first time visit to caribbean

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The Best Caribbean Escapes for First Time Visitors

Welcome to my guide on the hottest Caribbean escapes for first time visitors. My name’s Sabrina – I grew up in the South of France and now live in Martinique, in the beautiful Caribbean.

I started traveling when I was young with my family and friends during the holidays. It was only when I spent three months abroad for an internship that I realized how many beautiful places the world had to offer.

When I went back to France my only goal was to travel again! A few years later I got a job opportunity in Saint Lucia and I moved to the Caribbean.

I’m currently working for the tour operator Boutique Travel Experts . My journey with this company began when I met Elena (a worldwide travel expert at Boutique) on her FAM trip to Saint Lucia.

We became friends and she offered me a role as the Caribbean Specialist since I was living in the area and knew a lot about the islands.

With this came the business plan and training. We are currently working on launching Saint Lucia and other islands as new destinations for Boutique Travel Experts.

The idea is to show a sustainable way of traveling, be the ones who have experienced all the activities first before promoting them and be able to advise thoroughly on different aspects of traveling on the islands.

My Travels through the Beautiful Caribbean

I lived in Saint Lucia for over two years, then I moved to Martinique about one year ago. I visited 10 other islands, most of them several times.

From North to South: Dominican Republic, Jamaica, Antigua, Saint Kitts & Nevis, Guadeloupe, Dominica, Barbados, Saint Vincent, Grenada and Trinidad & Tobago. I plan to explore new islands this year, such as Anguilla and the Bahamas.

What I like when traveling in the Caribbean is that there are similarities between the islands, but each one has something unique. Barbados is very flat with white sand beaches. Whereas Saint Lucia is famous for its two Pitons, its volcano and beautiful black sand beaches.

These regions also invite foreigners to become part of their thriving and diverse communities through their Citizenship by Investment Programs. These programs are designed to attract foreign investment and businesses by providing a safe and legal pathway to obtain citizenship and/or residency in the country. One program that has gained popularity in recent years is the St Lucia CBI initiative.

Why Saint Lucia has a Special Place in my Heart

There are so many amazing places in the Caribbean that it’s difficult to have a favourite! Saint Lucia has a very special place in my heart since it was this island which made me fall in love with the region. So I would say Anse Mamin, in the town of Soufriere is my favourite place.

It’s a black sand beach, a bit secluded from the hotels nearby. It has the perfect tropical feel to it. This beach is quite far from where I used to live so whenever I went there it was something special, and it brings back many happy memories.

Best Days of My Life at the Tobago Cays

My favorite memory in the Caribbean is when I discovered the Tobago Cays, in the Grenadines. They are a few very small uninhabited islands, in the middle of a marine reserve. With some friends we booked a private day trip from Mayreau, the closest island.

The first stop was Baradal, where we swam with turtles. It was the first time for me and it was a magical moment when I felt like I was in another world!

Then we went to Petit Bateau where we ate a huge meal of barbecued fish and relaxed on the beach. People threw the remains of the lunch in the sea to feed stingrays and small sharks! It was really an incredible experience.

The last stop of the day was Petit Tabac, where a few scenes of the movie Pirates of the Caribbean were shot. This was the most memorable day of my life in the Caribbean. I loved it so much that I went back last year!

The Best Way to Travel the Caribbean

I would not recommend doing a cruise because you don’t have enough time to discover anything apart from the capital cities. We want to promote a different kind of tourism in the area, more sustainable and with more quality to it.

In my opinion, the best way for first time visitors to travel the Caribbean is to choose one island (or two if the boat or flight connections are frequent) and spend at least 4 to 5 days exploring it.

For example, it’s easy to go from Saint Lucia to Martinique by boat. You can experience both the English and French heritage of those islands.

Of course, a tour operator can help you build the perfect itinerary for what you want to do.. They will save you a lot of time on research. Regarding what destination first time visitors to the Caribbean should choose, it depends on what they are looking for.

I would recommend Barbados for its white sand beaches and crystal clear water, Dominica for its lush vegetation and hiking trails, and Trinidad for its Carnival! But if you want a bit of everything, then Saint Lucia, Martinique, Guadeloupe and Grenada are very good options.

Best Experiences in the Caribbean for First Time Visitors

The most amazing experience in the Caribbean for first time visitors is to go on a catamaran cruise in the Grenadines.

You’ll not only swim with turtles in the Tobago Cays, but also discover lovely islands such as Mayreau, Union island or Bequia. At Boutique Travel Experts , we can arrange a cruise either from Saint Lucia or Martinique.

Relax with a Mud Bath in Soufriere, Saint Lucia

The second experience is to take a mud bath in Soufriere, Saint Lucia. We don’t take our clients to the most famous baths because they are usually crowded with tourists.

We go to a secluded spot where you apply mud in the river, shower under a waterfall and take a relaxing mineral bath in a natural pool. This is one of my favorite things to do in Saint Lucia. It makes me feel in touch with nature and completely relaxed.

Discover a Beautiful Underwater World

Snorkel or dive and discover the beauty of our marine life comes in at number three! Many islands have great snorkeling or diving spots.

You can easily swim with turtles and stingrays in Martinique and Barbados, on a tour or directly from the beach! Both islands also have beautiful shipwrecks where you can see a wide variety of fish.

Learn about the History of the Caribbean

Another fantastic experience is to visit a plantation and learn about the history of the island that you are visiting.

In Saint Lucia and Grenada you can visit cocoa plantations and learn everything about the culture and processing of the cocoa beans. You can even create your own chocolate bar in a chocolate-making workshop!

Martinique is famous for its rum and there are several distilleries to visit. Some of them like Fondation Clément have even turned into museums. The tours usually end with a rum tasting in their boutiques, so that you can choose which bottle(s) to bring back home!

Sunset Gazing and Cocktail Sipping on the Beach

Finally, first time visitors to the Caribbean need to watch the sunset on the sea while sipping on a cocktail, and take time to enjoy it.

This may be a cliché, but the sunsets are amazing here. Taking the time to appreciate them will help you live in the moment and enjoy your vacation to the fullest!

We like to send our clients to boutique hotels with stunning views on the sea, so they have a front row seat to watch the sunset every day.

The Caribbean’s Colourful People and Culture

The culture can vary from island to island but most of the time Caribbean people are very friendly, helpful and protective. Many times people I didn’t know came up to me to check if I was lost, if I needed a ride, or just to remind me to be careful.

They are proud of their islands and can spontaneously ask you where you are coming from and if you are enjoying your stay here.

When visiting the Caribbean, do not fear chatting with the locals. This is how people from different cultures and different parts of the world can connect. Even a smile or waving your hand can go a long way.

I have formed a few friendships with locals and I see them every time I go back to Saint Lucia!

Tasting the Traditional Caribbean Cuisine

In traditional Caribbean cuisine you will find lots of root vegetables, chicken (stewed, baked, barbecued and fried), fish (grilled or fried), macaroni pie, noodles, soups and appetizers like fish cakes or accras.

I love going to the market to smell the spices (cinnamon, clove, nutmeg) and the various dishes that are being cooked! But my favorite foods are actually all the tropical fruits that you can find year round like papaya, or seasonally like mangoes and avocados.

And of course coconuts in every form!

What you Need to Know Before you Go

Don’t expect all Caribbean islands to look like a postcard. For example, don’t come to Saint Lucia expecting to find white sand beaches, or you’ll be highly disappointed. Do some research beforehand or ask a tour operator for advice. Appreciate the unique beauty of each island.

Be aware of the seasons and the calendar of activities of the islands. The best time to travel to the Caribbean is from January to May since it’s the dry season, but the prices are usually high. May and June are good options too and the prices are a bit lower.

From June to August several islands have their Carnival so it can be a good opportunity to discover this aspect of the Caribbean culture. I would not recommend traveling from August to the end of October since this is usually the peak of hurricane season.

Don’t stay in your resort (as relaxing as it may be) when you come to the Caribbean. Discover the beauty of the island, you will not regret it.

Travel off the beaten path! Using a tour operator can help you avoid the tourist traps and discover amazing places you would never have known.

We build itineraries based on your preferences to make sure you have the best experience possible, so don’t take the risk of missing out on something or being disappointed!

Thanks for reading my guide on the hottest Caribbean escapes for first time visitors. Feel free to get in touch if you have any questions or would like to book your trip to the Caribbean!

SABRINA LIPOFF IG: @SABRINAA06 BOUTIQUETRAVELEXPERTS.COM

Author:  Sabrina Lipoff

Travel specialist at Boutique Travel Experts, living the Caribbean life in Martinique.

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• by Wandering our World
• Posted on April 12, 2023

The Best Caribbean Island For First Timers: Places Perfect for You!

Last updated on April 12, 2023 by Wandering our World

C ountless miles of sun kissed beaches, turquoise waters teeming with tropical fish, and warm weather throughout the year – it’s easy to see why so many people dream of visiting the Caribbean for the first time!

From sipping cocktails under a palm tree to snorkelling in coral reefs or hiking in lush tropical rainforests, there is no shortage of amazing things to do and see throughout the Caribbean.

However, with dozens of countries that collectively have thousands of islands, finding the best Caribbean island for first timers can be rather daunting!

This is where our handy guide is here to help. We know this region well and want to share with you what we have believe are the best Caribbean islands for first timers.

Each island included on our list has something unique to offer, ensuring all preferences are covered when it comes to things to see and do during a vacation. They’re also all easy to navigate, and are known for being tourist friendly destinations.

So, whether you are planning a family holiday, honeymoon, or vacation with friends, our guide to the best Caribbean islands for first timers has you covered. Let’s dive in!

The Best Caribbean Island For First Timers: The 5 Islands That Could Be Perfect For You!

1. dominican republic.

One thing holding many back from visiting the Caribbean is the cost. As a popular tourist region, especially among older and more affluent people, visiting the Caribbean often seems too expensive.

Or so most people think.

If you want to visit an affordable Caribbean island for the first time, then look no further than the Dominican Republic.

It’s one of the cheapest Caribbean islands to visit as there’s affordable flights and accommodation here, alongside various package deals that won’t break the bank. (Recommended: The Cheapest Caribbean Islands ).

The Dominican Republic is located on the island of Hispaniola, the second largest Caribbean island, bordering Haiti to the west. The country is a popular tourist destination, meaning there’s plenty of attractions and activities to enjoy for first time visitors.

There’s also plenty of excursions set up specifically for tourists, so if you want to see the best sights but with no hassle, you’ll be able to here. In p laces like Punta Cana there’s p lenty of a l l inclusive res orts t o o with package deals.

Blessed with some of the most beautiful golden beaches in the region, if you’re looking for a relaxing beach holiday in the Caribbean then the Dominican Republic has you covered.

Miles upon miles of gorgeous coastline are populated with beachfront bars, restaurants, and cafes – perfect for sipping cocktails by the beach!

To the south of the island is Los Haitises National Park , a protected area of land that is home to hundreds of tropical birds and plants.

A must-visit for nature lovers, the national park is home to over 200 tropical birds and all kinds of exotic plants and flowers.

North of the park is Samana Bay , which becomes a humpback whale nursery for several months of the year. Over 2,5000 whales visit this bay each year, so if you want to go whale watching this is the place to visit in the Dominican Republic.

To sum up: The Dominican Republic is an affordable, easy to reach destination which is known for having a great selection of excursions, as well as dreamy Caribbean beaches. Perfect for anyone’s first visit!

2. Dominica

Not to be confused with the Dominican Republic, Dominica is something of a hidden gem when it comes to Caribbean islands.

While not the largest or most visited, this small island nation boasts arguably the most unique landscapes in the Caribbean and some of the best hospitality too!

While most islands here are known for their pristine beaches and luxury resorts, Dominica offers something a little different.

Yes, there are nice beaches (often with volcanic black sand!) and plenty of your usual tourist attractions, yet Dominica’s true appeal is its unspoiled tropical landscape.

If you’re an outdoor enthusiast planning a first trip to the region, then Dominia will likely be perfect for you. There’s countless mountain trails to hike, dense tropical forests to explore, and stunning waterfalls to soak beneath.

In fact in our opinion, Dominica is one of the best Caribbean islands to explore by foot – and the Waitukubuli Trail remains the only long-range hiking trail in the Caribbean.

For those seeking a less challenging excursion, Boiling Lake Trail offers a great one-day hiking experience. The eight mile trail takes just a few hours to complete, and offers the chance to take in the world’s 2nd largest hot lake in the world – an opening in the Earth’s crust which emits gases and steam!

Despite flying under the radar of many tourists, Dominica has great facilities and infrastructure, and has affordable accommodation making it a great option for first-time visitors to the region. It should be easy to find accommodation for all budgets, whether it’s low cost cabins or luxurious villas.

To sum up: Dominica is one of the Caribbean’s untouched islands. It has unbeatable outdoor adventures, is affordable and welcoming.

Part of the Grenadines islands chain, Grenada is the largest of three main islands in the country, offering an expansive island landscape to explore.

Of course, being in the Caribbean means Grenada is blessed with gorgeous beaches along its coastline.

Grande Anse is the most visited beach where white sand meets turquoise waters. Despite being popular, the beach remains quiet by Caribbean standards, giving you the chance to relax and unwind in the quiet comfort of the beach.

In fact this is partly why Grenada is one of the best Caribbean islands for first timers – it’s laid back, relaxed, and by no means overwhelming.

It’s also a really great place to learn how to dive. There are several dozen diving spots located throughout the island.

This includes the impressive 600ft wreckage of the Bianca C , lying just off the coast of Grande Anse. That’s a more advanced diving location but one worth visiting if you love underwater exploration.

What we also like about Grenada is that it’s got a wide array of landscapes in quite a small island, so you can be sipping cocktails on the beach in the morning, and then jungle trekking in the afternoon.

That makes it the perfect place if you want to come to the Caribbean but are not sure whether to go for a beach island, or one that is more lush rainforest. With Grenada you can have both!

For those looking to enjoy Grenada’s natural landscape, look no further than Grand Etang National Park . It’s less than 5 miles from the island’s capital and as soon as you enter you get greeted by some friendly locals – a group of monkeys that reside within the park!

From here you can head into the various trails winding through the park, where towering mahogany trees are populated by exotic birds and colorful reptiles, including lizards and frogs.

Most people base their Grenada stay in St George’s, a charming harbour town that is the capital of the island. There are lots of affordable accommodation and plenty of luxury dwellings, making it suitable for any budget.

This idyllic town is packed with landmarks that showcase the country’s colonial history, which was previously under French and British rule.

Some noteworthy sights include Fort George, Fort Frederick, and Fort George, along with a 19 th century Catholic Cathedral.

This island is also famous for its chocolate! So if you have a sweet tooth, then be sure to visit the House of Chocolate , a small museum in St George that has delicious handmade chocolates.

We recommend taking a tour and treating yourself to some chocolates, maybe while you enjoy a coffee by the harbour at one of the many charming cafes throughout the town.

Those that want to enjoy even more chocolatey goodness may visit Grenada Chocolate Company . Located an hour from the capital, this company makes use of the locally grown cocoa beans to produce some of the best tasting chocolate you’ll ever try.

To sum up: Grenada is a small island which is easy to move around, has plenty of different excursions, and is affordable. It has a mix of rainforest and beach landscapes, so is perfect if you’re coming to the Caribbean for the first time and are undecided about which landscape you’d prefer to visit most.

When it comes to the best Caribbean island for first timers, Jamaica is certainly worth mentioning.

It’s one of the most popular Caribbean islands so is extremely well catered for tourists. Whether that’s from the countless resort options, to the easy transfer service from airport to hotel, or just the many excursion options available that can all be sorted in advance.

This gorgeous island nation is home to breath-taking golden beaches, vibrant tropical forests, and many historical points of interest.

As a popular tourist destination is also has lots of diverse accommodation offerings, making it easy to find something for every budget.

Kingston , the capital city, is a great place to base yourself when visiting Jamaica for the first time. It has plenty of resorts and accommodation to choose from, along with some of best eateries and nightlife in the country.

If you’re looking to sunbathe on the beach rather than soak in the culture, then Negril and Montego Bay are both popular tourist resorts with stunning white sand beaches and everything you’d need for a complete holiday.

If you do stay in Kingston, there are many historical and heritage sights, including the Bob Marley Museum and Devon House , alongside various museums, galleries, and landmarks worth checking out.

The city is bursting with culture, from the local markets selling all kinds of fruit and vegetables to the local bars populated by friendly locals and ample reggae music.

Speaking of bars, anyone that loves a drink will want to check out the watering holes in Kingston, which boast some of the best tasting rum in the world. Sit back and chill with a glass of rum or bottle of Red Stripe, taking in the sights, sounds, and aromas that permeate throughout the city.

Beyond Kingston you’ll find various small towns and villages, most of which can be easily reached from the capital. These areas offer a more rural experience and tend to be quieter, while also providing an endless selection of scenic beaches to enjoy.

Snorkelling and fishing is especially popular throughout Jamaica, with countless options to choose from. This includes beginner friendly areas like Booby Cove and Port Royal , home to a large shipwreck you can explore as you snorkel. 

Many locals offer low cost boat charters, taking you on a tour through the gorgeous coastlines littered with pristine beaches, turquoise waters, and all kinds of tropical aquatic life.

To sum up: Jamaica is perfect for first time visitors to the Caribbean as it already has a we l l established tourist infrastructure in place. There are plenty of excursions, countless hotels, and it’s possible to hire drivers and guides everywhere on the island if you wish.

However it also has it’s more remote and adventurous side, so if you’re feeling confident you can easily and cheaply explore the island on your own.

5. Saint Lucia

Another great option for first time visitors to the Caribbean is Saint Lucia. Located in the eastern Caribbean Sea, Saint Lucia is known for its incredible landscape.

It’s small and can be easily explored in a holiday of a week or two, and is a great first Caribbean destination for nature lovers.

This small volcanic island has some of the most mountainous landscapes of any Caribbean island, including the famous Pitons – a set of stunning twin volcanic peaks that dominate the island skyline and have been designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Located near the charming fishing village Soufrière on the southeast of the island, the Pitons are a hiker’s dream, offering some truly mesmerizing trails to explore.

For those less inclined to hike, you can view the twin peaks from the comfort of Soufrière, sipping on some rum of course.

The panoramic views from the trails up the mountains are nothing short of spectacular, and overlook the nearby bay with its glistening turquoise waters. You also get to enjoy all kinds of lush tropical forests teeming with flora and fauna during any hike up and around the Pitons.

You can hike either of the Pitons, with Gros Piton being the easier of the two to climb. Little experience is necessary, with the hike from the top of the mountain and back down to sea level taking just a few hours. It does require some endurance though! 

You’ll find all sorts of outdoor fun throughout St Lucia, including spots like the Paul Nature Trail , another great spot to view the Pitons from afar.

Snorkelling and scuba diving is also popular throughout St Lucia, along with many kinds of water sports like surfing and kayaking.

As much of the island remains rural, there are a lot of unspoiled forests throughout St Lucia too. As a result, ziplining is incredibly popular here and we highly recommend you try it out – it’s one of the best ways to see all the beautiful nature of the island from high above.

The northern portion of St Lucia, which includes the capital city Castries , is more developed, offering a quintessential Caribbean island holiday experience. Golden beaches, crystal clear waters, modern resorts, and various places to eat, drink, and dance make it a great option for a more relaxing holiday.

To sum up: St Lucia is known for having some of the most spectacular scenery in the Caribbean. However as a small, relaxed island, it’s also a great first Caribbean destination for outdoor enthusiasts as you can enjoy stunning scenery close to the main accomodation centers.

Recommended For Your Trip To The Best Caribbean Island For First Timers

Hi and welcome to Wandering our World! This article was written by one of the Wandering our World team - a team of travel enthusiasts who live around the globe.

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Hi and welcome to Wandering our World! This article was written by one of the Wandering our World team - a team of travel enthusiasts who live around the globe. View all posts by Wandering our World

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What is the Best Caribbean Island for First Timers?

The best Caribbean island for first timers depends on a few different factors: accessibility, safety, and weather.

Have you been to the Caribbean yet? If you haven’t it’s about time you experienced everything this tropical paradise has to offer! However, choosing an island to visit can be tough, considering there are so many gorgeous destinations to choose from. That’s where Key Caribe comes in– we’ll help you figure out which one is the best Caribbean island for first timers– and which one is best for YOU!

The best Caribbean island for first timers: Accessibility

When you’re planning your first trip to the Caribbean, you probably don’t want to have to worry too much about applying for visas, or learning key phrases in another language in order to get by during your vacation. Therefore, it’s best to choose a Caribbean country that 1) doesn’t require that you apply for a visa, and 2) has English as one of its official languages.

See which Caribbean countries are primarily English-speaking here.

For residents of the United States, it’s a breeze to travel to countries like Puerto Rico and the US Virgin islands. In fact, you don’t even need a passport! There’s also no need to change any currency, as US dollars are accepted. In addition, there are plenty of direct flights to these countries available from major US cities.

Likewise, residents of the Netherlands will find travel to the Dutch Caribbean islands simple.

The best island in the Caribbean for first timers: Safety

When visiting the Caribbean for the first time, one aspect that travelers most often take into consideration more than any other is safety. Many potential tourists wonder whether the Caribbean is a safe destination to travel to at all. The answer is yes, the Caribbean is a safe region to travel to, but some countries are safer than others.

There are several ways to determine levels of safety. One way to measure it is through crime statistics. Here are the safest Caribbean countries according to violent crime statistics:

• Montserrat.  Montserrat is the safest country in the Caribbean, with no murders since 2008.
• St. Barts.  This popular celebrity hangout has a murder rate of 0.
• The British Virgin Islands . The rate is about 2 for every 100,000 people.
• The Cayman Islands.  The murder rate here about the same as it is for the United States (about 4.7 for 100,000 people)

In any case, you should exercise caution and common sense wherever you travel. Here are some tips for staying safe while in the Caribbean.

The best Caribbean island weather-wise

The last thing you want to do is spend your first Caribbean vacation cooped up indoors because of inclement weather. Therefore, you should pick a nation outside the Atlantic Hurricane belt for your first trip, such as the ABC islands (Aruba, Bonaire, Curacao).

If those islands are a bit too far for you, the other option is to travel to the Caribbean during the dry season. This season normally lasts from January to May. However, most other tourists have that exact same thought– so beaches, hotels, and restaurants will all be a bit more crowded during those months.

Here are 7 Caribbean countries that are almost 100% hurricane free .

Main image source: bonairetoursandvacations.com

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Best Caribbean Island For First Timers: 5 Islands To Put On Your Radar

 If you are looking to visit the Caribbean soon and haven’t been yet, I got you covered! It’s probably a little overwhelming if you have yet to visit and are trying to decide which Caribbean Island for First Timers would be the best. 

With over 20 islands in the Caribbean, you have a lot of choice and to be honest any option is a great one. With clear waters in many of these places, hot temperatures year round and care free island vibes being the core of the cultures, you can’t go wrong ( especially if you are travelling from a winter heavy country like Canada!!)

I have visited over 15 islands in the Caribbean and I am breaking down which Caribbean island is the best to visit as a first timer depending on your travel style and vacation needs!

#1 Jamaica- All Around Best Caribbean Island for First Timers

I visited Jamaica for the first time in early 2023 and it blew me away. I couldn’t believe it took me so long to make it here.

Jamaica has the perfect blend of crystal clear waters, culture, luscious greenery and an abundance of 5 star all inclusive resort and hotel options.

You can read my full travel guide to Montego Bay, Jamaica ( + travel tips!)

There are so many places to stay on the island depending on what your interests are: Montego Bay -if you are looking for more all inclusive resorts and access to the best beaches, Ochos Rios – great if you want to do some off resort exploring to waterfalls and the famous Martha Brae River and Negril is best for sunset chasing and cliff diving!

If you have 2 weeks, you can certainly cover a few areas in one trip!

Don’t forget to sample some Jamaican patties, listen to some Rasta music and of course kick your feet up on the beach.

Best Hotel Option On This Caribbean Island:

• The S Hotel in Montego Bay
• Moon Palace All Inclusive in Ochos Rios

#2 Dominican Republic- Best Budget Friendly Caribbean Island for First Timers

Dominican Republic is another island for first time Caribbean visitors that should be considered. It’s close flight from North America ( though it does attract many Europeans as well)

While you can find some cool boutique hotels here, Dominican Republic is more known for it’s all inclusive resort options. Since there are SO many throughout the areas there, you can find some really great ones at reasonable prices.

If you want to travel off season ( May-September), prices are even lower! It’s something to consider if you are looking for a Caribbean island on a budget.

I would say the best beaches in the Dominican Republic are: Punta Cana, Isla Saona and Cap Cana so check out these areas first!

You might like these other posts from the Caribbean:

• Ultimate Travel Guide to Antigua and Barbuda
• The Best way to see many Caribbean Islands in one trip: Celebrity Ascent Cruise!
• 5 Star Luxury Resort in Turks and Caicos
• 27 Dream Destinations To Add to your Bucket List

#3 Turks and Caicos- Best Luxury Caribbean Island for First Timers

Turks and Caicos is a Caribbean island that is considered one of the best islands in the world…not just the Caribbean.

It’s turquoise waters are comparable to places like the Maldives or Bora Bora making it a very sought after vacation destination. A lot of the fancy hotels sit on Grace Bay Beach which is considered the #1 beach in the world ( !!). Yes world.

The sand is powdery and you actually feel as if you are in a computer screen saver.

We loved Turks and Caicos so much that we went back twice after our first visit. As much as we would love to keep visiting, this Caribbean island is not a cheap one. Turks is an exclusive spot so if you are looking for your first time to the Caribbean to be a luxurious visit, I would come here!

You can expect 5 star hotels, excellent restaurant options and pampering beyond believe!

You can read more about Turks and Caicos in my posts below:

• Review of Beaches Turks and Caicos
• 10 Of The Best Restaurants in Turks and Caicos
• 5 Star Modern Luxury Resort in Turks and Caicos: Wymara Villas

#4 Bahamas- Best Caribbean Island For Families

Calling all Bahama Mama’s!

The island of Nassau in Bahamas is a perfect destination for anyone but it is especially great if you are looking to travel as a family.

Both the Baha Mar and The Atlantis have full on waterparks at their resorts ( I’m taking state of the art ones) that make travelling there with kids a breeze. Our girls spent hours in the water and while we of course had to keep our eyes on them and dealt with a lot of “Watch me, Mom!”, it was SO nice to have this at our finger tips.

Bonus points that Bahamas is only a short flight away from both Canada and the US. For reference, its 3.5 hours from Toronto and only an hour from Miami, Florida.

I have also visited Nassau on a bachelorette trip AND on a trip with just my mom . Each trip checked all the boxes.

If visiting a popular Caribbean island is not your thing, you should check out of Bahamas’ other dream destinations like Exuma island or Harbour Island which are both more remote.

#5 Saint Kitts and Nevis- Most Unique Caribbean Islands for First Timers

Saint Kitts and Nevis is the best Caribbean island (s) to visit if you are looking for a place that you won’t find on every list.

It’s unspoiled, tranquil, filled with colorful Caribbean homes and even is marked as a UNESCO World heritage site.

I would consider it the Caribbean’s “best kept secret”. When you visit there, it NEVER feels crowded…almost like you have the island to yourself.

Get your rum drinking on, listen to the palm trees sway from side to side and post up at one of the many beautiful hotels here.

If you need a bit more action, Saint Kitts and Nevis have amazing snorkeling and scuba diving. If that’s not your thing, I would recommend doing a boat trip which is an excellent way to see the diverse geography of the land from the water viewpoint.

• Koi Resort, a Luxury Property by the Curio Collection

Other Caribbean Islands That Are Great Options

While I highlighted 5 islands to visit if you are a first time visitors to the Caribbean, there are so many other places to discover. I hope that you visit once and then continue to go back year after year to experience some other stunning places because like I said can you really ever go wrong when visiting the Caribbean?

Here are some other islands that I love:

• St Lucia: Another luxury Caribbean island option for first timers. This island is known for it’s dramatic scenery which features volcanic beaches, Pitons ( large green mountains) and turquoise green water.
• Cuba: Another great price friendly Caribbean island to visit. Varadero and Cayo Coco are popular all inclusive areas.
• Antigua: Honeymoon lovers- this one is for you! Antigua is home to luxury hotels, top beaches and fine dining restaurants. This is a destination for those who want to go big and want to do so in style.
• Aruba: Aruba is a Caribbean island that is vast. You can be by the beach one minute and be ATV’ing through the countryside the next. Don’t miss Flamingo Beach which is a beach where you can get up close and personal to frolicking flamingos! I would say this is the best Caribbean islands for activities!

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September 24, 2021

3 minute read

What's the Best Island for First-Time Caribbean Travelers?

The Caribbean is full of extraordinary sights and activities , from its rich, vibrant cultural offerings to breathtaking natural wonders—and for first-time visitors, deciding which island to visit can be overwhelming.

Widely regarded for their tropical climates and abundant, white-sand beaches, the Caribbean islands are some of the most popular vacation destinations in the world, and for newcomers, the best island to visit will depend on the desired travel experience. 

Here are the best Caribbean islands for first-time visitors: 

Aruba 

Aruba is an ideal destination for travelers looking for a place to get away from it all. There are few urban centers to distract from the incredible beauty of its scenic, wind-sculpted deserts and gorgeous, white-sand beaches. The island is also home to a number of world-class resorts and restaurants, so new visitors will have plenty of premium options to choose from. Aruba boasts a rich diverse culture, as well as a palpable sense of community among its residents. Travelers are invited to immerse themselves within the local customs, and indulge in what makes Aruba truly special .

The Bahamas

Newcomers to the Caribbean islands will be blown away by the Bahamas. This exotic vacation hotspot is a go-to destination for family-friendly adventure and fun-in-the-sun activities.

Looking forward to some water-based adventures, such as snorkeling or parasailing? Want to enjoy the sun and sand on a simply breathtaking beach? Or maybe you’re looking to take a tour of its parks and nature preserves? The Bahamas has something for every kind of traveler out there, so first-timers don’t need to worry about missing out on anything.

Consisting of more than 700 distinct islands, the Bahamas features plenty of all-inclusive resorts and exciting attractions—guaranteeing your first getaway here will be truly unforgettable .

Hailed as one of the top destinations in the Caribbean, Barbados averages more than a million tourists per year. A favorite for solo and single travelers, it offers plenty of lively nightlife activities, along with relaxing, nature-based experiences including hiking, diving, guided tours, and more.

This island paradise boasts some of the best of all the Caribbean has to offer, including idyllic beaches, lush tropical forests, diverse and colorful cultures and cuisines, and wonderful year-round temperatures.

Barbados has everything for nascent travelers to enjoy a phenomenal Caribbean vacation.

The U.S. Virgin Islands

The U.S. Virgin Islands is an extremely popular destination for vacationers—with each of its three main isles renowned for their white-sand beaches, crystal-clear waters, and wealth of luxury resorts and associated amenities.

The two preferred islands for pioneering visitors are undoubtedly St. Thomas and St. Lucia. The former offers plenty of incredible shopping, dining and entertainment opportunities, while the latter is home to amazing volcanic peaks, fantastic snorkeling adventures, and picturesque hiking trails.

These islands are also favorites for those seeking romantic outings—with welcoming, tropical climates, secluded luxury resorts, and romantic hideaways scattered throughout. Couples can enjoy a relaxing day spa, lounge in one of the many in-suite infinity pools within its gorgeous hotels and resorts, take intimate walks to bask in the island's breathtaking beauty, and share intimate, candlelight dinners by the sea.

Jamaica is one of the most popular destinations in the Caribbean, and for good reason. This lively tropical paradise has something for everyone, no matter the desired vacation experience. Whether nature-loving adventurers, families craving fun-filled bonding time, or romantic couples seeking luxury—first-timers can find exactly what they’re looking for.

Lauded for its peaceful and friendly atmosphere, serene natural beauty and exciting nightlife, the island has all you need for an unforgettable Caribbean vacation. New travelers can enjoy  pristine beaches with crystal-clear waters, lush vegetation and soaring mountains, scenic vistas, and lively, exciting cities. This magnificent destination is perfect for a relaxing, laid-back holiday or an exciting and adventurous experience.

With so many extraordinary choices, planning and arranging all the details of your trip can be overwhelming. You can take all the guesswork out of it by working with a qualified InteleTravel Advisor.

Our experienced advisors know the Caribbean inside and out, and will work with you to find the ideal island destination for your vacation and determine the perfect itinerary based on your preferences.

So why wait? Connect with an InteleTravel Advisor today to start planning your first (or next) Caribbean adventure. 

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Caribbean Travel: Pro Tips for Your First Time

If you’ve never visited the Caribbean, you’re in for a treat! Before you jet off on a new travel adventure, you should know a few things about life on the islands.

The sun, sand, beautiful weather, and impeccable history don’t have to be just a dream—you can enjoy all of these and more. Here’s what to know before you travel to the Caribbean for the best possible experience.

You Need a Passport to Travel to the Caribbean

You’ll need a passport to enter any of the Caribbean islands—besides Puerto Rico and the US Virgin Islands—and to re-enter Canada or the US on your way home.

Furthermore, most of the Caribbean islands expect you to have proof of a return ticket or round-trip flight to ensure you plan to leave the area eventually.

Because most places accept US and Canadian dollars, there’s no need to exchange your currency before the trip. However, you may receive change in the local currency.

Most Locals Speak English

English is a common language throughout the area. Although most islands have their own languages and dialects, you shouldn’t have trouble understanding and speaking with the locals. 

Communication is rarely an issue when you travel to the Caribbean islands, but you’ll probably hear people speaking Spanish, French, Dutch, and Portuguese, among other languages.

While you don’t have to worry about extensive language barriers, you should understand the  cultural differences between the Caribbean and North America .

Island Hopping Is Possible

Because the islands are close together, you don’t have to limit your trip to one location. Each Caribbean island has something different to offer, and you should take the time to visit those that interest you.

Consider hopping on a ferry boat or plane to another island to expand your vacation possibilities; there’s always something else to explore (like Great Exuma !).

There’s More to See Than Just Beaches

Caribbean beaches are some of the most beautiful places to be, but there’s more to do than sunbathe on the sand every day when you travel.

While travel time should be relaxing, you can experience something new by going hiking, learning to surf, exploring caves and rainforests, enjoying historical landmarks, and perfecting your golf game on countless courses.

Of course, you should spend plenty of time on the beach, but be sure to save some time in your travel itinerary for a new adventure!

Rum Is the Alcohol of Choice

Barbados is the birthplace of rum, and it remains the alcohol of choice among the Caribbean islands.

Whether you drink it neat, with Coke and lime, or mixed into a fruity umbrella drink, you can expect rum to be the most readily available drink throughout the Caribbean. Many distilleries still produce rum today, and you can go for a tour and tasting at several locations.

There’s nothing better than a beach vacation, but experiencing new cultures, food, and landscapes in the Caribbean is unbeatable for your wellbeing.

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10 Best Caribbean Islands for First Timers

By Kieran Meeke

Last updated: September 18th, 2023

• Find a Cruise

If you’ve never been to the Caribbean before, the choice of destinations can be intimidating. So which is the best Caribbean island for first-timers?

The truth is, there is no wrong choice. On any island, you’ll find great beaches, blue waters, and a tropical climate. The major variable is the size of the island, and hence the size of the towns.

What remains is a wealth of beautiful places to discover, full of natural beauty, and where the heat of the sun is matched only by the warmth of the welcome.

The island of Barbados offers a perfect combination of delights for first-time visitors to the Caribbean.

From the quaint English-influenced capital of Bridgetown to its beautiful beaches, and tasty Bajan cuisine , it’s a comfortable mix of familiar and unusual.

Carlisle Beach, Barbados

Start at Carlisle Beach on the southwest coast, where you’ll find a boardwalk lined with restaurants, bars, and shops. The white sand and turquoise waters are a paradise for swimming, sunbathing, and water sports, making this one of the best beaches in Barbados .

At Gun Hill Signal Station, you can take in views of the whole island, and decide what to see next. This 19th-century outpost will also introduce you to the colonial history of the island.

There’s more scenic delight at St. John’s Church, standing on a cliff overlooking the Atlantic. Its beautiful architecture could have been designed for a film set.

Harrison’s Cave, Barbados

Don’t miss Harrison’s Cave, where over a mile of rock formations, stalactites, and stalagmites can be explored on an underground tram ride. Waterfalls and streams, and the awesome Great Hall are highlights.

Read: Best Caribbean Islands for Adventure

Charlotte Amalie, St. Thomas

Charlotte Amalie, the capital city of the U.S. Virgin Islands, makes a great base for exploring St. Thomas . Its historic architecture is a picturesque backdrop for tax-free shopping.

Fort Christian is a 17th-century Danish fort, listed on the National Register of Historic Places, and now a museum. It tells the history of the indigenous people, the slave trade, and the growth of Charlotte Amalie.

Magens Bay, St. Thomas

Of course, for any first-time visitor, the beach is more of an essential. Magens Bay is one of the best beaches in St. Thomas , perfect for swimming or snorkeling.

If you have more time, head for Smith Bay Beach Park and Eco Reserve. This east-side gem has beautiful coral reefs and calm water, making it a real delight.

Buck Island

Even more popular with snorkelers is Buck Island, off St. Croix, where an underwater trail leads you through shoals of fish, with possible sightings of sea turtles. The boat trip to this tiny island is part of the thrill.

Away from the beach, visit Mountain Top, the highest point on the island. You can take in views of the Caribbean while sampling the “World’s Best Banana Daiquiri”.

Grand Cayman

Stingray City, Grand Cayman

You need to be careful making Grand Cayman your first visit to the Caribbean. It sets really high standards that any other island you visit afterward will struggle to surpass.

The first time you set eyes on Seven Mile Beach, you might blink in amazement. It’s regularly voted the best beach in the world, never mind the Caribbean.

Coral reefs in Grand Cayman

Get even closer to paradise by diving on one of Great Cayman’s renowned coral reefs. Then explore the sunken wreck of the USS Kittiwake, a former submarine rescue vessel.

Experience snorkeling in Grand Cayman at Stingray City, where you can have a gentle encounter with Southern stingrays. It’s the thrill, and memory, of a lifetime to interact with these fascinating creatures.

Grand Cayman is also a paradise for food lovers, with a rich culinary scene. Local seafood is obviously a speciality but the range of international and local dishes may surprise you.

Hell, Grand Cayman

If none of that impresses, well, why not go to Hell? This weird outcrop of black rock looks otherworldly, to say the least, and makes for a great address to send a postcard home.

Read: Best Things to Do in Grand Cayman

If your preconceived idea of the Caribbean is a small island, with nothing to do but lie on the beach, St. Lucia will surprise you. This lovely island has so much more.

One of the prettiest islands in the Caribbean , its landmark twin Piton peaks stand amid rich greenery, offering great hiking, zip-lining or off-roading. Then find your way to Sulphur Springs, the “world’s only drive-in volcano”.

Soak in a warm mineral-rich mud bath at the springs to emerge rejuvenated. It’s a great relief for your skin if you do spend too much time lying in the sun.

Snorkeling in St. Lucia

Back at the coast, you can swim, snorkel or dive in a marine reserve. Take a boat tour to explore hidden spots along the coastline, look for dolphins, or just enjoy the sunsets.

Dance the evenings away to the sound of soca music, fuelled by the flavors of traditional cuisine . As well as good restaurants, towns such as Soufriere are rich in colorful architecture and interesting shopping.

Reduit Beach, St. Lucia

When you do find time to relax, you’ll discover St. Lucia’s beaches such as the secluded Anse Chastanet Beach, and Reduit Beach. At Pigeon Island, you can discover a historic fort as well as swim in clear blue waters.

Puerto Rico

Isla Verde, Puerto Rico

Being a U.S. territory, Puerto Rico is the gentlest of introductions to the Caribbean for first-time visitors. The currency and the American-influenced culture make it very accessible.

However, you know you’re in the Caribbean from the wonderful beaches , tropical mountains, and lifestyle. The Spanish language dominates (although English is widely used), and salsa music fills the air.

Old San Juan, Puerto Rico

Explore Old San Juan to gain a feel for Puerto Rico’s rich history and present charm. The colorful buildings, impressive forts, and warmth of the community create a unique atmosphere.

Plunge into the cuisine that makes Puerto Rico one of the best Caribbean islands for food . Of course, you may already be a fan of delights such as mashed plantains, or rice with pigeon peas.

El Yunque National Forest, Puerto Rico

Work off those calories in El Yunque National Forest, home to one of the best hikes in Puerto Rico . Snorkeling, paddle boarding, and zip-lining are other popular activities.

Surfing fans will also find good waves near San Juan on Playa El Escambrón. Further afield, some of the best breaks in the Caribbean are at Rincon, in world-famous spots such as Domes Beach.

Morne Trois Pitons National Park, Dominica

It’s hard to describe Dominica —“The Nature Island”—without using the word “lush”. It’s the perfect word for its rich green center, best seen in Morne Trois Pitons National Park, and at Trafalgar Falls.

Morne Trois Pitons is a 400-ft-high volcano, rising from a forested wonderland of lakes, creeks, and waterfalls. Hot springs and bubbling mud ponds add to the steamy atmosphere.

Champagne Reef, Dominica

If your vision of the Caribbean includes humid jungle full of tropical birds and flora, Dominica will not disappoint. Underwater, there is just as much to see in places such as Champagne Reef.

River tubing in Dominica

It’s no surprise that the island has become a destination for eco-tourism. Some of the best things to do in Dominica include hiking, canyoning, snorkeling and kayaking.

You can have a gentler, more informative experience at the Botanical Gardens in the city of Roseau. It’s home to many indigenous and imported species, as well as the Sisserou Parrot, the island’s national bird.

Grand Anse Beach, Grenada

Lovely beaches, blue seas, lush vegetation, friendly people… Whatever dreams you may have about the Caribbean, Grenada fulfills them all.

The white sand and clear waters of Grand Anse Beach have graced countless travel magazines. With one and a half miles of beach, you can find a quiet spot to take it all in.

Palm Tree Gardens Botanical Garden, Grenada

There are plenty of other beaches in Grenada apart from this headliner. You’ll also find waterfalls, hikes, and sights such as the Palm Tree Gardens Botanical Garden in the tropical interior.

However, many visitors stay on the coast, where you can swim, snorkel or dive on coral reefs. Or just lounge in the sun, sampling tropical drinks and fresh seafood.

St. George’s, Grenada

The capital, St. George’s, is one of the loveliest towns in the Caribbean. Shop for some of the spices that give Grenada its nickname of “Spice Island”.

You can learn more about that on a plantation tour, surrounded by the smells of cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, and other heady spices. Then try the rich mix in Grenada’s dishes , reflecting a heritage of native, African, French, and many other cultures.

While small, Aruba has a concentration of all that makes the Caribbean so appealing. As such, it’s one of the best islands for first-time visitors to the region.

One of its strengths is the diverse background of its people, making them welcoming to everyone. Their ancestry goes back to Caquetio Indian, African, and European roots, but also includes China, South America, and many other places.

Eagle Beach, Aruba

You can see this diversity in places such as Eagle Beach or Palm Beach, both lively places for restaurants and bars. The bright sands and turquoise waters of these popular Aruban beaches are filled with sunbathers and swimmers.

Another lively beach scene is found at De Palm Island. This private island offers everything from water slides to zip-lining.

Some of those first settlers came for the island’s gold mining. Find out more at Bushiribana Gold Mill, and explore the picturesque landscape that Aruba is known for .

Casibari Rock Formation, Aruba

Photographers will love the Casibari Rock Formation, a set of huge boulders. Climb up for panoramic views of the island, especially good at sunset.

Antigua is one of the most visitor-friendly Caribbean islands. It’s easy to find your way around, and 366 beaches mean you are never far from the main attraction.

Favorites include Dickenson Bay, Jolly Beach, and Half Moon Bay. Each has its own charms, but all have the classic blue water, and lots of water activities.

Antigua is also one of the best islands for sailing in the Caribbean . It’s known for the annual Antigua Sailing Week, but any visitor can enjoy a sailing excursion.

Nelson’s Dockyard, Antigua

Historic attractions include Nelson’s Dockyard, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This restored 18th-century British naval base brings the island’s history to life.

At Historic Redcliffe Quay, the buildings of the past are filled with the shopping of the present. You’ll find boutiques, cafés, and art galleries as you stroll around this charming part of Antigua’s capital.

Backyard Rum Shack, Antigua

One popular souvenir is Caribbean rum , which you can taste in the Backyard Rum Shack. Listen to live music while you sip rum cocktails.

See more of the island on Fig Tree Drive, a scenic route through countryside, and rainforest. A good destination is the Pillars of Hercules, a spot for sightseeing and cliff-diving on the southern coast.

Martinique’s combination of natural beauty and French style, makes it one of the very best choices for first-time visitors to the Caribbean.

The island’s wealth was founded on its sugar cane plantations, several of which are now open for visitors. At Habitation Latouche and Habitation Clément, you can find out about the tragic colonial history, and the lifestyle enjoyed by former owners.

Habitation Latouche, Martinique

Habitation Clément still produces rum, and you can follow the distillery process before tasting the final product. The art collection is also well worth the visit.

The fertile soil that brought the sugar industry still enriches Balata Garden, a beautiful botanical garden near Fort-de-France . Its vast collection of tropical plants includes exotic palms and wonderful orchids.

Mt. Pelee, Martinique

At Mt. Pelee, one of the most beautiful mountains in the world , take in breathtaking views, and learn about its cataclysmic 1902 eruption. Saint-Pierre, once known as the “Paris of the Caribbean” , was devastated and its ruins make for a haunting visit.

Don’t forget to leave time to hike amid the island’s beautiful interior, or enjoy its lovely beaches. And the French influence naturally means good food is always within easy reach.

Has this suggestion of the best Caribbean island for first timers inspired you to visit? Then browse our Caribbean cruise itineraries to find the perfect tropical vacation for you and your loved ones.

Kieran Meeke

Kieran is a freelance travel writer who has lived and worked in 12 different countries, on every continent except Antarctica. He now spends his time between Kerry, Ireland, and Granada, Spain, while writing for newspapers and websites worldwide.

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5 Best Caribbean Islands for First Timers

• Gravel Travel
• Team Gravel
• Travel Tips

First impressions often last, so if you’re planning your first Caribbean vacation, you want to make sure it’s a great one.

But with so many islands to choose from, where do you start?

To make it easier for you, we've rounded up five of the best Caribbean islands for first timers. We'll explain why each of these destinations is perfect for any first Caribbean vacation.

Let's get started!

Saint Kitts and Nevis

First on our list is the twin-island nation of Saint Kitts and Nevis.

Why is it perfect for first timers? To start, its location is conveniently centralized in the Caribbean Sea, making it easy to get to from most major hubs .

Plus, the islands are well connected by ferry and cruise ships, so you can explore both in one go.

Additionally, no first-time trip to the Caribbean would be complete without indulging in a bit of marine life. Luckily, Saint Kitts and Nevis boast some of the best Caribbean snorkeling and diving opportunities , making it an ideal destination for aquatic adventurers.

• The port in Basseterre (Saint Kitts) is where you can find many friendly taxi drivers who can take you to the island's top attractions.
• Taxi service is also available from Basseterre and Robert L. Bradshaw Airport to the Sea Bridge ferry terminal , connecting Nevis.
• While Frigate Bay is one of the most popular spots on Saint Kitts, you should also check out Shipwreck Beach Bar and Carambola Beach Club for a more scenic and relaxed atmosphere.
• On Nevis, Pinney’s Beach is the most popular with tourists and locals alike. Be sure to try the local beach bars and grills for a true Caribbean experience!

Saint Lucia

Next up on our list of the best Caribbean islands for first timers is the stunning island nation of Saint Lucia.

If breathtaking scenery and tranquil waters are what you’re after, then this is the place to go.

Indeed, Saint Lucia gave us Hawaii vibes in the Caribbean and is sure to take your breath away! From its beautiful beaches and rainforests to the iconic Pitons (pictured above), it's one of the best Caribbean islands, period.

Whether you arrive by boat in Castries (the capital) or by plane at Hewanorra Airport, you MUST brave the 1.5 or 1-hour drive, respectively, to Sugar Beach.

Located at the foot of the majestic Pitons, this incredible (public) beach is an ideal spot for snorkeling, paddleboarding, or just relaxing in one of several water hammocks offered by the ritzy Viceroy Hotel.

• You don't need to be a guest of the Viceroy Hotel to take advantage of Sugar Beach. Just expect to pay high prices for food and drink unless you bring your own.
• The hike to Sugar Beach from the hotel entrance is quite steep, so be sure to wear comfortable shoes or check with the Viceroy concierge about shuttle services.
• Toraille Waterfall , located near Soufriere, is one of the only waterfalls in the Caribbean that you can swim in, so why not take a dip?
• When exploring Saint Lucia, make sure to visit Pigeon Island National Park for sweeping ocean views and a peek into the island’s rich history.

Puerto Rico

Let's move on to our third best Caribbean island for first timers: Puerto Rico!

Puerto Rico is the ideal choice if you're looking to combine a Caribbean experience with a bit of city living in San Juan.

The island offers plenty to explore, from its unique culture and history to its pristine beaches.

While in Old San Juan, don't miss the grassy and windswept El Morro (pictured above), where you can do as the locals and fly a kite!

Truly, this is such a fun experience, well worth the 10 to 15 dollars you'll spend for a basic kite from one of the vendors along the fort. If you're new to kite-flying, ask one of the locals for help with tying it properly to avoid a nasty crash-landing.

• Check out El Jibarito in Old San Juan for tasty traditional Puerto Rican dishes like mofongo and alcapurrias!
• For some of the best beaches in the Caribbean, venture east to Fajardo where you can take ferries to Vieques and/or Culebra Islands .
• Explore the vibrant Plaza Las Americas, the largest mall in the Caribbean, for unique shopping and dining.
• El Yunque National Forest is a stunning rainforest to explore, featuring multiple waterfalls and hiking trails. It's technically free to enter, though there's a $2 fee per vehicle.

Dominican Republic

Fourth on our list of the best Caribbean islands for first timers is the Dominican Republic.

The DR, as it's affectionately known, is one of the best all-around Caribbean destinations, great for first-time visitors who want to experience a little bit of everything.

With its expansive and varied topography, the DR stands as the largest Caribbean island on this list, offering a wealth of activities to indulge in. From exploring its colonial architecture in Santo Domingo (the capital) to windsurfing in Cabarete (Puerto Plata) to horseback riding in Constanza, there's something for everyone!

Of course, we can't mention one of the best Caribbean islands without giving a nod to the DR's impressive suite of all-inclusive hotels. Many of these resorts sit along the white-sand beaches of Bavaro and Punta Cana. And with rates as low as $125 per night for a five-star resort, you can easily make the most of your vacation budget!

• All-inclusives can be fun, but if you're looking for a local experience, head to the vibrant beach towns of Cabarete or Las Terrenas (you can fly into the Puerto Plata International Airport).
• If you're looking for what is arguably the best beach in the Caribbean, head to Punta Rucia near Puerto Plata, then hire a local dinghy to take you to Cayo Arena sandbar and explore the mangroves on your way back!
• In Santo Domingo, make sure to check out La Zona Colonial for its cobblestone streets, lively music scene, and colorful colonial architecture.
• For a one-of-a-kind adventure, you won't want to miss the 27 Waterfalls of Damajagua , a natural water park where you can slide down smooth rocks and cliff jump into natural pools!

Saint Martin ( Sint Maarten)

Last but certainly not least on our list of the best Caribbean islands for first timers is Saint Martin.

This gorgeous dual-nation island (the French control the north side, while the Dutch govern the south side) is a great choice for travelers looking for a laid-back vacation, with an eclectic mix of shopping, dining, and sightseeing opportunities at reasonable prices.

On the Dutch side, you'll find the popular Maho Beach, where you can catch planes take off and land at Princess Juliana International Airport. There's also Great Bay Beach near Phillipsburg , where you can rent a chair and umbrella for the day from a local vendor at a low cost.

The French side is equally charming, with amazing dining spots like Lolo's and L'Auberge in Grand Case and incredible turquoise beaches like Orient Bay Beach , offering lots of fun water activities such as kitesurfing, parasailing, and jet skiing.

• We recommend renting a car to explore the island, as taxis can be quite expensive.
• Marigot Market, Front Street, and Maho Village are great spots for shopping.
• Be sure to check out Pinel Island (just off of Orient Bay), an uninhabited islet that's home to amazing marine life and perfect for a day trip!
• Visit the Loterie Farm on the French side for an incredible zip-lining experience.

Recap of the Best Caribbean Islands for First Timers

If you're narrowing down your list of best Caribbean destinations:

• Saint Kitts and Nevis is a great choice for history buffs.
• Saint Lucia is perfect for nature and view lovers.
• Puerto Rico is ideal for those looking to combine city living with beach time.
• The Dominican Republic offers something for everyone, from all-inclusives to outdoor adventures.
• And Saint Martin is the place to go for a laid-back vacation, with great shopping and dining to boot.

No matter which island you choose, your first time in the Caribbean will be an unforgettable experience! So get out there and start exploring these best Caribbean islands.

For more travel tips, hacks, and inspiration, be sure to check out the rest of our blog.

Happy travels! 💙🏖️🌴⛵☀️

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The Best Times to Visit the Caribbean for Beautiful Weather, Fewer Crowds, and Lower Prices

These are the best times to go to the Caribbean, according to experts.

When it comes to picture-perfect island getaways, the Caribbean consistently tops the list as one of the world’s best regions to visit. This region of more than 700 islands scattered across the Atlantic Ocean, Caribbean Sea, and Gulf of Mexico is known around the world for its palm-fringed beaches, jungle-covered peaks, crystal-clear water, diverse cultures, and deliciously tropical weather.

There is no wrong way to do the Caribbean, whether your interests are above or under the waves, onshore or off. But one of the best ways to set yourself up for success is to head to the Caribbean during a time that aligns with your interests, budget, and vacation style.

cdwheatley/Getty Images

"There is no one-size-fits-all approach [to the Caribbean],” said Stephen Bennett, a Caribbean expert and co-founder of Uncommon Caribbean . "The Caribbean offers just about everything — even ice skating. As such, top attractions and activities could mean wildly different things to different people."

To help you find the best time to visit the Caribbean for your next vacation, we've broken it down into a few main seasons: 

• High Season : January to May
• Shoulder Seasons : May to June and late October to mid-November
• Low Season : August to October

Matteo Colombo/Getty Images

Best Times to Visit the Caribbean for Smaller Crowds

The summer and fall seasons are the best times to avoid the throngs of tourists throughout the Caribbean. 

"We all know that the Caribbean's trademark soothing warmth is what draws the most folks in winter. So, naturally, crowds thin out nicely when temperatures are high where tourists live, mainly the U.S.A., Canada, and Europe," said Bennett.

At the same time, summer and autumn also fall during hurricane season. Atlantic hurricane season generally runs from June through November, but late summer and early fall can be a tempting time for travelers who want to avoid the crowds, says Bennett. His tips? Keep an eye on the weather, buy travel insurance, and book hotels that offer hurricane guarantees.

Yearly Carnival celebrations also draw crowds across the Caribbean, and the dates vary by island, but many happen in February and March or July and August. 

Chris Marinaccio/Travel + Leisure

Best Times to Visit the Caribbean for Good Weather

"Perfect weather" in the Caribbean would likely equate to sunny days with warm water, delightful breezes, and minimal rainfall and humidity. For that kind of weather, Brittney Magner, vice president of luxury travel sales at Royal Travel and a Travel + Leisure A-List Advisor , says January through May is the ideal time to visit.

"After the hurricane season is over, the water starts to get really warm. Just stay away from spring break time," she says. (School spring breaks tend to be in March and April.) 

Bennett adds that full days of rain are rare in most parts of the Caribbean and consecutive rainy days are even more unheard of. "If your definition of good weather constitutes clear skies and warm temperatures, then anytime is a great time to visit the Caribbean," he notes. "That is, of course, unless you're opting for a hillside mountaintop retreat somewhere in the Caribbean's many rainforests,” which he says can get chilly during the winter months. 

Lauren Breedlove/Travel + Leisure

Best Times to Visit the Caribbean for Low Prices

The best deals in the Caribbean can often be found when the weather is at its worst — during hurricane season. At the same time, a small window exists in the dead of winter when good deals can be found. "The most ideal bargain period extends from early January to early February," said Bennett. "Essentially from the time that all the New Year's Eve confetti is swept up until President's [Day]."

Magner adds that May is also a great time to get a good deal, right after the spring break season is over and the kids have gone back to school. 

Related: The Best Budget Travel Tips — From Saving Money on Air Travel to Spending Less on Hotels

Best Times to Visit the Caribbean for Diving and Boat Carters 

January in the Cayman Islands offers some of the best diving in the Caribbean. However, March is the best time to encounter humpback whales in the Dominican Republic. Overall, the best diving in the Caribbean can be found between November and May.

A good portion of Magner’s clients are visiting the Caribbean for boat charters. "Everyone wants to go and see a different island," she said. "For example, if you go to Anguilla, you can take a boat over to St. Barts. Or you can experience all the little islands around the Dominican Republic or Turks and Caicos." 

The best times for boat charters, and most outdoor adventures, are in that January through May period when the weather is its best. 

elvirkin/Getty Images

Best Times to Visit the Caribbean for Foodies

The Caribbean offers a little bit of everything. Foodies in particular will find that each island has its own unique flavors (and loves to celebrate them). St. Kitts and Nevis, for example, holds its Restaurant Week in mid-July. It's a week-long celebration of local cuisine challenges, inviting chefs to create dishes featuring one key homegrown ingredient.

Bennet says that Martinique also holds an annual food festival, the Martinique Sainte-Marie Gourmet Food Festival, each year in May, which follows a similar format to the one in St. Kitts and Nevis.  In November, the BVI Food Fete comes to the British Virgin Islands of Anegada, Jost Van Dyke, Tortola, and Virgin Gorda, and it lasts the entire month.

Eric Ripert's iconic Cayman Cookout comes to the Cayman Islands every January. This gastronomic celebration features cooking demonstrations, poolside parties, wine pairings, and much more. 

Worst Times to Visit the Caribbean

As you can imagine, the worst time to visit the Caribbean is when it has the "worst" weather during hurricane season. Bennet says while he does not think there is a "worst time" to visit the Caribbean, he prefers to visit when the crowds have gone away. Ultimately, the best and worst times to go to the Caribbean depend on your island of choice and travel goals, but we think almost any time is a great time for a beach getaway .

Visiting the Caribbean Islands – Tips for first time travelers

The Caribbean is that one place on Earth that can offer you everything that you were looking for – perfect beaches, amazing cuisine, incredible history and friendly people are all waiting for you in all Caribbean islands. However, if you want to enjoy your exotic getaway more, and if you are planning to travel there for the first time, you should know a few things which might help you improve your stay there radically. For this reason, below we are going to share a few common and perfectly working tips you should remember while booking a perfect Caribbean holiday this or any other summer!

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Table of Contents

1. Choose where to travel first

First things first – if you want to have a perfect time in the Caribbean, you have to choose the island you want to do first. And that is important, because of them are perfectly suitable for family trips, while other is a dream come true for all party lovers. On the other hand, if you are a budget traveler, we have some new for you as well.

For instance, because of its closeness to the United States and a sheer number of nonstop flights, San Juan, Puerto Rico, is one of the least expensive Caribbean airports to fly to. Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic, Nassau, Bahamas, and St. Thomas in the picturesque Virgin Islands are also perfect for cheap but perfect Caribbean vacation time.

Check out some of the cool and cheap tours you could do in Santo Domingo , Nassau, and  Bahamas .

2. Check when is the right time to travel

Timing in there is also crucial when it comes to when to fly to it, and when to return. For instance, it is believed that the average cheapest day to depart for the Caribbean is Tuesday (up to $25). While the most affordable day is Wednesday, with saving up to $37. Of course, prices might vary, but if you book your plane smart, you can save even more in there.

On the other hand, season timing is also very important if you want to save money. That means that you should try all your best NOT to travel in the Caribbean during the peak season, which happens to be around the winter holidays and February. So – maybe plan your winter getaway to another country. The good thing is that this expensive period ends up around mid-April, and stay like that until December. During that time, prices are pretty low, and you won’t find tons of tourists there as well. Sounds great, isn’t it?

However, take notice that traveling off season means unpredictable weather conditions. So we would like to recommend you getting travel insurance which will help you get your money back if there is sudden hurricane season happening in those islands.

3. Look for the right accommodation type

Surely, if you are going to travel to the Caribbean for a while, you will need a nice place to stay at too. Probably the first thing that comes to your mind, in this case, is a hotel, and that is pretty natural. However, again remember that during the peak season all hotels raise their prices, so if you want to get cheap hotels – travel there off season and book your stay at surprisingly low prices.

On the other hand, if you are a super budget traveler, consider vocational rental options. This is a pretty widely popular way of getting super cheap accommodation for a few nights, and it will help you stay on a budget even easier. Such sites like Airbnb or Home Away can offer you a wide range of option where you can stay at without opening your wallet that much. This trick might even work if you want to travel during the tourism season in Caribbean’s too! Moreover, these vocational rentals offer to provide people with essential stuff like small kitchen too. That means that you can cook your meals in there and avoid eating at the expensive restaurant during the whole stay.

So, simply, make your priorities and choose the best accommodation option for you – all have some pros and cons, and everywhere it is possible to save money. You can check all of our recommended hotels in different Caribbean islands/ countries, here .

4. Maybe consider all-inclusive deals too

This might sound not like such an idea at first, but think about it – you pay only once, but get everything from the room, meals, drinks, activities, transportation and any other inclusions the resort throws into the deal. But while searching for the right hotel, do your homework and make sure which amenities are needed and which are not. In some cases, you might pay for stuff you won’t even want to use – so don’t! And once again – we won’t stop reminding you to check for off-season rates, which can reduce prices by up to 40%, meaning that you will get everything you wish for without spending all that you have!

5. ..or Consider going on a cruise

Another pretty budget-friendly way to explore the Caribbean is to travel where with a cruise ship like Carnival Cruise Line . Let’s think about it – with it; you are buying everything at once prices – you will get your room, transportation, restaurants, and activities for one price and you won’t have to be worried about anything at all. Also, it is just perfect if you are interested in visiting not one, but a few different island and enjoy a real Caribbean tour on a budget. Usually, these cruises offer pretty great tours with professional guides as well, so you can learn a lot and see a lot in a short time.

However, keep in mind that sadly – most cruises are not all-inclusive. Things like excursions to the shore, specialty restaurant fees, gratuities, drinks and other extras are not accounted for in your base rate. But this is just a perfect way to explore the Caribbean for less than $100 per person, per night, get a tan, see everything and don’t worry about anything at all. You could also find cruise deals like the Royal Caribbean Promo codes on the different coupon and deal sites.

6. Take note of about the exchange rate and the local currency

And finally, the last thing a first-time traveler to the Caribbean should know is the exchange rate. It indeed can play a role in how much you pay for your Caribbean vacation, so it needs a bit of your time to learn about it for sure. The good news is that if you are American, choosing an island is easy because many islands accept American dollars as a currency. On the other hand, in some island, you might need to know the exchange rate and know the local currency and the U.S. dollar at a fixed rate. Also, don’t go to specialized money exchanging station and better use locals ATM instead to avoid service fees.

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3 thoughts on “ Visiting the Caribbean Islands – Tips for first time travelers ”

Hey Kach. Loved your blog. I have been to St. Lucia n Caribbean a lot of times and I totally love it there. I am yet to visit other places. Thank you for sharing these amazing and useful tips.

Very well written! All of us have a traveller captured inside of us. And It surely becomes a nightmare to choose from the various range that the internet shows. That is why we should always be careful while booking a villa.

where did you apply for your Bahamas visa ?

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Written by Kach Umandap

Founder of Two Monkeys Travel Group. Since 2013, Kach has visited all the 7 continents (including Antarctica) and 151 countries using her Philippines Passport. In 2016, she bought a sailboat and went on sailing adventures with her two cats - Captain Ahab & Little Zissou in the Caribbean for 2 years. She now lives in Herceg Novi, Montenegro where she's enjoying her expat life and living on a gorgeous Stonehouse. She writes about her experiences traveling as a Filipina traveler with a PHL Passport. Also tips on backpacking trips, luxury hotel experiences, product reviews, sailing & adventure travel.

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Best places to visit in the caribbean for 2023-2024.

A trip to the Caribbean islands may be just what you need if you're in search of some sun, sand and relaxation. Based on user votes and expert insights, plus factors like accessibility to beaches, tourist attractions and comfortable accommodations, U.S. News compiled a list of the best places to visit in the Caribbean for a getaway. Help us evaluate next year's top places by voting for your favorite destinations. And if you're in search of lodging, check out the  Best Hotels in the Caribbean.  (Note: If you plan to visit the Caribbean during hurricane season, which runs from May through November, purchasing an international travel insurance policy is strongly recommended.)

Turks & Caicos

British virgin islands, u.s. virgin islands, st. vincent & the grenadines, cayman islands, st. kitts & nevis, st. martin - st. maarten.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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Puerto Rico

Havana, Cuba

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First Time Caribbean Guide

Nothing compares to that first trip to the Caribbean. The islands are much more than a paradisal escape—they are a dizzying mix of flavors, colors and music, spread out over vivid turquoise seas.

Have the best Caribbean vacation with our Caribbean travel guide for first-timers.

What Is The Best Caribbean Island For First-Timers?

Mile after mile of brilliant-white sand and crystal waters are the draw in the Caribbean,  any time of year  and on any island. Our cruises offer a deep exploration of the region’s most alluring ports, no matter what itinerary you choose. 

Eastern Caribbean cruises  and  Tropical Caribbean cruises  are popular for first-timers, as there’s less time spent at sea. Stop into Key West, Grand Turk, Puerto Rico and Half Moon Cay on these itineraries. 

Where Do Caribbean Cruises Leave From?

Our  Caribbean cruises  depart roundtrip from  Fort Lauderdale , on the Florida’s southeast coast, 23 miles from Miami. There’s plenty to do before or after your cruise in this welcoming city, dubbed the Venice of America, because of its shimmering waterways. 

Meander a leafy green oasis in the city at Hugh Taylor Birch State Park. Find new duds at Las Olas Boulevard’s luxury boutiques and then dine alfresco at one of many eateries lining the street. In Fort Lauderdale, you’re always steps away from a beautiful beach.

What Activities Are Available On Caribbean Cruises?

As the islands are so varied, you will find activities for every age and level. This is the place to cross aquatic adventures off your bucket list—kayak mangroves or wade into the sea astride a horse on Half Moon Cay. Snorkel a shipwreck. Go underwater in a submarine to see schools of vivid fish. Many people bring gear, but it is also rentable in port. 

Our  Caribbean shore excursions  deeply connect you to every destination. Indulge your inner foodie on  FOOD & WINE tours  or take a city excursion to historical sites. Book early to avoid disappointment. 

What Is Caribbean Weather Like?

In general, the Caribbean enjoys a tropical climate with average lows in the 70s and highs in the 80s, sometimes cooled by sweeping trade winds. 

Wet season begins in May and lasts until late November, with June as one of the wettest months and September/October as peak hurricane season. The other half of the year is drier and milder. The ABC islands (Aruba, Bonaire and Curaçao) have an arid climate and are not typically affected by hurricanes.

Find out more about Caribbean weather in our article on the  best time for a Caribbean cruise . 

What Should I Pack?

Pack your suitcase thoughtfully with clothing made from moisture-wicking fabrics that can stand the heat. Vibrant colors and busy patterns are always on-trend. Bring extra swimwear and pack a few outfits into your carryon, so that you can start your vacation the moment you step on ship. Don’t forget dressy attire for Dressy Nights. 

Our list of  what to pack for a Caribbean cruise  makes packing a breeze.

What Is Caribbean Food Like?

Get ready to sample the world’s most innovative, creative cuisine. Caribbean food is bold, bright, flavorful and globally influenced. Most dishes are well-seasoned and rich, but not spicy.

Each island country has warm family restaurants that put their spin on signature dishes. Taste flying fish in Barbados, snack on conch fritters in the Bahamas, savor Jamaican jerk chicken—this is the place to expand your palate. 

Ready for the vacation of a lifetime? Book dream  Caribbean cruises  or view our  Caribbean cruise tips and travel articles .

When you purchase through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission. Details here .

The Essential Bahamas Travel Guide for First-Time Visitors

Dive into crystal-clear turquoise waters, sink your toes into pristine white sand, and experience a rich cultural tapestry – all just a stone’s throw from Florida! The Bahamas offer an unforgettable escape for families, beckoning with endless sunshine, delicious seafood, and adventure around every corner.

Craving the perfect Bahamas family vacation? Look no further! This comprehensive guide equips first-time visitors with everything you need to know. Whether you’re dreaming of building sandcastles on Nassau’s shores or seeking hidden gems, this guide unlocks the secrets to an incredible Bahamian adventure.

Visiting The Bahamas

On my first visit to The Bahamas, I fell in love with its postcard-perfect white sand beaches and blue waters — both literally inviting travelers to dip their toes in the sand and sea. Since then, I’ve visited multiple times by air and on cruises with friends, family, and most recently on a skip-generational vacation with my grandson.

Do you want to lay on its famous beaches or splash around doing water sports such as snorkeling, diving or parasailing? Maybe you’re a nature lover and prefer to take to its trails or visit its marine habitat, wildlife reserves, or national parks. Or perhaps you’d prefer to step back in time with a cultural walking tour, pose for pictures with its famous swimming pigs or indulge in a few days of fun and pampering at Atlantis Resort , The Bahamas’ most famous place to stay.

Yes! You can do all of that and more in The Bahamas. With so many Bahamian islands and so little time, I still have more to discover and share with my family.

Here’s your guide to visiting the Bahamas, whether it’s your first visit or you’re a Bahamas regular.

Which Bahamas Islands Should I Visit

Nassau, bahamas.

New Providence Island, home to the capital city Nassau , is the most visited of all the Bahamas islands. It offers endless opportunities for attractions and entertainment for families. More than 70% of the country’s people live in Nassau; it is the liveliest of the Bahamas islands.

Just 179 miles southeast of Florida, Nassau is a popular cruise line port as well.

Explore Nassau on your own, or hire local tour operators for a downtown tour of Nassau, walking tours or day trips.

Paradise Island, Bahamas

Paradise Island is across the harbor from Nassau. It’s the home of the famous Atlantis Paradise Island Resort . We recommend spending at least a few nights of your Bahamas vacation at this luxury resort destination.

At Atlantis, you’ll find the thrilling Aquaventure waterpark. Home of The Current, an exhilarating river that is the opposite of lazy, with waves to ride and rapids to run. Or you can take the laid-back route and spend time on the miles of white sand beaches or chill at one of the many resort pools.

Or you can visit one of the many marine exhibits showcasing habitats such as lagoons, caves, coral formations and more.

Freeport, Bahamas

The second-largest Bahamian city is Freeport , located on Grand Bahama Island. This is the place to find upscale resorts, cultural and historical sites, 18 of the 28 species of native birds, and a delightful mix of local and international cuisine.

Make time to visit the island’s waterfront hub, Port Lucaya Marketplace. You’ll find lovely boutiques selling local Bohemian handmade goods, fine dining, and open-air entertainment in the colorful Count Basie Square.

This island is also home to a national treasure, Lucayan National Park , the second most visited park in The Bahamas. Known for its underwater cave system, it is also home to preserved remains of the Lucayan Indians, and a prime combination of natural environments including pine forests, mangroves creeks, and coral reefs. This national park is the place to discover the world-famous Gold Rock Beach.

Worth noting is that Grand Bahama Island was one of the hardest-hit islands when Hurricane Dorian made landfall in 2019. The bulk of the damage happened on the eastern and northern parts of Grand Bahama and recovery continues today. Freeport was spared the worst of the damage.

Read More: Best All-Inclusive Resorts in the Bahamas for Families

Bahamas Out Islands

While Nassau and Freeport are amazing, island hopping is also popular and affordable. These islands offer nature lovers seeking a quieter and more authentic Bahamian experience a peek at the 29 lesser populated islands and hundreds of cays.

The Bahamas Out Islands consist of (to name a few) Bimini, Pink Sands Beach, Harbour Island , Thunderball Grotto, Exumas, Dean’s Blue Hole, Long Island, Lighthouse Beach, Eleuthera, The Hermitage, and Cat Island. This travel guide is an excellent overview of these islands, their amenities, and things to do.

Cruise Lines’ Private Islands

Many of the cruise lines own or lease private islands in The Bahamas. These private islands offer a wide range of activities including snorkeling, fishing, swimming, sunbathing, waterslides and water parks, restaurants, and more, all reserved for the exclusive use of that cruise line’s passengers.

Coco Cay (pronounced co-co-key) is where you’ll find Royal Caribbean’s Perfect Day at CocoCay private island. After a $250 million upgrade in 2019, the island has the Thrill Waterpark (home to the 135-foot-tall Daredevil’s Peak, which Royal Caribbean says is North America’s tallest water slide), an air balloon ride, a huge pool and a gorgeous upscale section. The private island is also used by Celebrity cruise ships.

Located on more than 40 acres, Carnival Cruise Line owns Princess Cays at the southern end of the island of Eleuthera and the nearby Half Moon Cay on Little San Salvador Island in The Bahamas.

Disney’s Private Island

Located near Great Abaco Island, the private island of Castaway Cay is an exclusive port for Disney Cruise ships. It’s always a fun stop for families. This 1,000-acre island was originally named Gorda Cay and is the scene for several popular movies including Splash  and  Pirates of the Caribbean: The Curse of the Black Pearl.

When I sailed the Disney Dream several years ago with my daughter and teen and toddler granddaughters, Castaway Cay was our favorite excursion because there’s so much to do for all ages. While my teen granddaughter chilled on a beach chair, my daughter and I walked to the beach for my toddler granddaughter’s first ocean experience. She was hesitant at first but loved the cool turquoise ocean waters.

What is The Bahamas Weather Like?

Due to its tropical weather, The Bahamas is a year-round destination, with average temperatures between 75°F and 84°F (24°C-29°C) in both winter and summer. Early morning and night temps might warrant a light jacket. Summer is typically humid with hot sun. Don’t forget the sunscreen!

Rain is more common in the summer and fall seasons. During the summer, consider indoor activities or shaded day trips to avoid the hot mid-afternoon sun.

When is the Best Time to Visit The Bahamas?

High season with higher rates is typically from mid-December to mid-April, when travelers book to escape the winter snows. If that’s your plan, book at least 3 months in advance for the best rates; Christmas and February might need more lead time.

The best deals in The Bahamas are available from mid-April to mid-December when the trade winds offer cool breezes.

When is The Bahamas Hurricane Season?

Hurricane season officially starts in June and lasts through November. But hurricanes rarely land in The Bahamas.

If you are traveling during hurricane season, travel insurance is highly recommended, although many Bahamian hotels also offer a Hurricane Cancellation Policy. (Please confirm with your desired hotel prior to booking.)

Is It Safe to Take My Family to The Bahamas?

As I said, I have visited The Bahamas multiple times with and without my family. I’ve never felt unsafe, and in fact, the locals have been nothing but kind and friendly.

However, as with any visit to foreign countries, travelers should always remain cautious and aware of their surroundings. Straying too far from tourist areas alone is rarely safe, especially late at night, no matter where you are.

Best Bahamas Resorts for Families

As a top tourist beach vacation destination, Freeport, Nassau, and Paradise Island offer every hotel chain imaginable.

Look for hotels that provide amenities for families such as free breakfast, suites, pools with a lifeguard, onsite restaurants, onsite activities for children (kids’ programs or crafts), or at the least, easy access to the surrounding area.

Atlantis Resort Paradise Island

Located on Paradise Island is the oceanside Atlantis Resort.  If your family is into adventures, get ready to explore all the outdoor and indoor fun within Atlantis’ acres and acres…and acres of property.

We have a whole post on all the family-friendly fun things to do at Atlantis Paradise Island and tips for getting the most out of a visit . Here, I’ll just highlight some of my family favorites: Aquaventure water park, pools, beaches, extensive marine habitats, golf course and Atlantis Casino .

Staying at the Atlantis Paradise Island Resort is a luxury resort and it comes at a luxury price. But my family has always thought it was worth every penny.

Comfort Suites Paradise Island

I stayed at the Comfort Suites Paradise Island on my most recent visit with my grandson, and I was pleasantly surprised. Although it’s not “fancy,” it checks all the boxes for family-friendly and affordable. My grandson loved chilling at the pool, and since the resort is tiny compared to Atlantis, I felt safe allowing him to venture to the pool alone for a short time.

Breakfast is included, and the pool-side restaurant serves delicious food.

SheBuysTravel Tip: The best reason to stay at the Comfort Suites? It’s a 20-minute walk to the Atlantis Resort and day passes to the Atlantis facilities are included in a Comfort Suites room price!

Grand Hyatt Baha Mar Nassau

My grandson and I also stayed at the Grand Hyatt Baha Mar, part of a 1,000-acre resort complex. The Grand Hyatt Baha Mar offers impressive luxury, but for my grandson, the pools, the flamingos, and the pool featuring Dean’s Blue Hole were the highlights. He and another teen boy discovered this pool with its 8-foot and 15-foot waterfalls, stone gardens and a secluded grotto with a view of sea turtles and sharks.

This luxury resort is located on Nassau’s stunning Cable Beach. From the rooms to the dining, the service was impeccable at the Grand Hyatt Baha Mar.  Just wow!

Freeport Family Friendly Hotels

I’m not as familiar with Freeport, but several of my friends recommended family-friendly Pelican Bay Hotel and Grand Lucayan , Bahamas.

Bahamas All-Inclusive Resorts

In Nassau, just across the bridge from Paradise Island and Atlantis, is the all-inclusive Melia Nassau Beach overlooking Cable Beach. This property, currently under renovation, offers a prime beachfront location just a few minutes from the city center, shops, restaurants, nightspots, museums and Lynden Pindling International Airport.

An all-inclusive option in Freeport is the Viva Wyndham Fortuna Beach , located on the southern shore of Grand Bahama Island. It includes a kids’ club among other all-inclusive amenities.

For an intimate, totally all-inclusive island getaway with a laid-back vibe, there’s  Small Hope Bay Lodge on Andros Island. One of our favorite all-inclusive resorts, Small Hope Bay features 17 oceanfront cabins and down-home hospitality. Think of it as your personal resort with a fresh hot breakfast, and homemade lunch and dinner buffets.

Getting to The Bahamas

Where is the bahamas.

Spread across more than 500 miles and 700 islands, the Commonwealth of the Bahamas, as the islands are officially named, is often referred to as a Caribbean Island. But the islands actually are located in the North Atlantic Ocean, just over 110 miles from southeast Florida.

With more than 40 non-stop flights from South Florida and less than a three-hour ferry ride from Fort Lauderdale, getting to The Bahamas for a family beach vacation is super easy and very quick.

Do I Need a Passport to Go to The Bahamas?

U.S. citizens are required to present a valid U.S. passport when traveling to The Bahamas. You will also be asked your anticipated date of departure from The Bahamas.

Those cruising to The Bahamas may use a Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative (WHTI) compliant document.

Click here for more details on traveling to The Bahamas from the United States.

Bahamas Airports

Most travelers arrive in The Bahamas through Lynden Pindling International Airport in Nassau. A newer terminal services only U.S. flights. There is another terminal for domestic flights to the Out Islands and international flights from Canada, England, and other parts of the Caribbean.

Grand Bahama International Airport offers direct flights from Miami, Fort Lauderdale, Atlanta, and Nassau.

Leonard M. Thompson International Airport (formerly Marsh Harbour) in the Abaco Islands has daily flights from Nassau, perfect for island hopping. Several more Bahamas islands also offer island-hopping flights.

Cruising The Bahamas

The Bahamas are popular ports for cruise ship passengers. Cruise ship passengers comprise the largest percentage of day visitors to the islands each year.

In addition to stops at their private islands, Carnival Cruise Line, Norwegian, and Disney Cruise Line arrive weekly at Nassau and Freeport.

Getting Around The Bahamas

The Bahamas were a British colony and remain part of the Commonwealth. That means cars drive on the left side of the road. Even though the country is pedestrian-friendly, and most drivers yield, be extra cautious and look multiple times so as not to step into traffic.

Transportation options include walking, taxis (only use official taxes marked by yellow license plates), renting a car, and smaller islands offer golf carts.

Things to Do in The Bahamas with Kids

Finding all the things to do in The Bahamas with kids is quite the feat as there truly is so much to do and see, depending on your island of choice. Find below my suggestions, but I haven’t even begun to skim the surface of things to do.

I’d suggest checking out our SheBuysTravel Facebook page to ask any questions! Our SheBuysTravel writers are happy to help!

Our family favorites are the Aquaventure Water park, any kids’ dream vacation with pools, beaches, slides, and adventure everywhere.

Also check out Atlantis’ marine exhibits including an open-air marine habitat and indoor marine adventures with aquariums.

Fun Things to Do in Historic Downtown Nassau

Consider booking an activity from Get Your Guide. The company has a large selection of things to do that are a great choice for a shore excursion, or for first-time visitors. At any given time, Nassau’s calendar is brimming with activities from the arts to history to its culinary and cultural scene.

Take a guided tour of downtown Nassau or go on your own.

These are a few of the kid-friendly things to do in historic Nassau:

Pirates of Nassau

Arrrrgh, matey! Are your kids intrigued by all things pirate? Then don’t miss a visit to the  Pirates of Nassau Interactive Museum , located in the heart of Olde Towne Nassau.

Mixing history with entertainment, begin your pirate adventure on a moonlit dock with the sounds of the lapping ocean and pirates singing nearby.

End your pirate adventure with a Blackbeard’s Revenge Pirate Cruise . Pirate cruises are campy fun for the whole family. There’s a kid-friendly daytime cruise and a dinner cruise with surprisingly good food.

Parliament Square

Rich in history and dating back to the late 1700s and early 1800s, the pink buildings of Parliament Square are a frequent stop for visitors in old Nassau. This unique Colonial-influenced architecture includes the House of Assembly, the Senate Building, and the Supreme Court of The Bahamas.

There is also a statue of Queen Elizabeth in the square.

Queen’s Staircase

Put on your walking shoes and climb the 66 steps of the Queen’s Staircase, named to honor Queen Victoria. Located on top of Elizabeth Avenue, this staircase was hewn out of limestone rock by slaves in 1793-1794.

When the humidity is at its highest, this staircase is a cool reprieve from the heat. The walkway is lined with palm and native trees. Then at the top, enjoy local shopping stalls and souvenirs.

Historic Forts of Nassau

Forts are a natural defense on an island with pirates and potential invasion as a constant threat.

History buffs will enjoy exploring Nassau with several forts including Fort Montagu on the eastern edge of downtown; Fort Fincastle, at the top of the Queen’s Staircase; and Fort Charlotte, farther west as the largest and most impressive fort, overlooking Paradise Island.

Distillery: Yo Ho Ho (And a Bottle of Rum)

Discover the “Spirit of the Bahamas” with a tour in historic downtown Nassau of the John Wattling’s Distillery. When in the Bahamas, of course, you must tour a rum distillery, right?

See how Bahamian Rum is hand-made and bottled and get a free sample of a pina colada.

Straw Market

Go shopping at the world-famous Straw Market.

Smack dab in the middle of Nassau’s high-end boutique shops, discover handmade Bahamian crafts, gifts, and souvenirs from straw hats to conch jewelry and hand-carved wood. The prices are reasonable, but haggling is expected. So bring your negotiating skills!

More Not-to-Miss Downtown Nassau Sights

For those who enjoy history and museums, if you have time, also visit:

• Heritage Museum of The Bahamas
• Balcony House
• National Art Gallery of the Bahamas
• Pompey Square and  Pompey Museum of Slavery and Emancipation
• Christ Church Cathedral

Junkanoo Beach Near Downtown Nassau

Junkanoo Beach is located just west of the Prince George Wharf (where cruise ships dock). Enjoy plenty of white sand to dig your toes into, and, of course, that beautiful turquoise-blue water. Stop at any number of local tiki bars and shops.

SheBuysTravel Tip: This is known as the “spring break beach,” so late afternoon into the evening might not be as family-friendly.

National Parks in The Bahamas

Since 2002, the National Park System of the Bahamas has doubled in size to reach 32 parks covering two million acres spread out across all The Bahamas islands.

The most popular and most visited parks are:

• Abaco National Park
• Blue Holes National Park
• Exuma Land and Sea Park
• Lucayan National Park (on Grand Bahama Island)
• Leon Levy Plant Preserve (the first national park of Eleuthera)

Famous Bahamas Swimming Pigs

Have you heard of The Bahamas’ delightful swimming pigs? A colony of wild pigs live on Big Major Cay Island and happily “pose for pictures.”

Pink Sands Beaches Bahamas

The 3-mile stretch of pink sand on Harbour Island gets its color from crushed shells.

Bahamian Food

Bahamian cuisine includes seafood such as fish, shellfish, lobster, crab, and conch, as well as tropical fruits, rice, peas, pork and pigeon peas (a sweeter version of green peas). Be sure to order fresh seafood, especially the local favorites: conch (any way you like), fried fish, and a Bahama Mama cocktail (a sweet rum drink with coconut flavoring).

The best place for tasting local Bahamian cuisine is Arawak Cay, a beachfront entertainment area just a short walk from Nassau Harbor, popular with locals and tourists alike.

Known to the locals as the “Fish Fry,” it began as beachfront shacks but has blossomed into a lively waterfront, home to many restaurants, bars, and outdoor eateries. Popular for lunch and dinner, it’s the place to sample local seafood, such as conch fritters and conch salad, grilled lobster tails and spicy grilled shrimp.

Sip local cocktails or the local beer, Kalik, or refreshing non-alcoholic coconut water. This is also home to an authentic Bahamian Fish Fry, made to order by vendors. You’ll also enjoy traditional junkanoo music and street performers.

Warm and Friendly Bahamas People

I say this often to my friends: Bahamians are truly warm, welcoming and friendly.

An excellent example of this is when my grandson and I stayed on Paradise Island and explored Marina Village. We dined at Frankie Gone Bananas and the local Bahamian server took a liking to my grandson. She gave him extra special attention, lots of laughs, and a big hug at the end of the night.

We also enjoyed a junkanoo parade that same evening, and the musicians selected my grandson out of the crowd to play an instrument and walk with them.

These are just two of many examples of friendly locals.

What is the Bahamas Currency?

U.S. dollars and Bahamian dollars are equal in value. US dollars are accepted in The Bahamas. If you want to exchange your money, do it before you get to The Bahamas for the best rate.

I’d definitely recommend traveling with cash and a major credit card. Taxis are cash-only, but some hotel bars and snack spots only accept cards or room charges. If you pay with US dollars, don’t be surprised to get your change in Bahamian dollars.

In tourist areas, if someone helps you out – guides you to your location, takes your picture for you, etc. – tips are expected.

What Language is Spoken in The Bahamas?

British English is the official language of The Bahamas and is spoken on virtually every island.

However, Bahamians also have their own tantalizing Creole dialect with accents, words and phrases influenced by their personal culture and heritage.

Bahamas History

The Bahamas, a former British colony, gained its independence in 1973. It’s now a member of the Commonwealth and its official name is the Commonwealth of The Bahamas.

The Lucayan people were the original inhabitants of the island. Christopher Columbus famously landed in the Americas. He then infamously, tragically, and strategically annihilated those peaceful inhabitants.

Historically, The Bahamas remained a European-dominated settlement, marked by slave trade and piracy.

Today, the country is a blend of European and African heritage, and due to its perfect climate and picturesque beaches, The Bahamas relies heavily on tourism.

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There’s never a bad time to visit the Caribbean

Nov 24, 2022 • 7 min read

There's an ideal time to visit the Caribbean, but the consistently tropical temperatures mean there’s lots to do year-round too © Getty Images / iStockphoto

Is there ever a bad time for a Caribbean vacation?

Aside from the threat of heavy rains during hurricane season, the region is generally blessed with consistently tropical temperatures, clear yet impossibly blue seas, infinite stretches of white sand, verdant rain forests and flavorful cuisine. 

While weather conditions vary slightly between destinations, vacationers looking for a respite from the winter months almost universally head to the islands during high season, between December and April, when humidity is low and breezes are cool. (The influx of visitors does bring higher prices and more crowds, however.) Luckily, the region’s calendar is packed year-round, so there’s always something to do. The low and shoulder seasons are also the perfect time to snag a travel deal.

Here’s what to expect throughout the year.

Visit between December and mid-April for peak whale watching

If you’re from an area that typically experiences harsh winters or a cold climate, the consistently favorable and warm Caribbean appeals between December and April. Yet you’ll find that plenty of other travelers will also be flocking to the islands, too, which means less availability on flights and accommodation, higher room rates and airfare, and more-crowded beaches and attractions.

Even so, high season is the optimal time for whale watching. Dominica is the whale-watching capital of the region and the only country in the world sperm whales call home year-round. The French island of  Guadeloupe harbors 15 species of whales and hosts multiple whale-watching excursions from December to May. 

Key Events: Three Kings Festival, Puerto Rico; Sugar Mas, St Kitts and Nevis; Atlantic Rally for Cruisers, St Lucia

Find the best prices from June to November  

While summer ushers in the Caribbean’s hurricane season, the increase in rainfall usually yields deals on everything from flights to hotel rooms. Wet weather doesn’t dampen the spirit of the either region or its resilient people. And many islands, such as St Lucia , St Vincent , Barbados  and Antigua , indulge in the revelry and splendor of carnival ( vaval ) between June and August.

It’s also turtle-nesting season in Barbados, Bequia , Nevis  and Dominica. In St Lucia, you can both decompress and satisfy your sweet tooth with decadent cocoa-infused tours, spa treatments and classes, where August is designated as Chocolate Heritage Month.

Key Events: Portland Jerk Festival, Jamaica; McLean’s Town Conch Cracking Festival, Bahamas; Pirate Week, Cayman Islands; Tour de Yoles Rondes, Martinique ; Anguilla Tranquility Jazz Festival; Spicemas Grenada

Hit the beach from mid-April to June  

Not only will you save money with discounts and deals during the region’s shoulder season, you will also avoid the touristy crowds. Your most difficult decision will be which alluring slice of sand to lounge on.

The Bahamas beckons with the silky, pale-pink sands of Harbour Island . Anguilla ’s pristine Shoal Bay regularly features on best-beaches lists. In Antigua and Barbuda, you’ll have your choice of 365 beaches, all with warm and tranquil waters. And the Baths in the British Virgin Islands are unmatched for sheer natural beauty. Truthfully, you will find the perfect pocket of powdery sand and pellucid waters on almost any Caribbean island. 

Key Events: Oistins Fish Festival, Barbados; French Surfing Competition, Guadeloupe; Hike Fest, Dominica

January is prime time for fishing in Grenada

Grenada ’s azure waters are ideal for deep-sea fishing all year long – but the prime time for a good catch falls in the high season between December and April. The  Spice Island Billfish Tournament draws anglers from around the region and beyond for a week of fishing, with local cuisine and music peppered throughout the festivities. The tournament follows international catch-and-release standards, allowing only potentially record-breaking billfish to be brought to the weigh station.

Trinidad & Tobago host the best Carnival in the region in February 

The Caribbean is known worldwide for its commitment to carnival celebrations, with several islands hosting their own version of the flamboyant festival throughout the year. But the largest – and arguably best – carnival event of the region is held in Trinidad and Tobago . The pre-Lenten party attracts thousands of revelers annually for a nonstop stream of fetes, limbo competitions, pulsating calypso and soca rhythms, and an exuberant costumed parade. There's even a term for that post-carnival comedown, or depression, you’re guaranteed to feel at the end: “carnival tabanca .” Expect it to hit hard.

The unparalleled Bermuda International Film Festival happens in March 

Since 1997, Bermuda has welcomed cinephiles for the Bermuda International Film Festival (BIFF). The nine-day extravaganza of world cinema is highly respected and features movies from the world's leading filmmakers and emerging talent. Attendees also have access to filmmaker Q&As, discussions, master classes and parties. In between panels, divers can take in Bermuda’s unparalleled views of the island’s coral and marine life, shipwrecks and underwater caves.

Head to Tobago in April for the Jazz Experience 

Trinidad commands the bulk of the attention, but the smaller half of the twin-island republic, Tobago , offers an idyllic escape. The Tobago Jazz Experience is a marquee event on the island, an opportunity for visitors to soak in the easygoing yet intoxicating atmosphere of the island in between performances by world-renowned jazz, R&B, soca, calypso, reggae and Latin artists. 

Antigua Sailing Week in May is one of the top regattas in the world

One of the top regattas in the world takes place in Antigua, just off the waters of English Harbour in Saint Paul Parish. Sailors from Russia to South Africa converge on the island in more than 100 yachts for equal parts competition and socializing during Antigua Sailing Week . 

The St Kitts music fest in June features the best of Caribbean music

St Kitts may be tiny, yet the island’s music festival  has a mighty international reputation. Besides the impressive lineup of soca, jazz, R&B, gospel and reggae performances, patrons can enjoy grabbing food from the local vendors onsite before settling in on a blanket for picnics on the expansive lawn at the Kim Collins Athletic Stadium in Basseterre. 

Jamaica’s best party, Reggae Sumfest, takes place in July

Jamaica boasts myriad musical legends, with none greater than reggae icon Bob Marley . His genre is honored at Reggae Sumfest , the largest music festival in Jamaica – and the entire Caribbean. The week-long event kicks off with a beach party, followed by a free street dance, a global sound clash and an all-white party. The final two nights feature live performances from the best reggae and dancehall artists in the world. Past bills have included local superstars Ziggy Marley, Barrington Levy, Vybz Kartel, Spice and Beenie Man – and, for good measure, international powerhouses 50 Cent, Rihanna and others. 

Kadooment Day on Barbados is August’s premier event

Barbados’ Crop Over tradition originated as a celebration to mark the end of the annual sugarcane harvest. Now it is the island’s premier event, combining music, arts, food and culture. The pièce de résistance of the three-month observance is the colorful, costumed carnival parade known as Kadooment Day, which takes place in early August. 

Immerse yourself in Aruba’s history during Fiesta di Cunucu in September 

Aruba ’s Fiesta di Cunucu is an immersive experience exploring the island’s heritage through its traditional housing. During the exhibition, cunucu homes are furnished with antiquities from the community museum to provide an authentic replication of past living conditions. The program also integrates Aruban music, folkloric dances, handcrafts and a farmers market with fresh local produce. 

Indulge in St Lucia’s best Creole cuisine during Jounen Kwéyòl in October 

St Lucia honors its French and African cultural influences throughout October – and the main event is Jounen Kwéyòl (Creole Day), on the the last Sunday of the month. Select communities around the island host locals and visitors alike for musical and cultural performances – and, of course, serve up plenty of creole fare, such as callaloo soup, bouillon, smoked herring, coconut balls, accras (fishcakes) and green figs and saltfish, St Lucia’s national dish. 

Turks & Caicos welcome the best chefs in the world in November

Foodies and wine lovers descend upon  Turks & Caicos in early November for the Caribbean Food and Wine Festival . This event sees top international chefs dishing up gourmet meals and wine tastings, set against the paradisiacal backdrop of the islands’ turquoise waters and white-sand beaches. 

The Bahamas celebrates Junkanoo in December

Carnival is not just a summer activity. The Bahamas celebrates both Boxing Day (the day after Christmas) and New Years Day with Junkanoo party parades in the capital of Nassau . But the vibrant pre-dawn festival vibe is also woven into celebrations in Bimini , the Exumas , Grand Bahama , Eleuthera and Harbour Island, the Abacos and all of the archipelago nation’s 16 islands.

This article was first published January 2022 and updated November 2022

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Why cruise to the Caribbean?

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

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

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

When do cruises go to the Caribbean?

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

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

Best Caribbean itineraries

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

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

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

Western Caribbean

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

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

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

Eastern Caribbean

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

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

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

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

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

Southern Caribbean

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

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

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

The Bahamas and Florida

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

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

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

Best Caribbean cruise lines

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

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

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

Related: The best Caribbean cruise for every type of traveler

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

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

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

Things to do in the Caribbean

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

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

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

Best Caribbean cruise ports

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

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

Cozumel, Mexico

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

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

San Juan, Puerto Rico

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

Belize City, Belize

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

St. Thomas, U.S. Virgin Islands

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

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

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

When to book a Caribbean cruise

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

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

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

What to bring on a Caribbean cruise

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

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

Bottom line

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

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

Planning a cruise? Start with these stories:

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

Go Green Travel Green

Travel | Sustainability | Living Responsibly

Escape to Paradise: The Only Travel Guide to Caribbean You’ll Ever Need!

Travel Guide to Caribbean – Consisting of the Caribbean Sea and its islands, this area is one of the most sought-after tourist destinations on the planet. This has to do with its beautiful waters, amazing weather and overall natural beauty. It’s a great vacation spot for couples, families, adventurers, and solo travelers.

There is also a healthy component of human warmth and cultural richness that go into the world’s love for the Caribbean. As a result, every year, tens of thousands of people gear up to go there for vacation for the first time. If you are one of them, you might wonder about which islands to visit. Of course, it’s a complex, unique region of the world, and that can be confusing for first-timers. Do not worry, though!

In this travel guide, I will tell you all you need to know to make your first trip to the Caribbean. You’ll learn the best Caribbean island to visit, the best time to go, where to go, the friendliest Caribbean island, the safest island, what languages they speak, and more.

Escape to Paradise: The Only Travel Guide to Caribbean

Note: Taking a Caribbean cruise is one way to visit many different islands easily. This is especially helpful when going on a family vacation. You won’t get to spend a lot of time in any one place but you’ll get a feel for the different places.  You’ll also learn a lot about the islands by seeing the activities they advertise. Depending on what you choose, y ou can enjoy time on the beach, doing local excursions, time in downtown areas, and excursions in nature.  You’ll get a sense of the activities on each island. Then for your next vacation, you can choose the places you want to return to.

Escape to Paradise is the ultimate Caribbean travel guide. Get the best tips on where to stay, what to do, and how to get there. We’ll make sure your Caribbean holiday is one that you won’t forget! Escape to Paradise and discover the best of the Caribbean! This travel guide has everything you need to plan your perfect getaway, from an insider’s look at attractions and activities to helpful tips for finding the best deals. Get ready for your tropical

What languages do they speak in the Caribbean

Natives and people living in the Caribbean speak many different languages. Spanish is the most common overall. You’ll hear European languages such as English, French, and Dutch as well. Creole languages are also common. Many cater to American tourists and speak English. 

Transportation

If you do not wish to rent a car, many hotels have shuttle services. Most islands have a decent bus system as well. There are also private taxis. If you are staying in the Lower Antilles, there is a local ferry system making it convenient to visit multiple islands. 

Where is the Caribbean

Located in the western hemisphere and considered part of North America, the Caribbean is a region spanning just over one million miles. It includes islands in the Caribbean Sea as well as nearby coasts. The closest state is Florida. The Caribbean islands are southeast of the Gulf of Mexico, north of South America, and east of Central America.

Places to visit

You have many countries and islands to choose from. Some of the most popular to visit, especially those going for the first time, are: 

• Grand Cayman
• British Virgin Islands
• US Virgin Islands (I visited St John and St Croix; not St Thomas)
• Dominica also called Dominique
• Antigua and Barbuda (one independent nation)
• Turks and Caicos

Much will depend on what you want to do while you are there. If you are looking for stunning, white sand beaches, you will have many islands to choose from. Seven Mile Beach in Grand Cayman as well as the stunning beaches in Antigua come to mind.

However, if you would enjoy lush rainforests, waterfalls, and hiking trails, you’ll want to consider Dominique and Jamaica. If you are seeking more seclusion and a luxury resort, you’ll want to consider St. Barts. Also, the Bahamas are part of the Atlantic Ocean, and not the Caribbean Sea. Technically, they are not part of the Caribbean Islands. They are an independent country.

What is the Caribbean famous for

This area is renowned for it’s different topography and glorious nature. The scenery abounds. You’ll have so many natural things to explore, including tropical forests, mountains, waterfalls, volcanoes, valleys, and plantations. Some areas are more famous for their beautiful beaches and water activities.

Best time to visit Caribbean

First things first: What is the best time of year to go to the Caribbean? It’s important to take into account the following aspects:

This area is known for its fantastic weather during the majority of the year. However, the best weather in the region takes place from December through to April. During these months, the weather is pleasantly dry and warm during the day. However, during the night, it cools down enough to facilitate a good night’s sleep.

During summer and autumn, the weather in the Caribbean tends to get warmer and more humid, even featuring a few quick downpours now and then. Constant rain, however, is not that common. You will still be able to enjoy the day. Be advised that, from June to November, it’s the official hurricane season in the Caribbean, with September and October being the months with the most danger of a major storm happening.

Travel Costs to Caribbean

Since it’s the period of time with the most pleasant weather, December to late April is peak season in the Caribbean. As a result, it’s also the most expensive season. As a rule of thumb, during this period, hotels and villas increase their price rate by 20 – 50%. What is more, flights during this season tend to be aggressively high.

When it comes to crowds, hotels and villas tend to be at their worst during the winter months. Without a doubt, the winter dates that are closest to the holidays tend to attract tourists to the region in impressively large numbers. In particular, Christmas, New Year and Easter seem to inspire tourists from all over the globe to flock to these islands. On the other hand, September and October are the slowest months in the region. So if you don’t want to be part of a crowd, consider these months. As a matter of fact, many hotels, restaurants and bars close during this short period of time.

Where Should You Go in the Caribbean?

Now that you have a better idea of when to go to the Caribbean, it’s time to decide exactly where. This decision can be difficult seeing as there are so many beautiful and cheap islands  to choose from. Consider these options to make the right choice for your particular needs:

The Caribbean Islands

Before going any further, it is important that we talk about the cluster of islands that make the Caribbean region. We review some of the most important and popular ones:

Having some of the best beaches, traveling to Anguilla is a great destination for relaxation-seekers. Its 33 islands also feature some of the best hotels in the entire region, as well as a plethora of bars and restaurants. For those reasons, Anguilla can be a great option for first-time Caribbean goers looking for escapism and relaxation.

Cayman Islands

Undoubtedly, Cayman Islands is the favorite destination of adventure lovers. The region features a great deal in terms of watersports. Scuba diving being one of the most popular. At the same time, though, Cayman Islands makes for a great family vacation destination.

You have likely heard about Jamaica. Featuring a colorful and lively culture as well as a beautiful geography, Jamaica is one of the top tourist destinations in the entire region. Apart from beautiful hotels and villas, the island country offers a great deal in terms of cultural locations where you can appreciate music, art, gastronomy and a lot more. As if that was not enough, Jamaica has a vast number of museums and historic locations where you can learn more about it and its people.

Puerto Rico

Being a US commonwealth, Puerto Rico is one of the most popular destinations for American tourists. Having a healthy mixture of Hispanic and North-American culture, Puerto Rico is familiar enough to be cozy without ever becoming boring. On this island, there are plenty of activities for tourists of all tastes and inclinations. There is a great number of options when it comes to beautiful beaches to relax and enjoy. However, if you are more adventurous, you can also visit one of the beaches in Puerto Rico that offer watersports, sky lining and other adventurous activities. Additionally, the island has a very strong urban center filled with bars, restaurants, shopping malls and so on.

The Bahamas

The Bahamas aren’t part of the Caribbean, but many people consider a trip here when considering a trip to the Caribbean. This is especially the case because these islands are just east of Florida, making it an easier flight when visiting from the United States. These islands are a great destination for first-timers. Without a doubt, the place stands out visually due to its powder-soft, limestone-white sands, gigantic palm trees and clear blue skies. Being particularly large, the Bahamas offers a lot in terms of secluded, private locations. Nassau is the capital.

Tourist Attractions and Excursions

Many small and medium-sized islands have special tourist attractions to offer. Without a doubt, this can be a big selling point, particularly for adventure and excitement lovers. Among the most popular are the following:

Scuba diving

The Caribbean is famous for its crystalline waters and exuberant aquatic life. For that reason, many islands in the region offer scuba diving as one of their main attractions. Without a doubt, however, the area surrounding Cozumel is the best one for diving due to its sheer depth and incredible beauty.

With white beaches and turquoise waters, another favorite activity is snorkeling. This is an economical activity as well because you can do it without lessons or a tour guide. If you want you can rent a mask and snorkel while there, but it make it even more affordable, buy the mask and snorkel at home and bring it with you. Bring fins if you have them as well. You’ll discover the underwater pristine beauty of marine life, including coral reefs and colorful fish. You’ll find many areas you can enjoy snorkeling, and it’s free if you bring your equipment.

Submarine rides

If seeing the depths of the ocean sounds good to you, going on a submarine ride can be another fantastic option. Various islands in the region offer this experience. However, the underwater locations in the capital city of Oranjestad, Aruba are, hands down, the best and most beautiful ones in the entire region. There, you can go down as far as 45 meters below sea level, where you can find the most amazing coral reefs, a wide range of underwater animals and even some antique shipwrecks.

Tropical forests

Upon hearing the word Caribbean, most people think about beaches and the open ocean. However, most islands in the region have luscious tropical forests as well. These inland rainforests are brimming with vegetation and fauna of incredible varieties. By most accounts, one of the best rainforests in the region is on the island of Roatan, Honduras. If you go there, make sure to check out the stunning Carambola Botanical Gardens, a place where you can see a multitude of exotic plants. If seeing animals is more your thing, check out the Gumbalimba Preservation Park in Honduras.

Those who are looking for adrenaline-pumping excitement would be remiss not to do ziplining during their visits. Resort islands such as Labadee, Haiti offer this activity, providing tourists with the opportunity to zip over the most fantastic bodies of crystalline water. St Lucia is also a gorgeous place for ziplining.

Other activities

Whether you are looking for local reggae music and culture, nightlife, restaurants, surfing, beaches, shopping, want to visit a rain forest, and more, you can find it. You can rent boats, go fishing with a guide, go on a 6-person or 8-person catamaran complete with a captain and first mate, or go on one of many tours to see various sites. Many vacationers come to yacht as well.

If you want to relax while visiting several locations on one vacation, a cruise is a great idea. Choosing a cruise line  is an easy way to explore multiple islands. Relatively affordable cruises allow people of all budgets to tour the Caribbean sea, regularly stopping at key locations where scenery and attractions are first and foremost. We absolutely recommend a Caribbean cruise for your first time visiting. It’s ideal for couples, families, friend groups, and solo travelers to explore different islands in an effortless, no hassle, and safe way.  

All-inclusive deals

People who are on a budget may want to consider making a one-time payment for a vacation with everything included. This is especially nice when you are traveling in groups because the food is included. You won’t have to worry about picking restaurants or who is paying.  It’s also a great when when going to the Caribbean with kids because they will be able to choose from a variety of foods, including fruits, etc. It will be easier to feed picky eaters as well. Depending on the price you are willing to pay, the locations you can choose from vary from comfortable hotel rooms in small islands to very exclusive overwater villas in the seaside seaside. Typically, these deals include a room, meals, drinks, activities, transportation and additional benefits.

Hotels, AirBNB, VRBO

In addition to all-inclusive resorts, there are hotels and motels. You can also stay in a (pay as you go, not all-inclusive) resort. Look on Google maps to see the proximity to activities that interest you. Also consider renting a private condo, townhome, or house through an individual on AirBNB or VRBO. There are cottages too. While there are glorious beaches, many hotels and rentals have lovely pools as well. 

What is the safest Caribbean island to visit

Many areas rely on tourism, so overall, most of the islands are safe. However, be warned when you leave your belongings in the car when you go to the beach. We had several people tell us this when we visited St Croix. Theft happens everywhere but we were happy that locals took the time to tell us this. Overall, according to industry experts, the safest islands to visit are Cayman Islands, St Barts, St Marteen / St Martin, Antigua, and the US Virgin Islands and British Virgin Islands.

What is the most dangerous Caribbean island

According to sailingeurope.com, the least safe places according to crime rates are Puerto Rico, Tobago, and Trinidad. Other experts list Cuba as an area that might expose you to smaller-type crimes.

Is it safe to travel now

At present, it is safe to travel there now. However, you’ll want to check the protocols in place. When considering what islands are open to US citizens, most have opened to international citizens.

What is the friendliest Caribbean island

Having visited Dominique, Antiqua, Puerto Rico, Martinique, Curacao, Aruba, Barbados, St Marteen, Turks and Caicos, US Virgin Islands (St John’s and Saint Croix), and many others, truly the people there were all friendly, courteous and welcoming. With smiles, they went out of their way to help and to be sure we were having a good time. On our many travels to the Caribbean, we found all the people very friendly. Only once, in Martinique, did I experience a bit of rudeness in a cosmetics-type shop from a clerk. It’s important to note that the areas rely on tourism. Many shop owners are locals. There is an amazing friendly and happy vibe wherever you go. Many locals also work very hard to communicate with English speakers. 

What is the easiest Caribbean island to fly to

Most of the major islands have their own airports so it really depends where you are flying from. If you are flying from New York City or Miami, Florida, there are daily flights to many of the islands. 

  What is the cheapest month to go to the Caribbean

Hurricane season is the cheapest time to go. This includes June through November. It’s their rainy season and not as popular.

What is the cheapest Caribbean island to visit  

According to smartertraveler.com, the cheapest island to visit is Dominican Republic.

Best Caribbean islands for families  

When traveling with children, you’ll want to be sure there is lots to do. Some family favorites include US Virgin Islands, British Virgin Islands, and the Cayman Islands. If you are taking a family cruise, any of the islands will be family-friendly.

Travel Guide for First Time Travelers

As you can see by this travel guide, with the right information at hand, traveling to this region for the first time is not as daunting as it initially sounds. It’s full of locations to explore, adventures to live and pleasures to experience. Without a doubt, it helps a great deal that the natives of the region tend to be friendly, helpful and kind. Hopefully, this quick guide will help you have a successful stay that you will remember for the rest of your life.  

The Ultimate First-Time Visitor’s Guide to Grenada

Not only is the landscape refreshingly diverse, with top-rated beaches, rainforests, and mountains, but also a rich culture and fascinating history. Best of all – Grenada is not overrun with tourists. The vibe is super chill and relaxed – more than any other island I’ve been to. 

I created this guide after a frustrating experience planning my first trip to Grenada. The information I found was either outdated or non-existent. This guide is geared toward first-time visitors to Grenada and intended to provide basic and essential information to easily plan and experience your first visit to the island. I say “first visit” because I’m confident once you arrive, you’ll start planning your next visit. 

Everything you need to plan your first trip to Grenada is included here in The Ultimate First-Time Visitor’s Guide to Grenada.  Topics include: 

• How much it costs
• How to get there
• Where to stay
• How to get around
• Things to do 

Safety & Security

There is so much information I could share, but in my opinion, it would be overwhelming and unnecessary to planning your initial visit. Once you’re in Grenada, you’ll discover more things to do, places to stay, and places to eat that suit your preferences. But you have to get there first, right?

Happy Planning!

Ralf Stefan

www.caribbeanauthority.com

When to go to Grenada

Grenada is one of the southernmost Caribbean islands, allowing for amazing year-round temperatures. On average, you can expect 83 Fahrenheit every month. Because of Grenada’s proximity, it rarely is hit by hurricanes. Even more, the reason to visit any time of year.

Note: Grenada is hit by hurricanes far less than other Caribbean islands, but it has still been hit. 

With that said, the island does experience a rainy season. Grenada’s rainy season starts in June and lasts until December and is characterized by frequent thunderstorms and downpours, which are short-lasting but very intense and typically followed by plenty of sunshine.

Of course, weather is not an exact science. Lately, it seems like no matter where you are in the world; you’re experiencing “unseasonal weather”. I point this out because although no time of year is guaranteed warm and sunny days in Grenada, your chances are more likely outside the rainy season.

Whether your travel goals are to get out and experience activities on the island, attend a particular event (like Spice Mas in August!) or save money on your trip, the chart below should help you determine when to visit. 

$$ – Average cost $ – Below average cost

How much does it cost to travel to Grenada

How much you will spend to travel to Grenada is somewhat subjective. It’s totally dependent on your travel style. To provide some idea of the cost of travel to Grenada, I’ve established three different travel styles – average, luxury, and budget- and the cost of each style’s main expenses – airfare, hotel, food, and transportation. I’m an average traveler, so the costs associated with the average traveler below are actual costs from my recent trip to the island. 

Cost for an Average Traveler

The average cost to travel to Grenada for 2 people for 7 nights is estimated to be $1,964.34 per person. Here’s the breakdown.

Cost for A Luxury Traveler

The cost for a luxury trip to Grenada for 2 people for 7 nights is estimated to be $4,042.55 per person. Here’s the breakdown.

Cost for a Budget Traveler

The cost for a budget trip to Grenada for 2 people for 7 nights is estimated to be $1,262.00 per person. Here’s the breakdown.

Cost for Groceries

Regardless of travel style, many people like to have groceries on hand to cook meals or snacks on. Below is a sampling of groceries and the price you can expect to pay in Grenada, just to give you an idea.

For a more extensive list of groceries and costs in Grenada check out The Cost of Food in Grenada & How to Avoid Busting your Food Budget .

• Fodor’s Travel Guides (Author)
• English (Publication Language)
• 960 Pages – 09/06/2022 (Publication Date) – Fodor’s Travel (Publisher)

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Cost for Dining Out

You’re on vacation, so of course, you’ll want to dine out occasionally. Even luxury travelers staying at an all-inclusive may want to duck out for some local fare at some point. 

Obviously, you’ll pay more for food when dining out versus buying and cooking your own meals. Below is pricing for dining out at various restaurant types in Grenada. You’ll notice the cost is relatively close to US restaurants, which seems high, considering the overall pricing and standard of living on the island.

Cell Service

To avoid exploding your cell bill when traveling to Grenada? You can: 

• Purchase a SIM card from a local carrier like Digicel or Flow;
• Purchase an international day pass or cell plan from your cell provider (if offered);
• Turn your phone on airplane mode and only use wifi when it’s available.

Everything you need to know about paying for things in Grenada is below.

• The EC$ (Eastern Caribbean dollar) is the standard form of currency, but the US$ (US dollar) is widely accepted.
• Bring crisp US dollars, not ripped or wrinkled ones, as they’re likely to be rejected.
• Major credit cards are widely accepted at hotels, restaurants, stores, and tour operators. One exception – American Express is often not accepted. 
• Have cash available for taxis, market vendors, water taxis, ferries, and independent guides. Unless you pay the exact amount you will likely receive a change in EC$.
• Unless you want to come home with a wallet full of EC$, bring lots of $1 and $5 bills with you to pay for cash items.
• There are several banks on the island with ATMs available for cash withdrawal, but be aware they are closed on weekends and holidays.

How to get to Grenada

Entry Requirements 

• A valid passport book and evidence of return/onward travel arrangements are required to enter Grenada. 
• A valid passport means it doesn’t expire at least 6 months after your return date.  
• You can stay for a max of 90 days without a VISA.

Flight Information

When planning my first trip to Grenada, I was surprised at how difficult it was to find flight information. It was a challenge to learn which US airlines flew to Grenada, what days of the week they flew there, and which times of the year.  Sure, you could use Skyscanner, but without knowledge of the days the airlines fly to Grenada, you’re often left with a flight adventure”. What’s a “flight adventure”?

Flight adventures are a combination of several stops &/or layovers and take more than a day to get to your destination. They are a long, tiresome, and inefficient way to get to your destination. -Ralf Stefan, Caribbean Authority

Since airfare information was not readily available, I spent a ton of time digging online and calling airlines. I fly from the US, but I know many of you are coming from Canada, the UK, and other countries, so I gathered flight information from those countries as well so you don’t have to go through the same rigamarole I did.

Fly to Grenada From the US

Three airlines fly direct from the US to Grenada:

• JetBlue flies directly to Grenada from New York. Flight time is 4 hours 50 minutes.
• American Airlines flies direct to Grenada from Miami & Charlotte. Flight time is 3 hours 31 minutes from Miami and 4 hours 15 minutes from Charlotte.
• Delta Airlines flies direct to Grenada from Atlanta. Flight time is 4 hours 34 minutes.

Fly to Grenada From Canada

Two airlines fly direct from Canada to Grenada:

• Air Canada flies directly to Grenada from Toronto
• Sunwing Airlines flies directly to Grenada from Toronto
• Flight length is 5 hours and 15 minutes.

Fly to Grenada From the UK

Unfortunately, there aren’t any airlines that fly direct to Grenada from the UK. However, British Airways and Virgin Atlantic both have near-direct options since they both fly from London to Grenada with only one short stopover in St. Lucia.

• British Airways flies from Gatwick Airport to St. Lucia, then on to Grenada. The flight to St. Lucia is 8 hours 45 minutes. 
• Virgin Atlantic flies from Manchester Airport in St. Lucia, then on to Grenada. The flight to St. Lucia is 9 hours 5 minutes.
• The flight from St. Lucia is provided by Liat (airlines) and is a 55-minute flight.

Packing Tips

I don’t mind packing for vacation, but many people hate it! I think this loathing comes from the travel experts’ advice to “pack light,” which creates anxiety, resulting in overwhelm and, ultimately, procrastination to begin the task of packing. I love packing a big-ass suitcase and think everyone should do it.

If you want to learn how to fall in love with packing – or at least stop hating it – check out my article Why you hate packing for Vacation and What to Do About It .  If not, here are the cliff notes: grab a big-ass suitcase, create a list of essentials, start throwing stuff into the suitcase a week before, and pack the suitcase the night before.

Download my handy-dandy packing list and customize it as needed. 

How long Should You stay in Grenada?

If you’re traveling from the US, Canada, or the UK, you’ll need at least 2 days for travel. From there, determine how many days you need to rest & relax, explore, and generally just chill out. 

Of course, how long to stay on vacation is a personal decision dependent on many factors, such as your available vacation time from work, home & work commitments, and, of course, flight schedules. 

The max you can stay in Grenada without a visa is 30 days.

Where to Stay in Grenada

Grenada offers an array of accommodations, including hotels, resorts, Airbnb, apartments, and even just a room. This guide is geared toward a typical traveler  (vs. backpacker), so I’ll assume you’re interested in a hotel or resort-type accommodation. 

Below, I’ve listed high-rated accommodations by price point in the St. George’s area. You can get more information about each property and check the pricing by following the link. 

Luxury All-Inclusive Accommodations ($1,000+ per night)

Sandals Grenada – Check out pricing for Sandals Calabash Hotel – Check out pricing for Calabash Hotel Mount Cinnamon – Check out pricing for Mount Cinnamon

Affordable Luxury Accommodations (Under $250 per night)

Blue Horizons Garden Resort – Check out pricing for Blue Horizons Garden Resort . Check out my review of this resort at Blue Horizons Garden Resort Review True Blue Bay Boutique Resort – Check out pricing for True Blue Bay Boutique Resort Radisson Grenada Beach Resort – Check out pricing for Radisson Grenada Beach Resort

Budget Accommodations (Under $100 per night)

Siesta Hotel – Check out pricing for Siesta Hotel La Heliconia – Check out pricing for La Heliconia Grooms Beach Villa & Resort – Check out pricing for Grooms Beach Villa & Resort .

Things to Do in Grenada

I could fill this guide with fun and amazing things to do in Grenada, but you wouldn’t be able to get to all of them on your first trip, so I opted to list only the top 3 by interest. Click the link for more information about each attraction.

• Grand Anse Beach
• Morne Rouge Beach
• Levera Beach

History Buffs

• Fort George
• Dougaldston Estate
• Fort Frederick

Scuba & Snorkel Enthusiasts

• Underwater Sculpture Park
• Bianca C Shipwreck
• Flamingo Bay Reef

Cultural Connoisseurs

• River Antoine Estate Rum Distillery
• Belmont Estate
• Gouyave Nutmeg Processing Station

Nature Lovers

• Mount Qua Qua
• Royal Mount Carmel Waterfalls
• La Sagesse Nature Center

Ecotourism Fanatics

• Saddleback Sea Turtles
• Grand Etang National Park
• Levera National Park

Festival Junkies

• Grenada Carnival ‘Spice Mas’ (August) 
• Carriacou’s Carnival (February)
• Grenada Chocolate Festival (May)

How to get around in Grenada

Grenada’s bus system consists of minibusses that transport people all over the island. It’s an amazing way to get around while getting to know the locals and learning about the country. And, you know your life is in the hands of an expert – they drive those roller-coaster roads every day so have developed the skill.

Things you should know about riding the bus in Grenada

• Hours: Weekdays 7AM – 7PM (Not all buses run on weekends)
• Fares are cheap! Depending on the destination expect to pay $1 – $6 EC each way. Be sure to ask the driver to confirm the cost beforehand. 
• There are 9 zones with one or more routes per zone. 
• Each bus displays the route number in the windshield.
• Each route is a loop ending at the same location it starts.
• Some buses can get quite crowded as its the main transportation for many residents. Don’t worry – hop on and room will be made for you.

Grenada Bus Routes

Taxis are widely available throughout the island and cost more than a bus but offer privacy and convenience especially on weekends when buses can be scarce.

Things you should know about taking a taxi in Grenada:

• Taxis are licensed by the government and should prominently display their official credentials. They don’t run meters, instead, because they are licensed by the government, there are set rates.
• Hotel and airport taxis are price-fixed by the government. To give you an example, the price for a taxi from the airport to the St. George’s area is $16. That’s total, not per person.
• Fares to and from the airport are set by the government. In March I paid about $16 US each way to my hotel.
• Be sure to confirm the fare with your driver, and whether it’s in US$ or EC $, before setting off on the journey. Often the rate can be negotiable. 
• Many travelers have been known to hire a taxi for a day to explore the island.

I don’t recommend renting a car unless you’re accustomed to driving on the left with the steering wheel on the right and willing to put up with certain challenges including Narrow, steep & windy roads, pedestrians walking across the street paying no attention to traffic, and drivers that don’t use turn signals and drive very fast. 

Things you should know about renting a car in Grenada

• It cost about $70 US per day to rent a car. 
• The government requires a visitor’s temporary driver’s license, which you can easily obtain by showing the rental company your regular driver’s license and paying for a Grenadian one. The cost is about $25 US.
• You can rent a car at AVIS in St. Georges. 

Is Grenada Safe?

Grenada is very safe but it’s always sensible to exercise caution regardless of where you’re traveling. Exercise these precautions while in Grenada (or any country your visiting for that matter):

• Leave your flashy jewelry, and clothes at home. 
• Stay in well lit and populated areas after dark. 
• Do not leave valuables such as money, credit cards, cameras and other electronic devices unattended – especially on the beaches or in vehicles.
• Most hotels provide a safe in the room. Lock your passport in it.

US travelers should always check the State Department’s Travel Advisory page to learn the current advisory level for the country they’re traveling to. Here’s a link to the state department’s information on Grenada .

Safety is a topic not to be taken lightly. If you’re concerned about the safety of Grenada check out my article Is Grenada Safe for Tourists? which takes a deep dive into why all signs point to it being a safe place to visit.

All US citizens should know where and how to reach the US embassy for the country they’re traveling to. Don’t make the mistake of waiting for an emergency to happen before you figure out how to reach the embassy. 

Not sure what the U.S. Embassy does? Check out my article Don’t wait for an emergency to find out where the US Embassy is located in Grenada

The U.S. Embassy in Grenada is located in the capital city of St. George’s, however, the U.S. Ambassador operates out of the U.S. Embassy located about 170 miles away in Bridgetown, Barbados.

US Embassy in Grenada Contact Information

What about the Water?

According to NAWASA (National Water & Sewerage Authority), the organization that treats Grenada’s water, Grenada’s water is “safe for human consumption”. Many in the hospitality field in Grenada will recommend you drink bottled water because visitors’ bodies are not accustomed to Grenada water. It’s up to you. I decided to boil water and drink bottled (Montezuma’s Revenge anyone?).

Travel Insurance

Things happen out of our control all the time, even when we have a vacation planned. (Coronavirus anyone?). Travel insurance not only prevents financial loss due to having to cancel your vacation but also provides peace of mind leading up to the trip. If you ask me, peace of mind is priceless. 

Get a free quote from World Nomads , the world-renowned and respected provider of travel insurance and plan your trip with peace of mind. 

Final Thoughts

Plan on falling in love with Grenada. I’m so confident you’ll love Grenada that I’m willing to bet your first trip will not be your last. With that, take your time and truly enjoy each experience while you’re there. Unlike other vacations you may have taken to popular Caribbean destinations like Jamaica, the Bahamas, and the Dominican Republic, there’s no sense of urgency to grab a beach chair, rush to the tour bus, or stand in line for a beer. The vibe is more chill in Grenada.

• ★LOTS OF STORAGE SPACE&POCKETS: One separate laptop compartment hold 15.6 Inch Laptop as well as 15 Inch,14 Inch and 13 Inch Laptop. One spacious packing compartment roomy for daily necessities,tech electronics accessories. Front compartment with many pockets, pen pockets and key fob hook, makes your items organized and easier to find
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Renting a Car in Grenada May Not be Your Best Option for Getting Around

2 thoughts on “the ultimate first-time visitor’s guide to grenada”.

This guide was so helpful. I am considering retiring to Grenada in another 12 years. However, I plan to visit the island long before then, hopefully in the next 2 years. You highlighted a lot of things that I hadn’t considered. Specifically, cell phone use, the water, and having a stack of $1 and $5 bills on me. Thanks so much!

You’re welcome!

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Curaçao Island Guide for First-time Visitors 

Curaçao island is the perfect Caribbean destination if you’re up for something unique in a tropical setting. Although each Caribbean Island has its characteristics, I can confidently say that Curaçao is one of a kind.

Curaçao island is located in the southern part of the Caribbean , right above Venezuela and in-between the islands of Aruba and Bonaire. The capital of the island is Willemstad, with the districts of Punda, Otrobanda Pietermaai and Scharloo as the vibrant city center.

Curaçao is part of The Kingdom of the Netherlands and this is mainly reflected in culture and architecture.

When you walk through downtown Willemstad, it seems as if you have arrived in the colorful version of Amsterdam. The cotton candy-colored buildings on the Handelskade resemble the stately canal houses you can find in Amsterdam.

The History of Curaçao

Let me introduce you to the history of Curaçao in a nutshell. The first and original inhabitants were the Arawak Indians . In 1499 a Spanish expedition arrived on the island, enslaved most of the Arawak folk, and transported them to do forced labor in their colonies.

The island itself brought the Spaniards little fortune. Agriculture was almost impossible due to the hard subsoil and dry climate. Not many precious metals and raw materials were mined in Curaçao either. The Spaniards called Curaçao the ‘useless island’ and were not aware of the possibilities that the Dutch did see.

In 1634, The Dutch West India Company invaded the island, and Dutch Colonists started settling on Curaçao island. The Dutch founded the capital of Willemstad around the natural harbor that they called Schottegat. The island turned out to be the perfect place for trade and commerce.

Curaçao became an important center in the Caribbean for the slave trade. Most of the time, ships with slaves from West Africa arrived to the island before selling them elsewhere in the Caribbean region.

The Island rose affluent from the slave trade. Colonial buildings were built and plantations sprang up like mushrooms. The city of Willemstad became a vibrant hub in the Caribbean.

Led by the enslaved man Tula, in 1795 a major slave revolt took place. Slaves from several plantations around the northwest coast rebelled against slavery and demanded freedom. The revolt lasted about a month after which the slaves lost this battle.

It wasn’t until 1863 that slavery in Curaçao was abolished and the economy of the island experienced a downfall.

When oil was discovered in Venezuela , in the early 20th century, the economy of Curaçao island gained a huge benefit from this event. The supply of crude oil to the refinery in Curacao provided many jobs and further development of the island.

In 1954, Curaçao joined Aruba, Bonaire, Saint Martin, Statia and Saba in becoming the Netherlands Antilles . A little over 50 years later, on October 10, 2010, Curaçao island became a country within The Kingdom of the Netherlands.

The global outbreak of Covid-19 in 2020 has hit the island hard. Curaçao went into lockdown. There were no more flights and cruise ships to Curaçao island. This had disastrous consequences for an island dependent on tourism.

The capital of Curaçao island is called Willemstad . The lively city center quarters of Punda and Otrobanda are connected by the Queen Emma Bridge, the famous floating bridge that opens regularly to enable the passage of vessels into the St. Anna Bay.

The neighborhood of Pietermaai is the scene of many bright-colored townhouses and cozy restaurants. Colonial district Scharloo , with its baroque-style buildings, is just one block away.

Spoken Languages

What language do they speak in Curaçao? Hold on tight, there are three official languages in Curaçao. This is Dutch, English, and the local creole language Papiamentu. Spanish is also widely spoken. Read: Learn Papiamentu with our free guide.

Curaçao island Currency

Prices in supermarkets, shops, and restaurants are stated in the national currency, the Netherlands Antillean Guilder (ANG) . US Dollars are also widely accepted, but keep in mind the possibility that you will be given change in Guilders. The Antillean Guilder is fixed to the Dollar. 1 US Dollar is equal to 1.77 Nafl,-

Also read: The Best Currency to Use in Curaçao

Country Size

The size of Curaçao island is 444 km² and with that, the island is more than twice the size of Aruba. The island is about 38 miles long and about 7 miles wide at its widest point. It would take you a bit less than one hour to drive from east to west.

The Climate of Curaçao

Curaçao island has a tropical semi-arid climate with warm temperatures all year round. During the day the temperature fluctuates between 29 °C (84 °F) and 32 °C (90°F) at night it often does not get colder than 25 °C (77°F).

The temperature is constant throughout the year, with occasional fluctuations during the dry and rainy seasons.

Curaçao island is located outside of the hurricane belt , and the island rarely experiences tropical storms.

Curaçao Culture

The culture of Curaçao is a vibrant mix of various nationalities, backgrounds, and movements. Curaçao island is home to a majority of Afro-Caribbean people. The Dutch form the second largest community, followed up by a significant number of Latin-American and Asian folk.

Dozens of nationalities live on this island and they all add new features to the existing culture.

Celebrating and having a good time is the common thread in our culture. Holidays and events such as Carnival, King’s Day, Dia di Bandera (Day of the flag), Dia di País Korsou (Day of the country), Christmas, and New Year are celebrated exuberantly.

Local dishes, live music, and fireworks are pretty common during all kinds of celebrations.

Would you like a taste of the real Curaçao island culture? The event of Punda Vibes on Thursdays has become a periodic gathering of local artists, creators, and groups to celebrate our culture.

The streets and alleys of Punda are the scene of live music, dance, and art with a folkloric touch. During this evening you can enjoy the happy hours, there are specials in stores and restaurants, lots of activities for kids, fireworks, and that is just the tip of the iceberg!

Things to do

In terms of activities, there is much to experience on the island. There are many excursions and sights that cater to diverse interests.

You can participate in various water sports, and visit mesmerizing beaches and immersive museums. Willemstad is the bustling center of various sights and attractions. In the areas of Westpunt and St. Willibrordus , you will find many beautiful beaches, exhibitions, and nature parks.

Also read: 15 Budget-Friendly things to do in Curaçao

For an extensive and detailed overview, I refer to the activities category on this website.

Curaçao island Beaches

The beaches of Curaçao island are amongst the most beautiful ones in the Caribbean. This is because most of the beaches are located in pristine scenic coves.

The island has many sandy beaches, with Grote Knip as the island’s showpiece. However, there are also pebble beaches where it is advisable to wear water shoes.

The water is crystal clear and coral grows in many bays. this makes the island a paradise for divers and snorkelers.

Check our latest blog: 15 Amazing Free Beaches in Curaçao , for an extensive list of beaches that are free to access.

Hotels and Resorts

There’s no place like home, but when you’ve found the right accommodation, it might come close to that. Curaçao island has countless beach resorts and hotels that can meet your needs.

There are several resorts where you can opt for an all-inclusive concept, but lodging-based hotels are the most common in Curaçao.

You can choose from a wide variety of accommodations such as Beach Resorts, Boutique Hotels, Bed and Breakfasts, Airbnb, Hostels, and everything in between.

One thing is for sure: Wherever you decide to stay, you will be welcomed with a smile.

Restaurants

Curaçao is a small island that is big on food . Upscale dining? Check. Beach restaurants? Check. Late-night comfort food? Check. Varied cooking from all over the world, in a dreamy, Caribbean setting? Check!

Foodies will love the Curaçao kitchen. There is so much variety in flavors and traditions, Which makes Curaçao island the perfect destination if you’d like to try something new every day. overall, Curaçao island hosts an international kitchen with all sorts of restaurants, beach shacks, and takeaways.

The local food is called Krioyo and I’ll tell you more about that in the next section.

Local dishes

Taste the authentic local kitchen when you visit the island. It’s a must if you want to get the real Curaçao experience. Our local food Krioyo (Curaçao island food of African origin) is a feast for the eyes- and even more so for the stomach.

Enjoy amazing treats like

• Keshi Yena : a ball of cheese stuffed with meat
• Funchi: a kind of Polenta
• Kabritu Stoba : a goat stew
• Pastechies: Pastries with various fillings
• Bolo di Kashupete : Cashew cake
• Arepa di Pampuna: Pumpkin pancakes

There are many places where you can eat Krioyo food, but the most authentic place is the Plasa Bieu , a large covered hall with 6 open kitchens. You can find the Plasa Bieu in Punda, next to the round market.

Curaçao art scene

Curaçao island has a fascinating combination of tradition and tropical vibes; its history and culture blends beautifully with an eclectic, colorful atmosphere, and this extends to its art scene. There is something for all kinds of art lovers.

The island is well known for its brightly colored murals and paintings . All over Curaçao, you will find murals that depict the island’s daily life, its citizens, and culture. The streets and alleys of Willemstad are a canvas for talented painters and collectives. Most of the murals can be found in the districts of Punda and Otrobanda.

Read: Curacao Murals: What to See and Where to Go

A different kind of art object is the  Chichi ® . This sculpture of a beautiful curvaceous lady is a popular souvenir on the island and represents a strong and proud Caribbean woman. The Chichi ® was first designed and created by artist Serena Israel. On Fridays, you can join a workshop and paint your own Chichi ® at Serena’s Art Factory (next to the Aloë plantation).

Can’t wait to dance the night away? Let me tell you something about the amazing places you need to check out when the sun goes down. The island’s nightlife has a lot to offer.

For instance, you can visit one of the many Happy Hours . Live music, great offers on drinks, and smiling people. Could things get any better? The best Happy Hours can be found at several beach clubs at Mambo Beach and Jan Thiel beach.

Lovers of salsa and merengue are completely at home. You can visit one of the many weekly salsa events on the island. Thursdays are for Mundo Bizarro’s Salsa night; on Friday you can find live music at the Riffort. Sunday is the day to dance on the beach at Hemingway.

Moving your hips under the stars while your bare feet touch the sand is like a Caribbean dream come true. Enjoy every moment of it. This is where memories are made that will last a lifetime.

Shopping malls in Curaçao

Curaçao offers you a decent diversity of shopping experiences. The best places to go shopping on the island include shopping malls, fashion boutiques, and plenty of souvenir shops.

Downtown Punda is the flourishing center of boutiques and souvenir shops. In this part of town, you can find various clothing, cosmetics, and electronics stores.

Sambil is the biggest shopping mall on the island. With over 100 stores and brands, there’s no need to say that you can’t spend an entire afternoon shopping and dining in this place. There is an extended food court with over 25 mini restaurants and coffee shops. You can also go bowling or watch a movie at the cinema.

Zuikertuin mall, Bloempot shopping center , and Riffort village could be labeled as small-scale and cozy shopping experiences. Both Zuikertuin and Bloempot offer a variety of Dutch stores, boutiques, and high street international brands. Riffort Village is home to several well-known brands and high-end fashion- and jewelry stores.

Getting around in Curaçao

Curaçao island is not the best place to get from A to B on foot. Therefore, most tourists rent a car to get around during their stay.

Taxis in Curaçao are clean and safe. Drivers are very friendly and will get you to your destination in an efficient way. The taxis in Curaçao have fixed rates for several zones.

Local transportation is limited, but kind of okay if you need to get to Willemstad. You can find bus stations in Punda and Otrobanda, it just depends on which side of the island you will depart.

East side buses will drive to Punda. West side buses will drive to Otrobanda.

The large buses run once an hour. The small buses run more frequently, but they don’t have a schedule or bus stops. Just raise your hand when you want to get in and tell the driver where you would like to go.

In general, Curacao island is safe. The level of crime is not significantly high. The most common form of crime is (car)theft. Keep an eye on your belongings and don’t leave any valuables in your car.

Be streetwise and use common sense. With these skills, you can keep potential dangers to a minimum and you can simply enjoy a carefree holiday

Klein Curaçao Island

Soak up the sun during a day trip to Klein Curaçao island. This uninhabited island is truly a piece of paradise if you enjoy the pearly white sands and turquoise waters of the Caribbean. You can book an all-inclusive trip with one of the few charter boats.

On the island, you can discover various shipwrecks or visit the lighthouse. You can also choose to relax on the beach or snorkel with turtles (if they show up).

Most organizations serve a barbecue lunch. Check the conditions and facilities when booking your excursion.

Book an excursion

Are you looking forward to your vacation? Visit our Excursion page where you can find an extensive overview of various tours and activities. By booking an excursion through this website you support Exploring Curaçao at no cost to you.

Roxanne Verheesen

Hi there! My name is Roxanne , 30 years old and born in the Netherlands, I've visited Curaçao for the first time in 2011 and moved to the island one year later. Love to write, snorkel and watch pinky-orangish sunsets at the beach.

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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.

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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.

• International

March 26, 2024 - Baltimore Key Bridge collapses after ship collision

By Helen Regan , Kathleen Magramo , Antoinette Radford, Alisha Ebrahimji , Maureen Chowdhury , Rachel Ramirez , Elise Hammond , Aditi Sangal , Tori B. Powell , Piper Hudspeth Blackburn and Kathleen Magramo , CNN

Our live coverage of the Baltimore bridge collapse has moved here .

Crew member on DALI said everyone on board was safe hours after bridge collapse, official says

From CNN’s Amy Simonson

A crew member on the DALI cargo ship sent a message hours after the Francis Scott Key Bridge collapsed Tuesday saying everybody on board was safe, according to Apostleship of the Sea director Andy Middleton.

Middleton, who spent time with the captain of the DALI Monday, told CNN’s Laura Coates he reached out to a crew member after hearing about the incident Tuesday morning. 

He said there were 22 members aboard the ship from India who were setting sail earlier Tuesday morning and were heading toward Sri Lanka.

“I was able to reach out to a crew member very early this morning around 5:30 (a.m. ET) or 6 (a.m. ET) and get a message to them asking if they were OK,” he said. “That crew member responded within just a few minutes advising that the crew was safe, and everybody that [was] on board was safe.”

Middleton was told by the ship's captain Monday that the vessel was going to take a longer route to avoid risks along the Yemen coast.

“When I was out with the captain yesterday, we were talking while we were driving, and he advised that they were sailing down and around the tip of South Africa in order to avoid the incidents that are going on off the Yemen coast, and it was a safer way to go,” he said.

Middleton said the  Apostleship of the Sea  is a ministry to seafarers with members that spend time in the port and on the vessels as a friendly face to the seafarers that visit the Port of Baltimore, “taking care of their needs to make sure that they're reminded of their God-given human dignity when they're here in Baltimore.”

Search operation ends in "heartbreaking conclusion," Maryland governor says. Here's the latest

From CNN staff

Six people, who were believed to be part of a road construction crew, are presumed dead after Baltimore's Francis Scott Key Bridge collapsed early Tuesday morning. The collapse came after a 984-foot cargo ship hit the bridge's pillar.

Maryland Gov. Wes Moore told reporters Tuesday evening it's a "really heartbreaking conclusion to a challenging day."

Late Tuesday, it was discovered that two of the construction workers who went missing after the bridge collapsed were from Guatemala , the country's Ministry of Foreign Affairs said late Tuesday.

Here's what you should know to get up to speed:

• The victims: Eight people were on the bridge  when it fell, according to officials. At least two people were rescued — one was taken to the hospital and was later  discharged , fire official and the medical center said.
• The incident: Video shows the moment the entire bridge structure falls into the water, as the ship hits one of the bridge's pillars. CNN analysis shows that the  ships lights flickered  and it veered off course before it hit the bridge. Maryland Gov. Wes Moore said the crew on the ship were able to issue a "mayday" before colliding into the bridge, which allowed the authorities to stop incoming traffic from going onto the bridge.
• Response efforts: Earlier, dive teams from various state and local agencies were brought in to assist in search-and-rescue operations, according to Maryland State Police Secretary Col. Roland L. Butler Jr.. The mission started with 50 personnel and continued to grow before the Coast Guard announced Tuesday evening that it was suspending its active search-and-rescue operation and transitioning to a "different phase."
• The investigation: Authorities are still working to establish exactly how the crash occurred. The National Transportation Safety Board will look into  how the bridge was built  and investigate the structure itself. It will "take time to dig through" whether the bridge had ever been  flagged for any safety deficiencies , NTSB Chair Jennifer Homendy said.
• Rebuilding the bridge: US Sen. Chris Van Hollen said the path to rebuilding the bridge will be "long and expensive." Senior White House adviser Tom Perez told reporters Tuesday “it’s too early” to tell how long it will take to rebuild the bridge. President Joe Biden said Tuesday he wants the federal government to bear the full cost of rebuilding the collapsed bridge, noting that it will not wait for the company who owns the container ship DALI to shoulder the costs. Funding could come from the Federal Highway Administration as well as the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, but it may require additional funding from Congress.

2 of the missing construction workers from bridge collapse were from Guatemala, foreign ministry says

From CNN’s Allison Gordon, Flora Charner and Amy Simonson

Two of the construction workers missing from the bridge collapse in Baltimore were from Guatemala, the country's Ministry of Foreign Affairs said in a statement late Tuesday.

Those missing included a 26-year-old originally from San Luis, Petén. The other is a 35-year-old from Camotán, Chiquimula, the statement said.

The ministry said both were part of a work team “repairing the asphalt on the bridge at the time of the accident.”

The statement did not name the two people missing, but it said the country’s consul general in Maryland “went to the area where the families of those affected are located,” where he hopes to be able to meet with the brothers of both missing people.

The consulate   also issued a statement Tuesday saying its consul general in Maryland "remains in contact with local authorities," and also confirmed that two of those missing "were of Guatemalan origin.”

Six people, who were believed to be part of a road construction crew, are presumed dead after Baltimore's Francis Scott Key Bridge collapsed early Tuesday morning when a cargo ship hit the bridge's pillar.

State and federal officials have not released information about the identities of any of the six missing workers.

Underwater mapping of bridge collapse area to begin Wednesday, Baltimore fire chief says

From CNN's Jennifer Henderson

Search operations near the Key Bridge collapse have shut down for the night due to dangerous conditions, but the process of underwater mapping with many local, state and federal dive teams will begin Wednesday, Baltimore City Fire Chief James Wallace told CNN’s Anderson Cooper Tuesday night.

Wallace said the portion of the Patapsco River is “tidal influenced, so it goes through tide cycles just like the open waters of the Chesapeake Bay does.”

The water depths in the area under the bridge vary from 40 feet to more than 60 feet, Wallace said. The deeper the divers go, the colder the temperatures they encounter, and the visibility is zero, he added.

 Wallace said when crews arrived Tuesday morning, the surface water temperatures of the Patapsco River were about 47 degrees with an air temperature of 44-45 degrees.

Here's what you should know about the historic Francis Scott Key Bridge

The Francis Scott Key Bridge collapsed early Tuesday after a massive container ship lost power and crashed into the iconic Baltimore bridge, sending people and vehicles into the frigid Patapsco River.

Six people, believed to be part of a road construction crew, are presumed dead and the Coast Guard has ended its active search and rescue mission.

Here's what you should know about the historic bridge:

• How old?: The Francis Scott Key Bridge, also referred to as just the Key Bridge, opened to traffic in March 1977 and is the final link in the Baltimore Beltway, according to the Maryland Transportation Authority (MDTA.) It crosses over the 50-foot-deep Patapsco River, where former US attorney Francis Scott Key found inspiration to write the lyrics to the Star Spangled Banner, the MDTA says.
• How long?: The bridge was 1.6 miles long when standing, MDTA reports.
• Traffic volume: More than 30,000 people commuted daily on the bridge, according to Maryland Gov. Wes Moore.
• How much did it cost?: The bridge cost $60.3 million to build, MDTA says. Since its collapse, President Joe Biden said he’s committed to helping rebuild the bridge as soon as possible.
• About the port: Baltimore ranks as the ninth biggest US port for international cargo. It handled a record 52.3 million tons, valued at $80.8 billion, in 2023. According to the Maryland state government, the port supports 15,330 direct jobs and 139,180 jobs in related services.
• About the ship: The bridge collapsed after a container vessel called Dali collided with one of its supports. Dali is operated by Singapore-based Synergy Group but had been chartered to carry cargo by Danish shipping giant Maersk . The ship is about 984 feet long , according to MarineTraffic data. That’s the length of almost three football fields.

Baltimore woman says bridge collapse was "like a piece of family dissolved"

From CNN's Kit Maher

For longtime Baltimore resident, Ceely, who opted not to share her last name, seeing footage of the Francis Scott Key Bridge collapse  Tuesday was deeply personal.

“I was very heavy-hearted,” Ceely told CNN. “Very tearful, thinking about the families whose loved ones may be in the water and just remembering when the bridge was constructed, and it was just like a piece of family dissolved.”

Ceely was at a prayer group Tuesday morning when she saw the news. She recalled being afraid when she first crossed the bridge while in Ford Maverick in 1975, but grew to like it because it saved time on the road.

“It was a main artery just like a blood line. It was a main artery to the other side of town. It was awesome. It beat going through the city all the time,” she said.

Elder Rashad A. Singletary , a senior pastor who led Tuesday night’s vigil at Mt. Olive Baptist Church told CNN that many church members watched the bridge's construction.

"It’s a part of the community. A lot of our individuals in our congregation drive that bridge to go to work, and so now it’s really a life changing moment,” he said.

"Heartbreaking conclusion to a challenging day," Maryland governor says as Coast Guard ended search operation

From CNN's Aditi Sangal

More than 18 hours after the collapse of the Baltimore bridge, Maryland Gov. Wes Moore said it was a heartbreaking conclusion after the Coast Guard ended the search-and-rescue operation for the six people who were on the bridge when it collapsed.

It's a "really heartbreaking conclusion to a challenging day," he said.

"We put every single asset possible — air, land and sea" to find the missing people, he told reporters on Tuesday evening. "While even though we're moving on now to a recovery mission, we're still fully committed to making sure that we're going to use every single asset to now bring a sense of closure to the families," the governor added.

6 people presumed dead after Baltimore bridge collapse, Coast Guard says. Here's what we know

As the sun sets in Baltimore, six people are presumed dead after a major bridge collapsed overnight Tuesday, according to the Coast Guard. The Francis Scott Key Bridge came down around 1:30 a.m. ET after a cargo ship collided with it.

The Coast Guard said it has ended its active search-and-rescue operation for the missing construction workers who were on the bridge when it collapsed.

• What we know: Eight people were on the bridge when it fell, according to officials. At least two people were rescued — one was taken to the hospital and has been discharged . The Coast Guard has been searching for six other people. But, around 7:30 p.m. ET, the Coast Guard said it has transitioned to a “different phase” of operation, now it did “not believe we are going to find any of these individuals alive,” Rear Adm. Shannon Gilreath said.
• About the ship: The bridge collapsed after a container vessel called Dali collided with one of its supports. The vessel is operated by Singapore-based Synergy Group but had been chartered to carry cargo by Danish shipping giant Maersk . The US Embassy in Singapore has been in contact with the country’s Maritime and Port Authority, a State Department spokesperson said.
• The investigation: The National Transportation Safety Board is leading the investigation into the collapse. A team of 24 experts will dig into nautical operations, vessel operations, safety history records, owners, operators, company policy and any safety management systems or programs, said NTSB Chair Jennifer Homendy. A voyage data recorder will be critical to the investigation, she added. 
• Vehicles on the bridge: Officials are also working to verify the numbers of how many cars and people were on the bridge, Homendy said. Gov. Wes Moore said the quick work of authorities in closing the bridge had saved lives . Radio traffic captured how authorities stopped traffic and worked to clear the bridge seconds before the impact . Maryland State Police Secretary Col. Roland L. Butler Jr. said there is a “ distinct possibility ” more vehicles were on the bridge, but authorities have not found any evidence to support that.
• Looking ahead: NTSB will look into how the bridge was built and investigate the structure itself, including if it was flagged for any safety deficiencies , Homendy said. The federal government has also directed its resources to help with search and rescue, to reopen the port and rebuild the bridge, Vice President Kamala Harris said . Earlier, President Joe Biden said t he federal government will pay to fix the bridge.
• The economy: Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg warned the collapse will have a serious impact on supply chains . Until the channel is reopened, ships will likely already be changing course for other East Coast ports. Ocean carriers are already being diverted from the Port of Baltimore, where the bridge collapsed, to the Port of Virginia to “keep trade moving."

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NEWS... BUT NOT AS YOU KNOW IT

Johnny Depp fans threaten to boycott Pirates of the Caribbean reboot

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Johnny Depp ’s fans have threatened to boycott the upcoming Pirates of the Caribbean reboot, amid reports that he would not be reprising his most popular role.

Hollywood hotshot producer Jerry Bruckheimer, 80, who has been behind major hit movies including Armageddon, Top Gun , Con Air and the Bad Boys films with Will Smith and Martin Lawrence, has indicated that plans are still full sail for the Disney-owned project.

After a series of vague updates in recent years, including speculation over whether or not original star Johnny Depp would return as Captain Jack Sparrow – the role that launched him to mega-stardom – Bruckheimer shared that new Pirates films will feature a fresh cast.

This may or may not chime with talk in 2022 of a female-led take with Barbie star Margot Robbie .

Discussing new movie The Ministry of Ungentlemanly Warfare alongside director Guy Ritchie, Bruckheimer was asked which was more likely to happen first, a third Top Gun film after the huge success of 2022’s sequel Top Gun: Maverick, or a sixth Pirates movie, seven years after the release of Pirates of the Caribbean: Dead Men Tell No Tales.

‘It’s hard to tell. You don’t know, you really don’t know,’ Bruckheimer began, initially hesitant in his answer.

He continued to ComicBook.com : ‘You don’t know how they come together. You just don’t know. Because with Top Gun you have an actor who is iconic and brilliant. And how many movies he does before he does Top Gun, I can’t tell you.’

The producer is, of course, referring to star Tom Cruise, who is currently busy finishing filming on the eighth instalment of the Mission: Impossible franchise after last year’s actors’ strike caused delays.

Bruckheimer then revealed a more concrete update on his seafaring, swashbuckling franchise, explaining: ‘But we’re gonna reboot Pirates, so that is easier to put together because you don’t have to wait for certain actors.’

Thanks to the colossal success of Barbie last year, this may mean Oscar nominee Robbie is out of the running onscreen with a busy slate, but she could still be lending her producer chops to the project as hoped, à la Emerald Fennell’s much-discussed social thriller Saltburn.

Although Bruckheimer didn’t go into further detail about the reboot, Depp’s fans were left less than impressed at the idea of an instalment without him appearing as Captain Jack Sparrow.

Flocking to Twitter to unpack the update, Sonia complained: ‘There’s no f**king point in having Pirates of the Caribbean without Johnny Depp. He’s the soul of this franchise, this is bs! The reboot is gonna sink.’

Wicked agreed: ‘If Johnny Depp isn’t in this new Pirates of the Caribbean movie, I’m not watching it @WaltDisneyCo @Disney. No Johnny Depp No Pirates.’

Am!ra tweted: ‘Johnny Depp’s presence is the reason we all continue to show up at the cinema and why these movies continue to make an obscene amount of money at the box office.

‘PIRATES OF THE CARIBBEAN IS NOTHING WITHOUT CAPTAIN JACK SPARROW, AND THAT’S A FKN FACTTT [sic].’

While a Twitter user named Camile fumed: ‘A Reboot? With an other actor as Captain jack sparrow ?? This is STUPID… Boycott that film… Withou Johnny Depp = NO Pirates of the Caribbean and NO Jack Sparrow [sic].’

After Robbie said that Disney had jumped ship on her remake idea in December 2022, Bruckheimer insisted it was very much ‘alive’ .

Speaking to  The Hollywood Reporter,  he confirmed then that the project was ‘alive for me, it’s alive for Disney.’

He said the team was developing two Pirates movies – ‘one with Margot Robbie and one with a younger cast.’

Bruckheimer explained: ‘The Margot Robbie one needs a little more work. The younger cast one is close. Hopefully, we’ll get both of them.’

The producer, who worked on all five previous Pirates movies, insisted: ‘We believe we’ll get it made. It’s a very strong story.’

So it sounds like the ‘younger’ one may be the one sailing towards us first.

In June last year, former Walt Disney Studios Motion Picture Production president Sean Bailey suggested that the company had not ruled out welcoming actor Depp , 60, back to the film series.

Addressing the possibility of the Pirates franchise making a return, with the last film released in 2017, Bailey said: ‘We think we have a really good, exciting story that honours the films that have come before but also has something new to say.’ 

The studio head added  to The New York Times  that Depp was ‘noncommittal at this point’ when asked if the actor could return, but did deny that they could welcome him back themselves.

Depp has made his feelings on the film series clear in the past and stated that ‘nothing on this earth’, not even ‘$300million (£237.5m) and a million alpacas’, could entice him to appear in another instalment. 

Despite Bruckheimer previously suggesting he too would be keen to see the three-time Oscar nominee back in his bandana, it appears this fresh news has debunked that possibility.

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If you’ve got a celebrity story, video or pictures get in touch with the Metro.co.uk entertainment team by emailing us [email protected], calling 020 3615 2145 or by visiting our Submit Stuff page – we’d love to hear from you.

MORE : Keira Knightley rules out Pirates of the Caribbean return after producer hints Johnny Depp could be back

MORE : Ghostbusters star’s three-word takedown of critics after sequel gets harsh reviews

MORE : Johnny Depp fires back after Blow co-star’s bombshell claims

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The Wiggles’ ‘next-level’ move revealed

The beloved children’s group have just revealed their next major move in what has been described as an “even bigger adventure” for families.

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In a first of its kind move, Royal Caribbean has partnered with The Wiggles to create the “ultimate” family holiday in Australia.

Those who have wished for the two iconic brands to collaborate will have their dreams come true in the summer of 2025-2026 where the popular cast of Wiggly Friends will be on exclusive Wiggles Sailings.

Taking centre stage are the likes of cast favourites Captain Feathersword, Dorothy the Dinosaur, Henry the Octopus, Wags the Dog and Shirley Shawn the Unicorn.

Captain Feathersword spoke exclusively to news.com.au to reveal what exactly is happening — and also shared if he is a cruise lover.

“Ahoy there, me hearties! Gather ‘round and listen close. The Wiggles have been sailin’ the seas of family fun for over three decades, and now, we’re settin’ course for an even bigger adventure,” he said.

“Prepare yourselves for a tidal wave of excitement. Picture this: me, Captain Feathersword at the helm, Dorothy the Dinosaur dancin’ on the deck, Henry the Octopus wavin’ his tentacles in delight, Wags the Dog waggin’ his tail with joy, and Shirley Shawn the Unicorn prancin’ about in all their splendour.

“It’s a cast of characters fit for a tale as legendary as the sea itself. So, me hearties, batten down the hatches and get ready for an adventure of a lifetime with The Wiggles and Royal Caribbean. Ahoy and hooray.”

When asked what he loves most about cruising, Captain Feathersword said it’s like “askin’ a pirate which treasure be his favourite”.

“From the moment ye step aboard, ye’re whisked away on a journey of excitement and discovery. There be adventures awaitin’ at every turn, whether it’s explorin’ exotic ports of call, enjoyin’ the finest feasts fit for a king, or looking up at the stars.”

Kathryn Lock, senior marketing director, ANZ at Royal Caribbean Cruises, said they wanted to take their family adventures to the “next level” and create a truly unique adventure for current fans and first time cruisers.

“The Wiggles have been entertaining Australian families for over 30 years, it’s one of Australia and the world’s most iconic family entertainment brands,” Ms Lock told news.com.au.

“This exclusive partnership will enrich our cruise experience for the whole family and give them an impressive array of Wiggly Friends themed entertainment and trusted friends to guide them on their adventures with Royal Caribbean. We’re extremely excited for this partnership and what’s to come.”

She said The Wiggles choose their partners very selectively to ensure there is an alignment for families that make sense.

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“What makes this collaboration possible is the shared values of bringing families together and creating unforgettable experiences and adventures; with Royal Caribbean’s reputation for world class first at sea experiences. This is an Australian first cruise partnership of this caliber between two iconic family brands.”

Apart from the The Wiggles line-up, there’s also a bunch of other experiences including bumper cars and surf simulators, indoor and outdoor pools and kids splashpads.

Holiday-makers can find out more about the new and exclusive Wiggles partnership on Royal Caribbean’s website , with the Wiggles Sailings opening for bookings on April 10.

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