The Caribbean has become a playland and vacation destination with its beautiful white sandy beaches, dancing palms, turquoise water, and aromatic weather. Besides, the Caribbean islands offer you different activities and relaxing opportunities. The Caribbean Sea consists of thousands of islands that are appealing and popular visiting places for visitors. Tourists from every corner of the world keep on visiting these places for the whole year.
Since the Caribbean islands have all-inclusive family resorts, adults-only resorts, and bungalows for solo visitors, these locations have gained popularity. Though you have many choices to explore, cruises are popular among the tourists visiting this tropical region. Cruising makes your trip easy and hassle-free of all the planning and stress.
The panoramic scenery, historic places, and delicious cuisine of these islands greet the tourists. In addition, the Caribbean offers sunny beaches, carnivals, music, and nightlife. You can visit many destinations in a single trip. This ultimate guide will help you choose your desired destinations and the best places to visit in the Caribbean islands.
Best Places to Visit in the Caribbean
1. Antigua
Antigua Island is located at the meeting point of the Atlantic and the Caribbean, in the country of Antigua and Barbuda. This is one of the best places to visit in the Caribbean. With its over 365 beaches, sailing is a favorite activity for the locals and visitors alike.
The visitors rush to Antigua for the Sailing week to participate in the party, race, and other activities of this week. The island is iconic for relishing rum and barbecues at sunset parties, historical places, museums, hiking through rainforest, boat tours, and charming beaches.
Apart from the honeymooners’ preferred relaxing and quieter beach areas like Dickenson Bay and Hawksbill Bay, the island also includes windsurfing, swimming, and many more. Similarly, Antigua includes the panoramic views of the island, after hiking the top of Shirly Heights.
You can see the Monserrat volcano from the top of Shirly Heights. St. John’s Saturday Market is a good place to enjoy the local cuisine and buy matchless crafts, spices, and souvenirs.
2. Cayman Islands
The Cayman Islands is a British territory situated in the western Caribbean, northwest Jamaica, and south of Cuba. This is a trio of beautiful islands namely, Grand Cayman, Little Cayman, and Cayman Brac, famous for their amazing beaches and turquoise waters.
The tourists consider the Cayman Islands as a piece of paradise and one of the best places to visit in the Caribbean. Each of the islands offers distinguished characteristics and activities to facilitate the visitors. The visitors can enjoy local cuisine and top-notch resorts.
Grand Cayman
The Grand Cayman is the largest among the three islands and greets tourists with its gorgeous beaches world-class diving spots and marine life. You can stop here to witness some of the unique things in Grand Cayman.
Seven Miles Beach is the longest (6 miles) and most beautiful beach in the Caribbean. This iconic beach is the destination for a majority of visitors.
Kittiwake Shipwreck is an artificial reef of a 251-foot-long former submarine. A heaven for scuba diving with plenty of marine life around only at a depth of 60 feet.
The Pedro St. James Castle, a historically restored building of the 18th century with its green gardens, is known as the “Birthplace of Democracy”. The building invites visitors to witness the rich heritage of the island.
The underwater Mermaid statue, or the Siren of Sunset Reef, is a 9-foot-tall bronze statue of a mermaid found at a depth of 55 feet near Sunset House Hotel. This piece of art is a vital attraction in the Caribbean.
The Bioluminescent Bay gives you amazing natural feats when you drift a kayak in this bay during the night, and witness the glowing sea and dazzling lights on the surface
Bicycling in Grand Cayman is a fantastic experience to visit different sites on a rented bicycle. A must-do activity on this island.
Cayman Turtle Center offers visitors a closeup with Turtles of this land and enjoys their company. This outdoor adventure shows the island’s ecosystem.
Stingray City is a must-visit place at Grand Cayman, where you can mingle with the friendly Atlantic Stingray and feed them in clear shallow waters on the island.
Scuba diving: The Grand Cayman has 240 scuba diving sites, to meet and explore marine life. The most popular scuba diving sites in the Caribbean are Devil’s Grotto, Eden Rock, the Wall, and Kittiwake Wreck.
The Mastic Reserve Trail is 203 miles hiking trail, where you can walk through the old-grown forests. You can hire a guide from the National Trust for hiking and knowing the area.
3. Aruba
Aruba is one of the three westernmost Caribbean islands Aruba, Bonaire, and Curacao also known as ABC islands of Leeward Antilles in the southern Caribbean. This island is located outside the hurricane belt with a constant temperature and offers crystal clear waters with soft sand beaches.
The attractions and beaches of the island invite visitors, who avoid crowded areas. In addition to the nearby coral reefs and shipwrecks, the famous Eagle and Palm beaches offer you the best diving experience in the Caribbean waters.
You can also enjoy non-beach activities other than the best attractions in Aruba. Its pastel Dutch colonial architecture invites you to stroll the street and shopping places. Similarly, Arikok National Park and Aruba Ostrich Farm are also attracting visitors. You can find the best things to do in Aruba while visiting the Caribbean.
4. Bonaire
Bonaire offers the best shore dive places in the world. Windsurfing and kite surfing are some of the unique activities in Bonaire. This is second among the three westernmost Caribbean islands Aruba, Bonaire, and Curacao also known as ABC islands of Leeward Antilles in the southern Caribbean.
Bonaire is also located outside the hurricane belt with a constant temperature. Though Bonaire has a desert-like landscape, the real beauty is found in the marine sites around the island. The Bonaire National Park and nature boast remarkable landscapes and attractions for visitors.
Donkey Sanctuary Bonaire looks after more than 700 donkeys on the island. You can visit this sanctuary and can also adopt a donkey.
Willemstoren lighthouse located on the south of Bonaire, was built in 1837. The visitors can enjoy the spectacular views of the island, beach, and the ocean from the lighthouse.
Gotomeer Saltwater Lagoon is an ideal location for fishing, kayaking, and birdwatching. You can meet here American flamingos and over 100 species of birds.
Bonaire National Marine Park covers the entire coastline of the island. This marine park offers the best snorkeling experience in the pristine waters of the Caribbean with 56 species of coral, and over 340 species of fish.
Washington Slagbaai National Park located in the north of the island is the largest sanctuary for native animals like donkeys, flamingos, and iguanas. This park is the largest protected area which covers over 6,000 hectares. The park can be explored by hiking or by vehicle.
Lac Bay located in the eastern of Bonaire, is a shallow bay of turquoise waters with different attractions like windsurfing, swimming, and kite surfing. In addition, the bay is a breeding ground for various birds and fish.
5. Curacao
Curacao is among the three westernmost Caribbean islands Aruba, Bonaire, and Curacao also known as ABC islands of Leeward Antilles in the southern Caribbean, located outside the hurricane belt and remains sunny around the year. Willemstad is the colorful capital city of the island. This Dutch island characterizes a semi-arid landscape, Portuguese-inspired architecture, and Curacao Sea Aquarium.
You can visit the best relaxing beaches in Curacao like Playa Kenepa and Playa Porto Marie, Blue Bay, and Cas Abao. This island is called Amsterdam of the Caribbean. Besides witnessing the splendid cultural heritage, local music, and cuisine, you can enjoy many attractions in Curacao.
You can go off-road on a jeep to visit the remote areas of this island. Visitors explore thousands of years old history in Curacao’s hidden caves and coral fossils. The Curacao Ostrich Farm offers a ride in the largest Ostrich sanctuary.
Another activity is to feed Iguanas while you take lunch at the beachside. You can enjoy the world’s best jet skiing in Curacao. The capital city boasts an E-Scooter tour of the streets of Willemstad. The adventure visitors go to Juliana’s Bridge for abseiling.
Willemstad is also famous for its beachfront nightclubs. Afro and Dutch restaurants present delicious local cuisine. In addition, Curacao has the best historical attractions, including the Kura Hulanda Museum, a must-visit place for history lovers.
6. Anguilla
Anguilla enjoys more than 30 unspoiled beaches in the Caribbean because cruise ships are not allowed on the island. Thus, the land gives an authentic Caribbean enjoyment to the visitors. You will not see crowds of visitors here, this adds to the tranquility of Anguilla by making it a calm paradise.
Commonly, the island offers you small beach villas to enjoy the natural beauty. However, there are some luxury resorts as well where you can get additional coziness. The place is popular for diving, snorkeling, and eco-tours.
7. Barbados
The majority of people keep Barbados at the top of the best places to visit in the Caribbean. Technically this island is not located in the Caribbean, but rather in the Atlantic Ocean. You can find many attractions in Barbados, including tropical gardens, soft sandy beaches, underground caves, British heritage, and turquoise waters.
You can also find a population of monkeys in Barbados, and also on the other Caribbean islands like St. Kitts, St. Martin, and Nevis etc.You can enjoy the beauty, lukewarm waters, and untouched white sands at beaches in Barbados. Some of the famous beaches in Barbados are Bathsheba, Carlisle Bay, and Dover, where you can enjoy swimming, relax, and relish nature.
Some of the other famous destinations in Barbados are Bridgetown, Harrison’s Cave, and Animal Flower Cave. Similarly, you enjoy snorkeling to see shipwrecks and swimming with the sea turtles in Barbados.
8. The British Virgin Islands
The British Virgin Islands are a group of 60 islands, with the most desired beaches, mountain cliffs, opulent greenery, and spectacular natural scenery. You can reach these islands by boat or yacht. These islands are famous for their calm waters and stable winds.
Several yacht clubs entertain the boaters to relish marine tourism. The quiet and isolated atmosphere of Jost Van Dyke Island and the fabulous liveliness of Tortola Island attracts the majority of tourists.
The British Virgin Islands aim to preserve the natural atmosphere by focusing on eco-tourism. They offer birdwatching, hiking, surfing, water skiing, sailing, windsurfing, kayaking, reef diving, relaxing at white beaches, and touring the national park. The Baths, another popular location on the British
Virgin Islands is spectacular for enormous granite boulders forming caverns and saltwater pools. Besides, Cane Garden Bay on Tortola is considered family-friendly, and Deadman’s Beach on Peter Island is the most scenic one. You can also take a dolphin or sunset tour.
The British Virgin Islands also include a luxurious variety of accommodations with a rustic touch. The welcoming turquoise waters and white sandy beaches of the British Virgin Islands are among the best places to visit in the Caribbean.
9. The U.S. Virgin Islands
The US Virgin Islands, is a United States territory with more than 50 islands, just 3 hours from Miami. These Islands offer a passport-free visiting entry. The place consists of some of the best places to visit in the Caribbean like St. Croix, St. John, and St. Thomas. The region invites visitors to its clear waters, green hills, bright reefs, and white sandy beaches.
St. Croix is the largest island among other US Virgin Islands. The place is famous for scuba diving, and exceptional architectural creativity. The place is best for the honeymooners.
St. John is famous for being packed with natural beauty. A big part of this island is a national park.
St. Thomas, the cultural hub, is a land of historical monuments. Besides, the island boasts pristine nature and spectacular beaches.
In addition, you can see the local culture, and taste delicious local cuisine in these islands. The nightlife offers many activities to entertain the visitors. The amazing beaches, landscape, and nightlife attractions make the US Virgin Islands the best place to visit in the Caribbean.
10. Jamaica
Jamaica is a lovely destination for nature lovers and adventurous visitors, with its natural beauty and thrilling attractions. The visitors consider Jamaica a piece of paradise with its waterfalls, dense forests, marvelous sandy beaches, and sea cliffs.
Jamaica is one of the best places to visit in the Caribbean, frequent flights make this it easy to go destination with plenty of resorts. There are certain famous tourist spots like Montego Bay, Negril, and Ocho Rios.
Montego Bay is famous for its unspoiled beaches and comfortable resorts. Jamaica includes some of the world’s best beaches as well.
Negril attracts visitors for its unbelievable 7-mile Beach and is the best place to spend vacations. You can visit the secluded Treasure Beach here.
Ocho Rios boasts the iconic Dunn’s River Falls, one of the best waterfalls in Jamaica for a stunning swimming experience. You can join the guided tours to enjoy the blessed nature, Blue Mountain National Park, scuba diving, and its lush rainforests.
11. Puerto Rico
Puerto Rico is another best place to visit in the Caribbean. This island is famous for its splendid culture, and history, brightly painted buildings of Spanish colonial architecture, impressive fortresses, and cobblestone streets.
Several affordable flights take off from all over the US to Puerto Rico making the land a must-visiting place and an international destination. This land is a mixture of historical, modern, natural, and marine attractions.
San Juan the capital of Puerto Rico, especially the old city with over 500 years is the second oldest city in the Americas. The olden part of the city is a UNESCO World Heritage site in the Caribbean.
The El Morro fortress, other historical forts, and citadels are inviting attractions for history lovers.
The beaches of Puerto Rico offer clear waters to enjoy and relax and are best for families. Similarly, the beaches of secluded island Vieques are famous among couples. The surfers are greeted by 25-foot high waves to ride at the Tres Palms beach.
Nature is also present on this island in the form of tropical rainforests. The stunning Bioluminescent Bay presents mesmerizing dazzling in the night. You can soak up the sun on Condado and Isle Verde beaches and enjoy the warm breeze of the Caribbean.
12. Cuba
Cuba is the largest single island, an influential state of the Caribbean, and one of the most popular and best-visiting places. Havana is a waterfront capital city of Cuba and is surrounded by many magnificent beaches. Havana is a UNESCO World Heritage site.
Cuba has become a popular attraction for foreign visitors, with its Spanish colonial architecture, history, and natural beauty. There are numerous best places in Cuba, which are worth visiting.
Havana is a vibrant capital of Cuba, boasting vintage cars, multicolor architecture, and stirring nightlife. This city was established in 1519 and still retains its historic glory. The old Havana hosts many cultural centers and museums including Castillo del Morro, a desired destination for the history buffs. You can also rent a motorcycle and explore the island freely.
Trinidad is another historical city. Besides witnessing the historic constructions and buildings, you can visit different neoclassical and Baroque monuments, and museums in the city. The nightlife of the city is also admired by the tourists.
Varadero is an inviting white sandy beach, in which clear waters are a must-watch for visitors.
Vinales is a famous lush green valley, popular among visitors for its mesmerizing landscapes. The majority of tourists visit this valley to enjoy horseback riding.
13. Dominican Republic
The Dominican Republic is the second largest country in the Caribbean with 250 miles of amazing beaches. It is an easy-reaching destination and takes only a two-hour flight from Miami and eight hours from most of the European cities. Santo Domingo, the capital city is a love for history buffs, with its old forts and colonial cathedrals.
December to April is the best time to visit the Dominican Republic as the weather remains dry and mild during these months. This land is the best place to visit in the Caribbean and is popular among travelers, adventure lovers, and honeymooners alike.
Punta Cana and Puerto Plata are popular places among the travelers. You can find here different resorts and departing spots for snorkeling and diving excursions.
Santo Domingo, the capital city is one of the best places to visit in the Caribbean. This city is a beautiful synthesis of old glory and contemporary metropolis life. During the day, you can explore the narrow streets of Zona Colonial.
This is the oldest European settlement. The Cathedral of Santa Maria la Menor is another historical destination. The Alcazar de Colon, the residence of Christopher Columbus’s son is also open for visitors.
Santo Domingo is also famous for its nightlife. Malecon, a place with stunning views of the Caribbean Sea is a must-visit nightly stop. The local restaurants offer native music and delightful Dominican food.
14. Nassau, Bahamas
Nassau is among the best places to visit in the Caribbean, situated on the New Providence Island, Bahamas. Besides, the colonial architecture, the famous Pink Sand beach on Harbor Island is a must visiting place.
The history of Nassau is a vital attraction for the tourists. You can find the only place to research the fascinating world of pirates at the Pirates of Nassau Museum through collaborative displays here.
The impressive Fort Charlotte is a must-see, the fortress was built in the late 18th century. Though this fort witnessed many battles it is still standing today. You can also go to Straw Market to choose some authentic souvenirs from Bahamian artists. Many locals make their craft in your presence to please you.
15. Grenada
Grenada is known as the Spice Isle, with fabulous landscape, and natural beauty. The large nutmeg plantations refresh the visitors. The island boasts 45 beaches and many attractions to the visitors. The tropical trees, idyllic sands, and coastline invite tourists to explore the beauties of the island. Similarly, you can experience here unforgettable hospitality and unique culture.
The island is full of attractions popular among different visitors.The town of St. George is famous for its picturesque beauty, homes, lively port, and harbor. Grand Anse Beach is the prettiest beach in the world and attracts visitors. You can snorkel at Flamingo Bay to see the underwater sculptures.
To reach the grass-rimmed crater lakes of Grand Etang, you can hike through La Sagesse Nature Center and the Grand Etan National Park. Furthermore, you can visit any spice plantation on this island and learn about the production of cinnamon, nutmeg, and different spices. However, your tour is incomplete until you visit the iconic St. George’s Harbor with brightly colored buildings.
Suggestions for a good visit to the Caribbean
During the winter season, the Caribbean offers friendly weather and provides you with an admirable destination to spend vacations. You need to make a plan and choose the best places to visit in the Caribbean, check into some good resorts to be ready for the enjoyments. I suggest you consider the following for a better experience in the Caribbean.
You should check the rates for your food and accommodation during the peak tourist season from (December to April), to avoid paying 20 to 50% higher rates.
Though the weather in the Caribbean remains friendly around the year, some months offer better weather. You can find dry days and cooler nights in the peak season from December to April, as the people from freezing lands rush to the Caribbean. You may also experience heavy rains, warmer and wetter during the summer and autumn seasons.
The people in the Caribbean follow left-side driving. Traffic signals are rare in most of the islands, so be attentive while self-driving.
You may face a language barrier in most of the Caribbean islands. Different people on different islands speak Dutch, English, French, and Spanish because these islands remained colonies of different countries. You will not meet English-speaking people everywhere.
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