caribbean islands to travel to

17 Caribbean Islands You Need to Visit, Ranked

The Caribbean is a special place. With warm turquoise waters, delicious food and some of the largest coral reefs in the world, what's not to love? First dominated by Taino natives, the region is now a mix of indigenous, European and African cultures. 

We probably don't need to convince you that you should visit the Caribbean. Instead, we're here to help you decide where you should spend time. Out of 28 countries and territories, these are the 17 best Caribbean islands to visit.

Note: We may earn money from affiliate partners if you buy through links on our site.  

17. Guadeloupe

Status:  French department

Capital:  Basse-Terre

*Rankings are from U.S. News and World Report's Best Places to Visit in the Caribbean list for 2023-24.

Where to Stay in Guadeloupe

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La Toubana was Guadeloupe's first five-star hotel.

Book it:  La Toubana

What to Expect in Guadeloupe

Though French mainlanders love Guadeloupe, the island seems to escape being on everyone else's radar. Given how prone some Caribbean islands are to be invaded by overtourism , this is one of the things we like the most about it.

Unlike other islands which are territories that are still colonized by France, Guadeloupe is actually a French department. This means that it operates in the exact same way as any department on the mainland. 

Still, that doesn't mean Guadeloupans don't have a different accent or culture, which is heavily influenced by West Africa. The island is home to La Grande Soufrièr volcano, one of the region's highest peaks, which provides some great hiking opportunities.

Status:  Territory of the Netherlands

Capital:  Oranjestad

Where to Stay in Aruba

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Aruba Ocean Villas offers the only overwater bungalows on the island.

Book it:  Aruba Ocean Villas

What to Expect in Aruba

In some ways, Aruba is your typical Caribbean island. It has beautiful beaches, fancy resorts and lots of tourists.

But the island also stands out in several ways. The most important in our opinion is that it's outside of the hurricane belt, which means strong storms are less likely to hit during the long hurricane season.

Besides that, the cuisine of the island is unique, you can go hiking to see incredible rock formations, and there's a famous beach where you'll share space with a flock of cocky pink flamingos.

15. St. Martin/St. Marteen

Status:  Territory of France/The Netherlands

Capital:  Marigot/Philipsburg

Where to Stay in St. Martin/St. Marteen

Sonesta Ocean Point Resort is perfect for a relaxing adults-only vacation.

Book it:  Sonesta Ocean Point Resort

What to Expect in St. Martin/St. Marteen

France and the Netherlands have split this island for hundreds of years. Travel from one side to the other is seamless, however, so most people still think of it as a single destination. 

The island brings everything you can expect from a Caribbean vacation spot, including shipwrecks, corals, delicious food and luxury resorts. Duty-free shopping and casinos are also very popular, though we'd encourage you to spend as much time outdoors taking in the beauty of the island as possible.

14. Jamaica

Status:  Sovereign nation

Capital:  Kingston

Where to Stay in Jamaica

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Skip staying at a resort, and stay at the family-owned luxurious Jamaica Inn .

Book it: Jamaica Inn

What to Expect in Jamaica

Do we even need to introduce beautiful Jamaica? An incredibly popular destination, Jamaica is known for its music, its beaches, its waterfalls and its food. In fact, the country has some of the best food in the entire Caribbean . Your life will change the second you taste jerk chicken.

Jamaica's diverse landscape provides unique opportunities to hike in the rainforest, visit caves and sail along rivers. For something truly special, visit Luminous Lagoon, a bioluminescent bay, one of only five in the world.

Once you've had your fill of nature, you'll be able to enjoy the country's world-famous nightlife.

13. Curaçao

Capital:  Willemstad

Where to Stay in Curacao

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Opened in 1949, the Avila Beach Hotel is the oldest hotel in Curacao that's still in operation.

Book it: Avila Beach Hotel

What to Expect in Curacao

Like its sister Dutch Caribbean island, Aruba, Curacao is blessed with a location outside of the hurricane belt. This means you can safely plan a snorkeling or diving vacation to the island, whose main attractions are its 38 beaches. 

When you're not playing in the water, make time to stroll around the beautiful and colorful capital of Willemstad, which combines Caribbean and Dutch architecture. If you like trying native dishes, order a hot bowl of iguana soup, a local delicacy.

12. Antigua

Status: Sovereign nation

Capital: Saint John's

Where to Stay in Antigua

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The Carlisle Bay Hotel is surrounded by the jungle on one side and the Caribbean Sea on the other.

Book it:  Carlisle Bay Hotel

What to Expect in Antigua

Wealthy British people love vacationing in Antigua (half of Antigua and Barbuda). It is the quintessential Caribbean paradise of your imagination. The small island draws people in with its picture-perfect beaches and clear water. 

It's also a very short ride away from St. Martin/St. Marteen, so it provides an opportunity for two trips in one.

11. St. Kitts and Nevis

Capital:  Basseterre

Where to Stay in St. Kitts and Nevis

At Four Resort Nevis , you'll be in front of the famous Pinneys Beach. During the right time of year, you may get to see nesting and hatching sea turtles.

Book it: Four Resort Nevis 

What to Expect in St. Kitts and Nevis

Devon Liburd, the CEO of Nevis Tourism Authority tells Far & Wide that this dual island nation offers two different experiences. Head to St. Kitts for a more developed tourism industry and raucous wildlife. Go to Nevis if you want a quiet and peaceful escape. "Nevis is a place where as soon as you step out of the plane, you feel your shoulders relaxing," he says.

For a truly unique memory, come during March and swim from St. Kitts to Nevis. We're not exaggerating. Separated by only 2.5 miles of water, the islands offer the incredible opportunity of a cross-channel swim .  According to Liburd, you'll probably get to see turtles, fish and other beautiful marine life as you swim — sounds magical, doesn't it?

10. Grenada

Capital:  Saint George's

Where to Stay in Grenada

At Mount Cinnamon Resort , each of the 37 villas and suites boasts ocean views.

Book it: Mount Cinnamon Resort

What to Expect in Grenada

Nicknamed "The Spice Isle," Grenada is known for its nutmeg plantations, which have (as of late) been complemented by cocoa farms. If you can tear yourself away from the beach, head inland and do some agrotourism , which usually includes some delicious tastings. 

If you don't want to leave the water, then head out into the ocean to snorkel or dive around the country's famous underwater sculpture park. Though the concept has been adopted elsewhere, Grenada pioneered it.

9. St. Barts

Status:  Territory of France

Capital:  Gustavia

Where to Stay in St. Barts

Besides beach access, Le Barthélemy Hotel & Spa provides unique activities like a zero-waste cooking class.

Book it: Le Barthélemy Hotel & Spa

What to Expect in St. Barts

St. Barthelemy may just be the most exclusive of all Caribbean islands. Its remote location, intimate size and a dizzying number of ultra-luxury hotels, spas and casinos have made it a favored vacation spot for the rich and famous. 

We're not going to sugarcoat this. You probably need a lot  of money to vacation in St. Barts. The island is so exclusive that it even has a pet name. That really says everything you need to know about it.

Capital:  Nassau

Where to Stay in the Bahamas

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The Cove at Atlantis has become a bucket-list destination for people who love all-inclusive, over-the-top experiences.

Book it: The Cove at Atlantis

What to Expect in the Bahamas

The Bahamas consists of over 700 islands, and most people travel to a handful of them. The popular islands like Grand Bahama, Paradise Island and Harbor Island are great. And you're sure to have a good Caribbean vacation. 

But if you want to see the country outside of glitzy resorts, head to islands where tourism is limited. Trust us, there are still plenty of those. They're harder to get to, but the reward of seeing the real country is too big to pass up.

7. Barbados

Capital:  Bridgetown

Where to Stay in Barbados

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Colony Club Hotel boasts a private river that runs through its properties, making for a magical setting.

Book it: Colony Club Hotel

What to Expect in Barbados

To complement its perfect beaches, Barbados adds great music that can be heard playing from every corner of the island at any given time of day. It also has one of the best carnivals in the Caribbean. It's the best , if you ask Barbadians.

The island also has deep caves, lush gardens and plantations where you can learn about the region's dark history of slavery.

6. Cayman Islands

Status:  Territory of the United Kingdom

Capital:  George Town

Where to Stay in the Cayman Islands

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If you're looking to pamper yourself, there's no better place to stay on the islands than at the Ritz-Carlton Grand Cayman .

Book it: Ritz-Carlton Grand Cayman

What to Expect in the Cayman Islands

The Cayman Islands aren't cheap per se, but they are more affordable than some of their counterpart islands. And they manage to be so with the same bright blue water, soft sand and friendly vibes. 

We particularly recommend Little Island, which is the smallest and most intimate. Here, you'll really feel like you've stepped out of the world for a second.

5. St. Vincent and the Grenadines

Capital:  Kingstown

Where to Stay in St. Vincent and the Grenadines

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Petit St. Vincent is considered one of the most eco-friendly resorts in the world .

Book it: Petit St. Vincent

What to Expect in St. Vincent and the Grenadines

A collection of 32 islands make up this nation, and the largest island is St. Vincent. In St. Vincent, you'll find several luxury resorts right on the water but also the opportunity for outdoor adventures.

Hike up La Soufriere, an active volcano guarded by a lush tropical jungle. Go on a safari and try to catch a glimpse of some of the species that live on the island, like red foxes, alligators, deer and frogs. 

As for the Grenadines, there is an island for every type of person. Those looking for the ultimate luxury getaway go to Mustique, a private island that has hosted Princess Margaret and Mick Jagger.

But if you like a more chill vibe, you won't have a hard time finding that either.

4. U.S. Virgin Islands

Status:  Territory of the United States

Capital:  Charlotte Amalie

Where to Stay in the U.S. Virgin Islands

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Lovango Resort & Beach Club is a newly opened resort with a 70-foot infinity pool.

Book it: Lovango Resort & Beach Club

What to Expect in the U.S. Virgin Islands

You don't have to have a passport to visit the gorgeous Virgin Islands — at least not the U.S. ones. 

The territory is a boating haven, with over 50 small islands and the signature clearness of the Caribbean Sea. St. Thomas, St. John and St. Croix are the three main islands and where you'll likely be based.

If you're looking to cross a national park off your list, head to St. John, which is almost entirely made up of Virgin Islands National Park .

3. British Virgin Islands

Capital:  Road Town

Where to Stay in the British Virgin Islands

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The unique Oil Nut Bay features suites and villas built straight into a cliff.

Book it: Oil Nut Bay

What to Expect in the British Virgin Islands

The U.S. News and World Report gave the bronze medal for best Caribbean destination to the British Virgin Islands. Located close to their U.S. counterparts, this collection of islands is also extremely popular for boating and sailing. 

In terms of geography, there are many similarities. But there is one thing that sets the British islands apart: The Baths. Located in Punta Gorda, it is a collection of giant boulders that rise from turquoise water, creating natural pools and caves. 

There are many naturally beautiful spots in the Caribbean, but the Baths stand out as particularly astonishing.

2. St. Lucia

Capital:  Castries

Where to Stay in St. Lucia

The famed Jade Mountain Resort has the best views of the Pitons.

Book it:  Jade Mountain Resort

What to Expect in St. Lucia

Breathtaking St. Lucia boasts the most iconic mountains in the entire Caribbean region. Its UNESCO-listed Piton peaks dominate the landscape, peaking out even where you least expect it. This has brought luxury resorts to its shores and made it a premium honeymoon destination. 

But the island is not just for romance. You can also have an adventure by spending the day hiking or by driving — yes,  driving —  the Sulphur Springs volcano.

1. Turks and Caicos

Capital:  Cockburn Town

Where to Stay in Turks and Caicos

For true seclusion, stay at Amanyara , which borders North West Point Marine National Park.

Book it: Amanyara

What to Expect in Turks and Caicos

Turks and Caicos is the ultimate aspirational destination in the Caribbean. Neighboring the Bahamas, this collection of islands definitely deserves the top spot. 

We don't have to say that the beaches are beautiful with their soft sand. This is the Caribbean after all. But the famous Grace Bay Beach in Providenciales has been voted the best beach in the entire world.

Some great things that you can do here include horseback riding on the beach and whale watching. And if you find yourself in Grand Turk on a Thursday night, don't miss out on the Island Fish Fry , a weekly event that includes local vendors, live shows and a Caribbean vibe that guarantees a great time.

15 Best Caribbean Islands to Visit in 2024

Home | Travel | The Caribbean | 15 Best Caribbean Islands to Visit in 2024

The Caribbean is the ideal place to go for a tropical vacation, be it a romantic getaway, a family holiday, or a special trip with friends. The best Caribbean islands offer warm sand, crystal-clear waters, swaying palm trees, and cloudless skies to help you escape the daily grind or the dreary winter season.

There are hundreds of islands and cays in the Caribbean, and over the years, we’ve explored some of the most amazing Caribbean destinations . Each island has something unique about it, and we’re always awestruck by the diversity in each country’s history, culture, and environment.

It can be hard to decide where to go, so in this guide, I’m sharing the 15 best Caribbean islands to visit . Keep this list handy so you can plan your trip and any future visits to one of the most beautiful regions in the world, the Caribbean!

1. Puerto Rico, one of the best Caribbean islands to visit

First, Puerto Rico is one of the best Caribbean islands for vacation , especially if you’re in the U.S. It’s easy to get to, has sunny weather year-round, and boasts beautiful beaches and landscapes.

You can’t miss San Juan , Puerto Rico’s capital city and home to historic homes, monuments, and attractions. Old San Juan is a walkable area with colonial architecture, a vibrant music scene, and landmarks like the Castillo San Cristobal , an 18 th -century fortress. This free tour will take you through town so you can explore all the highlights.

Outside of the city, you’ll find the most incredible natural areas, like El Yunque National Forest . It’s a treasure trove of mountain peaks, lush foliage, and rainforest critters. This is also a haven for adventurers since you can enjoy forest hikes, waterfalls, swimming, and natural waterslides. If you can’t decide, this forest tour is a great way to spend the day in El Yunque.

Of course, the beaches of Puerto Rico are well worth visiting, so consider a day cruise to Culebra , where you can go snorkeling or take this sailing cruise along the Fajardo coastline. Along the way, you’ll visit the island of Icacos , a gorgeous spot for swimming and snorkeling.

• Fairmont El San Juan Hotel – a beautiful beachfront resort in San Juan
• Courtyard by Marriott Isla Verde Beach Resort – a 5-star hotel in San Juan with private balconies overlooking the beach
• Embassy Suites by Hilton Dorado del Mar Beach Resort – this luxurious spa hotel is by Playa Dorada

2. Dominican Republic, the best Caribbean island for an active vacation

With its romantic beaches, the Dominican Republic is one of the best Caribbean islands for couples . Here, you can enjoy watersports, nightlife, nature activities, and of course, plenty of downtime. Some of the best beaches here include the white sand beaches of Bavaro Beach and Macao Beach , the latter of which is a popular spot for surfing and dune buggy tours .

For something more relaxing, take a leisurely cruise to one of the DR’s nearby islands. This catamaran cruise goes to Saona Island , which has awesome mangroves and coral reefs. Another option is this day trip to Catalina Island , a place with diverse marine life, private beaches, and transparent waters. It’s the perfect spot to see parrot fish, trumpet fish, sea sponges, and all kinds of coral.

I also can’t leave out a whale-watching tour like this one , which departs from Punta Cana and stops by Bacardi Island and the El Limon waterfalls .

Back on land, the Dominican Republic is one of the best Caribbean islands for adventure since it’s home to the longest zipline in the Caribbean, with multiple platforms and cables. So, if you want to soar over the rainforest canopy and the river, I recommend this tour .

Finally, the DR’s nightlife is unmatched, especially in Punta Cana . Coco Bongo is a super popular nightclub, so to get the complete experience, check out this Coco Bongo package with drinks.

• Occidental Punta Cana – All-Inclusive Resort – enjoy a room with a mini-bar and views of Bavaro Beach, as well as access to 3 pools and 11 restaurants and bars
• Catalonia Punta Cana – All-Inclusive – another all-inclusive resort with a spa, pool, restaurants, and all kinds of activities
• Impressive Punta Cana – another 5-star resort on the beach with family-friendly facilities

3. Jamaica, the best Caribbean island for nature lovers

Jamaica has long been one of the best islands in the Caribbean to visit , so if you haven’t been here yet, I highly recommend it. Jamaica offers everything from pristine beaches to watersports to unforgettable cruises and sailing trips, so you’re sure to have a blast.

One of the most famous attractions in Jamaica is the 600-foot Dunn’s River Falls . A series of natural rock stairs lead to the waterfalls, which also include several lagoons you can swim in. It’s a must-see while you’re on the island, so consider this day tour , which also visits the Bob Marley Museum .

Another natural wonder to see in Jamaica is the Green Grotto Caves . The cavern walls are covered in green algae, and you can take a guided tour into the caves, where you can see an underwater lake, stalagmites, stalactites, and bats.

After dark, I recommend taking this lagoon cruise to see a bioluminescent waterway lit up by phosphorescent organisms and plankton. Not only is it a magical sight, but there are intriguing stories surrounding this glowing lagoon.

As you can see, Jamaica is one of the best Caribbean islands for nature lovers , and you can’t forget the lovely beaches here. Negril’s Seven Mile Beach and Doctor’s Cave Beach in Montego Bay are two popular spots. If you want to visit the latter, I suggest this catamaran cruise , which includes an open bar and snorkeling session.

• S Hotel Jamaica – All-Inclusive – a boutique hotel in Montego Bay with a breakfast buffet and Caribbean cuisine
• SeaGarden Beach Resort – All-Inclusive – one of the best family-friendly hotels in Montego Bay
• Deja Resort All-Inclusive – another Montego Bay hotel next to Doctors Cave Beach with lovely rooms and a restaurant with a view

4. Barbados, another one of the best islands in the Caribbean

Barbados is known for having some of the most picturesque beaches and coastal landscapes in the world, making it one of the best Caribbean islands to visit .

For example, Bathsheba Beach boasts a striking scene with clear turquoise waters and impressive rock formations. Meanwhile, Dover Beach is a slice of paradise, especially for those who want to sunbathe among palm trees or enjoy some watersports.

You also can’t miss Carlisle Bay , a small natural harbor that’s home to Barbados’ capital city of Bridgetown . While you’re here, consider exploring this beautiful city on this walking history tour , which takes you past Parliament, Town Hall, and other top sites. Also, this catamaran cruise departs from Bridgetown and includes a shipwreck visit, a snorkeling session, and lunch.

Some other interesting attractions in Barbados are the lush expanses of the Andromeda Botanic Gardens and Hunte’s Gardens , as well as St. Nicholas Abbey , a historic plantation home and rum distillery. For something off the beaten path, check out Harrison’s Cave Eco-Adventure Park , where you can explore a limestone cave system with stalactites and stalagmites.

With so much to do here, it’s worth adding Barbados to your list of Caribbean islands to visit . If you’re not sure what to do or see, this island day tour will take you to several famous landmarks and natural areas like Animal Flower Cave .

• Colony Club by Elegant Hotels – a beachfront resort in Saint James with free bike rentals, a pool, a garden terrace, and balcony rooms
• Radisson Aquatica Resort Barbados – an elegant hotel by the beach in Bridgetown
• All Seasons Resort – one of the most romantic Saint James hotels with cottage-style accommodations

5. Bahamas, one of the best Caribbean islands to visit with family

Hands down, the Bahamas is one of the best Caribbean islands for families , and while it’s known for its beaches, there are lots of other things to do here, too.

First, New Providence is the most popular Bahamas island, and its capital city of Nassau is a hotspot for vacationers, offering everything from beaches and cruises to food, history, and nightlife. You can eat your way through the old town on this Nassau food tour , or try jet skiing, parasailing, and other watersports on this adventure tour .

Off the coast of New Providence, it’s worth visiting Paradise Island. If you go, check out the romantic Versailles Gardens , or consider this private beach excursion to nearby Rose Island, where you can enjoy an open bar, music, and kayaking or snorkeling.

Harbour Island also stands out for its pristine coastline, particularly the secluded 3-mile-long Pink Sands Beach . Over in the Exumas, you can swim with wild pigs and snorkel in the crystal clear waters at Pig Beach .

Finally, if you’re on Grand Bahama Island , I recommend exploring Lucayan National Park and its underwater caves. A good alternative is Clifton Heritage National Park in Nassau, on New Providence Island . This park is full of old ruins, lovely beaches, and an undersea sculpture garden.

• The Ocean Club, A Four Seasons Resort – one of the most elegant resorts on Paradise Island with an awarded chef restaurant and a Balinese spa
• Grand Hyatt Baha Mar – a sophisticated resort in Nassau with six pools, a private beach, and a spa
• SLS at Baha Mar – an oceanfront Nassau hotel with on-site watersports and a convenient location near the airport

6. U.S. Virgin Islands, some of the best Caribbean islands to visit

The U.S. Virgin Islands is a territory of the United States, so Americans can visit this Caribbean island with no passport required . The major islands here include St. Thomas, St. John, and St. Croix, so I recommend focusing your vacation on these areas.

First, St. Thomas is wildly popular thanks to its historical monuments, pristine natural scenery, and stunning beaches. The capital city of Charlotte Amalie is full of old fortresses and cathedrals, like Fort Christian , Blackbeard’s Castle , and the Cathedral Church of All Saints . This food and culture tour takes you past the most visited landmarks and the shops on Main Street while treating you to delicious local cuisine.

You’ll also find the most accommodation options and activities on St. Thomas, like this watersports tour at Cas Cay, where you can go hiking, kayaking, and snorkeling among the tropical fish, sting rays, and sea turtles. If you’re short on time but want to experience a bit of everything, this sightseeing tour is your best bet.

St. John also has incredible snorkeling and kayaking spots, as well as parks where you can explore the outdoors and the native flora. Finally, St. Croix is known for its Danish botanical gardens, mangroves, and coral reefs. So, if you love to explore new places while on holiday, these are some of the best Caribbean islands for your vacation .

• The Ritz-Carlton St. Thomas – stay here for easy beach access, an outdoor pool, beautiful gardens, and a daily buffet breakfast
• Emerald Beach Resort – enjoy a seaside resort near St. Thomas’ capital city
• Margaritaville Vacation Club by Wyndham – St. Thomas – a 4-star hotel with balcony rooms, an outdoor pool, a gym, and a restaurant

7. Cuba, a unique island in the Caribbean

Known for its cigars, rum, and vintage cars, Cuba is one of the best Caribbean islands for a couples’ getaway . There is so much to discover here, from the amazing Spanish colonial architecture, dancing, and art to the magnificent valleys and romantic beaches.

First, you can’t miss a visit to the capital city of Havana , where you can mingle with the locals. Old Havana has the most iconic buildings and attractions like the Havana Cathedral , Plaza Vieja , and the Hotel Nacional de Cuba . It’s also worth checking out the historic city of Trinidad , which is full of museums, monuments, beaches, and nightlife venues.

I also recommend spending a day in Cienfuegos , a bayside city that looks like a postcard, thanks to its old monuments and colorful homes.

Moreover, Cuba is one of the best Caribbean destinations for those who want to witness some of the most breathtaking landscapes in the world. For example, the lush valley of Vi ñales is a UNESCO World Heritage Site with short, rounded mountains ( mogotes ), caves, fields, and forests.

If you want a beautiful beach day, I suggest going to Varadero and Cayo Jutias , two of the best places in Cuba . Varadero is one of the country’s most famous beaches, so there is lots to do, while Cayo Jutias is more remote and private, but has the most amazing sunsets.

• Hotel Nacional de Cuba – an iconic hotel from the 1930s that overlooks Havana and the outskirts
• Casas particulares – A rental room/accommodation in a Cuban family’s home. I recommend finding one in each city you plan to visit, such as Trinidad, Viñales, etc.

8. Aruba, the best island in the Caribbean for a luxury holiday

Aruba is one of the best Caribbean islands for a luxury vacation , so I suggest it if you’re planning a special occasion. Here, you can enjoy long days on the beach, stunning coastal sunsets and views, and fun watersports like banana boat rides and snorkeling. If that sounds good to you, you’ll love this full-day tour with all kinds of aquatic activities, a waterpark visit, and a Caribbean buffet with an open bar.

You can also take a day trip to the island’s most interesting sites, like the California Lighthouse , the Alto Vista Chapel , and Arikok National Park . This Jeep safari tour takes you through Arikok and includes a refreshing swim at the Conchi Natural Pool and Baby Beach .

Speaking of the beaches here, you should also check out Eagle Beach and Palm Beach . One of the unique experiences here is this semi-submarine tour , where you can see underwater sights like the Antilla shipwreck, the Arashi Reef, and all kinds of tropical fish and coral.

Back on land, the Butterfly Farm and the Aruba Aloe Factory Museum are two cool places that offer history and culture. Without a doubt, Aruba has a bit of everything, and it’s one of the best Caribbean islands for a honeymoon . If you’re traveling as a couple, I suggest taking this happy hour sunset cruise along the coast.

• Renaissance Wind Creek Aruba Resort – an Oranjestad hotel with amazing cabana-style accommodations, three pools, and watersports
• Eagle Aruba Resort & Casino – located north of Oranjestad, on Eagle Beach, this hotel has spacious suites, a casino, restaurants, and a nearby golf course
• Hyatt Regency Aruba Resort & Casino – also in Eagle Beach, this spa resort has gorgeous facilities, pools, waterslides, and ocean views

9. Turks and Caicos, another one of the best Caribbean islands for couples

The clean white sand, the clear turquoise waters, and the palm trees swaying in the breeze…the islands of Turks and Caicos are a slice of paradise. This region has eight inhabited islands, with Providenciales (Provo) being the most popular.

On Provo, you’ll find the most idyllic shorelines at Taylor Bay , Leeward Beach , and Grace Bay Beach , which is the best place to go parasailing. Grace Bay is the crown jewel of the island, and a popular site for all kinds of tours, from snorkeling cruises to catamaran sails and adults-only sunset cruises .

In addition to being one of the best Caribbean destinations for couples , Turks and Caicos is an exceptional place to learn about different geological formations and marine life. Smith’s Reef and Bight Reef offer spectacular sea beds full of coral, while nearby Iguana Island has a diverse array of tropical fish. This half-day tour from Provo includes snorkeling equipment and a cruise past Big Water Cay, Fort George, and Half Moon Bay .

If you prefer to stay on land, this love buggy island tour is a must-do. You’ll roam around the island, passing by the Cheshire Hall Plantation , the Junkanoo Museum , and more.

Also, while Provo is the main destination for most tourists, the island of Grand Turk is also a beautiful location with beaches and attractions like the Turks and Caicos National Museum , the Grand Turk Lighthouse , and Pillory Beach .

• The Oasis at Grace Bay – some of the suites at this 5-star hotel have an equipped kitchen, although there is also an on-site restaurant and bar
• Alexandra Resort – All-Inclusive – another Grace Bay resort, this property is near the airport and has an exclusive pool and beach area
• Neptune Villas – located on the southern coast of Provo, this resort has a restaurant, bar, outdoor pool, and complimentary watersports

10. Guadeloupe, one of the best Caribbean islands for relaxing

Guadeloupe is another top Caribbean island with a unique natural landscape featuring the La Soufri ère volcano and the Pointe des Chateaux , a peninsula with stunning rock formations.

There are also gorgeous waterfalls here, including the Carbet Falls and the Cascade aux Ecrevisses . For all these reasons, Guadeloupe is one of the best Caribbean islands for nature lovers who want to spend their days hiking through lush forests, climbing to scenic lookout points, and admiring the tropical flora and fauna.

To all this, I must add the lovely beaches here, such as Plage de Grande Anse , a breathtaking beach with golden sands, aquamarine waters, and lush, green foliage. It’s also a popular spot for watersports like jet-skiing, paddleboarding, and surfing lessons . You can also check out nearby Plage de la Perle or Plage de Sainte Anne on the other end of the island.

Another intriguing area in Guadeloupe is the Grand Cul-de-Sac Marin , a chain of coral islets and mangroves off the north-central coast of the island. You can take a paddleboarding excursion or a day cruise through the lagoon to see tropical fish, crabs, sting rays, and a variety of sea birds.

Back on land, be sure to visit the Jardin Botanique de Deshaies and the Memorial ACTe history museum.

• Le Relais du Moulin – H ôtel de Charme & Spa Adults Only – this charming Sainte Anne resort has a spa, a pool, and suites with private balconies and terraces
• Bwa Chik Hotel & Golf – a Saint François resort by the sea, with spacious suites overlooking the pool or the golf course
• Canella Beach Hotel – a hotel in Le Gosier right in front of Grande Bay and just a short drive from the Domaniale Forest and the Pointe à Pitre harbor

11. Curaçao, one of the best islands in the Caribbean for watersports

Cura çao has some of the best beaches in the Caribbean and a wealth of historical Dutch monuments and Spanish colonial architecture.

This island may be small, but it has a lot to offer, from Shete Boka National Park in the north to Mambo Beach in the south. You can see both attractions, as well as Curaçao’s popular western coastline on this full-day beach tour . Along with the beaches of Piskado , Kenepa , and Cas Abao , you’ll also stop at the St. Willibrodus Flamingo Sanctuary .

Grote Knip is another gorgeous beach, and it’s known for its rich marine life, which you can see on this snorkeling trip . It’s also worth taking a day trip to Klein Cura çao (Little Curaçao), an uninhabited island with a pristine coastline and some of the clearest waters in the world. This catamaran cruise includes a visit to the island, as well as snorkeling, a buffet, and an open bar.

Of course, you must also visit the capital of Curaçao, Willemstad . The city is a UNESCO World Heritage Site since it’s home to a series of 17 th and 18 th -century fortifications. It’s also full of shopping malls, museums, and landmarks like the Queen Emma Bridge , which was built in 1888. This is also where you can explore the 200,000-year-old Hato Caves , which are made of coral limestone and feature stalactites, stalagmites, and local bat species.

• Mangrove Beach Corendon Curacao – All-Inclusive Resort – a 5-star hotel in Willemstad with a pool, gym, lounge, playground, and other family-friendly facilities
• Bayside Boutique Hotel – Blue Bay Golf & Beach Resort – another Willemstad resort with boutique suites overlooking the sea
• Curacao Avila Beach Hotel – one of the best couples’ beach resorts in Willemstad with live music, a buffet breakfast, and a spa

12. Grenada, one of the best Caribbean islands to explore

Grenada is one of the most beautiful places in the Caribbean , specifically in the West Indies. The southwestern region of the island is particularly popular since it’s where you’ll find the capital city of St. George’s , a beautiful town with picturesque squares, charming homes, and a lively port.

South of St. George’s, you can visit the idyllic beach of Grand Anse , which is considered one of the prettiest beaches on the planet. It has gorgeous sunsets, as the pinks and purples contrast perfectly with the warm golden sand and the aquamarine water. Another spot you should check out is Flamingo Bay and the nearby underwater sculptures, which you can see on this snorkeling tour .

If you want to make the most of your time on this island, I recommend this full-day tour from St. George’s. You’ll visit great sites like Concord Falls , a chocolate factory, a rum distillery, and Grand Etang National Park , a forest reserve and Grenada’s largest national park.

• Radisson Grenada Beach Resort – this hotel in Grand Anse offers snorkeling and diving equipment to guests, and has several restaurants, bars, and a pool
• Royalton Grenada, An Autograph Collection All-Inclusive Resort – a 5-star resort in St. George’s with a daily breakfast buffet, a kids’ club, and a pool overlooking the sea

13. St. Lucia, one of the best Caribbean islands for a beach vacation

St. Lucia is one of the overall best Caribbean islands and has long been known for its dramatic landscapes, coral reefs, volcanic beaches, and rainforests. With so much to see, it can be tough to choose, so I recommend this land and sea tour . You’ll visit major sites like the Pitons mountains, sulfur springs and mineral baths, waterfalls, and the coastline.

As one of the best Caribbean islands for hiking , St. Lucia has numerous trails like the Tet Paul Nature Trail , the Canaries Waterfall Trail , and the Gros Piton Trail . If you’d rather see the scenery from above, try this rainforest zipline adventure over the forest canopy.

Moreover, the capital city of Castries offers an impressive Central Market , the Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception , and Marigot Bay , a harbor with all kinds of recreation and watersports. Plus, Pigeon Island National Park , an incredible cape with 18 th -century ruins, is just a 30-minute drive away.

Of course, the beaches here are superb, so if you want some beach time while also sightseeing, take this full-day catamaran cruise . You’ll go snorkeling in Marigot Bay, zip-line over the rainforest, see waterfalls and springs, and feast at a Creole-style buffet.

• Harbor Club St. Lucia, Curio Collection by Hilton – a luxury resort in Gros Islet with four bars, a huge pool, a spa, and elegant rooms and suites
• Bay Gardens Hotel – another stylish Gros Islet resort with lush gardens, two pools, and a free shuttle to Reduit Beach
• Windjammer Landing Villa Beach Resort – a family-friendly hotel in Gros Islet with six pools, an exclusive spa, and 8 restaurants and bars

14. Bermuda, another one of the best Caribbean islands to visit with family

Bermuda is another one of the best Caribbean islands for vacation , thanks to its pink sand beaches, clear turquoise waters, and delectable seafood.

A good place to start your adventure is in the capital city of Hamilton , which is full of dining and shopping venues, as well as nightlife. One of the best tours in the city is this food and culture tour , which takes you to the best local restaurants while teaching you about Bermuda’s history.

You should also visit nearby Gibb’s Hill Lighthouse and the Crystal and Fantasy Caves . These subterranean caves are 1,640 feet long and 200 feet deep and have a series of pathways so you can walk past natural pools, stalactites, and stalagmites.

Along the coast, you’ll find Horseshoe Bay , a spectacular pink sand beach with limestone cliffs. In fact, some of the best beaches in the Caribbean are in Bermuda, including Warwick Long Bay , Elbow Beach , and Tobacco Bay .

These stunning beaches feature soft sand and refreshingly clear water, and several of them are perfect for practicing watersports. Adventurous types will love this catamaran day trip , which includes snorkeling, kayaking, and paddleboarding, as well as snacks and Caribbean rum.

Another option is this full-day island tour which also includes snorkeling and a trip to some of Bermuda’s hidden gems, like the caverns of Blue Hole Park .

• Newstead Belmont Hills Golf Resort & Spa – this Mount Pleasant property offers a free shuttle to the golf course, as well as on-site facilities like a spa, gym, and pool
• Hamilton Princess & Beach Club – a waterfront hotel in Hamilton with a restaurant, bar, infinity pool, and quiet suites
• Cambridge Beaches Resort & Spa – one of the most elegant resorts in Somerset with private beaches, a spa, a tennis court, a putting green, and watersports

15. St. Maarten, the best island in the Caribbean for a romantic getaway

Beautiful St. Maarten makes for one of the best Caribbean getaways , thanks to its perfect mix of adventure and leisure.

Start your trip in the capital city of Philipsburg and go shopping, sightseeing, and dining along Front Street . Stretching from the Great Bay to the Great Salt Pond, Philipsburg has a buzzing port, and it’s not uncommon to see cruise ships docking here. In addition to the sea breeze and views of the bay, the city has old military and fortress ruins.

It’s also home to Maho Beach , one of the most popular beaches in the country for its proximity to the airport. If you go here, you’re bound to see an airplane flying super close to the beach, and many tourists come here to go “planespotting.”

If you prefer something quieter and more secluded, go to Plum Bay or Baie Longue . That said, Great Bay Beach and Mullet Bay are two top beaches on the island where you can swim, dive, and ride ATVs . As one of the best Caribbean islands for watersports, St. Maarten has amazing cruise tours like this speedboat tour and this catamaran trip .

Back on land, don’t miss your opportunity to go zip-lining over Loterie Farm or Rockland Estate , which has the world’s steepest zipline.

• Sonesta Ocean Point Resort – All-Inclusive – Adults Only – a hotel in Maho Reef where you can go swimming in the pool, diving in the sea, and eat at several restaurants
• Hilton Vacation Club Flamingo Beach Sint Maarten – an intimate resort in Simpson Bay with beach access, an infinity pool, watersports, and oceanfront dining
• Holland House Beach Hotel – the best hotel in Philipsburg with Caribbean decor, food, music, and all kinds of land and sea activities

Best Caribbean islands map

Now that you know the best Caribbean islands to visit , it’s time for the hard part: deciding where to go. To help you out, here is a Caribbean islands map you can download and use to plan your trip.

Also, if you have any questions about these destinations, or you’d like to share where you want to go in the Caribbean , leave me a comment below. I’d be happy to hear from you and help you out. Until then, have a safe trip and enjoy your island getaway!

Ascen Aynat

8 replies on “ 15 Best Caribbean Islands to Visit in 2024 ”

From My Personal experience, I would say Roatan is an overlooked Caribbean gem that offers a unique blend of natural beauty, rich culture, and a laid-back vibe. One standout resort is Caribbean SeaHawk Resorts, nestled in a tranquil cove with beautifully designed rooms and breathtaking ocean views – the perfect place to unwind. Beyond the resort, Roatan boasts stunning white sand beaches, incredible snorkeling and diving opportunities, and a vibrant local community that makes it an incredibly welcoming and authentic destination. If you’re looking for a Caribbean getaway that combines natural beauty, relaxation, and cultural immersion, Roatan should be at the top of your list – Caribbean SeaHawk Resorts is exceptional, but anywhere on this charming island is sure to leave you with unforgettable memories.

Hi Katelin, Thanks for the recommendation. We actually mention Roatán in our guide to the best Central American countries to visit . I totally agree that it’s an underrated destination with lots of fun activities to offer.

What an enticing topic! The Caribbean is undoubtedly a paradise for luxury travelers, and selecting the perfect beachfront resort can be a delightful challenge. Here I want to recommend one resort which is “Caribbean seahawk resort”. In this resort you will find azure sea, luxury villas, Beachfront, Ocean view, privacy, reunions, dive groups, west bay beach and the beauty of nature. So, I would suggest you should add this resort to your list.

Hi Julia, Thanks for the recommendation. We mention some hotels in Utila and Roatán, Honduras in our guide to the best places to visit in Central America , but it’s always nice to hear about other options.

Best island in the Caribbean hands down

Hey, thanks for reading! Which is your favorite Caribbean island to visit?

If there’s one island in the world that’s known for its diversity, luxury, entertainment, and celebration for all cultures and ethnicities, it’s St Maarten. Despite being the smallest island in the world, St Maarten is home to people from more than one hundred nationalities living in harmony on the island. It’s one of the best islands in the Caribbean!

Totally agreed, Ryan. Thanks for sharing your thoughts,

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20 Best Caribbean Islands to Visit (If You Love Nature & Hate Crowds)

Disclaimer: This post may contain affiliate links. All hosted affiliate links follow our editorial policies .

Stretching from the southeastern U.S. down to the north coast of South America, the Caribbean consists of more than 700 islands, islets, reefs, and cays.

Yet the vast majority of travelers seem to visit the same old hoary chestnuts (see: the Cayman Islands, Grand Bahama, and the U.S. Virgin Islands ) for their Caribbean Islands vacation year after year.

Fortunately, most of our favorite islands have yet to succumb to the wave of mass tourism   that’s currently sweeping Europe and some of the more popular beaches in Southeast Asia.

But, for more adventurous travelers, here are our picks for 20 of the best Caribbean Islands to visit if you love nature and hate crowds:

READ MORE: 30 Best Exotic Islands to Visit

• Maria-Galante (Guadeloupe)

SOUTHERN CARIBBEAN ISLANDS

Western caribbean islands.

• Isla De La Juventud (Cuba)
• Isla HolBox (Mexico)
• Isla De Providencia (Columbia)
• Little Corn Island
• Rosario Islands (Colombia)
• Roatan (Honduras)
• San Blas Islands (Panama)
• South Water Caye (Belize)

NORTHERN CARIBBEAN ISLANDS

Eastern caribbean islands.

Located 100 miles east of its nearest Caribbean neighbor, Barbados offers big waves, a rugged northern coastline, and a mountainous interior that make it a haven for nature lovers . Measuring just 17 miles long and 14 miles wide, it’s is a tiny eastern Caribbean island with a huge heart.

Start by exploring Historic Bridgetown, a UNESCO World Heritage Site . It’s home to the Barbados Museum & Historical Society, whose collection includes artifacts from the island’s Amerindian and colonial history. You can even enter some of the old prison cells there.

In terms of natural attractions, there’s the 1.4-mile-long Harrison’s Cave, the 6.5-acre Andromeda Botanic Gardens (featuring the largest collection of tropical plants in the eastern Caribbean), and the Flower Forest (which is filled with flowers , birds and monkeys).

In terms of waterspouts, there’s also snorkeling with Sea Turtles in Folkestone Underwater Park & Marine Reserve, Scuba diving through sunken ships (such as the 360-foot freighter S.S. Stavronikita ), and sailing in the trade winds off the island’s southern tip.

For a taste of true Bajan culture, head to the Friday night fish fry in the town of Oistin’s. And if you can time your visit for late July or early August, don’t miss the Crop Over Festival , the island’s most important cultural celebration.

READ MORE: The Top 10 Things to Do in Barbados

CULEBRA (Puerto Rico)

Although it’s located just 19 miles east of Puerto Rico, the smallest of the inhabited Spanish Virgin Islands feels like it’s a world away.

Seven miles long and three miles wide, with less than 3,000 residents, Culebra has virtually no nightlife to speak of.

But it does have crystal clear waters with 60+ feet of visibility, gorgeous white sand beaches (Culebrita is among the best), and the oldest lighthouse in the Caribbean.

Thanks to the establishment of the Culebra National Wildlife Refuge in 1909, there are also lots of seabirds and turtles, not to mention exceptional scuba diving.

READ MORE: The History of Caribbean & Latin American Art

Often confused with the Dominican Republic, “The Nature Island” is 65% covered in tropical rainforest , with more than 300 miles of hiking trails.

And that’s just one of the many reasons it’s at the top of our personal list of the best Caribbean destinations to visit. The impressive sea turtle conservation program on the island is another.

Thanks to copious rain, impressive waterfalls are everywhere, with Emerald Pool, Trafalgar Falls, and Victoria Falls all making it worth the hardy hikes to reach them.

Other highlights include the Morne Trois Pitons National Park (the first UNESCO World Heritage Site in the eastern Caribbean), snorkeling Champagne Reef (where geothermal activity makes the water warm and bubbly), and the Kalinago Barana Autê (home of the pre-Columbian Carib people).

READ MORE: The 10 Best Waterfalls in the World (World Travel Bucket List)

With its growing focus on sustainable development– including eco-resorts , agritourism initiatives, and innovative environmental practices– Grenada is rapidly emerging as one of the best Caribbean islands for nature lovers.

The island has introduced/expanded its protected areas, including Levera National Park (a nesting site for Leatherback Sea Turtles) and Grand Etang Forest Preserve (which offers birdwatching, hiking, and river tubing activities).

If you get a chance, visit during the island’s countless cultural festivals , which include the Grenada Chocolate Festival, Fish Fridays, and the Carriacou Maroon & String Band Music Festival.

READ MORE: The 20 Best Festivals in the World

THE GRENADINES

The Grenadines are comprised of 31 islands and cays stretching between St. Vincent and Grenada, with ownership and governance divided between those two countries.

But the archipelago is sparsely populated. Even the biggest of the islands– 7.1-square mile Bequia and 12.6-square mile Carriacou– only have around 5,000 to 6,000 permanent residents.

These remote, idyllic tropical vacation destinations are some of the most beautiful caribbean islands and are rarely visited. They offer travelers a getting-away-from-it-all experience with unspoiled beaches, endemic birds, and dazzling coral reefs teeming with marine life.

Bequia boasts beautifully forested hills in the north, as well as some impressive drift dives. The Tobago Cays, which are protected as a marine park, offer some of the finest snorkeling in the Caribbean.

Union Island, a kiteboarding haven, has recently emerged as an off-the-radar adventure travel hotspot.  And Carriacou teems with lively local culture, especially if you visit during Carnival.

READ MORE:   St Kitts Travel Tips (A St Kitts Island Guide)

MARIA-GALANTE (Guadeloupe)

Discovered in 1493 by Christopher Columbus and named after his flagship, Maria-Galante is a 61-square mile island located in the Guadeloupe archipelago.

Best known for sugar production during the colonial era, the island offers a rural taste of French West Indies tranquility, with myriad farms, pristine beaches, and lagoons protected by coral reefs.

This is a place truly in touch with its folkloric traditions, which is one of the main reasons we consider it among the best Caribbean islands to visit .

But it can be surprisingly lively at night, when locally produced rum and “ti punch” sweetened with sugar cane bring the piano bars and nightclubs to life.

READ MORE:   Caribbean Music Styles (An Overview of Caribbean Island Culture)

MONTSERRAT 

Montserrat was a showcase for the lifestyles of the rich and famous in the ‘60s, ‘70s, and ‘80s, when classic albums by icons such as Dire Straits, Duran Duran, and The Police were recorded at Sir George Martin’s AIR Studios.

But in 1995 the long-dormant Soufriére Hills volcano roared to life, destroying the capital city of Plymouth and forcing two-thirds of the local population to flee.

Now the island has been reborn as a nature sanctuary . Nature lovers will enjoy exploring the island’s nine world-class rainforest hiking trails, stunning scenic coastlines, and some of the best Scuba diving the Caribbean has to offer.

READ MORE:  The Best Hiking Trails (for your World Travel Bucket List)

SABA (Netherlands Antilles)

Known as “the Unspoiled Queen of the Caribbean,” this Dutch island is just a 12-minute flight away from St. Maarten.

With a total area of 5 square miles (pop. 2,000), the island’s centerpiece is the aptly named Mount Scenery, which rises 2,910 feet above sea level.

Naturally, climbing and hiking the Caribbean Island’s mountain trails are among the most popular activities.

But the protected waters of Saba National Marine Park also draw visitors with stunning 220-foot tall volcanic pinnacles, dolphins, and the occasional whale sighting.

READ MORE:  20 Best Mountains in the World

Caribbean Islands Map

Click on the ” – ” symbol on the map (10x) to zoom out to see a map of the Caribbean Islands.

ISLA DE LA JUVENTUD (Cuba)

Located approximately 31 miles south of Cuba, Isla de la Juventud (translation: Isle of Youth) was known as the Isle of Pines until 1978. Much of the western caribbean island is covered in lush pine forests, and lumber extraction remains a big business in the area.

Encompassing around 850 square miles, it’s the largest of the 350 islands in Cuba’s Canarreos Archipelago and the seventh-largest in the West Indies. But it only has a population of around 86,000 people, most of whom reside in the northern city of Nueva Gerona and the central city of Santa Fe.

The island’s intriguing  ecotourism attractions include the beautiful waters and beach of Playa Paraíso, the rare Cuban Crocodile, and a  cave complex near Punta del Este that features more than 200 ancient indigenous cave drawings.

Referred to as “Cuba’s Hidden Treasure,” Isla de la Juventud also offers numerous hiking trails lined with animals and plant life and some of the best snorkeling and Scuba diving in the Caribbean.

READ MORE: The Best Places to Scuba Dive (World Travel Bucket List)

ISLA HOLBOX (Mexico)

Located about 40 minutes northwest of Cancun (around 3 hours by bus from the airport), Holbox Island is a tiny fishing village that’s developing into a haven for ecotourism in the Caribbean.

The island is separated from the mainland by a shallow lagoon that provides sanctuary to thousands of herons, flamingoes and numerous endangered species.

Golf carts are the most common form of transportation– no cars allowed– with Yum Balam Biosphere Reserve and Isla Pájaros (Bird Island) ensuring you’ll see more animals than people.

But the island’s big draw is the annual afuera, a gathering of hundreds of massive whale sharks who come to feed off the Yucatan Peninsula coast every June to September. Swimming with whale sharks was one of the most incredible adventures my daughter and I have had together.

READ MORE: Isla Holbox Mexico (the Hidden Gem of Quintana Roo)

ISLA DE PROVIDENCIA (Colombia)

Situated in the Caribbean Sea between Costa Rica and Jamaica, Providencia is part of a Colombia-owned archipelago located 482 miles northwest of the mainland.

The mountainous island (which has a maximum elevation 1181 feet) was the site of an English Puritan colony that was originally founded in 1629. But Isla de la Providencia was best-known as the base for Welsh pirate Henry Morgan, who eventually became Lieutenant Governor of Jamaica.

Local rumors suggest that some of the treasure that Morgan (most famous as the face of Captain Morgan Rum) and his men pillaged during their many raids on Spanish ships remain buried here.

History lovers will enjoy exploring the various forts and cannons that can be found scattered on neighboring Santa Catalina Island, which is accessible via a footbridge. Visitors can also snorkel the island’s impressively pristine coral reef system.

READ MORE: St. Thomas Islands (Outdoor Adventures on Cas Cay)

“But wait,” I can hear you saying. “Isn’t Jamaica the epitome of overtourism in the Caribbean?”

Of course, if you stick to mass tourism caribbean vacation spots such as Montego Bay, Negril, and Ocho Rios, the answer is yes. But once you venture outside these meccas for sun/sand/surf worshippers, Jamaica has plenty to offer those seeking the sanctuary of nature.

The Blue Mountains are best known for growing some of the best coffee in the world . But they also offer fantastic hiking, with lots of endemic flora and fauna and stunning views from the 7,402-foot summit.

The southwestern parish of St Elizabeth is far off the typical tourist track. Outdoor activities there include swimming at Treasure Beach, looking for Crocodiles on a Black River Safari Tour, and spending a day at YS Falls (which is a lot less crowded than those at Dunn’s River).

Elsewhere on the island, you can bathe in the Blue Hole Mineral Spring (Westmoreland), visit Frenchman’s Cove and the Blue Lagoon (Portland), or try surfing in St. Thomas.

READ MORE: Top 20 Things to do in Jamaica for Nature Lovers 

LITTLE CORN ISLAND (Nicaragua)

With a distinctive Creole culture that incorporates African, Indian, and Spanish roots, this tiny island 43 miles off the coast of Central America feels more Caribbean than Nicaraguan.

There are four different languages spoken on Little Corn Island – Creole, English, Miskito, and Spanish– and there are no cars or roads whatsoever.

Originally known as a backpacker’s haven , the beautiful beaches and excellent snorkeling/Scuba diving in this pristine paradise have attracted more upscale ecotourists in recent years.

Thankfully, despite the gradual uptick in visitors, the remote island remains unspoiled by mass tourism development.

READ MORE: 10 Off the Beaten Path Eco Tourist Destinations

ROSARIO ISLANDS (Colombia)

Located just a 45-minute boat ride away from the historic city of Cartagena, this little-known treasure is an archipelago comprised of 30 small islands.

The islands are part of the Corales Islas del Rosario Natural National Park, which was created to protect 4,633 square miles of reefs, sea grass, and mangroves (and the aquatic species that inhabit them).

As you might expect, the snorkeling and Scuba diving here are superb. But you can have an equally amazing time just curling up in a hammock with a stiff drink, watching the spectacular sunset over the sea.

READ MORE: The Best Things to Do in Cartagena, Colombia

ROATÁN (Honduras)

Situated approximately 40 miles off the country’s northern coast, Roatán is the largest of the Bay Islands of Honduras.

The sleepy island’s population is primarily a mixture of Cayman Islanders (who came over after Britain abolished slavery in 1838), Mestizo migrants from the mainland, and entrepreneurs and expats from the US, Canada, South Africa , and Australia .

Roatán’s cities can be a bit more on the bustling side than some of the other islands on this list. But there are also gorgeous remote beaches, wildlife refuges, and mangrove forests to explore.

But the main reason to visit Roatán is the fact that the island sits directly atop the Mesoamerican Reef, the second largest reef system in the world. So the snorkeling and Scuba diving here are easily among the best in the Caribbean.

READ MORE:  The 16 Best Mayan Ruins to Explore

SAN BLAS ISLANDS (Panama)

The San Blas archipelago encompasses a whopping 378 islands and cays, stretching approximately 200 miles along the Caribbean coast of Panama .

Most of these impressively pristine islands have few roads and even fewer people. Many of the islands are ringed by healthy coral reefs and gorgeous water, which has made them increasingly popular amongst Scuba divers and sailing enthusiasts.

The 49 San Blas Islands that are inhabited are largely home to the Kuna Indians, a semiautonomous tribe that was driven from the mainland during the Spanish invasion. Many Kuna still practice the ancient traditions of their ancestors, including the crafting of brightly colored, appliquéd fabrics known as molas .

In addition to learning about their indigenous culture, other popular activities in the area include snorkeling the calm waters of Cayos Limones and Cayos Holandeses.  

READ MORE: Exploring Coiba Island & Coiba National Park, Panama

SOUTH WATER CAYE (Belize)

From gorgeous white sand beaches lined with palm trees and hammocks to brilliant waters colored in dazzling shades of blue, this 15-acre island is a picture-perfect testament to the beauty of Belize’s cayes.

Located approximately 14 miles off the coast of Dangriga, South Water Caye is accessible by boat or a quick flight. But its idyllic, relatively pristine romantic allure feels far removed from the tourism development of mainland Belize.

The island’s greatest attraction for nature lovers is its remarkable proximity to the Belize Barrier Reef , which is part of the world’s second largest reef system after Australia ‘s Great Barrier Reef.

Snorkeling right off the beach puts you in the South Water Caye Marine Reserve, which boasts an impressive array of marine life, including Rainbow Parrotfish, Reef Sharks, Moray Eels, and Spotted Rays. If you get chance, don’t miss a chance to go on a nighttime dive or snorkeling tour: The reef’s colors really come alive after dark!

If you’re not a fan of snorkeling or Scuba diving, you can also go birdwatching on the aptly-named Bird Islands, try kayaking or paddle boarding, or search for the curious Manatees that frequent nearby Man Of War Caye.

READ MORE: The Ancient Xunantunich Mayan Ruins of Belize

The “A” in the ABC islands of the Netherlands Antilles (which also include Bonaire and Curaçao), Aruba is not what most people expect from a Caribbean hotspot.

Sure, there’s perfect weather, friendly people, stunning beaches that have been named among the most beautiful beaches in the world, and postcard-worthy ocean views nearly everywhere you turn.

But the tiny southern Caribbean island (19.6 miles long and 6 miles wide) also features windswept trees and rugged shorelines on the northeast coast, and dramatic rock formations and desert-like landscape in the interior.

Animal lovers will enjoy the Bubali Bird Sanctuary (which provides breeding grounds for more than 80 species of migratory birds ), the Aruba Ostrich Farm (offering close encounters with the world’s largest bird species), and Aruba’s Butterfly Farm (which has educational exhibits on the miracle of metamorphosis and offers excellent photo opportunities).

For outdoor adventures, the hiking trails at Arikok National Park feature lava formations and ancient Arawak art .

Climbing the Casibari Rock Formation provides breathtaking views of Aruba’s landscape. And caves along the coast feature stalagmites and stalactites, as well as a colony of bats (in Guadirikiri Cave) and Arawak Indian drawings (in the Fontein Cave).

READ MORE: The 20 Best Things to Do in Aruba for Nature Lovers

CURAÇAO

Curaçao is a curious country– as colorful as any of its Caribbean neighbors, but with a distinctive personality all its own. This is partly due to its location 40 miles from Venezuela, partly due to its ownership by the Netherlands, and partly due to its complex history.

You won’t want to miss the the capital city of Willemstad , a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Its 500 years of history includes the 17th century Fort Amsterdam, Mikve Israel Emmanuel Synagogue (the oldest synagogue in the western hemisphere), the Queen Emma and Queen Juliana Bridges, and the excellent slavery-focused Museum Kura Hulanda.

In terms of natural attractions, start with hiking in St. Christoffel and Shete Boka National Parks . St. Christoffel features hiking trails leading to Curaçao’s highest point (1,292 feet); wildlife such as the rare White-tailed Deer; and ancient Arawak cave paintings. Shete Boka offers a natural bridge, blowholes, and caves that serve as Sea Turtle breeding grounds.

You can also explore the island’s cactus-strewn backcountry via an ATV or Jeep safari, try an undersea adventure with Substation Curaçao (which takes visitors 1,000 feet beneath the waves), or Scuba dive world-renowned sites such as the Tugboat and the Blue Room.

READ MORE: Top 10 Things to Do in Curaçao for Nature Lovers

STANIEL CAY (Bahamas) 

This tiny 2-square mile island, with a population of just 110, is an under-the-radar ecotourism haven in the remote Exumas. And that’s precisely what makes it one of the best Caribbean islands to visit .

With just two hotels, a restaurant/bar, and a marina, there’s not much action in sleepy Staniel Cay to attract the cruise ship crowd.

But for nature lovers, there’s the picturesque Thunderball Grotto (featured in the 1965 James Bond film), the famous swimming pigs of Major Cay , sailing, and scuba diving in impossibly blue waters.

If that’s all a little too much activity for you, there are also several perfect little beaches without a single soul in sight.

What is the Caribbean?

Located southeast of the Gulf of Mexico and North America, north of South America and east of Central America, the Caribbean is comprised of the Caribbean Sea, the islands within it and even some islands in the Atlantic Ocean (Bahamas & Bermuda). Because of political and cultural connections, the Caribbean also includes the mainland countries of Belize, Guyana, Suriname and French Guiana.

The enormous 1.06 million square miles of the Caribbean archipelago is divided into regions: the Lucayan Archipelago, the Greater Antilles, the Lesser Antilles and the ABC Islands.

Lucayan Archipelago 

The Lucayan Archipelago contains the Bahamas and Turks and Caicos Islands.

The Greater Antilles Islands

The Greater Antilles contains the Cayman Islands, Cuba, Dominican Republic, Haiti, Jamaica and Puerto Rico.

The Lesser Antilles Islands

The Lesser Antilles islands are divided into the Leeward Islands, the Windward Islands, and the ABC Islands.

Leeward Islands

The Leeward Islands are Anguilla, Antigua and Barbuda, British Virgin Islands, Guadeloupe, Montserrat, Saba, Saint Barthelemy, Saint Martin, Sint Maarten, Sint Eustatius, Saint Kitts and Nevis, US Virgin Islands.

Windward Islands

The Windward Islands are Barbados, Dominica, Greeda, Martinique, Saint Lucia, St.Vincent and the Grenadines, Trinidad and Tobago

ABC Islands

The ABC Islands are Aruba, Bonaire, Curaçao.

What continent is the Caribbean in?

The Caribbean is in the continent of North America.

What are the Caribbean Islands?

There are more than 700 Caribbean Islands, but most of the islands are uninhabited.

These are the Caribbean Islands with the most significant populations: Anguilla, Antigua and Barbuda, Aruba, Bahamas, Barbados, Belize, British Virgin Islands, Caribbean Netherlands, Cayman Islands, Cuba, Curaçao, Dominica, Dominican Republic,  Grenada, Guadeloupe, Guyana, Haiti, Jamaica, Martinique, Montserrat, Puerto Rico, Saint Barthélemy, Saint Kitts and Nevis, Saint Lucia, Saint Martin, Saint Vincent,  the Grenadines ,Sint Maarten, Suriname, Trinidad and Tobago, Turks and Caicos Islands, United States Virgin Islands.

How many countries are in the Caribbean?

There are 26 independent countries and other territories in the Caribbean.

Anguilla, Antigua and Barbuda, Aruba, Bahamas, Barbados, British Virgin Islands, Cayman Islands, Cuba, Dominica, Dominican Republic, Grenada, Guadeloupe, Haiti, Jamaica, Martinique, Montserrat, Netherlands, Antilles, Puerto Rico, Saint Barthelemy, Saint Kitts & Nevis, Saint Lucia, Saint Martin, Saint Vincent, Trinidad & Tobago, Turks & Caicos Islands, US Virgin Islands.

Going on a Caribbean Islands Vacation?

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30 beautiful caribbean islands to visit.

It's time to plan your next tropical getaway.

(Getty Images) |

These stunning Caribbean islands will keep you busy and take your breath away.

Isla Mujeres, Mexico

Vieques, Puerto Rico

Corn Islands, Nicaragua

Roatan, Honduras

Virgin Gorda, British Virgin Islands

Ambergis Caye

Uvita Island, Costa Rica

Cozumel, Mexico

Grand Cayman

Little Cayman

Jost Van Dyke

New Providence Island, Bahamas

Cayman Brac

Sandy Island, Anguilla

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The Best Caribbean Islands to Visit in 2024 and Beyond

From new luxury hotels to unspoiled islands boasting secluded white beaches.

By Serina Tatham

The Caribbean is a much-loved destination, but with so many new openings and exciting sustainable initiatives in the works, it’s well worth taking another look at the region. From new luxury hotels gracing the sandy beaches of Turks and Caicos to an unspoiled island boasting secluded white beaches and one of the largest coral reefs in the Caribbean, these four islands will quickly earn the top spots on your bucket list.

[See also: A Luxury Guide to a Long Weekend in Antigua]

With a little of everything on offer, Barbados’s geography is as diverse as it is stunning: waterfalls, craggy caves, superb snorkeling — even pink-sand beaches. Striving to keep the island and its coral reefs in pristine condition, the government is hot on sustainable tourism, implementing legislation and forming agencies whose sole purpose is to protect, preserve, and educate locals and visitors. So — where to stay? Completely reimagined, the sprawling O2 Beach Club & Spa opened its doors at the end of 2021.

Set on an idyllic beachfront, this new resort caters to all types of travelers: Explore the island on a 4×4 jeep safari, enjoy a romantic sunset catamaran cruise along the coastline, or unwind at the state-of-the-art Acqua Spa. Committed to being a responsible corporate citizen, the hotel (as part of Ocean Hotels) supports charities, initiatives and educational programs that help develop the community, allowing travelers to make a lasting impact at their destination.

Turks and Caicos

Over the next few years, expect to see big changes to Turks and Caicos. Alongside new hotel openings from Ritz-Carlton, the increased demand for branded residences has made a recognizable imprint on the island: A unique resort and residential community on a 14-acre oceanfront site, Grace Bay Resorts’ Rock House opened in Spring 2022 and totals just 42 villas and cottages.

Over the coming years, this new venture is set to be joined by Andaz Turks & Caicos Residences and The Strand Turks & Caicos residential resort community. It’s an exciting time to set down roots in the Caribbean, if you needed an excuse. With some of the most spectacular beaches and turquoise waters, as well as coral reefs that beg to be explored, there is so much to keep you entertained. While Grace Bay is the most popular, head to the area between Providenciales and North Caicos and you’ll find an untouched collection of small cays and deserted white sand beaches.

Ilma: On Board The Ritz-Carlton’s Newest Superyacht

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[See also: The Top Suites in Turks and Caicos]

Saint Lucia

For something a bit different, Saint Lucia’s Rabot Hotel — part of the famed Hotel Chocolat brand — offers unique experiences connecting you to the history and culture of the island. The sloping mountains provide the ideal growing conditions for cacao trees, which favor volcanic soil and shade. Since the 1700s, Saint Lucia has exported its cacao beans to Europe or to Hershey in Pennsylvania. But today, the island sets some aside for itself and produces its own world-class chocolate.

Delve into this historical relationship further where, set in a rain forest in a Unesco World Heritage Site, Rabot Estate is a six-acre site that is the island’s oldest working cacao farm. Here, Project Chocolat offers an unforgettable immersive experience connecting ethical cacao-growing with chocolate lovers. First, learn about how cacao grows with a tour of the groves. Then, graft a tree before finishing the tour by handcrafting your own chocolate bar and, of course, tasting some delicious cacao cuisine.

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Canouan island, the grenadines.

Unspoiled and virtually undiscovered, Canouan Island is a hidden gem within St Vincent and the Grenadines. As a small island, Canouan Island (and the rest of the archipelago) is more susceptible to the effects of climate change. As a result, nonprofit organizations have sprung up with the specific mission of keeping the extraordinary landscape in immaculate condition.

One such organization — Sustainable Grenadines, or SusGren — aims to empower the people of the Grenadines through environmental education to build sustainable livelihoods and engage in biodiversity conservation and climate change adaptation. With one of the Caribbean’s largest coral reefs, the small bays and coves that surround the island make for some incredible diving and snorkeling locales.

With the tagline of ‘The place where billionaires go to get away from millionaires,’ you can rest assured that you won’t run into any loud tourists. To enjoy a quiet vacation, we recommend Soho Beach House Canouan or Sandy Lane Yacht Club & Residences.

[See also: Caymankind: Where to Discover the Real Cayman Islands ]

This article appears in the 06 Jun 2022 issue of the New Statesman, Summer 2022

Serina Tatham

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The 12+ Best Caribbean Islands To Visit in 2023 [Month-by-Month Guide]

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Table of Contents

Why visit the caribbean, when to visit the caribbean, these are the 12 best caribbean islands to visit, best caribbean islands to visit in winter and spring, best caribbean islands to visit in summer and fall, best caribbean islands to visit by month, final thoughts.

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With hundreds of islands, the Caribbean offers an array of destinations for travelers seeking a vacation with sand, sun, and crystal clear waters. Located just southeast of the U.S., it’s relatively easy to get to many Caribbean destinations from numerous U.S. hubs.

From family-friendly islands to honeymoon destinations, affordable escapes, and seasonal options, these are the best islands to visit in the Caribbean.

A Caribbean vacation offers travelers a fun-in-the-sun getaway, but there’s also so much more to get out of a Caribbean vacation. Caribbean vacationers can explore history, culture, cuisine, adventure, and incredible natural landscapes, such as volcanoes, waterfalls, bioluminescent bays, and unique flora and fauna.

It’s easy to get to the Caribbean from many U.S. destinations and airports, and U.S. travelers don’t have to worry about jet lag like they would when visiting islands like Fiji or Bali.

Divers and snorkelers may find the Caribbean especially enticing, as it’s home to some of the most exotic marine life in the world, as well as sea turtles and whales. The islands are also known for having friendly and welcoming locals, as well as iconic Carnival celebrations and festivals throughout the year.

Although the Caribbean islands have a hot and tropical climate year-round, it’s important to understand that most destinations have 2 main seasons: rainy and dry. The dry season from December to May is usually when visitors can enjoy the best weather. The rainy season is from June to November and includes the Atlantic hurricane season. The months of the edges of each of these seasons are considered the shoulder seasons.

Visiting during the rainy or shoulder season may offer better deals on airfare, activities, and hotels. Rainy season could mean sunny skies most of the day with an occasional tropical rain shower, or it could bring a hurricane.

The Caribbean is divided into 3 groups: The Bahamas, Greater Antilles, and Lesser Antilles . Although The Bahamas aren’t technically in the Caribbean Sea, these islands are still considered part of CARICOM, the Caribbean Community. Also, Turks and Caicos is part of the Lucayan Archipelago alongside The Bahamas.

However, most travelers aren’t too particular about such distinctions, so we’ve included both The Bahamas and Turks and Caicos in our roundup. After all, these islands offer what most Caribbean travelers are seeking, such as crystal clear waters and fine white sands.

Read on to learn about the best places to visit in the Caribbean and what type of traveler each island caters to, as well as the best Caribbean islands to visit by season and month.

1. Best Caribbean Island To Visit on a Budget: Jamaica

Excepting Jamaica’s luxurious Sandals resorts, the island can be a rather affordable destination for travelers who want a budget Caribbean vacation . Low-cost air carrier Spirit offers cheap flights from Fort Lauderdale (FLL) or flights with a layover in FLL from hubs including Chicago (ORD) or Dallas (DFW) for less than $280 round trip on select winter dates.

A quick search on Booking.com revealed many hotels under $100 per night, such as the charming Westender Inn , an oceanfront property with a pool and garden. For under $200 per night, you can lounge on the crystalline sands of the Sand and Tan Beach Hotel in Ocho Rios or enjoy grand sea views at the Hotel Grand A View .

Once in Jamaica, there are plenty of affordable activities to do during your stay. Lounge on the blissful Seven Mile Beach (which, despite its name, is actually only 4 miles long), or pop into a reggae bar to listen to the locals jam from your hammock.

If you’re really in the market for an affordable escape, use your points and miles to fly to the Caribbean — we detail the best ways to do so.

2. Best Family-Friendly Caribbean Island: The Bahamas

From pirates to marine life to endless fun in the sun, The Bahamas offers everything a family with young children, teens, or even older adults could ever want. The massive resort complex Atlantis on Paradise Island, home to 5 different hotels, offers family-friendly services like stroller rentals, plus kids 6 and under eat free. There’s also an on-site water park and kids’ club activities. Teens will love the Atlantis underwater video arcade and the teen-only nightclub.

Meanwhile, Nassau is one of the best Caribbean islands for kids, thanks to its interactive Pirates of Nassau Museum , a fit for kids of all ages. You can get up close and personal with wildlife, such as flamingoes at Ardastra Gardens , a wildlife center that also features pigs, monkeys, and other animals. And it’s not just the most developed islands in The Bahamas that cater to kids. The serene stretches of soft sands and calm waters on islands like Exuma or the Abacos are some of the best Caribbean Islands to visit with toddlers, ideal for little kids to run, play, and shout to their hearts’ content.

3. Best Caribbean Island To Visit for All-Inclusive Resorts: Dominican Republic

One of the best Caribbean Islands to visit for all-inclusive hotels is the Dominican Republic , thanks to resort areas like Punta Cana, La Romana, and Puerta Plata, all home to numerous resorts that offer all-inclusive packages.

Punta Cana has endless options for all-inclusive travelers , whether you’re on your honeymoon or on the hunt for a family-friendly all-inclusive resort. Choose from the luxury of the Sanctuary Cap Cana (a Marriott resort), the contemporary, family-friendly Hyatt Ziva Cap Cana (home to a water park), and the Hyatt Zilara Cap Cana (adults only), plus 2 new Hyatt Sunscape Resorts opening in 2024 and an all-inclusive, adults-only W Punta Cana coming in 2025 (one of the first all-inclusive W properties in the world).

If you’re hoping to book a Hyatt resort in the Dominican Republic for your next Caribbean getaway, you can save 40% when booking by December 13, 2023 .

What does all-inclusive mean ? Find out how to get your money’s worth at an all-inclusive hotel in our detailed article.

4. Best Caribbean Island To Visit With Friends: Anguilla

Anguilla is known as one of the friendliest islands in the Caribbean , which means visiting with friends will be lots of fun. You can interact with locals at the beach parties of Sandy Ground Beach and enjoy participating in the local culture, including Anguilla’s Carnival celebrations, which happen each summer and include boat races, street jams, and parades. The U.S. State Department has also named Anguilla one of the safest Caribbean islands ( marked as a Level 1 ) to visit, so you and your friends should be able to frolic freely without worry.

Anguilla has quite a bit of diversity in what to do on your vacation. Of course, there are those stunning Caribbean beaches, like the picture-perfect Shoal Bay or the pinkish-hued sunsets of Mead Bay. Friends can also hit up art galleries, visit museums, go snorkeling or diving, birdwatch, and share a meal on the famous island of Scilly Cay, a tiny island home to the Gorgeous Scilly Cay Restaurant , where you can dine on local grilled lobster or Caribbean-inspired surf and turf.

5. Best Caribbean Island To Visit on a Honeymoon: St. Lucia

One of the best Caribbean islands for a honeymoon , St. Lucia’s breathtaking scenery, gorgeous hotels, and impressive natural wonders make it the perfect Caribbean island to visit as a couple . Visitors can admire the island’s emblematic backdrop, the moss-covered Piton Mountains that seem to rise directly out of the sea. Choose from world-class resorts such as Jade Mountain , home to its own chocolate farm and laboratory, and Hyatt’s all-inclusive Zoetry Marigot Bay , flanked with verdant foliage.

Pigeon Island National Park is one of the best spots on the island for couples who want to experience history, a wooded islet home to former British forts. Nature buffs should explore the cascading waterfalls, dense rainforest, and sulfur springs near Soufrière.

The only thing better than a honeymoon in St. Lucia is a free one. You can redeem World of Hyatt points to stay at Hyatt’s AMR Collection properties across the Caribbean. To stock up on Hyatt points, apply for The World of Hyatt Credit Card or earn flexible points that can transfer to the World of Hyatt program with a card such as the  Chase Sapphire Reserve ®  or  Chase Sapphire Preferred ®  Card .

6. Best Caribbean Island To Visit for Endless Beaches: Antigua

The Caribbean is indeed known for having some of the most beautiful beaches in the world. But not every island is created equal, and some have more beaches and better beaches than other destinations. Antigua wins for quantity when it comes to beaches, with around 365 different sandy stretches — you could spend a year there and never go to the same beach twice!

However, the large number of beaches can make it difficult to decide which ones to visit, especially if your trip is just a week long and not a year. We recommend Half Moon Bay, a crescent-shaped stretch of sand with a reef for snorkeling. Ffryes Beach is the one to visit for photos of sparkling sands and transparent waters, especially beautiful around sunset.

7. Best Caribbean Island To Visit for First Timers: Cayman Islands

Between the 3 different Cayman Islands, first-time travelers can get a true taste of what a Caribbean vacation is all about. Grand Cayman, the largest and most popular of the 3, is the perfect place to start , offering visitors a more curated, traditional resort stay and access to perfect Caribbean sands and waters, as well as plenty of dining, amenities, and activities. We love the Kimpton Seafire Resort & Spa , an IHG resort located directly on the famous Seven Mile Beach.

Those looking for something more off-the-beaten-path will also find it in Cayman on the other 2 smaller islands: Cayman Brac and Little Cayman. Both of these islands are known for offering incredible marine life accessible to snorkelers and divers, plenty of solitude, and a general far-flung, deserted island feel.

8. Best Caribbean Island To Visit Solo: British Virgin Islands

Some Caribbean islands are safer than others, and solo visitors should feel comfortable heading to the British Virgin Islands : Tortola, Anegada, Virgin Gorda, and Jost Van Dyke — plus more than 50 other tiny islands and cays. It holds the lowest travel safety advisory rating (a 1) from the U.S. State Department . This means travelers should exercise normal caution.

Often referred to as BVI, these islands offer comfortable and luxurious resorts like the Rosewood Little Dix Bay or Scrub Island Resort, Spa & Marina (unfortunately, no longer affiliated with Marriott) for those that want to relax in style. There are also plenty of secluded beaches and hidden spots to hide away from more mainstream tourism.

Solo travelers who want to make new friends should head to Cane Garden Bay on Tortola, a picturesque stretch of white sands that features beach bars and hotels with live music, happy hours, and other activities. Another must-see is The Baths in Virgin Gorda, a mix of sea boulders, hidden coves, and white sands accessible by land or boat. Consider heading there first thing in the morning or later in the day to beat the day trippers. For a bit more solitude, consider Anegada, a quieter island known for its wildlife and peaceful beaches.

Don’t have a passport but really want to visit the Caribbean? You can visit the U.S. Virgin Islands (USVI), which became U.S. territories in 1917: St. John, St. Croix, and St. Thomas.

9. Best Caribbean Island To Visit for Luxury: St. Barts

St. Barts isn’t the easiest Caribbean island to access, which is why high-profile celebrities and athletes often vacation there to get away from the general public and shutter-happy paparazzi. An overseas territory of France, the island oozes French sophistication combined with Caribbean glamour.

Besides the many exclusive luxury hotels, such as   Eden Rock , a seafront property that offers sophisticated amenities like yacht rentals, and the Rosewood Le Guanahani , which feels intimate and secluded, thanks to its 66 rooms and suites, it’s also a paradise for shoppers. Thanks to duty-free status, you’ll pay a lot less tax on luxury goods on the island.

10. Best Caribbean Island for History and Wildlife Buffs: St. Kitts and Nevis

While the 2 islands of St. Kitts and Nevis boast blissful beaches, lush rainforest, and coveted Caribbean waters, the destination is also ideal for those who want to understand more about the culture of the Caribbean . St. Kitts was Great Britain’s first settlement in the Caribbean. Nevis featured the region’s first hotel, the Bath Hotel, which dates back to the 18th century. These days, when it comes to hotels, we favor the elevated Park Hyatt St. Kitts Christophe Harbour .

Learn more about the island’s history at the Brimstone Hill Fortress National Park , a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Animal lovers may also enjoy the fact that this island is home to hundreds of free-roaming vervet monkeys. Just don’t get too close to them! Between the months of June and September, visitors can spot 3 different species of turtles hatching: the hawksbill, the leatherback, and the green turtle.

11. Best Caribbean Island for Adventure Travelers: Dominica

Known as the nature hub of the Caribbean, Dominica’s viridescent landscape is home to extensive rainforests, tree-covered mountains, dramatic gorges, inviting freshwater lakes and hot springs, and even active volcanoes. The island’s landscape is decidedly unique, from the bubbling saltwater rising up from the sea floor at Champagne Beach to the sulfur springs of Wotten Waven, rumored to have healing properties.

With 3 national parks on the island, there’s much to do in the way of hiking, whether it be to reach a secret waterfall, wander through a cloud forest, or just enjoy dramatic views of the island’s memorable landscape. You can enjoy some of the island’s best natural wonders right from the hotel if you stay at the   InterContinental Dominica Cabrits Resort & Spa , which overlooks the Caribbean Sea and the greenery and volcano of  Cabrits National Park .

12. Best Caribbean Island for Top-Rated Beaches: Turks and Caicos

Turks and Caicos has some of the very best beaches in the Caribbean, with the whitest, finest sand, and clearest, most enticing waters. Although some may argue that Turks and Caicos isn’t really a part of the Caribbean, we’re including them in this roundup. With 40+ different islands, this archipelago has plenty of sand to go around — and all beaches are public, so you can visit as many as you’d like.

Grace Bay is probably the most famous beach on the islands, often snagging the top spot on best beach lists. It’s home to a reef system, and a portion of it is part of the Princess Alexandra National Park . Long Bay Beach’s winds are ideal for kiteboarders, while families should head to the lagoon waters of Half Moon Bay. AvGeeks should head to Pine Cay Beach, where you can feel the breeze from landing airplanes landing at and taking off from the Pine Cay Airstrip , though definitely don’t expect to spot any 747s.

The Atlantic hurricane season runs from June until the end of November, so winter and spring are the best times to visit almost any of the Caribbean Islands if you’re looking for sunny, dry weather .

However, with peak season comes peak prices and high crowds, so if you’re visiting during prime time, you might want to consider one of the more affordable Caribbean islands (Jamaica or Dominica) to stay within budget, or one of the more obscure Caribbean islands (Grenada or St. Vincent and the Grenadines) to have a crowd-free Caribbean winter escape.

The ABC islands of Aruba , Bonaire, and Curaçao sit outside of the Atlantic hurricane belt , so they’re less susceptible to major or damaging storms. These are the best places to visit if you’d like to escape to the Caribbean in the summer, which coincides with hurricane season.

The best southern Caribbean islands to visit include St. Vincent and the Grenadines, Barbados, and Grenada, as well as Trinidad and Tobago . These islands are closer to Latin America and are usually less likely to get hit by a hurricane, though they’ve all seen their fair share of intense tropical storms.

Just remember, there are no guarantees when it comes to nature, so if you want to minimize the risk of hurricanes or other tropical storms, visit the Caribbean during the dry season (December to May). The highest risk of hurricanes is from August to October, so you may want to consider avoiding those months in the Caribbean if you’re worried about bad weather.

If you visit the Caribbean during the summer months, make sure to get travel insurance . Don’t forget that many popular credit cards come with travel insurance — we detail some of the best in our guide.

Beyond just hurricanes and budget, there are certain times of year when it’s ideal to visit specific Caribbean islands. From underwater visibility to whale migrations to iconic cultural celebrations, these are the best islands to visit in the Caribbean each month.

Best Caribbean Islands To Visit in January

Foodies should head to the Cayman Islands in January for the Cayman Cookout , which brings together revered chefs, mixologists, and spirits connoisseurs from around the world (January 9 to 15, 2024). This year’s event also includes a musical performance from the Goo Goo Dolls.

Grenada is another island to visit in January (and the beginning of February), as the destination hosts Grenada Sailing Week . The event (January 28 to February 2, 2024) consists of sailing races and lots of parties back on dry land.

January is one of the sunniest and driest months in the Caribbean, so you’ll likely have excellent weather on all of the islands. Just book ahead to get the best prices, and know that you may encounter crowds this month and in the months following, especially around spring break .

Best Caribbean Islands To Visit in February

It’s prime sperm whale season throughout the Caribbean, but especially in Dominica between November and March. Head out on a boat around areas like Scotts Head, Roseau, Layou, and Point Round to admire these gentle giants — just make sure not to lure the animals. You may also spot spotted and spinner dolphins.

For those that want an iconic Carnival experience outside of Brazil, Trinidad and Tobago’s Carnival event (February 12 to 13, 2024) is famous worldwide, featuring parades, partying, and some of the most elaborate costumes you may have ever seen.

Finally, celebrate the leap year and welcome in the month of March with the St. Maarten Heineken Regatta (February 29 to March 3, 2024), home to 4 days of sailing and lots of cuisine and Heineken beer.

Best Caribbean Islands To Visit in March

March is another perfect month in the Caribbean, with smooth seas for sailing and excellent visibility for diving and snorkeling. Head to Antigua for the Superyacht Challenge (March 11 to 17, 2024) to see boats race for the win.

Or, focus on the delights of the underwater world, diving and snorkeling around the Turks and Caicos Barrier Reef , Grenada’s Molinere Bay  Underwater Sculpture Park , or Bonaire, where the capital of the island, Kralendijk, translates to coral reef.

Best Caribbean Islands To Visit in April

April brings continued sunshine to the Caribbean, as well as the BVI Spring Regatta and Sailing Festival (April 1 to 7, 2024), home to sailing and lots of fun.

For a unique Caribbean experience, let’s not forget about Cuba , a country a few hundred miles away from Florida. April brings the island’s Afro Cuban Dance Festival (March 30 to April 9, 2024) to Havana. U.S. citizens can travel to Cuba if they meet one of the 12 categories of travel set by the U.S. government , which include things like educational activities, support for Cuban people, public performances, and workshops.

Best Caribbean Islands To Visit in May

May is an excellent month for travelers looking for the best Caribbean islands to visit on a budget — although there’s just slightly more rainfall, the prices are usually more affordable, and the crowds start to dissipate. It’s the perfect time to visit St. Lucia thanks to the St. Lucia Jazz and Arts Festiva l (April 30 to May 9), which blends jazz, blues, R&B, swing, calypso, and Latin music with cuisine, dance, craft markets, and more.

This month also brings one of Antigua’s most notable events: Antigua Sailing Week (April 27 to May 3, 2024).

Best Caribbean Islands To Visit in June

As the Atlantic hurricane season gets its start, the ABC islands, which have more stable and drier weather, become more popular as they reside outside the Atlantic hurricane belt. This is why heading to Bonaire’s Rum Week (June 12 to 17, 2024) is the optimal plan for travelers who want a trip focusing on Caribbean spirits, cigars, cuisine, and sunshine.

Pineapple lovers should travel to The Bahamas for The Bahamas Pineapple Festival (June 7 to 8, 2024). Here, you can chow down on this flavorful fruit alongside other Bahamian desserts and beverages.

Concerned about the possibility of a hurricane? Consider getting one of these cancel for any reason travel insurance policies .

Best Caribbean Islands To Visit in July

July is a month for celebration in the Caribbean . Enjoy Carnival celebrations in St. Vincent and the Grenadines ( Vincy Mas , July 4 to 10, 2024), St. Lucia (July 10 to 17, 2024), and Antigua (July 26 to August 6, 2024).

St. Kitts and Nevis celebrates Restaurant Week (July 13 to 23, 2023), where restaurants around the island will offer special menus around a theme ingredient. The upcoming festival’s ingredient is pineapple.

Finally, Jamaica gets festive with its Reggae Sumfest (July 16 to 22, 2024), featuring nonstop concerts and events.

Best Caribbean Islands To Visit in August

Brave the heat and humidity to attend Anguilla’s Summer Fest (August 1 to 11, 2024) , celebrating the 50th anniversary of the island’s Carnival history. Events include the Miss Anguilla competition, boat races, concerts, parades, and more.

Both the British Virgin Islands and St. Kitts and Nevis honor their Emancipation Days in August. To celebrate, these destinations feature several days of music, parties, and more.

Best Caribbean Islands To Visit in September

Hurricane season lasts about half the year. However, the most common time for cyclone activity is around September 10, according to the National Hurricane Center. Still, that doesn’t mean storms will definitely occur around that time. If you’re willing to brave the possibility of hazardous weather (most often intermixed with plenty of sunshine), September happens to be prime turtle-hatching season on many Caribbean islands . Spot them on islands such as Aruba, St. Kitts and Nevis, The Grenadines, and even in Mexico, Florida, and Puerto Rico , too.

Best Caribbean Islands To Visit in October

Remember, even during the peak of the Atlantic hurricane season, the ABC islands often see much less inclement weather , so October is a good time to visit.

If you’re willing to brave a bit of rain, visit St. Lucia, which celebrates its Creole Heritage Month in October. Festivities begin October 1 with Oktoberfest and end on the last Sunday in October to celebrate Creole Day. Or, vacation in Barbados , known as the birthplace of rum. The island celebrates its Food and Rum Festival each October.

Best Caribbean Islands To Visit in November

November welcomes the final month of hurricane season, so you may see clear skies as the end of the month approaches. Families and adults alike can celebrate at the Pirates Fest in the Cayman Islands . It’s celebrated on all 3 islands (Little Cayman, November 3 to 5, 2023; Grand Cayman, November 9 to 19, 2023; and Cayman Brac, November 24 to 26, 2023). The merriment includes parties, cultural events, turtle releases, costumes, dancing, and plenty of pirate fun.

Those looking for a slightly higher-brow experience than “Yo ho ho and a bottle of rum” can find it in St. Bart’s. The annual St. Barth’s Gourmet Festival (November 7 to 12, 2023) welcomes top chefs and hungry foodies from around the world.

Best Caribbean Islands To Visit in December

Spending the holidays in the Caribbean is the ideal winter getaway. The weather starts improving, so those in search of winter sun will find warm and drier conditions in nearly all of the Caribbean Islands . However, we suggest a visit to The Bahamas, where 16 of the islands celebrate Junkanoo , which includes dancing, music, and elaborate costumes. The festival occurs on the day after Christmas annually.

Meanwhile, the U.S. Virgin Island of St. Croix celebrates the Crucian Christmas Carnival , which begins in December and culminates on Kings Day, which is January 6.

If the beach and sunshine don’t inspire you around the holidays, consider a trip to Europe, home to some of the world’s best Christmas markets , instead.

With so many islands in the Caribbean, it’s easy to find the right one for you . Whether you’re on a budget, looking for the best beaches, or want to travel in a specific month or season, the wide range of Caribbean islands offers something for every traveler.

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Which Caribbean Island Should You Visit?

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

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

Photo by BlueOrange Studio/Shutterstock

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

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

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

Beaches: Anguilla

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

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

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

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

Luxury: Nevis

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Photo by Pete Niesen/Shutterstock

Ocean adventure: British Virgin Islands

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

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

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

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

Culture: Puerto Rico

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

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

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

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

Photo by Sean Pavone/Shutterstock

Romance: St. Lucia

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

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

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

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

Family-friendly: Dominican Republic

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

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

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

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

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

Bonus: Belize for Adventure

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

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

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

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

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