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Black Travelers: 10 Breathtaking Caribbean Islands to Explore

Are you planning a trip to the Caribbean this holiday? Let me tell you why you should. The Caribbean Islands are havens of natural beauty and diverse cultures for exploring. From historic sites to the beaches and forests, you’ll have fun on the islands. You are welcome as we explore 10 breathtaking islands you should visit.

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If you are ready, let’s learn about the fantastic islands to visit.

Grenada is known as the “Spice Isle” for its fragrant nutmeg spice plantations. The island offers lush rainforests, a rich culture, and incredible beaches . There are a couple of things you can explore while in Grenada. You can hike Grand Etang National Park & Forest Reserve.  You should snorkel in the island’s underwater sculpture park. 

With its vibrant festivals, historic sites, and stunning beaches, Barbados is a welcoming destination with a strong cultural identity. One of the best things you can do in Barbados is swim with the turtles. 

If you like to surf or are a photographer, I recommend Bathsheba Beach. The beach has one of the famous Soup Bowls, and it’s one of the best places where international surfing competitions are held.

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Saint Lucia

This island boasts dramatic landscapes with the famous Pitons , lush rainforests, and a mix of French and English influences. Saint Lucia is also famous for its beautiful beaches for couples and families. Some places you can visit with your family in Saint Lucia are The Pitons, Marigot Bay, Pigeon Island, and Diamond Falls, among others.

Jamaica is celebrated for its reggae music and laid-back vibe. Aside from the reggae that people enjoy in Jamaica, this island is characterized by its natural beauty, rich culture, and tasty cuisine. One of the famous places you should visit if you are in Jamaica is the Bob Marley Museum . 

The place covers the former home of the reggae legend, where you would discover his bedroom and recording studio. Some of the other things you shouldn’t miss are the Dunn’s River Falls and Park and White Witch Golf Course .

Trinidad and Tobago

These two islands are known for their Carnival celebrations and diverse cultural influences. Enjoy the unique blend of experiences that would have a lasting memory. Trinidad is best known for its nature and beautiful birds, whereas Tobago is famous for beach activities. 

Places to visit on these islands include Asa Wright Nature Centre, Caroni Bird Sanctuary, and Buccoo Reef.

Read also: 10 Best Beach Hotels in the Caribbean for Black Travelers

Haiti has a rich history, beautiful beaches, and a unique blend of African and French cultures. One historic place you should visit while in Haiti is Laferrière Citadel . After a successful revolt led by Jean-Jacques Dessalines, he ordered the construction of the fort. Other famous places are Sans Souci Palace, the National Pantheon Museum , and Saut-Mathurine.

Dominican Republic

Known for its all-inclusive resorts, the DR also offers historic cities, mountainous landscapes, and vibrant local culture. The Dominican Republic is best known for having beautiful beaches on the islands. However, there are more activities you can do to make your stay a memorable one. 

The Zonal Colonial in Santo Domingo is home to historical sites. They include Alcázar de Colón, Santa María la Menor and Fortaleza Ozama. There are other fun activities you can enjoy, such as hiking and enjoying seafood.  

Comprising several islands, the Bahamas offers crystal-clear waters, stunning coral reefs, and a relaxed island vibe. What makes the Bahamas unique is it’s the third largest barrier reef on the planet. Some of the many beautiful activities you can’t miss include swimming in Pink Sands Beach, going on a snorkel tour, swimming with awesome dolphins, and others.

Curaçao

If you are still looking for something unique for you and your family, Curaçao could be the difference. This Dutch Caribbean island is known for its colorful architecture, excellent diving opportunities, and rich Afro-Caribbean culture. 

Scuba diving is one of the most popular things in Curaçao. Dive in to see playful dolphins and sunken ships. Curaçao has some of the best beaches where you and your family can have fun. Cas Abao Beach and Mambo Beach. 

Saint Kitts and Nevis

These two islands offer a more tranquil Caribbean experience with historic charm, beautiful beaches, and lush rainforests. Some beautiful beaches to have fun include Banana Bay and Turtle Beach. Brimstone Hill Fortress National Park and the National Museum of St Kitts are more amazing areas to visit.

People also read: Afro-Caribbean Celebrities: 10 Top Actors

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5 Destinations Black Travelers Should Visit In 2024

Planning your future travels? Discover the top five destinations that Black travelers are looking to visit in 2024.

Faith Katunga • Jan 5, 2024

A new year brings a plethora of aspirations, and these alluring vacation spots that have drawn  Black visitors  are certainly among them. In an age where travel is both a passion and a privilege, these are the places where culture, history, and adventure unite to create unforgettable memories. And, for Black travelers, these experiences hold an even more profound significance. Let’s be honest: who among us wouldn’t want to  feel at ease  while having a blast? 

In addition, each traveler can embark on a path of self-discovery and connect with other Black people from all corners of the globe at these locations. These destinations are rated based on the unique “Traveling While Black” score, a parameter developed by  Green Book Global.  This score reflects the  candid experiences  of Black travelers and the level of warmth and hospitality they received from locals, prompting other Black travelers to add these places to their must-visit lists.  

1. Dakar, Senegal: The Jewel of West Africa

Located on the Cape Verde Peninsula, Dakar is a city that thrills with its hospitable locals. Moreover, black travelers arrive from far and wide to enjoy the delectable food, golden beaches, and deep history. A visit to Goree Island, one of the largest enslavement ports in Africa, provides a poignant reminder of the city’s heart-wrenching past.

Traveling While Black score: 4.9/5

2. panama city, panama: a mix of old and new.

The scenic megalopolis of Panama City beautifully marries the old with the new. This city embodies a fusion of cultures, from the old-world allure of Casco Viejo to the sleek, contemporary towers. Furthermore, it is a must-visit site for many black travelers thanks to its easy access to neighboring islands and its combination of history and adventure.

3. New Orleans, Louisiana: The Home Of Creole Culture

Liveliness, music, and flavor abound in New Orleans. Thanks to its vibrant Creole tradition, the city provides an experience that is hard to rival. Also, the excellent food and unique music culture are impossible to resist. Here, Black travelers witness how cultural fusion infuses the music and cuisine with a distinctively New Orleans vitality.

4. London, England: A Cosmopolitan Melting Pot

There is a sense of belonging in London for almost every single person. The city, a true cultural melting pot, provides people with everything from contemporary events to cultural celebrations. And, if you are a foodie, you must try the Jamaican cuisine in London.

Traveling While Black score: 4.6/5

5. bahamas: black travelers’ beach paradise.

From white sandy beaches to the local specialty of conch fritters, the Bahamas is a beach destination like no other. Whether in Nassau or exploring the smaller islands like Great Stirrup Cay, Eleuthera, and Harbor Island, the Bahamas promises a delightful beach experience

Traveling While Black score: 4.5/5

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The Best Caribbean Islands to Visit in 2024

By Brian Major

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

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

Which is the best Caribbean island for families?

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

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

Best island for: action

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

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

Best island for: romance

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

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

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

Best island for: beaches

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

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

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

British Virgin Islands

Best island for: island hopping

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

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

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

Shannon McMahon

Mark Ellwood

Chris Schalkx

Emily Saladino

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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WHERE BLACK CULTURE, COMMUNITY AND CONSCIOUSNESS MEET

Sign up for essence newsletters the keep the black women at the forefront of conversation., the black woman's guide to visiting oahu, hawaii.

From the famed surf shores of Waikiki, to the picturesque botanical gardens of the Waimea Valley on the North Shore, there’s plenty to get into while in Oahu. And with new routes on Southwest and Hawaiian Airlines, going from the continental U.S. to Honolulu may be easier (and more affordable) than ever. So, make plans to hit the Aloha state, then follow our guide of what to eat, see and do while on the Hawaiian island of Oahu.

Where To Eat:

Of course, foodies will say there is no better way to experience a destination than through the local cuisine . So, food should top the list with poke plates, acai bowls, kalua pork and Oahu’s local signature, loco moco, which is a hamburger patty drenched in gravy, topped with a fried egg and nestled on a bed of rice.

The Rainbow Drive-In in Honolulu is best known for their loco moco and other Hawaiian favorites like spam sandwiches. But if that sounds too heavy for day one, try the Bare Foot Beach Café for a vegan version of the loco moco.

For another Hawaiian signature, head to the Waiahole Poi Factory , which uplifts the ancestral cuisine of Hawaii. Here, the indigenous taro plant is practically used in everything (meat and fish are steamed with taro leaves while the taro corm is hand-pounded to make poi).

Do expect to find a surprisingly robust international culinary scene. From Japanese mochi to Portuguese malassada doughnuts, Hawaii’s history has grown to include various lasting cultural influences.

Local Tip: “ Giovanni’s Shrimp Truck in the North Shore. I always get their garlic shrimp with a side of rice and mac salad,” says Oahu resident Victoria Rowland, who moved to the state after her wife’s military transfer. “And if you’re in the North Shore, you definitely have to get shaved ice at Matsumoto in Haleiwa.” Rowland also suggests hitting up black-owned restaurants like Aloha subs in Wahiawa and Hughley’s Southern Cuisine in Aiea.

What To See:

‘Āina is the word for land in Hawaii, but it’s also an intricate part of the culture. Just by heading outdoors you’re exploring some of the island’s best features while gaining a deeper understanding for lay of the land.

Waimea Valley is a stunning portrayal of both land and history. While exploring native plants, you can see reconstructions of ancient Hawaiian homesteads and religious sites. The trail culminates in the Wailele waterfall, where guests are allowed to jump into the falls.

Diamond Head Summit is another popular outing. After less than a mile of paved steps up the historic mountain, hikers who reach the top are met with sweeping views of the coastline. But the famous beaches are also not to be missed. And experiencing a sunrise and sunset on a Hawaiian beach is as awe-inspiring as sunrises and sunsets can get.

Local Tip: “Try Pillbox if you are into hiking and great views,” suggests Kiki Minor, who has been living in the state since January while working on a production for Netflix. She also recommends other outdoor adventures like catamaran sailing and snorkeling.

But above all, Minor says, connecting with the people has been her favorite activity. “First off, the Aloha lifestyle is a real thing here. People are friendly and laid-back. As an African-American woman, I’m received as a person; my color has not entered into anything. Hawaiians treat everyone like a friend or a family member.”

What To Do:

For first-time visitors, luaus are usually the prerequisite. But for a deep dive into the roots of Hawaiian culture, the Bishop Museum is another great place to start. Learn everything from the ancient Polynesian seafarer practices in their planetarium, to the inner workings of ancient Hawaiian society in the Hawaiian Hall. As one of the most convenient ways to explore the culture, many Oahu properties, such as the Hyatt Regency Waikiki Beach Resort and Spa , Royal Hawaiian and Kahala Hotel and Resort have cultural centers and programming, which could include hula lessons, exhibits on Hawaiian royalty and more.

Whether quirky like the Spam Jam Festival , lowkey like the Hakipu‘u Canoe Festival , a huge attraction like the Vans Triple Crown or anything in between, any opportunity to attend a festival or community gathering shouldn’t be missed (check the CVB’s calendar of events page ). But, even a simple day on the beach is a win. Go to Waikiki to soak up the world-famous surf culture or head to the Kualoa Regional Park for a more chill, easygoing scene.

Local Tip: “If you’re coming to Hawaii, this is the birthplace of surfing so why wouldn’t you at least try it?” says Nique Miller, a professional surfer who has called the island home since 2007. “When you visit, please don’t just go to the mall.” In addition, Miller reminds tourists to respectfully explore the island, noting the problem with increased pollution and the state’s recent ban on certain sunscreens.

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12 Best Caribbean Islands to Visit in 2024

Travel Advice

Updated: December 15, 2023

by Haley Parker

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

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

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

The Best All-Inclusive Resorts in The Caribbean

Sandals Resorts (Adults-Only) and Beaches Resorts (Family-Friendly) offer the best all-inclusive packages across eight islands in the Caribbean. Explore their specials and deals available today.

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

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

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

My Selection Criteria for the Best Caribbean Islands 

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

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

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

12 Best Caribbean Islands 

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

St. Lucia 

Best for: Those who love the outdoors 

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

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

Where to Go in St. Lucia  

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

What to Do in St. Lucia

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

Consider These St. Lucian Accommodation Options 

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

The Cayman Islands

Best for: A chilled or adventure-filled experience 

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

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

There’s something for everyone in the Cayman Islands. 

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

Where to Go in the Cayman Islands  

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

What to Do in the Cayman Islands

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

Consider These Cayman Islands Accommodation Options 

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

The Dominican Republic 

Best for: Souls that love nature 

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

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

Where to Go in the Dominican Republic 

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

What to Do in the Dominican Republic

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

Consider These Dominican Republic Accommodation Options 

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

Jamaica  

Best for: Reggae fans 

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

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

Where to Go in Jamaica 

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

What to Do in Jamaica

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

Consider These Jamaican Accommodation Options 

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

Turks and Caicos 

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

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

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

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

Where to Go in Turks and Caicos  

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

What to Do in Turks and Caicos

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

Consider These Turks and Caicos Accommodation Options 

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

Anguilla  

Best for: The ultimate chic vacation vibe 

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

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

Where to Go in Anguilla  

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

What to Do in Anguilla

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

Consider These Anguillan Accommodation Options 

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

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

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

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

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

Where to Go in Saba  

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

What to Do in Saba

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

Consider These Saban Accommodation Options 

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

Best for: Spices, chocolate, and waterfalls 

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

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

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

Where to Go in Grenada  

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

What to Do in Grenada

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

Consider These Grenada Accommodation Options 

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

Best for: Ecotourists and nature lovers 

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

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

Get to Montserrat via ferry or plane from Antigua. 

Where to Go in Montserrat  

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

What to Do in Montserrat

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

Consider These Montserrat Accommodation Options 

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

Dominica  

Best for: A quiet getaway 

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

Where to Go in Dominica  

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

What to Do in Dominica

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

Consider These Dominican Accommodation Options 

• Jungle Bay 
• Fort Young Hotel 
• Beau Rive 

Guadeloupe 

Best for: Tourists and adventurers 

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

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

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

Where to Go in Guadeloupe  

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

What to Do in Guadeloupe

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

Consider These Guadeloupe Accommodation Options 

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

Best for: Sampling Curaçao

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

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

Where to Go in Curaçao  

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

What to Do in Curaçao

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

Consider These Curaçao Accommodation Options 

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

Caribbean Island FAQs 

Question: what is the nicest of the caribbean islands .

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

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

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

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

Question: What is the least touristy Caribbean island? 

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

My Final Thoughts on the Best Caribbean Islands 

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

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

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

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

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

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Table of Contents

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

2. Best Family-Friendly Caribbean Island: The Bahamas

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

4. Best Caribbean Island To Visit With Friends: Anguilla

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

11. Best Caribbean Island for Adventure Travelers: Dominica

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Best Caribbean Islands To Visit in January

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

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

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

Best Caribbean Islands To Visit in February

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

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

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

Best Caribbean Islands To Visit in March

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

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

Best Caribbean Islands To Visit in April

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

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

Best Caribbean Islands To Visit in May

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

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

Best Caribbean Islands To Visit in June

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

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

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

Best Caribbean Islands To Visit in July

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

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

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

Best Caribbean Islands To Visit in August

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

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

Best Caribbean Islands To Visit in September

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

Best Caribbean Islands To Visit in October

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

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

Best Caribbean Islands To Visit in November

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

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

Best Caribbean Islands To Visit in December

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

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

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

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

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

Frequently Asked Questions

What caribbean island should i visit first.

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

What is the cheapest and safest Caribbean island to visit?

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

Which is the nicest part of the Caribbean?

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

Where is the prettiest place in the Caribbean?

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

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About Lori Zaino

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

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Black Island – What to Expect In Coron’s Most Underrated Spot

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by  Manoling Martinez

January 19, 2023

Note: This post may include affiliate links. Read more about this here .  

Powdery white sand…

Majestic limestone walls…

A dark cave…

And a SHIPWRECK right there on the shore. 

You’ll get all that and more in Coron’s most underrated spot: Black Island . 

In today’s post, I’ll go over 

• What makes Black Island special
• How to get here

And then end by talking about whether it’s worth it to come here. 

Let’s get into it!

Want more tips on traveling Coron? Check out my travel guide or tourist spots blog posts!

All You Need to Know About Coron’s Black Island

Black Island isn’t found in Coron at all! 😂 

The island is found off the coast of Busuanga. 

It got its name from the steep black limestone cliffs of the island. As you approach it by boat, you’ll very quickly understand why it got that name. 

The crazy thing about Black Island is…

There are so. MANY. things to do. 

It’s such a small island, but it’s packed with things to see, such as the 

Black Island Cave

One of the main highlights of Black Island is its cave. 

For experienced spelunkers, this cave won’t impress you too much. 

But for everyone else? 

The rock formations here will make you feel like you’re in another world. 

There’s also a swimming pool inside the cave. And it goes deeper, and deeper into it until no light can find its way in. 

If you’re up for some thrills, see which one in your friend group can swim the farthest into the cave before chickening out! 

Black Island White Sand

The name is Black Island, but they could’ve just as easily called it White Island. 

Because the sand here is incredibly fine. 

The powdery white sand is one of the best I’ve ever seen. It might even be better than the one in White Beach in Boracay . 

That’s why most of our time in Black Island was spent just chilling in the sand, taking in how beautiful this island is. 

There are also cottages around the sand where you can rest. 

Black Island Shipwreck

Black Island would’ve been perfectly fine with just the sand and the cave. 

It wasn’t done yet. 

Just a few feet into the water, you’ll find a shipwreck. 

Now, don’t expect an entire ship like the wrecks you find by diving in Coron Bay. 

Instead, this wreck is extremely eroded already. 

All you’ll find is the shape of what once was a big ship. 

However, it’s still very impressive. 

It’s also super easy to get to, so definitely go and check it out while you’re in Black Island. 

Black Island Rock Formations

Last but not least, you have the limestone walls that make Black Island Black Island. 

By the time you get here, you’ve probably been to Twin Lagoon and Kayangan Lake already, so you might not be mindblown by the rock formations. 

But in and of themselves, they are quite stunning. 

What To Do on Black Island

Swimming, enjoying the fine white sand, checking out the cave and the shipwreck, and just resting in one of the many cottages are all things you can do on Black Island. 

The island is just the right size. 

It’s quite big, but most of the island is made of jagged rocks, so you can’t explore most of it. 

If you were thinking of walking around the whole island… well… unless you’re a rock climber, that won’t be possible. 

However, it’s not too small that there’s no privacy either. 

In fact, when we were there, a couple managed to find a secluded spot and proposed! 😍

There is also plenty of small fish around Black Island. 

We weren’t able to snorkel, but we were told that there are several interesting things to see if you decide to swim around here. 

How to Get to Black Island

The easiest way to get to Black Island is to join a Calauit Safari tour . Most of these include a side trip to Black Island. 

This is because Black Island is around 3 hours away from Coron Town (2 hours by van, and 1 by boat). 

 The Safari tours start at php2,500/head regular, but you can get them at php2,300 if you book online here . They head off to the Safari in the morning, have lunch in Busuanga town, then you’ll arrive at Black Island at around 2 pm. 

You have about 2 hours to enjoy the island before it’s time to head back to Coron Town, so make the most of it! 

Frequently Asked Questions About Black Island

Which island is known as black island .

Malajon Island in west Busuanga is known as Black Island! 

Why Is It Called Black Island?

Malajon Island got the nickname “Black Island” for the imposing black limestone cliffs it has. As you approach the island by boat, all you’ll see is a thick, black line on the horizon. 

Funnily enough, you can just as easily call this place White Island for its powdery white sand! 

Where is Black Island? 

Black Island is found off the coast of western Busuanga. It’s 3 hours of travel from Coron Town, 2 hours by van and 1 by boat. 

Do I Need a Tour to Visit Black Island?

Yes, you need a tour as there is no other way to visit Black Island. 

You can sign up for a Calauit Safari Tour that includes a side trip to Black Island anywhere in Coron town for php2,500/head. If you book on Klook , you can get it for php2,300 instead.

You can also go for a private tour.

What is Black Island Known For? 

Black Island is known for its white sand and black limestone cliffs. Also for its cave and shipwreck just on the shore! 

Conclusion: Should You Visit Black Island?

If you’re already visiting Calauit Safari, the answer is a very obvious yes. 

The safari tours only take up the morning, so instead of riding the 2-hour van back to Coron Town right away, why not visit Black Island since you’re already in the area? 

If it weren’t for the Safari tours, I wouldn’t be so sure about coming all the way here just to see Black Island. 

Yes, it is beautiful. 

And yes, it is underrated. 

But maybe not something worth traveling three hours for? 

There are other interesting islands closer to Coron Town.

However, if you want to spend time in one of the most remote islands in the country, Black Island is for you!

Need help planning your Coron trip? Check out my travel guide and tourist spots blog posts! 

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About the author 

Manoling Martinez

Hi! I'm Manoling, a 24-year-old backpacker from Cebu City. I'm on a mission to visit ALL 82 provinces of the Philippines. You can follow my adventures on my Instagram, or plan your trips here on my website!

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8 best bahamas islands, ranked.

From uninhabited cays to lavish resorts, the 700 islands of the Bahamas have something to offer everyone. Crystal clear waters, sugary white sands and average year-round temperatures in the 80s make this tropical paradise a must-visit for relaxation seekers. To help you choose the best Bahamian island for your tropical getaway, U.S. News considered factors like pristine beaches, unique attractions and thrilling water sports to bring you the best islands in the Bahamas. Have a say in next year's list by casting your vote below.

Harbour Island

Grand bahama island, long island, bahamas, paradise island.

For the ultimate fairy-tale getaway, head to Harbour Island. With pastel-colored cottages, swaying palm trees and alluring blush-tinted sand , this dreamy oasis is worthy of a postcard. Spend a day exploring the quaint streets of Dunmore Town on a golf cart (the island's primary mode of transportation), then refuel with a delicious lunch of conch fritters (shellfish that is battered and deep-fried with vegetables and seasonings). When you're ready to hit the beach, Harbour Island's illustrious Pink Sand Beach provides excellent swimming and snorkeling conditions, while the Lone Tree at Girl's Bank Beach is a must for photographers.

Famed for its cobalt blue water, white sand beaches and friendly swimming pigs , this chain of 365 cays along the Atlantic Ocean is so esteemed that many of its islands are privately owned by celebrities (including Johnny Depp and Tyler Perry). Head to Coco Plum Beach for prime sand dollar hunting or get your feet wet at the renowned Tropic of Cancer Beach. Meanwhile, divers should suit up for a swim at Exuma Cays Land and Sea Park, the world's first land and sea reserve, or Thunderball Grotto, a fascinating underwater cave featured in the 1965 James Bond flick, "Thunderball."

Boasting a plethora of resort hotels and more airports than any other Bahamian island, Eleuthera may be easy to visit – but it's definitely not easy to leave. Dramatic cliffs, miles of unspoiled coastline and some of the sweetest pineapples in the world make this picturesque island ideal for long, leisurely days by the water. Hang 10 at Surfer's Beach or spend an evening on Lighthouse Beach, a stretch of pink sand best for romantic strolls. For an unforgettable experience, see where the aquamarine waters of the Bight of Eleuthera meet the dark blue Atlantic Ocean at the Glass Window Bridge.

Visit Grand Bahama Island if your idea of a perfect island getaway includes ample water sports. Snorkel in some of the Bahamas' best blue holes or go diving with tiger sharks at Tiger Beach. Lucaya Beach and Taino Beach are both top-notch shores, but the rippled sand at Gold Rock Beach in Lucayan National Park has been known to attract photographers and cinephiles (it is featured in several of the "Pirates of the Caribbean" films). In the evening, head to Count Basie Square in Port Lucaya Marketplace for dinner, drinks and traditional goombay music.

Spanning 120 miles, the boating capital of the Bahamas is home to the Sea of Abaco, a naturally protected body of water with stellar fishing and premier sailing. Marsh Harbour's myriad restaurants, resorts and marinas make a great home base for island hoppers, while Hope Town, a charming village known for its colorful cottages and iconic Elbow Reef Lighthouse, appeals to history buffs. Don your scuba diving gear to explore the underwater caverns of Walker's Cay, or stroll the sandbar at Tahiti Beach. Only accessible by bike, boat or on foot, this secluded stretch of shore is perfect for leisurely beach days.

Along the western shore of Long Island, pristine white sand beaches frame the calm, sapphire waters of the Great Bahama Bank. Here, visitors can sunbathe, swim or spot exotic birds along the coast of Cape Santa Maria Beach. Meanwhile, dramatic cliffs tower over the Atlantic Ocean on Long Island's eastern shore, where bonefishing, scuba diving and sailing are popular pursuits. Hold your breath for a thrilling free dive of Dean's Blue Hole, the world's second deepest blue hole, or explore the stalactites at Hamilton's Cave, the largest cave system in the Bahamas.

If your perfect vacation includes glitzy resorts, sparkling white sand beaches and family-friendly activities, head to Paradise Island. The massive Atlantis, Paradise Island resort complex is the island's crowning jewel, sheltering the world's largest open-air marine habitat and one of the Caribbean's largest casinos and water parks. Book your stay with the resort or purchase a day pass to enjoy amenities, such as the Predator Lagoon, Aquaventure and Dolphin Cay. Keep in mind that Paradise Island is primarily a tourist destination, so expect crowds.

Although this unpretentious island lacks the flashiness of Nassau and Great Exuma, it is precisely this low profile that keeps its beaches pristine and uncrowded. Go kitesurfing at Greenwood Beach, search for sand dollars along Fernandez Bay or chat with locals at New Bight Beach. Afterward, visitors can hike Mount Alvernia, the highest point in the Bahamas, or embrace the island's folklore by trying to spot the fabled mermaids in Mermaid Hole. Visit in June when the annual Rake 'n' Scrape music festival lights up the island with a farmers market, battle of the bands and quadrille dancing.

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The 30 Best Exotic Islands to Visit (World Travel Bucket List)

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These tropical destinations usually boast a balance of exhilaration and relaxation, adventure and pampering. They provide a much-needed escape from our everyday routines, while rejuvenating our spirits with the simple power of nature .

From our earliest trips as a couple (to Hawaii , Curaçao , and the Dominican Republic ) to our memorable visits to Tahiti , the Galapagos Islands , and Isla Holbox, Mexico , Mary and I have always loved exploring tropical islands together.

Though we’ve been able to visit quite a few of the world’s best islands over our last 11 years together, there are still quite a few that remain on our bucket list.

To that end, we enlisted more than 25 top travel bloggers to help us assemble this epic guide to the  most beautiful islands in the world. They span the globe from the Caribbean and Africa to Asia and Polynesia, and should give you plenty of ideas for planning your next tropical vacation getaway.

READ MORE:   The Ultimate Beach Vacation Packing List

TABLE OF CONTENTS

Best african islands.

• Bijagos Islands, Guinea Bissau
• Lamu Island, Kenya
• Mafia Island, Tanzania

Seychelles Islands

Best asian islands.

• Coron, Philippines
• Cat Ba Island, Vietnam
• Komodo, Indonesia
• Langkawi, Malaysia

Best Caribbean Islands

• Bonaire, Netherlands

Turks and Caicos

Best european islands, the canary islands, spain.

• Corsica, France
• Hvar, Croatia
• Madeira, Portugal
• Sardinia, Italy

Best Greek Islands

Delos island, karpathos island, naxos island, best polynesian islands.

• Aitutaki, Cook Islands
• Bora Bora, French Polynesia
• Easter Island / Rapa Nui, Chile
• Savaii & Upolu, Samoa
• Yasawa Islands, Fiji

Bijagos Islands (Guinea Bissau)

Located off the coast of Guinea Bissau in West Africa, the Bijagos Islands are an untouched paradise with impressive biodiversity. This is one of those exotic places that most people have never heard of, let alone visited. The island is located 38 miles off the coast of Bissau, the country’s capital.

Best Things to Do in the Bijagos Islands

The island of Orango is one of the most biodiverse of the Bijagos Islands.  There you can visit the saltwater hippopotamuses by trekking an hour inland from the beach to their fresh water ponds.

The trek winds along a sandy path through tall grasses, and you can see birds and deer along the way.  The hippos are protected and sacred to the inhabitants of the island, and each visitor is allowed to spend 20 minutes with them.

There is also a long, beautiful stretch of beach on the island that stretches from the Orango Hotel to the drop-off point for the hippo trek.

Where to Stay in the Bijagos Islands

The Orango Hotel is a true ecotourism project where the hotel perfectly integrates into its surroundings. The hotel is located within Orango National Park, and is a major sponsor of protecting the islands’ biodiversity and indigenous cultural traditions. – Nicole LaBarge

READ MORE: The West African Griot

Lamu Island (Kenya)

Most people traveling to Kenya cannot wait to see the country’s diverse array of wildlife and stunning national parks and reserves (including Amboseli , Meru and the Maasai Mara ).

However, visitors also should not miss out on the little-known (but incredible) Lamu island, which is located just off the coast in northern Kenya .

This part of the country differs significantly from the southern region, offering unspoiled nature as well as a unique culture.

Best Things to Do in Lamu Island

When visiting Lamu Island, you’ll have a chance to walk the streets of Lamu Old Town , one of the world’s oldest inhabited cities. Recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2001, this historic area is truly a journey back in time.

However, you should also make sure to leave the city streets behind and explore the beautiful nature of Lamu during your visit.

I stayed on the southern tip of this beautiful island and went for long walks on Lamu’s beaches, climbed sand dunes for incredible sunset views, and went for a snorkeling trip along the coast.

I spent a full week on Lamu Island, which was the perfect amount of time to see and explore the island as well as to relax and unwind from my previous travels .

Where to Stay in Lamu Island

There are a few guesthouses and hotels directly in Lamu Town, but I decided to stay in the lovely and peaceful Kizingo  resort. It’s located on the southern tip of Lamu Island, and is highly recommended.

Here, you’re surrounded by remote beaches and far away from the hustle and bustle of the town.   – Patrick Muntzinger of German Backpacker Travel Blog

READ MORE: Animals in Kenya: A Guide to 40 Species of Kenyan Wildlife

Madagascar is sometimes referred to as “the eighth continent.” Ever since it split from the African land mass, the East African island evolved in isolation.

This resulted in an incredible amount of plants and animals that are found nowhere else on the planet, which makes for a truly exotic island vacation.

Those planning to relax can head to Nosy Be Island, a smaller island just off the northern shore, which is home to stunning beaches. Madagascar is the perfect destination for wildlife lovers.

Best Things to Do in Madagascar

Everyone knows about  Ring-tailed Lemurs , which were made famous by the 2005 animated film based on the island. But Madagascar animal life offers so much more.

There’s the Fossa, the island’s largest carnivore (the size of a small cougar); Chameleons in all shapes and sizes; the Leaf-tailed Gecko (one of the weirdest animals we’ve seen); many endemic birds; and more.Ranomafana and Andasibe/Mantadia National Parks are great destinations to see wildlife .

Landscapes around the island are also incredibly varied. Within a few hundred miles you can find deserts , rainforests, mountains , spiny forests, and heavenly stretches of coastline.

A road trip around the Route 7, which runs down the southern half of the island, is a great way to explore the Madagascar’s diverse landscapes

Where to Stay in Madagascar

Luxurious Eden Lodge is an eco lodge in Madagascar set within a private nature reserve surrounded by clear water and white, sandy beaches.

The property is committed to ecotourism: It’s completely solar-powered, built from natural materials, focuses on protecting coral reefs , and its a portion of its profits support local schools and teacher salaries.   –Margherita Ragg of The Crowded Planet

Mafia Island (Tanzania)

Some people claim that Mafia Island Marine Park offers the best snorkeling in all of East Africa . Still, the island– which is about 100 miles southeast of Dar es Salaam– remains well off the tourism track.

The small tropical island is packed with deserted beaches and a few low-rise boutique hotels that cater to divers. But it should be known as a barefoot-style island getaway, where time stands still.

Best Things to Do in Mafia Island

Snorkeling and diving are by far the main draws here. Mafia Island is home to 460 species of fish and 50 hard corals, and whale sharks visit the archipelago annually.

There are 160 species of birds in the area, as well as wildlife rarities such as Dwarf Hippos and Comoros Flying Foxes.

Take a nature walk to explore the verdant green inland and you’ll find overgrown ruins which shed light on the past of the Swahili coast.

Where to Stay in Mafia Island

Go barefoot in Butiama Beach, a casual beachfront boutique hotel on the western shore of Mafia Island. Butiama Beach has a prime location for whale shark watching, as the giants usually swim by the shore during their peak season.

Complimentary kayaks can take you to the island’s deserted sandbanks and uninhabited inlets, whereas snorkeling and diving trips explore nearby Mafia Island Marine Park. -Niina Lehikoinen 0f  Bizarre Globe Hopper

READ MORE: Top 10 Tanzania National Parks & Reserves

While most people associate the Seychelles with white sand beaches (and as one of the best islands for a honeymoon), this archipelago of more than 100 islands is actually a real nature lover’s paradise.

Every island offers something unique, whether it’s lush tropical forests , desolate beaches, endemic flora and fauna, or indigenous cultural traditions. Whether you’re a sun worshipper or an outdoor adventurer, the Seychelles is perfect for anyone looking for exotic vacation destinations.

Best of all, just a few islands are developed: The majority of the Seychelles is totally uninhabited.

Best Things to Do in Seychelles

Since the islands of the Seychelles are scattered in the Indian Ocean, it’s difficult to visit a lot of them in one trip. However, it’s fairly easy to build Seychelles holidays around a small cluster of islands in the vicinity of Praslin. For nature lovers, the following islands are the best places to visit in Seychelles:

Praslin , the second largest island, is home to Vallée de Mai Nature Reserve (a UNESCO World Heritage Site). It’s a lush rainforest where you can find the world’s biggest nut, the coco-de-mer.

La Digue   Island is perfect for those who want to experience traditional local life. It also has some incredible scenery, especially at Anse Source D’Argent, a beautiful beach with giant granite boulders.

Curieuse  Island is a Marine National Park, and the best place to see giant tortoises , endemic birds, and untouched nature.

Cousin  Island is a paradise for bird-watchers, but there are also turtles, tortoises, and lots of other animal species. Snorkeling and Scuba diving are also very popular, with lots of nice spots all over the area. The coral reef here isn’t impressive, but there’s a large variety of colorful fish and sea turtles.

Where to Stay in Seychelles

Probably the best place to stay in this part of the Seychelles is in a Praslin Island hotel. This island has the best infrastructure, lodging for all budgets, and the possibility to arrange day trips. Check out Le Domaine de La Reserve or the  Colibri Hotel .

Coron, Palawan (Philippines)

Coron encompasses a town (located on Busuanga Island), an island (nearby Coron Island), and over 50 minor islets in the Philippines’ Calamian archipelago. This is arguably the most picturesque part of Palawan , which has been voted Best Island in the Philippines and Best Island in the World several years in a row.

Best Things to Do in Coron

There are tons of awesome things to do in Coron, such as climbing Mount Tapyas, swimming in one of the world’s cleanest lakes (Lake Kayangan), snorkeling or Scuba diving impressively pristine coral reef systems, and island-hopping.

But it’s also an incredible place to simply soak in the otherworldly beauty of the stunning karst landscapes, impossibly blue waters, and jaw-dropping sunsets.

The beaches here have been consistently ranked among the best in the world, and the traditional Hilot massage will rub away any aches and pains you may have after a long day of outdoor adventure.

Where to Stay in Coron, Palawan

We enjoyed our time at  Club Paradise Resort Palawan – a secluded private island resort– so much that we stayed there twice.

They offer three types of rooms: Garden View Rooms, Garden Suites, and rustic Villas on both the east (sunrise) and west (sunset) sides of the island.

The snorkeling from the beach is exceptional (we saw Sea Turtles, Reef Sharks, Pufferfish, and Octopi), and their Glow Spa is both relaxing and shockingly affordable .

READ MORE:   Top 15 Things to do in Coron, Palawan

Cat Ba Island (Vietnam)

The beautiful island of Cát Bà, located about three hours east of Hanoi, is perhaps best known as the home of Ha Long Bay.

Although Ha Long’s sheen has faded a bit in recent years due to mass tourism , this remains a stunning region where craggy limestone casts rise out of the turquoise sea. It’s also home to Ha Long’s less crowded (and more affordable!) sister, Lan Ha Bay.

Cát Bà is one of the best islands in Asia. And while its bays are breathtaking, you also won’t want to miss its mountainous jungles, world-class white sand beaches, and abundant wildlife .

Best Things to Do in Cat Ba Island

Going on a Lan Ha Bay cruise is a must. Be sure to book one that includes several kayaking stops, so you get a chance to marvel up close at the huge limestone cliffs looming above you.

Once you’re back on land, hit up Cat Ba National Park, where you can either choose a day hike through the jungle or a longer trek, like a 17-kilometer hiking trail to the remote fishing village of Viet Hai.

Be sure to keep an eye out for monkeys in the treetops as you’re hiking around the park!

Where to Stay in Cat Ba

Cat Ba Sunrise Resort offers unparalleled views of Ha Long Bay and is a conveniently located home base for your adventures around the island.

Plus, with amenities such as its own private beach, pool, and spa, this relaxing resort in Cát Bà gives you a well-deserved break from all that kayaking and adventuring.

Who’s to say that nature lovers can’t enjoy a bit of luxury as well? – Jessica Schmit of Uprooted Traveler

READ MORE: Saving Asian Animals (10 Best Conservation Programs)

Komodo Island (Indonesia)

The country of Indonesia is made up of more than 14,000 islands, but few are more interesting than the island of Komodo and the National Park located there.

Komodo National Park was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1986 in an effort to recognize and protect the area’s vast amount of biodiversity.

Not only does this region boast the famous (and increasingly rare) Komodo dragons, but it’s also one of the best islands in Indonesia if you want to see an incredible amount of marine life.

Best Things to Do in Komodo Island

Visiting one of the Komodo Dragon Conservation Centers is a must-do for anyone in this National Park, as it’s the only place in the world you can see these rare creatures in their natural habitat.

For those who are interested in Komodo diving, the very best thing you can do is visit Komodo National Park on a scuba diving liveaboard .

You’ll have the opportunity for scuba diving several times each day in the region’s more remote sites, and you’ll likely spot creatures such as Dolphins, Sharks , Sea Turtles, Manta Rays, and more!

Where to Stay in Labuan Bajo

It’s not possible to stay in a Komodo Island accomodation, since it’s a protected national park. Instead, most visitors stay on nearby Labuan Bajo Island and visit the park on a day trip.

Plataran Komodo Beach Resort  is an excellent option. However, for an even better experience, skip the hotel entirely and stay on a liveaboard boat. This covers your accommodation needs as well as several dives per day.

Tanaka is a good choice for a mid-range budget. But if you’re looking for a bit of luxury on the water, Samambaia is sure to deliver. -Katie Diederichs of Two Wandering Soles

READ MORE: Best Things to Do in Indonesia for Nature Lovers

Langkawi Island (Malaysia)

From spotting dusky Leaf Monkeys at breakfast to nighttime walks into the jungle to find the Colugo, those elusive gliding mammals who live in the trees, Langkawi Island is a nature lover’s dream.

This UNESCO World Geopark– part of a 99-island archipelago– lies 30 miles off the coast of Malaysia.

It offers a wonderous mix of wildlife, stunning beaches, and awe-inspiring landscapes, making it a great place for families, couples, and intrepid adventurers alike.

Best Things to Do in Langkawi

If you’re OK with heights, one of the most breathtaking Langkawi attractions is the Sky Bridge. Take a trip up to the peak of Gunung Mat Chinchang by cable car, and you’ll be rewarded with incredible views of the island. You can also walk through the jungle canopy on the Langkawi Sky Bridge.

Having taken in the scenic views, make your way down to the white sands of Pantai Cenang beach and explore the sparkling sea water by renting sea kayaks or snorkeling gear. You can also take a boat out to nearby Payar Island for the best local snorkeling spots.

The Kilim Karst Geoforest Park is teeming with wildlife, and a trip along the river Kilim is the best way to spot birds, lizards, and even swimming Macaques.

One of my favorite evening Langkawi activities is to take a guided walk into the edge of the jungle to look for Colugo. My kids loved spotting them high in the trees, leaping and gliding from one branch to another as dusk fell.

Where to Stay in Langkawi

Having breakfast at the Westin Langkawi Resort and Spa , you might be lucky enough to be joined by a passing family of Dusky Leaf Monkeys. After breakfast, you can enjoy a walk along their private beach overlooking the Andaman Sea, hire a catamaran, wind-surf, or simply let your stresses drain away at their serene tropical spa.

Temple Tree Resort is a wonderful selection of rescued houses from across Malaysia. They also rescue cats, who wander happily around the grounds.   -Nichola of  Globalmouse Travels

READ MORE: Top 25 Things to do in Malaysia for Nature Lovers

Close your eyes and imagine yourself having one of the best island holidays in a tropical paradise. You most likely picture yourself lying on a pristine white sand beach under shady palm trees, looking out across an ocean filled with various shades of blue.

Now multiply that island by 1200, and you have the Republic of Maldives . With over 200 inhabited islands to choose from, you can treat yourself a life of luxury at any number of  Maldives all-inclusive resorts, adventure through 22 atolls, and immerse yourself in the islands’ rich indigenous culture.

Best Things to Do in Maldives

If you love the water, Maldives is the place for you. You can swim up close with giant Whale Sharks in Maafushi, dive with pods of hundreds of Dolphins in Thulusdhoo, snorkel with Manta Rays in Noonu, or catch some waves at the famous surfer’s hotspot of Coke’s Beach.

You can also enjoy the local cuisine of a traditional Maldivian breakfast, take jet-skis and a picnic lunch to spend the day on an uninhibited Maldives island, and catch your own dinner by handline fishing in the Indian Ocean.

Where to Stay in Maldives

Robinson Club Noonu is a wonderful Maldives all inclusive that offers dreamy over-water bungalows and private infinity pools. There’s also a WellFit gym, sauna and spa, a large pool overlooking the ocean, complimentary snorkeling gear, three restaurants with varied buffets, and three bars for an all-you-can-eat-and-drink experience.  -Sara of Our Kind of Crazy  

READ MORE: Maldives Becomes The World’s Largest Marine Reserve

The small Caribbean island of Bonaire is the lesser known of the Netherlands’ “ABC Islands,” which also include Aruba and Curacao . While the other two islands have seen considerable urban development over the last few decades, Bonaire really hasn’t.

Bonaire is best known for its marine conservation , which dates back to the creation of   Bonaire National Marine Park in 1979. The island is a Scuba diving paradise, with over 80 dive sites and opportunities to see Loggerhead Turtles, Green Sea Turtles, and even Seahorses.

Bonaire is also a great place for birdwatching . Its mangroves offer safe nesting sites for beautiful birds  such as Herons, Ospreys, and Magnificent Frigates. Pink Flamingos can be observed in several locations, including the Pekelmeer Flamingo Sanctuary.

Best Things to Do in Bonaire

The island of Bonaire offers plenty of other outdoor activities for nature lovers. Visitors can hike in Washington Slagbaai National Park to see Iguanas in their natural environment, or kayak through the Lac Bay mangroves looking for Herons, reef fish, and the endangered Queen Conch.

It’s fun (and relatively easy) to bike the small, flat roads around the island. You can walk through Rincón, Bonaire’s old town, which was established by the Spanish in the 16th-century.

Learn about the island’s Dutch colonial past, which saw the expansion of salt harvesting and slavery, with the Slave Huts a reminder of that somber period.

And make sure to sample some Bonaire cuisine– a mix of fresh fish, Dutch influence,  Creole spices, and Spanish flavors. Local delicacies include barracuda ravioli, wahoo sushi, and iguana meatballs.

Where to Stay in Bonaire

Cuba is arguably one of the best tropical islands to visit for nature lovers . [Editor’s note: Sadly, one of the world’s most buzzworthy island holiday destinations just became MUCH harder for U.S. residents to visit due to the current administration’s archaic policies .]

The largest island in the Caribbean, Cuba is home to a whopping 263 protected areas and six UNESCO biospheres . These include Buenavista, Cienega Zapata, Cuchillas del Toa, Baconao Peninsula de Guanacabibes, and Sierra del Rosario.

Amd with almost 4000 miles of sandy coastline, Cubas’s coral reefs are pristine and virtually untouched (one upside of decades of travel bans by the U.S. government).

Best Things to Do in Cuba

There are many things to do in all these biospheres, and it seems each one has a specialty.

Sierra del Rosario Biosphere is next to the town of Las Terrazas,  which is a self-sufficient, farm-to-table town at the forefront of ecotourism. Every restaurant in town serves only what they grow. Las Terrazas also has an artist’s colony as well as the longest zipline in Cuba, stretching over 6 crystalline lakes.

All of the biospheres have swimming holes and nature hikes led by expert local guides.

Where to Stay in Cuba

The Hotel Moka , which has trees growing in the middle of the lobby, is a fine place to stay in Las Terrazas while you explore abandoned coffee plantations and visit the Soroa Orchid Garden. The hotel sits on a mountainside, overlooking the lush forest below.  – Talek Nantes of Travels with Talek

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Dominica Island

Though often confused with the Dominican Republic, Dominica easily ranks among the best Caribbean islands due to its under-the-radar tourism profile and emphasis on ecotourism and conservation.

Known as the “Nature Island,” Dominica is said to be the only Caribbean island Christopher Columbus would still recognize if he landed there today.

And though Dominica has been hammered by devastating tropical storms in recent years, this tiny island (population 71,000) in the Lesser Antilles is as unspoiled as any destination we’ve ever visited. Even in 2019, a full two-thirds of its 290 square miles remains completely undeveloped.

Best Things to Do in Dominica

Morne Trois Pitons National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and contains a brief section of the 114-mile Waitukabuli National Trail . It’s also home to the stunning waterfalls at the aptly-named Emerald Pool, which we had all to ourselves during our visit.

The island’s location (and relative lack of tourism) makes it a great place to see nesting Sea Turtles, which are protected by the Dominica Sea Turtle Conservation organization.

You also won’t want to miss a whale-watching tour with Kubuli Watersports, run by Andrew Armour (who is locally known as “the Whale Whisperer”).

Other awesome things to do in Dominica include the volcano-fed hot springs of Screw’s Sulphur Spa, snorkeling/diving at the volcano -heated Champagne Reef, a boat tour down the Indian River, and getting to know the island’s indigneous cultural traditions at the Kalinago Barauna Aute.

Where to Stay in Dominica

One of the best Caribbean resorts we’ve ever visited, Rosalie Bay Resort, was permanently closed in 2018 after taking a major hit from Hurricane Maria.

But we also enjoyed the stunning scenic vistas and private beaches of Secret Bay and the recently renovated Fort Young Hotel , which was built into  a historic fort conveniently located in downtown Roseau. –Bret Love & Mary Gabbett

READ MORE:   Visiting Dominica’s Kalinago Territory

With its aquamarine waters, diverse wildlife , and lush mountainous interior, Grenada and its sister islands (Carriacou and Petite Martinique) are home to an incredible range of natural attractions.

Although this three-island nation is still under-the-radar for mainstream tourists, it’s ideal for independent travellers who want to immerse themselves in a naturally beautiful setting, but also crave exciting things to do.

Take a nature hike in Grenada’s Grand Etang National Park and you can expect to see Tree Boas, Green Iguanas and Lizards as well as Opossum, Armadillo, Mona Monkeys, and some of more than 177 species of birds .

Post-hike, you’ll feel as though you’ve landed in paradise when you cool off by plunging beneath   natural waterfalls .

Best Things to Do in Grenada 

While there’s plenty to do in the island’s interior for outdoor adventurers, the best way to experience Grenada’s natural attractions is to explore its coast.

You’ll find 40 beautiful Grenada beaches with white sand, 30 dive sites, and several coral reefs. The government continues to expand the island’s marine protected areas: Its fourth, the Grande Anse Marine Protected Area, stretches south from the Port Louis Marina. It encompasses the pristine white sands of Grand Anse Beach, which is widely considered one of the world’s top beaches.

A must-do in St. George’s, the island’s capital city, is to take a snorkelling excursion on a wooden sailing sloop to the Grenada Underwater Sculpture Park . This is the world’s first underwater museum  (featuring sculptures by Jason deCaires Taylor ), and an innovative ecological project helping to raise awareness about the fragility of the world’s environment.

Where to Stay in Grenada

You don’t need to rough it in order to immerse yourself in nature in Grenada. Many of the island’s luxury hotels are small, sustainable, and full of character. Their restaurants serve cuisine that showcases locally-sourced ingredients such as organic chocolate, fresh seafood, and fragrant spices.

The best small Grenada hotels include the Calabash Luxury Boutique Hotel , a Relais & Chateaux property set on peaceful Lance Aux Epines Beach, as well as the all-inclusive Spice Island Beach Resort.  This low-rise collection of elegant guest suites is set on Grand Anse Beach, just steps away from some of the Caribbean’s most swimmable waters.

Also located on Grand Anse Beach is the newest addition to Genada’s luxury hotel scene, Silversands Grenada , featuring 43 posh guests suites and villas. -Michele Peterson of A Taste for Travel

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The islands of Turks and Caicos have some of the most beautiful beaches in the Caribbean . The crystal clear blue waters make it an incredible destination for snorkeling or scuba diving.

One of the best beaches in Turks and Caicos is Grace Bay Beach. The barrier reef is about a mile out and protects Grace Bay from the ocean swells of the Atlantic.

Best Things to Do in Turks and Caicos

There are many wonderful activities to enjoy on what I consider among the most  beautiful Caribbean islands . Both islands are primarily known for diving and snorkeling, as the island sits on an underwater plateau that rises more than 11,000 feet above the ocean floor.

The edges of the shelf are lined by miles of relatively unspoiled barrier reef . There are many wall diving sites and sheltered in-shore reefs. If snorkeling or diving is not your thing, lounging on the island’s beautiful beaches are just as good.

Where to Stay in Turks and Caicos

If there’s a downside to Turks and Caicos, it’s that the islands are relatively expensive. If you don’t mind cooking (though groceries are pricey as well), then renting an Airbnb may be a great option.

If you’re travelling with kids then try Blue Haven , an all-inclusive option that offers large suites with kitchens. -Diana of Diana’s Healthy Living

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The Canary Islands archipelago is a fantastic European holiday destination that goes well beyond the typical tropical island concept.

The seven main Spanish islands, as well as the numerous smaller ones, offer an incredible variety of beaches, charming little villages, and cities (including Las Palmas and Santa Cruz) thriving with life.

Nature lovers will also enjoy the island’s lush vegetation, picturesque hiking trails , and striking desert landscape.

Best Things to Do in the Canary Islands

Your opinion of the best Canary Islands to visit will likely depend on the kind of holiday destination you’re looking for.

Tranquil Canary Islands beaches, such as Papagayo in Lanzarote, offer perfect places to relax.  Lanzarote’s steady strong winds are a guarantee of excellent waves, making this the best place to surf in the Canary Islands.

Hiking Tenerife, the home of Mount Teide (the tallest volcano in Europe and a UNESCO World Heritage Site), is fantastic and attracts the majority of active tourists.

Beautiful villages can be found all across the archipelago. And for that remote desert feeling, Gran Canaria’s Maspalomas Dunes is the place to go.

Where to Stay in Gran Canaria

Lopesan Baobab Resort  is a fantastic Gran Canaria resort located just 600 meters from Maspalomas Beach. Its main attraction is the incredible views it offers overlooking the Atlantic Ocean.  – Claudia Tavani of My Adventures Across The World

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Corsica (France)

Located just north of Sardinia, the French island of Corsica is utterly unique in its culture, food , music, and language.

This makes it an exciting destination for those looking to expand their off-the-beaten-path Mediterranean islands bucket list.

This stunning island has beaches that rival the best in the world, as well as impressive mountains to explore. Plus, having little light pollution makes the stargazing here out of this world!

Best Things to Do in Corsica

The island of Corsica is known in the hiking community as home to Europe’s toughest trek, the GR20. The trail traverses the island’s rugged mountains, and passes through farm stays and along clear blue streams.

The white-sand of Palombaggia in the south and the rocky Plage du Lotu in the north both make for incredibly relaxing beach vacations . Adventure-seekers can amp up their visit with all manner of water sports, such as paddle boarding, boating, Scuba, and more.

For wine lovers, Corsica’s northern wine region is a must-visit, especially when you pair the vintages  with beautifully made Corsican cheeses.

Where to Stay in  Corsica

Bastia is the perfect place to base yourself in Corsica, as it is the main hub for many excursions to other parts of the island.

Hotel Des Gouverneurs is in the Old Town of Bastia, situated adjacent to the citadel and numerous narrow, cobblestone streets leading to delicious local food/wine destinations.

The view out to the Mediterranean is an added bonus. –Christa Rolls of Expedition Wildlife

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Hvar (Croatia)

Hvar is one of the best Croatian islands, mainly due to its cultural and historic significance.

The island is home to the Stari Grad Plains, an ancient agricultural area that has remained largely untouched from its original layout in the 4th century B.C. Now it is protected as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Aside from history, the island also offers that quintessential Croatian coastline, stretching through the Adriatic Sea but maintaining numerous connections to the country’s  mainland .

Best Things to Do in Hvar Island

The island has a healthy mix of things to do  to suit all interests. In the city of Hvar, you can hike high atop the rocky cliffs to check out the Spanish Fortress or head into town to grab a sweet treat. In Stari Grad, you can visit Tvrdalj Castle, the Renaissance-era summer home of a famous poet.

Outside the small towns, the island is dotted with lavender fields and vendors selling natural lavender-based products. There is also a tradition of wine-making on Hvar, and there are many seaside coves and beaches where you can escape to enjoy the sunshine.

Where to Stay in  Hvar Island

If you’re looking to stay close to the ferry port in Stari Grad, check out B&B  Villa Apolon .  For a more secluded, but eco-conscious Hvar accommodation, Villa Perka is an authentic option you may want to check out! – Eric and Lisa from Penguin and Pia

Madeira Islands (Portugal)

Like most of the polaces on this list, the four islands of the Portuguese archipelago of Madeira have beautiful coastlines.

But they also offer interesting fauna and flora, amazing volcanic formations, delicious cuisine, and glorious mountain peaks, which ranks them among our top islands to visit.

There are a wide variety of activities nature lovers can enjoy on these beautiful islands, which are located off the northwest coast of Africa. And the temperature is pleasant all year round, thanks to the subtropical climate.

Best Things to Do in  Madeira

Hiking in Madeira  is easily the most popular activity. The levadas were historically used as Madeira’s irrigation channels, taking water from the northwest to the more fertile southeast.

But nowadays they’re also used as hiking trails, and offer a great way to explore the island. An absolute must for trekking enthusiasts is the Pico Areeiro to Pico Ruivo trail, which connects the highest peaks on the island.

You can also go swimming at Calheta Beach, or catch a boat from the pier to see Whales and Dolphins. If you’re feeling adventurous, try paragliding to get a bird’s-eye view of the island!

Where to Stay in Madeira

Four Views Baía has a great location in Funchal that’s close to many restaurants, cafes, and markets. It’s a great base to explore Madeira island, and a lovely place to relax after a long exhausting day. The hotel also has a spa and pool, which has a gorgeous view. – Krix Eniko  of Travel Hacker Girl <

Sardinia (Italy)

Located just south of Corsica, Sardinia’s wild and rugged mountains hide a myriad of underground grottos, which give an insight into the island’s rich history.

Around the perimeter, pristine beaches (including 5 wheelchair-accessible beaches ) hug the coastline, interrupted by rocky promontories that are pockmarked with sea caves.

It’s arguably the best Italian island to explore, and offers a lot to the curious visitor.

Best Things to Do in Sardinia

Head to the hills if you want to experience hiking Sardinia, with some of the best trails in the European islands and incredible views to match.

Keep an eye out for the mystical looking nuraghi (mysterious beehive-shaped ruins of ancient fortresses that are unique to Sardinia) that punctuate the landscape. You can also discover stunning stalagmites and stalactites in many amazing caves  lurking beneath the island’s surface.

Be sure to also schedule some time to unwind at the beach. But while you do, keep an eye on the sky and you may spot the tell-tale silhouette of a Flamingo in flight!

Where to Stay in Sardinia

At nature’s doorstep you’ll find the authentic and welcoming Hotel Nascar . This unique Sardinia accommodation is a former granary that has been reincarnated as a charming place to stay. It’s the perfect launch pad for trekking the Selvaggio Blu. Awarded the European Eco-Label, it’s a hotel that goes the extra mile to protect the environment.  – Nadine Maffre of Le Long Weekend

READ MORE: A Local’s Guide to Le Marche, Italy

Crete, the largest island in Greece, is also its southernmost. So you can enjoy tropical island weather here longer than the most popular Greek islands to the north, such as Santorini and Mykonos.

Between the stunning cliff beach of Seitan Limania, the pink beach of Elafonisi, and the paradise retreat of Balos Lagoon, Crete is one of the best islands in Greece for those seeking beautiful beaches.

Beyond that, you’ll find the towns of Heraklion, Chania, and Rethymnon to be full of charming historic spots left over from Crete’s Venetian, Ottoman, and even Egyptian past.

Best Things to Do in Crete

For the daring, take the drive out to Seitan Limania beach and make your way down the cliffs to the water’s edge. You can laze around in the sand or climb up the cliffs to jump into the water below.

Outdoor enthusiasts should make time to hike Samara Gorge , while history buffs should explore the island’s numerous amazing archaeological sites .

Where to Stay in Crete

The Rimondi Boutique Hotel  makes a great base from which you can enjoy all the things there are to do in Rethymnon, including touring the Venetian harbor, eating at Raki ba Raki, and strolling along the coast under the Fortezza at sunset. Enjoy their Turkish baths while staying in the heart of the charming Venetian city.   -Stephanie Craig of Sofia Adventures

READ MORE: The Best Places to Visit in  Greece

Delos Island  is a UNESCO World Heritage Site known as a pirate island and Apollo’s birthplace. Greek heroes of old were trained here, hoping to absorb Apollo’s skills and blessing before battle.

Though it may not top most travelers’ bucket list of Greek islands to visit, Delos offers plenty of attractions for those with an interest in history and ancient Greek culture.

Best Things to Do on  Delos Island

I would suggest taking a guided tour to see this picturesque Greek island. Hike among the wildflowers, and walk past the famous Delos Lions towards Apollo’s Temple. Visit the Dolphin House, where a Rosetta Stone mosaic design still holds the artist’s signature from the 2nd century.

Walk among the many houses, which contain some of the best-preserved mosaic masterpieces from the 1st and 2nd Century BC. Many of these are considered even more well-preserved than those found in Pompeii.

Visit the Archeological Museum of Delos, which contains nine rooms full of artifacts found on the island from prehistoric times to the 15th century.

Where to Stay in Mykonos (to get to Delos)

While you cannot stay on the island of Delos itself, it is possible to stay on Mykonos and then take a ferry over to Delos. Of course Mykonos is also considered among the most beautiful Greek Islands, and is worthy of a visit on its own merits.

I recommend staying in Nissaki Boutique Hotel because of its close proximity to Psarou Beach, natural wood accents, and cascading pools.

You can also stay in the luxurious Mykonos Dove Beachfront Hotel , with sits olar powered umbrellas and private pools adorned with lush greenery. – Janiel from Culture Trekking

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On Karpathos Island, which is located at the southeast corner of the Aegean Sea between Crete and Rhodes, people measure distances by walking time.

This long, thin, 116-square-mile island is criss-crossed by some 30 signed trails. They pass through forests, rocky mountains, agricultural land, shoreline, and ancient and modern villages. Once you’ve explored it, it’s no wonder some travelers consider Karpathos the prettiest Greek island.

Karpathos and its neighboring sister, Saria Island (which are separated by a 150-meter channel), combine unique natural environments with a fascinating cultural setting.

Once inhabited by Greeks, Romans, and pirates, today the islands attract migratory birds, the endangered Monk Seal , and a rich botanical array. The Natura 2000 nature reserve and national marine reserve demonstrate the island’s commitment to protecting its outstanding biodiversity.

Best Things to Do in Karpathos

Besides the hiking, Karpathos is known as a windsurfing mecca, with bays to suit every ability level. The island boasts more than 100 beaches, most in leeward coves with cliffs framing the clear water.

Snorkeling and caving are popular here. Scuba divers enjoy good visibility, underwater volcanic rock fields, and a few sunken ships. Back on land, activities include mountain biking and cliff climbing.

Hiking is often combined with birdwatching (over 200 species have been identified on the island) or a botanical and culinary walk (featuring dozens of endemic plants).

Don’t miss the northern village of Olympos for a taste of Karpathos’ distinctive food and culture. It produces some of the world’s best honey and the aromatic Greek oregano used generously in its dishes.

Where to Stay in Karpathos

Most Karpathos hotels are in the main port town of Pigadia (Karpathos City) or along the southern coast. Central to everything is the Alimounda Mare Hotel , which offers a complete array of upscale resort services.

For a more intimate, remote experience, try Villa Iliahtida in Tristomo . Contact EcoTourism Karpathos for your help with planning your eco-friendly trip. – Kristin Henning of Travel Past 50

READ MORE:   Ancestors & Expectations at the Acropolis of Athens

Best Things to Do in Leros 

Where to stay in leros.

The Alinda Hotel is in a beautiful and quiet area of Leros, set right on the beach. Agia Marina is full of hotel apartments. Both make great bases from which to explore Leros before the secret gets out about this idyllic island. -Alana Tagliabue of Family Bites Travel

READ MORE: Happy Accidents on Aegina Island, Greece

Naxos is a beautiful Greek island that offers  the perfect combination of food and nature, tourist infrastructure and local authenticity.

The view from the island’s main dock says it all. To the left is an ancient ruin, straight ahead you can see the mountain ranges, and to the right is a great selection of restaurants.

Of course, the iconic white houses and wine-dark sea the Cycladic Islands are famous for complete the dramatic scene.

Best Things to Do in Naxos Greece

As Naxos is one of the largest islands in the archipelago, the best way to explore it is by renting a car. Head into the mountains and hike to find the Kouroi, which are ancient half-finished statues.

Scattered throughout these mountains are beautiful Greek churches and breathtaking views. There are enough traditional tavernas and olive presses to excite any food lover . Just be sure to visit a local shop to taste the world-famous Naxian cheeses. 

Once you’ve had your fill of culture, you can relax on one of the amazing Naxo s beaches, where it is usually possible to find yourself almost completely alone!

Where to Stay in Naxos

Thalassa Naxos provides an amazing beachside base for exploration. This tranquil Naxos accommodation (with cooking facilities and fridge) is nestled in a quiet natural area with long white sandy beaches, cedar forests, and sand dunes. 

If you’re more of a pool lover, then the family-friendly Naxos Palace Hotel will suit you perfectly. It is conveniently located within easy reach of the town and provides complimentary transport from the hotel every 30 minutes. – Samantha of Carry On or Bust

Aitutaki (Cook Islands)

Aitutaki is more than just another jaw-dropping Polynesian island. It’s actually an archipelago of 15 of the most beautiful islands circling a postcard-perfect turquoise lagoon.

This is the perfect place for a holiday in Polynesia, with all the charm you’d expect from the South Pacific and surprisingly few of the tourists. In short, this is the place to indulge your castaway fantasies.

Best Things to Do in Aitutaki 

Taking an Aitutaki lagoon tour is an absolute must. Several companies run small group tours, taking 8 to 12 people on a boat to a few of the nearby islets and the best snorkeling spots. Most include the chance to see giant Trevallies and Wrasses, Giant Clams, blue Starfish and bright purple coral.

For a more intimate, personal experience, rent a kayak or charter a water taxi and see where the mood takes you. You can even ask to be dropped off with a picnic lunch and have a deserted islet all to yourself for the day!

Back on land, don’t miss an “island night” cultural celebration. These luau-like feasts of food and music are the best way to see Polynesian dancing and try traditional Cook Islands cuisine.

Where to Stay in Aitutaki

Our favorite Aitutaki accommodation was Etu Moana , a locally-owned boutique hotel with eight gorgeous villas. There’s no all-inclusive option here, and no poolside waiter service. Just an honesty bar, a quiet stretch of beach, and several friendly cats. -Lisa Bott-Hansson of Rebellious Tourist

READ MORE: 21 Tahiti Photos to Fuel Your Exotic Island Fantasies

Bora Bora (Tahiti)

Bora Bora (whose original name in the Tahitian language means “first-born”) is a luxury traveler’s dream, and the epitome of exotic island indulgence. It’s no wonder Bora Bora is widely considered one of the best islands in the world for a honeymoon.

With two mountains in the center of the island and a picture-perfect lagoon and barrier reef surrounding it, it’s the quintessential Tahiti destination for rest, relaxation, and romance.

“Getting away from it all” is defined by a stay in one of Bora Bora’s famed thatched-roof bungalows, whose glass floors allow views of an underwater world filled with fish, Manta Rays, and Reef Sharks.

Best Things to Do in Bora Bora

Pearl Diving in Bora Bora had been on our bucket list ever since we saw it as a challenge on The Amazing Race . The Bora Bora Pearl Company offers a chance to do it in a picturesque setting, and you learn a lot about pearl-farming in the process. You even get to keep the pearl you harvest!

Swimming with Sharks is another awesome activity, and we found ourselves surrounded by Black-tipped Reef Sharks, Stingrays, and all sorts of tropical fish. Unfortunately many local tour operators still chum the waters, which isn’t exactly what you’d call a responsible travel practice.

But our favorite thing to do in Bora Bora was snorkeling the Ruahatu Lagoon Sanctuary at the Four Seasons Resort. Built from the ground up by marine biologist Oliver Martin, this tranquil lagoon was filled with fish, octopi, a coral farm, and intriguing underwater sculptures.

Where to Stay in Bora Bora

The Four Seasons Resort Bora Bora is everything you want from a Tahiti vacation. It’s got luxury over-water bungalows, stunning scenic vistas, gorgeous beaches, a sumptuous spa, and exquisite seafood.

In terms of the best holiday destinations for couples, it’s hard to beat. If you’ve got the budget, splurge for a private beachside dinner, complete with lobster and tiki torches! –Bret Love & Mary Gabbett

READ MORE: Harmful Traditions & Cultural Practices Tourists Shouldn’t Support

Easter Island (a.k.a. Rapa Nui)

Easter Island, which is known locally as Rapa Nui, is a mysterious and mythical place.Protected as a UNESCO World Heritage Site , this tiny island is littered with some 400 massive stone head statues (a.k.a. Moai ).

Though widely considered one of the world’s top islands to visit, Easter Island is very remote. There are only two ways to get there: a 4-hour flight from Tahiti or a nearly 6-hour flight from Santiago de Chile .

Best Things to Do in Easter Island

The obvious thing to do here is to either independently do the sightseeing of the Easter Island highlights, or join a guided tour group to take you to different places on the island.

Everything is magical here, but don’t miss out on visiting the Moai “birthplace” at Rano Raraku quarry. You can also explore the Ahu Tahai and Ahu Tongariki platforms, the dormant Rano Kau volcano, and Anakena Beach, which is the only white sand beach on the island.

One of our favorite Easter Island activities is  scuba diving . Ask to dive in the Hanga Roa Harbor if you want to see the eerie underwater moai! During the right season, you may even get to hear and spot the Whale migration in the clear waters.

Where to Stay on Easter Island

I highly suggest the 5-star Easter Island hotel,  Hangaroa Eco Village & Spa . Simply a beautiful and relaxing eco-resort, it’s definitely one of the best places to stay on the island.

While the hotel is within walking distance from the town center of Hanga Roa, they also provide a professional concierge service. So you can hire a car, arrange a guided tour, or simply get some R&R in its beautiful swimming pool.   -Halef and Michael of The Round The World Guys

READ MORE: Rapa Nui National Park: Easter Island Facts & Photos

Savaii & Upolu (Samoa)

Western Samoa is an absolute gem in the Pacific, where volcanic activity has created incredible topography across two islands. Savaii and Upolu islands are arguably among the most beautiful islands in the world. They’re littered with waterfalls , rainforest, beaches, cliffs, and swimming holes.On top of that, Samoa has one of the warmest cultures I’ve ever experienced in my years of traveling around the world .

Best Things to Do in Samoa

Where to stay in samoa.

Yasawa Islands (Fiji)

As a country, Fiji is world renowned for its many beautiful islands. But the Yasawa Islands stand out as some of the best thanks to their natural beauty and the fact that they’re so easy to get to from Fiji’s main international airport in Nadi.

Visitors can choose one of the island resorts to relax at for the duration of their trip, or make use of the Yasawa Flyer and island-hop their way through this exotic archipelago.

Whether you’re looking for relaxing tropical places to visit or an adventurous vacation with a bit more of an adrenaline rush, the Yasawa Islands  have you covered.

Best Things To Do in the Yasawa Islands

The Yasawa Islands are known as an island-hopping destination that is especially popular among water sports enthusiasts.

So the best thing to do there is to snorkel or dive the nearby reef systems, which are teeming with marine life. If you’re lucky, you’ll spot some massive Manta Rays, or maybe get to scuba dive with Bull Sharks .

Many Yasawa resorts also offer kayaks and paddleboards for rent or loan. At the end of a busy day, you’ll want to spend some time relaxing on one of the white sand beaches and takomh in a stunning sunset.

Where to Stay in Yasawa

The Yasawa Islands resort I stayed at was Octopus Resorts (on Waya Island), which was fabulous in terms of service, location, and amenities.

Another highly recommended place to stay is Mantaray Island Resort , which is located on a nearby Nanuya Balavu Island. -Hannah Logan of EatSleepBreathTravel.com

READ MORE: Hawaiian Mythology (Intro to Hawaiian Gods, Goddess and Legends

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• 1 Martha's Vineyard, Massachusetts
• 2 Marco Island, Florida
• 3 Nantucket, Massachusetts
• 4 Hilton Head Island, South Carolina
• 5 Maui, Hawaii
• 6 Mackinac Island, Michigan
• 7 San Juan Islands, Washington
• 8 Block Island, Rhode Island
• 9 Catalina Island, California

America’s Best Island Vacations (No Passport Required)

Island getaways are typically reserved for all-inclusive Caribbean idylls, but we've got plenty of sensational stays right in our backyard. From the New England summer colonies favored by socialites and celebs, to miles of tropical sugar-sand beaches off of Florida's west coast, here are the best island vacations in the US of A.

A Brooklyn-based writer and editor, Chelsea's work has appeared in Matador Network, The Huffington Post, the TripAdvisor blog, and more. When not planning her next trip, you'll usually find her drinking way too much iced coffee (always iced—she’s from New England) or bingeing a Netflix original series.

See recent posts by Chelsea Stuart

Martha's Vineyard, Massachusetts

Martha’s Vineyard has made quite the name for itself as a New England summer staple for affluent locals, socialites, celebs, and democratic bigwigs-alike (we see you, Obamas and Clintons). That said, what’s all the hype about? Well, barring a lengthy laundry list of accolades, MV wows with high-end gastronomic options, a rich history and pure scenic beauty throughout it’s six towns. Food options here are endless, but ask around and you’ll find Among the Flowers Cafe , in Edgartown, is the place for breakfast and you can guess what Larsen’s Fish Market, in Menemsha, is good for. This summer, for a midnight snack, traipse to the actual back door of Martha’s Vineyard Gourmet Café & Bakery for Back Door Donuts . The treats are served from 7:00 pm to 1:00 am on the dot. Ride that sugar high through till morning when you storm the island by moped. Wednesdays and Saturdays are reserved for sifting through vintage finds at the Chilmark Flea Market , while the shops and gingerbread cottages on Circuit Avenue in Oak Bluffs are always there when you have time. Keep things cozy at the Harbor View Hotel , a collection of seaside-chic cottages just a stone’s throw from the historic mansions of downtown Edgartown.

Explore More: See hotel details | See all Martha's Vineyard, MA hotels

Marco Island, Florida

Not far from the Everglades and Naples, connected to the mainland by a series of bridges, Marco Island is the largest developed chunk of Florida’s “Ten Thousand Islands.” Poised in the Gulf of Mexico, it has all of the Floridian mainstays holiday-seekers are accustomed to finding: luxury resorts, sun-washed beaches and a tropical climate that hovers in the 80s, rarely dipping into the 50s, even in the dead of winter. For an Everglades experience without actually stepping foot in the Everglades, hit the mile-long boardwalk at Collier-Seminole State Park . The system of mangrove swamps and salt marshes is home to rare flora and fauna like the royal palm, American alligators and crocodiles, and Florida black bears. For a gourmet bite, La Tavola serves up a mean grilled Spanish octopus with andouille sausage, red peppers, fig balsamic, fresh herbs and greens. When it comes to choosing a stay, your pick is between a slew of well-known mega-resorts, and tiny inns, but you’ll be comfortable whether you retire at the massive Marco Island Marriott Beach Resort Golf Club & Spa, or mini Marco Island Lakeside Inn .

RELATED: 9 Hidden Beaches in Florida Locals Keep Secret

Explore More: See hotel details | See all Marco Island, FL hotels

Nantucket, Massachusetts

Nantucket joins Martha’s Vineyard in Massachusetts’ roster of highly-flocked to summer colonies. Thirty miles off the coast of Cape Cod, the seaport stunner doesn’t have to clamor for attention, but just sits back and reels it all in with its perfectly-worn wharves, shingled family homes, cobblestoned streets and sandy dunes. Drop your bags in your own apartment-style loft at the harbor-front White Elephant and take to the island by bike , or board with a little aid from the Nantucket Island Surf School . Energy spent, direct your remaining attention to Oran Mar where exquisitely plated, incredibly colorful dishes are the name of the game. Not ordering the entire menu is an exercise in self constraint, but we wouldn’t fault you for going for a couple plates, say the garlic-laced roasted Pocmo Meadow oysters, black truffle bucatini and Berkshire pork belly.

Explore More: See hotel details | See all Nantucket, MA hotels

Hilton Head Island, South Carolina

Just 45 minutes from Savannah and Beaufort, this low-country island is all about southern hospitality. Between hitting the links – the resort town is lauded for its world-class golf courses (it does host the PGA tour Heritage Golf Classic) – you can hit the sands at Coligny Beach , or stop in Harbour Town , marked by its eponymous and iconic red and white-striped lighthouse, to take a gander at the yacht basin and peruse the shops, ice cream cone in hand. When it comes time to really chow down, a l ow-country inspired meal at Live Oak is always the answer. If you catch them during Saturday or Sunday brunch, you can recline with $8 unlimited Mimosas and $10 bottomless Bloody Marys (living in NYC, it pains me to write this). Otherwise, start with skillet bacon cornbread with pimento cheese, honey butter and jalapeno marmalade, then go for something classic like shrimp and grits or southern fried chicken. In the Palmetto Dunes neighborhood of Hilton Head, fresh off of a $17 million redesign, the Omni Hilton Head Oceanfront Resort waits with spacious, brightly-appointed suites and 11-miles of lagoon ready for kayaking.

RELATED : America's Coolest Southern Towns

Explore More: See hotel details | See all Hilton Head, SC hotels

Maui, Hawaii

Ask nearly anyone and they’ll tell you that Maui doesn’t just land the list of America’s most beautiful islands, but the world’s, too. Luxury resorts and plush guest homes meet every watersport imaginable (the diving is a must) sprawling gardens right on the ocean’s edge, volcanic landscapes pocketed by dormant craters, and the food isn’t too shabby, either. At the Lumeria Maui , a restored, elegant 1909 estate, six manicured acres of lush garden cocoon yoga, meditation, and gardening classes along with an expansive indoor/outdoor wellbeing center and saltwater pool. For a meal that hasn't failed to impress locals and visitors for the last 26 years, head west to the Lahaina Grill . A menu spilling over with contemporary bistro cuisine means you'll be eating your weight in ahi poke, crisp Shanghai spring rolls, and Kona coffee roasted rack of lamb.

RELATED : The Best Hotels in Hawaii

Explore More: See hotel details | See all Makawao, HI hotels

Mackinac Island, Michigan

Stepping onto the resort Mackinac Island is like stepping back in time. The 3.8 miles of land floating in Michigan’s Lake Huron is home to less than 500 year-round residents, but that's just the start of its small town feel. Visitors are instantly captivated by the unmistakable Americana and early 1900s atmosphere the island evinces, due in large part to horse buggies (the island’s car-free), monumental historic hotels (that happen to have the longest porch in America ) and a Main Street brimming with the bright, columned facades of general stores, inns, and artist markets. Despite a count-them-all-on-one-hand populace, the island has a wealth of tasty restaurants. The waterfront patio at the Pink Pony slings a pretty good bistro burger and rum runner (that’s the talk of the island). If you’re looking to keep the night going, the Cuppola Bar at the top of the Grand Hotel is what follows. Grab a drink and sit back to enjoy the live music, but beware, the one-of-a-kind Carleton Varney decor might just steal the show (get a load of the chandelier). Head home at the end of the day to The Inn At Stonecliffe , a Tudor Revival mansion kitted out with new and old-world touches like original stained glass windows, clawfoot tubs and a former-library-turned bar.

Explore More: See hotel details | See all Mackinac Island, MI hotels

San Juan Islands, Washington

The San Juan Islands off the northwest corner of Washington state comprise some 172 land masses and reef bodies, but it’s Orcas, Lopez, Shaw and San Juan (singular) that hold all the goods. Hopping a quick ferry or flight from Seattle, Bellingham, or Vancouver, you’ll be mesmerized by the archipelago’s rugged Pacific Northwest landscape – subalpine forests, rocky beaches and reef-studded bays. Your trip calls for a stay at the Friday Harbor House in San Juan where after days of exploring the island’s thriving art scene, covering the streets of the seaport inch by inch (it’s only a mile) and visiting the Pelindaba Lavender Farm during the “peak of purpleness” (July and August), you’ll lounge fireside in your own oversized tub, taking in the island’s bluffs through your room’s picture window. Dedicate a day to the San Juan Islands Scenic Byway which connects the beaches, alpaca farms, mountains, harbors and vineyards of the archipelago’s many hamlets and fit in a whale watching excursion as the island's are famous for their three pods of killer whales. When hunger strikes, find a table at Coho Restaurant where seasonal Pacific-style meals are spun with a Mediterranean twist.

Block Island, Rhode Island

Just about 14-miles equidistance off the coasts of Montauk and mainland Rhode Island, Block Island is an enchanting summer destination chock full of New England-style inns, B&Bs and guesthouses. Ringing in at around 9 miles – but with 17 beachy miles of coastline – the island tempts guests with bicycling, yachting, specialty boutiques and art galleries. Since the tiny slice of land is home to only 900 year-round residents, it maintains a level of rustic simplicity with steep ocean bluffs, winding roads and stoic 18th-century lighthouses (which were once architectural marvels). Scarf down the freshest lobster rolls at Southeast Light Delights on the Mohegan Bluffs near Southeast Lighthouse , or if you’re anti-seafood, try out a ricotta grilled cheese on sourdough, stuffed with local blueberries, blackberries and strawberries, and then drizzled with honey. For a sweet stay that’s removed from the 24/7 comings and goings of downtown – but don’t worry, you’re only a mile off the beaten path – tuck your things away at waterfront Payne’s Harbor View Inn . The three-story retreat has just 10 rooms and 3 grand balconies with sweeping views of the ocean and New Harbor.

Catalina Island, California

Santa Catalina, or just Catalina, as it’s known to those who frequent it, has everything the jetsetting elite are keen on (Marilyn Monroe herself once called the island home) – namely swaying palms, white sandy beaches, exquisite dive sites, and a soothing island vibe. Getting there is a cinch, with ferries regularly leaving from Long Beach, Dana Point, Newport Beach and San Pedro, and once you’re on the island, in main town Avalon, which is only a mile, you’ll see everyone gets around on foot (no joke, there’s a 14-year wait list for residents to get a car on the island). Take lunch at the Inn on Mt. Ada where your meal will be met with panoramic views of Avalon Bay, the island’s blissful backcountry and a clear view of chewing gum-tycoon William Wrigley Jr.'s mansion. If you’re planning an overnight, Snug Harbor Inn should serve as your temporary home base. The Cape Cod-style charmer is a favorite among celebs trying to avoid having their vacay splashed across the homepages of TMZ and Perez Hilton.

RELATED: 10 Incredible Places to Visit in California

What to wear on an American island:

Women’s outfit to wear in the hamptons, shop the look.

Longwear Foundation

Canvas Wedge Espadrilles

Men’s beach trip date outfit.

Swim Trunks

Beach Paddle Ball Set

Linen Tank Top

Leather Flip Flops

Women’s swimsuit for laying out in los cabos.

Straw Sun Hat

Off Shoulder Bikini

Lobster Beach Towel

Glow Stick Sunscreen

Men’s beach look for your passport-less tropical vacation.

Cotton Crew Tee

Pineapple Cap

White Slides

Women’s beach outfit for your all-inclusive resort trip to the caribbean.

Scoop Back One Piece

Alma Slip Dress

White Sandals

Braided Sunhat

Natural Mineral Sunscreen

Men’s day style for the most beautiful places in europe.

Printed Shirt

Skinny Fit Jeans

Woven Leather Belt

Women’s Casual Outfit for a Food Town

Jagged Hem Jeans

Men’s Relaxed Fit for an Adults-Only All-Inclusive Resort in the Caribbean

Pleated Slim Shorts

Smart Watch

Cupsole Shoe

Women’s swimsuit cover outfit (amazon-based).

Pleated Sleeveless Dress

Men’s Shirtless Swimwear for July

Facial Sunscreen

Waterproof Watch

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Rhode Island , Summer  ·  April 6, 2022

17 Incredible Things To Do On A Block Island Day Trip (2024)

Sitting just 9 miles from mainland Rhode Island, Block Island is a gorgeous place to visit for a day trip that has amazing beaches, nature trails, a charming downtown, lighthouses, awesome food and a very relaxing atmosphere. I love Block Island for all of these reasons, but mostly because it just has such a unique vibe with some really cool things to do that you can’t find anywhere else, and most of it is free.

Having done both, I can say that a Block Island day trip, as well as a weekend getaway are wonderful trips to consider. In this post, I’m excited to focus on all the best things to do on Block Island for a day trip, and many of these things can also be used to plan a weekend itinerary to make your trip to Block Island worth it.

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Is Block Island Worth A Day Trip?

Block Island is most definitely worth a day trip. With ferry crossings only taking 30-60 minutes, it’s an enjoyable day trip to take from the Newport/Narragansett area. And with the island being relatively small, it’s very easy to see most of it in just one day. While there are lots of things to do on Block Island, you can really take your time and slow down for the day to soak up all the beautiful sights and scenery. 

I also think Block Island is one of the best beach towns in New England , so even if you’re just looking for a fun and unique beach day trip, it fits the bill perfectly – especially since all the beaches are free to visit!

17 Best Things To Do On Block Island During A Day Trip

While the island is small, you might not be able to do everything on this list, but you’ll be able to do most everything while on a Block Island day trip, especially if you have a car or rent a moped. So, if you’re looking for ideas on the very best things to do on Block Island, here are 13 incredible things to consider to make Block Island worth visiting.

1. Experience The Mohegan Bluffs

If you only do one thing on your day trip to Block Island, it should absolutely be the Mohegan Bluffs. These are featured on almost any postcard, stock image or website for Block Island, and are the most famous sight on the entire island. To get to Mohegan Bluffs, you’ll need to drive or bike 2 miles from downtown.

The views from the bluffs are absolutely incredible. Be sure to take some time from the top of the staircase, and admire the views from a distance, and then slowly make your way down to the beach to walk along the shore. The staircase is 141 steps long, so be prepared for a bit of a hike to get back up! There will be some light scrambling as you get to the end of the staircase close to the beach, but nothing that most people wouldn’t be able to handle.

The beach itself is a bit rocky, so it’s best to bring some water shoes, or sturdy sandals with you if you’re worried about hurting the bottoms of your feet. But the views of the cliffs from the beach below is absolutely worth the trek down the stairs!

If you drive, there is a small parking lot near the top of the staircase, but it can fill up fast on weekends in the summer. Some people will park along the road, which is also permitted.

2. Explore The Clayhead Trail & Maze (And The Secret Beach!)

Of all the trails to do on a Block Island day trip, this would be the one I would pick. This is a 3.5 mile loop trail that takes you through some of the prettiest scenery on the island, and should take you about 2.5-3 hours to complete.

The Clay Head Trail & Maze is about 3 miles from downtown, and to begin the trail, you’ll want to turn right on Clayhead Trail Road, and follow the dirt road until you reach the small parking area.

Once you’re on the trail, walk for about a quarter to a third of a mile, and you’ll reach an intersection. You’ll have the option to go right to visit a gorgeous beach (a local’s secret where almost no tourists or day trippers go!), or go left to walk along some beautiful bluffs for amazing views. Keep in mind that the beach is pretty rocky, so it’s not ideal for laying around or swimming, but the views are definitely worth it.

Once you reach the top of the trail, you’ll find yourself in The Maze, which is just a series of connected and unmarked paths, and you can choose where you want to go from there. To be honest, I’ve never veered off-course into The Maze, just because I don’t know where these trails lead, but if you’re feeling like an adventure, go for it!

Tip : Poison Ivy is very prevalent on this trail, so be sure to stay on the path. And if you’re allergic (like I am!) come prepared with special soap to wash it off, or better yet, wear sneakers with high socks or pants for this trail. I’ve never gotten it while on this trail, but I always come prepared just in case.

3. Enjoy The Atmosphere At Ballard’s Beach

Ballard’s Beach is a very quick 5-minute walk from the ferry, so if you’re looking to spend most of your Block Island day trip having a fun and exciting beach day, this is a great place to do that.

The beach is free to visit, and you’ll only have to pay if you’d like to rent any beach equipment like lounge chairs or umbrellas. There are even VIP Cabana rental options for larger groups or special occasions. Along the beach you’ll also find multiple Tiki Bars where you can order drinks, and you’ll also have Ballard’s Beach Restaurant on the grounds, where you can grab lunch, small bites or dinner. The restaurant staff will even deliver your food to your beach chairs.

Ballard’s Beach definitely has a party atmosphere, so if you’re looking for a quiet and serene experience, this is not the best place to spend your day. However, if you’re looking for a lively beach atmosphere with tons of amenities, live music and volleyball nets, this is one of the best things to do on Block Island. 

4. Relax At Mansion Beach

Contrary to Ballard’s Beach, Mansion Beach is where to go for a more relaxing beach day during your Block Island Day Trip. Usually less crowded, and known for its bigger waves and long stretch of pristine sandy shoreline, Mansion Beach can be found about 3 miles, or a 10-minute drive, from downtown. 

It’s good to note that there are no facilities at Mansion Beach, including bathrooms. You’ll want to come prepared with anything you’ll need for the day if you plan to spend some time here. Otherwise, as a quick stop, a walk along Mansion Beach is one of the best things to do on Block Island for a day trip. 

5. Hunt For Glass Orbs All Over The Island

Probably one of the coolest things to do in all of New England is the Glass Float Project. Each year, over 500 glass orbs, or floats, are handmade in nearby Wakefield, RI by a local artist named Eben Horton, as well as his wife, Jennifer and the team at his studio. Each glass float is dated and numbered, and hidden around Block Island by volunteers, sometimes called “Orbivores.” 

The floats are hidden on beaches and greenway trails, and are never placed in protected areas of the island such as sand dunes, so be sure not to walk on any forbidden areas to try and find one. Anyone is allowed to search and find them, including tourists and day trippers. If you’re lucky enough to find one during your Block Island day trip, be sure to register it by clicking here , so everyone knows how many have been found thus far in the season, and then you’re free to keep it as the ultimate Block Island souvenir. The hunt for all the floats doesn’t end until they’re all found and registered!

I’ve never found any during my stay, but it’s a goal of mine to find one someday. Wishing you the best of luck during your float hunt!

Hints : Floats are placed between the high tide lines and bluffs on beaches (so they don’t float away!) and not more than a few feet from trails. The floats are usually hidden around early to mid June, so if you come before then, you’ll likely not be able to hunt for any orbs, unless there are some leftover from the previous year.

6. Visit North Light

North Light is one of two lighthouses on the island, and one of the best things to do on a Block Island day trip. Close to the Clayhead Trail, the lighthouse is about 10 minutes from downtown by car, and has a good-sized parking lot. 

To get to the lighthouse, there is about a 1/2 mile walk along a beach involved, so plan your time accordingly. To get to the actual lighthouse, take Corn Neck Road all the way to the end. You’ll run right into a parking area by the water, right before a beach called Cow Cove. You’ll see the lighthouse in the distance, and from there, you’ll begin your walk along the beach to get to the lighthouse.

7. Explore Southeast Lighthouse & Museum

The other lighthouse on Block Island is Southeast Lighthouse, and is located on the other side of the island, close to Mohegan Bluffs. Also offering amazing views of the ocean, this lighthouse has been named a National Historic Landmark, and was built in 1873, but moved to avoid bluff erosion in 1993. 

The lighthouse has an attached museum and gift shop, and in the summer season, tours are given inside the museum, as well as up to the lighthouse tower. There is a fee to take the guided tours, but the lighthouse grounds are free to wander and explore. 

Tip : During the summer, the Southeast Light Delights Food Truck is nearby, offering lobster rolls, grilled cheese and lemonade. Check their Facebook and Instagram page for updates to see if they’ll be around during your Block Island day trip.

8. Explore The Island By Bike, Moped or Car

If you didn’t bring your car over on the ferry, but want flexibility to explore the island on your own time, renting a bike, moped or car is easy from downtown, and is one of the best things to do on Block Island to make your day trip worth it. Island Moped and Bike and Aldo’s Bikes & Moped’s both offer rentals that are less than a 5-minute walk from the ferry.

My very first trip to Block Island, my husband and I rented bikes, and I wasn’t quite prepared for how hilly the island is! Renting bikes was a wonderful experience, but keep in mind that it’ll be a workout. If you’re up for it, this is a great way to see the island. 

If you’re not up for all the hills during a bike ride, a moped is also a great option. The only thing to keep in mind with a moped rental is that many of the dirt roads don’t allow them, and most beaches and trail heads are at the end of dirt roads. You’ll need to park your moped along the side of the main road, and do a bit more walking in these cases. 

And lastly, Aldo’s has Jeeps available to rent for your Block Island day trip, which will allow you both flexibility and access to those dirt roads to get to all the beaches and nature trails. To keep things easy, it’s also an option to bring your own car on the ferry (see later in this post for more information on this option).

9. Walk Around Downtown And Visit The Shops

The downtown area along Main Street is one of the best things to do on Block Island for a day trip, and is also right where the ferries dock, making it really convenient for you to visit.

The downtown is small, but there are some really lovely shops, boutiques and restaurants that will make your day trip to Block Island worth it, and most of it is along the water for a really lovely way to spend your afternoon. See below for some of my favorite shops to visit on the island.

Best Block Island Shopping

If you’re looking to visit the best shops during your Block Island day trip, I’ve got you covered! Below is a list of shops not to missed during your visit:

Mary MacGill – Simple and stunning gemstone jewelry made on the island in an inspiring shop that also has some home goods, artwork and clothing. 

Glass Onion – An adorable little home goods boutique that also sells nice jewelry, apparel and gifts.

Block Island Trading Company – A great place for souvenirs that are nice quality, as well as gifts and unique finds.

Chapel Sweets – A must-stop if you’re looking for an old-fashioned candy shop!

Island Bound Bookstore – A small little bookshop that has a great selection, including fun beach reads and new releases.

You may also like: My post on the best New England gifts and souvenirs!

10. Go Bird Watching At The Block Island National Wildlife Refuge

With over 120 acres of protected land, the Block Island National Wildlife Refuge is an incredible destination to view over 70 species of migratory birds in the fall season, and an important destination for birds and all wildlife throughout the rest of the year. 

But even if bird-watching isn’t your thing, the Wildlife Refuge is a very peaceful place for nature walks, and strolls along the beach. The adjacent Sachem Pond is also a very scenic place to stop and admire the views. 

11. Sail The Open Waters

If you’re coming to Block Island with a group or family, chartering a sailboat might be something to consider! Through the Block Island Club , you can charter a sailboat and crew for a customized tour around the coast of Block Island. 

The Club encourages you to pack snacks and drinks for your sail, and taking in views of the bluffs from the water will offer an amazing and unforgettable perspective of Block Island. 

To book a charter, you just need to email them directly to get started. 

12. Kayak Through Salt Marshes With Pond & Beyond Kayak

Take an amazing guided eco kayak tour through the Great Salt Pond of Block Island with an island native, and get a chance to see an oyster farm and fiddler crab colony. Corrie, the owner of Pond & Beyond , has volunteered with the Block Island Conservancy and the Committee For The Great Salt Pond, and has won awards and recognition for her conservation efforts. With expert knowledge of the island’s ecosystem and navigating the waters, this is a truly amazing experience to have.

Pond & Beyond offers other guided tours as well, and also just rentals if you’re looking to do a self-guided tour. They also have a restroom on-site, and are able to store your extra backpacks and belongings while you kayak, making the whole experience as easy and stress-free as possible. 

13. Grab Lunch With A View At The Oar

For lunch with a cool atmosphere and an incredible view of the water, head over to The Oar . This is actually my favorite place for lunch on the entire island. The Oar is about a 30-minute walk or a 5 minute drive from downtown, and has amazing, casual-style food and cocktails.

Located inside the 1661 Inn, The Oar also has an awesome outdoor deck, much of which is covered for shade (so it’s a nice break from the sun on a hot day), and has an awesome view the Great Salt Pond and harbor. 

There is a large parking area if you arrive by moped, bike or car.

14. Have A Quiet Moment At The Sacred Labyrinth

Located about 10 minutes from downtown, and near the Clayhead Trail, this little spot is a lovely place for a meditative walk and reflective moment. The Sacred Labyrinth is a circular walking maze without dead-ends that’s meant to slow you down, and allow you to reflect and meditate while walking to the center. Once you reach the center, there’s a place to sit and enjoy the views of the ocean, as well as North Lighthouse and Sachem Pond. It’s a unique and fun thing to do on your Block Island day trip.

15. Walk To The Ocean View Pavillion

Located a short walk from downtown, a hidden little path will take you to the Ocean View Pavilion (and also connects you back down to Ballard’s Beach). The pavilion provides a quiet area to enjoy views of the water from atop a hill, and has some cool sculptures and a community garden. Once you’re up there, be sure to wander for a bit and see what you can find.

This isn’t the most exciting thing to do on the island, but I really enjoy it because it’s never crowded, and often end my Block Island day trip here before heading down to catch the ferry back. To find the trail, you’ll want to walk to Water Street, and go past Calaveras restaurant. It’ll be on your right, and Google Maps also has it marked.

16. Visit The 1661 Exotic Farm & Gardens

Located close to downtown on Spring Street, the 1661 Inn has a free garden and animal petting area , which is a great experience for the kids (or adults, no judgement!). At the animal petting area, they have a llama, camels, kangaroos, lemurs and even a zedonk, which is a zebra/donkey hybrid.

The gardens on the farm are absolutely beautiful, and one of the best things to do on Block Island to support the local sustainable living movement. Enjoy an hour or so walking through the orchards and flowers, and leave feeling connected to nature. The 1661 Inn also uses 95% of food waste throughout their property to use as compost for their gardens.

The Exotic Gardens and Animal Zoo is free for all, but there is a donation box, and all donations go toward their sustainable living efforts, so I highly encourage you to bring some cash for a donation if you’re able.

17. Walk The Breakwaters

There are a few breakwaters accessible from downtown that are fun to walk on. As you get off the ferry downtown, and begin to walk around, you’ll immediately see them. The easiest one to access is right in front of the Block Island Summer House. Look for a small staircase that leads down to the water, and begin your walk.

Another one is located right at Ballard’s Beach, and you can’t miss it once you arrive. This is also a nice little picture spot.

Be sure to have sturdy enough shoes to feel comfortable walking on the breakwater and exercise normal safety precautions.

Things To Do On Block Island At Night

If you decide that the island is just too amazing, and you must stay overnight (it happens!), then there are a few things I couldn’t include on the list for best things to do on a Block Island day trip, but are really cool things to do on the island in the evenings during longer stays. If you’re staying overnight or for a weekend, you can also consider these four options, which are some of the best things to do on Block Island around, or after, sunset.

1. Take A Ghost Tour Of The Island

Take a spooky walking tour with Block Island Ghost Tours because with so much history comes lots of opportunities for ghost stories! In the evenings, take guided walking, driving or even a haunted pub crawl throughout town to learn about the history and spooky lores of the island.

Tours can easily be made online via their website.

Click here to read my post on the best New England ghost tours!

2. Catch The Best Sunset On The Island At Dories Cove

You can see some gorgeous sunsets all over the island, but Dories Cove is regarded as the best sunset on Block Island by locals. This little cove is a secluded beach on the West side of the island, and can be rocky, so it’s not ideal for swimming. But it’s a perfect spot to end your day, and watch the sky fill with beautiful colors as the sun goes down.

3. Have A Beach Fire

Beach fires are allowed at any beach on Block Island with a permit, which you can get at the Police Department on the island. You must stay 25 feet from dunes, have your permit on you at all times, and be done by midnight. Other than that, you’re good to go! So grab some things to make s’mores, and head to the beach to settle in for a night of listening to waves by a crackling fire.

Tip : It’s imperative that you practice leave-no-trace during your beach fire, and be sure to carry everything out with you, including any wrappers or drink containers that may have fallen out of your bags or coolers.

4. Witness The Beautiful Bioluminescence At Great Salt Pond

You don’t have to go to the Maldives to experience the beautiful phenomenon that is bioluminescence, and you can see it right here on Block Island! The downside is that you do have to visit during the month of August when the comb jellies light up the Great Salt Pond. The good news is that if you can, or already planned to visit in August, this will be an unforgettable experience.

Pond & Beyond Kayaks also offers an amazing night time kayak tour during the bioluminescence. If this is something you’re interested in, keep an eye on their website and Instagram page, or reach out to Corrie directly to ask if that tour will be offered during your visit.

How To Spend The Day On Block Island – Suggested Itinerary

To make the most of your time, I’ve created a sample itinerary for you. This itinerary assumes that you will have either a car or moped to get around . If you plan to use a bike to get around, you’ll just need to adjust the timing a bit, since it takes longer to get everywhere on a bike versus a motorized vehicle. I also suggest you take an early ferry (8 or 9a) to the island, and a 6-7p ferry back so that you can really spend a full day here.

Morning : Arrive downtown at the ferry terminal, and head to pick-up your car, bike or moped (if renting). If you brought your car with you on the ferry, you can obviously skip this step. Head over to Mohegan Bluffs, and spend about an hour taking in the views, snapping some photos, and walking the beach.

Tip : If you need to get some breakfast before starting your day, Persephone’s Kitchen is a great option, and does online ordering if you wanted to schedule your order to be ready when you arrive. You can also swing by the Old Post Office Bagel Shop , which is in the same area, and grab some bagels to-go.

From the bluffs, walk over to the nearby Southeast Lighthouse, and spend 30-60 minutes there (depending on if you choose to visit the museum, or do a guided tour to the lighthouse tower).

Late Morning : Stop by the 1661 Exotic Gardens & Animals Zoo on your way back to town from the lighthouse. You’ll only need about 30-60 minutes here (closer to 30 if you just see the animals).

Lunch Time : Drive up to The Oar for lunch, which is about 5 minutes from the zoo.

Afternoon : Drive to Mansion Beach. Stop for about 30 minutes or so to enjoy a nice walk on the beach, and snap some photos. After Mansion Beach, head over to the Clayhead Trail for a scenic walk/hike. You can go as far as you’d like on the trail. The entire trail is about 3.5 miles, and usually takes 1.5-2 hours to complete. Or, you could just walk about halfway to get to the bluffs, take in the views, and backtrack through the trail back to your car.

Late Afternoon : Depending on time, you could stop at the Sacred Labyrinth, since it’s on the way to North Lighthouse. If you’re short on time, I would go straight to the lighthouse, and plan to spend about 60-90 minutes there, to account for the walk there and back.

After the lighthouse, drive about 10-15 minutes back downtown, and drop off your rental. Spend your remaining time exploring the shops downtown, and any sights you’d like to see (Ballard’s Beach is just a few steps from downtown).

Catch your ferry back to the mainland , and enjoy scrolling through your photos, and all the memories you’ve captured on your Block Island day trip!

Can You Drive To Block Island?

No, there is no bridge that connects Block Island to the mainland, so you have to take a ferry to get there. But that adds to the fun of visiting Block Island for a day trip!

How To Get To Block Island

To get to Block Island, you’ll take the Block Island Ferry from Point Judith in Narragansett, RI, which is only about 30 minutes from Newport, RI.

The Block Island Ferry offers two types of service: The Fast Passenger-Only ferry, and the Traditional Ferry, which will accommodate vehicles.

The Fast Ferry option will take 30 minutes to get from Point Judith to Block Island, and the Traditional Ferry option will take 1 hour.

There is also a Block Island Express Ferry from New London, CT, which takes about 1.5 hours to get to Block Island. This ferry does not have an option to bring your car to the island. 

How To Bring Your Car To Block Island

To bring your car with you to Block Island, you’ll need to make a reservation ahead of time with Block Island Ferry by calling them directly. Vehicle reservations can’t be made online. When you call, be sure to have them book your passenger ticket, as well as your vehicle ticket . Both will be needed to board the ferry.

Parking At The Point Judith Ferry

There is no official ferry parking lot at Point Judith, but there are tons of lots on Great Island Road, where the ferry terminal is located. Most don’t take online reservations ahead of time, and it’s best to have at least $20 cash with you to pay to park for the day if leaving your car behind. 

I’ve also used SpotHero to pay for parking here ahead of time, and it works really well with an easy-to-use online reservations system.

All parking lots are easily walkable to the Point Judith ferry terminal. 

Should I Bring My Car Or Rent Transportation On Block Island For A Day Trip?

My personal preference is to bring my own car. It is expensive to bring your car on the ferry, and the ride will take an additional 30 minutes, but a car rental on the island will likely cost more in the end anyway. I’ve also rented bikes and a moped to explore the island, and enjoyed both, but prefer driving. That’s just my opinion, and I know people who would rather bike or moped.

If you would prefer to rent bikes or a moped for your Block Island day trip, this will be more cost-effective than bringing your own car to the island. Just be sure you’re aware that mopeds can’t get down the dirt roads to access some beaches and trails.

Best Way To Get Around Block Island

For a day trip to Block Island, the best way to get around is by car. Mopeds are also great, but you won’t be allowed to go down any dirt roads to lead to trailheads or beaches, so keep that mind. Mansion Beach is at the end of a long, dirt road, so with a moped, a lot more walking will be required to visit this beach.

Crescent Beach and Fred Benson Beach have easy parking along a main road, so a moped will easily work to visit these two beaches without any additional walking.

Biking is also a great way to get around the island since it’s pretty small, but keep in mind that the island is actually pretty hilly, and it’ll be a workout! There are some flat areas, but you’ll encounter a lot of hills. 

For those reasons, I always suggest having a car to make your day trip to Block Island worth it, and cover as much ground as you can while having time to go at a leisurely pace. 

Is There Uber or Rideshare On Block Island?

Uber and other rideshare services are not available on Block Island, but there are taxi companies that can get you around if needed. Rondo’s Taxi and Mermaid Cab are two great options available.

What Is There To Do On Block Island Without A Car?

Without a car, bike or moped on Block Island, you’ll be limited on what you can do. While the island is small, if you’re on Block Island for a day trip, you’ll spend most of your time walking rather than actual sightseeing. If you don’t have a car, or don’t wish to rent a car, moped or bike while on the island, you can use the local taxi services to get around.

Many of the taxi companies offer customized tours, which usually lasts between 1-2 hours, and costs between $50-$75 for two people. For this option, you’ll want to reach out to them directly by phone to arrange something, as most of them don’t have websites.

If that’s also not an option for you, you’ll likely spend most of your time exploring downtown, and you could also opt to walk to Mohegan Bluffs and Southeast Lighthouse, which would be just under 2 miles one-way. You’ll still get a good feel of the island this way, but I highly suggest having some mode of transportation for the day to make your Block Island day trip worth it.

Free Things To Do On Block Island

One of the best things about Block Island is that most of the sights and attractions are free, which is a stark contrast to most New England summer destinations. If you come to the island with your car, you could spend the entire day here without paying money to see anything on this list. There are no parking fees for the lighthouses, beaches and nature trails, and no entrance fees to most sights and attractions. Below is a list of everything that is free to do on Block Island.

• All beaches and parks (including parking)
• Mohegan Bluffs (including parking)
• North and Southeast lighthouse grounds (there is a fee for a Southeast Light tour)
• Block Island National Wildlife Refuge
• The Sacred Labyrinth
• 1661 Exotic Gardens & Animals
• The Glass Float Project
• Exploring downtown
• Ocean View Pavilion

Best Time To Visit Block Island

The best time to visit is between Memorial Day Weekend and Labor Day Weekend. It’s good to know that Block Island is very seasonal, and if you want to visit when all the shops and restaurants are open, you’ll want to visit between these weekends. If visiting outside of these weekends, you’ll run into a good amount of closures, but there will still be some restaurants and shops that are open. 

For this reason, you’ll run into the most crowds between July Fourth and Labor Day, and while parking spots will fill up fast, especially on weekends, I don’t find the island to feel as crowded as places like Newport, RI or Cape Cod. 

I’ve visited in late September, mid-May and peak summer time, and have found the island to be enjoyable each time. If you’re looking to avoid crowds, and don’t mind that certain places may not be open, the two weeks following Labor Day are awesome (a lot more places will start to close down toward the end of September). I’ve also been the weekend before Memorial Day, and things were just starting to open up, but the island was very quiet (a few places were still closed at this time, including The Oar and a few shops).

What Is Block Island Known For?

Block Island is known for its dramatic bluffs, gorgeous beaches and extensive ecosystem which includes the The Block Island National Wildlife Refuge, a significant migratory stopping point for over 70 species of young birds, and the Great Salt Pond.

How Big Is Block Island?

Block Island is only about 7 miles long, and 3 miles wide, and the locals will refer to the shape of island as a pork chop.

How Long Does It Take To Go Around Block Island?

Without making any stops, you could drive around the island in about an hour. But of course, there are so many beautiful places to stop, so definitely plan for much longer than that to enjoy all the natural beauty of Block Island.

How Many Beaches Does Block Island Have?

Block Island has 15 beaches and over 17 miles of beautiful shoreline to explore. None of the beaches charge entrance or parking fees, so this is a great destination for summer beach days in New England.

Best Block Island Beaches

With so many options to choose from even on such a small island, it might feel overwhelming to choose what beaches you’d like to visit on your Block Island day trip. Here is a list of my favorites:

Mansion Beach – As mentioned, Mansion Beach has a long stretch of soft sand and beautiful turquoise waters. It also has a very calm and relaxed feel. There are no facilities at this beach.

Crescent Beach – One of the most popular beaches is Crescent Beach. It’s located just outside of downtown, and parking can be found along the road (remember, parking is free for all!). This beach is beautiful, and I really enjoy the walk through the sand dunes to get there from the street. There are no facilities at this beach.

Fred Benson Town Beach – Another popular beach right off Corn Neck Road, and bordering Crescent Beach is Fred Benson Town Beach. It’s equally as beautiful as Crescent Beach, but might be better for families with children, as there are facilities like bathrooms, changing rooms and a snack bar. This beach is also lifeguarded.

What To Pack For A Day Trip To Block Island

For a Block Island day trip, you’ll want to pack light enough that you don’t feel like you’re lugging around too many things all day, but also pack enough that you’ll be comfortable. Below is a list of some things you may want to consider bringing with you for the day.

• A small backpack or tote bag to carry everything (a backpack is better if you plan to rent a moped)
• Refillable water bottle (you can refill at Nicholas Ball Park in downtown!)
• Beach flip flops or sandals for walking on beaches (sturdy enough to walk on rocky shoreline)
• Extra set of clothes (including underwear) and a beach towel if you plan to go swimming at any of the beaches, and especially if you’re planning to spend the day at Ballard’s Beach.
• Driver’s license if you want to rent a moped, car or bike.
• Cash for parking at the ferry, or for a donation if you plan to visit 1661 Exotic Gardens & Animals.
• Binoculars if you want to go bird-watching.

My favorite towels for beach day trips (and in general!) are from Dock & Bay. They’re super lightweight, and take up way less space in your bag than a traditional beach towel. They also repel sand and dry super fast, which makes them perfect for day trips and travel. I would suggest the regular Large size, as opposed to the XL for day trips so that they take up even less space in your bag.

Click here to check out and buy these awesome Dock & Bay towels for your day trip!

Best Restaurants & Places To Eat On Block Island

While I do suggest The Oar as a great place for lunch, the island is full of wonderful places to eat. Below is a list of my suggestions on the best restaurants and places to eat on Block Island.

• Persephone’s Kitchen for coffee and breakfast (they do online ordering if you’d like to have it all ready when you arrive). They have an awesome acai bowl.
• Block Island Oyster Bar & Grille for a casual, but more upscale dining experience with a water view.
• Calaveras is awesome for tacos in a casual setting with a water view. I love their fish tacos.
• Dead Eye Dick’s is great for pub-style/seafood dishes, also with a water view.
• The Ice Cream Place has my favorite ice cream on the island!

Other posts you may find helpful:

• Best Things To Do In Westerly, RI & Watch Hill
• Summer In New England: Best Places To Go & Things To Do!
• Best New England Day Trips
• The Perfect 7 Day New England Road Trip
• The Most Incredible New England Lighthouses To Visit
• Gorgeous New England Islands Worth Visiting
• Must-See Towns On The New England Coast

That’s A Wrap On The Best Things To Do On A Block Island Day Trip

Now that you know all the best things to do on Block Island, you’re ready to plan your own Block Island day trip! If you’re traveling around Rhode Island, this really is a special little place to visit, and a day trip to Block Island is definitely worth your time.

You might also enjoy

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10 Beautiful African Islands You Must Visit

One thing's for sure, Africa has plenty of islands! Some of these islands are just paradise on their own. Characterized by spectacular flora and fauna with magnificent beaches that welcome you to their graceful waters and ecosystems.

Discover more: Best Places for Surfing In Africa

We put together this collection of our ten most beautiful islands, to make it easy for you to organize your best trip; as well as a daydream about sand (or rocks) at your feet.

10. Sao Tome and Principe

Sao Tome and Principe is a two-island nation off the Gulf of Guinea in West Africa. It is one of the few island nations in West Africa that attracts huge tourist flow. There are many nearly exclusive beautiful beaches.

Once the world’s leading cocoa producer and still one the best producers of high-quality coffee, this is a place for lovers of these two beverages to enjoy the natural taste from its source. Due to the small population on these two islands, beaches are less populated and thus provide a high level of exclusivity of any given public beach in the world.

Yet, there are still many exclusively private beaches that dot the two islands. There is a smooth blend between the coastal environment and the interiors making it easy for one to seamlessly transition between the two environments. The two islands, especially Principe, are a paradise for bird watchers.

9. Lamu Archipelago

Lamu archipelago is found on the north coast of Kenya . It is famously known as ‘secluded beauty’ due to its highly secluded environment and hidden beaches. Peace, quietude, and tranquility are its famous hallmarks. There are several eyelet islands on the Lamu archipelago.

Lamu is characterized by white sand beaches and clear blue waters of the Indian ocean. Shela village is one of the most famous villages in Lamu. The 700-year-old town of Lamu is characteristically famed for its narrow streets which are impassable for cars.

Donkey rides are common as they are the best means of navigating these narrow streets. Apart from donkeys, canoes and dhows are the other means of transport. Lamu town is home to some of the most ancient historic buildings dating back to almost half a millennia.

It is a mixture of culture involving the Arabs, Africans (Swahili people), and Portuguese. It is also a leading UNESCO World Heritage Site along the east coast of Africa. 1

Elaborately carved wooden doors, inner courtyards, mangrove timber, verandas, etc are the hallmarks of Lamu town. Snorkeling and diving are popular activities along the shores.

8. Nosy Be, Madagascar

Nosy Be is the smallest island of Madagascar archipelago. It is very popular with tourists around the world. It receives visitors all-season, and is not reputed for great beaches, but rather an environment with a high tranquility that allows re-connection with calming nature.

Crystal clear turquoise waters and the scenic smooth sculptured stones, plus surrounding green vegetation, makes it a great place to unwind. The mouthwatering sea dishes makes it a good place to sample out a unique taste of culinary art.

7. Moheli Island, Comoros

Moheli Island is the smallest of the three major islands that make up Comoros. Comoros is a small island archipelago in the Indian Ocean, East Coast of Africa . What attracts tourists most to Moheli is its marine life comprising of rare sea turtles, whales, and dolphins which inhabit the protected zone.

The colorful coral reefs help to accentuate the stunning natural beauty of the Moheli beaches. Due to its relatively calm waters, it attracts snorkeling parties from around the globe!

6. Bazaruto Archipelago, Mozambique

Bazaruto archipelago has maintained its stunning natural beauty due to it being a national park. It remains a great blend of land and sea ecosystems in their natural habitat.

The beaches remain clean and pristine with minimal offshore activities. Whales, sharks, dolphins, and rare colorful marine fish species grace the offshore waters.

It is a great place to explore the underworld of marine life. As such, it remains one of the best entry or exit points for those who want to experience both safari tourism and beach tourism.

Pertaining to safari tourism, Mozambique , especially its northern part, is home to some of the most spectacular grassland wildlife – the big cats and the big herbivores call it their home.

5. Djerba, Tunisia

Djerba is the largest island and most visited beach for tourist attraction in North Africa. You can find it north of Tunisia , along the Mediterranean Ocean.

Djerba blends ecotourism with cultural tourism. Visitors can enjoy the authentic traditions that are greatly expressed in the architecture, culinary art, and virtually the way of life for the locals.

Despite highly modern beach resorts, this largely remains undiluted. The sandy beaches are extremely beautiful, and the options available for sports are plenty both onshore and offshore.

4. Sal, Cape Verde

Cape Verde is an archipelago comprising of 10 islands in total. All are great islands for beach life. However, Sal comes out top as the most loved tourist destination. This is due to its great nightlife, scenic marine beauty, warm shallow waters that make it fun to do snorkeling and overall nerve-calming atmosphere.

3. Zanzibar, Tanzania

Zanzibar is a palm-fringed archipelago on the east coast of Africa. It is an autonomous island that is part of Tanzania Republic . In Zanzibar rests the Nungwi village, from which you can witness dhows which are characteristics of the ancient Arab tradition along the coast of East Africa.

Mnemba Island on this archipelago is famed for scuba diving, snorkeling, whale watching, and swimming with the dolphins. There are several cottages known as ‘bandas’ along the beach each with its own veranda and etched within the lush tropical forest shade.

Zanzibar is popularly known as ‘spicy island’ due to the plenty of spices and is also famed for its exceptionally polite inhabitants. It is also home to Stone Town, a Unesco World Heritage Site. Stone Town comprises of ancient buildings of early Arabic architecture. 2

2. Mauritius

Mauritius is an island nation in the Indian Ocean off the east coast of Africa. It is an archipelago comprising of smaller islets whose citizens are highly hospitable people; a true melting pot of culture, flavors, and sunshine. Trou-aux-Biches is a popular town where the best beaches are located.

The town itself boasts of a mile-long stretch of fine white sand with a calm pristine environment suitable for a family relaxation. After your trip, you'll be able to take with you the exotic spices and memorable unique crafts.

1. Seychelles

Seychelles is an archipelago in the Indian Ocean off the east coast of Africa and north of Madagascar. What can you expect to find here? Giant tortoises, black parrots, and coconut crabs are just some of the unique fauna of this exceptional island nation.

Seychelles is a birds paradise. Here you can watch different types of birds as they sing for you unique happy melodies. Anse Source d’Argent is a famous location with plenty of beaches.

It is located on the island of La Digue and is loved by the public. In case you desire private party space, then you can find exclusive beaches in Fregate, Desroches, or Denis islands which are quite remote and detached. Praslin is the most well-known island in terms of tourist attractions.

Seychelles is considered one of the world’s most romantic destinations. Gently curving palms, shallow turquoise waters, smooth curvy boulders, and a pure white sand floor makes this a paradise archetype.

Pack your bags!

The sunbathing in the warmth of African beaches are incomparable to any other place in the world. We hope these beautiful African islands have ignited the travel bug within you and we assure you they are some of the most unique paradises in the world. Bon voyage!

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17 Caribbean Islands You Need to Visit, Ranked

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

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

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

17. Guadeloupe

Status:  French department

Capital:  Basse-Terre

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

Where to Stay in Guadeloupe

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

Book it:  La Toubana

What to Expect in Guadeloupe

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

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

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

Status:  Territory of the Netherlands

Capital:  Oranjestad

Where to Stay in Aruba

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

Book it:  Aruba Ocean Villas

What to Expect in Aruba

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

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

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

15. St. Martin/St. Marteen

Status:  Territory of France/The Netherlands

Capital:  Marigot/Philipsburg

Where to Stay in St. Martin/St. Marteen

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

Book it:  Sonesta Ocean Point Resort

What to Expect in St. Martin/St. Marteen

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

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

14. Jamaica

Status:  Sovereign nation

Capital:  Kingston

Where to Stay in Jamaica

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

Book it: Jamaica Inn

What to Expect in Jamaica

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

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

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

13. Curaçao

Capital:  Willemstad

Where to Stay in Curacao

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

Book it: Avila Beach Hotel

What to Expect in Curacao

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

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

12. Antigua

Status: Sovereign nation

Capital: Saint John's

Where to Stay in Antigua

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

Book it:  Carlisle Bay Hotel

What to Expect in Antigua

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

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

11. St. Kitts and Nevis

Capital:  Basseterre

Where to Stay in St. Kitts and Nevis

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

Book it: Four Resort Nevis 

What to Expect in St. Kitts and Nevis

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

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

10. Grenada

Capital:  Saint George's

Where to Stay in Grenada

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

Book it: Mount Cinnamon Resort

What to Expect in Grenada

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

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

9. St. Barts

Status:  Territory of France

Capital:  Gustavia

Where to Stay in St. Barts

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

Book it: Le Barthélemy Hotel & Spa

What to Expect in St. Barts

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

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

Capital:  Nassau

Where to Stay in the Bahamas

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

Book it: The Cove at Atlantis

What to Expect in the Bahamas

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

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

7. Barbados

Capital:  Bridgetown

Where to Stay in Barbados

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

Book it: Colony Club Hotel

What to Expect in Barbados

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

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

6. Cayman Islands

Status:  Territory of the United Kingdom

Capital:  George Town

Where to Stay in the Cayman Islands

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

Book it: Ritz-Carlton Grand Cayman

What to Expect in the Cayman Islands

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

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

5. St. Vincent and the Grenadines

Capital:  Kingstown

Where to Stay in St. Vincent and the Grenadines

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

Book it: Petit St. Vincent

What to Expect in St. Vincent and the Grenadines

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

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

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

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

4. U.S. Virgin Islands

Status:  Territory of the United States

Capital:  Charlotte Amalie

Where to Stay in the U.S. Virgin Islands

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

Book it: Lovango Resort & Beach Club

What to Expect in the U.S. Virgin Islands

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

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

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

3. British Virgin Islands

Capital:  Road Town

Where to Stay in the British Virgin Islands

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

Book it: Oil Nut Bay

What to Expect in the British Virgin Islands

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

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

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

2. St. Lucia

Capital:  Castries

Where to Stay in St. Lucia

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

Book it:  Jade Mountain Resort

What to Expect in St. Lucia

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

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

1. Turks and Caicos

Capital:  Cockburn Town

Where to Stay in Turks and Caicos

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

Book it: Amanyara

What to Expect in Turks and Caicos

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

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

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

AfricaIncoming Blog

Africa Travel Blog

15 Best Islands Of Africa To Visit in 2023

What is the first thing that comes to your mind when you hear the word, Africa? Game drives? Wildlife? Unending forests ?…….Have you ever imagined Africa with long white sand beaches and small Islands? If not, this blog is written for you! Africa has some of the world’s spectacular beaches, gorgeous islands, and incredible marine life. For a beach lover, it’s paradise. You will find endangered flora and fauna, historical places, cold and warm waters, and varieties of birds, including penguins here. Many of the African islands are self-governing sovereign states. Following are Africa’s best 15 islands you shouldn’t miss this year.

15 Top African Islands

Without further ado, here is your guide to the most exotic African islands that you must visit in 2023.

Cape Verde Islands

Sao tome and principe, tunisia island, seal island, zanzibar island, lamu island, bazaruto archipelago, mozambique, st croix island, manda island, funzi island, 15 best islands of africa 2023.

Cape Verde is a vital island on the western coast, serving as a gateway to other African Islands. Sal, a part of cape Verde, is one of Africa’s 10 most beautiful islands. Santa Maria, the famous town, is situated in Sal. Whatever season you visit, Cape Verde turtles are ready to welcome you. In Cape Verde, visitors have the opportunity to adopt a baby sea turtle and receive a certificate. The best time to visit cape Verde is between November to June. There are many places to see here, like Praia de Santa Maria, Praia de Chaves, Cidade Velha, and São Vicente. In Cape Verde, you could engage in activities like hiking, water sports, horse riding, surfing, and diving.

Country – Portugal 

Capital – Praia 

How to reach – Cape Verde has international airports on Sal, Santiago, Boa Vista, and São Vicente islands. The Island is connected with Europe, Asia, and America via air. 

Accommodation : Many accommodation options are available in Cape Verde, including Hotel Morabeza in Sal, Hilton Cabo Verde Sal Resort in Sal and Iberostar Club Boa Vista in Boa Vista, etc. 

Sao Tome and Principe is the second smallest country in the African continent and the most beautiful island of Africa . It is situated off the west coast of Central Africa. Because Sao Tome and Principe offer options for adventurous activities, tourists find this Island well-liked. The islands were formed by volcanic activity. The Island is covered with bio-diverse rainforests and the best greenery. People in Sao Tome and Principe generally speak Portuguese. The Island is a favorite spot for sports lovers. On the Island, you can go snorkeling, fishing, bird watching, etc. The best time to visit Sao Tome and Principe is between February, August, and December. Popular attractions in the country are Obo National Park, The South Eastern Beaches, and Pico de Sao Tome. Sao Tome and Principe will give you a chance to do activities like Plantation visits, nature watching, cultural adventures, and water sports. Another exciting activity you can engage in is going to chocolate factories and tasting the world’s best coffee.

Country – Central Africa

Capital – Sao Tome 

How to reach – Sao Tome International Airport is the only international airport in the country. 

Accommodation   – Various options for staying are available, including Sundy Praia Principe Island, Pestana Sao Tome, and Omali Sao Tome

Moheli, often called Mwali, is the smallest of the three African islands constituting the country of Comoros. Moheli Marine Park is the only national park in Comoros and is situated on the Island of Moheli. This park is rich with marine resources such as Sea turtles, dolphins, and whales. Moheli expands to an area of 290 square kilometers and has a population of 38,000. The best time to visit moheli is between April to November. There are many eye-catching places to visit in Moheli, including Nioumachoua Beach, Chissioua Ouénéfou, and Miringoni Beach. Fishing, snorkeling, whale watching, boating, and sailing are some activities you could do in Moheli.   

Country – Comoros 

Capital – Moroni

How to reach – Mohéli Bandar Es Eslam Airport in Fomboni has flights connecting to other archipelagos. You can also take a boat from different parts of Comoros to get to Moheli. 

Accommodations – The accommodation options inside the Island include Moheli Laka Lodge, Vanilla Lodge Moheli and Le Relais de Singani. 

The small Island in Madagascar is a dream destination for people who love premier natural beauty. The place is known for its win points for peace, the presence of turquoise water, and the quality of the sand-side seafood eateries. Madagascar, also regarded as the fourth-largest Island in the world, has a wide variety of flora and fauna. On the Island of Nosy Be by the Indian Ocean, there are luxury restaurants, accommodation options, and retail stores. The best time to visit nosy be in Madagascar is from May to October. Significant places to visit in nosy be include Andilana, Nosy Iramja, Lemuria Land, and Mont Passot. You can engage in many activities in Nosy be like Scuba diving, sunset from Mont Passot, kayaking, Nosy Be Jazz Festival, and horse-riding with Ambaro Ranch. 

Country – Madagascar 

Capital – Antananarivo 

How to reach – Air Madagascar provides daily service to Nosy Be from Antananarivo, the country’s capital, and many direct flights from Reunion Island.

Accommodations – The accommodation options near Nosy Be include Hotel Ambatoloaka, Anjiamarango Beach Resort, and Royal Beach Hotel.

Read more : Ten Best Places To See Gorillas in Africa

The cultural melting pot of Africa, Mauritius , is the perfect beach vacation for you! Mauritius is known for its multicultural nature and long white beaches. In the east of Mauritius, you will find Madagascar and southeast Seychelles. The long-extinct Dodo bird is found in Mauritius. Mauritius will offer you more than just beaches. For example, the Pamplemousses Botanical Garden has more than 650 varieties of plant species. The variety in its biodiversity makes Mauritius the most opted destination in South Africa. Important destinations you can’t miss in Mauritius are Port Louis, Rodrigues Island , The East Coast Island of Mauritius, The Inland and the centers, The south, the southeast, and the west and southwest. There are two best seasons to visit Mauritius:- April to June or the second season from September to December. Mauritius’s top activities include the Walk with Lions at Casela Park, Sea Kayaking in Albion Caves, Zip Lining at Tamarin Waterfall, Hiking to Black River Peak, and Sea Kart Ride in Black River. The top activities in Mauritius are hiking, Beach sports, gliding, water skiing, scuba diving, kite surfing, sea karting, etc. Mauritius is one of the exotic African islands. 

Country – East African country

Capital – Port Lious 

How to reach – Direct flights are available from various parts of the world to Mauritius. 

Accommodations: Mauritius will give you various options, including budget to luxury. Some of them are Blue Beryl Guest House, Heritage Le Telfair Golf & Wellness Resort, LUX Grand Gaube Resort & Villas.

Praslin is the second largest Island in Seychelles. Once, Praslin served as a haven for Arab traders and even pirates, but today it is a popular vacation spot with several hotels and beach resorts. In Praslin, you will find numerous substantial areas of tropical forests where indigenous species like the Seychelles bulbul and Seychelles black parrot can be found. Praslin Island combines a small population, a Nature wonderland, and a perfect vacation spot. It is located further from the busy Mahe and towards the quiet La Digue. Also, Praslin Island might be a great choice as a starting point for trips to St. Pierre, Curieuse, or the neighboring Cousine Island. Baie St. Anne, Grand Anse, and Cote D’Or are the three largest settlements in Praslin. The best time to visit Praslin Island is from May to October. Important attractions of Praslin island include Anse Volbert, Fond Ferdinand Nature Reserve,Vallée de Mai. Popular activities of Praslin are sightseeing, Nightlife, sunbath etc. 

Country – Seychelles

How to reach – There is air and seaway to get Praslin from Mahe , Seychelles. 

Accommodations: There are various options like beach side resorts like Acajou, honeymoon suites like Constance Lemuria, and Self Catering like Treasure Island retreats. 

Read more : 23 Safest Places to Visit in Africa

There are around 30 Islands in Tunisia. The most famous Island in Tunisia is Djerba. This is the largest Island in North Africa and is situated off the coast of southern Tunisia. Beber language is spoken in Djerba. Visitors can learn about Tunisian and Arab-Islamic history at the Lalla Hadhria Museum. In this museum, there are 15 galleries that contain more than 1000 pieces of artwork. Since the terrorist attack of 2015, the tourism sector has been affected badly. Now, we can see a revival in that. With its sandy beaches, beach sports opportunities, and excellent dining places, Djerba is well-liked by tourists. The summer season, which is from May to October, is considered the best time to visit the Tunisia islands. The Amphitheater of El Jem, Ribat of Sousse, Djerba Explore Park, etc., will be the most popular attractions you could find in Tunisia. Tunisia is an African island country. 

Country – Tunisia 

Capital – Tunis 

How to reach –  Taking a flight to Tunisia is the best way of getting to the Islands. 

 Accommodations -JAZ Tour Khalef Thalasso & Spa, Iberostar Selection Royal El Mansour, Iberostar Mehari Djerba.

Seal Island came from the thousands of cape fur seals in the landscape. The Island is situated 3.5 miles away from the false bay. No life is possible on the seal island because of the granite presence in the soil. Several seal colonies all around the southern African islands’ coastlines offer an endless array of chances to take seal expeditions. You will encounter a lot of seals on your way, and be prepared with your cameras. The best time to visit Seal Island is between the months of July to November. There are so many places on seal island, like the cape of good hope, boulders penguin beach, and Muizenberg Beach. You can also engage in activities like penguin watching, sightseeing at the cape of good hope, diving, and shark watching. 

Country – Disputed land 

How to reach – You can fly to cape town. After that, to see the Island, drive to Hout Bay and board a boat or jetty.

Accommodations – Hotel Verde Cape Town, Steenberg Hotel & Spa, aha Simon’s Town Quayside Hotel.

Zanzibar, also known as Unguja, is the largest island off the coast of Tanzania. Zanzibar island is an east african island. The island is an important diplomatic spot for trade between India and Arabia. The stunning white sand beaches that the turquoise sea laps up add beauty to this island. Spice farming is a significant contributor to Zanzibar’s economy after tourism. The place is also referred to as a spice island because of the cultivation of cloves, nutmeg, cinnamon, and black pepper. The best time to visit Zanzibar island is from July to September. The main attractions of this island include Fuerte Viejo de Zanzíbar, Stone Town, and Forodhani Park, etc. Activities you can participate in on Zanzibar island include sightseeing, fishing, sunbathing, cruise safari, and butterfly watching. 

Country – United Republic of Tanzania

Capital – Zanzibar City

How to reach – There are two ways to reach Zanzibar island: getting a plane or ferry. There are direct flights from all major cities of the world. 

Accommodation – The accommodation option available in Zanzibar city include Tembo House Hotel,Amaan Beach Bungalows,,Nungwi, Kendwa Rocks Hotel and Kendwa.

Lamu island is one of East Africa’s oldest Islands and contain people from Swahili communities. There are fewer vehicles on the island because there is no roads, only alleyways and trails ar existing.The town’s distinctive architecture includes inside courtyards and ornately carved wooden doors. The Lamu Museum is a part of the National Museums of Kenya, which promotes the island’s cultural legacy. The Lamu Island has been a Unesco World Heritage Site since 2001. The island has been a center of Islamic culture for over 700 years. Its hotels have earned a reputation for providing an excellent “barefoot luxury” experience. The best time to visit the island are during dry seasons: July to October. Also, consider, January and February. Noteworthy attractions of Lamu island are Lamu Museum, Shela Beach, and Halal Safaris they poffer. There are different activities in on Lamu island, such as sailing a Dhow, visiting Shela Village, Enjoying the Cuisine, Visiting Manda Island, snorkeling, and scuba diving. 

Country – Kenya

Capital – Lamu town 

How to reach – The nearest airport to Lamu island is Manda Airport. 

Accommodations – The accommodation options include Shiban House, Sea Shells Inn, Andavelo House

If you are looking for an idyllic vacation spot covered with diversified flora and fauna, your eyes will fall on Bazaruto. This place is home to more than 2000 fish species, including whales and dolphins. The Bazaruto Archipelago, which lies off the coast of the mainland between Vilanculos and Inhassoro, comprises 6 islands.Benguerra, Margaruque, Santa Carolina (Paradise Island), Banque, and Pansy Shell Island are them. Among these, Bazaruto is the largest one. The best time to visit Bazaruto is during the dry seasons, from May to November. Places you could stay on the Island are Sunset Dhow Safari, Moz Islands & Safaris, and Machilla Magic. Activities of bazaruto are scuba diving, fishing, and snorkeling. 

Country – Mozambique

How to reach – You can get to the Bazaruto archipelago by boat or plane from the mainland of Mozambique. 

Accommodations – Anantara Bazaruto Island Resort, Villas do Indico, Bahia Mar Boutique Hotel. 

Reunion is an island that resides between Madagascar and Mauritius. This is a French overseas territory. The French colonized the island in 1665. This Indian Ocean island is home to one of the most active volcanoes in the world, Piton de la Fournaise. The best time to visit reunion island is from May to September. Top attractions of the reunion include the seafront park of La Barachois in Saint-Denis, Cascade de Grand Galet, and Plage de l’Hermitage, etc. The activities reunion offers you include hiking, parasailing, scuba diving, and nature and wildlife tours. 

Country – French territory.

Capital – Saint-Denis 

How to reach – There is a flight service to the reunion from many parts of the world. 

Accommodations – The accommodation options near the reunion include Dina Morgabine Hotel, Dina Morgabine Saint-Denis, and Hotel Le Recif.

St. Croix is well-known for its sugar plantations, white sand beaches, and the nearby coral reef, which is well-liked by scuba divers and snorkelers. Its two main towns, Christiansted and Frederiksted, have a colonial appearance with arched, shaded arcades and sorbet-colored houses—St—Croix is now a sanctuary to hundreds of African penguin colonies that breed there. Tourists are transported to the collection of islands via boat charters, although landing restrictions only permit the boats to approach. The best time to visit the island is April, May, September, and October. The attractions of this island include Buck Island Reef National Monument, Rhythms at Rainbow Beach, and Point Udall. The activities St Croix offers include Horseback Riding Experience, A Morning Cultural Experience Through Food Cooking Class at St. Croix, and Snorkeling Gear Rental. 

Country – US

Capital – Christiansted

How to reach – Flying is the easiest way to get to St. Croix. Multiple daily flights and connections exist from the east coast in Miami and Puerto Rico.

Accommodations – The accommodation options include Sand Castle on the Beach, The Fred, Carambola Beach Resort St. Croix, US Virgin Islands. 

Manda island is one of the many islands in the Lamu archipelago. Manda Island is well known for Takwa and Manda town, two thriving ports from the ninth century. In the first half of the 19th century, Manda and Takwa were abandoned because of the absence of water on the island. There is no best time to visit Manda island; you can visit it all year. The popular attractions of Manda island include Rhythms at Rainbow Beach, Buck Island Reef National Monument, and Machilla Magi. Camel safaris, sight viewing, Windsurfing, Motorboat excursions, Banana boat, Kayaking, Snorkeling, Water skiing, Wake boarding, and Dhow sailing cruises.

How to reach – There are flights available to Manda Island. 

Accommodations: The accommodation options include Manda Bay Lodge, Diamond beach Village, and Peponi hotel.

Funzi Island is situated off the south coast of Kenya with a rich biodiversity. You can find untouched coastal wetlands, sandy beaches, and mangrove forests here. As you arrive by plane, you see blue oceans, dots of white sand, and a lot of tropical foliage. Dhows float on the water; nothing but the wilderness is present for kilometers in every direction. The best time to visit Funzi Island is from June to December. Attractions of the island include the old town, Pilli Pipa Dhow Safari, and Wasini Island. You can participate in activities like the Funzi Island Village Tour, Boat Riding, Creek Fishing, Bird Watching, Kayaking, and Beach Funfare. 

Capital – Kwale

How to reach – Moi International Airport is the closest international airport. There are some airstrips also available. 

Accommodations: The accommodation options available include Mikoko Cave Ecolodge, The Sands at Chale Island, and Diani Sea Lodge. 

Frequently asked questions regarding Islands in Africa – FAQs

Q 1. what is the largest island in africa.

Madagascar is the largest island in Africa and the fourth largest in the world. 

Q 2. What is the difference between an Island and an archipelago? 

An island is a small piece of land that is encircled by water on all sides where archipelago is a group of islands. 

Q 3. How many Islands are there in Africa?

There are 6 islands. They are Comoros, Cape Verde, Sao Tome and Principe, Mauritius, Seychelles, and Madagascar. 

Q 4. How many islands are there nearby Africa? 

Together with other smaller isles, South Africa contains 12 significant islands. Due to the threatened flora and fauna, most of these are protected by the government.

Q5. Which is the nearest island to Cape Town?

Prince Edward Island is the nearest island you can find from Cape town. 

Q6. Which is the smallest island in Africa?

The smallest island nations in Africa include 1. Seychelles 2. Sao Tome & Principe 3. Mauritius 4. Comoros 5. Cape Verde

Read more : 20 Best Beaches in Cape Town in 2023

Read more : Top 11 Safaris And Game reserves near Johannesburg in 2023

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A progressive nonprofit that has been shelling out cash to anti-Israel protest groups is being sued by Black Lives Matter Global Network Foundation for fraud and withholding more than $33 million in donations, a bombshell lawsuit claims.

Tides Foundation, which has managed hundreds of millions in donations for progressive groups since it was founded in 1976, has “refused to honor its promises and continues to commandeer BLMGNF’s donations,” according to the 285-page lawsuit filed in California Superior Court, Los Angeles County, on Monday.

Instead, Tides doled out an undisclosed amount of donations to a radical BLM breakaway group run by anti-police activist Melina Abdullah — who lost a “frivolous” lawsuit against BLMGNF — according to court papers and an attorney for BLMGNF.

Tides, a Los Angeles- and San Francisco-based nonprofit, acts as a fiscal sponsor — essentially, a clearinghouse that collects donations for groups that may not have 501(c)(3) tax-exempt status.

In addition to BLMGNF and other BLM groups, it manages donations for pro-Palestinian groups that have supported anti-Israel protests across the country.

Billionaire George Soros and his son Alex Soros have funneled nearly $14 million from their Open Society Foundations to Tides , which sponsors activist groups including the pro-Palestinian Adalah Justice Project and others fueling campus protests.

“Tides has engaged in deceptive business practices and has operated in a quasi-banking capacity without appropriate regulatory oversight of licenses,” the BLMGNF lawsuit says. “Tides operates with a level of autonomy and minimal regulatory scrutiny that is starkly at odds with the regulatory framework imposed on traditional financial institutions.”

According to the lawsuit, Tides has more than $1.4 billion in assets and allegedly acts as a bank — only without banking regulations.

BLMGNF, the national organization of the civil rights movement founded in 2017, took in tens of millions in donations after the death of George Floyd in 2020.

At the time, the group did not have tax-exempt status from the IRS, and approached the Tides Foundation to help it manage the flood of cash.

Tides, which takes a percentage of donations to manage a group’s funds, gave verbal assurances that it would return the collected money once BLMGNF received tax-exempt status, the lawsuit claims.

In the meantime, it managed donations in a “collective action fund” that would be accessible to BLMGNF, according to the lawsuit.

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BLMGNF ended its relationship with Tides in 2022, and Tides has refused to hand over the cash, totaling some $33 million, the complaint says.

Instead, Tides, which takes between 3% and 9% of the donations it processes, has sent part of the funds to other BLM groups without the permission of BLMGNF, the lawsuit says.

On June 9, 2022, a Tides official said Tides had transferred $7.4 million from the collective fund back to BLMGNF.

Instead, it sent part of the cash — $4.75 million — to an unaffiliated BLM chapter in Oklahoma City, the lawsuit says.

“It is unclear why such a large amount would have been granted to a single city’s BLM chapter,” the lawsuit says.

In a statement to The Post Wednesday, a spokeswoman for Tides Foundation called the allegations in the complaint “completely false.”

“Resources in the Black Lives Matter [collective action fund] were never intended to be granted to large, well-funded national organizations like Black Lives Matter Global Network Foundation, and were always intended to be granted to local Black Lives Matter chapters,” the Tides statement says. “BLMGNF’s lawsuit seeks to circumvent the intent of the Fund’s donors and deprive grassroots Black Lives Matter chapters critical resources, for its own benefit.”

While Tides’ website mentions that it offers “grant management,” an attorney for BLMGNF said in a statement to The Post that Tides was not authorized to dole out donations earmarked for BLMGNF to offshoot groups or local chapters.

Tides said it had granted $12.6 million from the Support Fund to groups, including BLM Grassroots, a breakaway group helmed by activist Melina Abdullah.

She tried to collect $10 million from BLMGNF in a “frivolous lawsuit” for her breakaway BLM Grassroots. Abdullah — who is running as independent candidate Cornel West’s running mate in the US presidential election — lost the lawsuit last year and was ordered to pay more than $700,000 in BLMGNF legal fees and costs.

An attorney for BLMGNF cited a June ruling by a Los Angeles Superior Court judge who dismissed BLM Grassroots’ claims to any of BLMGNF’s donations.

“This lawsuit against the Tides Foundation is not just about financial discrepancies but the principle of rightful ownership and transparency that should govern partnerships in social justice funding,” attorney Byron McLain said Wednesday.

In a statement to The Post, BLMGNF said it “never expected to become victims of … unscrupulous business practices” in social justice philanthropy.

“There is an expectation for Black Lives Matter to challenge systems, break barriers and uphold the truth, no matter how uncomfortable,” the statement said. “Today, that extends into non-profit operations as we call out Tides Foundation and other so-called ‘fiscal sponsors’ who exploit their role.”

BLMGNF has had its own issues with finances, after raking in $90 million in donations for 2020 alone.

Patrisse Cullors, the group’s co-founder, then went on a multimillion-dollar home-buying spree, purchasing two homes in Los Angeles and a property in the Atlanta suburbs with an airplane hangar and runway, as first revealed by The Post.

Cullors denied that she used donations to buy the properties.

She resigned from BLMGNF a month later, in May 2021.

Cullors also signed off on a $6 million Los Angeles mansion, to be used as an office for BLMGNF, and an $8 million property in Toronto for the group’s Canadian chapter.

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Could Donald Trump really go to jail for gag order violations?

If Donald Trump keeps trying the patience of the judge presiding over his hush money trial, the former president could wind up back in his home New York City borough of Queens — specifically the prison on Rikers Island, experts said Monday.

Judge Juan Merchan, who on Monday found that Trump once again had violated a gag order that bars him from disparaging witnesses or the jury, warned the ex-president could face jail “if necessary” for further violations.

Merchan did not specify which jail. But when asked what would happen if the judge sent Trump to Rikers, Frank Dwyer the jail’s top spokesperson said, “The department would find appropriate housing.”  

Trump has contended that he’s the victim of a two-tiered justice system that is treating him more harshly than other individuals. But the former president's critics say it is actually the other way around — that any other criminal defendant who made the kind of public statements Trump has made would have already found themselves behind bars.

The prospect of having Trump locked up while on trial is sure to elicit strong responses from both his supporters and detractors. Trump has repeatedly tried to fundraise off the prospect of being jailed, indicating that his campaign finds that evoking images of him as a political prisoner prompts strong responses from his supporters.

Mike Lawlor, an associate professor of criminal justice at the University of New Haven in Connecticut, said Rikers is the likeliest destination if Merchan goes that route.

What Marchan is trying to do is “end the contempt” and stop Trump from intimidating witnesses and jurors, said Lawlor, a Democrat who is a former member of the Connecticut House of Representatives.

“The whole point is to separate him from his social media,” Lawlor said. “Putting him in jail would do that.”

Trump would immediately be placed in protective custody for his own protection, Lawlor said, meaning he would not be permitted to mingle with the rest of the prison population.

“He’d have no contact with anybody but corrections officers and members of his Secret Service detail,” Lawlor said. “The people at Rikers have lots of experience dealing with high profile prisoners, including vulnerable, elderly people like Trump."

"Clearly, he would be the highest profile prisoner ever jailed in Rikers, but he wouldn’t be the only high profile prisoner in Rikers,” Lawlor said of Trump, who is 77.

In fact, one of those prisoners is Trump’s former chief financial officer Allen Weisselberg , who was sentenced last month to five months at Rikers after pleading guilty to two counts of perjury during Trump’ s civil fraud trial.

Also, Trump would have to go through the intake process that every prisoner goes through, including the ignominy of having corrections officers making "him get on a scale and then list his actual height and weight on the public website," Lawlor said.

Having Trump behind bars would not be an extra burden on his Secret Service detail, Lawlor added.

“The main job of a Secret Service detail is to protect a former president from being harmed or kidnapped,” Lawlor said. “Having Trump confined to a prison setting would, in some ways, actually make their job easier.”

"The larger issue" is where the Secret Service would be, given that they are armed," said Martin F. Horn, a professor emeritus at John Jay College of Criminal Justice who once served as commissioner of New York City’s correction and probation departments.

Most likely, Horn said, Trump would be taken to what's called the West Facility, where there would be room enough for the ex-president and his security detail and no other inmates to contend with.

Still, having to ensure the safety of a former U.S. president behind bars would be an unprecedented assignment for the Secret Service, a spokesperson for the agency told NBC News.

The Secret Service does not have its own "custodial services," the spokesperson said.

“Obviously, it’s uncharted territory,” Horn said. “No state prison system has had to deal with this before, and no federal prison has had to either.”

There is another reason Merchan might not be keen on jailing Trump, other experts said.

Being sent to an actual jail may be “what Trump wants to show grievance to his supporters,” Dave Aronberg, a state attorney for Palm Beach County, Florida, which is where Trump lives most of the time, said in a MSNBC interview with José Díaz-Balart .

More likely, Merchan could give Trump a "time out" in a cell behind the New York City courtroom where he is currently on trial.

Former federal prosecutor Michael Zeldin, who took part in the same interview, agreed.

"Maybe an hour in one of those cells might be all that Donald Trump needs to understand the seriousness of violations of gag orders imposed by a very serious judge," Zeldin said.

House arrest is also a possibility, but the judge "has wide latitude about where he could confine" Trump, Horn said.

Lawlor said Merchan is unlikely to confine Trump to a gilded cage, like his apartment in Trump Tower, because he'd still have access to electronics and his aides and be able to defy the judge's orders from there.

"So I don’t think he’d be confined to his Manhattan apartment," Lawlor said.

Tom Winter is a New York-based correspondent covering crime, courts, terrorism and financial fraud on the East Coast for the NBC News Investigative Unit.

Aaron Gilchrist is a White House correspondent for NBC News.

Corky Siemaszko is a senior reporter for NBC News Digital.