best caribbean places to visit in january

7 Best Caribbean Islands to Visit in January (2024 Reviews)

Destinations By Month

Updated: December 15, 2023

January has always been when we wrap ourselves in coats, sip a warm cup of coffee, and wait for the sun to make a cursory appearance. But this is also when you can enjoy some of the most alluring places on this earth in their best forms. One particular destination that stands out in this list is the Caribbean Islands. During January, the Caribbean Islands experience minimal humidity with little to no threat of rainfall, making it a haven for holidayers.

However, with over 7,000 islands in the Caribbean Sea, it can get quite daunting to select your dream vacation spots. To cut you some slack, we have come up with the 7 best Caribbean Islands to visit in January for a relaxing beach holiday.

Jamaica is probably one of the best Caribbean Islands to visit in January. With temperatures hovering between 22°C (71°F) and 31°C (88°F) throughout the year, there is no bad time to visit Jamaica . But winters are considered the best season to visit this vibrant country as one gets to discover pleasant Caribbean waters for a lovely swim. 

A few popular things to do in Jamaica during January include taking a sunrise stroll along the sandy beaches, experiencing the mesmerizing beauty of the Dunn’s river falls, indulging in some adrenaline-inducing water sports in the sea, and visiting the historic Fort George. 

Must Do:   Glide down the picturesque stretch of the Martha Brae river in a handmade bamboo raft . This is a perfect way to soak up some breathtaking scenery on this island.

Situated southeast of Florida , the Bahamas is a beautiful island nation surrounded by waters of all shades and hues. This tropical and laid-back country comes alive during the winters when it becomes a favorite for vacationers. The salty breezes, pink-sand beaches , and other-worldly experiences are hard to find anywhere else.

Tourists flock to the Bahamas in January to go swimming on the Blue Lagoon Island, do some kayaking and kiteboarding in the Exumas, indulge in beachcombing in the Lucayan National Park, and snorkel on the Stocking Island.

Must Do: Pay a visit to John Watling’s Distillery , where Bahamian locals have been producing alcoholic delights using sugarcane, firewater, barrels, and crackling piles of coconut husks for hundreds of years. You can also purchase your rum of choice post a tour. 

#3 St. Martin

If you are a snowbird, St. Martin is your ideal destination in January as it is considered one of the safest warm climate locations in the world. St. Martin is known for its busy beach resorts, secluded coves, and vibrant nightlife. 

Thousands of tourists visit St. Martin in January to relax at the Loterie Farm, sunbathe at Mullet Bay, wander around the beautiful streets of Philipsburg and enjoy a sunset sail at Lambada Sunset Sail.

Must Do: Spend a day at the Butterfly farm to hear fascinating stories about different types of butterflies, including their evolutionary journey.

#4 Barbados

Barbados is the land of Instagram-worthy beaches, incredible cuisine, and endless sunshine. There are fewer places in the Caribbean that are better at offering a relaxing beach holiday in the winter. The island is known for its historic homes, verdant golf courses , and great walking trails.

While in Barbados, tourists can visit the lush Harrison’s Cave , sight shipwrecks in Carlisle Bay, go for Bajan Brunch at Lancaster Great House, or simply explore the hidden gems of Barbados in a jeep safari.

Must do: Don’t miss the world-famous Barbados Sailing Week that happens every January. Enjoy round-island races and other fun activities for a memorable visit.

#5 Turks and Caicos

The Turks and Caicos Islands are the Caribbean’s best-kept secret. Though not as popular as the other names on this list, this collection of islands is an idyllic destination for those who love to spend some time alone or with their loved ones. The Turks and Caicos Islands are known for their world-class spas, delectable cuisines, and rich local traditions.

Suppose you’re visiting the Turks and Caicos islands in January. In that case, you can do whale watching on Salt Cay or kiteboarding across Long Bay Beach, indulge in local fish fry, and learn some local history at the Turks & Caicos National Museum.

Must Do: Explore the mysterious Con Bar Caves that cut deep into the limestone rock beds and Karst hills. You will be awestruck by the subterranean labyrinth of tunnels and chambers.

#6 Grand Cayman

Home to rare blue iguanas, underwater bronze mermaids, and hundreds of dive sites, Grand Cayman is a paradise among the crystalline Caribbean seas. One of the unique aspects of Grand Cayman is its perfect balance between great amenities and exciting ‘beachy’ adventures. There is also an overall cosmopolitan vibe to this island, thanks to a thriving ex-pat community who have made this their home.

During January, one can attend classes like paddleboard yoga, stand-up paddleboarding, and kitesurfing, all without breaking a sweat. You can also snorkel with stingrays or visit the other Cayman Islands while you are here.

Must do: Spend a lazy evening on a kayaking trip (you might also get an electric-powered catamaran) in the bioluminescent bay. There are many local tour operators who can arrange this once-in-a-lifetime experience where you can explore the glowing body of water as night falls. 

#7 St. Vincent & The Grenadines

St. Vincent & the Grenadines consists of 32 remote islands and cays dotted with vibrant coral reefs, imposing volcanos, and postcard-worthy harbors. When you reach these islands in January, you will be welcomed by sublime weather, thatched wood cottages, and the sweet scent of tropical flowers. The intriguing network of secluded islands exudes an old-world charm. 

In January, one can immerse themselves in St Vincent’s underwater world, hike to the La Soufriere volcano, admire the view from Fort Charlotte, or escape in style to the paradise island of Mustique.

Must Do: Take a refreshing dip under the Dark View Falls, which can be reached after a short 15-minute hike through lush bamboo groves. The path to the cascades is riddled with beautiful bridges.

Whether you plan a relaxing family vacation or a romantic getaway this winter, the Caribbean Islands could be a great choice. Whatever kind of traveler you are, there is a place for you in the Caribbean . While its beaches are intoxicating, its vistas and people will make you forget that the rest of the world exists. 

So what are you waiting for? Plan your vacation to the Caribbean Islands now!

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Best Caribbean Islands To Visit In January

The Caribbean consists of over 7,000 islands which makes it hard to decide which island to visit when you’re ready for a vacation in the sun.

That is why in this article we have narrowed down your options to the best Caribbean islands in January. So you will know where you can visit for the best possible weather and have the most epic vacation ever!

These Caribbean islands are some of the most beautiful and tropical destinations to visit in the world.

Weather In The Caribbean In January

January is considered the dry season, so it has some of the lowest levels of rain for the entire year.

Unfortunately, January is one of the coldest months in the Caribbean, but that does not mean it’s a bad time to visit. Especially if you are escaping the snow.

Some of the Caribbean islands are very warm in January, you’ll always feel warm and be able to work on that tan.

At night it might get a little chilly, but we are talking the 70’s.

During the day, you’ll still be able to bask in the sun. The weather will feel perfect ☀️

Best Islands To Visit In January

The Caribbean islands are one of the best places to visit in January. But to be considered to be one of the best, there are some criteria that must be met.

It must have a higher average low temperature than other islands, and there must be low rainfall during the month of January.

With so many great places to visit in January, why choose a place where you’ll have to endure rain or feel cold?

The southern islands are warmer during the month of January than the northern islands in the Caribbean Sea because they’re closer to the equator.

So when searching for a place to visit in the cold months, this is a good place to start.

However, if you are escaping the brutally cold winter months and the snow, if you head south the weather will be warmer.

1. Aruba, Bonaire, and Curacao

Aruba, Bonaire, and Curacao make up what is known as the ABC islands. They’re some of the warmest places you can visit in January, with temperatures ranging from the mid-70s to mid-80s.

The islands experience an average year-round temperature of 82. These islands are the southernmost Caribbean islands, so the weather here differs from some of the other islands.

In January, you can expect sunny weather and an average rainfall of less than 1″. The consistent, warm weather makes these islands some of the best places to visit in January.

The three ABC islands are all part of the Kingdom of the Netherlands and have a similar culture. They’re in close proximity to each other and not very far by sea or from the South American borders.

Keep reading to learn a little bit more about each of the islands individually.

Aruba is a small island under 20 miles long and only 6 miles wide. The island is very flat, so the only negative characteristic is it experiences almost constant wind.

This is a nice reprieve from the heat, but it can sometimes become an annoyance and make you feel cold. Aruba is also known for having some of the most beautiful white-sand beaches in the Caribbean. Aruba also has the sunniest days per year, so you’ll surely get all the vitamin D you need.

Bonaire is also a tiny island. It’s 23 miles long and 5 miles wide. Scuba diving and snorkeling are super popular here, as well as other water sports like kiteboarding and windsurfing.

The island is also known for its flamingos that call this place home. Head to the south coast and enjoy the water sports to relax to the sounds of the ocean.

Curacao’s beaches are all in coves and are quaint and beautiful. It’s an excellent place for snorkeling and scuba diving.

Curacao is also known for its pastel buildings and European flair, especially in the island’s capital Willemstad. Curacao is also known for the liquor of the same name, made from the dried peel of the bitter orange called laraha, which is only grown on the island of Curacao.

Still can’t decide here is a comparison on Aruba vs. Curacao.

The island nation of Grenada is southern and, therefore, a bit warmer than other Caribbean islands. This destination consists of a main island and a few smaller islands.

It has unspoiled beaches and much natural beauty. Enjoy the colorful buildings and the warm weather on this Caribbean island.

If you have the chance, you should visit Grenada and enjoy the turquoise waters and soft sands. Grenada Sailing Week occurs during the month of January, which is a fun event to witness.

Grenada is also nicknamed the Spice of the Caribbean for all the spices grown here, so be sure to try some of the tasty authentic food.

3. Cayman Islands

The Cayman Islands consist of three islands, with Grand Cayman being the largest. The islands are a British overseas territory and a great place to explore in the winter.

January is a busy and entertaining month for these islands. For instance, the Cayman Cookout occurs in January, a food and beverage festival held at the Ritz-Carlton on Grand Cayman Island.

The weather is very pleasant during the winter months. It won’t be boiling hot and usually feels just right.

It is also one of the safest Caribbean destinations to visit , which is always a plus in our books.

Jamaica has very consistent, warm temperatures. It also has very low humidity, so January is a great time of year to hike and explore without feeling too hot.

The island is diverse, so it’s a great place to adventure and enjoy the lush greenery.

Check out the Bob Marley Museum in Kingston, listen to reggae music, and enjoy the gorgeous beaches.

Jamaica is a very laid-back island, so if you are wanting to forget your worries and leave the winter behind, Jamaica is your spot.

5. Barbados

Barbados is an island of glitz and glam, and it’s on the more expensive side but well worth it. Barbados is also one of the safest places in the Caribbean, but you’ll pay a little more for these luxuries.

You can expect hot, dry weather with about 12 hours of sunlight in January in Barbados.

It’s an excellent destination for tourists to visit during the month of January. Head to the coast and enjoy some of the most beautiful beaches in the world.

6. Dominican Republic

The Dominican Republic has many all-inclusive resorts, especially in Punta Cana. You can visit this Caribbean island for a great deal.

You can expect it to be in the 80s daily in January, the perfect time for a drink at the swim-up bar. Besides relaxing on the beach, you can enjoy many activities, such as kayaking, sailing, windsurfing, and ziplining.

Save some time for relaxation, of course, because there is nothing like enjoying the warm sunshine after being cooped up indoors all winter.

Indulge and splurge for the private swim-up pool rooms in Punta Cana , you won’t regret it.

7. Quintana Roo, Mexico

The southern part of Mexico in the Quintana Roo region is considered to be part of the Caribbean coast.

Tulum is a city in this region known for being the home of the ancient Mayan ruins right on a seaside cliff.

This destination has some of the most beautiful beaches and a boho-chic feel. Other popular places in Mexico considered the Caribbean and great in January include Cancun, Playa del Carmen, and Cozumel.

All of these places will be warm in January but may not be quite as warm as some of the other places that are closer to the equator.

You’ll be comfortable lying on a beach or by the pool in Mexico, but it may be cold to swim sometimes during this month.

Tulum is great because it offers tons of affordable hotels and there is so much to do here.

There are over 2,400 cays and 700 islands that make up the Bahamas. However, only 30 islands are inhabited, including Paradise Island, one of the most popular islands to visit.

You can take a boat tour to explore the various islands and enjoy viewing the sea life. The Bahamas has some of the best beaches on the Caribbean Sea.

This vacation is just what you’re looking for when it’s cold out in January. Travelers can expect warm and sunny weather.

There are also many luxury destinations in the Bahamas on the turquoise waters.

9. Puerto Rico

If you’re not quite over the Christmas festivities by the time January comes around, Puerto Rico is a great choice.

The holiday season comes and goes so quickly that it feels over in the blink of an eye. However, Puerto Rico has one of the longest Christmas seasons in the world and celebrates for roughly 45 days. Including a celebration on January 6th, known as Three Kings Day, to remember the visit the three wise men made to baby Jesus.

During this holiday, locals give out gifts, go caroling, and share a meal. This is a great local culture to be a part of.

Since Puerto Rico is an overseas territory of the United States , you don’t need a passport to visit, so it’s an easy place to go.

It’s also much closer than some of the other Caribbean destinations, so you could even go here for a quick trip.

10. St Vincent and The Grenadines

Saint Vincent and the Grenadines is a stunning island nation located in the southern Caribbean Sea. January is an ideal time to visit this breathtaking destination, as it offers some of the best weather and attractions of the year.

One of the most compelling reasons to visit Saint Vincent and the Grenadines in January is the weather. The temperature during this month is typically warm and pleasant, with an average high of around 82°F (28°C) and low of 73°F (23°C).

There’s also plenty of sunshine, making it the perfect time to enjoy the beaches and outdoor activities.

January is also a great time to experience the vibrant local culture of Saint Vincent and the Grenadines. The annual Bequia Music Fest takes place in January, showcasing the best of Caribbean music and dance.

There are also several other cultural festivals and events throughout the month, including the Breadfruit Festival and the Miss SVG Beauty Pageant.

For those interested in nature and adventure, January is the perfect time to explore the numerous natural wonders of Saint Vincent and the Grenadines. You can explore the lush rainforests, hike to waterfalls, and swim in crystal-clear waters. The island also has several world-class dive sites, featuring colorful coral reefs and abundant marine life.

11. Turks and Caicos Islands

Turks and Caicos is another beautiful island nation located in the Caribbean Sea. January is an excellent time to visit this stunning destination, as it offers favorable weather and a variety of attractions and activities.

One of the biggest draws of visiting Turks and Caicos in January is the delightful weather. The temperature during this month typically hovers around 80°F (27°C), with low humidity and plenty of sunshine. It’s the perfect time to enjoy the island’s white-sand beaches, crystal-clear waters, and lush natural beauty.

January is also an ideal time to take part in various outdoor activities offered in Turks and Caicos. Visitors can enjoy snorkeling, scuba diving, fishing, and kayaking in the pristine waters surrounding the islands.

The national parks offer ample opportunities for hiking, birdwatching, and wildlife spotting.

For those interested in wellness and relaxation, Turks and Caicos has several world-class spas and wellness centers. The island also has a thriving gastronomy scene with exquisite cuisine that will delight your taste buds.

The island holds its annual Junkanoo Festival, which features colorful parades, dancing, and live music. There are also several other cultural events and festivals throughout the month showcasing music, art, and cuisine.

It is also the perfect island to visit for solo female travelers .

Top Caribbean Destinations to Visit in January Runners Up

British Virgin Islands

Is January A Good Time To Visit The Caribbean?

January is the dead of winter for so many people, which makes it easy to want to book a flight and go somewhere warm for a week.

This is an excellent idea in theory, but not all places are super warm during the month of January. For example, January is considered winter in the Caribbean. You’ll be met with sunny days and warm weather, but it might be chilly by the ocean or in a pool during this time of year.

It’s important to know which islands in the Caribbean are the warmest during the month of January before booking your trip.

After a very long and cold winter, you probably want it to be as hot as possible outdoors.

January is also a good time because it’s right after the business of the holiday season. Tourists can get a deal on a hotel and airfare and save some money since traveling slows down a bit this month after the holiday season ends.

For a fair price, you can also stay in some of the luxury hotels during this time of year.

These are just some of the islands worth visiting in January, but there are many great options. It depends of course, on if you’re looking for a vacation where you can swim or a vacation where you can sit comfortably in the sun for hours at a time without getting too hot.

Final Thoughts On Best Caribbean Islands In January

Whatever type of vacation is right for you, there are Caribbean destinations that will match exactly what you’re looking for. So grab a rum punch and head to the white sand for the trip of a lifetime.

Travelers will find that there are so many great islands to visit during the month of January. January can be a great time of year to relax, meet friendly locals, and enjoy the sun.

This is an excellent time for sunbathing because you can lay comfortably in the sun without getting too hot during this time of year.

So get ready to park yourself on a white sandy beach while in the Caribbean in January.

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About The Author

Megan Kulluk

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The Best Caribbean Islands to Visit in 2024

By Brian Major

I’ve been fortunate to travel widely across the Caribbean over the last 30 years. I’m also a descendant of Caribbean people, so many folks assume I’ve visited every island. Not likely—the Caribbean consists of 28 islands encompassing just over one million square miles. So while I’ve visited most, there are still a handful I’ve yet to encounter. But that’s a good thing. Many know the Caribbean of picture-perfect views —all lush green hillsides, soft beaches, sunny skies, sun loungers, and poolside cocktails. But that’s really just the white-sandy surface of this region, where each island has something distinct to offer. On Dominica , hiking is unmatched, notably its Boiling Lake, a flooded fumarole located in Morne Trois Pitons National Park, where you can traverse across the rim of an active volcano. The best island hopping is in the British Virgin Islands , while Barbados is the action island, where the historic Garrison horse racing takes place year-round.

If you’re looking to soak up some winter sun by a pool lounger and nothing more, then any island in the Caribbean will do—the hotels in St Barth's are amongst some of the best in the world. But if you’re willing to dig a little deeper and venture beyond the resort gates, these are the best islands in the Caribbean.

Which is the best Caribbean island for families?

When little travelers are involved, the ease of a resort jam-packed with activities can take the strain off parents and let everyone enjoy the trip. For this reason, Barbados is the ideal Caribbean island for families, and there’s everything from larger, more affordable resorts to smaller boutique offerings. For intergenerational holidays and trips with slightly older children, consider hiring out a villa— Oliver’s Travels allows customers to filter results by ‘great for kids.’

All listings featured on Condé Nast Traveler are independently selected by our editors. If you book something through our links, we may earn an affiliate commission.

Best island for: action

Barbados might just be one of the best all-rounder islands in the Caribbean. Some of the top hotels in the region are found here, as are some of the best beaches, all accessible to the public—there are no private beaches in Barbados. Poolside beverages are spiked with rum, distilled on the island and best learnt about at St. Nicholas Abbey, a plantation house, museum, and rum distillery. Those looking for more diverse action can find it at the heritage railway, the racing car circuit, and the Garrison Savannah, a popular horse race that takes place throughout the year. And then there are the surrounding reefs, where you can swim with turtles, snorkel with seahorses, and spy whales in winter months.

Where to stay: Sandy Lane Hotel is one of the most glamorous hotels on the island complete with a British or American country club vibe—there are three golf courses on the hotel grounds. For something more low-key, Little Good Harbour ’s rooms feel more like private cottages and its fuss-free restaurant, The Fish Post, is beloved as one of the best in Barbados. For more ideas, consult our list of the best all-inclusive resorts on the island .

Best island for: romance

The Caribbean is synonymous with honeymoons but it's St Lucia that tops them all when it comes to serving up romance. You can thank the island’s mountainous landscape for that—it’s all about a room with a view of the 2,000-foot high Piton mountains, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the island’s calling card.

There’s adventure to be found too, like exhilarating zip lines high above the island’s rainforest canopy or mud baths in Sulphur Springs, a geothermically active basin of hot springs and fumaroles within the the dormant Qualibou volcano in Soufrière.

Where to stay: Coconut Bay is the biggest crowd pleaser on the island—all inclusive and catering to couples, families, and even wedding parties. For something more private, Ladera is an eco-lodge where rustic suites have private plunge pools. See our edit of the best resorts in St Lucia for more.

Best island for: beaches

In a region characterized by beautiful beaches , Anguilla has the best in the region. Partly for their mesmerizing ribbon of blue water but also because their powdery white sands invariably host only a handful of other beach-goers. There are 33 beaches in total, and while each one I’ve encountered has been memorable, the standouts to see include Cove Bay, Maundays Bay, Rendezvous Bay, and Shoal Bay.

Anguilla is also a worthy choice for its culinary scene. Refreshingly there are no chain restaurants on the island. Instead, restaurants and eateries tend to be small family-run businesses. If you visit just one, make it Tasty’s, which serves up a stellar coconut-crusted fish and marinated conch salad by Anguillan chef Dale Carty.

Where to stay: The Aurora Anguilla Resort & Golf Club is the newest shiny address on the island, with seven restaurants and bars and a fleet of private jets transporting guests to and from the property. Find more editor-vetted Anguilla hotels here .

British Virgin Islands

Best island for: island hopping

The British Virgin Islands (BVI) territory has few chain restaurants and no large hotels or mass tourism attractions. Instead, you’ll encounter turquoise waters, lush green hillsides, and distinctive cuisine and culture across the four main islands: Anegada, Jost Van Dyke, Tortola, and Virgin Gorda.

Hopping from island to island—whether via public ferry or private catamaran—is the characteristic way to explore the BVI. On my last visit I sailed to Jost Van Dyke’s White Bay, home to casual beachfront eateries serving dangerously delicious rum cocktails and locally caught fish. Another fantastic spot is Willy T’s Floating Bar and Restaurant near Norman Island. Moored offshore, the cargo ship has been converted into an ultra-relaxed eatery.

Where to stay: Located on a broad, secluded calm-water bay on Virgin Gorda, Rosewood Little Dix Bay has 80 villas and suites each staffed with a personal butler. The Reef House is one of three restaurants and features farm-to-fork dining with fresh provisions sourced locally.

CNT Editors

Blane Bachelor

Kyler Alvord

Best island for: diving

The calm waters surrounding Dominica make it one of the best diving spots in the world. The rainbow-colored seascape is best viewed at Champagne Reef, named for its bubbling waters generated by volcanic thermal springs rising from on the ocean floor. The reef also comprises plummeting cliffs, towering volcanic formations and the remains of a 17th-century Spanish shipwreck.

Another highlight is L'Abym, a dive site located on the island’s southern tip and suited to all skill levels due to Soufriere Bay’s gentle current. Underwater wonders are visible from 20 feet below the surface right down to a 1,500-foot maximum depth. An underwater wall extending its entire length gives the site its name.

Where to stay: Cabrits Resort & Spa Kempinski is the smartest place to stay on the island. All of the classic hallmarks are here—a full service spa, four swimming pools—but it’s the lush grounds, which incorporate Cabrits National Park, that make this spot memorable.

Best island for: natural beauty

Grenada’s 133 archipelagic square miles are laced with waterfalls, hot springs and tropical rainforests across three main islands: Grenada, Petit Martinique, and Carriacou. Ringed by 45 white- and nine black-sand beaches, the hilly isles are dotted with acres of fruit and spice trees.

One-ninth of Grenada’s land mass is dedicated to national parks and wildlife sanctuaries, best seen on a guided hike of Grand Etang Forest Reserve. Sister Island Carriacou is a worthy day trip too, especially for the top-shelf diving and snorkeling.

Where to stay: Few places capture Grenada's understated magic like the Silversands Grenada resort , found at the sleepy end of the two-mile Grand Anse Beach. The biggest draw here is the 330-foot infinity pool, said to be the longest in the Caribbean, which stretches from the hotel’s entrance all the way to the sea.

Puerto Rico

Best island for: history and culture

There’s a distinct energy to Puerto Rico , one that draws upon a fascinating blend of Hispanic, African, American, and Caribbean culture and history. To see it start in colonial San Juan , the second oldest European-founded city in the Americas. Head to the old town where cobblestone streets are lined with colorful Spanish buildings housing trendy bars, boutique shopping and all-night entertainment.

Hundreds of thousands of Africans arrived in Puerto Rico via forced migration in the colonial era. Their contributions to the island’s culture, art, music and cuisine live on today in Loiza, home to Puerto Rico’s largest Black population. You can witness it via the artwork on display at Samuel Lind Studio, or at the Don Rafael Cepeda School of Bomba and Plena which puts on traditional music and dance workshops.

Where to stay: Caribe Hilton is within walking distance of historic Old San Juan and the Condado entertainment district. Designed in tropical modernist style by legendary Puerto Rican firm Toro Ferrer, the grounds incorporate 17 acres of tropical landscaping as well as nine restaurants and an oceanfront pool complex. See our edit of the best hotels in Puerto Rico for more.

St. Kitts and Nevis

Best island for: visiting two islands in one trip

Lush natural beauty and historic attractions are the hallmarks of this twin-island nation. Most travelers visit both islands, as smaller Nevis is a breezy 20-minute ferry ride from larger St. Kitts. Sightseeing on St. Kitts is best done via the scenic train—the only working railway in the Caribbean—which circumnavigates the island on routes that once transported plantation sugar cane. Another highlight is the Brimstone Hill fortress, built of hand-chiseled stones by enslaved Kittitians and now a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Stand among the fort’s ramparts and cannon while taking in panoramic views of neighboring Saba, Statia, St. Maarten, and St. Barths .

Tiny Nevis’ resplendent landscape is overlooked by 3,232-foot high Nevis Peak, located at its center and visible from virtually every point on the island. Mountainside hiking and ATV tours uncover haunting ruins of colonial-era plantations and sugar mills.

Where to stay: Hide away in one of the traditional West Indian–inspired cottages at Belle Mont Farm . As the name suggests, dining here is farm-to-table, serving up freshly foraged organic fruit and vegetables plus seafood plucked straight out of the ocean.

This article was originally published on Condé Nast Traveller UK .

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19 Best Caribbean Islands To Visit In January

If you are looking for the best Caribbean islands to visit in January, then this post has you covered with 19 amazing islands to choose from. We asked top travel bloggers for their recommendations on the best islands to visit and why they are perfect for a Caribbean winter escape.

Table of Contents

Which caribbean island is best to visit in january 2024.

Our top pick for best Caribbean island to visit in January has to be Aruba .

Recommended by Melissa from My Beautiful Passport

Aruba is one of the best Caribbean islands to visit in January. This island paradise located in the Southern Caribbean boasts perfect weather conditions this time of year, with average temperatures of 25-30°c (77 – 86°f) and gentle cool breezes. Aruba is outside the hurricane season, almost guaranteeing clear skies and sunny days.

One Happy Island comes alive with vibrant cultural festivals and events , including the colourful and lively Carnival season . While Aruba’s Carnival starts in November, January and early February are the best months with the most events. You’ll find the Balloon Parade, Children’s Parade, Sunset Parade and more.

With the island’s stunning beaches and crystal-clear waters , you’re set for a great beach vacation. And while in Aruba, don’t miss out on the chance to snorkel at one of Aruba’s beaches .

Whether you simply want to relax on the beach, try out water sports, or explore the island’s natural beauty , Aruba in January offers a slice of paradise for every traveller.

Where to stay in Aruba: One of the best places to stay is the Renaissance Wind Creek Aruba Resort where you can visit the private flamingo island.

Price start from $270 per night Check availability and book a room here.

Must Do Activity: Go on a half day boat tour to see the Antilla shipwreck , a unique underwater site that offers an unforgettable adventure.

Check availbility and book your tour here.

Recommended by Sabrina from Shades of Summr

January is one of the best months to visit the Caribbean paradise Bonaire. The temperatures are just perfect, not too hot yet and not stormy anymore. December is a really busy month in Bonaire, since there are Dutch school holidays. January is a lot more quiet and also a bit cheaper. 

Bonaire is mostly famous for its underwater world. Diving is one of the most beloved activities in Bonaire. If you are not a diver, make sure to take a  snorkeling boat trip to Klein Bonaire . You can see beautiful tropical fish and colorful corals. 

Other great places to visit are the colorful capital city of Kralendijk and the Washington Slagbaai National Park . There you can find hidden beaches and secret coves. Make sure to pay your respects at the former slave houses in Bonaire as well. And why not stop at the flamingos in the Pekelmeer?

Where to stay in Bonaire: The best place to stay in Bonaire is the Ocean Breeze Boutique Hotel & Marina . It is close to the capital city of Kralendijk and it is super instagram-worthy. 

Prices start from $90 per night. Check availability and book a room here.

Must Do Activity: Glass-bottom kayak and snorkelling tour through the mangroves at Lac Bay National Park.

Check availability and book your tour here.

Recommended by In Search of Sarah

Curacao is one of the best Caribbean islands to visit in January. This Dutch Caribbean island is nestled between Aruba and Bonaire off the coast of Venezuela, and is an outdoor lovers’ paradise!

With temperatures averaging around 30ºC and minimal rainfall, Curacao makes for a fantastic winter escape. 

There are a number of incredible things to do in Curacao. Whether it’s exploring one of the islands 40+ amazing beaches , catching the sunrise at the top of Mount Christoffel (the highest point on the island), discovering the rugged coastline at Shete Boka National Park , or strolling the  colourful streets of Willemstad , there’s something for everyone to enjoy.

January in Curacao is also the start of festival season! With plenty of festivals throughout the month, you’ll be able to catch the best music, costumes, and culture by watching parades.

Curacao isn’t the place to visit if you’re planning an all-inclusive vacation. The island is meant to be experienced and enjoyed with its friendly people, delicious food, and jaw-dropping natural beauty. It’s safe, easy to drive around, and many expats live on this friendly Caribbean island.

Where to stay in Curacao: The Renaissance Wind Creek Curacao Resort in Willemstad is the perfect base for exploring Curacao. Located in the heart of town, it’s close to amazing restaurants and shopping, and has its own man made beach – the only one of its kind in town!

Prices start from $199 per night. Check availability and book a room here.

Must Do Activity: Book a customized private island tour with a guide dedicated to showing you things you will love from beaches and snorkelling spots to history, art and the best restaurants.

Best Caribbean Islands To Visit In Early January

4. st kitts and nevis.

The tiny twin island nation of St Kitts and Nevis have to be one of the best Caribbean islands to visit in January. On the 1st January every year you are met with the main Sugar Mas Carnival Parade which fills the streets of the capital city Bassetere with colourful floats, costumes, banners and music, food and dancing until the early hours.

The 2nd of January is equally as fun with the Last Lap Carnival Parade to end the festivities. Even if you don’t want to take part in the parade everyone is welcome to join in the fun with the music and dancing around the streets . Alternatively you can find a bar or restaurant to observe the fun from a more comfortable position.

Once the Carnival is finished there are many other amazing things to do in St Kitts including visitng the historic Brimstone Hill Fortress UNESCO World Heritage site and of course relaxing on one of the beautiful St Kitts beaches . If you want activities then hop in the water and check out the best snorkelling spots in St Kitts and see the amazing underwater life.

Where to stay in St Kitts : Our top recommendation to stay in St Kitts is the Park Hyatt Resort on the southeast peninsula. It has one of the best beaches on the island and a beautiful pool area with waterfalls and plenty of comfortable sun loungers.

Prices start from $800 per night. Check availability and book a room here.

Must Do Activity: Join an ATV tour and explore the island.

5. Puerto Rico

Recommended by Lisa Garrett of Waves and Cobblestones

Puerto Rico is definitely one of the best Caribbean islands to visit in January.   And, since the island of Puerto Rico is a US territory , you don’t even need a passport to visit! 

If you love history, you’ll love exploring some of   Old San Juan’s top attractions   such as the historic fortresses of El Morro and Castillo San Cristóbal .  Take in the gorgeous views as you stroll along the waterfront El Paseo del Morro National Recreational Trail .  Enjoy the unique combination of Spanish and Caribbean cultures as you see the plazas and brightly colored buildings of Old San Juan.

Puerto Rico is known as the rum capital of the world , and one of the most popular things to do is to tour the Bacardi distillery .  Be sure to sample a piña colada during your stay – this classic cocktail was invented here!

One thing that makes Puerto Rico extra-special in January is its extensive series of holiday festivities . The holiday season ends in mid-January with a multi-day festival that you won’t want to miss! During the Las Fiestas de la Calle San Sebastián , the streets of Old San Juan are filled with performers and vibrant music.

Where to stay in Puerto Rico:  the Hotel El Convento , a 4-star hotel in a former convent.  It’s conveniently located in the heart of Old San Juan, just across from the Catedral Basilica Menor de San Juan Bautista.

Prices start from $279 per night. Check availability and book a room here.

Must Do Activity: Tour the Bacardi distillery on a rum tour.

6. Turks and Caicos

Recommended by Kerry from Corks and Tacos

When it comes to planning a Caribbean getaway, The Turks and Caicos Islands are a perfect choice any time of year. However, if you’re considering a visit in January , you’re in for a truly spectacular treat – the annual whale migration season. January is the perfect time to explore the beautiful Turks and Caicos Island of Providenciales and witness this awe inspiring natural phenomenon.

Every year, from January to April, the waters surrounding Turks and Caicos become a highway for humpback whales on their migratory journey. These majestic whales make their way through the warm Caribbean waters to give birth and nurture their calves. January marks the peak of this migration , making it the ideal month to visit Turks and Caicos and experience this spectacle up close.

Embark on a whale watching tour where your guides will take you out to sea to witness these gentle giants breaching, tail slapping, and singing their beautiful songs. It’s an experience and memory you’ll cherish forever. 

Top tip: Though most snorkel boat charters will try to incorporate the popular whale sightings areas into their tours, best to book a proper public or private charter such as Big Blue Collective.

Apart from the thrilling whale migration, January also offers pleasant weather conditions with minimal rainfall. Even though you’ll never see crowds in Turks and Caicos like you would in other popular Caribbean destinations, take advantage of January’s post Christmas lull and enjoy the spectacular crystal clear waters and pristine, powder white sand of Grace Bay Beach without the crowds you would typically see during other high season months.

Where to Stay in Turks and Caicos: Seven Stars Resort located in the Heart of Grace Bay. Ideal for couples and families. Walking distance to shops and restaurants as well as boasting many top dining options on property.

Prices start from $680 per night. Check availability and book a room here.

Must Do Activity:   Half Day Sail and Snorkel is the best bang for your buck in Turks and Caicos. Visit surrounding Cays and snorkel the world’s third largest reef system on this four hour adventure.

7. Barbados

Recommended by Hannah of  Mariee Travel

If you want an island that epitomises paradise , Barbados has to be on your list! Sitting at the start of the dry season, January is one of the best times to visit. 

As a month that boasts some of the best weather, January is slightly cooler and less humid than summer with temperatures around 27ºC. Yet despite the great weather, January can be quieter than other peak months making it the perfect time for a relaxing break! 

Beaches are the big draw of Barbados and January is an amazing time to enjoy them. It’s a destination that’s renowned for having some of the best beaches in the Caribbean – and all are open to the public (even if they’re in front of other resorts). Bottom Bay, Rockley Beach and Brownes Beach are some of the best to check out.

Barbados is also brilliant if you have itchy feet and want more to see and do. From off-road safaris and plantation trips to submarine tours and rum tasting , there are loads to enjoy. Plus, in January it’s a great month to experience some of the island’s famous festivals and events . 

Barbados Sailing Week is one of the main events in January usually taking place in the middle of the month. It’s the opening regatta of the Caribbean race season and always has a vibrant atmosphere. As an exciting and popular event, it’s a great opportunity to soak up the lively island vibes.

Where to stay in Barbados: White Sands Beach Condos , each room has a sea view and the resort offers a secluded beach with great snorkelling and plenty of nearby bars and restaurants.

Prices start from $289 per night. Check availability and book a room here.

Must do activity: Go on a rum tour and visit one of the 1500+ rum shops on the island for a drink in an authentic setting.

Recommended by Jennifer Prince from Hill City Bride

At just 6.95 square miles, Bequia may be a small island , but it’s the ideal place to relax after the hustle and bustle of the holiday season. As part of the Grenadines , Bequia is one of several  English islands in the Caribbean , meaning that you’ll acclimate well as an English speaker. Still, Bequia’s comfort goes well beyond language.

As with many other Caribbean islands, one of the appealing aspects is the proximity to water-centric activities. Animal lovers should book a boat tour and go snorkeling to see a wide variety of fish species. Outdoor lovers can rent a kayak and leisurely explore the sea with friends. Anglers should book a fishing tour , and Bequia has lovely diving spots if you’re scuba-certified.

If you prefer exploring the island, visit Princess Margaret Beach to relax on the sand and peek into the caves . Traversing the walkways to get to the beach affords lovely views. However, one of the best vantage points on the island is from Fort Hamilton , which is an easy walk from the main area. Also, make time to peruse shops for handmade items.

If you’re looking for a laid-back time in an idyllic paradise , Bequia is a fabulous place to reset and start the new year.

Where to stay in Bequia: Although there aren’t a plethora of places to stay, you’ll find peace at small hotels, such as Bequia Plantation Hotel and The Liming.

Prices start from $198 per night. Check availability and book a room here.

Must Do Activity: Visit Fort Hamilton for the best views of the island.

Recommended by Sarah from Cubas Best

It’s high season in Cuba in January and this is the perfect time to visit.  January is a particularly historic month to visit.  January 1 st  is the traditional celebration of the triumph of the revolution and in the first two weeks of the month, you’ll see many celebrations throughout the country.  Cuba also celebrates the birthday of Jose Marti on January 28 th , there are parades, vigils walks, and exhibitions commemorating the Cuban hero.

The International Jazz Festival happens in both Havana and Santiago de Cuba in the middle of the month, with attendance from both domestic and international Jazz artists.

The weather in January is perfect for visiting, there’s barely any rain at all, and with a maximum daily temperature of 28°c, and lows overnight of 17°c it’s the perfect time to explore.

As it’s high season you’ll want to book accommodation early –stay in  Old Havana  if it’s your first time in Cuba and be right in the heart of all that Cuba’s capital has to offer, from the historic UNESCO sites , the Museum of the Revolution and the famous bars once haunted by Hemingway.  

Where to stay in Cuba: The Hotel Melia Habana is a great option for accommodation in the city, with super staff and two pools to choose from.

Prices start from $210 per night. Check availability and book a room here.

Must do activity: Don’t miss taking a classic car tour of the city , it is the quintessential thing to do in Cuba!

10. St Lucia

Recommended by Hannah from Getting Stamped

In January, St. Lucia stands out as an exquisite destination to explore. With its inviting warm climate, minimal rainfall, and clear skies, it becomes an ideal location for outdoor adventures like hiking the Piton Mountains or enjoying the serene beaches without the crowds.

There are a variety of places to stay for all budgets, from luxury hotels with  overwater bungalows in St. Lucia  to small local family-run hotels on the beach.

If you are visiting St.Lucia, then you need to make a visit to historical sites to learn more about the rich cultural history, interact with locals , and try some local cuisine . Wildlife enthusiasts will enjoy visiting in January as it is the nesting season for sea turtles in St.Lucia, so you might have a chance to find baby turtles hatching and making their way to the sea. 

Visitors will enjoy water sports, swimming, snorkeling, boating, and sailing as the sea is typically warm and calm, making it ideal for water sports . Don’t miss visiting the stunning views of lush rainforests as you hike the Piton Mountains and enjoy the clear skies and scenic views of St Lucia.

Where to stay in St Lucia: Our top recommendation is Sandals Grande St. Lucian which has amazing overwater bungalows with outdoor bathtub, overwater hammocks and butler room service. Perfect for the ultimate luxury couples vacation.

Prices start from $290 per night. Check availability and book a room here.

Must do Activity: Project chocolat tree-to-bar chocolate making experience . Tour the cacao groves and make your very own chocolate bar from a fresh cacao pod.

11. Bahamas

The Bahamas are fantastic to visit throughout the year but they are some of the best Caribbean islands to visit in January . If you want to base yourself in the Bahamas rather than taking a Bahamas cruise then Grand Bahama is the island with the most to do and see .

Temperature in the Bahamas in January is between 17.2-25.5ºc (63-78ºF) with the temperature dropping to its lowest at night time meaning you will need to take a light jacket to wear . During the day the temperature is warm but not unbearably hot like some other islands meaning that beach days or exploring the island are pleasant.

The only major event that takes place on Grand Bahama Island in January is the New Year’s Day Junkanoo Parade which is held in the Freeport town centre. Junkanoo is the National Festival of the Bahamas and is a traditional parade filled costumed dancers partying away to the sounds of cowbells, whistles and goat-skin drums.

Grand Bahama island is also a fantastic place for nature lovers especially bird enthusiasts as it is home to 18 unique species of Bahamian birds . You can also take a horse riding tour and go ‘sea horse riding’ where the horses swim along the beach. It is a wonderful experience for any animal lover and a romantic idea for honeymooners .

Another wonderful thing to do is visit Lucayan National Park which has the longest underwater cave network in the world. Here you can snorkel, swim, kayak and dive in the water or explore the national park hiking trails .

Where to stay in the Bahamas: Dolphin Cove adult only resort which has two pools to enjoy, a private marina where you can charter a private boat tour and outstanding fine dining options.

Prices start from $175 per night. Check availability and book a room here.

Must do Activity: Bahamas culture and food tour to learn all about the history of the Bahamian people and eat a tasty local lunch.

Best Places To Visit In The Caribbean In Late January

12. jamaica.

Recommended by Shweta Singhal from Zest In A Tote

The best time to visit Jamaica is during the dry season: December to April . January is especially good because the New Year crowds have left the islands, though this is still the high season so expect prices to match. Warm, dry weather is great to explore the beaches, forests and towns across the island.

Tourists generally visit the north corridor as part of their Jamaica itinerary . You can base yourself in one of the all-inclusive beach resorts at Negrill, Montego Bay or Ocho Rios . Those who want a quieter time away can choose to stay at one of the boutique properties in Port Antonio.   

Exploring the scenic coastline of Jamaica is a worthy activity. Hire a private boat or take a group cruise to explore the seas. Swim, snorkel or dive at any of the pretty locations. Or relax at the beach. You can try other water activities like sailing too.

Of course no visit to Jamaica would be complete without a visit to Bob Marleys house to pay your respects to this influencial man who inspired so many people with his music.

Where to Stay in Jamaica: I recommend the Beaches Resort in Ocho Rios for its location, private beach, several restaurant choices on the premises and proximity to several tourist attractions.

Price start from $634 per night. Check availability and book a room here.

Must Do Activity: Visit Dunn River Falls at Ocho Rios for something different than the beach. Dunn’s River falls, a 65 foot waterfall, is a popular destination located within a natural park. Climbing Dunn Falls is one of the popular activities to do but you will need water shoes to do this.

13. St Thomas, USVI

Recommended by Disha from Disha Discovers

One of the best Caribbean islands to visit in January is St. Thomas in the U.S. Virgin Islands . As part of the US, Americans dont need a passport to visit. January is the perfect time to visit this slice of paradise because the temperatures are warm and inviting. The high temperatures usually hover around 27.7°c (82°F), and the lows are around 22.2°c (72°F) . Plus, rainfall is minimal , so you’ll have plenty of sunshine without feeling overheated. January through March are the busiest months of the year for St. Thomas, meaning the island is buzzing with activity , and the nightlife is in full swing.   St. Thomas is known for its pristine beaches with white powdery sand and crystal-clear turquoise waters. Spend your days relaxing on Magens Bay, Coki Point Beach, Sapphire Beach, and Lindqvist Beach . If you’re feeling adventurous, you can even snorkel or go diving and explore the vibrant marine life in St. Thomas’ waters. St. Thomas is also steeped in rich history . Visit Blackbeard’s Castle , a fort overlooking Charlotte Amalie Harbor, or explore Fort Christian , one of the oldest standing structures in the United States Virgin Islands and an architectural landmark that dates back to 1680. Other fun  things to do in St. Thomas  include exploring the charming streets of Charlotte Amalie, driving along the scenic Skyline Drive, visiting Drake’s Seat for epic views of the Caribbean Sea, ziplining, and so much more.

Where to stay in St Thomas: The best place to stay in St. Thomas is the Secret Harbour Beach Resort.

Prices start at $364. Check availability and book a room here.

Must Do Activity: Visit Coral World Ocean Park and go on an underwater adventure, without needing scuba certification.

14. Grenada

Recommended by Lavina D’Souza of Continent Hop

Grenada is a beautiful island in the Caribbean Sea, located north of Trinidad and Tobago. Visiting Grenada in January is perfect as the average temperature is around 78°F and there is little to no rainfall. It is a perfect time to explore this wonderful island. It is a good idea to consider the  best time to visit Grenada  while planning your trip.

Grenada has a lot to offer ranging from amazing beaches to refreshing waterfalls . Grenada Sailing Week takes place during the latter half of January. Sailors from all around the world gather in Grenada to display their skills and it is a thrilling experience.

The Spice Island Billfish Tournament is also held in January at the Grenada Yacht Club in St George’s. This is a fishing event that also includes food, music and much more.

Make sure you visit St George’s to explore the beautiful architecture and historic forts of Frederick and George. Visit the House of Chocolate , which is a museum and a cafe, to enjoy some in-house treats.

You should also visit the famous Annandale Waterfalls for a refreshing dip in its waters. Explore the Grande Anse Beach which has beautiful white sand and crystal clear water.

Where to stay in Grenada:   The Radisson Grenada Beach Resort , situated right next to Grand Anse Beach.

Prices start from $252 per night. Check availability and book a room here.

Must Do Activity: Taking a tour of the River Antoine Rum Distillery is a must-do activity. It is one of the most authentic distilleries which still uses traditional techniques and equipment. You also get to taste samples.

15. Dominican Republic

Recommended by Haley from Fernweh Foreigner.

Although the country’s year round average temperatures are typically between 21.6-27.7°c (71-82°F) , January is one of the best months to visit the Caribbean island of the Dominican Republic because of the wonderful weather. 

Despite winter being the dry season on the island, January does still see rain , but it is one of the months with the lowest average rainfall for the year, especially on the east and south sides of the island. This also helps keep the humidity down so days at the beach are warm but not unbearable. With this nicer weather, the island will be more crowded so planning your trip in advance is best to get a good deal.

Since the Dominican Republic is one of the worlds largest Humpback whale sanctuaries , and sees the entire Atlantic population of these whales during the winter season, January is the perfect time to get out on the water in Samaná Bay and do a whale watching tour . 

The Dominican Republic is full of other amazing nature and historical sites that are well worth visiting outside of resort grounds. Tours are a great way to safely experience more of the island , and  Uber is also available here  for shorter distances or getting around the city. 

Where to stay in Dominican Republic: The Casa de Campo Resort and Villas is a great place to stay in La Romana, in between Punta Cana and Santo Domingo. 

Prices start at $200 per night. Check availability and book a room here.

Must do Activity: For an epic adventure filled day book a 5-in-1 tour where you can try horse riding, dune buggying, zip lining, a city tour and a visit to a cacao farm.

Hidden Gem Caribbean Islands To Visit In January

16. caye caulker, belize.

Recommended by Zoe Schafer from Zoe Goes Places

Caye Caulker is a must-visit for laidback vibes , small island charm and incredible snorkelling. This island off the coast of Belize is everything you’d expect a Caribbean island to be. 

And January is a great time to visit , it’s right in the middle of the high season that runs from November to April. Meaning calm seas and clear skies but without the crowds that Thanksgiving, Christmas and Easter bring. And with slightly cooler temperatures than the summer months, when temperatures often hit 90.  

Top things to do include eating lobster grilled by locals on the streets, cooling down with a drink at the Split , feeding stingrays at Iguana Reef and – the best of them all – going on a  magical snorkelling tour around the Belize Barrier Reef . Expect to swim with sharks, stingrays, turtles, fish and sometimes even manatees – all living freely amongst the brightly coloured coral and thriving sea bed. 

Where to stay in Caye Caulker: A popular hotel to stay at is La Isla Resort – with the best restaurants and bars in Caye Caulker within a 10-minute walk. It also has a pool, which is rare on the island but is perfect for keeping cool since there aren’t many beaches. 

Prices start from $130 per night. Check availability and book a room here.

Must do Activity: Go on a sailing and snorkeling tour to explore the amazing reefs around the island.

17. San Blas Islands, Panama

Recommended by Victoria from Guide Your Travel

San Blas, an archipelago of over 300 islands and cays nestled in the crystal-clear waters of the Caribbean, is an idyllic paradise that I’ve had the pleasure of visiting. While every month offers its unique charm, January is one of the best times to experience its unparalleled beauty.

The perfect blend of comfortable weather, vibrant local culture, and tranquil beaches make January exceptional in San Blas. Unlike the bustling tourist seasons of other months, January offers a quieter and more serene atmosphere, ideal for those seeking a peaceful escape . 

One of the highlights of January in San Blas is the vibrant Kuna New Year festival , which typically takes place around mid-January. This colorful celebration features traditional music, dances, and ceremonies that offer a deep insight into the Kuna indigenous culture. It’s a fantastic opportunity to immerse yourself in their rich traditions .

Where to stay in San Blas: I highly recommend the Yandup Island Lodge , a sustainable and eco-friendly resort located on a private island. The overwater bungalows provide a luxurious yet environmentally conscious stay, and the staff are incredibly welcoming and knowledgeable about the region.

Check availability and book a room here.

Alternatively for a very unique stay in San Blas, why not stay on a luxury sailing boat sail around the islands?

Prices start at $640 per night. Check availability and book your sailing adventure here.

Must Do Activity: Explore the stunning coral reefs by snorkelling or diving . San Blas boasts some of the world’s most pristine and bio diverse marine ecosystems, making it a paradise for underwater enthusiasts.

18. San Andres, Colombia

Recommended by Dan from Layer Culture

When looking for a Caribbean island to visit in January, why not consider traveling to San Andres in Colombia?

First, just imagine yourself bathing in the turquoise blue warm waters without one wave in sight. In fact, January is one of the best months to visit San Andres not only for the weather, which is outside of the rainy season (June to November) but because it is slightly quieter than normal after all the Christmas and New Year celebrations have ended. 

Also, no trip to San Andres would be complete without heading over to one of the smaller islands like Johnny Cay by boat. Then when it comes to  safety in San Andres  you can walk around freely and the locals here, known as Raizales, speak English, so you can get by without knowing a word of Spanish.

Whilst it can get busy in the afternoons during any time of the year here, the mornings are quiet on the beaches so starting your day early gives you the best chance to relax.

Where to stay in San Andres: For a tranquil stay, the Summer House Inn offers beautiful private rooms close to the center and is just a short 15-minute walk to the beach.

Prices start at $89 per night. Check availability and book a room here.

Must Do Activity: One of the best things to do around this island is to go helmet diving which allows you to walk around underwater and see the aquatic life without any prior diving experience.

19. Little Corn Island, Nicaragua

Recommended by Kristin from Tiny Footsteps Travel

Little Corn Island is the smaller of the two Corn Islands located off the Caribbean coast of Nicaragua . Although they’re a part of Nicaragua, have a completely different feel from the rest of the country, and from other Caribbean islands. 

Little Corn Island is especially unique as a Caribbean island because its completely car-free , and as a result, has a slow-paced lifestyle where you can truly take it easy . It is free from major hotel chains and corporations, and full of small businesses and a relaxed lifestyle.

It’s a great place to go if you want to truly unwind , and enjoy the simplicity of the natural beauty. 

On Little Corn Island, there are white-sand beaches, snorkeling and scuba diving among colorful coral reefs, and even some hikes . There’s a great nightlife scene along the main strip by the beach with live music, DJs, cultural dances, as well as a bonfire on the beach .

Since Little Corn Island is small (1.5 square miles) you can easily walk from one place to another on the island, especially if you’re staying along the north or east strip where most of the restaurants, hotels and activities are located. 

One nice aspect of Little Corn Island in January is that it’s not too hot . If you want to enjoy a Caribbean island in January without sweltering heat, then Little Corn is a good option. The temperature usually falls around 27.8°C (82.04°F). There could be some showers throughout the day, so be sure to bring a poncho – it will be useful on the island, as well as during the panga boat trip from Big Corn, which is the only way to get to Little Corn Island . 

Where to stay on Little Corn: A great place to stay on Little Corn Island is Yemaya Reefs, which offers beach bungalows on the north coastline. There’s also a restaurant on-site that serves organic, locally-sourced food.

Prices start at $227 per night. Check availability and book a room here.

Must do activity: Try out scuba diving with Dolphin Dive , even if you’re a complete beginner they offer a discover scuba package so you can explore the underwater world.

Is January a good time to go to the Caribbean?

January is a great month to visit the Caribbean because it is still lovely and warm , even in the sea, while almost everywhere else in the northern hemisphere is cold. The temperature is perfect early in the year as it’s not too hot which means you can go out and explore the island you are on or easily spend the day at the beach . Also rainy season has finished by January so there’s less chance of being caught in a tropical downpour on your travels.

Another great reason to visit the Caribbean in January is that the hotels will be providing their best service – think New Year’s resolutions but for customer service. They will have new ideas to try, the best entertainment and fantastic dining options all to wow their customers and encourage them to return later in the year.

There will also be less children and families in January because they will all be back at school after the holidays. This also means more choice of flights to the Caribbean islands and usually better flight prices too. Although you must remember that December to April is considered the high season for tourism so the prices of things on the islands such as restaurants, activities and hotels may be increased.

Best Caribbean Islands to Visit in January- Frequently Asked Questions

Hottest caribbean islands in january.

Most people looking for a winter getaway in the Caribbean are looking to escape the cold weather of Europe or the US and get some winter sunshine. So the hottest Caribbean islands in January are Aruba, Bonaire and Curacao also known as the ABC islands. Closely followed by Trinidad and Tobago which are located slightly further east.

These three islands are the southwestern-most islands of the Leeward Antilles in the South Caribbean Sea. Being the southernmost islands they are the hottest Caribbean islands in January. How hot is Aruba in January? Well the average temperature in Aruba in January is between 25-30°c (77-86°F). Perfect for some winter sun.

Which Caribbean island has the least rain in January?

The Caribbean island with the least rainfall in January is Jamaica closely followed by Barbados with average rainfall around 1.8-2.8cm (0.7-1.1 inches) which is about 5-8 days of rain during the month.

Can you swim in the Caribbean in January?

Yes you can but it really depends where in the Caribbean you are as to how warm the water is . The southernmost islands like Barbados, St Lucia, Trinidad and Tobago and the ABC islands all have water temperature around 27°c (81°F) in January . Whereas islands that are more northern like Cuba, Dominican Republic and the islands near to Mexico generally have cooler water in January with temperatures around 24°c (76°F).

Are there sharks in the Caribbean sea?

In certain places in the Caribbean you will find warnings of sharks in shallow water , however in our experience as long as they are not being fed and are not aggressive species like tiger sharks and bull sharks it is perfectly safe to swim with them . Although it must be said sharks are NOT a tourist attraction and can be dangerous wild animals , commonly encountered species of sharks in shallow waters are reef sharks and nurse sharks which if left alone are generally harmless.

Are there hurricanes in the Caribbean in January?

No, hurricane season in the Caribbean is from June to November which is generally considered to be the worst time to visit the Caribbean. It is also the rainy season because of the amount of tropical storms that occur in the Atlantic Ocean during this time.

Is the Caribbean expensive in January?

Yes and no. It really depends on the island you visit in January and what you want to do while you are there. January is considered to be part of the high season for tourism in the Caribbean which runs from December through to April, so generally things including restaurants and hotels may be more expensive.

Some islands like Jamaica and St Lucia have all inclusive hotel options which can work out better value if you don’t mind staying mostly in your resort. Otherwise there are plenty of options for things to do, nightlife, and dining out to suit any budget.

One of the biggest expenses in the Caribbean is dining out because the food all has to be imported to the islands, however on most islands you can find options ranging from fine dining to street food so it really depends on your budget and if you are good at sticking to it when it comes to eating out.

Interested to know how much it costs to live on a Caribbean island? Check out our post on the cost of living in St Kitts .

Final Thoughts: Best Caribbean Islands to Visit in January

So there you have it, the Best Caribbean Islands to visit in January . January is a great time to visit but no matter what time of year you choose to visit the Caribbean you are sure to find tons of history, friendly people and of course beautiful beaches in this tropical paradise.

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Steph is the main writer of Book It Let's Go! and is arguably the better half of the couple. She is an expat originally from England currently residing in St Kitts where she teaches veterinary students. In 2019 Steph packed up her old life, her husband Lewis, and their 2 cats in to leave the cold and wet behind in exchange for beaches and palm trees. Now she has made the leap to move abroad she has no plans to return anytime soon and wants to help others make the leap to move abroad too. Steph is currently enjoying being based in the Caribbean and doing some island hopping while planning her next big adventure with Lewis.

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25 Best Caribbean Islands to Visit in January 2024

Imagine escaping the frosty grip of winter and stepping into a sun-soaked paradise. Does trading snow for sand and cold winds for warm, balmy breezes sound like a dream come true? If so, the January Caribbean is your perfect winter escape.

January in the Caribbean is a hidden gem, when the islands burst with life yet are blissfully uncrowded. This is when the Caribbean’s true beauty shines – with clear skies, serene beaches, and a vibrant tapestry of cultures and cuisines waiting to be explored. It’s when you can unwind, basking in the perfect balance of adventure and relaxation.

By continuing to read, you’ll journey through 25 amazing enchanting Caribbean islands, each offering its slice of paradise. Explore travel tips that will transform your experience and learn why January is ideal for this tropical getaway. Dive in, and let the allure of the Caribbean in January guide your next adventure.

Table of Contents

Is January a Good Time to Visit the Caribbean?

Yes, January is an excellent time to visit the Caribbean. The weather in January is sunny, warm, and relatively dry, making it the perfect time to escape the winter blues and enjoy some sun, sand, and sea.

Many travelers consider January the best time to visit the Caribbean because of the pleasant weather conditions. The average temperature during this month ranges from 75°F to 85°F, making it an ideal time for outdoor activities such as swimming, snorkeling, and sunbathing.

In addition to the weather, January offers many other benefits to visitors. The crowds are generally smaller than during the peak season, so you can enjoy the beaches, restaurants, and attractions without dealing with large crowds.

25 Best Caribbean Islands to Visit in January

January is one of the best months to visit the Caribbean, with perfect weather, warm waters, and beautiful beaches . You have plenty of options if you’re looking for the best Caribbean island to visit in January. Here are 25 of the best islands to stay in the Caribbean in January.

1. Turks and Caicos

Turks and Caicos Islands are among the most popular destinations in the Caribbean. It’s no wonder why, with its beautiful beaches, crystal-clear waters, and gorgeous weather. 

2. St Lucia

St Lucia is a beautiful island nation in the Caribbean Sea. It’s one of the best islands to visit in January because of its perfect weather, beautiful beaches, and stunning scenery. 

Aruba is one of the best places to visit in January. Its warm waters and beautiful beaches make it a paradise island perfect for a beach vacation. 

Antigua is a beautiful island in the Caribbean known for its beautiful beaches and crystal-clear waters. It’s one of the best islands to visit in January because of its perfect weather and stunning scenery. 

5. St Thomas and St John, US Virgin Islands

St Thomas and St John are two of the best islands to visit in the Caribbean. Their beautiful beaches, crystal-clear waters, and gorgeous weather make them the perfect destinations for a beach vacation. 

6. Grand Cayman

One of the Caribbean’s top islands to visit is Grand Cayman. Its stunning beaches, glistening waters, and pleasant weather make it the ideal beach getaway location. 

Bonaire is one of the best islands to visit in the Caribbean. Its beautiful beaches, crystal-clear waters, and stunning scenery make it the perfect destination for a beach vacation. 

8. Barbados

Barbados is a stunning Caribbean island well-known for its beaches and glistening waters. Because of the wonderful weather and breathtaking scenery, it’s one of the best islands to visit in January. 

9. Dry Tortugas

Dry Tortugas is a secluded beach destination in the Caribbean that’s perfect for a beach vacation. Its warm waters and beautiful beaches make it a paradise island ideal for a relaxing getaway. 

Saba is a beautiful island in the Caribbean known for its stunning scenery and crystal-clear waters. It’s one of the best islands to visit in January because of its perfect weather and beautiful beaches. 

11. Grenada

Grenada is a beautiful island in the Caribbean known for its stunning scenery and crystal-clear waters. It’s one of the best islands to visit in January because of its perfect weather and beautiful beaches. 

12. Isla Mujeres

Isla Mujeres is a beautiful island in the Caribbean known for its stunning scenery and crystal-clear waters. It’s one of the best islands to visit in January because of its perfect weather and beautiful beaches. 

13. Curacao

Curacao is a beautiful island in the Caribbean known for its stunning scenery and crystal-clear waters. It’s one of the best islands to visit in January because of its perfect weather and beautiful beaches. 

14. St Barts

Blessed with stunning beaches and private resorts, St Barts is an amazing island nation in the Caribbean Sea. This Caribbean island enjoys immense popularity, ranked among the top destinations in January. For those seeking a private beach vacation, the island is ideal because it is home to some of the greatest beach resorts in the entire globe.

15. Martinique

Martinique is one of the Windward Islands in the Caribbean and one of the best islands to visit in January. The island is known for its beautiful beaches, lush rainforests, and vibrant culture. It’s a great time to visit the island, as the weather is perfect and plenty of things to see and do.

16. San Blas Islands

The San Blas Islands are a group of islands and cays in the Caribbean Sea, known for their beautiful beaches and crystal-clear waters. They’re one of the best places to visit in January, as the weather is perfect and the seas are warm. The San Blas Islands are the ideal destination if you’re looking for a secluded beach getaway.

17. British Virgin Islands

A collection of Caribbean islands called the British Virgin Islands is well-known for its stunning beaches and glistening waters. They are among the greatest islands to visit in January because of the ideal weather and abundance of things to see and do. For those seeking an opulent beach vacation, the islands are home to some of the greatest beach resorts on the planet.

18. Trinidad

Trinidad is one of the best islands to visit in January, with perfect weather and warm waters. The island is known for its vibrant culture, beautiful beaches, and lush rainforests. It’s a great time to visit the island, as there are playthings to see and do.

19. Jamaica

With ideal weather and warm waters, Jamaica is one of the best Caribbean islands to visit in January. The island is well-known for its lush rainforests, colorful culture, and stunning beaches. There are plenty of things to see and do on the island, making it an excellent time to visit.

20. Puerto Rico

Puerto Rico is one of the best islands to visit in January, with perfect weather and warm waters. The island is known for its vibrant culture, beautiful beaches, and historic landmarks. It’s a great time to visit the island, as there are playthings to see and do.

21. St Croix USVI

Given its ideal climate and warm waters, St. Croix, USVI, is among the greatest islands to visit in January. Beautiful beaches, verdant rainforests, and important historical sites are some of the island’s best features. The island is full of fun things to see and do, so now is a great time to visit.

22. St Kitts Nevis

St Kitts Nevis is one of the best islands to visit in January, with perfect weather and warm waters. The island is known for its beautiful beaches, lush rainforests, and historic landmarks. It’s a great time to visit the island, as there are playthings to see and do.

23. Dominican Republic

The Dominican Republic , with its ideal weather and warm waters, is one of the best Caribbean islands to visit in January. The island’s stunning beaches, lively culture, and important historical sites are well-known. With so much to see and do, now is a great time to visit the island.

24. Bahamas!

The Bahamas, with their ideal climate and warm waters, are among January’s greatest islands to visit. The islands are renowned for their stunning shorelines, glistening waters, and lively cultures. With so much to see and do, now is a great time to visit the islands.

25. St Maarten/St Martin

St Maarten/St Martin is one of the best islands to visit in January, with perfect weather and warm waters. The island is known for its beautiful beaches , vibrant culture, and historic landmarks. It’s a great time to visit the island, as there are playthings to see and do.

These are just a few of the best Caribbean islands to visit in January. Whether you’re looking for a secluded beach getaway or a luxurious beach resort, there’s something for everyone in the Caribbean.

Travel Tips for the Caribbean in January

If you plan to visit the Caribbean in January, you’re in for a treat. With its warm weather, crystal-clear waters, and stunning beaches, the Caribbean is an ideal destination for a winter getaway. Here are some travel tips to help you make the most of your trip:

Pack light and comfortable clothing: The Caribbean is known for its warm and sunny weather, so make sure to pack light and comfortable clothing. You’ll want to bring plenty of shorts, t-shirts, swimsuits, a hat, and sunglasses to protect yourself from the sun.

Stay hydrated: It’s important to stay hydrated in the Caribbean, especially in January when the temperatures can be high. Ensure you drink plenty of water throughout the day, and avoid sugary drinks and alcohol, which can dehydrate you.

Apply sunscreen regularly: The Caribbean sun can be intense, so it’s important to apply sunscreen regularly to protect your skin. Choose a sunscreen with a high SPF, and reapply it every few hours, especially if you’re swimming or sweating.

Be prepared for rain: While the Caribbean is known for its sunny weather, it’s also prone to rain showers, especially in January. MPacka lightweight rain jacket or umbrella, and be prepared to adjust your plans if the weather turns bad.

Book your accommodations in advance: January is a popular time to visit the Caribbean, so it’s important to book your accommodations. Consider staying at an all-inclusive resort, which can offer great value and convenience.

Explore the local culture: The Caribbean is rich in culture and history, so take some time to explore the local museums, markets, and historical sites. You’ll get a deeper appreciation for the region and its people and might even discover hidden gems.

Following these travel tips will prepare you for your trip to the Caribbean in January. Whether you’re looking to relax on the beach, explore the local culture, or simply escape the winter weather, the Caribbean is a great destination for a winter getaway.

Are there hurricanes in the Caribbean in January?

No, January is not a hurricane season in the Caribbean. The hurricane season in the Caribbean typically runs from June to November, with the peak season being from mid-August to late October. During this time, tropical storms and hurricanes are more likely to form in the Caribbean.

However, that does not mean the Caribbean is completely free from storms in January. The region can experience other weather systems, such as cold fronts, strong winds, and heavy rains. These weather systems can occur at any time of the year but are less frequent and less severe in January.

It is important to note that while January is generally a safe time to visit the Caribbean regarding hurricanes, it is still important to keep an eye on weather forecasts and be prepared for unforeseen weather events. Purchasing travel insurance that covers trip cancellations and interruptions due to weather-related issues is always a good idea.

When not to go to the Caribbean?

It’s crucial to understand when to avoid visiting particular islands due to weather or other circumstances if you plan a January vacation to the Caribbean. Here are some points to remember:

Hurricane season: Hurricane season in the Caribbean typically runs from June to November, with peak season from mid-August to late October. While January is outside hurricane season, it’s still important to watch the weather forecast before you go. If there’s a storm brewing, it could impact your travel plans or make it difficult to enjoy your trip.

High prices: Because January is peak season in the Caribbean, prices for flights, accommodations, and activities can be quite high. If traveling on a budget, consider visiting during the shoulder season (late spring or early fall) when prices are typically lower.

Less favorable weather conditions: While the Caribbean is generally warm and sunny year-round, some islands can experience less fortunate weather conditions during January. For example, some islands may experience more rain or cooler temperatures than others. Be sure to research your destination’s weather conditions before booking your trip.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What are the top caribbean destinations for january travel.

The top Caribbean destinations for January travel include the Bahamas, Jamaica, Barbados, St. Lucia, and the Dominican Republic. These islands offer a variety of activities, from beach lounging to hiking, and are known for their warm temperatures and sunny weather.

Which Caribbean islands offer the best weather in January?

The Caribbean islands that offer the best weather in January are those located in the southern part of the region, such as Aruba, Bonaire, and Curacao. These islands have low humidity, warm temperatures, and little rainfall during this time of year.

How does the Caribbean climate vary in January across different islands?

The Caribbean climate in January varies across different islands, with some experiencing dry and sunny weather while others may have more rainfall and cooler temperatures. Islands in the northern part of the region, such as the Bahamas and Cuba, tend to be cooler and drier, while those in the south, such as Trinidad and Tobago, may have more rainfall.

What are the most affordable Caribbean islands to visit in January?

The most affordable Caribbean islands to visit in January include the Dominican Republic, Jamaica, and Puerto Rico. These islands offer a range of budget-friendly accommodations, from all-inclusive resorts to guesthouses and hostels.

Can you recommend a Caribbean island with guaranteed winter sunshine?

Aruba is a Caribbean island with guaranteed winter sunshine. It has a desert-like climate with little rainfall and low humidity, making it a great destination for those seeking warm and sunny weather in January.

What are the least crowded Caribbean islands to visit during January?

During January, the least crowded Caribbean islands to visit include St. Vincent and the Grenadines, Grenada, and Dominica. These islands offer a more laid-back and relaxed atmosphere, with fewer tourists and a slower pace of life.

Conclusion: Best Caribbean Islands to Visit in January

As we conclude, it’s clear that January is the ideal time to explore the Caribbean’s splendor. From Barbados’s sun-drenched beaches to Jamaica’s vibrant culture, each island offers a unique paradise, perfect for escaping the winter chill. 

Whether you’re snorkeling the crystal-clear waters of the Turks and Caicos or absorbing the scenic beauty of St. Lucia, your Caribbean adventure promises unforgettable experiences. 

So, why wait? Start planning your January getaway to the best Caribbean islands, and immerse yourself in the warmth and vibrancy of these tropical havens. Share your journey, inspire others, and keep exploring. Thank you for traveling with me through this paradise, and may your Caribbean dreams turn into sun-soaked realities.

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Travel to the Turks and Caicos Islands to see some of the most beautiful white sand beaches in the Caribbean, including Grace Bay. Home to one of the largest barrier reef systems in the world, this collection of coral islands also offers unforgettable experiences for snorkelers and scuba divers. Whether you choose to spend the bulk of your time on land or underwater, these islands make a wonderful retreat for those seeking maximum comfort in a tropical setting. However, hotel prices can be higher here than in other Caribbean locales, especially during the peak winter season.

Visit St. Lucia for its sprawling chalk-colored beaches, towering volcanic peaks and upscale resorts. You can start your day with a hiking adventure through the Pitons, soak up some midday sun along Reduit Beach and watch the sun set over the Caribbean Sea. You'll want to also save time for a visit to Sulphur Springs, the world's only drive-in volcano. St. Lucia's plethora of romantic luxury hotels, most of which offer incredible views of the Pitons, makes this Caribbean escape especially popular with couples.

"Posh" is the best word to describe the British Virgin Islands. The island country's beautiful coast sets it apart from other Caribbean destinations. The shoreline at Cane Garden Bay and the white sand beaches on Anegada island are stunning. Meanwhile, the boulders and sea pools at The Baths National Park (touted as one of the most beautiful beaches in the world) mystify visitors. One of the best ways to see these scenic islands is by yacht or on a boat tour from the nearby U.S. Virgin Islands. Alternatively, you can relax on a beach or by a pool at one of the upscale hotels.

Spring is the time to travel to the U.S. Virgin Islands, particularly in late April when the boisterous Carnival season on St. Thomas gets underway. Regardless of when you visit, try to spend at least a day enjoying the unspoiled beauty at one of the many beaches along St. John's shoreline, including the popular Trunk Bay beach. Or, visit a fort on St. Croix for a bit of Danish colonial history during your vacation. The best part? Americans don't need a passport to visit these Caribbean islands.

Comprising 32 islands, St. Vincent and the Grenadines has something to offer every traveler. Enjoy time on the biggest island of St. Vincent in its capital, Kingstown, a port city where you'll find a lush botanical garden and fresh fish and produce markets. Then, hop on a boat and sail between the country's other islands for diving, snorkeling, golfing, sunbathing and photo-ops. No matter how you choose to pass the time, a trip to this destination will be one for the books.

One of the most scenic spots in the Caribbean, the Cayman Islands is home to premier dive sites, including Eden Rock and Devil's Grotto, as well as plenty of picturesque shorelines such as the world-renowned Seven Mile Beach. For travelers who want to stick to the shallows, Stingray City offers clear water, a sandbar and opportunities to swim with stingrays. Hotel and flight prices tend to be on the lower end during the summer months, so you can enjoy the palm-fringed white sand beaches and serene sea without ruining your vacation budget.

While you'll certainly find the standard Caribbean staples – picture-perfect sandy beaches, verdant golf courses and palatial resorts – you'll also discover that Barbados offers a unique roster of non-beach things to do. Travel here to sample Mount Gay Rum, explore the limestone caverns of Harrison's Cave and the Animal Flower Cave, attend a horse race at Garrison Savannah and dance to calypso tunes. Don't forget to save time for exploring the island's historical plantation houses and exotic tropical gardens.

With 16 major islands and hundreds of islets, the Bahamas derives its appeal from its stunning beaches and Caribbean Sea views. The country's beaches run the gamut from bustling Cable Beach to Pig Beach and Pink Sand Beach (both of which derive their names from their most unique characteristics). After enjoying your fill of the Caribbean sun, explore the Bahamas' expansive protected areas, including Lucayan National Park. Just plan on sticking to one or two islands to avoid blowing your vacation budget on transportation costs.

St. Barts is known for its scenic beaches (from beautiful Anse de Grande Saline to sprawling Anse des Flamands) and unique French Caribbean culture, which is evident in its cuisine and lively annual festivals. St. Barts is also synonymous with luxury, so you'll find many high-end hotels and upscale resorts here, plus harbors that house mega-yachts. To save some coin, grab food at a local supermarket before heading to the beach for a picnic.

The bright-colored buildings and natural features of St. George's harbor in Grenada offer a view worth savoring. But don't stare for too long – Grenada has more than 45 beaches to choose from, including the 2-mile-long Grand Anse Beach. Regardless of which shoreline you choose, you'll find clear water and white sand surrounded by lush greenery. If you need a break from the sand, head to Belmont Estate for a chocolate tour or stretch your legs on Grand Etang National Park & Forest Reserve's hiking trails.

St. Kitts garners its popularity in part from the soft sands and buzzing nightlife of Frigate Bay. While many choose to vacation here to relax at a resort on the beach and enjoy delicious cuisine (think: tasty seafood and fresh fruit), this destination offers plenty in the way of culture as well. It hosts excellent festivals, most notably the St. Kitts & Nevis National Carnival (known locally as Sugar Mas). When you need a break from the action, hop on a ferry for a daytrip to the quieter island of Nevis, where you'll find Oualie and Pinney's beaches.

Antigua is home to a wealth of diverse beaches – 365, to be exact. So whether you're interested in grabbing a bite to eat at Valley Church Beach or seeking a more secluded, romantic vacation at Half Moon Bay, you likely won't be disappointed. Plus, Antigua is where you'll find some of the best resorts in the Caribbean. The island also offers historical attractions to recognize Antigua's Colonial past, such as Nelson's Dockyard, constructed by the British Navy using enslaved people for labor, and Betty's Hope, an early sugar plantation.

As one of the ABC islands (along with Aruba and Bonaire), Curaçao sits outside the hurricane belt, meaning you'll find sunny, pleasant temperatures year-round and little threat from swirling storms that can wreak havoc in the Caribbean. The dependable weather and healthy coral reefs (compared to the rest of the Caribbean) make Curaçao a top destination for divers, snorkelers and beach bums. Plus, this Dutch Caribbean locale boasts a lively capital filled with pastel-colored architecture and culturally significant sights, such as a sand-floored synagogue from the 18th century.

Home to towering mountains, dense rainforests, colorful coral reefs and stunning beaches, Jamaica boasts diverse scenery that attracts visitors from around the globe. Adventurous travelers can hike, rock climb or dive while their calm counterparts can lounge on Seven Mile Beach's soft white sand or swim in its clear water. It's perfectly possible to spend an entire trip having fun and relaxing at one of the island's numerous all-inclusive resorts. But for an authentic dose of local culture, head to Kingston (the island's capital) to attend a lively festival, listen to reggae tunes and try local specialties like Blue Mountain Coffee and jerk chicken.

You'll find first-rate beaches and plenty of activities on St. Martin - St. Maarten, as well as an assortment of hotel options and vacation rentals for many budgets. Experienced and first-time scuba divers can explore the reefs, shipwrecks, sea life and rock formations that surround the island. Meanwhile, foodies can savor everything from fresh seafood dishes (think: conch, codfish fritters and whelk soup) to French-Creole specialties, such as callaloo (kale and spinach soup). Or, stop for casual barbecued meat and fresh fish at one of the open-air lolos located along the shore.

Aruba appeals to all types of travelers: Gamblers can hit the casinos, nature enthusiasts can check out Arikok National Park or hike through the Ayo and Casibari rock formations, and water lovers can explore the sea or sign up for a boat tour. Meanwhile, beach bums can soak up some sun along the shoreline on a lounge chair, typically without overheating thanks to the constant breeze Aruba enjoys. What's more, this island lies outside the hurricane belt, so it's an ideal place to visit year-round, though room rates are generally lowest in late summer.

Compared to its neighbors, this group of islands has flown under the radar for years but is worth a visit. In this French Caribbean archipelago, you can explore white, golden and black sand beaches. Plus, more than 70% of Guadeloupe's territory is protected nature reserves – not to mention several marine parks complement their dry counterparts – making the country perfect for ecotourists and scuba divers. These preserved areas also appeal to those looking to avoid the crowded resorts and tourist hot spots of more popular Caribbean destinations.

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The 8 best places to visit in the Caribbean

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Not all Caribbean islands are the same. Here's how to find the right one for you © Roberto Moiola / Sysaworld / Getty Images

The ultimate tropical getaway, the Caribbean conjures images of palm-fringed beaches, rum-fueled dancing and lush jungle excursions. Pick any of the 700-odd islands that form an arc between Florida and Venezuela  and you’ll get all these things and more.

Rich in African culture brought to the region by the trade of enslaved people, the islands are also steeped variously in British, Spanish, French and Dutch heritage, making the Caribbean one of the most culturally diverse places on the planet and lending each island its own idiosyncrasies. 

Whether you’re looking for a party city or a family-friendly destination, we’ll help you decide where to go. Here are the eight best places to visit in the Caribbean.

Best for beaches

Boasting a beach for each day of the year, low-lying Antigua in the Leeward Islands delivers a multitude of postcard-perfect beaches, with coral reefs just a flipper-kick from shore. Depending on where you are, the hue shifts from brilliant white through rose gold to cotton candy pink. 

Choose between a beach lined with lively bars blaring out soca tunes, or a near-deserted strip of sand where it’ll be just you and the odd pelican diving for fish.

If you want to join picnicking locals, head to Jolly Beach on the west coast; for solitude, try Half Moon Bay in the southeast, and for tree-shaded golden sands, head to Pigeon Beach on the edge of Falmouth Harbor. 

2. The Pitons, St Lucia

Best for hiking

These iconic twin peaks are St Lucia ’s most photographed attraction, which isn't surprising, as they tower more than half a mile above sea level and can be viewed from as far north as the capital Castries.

Gros Piton, the largest of the peaks, is the one to scale (Petit Piton has near-vertical slabs and climbing is restricted). Start at sunrise and you’ll be at the top before the heat of the midday sun. January, February and March are great months to visit because the soil will be dry. 

Wake to an up-close view of these verdant volcanic plugs by staying at Ladera Resort , which offers rooms that are completely open to the rainforest.

Planning tip: Book a guide from Gros Piton Tour Guides Association  and you’ll not only make it to the summit without losing the path, but you'll also learn the history of Fond Gens Libre, a settlement that played an important role in the 1748 slave rebellion (and the hike's starting point), and find out about the flora and fauna of the rainforest you pass through. 

3. Habana Vieja, Cuba

Best old town

The most populated and most visited city in Cuba and one of the best cities in the Caribbean, beguiling Havana is associated with Hemingway and Cadillacs, music-filled theaters and grand rum bars.

The Havana you’re looking for is the old town, known in Spanish as Habana Vieja , where you can wander narrow streets, admire the architecture of restored Spanish buildings, stop to listen to a street-side salsa or son band and dip in and out of the various museums, churches and palaces that make up this Unesco World Heritage Site. 

The city hums in the day, but at night it’s all-singing, all-dancing. To soak up the vibe head to Plaza Vieja , pull up a chair on the terrace of one of the many bars and cafes and be entertained by roving bands.

Then head to the 200-year-old bar El Floridita , where Ernest Hemingway famously knocked back daiquiris after a day at the typewriter. 

4. Bonaire Marine Park

Best for snorkeling

Bonaire is the B in the Dutch ABC islands and lies to the east of Aruba and Curaçao, just off the coast of Venezuela in the southern Caribbean. Something of a trailblazer, the island turned its entire coastline – and that of neighboring Klein Bonaire – into a 6400-acre marine park in the late 1970s.

The island has about 90 dive and snorkel sites where you can explore the protected underwater world , mostly situated among the sheltered coral reefs off the west coast. This is a good place to visit in July, because it is south of the hurricane belt. 

Planning tip: Divers and snorkelers must pay the marine park nature fee, which is $25 for non-scuba visitors and $45 for scuba divers, and is valid for a year. You can purchase it directly from the National Parks Foundation .

5. The Grenadines

Best for sailing

An archipelago stretching 60 miles from St Vincent in the south to Grenada in the north, the Grenadines  feel remote and largely untouched by tourism.

With the challenge of occasional strong Atlantic winds and the reward of calm waters on deserted beaches (minus the odd rum shack), this is some of the best sailing in the world for the competent sailor. Passages between the islands only take an hour or two, so you’ll get plenty of downtime too.

Planning tip: This is a good place to visit in July, August, September or October, because it’s south of the hurricane belt. Start your charter in St Vincent and finish in Grenada for an easier sail. Easterly trade winds make it harder to sail north up the chain. 

6. Inagua, The Bahamas

Best for wildlife lovers

The southernmost island group in the Bahamas is made up of two islands. Despite its name, Great Inagua only has a population of about 1200 people, but its flamingo population exceeds 80,000 birds, flocking around aptly named Lake Rosa. And Little Inagua is the largest uninhabited island in the Caribbean, becoming a national park in 2002.

These remote islands are a haven for ecotourism, and visitors come to see the flamingos, parrots, pelicans and 140 other native and migratory birds that can be spotted here.

Planning tip: Travel by mail boat from Nassau , which is 320 miles northwest, or fly into Great Inagua airport. To visit Little Inagua, a nesting ground for endangered sea turtles, you’ll need to ask a fisherman to take you by boat. The best time to see the turtles hatching is between August and September. 

7. Punta Cana, Dominican Republic

Best for families

The glut of family-friendly hotels that hug the “coconut coast” on the east of the Dominican Republic make this a fun-filled place to go if you’re looking for an easy family holiday in the Caribbean.

The child-free may want to actively avoid the area, but if it’s an all-inclusive hotel with a waterslide you’re after, then you’ll find no shortage among the popular brands jostling for attention. 

Whether you want five-star luxury, such as that found at Bahia Principe Fantasia Punta Cana , which has a fairytale palace astride the swimming pool, or the recognizable cartoon characters found at the Nickelodeon resort , you’ll find a hotel to please the whole family. 

8. San Juan, Puerto Rico

Best for partying

Wherever you are on the island of Puerto Rico you’re never more than a couple of hours by car from San Juan , the island’s capital. This means there’s no excuse not to spend at least one night of your holiday partying Puerto Rico style.

A night out in San Juan is a raucous affair, generally centered around the old town, which has the highest concentration of bars and clubs. 

You’ll find piña coladas served until the early hours, but not in La Factoria , which is taking the island’s mixology to the next level (and often features on lists of best bars). Here you can try signature cocktails such as the lavender mule, made with ginger tea, lavender cordial and Ketel One vodka.

For a street-party vibe, head to La Placita de Santurce , which by day is the location of the fruit and veg market and by night filled with the sounds of salsa.

This is one of the best places to visit in the Caribbean in December or early January because the Christmas period (from December 15 to January 6) is even more of a party than usual. 

This article was first published May 2019 and updated November 2023

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3 Best Caribbean Islands to visit in January (+ 15 Runners Up)

It’s January, the middle of winter, and you just want to get out of town somewhere in the Caribbean. But where is the best place to go?  Many years ago my family took a vacation to the Mexican Caribbean in January and although the sun was shining and warm enough to wear shorts, it was chilly by the beach. I needed to find a better Caribbean area to vacation in January so dug into the facts and statistics to find a better January vacation spot.

What are the best Caribbean islands to visit in January?  The Caribbean Islands with temperatures warm enough to comfortably take a dip in the ocean and partake in water activities are Aruba, Curaçao, and Bonaire often referred to as the ABC Islands. The average temperatures for these islands range from 76 – 86 in January.

When you’re stuck indoors for months on end and forced to endure days and weeks of cloud-cover, just about anyplace with temps above 60° welcome.  But when it comes to really getting away to relax, unwind and spend time by the beach or pool in a gorgeous environment, even us northerners like it warmer – a lot warmer. 

I spent time researching the islands identifying the average high and low temps and rainfall each month, the hurricane seasons for each and average rainfall.

Next, I determined the minimum temperature the average person (i.e. myself) needs to get down to their swimsuit.

What are the best Caribbean Islands to visit in January?

Presumably, you’re thinking about a trip to the Caribbean for the warm, tropical climate and water options like beaching, hanging at the pool, snorkeling, scuba diving or any other water-oriented activity. That’s great, I wrote this article just for you!

When researching the best Caribbean Islands to visit in January, I defined a simple set of criteria for the best Caribbean destinations to visit in January.

Climate Perfection

• The island’s average low temp for January must be at least 75
• January cannot be hurricane season for the island
• Very low rainfall, if any

Yes, the perfect Caribbean island to visit in January is based on the weather. Simple. That said, the weather isn’t the only redeeming quality of the winning islands. I’ll share more detail shortly.

Without further ado, the 3 best Caribbean islands to visit in January are . . . Aruba, Curacao, and Bonaire – also known as the ABC Islands.

Aruba, Curaçao, and Bonaire – The ABC Islands

The average temperatures for Aruba, Curaçao, and Bonaire in January are 76° – 86° with an average year-round temp of 82°. These islands also enjoy more sunny days than any other Caribbean Islands.

The average rainfall for each island is less than 1″ in January.

The weather on these islands offers the ultimate in comfort . The radiant, consistent sun combined with the constantly blowing north-east trade winds temper the heat making for an amazingly comfortable climate.

All three islands are also outside the hurricane belt! This is awesome if you choose to travel during hurricane season (June – November).

By the way, Grenada (a runners up for January getaways) is also outside the “hurricane belt”. Check out my article How Grenada Became Known as “the Spice Isle’ to learn more about this worthy destination. ]

The 3 islands are located in close proximity to one another and just 90 miles north of Venezuela. Not only are they located close to one another, but the culture and characteristics of the islands are also very similar as well. 

All three islands are part of the Kingdom of the Netherlands but in different governing capacities to which different provisions apply. 

• Aruba is a “constituent country” of the Kingdom of the Netherlands
• Curaçao is an “autonomous” country within the Kingdom of the Netherlands
• Bonair is a “special municipality” of the Kingdom of the Netherlands

What’s so great about Aruba?

Aruba is a relatively tiny island – only  19.6 miles long and six miles across. 

One of the greatest resources on this island is its people. It’s said that the Arubans have a natural sense of hospitality. They even call their home “one happy island”. Who wouldn’t want to go there?  

Aruba is very ethnic rich, representing over 90 unique nationalities. 

Arubans speak Dutch, Papiamento (a Spanish Creole language with admixtures of Portuguese and Dutch. Most Arubans also speak English & Spanish so no worries about communicating.

Same as many Caribbean Islands, Aruba is serious about their Carnival celebrations. In case you didn’t know, Carnival is a pre-lenten tradition consisting of elaborately colored parades, masquerades, calypso music, dancing, and lively celebrations. It’s a giant party!

Carnival celebration is a big deal to the islanders and they love to share it with visitors. Some of the celebrations take place in January, most of it in February all leading up to the big parade and burning of King Momo, the day before Ash Wednesday.

No worries about the drinking water on Aruba. Yes, you CAN drink the water! The island creates its own drinking water by desalinating seawater at the local water plant.

Makes you wonder why other countries haven’t caught onto this little trick (i.e. Mexico, Dominican?). Perhaps it’s easier for a small island. Not sure.

Of course, the island has its own prized beaches. The top ones to visit include:

Awesome Beaches in Aruba

Eagle Beach has been rated one of the best beaches in the world due to its soft white sand and beautiful aquamarine water. It’s located in the island’s capital, Oranjestad. Eagle Beach is home to the most photographed fofoti tree in Aruba. 

Baby Beach is in Seroe Colorado, on the southeast end of the island. The waters are so calm it’s safe enough for small children, here the name.

Andicuri Beach is located on the island’s northeast coast, within the Andicuri Bay. This beach’s claim to fame is its breathtaking, scenic setting and the place to go for body-boarding.

Dos Playa , meaning 2 beaches, is located within the Arikok National Park on the southeast part of the island. The beaches are unspoiled, remote and the perfect place, if you’re objective is natural beauty.

Surfers love Dos Playa because of the aggressive waves, but be aware the beaches may be unsuitable for inexperienced swimmers.

Key Travel Information for Aruba

Why visit curaçao.

Curaçao is known for its vast number of beautiful beaches tucked into coves and its expansive coral reefs waiting for divers and snorkelers to explore.

You can also drink the water in Curaçao. The island produces its own drinking water via a seawater distillery.

Pastel-colored colonial architecture is prominent in the island’s capital of Willemstad.

A unique, popular site on the island is the Queen Emma Bridge. it’s a floating pontoon pedestrian bridge in Willemstad (also known as Swinging Old Lady ) that connects the Punda and Otrobands regions of Willemstad and regularly opens to allow sea vessels to pass.

Awesome Beaches In Curaço

Curaçois home to so many amazing beaches I really had to whittle the list down. I chose the top 5.

Blue Bay is the biggest beach on the island and is located near the village of Sint Michiel just northwest of the island’s capital Willemstad. Blue Bay is known for its diving and snorkeling.

Seaquarium Beach is located in the south part of Willemstad. It was named after the Curaçao Sea Aquarium located nearby. It’s a public beach and host to a variety of bars, clubs, and restaurants.

Playa Kenepa is located on the western side of the island, 50 miles from Willemstad. The beach is small picturesque, in a bay between rocky bluffs.

Jan Thiel Beach is another popular, white sandy beach on the island. It’s popular for water sports as well as the lively restaurant and shopping establishments.

Mambo Beach is the busy trendy beach on Curaço. there are lots of amenities in the area – restaurants, shops and more.

Key Travel Information for Curaço

Why visit bonaire .

Bonaire is another small island in the southern Caribbean. Bonaire is about 23 miles long by about 5 miles wide.

Bonaire is heaven to water sports enthusiasts. Due to its reef-lined coast, snorkeling, and scuba diving are extremely popular. Swimming, sailing, kiteboarding, and windsurfing are other key reasons people visit the island.

Bonaire’s seawater is distilled and purified to become one of the purest drinking waters in the world. How awesome, another island where you can drink the water.

The flamingo is the island’s signature bird. The island is proud to be home to one of the only Flamingo breeding sites in the Southern Caribbean – The Flamingo Reserve.

Fun Fact: Did you know flamingos get their pink color because of a diet rich in alpha and beta carotenoid pigments found in algae and insects?

Awesome Beaches In Bonaire

Bonaire and sister island, Klein Bonaire, are host to over 22 beaches. Some are soft white powdery sand and others are coarser and darker sand due to the reefs and crushed seashells. Here are 5 top picks:

No Name Beach resides on the uninhabited sister island Klein Bonaire so you need to take a water taxi to get there. This island is the epitome of a fantasy beach with its white, gorgeous sand and gently lapping waves. Resting on a coral reef, No Name Beach is ideal for snorkeling.

Chachacha is a popular beach location for families. It’s located near Bonaire’s southern cruise dock. The beach is calm enough for children. I also chose this beach for the name. How fun is “Chachacha”!

Te Amo Beach is a public beach near the airport. The sandy shoreline makes it a breeze to access the water. This too is a popular snorkeling site.

Bachelor’s Beach is a very small beach located at the bottom of a cool 10′ cliff. This is another great site for snorkeling and diving.

Pink Beach is appropriately named given that the beach is home to millions of tiny bright pink sea creatures called foraminifera. The sandy area is rather narrow but still a great spot to soak up the sun.

Key Travel Information for Bonaire

Bring your passport.

All three islands require a valid US passport book for entry. Make sure you have at least a couple of available pages in your book and that it will not expire at least 6 months prior to departure.

From the US? There are other places to visit that DON”T require a passport. Check out my article Caribbean Islands You Can Visit Without a Passport .

Top Caribbean Destinations to Visit in January Runners Up. 

The top three islands to visit in January made the cut by just 2 °. Literally. Two degrees Fahrenheit to be exact.

The truth is there are a lot of other islands that are ideal to visit even in January. We call them the Top Caribbean Destinations to Visit in January Runners Up . Here they are in order of warmest first.

• St. Vincent & The Grenadines
• Saint Lucia
• Saint Barthelemy (St. Barths)
• Saint Eustatius
• Sint Maarten (St-Martin / St Maarten)
• Saint Martin (St-Martin / St Maarten)
• Grenada (Need a reason to visit Grenada? Check out my article 20 Reasons Why Grenada is Totally Worth Visiting )
• US Virgin Islands
• The British Virgin Islands
• Antigua and Barbuda
• Cayman Islands
• St. Kitts & Nevis

What about Jamaica or the Dominican Republic? 

Go for it! Jamaica and the Dominican Republic still have respectable average low temps in January (72°) – they’re just not AS warm as the ABC Islands.

If you want to visit Jamaica, The Dominican Republic or any other Caribbean island in January – Go for it!

Jamaica and the Dominican Republic still have respectable average low temps in January (72°) – they’re just not AS warm as the ABC Islands.

The point is, there’s not really a bad Caribbean destination in January, just better destinations.

Regardless, pick an island and go. You won’t regret it. A bad January day in the Caribbean is still better than a good January day in Wisconsin.

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An Insider’s Guide To The Best Caribbean Islands To Visit In January

• November 25, 2019

The Caribbean, with its stunning array of paradisiacal islands and crystal-clear waters, has long been a popular destination, especially in January with snowbirds looking to enjoy some winter sunshine. And with each island offering a totally different experience, there really is something for everyone in this exotic wonderland. For those struggling to decide where to go, here are just a few of the best Caribbean islands to visit in January, whether you are in search of majestic mountain scenery, rich culture, gourmet cuisine, wild nightlife, or simply that warm, Caribbean sunshine on a picture-postcard white sandy beach.

The best Caribbean islands to visit in January

Rugged scenery in jamaica.

While January might be ‘winter’ in the Caribbean, the heat can still be overbearing at times. For a cooling escape head up into Jamaica’s stunning Blue Mountains – one of the best Caribbean islands to visit in January thanks to its elevated position, offering that idyllic combination of soft breezes and incredible views.

This lush mountain range runs along the eastern edge of Jamaica and offers a fabulous range of hiking opportunities, where you can soak up the majestic scenery and witness a stunning array of flora and fauna. Of course, the Blue Mountains are home to the world-famous Blue Mountain Coffee, which is still made utilising artisan techniques. Many of the coffee plantations offer guided tours where you can view the coffee-making process from bean to cup.

If you’re in search of a place to rest your head the place to stay here is the fabulous Strawberry Hill, frequented by VIPs and celebrities. Just be prepared, getting up to the Blue Mountains entails a hair-raising journey featuring pot-holed roads and hair-pin bends – certainly not for the faint of heart, but most definitely worth it!

Soak up history and culture in Cuba

Scratch the surface and you’ll find that Cuba offers much more than cigars, classic cars, and crumbling architectural grandeur. Rich in culture, Havana is the place to be for anyone who wants to step into another universe, where streets burst with creative energy and historic poignance and friendly locals regularly welcome strangers into their home as part of the Casa Particular accommodation. And with the Christmas’ crowds in Cuba dissipated, you’ll find this is one of the best Caribbean islands to visit in January – post-December is the ideal time to explore this vibrant city.

Enjoy a classic Mojito – a favourite of one of Cuba’s most famous residents, Ernest Hemmingway – and watch the world go by; salsa the night away in a local habanero; or explore Havana’s surprisingly vibrant art scene in Habana Vieja or at the Fabrica de Arte Cubano. 

Feast in the Cayman Islands

January is culinary month in the Cayman Islands, the gastronomic capital of the Caribbean, making this one of the best Caribbean islands to visit in January for foodies.

The gourmet food festival, Cayman Cookout, is held every January on the British Overseas Territory of Grand Cayman, playing host to some of the most renowned chefs and drinks experts in the world. Hosted by the lavish The Ritz-Carlton, Grand Cayman, in partnership with celebrated seafood chef Eric Ripert of New York’s Le Bernardin, this gourmet affair spans four delectable days of barefoot elegance, offering tasting menus, cooking demonstrations, beachside soirees, an extravagant brunch and amateur chef cook-off, and more, all capped-off with the not-to-be-missed gala event.

If this event doesn’t sufficiently tickle your taste buds, then explore Cayman’s myriad world-class fine-dining restaurants boasting fabulous fusion cuisine prepared by award-winning chefs.

Party the night away in the Dominican Republic

Santo Domingo, the capital of the Dominican Republic is the place for hedonistic revellers to flock to. Dominicans love a good party and this Caribbean city has something for every vibe, including bars, lounges, eclectic dance clubs, discos, and casinos where you can try your luck.

Cars crank up their sound systems, playing pulsating beats into the early hours of the morning. Liquor stores double up as meeting points for locals to shoot the breeze and party into the early hours, while salsa, merengue, and reggaeton pulsate from street corners.

Every bar in this thriving nightspot has its designated ‘night’ with happy hour specials and live bands, ensuring a different experience every night. Indeed, Santo Domingo is the best Caribbean island to visit in January for those wishing to let loose – after all, why not start 2020 as you mean to go on?

Be a beach bum in Roatan

Part of the paradisiacal Bay Islands off the coast of Honduras, Roatan is the place to head to in January if you feel like whiling the month away as a beach bum on stunning beaches surrounded by gin-clear waters. The island is as Caribbean as islands come, with a laid-back, anything-goes way of life – perfect if you are someone whose idea of dressing up is donning swimwear and a sarong. Head to West Bay beach, which boasts powder-white sands ideal for soaking up the Caribbean sunshine.

For those that fancy sinking beneath the waves, Roatan offers an astonishing number of dive sites. The entire coastline is fringed by spectacular coral reefs teeming with marine life, making this the place for diving and snorkelling enthusiasts.

For a Robinson Crusoe experience, head to the uninhabited island of Water Cay and spend a day to yourself snoozing under the shade of a swaying palm tree. For one of the best Caribbean islands to visit in January, Roatan is a must.

  So, whether you opt to cruise over on your own luxury yacht charter or fly over by commercial jet, there is sure to be an island to suit you. Prepare for an adventure like no other in the Caribbean.

Related Topics

• best destinations for january
• Caribbean islands
• domican republic
• tropical islands
• winter destinations

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January in the Caribbean: Weather, What to Pack, and What to See

With winter chills starting to drive folks in the northern United States stir-crazy, there's no better time than January to escape to the warm tropical paradises found in the Caribbean Sea. The month starts with huge New Year's Eve celebrations all across the region and ends just as  Carnival season is getting into full swing, making it great for travelers looking for a party.

However, winter is also the high season in the Caribbean, so you can expect to pay more for your flights and accommodations, even though January is considered the weakest month of the season for tourism. Book far in advance and keep an eye out for special deals, which may still be available due to January's lower-than-average tourism rate.

Caribbean Weather in January

Generally speaking, you can expect January temperatures in the Caribbean to average a low of about 72 degrees Fahrenheit and a high of about 82 degrees, but beach weather is not guaranteed since the Caribbean receives an average of 11 days of rain per month and temperatures can be a bit on the cool side. Ultimately, it's more reasonable to expect sunshine and warm weather than sweltering days where you'll need a dip in the ocean to cool off, especially on islands like Bermuda that are in the Atlantic Ocean instead of in the Caribbean Sea.

Geography of the Caribbean

There are many destinations in the Caribbean to choose from, including several remote islands in the nearby Atlantic Ocean. As a result, these destinations are often classified for travel by the island groups you're visiting, including the Lucayan Archipelago, Greater Antilles, Lesser Antilles, the Winward Islands, and the Leeward Antilles.

• The Lucayan Archipelago consists of the Bahamas and Turks and Caicos Islands while the Greater Antilles contains the Cayman Islands, Cuba, Haiti, Dominican Republic, Jamaica, Puerto Rico, and the Spanish Virgin Islands.
• Meanwhile, the U.S. Virgin Islands, British Virgin Islands, Anguilla, Antigua, Barbuda, Redonda, Saint Martin, Saba, Sint Eustatius, Saint Barthélemy, Saint Kitts, Nevis, Montserrat, and Guadeloupe all belong to the Lesser Antilles.
• The Winward Islands consist of Dominica, Martinique, Saint Lucia, Saint Vincent, The Grenadines, Grenada, Barbados, and Trinidad and Tobago, and the Leeward Antilles consist of Aruba, Curaçao, and Bonaire.

What to Pack

Packing for your Caribbean vacation really comes down to what you feel best in at the beach or what you'll be most comfortable wearing while partying, relaxing, or dining outdoors with your feet in the sand. Bring bathing suits and summer clothing for the daytime and maybe a light sweater if it gets cold at night. January is a rainy month, especially in the Bahamas or Bermuda, so you might want to bring a light raincoat as well.

January Events in the Caribbean

If you're visiting the Caribbean in January, you can start the year with a bang at a New Year's party or finish out your mid-winter holiday at an early Carnival celebration in Aruba and St. Kitts. Fortunately, there are plenty of January events in the Caribbean , many of which are public and free to attend.

• New Year's Day : Parades are the order of the day in Key West and  St. Kitts , where the streets are full of revelers long into the evening. Even after a full 24 hours of partying for New Year's Eve, but you're likely to find a big celebration to start off the new year in style no matter where you go.
• Junkanoo Festival: From Grand Bahama to Abaco, this celebration of the new year is complete with parades, traditional Junkanoo music and dance, and several cultural demonstrations and events across the Bahamas.
• Three King's Day: This Christian holiday celebrated in Puerto Rico takes place on January 6 in 2019 and is celebrated with a feast honoring the revelation of God incarnate as Jesus Christ. You can attend special services at local churches on the island or even sample some local cuisine at events across Puerto Rico.
• Barbados Jazz Festival: Performers take over venues across  Barbados including plantation homes, rum factories, and the Farley Hill National Park for a week of celebrating this musical tradition.
• Carnival : While many events, including the famous Trinidad and Tobago Carnival, take place in February and March, Aruba , Curacao , and St. Kitts all celebrate the annual tradition throughout January.

January Travel Tips

• Attractions, businesses, and many restaurants are closed for New Year's Day, which is also true for Three King's Day in Puerto Rico and other Christian and Catholic-dominant islands.
• Traveling around the first of the month is more expensive than the middle of January, and flying mid-week could save you money compared to weekend tickets.
• Hotels aren't as likely to fill up in January as they are later in the winter season, but you should still start looking for a room well in advance to see if you can catch any early bird deals.
• Avoiding major destinations like Key West for New Year's or Aruba during Carnival can also help you cut costs on your travel plans. If you don't care about attending a big-ticket event, make sure you check to see what's happening before you book your travel dates to avoid airlines jacking up prices for these annual celebrations.
• Even though the weather's cooler, you still need to apply plenty of sunscreen if you plan to spend time outside.

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

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Why Visit the Caribbean?

When to visit the caribbean, 1. best caribbean island to visit on a budget: jamaica, 2. best family-friendly caribbean island: the bahamas, 3. best caribbean island to visit for all-inclusive resorts: dominican republic, 4. best caribbean island to visit with friends: anguilla, 5. best caribbean island to visit on a honeymoon: st. lucia, 6. best caribbean island to visit for endless beaches: antigua, 7. best caribbean island to visit for first timers: cayman islands, 8. best caribbean island to visit solo: british virgin islands, 9. best caribbean island to visit for luxury: st. barts, 10. best caribbean island for history and wildlife buffs: st. kitts and nevis, 11. best caribbean island for adventure travelers: dominica, 12. best caribbean island for top-rated beaches: turks and caicos, best caribbean islands to visit in winter and spring, best caribbean islands to visit in summer and fall, best caribbean islands to visit in january, best caribbean islands to visit in february, best caribbean islands to visit in march, best caribbean islands to visit in april, best caribbean islands to visit in may, best caribbean islands to visit in june, best caribbean islands to visit in july, best caribbean islands to visit in august, best caribbean islands to visit in september, best caribbean islands to visit in october, best caribbean islands to visit in november, best caribbean islands to visit in december, 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.

These Are the 12 Best Caribbean Islands To Visit

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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 .

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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 .

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.

Best Caribbean Islands To Visit by Month

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.

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 .

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.

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.

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.

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).

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 .

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

The information regarding The World of Hyatt Credit Card was independently collected by Upgraded Points and not provided nor reviewed by the issuer.

Frequently Asked Questions

What caribbean island should i visit first.

Most Caribbean islands are ideal for first-time visitors, but we suggest heading to the Cayman Islands, which offers a little bit of everything. Islands such as the U.S. Virgin Islands are also easy for first-timers, as you don’t need a passport, and most locals speak English.

What is the cheapest and safest Caribbean island to visit?

One of the most affordable Caribbean islands is Jamaica. Dominica, a more under-the-radar destination, is also cheaper. Visiting any of the Caribbean islands during the low season (June through November) means you may get better prices. The safest Caribbean islands are the British Virgin Islands, ideal for solo travelers, and Anguilla, which markets itself as a very safe Caribbean destination.

Which is the nicest part of the Caribbean?

If you’re looking for a luxury vacation, the nicest part of the Caribbean may be St. Bart’s, an island frequented by the rich and famous. If you’re traveling with your family, The Bahamas is the best Caribbean island to visit with toddlers, children, and teens, with lots to do and see.

Where is the prettiest place in the Caribbean?

The prettiest place in the Caribbean is debatable. Antigua and Turks and Caicos are known for beaches, while islands like Bonaire may be most beautiful underwater, with extensive marine life. If you love natural wonders like waterfalls, hot springs, and rainforests, St. Lucia and Dominica are 2 of the prettiest Caribbean islands.

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About Lori Zaino

Lori is an intrepid traveler who loves creating itineraries that exude “luxe on a budget.” She’s written for CNN, NBC, The Infatuation, and more, and loves to muse about points-fueled trips to Sri Lanka, Sicily, and Myanmar.

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18 Best Places to Visit in the Caribbean

Written by Anietra Hamper Updated Mar 19, 2024

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

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

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

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

1. British Virgin Islands

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

• Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Aruba

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

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

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

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

• Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Jamaica

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

• Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Anguilla

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

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

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

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

• Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Grenada

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in the Bahamas

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

More Related Articles on PlanetWare.com

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

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Barbados , Caribbean , Cuba , Destinations , Grenada , Jamaica , St Vincent and the Grenadines · October 25, 2023

The 5 Best Caribbean Islands to Visit in January

There are over 3,000 islands and cays and 30 territories that make up the Caribbean , so deciding where to vacation can be challenging. However, we’re going to narrow your choice down by looking at some of the best Caribbean islands to visit in January, so you have the most memorable vacation possible!

From the historic hub that is Cuba to the low-key vibes of St Vincent and the Grenadines, wherever you choose to visit, you’re destined for beautiful beaches, clear waters, and some much-needed winter sun.

Is January a Good Time to Visit the Caribbean?

Yes, January is a brilliant time to visit the Caribbean. During January, the region enjoys dry, sunny weather with pleasant temperatures, averaging 25°C to 31°C, and fewer rain showers, making it ideal for beach activities and sightseeing. Also, the cooler evenings are comfortable, and there’s less humidity compared to the summer months. Truly, it’s the perfect destination for some winter sun.

However, January is the height of the tourist season, so be prepared for more crowds and pricier accommodation.

Because Cuba is in the northern Caribbean, the weather in January is just right – not too hot and not too cold, making it the ideal time for beach days and city strolls.

As you might expect from the home of the mojito, Cuba is renowned for its lively atmosphere. In January, you’ll have the opportunity to experience the Havana International Jazz Festival, just one of the many things to do in Havana Cuba , and the San Sebastián Festival in Trinidad.

Cuba is a Caribbean island like no other. Still gripped by the hands of communism disguised as socialism, travelling to Cuba is truly eye-opening. Yes, you’ll experience the tropical paradise everyone associates with this picturesque country, but you’ll also learn about one of the most fascinating places on Earth.

Why you should visit Cuba in January:

• Comfortable January temperatures.
• Festivals like the Havana International Jazz Festival are in full swing.
• Dive deep into Cuba’s history and understand the struggles of Cuban life.
• Enjoy white sand beaches and azure waters without the crowds
• It’s incredibly safe for tourists, ensuring peace of mind during your travels.
• A lively, party atmosphere with salsa dancing and reggaeton.
• To enjoy the tastiest mojitos you will ever drink.

✈️ Find: The Latest Cuba Vacation Packages

Want a Caribbean experience without too many tourists crowding your views? Head to Grenada ! Between the beaches and the waterfalls , there’s so much to see and do. In our opinion, Grenada is like the perfect fusion between St Lucia and Barbados. Barbados has beautiful beaches. St Lucia has incredible landscapes, waterfalls and rainforests. Grenada has it all!

Grenada is not as touristy as other islands. However, it has everything you need for a memorable Caribbean vacation. There are incredible 5-star resorts or modest apartments. You’ll find fine dining or cheap, local Grenadian cuisine. It’s the perfect destination for couples or families – Grenada truly has everything – and one of the best Caribbean islands to visit in January if you’re looking to have an unforgettable vacation.

Reasons to visit Grenada in January:

• Awesome spots for hiking and nature walks.
• A balanced mix of beach and greenery.
• Island hopping to Grenada’s sister islands, Carriacou and Petit Martinique.
• Warm and welcoming locals.
• Many incredible waterfalls.
• An abundance of choices for restaurants and accommodation.
• The most picturesque Caribbean capital city.

✈️ Find: The Latest Grenada Vacation Packages

🎒 Discover : The Best Excursions & Things to Do in Grenada

Everyone’s heard of Jamaica , the land that brought us reggae, Bob Marley, Usain Bolt and jerk chicken. January is a great time to visit this vibrant island with temperatures averaging around 25°C. The weather is spot-on for sunbathing or getting out and exploring. 

Jamaica, while globally renowned for its beaches and music, has so much more in store. Beyond the expected Caribbean allure, there’s an endless amount to experience on this island, including cascading waterfalls, mountain hikes, inland exploration, miles of white sand and clear water, water parks, ziplining, bioluminescent bays, and so much more! So, whether you’re a stay-in-your-resort kind of traveller, or a get-out and immerse yourself in local life, Jamaica is perfect.

Why you should visit Jamaica in January:

• Stable and pleasant temperatures averaging 77°F (25°C).
• Learn about reggae’s origins at the Bob Marley Museum.
• Taste traditional Jamaican dishes like jerk chicken and ackee with saltfish.
• Explore natural sites such as the Blue Mountains and Dunn’s River Falls.
• Enjoy less crowded beaches like Seven Mile Beach in Negril.
• Engage in outdoor activities, from ziplining to river rafting.
• Tour renowned rum distilleries like Appleton Estate.
• Visit natural attractions like the Blue Lagoon and Rockfort Mineral Bath.

✈️ Find: The Latest Jamaica Vacation Packages

🎒 Discover : The Best Excursions & Things to Do in Jamaica

4. Barbados

When thinking of the best Caribbean islands to visit in January, Barbados is probably the first destination that comes to many people’s minds. Being the most developed, and popular, among the Windward Islands for tourism, Barbados offers the most choice when it comes to resorts, restaurants, and infrastructure.

Over the years, Barbados has established a reputation for its incredible beaches and exceptionally welcoming Bajan culture. In recent times, as popularity has grown, it’s become more budget-friendly too, meaning it’s a popular destination for families and couples on varying budgets.

In January, the island is buzzing as the Mount Gay Round Barbados Race Series springs into action. Yes, the main action is out on the water, but there are plenty of on-land events to get involved in and enjoy the festivities too.

Why you should visit Barbados in January:

• Ideal January weather for all outdoor activities.
• Experience the excitement of the Mount Gay Round Barbados Race Series.
• Enjoy some of the best beaches in Barbados.
• Get a taste of the local life at the Oistins Fish Fry .
• Discover marine life and shipwrecks when diving and snorkelling.
• Relish in traditional dishes like flying fish and macaroni pie.
• Surfers can hit spots like the Soup Bowl in Bathsheba , on the rugged east coast of Barbados.

✈️ Find: The Latest Barbados Vacation Packages

🎒 Discover : The Best Excursions & Things to Do in Barbados

5. St Vincent and the Grenadines

If you’re looking to take a step back and just chill, St Vincent and the Grenadines is the spot. It truly deserves a place on the list of the best Caribbean islands to visit in January. The pace is slow, the beaches aren’t packed with resorts, and the locals are some of the friendliest you’ll meet.

The archipelago, with its 32 islands and cays, offers a spectrum of experiences – from the energy of St Vincent to the peaceful, uninhabited vibes of the Tobago Cays. There truly is something for everyone here. The mainland offers luscious rainforests, waterfalls , an active volcano and black-sand beaches . And, as you navigate your way down the island chain, the sand gets whiter and the water gets clearer. It’s a Caribbean island-hopping paradise .

Yachting and sailing enthusiasts from around the world find solace here, as SVG is recognised as one of the best sailing destinations in the world. The clear waters of January further amplify the experience, be it for sailing or snorkelling and diving. 

We recommend Bequia as the best Caribbean island to visit in January in St Vincent and the Grenadines. It’s the ideal base for exploring this beautiful country, with many travellers reporting getting the Bequia bug and having to return time and time again.

Why you should visit St Vincent and the Grenadines in January:

• Immerse in an authentic island experience with fewer tourists.
• A genuine Caribbean experience without the commercial fuss.
• A low-key, relaxed vibe like no other.
• Bequia Music Festival takes place in January.
• Incredible snorkelling and diving at spots such as Tobago Cays Marine Park.
• Relax on some of the Caribbean’s most beautiful beaches.
• Explore dense rainforests and admire cascading waterfalls.
• Challenge yourself with a hike to the La Soufrière volcano’s crater.
• Embark on island-hopping adventures.
• A laid-back atmosphere that makes people return year after year.

✈️ Find: The Latest St Vincent and the Grenadines Packages

🎒 Discover: The Best Excursions & Things to Do in St Vincent and the Grenadines

The Best Caribbean Islands to Visit in January Summarised

Overall, January is an excellent month to visit the Caribbean. Whether it’s Cuba’s rich history, Grenada’s perfect mix of beaches and greenery, Jamaica’s vibrant culture, the well-known charm of Barbados, or the relaxed atmosphere of St Vincent and the Grenadines, each offers a unique experience. Given the vast number of islands in this region, choosing which one of the Caribbean islands to visit in January can be a challenge, but wherever you end up, you’re destined to have an incredible time.

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5 Best Caribbean Islands To Visit In January

Overview of 5 Best Caribbean Islands to Visit in January

January is a favored month for exploring the Caribbean islands. Since it has pleasant weather and fewer crowds. Plus, a plethora of outdoor activities to indulge in. The Caribbean is home to numerous islands. Each boasts unique experiences, cultures, and picturesque landscapes. Thus, this article highlights the 5 best Caribbean islands to venture to in January. While showcasing their distinctive weather patterns, popular beaches, and engaging activities.

Key Takeaway Table 5 Best Caribbean Islands to Visit in January

List of the 5 best caribbean islands to visit in january.

Jamaica is a vibrant island known both for its reggae music and pretty beaches. Also, its lush terrain is one of the 5 best Caribbean islands to visit in January. The weather during this month is quite good. During this month, the average daily high temperatures range between 71°F and 88°F. The dry season includes January. Thus resulting in less rainfall and more sunny days. Which are perfect both for beach outings and outdoor excursions.

Weather: Jamaica’s tropical climate is at its best in January. The temperatures are warm but not overly hot. Thus making it comfortable to explore the outdoors. The reduced rainfall also contributes to the pleasant weather. While providing more options to engage in various activities without the hindrance of rain.

• Doctor’s Cave Beach: This iconic beach in Montego Bay. It is famed for both its clear turquoise waters and white sandy shores. It’s also an ideal spot for sunbathing, swimming, and snorkeling.
• Seven Mile Beach: Situated in Negril, this vast beach offers ample space for long walks. It is also great for sunbathing and watching the sunset.
• Frenchman’s Cove: Nestled in Port Antonio. This tranquil beach is surrounded by lush greenery. Thus providing a serene escape from the bustling city life.

Popular Activities:

• Exploring the Blue Mountains: Embark on a journey to the Blue Mountains for a refreshing nature retreat. Thus, the lovely views and rich biodiversity are a treat for nature lovers.
• Attend the Accompong Maroon Festival: Celebrated in January, this festival marks the signing of the peace treaty with the British in 1739. Thus, it offers a deep dive into Jamaica’s cultural heritage.
• Visiting Montego Bay: Montego Bay is a lively city known for its vibrant nightlife. But also for its golf courses and shopping venues. It’s a great place to share both the modern and active side of Jamaica.
• Reggae Festival (Rebel Salute): Immerse in the local music scene by attending the Reggae Festival. This January event celebrates both reggae music and Jamaican culture. Thus offering a lively and enjoyable experience.

So, with its diverse offerings ranging from serene beaches. Then, to lively cultural festivals. Jamaica in January is both a bright and exciting destination.

The Bahamas is another of the 5 Caribbean islands to visit for a January destination escape. The archipelago is known for its stunning beaches and clear turquoise waters. Also, an array of water-based activities. The weather during January is quite pleasant. The average high temperatures during January hover around 77°F. Thus making it amazing for outdoor things to do and the beach.

Weather: In January, the Bahamas experiences a tropical sea climate. So, it has cozy temps that are ideal for the outdoors. Both the warmth and pleasant climate. Thus, it provides a respite from the harsh winter conditions. Prevalent in many regions during this time.

• Little Exuma Island: A secluded beach haven. It offers both pristine beaches and a tranquil atmosphere. When you are in need of a perfect peaceful retreat.
• Grand Bahamas: Known for both its beautiful beaches and vibrant marine life. Thus, it’s a great spot for snorkeling, scuba diving, and other water sports.
• Nassau: The capital city has several stunning beaches. And is also a hub for cultural and historical exploration.
• Harbour Island: Renowned for its pink sand beaches. So, it’s a unique and scenic beach destination.
• Exploring Nassau: Since Nassau is not only famous for its beaches. But also its rich history and culture. Then visit the Pirates Museum. Also, explore the colonial buildings and enjoy the local cuisine.
• Harbour Island Adventure: The pink sand beaches are a must-visit. Also enjoy the laid-back vibe. Then, explore the charm of Dunmore Town.
• Water Sports: With the calm and clear waters. Thus, January is a perfect month for engaging in water sports. Such as snorkeling, scuba diving, and boating.

Thus, the Bahamas in January offers a blend of leisure and adventure. Plus, cultural inquiry makes it a diverse and appealing destination. When travelers seek a warm winter getaway.

St. Martin:

St. Martin, with its unique blend of French and Dutch culture. Offers both a vibrant and exciting setting for another of the 5 Caribbean islands to visit for a January travelers. The weather during this month is warm. With an average maximum daily temperature of 82°F. Thus, it provides ample sunshine for beach outings and outdoor activities.

Weather: St. Martin enjoys a tropical monsoon climate. Thus, a dry season from January to April. So, the warm and dry climate in January. Make it a favored month for visiting.

• Pinel Island A beautiful and secluded beach destination. It is perfect for both kayaking and snorkeling.
• Dawn Beach: Known for its dramatic sunrise views. It’s thus a great spot for early morning beach outings.
• Baie Rouge: A tranquil beach setting, especially during weekdays. Has a serene beach feel.
• Water Sports: Both the calm and warm waters are ideal for various water sports. Such as kite surfing, wakeboarding, snorkeling, and scuba diving.
• Beach Hopping: With a myriad of lovely beaches. Beach hopping is thus a popular activity. When you want to explore the diverse beach landscapes.
• Local Festivals: Although the peak travel months are March and April. Due to spring break, January still holds its charm. With warm weather and fewer crowds. Also, the fresh aura of a new year.

St. Martin in January is both a lively and outgoing island destination. While offering a mix of cultures, water sports, and scenic beaches.

Barbados is known for its rich history and pretty beaches. Also, it’s a lively cultural scene. Thus, it is the most inviting of the 5 Caribbean islands to visit for a January vacation. The weather is warm, with an average high of 84°F. Also, the island enjoys around 9 hours of sunshine each day. This makes it ideal for outdoor adventures and beach relaxation.

Weather: January is during the dry season in Barbados. Thus the temperatures hover around 80°F during the day. Then dip to the low 70s at night. The island has short, refreshing showers. Which adds a touch of freshness to the tropical climate.

• Drill Hall Beach: This beach is popular for sunbathing and swimming. Especially in the warm sea averaging 82°F.
• Mount Gay Round Barbados Race Series: This boat sailing race is an annual event held specifically in January each year. That excites both the crews and viewers.
• Errol Barrow Day Celebrations: January 21st is celebrated as Errol Barrow Day. Honoring the island’s first prime minister. It’s a special time for both locals and visitors. Thus it is marked by various events and celebrations.

Turks and Caicos:

Turks and Caicos is a haven for both beach lovers and water sports enthusiasts. January is one of the best months to visit. Because it has an average temperature of 77°F. Thus, it provides relaxing conditions for beach outings and water activities.

Weather: The weather in January is both warm and nice. During this time, the humidity level is relatively low. Thus, it enhances the comfort of outdoor activities. Although there are about 11 rainy days. The amount of rain is minimal.

• Grand Turk Island: Known for both its warm sea and sunny weather. It is thus an excellent spot for sunbathing and swimming.
• Grace Bay Beach: Similar to Grand Turk Island, Grace Bay Beach provides a serene setting for sunbathing, swimming, and relaxing by the sea.

Popular Things to Do:

• Snorkeling and Whale Spotting: The calm, warm, and clear waters during this month. Also, make snorkeling a popular activity. Plus, the added excitement of perhaps spotting migrating Humpback Whales.
• Beach Outings: With the agreeable weather conditions during January, it is a great time for beach outings. So explore the various beautiful beaches Turks and Caicos have to offer.

List of 5 Other Notable Caribbean Islands to Visit in January”

Apart from the previous islands. The Caribbean has a myriad of other enticing islands. That are worth considering when you want a January vacation. So here’s a table recapping some of these notable islands. Along with a brief description of what they offer.

Grand Cayman vs. St Thomas: How To Make The Best Of The 2

Why These 5 Best Caribbean Islands to Visit in January

January is an attractive month for exploring the Caribbean. Due to its favorable weather conditions. Which are a stark contrast to the cold winters. Shared in many other parts of the world. The islands in the Caribbean offer a warm refuge. With both pretty beaches and engaging activities. Plus, unique cultural experiences.

• Mild Weather Conditions: The Caribbean islands have a dry season during January. Thus it results in less rainfall, more sunny days, and pleasant temperatures. So, this weather is ideal for outdoor adventures and beach outings. Also, exploring the natural beauty of the islands.
• Optimal Tourist Services: January is a time when most of the tourist services are fully operational. The hospitality sector is geared up to provide exceptional services. Moreover, the open sites, lesser crowds, and the vibrant aura. Thus it can make it a prime time for exploring the islands.

Conclusion: 5 Best Caribbean Islands to Visit in January

The phrase “5 Best Caribbean Islands to Visit in January” is an invitation. To both escape the winter chill and immerse in the warmth, beauty, and adventure. That the Caribbean offers during January. Each island has its unique charm, cultural heritage, and natural beauty. That promises an especially memorable January vacation destination.

Whether it’s the lively cultural festivals in Jamaica or the serene beaches in the Bahamas. Both the unique blend of French and Dutch culture in St. Martin. Also, the historical significance of Barbados. Plus, the natural underwater beauty in Turks and Caicos. During January is an ideal time to explore. The Caribbean and bask in its diverse offerings. Each island presents an array of experiences. Thus catering to diverse tastes. In order to ensure an amazing vacation in the heart of the Caribbean .

So what are some of your own best traveling hacks? Share them with us below!

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The Best Places to Visit in January for a Romantic Getaway

• Suzie is a freelance writer for The Knot, with a focus on honeymoon content and couples’ travel.
• She’s written for publications like Outside Magazine, TripSavvy, Insider, Playboy, Forbes, SkyLife Magazine, Popular Mechanics, the SF Chron and more.
• Suzie is an avid traveller, and she’s both stayed in luxury over-the-water villas in the Maldives, and slept in the plastic tube of an indoor playground at an airport when he ...

January is a great month for treating yourself to a vacation, both to celebrate the start of a new year and to escape the often chilly temperatures in much of North America. And if you're looking for the best places to travel in January, it won't take long to realize that hundreds of cities and regions around the world are at their best in winter.

Friend groups may want to plan a January vacation to one of the best ski resorts in Canada, while couples may think the best countries to visit in January are those that offer tropical weather and hours of warm sunshine. While it's always important to travel in a way that matches your style, one travel trend you actually should follow is to visit destinations in an off-season, like January. You'll often have popular sights almost to yourself, and certainly will find lower rates on hotels and flights.

The best countries to visit in January for couples, anniversary trips , special occasions or wintertime bachelorette / bachelor parties range from easy-to-reach Palm Springs, California, to the far-flung islands of the northern Maldives in the Indian Ocean. These are 17 of the best places to visit in January, plus what to do, where to stay, and sights and attractions you won't want to miss.

St. Maarten/St. Martin

St. Maarten is one the best places to visit in January in the Caribbean for a host of reasons—and the perfect honeymoon weather is one of the biggest. You can count on temperatures in the low 80s, making it cool enough for hiking and sightseeing but not too cold for snorkeling or relaxing on a tropical beach. January is also the dry season, which makes it the busy season. But flights and hotels in January are still more affordable than they are around Christmas, especially toward the end of the month.

Fortunately, the generally pleasant weather also means smaller waves and swells in the ocean, making January the month with the clearest water. So if you want to snorkel or scuba dive, St. Maarten will definitely be one of the best places to travel in January—especially considering the many direct flights to the island from East Coast airports.

Things to Do: One of the best things about St. Maarten is its diversity of experiences, from zip lining off a mountain summit to soaking in a lush jungle pool . It's also very close to other islands, making it easy to day trip to St. Barths or hit the beaches in Anguilla . You can also stick to St. Maarten's shores with activities like snorkel trips or morning scuba dives.

Places to Stay: St. Maarten is split between two countries—France and the Netherlands. On the Dutch side, you'll want to consider options like the sprawling Divi Little Bay Resort (with snorkeling and shipwrecks right off the beach), or one of the island's all-inclusive resorts like the Sonesta Maho Beach . On the French side, La Samanna is an elegant beachfront resort with romantic Caribbean vibes.

Bali, Indonesia

If you've always wanted to go to Bali but were put off by rumors of crowded beaches and overtourism, never fear: Bali is one of the best places to visit in January, as the month is in the middle of the island's low season. It's also known as the rainy season, sure, but there's a good chance of rain year-round on the tropical island anyway. It's also the season when beaches are least crowded and hotels are most affordable.

Another reason to visit in the slow season? Traffic and accessibility. In the dry (i.e. busy) season, it can take three or four times as long as normal to drive the island's roads. But when traffic is low, you can move across the island much quicker, making it easy to stay somewhere like Seminyak (a pretty beach town) but take day trips to Ubud, the famous water temple, or the surf town of Canggu.

Things to Do: Bali has a great balance between outdoor recreation and natural features, and a fascinating and welcoming culture. You can opt for activities like snorkeling with giant manta rays on Nusa Penida, learning to surf near Kuta, touring temples and rice terraces , or learning to cook traditional Balinese dishes . Bali is also one of the best honeymoon destinations to choose in January, since many resorts offer discounts on day passes—like this one at Adiwana Bisma in Ubud, which includes a 30-minute massage and cocktail.

Places to Stay: Bali has become quite popular, so your options for hotels run the gamut. Choose from luxury eco-lodges in the mountains of Ubud, hip beachfront hotels near trendy towns like Canggu, and boutique retreats on smaller islands like Nusa Lembongan. Consider this list of the best honeymoon hotels in Bali , or check out options like Viceroy Bali for a splurge, Como Uma Canggu if you're into surfing, or the Seminyak Beach Hotel for a more budget-friendly tropical stay.

Whistler, British Columbia, Canada

It's not a secret that Whistler gets crowded in the middle of ski season, but it's also one of the best places to visit in January if you're a skier (or want to be a skier). Whistler-Blackcomb offers one ticket for two mountains, giving it more than 8,000 skiable acres and 32 lifts so you can get in as many runs as possible in one day. The mountain's walkable base is one of the biggest and best ski villages in North America, with endless options for food, nightlife, shopping and spas. If you're going in January, avoid the weekends when everyone drives up from nearby Vancouver (approximately two hours away), and you'll miss most of the huge crowds.

Things to Do: The obvious thing to do in Whistler is ski (and backcountry ski , if you're skilled enough). But since the lifts stop running around 4 p.m., you'll have free time in the evenings. The town's Squamish Lil'wat Cultural Centre is a gorgeous building filled with First Nations art and history from the region's indigenous Sḵwx̱wú7mesh and Lil̓wat7úl peoples, and the Audain Art Museum is a great place to spend the late afternoon. You can also take snowmobile tours , give bobsledding a try or take a relaxing snowshoeing tour .

Places to Stay: As long as you don't mind shelling out a bit of dough, you can stay ski-in, ski-out in the Whistler Village. A romantic pick is the Fairmont Chateau Whistler ; book the gold level for access to a private lounge, bubble dining pods in the snow, and cushy rooms with private fireplaces. The Westin is equally convenient and arguably as pretty, and the Glacier Lodge is a more budget-friendly pick on the free ski shuttle route.

La Paz, Mexico

La Paz is just north of Cabo San Lucas on the southern tip of Mexico's Baja Peninsula, meaning it's super hot in the summer. But in the winter, after hurricane season, is when it really shines. That's not just because the weather is in the delightful low-80s, but because it's when outdoor adventures are at their best—and if La Paz is known for anything, it's outdoor adventures.

Many of those outdoor adventures revolve around the town's healthy wildlife—no animals in captivity here. The warm Sea of Cortez is where animals like whale sharks, hammerhead sharks, gray whales, giant manta rays and humpback whales spend their winters, making January one of the best times to swim, dive or paddle near the beautiful marine creatures. Go toward the end of the month to maximize your chances of wildlife sightings.

Things to Do: While in La Paz, you need to get in the water. Consider scuba diving or snorkeling at Los Islotes with friendly sea lions who are as playful as puppies. You can also take whale-watching tours if you'd rather not get in the water, or opt for a whale-shark tour to snorkel with the gentle giants (they only eat plankton and small fish). The Cortez Club offers all these activities and is easy to book online.

Good on-land activities include guided horseback rides along the beach, ATV tours through the mountainous desert and guided mezcal and tequila tastings .

Places to Stay: Options in La Paz range from budget hostels to $1,000-a-night-plus lodges. Consider the boutique Marea Hotel by the beach (with killer breakfast chilaquiles), the high-end Costa Baja Resort and Spa , or do something a little unusual and go glamping on nearby Espiritu Santo Island.

Northern Maldives

There's no beating around the bush: the Maldives is an extremely expensive country to visit, partially because of the "one island, one resort" mentality. The country has roughly 1,100 islands and most resorts have their own private one. Factor in transportation via seaplane or boat to said island from the international airport on Malé, and it can add up.

But the northern Maldives is one of the best places to travel in January for in-the-know travelers. That's because it hits the sweet spot between affordable and great weather. Visit in early January, and you'll be at the very start of the southwest monsoon season. The threat of rain makes stays cheaper, but there's an easy answer: just book a hotel on one of the northernmost islands. That way, you get rainy season prices, but likely peak season conditions (otherwise known as perfect honeymoon weather ).

Things to Do: Many resorts in the Maldives are all-inclusive when it comes to activities like kayaking, snorkeling and sunset sailing tours. So you don't need to spend a lot of money on additional activities if you don't want to. However, scuba diving may cost extra (and will need to be arranged via your hotel, if it's on a private island).

Because the country is so spread out, you'll want to make sure the activity you're interested in serves the resort/island you'll be on. On the northern islands, fun activities include underwater photoshoots in the North Male Atoll or a multi-day island hopping tour.

Places to Stay: For the dining experience of a lifetime, stay at the romantic You and Me Maldives and make a reservation at their undersea restaurant (go for lunch, so it's easy to see outside). There's also Le Meridien Maldives , where you can choose if you want your villa to face sunrise or sunset, and the slightly more affordable JW Marriott Maldives Resort and Spa , near the country's northern Funadhoo Island.

Key West, Florida

You don't need to travel internationally to have a great January trip, and one of the best January vacation spots in the US is Key West in the Florida Keys. It's warmer than nearly everywhere else in the US (usually in the low 70s), making it a perfect time for strolls along the beach, outdoor cocktails on one of the island's super laid-back beach bars, or visiting sites that may be too hot on summer days, like the Key West Butterfly Garden or Audubon House and Secret Garden .

Things to Do: Many people don't know that Florida is home to one of the least visited national parks in the US—Dry Tortugas National Park. You can get there from the Key West Ferry Terminal in about two hours and once you're there, you can choose from a dozen snorkel sites.

One of the reasons why Key West is a great place to go in January is the reasonable daytime weather. In the summer, the mangrove forests can be unbearably hot, but they're great in January. Explore them on a kayak mangrove tour , or if you'd rather stay on land, take advantage of walkable temperatures with a walking food tour of downtown Key West. The Ernest Hemmingway Home and Museum is worth a visit for literary lovers, and couples traveling together may want to turn up the romance with a private sunset sail , priced at around $600 for two hours.

Places to Stay : You won't hurt for hotel options in Key West. The Key West Marriott Hotel has a private beach and a water taxi around town. The Lighthouse Hotel is styled in vintage Key West style, and is just a quick walk from the Hemingway House. The LaTeDa Hotel is a colorful and fun place to spend a weekend (with a piano bar, no less), and The Capitana is bright and airy, mixing Art Deco Miami vibes with classic Key West details like white shiplap walls and hanging rattan chairs.

Hallstatt, Austria

Hallstatt has suffered from the same over-tourism fate as many of Europe's other too-cute-to-be-real towns. But it's pretty sleepy in January, meaning you can walk into just about every attraction and restaurant in the tiny town. You'll have stunning views of snow-covered mountains from the mountaintop SkyWalk, have only a few other people on your surprisingly cool tour of the ancient salt mines, and get perfect photos of the town's historic buildings reflecting on Lake Hallstatt. It's also easy to reach from Munich on the train. That makes it the perfect place for a weekend romantic getaway as part of a longer sightseeing trip or ski trip to nearby SkiWelt in the Austrian Alps.

Things to Do: You can't miss the weirdly fascinating salt mine tour , complete with underground slides to go soaring through the centuries-old tunnels and silos. The nearby Skywalk is the prettiest place you'll ever have a cup of coffee or pastry, and walking around the Old Town can easily fill an afternoon. Even though it's small, there are plenty of interesting places to see, including the Ossuary, the archaeological site in the basement of the Janu sports shop, and plenty of artisan shops and cafes.

Places to Stay : You'll want to stay somewhere within walking distance of the ferry terminal from the train station—fortunately, most hotels are. Braugasthof is housed in a historic building with a popular lakeside beer garden, Hallstatt Hideaway offers modern and romantic suites with hot tubs and fireplaces, and Seehotel Grüner Baum is probably the most popular hotel in Hallstatt—it's a large hotel with stunning lake views and private balconies on some rooms.

Southern Argentina

If you've always dreamed of exploring Tierra del Fuego and the furthest reaches of South America, there's no better place to go in January than Argentina. Because it's at the far tip of the Southern Hemisphere, winter in the US is summer in Argentina, making it the best time for hiking in Tierra del Fuego National Park , glacial trekking at the Ojo del Albino glacier, and going penguin or whale watching.

Things to Do: January is part of a very short window to visit southern Argentina without wild winter weather, so you absolutely can't miss a few activities. You'll want to take the famous " Train to the End of the World ," visit a penguin colony near Ushuaia, and visit Tierra del Fuego National Park, either via a kayak tour , hiking or just a sightseeing tour to see the most stunning natural highlights.

Places to Stay: Argentina is a hugely popular tourist country and has every type of hotel you could possibly imagine. If you want something unique in Tierra del Fuego with a local feel, you have plenty of good options. Posada fin del Mundo starts around $100 per night and is walkable to much of downtown Ushuaia (the main city in Tierra del Fuego). For something higher-end, Los Cauquenes offers adventure packages and a la carte activities with a phenomenal culinary program, and Arakur Resort and Spa has fantastic views of the Beagle Channel and sits inside a nature reserve, with stunning views of Mount Alarken.

Turks and Caicos

January falls within the dry season in Turks and Caicos, meaning that a vacation to the Atlantic Ocean islands brings lower humidity and minimal rainfall. The dry weather is particularly advantageous for those interested in exploring the stunning beaches, as every day is good for a beach day here. Winds can be a smidge higher in winter (but still not high), making it a great time to try sports that require a bit of a breeze, like beginner surfing or kitesurfing. Activities like diving and fishing are generally unaffected, so don't worry about the wind if those are your sports of choice.

The tourist season is in full swing in Turks and Caicos during January (as it is on most Caribbean islands), but the slightly higher price tag on lodging and activities means it never gets as packed as islands like Jamaica or Puerto Rico. And January is also the start of humpback whale migration season—go at the end of the month for lower rates and a great chance of seeing whales.

Things to Do: Pick your poison—nearly all island activities are offered on a January vacation. Just be sure to book activities on the right island. Most people stay near Grand Turk, where you can swim with stingrays , drive desert ATVs along ocean view trails, or go diving or snorkeling . Be sure to visit Grace Bay (probably the islands' prettiest beach), and consider booking a sunset sail with an open bar on at least one night. You can also find more unique activities, like clear kayak drone photo shoots —though the island is covered in gorgeous photo spots, even if you don't book a private photographer.

Places to Stay : The hotels on Turks and Caicos are elegant and classy, but not so stuffy that you can't wear flip-flops everywhere. Consider Rock House (home to the largest infinity pool in Turks and Caicos) or Amanyara , which is every bit as posh as you'd expect from the Aman resort brand. While it's not in the same class as the other two, Ports of Call Resort is still very nice, with rooms starting at around $300 per night.

Southern Iceland

Some of Iceland's attractions near Reykjavik have a reputation for being crowded (looking at you, Blue Lagoon), but head just a bit away from town, and you'll find the vast spaces Iceland is famous for. January may not have much daylight, but what a January vacation does have is extensive opportunities to view the country's famous Northern Lights , or aurora borealis. The early sunset in January means aurora viewing can start as early as 8 p.m., so you don't have to stay up all night to spot the colorful phenomenon. Pack warm clothes, of course.

Things to Do: Since daylight hours are short, you better make them count. South Coast Adventures offers tours through natural ice caves , tours to natural hot springs in a mountain-ready exploring vehicle (called a super Jeep), or ATV tours through the region's volcanic terrain. If you've never been to Iceland before, set aside at least one day for a tour of the southern part of the island's many waterfalls. Most tours include pickup from Reykjavik, but if you're staying in Hella or Vik, they'll probably be able to pick you up from there, saving you quite a bit of driving time.

Places to Stay: You can explore southern Iceland while staying in Reykjavik, though it does add a bit of driving time to your trip. If you do that, the Reykjavik Edition is hip and comfortable with easy access to most of the city's restaurants and glacier views.

But the easiest way to see southern Iceland is to stay in southern Iceland, and if you're there for the Northern Lights, stay at Hotel Ranga . Rooms have murals from local artists, there are multiple outdoor hot tubs, and most importantly, it offers a "Northern Lights wake-up call," in which staff will call your room if the aurora appears (and offer you a hot chocolate, too).

Rio de Janeiro, Brazil

January is summer in Rio de Janeiro, setting the stage for the lively and world-famous Carnival preparations. While the official festivities take place in February, they make February very expensive. But the city is still buzzing with excitement in January as samba schools rehearse, musicians start performing more at bars and restaurants, and vibrant parades are in preparation. The warm weather also makes it the perfect time to relax on stunning beaches like Copacabana and Ipanema, ensuring you're as sun-kissed as the locals by the time Carnival rolls around.

Things to Do: January is the best time to hit the beach, and you'll find plenty of beach clubs at both Copacabana and Ipanema. You'll also want to visit the iconic Christ the Redeemer statue and the Selarón Steps , and check out the hiking trails on Corcovado Mountain (go early to beat the heat). Also consider doing a trip to the waterfalls of nearby Tijuca National Park and booking tickets to at least one samba show (and lesson!).

Places to Stay: Belmond Copacabana Palace is an iconic hotel on the famous Copacabana Beach with a gorgeous swimming pool, Fasano Hotel Rio de Janeiro has a rooftop pool and ocean views, and Villa Paranaguá is an upscale boutique hotel surrounded by greenery and Brazilian art.

Schweitzer Mountain, Idaho

The town of Sandpoint, Idaho, might not mean much to you, but once you take a few runs at Schweitzer Mountain , you'll see why Sandpoint is one of the best places to visit in January for skiers. The mountain is quite large, with 2,900 skiable acres, but still seems relatively uncrowded compared to more well-known resorts in the US. Lift tickets are also some of the cheapest in the US for a major resort. You can buy half-day tickets starting at just $45—way, way less than major resorts like Vail or Heavenly Mountain.

Things to Do: Most people visiting Schweitzer are there to ski, but you don't have to do full days lapping the lifts. You can buy a twilight lift ticket for an unbelievably cheap $20 , or explore roughly 20 miles of cross-country ski trails . The resort is also famous for cat skiing , where you'll get towed to the top of the mountain in a snow-grooming machine. Non-skiers can go tubing or fat biking , and everyone will love grabbing dinner and a few drinks at Baxters on Cedar .

Places to Stay: You can stay on-mountain at one of a few slopeside properties managed by the resort, but the equally convenient Humbird Hotel is something unique, with amenities like happy hour with ski patrol dogs and big rooms with mountain views. In Sandpoint, most hotels are budget-friendly, clean and roomy chain options, like Best Westerns and Best Value Inns—though the Talus Rock Retreat is rather high-end.

Sonoma, California

Sonoma is one of the best places to travel in January for anyone who likes breezy temperatures, the possibility of seeing whales in the county's small but gorgeous coastal stretch, and, naturally, fantastic wine. It's generally less expensive than Napa County, and has fewer crowds in the winter, meaning you can walk into just about any tasting room or winery and get one-on-one attention. A January vacation to Sonoma also means cooler hiking weather at gorgeous parks like Sonoma Valley Regional Park and Armstrong Redwoods , home to centuries-old redwood trees. And if you're looking for dog-friendly vacations , good news: many of Sonoma's hotels are dog-friendly, as are dozens of wineries.

Things to Do: Wine tasting is the main draw in Sonoma, and ways to do it range from a wine trolley to e-bike tours to food and wine walking tours . Wine aside, outdoor enthusiasts can see trees bigger than houses at Armstrong Redwoods State Natural Reserve or go birdwatching in the county's tiny coastal towns. Add in the fact that many of the county's 400-plus wineries host dinner series events through the winter, and no wonder it's one of the best places to travel in January in the US.

Places to Stay: If you want to stay by the beach, the gorgeous Timber Cove Resort is one of the prettiest in northern California. In Guerneville, choose from trendy hotels like Boon Hotel + Spa , Autocamp Russian River and Dawn Ranch . You can also find plenty of Airbnbs on winery grounds, like this Scandinavian-inspired stay or this loft at Gracianna Winery .

Quebec City, Canada

Embrace the winter wonderland in Quebec City, one of the best places to visit in January in Canada. The city's historic charm is accentuated by snow-covered streets and the iconic Château Frontenac (which is also one of the prettiest hotels in North America). You can also experience the renowned Winter Carnival, which happens each year from late January to early February, with ice sculptures, parades and outdoor concerts.

Things to Do: Quebec City is one of the best January vacation destinations for people who love winter, but aren't skiers. Visitors can go dogsledding through snow-covered woods and try ice canoeing on the frozen St. Lawrence River. Walking tours of the Old Town's food scene are offered year-round, and the waterfall at Montmorency Falls Park is especially gorgeous when covered in frost—especially since it's even taller than Niagara Falls.

Even if you're planning a ski trip, set aside at least one day for a stroll through Old Quebec, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and warm up in fairy-light-covered cozy cafes with traditional French-Canadian cuisine.

Places to Stay: Stay in one of the most luxurious hotels you'll ever see at Fairmont le Château Frontenac , housed in the castle that dominates the city's skyline. Overall, the city isn't as expensive as you might expect, and you can find great hotels starting under $150 per night, including Le Manoir d'Auteuil , Hotel le Priori and the chic Quebec City Marriott Downtown .

New Orleans, Louisiana

The question of where to travel in January without breaking the bank can be answered in four letters: NOLA. In January, New Orleans, Louisiana, is captivating, vibrant and, like Rio de Janeiro, has the excitement of the upcoming February celebrations at half the price. Though Mardi Gras is in mid-February, January is still hopping, as parties and parades start mid-month. Plus, the famous French Quarter is never quiet.

Things to Do: During a January vacation to New Orleans, you'll want to immerse yourself in the pre-Mardi Gras festivities. Fortunately, there are lots of events, parades and festivals to choose from. Plus, most bars and restaurants start offering their own Fat Tuesday-themed events. You'll also want to walk through the French Quarter either on your own or on a historical tour , food tour or ghost tour . If you want to get out of town, opt for a unique adventure like a bayou tour via swamp boat.

Places to Stay: Hotel Monteleone is home to the city's famous Carousel Bar, the Eliza Jane is a hip and modern hotel in the city's happening Warehouse Arts District, and the upscale Pontchartrain Hotel is said to be haunted by dozens of ghosts, including a musician who still plays in the basement piano bar.

Bavaria, Germany

The region around Munich, Germany, may be known for its December Christmas markets, but here's a secret: the snow-covered cities and towns in Germany still have that cozy winter feeling long after the markets are closed. Germany is one of the best countries to visit in January for anyone who likes museums and culture, especially in Bavaria, the country's biggest state. Since it's the slow season, you can have rooms in massive museums like the Residence Museum (Munich's former royal palace) entirely to yourself—and it's hard to beat decadent German pretzels, chocolate and sausage on a chilly winter afternoon.

Things to Do : Around Munich, budget several hours for the Residence Museum , and a few more hours for the interactive BMW Museum if you're at all interested in cars. History buffs can take day tours to nearby sites like the medieval town of Rothenburg , Neuschwanstein Castle (said to be the inspiration for the castle at Disney World), or one of several World War II historical sites around the city. Other good places to visit in the greater Bavaria state include the colorful town of Garmisch-Partenkirchen, the geological wonder of Partnach Gorge , or any of the region's many, many beer halls—

Bavaria is the home of lager-style brewing, after all.

Places to Stay: In Munich, The Louis is walkable from Munich's central station and Marienplatz (the city's historic center), with a huge rooftop patio overlooking the city. Le Méridien Munich is chic and high-end, located in a trendy part of town near lots of popular restaurants (plus it has an on-site spa ). Outside of Munich, Schloss Elmau is a sprawling five-star hotel in the Bavarian Alps with a classical music festival in January, and Romantik Hotel Markusturm is a charming historical hotel in the center of fairytale-esque Rothenburg.

Palm Springs, California

Palm Springs is considered by many the best place to travel in January in California, thanks to winter events and perfect conditions for hiking and visiting nearby Joshua Tree National Park. The weather makes it conducive to outdoor activities, like exploring desert canyons, cycling or leisurely strolling around the town's gorgeous botanical garden . And it doesn't hurt that the cooler weather is more pleasant for lounging in a hot tub at one of the town's many wellness resorts and retreats.

Things to Do: If you're planning an anniversary trip, you'll have plenty of romantic activities available in Palm Springs, from private hot-air balloon rides to couple's desert photo shoots . The Palm Springs Celebrity Bike Tour is fun for January bachelorette parties, as is booking a private cabana at a trendy hotel like the colorful Saguaro Hotel. And whether you're traveling as a couple or with a group of friends, you'll want to visit nearby Joshua Tree National Park for an epic stargazing experience (or maybe even give rock climbing a try).

Places to Stay: Palm Springs is known for having some of the most luxurious and fun hotels in the US, thanks to its colorful personality and iconic mid-century modern style. Consider the artsy Parker Palm Springs , the Mediterranean-influenced Korakia Resort (beloved by celebrities as early as the 1920s), or a wellness resort like Porcupine Creek or Azure Palm Hot Springs , with its own natural underground spring for guests.

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The 15 Best Beach Destinations to Visit in January

Say goodbye to the winter blues and hello to a beach getaway.

After the holiday high subsides, January comes along and hits us with a serious reality check. All that merrymaking has come to an abrupt end, and with it, a tough forecast: many more dark, cold, gloomy days of winter until the first signs of spring.

One of the best ways to cure the winter blues is to escape to a sun-drenched beach. With the sand between your toes, turquoise water lapping at the shore, and a fruity cocktail in hand, your stress will melt away as quickly as the ice in your drink under the hot tropical sun. As a bonus, traveling in January tends to be less expensive than during the busy holiday season, making a beach getaway in the first few weeks of the new year even more appealing.

We've done the legwork and searched the globe for beach destinations with the best chance for ideal weather in January — think sunny, dry, and comfortable days. Get your Kindle loaded up with some good beach reads (you'll need them for hours of doing nothing but lazing in the sand) and prepare to slip into a deep state of bliss. From the luxurious atolls of the Maldives to the castaway islands of Nicaragua, here are our top picks for the best beaches in January.

Koh Lanta, Thailand

January is an ideal time to visit Thailand , especially the islands in the Andaman Sea. Right in the middle of the dry season, temperatures are comfortable in the mid-80s (before they soar in spring and summer). With a number of dreamy islands, all with pure white sand and crystalline water, you really can't go wrong. But Koh Lanta has somehow managed to remain less touristy than other Thai islands while still having it all: swanky, romantic retreats, family-friendly hotels, beaches with calm surf, world-renowned dive sites, lavish spas, and a sleepy old town with traditional wooden guesthouses.

El Nido, Palawan, Philippines

The island of Palawan offers the same stunningly beautiful scenery as other popular Southeast Asian destinations with just a fraction of the crowds. Base yourself in El Nido, a coastal town famed for its white-sand beaches, dramatic limestone rock formations, and turquoise waters teeming with marine life. After a few days spent lounging on the shore, join a boat tour to hop around the Bacuit Archipelago. You'll sail through crystal-clear blue lagoons flanked by emerald karst cliffs, then kayak to secluded, powdery white beaches. In January, the seas are clear and calm, perfect for snorkeling and diving around coral reefs.

Tulum, Mexico

The secret's been out about Tulum for a while now, but we're still pretty enamored with this boho-chic beach town. Here, ancient Mayan ruins crown seaside cliffs, and there are miles of soft white beaches backed by Instagram-perfect resorts and boutique hotels. With a strenuous schedule of morning yoga followed by afternoon margaritas and ceviche under a palapa (an open-air thatched-roof structure) , it's easy to see why people continue to come back for second, third, and fourth visits. Tulum's nightlife scene is arguably as much a draw as its beaches: The main road is a hit parade of stylish restaurants, including the much-lauded Hartwood (keep an eye out for celebrities). Finish the night by barhopping to fabulous watering holes like Gitano and Todos Santos , which specialize in Mexico's smoky spirit, mezcal, and are especially bustling in January.

San Blas, Panama

If you want to unplug — and we mean seriously disconnect — Panama's archipelago of 365 tiny islands is the perfect destination. With no roads and no chain hotels, restaurants, or bars, the San Blas Islands offer a castaway experience in one of the most picturesque settings you could imagine. Of the 49 inhabited islands, most house only a handful of small huts best for intrepid travelers (many of these modest accommodations have limited electricity). Your days will look something like this: Boat from island to island to snorkel in the bright azure water, pick a new palm tree to lay your towel under, or swim along sandbars strewn with starfish. At night, there won't be much else for you to do but enjoy a beer while stargazing and listening to the sound of rolling waves.

Oahu, Hawaii

Samantha Sophia / Unsplash

There's really no bad time to visit Hawaii , so why not go when the forecast back home is likely snow with a side of slush? As far as beach destinations go, Oahu caters to any type of vacation you desire, from lazy to adventurous. After all, the island is famous for its wide, golden crescents of beach, calm snorkeling reefs, star-studded resorts with opulent spas, trails that lead to waterfalls, dive sites brimming with sea life, and some of the biggest surfable waves on the planet. When you're ready to escape busy Waikiki, take in the epic views along the North Shore's Kamehameha Highway , which passes mountain ranges, quiet coves, and beautiful beaches like Waimea Bay. And if you're interested in spotting pro surfers catch waves that can reach up to 40 feet, you're in luck: January is prime time for big wave competitions, including The Eddie Aikau Big Wave Invitational , which typically runs from December to March.

Rio de Janeiro, Brazil

Rio de Janeiro's rare combination of beaches, rain forest, and mountains — all within a busy urban setting — must be seen to be appreciated. January is a great time to go, when the weather is hot but before the madness of Carnival has turned the city into a debauched monthlong party. (If that's your thing, stick around for the festivities in February for a once-in-a-lifetime experience.) Copacabana, Ipanema, and Leblon will all be packed with tanned and toned locals sunning themselves in barely there swimwear, vendors peddling fresh coconuts, and tourists nursing their caipirinhas. It's a scene — but that's just what makes Rio one of the best beach destinations in the world.

Musandam, Oman

Still relatively under the radar, Oman makes for a spectacular introduction to the Middle East. It's politically stable, the people are gracious, and it boasts an impressive range of landscapes, from modern city to desert to mountains to — you guessed it — beaches. The country's massive coastline has unspoiled sands and pleasant weather in January (think balmy temperatures in the 80s). Even the beaches right in the country's capital, Muscat, are beautiful and serene, and you can go diving just south of the city, where the popular Al Munassir shipwreck lies. But for the most spectacular beaches, head to the Musandam Peninsula in the northernmost part of the country. Zighy Bay has clear, aquamarine waters and white sand that rival the Caribbean, with mountains rising straight from the shoreline.

Negril, Jamaica

This famously laid-back island is a great place to de-stress — especially in January when the weather is warm and breezy, and there's no threat of hurricanes. Head to Negril, where seven miles of soft golden sand beckon, and rent kayaks and sailboats to explore the turquoise waters. The sounds of live reggae and the ocean vistas will lull you into the "don't worry, be happy" mindset as you sip rum punch (or a Red Stripe, if you prefer) and chat up the friendly locals. Stay at the legendary Rockhouse Hotel & Spa , which boasts thatched-roof villas with private plunge pools built right into seaside cliffs.

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If what you seek is total relaxation in the lap of luxury, look no further than the Maldives. Made up of about 1,200 islands, this low-lying nation is famous for its powdery white beaches and secluded resorts with overwater accommodations. As January is one of the driest months, you'll likely experience blue skies and bath-warm seas. The crystal-clear waters and abundant coral reefs offer incredible snorkeling and diving, as well as boating excursions and surf safaris.

Punta Cana, Dominican Republic

Looking for a great deal? Punta Cana is rife with all-inclusive resorts that offer great value, especially if you're keen on planting yourself at the swim-up bar. January sees dry, warm days hovering around the low 80s, but this time of year is less crowded than during the holidays. With more than a dozen beaches designated by the Blue Flag program for meeting high environmental standards, you'll find beautiful, clean, sandy stretches along its 20-mile Coconut Coast. Punta Cana isn't short on activities for when you're ready to leave the sun lounger, though, including kayaking, zip-lining, sailing, and windsurfing.

Corn Islands, Nicaragua

While it does take a bit of effort to get there, the Corn Islands off Nicaragua's east coast may be the country's best-kept secret, with clear blue waters, swaying palms, and soft sands. While life is slow on both islands, Big Corn has a bit more traffic (literally — one main road circles the island from which you can hail taxis or golf carts) and 24-hour electricity. On Little Corn — aptly named, as you can cross the entire island from east to west on foot in about 15 minutes — you'll find a true deserted island experience. Your agenda for the day: snorkel or relax on the sand.

Sunshine Coast, Australia

With a name like Sunshine Coast, it should come as no surprise that this stretch of Queensland is decorated with beautiful golden beaches and frequented by happy, laid-back locals. At the heart of the Sunny Coast is Noosa, a chic beach village with excellent boutique shopping and trendy eateries. Noosa's Main Beach is often touted as one of Australia's best, as it's protected by a reef and offers calm waters, as well as some gentle surf breaks that are ideal for beginners. Explore the coastal trail that runs through Noosa National Park and keep your eyes peeled for resident koalas hanging out in the trees.

Sayulita, Mexico

Less than an hour north of the mega resorts of Puerto Vallarta lies the chilled-out, bohemian town of Sayulita . In addition to one of the most beautiful beaches in Mexico, you'll find plenty to do to keep busy. Hike the lush jungle surrounding the town, surf the legendary Pacific breaks, practice yoga with an ocean view, and get your fill of amazingly fresh seafood — you can go for a ride with a fishing boat, and they'll make you ceviche from your catch. You won't find big-box tourism here, but you can stay in a bungalow right on the beach to make the most of the dry, sunny days that are typical of Mexico's Pacific coast in January.

Guanacaste, Costa Rica

Get on board with the pura vida lifestyle in Costa Rica. In January, you'll undoubtedly have plenty of sunny days to practice your surf skills, laze on the golden beaches, and explore the rain forests. With direct flights to Liberia International Airport from many major U.S. cities, a winter escape to Guanacaste, in the northwestern part of Costa Rica, has become super accessible. While the surf town of Tamarindo is by far the most popular beach destination in the area, with tons of hotels and restaurants right off shore, trek a bit further north and you'll find prettier beaches with thinner crowds. Playa Conchal, tucked away in a private cove, requires a short walk along the coast to reach. But you'll be rewarded with a quiet beach made of tiny crushed shells and turquoise waters for snorkeling.

Eagle Beach, Aruba

Aruba claims to have the most sunny days per year of all the Caribbean islands and you're almost guaranteed to get great beach weather in January. Enjoy breezy, 82-degree days on the 20 powdery white beaches, including Eagle Beach, often ranked as one of the best beaches in the world. Backed by many low-rise resorts , timeshares, and restaurants, Eagle Beach offers loungers for sunbathing and watersports equipment for rent. For some adventure, head to the rugged northern coast, where you can hike, go on an ATV excursion or horseback riding tour, or head inland and explore the arid desert-like landscape of Arikok National Park .

Passing Thru Travel

The Top 15 Caribbean Gems to Explore in 2024: Embark on an Island Adventure

Posted: February 20, 2024 | Last updated: February 20, 2024

Island hopping in the Caribbean is an opportunity to experience a variety of unique islands, each offering its own distinctive blend of natural beauty, culture, and adventure. This guide provides practical information for exploring some of the Caribbean’s most captivating destinations, from the Bahamas to Bonaire. You’ll find tips on the best time to visit each island, insider suggestions to enhance your experience, and essential travel details to help you plan your journey.

The Bahamas

You’ll find a balance of relaxation and adventure in the Bahamas. This destination is ideal for those looking to explore underwater wonders through snorkeling, with its clear waters and vibrant marine life. Alternatively, the pink sands of Harbour Island offer a more laid-back experience, perfect for unwinding and enjoying the serene beach environment. The Bahamas caters to various interests, whether you’re seeking an active adventure or a peaceful retreat by the sea.

Insider’s Tip: Visit the Exumas to swim with pigs.

Travel Details: Fly into Nassau International Airport; inter-island flights and ferries are available for island hopping.

Best Time To Travel: Mid-December to mid-April.

In Barbados, you’ll experience a unique combination of rich cultural heritage and stunning natural beauty. The island is home to fascinating attractions like Harrison’s Cave, an underground cave system where you can see stalactites, stalagmites, and flowing streams. St. Lawrence Gap is a must-visit for those interested in vibrant nightlife, offering a lively mix of bars, clubs, and restaurants that showcase the island’s energetic spirit.

Barbados also boasts beautiful beaches and lush landscapes, making it a great destination for both exploration and relaxation. Whether you’re delving into the island’s natural wonders or immersing yourself in its lively cultural scene, Barbados presents a diverse array of experiences for every traveler.

Insider’s Tip: Try local rum at one of the island’s historic distilleries.

Travel Details: Grantley Adams International Airport is the main gateway, with taxi services available to explore the island.

Best Time To Travel: Travel between December and April for ideal weather.

Jamaica’s allure lies in its diverse landscape and vibrant culture. The island perfectly blends picturesque beaches and lush mountainous terrain, complemented by a dynamic music scene deeply rooted in its history. For nature enthusiasts, the Blue Mountains offer breathtaking views and hiking trails that lead through coffee plantations and rainforests.

On the other hand, if you’re looking for relaxation, the beaches of Negril provide a serene escape with their clear waters and long stretches of white sand. This contrast between the tranquility of the beaches and the rugged beauty of the mountains, coupled with the rhythmic beats of reggae music that often fill the air, makes Jamaica a unique destination that caters to a variety of interests and activities.

Insider’s Tip: Experience authentic reggae at a local beach bar.

Travel Details: Major airports include Kingston and Montego Bay, with local buses and taxis for transportation.

Best Time To Travel: Best visited from mid-December to April.

Puerto Rico

You’ll find a captivating mix of natural and historical attractions in Puerto Rico. The island boasts beautiful beaches where you can relax or engage in water sports, while the lush El Yunque National Forest invites you to explore its rich biodiversity through hiking trails and waterfalls.

For a taste of history, the city of San Juan offers a journey into the past with its well-preserved Spanish colonial architecture and historic forts. This blend of pristine natural environments and rich cultural heritage makes Puerto Rico a diverse destination, suitable for those who seek both adventure in nature and a deeper understanding of the island’s historical significance.

Insider’s Tip: Try local street food in Piñones.

Travel Details: Fly into Luis Muñoz Marín International Airport, with car rentals for island exploration.

Best Time To Travel: Mid-December to April.

The Dominican Republic

The Dominican Republic is renowned for its stunning beaches, luxurious resorts, and excellent golf courses, attracting visitors seeking relaxation and recreation. In areas like Punta Cana, you can indulge in the comfort of all-inclusive resorts with their pristine private beaches, world-class amenities, and golf courses designed by renowned architects.

The Samaná Peninsula offers a different kind of allure for nature enthusiasts. It is particularly famous for its whale-watching opportunities. Between January and March, the bay becomes a prime spot to observe humpback whales, a truly remarkable experience. The Dominican Republic’s diverse offerings, from the leisurely allure of its resorts and golf courses to the natural wonder of its marine life, make it a versatile destination for a wide range of travelers.

Insider’s Tip: Explore the hidden beaches of Bahía de las Águilas.

Travel Details: Punta Cana International Airport is the most popular, with taxis and buses for transport.

Best Time To Travel: Travel from December to April.

Saint Lucia

Saint Lucia is a Caribbean gem known for its dramatic landscapes, including the iconic Pitons, lush rainforests, and unique volcanic beaches. The island invites adventure and relaxation in equal measure. For the active traveler, hiking the majestic Pitons offers breathtaking views and a rewarding challenge, while the island’s rainforests provide a chance to explore rich biodiversity and serene natural beauty.

The beaches, with their distinctive dark volcanic sands, offer a unique seaside experience, ideal for sunbathing and snorkeling in clear waters teeming with marine life. Additionally, Sulphur Springs, known as the Caribbean’s only drive-in volcano, offers a chance to bathe in mineral-rich waters, believed to have therapeutic properties. Saint Lucia’s combination of natural wonders and engaging activities makes it a destination that caters to a variety of tastes and interests.

Insider’s Tip: Visit the local cocoa plantations.

Travel Details: Hewanorra International Airport has taxis and local buses available.

Antigua and Barbuda

Antigua and Barbuda, renowned for having 365 beaches, one for each day of the year, offer diverse coastal experiences. These islands are a beach lover’s paradise, providing endless opportunities to explore different stretches of sand and sea, from secluded coves to lively beachfront.

Beyond the beaches, attractions like Nelson’s Dockyard in Antigua, a beautifully restored Georgian-era marina and a UNESCO World Heritage site offer a glimpse into the island’s rich naval history. For a unique marine experience, Stingray City allows visitors to interact with and feed friendly stingrays in their natural habitat. This activity appeals to both adults and children alike. The combination of historical sites, unique wildlife interactions, and abundant beaches make Antigua and Barbuda a multifaceted destination.

Insider’s Tip: Attend a local cricket match for a true island experience.

Travel Details: V.C. Bird International Airport, with taxis and rental cars for transport.

Grenada, often called the ‘Island of Spice’, presents a rich tapestry of experiences for its visitors. The island is famous for its fragrant spice estates, where you can learn about and sample local spices like nutmeg and cinnamon. The natural beauty of Grenada is just as compelling, with stunning beaches such as Grand Anse Beach providing a perfect setting for relaxation or water sports.

In addition, the island’s lush rainforests offer opportunities for hiking and exploring diverse flora and fauna. A unique attraction not to be missed is the underwater sculpture park, a collection of ecological underwater contemporary art that also serves as an artificial reef. This blend of cultural, natural, and adventurous experiences makes Grenada an intriguing destination for travelers.

Insider’s Tip: Try the local nutmeg ice cream.

Travel Details: Maurice Bishop International Airport has local transportation options available.

Best Time To Travel: Best visited from January to May.

St. Vincent and the Grenadines

St. Vincent and the Grenadines, known for their less crowded and more intimate atmosphere, present an ideal destination for travelers seeking tranquility amidst natural beauty. These islands boast picturesque landscapes, ranging from pristine beaches to lush green hills.

A highlight is the Tobago Cays, a group of small, uninhabited islands surrounded by clear turquoise waters and vibrant coral reefs, making it a premier spot for snorkeling and diving enthusiasts. Here, you can immerse yourself in an underwater world teeming with colorful marine life, offering a serene escape from the bustling tourist spots. The tranquility of these islands, combined with their natural beauty, makes them a perfect retreat for those looking to unwind and connect with nature in a more secluded setting.

Insider’s Tip: Explore the Vermont Nature Trail.

Travel Details: Fly into Argyle International Airport, with ferries between islands.

Best Time To Travel: May to June, November to mid-December.

Aruba is celebrated for its stunning beaches and unique desert landscapes, providing diverse natural attractions. The island’s Eagle Beach is famed for its soft white sands and clear blue waters, making it an ideal spot for sunbathing, swimming, and water sports. Beyond the beach, Aruba’s interior offers a different experience in Arikok National Park, where visitors can explore a rugged terrain of cacti, rock formations, and indigenous wildlife.

This contrast between the idyllic beaches and the intriguing desert environment provides visitors with a varied and enriching experience, catering to those seeking relaxation by the sea and adventure enthusiasts eager to explore the island’s natural wonders.

Insider’s Tip: Try windsurfing or kitesurfing.

Travel Details: Queen Beatrix International Airport, with taxis and buses for island travel.

Best Time To Travel: April to August.

Curaçao stands out with its vibrant architecture, excellent diving spots, and secluded coves. It offers a rich blend of cultural and natural attractions. The capital city, Willemstad, is renowned for its colorful Dutch colonial buildings, which create a picturesque and lively urban landscape. This UNESCO World Heritage site is a feast for the eyes and a hub of cultural activity, from museums to bustling markets.

For nature enthusiasts, Curaçao’s clear waters are a paradise for divers, offering a chance to explore diverse marine life and coral reefs. Another notable attraction is the Hato Caves, a network of limestone caves that provide an intriguing glimpse into the island’s geological and cultural history. These caves feature ancient rock formations and carvings that date back centuries. Whether wandering through the charming streets of Willemstad or exploring the natural wonders underwater and underground, Curaçao offers every visitor a unique and engaging experience.

Insider’s Tip: Visit Shete Boka National Park.

Travel Details: Fly into Curaçao International Airport, with car rentals available.

Best Time To Travel: Ideal to visit between May and November.

Martinique, an island rich in cultural heritage, uniquely blends French and West Indian influences, offering a distinctive experience to its visitors. This fusion is evident in everything from the island’s cuisine to architecture and language. The beaches of Les Salines are among the most beautiful on the island, with white sands and crystal-clear waters that provide a perfect setting for relaxation and water sports.

Inland, the Balata Gardens offer different beauty, with lush greenery and vibrant tropical flowers, showcasing the island’s diverse flora. These gardens also offer panoramic views of the island, making them a must-visit for nature lovers. Martinique’s dual heritage creates a diverse and enriching experience, blending the sophistication of French culture with the vibrant spirit of the Caribbean.

Insider’s Tip: Try local Creole cuisine.

Travel Details: Martinique Aimé Césaire International Airport has a network of buses and taxis.

The Cayman Islands

The Cayman Islands are celebrated for their crystal-clear waters and abundant marine life, making them a premier destination for underwater exploration and beach relaxation. A standout attraction is Stingray City, where you can interact with and feed friendly stingrays in shallow waters, a unique and memorable experience that draws visitors from around the world.

The renowned Seven Mile Beach also offers a picturesque stretch of soft, white sand and calm, turquoise waters ideal for swimming and sunbathing. The beach’s clear waters also provide excellent conditions for snorkeling, allowing visitors to observe the vibrant underwater life up close. These two attractions epitomize the natural beauty and aquatic allure of the Cayman Islands, offering experiences that range from peaceful beach lounging to exciting marine encounters.

Insider’s Tip: Dive or snorkel at the Kittiwake shipwreck.

Travel Details: Fly into Owen Roberts International Airport, with various island transportation options.

Trinidad and Tobago

Trinidad and Tobago are known for their rich biodiversity and vibrant carnival, offering a unique combination of natural and cultural experiences. The Asa Wright Nature Centre, located in Trinidad, is a haven for nature lovers, allowing them to explore the lush rainforest and observe a wide variety of bird species in their natural habitat. This nature sanctuary offers guided walks, fully allowing visitors to appreciate the island’s diverse flora and fauna.

Additionally, Maracas Beach in Trinidad is a popular destination, renowned for its scenic beauty and the famous local delicacy, bake and shark. The beach’s fine sand and clear waters make it ideal for swimming and relaxation. These destinations and the island’s famous carnival, a spectacle of music, dance, and colorful costumes provide a dynamic and varied experience that captures the essence of Trinidad and Tobago’s vibrant culture and natural beauty.

Insider’s Tip: Experience the local carnival if you’re visiting in February.

Travel Details: Piarco International Airport in Trinidad and A.N.R. Robinson International Airport in Tobago, with ferries between the islands.

Best Time To Travel: Ideal travel time is January to May.

Bonaire is a paradise for divers and snorkelers, celebrated for its exceptionally preserved coral reefs and rich marine biodiversity. The island’s commitment to marine conservation is evident in the Bonaire National Marine Park, encompassing the island’s entire coastline. This protected area offers some of the best diving and snorkeling experiences in the Caribbean, with clear waters and abundant sea life, including tropical fish, sea turtles, and various coral species.

The park’s well-managed dive sites cater to all experience levels, from beginners to advanced divers, ensuring a safe and unforgettable underwater adventure. Bonaire’s dedication to preserving its natural underwater treasures makes it an ideal destination for those who want to explore vibrant marine ecosystems sustainably and environmentally conscious.

Insider’s Tip: Try windsurfing at Lac Bay.

Travel Details: Fly into Flamingo International Airport, with car rentals available for island exploration.

Best Time To Travel: Best visited from April to November.

The Bottom Line

Island hopping in the Caribbean offers an adventure through a mosaic of distinct islands, each with its own unique charm and attractions. From Jamaica’s vibrant culture to Antigua’s serene beaches, the Caribbean provides an array of experiences suited for every type of traveler. Remember to check each destination’s latest travel advisories and requirements to ensure a smooth and enjoyable journey.

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The post The Top 15 Caribbean Gems to Explore in 2024: Embark on an Island Adventure republished on Passing Thru with permission from The Green Voyage .

Featured Image Credit: Shutterstock / Alexey Stiop.

For transparency, this content was partly developed with AI assistance and carefully curated by an experienced editor to be informative and ensure accuracy.

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