caribbean islands tourism

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.

Anna Borges

Ryan M. Moser

CNT Editors

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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30 beautiful caribbean islands to visit.

It's time to plan your next tropical getaway.

(Getty Images) |

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

Isla Mujeres, Mexico

Vieques, Puerto Rico

Corn Islands, Nicaragua

Roatan, Honduras

Virgin Gorda, British Virgin Islands

Ambergis Caye

Uvita Island, Costa Rica

Cozumel, Mexico

Grand Cayman

Little Cayman

Jost Van Dyke

New Providence Island, Bahamas

Cayman Brac

Sandy Island, Anguilla

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18 Best Places to Visit in the Caribbean

Written by Anietra Hamper Updated Mar 19, 2024

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

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

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

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

1. British Virgin Islands

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

• Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Aruba

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

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

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

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

• Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Jamaica

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

• Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Anguilla

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

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

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

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

• Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Grenada

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in the Bahamas

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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11 action-packed Caribbean islands — and how to pick the right one for you

From snorkelling the pristine reefs of Bonaire to discovering the colourful street art of Curaçao, this is a region that excels in the wild and the unexpected.

5 Nov 2021, 16:23 GMT — The islands and territories that make up the Caribbean are justifiably renowned for their bountiful sunshine and beaches, but beyond the resorts lie an intoxicating variety of cultures, creatures and cuisine that rarely make the headlines. But with dozens of destinations to choose from, how to decide which to visit? We’ve selected 11 of the most engaging, where memorable adventures amid natural wonders await.

1. Go birdwatching in Tobago

Quiet and welcoming, Tobago is a top pick for twitchers, thanks to its forest, wetland and coastal habitats. The island’s star attraction is the Main Ridge Forest Reserve, which was established in 1776 and is best explored via the Gilpin Trace Trail or less busy Spring Trail. Speyside, in the north east, is close to both the reserve and Little Tobago island, an offshore seabird sanctuary that’s home to the likes of frigatebirds, sooty terns, brown boobies and Audubon’s shearwaters. “Most visitors want to see the blue-backed manakin, white-tailed sabrewing and red-billed tropicbird,” explains   Newton George , a birdwatching guide who’s been scouring the treetops for over 50 years. He and his wife Dianne run the Hummingbird Gallery from their home in the village — the feeders on their garden verandah providing excellent photo opportunities. The nearby beachfront Blue Waters Inn, Speyside, makes a great base for further ornithological excursions. Birds are also a prime reason to visit   Adventure Eco Villas on the west coast at Arnos Vale. This estate has a checklist of 48 species that can be seen around its 12 acres, including parrots, flycatchers and tanagers. For a change of mood, hit the waves. The island’s many dive sites include The Sisters, where hammerhead sharks hang out at the wreck of MV Maverick, a ferry that was scuttled in 1997 and now swarms with marine life. On nights with little moonlight,   Radical Sports Tobago offers bioluminescence safaris where you can kayak or paddleboard through waters illuminated by microscopic organisms that emit a blue glow when disturbed. Dip your hand in and watch it glitter as though you were a radiant ghost dripping with jewels. How to do it:   Virgin Atlantic flies direct from Heathrow to Tobago from £427.   Blue Waters Inn has rooms from $238 (£173), B & B. More info:   visittobago.gov.tt

2. Hike with the locals in Barbados

A good way to explore the wealth of heritage and natural attractions is to join the three-hour Sunday walks organised by the   Barbados Hiking Association . These can attract 20 or more walkers, mainly islanders plus a few clued-up visitors. The fit can tackle a pacy, 12-mile ‘Grin ’n’ Bear’ hike, while the shorter and more relaxed ‘Stop ‘n’ Stare’ version includes pauses to catch your breath and learn about the places en route, which can range from a hillside where bituminous coal was once collected to the grave of Hollywood star Claudette Colbert, who died here in 1996. As well as getting the chance to chat with Bajans, the walks reveals the contrast between the island’s highly developed west side and the wild and windy east coast, where surfers gather and life is more relaxed. For a taste of both, book a twin-centre trip combining the upmarket, self-catering suites at Little Good Harbour in the village of Shermans, and the eight-room Atlantis Historic Inn, overlooking Tent Bay. The latter was originally opened in response to the creation of a now-defunct railway line in 1883, and every year a 24-mile hike retraces its tracks. Night owls can also join monthly full-moon walks. There’s no charge for this but donations are accepted for the   Barbados National Trust , which cares for several historic sites. These include a synagogue in the capital, Bridgetown, a restored sugar windmill and Welchman Hall Gully, a nature reserve that includes land kept much as it was when the first settlers arrived in 1627. How to do it: Turquoise Holidays offers a seven-night trip from £1,764 per person (based on two sharing), including flights, transfers and accommodation split between Little Good Harbour and Atlantis Historic Inn, half-board. More info : visitbarbados.org

3. Dive into the history of St Kitts

Fancy having a UNESCO World Heritage Site all to yourself? That’s how it can feel on a visit to   Brimstone Hill Fortress National Par k, a colossal, British-designed military citadel dating from 1690 that crowns the west coast of St Kitts, offering expansive views to the neighbouring Dutch island of St Eustatius. Dubbed the ‘Gibraltar of the West Indies’ and once home to over 1,000 soldiers and their families, it’s filled with memories of the enslaved and the enlisted and includes an extensive museum. St Kitts is considered the ‘mother colony’ of the Leeward Islands; English and French settlers arrived here as early as the 1620s and then spread to neighbouring islands. These formative years are recalled at the cemetery of the Anglican church at Middle Island, where the tombstone of Sir Thomas Warner, the first English governor of the West Indies, survives. At the   Wingfield Estate in Old Road Town, an indefatigable Yorkshireman, Maurice Widdowson, has spent years excavating and restoring the ruins of the first working rum estate and distillery in the Caribbean. A self-guided trail tells its story from the early days of tobacco and indigo to the rise of sugarcane. History-lovers will find more to unpick in St Kitts & Nevis’s capital. It’s home to Basseterre, with time-battered churches, Georgian buildings, the modest National Museum of Saint Kitts and leafy Independence Square, where schoolchildren now grab lunch from brightly painted food trucks. Around the island, chimneys and mills stand testament to a sugar industry that limped on until 2005. A legacy of this is the splendid St Kitts Scenic Railway, a narrow-gauge line originally built to transport cane that’s been reborn as a ride that trundles around the north to the accompaniment of live a cappella singers. The journey reveals how St Kitts remains a wonderfully green island where the rainforest is actually expanding due to the demise of sugar. For a taste of its dense and mountainous interior, take on the strenuous guided hike to its highest point, the 3,792ft summit of Mount Liamuiga. Your reward is to look down into a huge, forested volcanic crater, before heading back to relax at one of the island’s many golden-sand beaches. Centrally placed South Frigate Bay Beach has a strip of bars and affordable accommodation at Timothy Beach Resort, while Cockleshell Bay Beach, at the tip of the island’s southeastern peninsula, is the largest and liveliest, a fine place to kick back with a Carib beer and a swim after a satisfying day’s sightseeing.

How to do it:   British Airways Holidays offers a seven-night trip from £749 per person (based on two sharing), including flights and accommodation at Timothy Beach Resort, room only. More info:   stkittstourism.kn

4. Try diving & watersports in Bonaire

The arid, low-lying Dutch island of Bonaire is one of the best destinations in the Caribbean for underwater thrills thanks to a decision taken in 1979 to protect its entire coastline to a depth of 200ft. The result is a pristine reserve where corals and marine life have flourished. A further bonus is that more than 50 of its dive spots are accessible from the shore, with well-established operators such as   Dive Friends Bonaire offering the chance to experience it all. There’s also plenty for snorkellers to enjoy at sites such as Pink Beach and the uninhabited island of Klein Bonaire. Above the surface, Lac Bay attracts both kitesurfers and windsurfers year-round. There’s the option to hike or mountain bike around   Washington Slagbaai National Park , too, which encompasses a fifth of the island in the north. Sustainability is front and centre on Bonaire; the 20,000 mostly Dutch residents like to keep it clean and green by harnessing wind and solar energy. There are projects to restore reefs and protect a colony of around 1,000 yellow-shouldered parrots, while donkeys — released in the 1950s when they were no longer needed to work — roam free. How to do it: KLM flies via Amsterdam from £651 return. Hotel Islander Bonaire in Kralendijk offers doubles from $100 (£72), room only.   Delfins Beach Resort in Kralendijk offers doubles from $180 (£130), room only. klm.com hotelislanderbonaire.com More info: tourismbonaire.com

5. Sample Caribbean country music in St Lucia

Calypso, reggae and steel pan drums might be hallmarks of Caribbean music, but that’s not the story on St Lucia. This super-scenic isle has an unexpected passion for American-style country music that developed in the 1940s when there were two US military bases here. The bittersweet lyrics about broken hearts, lonely nights, small-town bars and pick-up trucks struck a chord in this vivid land of hummingbirds, mangoes and soaring volcanic peaks, and it’s stuck with the generations. Pop into a supermarket and you’ll likely hear Dolly Parton or Kenny Rogers crooning away over the speakers. There are country music shows on the radio, flyers advertising ‘back in time’ dances and bars where your jerk chicken and Piton beer may well come with a side of Loretta Lynn. If you fancy some jiving, Twist 2 For 1 is a rustic bar in Grande Riviere that plays traditional country music every Sunday. Country singers and line dancing are also part of the nightly entertainment programme at many popular resorts, including Windjammer Landing , Anse Chastanet and   Bay Gardens Beach Resort & Spa . Local stars to look out for are Stetson-crowned karaoke singer Shervon Sealy and the LM Stone Family Band. “My stepfather went to cut sugar cane in Florida and brought the music home,” explains LM, a performer who once won a contest in Nashville where he was the only Black singer out of 50 entrants. His three sons and daughter are part of the act, too, mellifluously reminding us how, in the words of country legend Glen Campbell, rhinestone cowboys ‘really don’t mind the rain, and the smile can hide all the pain’. How to do it: Tropical Sky offers a seven-night trip from £1,049 per person (based on two sharing), including flights, transfers and accommodation at Windjammer Landing, B & B. More info: stlucia.org

6. Sample local delicacies in Grenada

Grenada, along with its sister islands Carriacou and Petite Martinique, was recently declared the world’s first ‘Culinary Capital’ by the World Food Travel Association — and this green and mountainous nation certainly has plenty to offer food enthusiasts. Must-visit spots include the deliciously scented nutmeg processing station in Gouyave and the River Antoine Estate distillery, which has been producing fiery rums since 1785. The ‘Spice Isle’ has also made a name for itself with its handful of tree-to-bar artisan chocolate-makers ­— good going for a place with only 112,000 inhabitants. The annual   Grenada Chocolate Fest , usually held in May, sees themed events hosted across the island. A good starting point for a self-guided trail is the House of Chocolate in the capital, St George’s. While you’re in town, go for lunch at   Sails Restaurant & Bar , on the waterfront, to try local treats such as carambola juice, fried plantain and coconut ice cream. For a deeper understanding of how cocoa beans are transformed into one of life’s essentials, take a drive inland to   Belmont Estate in Saint Patrick. “One cocoa pod equals one bar of chocolate,” a guide explains, as the labour-intensive stages of cultivation, harvest, fermentation and drying are demonstrated. In the neighbouring parish of Saint Mark, the Diamond Chocolate Factory offers a free tour of the former distillery in which its Jouvay brand is created. Nearby   Crayfish Bay Organics , meanwhile, is a small enterprise run by Kim and Lylette Russell, who make a passionate case that chocolate should not only taste good but should be ethically produced in a way that benefits the community. For those seeking a deeper dive into the subject, the estate has cottages for rent, and guests are welcome to join in with the picking, turning and tramping of the cocoa. How to do it:   Just Grenada offers a seven-night trip from £1,260 per person (based on two sharing), including flights, transfers and B & B accommodation at True Blue Bay Boutique Resort. More info:   puregrenada.com

7. Kitesurf the coast in St Vincent and the Grenadines

The tiny islands of the Grenadines are an exhilarating playground where sunshine, ocean and sky come together in a frenzy of water-based sports activities. The gateway for flying into this aquatic paradise is Union Island, but many visitors also sail in by yacht or catamaran to the Tobago Cays archipelago, a marine park of dazzling beauty. Here, you can swim and snorkel with turtles in 28C waters that are mesmerisingly clear, while paddleboarders and kitesurfers coast back and forth across a turquoise sea. Salt Whistle Bay, a long, curving beach on the island of Mayreau, protected from rougher waves by an outcrop of land, is another magnet for visitors. Palm Island is a good place to use as a base for activities, and is also home to the luxury, all-inclusive Palm Island Resort & Spa. A free boat shuttle runs to Union Island, 10 minutes away, where   JT Pro Center offers kitesurfing tuition, including a half-day ‘discovery lesson’ for novices who want to give it a go (winds are best between November and July). Union Island’s main town, Clifton, has more accommodation options, along with restaurants and plenty of bars. One worth a visit is Happy Island, a castaway-style escape built on a foundation of conch shells. For those looking to go island-hopping,   Dream Yacht Charter offers week-long, skippered yacht and catamaran cruises, sailing north from Grenada via Carriacou. Experienced kitesurfers can bring their own kit and the itinerary is go-as-you-please, with stops to sleep under the stars in secluded Chatham Bay and to enjoy a toes-in-the sand lobster buffet on Petit Bateau island. How to do it: Elite Island Holidays offers a seven-night trip from £2,535 per person (based on two sharing), including flights via Barbados, transfers and all-inclusive accommodation at Palm Island. More info:   discoversvg.com

8. The best of beach life in Anguilla

Where are the best beaches in the Caribbean? Anguilla is a strong contender, not least because this orderly British Overseas Territory has 33 of them to enjoy. Arid and low-lying, the slender isle is just 16 miles long and home to a mere 15,000 residents, meaning its brochure-perfect sands never get crowded. What’s more, these classic runways of spotless white powder are bordered by warm, clear waters, where show-off fish dally and passing turtles give snorkellers a friendly wave. All the resorts in Anguilla are low-rise and most are high-end, having been rebuilt and improved after Hurricane Irma in 2017. Top of the bill are the glamorous Malliouhana , which rests on the cliffs at Meads Bay, and isolated Cap Juluca , set beside the crescent of Maundays Bay. A more affordable option is   Carimar Beach Club , also on Meads Bay, which offers one- and two-bedroom self-catering villa suites. Alongside this superlative accommodation comes a thriving culinary scene that majors on the local catch and extends from trucks dishing up delicious fish chowder for a few bucks to the delicate casserole Thailandaise de crayfish, served at Caribbean-Asian restaurant   Hibernia . What can you do beside lotus-eating? First stop has to be the absorbing   Heritage Collection Museum in East End, where local historian Colville Petty has amassed a well-presented treasury of finds, donations and ephemera about his homeland. Exhibits range from rudimentary spearguns and school punishment books to portraits of the island’s many centenarians. There’s also information on the farcical ‘Bay of Piglets’ revolution of 1969, which British paratroopers and police officers were sent to quell. Today, links between the territory and the UK remain strong — there’s a sizeable Anguillan community in Slough and the Queen’s Birthday is a public holiday in Anguilla. For the full island experience, get out on the water. “We always put up the sails,” says Laurie Gumbs, owner of Tradition , a 40-year-old handcrafted sloop that offers breezy day trips to Prickly Pear Cay. At night,   Liquid Glow offers silent paddling under the stars in transparent kayaks fitted with LED lights. Back on land, local rock star   Bankie Banx pumps up the volume at his rustic Dune Preserve in Rendezvous Bay. And if the rum flows and you need to sleep things off the next morning, a dream beach is never far away. How to do it:   Tropic Breeze offers a seven-night trip from £1,880 per person (based on two sharing), including flights, transfers and accommodation at Carimar Beach Club, room only. More info: ivisitanguilla.com

9. Explore the street art in   Curaçao

The Caribbean is a region that explodes with colours and patterns, from flamboyant marine life to brightly painted homes and exuberant carnival costumes. On the Dutch island of Curaçao, 40 miles north of Venezuela, even commercial buildings come in vivid ice-cream hues — most notably in the centre of its UNESCO World Heritage-listed capital, Willemstad, where a much-photographed parade of slender-gabled townhouses rises beside the waters of Sint Anna Bay. Split into two halves across a bay, this port city is best explored on foot or bike with Art Now Tours , which offers guided tours of a boisterous street art scene that mixes strident imagery with social commentary (for a taste, see @francissling , @jhomarloaiza and   @garrickmarchena on Instagram). Stay in the lively Pietermaai neighbourhood, which has characterful heritage properties, abundant restaurants and small, contemporary hotels like the waterside Saint Tropez Ocean Club. Much of the island’s energy come from its cultural diversity — there are more than 50 nationalities living here. This is reflected in a culinary whirl that spins from pancakes, gin and gouda cheese to tuna ceviche, curried goat, stewed iguana and funchi (polenta) fries. To get a handle on all this, book one of the Caribbean cookery courses or chef’s table dinners offered by Dutch author   Helmi Smeulders . Away from the city lie well-kept white sand beaches, salt flats blushing with flamingos and more than 70 diving and snorkelling spots including the flat, uninhabited island of Klein Curaçao and quirky Tugboat Beach, where fierce-jawed needlefish patrol beneath a hulking pier built for Curaçao’s now-declining oil industry. Inland, Christoffel National Park has trails, self-drive routes and the 1,220ft Christoffel Mountain, the island’s highest point. How to do it: KLM flies via Amsterdam to Curaçao from £698 return.   Saint Tropez Ocean Club in Willemstad offers doubles from $133 (£112), room only. More info: curacao.com

10. Check into historic hotels in Nevis

Nevis is where the fine idea of taking a Caribbean holiday began. It was here in 1778 that the region’s first purpose-built resort, the Bath House Hotel, was opened by a local merchant, John Huggins, complete with a ballroom, Italian gardens and thermal spa. A few years later, Horatio Nelson sailed in and married a local widow, Fanny Nisbet, with the Prince of Wales giving away the bride. You can still dip your feet in the soothingly hot volcanic waters where this hotel originally stood, while the marriage record of the naval hero can be seen in the nearby St John’s Figtree Anglican Church. Shaped like a green sombrero, low-key Nevis has never been interested in the huge cruise ships and all-inclusive resorts that you find elsewhere in the Caribbean. Instead, it goes in for the type of characterful, heritage hotels that are slowly vanishing elsewhere. These escapes lie hidden in the hills where, instead of a television, guests get rampant tropical gardens where you can easily lose a day reading in a hammock. The classic example is family-run   The Hermitage in Figtree, which has a main house dating from 1680 and wooden cottages set in gardens shaded by mahogany and mango trees. You can tuck into pumpkin pancakes for breakfast, jerk pork for lunch and pre-dinner rum punches, made in the traditional style with nutmeg and sour orange. Equally appealing is Montpelier Plantation & Beach , a country house in St Johns with a mosaic-patterned pool, elegant Great Room and luxurious rooms set in lush grounds where at night resident toads come to sit by the footlights. For something more modern,   Golden Rock Inn is a foliage-wrapped former sugar estate in Gingerland that’s been turned into a stylish bolthole by New York-based artists Brice and Helen Marden. Expect bright red woodwork, designer furniture and a terrace restaurant where you can dine on mahi mahi under the stars. And the sightseeing? Climb the 3,231ft Nevis Peak, stroll the golden sands of Pinney’s Beach or go ‘liming’ with the locals at the roadside barbecue organised every Friday night by the local Water Department. How to do it:   Just St Kitts & Nevis offers a seven-night trip from £1,550 per person (based on two sharing), including flights, transfers and B & B accommodation at Montpelier Plantation. More info: nevisisland.com  

11. Discover surprising stories in Montserrat

Passport stamps may have become an endangered species, but in green and mountainous Montserrat visitors are lucky enough to get one shaped like a shamrock. This little-visited British Overseas Territory was first settled in the 1630s by Irish Catholics, and the two emerald isles have stayed connected — the national flag features a Celtic harp and St Patrick’s Day is a spirited public holiday that mixes Guinness and soca music. Pre-pandemic, there was a ferry from Antigua, but at present the only way to visit is by plane. The rewards are many: with a population of just 4,500, you soon make friends, and adventures include crowd-free diving, hiking in the forested hills and kayaking to Rendezvous Bay, the island’s only golden-sand beach Birdwatchers can search for the elusive Montserrat oriole and turtles can be seen nesting on the west coast beaches from May to December. Major volcanic eruptions that started in 1997 have left two-thirds of the island out of bounds. Footage of this cataclysm can be seen at the Montserrat Volcano Observatory, in Flemmings, and there are several viewpoints over the exclusion zone, plus trips to see Plymouth, the former capital, which is now an ash-cloaked ghost town. Only a couple of small hotels operate, while villas are more affordable than in many parts of the Caribbean. The most characterful option is Olveston House, the former home of The Beatles producer Sir George Martin, who set up the nearby Air Studios Montserrat, where many 80s hits were recorded. The recent documentary film   Under the Volcano explores this creative moment, and a music heritage tour is in the pipeline. How to do it: British Airways flies direct from Gatwick to Antigua from £378, with onward connecting flights offered by Fly Montserrat from $146 (£106).   Olveston House in Olveston offers doubles from $218 (£158), room only. More info: visitmontserrat.com

Published in the December 2021 issue of National Geographic Traveller (UK)

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15 Best Caribbean Islands to Visit in 2024

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

3. Jamaica, the best Caribbean island for nature lovers

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

7. Cuba, a unique island in the Caribbean

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Best Caribbean islands map

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Best island in the Caribbean hands down

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

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

Totally agreed, Ryan. Thanks for sharing your thoughts,

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

25 Best Caribbean Islands to Visit

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Also see : Best things to do in Jamaica

2. Turks and Caicos

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

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

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

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

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

Also see : Best things to do in Turks and Caicos

3. St. Lucia

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

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

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

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

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

Also see : Best things to do in St. Lucia

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

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

There’s certainly no shortage of pulls.

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

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

Also see : Best things to do in Cuba

5. Antigua and Barbuda

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

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

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

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

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

Also see : Best things to do in Antigua and Barbuda

6. US Virgin Islands

The USVI aren’t your usual Caribbean paradise.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Also see : Best things to do in Aruba

8. Dominican Republic

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

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

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

Also see : Best things to do in the Dominican Republic

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

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

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

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

Also see : Best things to do in Grenada

10. The Bahamas

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

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

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

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

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

Also see : Best things to do in The Bahamas

11. St. Martin

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

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

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

Also see : Best things to do in St Martin

12. Puerto Rico

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

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

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

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

Also see : Best places to visit in Puerto Rico

13. Barbados

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

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

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

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

Also see : Best things to do in Barbados

14. Guadeloupe

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

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

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

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

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

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

Also see : Best things to do in Guadeloupe

15. Bermuda

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

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

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

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

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

Also see : Best things to do in Bermuda

16. Cayman Islands

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

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

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

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

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

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

Also see : Best things to do in the Cayman Islands

17. British Virgin Islands

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Also see : Best things to do in Haiti

19. St. Vincent and the Grenadines

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

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

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

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

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

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

20. Montserrat

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

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

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

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

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

Oh, and drink frothy Guinness in hearty Gaelic pubs!

Also see : Best things to do in Montserrat

21. St. Barts

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

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

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

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

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

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

Also see : Best things to do in St. Barts

22. Trinidad and Tobago

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

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

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

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

Tiny little Tobago, meanwhile, is even more undeveloped.

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

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

Also see : Best things to do in Trinidad and Tobago

23. St. Kitts and Nevis

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

24. Martinique

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

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

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

Also see : Best things to do in Martinique

25. Curaçao

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

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

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

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

Also see : Best things to do in Curacao

25 Best Caribbean Islands to Visit:

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

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Every Caribbean Island's COVID-19 Travel Policies — and What You Need to Know to Plan Your Trip

Almost every Caribbean destination is open to travelers regardless of vaccination status.

When COVID-19 struck the United States in late winter 2020 relaxing on a warm beach with a subtle island breeze was all anyone could want. Now, almost two years since, most Caribbean islands have fully reopened to travelers.

Below is an island-by-island guide for U.S. travelers with everything you need to know before planning a trip to the Caribbean.

As of Oct. 1, there are no entry requirements to Anguilla, according to the U.S. Embassy

Antigua and Barbuda

Antigua and Barbuda have removed all preexisting COVID-19 entry requirements, according to the government. However, any passenger displaying symptoms may be isolated by the government.

Aruba has waived all preexisting COVID-19 entry level requirements, however, travel insurance is highly recommended, according to the country's tourism site.

Non-U.S. citizens must show proof of vaccination, and there are no entry requirements for U.S. citizens according to the U.S. Embassy in the Bahamas.

Barbados has discontinued all COVID-19 entry requirements the tourism board announced in September.

Barbados is also welcoming visitors to move to the island for a year for the ultimate remote work experience.

Fully vaccinated travelers by air or by cruise to Bermuda will be required to show proof of vaccination, and must upload proof prior to travel. Unvaccinated travelers must upload proof of valid travel insurance to enter, according to the government.

All travelers aged 2 and up must have Travel Authorization and will be required to pay $40 for the application.

Bonaire, Sint Eustatius and Saba

There are no COVID-19 entry requirements for the Caribbean Netherlands according to the UK Government.

The British Virgin Islands

The British Virgin Islands have discontinued all COVID-19 entry requirements, according to the BVI government.

Cayman Islands

The Cayman islands have removed all COVID-19 entry restrictions, according to Cayman Islands tourism board.

There are no COVID-19 entry restrictions to visit, according to the Curaçao tourism board .

Dominica has removed all pre-arrival testing along with testing on arrival for symptomatic passengers, according to the tourism board.

Dominican Republic

The Dominical Republic has removed all COVID-19 entry requirements, however, when required random testing may occur and passengers may present proof of vaccination to be exempt, according to GoDominicanRepublic.com

There are no covid entry requirements for tourists visiting Grenada, according to PureGrenada.com

The Guadeloupe Islands have dropped all COVID-19 entry requirements for visitors, t he archipelago announced in August.

All passengers 12 and older are required to present proof of vaccination or a negative PCR taken at most 72 hours before departure. Passengers aged 5-11 are required to present a negative PCR test, and passengers under 5 are exempt, according to the Department of Foreign Affairs.

For additional precautions, please see  the U.S. State Department's Advisory .

Jamaica has ended all COVID-19 entry requirements, according to the U.S. Embassy.

Martinique has lifted all COVID-19 entry requirements as of August, according to the tourism board.

Since October the government of Montserrat has ended all COVID-19 requirements for entry.

Puerto Rico

All travelers will be able to enter Puerto Rico without any proof of covid vaccination or any other requirement, according to Discover Puerto Rico

All COVID-19 entry restrictions have been lifted, according to the U.S. Embassy.

St. Kitts and Nevis

All visitors regardless of vaccination are permitted to enter St. Kitts and Nevis, according to the Tourism Authority.

Sint Maarten

Travelers to Sint Maarten are no longer required to provide travel insurance or test upon arrival if unvaccinated, the electronic health authorization requirement has also been removed.

St. Martin has removed all preexisting COVID-19 travel requirements for U.S. Citizens, according to the U.S. Embassy.

All COVID-19 restrictions have been removed, according to the St. Lucia tourism authority.

St. Vincent and the Grenadines

All COVID-19 restrictions have been lifted, according to the Ministry of Health, Wellness, and Environment.

Trinidad and Tobago

According to the U.S. Embassy there are no COVID-19 entry requirements for Trinidad and Tobago.

Turks and Caicos Islands

There are no COVID-19 entry requirements for Turks and Caicos, according to the government.

United States Virgin Islands

The U.S. Virgin Islands have removed all preexisting COVID-19 entry requirements, according to the government. The territory removed all restrictions for American travelers in May.

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16 of the best Caribbean islands to visit

Whether you want food and culture or wildlife and nature, you’ll find a place to suit you among our pick of the best caribbean islands.

T he idea of a holiday to the Caribbean needs little selling: some of the world’s best beaches, most charismatic people and year-round sun make it an easy job. Picking which island is a lot harder. Do you fancy soaring volcanic mountains or dreamy coral islands? Spanish rhythms, gourmet French cuisine, a colourful Dutch waterfront? While most people go to fly and flop, once there it’s soon clear that this is a rich and diverse region with a lot more to offer, including more than 20 world heritage sites. Here’s our expert guide to 16 of the best Caribbean islands that will suit couples, families, independent travellers and anyone seeking fresh adventures.

Main photo: Havana, Cuba, at sunrise (Getty Images)

1. St Kitts and Nevis

Come to St Kitts and neighbouring Nevis for the quiet Caribbean life — a mellow itinerary of golf, delicious meals and lazy beach days, led by a regular crowd who like their hotels five-star. Manicured St Kitts has most of the big resorts. It’s still lush and adventurous — you can hike through rainforest and spot green vervet monkeys — but, like Antigua (which is only a 20-minute flight away), it feels uncannily British. A quarter of the size of Barbados, Nevis is compact enough to explore on foot. Chic independent hotels have transformed its grand old plantation houses but consider, too, the candy-coloured clapboard bungalows of Oualie Beach Resort. If you tire of lounging on golden sands, you can climb Nevis’s sole misty peak in search of crystalline waterfalls, wander around botanical gardens spotting mango-stealing monkeys, or sip potent “Killer Bee” rum punches at Sunshine’s Beach Bar & Grill.

• Best hotels in St Kitts and Nevis

Like the rhythm of its beloved reggae music, the best of Jamaica is offbeat — stylish hideouts among huge and humming resorts and funky island architecture in universal modern concrete. It’s also large and lively by Caribbean standards and your best bet for finding character. Much like Punta Cana in neighbouring Dominican Republic, the main resort towns of Montego Bay and Ocho Rios are pretty soulless; instead try Negril in the west, which has a hip, easy vibe and is home to Seven Mile Beach, one of Jamaica’s best stretches of white-sand beaches. Treasure Beach, in the southwest, is quieter but equally laid-back. And at the other end of the island is Port Antonio, a favourite jungle hideaway for artists and hedonists — including Rudyard Kipling and Errol Flynn — for more than a century. Leave time to roam the John Crow Mountains, a Unesco world heritage site that stretches over 10,000 acres and is home to no fewer than 200 species of resident and migrant birds.

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• Best all-inclusive hotels in Jamaica • Best villas in Jamaica • Best things to do in Jamaica

3. St Lucia

St Lucia ’s natural beauty had European powers fighting over it for centuries — “seven times British, seven times French”, as any local will tell you. Now one of the Caribbean’s independent nations, it’s among the friendliest and most peaceful of the bunch. While other islands look postcard-ready, with sandy stretches of coast in every direction, St Lucia’s appeal is its diverse landscape — the terrain varies so much you could be in a tropical rainforest one minute and beside a volcano the next. This makes it perfect for soft adventure, whether you’re looking to hike the Piton mountains or go zip-lining through the dense jungle. Nearly all the resorts, attractions and golf courses are along the west coast (as are the two main cities, French-influenced Soufrière and the more British-feeling capital of Castries) — so if you want the wild, jungle scenery, take a drive along the east coast to be impressed by the animal tally the island offers.

• Best hotels in St Lucia • Best all-inclusive hotels in St Lucia • Best things to do in St Lucia

4. Trinidad and Tobago

With Venezuela nipping at its heels, the country of Trinidad and Tobago is the most southerly of the Caribbean islands, falling outside the hurricane belt. Like St Kitts and Nevis, the two islands have their own distinct flavours. Trinidad is big and brawny; oil-wealthy enough not to need tourists, but still thrilling to visit. Just a 40-minute flight from Grenada, it’s a birdwatcher’s nirvana. And the food! Its diverse population — a mix of Javanese, Syrian, Indian, Lebanese, Creole and African — makes for a deliciously varied menu. Calm, lush Tobago’s a bit slower, with a deserved reputation for great beach holidays. There are fewer all-inclusive hotels here, which arguably makes for a more authentic experience. It’s also a great place to spot giant turtles, which come in to nest between March and September.

This diverse drop of land is exactly how you’ve always imagined the Caribbean to be: pristine, mostly empty world-class beaches; its own distinct cuisine (think nutmeg ice cream, coconut-sweetened stews, and bean-to-bar chocolates); and friendly, laid-back locals you’ll actually chat to. Yet, on an island of 105,000 people, there are only around 1,400 hotel beds. (St Vincent and the Grenadines — with a slightly larger population — has 2,500 hotel beds.) Consequently, Grenada feels almost devoid of tourists — the pace is slow, the sands peaceful, the people welcoming — and there is plenty of day-trip fodder to strap on your boots and backpack for. This is the island for those who thought they knew the Caribbean already.

• Best hotels in Grenada • Best beaches in Grenada • Best things to do in Grenada

6. The Bahamas

The Bahamas , made up of some 700 islands and just off Florida, used to be mainly known for Atlantis, the wacky lost world-themed hotel and waterpark where Michael Jackson once lived. Shame, because the other islands beyond New Providence (where Atlantis is) are so different they have their own name: the “Out Islands”. Eleuthera is boho and beautiful, while Harbour Island is fashion-shoot handsome, with its pink sand beaches favoured by posh Brits and Waspy Americans. The Abacos are teeny-weeny, one-church, car-free specks; and Andros is all about the diving. Everyone can find their own Bahama to fall in love with. The one drag? You need to fly between them — but planes are cheap, frequent and reliable.

• Best hotels in the Bahamas • Best all-inclusive resorts in the Bahamas

Antigua confounds lazy categorisation. Despite its reputation for beachy glamour — superyachts basking in wide harbours; barefoot, moneyed guests draped over cushioned loungers in immoderately priced resorts — this is resolutely a “proper” island with plenty of snorkelling opportunities and a standout marine scene. None of the 365 beaches are closed to locals, and the island is not as in thrall to the tourist buck as some are. The island’s a doddle to explore too: nothing on Antigua is ever more than a 45-minute drive away, and unlike some of its Caribbean neighbours, even in peak season life is all about cricket, sailing in English Harbour and hanging out in rum bars.

• Best all-inclusive hotels in Antigua • Best villas in Antigua • Best things to do in Antigua

Dutch-owned Aruba does a great deal for the package holidaymaker. It was one of the first Caribbean islands to exploit its tourist potential — in the 1950s, as early cruise-ship advertising cashed in on the calypso craze among Americans at the time. But its fly-and-flop appeal is only half the story. Despite its bijou size (just 20 miles by six miles), it’s easy to skip the blonde sand and explore the interior wilderness. Arikok National Park is dream hiking terrain with dragon-tooth cliffs, ancient petroglyphs and abandoned gold mines; alternatively, hire a car and head north to snorkel among reef fish at Malmok Beach.

9. Barbados

Twenty-one miles long and 14 miles wide, Barbados packs in plenty of treats to feast on, from botanic gardens to rum distilleries. And Bajan buses following the coastline — yellow with blue stripes and vibrating with reggae beats — are regular and cheap, providing an easy way of getting around the island. Sip a rum punch and kick off your flip-flops as you peruse a menu in the Caribbean’s culinary capital. Oistins Fish Fry, the Friday-night market where islanders and tourists tuck into chunks of herby grilled fish and £1.50 beers, is no secret. But it stands up to the hype: the grub is the best and cheapest you’ll eat here (£8 a plate — make a beeline for Pat’s Place and try the meaty marlin). Or pootle down to Mount Gay’s slick rum distillery, near Bridgetown. End the tour in its trendy bar, where you can find out exactly what’s in that blush-pink punch you’ve been drinking.

• Best all-inclusive hotels in Barbados • Best luxury villas in Barbados • Best things to do in Barbados

10. Dominican Republic

Toss aside everything you know about “ the DR ”, the cheap and cheerful package holiday haven for the sloshed and sunburnt. Instead, think of this sultry, Spanish-blooded nation as Cuba-lite or an easier, breezier Mexico. In fact, its tacky identikit-resort reputation applies only to two tiny pockets near the big airports: Punta Cana (in the south) and Puerto Plata (in the north). The Brit perception of it would confound any hip New Yorker or wealthy Eastern Seaboarder, who can fly here in under four hours and consider the DR the height of sophistication. Don’t miss out on the whale-watching opportunities when you’re here, either. Humpbacks choose Samana Bay on the northeast coast as the best place to mate and give birth each spring (January to March). And since they love the warm waters of this sheltered arc, you only need to sail a few minutes from the coast for a glimpse (usually, finding humpbacks involves cruising for hours).

• Best hotels in the Dominican Republic • Best all-inclusive hotels in the Dominican Republic • Best things to do in the Dominican Republic

11. Turks and Caicos

The A-lister’s Caribbean is all about islands that allow you to have an entire stretch of beach to yourself, feed you five-star sushi and cocoon you in spaces worthy of an interior-design magazine. The specks of the Turks and Caicos , two hours’ flight from Miami, are where Americans retreat to for near-Maldivian levels of solitude. The private island of Parrot Cay, where Bruce Willis and Keith Richards have holiday homes, put the destination (discreetly) on the map. Stay in its main hotel, and take boats out to tiny outcrops inhabited only by iguanas.

• Best hotels in Turks and Caicos • Best things to do in Turks and Caicos

Havana , ooh na-na! The capital is stop number one on your visit to Cuba . Stroll the streets of Old Havana, the crumbling historic quarter of Baroque churches, cobbled plazas and grand mansions, and take in street art in the waterfront San Isidro barrio. Looking for something greener? Head off by coach 110 miles west to pine-scented Viñales, a sculpted valley of shaggy limestone mountains flecked with dinosaur fossils, where beasts of burden till palm-bordered tobacco fields.

• Best hotels in Cuba • Best things to do in Cuba

13. Dominica

Dominica is one of the least developed islands in the Caribbean — you won’t see any sprawling beach resorts here — and that’s part of its charm. The forest-covered, mountainous interior is ideal for intrepid hikers, with the multi-day Waitukubuli National Trail the most challenging in terms of length; it’s also possible to do a segment of the trail as a taster. Much easier is the walk around Freshwater lake, or to the Trafalgar Falls. For those looking for something a bit more sedate, the volcanic isle has plenty of other options. In Wotten Waven, you’ll find a cluster of hot springs where locals have built rustic sulphur baths around. At Titou Gorge, swimming at the confluence of hot and cold springs is a tourist favourite. And don’t forget Bubble Beach, the rough and ready departure point for Champagne Reef, where undersea volcanic activity releases a steady stream of bubbles like its namesake wine.

• Best things to do in Dominica

14. St Vincent and the Grenadines

Anchored by the mighty, volcanic hulk of St Vincent, this idyllic chain of 31 islands in the southern Leewards lies scattered across a turquoise sea like dropped jewels. A favourite escape for yachties, honeymooners, affluent families and anyone who loves island-hopping, they deliver an authentic and uncommercialised taste of the Caribbean. Bequia — the largest of the Grenadines — is a popular base for exploring, while neighbouring Mustique is a private island with fabulous villas that have long been a favoured getaway for rock stars and royalty. Canouan, with a lofty golf course and superyacht marina, is another jet-set escape while tiny, all-inclusive Petit St Vincent is the place for quality downtime with a partner. Getting out on the water is a must, with the Tobago Cays providing your chance to swim with turtles. Nearby Mayreau and Union Island, meanwhile, are two top spots for kitesurfing — and for a challenging hike you can climb the 1,234m (4,048ft) La Soufrière volcano that crowns St Vincent.

• Best hotels in St Vincent and the Grenadines

15. St Barts

Though only eight square miles, French-speaking St Barts packs a mighty punch with its stylish crowd, five-star hotels, luxury shops, gastronomic restaurants and indefatigable party spirit. A short runway ensures a heart-thumping fly-in (ferry services are also available) while the topsy-turvy hills promise exhilarating drives to discover white sand beaches that are immaculately maintained. Once Swedish, the island is now thoroughly Gallic, so expect euros, yellow postboxes, driving on the right and handsome gendarmes. Admiring the sunset is a daily ritual and the nightlife is as crazy as you wish, peaking in the festive season when the harbour in the capital, Gustavia, is packed with superyachts admiring the fireworks. There are pockets of peace, too: Colombier beach, accessible only by boat or foot, and a thriving art scene. Families will enjoy the shell-strewn beaches, water sports and gourmet picnics — just don’t look at your bank statement until you get home.

• Best hotels in St Barts

16. Anguilla

Looking for the finest beaches in the Caribbean? The 33 you’ll find in Anguilla are top contenders. Low-lying and arid, this small and quirky British Overseas Territory draws a well-heeled crowd who appreciate the island’s tranquil vibe, characterful luxury resorts and sophisticated restaurant scene. Beyond the fascinating Heritage Collection Museum in East End, which documents the island’s eventful history, there’s little to see in terms of sights. That leaves plenty of time for boat trips to pancakes of sand like Prickly Pear Cays and Sandy Island for a boozy lobster lunch then maybe some dancing under the stars at the informal bars in Sandy Ground. The well-established Moonsplash music festival takes place in March with Carnival — which includes sailing races — held at the end of July and beginning of August. You can also take a 45-minute ferry ride across to French-speaking St Martin where there are chic shops.

• Best hotels in Anguilla • Best things to do in Anguilla

Additional reporting by Nigel Tisdall and Qin Xie

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The best Caribbean Islands to visit on your next vacation

Whether you want to relax on sandy beaches, snorkel, visit a volcano, or enjoy Caribbean food - there's a Caribbean Island experience for everyone. In this guide, I have selected the best Caribbean Islands to visit along with things to consider when booking. Which will you choose for your next vacation?

Factors to consider when picking a Caribbean Island to visit

With so many Caribbean islands to choose from, there are a few things to consider before deciding on a destination. Let's take a look:

The weather

The Caribbean experiences good weather throughout most of the year. However, it can be cooler in December and January, especially in the mornings. So, if you’re visiting the Caribbean for Christmas or Valentine’s Day, choose one of the hotter islands, such as Aruba . On the other hand, it can get very hot on the beach in the summer. Whenever you have the chance, reserve or rent a cabana. I traveled with my girlfriends to Aruba and we lounged on the beach for most of the day. Those of us who were under the cabana were protected, and the rest of us got sunburned. Many of the beaches and hotels offer cabanas and they are well worth the investment.

Activities and attractions

Looking for buzzy nightlife? If so, popular islands like Trinidad and the Bahamas, where celebrities often visit, might fit the bill. There you’ll find several beachside bars where you can grab a drink. More adventurous types should head to Jamaica , where you can spend time outdoors riding ATVs or ziplining through the forest. If you’re more interested in a quiet vacation, the Turks and Caicos might suit you best. There you can stay at a private beachside villa where you can sunbathe without being seen. The US Virgin Islands is a particularly good place to take children because of its many family-friendly resorts , which include fun activities for all ages.

Getting there

Where are you flying from? If you’re in Miami or Fort Lauderdale, you’re just a short flight from Nassau, Puerto Rico, and the Bahamas. In fact, depending on what island you’re visiting, you can be there in less than 2 hours. You can also find several flight deals from major cities like New York City to the Bahamas or the Dominican Republic, or from Los Angeles to Jamaica. Hailing a taxi on the Caribbean islands can be expensive, so renting a car is a good option for getting around. If you don’t want to hire a car, many of the islands, including Barbados and St. Lucia, have good public transportation. You can also stay in a walkable neighborhood like Sandy Point in the Virgin Islands, or a beach town like Eagle Beach in Aruba.

Accommodation options

Would you prefer to stay in a large resort or a boutique beachfront hotel with quick access to sandy beaches? There are several large hotels in San Juan, Puerto Rico, each with its own restaurant, spa, and convention center. There, you’ll be a short drive from the beach but close to various city amenities like shopping and dining in San Juan. If you want to be just steps from the beach, consider the island of Jamaica, where you’ll find many charming hotels within a short walk of Negril Beach.

Of course, your budget will be important when you’re making your Caribbean travel plans. The cost of hotels and food can fluctuate depending on the island you choose. For example, Trinidad and Tobago, along with Punta Cana in the Dominican Republic, have many budget-friendly hotels to choose from. You can also save money by visiting the islands outside of peak season, typically from September to November. Although staying at an all-inclusive resort might be more costly, it will make tracking your spending in the Caribbean easier, because pretty much everything is part of the package (including food and various activities).

Find flights to the Caribbean Islands

The best Caribbean Islands

1. the bahamas, the best caribbean islands to visit for nightlife.

The Bahamas is home to scores of bars, many of which open after hours. Some are on the beach, where you can dance in the sand, while the heart of the city is home to luxurious nightclubs with grand staircases and famous DJs playing the latest hits. Stay at one of the party resorts for a club-like atmosphere that lasts from morning to night. This is also a great way to meet people if you're traveling solo.

• For partying, the best time to visit the Bahamas is around Spring Break (March/April) or later in the spring (May/June).
• For the best nightlife, consider booking your stay in Nassau .

Find stays in the Bahamas

2. Jamaica, the best Caribbean Island to visit for adventure

Jamaica is one of the best Caribbean Islands to visit if you like outdoor adventures. For something a little different, there are several waterfalls where you can go climbing, soak in relaxing waters, or row through caverns. Jamaica also provides opportunities to surf, go ziplining over waterfalls, or horseback ride. Visit Mystic Mountain in Ocho Rios to enjoy rainforest bobsledding – no snow required.

• The best time to visit Jamaica is in the winter months to avoid the really hot weather.
• The best cities to visit are Negril , Montego Bay , and Kingston (the capital city).

Find stays in Jamaica

3. Barbados, the best Caribbean Islands for foodies

Foodies will love getting a taste of Barbados . On the island, there are numerous bars, rum shops, fine dining restaurants, and food trucks where you can sample an array of tropical dishes. Don’t leave without trying some of the island’s most popular dishes and drinks, such as fish cakes, guava cheese, chicken feet, and rum punch. Visit in mid-October for the Food & Rum Festival , which takes place on the southwest end of the island, to meet celebrity chefs and try lots of local cuisine. If you fancy brushing up your kitchen skills, why not learn to cook Creole and Caribbean dishes while you’re on vacation, several places on the island offer cooking classes.

• The best time to visit Barbados is in the winter.
• The best places to visit include Bridgetown (the capital city) and Saint James .

Find stays in Barbados

4. Dominican Republic, the best Caribbean Island to visit for history lovers

The Dominican Republic has a rich history, having become independent in 1844. There are several historical sights to discover around this island to help you learn more – these include the El Faro a Colón, a monument in La Isabela near Santo Domingo, and the UNESCO World Heritage Site in Santo Domingo, the capital of the Dominican Republic.

• The best time to visit the Dominican Republic is early to late spring when the weather is at its finest.
• Santo Domingo is the best city to visit in the Dominican Republic.

Find stays in the Dominican Republic

5. Puerto Rico, the best Caribbean Island to visit for tropical rainforests

See a variety of plants and wildlife on a tour of El Yunque National Forest in Puerto Rico . While visiting the park, you can also enjoy a swim, go for a hike on the trail, or hop on a horse to see even more of the forest. Just be sure to take your bathing suit and camera along – this is a photographer’s paradise.

• The best time to visit Puerto Rico is winter or spring.
• The best cities to visit in Puerto Rico are San Juan (the capital) and Ponce.

"One of the most popular events is the Trinidad Carnival, which takes place in February and is a colorful carnival similar to Mardi Gras. Carnival participants often throw mud, paint, and flour for added fun. If you’re into music, there are several Caribbean festivals that you might enjoy, such as the Crop Over Festival held in July in Barbados, which features calypso bands. If you prefer reggae music there’s Sumfest, which also takes place in July on the island of Jamaica."

Find stays in Puerto Rico

Plan your visit to the Caribbean islands

A visit to the Caribbean can be great for a family holiday, an adventure vacation, or a romantic getaway. No matter your reason for traveling to this exotic destination, there’s an island that will suit your travel style and budget. The Caribbean Islands are a beautiful place to make memories, so start planning your island vacation today. Find the best flight deals , hotels , and vacation packages for your preferred island.

Not sure when to travel? Check out KAYAK’s Best Time to Travel tool for personalized recommendations.

Caribbean Island FAQS

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Caribbean Travel Guide

Looking for an in-depth Caribbean travel guide ?

Then you’re in the right place!

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Caribbean Map

Use this Caribbean travel map to begin planning your trip!

Click here for an interactive version of the above map.

Antigua Travel Guides

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

12 Antigua Adventures For An Unforgettable Caribbean Trip

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

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

Bahamas Travel Guides

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

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

Swimming With Nurse Sharks In Compass Cay, Exumas, Bahamas

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

Is The Exuma Archipelago The Quirky Sister Of The Galapagos?

16 Best Bahamas Breakfast Foods You Must Try

Cayman Islands Travel Guides

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

Beyond Grand Cayman: Discovering Cayman Brac In The Caribbean

Delicious Lionfish: Responsible Eatings In The Cayman Islands

Things To Do In The Dominican Republic

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

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

Exploring Punta Cana Outdoors Beyond The Beach Resorts

Exploring Sustainable Adventure In The Resort Destination Of Punta Cana

How To Have An Epic Dominican Republic Road Trip

Dominican Republic Hiking: 12 Amazing Trails Not To Miss

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

Things To Do In Guadeloupe

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

Driving Around Guadeloupe: Travel Guide + Itinerary

Things To Do In Mexico

Enjoy the Mexican Caribbean with these helpful guides:

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

6 Best Beaches In Holbox, Mexico (Stunning!)

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

15 Best Beach Clubs In Holbox Island, Mexico

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

Best Time To Visit Holbox Island, Mexico

Things To Do In Puerto Rico

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

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

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

Top Booze Experiences In Puerto Rico

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

Things To Do In St. Lucia

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

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

6 Secret Beaches To Visit In St. Lucia

Adventurous Couple’s Guide To Soufriere, St. Lucia

Cocoa Experiences At Saint Lucia’s Hotel Chocolat

An Amazing Solo St. Lucia Wellness Retreat At BodyHoliday Resort

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

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

Things To Do In St. Thomas

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

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

Trinidad & Tobago Travel Guides

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

Trinidad And Tobago’s Best Outdoor Experiences

Learning To Stand Up Paddleboard In Tobago

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

Are You A Trinidad Or Tobago Traveler?

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

12 Things You Didn’t Know About Trinidad And Tobago

Caribbean Travel Tips

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

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

3 Best Luxury Caribbean Wellness Retreats

Caribbean Tours

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

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

Caribbean Hotels

Click here to browse hotels in the Caribbean!

Prefer self-contained stays? 

Click here to check out unique local rentals!

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

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

Caribbean Travel Insurance

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

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

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

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

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

Renting A Car In The Caribbean

Renting a car in the Caribbean?

Use Discover Cars to quickly compare your car rental options.

Caribbean Travel Guide FAQ

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

Q: What are the Caribbean travel destinations?

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

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

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

Q: How many islands are in the Caribbean?

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

Q: How do you travel between Caribbean islands?

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Q: What are the most dangerous Caribbean islands?

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

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

Q: Which Caribbean islands are the cheapest to visit?

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

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

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

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

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

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

Q: What are some top Caribbean points of interest?

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

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

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

Q: What is the rainy season in the Caribbean?

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

Q: What are the West Indies islands?

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

What would you add to this Caribbean travel guide?

• Caribbean and Bahamas

5 Things To Know Before Your First Trip To The Guadeloupe Islands

Believe us: you’re going to want to visit this incredible french caribbean destination. but you need to do your homework first..

Long regarded among the Caribbean's greatest "hidden gems," the Guadeloupe Islands are poised to emerge as one of the most dynamic, raved-about tropical destinations in the region, if not the world. That's not hyperbole, at least not as much as it is wishful thinking and/or an educated prediction, because to see this place in person is to understand just how magical and spiritually fulfilling it can be.

With the addition of seasonal nonstop JetBlue service from New York City to Pointe-à-Pitre, this French Caribbean archipelago has never been more accessible to U.S. travelers, and it's high time everyone learns what they've been missing out on. The thing about the Guadeloupe Islands, though, is that this isn't the "typical" Caribbean destination. You can't, or at least shouldn't, just pack your bags and board the next flight out of Terminal 5. (Although I certainly wouldn't blame you.)

Some of this information is common sense, but it still bears repeating and reinforcing. Here's what you need to know before your first visit to the Guadeloupe Islands.

Brush Up on Your French

I was warned several times that I wouldn't find many English speakers here, and so I tried my best to keep my Duolingo streak running strong ahead of my flight. Even that barely helped, because when the wheels touched down my brain had stage fright, and I did things like ask, "¿Cómo está?" instead of "Comment allez-vous?" This happened way more than I'd like to admit, but I know I'm not alone.

I recommend planning far enough in advance so that you can put some real effort into learning the basics. It isn't just about being able to communicate with hotel and restaurant staff, although that is a very important component. You should also want to understand and appreciate the regional cultures, and so being able to communicate with the people is essential.

The people are so genuinely nice and warm here that you'll want to at least have the opportunity to make new friends and learn from them. After all, they're the real experts and will offer the best advice on where to eat and drink.

Forget Me Nots

No matter how many times we rehearse vacation preparation in our heads, some of that common sense gets shoved into a packing cube and is forgotten. Like, for example, when we landed in Pointe-à-Pitre and, coming back to Earth from the incredible views from the approach, I mumbled to myself: "I. Forgot. Euros."

It's not difficult to take care of this—you land at an airport, after all—but looking at the big picture, if you like to avoid ATM fees or you're apprehensive about using such machines in a foreign setting, then make sure you pack more than enough cash, because you never know when you'll come across a must-have piece of jewelry or art at a street vendor's tent, or when you'll find someone crafting tropical cocktails after a tiring hike to the cross atop Pointe des Châteaux.

You also might need an extra battery charger. I'm not talking about the Anker you already keep in your bag. I mean [DJ Khaled voice] another one. You will take so many photos and record so many videos that not only will your camera, phone and tablet batteries be put to the ultimate test, you might also want to bring a thumb drive or two to keep your new memories organized.

Oh, and don't forget your plug adapter. There are only Type C and E outlets to be found in the resorts here, so those battery chargers will be getting a ton of extra use if you forget your adapter. (I had to pick one up at the Club Med La Caravelle gift shop, and fortunately they took Visa.)

Run at the Island’s Speed

My first impression of the Guadeloupe Islands was something like: "Oh my... this place is so green and amazing. Hey everyone, look how green and amazing this is!" My second impression was that everyone on the two main islands, Grande-Terre and Basse-Terre, drives like they are vying for pole position at an upcoming F1 race.

However, I'm not saying they're bad drivers. Anything but. I was caught off guard by how well my drivers navigated the crowded highways and made it feel like we were never really stuck in traffic, even when we occasionally were. I mention this because we were informed upon arrival at the airport that all car rental companies operate here, and I immediately pictured the highway scene from Clueless .

I do not recommend first- or even second-time visitors renting a car. More confident drivers might ignore this advice, but I cut my teeth on I-95 in Miami, and I will gladly cede all driving responsibilities to the professionals.

When you're out of the cars and vans, everything else runs at the speed of life, maybe even a little slower. There are fast food restaurants on the Guadeloupe Islands, so if getting in and out and moving on to the next adventure is your priority, then grab a Grand McFarmer and a Mars McFlurry from McDonald's and be on your way. But when you're dining at an oceanside spot—especially one that is crowded, in a smaller town, or both—sit back, order a Ti' Punch or two, and chillax.

I'm not saying food service is slow or servers ignore customers. Things just take a little longer. Honestly, I'm glad this was the case, because these islands offer views for days and there wasn't a TV in sight. Embrace the way time seems to stop, and this will feel like heaven.

Bring a Healthy Appetite

Even if you're in a hurry and McDonald's is the best option for keeping to your itinerary, I implore you to stop and reconsider more time for eating. The way so many of the local restaurants blend French, Creole and Caribbean flavors is nothing short of wizardry, and not one hour has gone by since my return that I don't think about when I'll have Chicken Colombo again.

And don't just make time for better food; try something new. I'm not much of a soup guy, but I challenged myself to try three different bowls at An Chodye La in Pointe-à-Pitre, and now I won't stop talking about the white bean soup. Every fish dish I ate was among the freshest I've ever had in my life, and if it weren't for a pesky shellfish allergy I would have been grabbing lobsters from the ocean with my bare hands (I'm not recommending you do that, because it might be frowned upon).

I don't even normally have red meat for lunch, what with my desire to be awake in the daytime, but the beefsteak served at Ti Bo Doudou in Terre-de-Haut was fantastic and well worth the sleepiness.

From the resorts to the tiny buildings that look like someone's living room, the Guadeloupe Islands boast incredible culinary treats for visitors both brave and picky. It'd be a shame to leave without trying most of them.

Get Your Hands Dirty

Sticking with my mantra of trying something new, the greatest strength of the Guadeloupe Islands is variety. This goes for everything from food to accommodations, but more than anything it reflects activities and adventures.

If you simply want a gorgeous beach or a cascading pool with views that seem like they were pulled from your iMac's default screensaver, that's fine. Head to Grand Anse beach on Basse-Terre (or the beach of the same name on Terre-de-Bas), Plage Du Souffleur on Grande-Terre, or the pool at La Toubana and your vacation will be made. But just know that there is so much more to enjoy on these incredible islands.

For example, I have never thought about visiting a cacao plantation and making my own chocolate bars, but when I learned that this was offered at Gwakako in Pointe-Noire, I couldn't wait to try. The same can be said for horseback riding, which I hadn't tried since childhood, but I was told that some of the best views of Basse-Terre were only accessible on horseback, and so it was off to Ranch de Moreau to see if that was true. (Spoiler alert: It was!)

Best of all, there's so much left for me to do on the next trip to the Guadeloupe Islands, and that desire to return again and again is really the best gift this glorious destination offers.

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The Safest Caribbean Islands (That Are Family Vacation Worthy)

• Traveling to safe Caribbean islands for a family vacation can provide parents and kids with a memorable experience while ensuring their safety.
• Antigua & Barbuda, Barbados, Bonaire, Cayman Islands, Aruba, St. Lucia, Grenada, St. Maarten & St. Martin, Anguilla, and St. Barts are among the safest Caribbean islands for family vacations.
• Not only are these spots some of the safest family friendly Caribbean islands, but they also offer beautiful scenery, family activities, low crime rates, and a commitment to tourism safety, making them ideal islands in the Caribbean for families with children.

The ability to travel as a family, with small children or even teenagers, is a great memory for families to create together. Excitedly enough, vacations aren’t always just about crafting memories that will last a lifetime; studies have even shown that traveling makes children perform better in school and may even extend their love for education into their careers.

When choosing vacation destinations for families, though, travelers should look into many aspects, including budget, accommodations, excursions, and dates, all of which play major factors in the final decision. However, those traveling with a family shouldn't overlook safety, even when planning to visit any of the beautiful vacation destinations in the Caribbean islands. Indeed, there are a number of Caribbean Islands that are safer than others (especially for solo female travelers) , which would make better vacation spots for families with children in particular.

While the Bahamas are often safe (especially the Abacos Islands) , places like Haiti, Puerto Rico, and even parts of Jamaica may not be the safest islands in the Caribbean for families, whether it may be due to a high crime rate, a surge in illegal substances, or major and frequent hurricanes. Luckily, here is a list of the safest Caribbean islands for families on vacation, from Antigua and Barbuda all the way to St. Barts!

UPDATE: 2024/01/01 09:38 EST BY LAURALYN BROWN

More Safe Caribbean Islands For Families to Visit!

The Caribbean is a dreamy destination for all kinds of travelers. Whether families are looking for an all-inclusive resort, solo female travelers are dreaming about discovering a new culture, or a group of friends are planning to discover epic parties on a paradisical island, the Caribbean has a spot for all! As safety should be a priority when deciding on a destination, this list has been increased and updated to include more of the safest places in the Caribbean to visit for families in particular.

There are many factors that make Caribbean islands safe or unsafe. For consistency and to inject real-world perceptions of each destination, this list of safe islands in the Caribbean for families to visit has been created based on Safety Index ratings from Numbeo's Crime Indices (the safest island in the Caribbean for families at the end lacked data for Safety Index and has thus been placed based on its exclusivity, 0 Danger Level on Travel Advisory , and extremely low crime rate and 0% murder rate).

RELATED: These Are The 10 Safest Countries In Europe

Antigua & Barbuda

The only major risk in antigua and barbuda is the hurricane season.

Antigua and Barbuda have become a paradise for digital nomads , thanks to their zero income tax, natural beauty, and safety. These safe Caribbean island destinations are especially famous for pristine beaches and historical sites, so whether exploring Nelson's Dockyard , indulging in water sports, or savoring the local cuisine, visitors can do so with confidence.

The island's commitment to tourism safety and the warmth of its residents contribute to its reputation as one of the safest Caribbean islands to visit for families. That said, people should perhaps avoid the island between July and November due to the hurricane season.

• When to Visit: Mid-December to mid-April
• Safety Index: 43.61
• Scenic Spots: Shirley Heights Lookout , Valley Church Beach, Devil's Bridge
• Activities: Stingray City Antigua , Dickenson Bay , Pigeon Point Beach

Barbados is considered one of the most family-friendly islands in the Caribbean

Another one of the best Caribbean islands for families is Barbados; the island is known to have endless possibilities for all ages, countless underwater caves to explore, and informative tours of stunning historic abbeys, all of which appear on lists of things to do in Barbados on a vacation . Additionally, Barbados is considered one of the highest-ranking islands in terms of safety for families .

Barbados has plenty of the Caribbean's best-kept secrets ; however, it's perhaps most known for its flying fish, which is the country’s symbol and on the national flag. This meal is one of the most authentic Bajan dishes to try ; it's normally stewed and served on Fridays with cou-cou, tomatoes, onion, and herbs. To pair with this dish, parents can enjoy the finest and oldest rum in the world, Mount Gay Rum , which dates back to 1703 (the company also offers tours of its factory!).

Attracting nearly a million tourists per year , tourism plays a huge role in the economy of Barbados, and the locals and shop owners are known to be some of the kindest people in the Caribbean. Many of the best beaches in Barbados are family-friendly, too, and some are even known to have incredible pink sands to contrast the turquoise water (the stunning Crane Beach, one of the most beautiful beaches in Barbados, comes to mind!).

• When to Visit: December to April
• Safety Index: 52.87
• Scenic Spots: Animal Flower Cave , Bathsheba Beach, North Point , Crane Beach, Rockley Beach
• Activities: Harrison's Cave Eco-Adventure Park , St. Nicholas Abbey and Steam Railway , Carlisle Bay

Among the most important things to know before visiting Barbados is that camouflage clothing and items are illegal (yes, even fashion articles with camouflage print). Anybody arriving in Barbados seen to have any items with camouflage on them will have them confiscated by airport officials (they keep the items and return them to tourists upon departure from the country). Airport officials might also search luggage for any more camouflage items and confiscate them temporarily until travelers depart the country. Tourists must also never wear or carry any camouflage clothing or items in Barbados; it's highly offensive and may result in action from law enforcement.

Related: 15 Luxurious All-Inclusive Resorts In The Caribbean (That Are Cheaper Than You Thought)

Enjoy this picturesque Caribbean island without a care in the world!

Travelers seeking low-key Caribbean islands that receive fewer tourists than the most popular spots should check the Dutch Caribbean Islands, especially Bonaire. The tiny island is renowned for its exceptional coral reefs, diving opportunities (though there are plenty of things to do in Bonaire other than scuba diving ), and low crime rate .

Visitors can explore the diverse marine life bustling at Bonaire's amazing dive sites , along with the island's beautiful landscapes and quaint capital, Kralendijk, without significant safety concerns. The island's commitment to preserving its natural treasures also aligns with its reputation for providing a serene and secure environment. On that note, the island's green initiatives and marine conservation efforts are among the reasons Bonaire is a top scuba diving destination in the Caribbean.

Ultimately, Bonaire's charm and safety record make it an appealing choice for those seeking a peaceful Caribbean escape.

• When to Visit: May to October
• Safety Index: 62.95
• Scenic Spots: Seru Largu, Brandaris, The Queen’s Highway
• Activities: Jibe City , 1,000 Steps , Te Amo Beach

Cayman Islands

The cayman islands have the lowest crime rate in the caribbean.

The Cayman Islands offer many things to do and see , but they're especially renowned for their pristine beaches and vibrant marine life. It's not the powdery white-sand beaches and colorful underwater world that solely beckon visitors, though; it's also the fact that this entire destination is among the safest Caribbean destinations for families. In fact, locals are proud of having the lowest crime rates in the Caribbean .

Aside from being the Caribbean island with the lowest crime rate, the Cayman Islands also prioritize hospitality and offer a range of upscale resorts and amenities. Tourists can feel at ease when exploring the renowned Seven Mile Beach or indulging in water activities. Overall, the Cayman Islands' commitment to safety and natural beauty makes them an inviting destination for those seeking a tranquil and secure Caribbean getaway.

• When to Visit: December and April
• Safety Index: 68.35
• Scenic spots: Cayman Crystal Caves , Rum Point, Seven Mile Beach
• Activities: Cayman Turtle Centre , Cayman Crystal Caves, Kittiwake Shipwreck & Artificial Reef

Resorts and gated communities make this one of the safe Caribbean islands for kids

We'll be humming that song "Kokomo" by the Beach Boys all day long here in Aruba! Aruba's white sandy beaches, friendly locals, and insanely blue waters are just a few of the many reasons why people love to vacation in Aruba , especially families. Another reason is due in part to the island being consistently safe for families thanks to its “first-world” modern infrastructure .

For extra security, it's recommended to stay within a resort or gated community ; however, Aruba might still have some pickpocketers and scammers around the island. Still, that doesn't take away from the fact that the island is filled with beautiful, natural formations to explore, dreamy beaches like Baby Beach and Eagle Beach , and wildlife adventures that the entire family will enjoy!

• When to Visit: January to May
• Safety Index: 68.61
• Scenic Spots: Arashi Beach, Oranjestad, Baby Beach
• Activities: Arikok National Park, Conchi Natural Pool , Aruba Aloe Factory

Related: The Safest Place You Can Stay In Mexico (If You Don't Want To Book An All-Inclusive)

The only thing families should fear in St. Lucia is bad weather!

Not only is St. Lucia a budget-friendly and romantic getaway, but it's also an incredibly safe island in the Caribbean with plenty of all-inclusive family resorts . Families can enjoy nature excursions around the island, overwater restaurants, and swimming in crystal clear waters without a second thought.

Saint Lucia has seen some crime in recent years, but it's still considered safe compared to many Caribbean islands (incidents of petty crime, like in most parts of the region, are still a slight problem). Currently, the US Department of State has a Level 1 travel advisory for St. Lucia , which means to exercise normal precautions.

Perhaps the biggest concern in St. Lucia is hurricane season, which typically occurs between June and November. For clear skies and warm temperatures, families should plan their trip during the winter and early spring (actually, Saint Lucia is one of the most incredible islands to visit in December !).

• When to Visit: February to May
• Safety Index: 7 0
• Scenic Spots: Pigeon Island National Park , Pitons Mountains, Rodney Bay
• Activities: Diamond Falls Botanical Gardens & Mineral Baths , Anse Mamin Beach, Tet Paul Nature Trail

Studies reveal that the "Spice Isle" is safer than some US cities

Grenada, known as the "Spice Isle," is another one of the safe destinations in the Caribbean for families to visit. Most crimes on the island are non-violent, and according to statistics , it's safer than some cities in the US, including New York City and Los Angeles. The low crime rates in Grenada allow visitors to enjoy the country's beauty without worries.

Grenada is also renowned for its lush landscapes, spice plantations (hence its nickname!), and welcoming locals. Exploring the island's historic forts, diving into vibrant coral reefs, or simply enjoying the pristine beaches can be done with confidence. The island's commitment to tourism safety and its emphasis on preserving its natural beauty contribute to Grenada's reputation as a peaceful and secure haven perfect for family vacations in the Caribbean.

• Safety Index: 73.50
• Scenic Spots: Magazine Beach, Morne Rouge Beach, Grand Etang National Park & Forest Reserve
• Activities: Annandale Waterfall & Forest Park , Grenada Underwater Sculpture Park , House of Chocolate Museum

RELATED: 10 Destinations For A Long Weekend Getaway In The Caribbean

St. Maarten & St. Martin

These mostly crime-free caribbean islands offer stunning resorts, beaches, and epic nightlife.

Is it St. Maarten or St. Martin? It depends; they are actually two different islands! St. Martin is a French island, complete with French cuisine with Caribbean ingredients, whereas St. Maarten is an English island that was once run by the Dutch. The English side has various nightlife activities like rum tasting, dancing, and shows. The latter also has the majority of the shopping district of both islands.

As for security, generally, these are among the Caribbean islands that are safe for families; in fact, St. Martin has almost no crime, however, tourists should always be careful of petty crimes like pickpocketing .

For those looking for excursions and sightseeing trips, the islands provide plenty of daytime activities to accommodate the whole family. Day trips to Anguilla are also available through a car rental company or through a tour guide. The drive there and back totals under three hours. However, to offer a true Caribbean experience, families are encouraged to take the local ferry across .

• Safety Index: 73.67
• Scenic Spots: Maho Beach, Pinel Island, Marigot Bay Port
• Activities: Grand Case , Maho Beach, Seaside Nature Park

With extremely low crime rates , Anguilla is the perfect Caribbean destination for families

Considered another one of the safest islands in the Caribbean for children and parents, Anguilla is a haven for those with young kiddos. Luxury tourism is the reason there are many villas and condos that can be rented in Anguilla, similar to the Bahamas. Each villa offers families a private balcony, some with private pools and hot tubs, with a kitchen and multiple bedrooms to accommodate each family member.

Although this island has very low crime rates, for safety reasons, it’s recommended to avoid hurricane season in Anguilla, which generally begins in June and ends in November. That said, most all-inclusive resorts and tourist attractions will often have their lowest prices between May and August, so a little Mother’s Day getaway to celebrate is great for saving money, but the risk of hurricanes and storms does linger.

Anguilla is also filled with child-friendly activities like horseback riding, swimming with dolphins, epic sandcastle contests on the beach, and even glass-bottomed boat rides to view the marine life below.

• Safety Index: 79.90
• Scenic Spots: Sandy Ground Beach, Anguilla Arch , Cove Bay
• Activities: Sandy Island, Prickley Pear Cays , Rendezvous Bay

St. Barts (Saint Barthelemy)

This exclusive celebrity hotspot is easily the least dangerous caribbean island.

It is not uncommon to walk the streets filled with luxurious villas and a small number of upscale resorts and bump into a celebrity or movie star on the French Caribbean island of Saint Barts; the island is considered one of the most expensive and exclusive islands in the Caribbean, which is also why it's perhaps the safest Caribbean island for families (and everyone else, really).

Amazingly, St. Barts is so safe that some locals even leave their cars and homes unlocked . Moreover, the island has a 0% murder rate and a below-average crime rate, earning it first place among the safest Caribbean islands to visit on the Miami Herald's list . That said, pickpocketing and purse snatching, among other forms of petty crime, do still occur, so visitors should be mindful when storing and carrying valuables, just as they would anywhere else.

Unlike most Caribbean islands, the best time to visit St. Barts is between November and June, but it's especially hot from December until April. However, December is so popular among vacationers that in order to book for the month, it will have to be done a whole six months ahead of time.

• When to Visit: November to April
• Danger Level: 0
• Scenic Spots: Beach of Cayes Cove , Colombier Beach, Gustavia
• Activities: Shell Beach, Eden Rock , Anse de Grande Saline

Find yourself in Nevis

Welcome to Nevis, a remarkable island jewel nestled in the northern end of the Lesser Antilles, among the crystal-clear water of the Caribbean Sea. Here the vibe is relaxed, the landscape is lush and the view is majestic and mountainous.

– Hotels

– Villas

– Guest Houses

Where To Stay

When choosing somewhere to stay on Nevis, the top locations are up on the hills or the sandy beaches.

Barefoot Luxury

Feel the warm sand between your toes as you walk along the pristine shores, gazing up at the magnificent Nevis Peak and taking in the effortless elegance around you.

Island Of Experiences

Nevis may be famed for its boundless beauty, but what really makes this Caribbean island such a unique gem is its welcoming people, easy-going nature and unique experiences.

A holiday on Nevis will leave you feeling relaxed and at ease with the world. You can heighten that sense of relaxation and well-being with a spa treatment at one of the excellent spas on the island.

Nevis is a very elegant and romantic venue for a wedding. You can choose from picturesque churches, historic plantations, soft, sandy beaches or beautiful tropical gardens.

Nevis is a beautiful island waiting to be discovered. There are many ways to explore it by yourself or you can enlist the help of one of the many excellent guides.

Food & Culture

Enjoy Caribbean cuisine only found on Nevis.

Dining on Nevis is a delight. You can ‘go local’ and sample the wide choice of delectable Caribbean dishes, particularly the fabulously fresh fish, or you can ‘taste the world’ and enjoy a wonderful range of superb international cuisine. 

Getting To Nevis

Your sun-soaked vacation is just a plane, yacht or ferry ride away. Whether you’re greeted by a view of the beaches below you, or the grand Nevis Peak as you approach the island’s coast—you’ll always be met with the warmest of welcomes.

– By Air

– By Ferry

– By Yacht

Island Activities

From marathon and swim events, to cultural festivals, culinary festivals, and annual sea turtle experience, events on Nevis are moments to remember.

Bars & Restaurants

You can ‘go local’ and sample the wide choice of delectable Caribbean dishes, particularly the fabulously fresh fish, ‘taste the world’ and enjoy superb international cuisine.

Health & Wellness

Breathe while enjoying beach yoga, release the tensions and toxins during a body massage and other spa treatments, against the backdrops of breathtaking scenery and panoramic views.⁠

Film & Production

Nevis provides the perfect backdrop for your next film, fashion or advertising shoot. Discover what everyone is talking about. 

Nevis Adventure Tours Cycling Fishing Hiking & Walking Horseback Riding Off Road 4x4 Sailing Watersports

Annual Events

Nevis Marathon Nevis Triathlon Cross Channel Swim Nevis Mango Festival Nevis Culturama Sea Turtle Experience

Arts & Crafts

Cloth Art Nevis Craft House Stone Art Rogers' Souvenirs Vaughn Anslyn

Nevis Attractions

Malcolm Guishard Park Artisan Village Belmont Gardens

Upcoming Events

Nevis History

Historical Sites & Landmarks Nevisian Heritage Village

Golf Mountain Climbing Running Swimming Tennis Triathlon

Getting Married Marriage Requirements

Nevis Hot Springs Nevis Spas Yoga

Caribbean Travel Related Sites

Caribbean islands - caribbean vacations - caribbean travel.

7 Caribbean Islands That Come With A Real Pirate History

Although pirates in the Caribbean are long gone from the region, many islands have embraced their pirating heritage, which can be seen today.

• The Caribbean has a rich history of piracy during the Pirate Gold Age in the late 17th to early 18th centuries.
• Famous pirates like Blackbeard and Calico Jack inhabited Nassau, Jamaica, and St. Thomas during this era.
• Visitors today can explore pirate-themed attractions and historic sites on these Caribbean islands connected to their pirate past.

Today, there are many safe, low-crime Caribbean islands , and the region is generally considered a safe destination, but that hasn't always been the case. During the tumultuous era of the Pirate Gold Age in the Caribbean, the islands witnessed an extraordinary chapter in maritime history. This era spanned roughly from the late 17th to the early 18th centuries, marking the peak of piracy in the region, as notorious pirates occupied the islands, mainly aiming at merchant ships.

Although pirates are no longer sailing in the Caribbean, they remain part of the collective imagination thanks to the movie industry. Yet, there are still little-known facts about real-life pirates in the Caribbean region. The Caribbean became synonymous with lawlessness and treasure-laden ships, capturing future generations' imaginations. Today, pirates are also part of the tourism hub due to historic sites and pirate-themed cruises.

For those intrigued about real pirates (not just those seen in popular movies and TV shows), these Caribbean islands with pirate history are home to a treasure trove of historical pirating stories and showcase various attractions, sites, and experiences that enable visitors to learn all about the region's dark history.

10 All-Inclusive Resorts In The Caribbean Perfect For Big Families

7 nassau, bahamas, famous for having the largest concentration of pirates between 1696 and 1720.

Nassau, the capital of the Bahamas, is famous for its beaches . Beyond that, the place has a rich history intertwined with piracy during the Golden Age of Piracy in the late 17th and early 18th centuries. Due to its strategic location and lax governance, Nassau became a prolific spot among pirates, and during its "prime era," over one thousand corsairs lived there.

Nassau was home to famous pirates, including Calico Jack and the infamous Edward Teach (a.k.a. Blackbeard), who was voted among pirates to be their magistrate .

Nowadays, many pirate-related attractions are available. History enthusiasts should visit Nassau's many forts and the Pirates of Nassau Museum . Captain John Howard Graysmith, a famous pirate, originally built the Graycliff Hotel.

This Caribbean nation was home to the "Wickedest City on Earth" during the 17th century

Port Royal, located near Kingston, Jamaica, was once known as the " Wickedest City on Earth " during the height of piracy in the 17th century. It was a bustling hub for pirates, privateers, and merchants, with its infamous reputation for debauchery and lawlessness.

Today, visitors can learn more about the remnants of this pirate heritage thanks to projects like the Port Royal Archaeological Site , where sunken ships and artifacts offer glimpses into its colorful past.

Calico Jack was captured in Negril , and places named after the pirate, including the town's most famous bar, Calico Jack's Pirate Island , can be visited.

7 Affordable Caribbean Islands Perfect For Retirement

5 grand cayman, cayman islands, the buccaneers ruled the region in the 17th century.

Grand Cayman, part of the Cayman Islands, has a history of pirate activity dating back to the 17th century when pirates used its secluded coves and hidden bays as hideouts. The buccaneers ruled the island for over a hundred years and remain part of the collective imagination.

Legends abound of buried treasure on the island, although no significant finds have been made.

Visitors can learn about the island's pirate past at the Cayman Islands National Museum in George Town, which features exhibits on local history, including pirate artifacts and stories. People can also take one of the pirate cruises available on the island.

14 Safest Caribbean Islands For Solo Female Travelers

4 san juan, puerto rico, this island was home to a pirate known as the robin hood of puerto rico during the 19th century.

San Juan, the capital of Puerto Rico, has a long history of pirate attacks and invasions dating back to the 16th century. The city's strategic location made it a target for pirates seeking to plunder Spanish galleons laden with gold and silver from the New World.

Roberto "El Pirata" Cofresí is Puerto Rico's most prolific pirate. He was also known as Robin Hood because he shared her loot with the poor.

Today, visitors can explore historic sites such as Castillo San Felipe del Morro and Castillo San Cristobal , both UNESCO World Heritage Sites built to defend the city from pirate raids.

3 St. Thomas, U.S. Virgin Islands

Pirates lived in the region between 1690 and 1730.

St. Thomas, one of the U.S. Virgin Islands, is a popular destination and is frequently visited by the best US Virgin Islands cruises . In the past, different types of ships were common in the region; the Virgin Islands, especially St. Thomas, was frequented by pirates during the Golden Age of Piracy due to its location along major trade routes.

Famous pirates such as Blackbeard and Bluebeard were known to roam the waters surrounding the island, preying on merchant ships.

Visitors used to be able to explore historic sites such as Blackbeard's Castle , a 17th-century watchtower overlooking Charlotte Amalie for many years. Sadly, a hurricane severely damaged the building in 2017, and it's no longer open for visitors. However, travelers can still visit places like the Pirates Treasure Museum or join a personalized treasure hunt .

Skip The Crowds At The Least-Visited Caribbean Island This Summer

Pirates were attracted by merchant ships during the 17th century.

Barbados is another must-visit destination with many things to do . Like many other islands in the Caribbean, its history is intertwined with pirate activity, which dates back to the 17th century, when it was a British colony. The island was an important destination for merchant ships , attracting pirates. Home to numerous bays and coves, Barbados offered many places for pirates to hide.

Nowadays, visitors can learn about Barbados' history (including the pirate golden age) at the Barbados Museum & Historical Society , which houses exhibits on the island's colonial past, including pirate artifacts and tales of pirate raids.

7 Low-Crime Caribbean Islands For Retirement

1 st. kitts & nevis, pirates were in the region until the 19th century.

St. Kitts and Nevis, located in the Leeward Islands, also had many pirates during the 17th and 18th centuries. Their presence faded in the 19th century but is still remembered as part of the island's history. The islands' strategic location along major trade routes made them prime targets for pirates looking to plunder passing ships.

Today, visitors can explore historical sites such as Brimstone Hill Fortress National Park on St. Kitts, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, which offers panoramic views of the surrounding seas and insights into the island's colonial past.

US tourists face 12 years in prison for accidentally bringing ammo to Caribbean island

The u.s. state department is warning travelers about strict new laws in turks and caicos islands that carry a mandatory minimum sentence of 12 years for bringing guns or ammunition to the island: "if you bring a firearm or ammunition into tci, even inadvertently, we will not be able to secure your release from custody", by leslie gaydos • published april 23, 2024 • updated on april 25, 2024 at 8:56 pm.

An Oklahoma woman was reunited Tuesday with her young children after being detained for almost two weeks in Turks and Caicos Islands for allegedly violating their strict guns and ammunition law. Her husband is being held in the British Overseas Territory near the Bahamas.

Ryan and Valerie Watson, who live in Oklahoma, left for Turks and Caicos Islands on April 7 to celebrate the 40th birthdays of Ryan and two friends. When they went through security for their return flight, their carry-on was flagged and searched and officials found a Ziploc bag of bullets.

"They were hunting ammunition rounds that I use for whitetail deer," said Ryan, "and I recognized them and I thought, oh man, what a bonehead mistake that I had no idea that those were in there."

The two shared their story virtually with NBC10 Boston last week before their first court hearing. They were stuck on the island, their passports confiscated, separated from their young son and daughter.

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"When I heard that, I immediately was terrified because I was like, we can't both be in prison for 12 years. We have kids at home. And this is such an innocent mistake that we didn't even know we weren't– we didn't even know it was there. So yeah, my immediate thought was our kids and them being, you know, parentless for, for that long," Valerie said.

The Watsons were questioned and charged with possession of ammunition. In 2022, Turks and Caicos passed an amendment with stiffer penalties for possession of weapons or ammunition, increasing the mandatory minimum prison sentence to 12 years.

This is something that we may never recover from Ryan Watson, American tourist charged with possession of ammunition in Turks and Caicos Islands

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Tourists' Caribbean arrests highlight value of US travel warnings, expert says

Virginia man is latest American charged with ammunition possession in Turks and Caicos

Last September, the U.S. Embassy in the Bahamas issued a travel alert warning Americans after a tourist from Indiana got an eight-month prison sentence for possession of ammunition.

The alert says: "We wish to remind all travelers that declaring a weapon in your luggage with an airline carrier does not grant permission to bring the weapon into TCI [Turks and Caicos Islands] and will result in your arrest.

"We strongly encourage you to carefully check your luggage for stray ammunition or forgotten weapons before departing for TCI. If you bring a firearm or ammunition into TCI, we will not be able to secure your release from custody. You are subject to TCI laws and must follow local law enforcement procedures," the alert continued.

Bryan Hagerich was detained by Turks and Caicos authorities after a family vacation in February when hunting ammunition was found in his luggage before he boarded a flight home. He said the ammunition was found in a bag he frequently used for weekend hunting trips.

"I've been here for almost 70 days now after posting bail. I've been out, right now just waiting to go to the hearing. That's where my case would be heard, then following that would be sentencing," Hagerich said.

Hagerich, who played baseball professionally and was once drafted by the Florida Marlins, lives in Pennsylvania with his wife and two young kids. He spent eight days in prison before posting bail and is awaiting a May 3 court hearing.

"It's incredibly scary. You know, you just don't know what the next day may bring. You know, what path this may take. You know, you're in a completely different culture, a different country by yourself. You know, it's certainly a lot different than packing your bags and going away with your family for a few days. It's been the worst 70 days of my life," Hagerich said.

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He and the Watsons are also dealing with the financial strain of paying for an extended stay and being away from their jobs.

"We've already talked, and we're like, what if, you know, what if we lose our house? Which, when we moved to Oklahoma, we built a home that we thought was our forever home. And to think that this is going to ruin us..." said an emotional Valerie.

"This is something that we may never recover from," Ryan said.

"I'm just very anxious, eager to get home to my family," said Hagerich. "This has been too long. You know, it's just had so much irreparable harm to my family, that, you know, I just can't continue to see them struggle anymore. I just want to hug my family and start this healing process together."

After their hearing yesterday, Ryan was sent to jail; he was granted bail at a hearing on Wednesday. Charges were dropped for Valerie on Monday and she is now back in Oklahoma with her two children.

The judges in Turks and Caicos Islands are able to make exceptions to the mandatory minimum sentence if they determine there are "exceptional circumstances" in a case.

NBC10 Boston reached out to the U.S. Embassy in the Bahamas and Turks and Caicos Islands' tourism bureau about the Watsons' situation and have not heard back. We contacted the State Department and a spokesperson told NBC10 Boston they are aware of the arrest of U.S. citizens in Turks and Caicos and that, "The U.S. Department of State and our embassies and consulates abroad have no greater priority than the safety and security of U.S. citizens overseas."

The spokesperson added, "When a U.S. citizen is arrested overseas, we stand ready to provide all appropriate consular assistance. In a foreign country, U.S. citizens are subject to that country's laws, even if they differ from those in the United States… As our security alert from September 22, 2023 states, in the Turks and Caicos Islands (TCI), firearms, ammunition, and other weapons are not permitted. TCI authorities strictly enforce all firearms related laws. The penalty for traveling to TCI with a firearm, ammunition, or other weapon is a minimum custodial sentence of twelve (12) years. If a traveler brings a firearm or ammunition into TCI, the U.S. Department of State will not be able to secure their release from custody. Travelers are subject to TCI laws and must follow local law enforcement procedures."

The State Department said they are unable to provide the number of U.S. citizens charged with weapon/ammunition possession since the department is unable to track local arrests.

But law enforcement officials in Turks and Caicos Islands acknowledged Wednesday in a statement that three Americans are out on bail in such cases.

"The Firearms Ordinance applies to all persons present within the Turks and Caicos Islands regardless of status or origin," read the statement from the offices of the attorney general and the director of public prosecution.

pic.twitter.com/Kz31Ng5wJk — TCIG Communications Directorate (@TCIG_Press) April 24, 2024

Also Wednesday, the U.S. Embassy in the Bahamas issued a new statement urging all travelers to take care looking for weapons or ammunition when leaving the U.S.

" Carefully check your luggage for stray ammunition or forgotten weapons before departing from the United States ," the warning says in bold, going on to note that enforcement in Turks and Caicos Islands is strict, legally declared weapons aren't allowed in the territory and TSA screening may not turn up ammunition in baggage on the way out of the country.

" If you bring a firearm or ammunition into TCI, even inadvertently, we will not be able to secure your release from custody. You are subject to TCI laws and must follow local law enforcement procedures," the statement said.

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An Oklahoma tourist says he faces 12 years in prison in the Caribbean after he mistakenly left 4 bullets from a hunting trip in his carry-on duffel bag

• Ryan Watson was on vacation when he was charged with illegally carrying ammo into Turks and Caicos.
• He and his wife, Valerie, say the four bullets in their duffel bag were unknowingly left there from a hunting trip.
• Watson now faces 12 years in prison, alongside several US tourists charged for similar offenses.

An Oklahoma man traveling with his wife in the Caribbean territory of Turks and Caicos faces 12 years in prison after four rounds of ammunition were found in his luggage.

Ryan and Valerie Watson arrived in Turks and Caicos earlier this month to celebrate his 40th birthday with several other couples, their families said in a GoFundMe. NBC Boston reported that the Watsons arrived on April 7.

But the pair, who have two young children, were arrested in the self-governed British territory after airport security found the four bullets in their carry-on duffel bag.

Their families' GoFundMe said the ammo had been left in the bag unintentionally, and was from a prior deer hunting trip.

"They were hunting ammunition rounds that I use for white-tailed deer, and I recognized them, and I thought: 'Oh, what a mistake.' I had no idea that they were in there," Ryan Watson told NBC News.

Valerie Watson was released from the charges on Tuesday and flew back to Oklahoma to reunite with her children.

But her husband remains in Turks and Caicos, and was granted $15,000 bail the day after by the local supreme court, according to a police statement.

He now faces 12 years in prison, which is the minimum custodial sentence for bringing firearms or ammunition into Turks and Caicos.

Ryan Watson must stay on the islands and report twice a week to a local police station while waiting for his hearing, which is set for June 7.

Meanwhile, his family is trying to raise $300,000 for his legal fees and housing in the Caribbean.

"Isolated from their family, friends, and children, they face mounting legal fees, living expenses, and the overwhelming stress of their situation," their GoFundMe reads. "The emotional and financial toll is immense, and they are at risk of losing everything."

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"We were trying to pack board shorts and flip flops," Valerie Watson told CBS News . "Packing ammunition was not at all our intent."

The Watsons did not immediately respond to a request for comment sent outside regular business hours by Business Insider through their GoFundMe.

Eight US tourists prosecuted since February

It is illegal to bring firearms or ammunition into Turks and Caicos, and penalties apply regardless of the offender's status or country of origin, according to the local attorney general's chambers.

Several tourists caught under this law were previously let off with just a fine, while at least one was given a prison sentence under the minimum limit.

But in February, a court of appeal ordered that all offenders be given at least the minimum sentence of 12 years in prison.

At least eight tourists from the US have since been prosecuted under this rule, per the attorney general's chambers.

Another American tourist, 31-year-old Tyler Wenrich , was charged on Tuesday with possessing ammunition after he arrived in Turks and Caicos on a cruise ship, according to local police.

"While going through a security checkpoint, it was discovered Mr Wenrich allegedly had ammunition in his possession," a police statement said.

Amid the recent spate of tourist arrests, the US State Department published a September advisory warning US citizens that it wouldn't be able to secure their release if they brought firearms and ammo into Turks and Caicos.

"We strongly encourage you to carefully check your luggage for stray ammunition or forgotten weapons before departing for TCI," the advisory said.

The US State Department did not immediately respond to a request for comment sent outside regular business hours by Business Insider.

Tourism is a key revenue for Turks and Caicos, and in 2019 provided about $787 million, or 65% of the island's GDP, to the territory, per a 2023 report by the Commonwealth Chamber of Commerce.

The Caribbean archipelago is a popular port of call for US cruise ships, and this year has seen a 127% jump in tourist arrivals — the largest increase in the world — compared to 2019, the United Nations World Tourism Organization said in February.

Watch: VIDEO: Matthew McConaughey makes an emotional plea for more gun control

• Main content

Watch CBS News

Shark attacks and seriously injures British tourist in the Caribbean as friends "fight off" the predator

Updated on: April 29, 2024 / 6:23 AM EDT / CBS/AP

A shark attacked a British tourist on Friday in the southeastern Caribbean, prompting the government of Trinidad & Tobago to close seven beaches and a marine park. The man was hospitalized in an intensive care unit following the attack, officials said.

The closure included beaches along the northwestern coast of the island of Tobago. The attack occurred at Turtle Beach along Great Courland Bay.

The BBC identified the victim as Peter Smith, 64, who was on the Caribbean island with wife Jo and friends when he was attacked. His wife said he suffered damage to his left arm and leg, puncture wounds to the abdomen and injuries to his right hand.

This weekend, she said her husband "is aware of what is happening and is able to communicate a little, although he is still under strong medication," according to the BBC.

Officials said the incident involved a bull shark estimated to be eight to 10 fet long, the BBC reported.

The government said in a statement that shark sightings were reported in the Grafton area and the Buccoo Reef Marine Park. Officials said the closures will allow the Coast Guard and Department of Fisheries to investigate the incident and "neutralize the shark threat, if possible."

Eyewitness Orion Jakerov, a water sports manager at the nearby Starfish resort, said other people in the water were "physically trying to fight off the shark."

"I don't think they saw it. They were about waist height in the water so they weren't out of their depth," he told the local broadcaster  TTT Live . "I think their backs were turned and they were just kind of lounging around. Nobody saw the shark coming."

Shark attacks are rare. Last year, there were 69 unprovoked attacks and 22 provoked bites worldwide, along with 14 fatalities, according to the Florida-based International Shark Attack File .

The incident in Tobago comes after attacks on American tourists in recent months in the Caribbean. In January, a young boy from Maryland was seriously injured when he was bitten by a shark at a resort in the Bahamas.

In December, a  Boston woman was killed in a shark attack  in the Bahamas. Lauren Erickson Van Wart, 44, was paddleboarding with a family member when she was attacked. She was declared dead at the scene by emergency responders. 

Last May, an American woman visiting Turks and Caicos was hospitalized in serious condition after being attacked by a shark while snorkeling. The 22-year-old woman from Connecticut, who was was reportedly on vacation celebrating her graduation from Yale, lost her foot in the attack.

• Shark Attack

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U.S. tourist faces 12 years in prison after taking ammunition to Turks and Caicos

An Oklahoma man faces up to 12 years in prison on a Caribbean island after customs officials found ammunition in his luggage.

Ryan Watson traveled to Turks and Caicos with his wife, Valerie, to celebrate his 40th birthday on April 7. They went with two friends who had also turned 40.

The vacation came to an abrupt end when airport staff members found a zip-close bag containing bullets in the couple's carry-on luggage. Watson said it was hunting ammunition he had accidentally brought with him — but under a strict law in Turks and Caicos, a court may still impose a mandatory 12-year sentence.

"They were hunting ammunition rounds that I use for whitetail deer," Watson told NBC Boston in an interview conducted last week that aired after their first court appearance Tuesday.

"I recognized them, and I thought, 'Oh, man, what a bonehead mistake that I had no idea that those were in there,'" he said.

The couple were arrested and charged with possession of ammunition. Authorities seized their passports and explained the penalties they faced.

Valerie Watson said in the interview: "When I heard that, I immediately was terrified, because I was like we can't both be in prison for 12 years. We have kids at home, and this is such an innocent mistake."

The charges against her were dropped, and she returned home to Oklahoma City on Tuesday after the court hearing to be reunited with her two young children.

"Our goal is to get Ryan home, because we can’t be a family without Dad," she said.

The couple also spoke about the financial burden of a much longer-than-planned trip. "This is something that we may never recover from," Ryan Watson said.

The U.S. Embassy in the Bahamas issued a warning to travelers in September about a law that strongly prohibits possession of firearms or ammunition in Turks and Caicos, an overseas British territory southeast of the Bahamas that is a popular vacation spot.

It said: "We wish to remind all travelers that declaring a weapon in your luggage with an airline carrier does not grant permission to bring the weapon into TCI [Turks and Caicos Islands] and will result in your arrest."

The embassy added: "If you bring a firearm or ammunition into TCI, we will not be able to secure your release from custody."

The embassy and the government in Turks and Caicos did not immediately respond to requests for comment.

The same thing happened to another American, Bryan Hagerich, of Pennsylvania, who was arrested after ammunition was found in his luggage before he tried to board a flight out of Turks and Caicos in February. He said he accidentally left it in his bag.

Hagerich was on a family vacation with his wife and two young children but has now been in the country for 70 days. He spent eight days in prison before he posted bail.

"It’s incredibly scary. You know, you just don’t know what the next day may bring — you know, what path this may take," Hagerich told NBC Boston.

"You know, it’s certainly a lot different than packing your bags and going away with your family for a few days. It’s been the worst 70 days of my life," he said.

Hagerich, once a professional baseball player, was drafted by the Florida Marlins in the MLB 2007 June amateur draft from the University of Delaware.

His case goes to trial May 3.

Patrick Smith is a London-based editor and reporter for NBC News Digital.