18 Best Places to Visit in the Caribbean

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

One of the reasons for the popularity of these islands is the range of resorts that make vacations easy. You'll find adults-only resorts, family resorts, eco retreats, and bungalows available for solo travelers. If you want more adventure, you can get off the tourist route and away from the large resorts to quieter towns with inns and smaller hotels.

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

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

1. British Virgin Islands

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

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

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

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

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

2. U.S. Virgin Islands

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

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

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

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

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

3. Dominican Republic

Like many Caribbean destinations, the Dominican Republic boasts spectacular beaches and swaying palm trees, but it offers so much more. The Dominican or the DR, as many tourists call it, is the second-largest Caribbean country, after Cuba, and a land of mountains (one over 10,000 feet), valleys, deserts, rushing rivers, lush jungles full of birdlife, and awesome beaches.

The Dominican Republic is also one of the more affordable Caribbean destinations with accommodation options such as all-inclusive resorts that present unbeatable value. However, the country also has luxury boutique properties, and more traditional accommodations in some of the smaller towns for those who want to escape the tourists and enjoy local culture.

In the east, resorts line the white sand beaches of Punta Cana, the island's most popular package vacation destination. On the north coast, Puerta Plata is another holiday favorite, and on the south shore is La Romana.

If you are looking for your own perfect patch of sand along an undeveloped coastline with no one else around, that's also available if you have an adventurous spirit. The Dominican Republic has much to discover beyond the famous resort towns.

Get off the beaten path by heading to smaller towns and cities. Cabarete is a beach town known for kiteboarding, windsurfing, and surfing, as well as the long stretch of restaurants that line the main beach. Like Cabarete, Las Terrenas is a popular place for people looking for a longer stay in a beach community. At the end of the Semana Peninsula, little Las Galeras is a hidden gem of quiet beaches and good restaurants.

And if you really want to get away from it all and are comfortable with more basic accommodation options, check out Punta Rucia, home to what is arguably the most beautiful beach in the country, or head to Buen Hombre for kitesurfing or beaching while soaking up the local vibe.

The country is also home to one of the oldest cities in the region, Santo Domingo. The historical center, with its 15th-to 18th-century architecture and cobblestone streets, echoes a bygone era. The capital is also where you'll find some of the country's most important cultural treasures and best restaurants, mostly in the Zona Colonial area of the city.

It is easy to get to the Dominican Republic, which is one of the reasons it is one of the best places to visit in the Caribbean. It is a two-hour flight from Miami and an eight-hour trip from most cities in Europe. Arajet is the Dominican Republic's discount airline and it offers good deals out of Santo Domingo to destinations all over South America and Central Canada.

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

4. St. Lucia

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

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

5. The Cayman Islands

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

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

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

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

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

6. Aruba

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

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

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

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

• Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Aruba

7. Jamaica

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

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

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

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

• Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Jamaica

8. Turks & Caicos

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

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

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

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

9. Puerto Rico

Puerto Rico has a bit of everything, from history to beaches and unique natural attractions, along with the conveniences of modern America available everywhere. A short flight from the US mainland (no passports required for US citizens), makes getting here easy, and with most people speaking English, getting around is trouble-free.

Old San Juan is a historic gem with its hilly streets lined with beautifully restored, multi-colored 18th-century buildings, many of which are now home to chic restaurants and boutique hotels. Take the time to wander through the Old City's cobblestone streets, and you'll be pleasantly surprised by the sights and photo opportunities around every corner.

Perched prominently on the point on the edge of the historical city center and standing guard since 1593 is Castillo San Felipe del Morro. Just down the coast is another impressive fort, Castillo San Cristóbal, dating from 1634.

The clear-water beaches are nice for families and you'll find a long stretch of them in Condado in modern San Juan. This is a popular resort area for visitors who don't want to venture far from the airport.

The secluded islands of Vieques and Culebra are quiet places known for beautiful beaches and tranquility. And, the 25-foot waves at Tres Palmas beach in Rincon attract surfers from around the world. But you don't have to be a surfer to enjoy Rincon, it has its own charm.

For a bit of nature, head to El Yunque National Forest and hike to a waterfall. You can also check out the nightly glow at one of the three bioluminescent bays around Puerto Rico.

10. Antigua

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

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

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

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

11. Barbados

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

Barbados is a fun and easy island to explore, with many attractions and natural landmarks. Plan a route that includes Harrison's Cave to see the stalactite and stalagmite formations; Animal Flower Cave where you drop beneath the earth into a sea cave; and snap a picture of the weird rock formations at Bathsheba Bay.

Be sure to spend an afternoon wandering the historical streets of Bridgetown with its 18th-century architecture, check out the 1,000-year-old baobab tree, and then head down to the waterfront.

For the most fun on a Friday evening, you can't beat the Oistin's Fish Fry. It's an island dining highlight with local vendors serving up the freshest seafood, BBQ meats, and just about anything else you can imagine all with a reggaetón backbeat. Grab a seat at a picnic table and soak it all in!

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

12. Anguilla

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

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

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

• Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Anguilla

13. Curacao

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

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

14. Grenada

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

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

• Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Grenada

15. St. Martin

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

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

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

16. St. Vincent and the Grenadines

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

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

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

17. Bahamas

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

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

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

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

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

Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in the Bahamas

18. Guadeloupe

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

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

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

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

Map of Places to Visit in the Caribbean

Best Time to Visit the Caribbean

The seasons in the Caribbean are somewhat similar, but some months will see more rain than others, and the experiences on the islands vary at different times of the year.

Spring
Spring is a nice time to visit the Caribbean. March and April are still in the high season window, so prices will remain at a premium but deals can be found outside of spring break.

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

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

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

Summer is also the start of the turtle nesting season, which generally goes through October. If you are traveling to see the turtles, then this is an ideal time to visit. Check with your specific islands of interest to get detailed information on nesting locations, schedules, and excursions.

The downside to visiting the Caribbean during the summer months is that it is the beginning of hurricane season and hot. You may run the risk of encountering a major storm.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

More Related Articles on PlanetWare.com

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