for some.

St. Barts (or St. Barths, as the natives call it) is where you can enjoy laid-back luxury and a French touch. This is popular on Caribbean island hopping itineraries because of its delightful tropical weather and numerous idyllic beaches. There are 16 beaches on the island, each with its unique personality.

There are also many chic boutiques and diners. In other words, be prepared to spend a tad more on this portion of the journey.

Guadeloupe is comprised of 12 French islands, featuring lots of deserted beaches and forested hiking trails. Bridges connect Basse-Terre and Grande-Terre (Guadeloupe’s two largest islands), which look like a butterfly from the sky.

Guadeloupe’s mix of extraordinary greenery magnificence and wealthy Creole and French traditions makes it an enchanting place to visit. The archipelago is part of France, and the cuisine, language, and heritage of Guadeloupe show that there is a strong connection.

La Desirade, Les Saintes (also known as Îles des Saintes), and Marie-Galante are three smaller islands of Guadeloupe. All three have beautiful beaches and small, charming towns.

Guadeloupe’s islands are great places to go birdwatching, take photos, hike, and do water sports like scuba diving, swimming, and snorkeling. (If you go on any of these activities, don’t forget to bring an action camera or go pro to capture unforgettable moments!)

Guadeloupe also has a lot of fun carnivals and festivals, like the five-day Mardi-Gras Carnival that ends on Ash Wednesday.

Depending on how long you have, from Guadeloupe, you can get to other islands like Martinique, St. Lucia , Antigua , and even St. Kitts beaches by taking one-way flights from LIAT and Caribbean Airlines.

RELATED: Best Things to Do in Guadeloupe On An Adventurous 4 Days Itinerary

Although it’s now a sovereign state, St. Lucia was colonized by the French and retains some of the culture to this day. Add St. Lucia to your Caribbean island-hopping itinerary, and you won’t be sorry.

This island boasts all the classic Caribbean flare, with gorgeous beaches and bright blue waters. But it also has some unique things to offer visits, including two massive mountain peaks that make the island’s topography unlike anywhere else in the Caribbean.

Thanks to these two towering peaks (called pitons), there are plenty of adventurous things to do in St. Lucia . The true daredevils can attempt to ascend both peaks (warning – this is not for the faint of heart), while more realistic adventurers can hike a nearby trail for some epic views.

You could also visit Sulphur Springs Park to enjoy a mud bath and then check out the geothermal activity of the active volcano nearby.

Those who want a mix of adventure and history can explore the trails in Pigeon Island National Park and Fort Rodney. There are excellent views of the coast and some cool information about the remains of the military fort.

Food and Culture

For a hefty dose of both food and culture, don’t miss the Gros Islet Street Party! Both locals and tourists turn out en masse to enjoy rum, street food, and the vibrant Caribbean ambiance every Friday night on the island’s northern tip.

For a more relaxing meal, check out the Jambe de Bois Restuarant for some delicious local grub.

St. Lucia also has its fair share of scenic beaches. The locals love Soufriere Beach, with its uncrowded shores and incredible views of the pitons.

Sugar Beach is perhaps the most famous beach in all of St. Lucia. If you’re looking for a scenic spot to kick it for the afternoon, you’d be hard-pressed to find a better stretch of sand. You can also snorkel right off the beach!

If you’re searching for a more secluded spot to spend the day, check out Anse Chastanet or the beaches around Pigeon Island National Park.

READ MORE: 15 Things To Do in St. Lucia—Best Beaches and Adventures!

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Caribbean Island-Hopping Travel Guide #3: The Virgin Islands

The British Virgin Islands and U.S. Virgin Islands are among the best spots to sail in the Caribbean, thanks to trade wind gusts, crystal-clear blue water, and sophisticated coral reef structures. Whether you’re taking advantage of the winds, there’s plenty to see and do along this Caribbean island chain.

Both the British and the U.S. Virgin Islands have a lot of natural beauty and a combination of old-world elegance and luxury resorts that make them very appealing.

Virgin Gorda (the biggest island in the British Virgin Islands) and Jost Van Dyke (a beach party island) are both must-sees while island hopping in the Caribbean.

There is a beautiful beach on Virgin Gorda called The Baths. Here visitors can take a dip, snorkel, and experience the world until they get hungry. Nearby Jost Van Dyke is where you’ll find the best nightclubs and musical performances you’ll see all along your trip.

Between these two main islands are many other interesting ones, like Norman Island, Salt Island, and Cooper Island, to mention a few. Their appeal comes down to a few simple things: miles of beautiful, clean sand beaches, dive sites unlike anywhere else, and a gentle breeze that blows all the time.

You should also make Tortola one of your Caribbean island-hopping stops. Tortola is an island that is a British Virgin Island full of color. That doesn’t just mean the evergreen forest at higher elevations; it also implies the houses, flowers, food, and even the clothes.

The beaches on the northern shore of Tortola are the best. Snorkelers and divers will enjoy the rich sea life, hikers will enjoy the national parks and botanical gardens, and art enthusiasts will be amazed by the vibrantly colored street art and painters’ studios .

There are also many cafes, bars, stores, and food outlets in the marina in Tortola.

→ Book a private art and culture tour in Tortola.

If you have some extra time in the British Virgin Islands, hop over to the nearby Antigua and Barbuda . While these islands have been independent since the 1980s, they were once ruled by Great Britain and retain many of its traditions.

Like most of the neighboring islands, there’s plenty of relaxing to do here. For those who want a little more action out of their Caribbean island-hopping excursion, there are also tons of adventurous things to do in Antigua and Barbuda .

READ MORE: Adventurous Things to Do in Antigua and Barbuda + Tips

Known as the gateway to the U.S. Virgin Islands, St. Thomas is a great spot to kick off your Caribbean island hopping adventure. The island is known for its epic beaches, snorkeling spots, and historic watchtower and fort. There’s a little something for everyone on St. Thomas!

Although the smallest of the three U.S. Virgin Islands, St. John packs a big punch. St. John’s Virgin Islands National Park covers almost the whole island, with a lot of beautiful scenery. You can hike trails through old plantations, visit one of the many serene beaches, or snorkel the sheltered bays .

The famous Trunk Bay is home to the Coral Reef Underwater Park Trail, where snorkelers will find underwater signs that depict the types of fish and other sea creatures you might see. In addition to the national park, St. John’s has plenty of lovely shops for gifts and high-end restaurants.

The U.S. Virgin Islands and the British Virgin Islands are relatively close to each other compared to other island vacation spots, with transit times often less than one hour.

RELATED: Best Places to Visit in the Dominican Republic

The Turks and Caicos Islands are a group of islands comprised of eight main islands and many smaller islands called cays. Each island is indeed unique in its way, and each can be a tourist attraction in itself.

Even though you might be interested in different things, island hopping the Turks and Caicos Islands will be an experience that you’ll never forget. Your idea of a good time will help you decide where to visit the Turks and Caicos.

While it is known for its scenic white sand beaches, there are plenty of adrenaline-inducing activities to experience in Turks and Caicos as well. You can jet s ki out to an old shipwreck, kayak through stunning cays around Providenciales, or explore caves in Middle Caicos.

Because the Turks and Caicos Islands are at the crossroads of year-round trade winds, they are a popular spot to go kiteboarding. Long Bay Beach on Providenciales is a great place to do the sport because of the shallow waters and reliable conditions.

There are also tons of great diving spots on all the islands, but some of the best can be found on Provo, Grand Turk, and Salt Cay.

History buffs might be keener on the Middle Caicos island, where you can see the old plantations and salt flats.

→ Book a private kiteboarding lesson on Long Bay Beach.

There are plenty of places to get your weight’s worth in fresh seafood around Turks and Caicos, but perhaps the best is the Thursday Fish Fry.

You’ll find grilled lobster, conch, and other seafood served up fresh from some of the island’s best restaurants in a casual setting at Stubbs Diamond Plaza every Thursday night. There are also stands selling homemade trinkets, a band, and plenty of opportunities for dancing and people-watching.

→ Book a Turks and Caicos food tour .

Make sure you set aside some time for some seriously white sand when you’re island hopping in the Caribbean. Providenciales Island (Provo) is home to Grace Bay Beach , voted one of the best beaches in the world.

There are miles and miles of beaches in Turks and Caicos. Most gently slope into some of the most beautiful blue waters you’ve ever seen, making this island chain one of the best for swimming. You might not know what genuine turquoise looks like until you’ve been here!

Turks and Caicos also have some of the most luxurious all-inclusive resorts in the Caribbean, perfect for planning your dream holiday!

READ MORE: 17+ Things To Do in Turks and Caicos Clear Kayaking to Iguana Island in Turks and Caicos Where to Stay in Turks and Caicos : 13 Resorts and Hotels 15 Best Beaches in Turks and Caicos

As the third-largest city in Jamaica, Montego Bay has many things to do and see for everyone.

Visitors can go on a spectacular eco-adventure with Cockpit Country Adventure Tours. You’ll voyage through breathtaking caverns glistening with marvelous geographical treasures that were once a secret base for Maroon warriors.

You could also take the whole family or group of friends to Paintball Jamaica for a fun-filled day of play in a secluded area with many trees and lots of shade.

Jamaica’s only natural nighttime attraction is its bioluminescent bay, which you can see by going to the Glistening Waters Hotel before sundown and taking a tour of the Luminous Lagoon . The tour boats leave the hotel and go to a quiet part of the lagoon where tiny sea creatures light up when moved.

It’s cool to watch the effect when the boat travels through the water, but it’s even cooler to jump in and see how moving your hands and feet makes glowing swirls and eddies.

Another one of the best things to do in Montego Bay is to enjoy the Martha Brae River. You can do so by taking a bamboo raft down the river, surrounded by greenery and the sound of the wind, flowing streams, and birds chirping.

→ Book a Martha Brae River bamboo rafting adventure .

Visit Sam Sharpe Square, a local hangout with a cobblestone plaza and historical landmarks. This is the site of the Montego Bay Cultural Center, where you can go to learn about the unique town’s history. You can also learn about Sam Sharpe Square and what it means to locals.

If you’re a fan of Usain Bolt, check out his sports bar and do your “to di world” pose right in front of the statue of the fastest man on earth.

There are a lot of restaurants in this city. It’s an excellent place for a foodie who wants to try some of the best food in Jamaica.

Pro tip: Talk to your local tour guide about their favorite place to eat so you can try some of the best home-cooked food with authentic Jamaican flavor.

→ Book a private Jamaican food tasting tour.

You’ll also discover a variety of both exciting and relaxing beaches in Montego Bay. In addition, most beaches have diners serving Jamaican food to keep you fueled through the day.

Doctor’s Cave Beach is right on the “Hip Strip,” which is excellent for families. You can get a great tan here because the beach is expansive, with only a few palm trees to shade you. There are lounge chairs with umbrellas for those wanting a break from the sun.

Aqua-Sol Theme Park has a lot of fun things to do right on the beach with go-karts, water slides, and entertainment for the whole family to keep everyone happy.

Another beach near the city is the 876 Beach Club. The party is always going on at this place, with live music and entertainment, a vast floating water park for endless fun, a sizzling jerk pan for lunch and snacks, a filled bar, and well-kept grounds.

If you want to stay in Montego Bay, you will find some luxury options here. You can stay at one of the best Sandals resorts called Royal Caribbean.

RELATED: Things to Do in Jamaica: A 2-Week Itinerary

Tips for Island-Hopping in the Caribbean

There are a few things to remember when planning a Caribbean island-hopping trip.

You should check to see if the islands you want to visit are all in the same country. If not, you’ll need visas for every one of them. For most Americans and Europeans, visas are not required for stays shorter than 90 days, but it’s always good to double-check before you arrive.

You should also check the entry restrictions for each country you visit. While COVID restrictions have largely been lifted in the Caribbean, each island has the right to require negative tests and/or proof of vaccine.

While the islands of the Caribbean are renowned for their year-round tropical weather, some seasons are better for visiting than others. December through April are the best for balmy temperatures and little rain.

However, this is no secret, and many tourists flock to the islands during this time to escape the cold winter weather back at home.

You should also look out for hurricane season (July through November) and plan to avoid this time if possible. For the best mix of good weather and sparse crowds, plan your Caribbean island hopping vacation for a shoulder season, either May or October.

Be ready to pack light. If you’re traveling by plane, you can save time by only taking a carry-on bag with you. Similarly, if you’re on a ferry, it’s not fun to be weighed down with luggage.

That being said, don’t pack too light. While the weather is generally warm during the day, it can cool down at night. You may want to have at least one light jacket and a pair of pants along with you, no matter the season.

RELATED: The Essential Beach Packing List (+ Fun Items and Tips!)

For people who don’t like leaving home for more than one or two days with only what they can fit in a carry-on bag, think about using one island as a starting point for your trip.

You can book a hotel or villa for the whole trip, and then go on day trips or overnight trips to other islands while leaving your belongings.

When you plan your Caribbean island-hopping trip, stay at least two nights in every place. You’ll miss the entire point if you try to cross off as many places and Instagram posts as possible. The goal of a Caribbean vacation is to have fun and relax!

When you get a price estimate for a tour or private transfer, it’s worth it to call around and get a few more prices. Don’t forget to ask about additional dock fees, airport costs, and taking off fees.

In general, the Caribbean is a highly safe vacation destination. However, there are a few things that every traveler should keep in mind.

Many flights between islands could be done in a small plane, such as a prop plane. Ask about safety when you ride in a prop plane. Any reputable and reliable operator should have safety information on hand and be willing to answer questions about their pilots.

While most are famed for their idyllic disposition, there are some Caribbean beaches that experience rip tides and rowdy waves. Always keep an eye out for flags posted, and don’t swim out too far if the currents are strong.

Petty theft is also a thing to be aware of while island hopping in the Caribbean. Don’t leave valuable belongings alone on the beach or in the rental car!

There’s a lot more to island hopping in the Caribbean but we hope this guide helped you plan a bit better!

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Island Hopping the Caribbean – 13 AMAZING Islands

After six months spent in West and Central Africa, we were ready for some sun, beach and some visa-free countries.

Naturally, island hopping the Caribbean seemed like the perfect idea.

Hi, we’re Rach & Marty!

We’ve visited every country in the world and want to help you get the most out of your travels!

Whether you need an expertly planned itinerary , some experienced hints and tips , or just craving a delicious food adventure , we’ve got you covered!

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Over 7,000 islands surrounded by turquoise waters and home to pristine white beaches just waiting to be discovered – yes, please.

It was a perfect time as well. March and April are great months to go, it is the end of the high season, so the weather is still nice but you will most likely find an empty beach too.

The Caribbean is a unique part of the world where most of the visitors come on pre-arranged packages, resort stays and of course as part of the ever-expanding cruising industry. Independent travellers keen on island hopping are quite rare.

As expected, the islands do cater mostly for cruisers and resort stayers.

But with a bit of planning and knowledge, island-hopping across all 13 independent countries is possible. And if you are lucky you might visit a few islands that despite being overseas territories, they’re also worth visiting.

But most importantly, some islands offer much more than just a beach.

In this article, we provide some information on our experience in the Caribbean in April 2019 and ALL updated information on airlines and ferries in 2024..

Table of Contents

How many countries are there in the Caribbean?

There are 13 sovereign countries in the Caribbean, and it is possible to visit them all in just one longer trip.

Antigua and Barbuda

The bahamas, dominican republic, saint kitts and nevis, saint lucia, saint vincent and the grenadines, trinidad and tobago.

Additionally, these are the overseas territories in the Caribean:

• British overseas territory: Anguilla, British Virgin Islands (Tortola, Virgin Gorda, Anegada, Jost Van Dyke), Cayman Islands, Montserrat, Turks and Caicos Islands
• France overseas territories:  Guadeloupe, Martinique, Saint Barthélemy, Saint Martin
• USA overseas territories:  Puerto Rico, United States Virgin Islands (Saint Croix, Saint John, Saint Thomas)
• Overseas territories of the Netherlands: Bonaire, Sint Eustatius, Saba, Aruba, Curaçao, Sint Maarten

By the way, did you know the Caribbean is part of the North American continent? Find out more about it here:  How Many Countries in North America? Why 3 is The Wrong Answer!

How to plan your island-hopping Caribbean itinerary?

Getting to the Caribbean is not particularly hard, there are plenty of direct flights from Europe and North America to get you there. If you are travelling on a budget, the best option is to search for European charter flights to Barbados, Guadeloupe, or Martinique and start your travels from there.

We use Skyscanner  to book the best deals on flights anywhere in the world and great to create the most cost-effective Caribbean island-hopping itinerary.

Are you coming from Canada or the USA? Well, you are spoilt for choices of flights and can possibly do your Caribbean Island hopping in a few segments. If you are aiming to visit all of them, a good idea might be to start in the south (ie Trinidad or Barbados ) and hop your way north.

Or start in the Bahamas and make your way south. 

I know  how to find and book cheap flights  and I can also help you choose the right luggage: Backpack Vs Suitcase – which one should you choose? 

Island hopping the Caribbean as an independent traveller – What is it really like?

I admit it, island hopping the Caribbean can be lonely at times. It’s harder to meet other travellers and hopping from island to island can be costly as there are simply no cheap flights (minimum of $100-$150).

There are not that many ferries (mostly in the Eastern Caribbean) and you could possibly help out on a boat to catch a ride to the next island but that does require more time and waiting around.

Island hopping the Caribbean – Ferry vs Flights vs Cruise

Cruises around the caribbean.

I am personally not a big fan of cruises. You have limited time on each island, the whole concept of cruise enriches the people who own them and little goes to the actual islands. It’s also very bad for the environment.

Locals in the Bahamas said to me that according to the statistics, cruise visitors only spent 10 USD on the island, as they eat and drink on the cruise ship and organise trips through the cruise as well.

But I know many people are simply short on time, and cruises can offer fantastic value.

For those with a fear of flying, this can be the perfect option to visit the Caribbean. If you do choose to book a Caribbean Cruise , try to contribute to the local economy, rather than booking excursions from the cruise company.

Make sure you get Travel Insurance before hitting the road. We recommend Heymondo & SafetyWing

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How to fly around the Caribbean?

There are two options here. You can either fly in and out of most of the islands from Miami . Or you can connect them with small Caribbean Airlines, but this requires some planning as flights are not daily and a few were cancelled during the pandemic.

Here are a few airlines to look at, and again, the best way to search for prices is on Skyscanner .

InterCaribbean Airways , Ltd. is a passenger airline based in the Turks and Caicos Islands  flying to Antigua, The Bahamas, The British Virgin Islands, Cuba, Dominica, Dominican Republic, Haiti, Jamaica, Puerto Rico, St. Lucia, Barbados, Grenada, St. Vincent and the Grenadines, and St. Maarten. You can find the current schedule here.

LIAT (Leeward Islands Air Transport) has its headquarters in Antigua,  and it is the best airline to use for island-hopping the Caribbean as it connects many islands.

We used LIAT the most. Click here for the current flight schedule with LIAT .

Caribbean Airlines – The Trinidad Tobago-based carrier flies to 14 island destinations St. Maarten, Antigua, St. Lucia, St. Vincent , and Nassau, Bahamas to name a few.

Air Caraibes  based on the French island Guadeloupe, mainly services the French Caribbean islands: St. Barts, Martinique, and 14 other island airports across the region.

Cayman Airways  flies from all three Cayman Islands to Cuba (Havana) and Jamaica (Kingston and Montego Bay) . Click here for the current flight schedule for Cayman Airways .

Bahamas Air  is based in Nassau Bahamas and connects several cities in Florida , but also connects  Turks and Caicos, Havana, Kingston, and Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic.

Caribbean Ferry between 4 Islands

If you plan to island-hop the Caribbean with ferries, I have bad news. These are not really the Greek islands, and a majority of the Caribbean islands don’t have standard passenger ferries.

I mean, there are small ferries, like in St Vincent and the Grenadines where you can take a ferry to the next islands, but when it comes to international crossing, there aren’t many.

There is one ferry that connects 4 different islands:  L’Express des Iles (translates to the express of the Islands).

L’Express des Iles offers a dependable, inexpensive, and pleasant ferry service between the islands of Martinique, Guadeloupe, Dominica, and St.Lucia (and Marie Galante and Les Saintes). You can book your ticket online easily and see the cost and schedule. The website is in French only, however. 

Our Island Hopping the Caribbean in 2019:

To give you a better insight, here is a little recap of each island. Yes, things have changed since the pandemic, but the cost or vibe of these islands will be the same. Our island-hopping Caribbean itinerary started in Barbados and finished in Haiti .

Our island hopping started in Barbados, and we really liked it here. We spent almost a week here and found the island big enough to entertain ourselves.

The beaches are beautiful with white sand, and despite the package holidaymakers, you can still find your private spot like on the Miami beach.

Bridgetown, the capital, didn’t seem to win us over at all. Yes, we admit it is expensive to eat or drink out, but we only went to Oistins for the fish market to treat ourselves and otherwise, we found enough local eats to get by. In some way, we also had a fantastic stay due to our Airbnb host.

Find more details about our accommodation in our blog post How to visit Barbados on a Budget .

Trinidad & Tobago is known for its festival, but we were too late for the party. Instead, we were keen to try some of its food, which is quite unique in the Caribbean due to the influence of Indian immigrants.

We tried doubles, roti filled with Indian curries, plus bake and shark, too. If you head to the north side, you’ll find the nicest beach at Maracas Bay.

Or you can check out the many waterfalls inland – Maracas Waterfall was our favourite.

Oh, Grenada, you had us at your views of the harbour. We arrived in the middle of the night and woke up to stunning views of St George, the capital of Grenada .

We went exploring the town and did a food tour to learn and taste some of the food on the island.

Grand Anse beach is where you want to go. A beautiful white sand beach with crystal clear waters and lined with almond trees. This is an island we would definitely like to return to.

Here are our top  10 things you shouldn’t miss in Grenada.

We considered travelling to St Vincent on a boat from Grenada, but it would take a few islands to hop and a few ferries/boats. But if you have time, this is an excellent option as you would get to see a few other islands, such as Carriacou and Union Island.

We arrived in St Vincent and took the public bus to the top of the green hills where we stayed in our Airbnb. Everyone told us we must go to Bequia island which is accessible by daily ferry. We were promised some of the best beaches in the Caribbean and the island really delivered.

This island was gorgeous, and there are a bunch of amazing things to do here .

We were all beached out when we arrived in Saint Lucia , so we decided to stay close to Gros Islet and Rodney Bay. Our Airbnb place was super cosy and gave us a chance to catch up on some blogging and planning the upcoming island hopping.

We knew St Lucia was a popular stop for yachties, and walking around the harbour we could see why it’s beautiful here. 

Gros Islet is known for its Friday street party; we ended up walking the colourful streets mid-week as we were leaving on Friday morning on a ferry.

Caribbean island hopping by boat would be the best way to see the islands. There is only one ferry that links 4 islands. 

Yes, St Lucia is linked with 3 islands: Martinique, Dominica, and Guadeloupe.

The other thing to see or do here is Pitons – the volcanic peaks south of the island. Check out the great range of Pitons hikes and day tours available.

Don’t miss our recommendations for the Top 5 Amazing Hotels in Saint Lucia . Some of these properties must be seen to be believed.

Dominica turned out to be a paradise! Its mountainous landscape offers insane views, there are waterfalls, beaches, great food and hot springs! Nicknamed “The Nature Isle”, it really lives up to its name! If you love adventure, you will love Dominica.

We hiked up to Trafalgar Falls as well as Middleham Falls. We were also set to hike up to the boiling lake, but unfortunately, due to the heavy rain, we had to change our plans.

The capital, Roseau offers markets and streets with many small eateries where you can try local cuisine and mix with locals. You’ll find many great eco-friendly places on the islands.

This is definitely the best island for independent travellers in the Eastern Caribbean with a range of great things to do .

We were warned that the beaches in Antigua (pronounced An-tee-ga ) are some of the finest. We rented a car here for a few days to see what the island offers. Our road trip started with a flat tyre within ten minutes. They say there are 365 beaches in Antigua, and we think there might be 3650 potholes on this island, too.

We stayed for a few days and enjoyed the beaches and turquoise water here.

If you’re in Antigua for just the day as part of a cruise, then this Shore Excursion to explore the whole island. The tour includes pick-up and drop-off from the port, and you’re guaranteed to be back in good time before your ship sets sail again. 

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Another flight took us to our country, number 159 St Kitts & Nevis. This dual-island nation is one of the smallest in the Caribbean, and we were almost at the end of our Eastern Caribbean island-hopping trip. This was a popular place for family vacations for North Americans and Brits.

We checked out the Atlantic and the Caribbean sides, which are only a short walk away from each other, but overall, we thought it was very quiet as it seems most people spent their day in their resorts.

Are you island-hopping the Caribbean on a cruise ship or only got the day to explore Saint Kitts? I recommend this great valued  Shore Excursion of Saint Kitts island .

The tour includes visiting famous landmarks such as Independence Square and Romney Manor, and you will have free time to swim or shop before being transferred back to the ship before departure.

The next country on our list was the Bahamas . We chose a flight that took us via the Turks and Caicos Islands. We stayed for 24 hours, and we’re so glad we stopped here. Grace Bay Beach might be up there with some of the best beaches we’ve ever seen! It was hard to leave as we love beach time!

Our flight from Providenciales (Turks & Caicos) to the Bahamas was quite a surprise. We didn’t expect to be chauffeured there in a small 16-seater ex-private jet of a retired rockstar from the 80s. Well, that’s what it felt like for us. The only thing missing was a bottle of whiskey and some canapes. It was cool.

The Bahamas is a coral-based archipelago that has over 700 islands! We stayed on the main island of Grand Bahama, although everyone will tell you that you must visit the smaller so-called family islands to see the real Bahamas.

To try and keep costs down, we stayed with a local woman in a beautiful Bahamian Airbnb house, as this country is super expensive.

The Bahamas are a popular tourist destination … here it’s all about the sun, beach, and vacation! The incredibly popular excursion to Rose Island to swim with pigs might be for you.

Due to its proximity to the USA (the island Bimini is only 50 miles from Miami), this nation caters mainly to US visitors. You can take this day trip to Bimini from Miami  or the  Bimini Express Ferry and Beach Day Pass from Miami too.

We beach-hopped, explored on foot, and explored the area in search of the 10 best foods in the Bahamas . We gave it a solid effort; the seafood, in particular is fantastic and fresh.

Jamaica was next. We hired a car and set ourselves a very busy itinerary here. We wanted to see as much as we could in the time we had. Our favourite place was Negril for the fabulous beaches, and it didn’t feel too touristy.

We spent a night at Treasure Beach, which is more aimed at independent travellers; however, Negril had a much nicer beach and vibe.

The jerk chicken and rum tasted great in Jamaica and reggae music can be heard everywhere. We swam in the Blue Hole, visited the Bob Marley museum, enjoyed cold ‘Red Stripe’ beers on white sandy beaches and met some very friendly Jamaicans.

Did you know there are  2 Jamaica languages?

This country has been on our bucket list for quite some time, so we were excited to arrive.

We booked a charming little hotel located in the historical centre in the capital city of Santo Domingo and we instantly loved the vibes here—a few reasons why we love the Dominican Republic .

It’s much more affordable than other Caribbean islands. Our hotel in Santo Domingo was $35 p/n, including breakfast, and the location was terrific! Good food and great coffee are everywhere, Uber is available, and everything feels affordable. We took buses to explore this island, different cities, beaches and areas, and we loved it!

The northern part of the Dominican Republic – Las Terrenas was our favourite. We’ll be back to eat more of the fantastic food in the Dominican Republic , too.

The Dominican Republic and Haiti share the same island – so why are they so different?

Only two more countries left to see on this leg. Next, we took a bus over the border from the Dominican Republic to enter  Haiti .

This was country number 164 and our last country in the Caribbean. We enjoyed exploring the colourful city and things to do in Cap Haitien . Our highlight was visiting the Citadelle Laferrière , what an adventure!

We really enjoyed the many flavours of Haitian cuisine, and we almost made it through these 10 best foods you should try in Haiti.  This country is fascinating, and we learned quite a few surprising things we didn’t know about Haiti .

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You might also enjoy reading our post about the  11 Caribbean islands’ best beaches .

We travelled through many countries in 2019, around forty of them to be exact. That year, we visited many Caribbean Island nations, and you can read our  recap of the Caribbean islands and countries visited in 2019.

Travel Tips for North America

We have many travel guides and tips for North America— a fascinating continent!

We love travelling in Mexico and have many food and detailed guides.  Read them here . 

These top 6 travel hacks to save money are great to read when planning your travels.

Are you interested in visiting these 15 best places to travel in the USA,  the ten best foods in New York , or searching the 12 best cheap eats in Vancouver?

If you plan to travel long-term after leaving North America, these 21 cheapest countries to visit will help you make your hard-earned dollars stretch a bit further.

For food lovers, don’t miss our top 10 countries for foodies ; one is in North America.

You’ll need to stay connected while travelling in North America. We recommend eSIM. They’re easy, reliable and affordable. View eSIMs for individual countries , or consider a regional eSIM for North America.

If your travels in North America are part of a much larger global adventure, then a Global eSIM may be the answer. It connects you in 124 countries , offering data-only eSIM and data/call/text eSIM . The Global eSIM has been a game-changer; we couldn’t imagine travelling without it now.

If you want to travel with like-minded travellers, consider joining a group tour. View the best deals on group tours in North America .

Check out our best-ever travel tips compiled from more than twenty years of experience.

Travel Planning Resources

✈️ Flights : We use Skyscanner to book cheap flights worldwide.

🏨 Accommodation :  Booking.com is our preferred platform for booking hotels and accommodation. We use Vrbo to book apartments and long-term stays.

🏥 Travel Insurance : We recommend Heymondo ( Get 5% off Heymondo)  & SafetyWing

🚌 Transportation : Trainline is the best website to reserve trains. We use Omio to book transport worldwide. For travel in Asia, we use 12Go.  

🚘 Car Rental : We use DiscoverCars to book rental cars worldwide.

👫 Group Tours :  G Adventures OR compare multi-day tours worldwide with Tourradar .

📸 Day Tours & Trips :  GetYourGuide  & Viator are the only two platforms you need.

📚 Lonely Planet: The Best Range of Travel Guides & Ebooks , and FREE Shipping! (use code RACHELDAVEY10 for a 10% discount)

🎒 Luggage :  Osprey Farpoint 40L Backpack  or  Samsonite Luggage Range.

🛄 What to Pack:  Don’t forget your Universal charger and a good  power bank .  To help you pack the essentials, here is our ULTIMATE Packing List for all Travellers .

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💰 Send Money Anywhere: WISE  &  Revolut  are the best online accounts that let you send money, get paid, and spend money internationally. Both are so easy to use and way cheaper than any bank transfer.

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✅ Check out our Travel Gear  and  Travel Resources for more valuable tips to save you money!

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20 Comments . Leave new

I had no idea there was so many countries and territories in the Caribbean. Absolutely amazing facts. Always love images of Cuba with old cars. I must get there to have a look one day. Thanks for the great information. I must print it all out.

Cheers Sharon…

Thanks, Sharon. 🙂 Did you make it to the Caribbean or Cuba?

What fun to read. I am going this winter and getting ideas. I too adore Cuba though Trinidad was a bit touristy.

By the way this might interest you. http://pvewood.blogspot.com/2013/04/25-reasons-why-i-love-living-in-romania.html

Hey, I am actually going to do this starting from dom republic, I am hoping to go to Haiti after and then to Jamaica followed by Barbados and all of the island backwards. How do you recommend I should do this? I couldn’t find any flights from Haiti to Jamaica

Hi Alan, thanks for your comment. There are no direct flights between Haiti and Jamaica so you would have to either transit via Turks and Caicos or The Bahamas, but not sure if those flights connect well. Maybe you could visit the Bahamas first and then fly to Jamaica? Of course, there are usually flights via the USA (Miami often) it just means you’d have to transit there. Check out this website to find the flight connection, then you can book them online. https://www.flightconnections.com . Have fun.

Thts a fantastic idea I will go to Bahamas and then go to Jamaica after which I can do the tour as you did but backwards perfect, do you think I should be ok to cross the Dominican Republic Haiti border or I should just book the flights I am in Venezuela now and absolutely loving it

Hi Alan, we just had a friend who visited Cap-Haitien in Haiti from the Dominican Republic and had no problems. We have pretty detailed blogs on Haiti, especially on how to cross the border and what to do and eat there:

https://www.veryhungrynomads.com/border-dominican-republic-to-haiti/ https://www.veryhungrynomads.com/what-to-eat-in-haiti/ https://www.veryhungrynomads.com/things-to-do-in-haiti-cap-haitien/

Did you take flights for all of ’em? or ferries too?

We took A ferry between St Lucia and Dominica. That’s the only international ferry I believe. I have just updated the blog post with additional practical information on flights as well as on the ferry. Enjoy and happy travels.

Hi! I am also interested in traveling all the Caribbean countries. How long did it take for you to visit all of them and how many days did you need on each island?

Hi Rachel, we spent 8 weeks across these islands mentioned in the blog. On some smaller islands we spent 3-4 days, we had a week in Barbados and we spent more time in the Dominican Republic and Haiti as there was more to see. We visited Cuba a few years back, where we spent 3 weeks.

It also depends on the flight schedule as some islands are only connected with limited flights. Hope that helps.

This was so helpful!!! Can you let me know your 2 favorite islands? Because I know asking for 1 is not fair haha

Great to hear that you found the post helpful 🙂 It’s hard to choose just 2, so here are 3! We LOVE Cuba, Dominica, and Grenada.

Hi Marty, I’m planning on going and exploring the Caribbean islands in January I’m going on my own and was hoping to add Cuba, Aruba and Belize into the mix I was also considering Panama. I’m giving myself 6 months to go and see the beauties these islands have to offer. I was hoping to use ferries a lot and just book hotels before I went to each island as I don’t want to give myself any time restrictions in one place. If I like somewhere and want to spend more time there I want to be free to do so. As a solo woman is there anything you feel I should be wary of? Did you need visa to get into any of the countries? I’ve made appointments for the jabs I’ll need. I was also wondering about phone signal and internet coverage. I have to say your blog was insightful and has given me lots of ideas on what to see. And I’m sure I’ll be using it as I travel as a little guide Im hoping the locals will have lots of suggestions of things I need to see. And I get to take part in some of the festivals and carnivals. Thank you for all the advice you have given in this blog…

Hi Derri, I ma happy to hear you found the blog useful. 6 months for the Caribbean sounds awesome and yes you could probably easily add Panama as there are many flights with COPA connecting the Caribbean too. We travelled as 2 women and found the Caribbean safe, the only tip where to avoid is Santa Lucia at night at the Friday party (we didn’t go but have been warned) and if you go to Haiti read our blog on where to go and what to see. It always helps to ask a local for advice on safety.

As for hotel bookings, this is how we travelled as well: we only bought flights and hotels a few days before to allow us to go with the flow. We probably most loved (and you might like to spend some time there) Dominican Rep., Cuba, and Grenada and we really liked Dominica island as it’s very green. We spent 3 weeks in Cuba (sorry no blogs this was a few years back) and really loved it there.

You might also look into staying at Airbnb as often the host can recommend what to do and see. All the best.

Hi girls! Love your blog and your adventures! Awesome spirit! I am at 71 countries myself and shooting for 100. And a dream of mine is the southern Caribbean or Windward islands. I would love to work myself from Antigua to Trinidad (or vice versa). Your blog is super inspiring so I am really getting into planning mode here. But what I am trying to figure out and can’t really find is a realistic itinerary and reasonable logistics for someone who (unfortunately) can not be back packing for several months. I am trying to get my head around is how long travel is between the islands (unless flying) and how long to stay on each one. In your expert opinion – what is a minimum, and a realistic, time frame – if not staying one week on each island? And logistically, is there one country/island that is too complicated, and the one to cut out if necessary? Again, I am thinking Antigua/St Kitts/Dominica + Barbados/St Lucia/Grenada/St Vincent + possibly Trinidad Tobago. Would love your quick thoughts on this. Thank you so much! Daniel

Hi Daniel, you could visit those islands in a month easily. The flights are usually just over an hour but as mentioned they are not connected by ferries so flying is the best way to get around. Overall 2-3 days can be enough to get a good taste of each island… laying on the beach for a week can be done on most of them but one of the best ways is to rent a car and explore the island for a day and then spend the next day doing something unique. Maybe check the website flight connections.com to see all current flight routes and try to piece your puzzle – it’s part of the fun. Hope this helps.:)

Great blog, helped me understand better as I’m also planning to hit the 13 countries. However, I’m a digital Nomad and am depending on internet. How was the connection there? Was it easy to get sim cards with good data? Perhaps you have some info about pricing? Thanks alot

Hi Jeff, We’re glad you have found the blog to be helpful. We relied heavily on internet/Wifi in our accommodation providers during our travels in the Caribbean, as we found local SIM cards quite expensive. Suppose we had to do it all again. In that case, we’d probably buy this Airalo Regional eSIM for the Caribbean to stay connected and then perhaps source a local SIM once you arrive on an island that you’d like to stay longer on, to get access to more data.

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10 Days in Caribbean: Itinerary Ideas

There are plenty of travelers out there who would be happy spending 10 days on any of the popular islands in the Caribbean, soaking up the sun, sipping cocktails and eating incredible food. But there are also other types of travelers who don’t mind a day or two on the beach, but they definitely want to see interesting places as well.

While the majority of travelers visit the Caribbean during the high season – December to March – which also coincides with the cold season in the Northern Hemisphere, the islands are cheaper to visit and offer excellent things to do during the rest of the year, too. Sure, you might end up in a storm or two, but that’s not always the case and there are always other things to do.

The present itinerary highlights the most visited islands in the Caribbean but it’s definitely not a sand-sea-sun itinerary.

Day 1-2 The Bahamas

Fly into Nassau. Enjoy the Old Town and visit Fort Fincastle. On the second day, head to Eleuthera, which can be reached by boat. Eleuthera is famous for its pink beaches.

>>read more about 5 days in the Bahamas

Day 3-4 Puerto Rico

You can fly via Fort Lauderdale into Puerto Rico from The Bahamas and it won’t exactly be a cheap option. But when you want to cover at least 4 islands during a 10-day vacation, flying becomes a priority.

Spend the first day getting to know Old San Juan , with its forts and city walls. On the second day, visit Ponce, easy to reach by road. Renting a car is probably the best option in this case. Visit the cathedral and enjoy a tour of a coffee plantation.

>>read more about 5 days in Puerto Rico

Day 5-7 Jamaica

Fly into Kingston or Montego Bay.

Make sure to take a scenic tour of Kingston. All you need is a map and your camera.

You can also plan to be more active when visiting this lovely island, but make sure to rent a car in order to get between places easily. You can take a canopy tour or you can climb a waterfall.

You must try the Caribbean cuisine and the famous Jamaican dishes.

>>read more about the Things to do in Jamaica

Day 8-10 US Virgin Islands

St. Thomas is ideal for those who want to shop and visit the popular attractions. St. John offers a nice scape from the crowds and is incredible for snorkeling. St. Croix is for the history buffs . Virgin Gorda is for the high –end travelers.

St. Croix is the least visited of the USVI and the most remove of them. So, if you are looking to escape the mass tourism, this island is your target. You can even choose a farm stay. You can visit Estate Whim Plantation Museum, which is the oldest sugar plantation museum in USVI. Fort Christiansvaern now highlights the local history but it used to protect the town from pirates.

On St. Thomas, visit Blackbeard’s Castle, which is actually a watchtower built by the Danes. Bluebeard’s Castle, on the other hand, is a fortress, also built by the Danes.

>>read about Choosing the right Virgin Island for you

Just in case you want to visit the islands in other order, here is some information:

>> Getting from Puerto Rico to St. Thomas

Photo credits : The Bahamas , Puerto Rico , Jamaica , Fort Christiansvaern

Caribbean cruise guide: Best itineraries, planning tips and things to do

"All the leaves are brown, and the sky is gray …" When the weather turns cold, you could be California dreamin' but doesn't a Caribbean cruise sound so much more relaxing?

Many people would agree with me that a Caribbean cruise is the perfect antidote to the winter doldrums and work stress, plus a wonderful way to reconnect with friends and loved ones. The ship takes care of everything -- transportation, accommodation, meals and entertainment – so you can skip much of the daily planning drama and simply enjoy your vacation and travel companions. Every day you wake up to warm weather and sunny skies (well, most of the time) and a new destination promising white sand beaches, fun activities and memories to be made.

The biggest decision you have to make is between a pina colada and a strawberry daiquiri.

For cruise news, reviews and tips, sign up for TPG's cruise newsletter .

Before you go, however, you have lots of choices to make: Which is the best cruise line? Which are the best Caribbean cruise ports for the activities you most enjoy? What time of year should you travel?

Don't let planning a rejuvenating vacation add more stress to your life. This Caribbean cruise guide gives you the lowdown on everything you need to know to plan the perfect island getaway.

Why cruise to the Caribbean?

Sun, sand and sea are what most travelers want when they book a cruise to the Caribbean. If you want to trade chilly weather at home for warm, sunny days spent relaxing on a beach or swimming in clear blue waters, a Caribbean cruise is an ideal vacation. Unlike a resort stay, you can sample multiple beaches in various destinations, as well as the pool life on board the ship.

Many people choose Caribbean cruises because they're affordable getaways to tropical destinations. The sailings depart from several U.S. home ports — from Galveston, Texas, to Boston — so many Americans can drive to their departure ports and avoid paying for airfare.

Plus, cruise ships can change course to avoid bad weather, such as hurricanes, so you can salvage your beach vacation when a storm is headed toward a particular island by cruising to a different one. If you booked a land-based stay, you'd be forced to cancel — or hunker down and wait for the rain and winds to pass.

When do cruises go to the Caribbean?

Caribbean cruises sail year-round, so you can plan your trip for the winter holidays, spring break or summer vacation. However, more ships sail this region of the world in the winter, when other destinations (such as the Mediterranean, Baltic, Canada/New England and Bermuda) are too chilly for vacations at sea.

The luxury and upscale cruise lines especially tend to only base ships in the Caribbean during the winter because their fleets are too small to base a ship there year-round — and their passengers want to explore bucket list destinations around the world.

Best Caribbean itineraries

Cruise lines divide the Caribbean into three regions: Eastern, Western and Southern. Itineraries tend to concentrate on one area, but longer itineraries may include islands in two or all of the regions, as well as ports in the Bahamas and Florida.

Which itinerary is best for you will depend primarily on which port you want to depart from and how long a vacation you can take. Once you see the options that fit your parameters, you'll want to look at how many port stops versus sea days an itinerary has and which specific islands you'll visit.

The best Caribbean itineraries for first-time cruisers are often the seven-night Eastern or seven-night Western Caribbean cruises out of Florida home ports, such as Miami , Fort Lauderdale or Port Canaveral (near Orlando).

Western Caribbean

You'll find two main types of Western Caribbean cruises, and both are fabulous introductions to Caribbean culture and attractions. The classic Western Caribbean itinerary visits Mexico (typically Cozumel or Costa Maya), Jamaica, Grand Cayman and a cruise line's private island, which is typically in the Bahamas.

However, some ships sail a Western Caribbean itinerary that's more focused on Central America, with stops in Mexico, Belize and Honduras. These itineraries are great for travelers who are interested in Mayan or Mexican culture in addition to beaches and water sports.

Western Caribbean itineraries are typically a week, but can be as short as four days (with just one stop in Mexico) or as long as 12 days (though these might include stops in the Bahamas, too). You can find departures from ports all along the U.S. East Coast, Gulf Coast and Florida.

Eastern Caribbean

Another popular itinerary for first-timers is the Eastern Caribbean, with visits to St. Thomas, St. Maarten, Grand Turk, the Dominican Republic and/or San Juan, Puerto Rico. Private island and Bahamas stops are common. Longer cruises or smaller-ship itineraries might stop elsewhere in the U.S. and British Virgin Islands, St. Barts, Antigua or St. Kitts.

These itineraries are slightly more targeted toward beach time and water sports, with fewer options for historical or cultural attractions than their Western Caribbean counterparts.

As with the Western Caribbean, seven-night Eastern Caribbean cruises are the most common itinerary length. The shortest options are four nights, typically visiting only Grand Turk or Puerto Plata, Dominican Republic. The longest, around 10 to 12 nights, will often include Southern Caribbean ports or start from more northerly home ports.

You can find departures from ports as far west as Galveston and as far north as the New York area, but the majority of true Eastern Caribbean cruises set sail from Florida or Puerto Rico.

Related: Eastern Caribbean vs. Western Caribbean cruises: Which itinerary will I like more?

Southern Caribbean

Southern Caribbean cruises tend to attract luxury travelers and repeat cruisers. That's because these islands are farther from U.S. shores, meaning you'll need to fly to an island to catch your cruise ship or need more than a week's vacation to get from Florida all the way south to ports in Aruba or St. Lucia and back. The islands themselves tend to be more exclusive, with fewer ships visiting on any given day.

Common destinations on Southern Caribbean cruise itineraries include Aruba, Bonaire, Curacao, Barbados, Trinidad, St. Lucia, Dominica, Martinique and Grenada. You'll find everything from gorgeous beaches and diving destinations to lush rainforests and flowing waterfalls.

The shortest Southern Caribbean cruises are five or six days and leave from places such as Barbados, San Juan and St. Thomas. You can find weeklong sailings from Florida, but more commonly, they're eight nights or longer.

The Bahamas and Florida

Yes, I know that the Bahamas is technically located in the Atlantic, but it's an easy mistake to think the balmy islands are found in the Caribbean. Besides, many cruises add stops in the Bahamas to a Caribbean cruise. The majority of the cruise line private islands are located in the Bahamas, and these appear regularly on all Caribbean itineraries. The Bahamian ports of Nassau and Freeport, even Florida's Key West, may appear on Caribbean-centric cruises.

Why? They're close to the U.S. and cruise lines use these ports to break up the multiple days at sea needed to sail farther south into the Caribbean proper.

Related: Caribbean vs. Bahamas cruises: Which itinerary will I like better?

Best Caribbean cruise lines

You'll be hard-pressed to find a cruise line that does not sail to the Caribbean at least for a few months a year. The big-ship lines will station multiple ships in this region year-round, with additional ships swinging by during the colder months.

If you consider the best Caribbean cruise lines to be the ones with the most ship and itinerary choices, look to the big-ship lines such as Carnival , Royal Caribbean and Norwegian Cruise Line .

These lines offer a range of itinerary lengths, port combinations and departure cities from the Gulf Coast to the East Coast. Their biggest and newest ships are often deployed to the Caribbean, so you can find all the latest celebrity-backed restaurants, crazy top-deck attractions (like waterslides, climbing walls and roller coaster rides) and expanded cabin choices. These lines cater to all ages, including older couples and families with children.

Related: The best Caribbean cruise for every type of traveler

If you're looking for an adults-only option, Virgin Voyages caters to the young at heart with its edgy new ships. It offers six- and seven-night Caribbean cruises from the late fall until early spring. Viking takes an entirely different approach to no-kids cruises, catering to mature travelers craving culture and educational vacations. It also offers wintertime Caribbean cruises, though many are paired with a Panama Canal crossing.

Luxury lovers should look at the smaller ships of the Seabourn , Silversea and Regent Seven Seas fleets for opulent accommodations and fine dining while sailing the tropics. Oceania , Azamara and Windstar Cruises are less inclusive, but still high end.

For something a little different, try SeaDream Yacht Club for a super-small ship that feels like a private yacht, complete with an emphasis on alfresco recreation and dining. Star Clippers appeals to sailing enthusiasts with its masted ships, simple entertainment and emphasis on water sports.

Things to do in the Caribbean

White sand beaches and crystal-clear turquoise waters are the biggest attractions for most Caribbean cruisers. You'll be hard-pressed to find a Caribbean cruise port that does not offer beach access. Whether you enjoy a cruise line's private beach, a public beach lined with bars or get a day pass to a resort or beach club, you can rarely go wrong with a beach day in the islands.

Water sports are another quintessential Caribbean attraction. Cruisers can swim, snorkel and scuba dive, of course, but they can also kayak, snuba, Jet Ski, sail and parasail. Sometimes you can do these things right from whatever beach is your destination for the day. Otherwise, book a tour to the best spots or for a guided activity. Or, book a leisurely sunset sail or high-octane party cruise to get on the water, not necessarily in it.

Shopping is a popular diversion, from high-end French stores in Martinique and St. Barts to crafts markets and souvenir shops. Historical attractions range from forts erected to protect against pirates to Mayan temples. Cultural tours focus on local cuisine, wine and spirits, and dancing. (Yes, even you can learn to salsa.) Active travelers will find plenty of hiking, biking, zip lining and ATV tours.

Best Caribbean cruise ports

A single cruise line might call at 20 to 30 different ports in the Caribbean. Although you might think they all look like stock photos of white sand beaches with palm trees and blue skies, each island has its own look, culture and vibe. I've sailed to a large number of those ports and would be hard-pressed to pick a favorite. They all have their charms for different reasons.

The following Caribbean cruise ports are generally standouts, no matter your travel style.

Cozumel, Mexico

Cozumel is an island in the Caribbean just offshore from Playa del Carmen and just south of Cancun. It truly offers something for everyone. You can head to the beach, go scuba diving or snorkeling or head to the mainland to see Mayan cultural sites like Tulum and Chichen Itza. Stick around town to find cheap drinks at Senor Frog's or shop for souvenirs.

Cruise ships call at a number of ports in Jamaica: Ocho Rios, Montego Bay, Kingston and Falmouth. Many folks spend the day on the beach, often at one of the resorts, but climbing up Dunn's River Falls is a unique experience not to be missed. Cruisers seeking a thrill can find bobsled, zip line, river tubing and ATV tours. And, yes, reggae fans — there is a Bob Marley tour you can take.

San Juan, Puerto Rico

San Juan is both a popular departure port and port of call on Eastern and Southern Caribbean cruise itineraries. Its Old Town and historic fort overlooking the water are top attractions, but cruisers have the opportunity to visit El Yunque National Forest (the only tropical rainforest on U.S. soil) or head to the beach.

Belize City, Belize

Travelers don't tend to spend much time in Belize City itself, but it's a great jumping-off point for all Belize has to offer. Visit the Altun Ha Mayan ruins, go river tubing and spelunking in caves, zip line through the jungle or go snorkeling or diving along Belize's famous barrier reef (the northern hemisphere's largest).

St. Thomas, U.S. Virgin Islands

This island is known for its gorgeous Magens Bay beach. However, if you'd rather not share the beach with several ships' worth of cruisers, take the ferry to nearby St. John for the day and find a U.S. national park and a more chill beach experience. Take the kids to the Coral World Ocean Park, your sweetie on a catamaran sail or snorkel trip and your crazy friends on a helmet dive or BOSS underwater scooter adventure.

Known for its lush green twin peaks known as the Pitons, St. Lucia entices travelers with postcard-perfect beaches set against jungle scenery. It even has its own volcano with sulphur springs to visit and all the usual land and sea activities.

Beach, beach and more beach — Aruba is definitely a port to be in, on or near the water. It's one of the southernmost Caribbean islands, found just off the coast of Venezuela, and its location protects it from the summer and fall hurricanes that can hammer the islands to its north and east. Animal lovers might want to check out its ostrich farm — not something you usually find in a Caribbean cruise port.

When to book a Caribbean cruise

The best time to book a Caribbean cruise is clearly right now! Seriously, you can almost always find a deal on a Caribbean cruise if you're flexible enough with your travel dates and cabin types.

If you want to book a popular sail date (such as a Christmas and New Year's Eve sailing) or are looking for a cabin type that's in limited supply (connecting cabins or studio rooms for solo travelers), book as far in advance as you can, at least nine months out if not longer. If you're retired and can drive to a port, you can likely find an inside cabin to book just a few weeks prior to sailing.

The first few months of the year, known as "wave season" in the cruise industry, is a time when cruise lines all offer some kind of booking promotion, and you can often find discounted fares or free booking perks on Caribbean cruises. Many cruise lines also run sales at the end of the summer or during Black Friday/Cyber Monday, and Caribbean sailings are almost always included.

What to bring on a Caribbean cruise

Swimsuits and warm-weather clothing should top your Caribbean cruise packing list, but don't forget the sunscreen. The sun is stronger than you might expect in this part of the world, and you can easily burn during a long day at the beach if you don't apply and reapply plenty of sunscreen. Hats, sunglasses, moisture-wicking athletic clothing and your favorite cover-ups and sundresses are all must-pack items.

I also recommend that all passengers bring a passport on their Caribbean sailing. If you're cruising round-trip from a U.S. port, a passport is not required by law — but it's a good idea to pack one in case of an unexpected medical emergency or mechanical problem that forces you to debark the ship in a foreign country.

Bottom line

Whether you're new to cruising or a hardy sailor, the Caribbean is the perfect place for a cruise vacation. If you've never been, any of the islands will delight. If you've sailed before, there's always some destination you've never visited or an activity you haven't tried.

When winter in your hometown drags on, or the stress of the workweek gets you down, a Caribbean cruise is often just what the doctor ordered to lift the weight of the world from your shoulders and let you escape to a tropical paradise for a few days.

Planning a cruise? Start with these stories:

• The 5 most desirable cabin locations on any cruise ship
• A beginners guide to picking a cruise line
• The 8 worst cabin locations on any cruise ship
• A quick guide to the most popular cruise lines
• 21 tips and tricks that will make your cruise go smoothly
• 15 ways cruisers waste money
• 12 best cruises for people who never want to grow up
• The ultimate guide to what to pack for a cruise

The Best Caribbean Cruises 2023—With Stops at Rugged Volcanic Islands, Tropical Forests, and Serene Beaches

By Scott Laird

All products featured on Condé Nast Traveler are independently selected by our editors. However, when you buy something through our retail links, we may earn an affiliate commission.

Caribbean cruises have long been a favorite with travelers for their picture-postcard attributes. White sand beaches front turquoise waters. But these tropical itineraries have something for every type of traveler. Activities abound—perhaps it’s shopping on one island, hiking through nature reserves and snorkeling among coral reefs on another, or having a beach day on a cruise company’s private retreat. Many Caribbean itineraries skew toward tried-and-true standards, but a number of cruise lines will have a handful of unique sailings put together for particular tastes or the seasoned cruiser who has already tried them all.

Some of these sailings visit offbeat destinations like volcanic Montserrat, while others take a non-traditional southern track from Panama along the northern coast of South America. Others visit sleepier, less-frequented destinations like St. Croix, St. Barts, and Mayreau, in addition to stopping at banner spots like St. Lucia and Aruba for dramatic vistas and spectacular beaches.

Here are some of the best Caribbean cruises to book for 2023.

Seven Seas Splendor ventures to some of the Caribbean's most iconic isles.

Regent Seven Seas Cruises

Itinerary: Sunny Beaches & Emerald Forests

Departure: March 11, 2023

Experience: This 10-night sailing from Miami embarks on Regent Seven Seas' newest ship, Seven Seas Splendor , for a leisurely sail through the Caribbean’s windward isles. Hike to waterfalls in Puerto Plata in the Dominican Republic, explore Puerto Rico’s El Yunque National Forest, or relax on a sailboat excursion off minute St. Barts , which Splendor is right-sized to visit. Take an aerial tram through the rainforest canopy on St. Lucia or snorkel Champagne Reef on Dominica, watching bubbles and warmth rise from geothermal activity beneath the ocean floor. Excursions are included in the cruise fare with Regent—as are beverages, gratuities, transfers, specialty dining, Wi-Fi, and laundry service.

Itinerary: Panama, Colombia, & Caribbean Islands

Departure: March 9 and 17, 2023

Experience: Voyage from the gates of the Panama Canal to the French West Indies, with a wealth of diversity in between. Experience Afro-Caribbean heritage in Portobelo, Panama, and Indigenous Kuna fishing communities in the San Blas Islands. Next, it’s on to Cartagena de Indias, Colombia, and then the coral reefs of Bonaire for diving. The spices of Grenada and St. Lucia’s volcanic pitons round out the itinerary before the intimately appointed ship Le Bellot (with fewer than 92 staterooms and suites) anchors in the turquoise waters of Fort-de-France for a fond farewell.

Celebrity Beyond 's Luminae Restaurant

Celebrity Cruises

Itinerary: Southern Caribbean

Departure: December 11, 2023

Experience: Offering a little of everything, this 11-night roundtrip from Fort Lauderdale includes calls at cobblestoned Cartagena, Colombia, the white-sand beaches of Aruba, and the famous colonial houses and swinging drawbridge of Curaçao. As an added bonus, Grand Cayman and Falmouth, Jamaica, also appear as ports to help break up the long journey south from Florida. The sailing takes place onboard the brand-new Celebrity Beyond , packed full of original art, Infinite Veranda staterooms—so-named for the floor-to-ceiling windows that open into a private balcony at the push of a button—and ocean-going gastronomy at Le Voyage, Chef Daniel Boulud’s first signature restaurant at sea.

Windstar Cruises

Itinerary: Windward Ways & Tobago Cays

Departure: January, February, November, and December 2023

Experience: Almost purpose-designed for cruisers who prefer their shore excursions to be on or in the water, this seven-day sailing onboard Windstar's Star Legend starts in the Dutch islands, offering up serene Aruba’s white-sand beaches and tranquil Bonaire’s 50 species of coral. “Isle of Spice” Grenada is next (nutmeg ice cream is a must-try), followed by spectacular vistas of the Grand Pitons on “seven times French; seven times British” St. Lucia. Mayreau is the smallest of the Grenadines—here cruisers can enter the water directly from Star Legend’s water-sports platform, then wind up the day with a private beach barbecue.

Valiant Lady will operate Caribbean cruises in spring and winter 2023.

Virgin Voyages

Itinerary: Eastern Caribbean Antilles

By Jahnavi Bhatt

By Olivia Morelli

By Abbe Baker

By Kelsey Glennon

Departure: January, February, March, November, and December 2023

Experience: St. Croix in the U.S. Virgin Islands is a less-trafficked port of call known as the “Garden of the Antilles” and Valiant Lady drops in during her Eastern Caribbean sailings, in addition to San Juan , Puerto Plata, and a day at Virgin’s lounge-y Beach Club at Bimini private island. Onboard, Wi-Fi and “essential” non-alcoholic drinks and gratuities are included on the adults-only ship, which touts over 20 eateries and a number of inventive ways to find a glass of champagne.

Holland America Line

Itinerary: 11 Day Panama Canal Sunfarer

Departure: March 14, 2023

Experience: Part Caribbean surf, part jungle excursion, this 11-day roundtrip from Fort Lauderdale onboard Eurodam calls first at Aruba and Curaçao for a taste of Holland America Line’s namesake Dutch culture before skirting the coast of South America for several days of scenic cruising the Panama Canal and Gatun Lake, taking in the maximum biodiversity (over 500 species of birds) of the Canal Zone, juxtaposed with the engineering wonders of the lock system.

A Signature Suite on board Evrima

Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection

Itinerary: Bridgetown Roundtrip 7 Nights

Departure: March 19 and November 19, 2023

Experience: Ritz-Carlton has drawn on their vaunted properties to design everything from onboard dining to shore excursions on board the all-suite Evrima . Guests can visit Grenada’s Tower Estate to sample their famous blue tea, made from estate-grown butterfly peaflower, with cucumber sandwiches, cupcakes, and fresh fruit picked onsite. On Bequia, in the Grenadines, it might be a windjammer excursion to nearby Mustique for a seaside lunch, or a private car and driver arranged at one of the ports.

Silversea Cruises

Itinerary: 9 Day Bridgetown to San Juan

Departure: February 18, 2023

Experience: When not luxuriating onboard Silversea’s newest ship, the all-suite Silver Dawn , passengers might explore this itinerary’s most unique destination: Montserrat. Once a favored haunt of the jet-set, volcanic activity that earned it the nickname “The Pompeii of the Caribbean” has kept tourism development low-key, and visitors few, but cruisers on this itinerary will discover an Emerald Isle reminiscent of Ireland, and some of the Caribbean’s most beautiful, secluded beaches. Unspoiled Deshaies, on Guadeloupe, is another under-the-radar call for this spectacular ship boasting butler service in every suite and a guest-to-crew ratio of nearly one-to-one.

A suite onboard Norwegian Prima

Norwegian Cruise Line

Itinerary: Caribbean: Harvest Caye, Cozumel, & Roatan from Galeveston

Departure: December 15, 22, and 29, 2023

Experience: In December 2023, the new Norwegian Prima begins sailing the Riviera Maya from Galveston, also including port calls at resort-like Harvest Caye in Belize , where guests can rent private cabanas, and Roatan, in Honduras’s Bay Islands, home to a large Gumbalimba eco-preserve and animal sanctuary. Onboard, Norwegian has enhanced The Haven, the VIP suite area on this ship, with some the largest suite accommodations in the fleet, and all public areas in the suite enclave now have ocean views.

Princess Cruises

Itinerary: 5 Day Caribbean Getaway with Grand Turk

Departure: October 31, 2023

Experience: Not all Caribbean cruises need to be a week or two in duration. Princess Cruises offers a Halloween weekend getaway onboard Caribbean Princess that’s just five nights in duration, with two unbeatable ports—Grand Turk, and Princess Cays, the line’s private island in the Bahamas. A highlight of this seasonal sailing can be sitting in the ship’s piazza, watching festive passengers promenade their inventive costumes for spooky onboard revelry—a Princess tradition dating back to the days of the original “Love Boat” series.

Booking tips for Caribbean cruises

What are the best months to take a caribbean cruise.

Although some cruise lines operate in the Caribbean year-round, the widest selection of sailing dates and itineraries can be found between November and March.

What part of the Caribbean is best for a cruise?

The best Caribbean cruise is a matter of personal taste. Many cruises focus on a region, like the Southern, Eastern, or Western Caribbean, and itineraries, regardless of destination, often feature stops at cruise line operated private islands in the Bahamas.

What are the cheapest months to cruise in the Caribbean?

Generally, the beginning and end of the November-to-March season can be affordable—any time when North American schools are widely in session are also good times to cruise for lower fares.

Do you need a passport to go to on a Caribbean cruise?

Check with the cruise line before booking. U.S. citizens traveling on cruises calling at most Caribbean countries can do so with both an enhanced state ID and an original birth certificate in lieu of a passport, but a passport is by far the easiest form of identification (and most strongly recommended by both the U.S. State Department and most cruise lines) for U.S. citizens outside the country. It’s also important to note that documentation requirements can change, and passengers are ultimately responsible for having the required documents at embarkation or they may be denied boarding.

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24 Caribbean Cruises for Your Next Tropical Vacation

Island hop in luxury with these Caribbean voyages.

The Caribbean islands are among the most popular cruise destinations in the world thanks to the region's beautiful beaches, historic towns, ancient ruins, delicious food, and friendly locals. The diverse languages and cultures add to the appeal of the Caribbean, and cruises that visit a series of destinations highlight the distinctions among the islands. From ocean liners and yachts to small expedition vessels and sailboats, the best Caribbean cruises allow travelers to enjoy both the time at sea and on land.

Caribbean cruises depart from many port cities, so for some travelers, a few days in a new place before or after the cruise adds to the experience. Cruises can be family-focused or adults-only, and many accommodate all ages with activities to keep everyone happy. Whether you're looking for a quick getaway or an extended vacation, a cruise can fit into your plans. Here are some of the best Caribbean cruises to inspire your island vacation.

Ponant's Panama, Colombia, and Caribbean Islands

Duration: 12 nights

What to expect: This voyage aboard the 184-passenger Le Bellot begins in Panama’s second-largest city of Colón, which sits at the Caribbean entrance of the Panama Canal. The first stop is the historic town of Portobello, home to UNESCO-listed fortifications and a colonial-era shipping port. Then, the cruise heads to the San Blas Islands, where guests can relax on white-sand beaches, swim in crystal-clear waters, and learn about the traditional fishing techniques of the Kuna people. Next is Cartagena, Colombia, home to a colorful and lively UNESCO-listed historical center, and Santa Marta, a gateway to the lush Sierra Nevada, the highest coastal chain of mountains in the world. After a day at sea, the ship arrives at the diving hot spot of Bonaire. Highlights after that include Grenada's capital city of St. George’s, the tranquil beaches of St. Vincent and the Grenadines, and the lush rain forest of St. Lucia. The second-last port is Les Saintes, a pristine and mostly uninhabited archipelago of nine islands in Guadeloupe. After swimming, snorkeling, and reflecting on the journey, guests disembark the next day in Fort-de-France, Martinique.

Frederic Michel/Courtesy of Studio PONANT

Disney Cruise Line's 6-Night Western Caribbean Cruise from Galveston

Duration: Six nights

What to expect: Disney Cruise Lines has been named one of the best large-ship ocean cruise lines by Travel + Leisure readers for good reason. This itinerary invites guests to board the 875-room Disney Magic , which offers plenty of entertainment to enjoy during the first two days at sea between Galveston and Grand Cayman. For young cruisers, there are clubs, games, pools, and Disney character encounters. Adults might enjoy the spa, nightclubs, restaurants, and evening entertainment. In Grand Cayman, cruisers can relax on the famed Seven Mile Beach or learn about historical artifacts at the Cayman Islands National Museum. In Cozumel, Mexico, there's scuba diving, snorkeling, and more stunning beaches. The following day is spent at sea with time to enjoy Disney Magic 's amenities before returning to Galveston.

Norwegian Cruise Line's Caribbean: Great Stirrup Cay and Dominican Republic

Duration: Seven nights What to expect: This cruise departs from Port Canaveral (Orlando) and spends the next day at sea aboard Norwegian Joy , which can carry 3,776 passengers, and has an adults-only relaxation area and beach club. The first port is Puerto Plata in the Dominican Republic, with time to enjoy the city views or explore on a hike. The ship visits Charlotte Amalie, the capital of the U.S. Virgin Islands, home to duty-free shopping and beaches. Tortola, British Virgin Islands, is the next port, where guests can snorkel or tour the forest canopy before heading out to sea for a day. Following that is Great Stirrup Cay in the Bahamas, a private island for NCL guests to enjoy snorkeling, kayaking, WaveRunner adventures, or relaxing in a beachfront cabana before returning to Port Canaveral the next day.

Princess Cruises' 7-day Eastern Caribbean with St. Thomas

Duration: Seven nights What to expect: Guests board the 3,660-passenger Sky Princess in Fort Lauderdale and cruise to Princess Cays on Eleuthera in the Bahamas. A beach barbecue, a local craft market, and water activities from snorkeling to fishing are available on the private island resort. The next day at sea on the way to San Juan, Puerto Rico offers time to enjoy onboard activities including the pool, spa, sports court, and casino, as well as programs for young cruisers. After that, travelers can tour Old San Juan, the El Yunque National Rainforest, and Fort San Cristobal. The next stop is St. Thomas, which offers snorkeling, hiking, and golfing. With the next two days at sea, guests can enjoy the ship's restaurants, spa, and family-friendly Camp Discovery centers before returning to Fort Lauderdale.

Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection's Bridgetown to Bridgetown

Duration: Seven nights What to expect: This cruise aboard the Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection's 149-suite Evrima ship starts in Bridgetown, Barbados, and heads to heads to Saint-Pierre, Martinique, also known as "Paris of the Caribbean." Here, cruisers can explore a charming seaside town, black-sand beaches, and dive sites with shipwrecks. The next stop is Soufrière, St. Lucia, a gateway to natural wonders like the steaming volcanic crater of Sulphur Springs, the organic gardens of the Tet Paul Nature Trail, and lush rain forest that can be explored via guided hikes. The next day is dedicated to the pristine palm-lined beaches of Bequia, St. Vincent and the Grenadines. Grenada’s pedestrian-friendly capital of St. George’s gives guests a perfect opportunity to stretch their legs while viewing 18th-century architecture. The final destination before returning to Bridgetown, Barbados, is Canouan, Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, home to colorful coral reefs, turtle nesting sites, and hiking trails up Mount Royal.

Norwegian Cruise Line's Western Caribbean: Harvest Caye, Cozumel, and Roatan

Duration: Seven nights

What to expect: This cruise leaves from New Orleans, so the celebration can start even before guests board the 3,903-passenger Norwegian Getaway for a day at sea with nightly entertainment, a casino, a spa, and a water park. There's the Splash Academy for young cruisers and the Entourage games and activities lounge for teens. The ship arrives at Costa Maya, Mexico, home to Mayan ruins, beaches, fly fishing, and river tubing. Belize is the next port, with river rafting through the jungle and relaxing on the beach. The next day is spent on Roatán, an island off the coast of Honduras, for snorkeling or a beach day. In Cozumel, off Mexico's Yucatan Peninsula, there's snorkeling, trolley tours, and tequila tasting. After another day at sea, the ship returns to New Orleans.

Royal Caribbean's 7-night Southern Caribbean

What to expect: Passengers board the 2,416-guest Rhapsody of the Seas in San Juan, Puerto Rico. The next port is the island of St. Thomas, with world-famous beaches and snorkeling. From there, the ship goes to St. Croix, the largest of the U.S. Virgin Islands. Then, it's on to Philipsburg on St. Maarten, a culturally vibrant island governed by the Netherlands and France. On St. Lucia, cruisers can opt to relax at a resort or on the beach or hit the island's hiking trails. The last stop before the ship returns to San Juan is Barbados, where guests can marvel at pink-sand beaches, go spelunking, or visit historic plantations.

Virgin Voyages' Eastern Caribbean Antilles

Duration: Eight nights

What to expect: One of the best adults-only cruises , this voyage from Miami features a mix of adventure-filled days, nightlife, and experiences that are exclusive to Virgin Voyages guests. After boarding the 2,770-passenger Scarlet Lady , the first stop is the Dominican port of Puerto Plata, where excursions include an off-road adventure through villages, rivers, and waterfalls, a cable car ride up to the mountains, and a rum-tasting tour. The next stop in San Juan includes a late-night stay, giving guests extra time to experience Puerto Rico’s capital city in the evening. After a stop in St. Croix in the U.S. Virgin Islands, cruisers can enjoy the ship's many bars and restaurants before arriving at The Virgin Voyages Beach Club at Bimini, where they can indulge in a private beach club experience, or set out to explore the Bahamas' reefs, culture, and history on guided excursions.

Royal Caribbean's 4-night Bahamas and Perfect Day Cruise

Duration: Four nights What to expect: The 4,370-passenger Freedom of the Seas boards in Miami and heads to Nassau, Bahamas, for a day. Options there include Atlantis Resort and its waterpark, aquariums, and waterslides, as well as shopping and lounging on the beach. A day at sea provides time to enjoy the ship's water sports, nightlife, and restaurants. The ship arrives at CocoCay, Bahamas, for a day of fun in the freshwater pool, water park, Oasis Lagoon, and Coco Beach Club. The ship then returns to Miami for disembarkation.

Windstar Cruises' Classic Caribbean

What to expect: The cruise begins in St. Maarten aboard Wind Surf , a majestic 342-guest sailing ship with 150 luxurious staterooms. From there, the ship sails to Roseau, Dominica, and Pigeon Island, St. Lucia, where guests can explore rain forests and waterfalls. You can even hop aboard an aerial tram for a ride over the rain forest. In Guadeloupe, the Les Saintes archipelago offers snorkeling and rum sampling. In Basseterre, St. Kitts, there's an island tour, scenic railway, and zip line adventure. The cruise then heads to St. Barts for a catamaran sail before the ship returns to St. Maarten.

Hurtigruten's Tropical Waters and Remote Island Communities in the Caribbean

Duration: 11 nights

What to expect: Guests board the 550-passenger MS Roald Amundsen in Miami and spend the next two days cruising. The expedition ship has its own science center, as well as Nordic-inspired lounges, restaurants, and a spa, so guests can choose to dive into research or relax. The first stop is Belize, where you'll visit the Mayan ruins of Altun Ha and explore the country's pristine barrier reef. The cruise then heads to Honduras, stopping at spectacular dive sites and historic cities. Wildlife lovers will appreciate Nicaragua's remote islands of Cayos Miskitos, part of a protected nature reserve. Then, the adventure continues on Isla de Providencia in Colombia, Big Corn Island on Nicaragua's Caribbean coast, and Panama's UNESCO-listed Bocas del Toro islands. The final stop is Colón at the Caribbean entrance of the Panama Canal. Hurtigruten engages guests with citizen science programs, in-depth lectures from its expedition team, and purpose-driven excursions centered around mindfully exploring nature and the local cultures. Options include guided visits to Indigenous communities, hikes along rugged trails, and opportunities to learn about wildlife.

Windstar Cruises' Boston Sights, Warm Caribbean Nights

Duration: 10 nights

What to expect: Sailing from Boston aboard the all-suite Star Pride , which accommodates a maximum of 312 guests, cruisers can enjoy the spa, dining venues, and infinity pool during two days at sea on their way to Bermuda. In Hamilton, shopping, kayaking, and fresh seafood restaurants await, and in St. George's, guests can tour natural grottos or a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Two more days at sea take cruisers to St. Barts. After that, the ship stops in St. Kitts and the British Virgin Islands. San Juan is the final port, and guests can explore the historic old town after disembarkation.

Celebrity Cruises' 5-night Bahamas and Mexico

Duration: Five nights What to expect: Cruisers board the 2,218-passenger Celebrity Summit in Miami and head to Nassau, Bahamas, for a day of relaxing beaches, duty-free shopping, and dining on the local specialty, conch fritters. A day at sea is next, with time to enjoy the ship's amenities, casino, and a rooftop terrace with a bar, restaurant, and al fresco movie theater. The ship arrives in Cozumel for snorkeling, diving, or exploring the Mayan ruins of Tulum. After another day of cruising the Caribbean, the ship returns to Miami.

Ponant's Pearls of the Caribbean Cruise

What to expect: From Martinique's capital of Fort-de-France, the 184-passenger Le Champlain sails to Bequia Island with lively Port Elizabeth, beaches, and the tropical rainforest. Mayreau Island offers peaceful, sandy beaches and snorkeling before guests head to Grenada the following day for Zodiac tours. The ship then stops at Southern Grenadines' Tobago Cays, five small islands set in lagoons teeming with marine life including green sea turtles, and Kingston, Saint Vincent and the Grenadines. Pigeon Island, a national park in St. Lucia, is home to sandy beaches for snorkeling and relaxing. A stop in Soufrière gives passengers a closer look at the volcanic spires. After a stop in Les Saintes, Guadeloupe, and Portsmouth, Dominica, the ship sails back to Martinique. Along the way, there's ample time to enjoy the ship's swimming pool, underwater lounge, and elegant decor.

Azamara's 8-night Eastern Caribbean Voyage

What to expect: One of the best Caribbean cruises takes travelers on a voyage down to the region's eastern islands — all while sailing in the lap of luxury aboard the Azamara Quest , renowned for its comfortable 361 staterooms (including some with step-out balconies). The adventure begins in Miami and includes stops in St. Thomas, the British Virgin Islands, St. Kitts and Nevis, St Maarten, and St. Barts. Between shore excursions, guests can enjoy the ship's spa, fitness center, boutiques, enrichment programs, cocktail lounges, and performances by local talent.

Viking Ocean Cruises' West Indies Explorer

What to expect: Guests board the 930-passenger Viking Sea in San Juan before enjoying a day of kayaking, exploring the town, or horseback riding. Tortola, British Virgin Islands, is the next port, with time for snorkeling and the beach before heading to St. Kitts and Nevis. A rainforest safari and scenic railway trip are options there. In St. Lucia the next day, there's an aerial tram through the rainforest canopy and a catamaran tour. Bridgetown, Barbados, is the next port, and then Dominica the following day. Antigua and Barbuda offer a beach retreat or Segway city tour. In St. Maarten, sailing fans can participate in a simulated America's Cup race aboard a yacht. St. Thomas is the final stop before returning to San Juan.

Seabourn Cruises' 12-day Caribbean Gems

What to expect: The cruise begins in Miami, where guests board Seabourn Sojourn for a day at sea on the way to San Juan. The ship offers 229 suites and an observation lounge and bar for enjoying the sea views. Activity options include a city tour, an El Yunque rain forest drive, or a culinary adventure. The next port is Gustavia, St. Barts, and then the ship continues to Guadeloupe for a day of touring or hiking. On Dominica, guests can explore waterfalls and hot springs before heading to Carambola Beach, home to some of St. Kitts and Nevis's most luxurious beach clubs and restaurants. Jost Van Dyke in the British Virgin Islands is the last port before the ship returns to Miami.

Viking Ocean Cruises' Amazon and Caribbean Adventure

What to expect: This cruise aboard the 930-guest Viking Sea begins in San Juan with time to explore historic Old San Juan and the island's white-sand beaches. Antigua and Barbuda are the next ports, where guests have a day to explore on land or via a catamaran cruise. In St. Lucia the next day, there's an aerial tram to the rainforest canopy and a hands-on cooking class. The ship arrives at Bridgetown, Barbados, for a day and then heads out to sea for a day on the way to French Guiana. The next day is at sea, with time to enjoy the ship's activities before arriving at the Amazon River. The ship cruises the Amazon to the town of Santarém for some time at the local market. The next port in Brazil is Parintins, for a colorful folk performance, and then on to Manaus, 1,000 miles upriver from the Atlantic. Guests disembark in Manaus, Brazil, to travel home or explore the city.

Silversea's Fort Lauderdale to Bridgetown

What to expect: This activity-packed voyage on the 596-passenger Silver Moon ship — one of the largest vessels in Silversea’s fleet — begins in Fort Lauderdale, Florida. After a couple of days at sea, the first stop is San Juan, where rain forest and architectural explorations await. The next ports are St. Barts and St. Kitts, where cruisers can take it slow with beach time and culinary excursions or get their adrenaline pumping with a zip-lining adventure. The following two days include stops in St. John's and Guadaloupe, with shore excursions ranging from kayaking to snorkeling. On the seventh day, the ship arrives in Castries, St. Lucia, where guests can appreciate the capital city from above on a flightseeing helicopter tour or an aerial tram. The final stops are St. George's on Grenada and Bequia, St. Vincent and the Grenadines before the voyage ends in Bridgetown, Barbados. 

Oceania Cruises' Tropical Retreats

What to expect: Passengers board in Miami for a day at sea on Oceania Cruises' Vista , with a pool bar, casino, spa, shops, 10 restaurants, and entertainment. The ship carries 1,200 passengers and features a wide variety of cabins including Oceania's first solo cabins. The first port is Cozumel, Mexico's largest Caribbean island, which offers shopping for local handicrafts and duty-free deals as well as snorkeling, river tubing, and boating. The next port is Harvest Caye, Belize, with beachfront villas and poolside cabanas that can be rented for the day and a lagoon for kayaks and pedal boats. Roatán, Honduras, is next, a remote island with white-sand beaches and coral reefs. The ship then stops at Costa Maya on Mexico's Caribbean coast, where guests can snorkel, kayak, relax on the beach, or explore nearby Mayan ruins. After a day at sea to relax and enjoy Vista' s amenities, the ship returns to Miami.

Celebrity Cruises' Aruba, Bonaire and Curacao

What to expect: After leaving Fort Lauderdale, this cruise begins with two days at sea, providing guests with ample time to enjoy the 3,260-passenger Celebrity Beyond's expansive top deck, restaurants, and bars. The first stop in the Dutch Caribbean islands is Oranjestad, Aruba, where guests can stroll down historic streets lined with colorful buildings. The next stops are Kralendijk, Bonaire, renowned for its dive sites, and Willemstad, Curacao, famous for its 17th-century fort, colonial buildings, street art, and vibrant cafes and bars. Another two days at sea allow guests to relax before disembarking in Fort Lauderdale. 

Holland America Line's 7-day Tropical Caribbean

Duration: Seven nights What to expect: Boarding in Fort Lauderdale, this voyage invites cruisers for a week of fun on one of the best Caribbean cruises. After a night at sea, the 1053-cabin Nieuw Amsterdam arrives at Half Moon Bay, Bahamas, Holland America Line's private island with boating, snorkeling, biking, hiking, or horseback riding excursions. Then a day is spent on-board the cruise while heading towards the next stop in Grand Turk, Turks and Caicos, for snorkeling, diving, or relaxing on the shore. The next port is Amber Cove, Dominican Republic, to swim and snorkel or visit a rum distillery or cigar factory. After another day at sea, the elegant 2,668-passenger Rotterdam arrives in Key West, Florida, for a chance to visit the bars and restaurants of Duval Street and enjoy the historic architecture.

Lindblad Expeditions' Sailing the Caribbean Aboard Sea Cloud

What to expect: This cruise aboard Sea Cloud , a historic square-rigger ship that can accommodate 64 passengers, begins in Bridgetown, Barbados, for a true sailing adventure. The next day at sea provides time to relax on deck, observe the rigging crew as they hand-set the ship's 30 sails, or learn about the planned destinations. The next day is spent swimming and snorkeling in Dominica before sailing on to Guadeloupe. The island of Bequia in the Grenadines is the next destination, where there's a model boat museum, a charming waterfront town, and local shops. Sea Cloud then sails on to Grenada and St. Lucia, home to a volcanic crater, waterfalls, sulfur springs, and mountains, and then ends back in Barbados.

Regent Seven Seas Cruises' Magic in the Caribbean

What to expect: One of the best cruises to book in 2024 , Regent Seven Seas dazzles passengers with its luxurious amenities and captivating itineraries. For this voyage, travelers board the 750-guest Seven Seas Grandeur in Miami and spend the next day at sea, enjoying the ship's amenities, including the fitness center, spa, bocce court, cooking classes, infinity pool, and much more. Then it's five days of island hopping to the Dominican Republic, Puerto Rico, St. Barts, Dominica, Antigua, and the British Virgin Islands. Two more days at sea provide plenty of time to take advantage of everything the ship has to offer before returning to Miami to disembark.

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The 15 Best Things to Do In Grenada – the Spice Island of the Caribbean!

Visiting Grenada

Last month, I had the pleasure of visiting Grenada for the first time. Grenada and the Grenadines is a small trio of islands in the Caribbean , near the West Indies and quite far south nearer to South America than Florida.

I spent a total of five days on the island, staying right on Grand Anse beach and filled the days with sun, sand and relaxation.

In today’s post, I’m sharing all the best things to do in Grenada!

Quick jump to:

• Fun Things to Do
• Best Time to Visit
• Where to Stay
• Popular Tours and Day Trips

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The Best Things to Do in Grenada

While researching for the trip, I didn’t find much out there. I’m not quite sure why Grenada doesn’t seem to receive much traffic (it also gets often confused for Granada , Spain) but now having been, I wholeheartedly recommend it.

The island is perfect for diving and sailing while on the interior, Grenada boasts a lush national park and rain forest  so you get a great mix of beach and jungle – which was fascinating to me.  Most people seem to do a quick day stopover aboard a Caribbean cruise ship but I also noticed lots of British expats with homes on the island!

Here are just some of the amazing things to do on Grenada!

1. Swim on Grand Anse Beach

Most of the luxury hotels in Grenada are located along Grand Anse, a beautiful beach with lush palm trees, soft white sand and gentle waves.

Our hotel, the Radisson Grand Anse , had some of the most beautiful landscaping that I’ve ever seen and lots of waterfall pools, swim up pools, bridges and hammocks.

It was a paradise that we didn’t want to leave! You can read a full review of the property in our earlier  blog post here .

Beaches in Grenada are public so you’ll find lots of locals relaxing, tanning and swimming! It’s such a fun atmosphere and you can even walk into some of the other hotel properties if you want to snorkel, rent a boat or scuba dive .

2. Eat Authentic Jerk Chicken

For the best local food, head to ‘Wall Street’ a small strip of restaurants and stores. There you’ll find a Caribbean Grill Master restaurant with amazing jerk chicken, kebabs, Carib beer and ice cream smoothies!

Our advice?

Ask for an ice cream milkshake combining chocolate and nutmeg. Grenada is known as the ‘Spice Island’ since it exports so many rich spices, including rich dark chocolate cacao beans and nutmeg. The shake is delicious!!

3. Explore St. George

The bustling capital of St. George is a great spot to have lunch and do a short walking tour. Walk uphill (bring sturdy travel shoes ) to see the  Carenage , fort, market and churches. From the  Radisson   (or any hotel on Grand Anse beach), it’s a short 15 minute drive into town.

Fort George sits above the town center, originally built for strategic fortification to guard the harbor entrance. This is a great spot for a good view and to take some pictures of the colorful houses below!

To get to St. George, you can take a taxi but we thought it was more fun to hop on the crazy, loud and fun local minibuses (bus #1) to get to Saint George’s. The minivans stop right outside the hotel on the main road every couple minutes.

Or, if you want a complete experience, book this guided tour of St. George that includes an English speaking guide as well as trips to a spice plantation and distillery! You’ll get round trip transportation taken care of and even get to taste Grenada’s local specialties: rum and chocolate !

4. Try Local Fruits like Soursup

In St. George, there’s a small mall near the cruise dock where you can pick up some souvenirs.

Don’t miss the delicious frozen fruit smoothie stand where they whip up fruit smoothies of every kind. Try the  soursup  smoothie if you’re adventurous (it’s been studied and found to help fight cancer!)

5. Climb Seven Sisters Waterfall

In Grenada’s center, you’ll find Grand Etang volcanic lake and rainforest trails. We took a hike to see Seven Sisters waterfall which was a challenging uphill climb!

6. Visit Concord Waterfall

Next, we took a second visit to Concord Falls, which is much more easily accessible by car. If you have time it’s fun to do both – Seven Sisters is more remote and feels like you’ve stumbled on a local hideout while Concord waterfall is a larger singular fall with some tourist infrastructure.

7. Swim in Annandale Falls

Finally, Grenada has a third waterfall, Annandale Falls, a picturesque grotto where 30 feet of water cascades down into a small pool. For convenience, we booked an all day tour  that included a drive to take us around to all these picturesque waterfalls! 

8. Visit River Antoine Rum Factory

Almost every Caribbean island produces great rum, and Grenada is no exception!

River Antoine Rum Distillery dates back to 1785. It gets its name from the River Antoine, and is the oldest functioning water powered distillery left in the Caribbean! Despite the factory being ancient enough to be an antique, it remains a working distillery today. 

We loved tasting the rum here – in small doses though, because this stuff is 75% proof! The strong rum is only available in Grenada so pick up a couple bottles as souvenirs for friends and family back home who love the potent stuff.

The factory is located on Grenada’s northeast coast, in the parish of St. Patrick, so it’s convenient to include this as part of an all day tour of the island. 

9. Tour a Nutmeg Plant

I really enjoyed the island drive as you get to see how diverse and lush Grenada is.

Mangoes and banana trees sprout right on the side of the road, footpaths are overgrown with tiny pineapple shrubs and beautiful inland mansions and old shells of houses remain from Hurricane Ivan.

Don’t leave the Spice Island without a proper spice tour.

We visited a nutmeg plant , all locally operated, and learned about all of the island’s main agricultural exports. Nutmeg is one of Grenada’s top spice exports and is used in everything from your basic seasoning to mace, massage oil, syrup… even garden mulch and nail varnish!

Local nutmeg plants are a main employer on the island and all the employees were incredibly friendly.

10. Stop by the Chocolate Museum

Come here to learn about the island’s most delicious dark chocolate export. There’s artisan chocolate pieces for sale and ice cream shakes as well.

We bought a ton of chocolate bars to take home – my favorites are the salty-licious 71% dark chocolate and the nib-a-licious 60% dark bars!

11. Go Scuba Diving

You definitely have to take advantage of the island’s pristine diving waters and spend a morning or two underneath the sea.

We scuba dived every morning of our trip, exploring different reefs each time and couldn’t get enough! We saw turtles, lots of local reef fish and the world’s only underwater sculpture park, all of which were a treat.

Some of Grenada’s most popular dive sites include:

• Purple Rain
• Flamingo Bay
• Bianca C Wreck

Monday through Friday seemed to be the touristy days, and frequent stops are made to the  Underwater Sculpture Park  (the first in the world!) where you can see sunken sculptures and local reef life intertwined.

Advanced divers probably want to dive on the weekend, where the expats and locals take diving seriously and head to deeper waters like Grenada wreck sites. We’ve mentally bookmarked them for when we get our advanced certification!

For our full diving experience, you can read this post about  scuba diving in Grenada .

12. Go Sailing

There are many charter options in Grenada available for hire and most opt for a one way cruise southward starting from St Lucia and ending in Grenada, in order to travel windward.

13. Hop over to Carriacou Island & Petite Martinique

If you have a week or longer, budget some time to hop over to neighboring Carriacou island to explore for a couple days.

The easiest way to is fly (flights are offered daily from the main island to Carriacou and Petite Martinique) but there are also daily ferry options and the slower mail boats, which can go to St. Vincent and the Grenadines.

14. Have Lunch at Belmont Estate

Belmont Heritage Estate is a historic cocoa plantation that dates back to the 1700s.

The large property includes a museum and a modern day restaurant. Take a guided tour to learn about the original Scottish owners, present day Grenadian owners and relax long enough to enjoy lunch !

15. Experience Fish Friday

We didn’t get to try this, but we heard about it often from locals and wished we had!

Fish Friday takes place (you guessed it) every Friday in the town of Gouyave, a small village on Grenada’s west coast. The town is well known for its seafood and is the fishing hub of Grenada.

Book transportation here to take you into the street festival, wander the food stalls and listen to the live music! Fish Friday is a Grenadian tradition so it’s a great way to mingle and experience the local culture.

What kind of food can you expect? Freshly caught seafood like lobster, conch and shrimp, jerked marlin, fish cakes and refreshing beers. 

Best Time to Visit Grenada

The steamy tropical climate is tempered by northeast trade winds for a year round balmy climate. I spoke to locals who recommended January to April as the driest and best time to visit (rainy season occurs from June to November).

Though if you’re looking to experience a Caribbean party like no other, the raucous August Carnival is a brilliant time to be in Grenada.

From New York City, you can easily hop on a direct flight to Grenada’s Maurice Bishop International Airport, making it an easy destination to visit, whether you have a long weekend or a full week! Set a flight alert here to be notified of deals.

One thing we recommend is to book your transportation in advance. When we landed, we were immediately swarmed by taxi operators as we left the airport and we didn’t have any local currency to pay them. Grenada uses Eastern Caribbean dollars – try to exchange currency in advance if you can!

If you want a seamless arrival and departure, you can book a taxi private comfortable transfer here to pick you up and drop you off directly to your hotel. They’ll pick up from both the airport and cruise terminal, so it’s really convenient!

Where to Stay in Grenada

The best place to stay in Grenada is on Grand Anse Beach . It’s centrally located on the island and where you’ll find all the high end resorts. The capital is a short drive away, while the beach is at your feet! For more of a secluded feel, head south to Morne Rouge.

Radisson Grenada  

We stayed here and loved every second! It's nothing fancy, but it is clean and comfortable and has extensive lush grounds as well as a prime spot right on the beach. It's near the top of the hotel strip, so you're within walking distance to restaurants, scuba schools and bus pick ups to head into the capital.

Check rates:  Booking.com , Hotels.com  

Read: Our Review ,  TripAdvisor

Other fantastic hotels in Grenada:

This hotel was right next door to the Radisson and where we walked over each morning to the  EcoDive scuba shop . We didn’t see the rooms, but the grounds were similar to the Radisson’s and also had beachfront access.

Check rates: Booking.com , Hotels.com | Read reviews: TripAdvisor

Sandals La Source  

This luxury resort down south in Morne Rouge. This property is much more secluded and close to some beautiful scuba diving spots. It’s also quite popular with honeymooners and romantic couple getaways!

Check rates: Booking.com | Read reviews: TripAdvisor

Getting Around

Grenada is a truly beautiful island and quite unique in the Caribbean in that is has a rainforest interior and beach exterior. You could spend your entire trip laying out on the beach, but you’d be missing out if you didn’t at least see the waterfalls, spice plantations and beautiful estates in the interior!

If you want to experience as much as possible, within a limited period of time, it’s easiest to book a tour. This is what we did to see Grenada’s interior and what we would definitely recommend for cruise visitors.

Here’s a couple of the most popular tours in Grenada:

Grenada All Day Tour 

This full day tour will show you everything beautiful that there is to experience in Grenada. With round trip transportation from your hotel or cruise ship, you’ll tour St George, a spice plantation, the River Antoine rum distillery and also visit Concord Waterfall and Grand Etang rainforest .

If you’re only in Grenada for a short time, there’s no better way to get a complete picture of the island than this! We did this tour and especially loved learning about Grenada’s history, sampling rum and tasting local chocolate.

Check availability and rates here .

7 Sisters Waterfall

Grenada’s waterfalls feel blissfully un-touristy. They’re hidden deep on the island’s lush interior and surrounded by green forest, local vegetables and muddy climbing paths. A great way to experience Grenada properly is to see 7 sisters waterfall and Concord Waterfalls , especially if you enjoy hiking!

Belmont Estate Heritage Tour

Belmont is a working cocoa plantation . The rural site is home to a historic museum, cocoa bean fermentary and a great lunch buffet! The food is always fresh, delicious and authentically Grenadian.

Local Transportation in Grenada

On the other hand, if you prefer to stay at your all inclusive resort and just want a short half day trip to see St. George, you can take advantage of the local minibus. #1 passes between the beach strip and the capital and is what the locals use!

The pick up is right in front of the Radisson, so it’s convenient if you’re staying at the hotel.

Note : this is a bumpy ride in a local minivan. It gets crowded, wasn’t air-conditioned and the drivers often like to blast music. We took it a couple times and thought it was fun, but it probably isn’t the transportation mode for everyone. All the locals are friendly and it’s definitely safe.

Is Grenada on your Caribbean bucket list?

Visiting St George, Grenada – Travel Checklist

We took a direct flight from New York into Maurice Bishop International airport (GND) via Jet Blue. For any Caribbean destination, Jet Blue offers competitive fares – you can check for  flight deals here .

If you're visiting Grenada for the beach, stay right on Grand Anse Beach. This is the best part of the beach and the most scenic place to stay – it's also where all the hotels tend to concentrate! You can spend all day at the resort and beach, or head into town. Book accommodation in advance  to save.

Lastly, be sure to visit Grenada with  travel insurance . Whether you get injured and need to be hospitalized, or your phone gets stolen, travel insurance will help when you need it most. Get a  quote for your trip here .

Grenada Vacation Planning Articles

11 Can’t Miss Activities in Grenada

Scuba Diving in the World’s First Underwater Sculpture Park

Beachfront Living at the Radisson Grenada

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Our trip to Grenada was hosted by the Grenada Tourism Board. Our decision to write this post and all opinions within are our own.

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How gorgeous! I love all these photos and love your outfits! Especially the off the shoulder dress and the eyelet dress. Thanks for the helpful travel tips too, I can’t want to go back to the Caribbean!

That water is beautiful! :) I’m definitely adding this to my bucket list!

This will be in my list. I like to travel on new places. Great that you mentioned… Its good to travel in april as its my birthday month.

Hi Ashley, so glad you liked it! Hope you get to do something fun for your birthday :)

Nice pics and guide, thanks for the inspiration!

Thanks Julian! Glad you enjoyed

I like your list of things to do.

I had never given Grenada much thought, but it looks beautiful! Added to my bucket list!

Well spent days in a lovely place. Each shot you have is stunning.

Grenada looks great. I think the Caribbean is somewhere that could do with being visited!

Totally Tom! Especially if you enjoy water sports, Grenada is pristine

Grenada looks amazing! I’ve been to the Caribbean but never here before. These pics make me really want to go.

Thanks Nathan! I’m so glad you enjoyed the photos enough to consider a trip

I absolutely LOVE Grenada but have only been there by cruise ship. I have been thinking about going back for about a year now so this article is timely and gave me good advice about where to stay. I loved the spice tour but unfortunately after a stop to the rum factory with 110-180 proof rums, I don’t remember much about the rest of the stop. ;)

I have been to quite a few Caribbean islands, but not to Grenada, so I really enjoyed your detailed report and all the useful suggestions.

holy cow, i think i need to take a trip to grenada. looks like paradise and not too intense with the resorts like cuba and domincan. looks like you had a phenomenal time and the food looks super yummy.

yay you visited the underwater sculptures with our besties at Eco – Dive – great call ? Worth mentioning for those that can’t dive that you can snorkel the site too with Eco – Dive or combination it with a powerboat adventure with us. Hope we see you next time you visit our beautiful spicetastic island.

Oh my god you went to paradise! That place looks amazing, especially that falls by the pool in your hotel, gorgeous! But the real life falls, Concord is much more beautiful. I’m sold, I am going to visualize myself in the Caribbean so I can go there too.

I’m excited this post is out as I wonder how Grenada is from your instagram photos :) Such a haven in paradise, a great getaway from the US! And love how your dresses match up the tropical weather and island.

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Wow this is awesome. We’d love for you to visit the resort whenever you are back in Grenada.

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Thinking of going here soon.

How affordable is Grenada compared to other spots like Mexico/ Jamaica Bahamas?

Also, I’m a vegetarian— do you think it will be a struggle?

I enjoyed reading your blog. I have to really take a look at Grenada, love the islands, have recently been to Curacao and loved it. Thanks for the great insights.

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I've been to 20 Caribbean islands — these are the 5 I'd return to and the 2 I'd skip despite having great experiences.

• After visiting 20 islands in the Caribbean , I have lots of favorites and a few I wouldn't return to.
• St. Lucia offers wellness activities, fun nightlife, and great food.
• Although I enjoyed my time on Grand Bahama, this island left me wanting more.

There's a misconception that all Caribbean islands are the same. However, as someone who's been traveling to the Caribbean for almost two decades, I've found that each island has its own distinct food, festivals, and cultural traditions.

After visiting 20 Caribbean islands, I can see why the area is such a hot spot for tourism. In fact, travel to the Caribbean is already off to a strong start this year, with many destinations seeing an uptick in visitors compared to 2023 .

As someone who's spent a lot of time in the Caribbean, these are the five islands I'd love to return to and the two I'd skip.

St. Lucia offers wellness activities and great food.

Though St. Lucia is typically billed as a romantic destination , I visited on a solo trip and had a blast exploring the island.

Some of my favorite activities included a mud bath in Sulphur Springs, a rum and chocolate tour, and an afternoon boat ride past The Pitons.

St. Lucians also have some great street food and love to have a good time. During my stay, I headed to the lively Friday night Gros Islet street party for grilled conch and fried fish straight off the boat.

Dominica is great for hiking and natural attractions.

Nicknamed " the nature island ," Dominica is one of the Caribbean's best-kept secrets.

One of my favorite excursions was a hike to Trafalgar Falls, a pair of stunning waterfalls about a 20-minute drive from the island's capital city, Roseau.

I also rode horseback on the island's black-sand beaches and floated on an inner tube through Titou Gorge, a cave with a hidden waterfall and swimming hole.

St. John has gorgeous beaches.

I spent my 15th wedding anniversary on St. John, the smallest of the three main US Virgin Islands. One of the highlights of my stay was a beach day at Trunk Bay.

The beach is located inside Virgin Islands National Park on St. John, and though there's a small entry fee, it's worth every penny. The beach is framed by lush mountains, and towering palm trees dot the wide, sandy shore. In short, it's paradise.

St. John isn't a hub for partying or late-night entertainment, but the island's gorgeous sunsets and natural setting are ideal for honeymoons and special anniversary trips.

Grenada is a snorkeling hot spot with a unique national park.

During my stay on Grenada, I encountered lots of warm and inviting locals, who would strike up conversations and ask how I was enjoying my visit.

Besides enjoying the popular Grand Anse Beach, I booked a day tour to Grand Etang National Park to check out Grand Etang Lake, a freshwater lake surrounded by a lush rainforest.

I ended my stay on Grenada with a snorkeling trip to Molinere Underwater Sculpture Park to see the submerged sculptures.

Turks and Caicos are great for decompressing on the beach.

There's a reason Turks and Caicos are a magnet for celebrities and socialites, but you don't have to be an A-lister to enjoy the islands.

Providenciales is the most populated island in Turks and Caicos. Provo, as some locals call it, offers a laid-back, tranquil beach vacation. Most hotels on Provo are located along Grace Bay, a picture-perfect stretch of pearly white sand and turquoise water.

Water sports like jet skiing, snorkeling, and clear-bottom kayaking are popular, but I was content to spend most of my days alternating between reading on the beach and cooling off in the pool.

However, Grand Cayman was one of the priciest islands I’ve visited.

Grand Cayman has a lot going for it: beautiful resorts, delicious food, and a flight from Miami that's under two hours.

The soft white sand and sparkling turquoise water of Seven Mile Beach have also helped make Grand Cayman a popular vacation spot .

But when I visited, I experienced a bit of sticker shock since US currency doesn't go as far as it does on other islands. The Caymanian dollar has a fixed exchange rate, and one Caymanian dollar is worth $1.21 USD.

I've visited more affordable islands with equally stunning beaches like Klein Curaçao Beach in Curaçao, Crane Beach in Barbados, and Palm Beach in Aruba.

Grand Bahama left me wanting more.

One of my first trips to the Caribbean was to Grand Bahama via a ferry from Fort Lauderdale . My husband and I stayed on the island for about a week, filling up on fresh conch and visiting the Port Lucaya marketplace.

While I enjoyed the laid-back stay, I've found that other Bahamian islands have more to see and do.

If you want to be closer to the action, skip Grand Bahama for New Providence, which is home to top-notch restaurants and hotels, historic landmarks like Queen's Staircase, and the annual Junkanoo parade.

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Families with autism find travel challenging, these Caribbean resorts make it easier

Beaches Resorts in the Caribbean are bringing new meaning to being all-inclusive . 

Like typical all-inclusive resorts , food and drinks, watersports and other activities are included in the cost, but Beaches Resorts – with two properties in Ocho Rios and Negril in Jamaica and one in Providence in Turks and Caicos – also caters to families with members who are neurodivergent.

Many families find traveling with a child on the spectrum challenging , with only 13% of them reporting that they take vacations, according to a survey by the International Board of Credentialing and Continuing Education Standards (IBCCES).

It’s not like these families don’t want to travel. The industry just isn’t accommodating them. An overwhelming 97% of families said they are not satisfied with the travel options for autistic children, and 93% said they would take more vacations if there were more autism-certified options available. 

From a sensory guide and designated quiet areas to the first autism-friendly Kids Camps in the Caribbean, Beaches Resorts is the first resort company to be autism-certified by the IBCCES, making sure families with autistic children can enjoy a tropical vacation as much as anyone else.

Learn more: Best travel insurance

“We want to ensure every child on the spectrum feels a sense of ease and give the families the trust to see all these items in place,” Heather Effs, Sandals Resorts International’s corporate manager of Entertainment Operations, told USA TODAY. Sandals is Beaches’ parent company. “They’re traveling from a different country, so we try to meet the parents half-way as best as we can.”

The first of its kind

After seeing how many families with neurodiverse children were visiting the resorts, Beaches Resorts decided to step up its commitment to serving them. After a vigorous search for the right training and accreditation, the resort company chose IBCCES for its autism certification process. 

After about eight months of training, Beaches Resorts became the first resort company to be a designated Certified Autism Center in 2017. It didn’t stop there. In 2019, the resort company was the first in its industry to be an Advanced Certified Autism Center. Over 80% of its guest-facing team members – from those who greet families at the airport to the watersports team – underwent advanced training to interact with families with children who have special needs. In total, around 6,000 staff members completed 40 hours of training in areas like motor skills, sensory awareness and social skills. Last year, the resort company recertified its credentials.

“The whole experience is really seamless, for the guests, every step of the way, you have some expert in the area,” Effs said. 

The theme park for everyone: Here's how and what guests can expect at the more autism-friendly LEGOLAND.

How are Beaches Resorts autism-friendly?

Families with neurodiverse children are accommodated before they even depart for their Caribbean getaway. 

While booking, families fill out a pre-travel form to share their child’s needs and triggers, like if they don’t eat foods with a certain texture or notable visual or social cues. Families also meet one-on-one prior to their trip with the kids camp manager to talk through their needs and requests. They can also pay for expedited, seamless travel through airport immigration and to the resort or a culinary concierge with custom menus for the family. 

After that, the resort curates a personalized trip itinerary for the family, including scheduled activities like snorkeling or sailing. There are also guest rooms that limit stimuli and aren’t near noisy areas. 

Beaches Resort also created a sensory guide in 2023 for each of its properties to rate the loud areas and designated quiet zones of the resort on a scale of 1-10. 

If they opt in, families are met by their very own Beaches Buddy when they arrive at the airport, or as Effs put it, “a fun pal that really goes everywhere with the child.” This person is an accredited staffer who escorts the child throughout their stay for an additional cost. Their buddy joins them at the Kids Camps or if their parents want a date night. 

Each resort also revamped its Kids Camps during the company’s certification process, and there are age-specific camps for infants, toddlers, pre-teens and teens. “There’s one camp space just to let them know it’s a judgement-free area,” Effs said. “We welcome everyone.” The camp area plays calming “oceany” music and is outfitted in neutral colors. There is a sensory play area with toys like fidget toys and sensory pillows to help soothe. Kids can join A group or DO one-on-one activities with their Beaches Buddy. 

Some children start off in private activities and end up joining other kids in watersports after feeling more comfortable, Effs said. 

While every team member has undergone training, there’s a special Beaches Resort staffer who particularly helps kids on the spectrum: Julia. 

You may have already heard of Julia as the first autistic Sesame Street character, introduced in 2015, but you can also find her at all three Beaches Resort properties. Staying true to her representation, you’ll never find Julia at the parades, breakfasts or parts of the resort that are loud. However, she can be found at arts and crafts sessions and on garden walks. 

She can also be requested for one-on-one sessions with kids. “We have families that come just because of Julia,” Effs said. 

Not just welcoming, but celebrating autism

Last October, Beaches Resorts dedicated an entire week to its neurodivergent guests. 

The resort brand hosted its first-ever Beaches Autism Inclusion Week for families at its Ocho Rios location. Even adults on the spectrum came to enjoy the week-long event, which featured talks with autism experts, arts and crafts with Sesame Street characters, water sport activities and more. 

This year, the second Beaches Autism Inclusion Week will take place at its Negril property at the end of September. Every family who attends will also get a Beaches Buddy to accompany them on their vacation.  

“We’re growing on that aspect, creating more week-long activities to cater (to) families with children on the spectrum, making it bigger and better,” Effs said. 

Kathleen Wong is a travel reporter for USA TODAY based in Hawaii. You can reach her at [email protected] .

One Day in Moscow Itinerary – What to do in Moscow, Russia

Moscow is an amazing city full of history. Located in western Russia, on the Moskva River, it has been the capital of the country since the 14th century, with a break of 200 years when the capital of Russia was moved to Sankt Petersburg. This impressive place provides its visitors with a glimpse of Russian traditions and ways of living but also boasts many incredible sights. One day in Moscow will therefore be an amazing experience full of things to do an places to see. This is Russian culture and history at its finest!

Moscow is also one of the most populated cities in the world and the most populated and fastest-growing city in Europe. Visiting it in one day is a challenge , but not impossible. Discover its amazing architecture, UNESCO World Heritage Sites, and incredible parks because this is one of the greenest cities in Europe, too.

What’s the Best Time to Visit Moscow?

Moscow is a cold city, and if you want to enjoy it fully while it is sunny, the best time to visit it is during summer. However, summer is the most touristy season , and the prices are very high, but the weather is very nice (from June to August the temperature is about 22° – 24°C).

In Moscow, there is more winter than any other season, so autumn turns cold really fast and the spring comes late. If you want to avoid the crowded season, you can visit the city from April to May and during the fall month of September, when the temperatures are more bearable. Winter in Moscow is snowy and incredibly cold, with temperatures of -10°C in December and January. But this is also a part of its charm.

A Few Facts About Moscow

Moscow really is an incredible city, and it has a high number of UNESCO World Heritage Sites that mustn’t be missed when you visit it. Its historic buildings describe perfectly the colorful and nice Russian architecture, transporting you back in time. Moscow is also a key element of the political, cultural, scientific, and economic development of Eastern Europe, with some iconic buildings to prove this. These include the Red Square, the Kremlin, and even the largest bell in the world which can be visited anytime.

One Day in Moscow

Spending just one day in Moscow is not enough to discover all of its hidden gems, culture, and history, but it is still a great opportunity to meet this fascinating city. Visit and discover the most iconic places in Moscow and don’t forget to take a lot of pictures.

Start with a Breakfast at Coffeemania (Kofemaniya Moss)

You have a great day ahead of you, so it is better to start it off with a good breakfast. Coffeemania is one of the most appreciated bars by tourists, especially because it is close to the city center. You can choose from a lot of breakfast options, including vegetarian or vegan meals. It is an excellent cafe with characteristic Russian design that makes the morning experience more enjoyable. There are two Coffeemanias in Moscow, one that is in a mall, and this one which is at 1.8 km from the Red Square, just 20 minutes away.

Admire the Red Square

The Red Square has been an important and iconic place for Moscow since 1400. It became popular and famous after all the military parades, demonstrations, and events that took place here. It is definitely one of the places you should not miss when in Moscow, even if you have just one day here. The Red Square is also incredibly beautiful, as evidenced by its Russian name – the Red Square translates to Krasnaya Ploshchad in Russian, Krasnaya meaning beautiful in old Russian.

Soak in the Beauty of Saint Basil’s Cathedral (Khram Vasiliya Blazhennogo)

Saint Basil’s Cathedral is one of the most iconic places in Moscow. Depending on the season, during the day it is very crowded because it is one of the most important tourist attractions. But if you want to visit it during the night, you won’t believe the combination of lights and colors you can see here. Saint Basil’s Cathedral is famous for its bright and colorful cherry onion domes, one of the most important cultural symbols of the country. It was built in 1552 and the legend says that Ivan the Terrible blinded the architects. Why? So that they will not build another structure or replicate the existing one.

Visit Lenin’s Mausoleum

Lenin’s Mausoleum is located in the Red Square and it is also known as Lenin’s Tomb. It became one of the major attractions in Moscow, especially because the preserved mummy of Vladimir Lenin is on public display. You do not have to pay for a ticket because the entrance is free. But during tourist season, you might have to wait in line at a queue.

Discover the Kremlin

The Red Square is a tourist attraction, not only because of its historical and cultural value but also because it is the place where the Kremlin is located. The Kremlin can be seen from the Red Square; however, it takes you 12 minutes to reach it on foot. This magnificent building was built between the 14th and 17th centuries and is one of the most important ones in the country.

Kremlin means fortress inside a city, which pretty much describes it perfectly. Inside the Kremlin are five palaces, four cathedrals, 20 towers, and an enclosing wall. The Kremlin Palace , which is located inside the Kremlin is the official residence of the President of Russia. You can visit the Kremlin, and the ticket is around 700 rubles.

Relax in the Alexander Garden (Alexandrovsky Sad)

The Alexander Garden is one of the first public parks built in Moscow, right near the Kremlin, only 6 minutes away. It runs along the length of the western Kremlin wall and it has three separate gardens.

The Upper Garden is also home to the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier , where people pay tribute to the war veterans. Here you will also find some remains of the buildings that celebrated the victory of Russia over Napoleon (which were later destroyed when France occupied Moscow) and an obelisk from Finland that was re-carved when Lenin ruled the country.

Have Lunch at Beluga

Beluga is close to Alexander Garden and is rated as one of the best restaurants in Moscow. Here you will have the opportunity to taste the Russian cuisine and discover its gastronomy. It is located in a modern hotel that also offers a rooftop view of the most iconic places, such as the Kremlin.

Visit the Theater Square and the Bolshoi Theatre

The Theater Square of Moscow is another square that is iconic for the capital of Russia. Here you can see the Bolshoi Theatre , where you can also go to see an opera and theater performances. It is an iconic place where Russia developed its artistic side, so it is very much worth visiting. It was built between 1821 and 1825 and it takes you just five minutes to reach it on foot from Beluga.

End the Day with a Night Visit to Artbat

Artbat is not so close to the city center, but the visit during the evening or the night is a great idea. From the Theater Square, you can take the M2 tram and reach it in about 20 minutes, or you can walk and reach it in 40 minutes (it’s only 3km away).

Artbat is a street filled with kiosks with a lot of souvenirs, bars, cafes, and restaurants, so you can have dinner here, too. It is a major tourist attraction, but the locals love it too because here are the Pushkin House (a museum) and the Vakhtangov Theater where you can see artistic performances.

Where to stay in Moscow?

Moscow is one of the biggest cities in Europe, so it has a lot of accommodation options. But taking into consideration that you only get to spend one day there, you may want to choose a location close to the city center. However, public transportation is organized and accessible, so it will be easy to move between locations.

Brosko Hotel Arbat

Ulitsa Novy Arbat, 21 bld. 2, Arbat, 119019 Moscow

As you end the day at Arbat Street, you could book your accommodation at the 4-star Brosko Hotel. It offers high-quality services and impressive rooms. You can also eat at their restaurant, which has options both for meat-eaters and vegetarians, plus they also have airport shuttles.

BOOK A ROOM HERE

Radisson Collection Hotel Moscow

Kutuzovsky Prospekt 2/1 bld.1, Dorogomilovo, 121248 Moscow

If you are looking for a luxury hotel for your Moscow trip, this is the one. The rooms are modern, with high ceilings and everything you need from a flat TV screen to Wi-Fi and room service. It has about 19 restaurants, and some of them offer you amazing panoramic views over Moscow. And if you want to relax, you can go to the spa and the interior pool, and end the day drinking some cocktails at their Club Restaurant or Lobby Bar.

Pokrovka 6 Hotel

Ulitsa Pokrovka 6 , Basmanny, 101000 Moscow 

This amazing little hotel offers excellent service, great interior design and a fantastic location. And all of that comes at a very affordable price. Guest rooms come with a private bathroom and a fridge, on top of a desk and a flat-screen TV. Excellent!

Day Trips from Moscow

There is a lot of nice attractions and places to explore and visit near Moscow. Some of the best day trips include:

Korolev – located just one hour away from Moscow, it is considered a suburb of the capital. However, it has its own identity, which was shaped during World War II. Here was the industrial area of Russia back at the time and also the base for Soviet Space Exploration .

Borodino – if you want to visit the place where Napoleon was defeated by the Russian army , then a two-hour day trip from Moscow to Borodino is what you are looking for. It is not that popular among tourists, so you can enjoy it calmly.

Zvenigorod – if you want to discover the Russian cuisine, then you should head straight to Zvenigorod. Besides the beautiful and impressive monasteries, here you can visit the Museum of Russian Desserts . And the best thing about it is that you can taste them, so it will be a nice gastronomical experience.

Extra Tips for Visiting Moscow

Here are some extra trips you should consider before visiting Moscow .

You need a visa (that you need to pay for) to visit Russia or an invitation from an approved organization.

Always have cash with you because not all shops in Moscow accept credit card payments.

You can use the Metro for transportation, as it is one of the most used, fastest, and cheapest means of transportation in crowded Moscow.

Pin for later!

If you have any other propositions for this One Day in Moscow Itinerary, feel free to share it in the comments below!

Make sure you have everything you need

What to pack for your next trip.

Make your next trip as simple and as enjoyable as possible by packing smart. It’s amazing how much stress top travel items can save you, so choose carefully. Things like lightweight travel backpacks, for example, are ideal for short trips and allow you to move around with ease, and a passport holder will make sure you keep your documents safe at all times. Check our travel checklist guide for 2021 to make sure you haven’t missed anything, and travel to your next destination in style and with maximum comfort.

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Cruise ships to return to Baltimore two months after bridge collapse

Royal Caribbean and Carnival temporarily relocated to Norfolk after the Key Bridge collapse in March.

Cruises will soon set sail from Baltimore again, resuming operations two months after a cargo ship took down the Francis Scott Key Bridge.

In an X post on Wednesday, the Port of Baltimore revealed that Royal Caribbean International’s Vision of the Seas would leave on May 25 for a five-night trip to Bermuda. It will be the first cruise from a major carrier that leaves from Baltimore since the deadly bridge collapse on March 26.

The cruise line confirmed the news, saying in a statement it “looks forward to returning to the Port of Baltimore once again.”

Three major cruise lines sail from Baltimore, though only two had ships based at the port during the spring. No cruise ships were in port when the accident happened. After some scrambling , Royal Caribbean and Carnival Cruise Line both moved their Baltimore-based operations to Norfolk.

Carnival said in a statement that it plans to sail the Pride from Norfolk on May 19. That ship is expected to finish the cruise in Baltimore a week later. Because of those plans, the cruise line is encouraging guests to make their way to Baltimore ahead of the trip, and take a free, Carnival-provided bus more than 200 miles to Norfolk.

The ship is scheduled to leave Baltimore for a 14-day Greenland and Canada itinerary on May 26 before resuming seven-day Bahamas or Caribbean cruises.

“We remain in close contact with local, state and federal officials regarding the return of our operations at the Port of Baltimore,” Carnival said. The port said Wednesday it could only confirm Royal Caribbean’s schedule.

Norwegian Cruise Line does not have any Baltimore sailings scheduled until September. American Cruise Lines, a smaller company that operates river and coastal cruises, was able to start operating Chesapeake Bay trips from Baltimore earlier this month.

More than 444,000 people cruised out of Baltimore’s port last year, according to a news release issued by Maryland Gov. Wes Moore’s office.

Baltimore bridge collapse

How it happened: Baltimore’s Francis Scott Key Bridge collapsed after being hit by a cargo ship . The container ship lost power shortly before hitting the bridge, Maryland Gov. Wes Moore (D) said. Video shows the bridge collapse in under 40 seconds.

Victims: Divers have recovered the bodies of two construction workers , officials said. They were fathers, husbands and hard workers . A mayday call from the ship prompted first responders to shut down traffic on the four-lane bridge, saving lives.

Economic impact: The collapse of the bridge severed ocean links to the Port of Baltimore, which provides about 20,000 jobs to the area . See how the collapse will disrupt the supply of cars, coal and other goods .

Rebuilding: The bridge, built in the 1970s , will probably take years and cost hundreds of millions of dollars to rebuild , experts said.

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