best way to travel the caribbean

The Best Caribbean Islands to Visit in 2024

By Brian Major

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

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

Which is the best Caribbean island for families?

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

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

Best island for: action

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

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

Best island for: romance

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

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

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

Best island for: beaches

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

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

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

British Virgin Islands

Best island for: island hopping

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

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

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

Jamie Spain

Kelsey Glennon

Megan duBois

Boone Ashworth

Best island for: diving

The calm waters surrounding Dominica make it one of the best diving spots in the world. The rainbow-colored seascape is best viewed at Champagne Reef, named for its bubbling waters generated by volcanic thermal springs rising from on the ocean floor. The reef also comprises plummeting cliffs, towering volcanic formations and the remains of a 17th-century Spanish shipwreck.

Another highlight is L'Abym, a dive site located on the island’s southern tip and suited to all skill levels due to Soufriere Bay’s gentle current. Underwater wonders are visible from 20 feet below the surface right down to a 1,500-foot maximum depth. An underwater wall extending its entire length gives the site its name.

Where to stay: Cabrits Resort & Spa Kempinski is the smartest place to stay on the island. All of the classic hallmarks are here—a full service spa, four swimming pools—but it’s the lush grounds, which incorporate Cabrits National Park, that make this spot memorable.

Best island for: natural beauty

Grenada’s 133 archipelagic square miles are laced with waterfalls, hot springs and tropical rainforests across three main islands: Grenada, Petit Martinique, and Carriacou. Ringed by 45 white- and nine black-sand beaches, the hilly isles are dotted with acres of fruit and spice trees.

One-ninth of Grenada’s land mass is dedicated to national parks and wildlife sanctuaries, best seen on a guided hike of Grand Etang Forest Reserve. Sister Island Carriacou is a worthy day trip too, especially for the top-shelf diving and snorkeling.

Where to stay: Few places capture Grenada's understated magic like the Silversands Grenada resort , found at the sleepy end of the two-mile Grand Anse Beach. The biggest draw here is the 330-foot infinity pool, said to be the longest in the Caribbean, which stretches from the hotel’s entrance all the way to the sea.

Puerto Rico

Best island for: history and culture

There’s a distinct energy to Puerto Rico , one that draws upon a fascinating blend of Hispanic, African, American, and Caribbean culture and history. To see it start in colonial San Juan , the second oldest European-founded city in the Americas. Head to the old town where cobblestone streets are lined with colorful Spanish buildings housing trendy bars, boutique shopping and all-night entertainment.

Hundreds of thousands of Africans arrived in Puerto Rico via forced migration in the colonial era. Their contributions to the island’s culture, art, music and cuisine live on today in Loiza, home to Puerto Rico’s largest Black population. You can witness it via the artwork on display at Samuel Lind Studio, or at the Don Rafael Cepeda School of Bomba and Plena which puts on traditional music and dance workshops.

Where to stay: Caribe Hilton is within walking distance of historic Old San Juan and the Condado entertainment district. Designed in tropical modernist style by legendary Puerto Rican firm Toro Ferrer, the grounds incorporate 17 acres of tropical landscaping as well as nine restaurants and an oceanfront pool complex. See our edit of the best hotels in Puerto Rico for more.

St. Kitts and Nevis

Best island for: visiting two islands in one trip

Lush natural beauty and historic attractions are the hallmarks of this twin-island nation. Most travelers visit both islands, as smaller Nevis is a breezy 20-minute ferry ride from larger St. Kitts. Sightseeing on St. Kitts is best done via the scenic train—the only working railway in the Caribbean—which circumnavigates the island on routes that once transported plantation sugar cane. Another highlight is the Brimstone Hill fortress, built of hand-chiseled stones by enslaved Kittitians and now a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Stand among the fort’s ramparts and cannon while taking in panoramic views of neighboring Saba, Statia, St. Maarten, and St. Barths .

Tiny Nevis’ resplendent landscape is overlooked by 3,232-foot high Nevis Peak, located at its center and visible from virtually every point on the island. Mountainside hiking and ATV tours uncover haunting ruins of colonial-era plantations and sugar mills.

Where to stay: Hide away in one of the traditional West Indian–inspired cottages at Belle Mont Farm . As the name suggests, dining here is farm-to-table, serving up freshly foraged organic fruit and vegetables plus seafood plucked straight out of the ocean.

This article was originally published on Condé Nast Traveller UK .

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• A Beginners Guide To Island...

A Beginner's Guide to Island Hopping in the Caribbean

Freelance Caribbean Writer

You can easily take in a string of delicious Caribbean destinations on a single trip by mastering the art of island-hopping. Our guide to small island-hopping shows you how with must-visits and travel tips and learning more about the Caribbean culture.

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The close proximity of the Caribbean’s small islands makes them ideal for a hop, skip and a jump from one to the other in a daisy chain of island explorations. Fancy diving down to a shipwreck in Aruba one day and getting up close with flamingos on Guadeloupe the next? Then read on…

Where to visit in the Caribbean

The island of St Martin (or St Maarten) is a great destination to start exploring the eastern side of the Caribbean. It’s divided roughly down the middle between the French Republic and the Kingdom of the Netherlands, and so it offers visitors a two-nation vacation. The Dutch side of the island is known as the party side for hosting the Heineken Regatta, a four-day sailing race with concerts and other festivities. Meanwhile, in true French fashion, the other side of the island features quaint, romantic restaurants , designer boutiques and nude beaches .

From St Martin, journey to the islands of Anguilla and enjoy its secluded coves, before heading to St Barts to do some celebrity spotting and Saba , which is known for its diving site at Saba Marine Park. Puerto Rico, the jewel of the Caribbean, is also a popular choice. The island is known for its cuisine – a mixture of Spanish, African, and Taino – plus its strong rum.

Elsewhere, you can get pretty much anywhere in the Caribbean from San Juan (thanks to regional carriers such as Cape Air and Seaborne), and a number of islands are even closer by ferry and plane, such as Culebra, Vieques, British Virgin Islands and the US Virgin Islands. The Dominican Republic is also only a very short flight away.

You can do all the island-hopping you want in the Guadeloupe Islands and stay within the same territory. This beautiful archipelago has five islands within easy reach by ferry and air from the main island of Grande Terre/Basseterre, each with its own character and flavor, from tiny Terre-de-Haut to beach paradise Marie Galante. From Guadeloupe, you can easily access the islands Dominica , Martinique and St Lucia below and Montserrat , St Kitts and Nevis , and Antigua and Barbuda.

The so-called ‘ABC’ islands of Aruba, Bonaire and Curacao , at the western edge of the Leeward Antilles chain, are also a popular island-hopping loop. Aruba is a popular tourist destination with several big-name beach resorts; Bonaire is best known in scuba-diving circles for its spectacular undersea life; Curacao charms with its Dutch-influenced architecture.

Must-visits on your multi-island trip

St Martin is famed for its white-sand beaches but there’s one that stands out from the rest. Maho Beach, which lies near the airport, is where tourists come to photograph planes passing just feet above their heads as they swoop in to land. If you prefer natural wonders, catch the ferry to Pinel Island in St Martin’s Nature Reserve, where you’ll find palm-fringed sands and shallow waters ideal for snorkeling . To learn about the island’s Dutch heritage, take a trip to Fort Amsterdam near Philipsburg. Here, you can explore the ruins of this former military base and take in sweeping hilltop views.

There’s no shortage of historic sites in Puerto Rico . Start by touring grand La Fortaleza, the governor’s official residence, which was built between 1533 and 1540 to defend the harbor. Continue to the island’s longest-serving settlement, Old San Juan, a National Historic Site filled with 16th-century fortresses, cathedrals and cobbled streets. For a change of pace, you can hike rainforest trails to crashing waterfalls in El Yunque National Forest or relax in hillside thermal hot springs in Coamo. When the sun goes down, marvel at Puerto Rico’s bioluminescent waters in Mosquito Bay, which light up when touched.

If you’re visiting Guadeloupe , don’t miss Jardin Botanique. This seven-acre haven, in the heart of the islands, showcases exotic Caribbean flora and birdlife. Think bamboo forests and pink bougainvillea, flamingos and arboretums. If you can drag yourself away from Guadeloupe’s pristine beaches, spend a day at Carbet Falls in the National Park. These three waterfalls cascade down a mountain surrounded by tropical rainforests and hiking trails. Looking for the perfect sunset? Then head to Pointe des Châteaux, a clifftop peninsula on the eastern end of Grande-Terre where you can watch waves crash onto the rocks.

Divers flock to Aruba to explore its famous Antilla Shipwreck, a German war ship blanketed in coral and tube sponges. Aruba’s other key attraction is swanky Renaissance Island where pink flamingos tip-toe through the shallows. Hop over to Bonaire for more unspoilt Caribbean sands, including 1,000 Steps Beach and Klein Bonaire, a tiny uninhabited islet set in a marine park where turtles nest. Nearby Curacao is the perfect place to get a glimpse into the Caribbean’s Dutch past in its capital Willemstad, Unesco-listed for its colorful colonial architecture. Don’t miss Curacao’s Hato Caves either, which were formed over 300,000 years ago from marine coral limestone and contain Amerindian Arawak cave drawings.

How to travel

There are a few options for island-hopping in the Caribbean. The most popular is booking a cruise, but you can easily go it alone and create your own island-hopping loop by taking advantage of the numerous ferries that go back and forth between all of the islands.

Alternatively, charter a boat – it’s not as expensive as you might think. You don’t even need to know how to sail as many come with skippers included in the price.

Catching a flight should be your last resort. Though traveling by air to the smaller islands in the Caribbean is relatively inexpensive, it’s not environmentally friendly. This option makes sense only in cases where the islands have a significance distance between them.

Safety tips

If you are wondering when is the best time to visit Caribbean, this is what we recommend – it’s best to plan your island-hopping loop in either spring or at the beginning of summer, when the weather is calm. The Atlantic hurricane season starts in early June and runs until the end of November, while most of the storms hit during peak hurricane season between August and October.

Meanwhile, all major Caribbean islands have excellent mobile coverage. But for those islands with a very small population, such as Culebra and Vieques near Puerto Rico, a portable radio might come in handy. Sunscreen, mosquito repellant and bottled water should too always be in your luggage.

Amy Blyth contributed additional reporting to this article.

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Caribbean Travel Guide

Last Updated: August 30, 2023

The Caribbean is one of the most popular travel destinations in the world. It’s made up of over 5,000 islands, reefs, and cays, each with its own unique attractions and price ranges. Especially popular with North Americans fleeing the winter, the Caribbean is perfect for beach bums, honeymooners, and anyone looking to soak up the sun and enjoy the outdoors.

Unfortunately, there is a misconception that a vacation to the Caribbean is an expensive affair and that only luxury travelers and honeymooners can visit.

But that couldn’t be further from the truth. After all, this is a huge and diverse region and every island has something unique to offer. Sure, you can splash out here if you want. But you can also visit the Caribbean on a budget. It won’t be dirt cheap, but it doesn’t have to break the bank either.

With so many places to choose from in the Caribbean, you can definitely find an island that suits your interests and budget. Trust me. I’ve been to a lot of the countries in this part of the world (I love a good beach!).

This Caribbean travel guide can help you plan your trip, save money, and make the most of your time in these stunning tropical paradises!

Table of Contents

• Things to See and Do
• Typical Costs
• Suggested Budget
• Money-Saving Tips
• Where to Stay
• How to Get Around
• How to Stay Safe
• Best Places to Book Your Trip
• Related Blogs on the Caribbean

Click Here for Country Guides

Top 5 things to see and do in the caribbean.

1. Sail around the Virgin Islands

Spend a few days sailing to the remote islands that ferries don’t visit in the BVIs. You’ll get away from the crowds and discover hidden snorkeling spots. There’s ton of sailing options around this part of the world. Here’s how you can sail on the cheap .

2. Visit Havana, Cuba

Often eliciting images of revolutionary heroes, Havana is the largest city in the Caribbean. Lately the city has emerged as a tourist hotspot, rich in history, architecture, and culture. Wander the colorful streets of Old Havana, visit the Plaza de la Revolución, and walk the Malecón sea wall.

3. Hike the Pitons in St. Lucia

The Pitons are two dormant volcanoes: Gros and Petit Piton. The Gros Piton hike is a challenging two hours from 600 feet above sea level to the summit at 2,600 feet. You must have a guide, which costs $50 USD. Petit Piton is more difficult. A guide is also needed, which costs $70 USD.

4. Swim with pigs in the Bahamas

This group of world-famous pigs and piglets live on Pig Beach. Nobody knows how they got there as Big Major Cay is uninhabited and the pigs are not native to the island. Boat tours leave from Nassau and start around $220 USD for a full day. (Just be careful — they bite!)

5. See Trunk Bay, St. John

Frequently voted one of the best beaches in the world, Trunk Bay is picture perfect with white sands and clear water. It does cost a few dollars to get onto the beach, but the coral and marine life you see while snorkeling makes it all worthwhile.

Other Things to See and Do in the Caribbean

1. sample rum at the mount gay rum distillery in barbados.

Barbados is the birthplace of rum and Mount Gay is the oldest continuously running rum distillery in the world (they’ve been doing it for over 300 years). For $20 USD you can learn about the history and home of Mount Gay and taste a selection of their finest rums. You get huge discounts on their rum at the end too!

2. Learn about Reggae’s roots in Jamaica

Jamaica is home to reggae music, and there’s little chance of you going anywhere in Jamaica without hearing Bob Marley blaring in the background. Make the pilgrimage to his museum, the large house on Hope Road in Kingston, where he lived and worked between 1975-1981. You can learn more about the iconic Rastafarian’s life, with glimpses into his recording studio and bedroom. Admission is $25 USD.

3. Splash around Dunn’s River Falls in Jamaica

This is the most popular visitor attraction in Jamaica. Located in Ocho Rios, these falls cascading over plateaus are 600 feet high and are absolutely stunning to see up close. For those who are adventurous, you can climb up them (it’s a bit slippery but not hard). If not, you can simply walk up the regular trail. Bring your bathing suit so you can swim in one of the many azure pools at the base of the falls. Entry $24 USD. You can also zipline nearby if you’re an adrenaline junkie (prices start at $25 USD).

4. Go snorkeling or diving

Divers and even snorkelers can visit shipwrecks and coral reefs in the waters surrounding the islands. In the Bahamas, the Tongue of the Ocean is an oceanic trench that runs along the entire length of the Andros Island coast. The wall of the trench leads to an almost 6,000-foot drop to the seabed where divers can get up close and personal with reef sharks as they swarm in to feed. Two-tank drives start from $120 USD. St. Lucia is another great place to explore the ocean for its clear waters and a vast array of sea creatures, including parrotfish, trumpet fish, and needlefish (especially in the Anse Chastanet Reef). Diving here costs start around $110 USD for a two-tank dive and snorkeling costs around $60 USD.

5. Go zip-lining in St. Lucia

If you’re looking for an adventurous break from sun-tanning, try ziplining through the rain forest canopy. Adventure Tours St. Lucia has a total of 12 lines, including the highest, longest, and fastest line on the island. There are also five net bridges and lots of opportunities to catch some gorgeous views over St. Lucia. A full day of ziplining is $90 USD.

6. Relax on Antigua

Antigua is one of the largest Caribbean islands, with over 365 pink and white beaches (including Dickenson Bay and Pigeon Point Beach). If you’re into sailing, sign up to be a deckhand or observe Sailing Week at the end of April, the world-renowned regatta featuring 150-200 yachts and more than 1,500 participants.

7. See the world’s “wickedest” city in Jamaica

Most travelers don’t venture into Jamaica’s eastern parish of Portland — it’s an area off the tourist trail and a nice alternative to the crowds on the coast. But if you do come here, the reward is quiet beaches, endless natural beauty, and friendly locals who aren’t afraid to chat you up. While you’re here, visit the Blue Lagoon, see Somerset Falls, and eat your weight in tasty jerk chicken in the town of Boston.

8. Kayak around the islands

One of the best ways to explore these islands is by water. One of the best kayaking experiences is with Clear Kayak in Aruba . Their clear-bottomed kayaks let you see the reefs and coral beneath you as you explore. Prices vary by island (and sometimes your hotel may have some rent them out), but you can expect to pay around $100 USD for a full-day tour.

9. Pretend you’re a pirate in Bahamas

If you’re looking for more pirate culture, check out the Pirates of Nassau Museum in the Bahamas. The Golden Age of Piracy lasted for around thirty years, from 1690 to 1720, and much of that was centered around the Bahamas (specifically Nassau). You can walk around replica pirate ships, visit the dungeon, and learn through interactive exhibits about how pirates like Blackbeard set up base here between 1690 and 1720. Admission is $13.50 USD.

10. Go nude at Salomon’s Beach in St. John

Once a secluded nude beach, authorities have been cracking down in recent years on anyone caught not wearing clothing (fines are around $100 USD). Nevertheless, many people push their luck anyway and hit the sand in nothing but their birthday suit. There are usually just half a dozen people here at a time, though it’s often deserted too. Are you bold enough to risk getting fined?

11. Lose yourself in the clouds in Jamaica

Holywell National Park is Jamaica’s only national park. It lies in the Blue Mountain region and offers several short treks that take you up into a cloud forest brimming with colorful birds (like hummingbirds!) and screeching monkeys. The hike to the summit is challenging and takes around seven hours (and costs $20 USD). There are also coffee plantations and farm tours available here too (costing around $25 USD). A short drive from Kingston, this tropical park can easily be visited in one afternoon. Park entrance is $10 USD. You can also book a night in one of the many cabins in the park for around $85 USD per night.

12. Celebrate Carnival in St. John

St. John’s Carnival takes place in late June and traditionally culminates with a 4th of July parade, as Islanders also celebrate the United States’ Independence Day. It features mocko jumbies, calypso music, the crowning of Ms. St. John, and the Carnival King. Spectacular fireworks are shot into the air at the festival. It’s a huge party and the island fills up so be sure to book your accommodation in advance.

13. Explore the Hato Caves in Curaçao

These caves were once hiding spots for escaped slaves who would hide in them for weeks or even months at a time. Before the arrival of Europeans and the slave trade, the indigenous used the caves and left petroglyphs. You can take a guided tour and see the stalagmites, stalactites, and cave drawings, which date back over 1,500 years. Admission is $9 USD, including the tour.

14. Visit the Baths in the British Virgin Islands

The Baths are a beach area on Virgin Gorda. After crawling through a tiny opening, you’ll be surrounded by gigantic granite boulders nestled on each other with streams of water flowing all around them. After wading through, enjoy the calm and beauty of Dead Man’s Beach.

For information about specific destinations in the Caribbean, check out these guides:

• British Virgin Islands
• Saint Lucia

Caribbean Travel Costs

Accommodation – There aren’t many hostels or campgrounds to be found in the Caribbean as most islands don’t cater to budget travelers. For the ones that exist, a bed in a dorm with 4-6 beds costs about $30 USD per night. A dorm with eight beds or more costs from $20 USD per night. Private rooms start at about $40 USD per night. Expect basic amenities like free Wi-Fi and self-catering facilities.

Budget hotels with private bathrooms start at about $80 USD in St. Lucia, $40 USD in Jamaica and $110 USD in Curaçao. Most affordable hotel rooms on St. John start from $230 USD per night. Free Wi-Fi is standard and some hotels also include free breakfast.

Airbnb is widely available all over the Caribbean. In Aruba , private rooms cost around $45 USD per night on Aruba and $60 USD in the Bahamas, while on St. John they start from about $110 USD. A full apartment on Curaçao starts at about $250 USD per night. Aruba averages about $110 USD per night for an entire apartment, while it’s as high as $200 USD per night in the Virgin Islands. As you can see, prices vary drastically!

Food – Food in the Caribbean varies depending on the island, though some staples are common across the region, including rice and beans, plantains, sweet potatoes, coconut, chicken, and fish. Seafood, naturally, plays a huge role. Influences from Africa and Europe abound, so expect an amalgam of fresh produce, seafood, meat stews, grilled meats, dumplings, and dried fish.

Many hotels and resorts around the Caribbean include free breakfast for guests. In Aruba, a sandwich at a café starts from about $3.50 USD, while you can grab a ham-and-cheese sandwich at Superfoods around the same. In the BVIs, the cheapest meal I saw around the islands was a small sandwich that cost $10-15 USD. However, you can find fresh fruit and fruit juices at food stalls all over the place for $1-2 USD.

A fast-food combo meal (think McDonald’s) costs $8-10 USD. In general, $10-15 USD gets you a fish or chicken plate or a burger, and a meal of conch fritters or a large plate of peas and rice costs from $7 USD.

For main courses, steak, fish, or seafood, you’re looking at $20 USD or more. At a mid-range restaurant, expect to pay between $35-50 USD for a fish or steak main course, and a glass of wine to wash it down is about $10 USD. A beer starts from $2 USD at most restaurants.

Avoid restaurants near cruise ports and resorts as prices will be much, much higher.

If you plan to cook your own meals, basic groceries for the week cost around $60-80 USD. This gets you basic staples like rice, beans, seasonal produce, and some meat or fish.

Backpacking the Caribbean Suggested Budgets

Prices for Caribbean travel vary greatly depending on where you are. You can find islands to fit any budget, but some places (like the Virgin Islands) is much harder to do on a shoestring.

If you’re backpacking the Caribbean, my suggested budget is about $75 USD per day. This budget covers a hostel dorm or camping (when available), cooking all of your meals, limiting your drinking, and sticking to mostly free activities like relaxing at the beach.

For places like Bahamas , British Virgin Islands , and St John , budget closer to $100 USD.

A mid-range budget of about $190 USD per day overs staying in a private Airbnb, eating out for some of your meals, doing some inter-island travel, enjoying a few drinks, taking the occasional taxi to get around, and doing more paid activities like diving or kayaking. In the more expensive islands add at least $75-100 USD to this budget.

On a “luxury” budget of about $355 USD per day in the cheaper islands or $400-500 USD in the more expensive ones, you can stay in a hotel, eat out for all your meals, take taxis everywhere, do more inter-island travel, drink more, and do any activity you want as often as you want! This is just the ground floor for luxury though. The sky is the limit!

You can use the chart below to get some idea of how much you need to budget daily, depending on your travel style. Keep in mind these are daily averages – some days you spend more, some days you spend less (you might spend less every day). We just want to give you a general idea of how to make your budget. Prices are in USD.

Caribbean Travel Guide: Money Saving Tips

While the individual country guides have more specific information on how to save money for each destination in the Caribbean, here are some general tips to help you backpack the Caribbean on a budget:

• Look for discounts and deals – Most individual Caribbean countries have whole sections dedicated to seasonal discounts and deals on their website (mostly for accommodations). Do a quick search, and see what you come up with. Packaged deals are especially popular.
• Use hotel points – Got hotel points? Use them! Hotels like Marriott and Hilton are found all over the Caribbean that can be booked with points. Free is always better than spending money. Here’s how you can get started earning points today!
• Stay with a local – To save money on accommodation, use Couchsurfing. You’ll not only get a free place to stay but you’ll get to meet a local who can share their insider tips and advice with you.
• Shop around – If you’re going snorkeling, shop around for the best price as equipment and tours can vary widely even along one beachfront. Consider bringing your own gear since rentals add up.
• Time your trip right – First of all, avoid spring break. If you visit during the American spring break season in March, everything costs 25% or more (not to mention you have to have to deal with all shenanigans those kids cause). That’s not the only thing to bear in mind, though. Prices can be as much as 50% cheaper for accommodation and activities in off- and shoulder seasons, so avoid the peak season to save money.
• Enjoy nature – Relax on the beach, go for a hike, or take in a sunset. The Caribbean’s natural beauty is breathtaking and free, so drink it in!
• Hitchhike on boats – Want to hop around the Virgin Islands? Hitchhike on the boats and save thousands of dollars. It’s easier to do than you think. Here is how to get started.
• Book online and in advance – If you’re planning on going diving, or doing any other expensive activities, be sure to check online for discounts beforehand. Some companies offer discounts for direct bookings. Also, last-minute accommodation bookings cost a fortune. If you can, book as far in advance as possible.
• Eat and drink locally – You’re on an island, local specialties such as grouper, mahi-mahi, and snapper are less expensive than other seafood options (plus, they’re fresh)! Imported alcohol can be expensive so sticking to local liquor if you’re going to be drinking keeps your costs down.
• Look for local deals and discounts and find free stuff – Some of the islands have discount cards available for purchase or tourism websites with a section for package deals and discount offers. Also, it’s worth finding out which bars offer happy hours and when to save money. In addition, many hotels offer free use of snorkeling equipment, include free breakfast, and arrange free or cheap organized excursions. Always ask to see what free stuff is available!
• Cook your own meals – Eating out for every meal ruins your budget. Cook your own meals to save money. It won’t be fancy, but you can use those savings for fun activities instead! In some places, BBQing on the beach is a popular local activity to add some variety to the cooking at home scene.
• Watch your transport costs – Taxis on many of the islands can really put a dent in your budget so avoid them if you can. Consider renting a car if public transportation options aren’t comprehensive enough for your plans as it may save money in the long run.
• Bring your own snorkel gear -Snorkel rentals can cost $7-10 USD per day. If you plan on doing lots of snorkelling, bring or buy your own equipment and it will pay for itself.
• Get dropped off – Taking a day sail but plan on heading to the next island after? Most tour companies will drop you off at no extra charge if the island is nearby.
• Travel with friends – Since accommodation is so expensive, I wouldn’t recommend going to these islands alone. If you do, your expenses are going to skyrocket. It’s much better to go with someone so you can split costs.
• Use local currency – When possible (and applicable), I recommend paying for anything in the local currency. You tend to get a better exchange rate than if you use stronger international currencies.
• Don’t drink the tap water – The tap water isn’t always safe to drink here. Bottled water adds up (and is bad for the environment) so bring a reusable bottle. LifeStraw make a bottle with a built-in filter to ensure your water is always clean and safe.

Where to Stay in the Caribbean

Here are my favorite budget-friendly places to stay in the Caribbean:

• Hostel Room Aruba (Aruba)
• E Cas di Zoe (Aruba)
• The Towne Hotel (Bahamas)
• La Bamba (Curaçao)
• First Hostel Curaçao Curaçao)
• Mobay Kotch (Jamaica)
• Raggamuffin Hostel & Coffee Bar (Jamaica)
• Casa del Vega (St. Lucia)
• Somewhere Special Guesthouse (St. Lucia)
• Coconut Coast Villas (St. John)

How to Get Around Caribbean

Flying – Regional airlines can get you just about anywhere you need to go, especially to smaller airports in the Caribbean. Some of the best airlines include:

• Bahamas Air
• Caribbean Airlines
• interCaribbean
• Pineapple Air
• Jet Air Caribbean
• and Western Air

These routes are not exactly budget-friendly however. For example, a one-way flight from Nassau to Eleuthera starts from $105 USD, Curaçao to Kingston starts from $280 USD, and Barbados to Antigua is $200 USD. Flights between the Virgin Islands start from $245 USD each way with a stopover. One way from Aruba to Curaçao starts from $130 USD. Most islands don’t have direct flights between them every day so you need to be flexible with your transfer dates.

Ferry – The Caribbean surprisingly doesn’t have a lot of inter-island ferry transportation, but the ones available are more economical than flying (and more scenic). Some ferry companies include:

• Bahamas Ferries
• QE IV Ferry
• Road Town Fast Ferry
• L’Express des Iles

In the Lesser Antilles, you can take inter-island ferries between many of the islands, from the Virgin Islands all the way down to Trinidad and Tobago. There are ferries between the U.S. Virgin Islands and the British Virgin Islands; Anguilla, Saba, and St. Martin; and Dominica, Guadeloupe, Martinique, and St. Lucia; Antigua and Barbuda and Montserrat; and St. Kitts and Nevis.

A lot of people make St. Maarten their base so they take short ferry trips to Anguilla, Saba, St. Eustatius, and St. Bart’s. For example, the service from St. Maarten to Anguilla is from $20 USD each way.

In the Bahamas, ferry services range between $62-175 USD. A ferry ride between St. Lucia to Guadeloupe is from $113 USD. Ferries between the Virgin Islands cost as little as $8.15 USD each way.

The Bahamas also has mail boats (mailboatbahamas.com) that sail to the lesser inhabited islands, departing from Nassau to places like the Out Islands and Grand Bahamas, and you can hitch a ride overnight.

Sailing – The Caribbean islands see countless people who rent charter boats, hire captains, or sail their own boats around for as long as the wind can carry them. If you play your cards right, you can hop on someone’s boat — for FREE! You’d be surprised how often there’s a captain looking for some company on a sail, especially in exchange for cleaning or cooking.

If you’d rather do a sailing tour, there’s no shortage of them starting from about $130 USD per day.

When to Go to Caribbean

December to April are the busiest months across the Caribbean, and this is when hotel rates are the highest as people from the north flee harsh winter temperatures. On the other hand, the water visibility is perfect for diving and snorkeling. Average daily highs during this time are around 30°C (87°F).

May to November is the off-season across the Caribbean when accommodation and activity rates are up to 50% lower than in the peak season. The beaches are much less busy during this time, and temperatures are still hot and pleasant — averaging up to 32°C (89°F) in places like Curaçao and Aruba and 27°C (80°F )in the Bahamas.

In some places, you have to consider hurricane season (between June to the end of November). Places like the Bahamas and the Virgin Islands are in the hurricane belt, but other islands like Curaçao and Aruba are outside the hurricane zone. If you visit during hurricane season, make sure you have comprehensive travel insurance.

How to Stay Safe in Caribbean

The Caribbean is very safe for backpacking and solo traveling, but there are scams and petty crimes you should watch out for. Avoid wandering around certain areas alone at night, like Kingston (Jamaica) or San Nicolas (Aruba).

When on crowded public transportation, always keep an eye on your belongings. Never leave any valuables unattended on the beach either.

Solo female travelers should generally feel safe here, however, the standard precautions apply (don’t leave your drink unattended at the bar, never walk home alone intoxicated, etc.).

Be sure to pack sunscreen, including biodegradable sunscreen if you plan on snorkeling in coral reefs. You also need mosquito repellent, especially in certain areas where the risk of dengue fever or the Zika virus is high. Check to see if the U.S. State Department has any travel advisories listed for where you’re headed.

If you’re hiking, stick to the well-marked trails and bring lots of water. Armed robberies sometimes happen on less busy trails, so keep an ear out for any warnings in the area.

When it comes to eating and drinking, dysentery and hepatitis are risks when it comes to consuming contaminated food and water. Check the Center for Disease Control website for any warnings before you travel!

Scams are rare but can occur so check out my list of common travel scams to avoid so you can be prepared.

Always trust your gut instinct. Make copies of your personal documents, including your passport and ID. Forward your itinerary along to loved ones so they’ll know where you are.

The most important piece of advice I can offer is to purchase good travel insurance. Travel insurance protects you against illness, injury, theft, and cancellations. It’s comprehensive protection in case anything goes wrong. I never go on a trip without it as I’ve had to use it many times in the past.

Caribbean Travel Guide: The Best Booking Resources

These are my favorite companies to use when I travel. They consistently have the best deals, offer world-class customer service and great value, and overall, are better than their competitors. They are the companies I use the most and are always the starting point in my search for travel deals.

• Skyscanner – Skyscanner is my favorite flight search engine. They search small websites and budget airlines that larger search sites tend to miss. They are hands down the number one place to start.
• Hostelworld – This is the best hostel accommodation site out there with the largest inventory, best search interface, and widest availability.
• Booking.com – The best all around booking site that constantly provides the cheapest and lowest rates. They have the widest selection of budget accommodation. In all my tests, they’ve always had the cheapest rates out of all the booking websites.
• Get Your Guide – Get Your Guide is a huge online marketplace for tours and excursions. They have tons of tour options available in cities all around the world, including everything from cooking classes, walking tours, street art lessons, and more!
• SafetyWing – Safety Wing offers convenient and affordable plans tailored to digital nomads and long-term travelers. They have cheap monthly plans, great customer service, and an easy-to-use claims process that makes it perfect for those on the road.
• LifeStraw – My go-to company for reusable water bottles with built-in filters so you can ensure your drinking water is always clean and safe.
• Unbound Merino – They make lightweight, durable, easy-to-clean travel clothing.
• Top Travel Credit Cards – Points are the best way to cut down travel expenses. Here’s my favorite point earning credit cards so you can get free travel!

Caribbean Travel Guide: Related Articles

Want more tips for your trip? Check out all the articles I’ve written on Caribbean travel and continue planning your trip:

9 Ways to Explore the Caribbean Sustainably

My 16 Favorite Things to Do in the Virgin Islands

Bermuda: The Impossible Budget Destination? Maybe Not!

How to Save (and Not Save) Money in the Virgin Islands

I Didn’t Like Curaçao (But I Didn’t Hate it Either)

The Best Places on Costa Rica’s Caribbean Coast

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The Ultimate Guide to Caribbean Island-Hopping

See recent posts by Lilly Graves

Ever dream of visiting multiple islands in the Caribbean on the same vacation, without sharing space with hundreds (er, thousands) of cruisers who are on the same ship and trip? You’re off to a good start. The close proximity of the Caribbean islands makes it the perfect base for a freedom-filled island-hopping adventure with various activities, cultures, and island vibes to choose from. From golden sandy beaches and water sports to barefoot restaurants and rum shops, this famously laid-back Caribbean lifestyle is ideal for a tailor-made trip—and there are several itineraries ranging from budget-friendly to splurge-worthy. Below we’ve listed four Caribbean island-hopping itinerary ideas, along with some tips and tricks. 

Caribbean Island-Hopping Itinerary #1: Use Public Ferries

Though not technically part of the Caribbean (it’s actually part of the North Atlantic), the Bahamas exudes everything you think of when dreaming of a Caribbean vacation. The island group is comprised of more than 700 stunning subtropical islands as well as thousands of cays. Of course, having your own boat or prop plane to explore the Bahamas is the best-case scenario, but if you’re not part of the one percent, we’ll give you a transportation option that is easy-peasy and won’t break the bank: the public ferry.

Nassau: Begin your adventure in the country’s capital, Nassau, 184 miles from Miami. This bustling capital city hub provides a nice mix of city and island life, as well as Bahamian culture and lifestyle. You can either stay a night or two on this island (New Providence) or head to neighboring Paradise Island—home of the Atlantis mega-resort and its gigantic waterpark, as well as a handful of other properties. If you don’t stay on Paradise Island, make sure to head across the bridge, which charges a nominal fee, and spend some time on Cabbage Beach. This is one of the world’s most famous stretches of sand for a reason.

Harbour Island: Now that you’ve seen two of the country’s more popular islands, next, take a morning ferry from Nassau to Harbour Island, via BahamasFerries.com, where you’ll find small island charm and long stretches of soft pink sand. There are some wonderful boutique hotels here that offer easy access to the beach. You can also spend time wandering through the quiet streets looking for pastel-hued cottages and unique architecture with nothing more than the occasional chicken and golf cart in your path.

Eleuthera: Since Harbour Island is located just off a much bigger island—Eleuthera—you can head there next, by water taxi (a short and cheap ride) to finish the trip in the pineapple capital of the world. Locals say that the Gregory Town pineapple claims to be the sweetest on the planet, and it is believed that the Bahamas was the first country to produce the fruit. While here, visit the Glass Window Bridge—a thin pathway connecting the rough Atlantic Ocean and the calm waters of the Bight of Eleuthera for striking photo ops. From here, take the ferry back to Nassau.

Exuma: You can finish the trip in Nassau (that’s four key islands) or continue the journey (optional) through more remote areas of the Bahamas. For instance, take another ferry from Nassau to Georgetown (Exuma Island), or jump on a 40-minute commercial flight to Great Exuma, via Bahamasair . Either way, the Exumas consists of 365 islands and is known for swimming pigs, nurse sharks, colorful fish, coral reefs, and other marine life, as well as boating excursions, on-island tours, and miles of rarely-visited beaches—in other words, plenty of Caribbean activities to keep you busy for days.

Our Bahamas Hotel Pick : The Cove at Atlantis

Caribbean Island-Hopping Itinerary #3: Book Through a Tour Operator

For the easiest island-hopping itinerary, book through a tour operator. Sure, this alleviates some of the adventure factors of planning your own trip, but you’ll still be on your very own multi-island vacation without the cruise ship crowds. Check out companies like Abercrombie & Kent, G Adventures , or the U.K.-based company Tropic Breeze for various sailing excursions and options.

One affordable G Adventures sailing trip ($1699 at the time of publishing) buys an unforgettable eight-night trip sailing around St. Lucia and St. Vincent and the Grenadines. Since resorts are generally so expensive year-round, sleeping on a catamaran keeps costs low AND allows easy access to hidden coves, isolated beaches, and snorkeling sites. Oh, and the cook makes fresh Creole cuisine for a taste of island life every night. Yum.

Our St. Lucia Hotel Pick: Sugar Beach, A Vicer oy Resort

Caribbean Island-Hopping Itinerary #3: Plan your Own One-Way Adventure

So you consider yourself a savvy trip planner and want to create your own Caribbean island-hopping itinerary? That can be tricky. Finding direct flights between Caribbean islands can either be difficult, expensive—or both, but there are options. This sample itinerary allows you to see four French Caribbean islands, accessed with affordable, direct, one-way flights—in one fell swoop.

St. Martin: You’ll arrive first at St. Martin, an island divided between the French Republic and the Kingdom of the Netherlands. We recommend staying on the French side due to its romantic restaurants, charming boutiques, and sandy beaches (the Dutch side, where you’ll fly into, is known as the party side).

St. Barts: After a few days on St. Martin, hop aboard a quick 15-minute flight to St. Barts, where you’ll land on one of the shortest runways in commercial aviation. If this sounds scary, you can choose the efficient 45-minute ferry crossing from St. Martin instead. However you choose to travel, arriving at St. Barts (or St. Barths as the locals call it) will offer laid-back luxury and French refinement. Spend a few days exploring some of the 16 beaches, each with its own distinct personality, and of course chic boutiques and restaurants. (In other words, prepare to splurge a bit more on this leg of the trip.)

Guadeloupe: From St. Barts, take a one-way flight to Guadeloupe. This French territory with 12 islands offers plenty of deserted beaches and jungle hikes. The main two islands (joined by bridges) are Basse-Terre and Grande-Terre, which form a butterfly shape from above.

And beyond: Depending on how much time you have, from Guadeloupe, you can access other islands like Martinique, St. Lucia, and Antigua by purchasing affordable, one-way flights on carriers like LIAT and Caribbean Airlines .

Our St. Barths Hotel Pick: Cheval Blanc Saint Barth

Caribbean Island-Hopping Itinerary #4: Charter a Private Boat

Chartering a private sailboat or yacht to enjoy a Caribbean island-hopping vacation for a small group or family is about as dream-worthy (and splurge-worthy) as it gets. Check out family operations like BlueFoot Travel for direct bookings, or Ritzy Charters , which acts as a community marketplace for yacht and sailboat charters. You can browse a dizzying array of options to choose your perfect boat and crew with photos and reviews. It’s like booking your own private cruise.

The British Virgin Islands and U.S. Virgin Islands are some of the top places to sail in the Caribbean, thanks to excellent trade winds, crystal-clear blue water, and intricate coral reef systems. The B.V.I. and U.S.V.I. are also a lot closer together than many other island destinations, with travel times often under an hour. Whichever locations you decide to add to your yacht charter itinerary there are plenty of exciting things to do on every island.

One eight-day sample itinerary sets sail from St. Thomas where you’ll cruise to a beach in Trunk Cay, part of the U.S. Virgin Islands. Offshore you can snorkel at the Coral Reef Underwater Park Trail, which has underwater signs explaining the types of sea life you may encounter. On land, hike trails leading to old sugar plantations, or visit the snack bar on the beach. From there, sail to a friendly marina in Tortola with cafes, bars, shops, and restaurants, and then continue to a chain of southern islands in the B.V.I. Peter Island, the largest of the seven, is a popular spot for yachts and has a number of beautiful beaches for water sports like kayaking, snorkeling, stand-up paddleboarding, and scuba-diving amongst the offshore reefs.

Your next stop is The Baths on Virgin Gorda, a beach full of fascinating geological formations where you can swim, snorkel, and explore until you work up an appetite. Later, on Jost Van Dyke, you’ll find some of the best places on the trip for nightlife and live music. You’ll then visit the lush landscapes of St. John’s Virgin Islands National Park, which covers nearly all of the island. Hiking trails wind their way through the vegetation and down to the pebble beaches. There are even ancient petroglyphs carved into the rocks along the Reef Bay Trail. Aside from its natural and historical attractions, you can also find nice shops for souvenirs and upscale restaurants. The trip culminates back in St. Thomas where you’ll bid your crew (and new friends) a final farewell.

Our U.S. Virgin Islands Hotel Pick: Frenchman’s Reef & Morning Star Marriott Beach Resort

Additional Caribbean Island-Hopping Tips & Tricks

When planning your own Caribbean island-hopping itinerary, make sure to stay at least two nights at each destination. Though ambitious types might want to cross as many places (and Instagram posts) off their list as possible, you’ll be missing the point. Caribbean vacations are meant to be relaxing.

Once you get a price quote for any tour or private transfer, it’s worth the effort to call around and get additional quotes. Be sure to ask about extra charges like dock, airport, and takeoff fees.

Many flights between islands could be on a prop plane. When it comes to riding in a prop plane, don’t be shy to ask about safety. Any reputable operator should have safety information readily available, and won’t mind answering questions about their pilots. Fliers should ask if the pilot (especially if there is no co-pilot) has any health issues and if the operator (or the plane itself) has had any accidents or incidents in its history.

When chartering a boat or booking a tour, do ask about customizing the itinerary. Many companies will try to accommodate your preferences.

Pack smart! When it comes to multiple car transfers, ferries, and small planes, weight matters. Don’t expect to bring two weeks of stuff for a week of vacationing in the Caribbean. If need be, consider doing some laundry by hand while you’re in one place for a few nights. You’ll travel lighter and happier!

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How to Plan a Caribbean Vacation

Planning a trip to the Caribbean should start with a few simple questions:

• Who's going? Is this a couple's trip ? A family vacation ? A getaway with friends ? Some resorts cater to families, while others are couples-only, for example. Some destinations are far more gay-friendly than others. If you're traveling with someone with limited mobility, it's important to find out whether your destination is handicapped-accessible .
• What do you want to do when you get there? Some islands are known for their nightlife, while others offer quiet seclusion, great watersports, and diving , rich history and culture, or focus on ecotourism . Some have multiple casinos , while other ban gaming. Duty-free shopping is a big attraction in places like St. Thomas. Choose a destination that has the mix of atmosphere and activities that are right for you.
• When do you want to go? Mid-winter trips to the tropics are popular, but you can save big by going in the off-season or shoulder season , which actually extends to mid-December in the Caribbean. Hurricane season is also a cheaper time to travel.
• If you want to get a taste of real Caribbean culture when you're traveling, you also should check out what events are scheduled when you want to visit ; the holidays also can be a great time to take a family vacation to the Caribbean.
• How long will you stay? If you want a weekend getaway or other trip where you need to maximize your time away, look for destinations that are relatively close to the U.S. (such as Bermuda , the Bahamas , and the Cayman Islands ) or have frequent, direct flights (like Nassau , San Juan , and Montego Bay ). You'll also want to find a hotel that's close to the airport so you don't spend hours in a shuttle van once you arrive. Destinations that get a lot of European visitors, such as the French Caribbean islands, may be better set up for longer stays, offering more efficiency accommodations with full kitchens, for example.
• How much do you want to spend? Not all Caribbean destinations or resorts are created equal. You can stay in five-star luxury or a beach hut (or even a tent ), and places like the Dominican Republic generally appeal more to budget-conscious travelers than, say, St. Barts . An all-inclusive resort may be a better value than a pay-as-you-go hotel -- or at least you'll have a better idea of what your trip will cost upfront.Airfare costs are another huge consideration: it's not unusual for your travel costs to equal or exceed your lodging costs in the Caribbean, and flights to destinations with little competition between airlines can get expensive.
• How will you get there? For the vast majority of travelers, the answer will be by air or cruise ship. The former is the pure transportation of course, while the latter is an integral part of your vacation experience: you'll be spending more time on the ship than on a Caribbean island with most cruises. Only Grand Bahama Island can be reached by ferry from the U.S. mainland, and only the Florida Keys and the Mexican Caribbean can be reached by car (the latter is a 1,400-mile drive from Brownsville, Texas to Cancun, however, so that's not recommended).
• Why are you going? Are you celebrating an anniversary, honeymoon, or another special occasion? Some destinations and resorts are better for a romantic getaway than others. Looking for somewhere you can take it all off? Clothing is optional at some Caribbean resorts and beaches .

Planning a Caribbean Vacation: Choosing a Destination

What destination should you visit in the Caribbean? There are as many answers to this as there are islands in the Caribbean -- thousands, in other words.

Want romance? Try St. Lucia . Family fun? Aruba . Nightlife? Cancun , or San Juan. Ecotourism? Check out Dominica . For fine dining and sophisticated culture, it's hard to beat Barbados . But no one island has a monopoly on any of these things.

Most Caribbean destinations are safe for travelers, but it's wise to check the latest warnings (if any) about where you are headed and -- as always -- take some prudent steps to protect your loved ones and belongings .

Remember that unless you choose to visit a U.S. Caribbean territory -- Puerto Rico or the U.S. Virgin Islands -- you'll need to have a passport to travel .

Planning a Caribbean Vacation: Finding a Flight

The best hotel deal in the Caribbean won't amount to much if you can't get there, or if you have to spend a small fortune to do so. On the one hand, certain Caribbean destinations -- like Puerto Rico and the Dominican Republic -- have a lot of flights and competition among airlines, which tends to keep costs low. But other islands -- particularly smaller ones and those off the beaten path -- have relatively infrequent air service (often only by local, inter-island airlines) and high prices.

Flight duration is another issue: You can find yourself spending a lot of time in the air depending on where you are coming from and where you are headed in the Caribbean. So, if you've got only a little time to vacation, look for a destination with direct flights from the U.S., and check out the approximate flight time from your departure city to your destination. The Bahamas , for example, are right off the coast of Florida, while Aruba is right off the coast of Venezuela . Big difference!

There is relatively little budget airline service to the Caribbean, so it pays to compare prices on flights before you go.

Planning a Caribbean Vacation: Where to Stay

Dominican Republic Ministry of Tourism

The hotel, resort, villa, B&B, or cruise line you choose for your Caribbean vacation will play a huge role in how much you enjoy your experience. Invariably, this is where you'll spend most of your time during your trip, especially if you choose an all-inclusive property or take a cruise. Fortunately, the Caribbean offers a huge selection and variety of lodging to fit your budget and interests, from youth hostels to some of the most luxurious accommodations in the world.

Most Caribbean resorts are on a beach somewhere, but the same is not always true for hotels, B&Bs, or villas, so be sure to check first if sun, sand, and surf are high on your priority list.

All-inclusive trips are very popular in the Caribbean and usually offer good value for the money, but probably won't appeal to you if fine dining is a big part of what you want out of a vacation.

Private island resorts offer seclusion and romance aplenty, but maybe not much in the way of nightlife, tours, or excursions.

Cruises allow you to visit multiple islands and always have a place to dine and lay your head at the end of the day. Plus, you'll know up front what it costs, other than your bar tab, which can really add up . Probably the biggest drawback to cruising is that you never seem to get enough time on shore to actually learn much about the places you are visiting.

Plan Your Caribbean Vacation Activities, Tours, Sightseeing and Other Adventures

Many people go to the Caribbean with one main activity in mind: laying on a fabulous beach and melting away the stress of their everyday lives. For some, that's enough. But most people want their Caribbean vacation to include at least some sightseeing, activities on the water, and maybe a little soft adventure, like a jungle jeep tour or zip lining.

Hotels and cruise lines have activities desks that make it easy for you to book tours; cruise lines allow you to do so in advance, a must since some popular tours fill up quickly. In both cases, you get the security of knowing that the tour operator has been vetted by the hotel or cruise line. The downside -- especially with cruises -- is that you're often paying a hefty premium for that security.

You can always go online and book tours directly with vendors, but you can also use the Internet to book vetted tours in advance -- often at better prices -- with companies like Kijubi and Viator, both of which work with transportation and tour companies in the Caribbean.

Search for Caribbean Tours with Viator

What kind of activities will you find in the Caribbean? In short, almost anything you can think of, from tours of historic homes and rum factories to river tubing, swimming with dolphins , submarine adventures , party buses -- even a ride on a Jamaican bobsled. Selection varies from destination to destination (places like Aruba and Jamaica , which get the most tourists, naturally have the most offerings), but no matter where you go you'll likely be able to dive, snorkel, take a boat ride, learn some local history, and book a general island tour.

Before you book, however, check to see what comes free with your stay: all-inclusive resorts usually include non-motorized water sports, for example, and some packages include tours, as well. If all you want is a general tour, it's sometimes better to arrange for a car and local driver, who can act as your local guide.

If your vacation plans include sports, be sure to find out whether your favorite activities are available near your hotel. Some destinations are particularly known for their golf , diving , or​ sailing , for example, while certain resorts cater to tennis players far more than others.

Plan Your Caribbean Vacation: Restaurants and Dining Out

One thing you probably don't need to do before you leave home for your Caribbean trip is to make restaurant reservations in advance unless you plan to dine at one of a handful of exclusive restaurants in St. Barts or Barbados . If you're staying at an all-inclusive resort or on a cruise, all of your meals are ostensibly taken care of. However, you may grow a little tired of eating in the same place day after day, so be sure to do a little research in advance on your dining options in your destination of choice.

While you are in the Caribbean, try to be a little adventurous and check out some authentic cuisine, such as the street food that's so popular (and inexpensive) on many islands. Creole and Latin cuisine features a melange of flavors from around the world, using local ingredients like spiny lobster, red snapper, goat, callaloo, and conch. Trying the local beer and rum -- the latter either straight up or in a tropical cocktail -- also is a must if you enjoy a little libation.

Tipping customs are generally the same in the Caribbean as in the U.S. -- 15-20 percent is always appreciated -- and you'll usually find menu prices in U.S. dollars alongside the local currency amount (except in French islands like Guadeloupe and Martinique , where prices are in Euros).

Plan Your Caribbean Vacation: Transportation and Car Rentals

One expense that sometimes gets overlooked by Caribbean travelers is the cost of getting around, whether it is for getting from the airport to the hotel or getting out of your hotel to do some sightseeing. Public transportation from airports to resort areas is nearly nonexistent ( Aruba and Bermuda are among the pleasant exceptions with their excellent bus service), so you're generally faced with the choice of renting a car or paying for a hotel shuttle or cab unless airport transfers are included in the price of your hotel stay (check when you book your room).

Whether you rent a car rather than paying for a cab or shuttle depends of course on how much you expect to travel around once you reach your resort. Keep in mind that the activities desk at your hotel can arrange tours with transportation that leaves right from the lobby. You'll also need to gauge the relative safety of driving around, especially in destinations that have significant crime problems , road signs in different languages, or driving rules that differ from back home (driving is on the left side of the road in many former British territories in the Caribbean for example).

Plan Your Caribbean Vacation: Packing, Safety and Weather Checks, and More

Once you've got your flights, hotel, activities, meals, and local transportation figured out, it's time to pack!

Before you roll the suitcases out the door, however, you also should check the weather report for your destination and see if there are any relevant health alerts where you are going. Finally, make sure your house is secure while you are away, and go have a great time in the Caribbean!

Caribbean Budget Travel Tips and Destinations

Your Trip to Aruba: The Complete Guide

Plan Your All-Inclusive Caribbean Vacation

The 12 Best All-Inclusive Caribbean Resorts for Seniors

How to Plan a Weekend Getaway in the Caribbean

How to Rent a Villa in the Caribbean

Top Caribbean All-Inclusive Hotel and Resort Chains

Planning an All-Inclusive Caribbean Vacation for Singles and Solo Travelers

Saving Money on Your Summer Vacation

Tips for Buying a Mexican All-Inclusive Vacation

Best All-Inclusive Resorts for Families

Top 10 Caribbean Islands for Honeymooners

The Top 10 Summer Vacation Ideas for Families

The 9 Most Popular Places for Destination Weddings

Your Trip to Barbados: The Complete Guide

Snorkeling in the Caribbean: Off the Shore or Off a Boat

The Ultimate Guide to Caribbean Island Hopping

Travel Advice

Updated: August 10, 2022

Thinking about a trip to the Caribbean , but can’t decide? How about all of them? Hear me out. Island hopping is not foreign to actual islanders. It’s nothing to take a quick flight or ferry to a nearby island to visit a friend or go to work or school. That means the infrastructure is already there.

This is also a great way to increase the list of countries you’ve traveled to in a short time- if you’re into that sort of thing. You may spend more time in the bigger islands than the smaller ones, but you can get this done reasonably. 

We’ve taken the liberty to break down these islands into groups. See which adventure is ideal for you and yours!

Close To Home Caribbean Island Hopping

The bahamas.

We could start at the Bahamas. Though the Bahamas is relatively Americanized compared to the average Caribbean island, the stark change in the climate you’ll experience there is a great way to wet your palette and prepare you for all the sun, sea and sand that is to come!

Comprised of about 700 islands , the Bahamas, in itself, is an expedition.

Start your Caribbean island hopping at Nassau, the country’s capital, which is 184 miles from Miami. This booming capital metropolitan hub offers a good blend of city and island living, as well as Bahamian culture and way of life.

You can stay on this island (New Providence) for a couple of nights, or travel to Paradise Island, which is home to the huge Atlantis resort and its massive waterpark, as well as a few other businesses. If you don’t plan on staying on Paradise Island, make a point of crossing the bridge for a small price and spending some time on Cabbage Beach. This is one of the most well-known expanses of sand in the world for sure.

Harbour Island

Get on a morning boat from Nassau to Harbour Island, where you’ll find small-island beauty and extensive lengths of soft pink sand. There are several lovely boutique hotels in this area that provide convenient access to the beach. You can also spend some time meandering around the calm lanes, seeking for pastel-hued homes and distinctive traditional Bahamian architecture.

Because Harbour Island is located just off the coast of a much larger island, Eleuthera, you can continue your journey there by water taxi (a short and inexpensive voyage).

According to those native to this island, the Gregory Town pineapple is the sweetest on the earth, and the Bahamas is thought to be the first country to produce it. While you’re here, stop by the Glass Window Bridge, a narrow walkway that connects the wild Atlantic Ocean to the tranquil waters of the Bight of Eleuthera, for some spectacular instagram-worthy opportunities. Return to Nassau by ferry from here.

How adventurous are you? You can either end your adventure in Nassau or continue on to more remote parts of the Bahamas (optional). Take another ferry from Nassau to Georgetown (Exuma Island), or take Bahamasair’s 40-minute flight to Great Exuma.

In any case, the Exumas are famed for swimming pigs, nurse sharks, colorful fish, coral reefs, marine life, boating trips, on-island tours, and kilometers of rarely-visited beaches. There is plenty of activities to keep you busy for days.

Puerto Rico

Still not fully out of the woods (the US) yet! If you’ve been to the Bahamas, or you want immerse yourself in a country with a different language, here’s your best first stop.

Explore the pastel homes, cobblestone streets, and 500-year-old fortification of Castillo San Felipe del Morro in Puerto Rico. Take a tour of the Museum of Contemporary Art, a distillery where you may sample barrel-aged rum, and walk or bike along the beautiful Condado Beach region.

The Small Islands

Speckled across the Eastern side of the Caribbean are the small islands. You will be awash with options regarding culture, food, and language during your Caribbean island hopping adventure.

Because of the superb trade winds, crystal-clear blue water, and complicated coral reef systems, the British Virgin Islands and the United States Virgin Islands are among the best places to sail in the Caribbean. The British Virgin Islands and the United States Virgin Islands are also much closer together than many other island locations, with travel times frequently under an hour. There are lots of fun things to do on every island, regardless of which destinations you choose to include in your yacht charter itinerary.

The British Virgin Islands

The BVI are made up of 32 smaller islands and four bigger islands: Tortola, Virgin Gorda, Jost Van Dyke, and Anegada. The BVI has a total size of 59 square miles. To the northeast of the US Virgin Islands are the British Virgin Islands.

Just north of Puerto Rico is the BVI. Take a ferry from Tortola to Jost Van Dyke to see the naturally frothing Bubbly Pool. At Virgin Gorda Baths, you can swim, snorkel, and explore the stunning rock formations. On a zipline excursion, soar high above the island’s jungle canopy before relaxing on a palm-shaded white sand beach.

US Virgin Islands

The USVI are made up of four main islands: St. Croix, St. Thomas , St. John , and Water Island, as well as 50 smaller islets and cays. The USVI has a total area of 133 square miles.

On St. Thomas, the vibrant, flower-filled Charlotte Amalie is a beautiful cruise port, with incredible snorkeling, sailing, shopping, and sightseeing opportunities. On city excursions, see sights including Bluebeard’s Castle, Villa Botanica, and the 99 Steps. On a culinary tour, sample Caribbean and Creole-influenced cuisine. Drink a Painkiller or a Bushwacker, two popular cocktails on the island.

St. Martin (St. Maarten)

While you’re in the area, why not make a stop? A day-in trip to Philipsburg, St. Maarten, has a dual purpose, allowing visitors to see both the Dutch and French portions of the island. Stroll right off your cruise ship to Great Bay Beach, where a chaise and sun umbrella await you on pristine white sand during your Caribbean island hopping holiday.

Shopping duty-free in Philipsburg and then traveling to Marigot on the French side for refined gastronomic excursions are two of the top things to do in St. Maarten. Spend the day boating the pristine blue waters around the island, snorkeling, or semi-submarining to discover the colorful undersea life.

La Désirade is a little island off the coast of Guadeloupe that embodies everything you love about the Caribbean: palm-fringed beaches, dense vegetation, and laid-back island life. 

Numerous secluded white-sand beaches, including Plage Anse Petite Riviere, benefitting from calm waters due to an offshore reef. The only way to get to La Désirade is by ferry from Grande-Terre, which departs twice daily from St-François.

Dominica, Martinique, and St Lucia are all easily accessible from Guadeloupe, as are Montserrat , St Kitts & Nevis, and Antigua and Barbuda. Let’s zoom in on a few.

The island is covered in silky white sand and surrounded by crystal-clear water. It is the wonderfully luxuriant scenery – particularly the island’s distinctive twin volcanic peaks, Gros and Petit Piton – that elevates the island’s sandy stretches to new heights.

Whether you want to relax in the sand with a book and a beer while admiring the beautiful mountain vistas, or you want to go a little more active on your beach vacation, St. Lucia has you covered. 

Antigua and Barbuda

Many of Antigua’s 365 beaches are flanked by large and small resorts, both modest and extravagant. English Harbour is known for its yachting antics as well as its historic sites. The beautiful Frigate Bird Sanctuary is located on Barbuda, the sister island.

St. Kitts and Nevis

St Kitts, like Nevis, features large hotels and burgeoning condo complexes. It’s just big enough for a day tour across the island, which includes a visit to the massive pirate-era Brimstone Hill Fortress.

The Big Islands

Some islands require more than a day to get a full experience and more than a ferry to travel in between.

The Greater Antilles include Hispaniola (which is now Haiti and the Dominican Republic), as well as Cuba, Jamaica, and Puerto Rico.

Jamaica, one of the Caribbean’s most beautiful islands, is the stuff of tropical fantasies: stunning beaches, lush rainforests, spectacular waterfalls, languid rivers for rafting, and caves to explore. Coffee plantations may thrive because the highlands are high and cool enough, and the West Indian civilization is steeped in history.

Sample the island’s flavors, including everything from jerk chicken to coffee and rums. Explore stately historical sites, relax in the beautiful outdoors, and allow reggae beats to transport you to a state of complete relaxation during you Caribbean island hopping adventure.

Particularly at night, Havana comes to life. There, the Fabrica de Arte Cubano is a converted cooking oil factory that hosts regular electronic music evenings with live DJs, concerts, and photographic and cinematic art exhibitions. Don’t forget to visit Trinidad’s nightclub, which is nestled in a local cave!

The Dominican Republic features almost 1,000 kilometres of beautiful sand beaches with crystal pure blue sea. If you’re seeking for ultra-luxurious resorts with pools and golf courses, some beaches are ideal. If you’re searching for something a little more off the beaten path with less people, you’ll have no trouble finding it! The beaches that encircle the country are all beautiful in their own way. The beaches are beautiful and a nice location to unwind.

Windsurfing, kitesurfing, and normal surfing are all popular on Puerto Plata’s north side “Cabarete Beach.” It’s also a fantastic spot for paragliding.

Specifically in Haiti, three deep blue pools are joined by beautiful waterfalls at the Bassins Bleu Falls. These waterfalls have a unique color due to the minerals found in the water. Water nymphs, according to legend, live in caverns near the waterfalls and enjoy the sun on the rock at Palm Lake. However, they vanish whenever they hear footsteps.

Mainland Caribbean Hopping

We cater to all types of travelers here. You may not be the typical tourist who is enraptured by the eastern Caribbean. Maybe you want a different experience. Ancient ruins and numerous eco-adventures on land and sea can be found on the Caribbean’s western islands. Go island hopping on a Western Caribbean cruise to Mexico, Belize, and Honduras.

Cozumel is known for its fantastic diving locations, conveniently accessible Mayan ruins, and gorgeous blue waters, and it has something to offer everyone. Dive in the Arrecifes de Cozumel National Park to see living reefs, beautiful fish, stingrays, nurse sharks, and marine turtles.

Plan beach time and a swim with playful dolphins, subterranean cave exploration, a submarine tour, or a visit to a sea turtle farm in Cozumel for family-friendly activities. Visit the amazing Mayan remains at San Gervasio on Cozumel, or take a ferry to Tulum to see the ruins.

During airboat adventures, see magnificent native animals and dive in some of Belize’s best beaches. Take a riverboat ride down a lagoon, stopping in Lamanai to see Mayan ceremonial ruins. Trek through the forest before cooling off with a river tubing adventure or floating through an old Mayan cave, lagoon, and waterfall.

When you dock in Costa Maya, you’ll discover that the region’s reputation for stunning beaches and abundant marine life is well-deserved. Banco Chinchorro, the Northern Hemisphere’s largest atoll reef, sits located off the coast and offers snorkeling and diving opportunities.

To get to the Mayan ruins at Chacchoben, take a ride through the rainforest or take a salsa-making class and a salsa-dancing lesson on the beach.

Snorkel the Mesoamerican Reef and witness rainbow starfish at Starfish Alley in Roatan, Honduras, or swim at West Beach. Visit Little French Key to observe sloths and monkeys, and visit the Roatan Rum Company to sample rum straight, in chocolate, or in rum cake.

Does anything tickle your fancy for Caribbean island hopping? The options are overwhelming, but you’re sure to find a package that is perfect for your taste! Are you done packing yet?

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Caribbean Travel Guide

Looking for an in-depth Caribbean travel guide ?

Then you’re in the right place!

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Caribbean Map

Use this Caribbean travel map to begin planning your trip!

Click here for an interactive version of the above map.

Antigua Travel Guides

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

12 Antigua Adventures For An Unforgettable Caribbean Trip

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

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

Bahamas Travel Guides

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

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

Swimming With Nurse Sharks In Compass Cay, Exumas, Bahamas

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

Is The Exuma Archipelago The Quirky Sister Of The Galapagos?

16 Best Bahamas Breakfast Foods You Must Try

Cayman Islands Travel Guides

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

Beyond Grand Cayman: Discovering Cayman Brac In The Caribbean

Delicious Lionfish: Responsible Eatings In The Cayman Islands

Things To Do In The Dominican Republic

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

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

Exploring Punta Cana Outdoors Beyond The Beach Resorts

Exploring Sustainable Adventure In The Resort Destination Of Punta Cana

How To Have An Epic Dominican Republic Road Trip

Dominican Republic Hiking: 12 Amazing Trails Not To Miss

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

Things To Do In Guadeloupe

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

Driving Around Guadeloupe: Travel Guide + Itinerary

Things To Do In Mexico

Enjoy the Mexican Caribbean with these helpful guides:

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

6 Best Beaches In Holbox, Mexico (Stunning!)

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

15 Best Beach Clubs In Holbox Island, Mexico

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

Best Time To Visit Holbox Island, Mexico

Things To Do In Puerto Rico

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

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

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

Top Booze Experiences In Puerto Rico

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

Things To Do In St. Lucia

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

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

6 Secret Beaches To Visit In St. Lucia

Adventurous Couple’s Guide To Soufriere, St. Lucia

Cocoa Experiences At Saint Lucia’s Hotel Chocolat

An Amazing Solo St. Lucia Wellness Retreat At BodyHoliday Resort

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

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

Things To Do In St. Thomas

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

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

Trinidad & Tobago Travel Guides

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

Trinidad And Tobago’s Best Outdoor Experiences

Learning To Stand Up Paddleboard In Tobago

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

Are You A Trinidad Or Tobago Traveler?

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

12 Things You Didn’t Know About Trinidad And Tobago

Caribbean Travel Tips

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

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

3 Best Luxury Caribbean Wellness Retreats

20 Best Beach Destinations For Solo Female Travelers (Caribbean & Beyond!)

Caribbean Tours

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

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

Caribbean Hotels

Click here to browse hotels in the Caribbean!

Prefer self-contained stays? 

Click here to check out unique local rentals!

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

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

Caribbean Travel Insurance

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

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

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

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

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

Renting A Car In The Caribbean

Renting a car in the Caribbean?

Use Discover Cars to quickly compare your car rental options.

Caribbean Travel Guide FAQ

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

Q: What are the Caribbean travel destinations?

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

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

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

Q: How many islands are in the Caribbean?

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

Q: How do you travel between Caribbean islands?

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Q: What are the most dangerous Caribbean islands?

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

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

Q: Which Caribbean islands are the cheapest to visit?

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

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

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

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

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

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

Q: What are some top Caribbean points of interest?

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

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

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

Q: What is the rainy season in the Caribbean?

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

Q: What are the West Indies islands?

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

What would you add to this Caribbean travel guide?

Ultimate CARIBBEAN ISLANDS Travel Guide

The concept of the Caribbean Islands seems relatively simple at first. It’s a geographic area that defines the islands within the Caribbean Sea and would be considered part of North America .

But actually, it’s much more than this, because the Caribbean is a part of the world that is not just defined by geography, but by the deep-rooted politics, languages, and cultures of the 28 different nations that encompass over 7000 islands.

And that’s before you even begin to look at the broader definition of the Caribbean, which can include any of the Central and South American nations which have long coastlines that line the Caribbean Sea.

It’s a complex beast, and the complexity is vividly displayed across the multitude of different countries that can be included under Caribbean Islands travel, some of which are technically in the Atlantic!

The Caribbean Islands themselves are generally grouped into distinct regions.

The Lucayan Archipelago is found in the north-west, bordering the Atlantic, and comprises the Bahamas and Turks and Caicos.

The Greater Antilles is where you will find the Caribbean’s largest islands, including Cuba, Hispaniola, Puerto Rico, Jamaica and the Cayman Islands.

The Lesser Antilles comprises the easternmost islands of the Caribbean, which in turn is split into three more groupings, which are the Leeward Islands, Windward Islands and the Lesser Antilles.

Luckily, cruise ships had the sense to place all these different groupings into more sensible geographical groupings, and the Caribbean can be easier defined for travel purposes in terms of the Western, Eastern, Northern, and Southern Caribbean areas, as well as their historic designations.

Destinations

Caribbean travel: quick tips, don’t visit the caribbean without:.

UNIVERSAL TRAVEL ADAPTER

GET A GUIDEBOOK

REUSABLE WATER BOTTLE

CARIBBEAN ISLANDS BUCKET LIST

Parasailing in barbados.

Getting a birds-eye view of the Caribbean is an experience you will not forget! From that height you can see deep into the ocean, spotting turtles, sharks, and large fish. You also get a unique view of the coastline making this a must-do in Barbados. 

CHASE WATERFALLS IN DOMINICA

Dominica is an island of nature and one of our favorites in the Caribbean! The lush interior features some of the largest waterfalls of all the islands and hiking to them is a true adventure of discovery that you cannot miss. 

EXPLORE HAVANA, CUBA

Havana is a real-life time capsule and not something you can see every day. Steeped in history, culture, and architecture, this is one of the most unique places in the Caribbean. Beyond Havana, you’ll find places like Trinidad and Vinales that will offer you wonder and intrigue.

MORE THINGS TO TRY IN THE CARIBBEAN

There is no shortage of great things to do in the Caribbean during your visit and the biggest problem you’ll face is fitting them all into your itinerary.

Each city has it’s own offering and unique things to check out during a visit, so be sure to look at our city guides once you decide where you’re itinerary will take you.

GO ZIP LINING IN ROATAN:   Soaring above the lush jungles of Honduras is a definite highlight of any Caribbean itinerary. The course in Roatan is built with several segments, meaning this adventure lasts much longer than any single zip line. You’ll get to be above the tree canopy with incredible views of the ocean.

SLOW DOWN IN CAYE CAULKER:  It’s all about island time when you visit  Caye Caulker, Belize . There are some yummy local restaurants, white sand beaches and some fantastic snorkeling to be had here. It is also a great place to access the Hol Chan Marine Park from.

SEE THE STINGRAYS IN GRAND CAYMAN:  Stingray City is steeped in history, as this sandbar has always been a place where fisherman clean their catch. As a result, many stingrays gather in this area and you have the opportunity to snorkel and swim with them. If you do this, though, be respectful and do not touch them.

GO DEEP SEA FISHING:  While it’s possible to go deep-sea fishing on any number of Caribbean Islands, we have gone in Cozumel. We recommend booking a half-day charter with a group of friends. The crew will take care of all the hard work and you get to enjoy the run of reeling in the catch.

VISIT BRIMSTONE HILL FORTRESS IN ST KITTS:  Lesser known than the massive forts in Puerto Rico is this fortress located in St Kitts. Brimstone is strategically placed in the center of the island at the highest point, giving spectacular views of the island. Much of the fort is intact, including large rows on cannons that point out over the sea.

HIKE IN EL YUNQUE RAINFOREST:  El Yunque is the only tropical rainforest that is part of the USA, and it covers a large portion of the eastern side of Puerto Rico. This park is full of fantastic hiking trails, drives, scenic overlooks and waterfalls to enjoy during a visit.

SAIL THE VIRGIN ISLANDS:  This is one of the top activities to do in the Caribbean, and the Virgin Islands, both the US and British, offer prime clusters of islands for sailing trips. You’ll visit the larger port towns and stop in the popular bays. However, you’ll also find yourself enjoying sandbars with only the people on your boat. This experience offers a great balance for experiencing the islands.

BEACH HOP IN ANTIGUA:  Antigua touts itself as having as many beaches as there are days in the year, so you should have no problems spending your days hopping from one glorious beach to the other. Just make sure you leave time to visit Shirley Heights and learn about the history of the island too.

TOUR MASSIVE FORTS IN PUERTO RICO:  Puerto Rico offers up some of the most impressive and massive forts in the Caribbean. Acting as a strategic stronghold, the Spanish fortified the entire coastline of what today stands as the capital city of San Juan. It is possible to tour and visit the first today, learning the colonization history that goes along with them.

SLIDE DOWN DUNN RIVER FALLS IN JAMAICA:  This has to be the singular most famous natural attraction in the Caribbean. Dun River Falls breaks free from the jungle in central Jamaica, leaving a prime opportunity to use it as a waterslide into the pool below. It’s the perfect place to cool off when you’re in the tropics. Just note, it’s popular and you won’t be alone.

CARIBBEAN FESTIVALS

The Caribbean is always a lively and colorful place, and each country and each island has its own unique festivals and celebrations throughout the year.

In February it’s  Carnivale  season across the Caribbean Islands, as many countries hold celebrations and let loose just before Lent begins. Great Carnivals to attend are in Puerto Rico and Cuba.

Christmas and New Year  are always a great time to be in the Caribbean, while across the region you can find different festivals every month.

In November, you can experience the  Pirate Festival  in the Cayman Islands, in June Barbados holds their lively  Crop Over Festival , while in May, Grenada hosts a loud and lively  Drum Festival  that attracts musicians from across the Caribbean.

PLAN THE ULTIMATE CARIBBEAN ISLANDS ITINERARY!

Popular regions in the caribbean islands, western caribbean.

The Western Caribbean is one of the most popular itineraries when it comes to Caribbean Island travel. This area includes all of the Caribbean islands that lie in the western part of the sea, so that means  Cuba , Jamaica, and the  Caymans . The western portion though, also includes the Caribbean coast of Mexico, in particular, destinations such as  Cancun  and the  Mayan Riviera . It also includes the Honduran island of  Roatan , and potentially  coastal Belize  too.

SOUTHERN CARIBBEAN

The Southern Caribbean is made up of the islands of Aruba, Curacao, and Bonaire, which are all found just off the coast of South America. Travel in this region can also take into account trips that count southeastern Caribbean Islands travel in the itinerary too, so places such as Trinidad and Tobago, and Grenada

EASTERN CARIBBEAN

The Eastern Caribbean is anything east of Cuba, beginning with Hispanola, which is an island divided between the nations of Haiti and the Dominican Republic. This is where you’ll find many of the most iconic destinations in the Caribbean Islands, including classic places such as  Barbados , Trinidad and Tobago,  Antigua , the  US Virgin Islands , and many more. You can find a range of languages, cultures, and heritage, and each island is very different from its neighbors.

COASTAL CARIBBEAN

This area comprises the mainland coastal areas that are often included in many Caribbean travel itineraries both by land and sea. This area spans Mexico, Belize, Honduras, Nicaragua, Costa Rica, Panama, Colombia, Venezuela, and their satellite islands that pepper the Caribbean Sea.

NORTHERN CARIBBEAN

The Northern Caribbean is really the Greater Antilles, which includes all the large islands such as  Cuba  and  Puerto Rico  (which also fall into itineraries covering eastern and western routes). It can also count the islands further to the north, which are technically in the Atlantic, such as the Bahamas and the  Florida Keys . There’s a fair amount of overlap when it comes to Caribbean Islands travel planning but don’t let this deter you, especially if you’re cruising. You really cannot go wrong with any of the islands.

CARIBBEAN TRAVEL BUDGET

Setting a budget for travel to the Caribbean is highly dependent on your travel style. It is possible to visit just about anywhere in the Caribbean Islands on any budget and still have a great trip. That said, you can make your trip as basic or as luxurious as you desire.

To help you set your budget, we’ve included some base range price estimations for travel within the islands. Of course, keep in mind that prices can fluctuate based on seasons, availability and festivals.

ACCOMMODATION:  Varies by type and rating. Generally, you can expect  a local guesthouse to be around $100 USD per night,  mid-range hotels  from $200 USD per night and  luxury hotels  to be from $300 USD per night.

ATTRACTIONS : Costs vary. Snorkel and mask rental is approximately $10 USD per day. ATV island tour, from $75 USD. Kayak tour, from $50 USD. Many natural attractions are free though.

TRANSPORTATION:  The most popular method of travel around the Caribbean Islands is by bus or rental car. The  local bus  $3 USD.  Car rental  varies by length of time and generally average around $25 USD per day for a compact. Taking the  interisland ferries  will vary depending on route, but tend to be around $80 USD (Antigua to Barbuda).

FOOD:  Food will vary widely depending on your tastes and what restaurants you choose to visit on your trip. Generally, though, you can expect to find  street food or local restaurants  for around $5 to $15 USD per meal, take a meal in a  resort or hotel restaurant  for $30 USD per person and pay around $3 USD for a  beer .

150 USD PER DAY

Staying in cheap hotels in the offseason, eating local food, or cooking own food and transport to a few attractions.

250 USD PER DAY

Staying in nicer hotels. Eating restaurant meals. Enjoying a few tours, attractions, and activities each day of your trip.

400 USD + PER DAY

Staying in resorts with beach views, in peak season. Enjoying lots of activities and eating out or staying all-inclusive.

WHERE TO STAY IN THE CARIBBEAN ISLANDS

Below you will find some of the places we have stayed during our travels in the Caribbean. These are individual properties that we enjoyed and would recommend to other travelers.

HOW TO GET AROUND IN THE CARIBBEAN

There are a few ways to get around the Caribbean Islands during a visit, including cruises, ferries and flights. Despite most of the islands being small, there is a surprising number of ways to island hop. That said, it won’t be cheap and may require connections on other islands. Plan ahead and be flexible.

CRUISES:  The classic way to fulfill your Caribbean Islands travel plans, is to join a cruise. In fact, if you are looking to see lots of different islands in a short space of time, then this is the best option, even if you aren’t a fan of cruise ships. There are countless itineraries you can join, with some taking in just the Western Caribbean or the Eastern Caribbean, and longer, extended cruises taking in the all the islands imaginable.

BUS:  Most islands will have public buses available, although you’ll find that generally, they are just used by locals. It’s a great experience though, and although the public buses can be crowded, you can get around for a fraction of the cost of a taxi or of car hire. 

CAR RENTAL:  On the islands themselves, you might want to consider renting a car to get around. Most islands – aside from the larger islands in the north, such as Cuba – can be driven around in a day, and you’ll be able to stop off and explore as and when you like. Check out  Discover Rental Cars  for great deals.

FLIGHTS:  Many of the islands are connected to one another by light aircraft, or in the case of bigger islands, by more traditional air carriers too. Many routes will see aircraft stopping off at different airports across the Caribbean, and in general, you can find routes from most islands. The main carriers in the region are LIAT and Caribbean Airlines. From further afield, many islands are also connected to South America ,  Central America , North America, and Europe . There are plenty of direct flights to larger islands, but others may require changes, and may not have regular international schedules.

FERRIES:  While it would seem that island hopping should be an easy way to travel around the Caribbean, in fact, it’s quite a challenge, and it wouldn’t be possible to visit every single island out there just using boats or ferries. Several islands are connected by Caribbean ferries – such as Antigua and Barbuda, and many of the islands in the Bahamas – but many more are not. If you have time and endless amounts of patience, then you can try and catch mail boats and cargo ships across the Caribbean, or you can try and hitch rides on yachts, but you will need an adventurous spirit and no fixed plans for this to work.

TOP CARIBBEAN TOURS

West indies explorer cruise.

11 Days from San Juan, Puerto Rico Visits: Puerto Rico, BVI, St Kitts, St Lucia, Barbados, Antigua, Dominica & USVI

ICONIC SOUTHERN CARIBBEAN CRUISE

13 Days from Miami, Florida Visits: Florida, Aruba, Curacao, St Lucia, St Kitts, US Virgin Islands & Puerto Rico

THREE ISLAND CARIBBEAN TOUR

10 Days from Worthing, Barbados Visits: Barbados, Grenada & St Lucia

WHEN TO VISIT THE CARIBBEAN ISLANDS

Being spread across the equator, the Caribbean region experiences warm weather all through the year, with consistent temperatures ranging from 25 to 30 degrees celsius.

Alongside the warm weather, rain can generally be easy to predict in the Caribbean, with most of it falling between June and November, and the worst occurring in Hurricane Season.

Hurricane Season  runs in the Caribbean from June to November, coinciding with the wet season, however, the worst only hits the islands between August and October, and these are the months to avoid.

Head south though, between August and October and you can still safely visit islands like Trinidad and Tobago, which generally avoid any hurricanes.

The  busiest time for Caribbean Islands  travel is always from December to May, when the weather is warm, but not overbearingly hot and the weather is dry. There’s almost no chance of rain, and so it’s the perfect time to visit.

In particular, December and January are always exceptionally busy, as tourists flock to the Caribbean to escape the cold weather in the Northern Hemisphere, and especially so during the Christmas holidays when families have time off from work.

PACK LIKE A PRO ON YOUR NEXT CARIBBEAN TRIP!

Safety in the caribbean islands.

Safety can vary from island to island. If you are staying in touristy areas or resorts, then you’ll be quite safe from harm, but you will want to keep an eye on your personal belongings, as opportunistic theft can be a problem.

In some of the cities on particular islands, you may want to stay clear of certain districts and be careful at night, while some destinations – such as Haiti – just have downright terrible reputations all around.

With travel to more than 100 countries on all 7 continents, we have plenty of advice to ensure your trip goes smoothly! Be sure to check out:  25 Essential Safety Tips for Travel

CARIBBEAN ISLANDS TRAVEL: BOOKING RESOURCES

Caribbean travel guide: related articles.

Looking for more info? Check out all the articles we’ve written on travel to Caribbean and start planning your dream trip.

Can Americans Travel to Cuba? A Decoded Guide

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Table of Contents

Visiting the Caribbean from the U.S.

When to visit the caribbean, staying in the caribbean, getting to the caribbean, the bottom line.

White sandy beaches provide a restful reprieve from daily stresses. And, if you’re coming from the U.S., you’ll get to explore a new region without too much jet lag.

There are more than two dozen countries and territories to explore in the Caribbean, and hundreds of islands within them to explore. Thrill-seekers might zoom down the waterslide and splash into the 141-acre waterscape at the Atlantis Paradise Island in the Bahamas. Foodies might munch on mofongo — a fried plantain-based dish — while in Puerto Rico. Underwater adventurers might spot migrating humpback whales while scuba diving the U.S. Virgin Islands.

For these reasons, plus a high level of affordability, the Caribbean makes a solid choice for a budget-friendly vacation.

Given the many airports and wide range of hotels for every price point, your Caribbean vacation might not even cost you a ton out of pocket. Here’s what you need to know about traveling to the Caribbean on a budget with points and miles.

The U.S. Virgin Islands and Puerto Rico are U.S. territories. This means that U.S. travelers to these areas can leave their passports at home.

» Learn more: Amazing Marriott hotels in the Caribbean for award stays

Snowbirds tend to flock to the Caribbean between December and April, which is also the region’s dry season. Consider traveling during the shoulder season for the best of both worlds — visiting in May, June or November promises mostly good weather, plus fewer crowds and lower prices.

According to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, the official Atlantic hurricane season runs from June 1 through Nov. 30. Budget travelers might visit in the summer to benefit from the lowest prices, but it could be a risk.

Lodging in the Caribbean can range from rugged charm to modern luxury. There are tranquil, adults-only retreats and vibrant, family-focused resorts. Whatever your budget and priorities, there’s likely a Caribbean hotel that can meet your needs.

Here are some hotel sweet spots for an island vacation, with tips for booking with points.

Anguilla: Zemi Beach House by Hilton

Photo courtesy of Hilton

Escape the crowds at the Zemi Beach House by Hilton, a boutique hotel that has just 76 rooms and suites, yet spans the six acres of Shoal Bay East, Anguilla’s famous beach. Soak in views of the stunning turquoise ocean waters from the pool. You won’t have to travel far to take advantage of ocean sports, boat tours and snorkeling.

This Hilton-owned hotel is typically pricey, with rooms easily costing over $700 per night. But if you have a Hilton free night certificate (or two), that’s a surefire good use of it. Zemi Beach House is also a great way to spend points, as it generally runs about 95,000 Hilton Honors points per night, which is a solid deal for a $700 room.

» Learn more: The best Hilton hotels in the Caribbean

Dominican Republic: Hilton La Romana All-Inclusive Family Resort

Image courtesy of Hilton

Hilton La Romana is an all-inclusive family resort on the pristine Bayahibe Beach. The hotel has its own waterpark, casino and fitness classes, plus multiple dining options, including French, Italian and South American restaurants.

Nightly rates at the Hilton La Romana this spring can cost less than $200. And since it’s all-inclusive, you might not spend an extra dime on food and entertainment, either. You can also find all-inclusive rooms for as few as 48,000 points per night.

Puerto Rico: Hyatt Regency Grand Reserve Puerto Rico

Photo courtesy of Hyatt

The Hyatt Regency Grand Reserve has an ideal location on the beach, yet it’s not far from the El Yunque rainforest, where you might spot the endangered Puerto Rican Parrot. Or head to the historic town of Old San Juan, where you can meander down the colorful, umbrella-lined Fortaleza Street.

Standard room rates easily run over $450 per night. Luckily, it’s a Category 3 hotel, which makes it a great use of Hyatt free night certificates, which are relatively easy to obtain. Holding a Hyatt-branded credit card or reaching Hyatt elite status milestones can help you earn free night certificates more quickly.

Booking with World of Hyatt points also makes a great redemption. Rates start at just 9,000 points per night for off-peak bookings, which at NerdWallet's valuation of 2.3 cents per point , means it'll cost about $207 in points — a far better deal than paying cash on most dates.

» Learn more: World of Hyatt: The complete guide

Finding somewhere to stay is only one part of the equation though. Unless you’re coming from South Florida by boat, you’ll likely be flying into your Caribbean destination.

Some of the biggest airports in the Caribbean include:

Generally speaking, it's best to fly into one of the bigger airports — you’ll have better odds of finding a direct flight and/or flights that you can book with airline miles. Bigger airports also tend to mean more lounge access, which can easily be gained by holding certain travel credit cards and can prove a solid money-saver on airport meals.

Flying to the region

Here are some airfare sweet spots to inspire your award flight booking to the Caribbean.

Southwest Airlines

Southwest doesn't publish an award chart, and the costs to book their flights in points are generally tied to the fare prices in cash. That makes it easy to spot good points redemptions; if you see a cash fare sale or a low-cost flight, you know you’re getting a deal when booking on points, too.

Southwest flies to many airports in the Caribbean, including:

Aruba (AUA).

Grand Cayman (GCM).

Havana, Cuba (HAV).

Montego Bay, Jamaica (MBJ).

Nassau, Bahamas (NAS).

Punta Cana, Dominican Republic (PUJ).

San Juan, Puerto Rico (SJU).

Turks and Caicos (PLS).

United Airlines

If you like to fly in style, look to United. NerdWallet spotted cross-country Business Saver Award fares on United this spring for flights from San Francisco to Nassau for as low as 30,000 miles each way.

American Airlines

American is one of the largest airlines serving the Caribbean, so it’s not hard to find a flight to your destination that fits your schedule. American uses dynamic award pricing now, so award rates will change based on demand.

You’ll likely find a cheaper cash fare if you’re flying from a U.S. hub city relatively close to the Caribbean, such as Miami or Dallas. But good luck finding a cheap cash fare flying from the West Coast. If that’s you, you’re better off booking with American Airlines miles.

Island hopping in the Caribbean

Once in the region, you might not want to restrict yourself to just one island accessible by major airlines. Smaller airlines make island hopping possible.

One of the largest providers of inter-island flights is aptly named interCaribbean Airways, which operates small aircraft. Flights are fairly affordable, generally starting at about $50.

Alternatively, Cape Air operates multiple flights throughout the Caribbean and has certain codeshare flights in partnership with American, JetBlue and United.

Once you feel safe returning to travel, consider a budget-conscious trip to the Caribbean as an easily accessible destination. Use your hotel points at places like the above examples, where you can stay at a high-quality resort for a reasonable amount of points. Book your flights with airlines that both service the area regularly and can be booked with points or miles to get there cheaply.

As with all COVID-19 era travel, be sure to check travel restrictions and health recommendations from U.S. agencies, as well as local authorities at your destination before booking and traveling. Consider travel insurance as well.

You can combine the serenity of warm, sunny beaches and pristine reefs with easy-to-come-by deals. The Caribbean could prove to be an excellent — not to mention budget-friendly — post-vaccine vacation.

How to maximize your rewards

You want a travel credit card that prioritizes what’s important to you. Here are our picks for the best travel credit cards of 2022 , including those best for:

Flexibility, point transfers and a large bonus: Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card

No annual fee:   Bank of America® Travel Rewards credit card

Flat-rate travel rewards:  Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card  

Bonus travel rewards and high-end perks: Chase Sapphire Reserve®

Luxury perks: The Platinum Card® from American Express

Business travelers: Ink Business Preferred® Credit Card

on Chase's website

1x-5x 5x on travel purchased through Chase Travel℠, 3x on dining, select streaming services and online groceries, 2x on all other travel purchases, 1x on all other purchases.

75,000 Earn 75,000 bonus points after you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening. That's over $900 when you redeem through Chase Travel℠.

1.5%-5% Enjoy 5% cash back on travel purchased through Chase Travel, 3% cash back on drugstore purchases and dining at restaurants, including takeout and eligible delivery service, and unlimited 1.5% cash back on all other purchases.

Up to $300 Earn an additional 1.5% cash back on everything you buy (on up to $20,000 spent in the first year) - worth up to $300 cash back!

on Capital One's website

2x-5x Earn unlimited 2X miles on every purchase, every day. Earn 5X miles on hotels and rental cars booked through Capital One Travel, where you'll get Capital One's best prices on thousands of trip options.

75,000 Enjoy a one-time bonus of 75,000 miles once you spend $4,000 on purchases within 3 months from account opening, equal to $750 in travel.

Protect Your Trip »

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.

Vote to Add these Destinations to the Rankings

Puerto Rico

Havana, Cuba

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How to Travel the Caribbean Like a Pro

You could use a vacation. Fortunately, some of the world’s finest beaches, richest cultures and spiciest cuisines are within reach in the Caribbean Islands, a vibrant archipelago that’s just a short flight away.

Traveling the Caribbean is simple, but choosing the right islands, the right hotels and the right transportation can be quite a challenge.

If you plan ahead properly, you can have an authentic Caribbean experience on nearly any budget– and we’re going to show you how.

Read on to learn about the prime Caribbean destinations, the choice between boutique and resort hotels and the best way of getting there and back. Pack a swimsuit and a sense of adventure, you’re going to need both.

What Makes the Caribbean Special?

What makes the Caribbean special? Its ecology and culture are both mutually vibrant and enchanting. The stunning sand beaches, breezy palms and warm climate are a welcome escape for those who need to get away. The northern islands of the Caribbean, especially the Bahamas, formed over millennia as sand washed upon coral reefs that ultimately yielded islands. The Greater Antilles, which comprise Cuba, Hispaniola and Puerto Rico, were formed from continental rock. The Lesser Antilles, including the Virgin Islands, Barbados and others, are the result of volcanic activity. Each of these distinct natural forces has created varied landscapes and biological habitats, each providing a different experience for the visitor.

In terms of culture, the Caribbean islands have a rich history, often turbulent, with influences from Europeans, Africans and natives alike. Starting in the early 1500s, the nations of Europe colonized the Caribbean in a contentious land-grab between the British, Spanish, French and Dutch. This explains why the common tongue in Haiti is French, why the streets of San Juan are paved with bricks from Spain, and why the British flag flew over Jamaica until the middle of the last century. While the West Indies were once a hub of the slave trade, the free children of slaves brought a distinct African influence to every island in this archipelago. Finally, the natives of Taino and Carib descent proudly held on to their cuisine and traditions which are still experienced throughout the Caribbean today.

Transportation: Cruise vs. Direct Flight

Most Caribbean islands have enough entertainment and amenities to sustain a week-long vacation on their own. To visit just one, however, is to miss the ecological and cultural diversity that makes the Caribbean so special. While cruise vacations aren’t for everyone, they provide a great introduction to what these islands have to offer. If this is your first trip, a cruise might be just the ticket.

The Bahamas and the Greater Antilles, specifically Jamaica, Puerto Rico and the Dominican Republic, are accessible on 5-7 night cruises from Miami or Ft. Lauderdale. Going deeper into the Caribbean, especially into the Lesser Antilles, might require a departure from San Juan, Puerto Rico. Coincidentally, it’s usually cheaper to fly from New York to San Juan than it is to fly from New York to Miami. What’s more, all-inclusive cruises are a surprisingly affordable way to travel, as a 7-night cruise can be had for as cheap as $79/night with meals included. A $250 flight and a $550 cruise for 7-nights is quite an affordable vacation, given the alternatives.

Once you’ve gotten to know the Caribbean a bit, and once you’ve chosen a favorite destination or two, it’s time to immerse yourself into that island’s experience. As we mentioned above, most Caribbean islands have more than enough entertainment for one 7-day vacation. While San Juan, Puerto Rico can be a great port for a long-term cruise, the island of Puerto Rico is an excellent destination itself.

Boutique Hotel, Luxury Resort or Backpack Hostel?

Sure, you could pay $900 a night for a suite at a luxury resort, or you could enjoy an authentic experience at a fine boutique hotel. You could also skip both and opt for a $20/night hostel on most islands in the Caribbean. Each type of lodging has its value to different kinds of travelers, and everyone should strive to experience each at least once in their lives. For your trip, how should you choose between the hostel, the boutique or the resort? Let’s explore that in detail.

The Hostel Experience

Hostels are a common way for young travelers to experience new countries on a tight budget. They’re communal by nature, as lodgings are often shared between multiple guests, meals are prepared by many for many and the people you meet often make for long-term friendships. Even if you’re not a college-aged single traveler, hostels can be an affordable way for many adults to explore a new country. There are hostels throughout the Caribbean and many can be had for as little as $17 a night. In Puerto Rico, for example, the Palace Hostel of San Juan is just a few blocks away from the Caribe Hilton and the luxury resorts of the Condado district. Instead of paying $300/night for a basic room in a large resort, you can get away with paying $20/night in a community hostel– besides, the beaches are free no matter where you stay in San Juan.

The Boutique Hotel Experience

As much as we’d love to be objective, we have to admit– the boutique hotel is our own favorite way to travel. The rates are often lower than the luxury resorts, the service is much more personalized and the properties are often more authentic than any other hotel could offer. Continuing with the example of San Juan, Puerto Rico, we adore The Gallery Inn at the peak of the Old San Juan historic district. The Gallery Inn is the work of artist and hotelier Jan D’Esopo, her husband Manuco and her family of exotic birds. This boutique hotel is housed in a group of interconnected 18th century properties faithfully restored by D’Esopo herself. The property is absolutely exquisite, offering 22 guest rooms from single-room studios to magnificent suites. The rooftop wine deck is at the highest point in San Juan, providing unparalleled views of the city and the sea below. The rates for a suite are often lower than most resorts in San Juan, and the experience is much more fulfilling, at least in our eyes. This is often true of boutique hotels here and the world over, and we try to emphasize the boutique option early and often.

The Luxury Resort Experience

There’s no limit to the level of luxury you can find in the Caribbean– and no limit to how much you can spend to achieve that luxury. The best luxury resorts in the Caribbean offer pristine grounds, impeccable service, immaculate rooms and exquisite cuisine. If the idea of ultimate relaxation is enticing to you, you can find what you’re looking for in the Caribbean. Fortunately, the resort experience can be had for a few hundred a night on most islands, while the luxury resort cost can climb into the four figures per night elsewhere. Once again, using the example of San Juan, Puerto Rico, the Ritz Carlton resort can be had for as little as $300/night, but can break four figures when you consider suite amenities.

TheCoolist’s Top 5 Caribbean Island Destinations

If we had to choose five Caribbean island destinations to provide the quintessential travel experience, we’d suggest these. From the flat coral islands of the Bahamas to the dynamic landscapes of the Lesser Antilles, these five islands present the true feel of the Caribbean.

5. Nassau and Paradise Island – Bahamas

Nassau’s proximity to the United States makes it an easy-yet-rewarding option for Caribbean travel. A flight from Miami to Nassau takes less than an hour, and Nassau’s airport handles daily flights from many airports throughout the US. The pearl of Nassau’s vacation offering is Paradise Island, home to the massive Atlantis Resort which commands a startling 11% of the Bahamian gross national product. We’re going to steer you elsewhere, however, as there are better vacation options regardless of your budget. If money is no consequence, head to the One & Only Ocean Club just down the beach from Atlantis. You might recognize the One & Only resort from its setting in the James Bond film Casino Royale, where Daniel Craig’s 007 met the lovely Bond Girl Solange. If you want to visit the One & Only, expect to pay the premium– rooms start in the $1,000/night range. In terms of service, style and amenity, you can expect to get your money’s worth and then some at this amazing luxury resort.

Alternatively, if the budget is tight, we’d suggest the hostel experience at The Towne Hostel , where beds can be had for $28 a night and the ratings are excellent. This lodging option is a bit further away from Paradise Island but is closer to the native Nassau experience. The boutique options are even more exciting in Nassau, and we suggest A Stone’s Throw Away , an authentic, vintage-style hotel with rates starting at $185 per night. This enchanting little hotel is perched on a high point in Nassau, overlooking the beaches and lush nature that make the Bahamas so special. You cannot go wrong here, fellow traveler.

4. St. Barth’s – Lesser Antilles

When it comes to celebrity chic, St. Barth’s might be the hottest spot in the Caribbean. It’s not unusual to see the private yacht of this actress or that rapper or even a foreign dignitary in the harbors of St. Barth’s. In fact, it’s practically commonplace. If you have a celebrity-style budget to experience this stunning island nation, we suggest resting your head at Hotel Le Toiny , an expansive luxury resort with just about every amenity money can buy. With rooms starting at roughly $1,000 USD, it might be priced outside of the budget of most travelers. Fortunately, there are plenty of other options on this little pearl of the Caribbean sea.

For about half of the cost of a room at Le Toiny, the Design Hotels property Villa La Banane is an excellent boutique alternative. This hotel is furnished with fine restored vintage furniture throughout a plantation-style setting with an emphasis on intimacy. While $500/night is still quite expensive, the hostel alternative is an accessible route for a St. Barth’s experience. The Normandie Hotel provides private rooms for $150/night, much more expensive than your standard hostel. A standard hostel, this isn’t. It’s a hotel in it’s own right with private rooms and community amenities. It’s the hostel experience with a hotel bedroom, and the price is right compared to the luxury options. Last, notice the French-language trend in hotel names? You might want to dust off your basic French before visiting St. Barth’s, as English is a second language on this island.

3. Puerto Rico – Greater Antilles

We’ve already covered three prime options for lodging in Puerto Rico, namely the Ritz Carlton San Juan, The Gallery Inn and the Palace Hostel of San Juan. It was no mistake to emphasize Puerto Rico earlier in this article, as it is truly a remarkable place. With its foundation in 1520 by Spanish explorers, San Juan is the oldest city in the jurisdiction of the United States. It’s relation to the US also means you don’t need a passport to visit, and its cruise port is a window to nearly every major island in the Caribbean archipelago. There is so much to love about Puerto Rico for the Caribbean traveler, but if you don’t plan properly, you could miss it.

If you travel to experience world cultures, San Juan, Puerto Rico should be on your bucket list. Old San Juan is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, a remarkable historic quarter with incredible 18th century architecture and streets that were paved with blue bricks shipped one-by-one from Spain. This may be the most culturally-significant city in the entire Caribbean, and one that every culture traveler should experience. If culture isn’t your thing, rest-assured that relaxation of every kind can be had on the stunning beaches of Condado, of Vieques and the other areas of modern Puerto Rico.

2. British Virgin Islands – Lesser Antilles

The British Virgin Islands is a group of 60+ islands that collectively hail Britain as an overseas territory. They also boast some of the most visually stunning islands in the entire Caribbean, like the exotic beauty of the island Virgin Gorda. Speaking of virgin, the founder of the Virgin Records/Air/Galactic empire Richard Branson owns one of the BVI’s (as they are often called), Necker Island , which is rentable for wealthy visitors. The rates for a Necker Island stay are not public, but available through a US or UK sales office. Given the reputation of the Virgin Empire of Mr. Branson, we can’t imagine a better luxury retreat in the BVIs.

If a boutique option is on your radar, we suggest the Bitter End Yacht Club International , a collection of hotel villas inset into a hill overlooking the Caribbean expanse from Virgin Gorda. Rooms can be had here for $280 and up, a decent price for such an exclusive stay. While hostel options aren’t well known in the BVI’s, there are plenty of other boutique hotels and bed and breakfasts available for those who like to dig a bit before they book.

1. St. Lucia – Lesser Antilles

With its dynamic topography, crisp blue seas and lush green flora, it’s hard to distinguish St. Lucia from the other great beach destinations of the world. When visiting, can you tell whether you’re staying in St. Lucia, Bali, Cabo san Lucas or another exotic destination? This tiny island is truly out of this world, and visitors to the Caribbean are fortunate to have this one so close. That said, where to stay? We suggest Hotel Chocolat , one of the finest luxury hotels in the region. One of the reasons we placed St. Lucia so high on our list is that a five star resort like Hotel Chocolat can be had for boutique prices. Rooms start at $350 in the off-season, making this one pretty accessible by luxury standards.

In terms of boutique options on St. Lucia, be sure to check out the newly opened Ginger Lily Hotel . Rates start at under $100 USD, and the property looks better than many other, more expensive retreats on other Caribbean islands. No matter where you stay in St. Lucia, be sure to explore the high-reaching mountains of this diverse island and the picturebook harbors and inlets that dot its coastline. St. Lucia is perfect for those who prefer relaxation and eco-travel over the high-culture, high-luxury escapes throughout this archipelago. When it comes to peace and serene beauty, however, it’s hard to beat this tiny little gem in the center of the Lesser Antilles.

– – – – – – – – – – –

Thanks for reading, fellow traveler. Do you have a favorite island or hotel that you think our readers should explore? Be sure to share in the comments, we’d love to hear your side of things. The Caribbean is a truly amazing place, and we’re excited to continue exploring it and sharing these experiences with you. Stay safe and enjoy yourselves, friends.

(images via: flickr 1 , 2 , 3 ,4, 5 ,6, 7 , main image by collin erickson )

TheCoolist is a mood board for your headspace . We help curate your cool through deep dives into topics of self-actualization, lifestyle, and interpersonal intelligence. Our articles maintain a high degree of informational integrity, deconstructing complex topics such as personality types, spirituality, socialization, culture, and much more.

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18 Best Places to Visit in the Caribbean

Written by Anietra Hamper Updated Mar 19, 2024

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

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

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

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

1. British Virgin Islands

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

• Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Aruba

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

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

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

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

• Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Jamaica

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

• Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Anguilla

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

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

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

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

• Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Grenada

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in the Bahamas

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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.

More on Bahamas

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The Best Ways To Fly to the Caribbean With Points and Miles

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Table of Contents

Nonstop flights between the u.s. and the caribbean, best programs for booking flights, final thoughts.

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The Caribbean is an enormously popular region for U.S. travelers — and for good reason. It’s known for incredible weather, beautiful beaches, an abundance of culture, incredible cuisine, and so much more. Even better, it’s just a short flight away for many Americans, so it’s an easy trip.

Today, let’s take a look at the best ways to fly to the Caribbean with your points and miles.

Thanks to the immense beauty and proximity of the Caribbean, there’s a ton of demand from U.S. travelers. Thankfully, all of the major U.S. airlines and many low-cost airlines offer flights to a number of islands in the region.

This area of the world is made up of a number of countries and islands that include:

• Antigua and Barbuda
• The Bahamas
• British Virgin Islands
• Cayman Islands
• Dominican Republic
• Puerto Rico
• Sint Eustatius
• Sint Maarten
• St. Barthélemy
• St. Kitts and Nevis
• St. Vincent and The Grenadines
• Trinidad and Tobago
• Turks and Caicos Islands
• U.S. Virgin Islands

This guide focuses on booking flights on full-service carriers as opposed to low-cost carriers like Spirit or Frontier, simply because you can generally get better value when booking business or first class flights with points.

Check out some of these airlines offering nonstop flights between the U.S. and the Caribbean:

American Airlines

• Boston (BOS) – Grand Cayman (GCM)
• Boston (BOS) – Montego Bay (MBJ)
• Boston (BOS) – Nassau (NAS)
• Boston (BOS) – Providenciales (PLS)
• Boston (BOS) – Punta Cana (PUJ)
• Charlotte (CLT) – Antigua (ANU)
• Charlotte (CLT) – Aruba (AUA)
• Charlotte (CLT) – Bridgetown (BGI)
• Charlotte (CLT) – Curaçao (CUR)
• Charlotte (CLT) – Grand Cayman (GCM)
• Charlotte (CLT) – Grenada (GND)
• Charlotte (CLT) – Montego Bay (MBJ)
• Charlotte (CLT) – Nassau (NAS)
• Charlotte (CLT) – Providenciales (PLS)
• Charlotte (CLT) – Puerto Plata (POP)
• Charlotte (CLT) – Punta Cana (PUJ)
• Charlotte (CLT) – San Juan (SJU)
• Charlotte (CLT) – Samaná (AZS)
• Charlotte (CLT) – Saint Croix (STX)
• Charlotte (CLT) – Saint Kitts (SKB)
• Charlotte (CLT) – Saint Lucia (UVF)
• Charlotte (CLT) – Saint Thomas (STT)
• Charlotte (CLT) – Santo Domingo (SDQ)
• Charlotte (CLT) – Sint Maarten (SXM)
• Chicago (ORD) – Aruba (AUA)
• Chicago (ORD) – Grand Cayman (GCM)
• Chicago (ORD) – Montego Bay (MBJ)
• Chicago (ORD) – Nassau (NAS)
• Chicago (ORD) – Providenciales (PLS)
• Chicago (ORD) – Punta Cana (PUJ)
• Chicago (ORD) – Saint Lucia (UVF)
• Chicago (ORD) – Saint Thomas (STT)
• Chicago (ORD) – San Juan (SJU)
• Dallas-Fort Worth (DFW) – Aruba (AUA)
• Dallas-Fort Worth (DFW) – Grand Cayman (GCM)
• Dallas-Fort Worth (DFW) – Nassau (NAS)
• Dallas-Fort Worth (DFW) – Montego Bay (MBJ)
• Dallas-Fort Worth (DFW) – Providenciales (PLS)
• Dallas-Fort Worth (DFW) – Punta Cana (PUJ)
• Dallas-Fort Worth (DFW) – Saint Lucia (UVF)
• Dallas-Fort Worth (DFW) – Saint Thomas (STT)
• Dallas-Fort Worth (DFW) – San Juan (SJU)
• Dallas-Fort Worth (DFW) – Santo Domingo (SDQ)
• Dallas-Fort Worth (DFW) – Sint Maarten (SXM)
• Fort Lauderdale (FLL) – Port-au-Prince (PAP)
• Miami (MIA) – Anguilla (AXA)
• Miami (MIA) – Antigua (ANU)
• Miami (MIA) – Aruba (AUA)
• Miami (MIA) – Bridgetown (BGI)
• Miami (MIA) – Bonaire (BON)
• Miami (MIA) – Curaçao (CUR)
• Miami (MIA) – Dominica (DOM)
• Miami (MIA) – Fort-de-France (FDF)
• Miami (MIA) – Freeport (FPO)
• Miami (MIA) – Grand Cayman (GCM)
• Miami (MIA) – Grenada (GND)
• Miami (MIA) – Kingston (KIN)
• Miami (MIA) – Nassau (NAS)
• Miami (MIA) – Montego Bay (MBJ)
• Miami (MIA) – Port-au-Prince (PAP)
• Miami (MIA) – Port of Spain (POS)
• Miami (MIA) – Puerto Plata (POP)
• Miami (MIA) – Providenciales (PLS)
• Miami (MIA) – Punta Cana (PUJ)
• Miami (MIA) – Saint Croix (STX)
• Miami (MIA) – Saint Lucia (UVF)
• Miami (MIA) – Saint Kitts (SKB)
• Miami (MIA) – Saint Thomas (STT)
• Miami (MIA) – San Juan (SJU)
• Miami (MIA) – Santo Domingo (SDQ)
• Miami (MIA) – Sint Maarten (SXM)
• New York (LGA) – Aruba (AUA)
• New York (LGA) – Nassau (NAS)
• New York (JFK) – Antigua (ANU)
• New York (JFK) – Montego Bay (MBJ)
• New York (JFK) – Providenciales (PLS)
• New York (JFK) – Punta Cana (PUJ)
• New York (JFK) – Saint Kitts (SKB)
• New York (JFK) – Saint Lucia (UVF)
• New York (JFK) – Saint Thomas (STT)
• New York (JFK) – Sint Maarten (SXM)
• Philadelphia (PHL) – Aruba (AUA)
• Philadelphia (PHL) – Grand Cayman (GCM)
• Philadelphia (PHL) – Kingston (KIN)
• Philadelphia (PHL) – Montego Bay (MBJ)
• Philadelphia (PHL) – Nassau (NAS)
• Philadelphia (PHL) – Providenciales (PLS)
• Philadelphia (PHL) – Punta Cana (PUJ)
• Philadelphia (PHL) – Saint Lucia (UVF)
• Philadelphia (PHL) – San Juan (SJU)
• Philadelphia (PHL) – Saint Thomas (STT)
• Philadelphia (PHL) – Santo Domingo (SDQ)
• Philadelphia (PHL) – Sint Maarten (SXM)
• Washington, D.C. (DCA) – Nassau (NAS)

Delta Air Lines

• Atlanta (ATL) – Aruba (AUA)
• Atlanta (ATL) – Antigua (ANU)
• Atlanta (ATL) – Bonaire (BON)
• Atlanta (ATL) – George Town (GGT)
• Atlanta (ATL) – Grand Cayman (GCM)
• Atlanta (ATL) – Kingston (KIN)
• Atlanta (ATL) – Montego Bay (MBJ)
• Atlanta (ATL) – Nassau (NAS)
• Atlanta (ATL) – North Eleuthera (ELH)
• Atlanta (ATL) – Providenciales (PLS)
• Atlanta (ATL) – Punta Cana (PUJ)
• Atlanta (ATL) – Saint Croix (STX)
• Atlanta (ATL) – Saint Kitts (SKB)
• Atlanta (ATL) – Saint Lucia (UVF)
• Atlanta (ATL) – Saint Thomas (STT)
• Atlanta (ATL) – San Juan (SJU)
• Atlanta (ATL) – Santo Domingo (SDQ)
• Atlanta (ATL) – Sint Maarten (SXM)
• Boston (BOS) – Aruba (AUA)
• Boston (BOS) – Saint Thomas (STT)
• Detroit (DTW) – Montego Bay (MBJ)
• Detroit (DTW) – Punta Cana (PUJ)
• Minneapolis (MSP) – Montego Bay (MBJ)
• Minneapolis (MSP) – Punta Cana (PUJ)
• Minneapolis (MSP) – San Juan (SJU)
• New York (JFK) – Aruba (AUA)
• New York (JFK) – Nassau (NAS)
• New York (JFK) – San Juan (SJU)
• New York (JFK) – Santo Domingo (SDQ)

JetBlue (Mint-equipped Routes)

• Boston (BOS) – Bridgetown (BGI)
• Boston (BOS) – Granada (GND)
• Boston (BOS) – Sint Maarten (SXM)
• Boston (BOS) – Saint Lucia (UVF)
• New York (JFK) – Bridgetown (BGI)
• New York (JFK) – Granada (GND)
• Newark (EWR) – Aruba (AUA)
• Newark (EWR) – Bridgetown (BGI)
• Newark (EWR) – Sint Maarten (SXM)
• Newark (EWR) – Saint Thomas (STT)
• Newark (EWR) – Saint Lucia (UVF)

United Airlines

• Chicago (ORD) – Sint Maarten (SXM)
• Houston (IAH) – Aruba (AUA)
• Houston (IAH) – Bonaire (BON)
• Houston (IAH) – Grand Cayman (GCM)
• Houston (IAH) – Havana (HAV)
• Houston (IAH) – Montego Bay (MBJ)
• Houston (IAH) – Nassau (NAS)
• Houston (IAH) – Port of Spain (POS)
• Houston (IAH) – Providenciales (PLS)
• Houston (IAH) – Punta Cana (PUJ)
• Houston (IAH) – Saint Thomas (STT)
• Houston (IAH) – San Juan (SJU)
• Newark (EWR) – Antigua (ANU)
• Newark (EWR) – Bonaire (BON)
• Newark (EWR) – Curaçao (CUR)
• Newark (EWR) – Grand Cayman (GCM)
• Newark (EWR) – Havana (HAV)
• Newark (EWR) – Montego Bay (MBJ)
• Newark (EWR) – Nassau (NAS)
• Newark (EWR) – Providenciales (PLS)
• Newark (EWR) – Puerto Plata (POP)
• Newark (EWR) – Punta Cana (PUJ)
• Newark (EWR) – San Juan (SJU)
• Newark (EWR) – Saint Kitts (SKB)
• Newark (EWR) – Santo Domingo (SDQ)
• Washington, D.C. (IAD) – Aruba (AUA)
• Washington, D.C. (IAD) – Bridgetown (BGI)
• Washington, D.C. (IAD) – Grand Cayman (GCM)
• Washington, D.C. (IAD) – Montego Bay (MBJ)
• Washington, D.C. (IAD) – Nassau (NAS)
• Washington, D.C. (IAD) – Providenciales (PLS)
• Washington, D.C. (IAD) – Punta Cana (PUJ)
• Washington, D.C. (IAD) – Saint Thomas (STT)
• Washington, D.C. (IAD) – San Juan (SJU)
• Washington, D.C. (IAD) – Santo Domingo (SDQ)
• Washington, D.C. (IAD) – Sint Maarten (SXM)

Hot Tip: In addition to booking for your flight to the Caribbean with miles, you can book some great Caribbean hotels with points too.

It’s important to note that award availability can be found both close to departure and far in advance — not typically what you’ll see when you’re booking business and first class on long-haul flights, such as those from the U.S. to Australia .

What’s great about having so many U.S. airlines flying to the Caribbean is that you’ll have a ton of options to book award flights. In this post, you’ll find the Oneworld , Star Alliance , SkyTeam , and non-alliance airline programs that you can use to book flights to the Caribbean.

On a high level, American Airlines is most generous in providing award availability to partners, while United and Delta are generally stingier.

This means AA flights are generally easy to book using partner currencies like British Airways Avios and Alaska Airlines miles.

Air Canada Aeroplan

Air Canada Aeroplan is known for having a unique award chart — the amount of miles you’ll pay depends on how many miles your itinerary covers.

With 45,000 Aeroplan points, you can book round-trip economy flights between any North American destination that exceeds 2,750 flight miles. Business class is 70,000 points.

Flights between 1,501 and 2,750 flight miles, however, will cost 25,000 points round-trip in economy and 50,000 points round-trip in business class.

Follow these steps to book your award flight:

• Head to Air Canada’s homepage .
• Enter your travel dates, origin and destination airports, number of travelers, and desired class of booking.
• Book the flight with Aeroplan points in your account and pay the taxes and fees with a credit card.

If you’re looking to visit the Caribbean, here are a couple of example round-trip routes that you book with your Aeroplan points:

• Chicago (ORD) – San Juan (SJU) for 25,000 Aeroplan points + ~$31 in taxes and fees in economy class on United
• Houston (IAH) – Bonaire (BON) for 50,000 Aeroplan points + ~$31 in taxes and fees in business class on United
• Montréal (YUL) – Punta Cana (PUJ) for 25,000 Aeroplan points + ~$31 in taxes and fees in economy class on Air Canada
• Newark (EWR) – Aruba (AUA) for 50,000 Aeroplan points + ~$31 in taxes and fees in business class on United
• Washington, D.C. (IAD) – Bridgetown (BGI) for 50,000 Aeroplan points + ~$31 in taxes and fees in business class on United

Earning Aeroplan Points

Earning Aeroplan points is easy because the airline is an American Express transfer partner ,  Capital One transfer partner ,  Chase transfer partner , and a  Marriott Bonvoy transfer partner .

If you’re looking to transfer points from 1 of these programs to Aeroplan, you’ll want to keep the transfer ratios and transfer times in mind.

Amex and Chase points transfer instantly at a 1:1 ratio, Capital One miles transfer instantly at a 1:1 ratio, and Marriott Bonvoy point transfers take 5 days at a 3:1 ratio.

You can also opt to acquire the co-branded Chase Aeroplan ® Credit Card, which earns 3x points per $1 spent on dining, groceries, and Air Canada, as well as 1x point per $1 spent everywhere else.

Recommended Chase Credit Cards

A fantastic travel card with a huge welcome offer, good benefits, and perks for a moderate annual fee.

The Chase Sapphire Preferred ® card is one of the best travel rewards cards on the market. Its bonus categories include travel, dining, online grocery purchases, and streaming services, which gives you the opportunity to earn lots of bonus points on these purchases.

Additionally, it offers flexible point redemption options, no foreign transaction fees, and excellent travel insurance coverage including primary car rental insurance . With benefits like these, it’s easy to see why this card is an excellent choice for any traveler.

• 5x points on all travel booked via the Chase Travel portal
• 5x points on select Peloton purchases over $150 (through March 31, 2025)
• 5x points on Lyft purchases (through March 31, 2025)
• $95 annual fee
• No elite benefits like airport lounge access or hotel elite status
• Earn 75,000 bonus points after you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening. That’s over $900 when you redeem through Chase Travel SM .
• Enjoy benefits such as 5x on travel purchased through Chase Travel SM , 3x on dining, select streaming services and online groceries, 2x on all other travel purchases, 1x on all other purchases, $50 Annual Chase Travel Hotel Credit, plus more.
• Get 25% more value when you redeem for airfare, hotels, car rentals and cruises through Chase Travel SM . For example, 75,000 points are worth $937.50 toward travel.
• Count on Trip Cancellation/Interruption Insurance, Auto Rental Collision Damage Waiver, Lost Luggage Insurance and more.
• Get complimentary access to DashPass which unlocks $0 delivery fees and lower service fees for a minimum of one year when you activate by December 31, 2024.
• Member FDIC
• APR: 21.49%-28.49% Variable
• Foreign Transaction Fees: None

Chase Ultimate Rewards

A top player in the high-end premium travel credit card space that earns 3x points on travel and dining while offering top luxury perks.

If you’re looking for an all-around excellent travel rewards card, the Chase Sapphire Reserve ®  is one of the best options out there.

The card combines elite travel benefits and perks like airport lounge access , with excellent point earning and redemption options.  Plus it offers top-notch travel insurance protections to keep you covered whether you’re at home or on the road.

Don’t forget the $300 annual travel credit which really helps to reduce the annual fee!

• 10x total points on hotels and car rentals when you purchase travel through Chase TravelSM immediately after the first $300 is spent on travel purchases annually
• 10x points on Lyft purchases March 31, 2025
• 10x points on Peloton equipment and accessory purchases over $250 through March 31, 2025
• $550 annual fee
• Does not offer any sort of hotel elite status
• Earn 75,000 bonus points after you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening. That’s $1,125 toward travel when you redeem through Chase Travel SM .
• $300 Annual Travel Credit as reimbursement for travel purchases charged to your card each account anniversary year.
• Earn 5x total points on flights and 10x total points on hotels and car rentals when you purchase travel through Chase Travel SM  immediately after the first $300 is spent on travel purchases annually. Earn 3x points on other travel and dining & 1 point per $1 spent on all other purchases
• Get 50% more value when you redeem your points for travel through Chase Travel SM . For example, 75,000 points are worth $1125 toward travel.
• 1:1 point transfer to leading airline and hotel loyalty programs
• Access to 1,300+ airport lounges worldwide after an easy, one-time enrollment in Priority Pass TM  Select and up to $100 application fee credit every four years for Global Entry, NEXUS, or TSA PreCheck ®
• APR: 22.49%-29.49% Variable
• Foreign Transaction Fees: $0

Hot Tip: Did you know that you don’t even have to fly to earn Aeroplan points? See how you can earn miles simply by shopping at Aeroplan’s eStore .

Alaska Airlines Mileage Plan

Alaska Airlines Mileage Plan is one of the most valuable loyalty programs around, thanks to individual partnerships with several airlines and favorable redemption rates. In the case of award flights to the Caribbean, American Airlines is the airline partner you’ll fly.

Alaska is known for its routing rules that allow you to book a stopover , even on one-way flights. This means you can be creative with your Caribbean itinerary by building in a stopover on your trip.

35,000 Alaska miles is enough to book round-trip economy flights between the U.S. and the Caribbean. Business class, on the other hand, will run you 55,000 miles round-trip.

Here’s a breakdown of the costs for round-trip flights booked through Alaska:

• Go to Alaska Airlines’ website .
• Search for your routing, dates of travel, cabin class, number of passengers, and enable Use Miles .
• Click the flight that you want, click Add To Cart , and then click Next .
• Book the award ticket.

Below are a couple of examples of round-trip American Airlines flights that you can book with your Alaska Airlines miles:

• Dallas-Fort Worth (DFW) – Montego Bay (MBJ)  for 55,000 Alaska miles in business class on American
• New York (JFK) – Antigua (ANU) for 55,000 Alaska miles in business class on American
• New York (LGA) – Nassau (NAS) for 35,000 Alaska miles in economy class on American
• Philadelphia (PHL) – Kingston (KIN) for 55,000 Alaska miles in business class on American
• Washington, D.C. (DCA) – Nassau (NAS) for 55,000 Alaska miles in business class on American

Earning Alaska Mileage Plan Miles

It can be tough to earn Alaska Airlines miles , because Alaska only partners with 1 transferable point program: Marriott Bonvoy. Point transfers take 2 business days at a 3:1 ratio, and you’ll receive a bonus of 5,000 Alaska miles for every 60,000 Marriott Bonvoy points you transfer.

While the Alaska miles are relatively hard to earn, they are valuable because of how competitive the Alaska award charts are.

In addition to partnering with Marriott Bonvoy, Alaska Airlines offers co-branded Bank of America credit cards, though the easiest way to earn Alaska miles is to transfer them from Marriott Bonvoy.

We explore the large number of Marriott credit cards available in our detailed guide.

Bottom Line: The Alaska Airlines Mileage Plan program shines because of 2 factors: 1) the ability to book a stopover, and 2) competitive award prices when flying with partner airlines. 

American Airlines AAdvantage

American Airlines is a member of the Oneworld alliance and is best known for its competitive redemption prices for partner airline flights to the Middle East and Africa . Using AAdvantage miles for flights to the Caribbean is sometimes overlooked, but it can be very valuable.

American considers the following destinations to be in its Caribbean region:

• St. Maarten

Here’s a look at what you can expect to pay for round-trip award flights:

When you’re ready to book a flight, follow the steps below:

• Head to American Airlines’ website .
• Search for your routing, dates of travel, cabin class, and number of passengers.
• Select the flight that you want, book the flight, and pay the taxes and fees with a credit card.

Here are a few examples of round-trip award flights you can book:

• Boston (BOS) – Grand Cayman (GCM) for 50,000 American miles in American business class
• Charlotte (CLT) – Havana (HAV) for 25,000 American miles in American off-peak economy
• Charlotte (CLT) – Samaná (AZS) for 50,000 American miles in American business class
• Chicago (ORD) – San Juan (SJU) for 25,000 American miles in American off-peak economy
• Dallas-Fort Worth (DFW) – Aruba (AUA) for 50,000 American miles in American business class
• Miami (MIA) – Dominica (DOM) for 50,000 American miles in American business class

Earning American Airlines AAdvantage Miles

AAdvantage miles are fairly easy to earn because American offers a number of co-branded credit cards and partners with Marriott Bonvoy.

Earning miles directly from American Airlines credit cards is the easiest way to earn miles, however, transfers from Marriott Bonvoy shouldn’t be overlooked.

If you’re looking to transfer your Marriott Bonvoy points to American, expect transfers to be complete in 2 days at a 3:1 ratio.

Bottom Line: American Airlines and Alaska Airlines are the 2 major U.S. airlines that have not moved their award charts to dynamic pricing. United Airlines was the most recent airline to do this, and American’s made some moves towards dynamic pricing, so don’t be surprised if American’s award chart goes away completely in the not-so-distant future.

Asiana Airlines Asiana Club

Asiana Airlines continually flies under the radar. It’s a South Korea-based Star Alliance partner that can be used to book partner flights to the Caribbean. The Asiana Club program considers these destinations to be in its Central America region:

• St. Vincent

Here’s a look at what you can expect to pay for round-trip flights:

Thanks to Asiana’s membership in the Star Alliance, you can book Air Canada or United Airlines flights.

Unfortunately, you can’t book Star Alliance partner awards on Asiana’s website, so you’ll need to call the airline to book. Follow these steps:

• Search for award availability using Air Canada and/or United .
• Enter your route, travel dates, number of passengers, and cabin class.
• Write down all the flight information, including flight numbers, dates, and times.
• Call Asiana Airlines at 800-227-4262 between 8:30 a.m. and 5:30 p.m. PST Monday to Friday.
• Tell the representative that you want to book an Air Canada or United award flight.
• Provide the flight numbers, travel dates, and any other flight information.
• Once they’ve confirmed the award space, provide them with your credit card to pay for taxes and fees.

Here are some examples of round-trip flights you can book:

• Chicago (ORD) – Grand Cayman (GCM) for 55,000 Asiana miles in United business class
• Houston (IAH) – Havana (HAV) for 55,000 Asiana miles in United business class
• Newark (EWR) – Montego Bay (MBJ) for 35,000 Asiana miles in United economy class
• Toronto (YYZ) – Nassau (NAS) for 55,000 Asiana miles in Air Canada business class
• Washington, D.C. (IAD) – Providenciales (PLS) for 55,000 Asiana miles in United business class

Hot Tip: Check out our step-by-step guide on booking United business class with points .

Earning asiana miles.

The primary way to earn Asiana miles is to transfer Marriott Bonvoy points to Asiana. The transfer ratio is 3:1 and you’ll receive a 5,000-mile bonus for every 60,000 Marriott Bonvoy points you transfer. Note, however, that Bonvoy points take 10 days to transfer  to Asiana.

Avianca LifeMiles

The Avianca LifeMiles program is known for its Star Alliance sweet spots and for not passing on fuel surcharges , though there is a $25 award booking fee for one-way award flights. Sadly, Avianca LifeMiles won’t allow open jaws or stopovers on its awards flights.

Here’s a look at the miles required for round-trip flights, along with taxes and fees:

Keep this in mind as you follow these steps to book your next flight:

• Go to Avianca LifeMiles . Change the language as necessary by clicking on the flag icon in the top right corner and choosing English .
• Click  Log in on the top right corner.
• Click  Fly at the top banner. Type in your origin and destination airports, number of passengers, and cabin class. Click  Find Flights .
• Click and select your flights and reserve them by paying with LifeMiles and your credit card for taxes and fees.

Here are a few examples of round-trip flights you can book:

• Chicago (ORD) – Sint Maarten (SXM) for 70,000 Avianca LifeMiles in United business class
• Houston (IAH) – Nassau (NAS) for 35,000 Avianca LifeMiles in United economy class
• Newark (EWR) – Curaçao (CUR) for 70,000 Avianca LifeMiles in United business class
• Toronto (YYZ) – Antigua (ANU) for 35,000 Avianca LifeMiles in Air Canada economy class
• Washington, D.C. (IAD) – Saint Thomas (STT) for 70,000 Avianca LifeMiles in United business class

Earning Avianca LifeMiles

LifeMiles partners with Amex Membership Rewards, Brex Rewards , Capital One, Citi ThankYou Rewards , and Marriott Bonvoy, meaning you can transfer these points directly to Avianca to book an award flight.

American Express, Capital One, and Citi points transfer instantly at a 1:1 ratio, while Brex points transfer in up to 1 business day at a 1:1 ratio. Marriott Bonvoy points transfer in less than 24 hours at a 3:1 ratio.

If you’re looking to earn even more LifeMiles , Avianca offers co-branded credit cards from Banco Popular.

You can also purchase LifeMiles directly. Avianca has sales with bonuses of up to 200% with some frequency, so you’ll definitely want to wait to buy miles until a sale is offered.

Recommended Citi Card

*The information regarding the Citi Premier card has expired and the card is no longer open to applicants.

The Citi Premier ® Card is an excellent option for anyone looking for an all-around travel rewards credit card. The card helps you earn points fast with great 3x bonus categories such as restaurants, supermarkets, gas stations, airfare, and hotels. Plus, it offers access to airline and hotel transfer partners, doesn’t charge foreign transaction fees, and has a reasonable annual fee!

• 3x points at restaurants, supermarkets, gas stations, airfare, and hotel purchases
• Access to Citi transfer partners
• Annual hotel credit
• $95 annual fee
• Earn 60,000 bonus ThankYou ® Points after you spend $4,000 in purchases within the first 3 months of account opening. Plus, for a limited time, earn a total of 10 ThankYou ® Points per $1 spent on hotel, car rentals, and attractions (excluding air travel) booked on the Citi Travel℠ portal through June 30, 2024.
• Earn 3 Points per $1 spent at Gas Stations, Air Travel and Other Hotels
• Earn 3 Points per $1 spent at Restaurants and Supermarkets
• Earn 1 Point per $1 spent on all other purchases
• Annual Hotel Savings Benefit
• 60,000 ThankYou ® Points are redeemable for $600 in gift cards redeemable for $600 in gift cards or travel rewards at thankyou.com
• No expiration and no limit to the amount of points you can earn with this card
• No Foreign Transaction Fees on purchases
• APR: 21.24% - 29.24% Variable

Citi ThankYou Rewards

British Airways Executive Club

British Airways recently updated its partner award charts, though fortunately pricing for flights to the Caribbean was not affected that much, so the British Airways Executive Club continues to be a viable option for booking these flights.

U.S. travelers may be familiar with the Executive Club program because of how cheaply you can book domestic American Airlines flights. As a reminder, British Airways charges per segment , so you’ll want to avoid making connections if at all possible.

This is what you can generally expect to pay for round-trip flights when booking through British Airways:

Follow these steps to use your Avios on your next trip:

• Head to British Airways’ website .
• Search for your routing, dates of travel, cabin class, and the number of passengers.
• Select the flight you want.
• Book the award flight and pay the taxes and fees with your credit card.

Examples of round-trip American Airlines flights you can book with British Airways Avios include:

• Boston (BOS) – Montego Bay (MBJ) for 44,000 British Airways Avios in American business class
• Charlotte (CLT) – Puerto Plata (POP) for 44,000 British Airways Avios in American business class
• Chicago (ORD) – Saint Thomas (STT) for 77,500 British Airways Avios in American business class
• Dallas-Fort Worth (DFW) – San Juan (SJU) for 77,500 British Airways Avios in American business class
• Miami (MIA) – Anguilla (AXA) for 44,000 British Airways Avios in American business class
• Miami (MIA) – Nassau (NAS) for 18,000 British Airways Avios in American economy
• Philadelphia (PHL) – Aruba (AUA) for 44,000 British Airways Avios in American business class
• Philadelphia (PHL) – Providenciales (PLS) for 44,000 British Airways Avios in American business class

Earning British Airways Avios

British Airways Avios are easy to earn because the airline partners with Amex Membership Rewards, Capital One, Chase Ultimate Rewards, and Marriott Bonvoy. When you earn points in any of these programs, the points can be transferred directly to British Airways .

American Express, Capital One, and Chase transfer instantly at a 1:1 ratio. Marriott Bonvoy points transfer in about 1 day at a 3:1 ratio. You’ll get a 5,000-Avios bonus for every 60,000 Marriott Bonvoy points you transfer.

In addition to its transfer partners, British Airways offers a co-branded credit card — the British Airways Visa Signature ® Card from Chase. The welcome offer on this card is typically high, helping you to earn Avios quickly.

If you’re looking to earn Amex points to transfer, consider applying for the following cards:

Recommended American Express Cards

The Amex Platinum reigns supreme for luxury travel, offering the best airport lounge access plus generous statement credits, and complimentary elite status.

Apply With Confidence

Know if you're approved with  no credit score impact.

If you're approved and accept this Card, your credit score may be impacted.

When it comes to cards that offer top-notch benefits, you’d be hard-pressed to find a better card out there than The Platinum Card ® from American Express.

Make no mistake — the Amex Platinum card  is a premium card with a premium price tag. With amazing benefits like best-in-class airport lounge access , hotel elite status, and tremendous value in annual statement credits, it can easily prove to be one of the most lucrative cards in your wallet year after year.

• The best airport lounge access out of any card (by far) — enjoy access to over 1,400 worldwide lounges, including the luxurious Amex Centurion Lounges, Priority Pass lounges, Plaza Premium Lounges, and many more!
• 5x points per dollar spent on flights purchased directly with the airline or with AmexTravel.com (up to $500,000 per year)
• 5x points per dollar spent on prepaid hotels booked with AmexTravel.com
• $695 annual fee ( rates and fees )
• Airline credit does not cover airfare (only incidentals like checked bags)
• Earn 80,000 Membership Rewards ® Points after you spend $8,000 on eligible purchases on your new Card in your first 6 months of Card Membership. Apply and select your preferred metal Card design: classic Platinum, Platinum x Kehinde Wiley, or Platinum x Julie Mehretu.
• Earn 5X Membership Rewards ® Points for flights booked directly with airlines or with American Express Travel up to $500,000 on these purchases per calendar year and earn 5X Membership Rewards ® Points on prepaid hotels booked with American Express Travel.
• $200 Hotel Credit: Get up to $200 back in statement credits each year on prepaid Fine Hotels + Resorts ® or The Hotel Collection bookings with American Express Travel when you pay with your Platinum Card ® . The Hotel Collection requires a minimum two-night stay.
• $240 Digital Entertainment Credit: Get up to $20 back in statement credits each month on eligible purchases made with your Platinum Card ® on one or more of the following: Disney+, a Disney Bundle, ESPN+, Hulu, The New York Times, Peacock, and The Wall Street Journal. Enrollment required.
• The American Express Global Lounge Collection ® can provide an escape at the airport. With complimentary access to more than 1,400 airport lounges across 140 countries and counting, you have more airport lounge options than any other credit card issuer on the market. As of 03/2023.
• $155 Walmart+ Credit: Save on eligible delivery fees, shipping, and more with a Walmart+ membership. Use your Platinum Card ® to pay for a monthly Walmart+ membership and get up to $12.95 plus applicable taxes back on one membership (excluding Plus Ups) each month.
• $200 Airline Fee Credit: Select one qualifying airline and then receive up to $200 in statement credits per calendar year when incidental fees are charged by the airline to your Platinum Card ® .
• $200 Uber Cash: Enjoy Uber VIP status and up to $200 in Uber savings on rides or eats orders in the US annually. Uber Cash and Uber VIP status is available to Basic Card Member only. Terms Apply.
• $189 CLEAR ® Plus Credit: CLEAR ® Plus helps to get you to your gate faster at 50+ airports nationwide and get up to $189 back per calendar year on your Membership (subject to auto-renewal) when you use your Card. CLEARLanes are available at 100+ airports, stadiums, and entertainment venues.
• Receive either a $100 statement credit every 4 years for a Global Entry application fee or a statement credit up to $85 every 4.5 year period for TSA PreCheck ® application fee for a 5-year plan only (through a TSA PreCheck ® official enrollment provider), when charged to your Platinum Card ® . Card Members approved for Global Entry will also receive access to TSA PreCheck at no additional cost.
• Shop Saks with Platinum: Get up to $100 in statement credits annually for purchases in Saks Fifth Avenue stores or at saks.com on your Platinum Card ® . That's up to $50 in statement credits semi-annually. Enrollment required.
• Unlock access to exclusive reservations and special dining experiences with Global Dining Access by Resy when you add your Platinum Card ® to your Resy profile.
• $695 annual fee.
• Terms Apply.
• APR: See Pay Over Time APR

American Express Membership Rewards

This is the best card for food lovers who dine out at restaurants (worldwide), order take-out and want big rewards at U.S. supermarkets!

The American Express ® Gold Card  is a game-changer.

With this card, you can earn 4x Membership Rewards points at restaurants and you’ll also earn 4x Membership Rewards points at U.S. supermarkets on up to $25,000 per calendar year in purchases, then 1x.

There isn’t another card on the market that offers a 1-2 punch like this. Of course, there are several other benefits of the Gold Card as well, including extra monthly dining rewards and more.

• 4x points per dollar at restaurants, plus takeout and delivery in the U.S.
• 4x points per dollar at U.S. supermarkets, up to $25,000 per calendar year in purchases; and 1x thereafter
• 3x points per dollar on flights purchased directly from airlines or at Amex Travel
• $250 annual fee (see rates and fees )
• No lounge access
• Earn 60,000 Membership Rewards ® points after you spend $6,000 on eligible purchases with your new Card within the first 6 months of Card Membership.
• Earn 4X Membership Rewards ® Points at Restaurants, plus takeout and delivery in the U.S., and earn 4X Membership Rewards ® points at U.S. supermarkets (on up to $25,000 per calendar year in purchases, then 1X).
• Earn 3X Membership Rewards ® points on flights booked directly with airlines or on amextravel.com.
• $120 Uber Cash on Gold: Add your Gold Card to your Uber account and each month automatically get $10 in Uber Cash for Uber Eats orders or Uber rides in the U.S., totaling up to $120 per year.
• $120 Dining Credit: Satisfy your cravings and earn up to $10 in statement credits monthly when you pay with the American Express ® Gold Card at Grubhub, The Cheesecake Factory, Goldbelly, Wine.com, Milk Bar and select Shake Shack locations. Enrollment required.
• Get a $100 experience credit with a minimum two-night stay when you book The Hotel Collection through American Express Travel. Experience credit varies by property.
• Choose the color that suits your style. Gold or Rose Gold.
• No Foreign Transaction Fees.
• Annual Fee is $250.

Bottom Line: British Airways should be among the first programs U.S. travelers turn to when looking to book American Airlines award flights. 

Cathay Pacific Asia Miles

Cathay Pacific Asia Miles can be an alternative to British Airways Executive Club if you already have miles or an easy way to transfer points to the program.

Unfortunately, not all Cathay Pacific airline partners can be booked online, making the booking process slightly more difficult as you’ll need to call to book your flights.

One important item to note is that there’s no publicly available award chart to use when booking an award flight with just 1 Oneworld airline partner. To figure out the number of miles needed for a specific award flight, you’ll need to reference the Cathay Pacific Asia Miles Standard Award chart and add 5,000 miles to the rate shown there.

Here’s what you can expect to pay, in general, for round-trip flights with American Airlines:

For those who want to book a flight with Asia Miles, use the steps below:

• Go to British Airways’ website .
• Select the flight that you want.
• Call Cathay Pacific at 866-892 2598 to confirm the award availability you found.

Here are some examples of round-trip American Airlines flights you can book with Asia Miles:

• Boston (BOS) – Punta Cana (PUJ) for 60,000 Asia Miles in American business class
• Charlotte (CLT) – Curaçao (CUR) for 60,000 Asia Miles in American business class
• Charlotte (CLT) – Saint Croix (STX) for 60,000 Asia Miles in American business class
• Chicago (ORD) – Grand Cayman (GCM) for 60,000 Asia Miles in American business class
• Chicago (ORD) – Nassau (NAS) for 60,000 Asia Miles in American business class
• Dallas-Fort Worth (DFW) – Santo Domingo (SDQ) for 60,000 in American business class
• Fort Lauderdale (FLL) – Port-au-Prince (PAP) for 60,000 Asia Miles in American business class
• Miami (MIA) – Fort-de-France (FDF) for 60,000 Asia Miles in American business class
• Miami (MIA) – St. Lucia (UVF) for 60,000 Asia Miles in American business class
• New York (JFK) – Antigua (ANU) for 60,000 Asia Miles in American business class
• Philadelphia (PHL) – Saint Thomas (STT) for 60,000 Asia Miles in American business class

Hot Tip: Does finding award availability on Oneworld partners seem daunting? Check out our step-by-step guide on searching for availability on Oneworld . 

Earning cathay pacific asia miles.

Earning Cathay Pacific miles is easy because the airline partners with 5 transferable point programs: Amex Membership Rewards , Brex Rewards , Capital One, Citi ThankYou Rewards, and Marriott Bonvoy.

Amex points transfer in 1 to 4 days at a 1:1 ratio, Brex points transfer in up to 1 business day at a 1:1 ratio, Capital One miles transfer in 36 hours at a 1:1 ratio, Citi Points transfer in 24 hours at a 1:1 ratio, and Marriott Bonvoy points transfer in 5 days at a 3:1 ratio.

Keep in mind that you’ll receive a 5,000-mile bonus for every 60,000 Marriott Bonvoy points you transfer.

In addition to earning miles from transfers, Cathay Pacific offers a co-branded credit card from Synchrony Bank.

Etihad Guest

Etihad Guest is a program to keep on your radar for booking flights on its partner American Airlines. This is because Etihad utilizes American Airlines’ old award prices on some award routes, allowing you to book award flights at a discount.

For just 35,000 Etihad miles, you can book round-trip economy flights between the U.S. (including Alaska and Hawaii) and Canada, Mexico, and the Caribbean — all of these areas are part of its North America region.

However, if you’re looking for business class flights, both American Airlines AAdvantage and British Airways Executive Club offer more competitive pricing.

Here’s what you can expect to pay for round-trip flights using Etihad Guest miles:

Follow these steps to book a flight:

• Call Etihad at 877-690-0767 to confirm flight award availability.
• Book the flight and pay the taxes and fees over the phone.

Here are some examples of round-trip flights you could book with your Etihad miles:

• Charlotte (CLT) – San Juan (SJU) for 60,000 Etihad miles in American business class
• Charlotte (CLT) – Bridgetown (BGI) for 60,000 Etihad miles in American business class
• Chicago (ORD) – Aruba (AUA) for 60,000 Etihad miles in American business class
• Chicago (ORD) – Montego Bay (MBJ) for 60,000 Etihad miles in American business class
• Dallas-Fort Worth (DFW) – Punta Cana (PUJ) for 60,000 Etihad miles in American business class
• Dallas-Fort Worth (DFW) – Sint Maarten (SXM) for 60,000 Etihad miles in American business class
• Miami (MIA) – Bonaire (BON) for 60,000 Etihad miles in American business class
• Miami (MIA) – Freeport (FPO) for 60,000 Etihad miles in American business class
• New York (JFK) – Antigua (ANU) for 35,000 Etihad miles in the American economy
• New York (JFK) – Saint Kitts (SKB) for 60,000 Etihad miles in American business class
• Philadelphia (PHL) – Grand Cayman (GCM) for 60,000 Etihad miles in American business class
• Philadelphia (PHL) – Nassau (NAS) for 35,000 Etihad miles in American economy

Earning Etihad Miles

It’s easy to earn Etihad miles because the airline partners with Amex Membership Rewards, Capital One, Citi ThankYou Rewards, and Marriott Bonvoy.

Etihad, unfortunately, doesn’t offer a co-branded credit card, so you’ll want to earn points in these programs and then transfer the points to Etihad.

Amex points transfer instantly at a 1:1 ratio, Capital One miles transfer in 24 to 36 hours at a 1:1 ratio, Citi Points transfer in 6 to 7 days at a 1:1 ratio, and Marriott Bonvoy points transfer in 3 to 5 days at a 3:1 ratio. Note, too, that you’ll receive a bonus of 5,000 miles for every 60,000 Marriott Bonvoy points you transfer.

Iberia Plus Avios

Similar to British Airways, Iberia Plus is a program many U.S. travelers may have used in the past because sometimes you can book American Airlines flights for less than American charges for the same flights.

The main difference between booking British Airways versus Iberia is that the latter requires you to book round-trip flights with American Airlines.

Here’s what you can generally expect to pay for round-trip flights:

Follow these steps to book your flights:

• Go to Iberia’s website .

Here are several examples of round-trip flights you can book on American using Iberia Avios:

• Boston (BOS) – Nassau (NAS) for 44,000 Iberia Avios in American business class
• Charlotte (CLT) – Antigua (ANU) for 44,000 Iberia Avios in American business class
• Charlotte (CLT) – Grand Cayman (GCM)  for 18,000 Iberia Avios in American economy class
• Charlotte (CLT) – Grenada (GND) for 44,000 Iberia Avios in American business class
• Chicago (ORD) – Nassau (NAS) for 44,000 Iberia Avios in American business class
• Chicago (ORD) – Saint Lucia (UVF) for 77,500 Iberia Avios in American business class
• Dallas-Fort Worth (DFW) – Providenciales (PLS) for 44,000 Iberia Avios in American business class
• Dallas-Fort Worth (DFW) – Santo Domingo (SDQ) for 44,000 Iberia Avios in American business class
• Miami (MIA) – Curaçao (CUR) for 44,000 Iberia Avios in American business class
• Miami (MIA) – Saint Croix (STX) for 33,000 Iberia Avios in American business class
• New York (LGA) – Aruba (AUA) for 44,000 Iberia Avios in American business class
• New York (JFK) – Sint Maarten (SXM)  for 44,000 Iberia Avios in American business class
• New York (JFK) – St. Thomas (STT) for 44,000 Iberia Avios in American business class
• Philadelphia (PHL) – Montego Bay (MBJ) for 44,000 Iberia Avios in American business class
• Philadelphia (PHL) – San Juan (SJU) for 44,000 Iberia Avios in American business class

Earning Iberia Avios

It’s easy to earn Iberia Avios because the airline has partnerships with Amex Membership Rewards, Chase Ultimate Rewards, and Marriott Bonvoy.

Amex points transfer in 2 days at a 1:1 ratio, Chase points transfer instantly at a 1:1 ratio, and Marriott Bonvoy points transfer in 24 to 36 hours at a 3:1 ratio. You’ll get a bonus of 5,000 Avios for every 60,000 Marriott Bonvoy points you transfer.

Finally, Iberia offers a co-branded credit card issued by Chase that allows you to earn Iberia Avios directly.

Bottom Line:  Iberia offers one of the cheapest ways to fly American Airlines economy. However, you are required to book round-trip flights.

Japan Airlines Mileage Bank

The Japan Airlines Mileage Bank program is one to consider for Oneworld flights to the Caribbean. Business award pricing is not as low as British Airways, so you’ll want to focus on economy award flight redemptions.

Japan Airlines uses a distance-based award chart for Oneworld partner airline flights so you’ll want to use a tool like the Great Circle Mapper to calculate the total distance of your itinerary to see how many miles you’ll need.

Generally, you can expect to pay the following for round-trip flights:

Follow the steps below to book a flight:

• Go to Japan Airlines’ website .
• Confirm the same award availability on the Japan Airlines website.
• Book the award flight and pay the taxes and fees.

You’ll be booking flights on American Airlines — here are some examples of what you can fly round-trip:

• Boston (BOS) – Providenciales (PLS) for 42,000 Japan Airlines miles in American business class
• Charlotte (CLT) – Aruba (AUA) for 42,000 Japan Airlines miles in American business class
• Charlotte (CLT) – Saint Kitts (SKB) for 42,000 Japan Airlines miles in American business class
• Chicago (ORD) – Providenciales (PLS) for 42,000 Japan Airlines miles in American business class
• Chicago (ORD) – Punta Cana (PUJ) for 42,000 Japan Airlines miles in American business class
• Dallas-Fort Worth (DFW) – Saint Lucia (UVF) for 60,000 Japan Airlines miles in American business class
• Miami (MIA) – Dominica (DOM)  for 42,000 Japan Airlines miles in American business class
• Miami (MIA) – Port-au-Prince (PAP) for 30,000 Japan Airlines miles in American business class
• Miami (MIA) – St. Kitts (SKB)  for 23,000 Japan Airlines miles in American economy
• New York (JFK) – Montego Bay (MBJ) for 42,000 Japan Airlines miles in American business class
• New York (JFK) – Providenciales (PLS) for 42,000 Japan Airlines miles in American business class
• Philadelphia (PHL) – Bermuda (BDA) for 15,000 Japan Airlines miles in American economy
• Philadelphia (PHL) – Sint Maarten (SXM) for 42,000 Japan Airlines miles in American business class

Earning Japan Airlines Miles

Earning Japan Airlines miles is difficult, as the program’s only transfer partner is Marriott Bonvoy and its own credit card doesn’t have a sizable welcome offer.

For those with Marriott Bonvoy points, transfers take 2 days at a 3:1 ratio. If you transfer 60,000 Marriott Bonvoy points in a single transaction, you’ll earn an extra 5,000 miles.

Korean Air SKYPASS

Korean Air SKYPASS is 1 of the few programs you can leverage if you’re looking to fly a SkyTeam airline. For flights to the Caribbean, you’ll be using Korean Air SKYPASS miles to fly Delta Air Lines.

For just 35,000 SKYPASS miles, you can book round-trip economy flights between North America (Mexico and the U.S., including Hawaii) and the U.S. Virgin Islands, Canada, Puerto Rico, and Central America. Business class award flight pricing is not as competitive, so you’ll want to use another program for business class award tickets.

Korean Air considers the following destinations to be in its Central America region:

The primary downside of using Korean Air miles to book partner flights is that you’re required to book round-trip flights — here’s what you can expect to pay:

Use the steps below to book your award flight:

• Search for award availability on Delta’s website .
• Write down the flight numbers, dates, and times.
• Confirm the same availability through Korean Air’s website .
• Book the flight, and pay the taxes and fees with a credit card.
• Atlanta (ATL) – George Town (GGT) for 75,000 Korean Air miles in Delta business class
• Atlanta (ATL) – Grand Cayman (GCM) for 75,000 Korean Air miles in Delta business class
• Atlanta (ATL) – North Eleuthera (ELH) for 75,000 Korean Air miles in Delta business class
• Atlanta (ATL) – Providenciales (PLS) for 35,000 Korean Air miles in Delta economy
• Detroit (DTW) – Montego Bay (MBJ) for 75,000 Korean Air miles in Delta business class
• Minneapolis (MSP) – San Juan (SJU) for 75,000 Korean Air miles in Delta business class
• New York (JFK) – Nassau (NAS) for 35,000 Korean miles in Delta economy
• New York (JFK) – Punta Cana (PUJ) for 75,000 Korean Air miles in Delta business class

Earning Korean Air Miles

Korean Air miles aren’t as easy to earn as other programs, as there’s only 1 partner to transfer points from: Marriott Bonvoy. Transfers from Marriott Bonvoy take 2 days at a 3:1 ratio.

Also, U.S. Bank offers a few co-branded Korean Air credit cards.

Hot Tip: Korean Air miles aren’t easy to earn, but it’s not impossible. Here’s how to best earn Korean Air miles .

United Airlines MileagePlus

United MileagePlus no longer has an award chart. Instead, the frequent flyer program uses dynamic award pricing, which makes it a bit more difficult to figure out award prices.

At the lowest level, you can spend 35,000 United miles to book round-trip economy flights between the mainland U.S., Alaska, Canada, and the Caribbean. The same tickets will cost 60,000 miles in business class.

Estimated taxes and fees are usually around $50 to $150 per ticket.

United considers these destinations to be in its Caribbean region:

• Grand Cayman
• St. Eustatius

Follow the steps below to book your award flight:

• Go to United’s website .
• Select the flight you want, and then pay the taxes and fees with a credit card to complete the booking.

Here are several example round-trip routes that you book:

• Chicago (ORD) – Punta Cana (PUJ) for 60,000 United miles in United business class
• Chicago (ORD) – Saint Lucia (UVF) for 60,000 United miles in United business class
• Houston (IAH) – Punta Cana (PUJ) for 35,000 United miles in United economy
• Houston (IAH) – Port of Spain (POS) for 60,000 United miles in United business class
• Newark (EWR) – Antigua (ANU) for 60,000 United miles in United business class
• Newark (EWR) – Puerto Plata (POP) for 60,000 United miles in United business class
• Newark (EWR) – Saint Kitts (SKB) for 60,000 United miles in United business class
• Washington, D.C. (IAD) – San Juan (SJU) for 35,000 United miles in United economy
• Washington, D.C. (IAD) – Nassau (NAS) for 60,000 United miles in United business class

Earning United Airlines MileagePlus Miles

You can easily earn United miles because the airline partners with Chase Ultimate Rewards and Marriott Bonvoy, and both of those programs offer a number of credit cards that allow you to earn miles in a hurry.

Chase points transfer instantly at a 1:1 ratio while Marriott Bonvoy points transfer in 2 days at a 3:1.1 ratio.

If you transfer 60,000 Marriott Bonvoy points to United, you’ll end up with 27,500 United miles, thanks to the bonus you typically earn from transferring Bonvoy points to a partner and the elevated transfer ratio between Marriott Bonvoy and United.

United also offers co-branded credit cards from Chase .

Virgin Atlantic Flying Club

The Virgin Atlantic Flying Club program has a number of sweet spots with airline partners, but there’s 1 airline partner that U.S. travelers should keep on their radar: Delta Air Lines .

Having Virgin points allows you to book Delta flights between the U.S. and the Caribbean according to distance-based award pricing.

Here are some examples of round-trip flights you can book with your Virgin Points:

• Atlanta (ATL) – Bonaire (BON) for 90,000 Virgin Points in Delta business class
• Atlanta (ATL) – Saint Kitts (SKB) for 90,000 Virgin Points in Delta business class
• Atlanta (ATL) – Sint Maarten (SXM) for 90,000 Virgin Points in Delta business class
• Boston (BOS) – Nassau (NAS) for 80,000 Virgin Points in Delta business class
• Boston (BOS) – Saint Thomas (STT) for 90,000 Virgin Points in Delta business class
• Detroit (DTW) – Punta Cana (PUJ) for 90,000 Virgin Points in Delta business class
• Minneapolis (MSP) – Montego Bay (MBJ) for 105,000 Virgin Points in Delta business class
• New York (JFK) – Aruba (AUA)  for 90,000 Virgin Points in Delta business class
• New York (JFK) – Nassau (NAS) for 80,000 Virgin Points in Delta business class
• New York (JFK) – San Juan (SJU) for 25,000 Virgin Points in Delta economy

When you’re ready to book a flight, use the steps to help you with the booking process:

• Head to Virgin Atlantic’s website .
• Book the flight and pay the taxes and fees with a credit card.

Hot Tip:  Virgin Atlantic will not allow you to search for all of Delta’s flight routes. Try searching for Saver-level award flights on Delta, then call Virgin Atlantic at 800-365-9500 to book the award flight. 

Earning virgin atlantic points.

It’s easy to earn Virgin Points because the program partners with American Express, Chase, Citi, and Marriott Bonvoy.

Amex, Citi, and Chase points transfer instantly at a 1:1 ratio, while Marriott Bonvoy points transfer in 1 to 2 days at a 3:1 ratio. You’ll receive a 5,000-mile bonus for every 60,000 Marriott Bonvoy points you transfer.

Virgin Atlantic also offers a co-branded credit card issued by Bank of America that will allow you to earn points directly with your credit card spend.

The Caribbean is an immensely popular destination for U.S. travelers. With plenty of beautiful beaches, different countries to explore, and food to taste, it’s hard to go wrong with whatever destination you choose.

The key to booking your next trip to the Caribbean is to know how best to use the miles and points you have. With an array of programs at your disposal, flights in both economy and business class are within reach.

The information regarding the Marriott Bonvoy Bold ® Credit Card was independently collected by Upgraded Points and not provided nor reviewed by the issuer. The information regarding the Marriott Bonvoy Boundless ® Credit Card was independently collected by Upgraded Points and not provided nor reviewed by the issuer. The information regarding the Citi Premier ® Card has expired and the card is no longer open to applicants. The information regarding the United Club℠ Business Card was independently collected by Upgraded Points and not provided nor reviewed by the issuer.

For rates and fees of the Marriott Bonvoy Bevy™ American Express ® Card, click here . For rates and fees of the Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant ® American Express ® card, click here . For rates and fees of The Platinum Card ® from American Express, click here . For rates and fees of the American Express ® Gold Card, click  here .

Frequently Asked Questions

Which oneworld airline program offers the cheapest economy and business class to the caribbean.

Alaska Airlines, British Airways, and Iberia offer the cheapest prices for Oneworld flights in economy and business class.

Which Star Alliance airline program offers the cheapest economy and business class to the Caribbean?

Asiana, Avianca, and United are the Star Alliance programs you should use to book the cheapest economy flights to the Caribbean.

The cheapest business class award flight option is with Asiana, however, the booking process with United is much easier and shouldn’t be overlooked.

Which SkyTeam airline program offers the cheapest economy and business class to the Caribbean?

Korean Air offers the cheapest prices for economy and business class award flights, however, you should search with Air France/KLM, Delta, and Virgin Atlantic to see if cheaper award flights exist.

Which non-alliance airline program offers the cheapest economy and business class to the Caribbean?

Etihad and Virgin Atlantic require the fewest number of miles to fly their airline partners in economy to the Caribbean.

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About Michael McHugh

Born and raised in Mobile, Alabama, Michael took his first international trip in 2013 with friends to the Bahamas. Although he didn’t travel much in his younger years, on that trip, he caught the travel bug and has been hooked ever since.

Michael first caught wind of the points and miles game in 2014 while at a bar in Washington, DC where the conversation amongst friends was quickly derailed because of an alert on a friend’s phone about a mistake fare.  That’s where the love affair with points and miles began.

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January 28, 2021

3 minute read

How to Travel Between Caribbean Islands

Island hopping is one of the best ways to see all of the riches the Caribbean has to offer. After all, while you’ll find glistening turquoise waters everywhere you go, each island has its own unique history, culture, and even distinct ecosystems, everything from thick jungles to expansive wetlands, from lush coral reefs to mangrove forests.

How to travel from one island to the next, however, is another matter altogether. Each approach to island hopping has its own logistical challenges.

If you plan it right, though, you can have an adventure-packed vacation, bouncing among any number of the approximately 700 islands in the region. 

Here’s how to travel between Caribbean islands.

Take A Cruise.

The easiest way to travel between Caribbean islands is by booking a cruise , whether on one of the mega-ships from companies like Royal Caribbean or Carnival or on a smaller carrier like Windstar.

There are several drawbacks to taking this route: You don’t get to pick which islands you visit, and you’re on a ship with thousands of other people, meaning that almost everywhere you go is going to be packed with other tourists. 

You also generally tend to spend a day or less in each destination, meaning that, depending on how you like to travel, you might feel that you don’t get enough time to explore what each island has to offer.

Ferry Around.

Traveling by ferry is one of the most beautiful ways to get around. You can enjoy the cool breeze, the bright sun, and the beautiful water as your water chariot rushes from one island to the next. No worries about getting back to port before your floating city takes off without you; no need to waste time at an airport.

While there’s no unified ferry system throughout the region, you can find ferries that will take you from island to island. For example, while there are no ferries that go to or from Barbados, the British Virgin Islands has an extensive intra-BVI system that makes hopping from island to island relatively easy. This is a low-cost option that allows you to determine your own island destiny.

Take Flight.

Of course, time is of the essence when you’re trying to hit all the sights and relax. If you don’t want to waste time chugging along on a ferry, there are plenty of regional and international airlines that serve any number of islands. 

Another reason to consider flying? If you’d like to visit more off-the-beaten-path islands without shelling out for a private yacht, some smaller islands are only served via plane from other Caribbean destinations. 

Condé Nast Traveler compiled a list of the safest airlines in the Caribbean , which operate crafts as big as giant Airbuses and as small as nine-seaters. Plan accordingly.

Charter A Yacht.

This is one of the best—and priciest—ways to hop around the region. If you’re willing to shell out a pretty penny, you can charter your own crew to sail from port to port, making your own itinerary based on whatever your heart desires. 

Generally, this means you’ll have a full crew, kitchen and wait staff included, which means plenty of time to relax while cruising through the beautiful, calm surf.

No matter which way you choose to travel around the Caribbean, your best bet for saving money and avoiding the logistical headache of planning is to work with an Inteletravel advisor . 

Our team is trained to build relationships with trusted travel partners, ensuring that you get the best prices available—without the agent fees.

They’ll develop an island-hopping itinerary that works for you. Share your preferences. Tell them about your dream adventure to paradise. They’ll handle the rest.

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I've been to 20 Caribbean islands — these are the 5 I'd return to and the 2 I'd skip despite having great experiences.

• After visiting 20 islands in the Caribbean , I have lots of favorites and a few I wouldn't return to.
• St. Lucia offers wellness activities, fun nightlife, and great food.
• Although I enjoyed my time on Grand Bahama, this island left me wanting more.

There's a misconception that all Caribbean islands are the same. However, as someone who's been traveling to the Caribbean for almost two decades, I've found that each island has its own distinct food, festivals, and cultural traditions.

After visiting 20 Caribbean islands, I can see why the area is such a hot spot for tourism. In fact, travel to the Caribbean is already off to a strong start this year, with many destinations seeing an uptick in visitors compared to 2023 .

As someone who's spent a lot of time in the Caribbean, these are the five islands I'd love to return to and the two I'd skip.

St. Lucia offers wellness activities and great food.

Though St. Lucia is typically billed as a romantic destination , I visited on a solo trip and had a blast exploring the island.

Some of my favorite activities included a mud bath in Sulphur Springs, a rum and chocolate tour, and an afternoon boat ride past The Pitons.

St. Lucians also have some great street food and love to have a good time. During my stay, I headed to the lively Friday night Gros Islet street party for grilled conch and fried fish straight off the boat.

Dominica is great for hiking and natural attractions.

Nicknamed " the nature island ," Dominica is one of the Caribbean's best-kept secrets.

One of my favorite excursions was a hike to Trafalgar Falls, a pair of stunning waterfalls about a 20-minute drive from the island's capital city, Roseau.

I also rode horseback on the island's black-sand beaches and floated on an inner tube through Titou Gorge, a cave with a hidden waterfall and swimming hole.

St. John has gorgeous beaches.

I spent my 15th wedding anniversary on St. John, the smallest of the three main US Virgin Islands. One of the highlights of my stay was a beach day at Trunk Bay.

The beach is located inside Virgin Islands National Park on St. John, and though there's a small entry fee, it's worth every penny. The beach is framed by lush mountains, and towering palm trees dot the wide, sandy shore. In short, it's paradise.

St. John isn't a hub for partying or late-night entertainment, but the island's gorgeous sunsets and natural setting are ideal for honeymoons and special anniversary trips.

Grenada is a snorkeling hot spot with a unique national park.

During my stay on Grenada, I encountered lots of warm and inviting locals, who would strike up conversations and ask how I was enjoying my visit.

Besides enjoying the popular Grand Anse Beach, I booked a day tour to Grand Etang National Park to check out Grand Etang Lake, a freshwater lake surrounded by a lush rainforest.

I ended my stay on Grenada with a snorkeling trip to Molinere Underwater Sculpture Park to see the submerged sculptures.

Turks and Caicos are great for decompressing on the beach.

There's a reason Turks and Caicos are a magnet for celebrities and socialites, but you don't have to be an A-lister to enjoy the islands.

Providenciales is the most populated island in Turks and Caicos. Provo, as some locals call it, offers a laid-back, tranquil beach vacation. Most hotels on Provo are located along Grace Bay, a picture-perfect stretch of pearly white sand and turquoise water.

Water sports like jet skiing, snorkeling, and clear-bottom kayaking are popular, but I was content to spend most of my days alternating between reading on the beach and cooling off in the pool.

However, Grand Cayman was one of the priciest islands I’ve visited.

Grand Cayman has a lot going for it: beautiful resorts, delicious food, and a flight from Miami that's under two hours.

The soft white sand and sparkling turquoise water of Seven Mile Beach have also helped make Grand Cayman a popular vacation spot .

But when I visited, I experienced a bit of sticker shock since US currency doesn't go as far as it does on other islands. The Caymanian dollar has a fixed exchange rate, and one Caymanian dollar is worth $1.21 USD.

I've visited more affordable islands with equally stunning beaches like Klein Curaçao Beach in Curaçao, Crane Beach in Barbados, and Palm Beach in Aruba.

Grand Bahama left me wanting more.

One of my first trips to the Caribbean was to Grand Bahama via a ferry from Fort Lauderdale . My husband and I stayed on the island for about a week, filling up on fresh conch and visiting the Port Lucaya marketplace.

While I enjoyed the laid-back stay, I've found that other Bahamian islands have more to see and do.

If you want to be closer to the action, skip Grand Bahama for New Providence, which is home to top-notch restaurants and hotels, historic landmarks like Queen's Staircase, and the annual Junkanoo parade.

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How to travel to the Caribbean during hurricane season

May 16, 2024 • 3 min read

Here's how to be prepared when visiting the Caribbean during hurricane season © Noel Hendrickson / Getty Images

Winter, spring, summer or fall – it’s never a bad time to visit the Caribbean . 

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 region or its resilient people. And many islands, such as  St Lucia ,  St Vincent  and  Antigua , indulge in the revelry and splendor of carnival (vaval) between June and August.

If you're considering travel to the Caribbean during the summer and fall, we've got answers to your most pressing questions about how to navigate potential storms.

Ready to plan your trip? Here are the best places to visit in the Caribbean

When is hurricane season?

Hurricane season lasts from June through November; the most active months are August through October.

How can I protect my trip?

Should your trip be interrupted by inclement weather, travel insurance can help cushion the blow and get you back in the Caribbean again at a later date. A range of companies cover trip interruptions and cancellations – just make sure that there’s a "cancel for any reason" clause that includes weather. Also check your credit cards to find out if you're already covered.

What's the best method for monitoring potential storms?

Thanks to sophisticated tracking systems and the slow-build nature of hurricanes, you know pretty well in advance if a storm is heading your way. Pay attention to forecasts in the time leading up to your vacation and avoid completely unplugging while you’re on the road – you’ll have to act quickly should an emergency arise. And if local authorities say to evacuate an area, listen.

Visiting the Caribbean at other times of the year? Here's our seasonal guide

What happens if there's a hurricane while I'm there?

Familiarize yourself with the destination's evacuation plans and resources before you go. Once you arrive, check with local authorities or experts to find out how their alerting system works. There might be an emergency text service or other warning system to keep you updated. You'll want to know where to go before things turn too dangerous to move. If you’re in the storm’s path and evacuation is not an option, take refuge by putting as much space between you and the outdoors as you can – shelter in interior rooms, and avoid glass and windows.

What else do I need to know?

Even if an island sits outside the hurricane belt, it’s still possible to feel some effects from passing storms, such as wind, heavy rain and rough seas. Pay attention to the forecast if you know a system is close by, and ask locals about the drivability of routes during and after rain before you set out.

What websites should I bookmark?

US National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration  tracks hurricane activity in the Gulf of Mexico and the Caribbean Sea.

Caribbean Hurricane Network Blog  is powered by NASA-powered radar. They also have hurricane correspondents across the islands.

Adapted from Lonely Planet's latest Caribbean Islands guidebook. Buy it here .

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12 best Panama Canal cruises for a bucket-list trip

A Panama Canal transit is a rite of passage for many cruise lovers. Experiencing this marvel of early 20th-century engineering appeals to those with a wide array of interests, from history and politics to colonial architecture and wildlife. Built by the U.S. government between 1903 and 1914, this 50-mile waterway linking the Atlantic and Pacific oceans revolutionized shipping by creating an expedited route for the transit of cargo and, ultimately, cruise ship passengers.

Panama Canal itineraries are offered by almost every cruise line. Thanks to a 2016 canal expansion project, a third set of locks can now accommodate larger vessels. It's possible to cruise the Panama Canal on ships of all sizes (from 148 guests to more than 3,000) on itineraries that range from a week in the sun to a six-month world cruise.

Some ships sail a full transit of the canal, from the Atlantic to the Pacific or vice versa. These one-way journeys between Miami or Fort Lauderdale and Los Angeles or San Diego visit ports in Central America, South America, Mexico and California.

Others sail only a partial transit, entering the locks from the Atlantic and cruising into Lake Gatun before turning around and exiting again. These itineraries, sailing round-trip from Florida ports, combine the canal experience with island hopping in the Caribbean.

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

The array of options means that a Panama Canal cruise experience is possible even if you're short on time or have a limited budget — and chances are high that your favorite cruise line offers one or more itineraries. Most sailings attract couples, typically retirees, but if the timing is right, a Panama Canal cruise can also be a great multigenerational experience.

Here are a dozen of the best Panama Canal cruises to consider.

Holland America's 14- to 17-night Panama Canal cruises

Holland America offers a variety of Panama Canal cruises , but the most popular itineraries span 14 to 17 nights. They offer a full transit between Fort Lauderdale or Miami and San Diego, Seattle or Vancouver, British Columbia, or vice versa and are offered on multiple ships, including Koningsdam, Zuiderdam, Zaandam, Eurodam and Nieuw Amsterdam. These sailings call on Cartagena, Colombia; Puntarenas, Costa Rica; Puerto Quetzal, Guatemala; and Huatulco and Puerto Vallarta or Cabo San Lucas, Mexico. Longer sailings also call on several Caribbean islands.

Who should go : Holland America ships sailing a full transit are popular with retired couples who appreciate the cruise line's consistency and good value. All four ships accommodate between 1,432 and 2,650 passengers and offer signature onboard experiences that include the Greenhouse Spa and the World Stage for evening production shows. The larger Eurodam, Koningsdam and Nieuw Amsterdam feature additional specialty dining options, such as Tamarind and Nami Sushi, as well as popular music venues B.B. King's Blues Club and Billboard Onboard.

Regent Seven Seas Cruises' 16-night Los Angeles-to-Miami cruise

Regent Seven Seas Cruises ' newest ship, Seven Seas Grandeur, debuted in November 2023 and will transit the Panama Canal on several occasions in the next few years. The 16-night Miami-to-Los Angeles (Dec. 13-29, 2024) and 16-night Los Angeles-to-Miami (Jan. 8-23, 2025) transits offer luxurious all-inclusive pampering, plus port calls in Ensenada, Cabo San Lucas and Acapulco, Mexico; Puerto Quetzal, Guatemala; Corinto, Nicaragua; Panama City; Cartagena, Colombia; and George Town, Grand Cayman.

Plan even further ahead for Grandeur's 22-night Miami-to-Los Angeles transit (Jan. 3-25, 2026) to enjoy additional Caribbean ports of call. From Jan. 25 to Feb. 9, 2026, the ship will sail a 16-night Panama Canal transit from Los Angeles to Miami with an itinerary similar to the 2024 and early 2025 cruises.

Who should go : This itinerary can be a wonderful splurge for a couple seeking to celebrate a milestone anniversary or birthday in a memorable way on a luxurious new ship. Prices start at a hefty $10,099 per person for a spacious balcony suite, but they also include airfare, transfers, gratuities, dining and beverages, Wi-Fi and shore excursions — meaning you'll hardly have any other vacation expenses.

Related: The 9 best luxury cruise lines for elegance and exclusivity

Celebrity Cruises' 11-night Panama Canal & Southern Caribbean cruise

For a Panama Canal experience that begins and ends in Fort Lauderdale, Celebrity Cruises ' 11-night Panama Canal & Southern Caribbean itinerary is a great option. There's still time to book the Dec. 2, 2024, cruise or the half-dozen almost identical sailings that follow through April 2025. All sailings are aboard the 3,260-passenger Celebrity Beyond and visit Cartagena, Colombia; Colon, Panama; Oranjestad, Aruba; Kralendjik, Bonaire; and George Town, Grand Cayman (Willemstad, Curacao, replaces Grand Cayman on some 2025 sailings).

Who should go : Celebrity Beyond and its Edge-series sister ships appeal to millennials, Gen Xers and young-at-heart baby boomers who appreciate innovative design, entertainment and dining options. The ships are geared toward couples or groups of friends, but families with older teens might also enjoy the onboard vibe. There are no splash pools or waterslides for younger kids, although calls on three Caribbean islands offer aquatic fun.

Windstar Cruises' 7-night Costa Rica & Panama Canal cruise

To explore the Panama Canal region in a relaxed manner aboard an intimate motorized sailing yacht or small ship, check out Windstar Cruises' seven-night Costa Rica & Panama Canal itinerary. Bookable on more than a dozen dates from November 2024 through March 2026, the itinerary is offered aboard 148-passenger Wind Star or Wind Spirit (in 2024 and 2025) and 312-passenger Star Pride (in 2026). The ship will travel from Colon, Panama, to Puerto Caldera, Costa Rica (or vice versa), transiting the canal. Passengers can visit Panama City and Isla Parida in Panama, plus Golfo Dolce and Quepos (for Manuel Antonio National Park) in Costa Rica.

Who should go : Fans of small-ship cruising who enjoy a casual onboard ambience, are interested in nature and wildlife and wish to sample the regional flavors of Central America should consider a Windstar cruise . All accommodations on the sailing yachts are in snug yet well-designed staterooms with windows but no balconies. Wind Star and Wind Spirit are cozy and social four-deck ships, each featuring a pool and pool bar, a lounge and two restaurants. Star Pride is the better option for those who prefer a more spacious suitelike cabin with a balcony and a larger bathroom.

Related: Big vs. small cruise ships: Which will I like better?

Silversea's 18-night Fort Lauderdale-to-Los Angeles cruise

Silversea Cruises ' 18-night Fort Lauderdale-to-Los Angeles transit aboard 596-passenger Silver Moon offers a luxurious and leisurely way to experience the Panama Canal along with top ports in four countries and 10 sea days. The itinerary includes Cartagena, Colombia (where the ship overnights); Puntarenas, Costa Rica; Puerto Quetzal, Guatemala; and Puerto Vallarta and Cabo San Lucas, Mexico. The sailing takes place from April 1 to 19, 2025.

Silver Moon is one of four Silversea ships to feature the S.A.L.T. (Sea and Land Taste) program, which combines regionally inspired dining in S.A.L.T. Kitchen, cooking classes and demonstrations in S.A.L.T. Lab with culinary-inspired shore excursions.

Who should go : Silversea's clientele is mostly mature couples with a luxury mindset and an appreciation for elevated dining with a strong regional focus. They also appreciate the cruise line's all-inclusive ease. An almost three-week itinerary such as this is likely to attract retirees seeking an extended warm-weather escape.

Related: The 10 best cruises for couples seeking romance and together time at sea

Carnival Cruise Line's 8-night Panama Canal cruise from Tampa

Experiencing the Panama Canal doesn't have to be time-consuming or budget-busting. Carnival Cruise Line 's eight-night Panama Canal from Tampa itinerary offers a round-trip, partial-transit sailing aboard the 2,124-passenger Carnival Legend and Carnival Miracle. The ships call in Limon, Costa Rica, and George Town, Grand Cayman. Itineraries are available on several dates in 2024 and 2025, and cruise fares begin at under $900 per person.

With multiple pools (including the adults-only aft Serenity Pool), a WaterWorks aqua park, the Camp Ocean kids club and a wide array of restaurants, these ships offer enough diversions for sea-day fun, even at half the size of Carnival's newest megaships.

Who should go : Carnival's action-packed ships and affordable cruise fares appeal to families, friends and couples of all ages who enjoy a lively onboard ambience and casual complimentary dining options (including a Guy Fieri burger venue).

Related: The best cruise lines for families

Seabourn's 34-night Caribbean Gems & Panama Canal cruise

For a one-way Panama Canal transit that visits 12 countries (St. Barts, Guadeloupe, Dominica, St. Kitts and Nevis, the British Virgin Islands, the Dominican Republic, Curacao, Colombia, Panama, Costa Rica, Guatemala and Mexico) and offers 15 relaxing and luxurious days at sea, consider Seabourn 's 34-night Caribbean Gems & Panama Canal cruise. The 450-guest Seabourn Sojourn will sail from Miami to Los Angeles, departing in November 2025.

You'll enjoy beach time as you island hop in the Caribbean, while calls on Golfito and Puntarenas in Costa Rica offer access to eco-adventure. Visits to Puerto Quetzal in Guatemala and Puerto Chiapas and Huatulco in Mexico feature excursions focused on pre-Spanish-colonial culture, coffee cultivation and more, while a call on Cabo San Lucas offers whale watching, deep-sea fishing or tequila tasting opportunities.

Who should go : Work-from-anywhere entrepreneurs and retirees who enjoy the luxury and refinement of small-ship cruising will enjoy this monthlong Panama Canal transit. Seabourn Sojourn pampers its guests with attentive service, elevated cuisine and all-ocean-facing suites featuring walk-in closets and spacious marble bathrooms. Seabourn's all-inclusive cruise fares also cover gratuities and complimentary wines and spirits.

Princess Cruises' 12-night Panama Canal with Costa Rica & Caribbean cruise

While Princess Cruises does offer several longer ocean-to-ocean Panama Canal itineraries, its popular 12-night Panama Canal with Costa Rica & Caribbean cruises conveniently sail round trip from Fort Lauderdale on more than 20 dates in 2024, 2025 and 2026.

What's more, you can choose between two ships: the 3,140-guest Caribbean Princess or the 3,080-guest Emerald Princess. In addition to the partial transit, these sailings call on several Caribbean islands, including Aruba, Curacao, Jamaica and Grand Cayman, as well as Cartagena, Columbia; Limon, Costa Rica; and Colon, Panama.

Who should go : Couples who enjoy a ship with a more traditional vibe and families with kids who are content to participate in interactive learning activities and nature-based adventure (versus waterslides) will enjoy this cruise. Princess ships are known for their Movies Under the Stars screenings, multiple pools, specialty dining options, such as Sabatini's Italian Trattoria and The Salty Dog Gastropub, and Crooners piano bar.

Related: The 5 best destinations you can visit on a Princess Cruises ship

Norwegian Cruise Line's 12-night South America: Peru, Colombia & Ecuador cruise

There's no "Panama Canal" in this itinerary's name, but Norwegian Cruise Line 's 12-night South America: Peru, Colombia & Ecuador cruise (Feb. 27-March 11, 2026) does a full canal transit as it sails from Miami to Lima, Peru. The 2,402-passenger Norwegian Jade will visit historic Santa Marta and Cartagena in Colombia; Panama City; Manta, Ecuador; and Trujillo and Lima in Peru.

Who should go : Couples and friends interested in experiencing not just a Panama Canal transit but some of the top coastal experiences along the Pacific coast of South America should choose this itinerary. Norwegian Jade is an older, smaller vessel that was refurbished in 2022 and features a top deck more conducive to sunning than thrill rides. The ship also has a surprising number of restaurants for its size: two main dining rooms, a buffet restaurant, a pub-style bar and grill, an Asian restaurant and an outdoor grill on a complimentary basis, plus six specialty dining venues (including a steakhouse and venues showcasing French, Italian and Japanese cuisines) for an added fee.

Oceania's 16-night Miami-to-Los Angeles cruise

Oceania Cruises ' 1,200-passenger Vista — which debuted in May 2023 as the first new-build ship in Oceania's fleet in more than a decade — will offer back-to-back, 16-night Miami-to-Los Angeles (Jan. 8-24, 2025) and Los Angeles-to-Miami (Jan. 24-Feb. 9, 2025) itineraries. Both sailings visit six countries with port calls that include George Town, Grand Cayman; Cartagena, Colombia; Puntarenas, Costa Rica; Corinto, Nicaragua; Puerto Quetzal, Guatemala; and Acapulco, Cabo San Lucas and Ensenada, Mexico. (The second sailing visits San Diego instead of Ensenada.)

Who should go : Oceania's newest ship offers a great compromise between a small and medium-size vessel and is ideal for those seeking a premium cruise experience with casual sophistication. Older couples especially will appreciate the ship's elegant cabin decor in soft hues of wheat and seagrass, mix of grand and intimate spaces and wide array of dining options. (Two new and noteworthy venues on Vista include Ember for inventive American cuisine and Aquamar Kitchen for wellness-focused breakfast, lunch and dinner.) A more immersive mixology program features curated cocktail menus, indulgent pairing experiences and specialty beverage carts.

Related: The 5 best destinations you can visit on an Oceania Cruises ship

Cunard's 26-night Southampton-to-San Francisco cruise

Cunard's brand-new 2,996-passenger ship Queen Anne, which debuts in May 2023, will make both its first transatlantic crossing and its first Panama Canal transit on this historic 26-night Southampton-to-San Francisco sailing (Jan. 9-Feb. 4, 2025). The ship will first cross the Atlantic and then overnight in New York before calling on Aruba, transiting the canal and visiting Puerto Quetzal, Guatemala and Cabo San Lucas, Mexico. It will conclude with an overnight in San Francisco.

The winter transatlantic crossing might not be right for everyone, but the second half of this voyage explores warm-weather destinations with plenty of relaxing sea days for sunning, reading, taking dance lessons and enjoying expert lectures.

Who should go : British cruise line Cunard appeals mainly to older travelers who savor the line's formal traditions. This cruise is for you if you enjoy afternoon tea, dressing up for dinner, gala evenings and dancing to big-band orchestras. This particular itinerary appeals to retirees who wish to visit several cruise regions in one sailing.

Viking's 180-day World Voyage

For the ultimate cruise indulgence, Viking's 180-day World Voyage I includes a Panama Canal transit (on Christmas Day, no less) as 930-passenger Viking Sky cruises from Fort Lauderdale to New York City (Dec. 19, 2024-June 17, 2025). This round-the-world cruise will visit 37 countries as guests enjoy Viking Sky's modern Scandinavian interior decor, soothing LivNordic Spa, two pools (including one with a retractable roof) and six onboard restaurants. Pricing includes airfare, gratuities and complimentary wine and beer with lunch and dinner.

If this longer voyage is sold out, consider the 138-day Viking World Cruise (departing Dec. 19, 2025), also on Viking Sky. This sailing, which travels from Fort Lauderdale to London (Greenwich), visits 28 countries and transits the Panama Canal on the eighth day.

Who should go : With cruise fares that start at $79,995 and $59,995 per person, respectively, these extended adventures at sea require a luxury budget. Viking 's base clientele is mostly retired or close-to-retirement-age professionals who enjoy the cruise line's focus on educational enrichment (via onboard lectures) and serene ambience (there's no casino, and the nighttime vibe is on the quiet side).

Planning a cruise? Start with these stories:

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10 Things To Do In The Virgin Gorda: Complete Guide To The Most Scenic Of The British Virgin Islands

Virgin Gorda guarantees the ultimate Caribbean vacation, from white sand beaches and tropical hikes to luxury resorts and so much more.

Basking in the Caribbean Sea, Virgin Gorda is the third-largest of the British Virgin Islands. Although it covers an area of only eight square miles, vacationers will stay busy and be intrigued by every inch, from Virgin Island's tourist attractions to its unique geography.

Virgin Gorda is Spanish for 'Fat Virgin' and was allegedly named by Christopher Columbus due to its appearance of a woman lying on her side from the horizon. Beachgoers can assess Columbus' theory as they approach the island by ferry. Most tourists will dock in the main commercial area, Spanish Town, and head directly to the most famous attraction in Virgin Gorda: The Baths. A one-of-a-kind beach, The Baths attract tourists from across the Virgin Islands for its natural pools and massive granite boulders.

Luckily, Virgin Gorda is so much more than The Baths, and travelers will have the rest of the island practically to themselves, left to explore abandoned mines, the mountain dominating the center, and stunning lookout points. Visitors can make Virgin Gorda one of the most affordable Virgin Island vacations , thanks to its obscurity.

Dive into turquoise waters and this complete guide on what to do, the food to eat, and where to stay in Virgin Gorda.

Top Things To Do In Virgin Gorda

Virgin Gorda boasts all the best activities and attractions of a beach holiday. Couples can find some of the most romantic spots in the Virgin Islands , from luxurious resorts to dreamy beaches untouched by tourism.

Vacationers can enjoy endless watersports along the coastline and crystal waters, hike in dense national parks, admire monuments, explore uninhabited islands, and much more.

Related Sailing The Seas: 10 Things To Explore In St. Thomas & The Virgin Islands By Boat

1 Soak In Natural Pools At The Baths

All beachgoers need to see The Baths in the British Virgin Islands . Not only the most spectacular sight in Virgin Gorda, but The Baths are also one of the major tourist destinations in the Virgin Islands. Many cruise ships and tourists flock to marvel at the pristine beaches and unique geological formations.

Just south of Spanish Town at the southern tip of the island, The Baths formed by magma cooling over the millennia and rising into thousands of massive granite boulders. These boulders line the soft white sands, some towering over 40 feet. The granite piles create sheltered tidal pools, scenic grottoes, and spellbinding arches.

Visit The Baths for an exhilarating day of swimming, unwinding on the beach, rock climbing, or the best Instagram shots. Vacationers start at the entrance and take the 15-minute path toward the lovely Devil's Bay beach .

From there, adventurists should continue on the route to hop between rocks and explore the tunnel system referred to as The Caves .

• The Baths Hours: Daily, 9 AM - 4 PM
• Cost Of Admission: $3 per person
• Facilities: Bathrooms | Lockers | Picnic Tables

Refresh with a drink or replenish reserves at one of many bars or restaurants near The Baths.

2 Enjoy The Best Beaches In Virgin Gorda

Fortunately, The Baths aren't the only marvelous beaches in Virgin Gorda. Most tourists gravitate around the island's main attraction, so beachgoers will be delighted to have the rest of the beaches to themselves.

Serenity and peace await vacationers on iconic beaches like Spring Bay or Savannah Bay . All the beaches are public, meaning guests can explore them for free and to their heart's content. The northern coast offers endless stretches of pristine white sand, while the southern coast boasts more emblematic granite boulders.

Regardless of location, Virgin Gorda promises soft sand beaches and crystal clear waters, perfect for sunbathing or swimming.

• Beach Hours: All Day
• Cost Of Admission: Free
• Facilities: Picnic Tables | Grills | Playgrounds

A rental car could be the best way for travelers to hop between Virgin Gorda's beaches.

3 Go Hiking At Gorda Peak National Park

Outdoor enthusiasts ready for a change of pace after endless beach days should check out Gorda Peak National Park . Dominating the center of Virgin Gorda, the protected nature reserve spans over 250 acres and reaches a peak of 1,370 feet.

Two trails wind through the forest to the top of Gorda Peak. Both routes are well-maintained and shaded by dense trees. While hikers won't catch any scenic views until arriving at the peak, there are several rare species of lizards and geckoes to glimpse along the way.

Travelers will find both trailheads along N Sound Road , the meandering highway that cuts through the national park. When driving north, the first trailhead offers a longer yet gradual climb, while the second route is more challenging. Since there is no parking lot, tourists going by rental car should park along the road.

Scenic views, dense flora and fauna, and the chance for a jog or stroll await vacationers at the Gorda Peak National Park.

• Total Hiking Time: 1 - 2 Hours
• Difficulty: Easy - Moderate
• Trail Type: One-way

Related Beyond Beautiful: Visit The Virgin Islands National Park

4 Discover Scuba Diving Adventures At The Dog Islands

The Dogs are a cluster of five islands just off the northwest coast of Virgin Gorda. A haven for birds and marine animals, The Dogs are one of many unique places for fauna and flora in the Virgin Islands .

Sailors named these islands after the barking sounds that emerged from their shores, which turned out to be Caribbean monk seals, not canine. Sadly, this rare species of seal was later hunted to extinction.

Adventurists will love The Dogs for some of the best diving and snorkeling in Virgin Gorda. Turquoise waters, mesmerizing corals, and abundant wildlife await divers in this clutch of tiny islands.

Dive BVI is a reliable company in Spanish Town that takes divers on regular excursions to incredible wreck dives, colorful reefs, and endless schools of fish in The Dog Islands.

• Office Hours: Daily, 8 AM - 7 PM
• Prices: starting at $125 per reservation
• Note: Options for beginners and veterans

5 Admire The Ruins At Copper Mine National Park

After copper was discovered on Virgin Gorda in 1837, Cornish miners constructed a mine on the island's southeastern tip. However, the mine was too costly to maintain and was abandoned to the elements after 25 years of operation.

Today, the ruins and surrounding area comprise a national park. Although just a quick stop, Copper Mine is a quiet and unique attraction in Virgin Gorda. The rocky cliff offers a scenic viewpoint over the ocean and shoreline, while history buffs can glimpse the island's storied past.

Mineral enthusiasts can find copper, quartz, and malachite scattered throughout the site.

• Note: Easily accessible by car or taxi | Requires little walking

6 Visit Island Viewpoints For Breathtaking Sights

Take a car and venture to the northern region of Virgin Gorda for panoramic views of the island and the surrounding ocean. Once sightseers leave The Baths and beaches in the south, they'll find the landscapes ascend and become more mountainous.

The N Sound Road loops around the north, with several stunning outlook spots. Some have dedicated parking lots and viewpoints, while vacationers should pull over onto the side of the road to enjoy others.

Apart from incredible sights of dense foliage, coastline, and shimmering waters, the outlook spots are excellent for short hikes or exploring.

The best spots for views in Virgin Gorda include:

• Mahoe Bay Overlook
• Little Bay Lookout
• Savannah Bay Viewpoint

7 Take A Boat To Explore North Sound

The North Sound Islands bask in the northern bay and are excellent things to do by boat in the Virgin Islands . Lush and tropical, the five tiny islands boast luxury resorts, restaurants, and unique opportunities for day trips in Virgin Gorda.

Notably, Necker Island is privately owned by Richard Branson, the British business magnate at the helm of Virgin Group.

Hikers should visit the uninhabited Prickly Pear Island to explore the leisurely routes throughout its national park. Instead, vacationers can take a ferry to Saba Rock for an afternoon of lounging or watersports.

The island is hardly more than a rock in the sea but has stunning waters and a restaurant with gorgeous views. Visitors can rent snorkeling and other watersports equipment at Up 'n' Under Watersports on Saba Rock.

• Hours Of Operation: Daily, 8 AM - 5 PM

The ferry ride to Saba Rock departs from the red phone booth on the docks at Leverick Bay. The service is complimentary if guests book a table at the island's only restaurant. Vacationers can check for other ferry times at the dock.

8 Walk Around The Sugar Works Ruins

History buffs should meander through the Sugar Works Ruins for a great free attraction in Virgin Gorda to ruminate on the island's past. The 18th-century ruins are the best preserved on the island and represent a historic sugar plantation.

Visitors can stroll through the garden to view three structures utilized in the sugar production process. Later, tourists can continue to the nearby beach at Nail Bay.

9 Enjoy The Atmosphere At The Virgin Gorda Yacht Harbor

Many vacationers will arrive at the ferry docks in Virgin Gorda near the Yacht Harbor. Spanish Town's quaint and colorful hub is an excellent spot to check the island's pulse.

Travelers can admire the yachts of the wealthy or lounge on an Adirondack on the dock. Tourists could also stake themselves in one of the many bars and restaurants or find some of the best shopping in Virgin Gorda, whether for beach essentials or souvenirs.

One of a beachgoer's favorite souvenirs to bring back from Virgin Gorda is rum. To cut costs, vacationers should purchase bottles at local supermarkets instead of overpriced tourist shops.

10 Experience Thrills With Endless Watersports

Thrill seekers eager to try new activities will find no shortage of watersports in Punta Gorda. The calm and clear waters surrounding the island provide the perfect environment for snorkeling, kayaking, or even surfing.

Many waterfront companies offer rental equipment and lessons in Punta Gorda, like Sealingo Watersports . Conveniently located in Spanish Town, Sealingo provides snorkeling equipment, thrilling kayak tours, leisurely cruises in the British Virgin Islands, and many other things.

• Hours Of Operation: Daily, 9 AM - 5 PM
• Kayak Rentals: from $25 per hour
• Snorkel Equipment: from $12 per day

11 Where To Eat In Virgin Gorda

Vacationers will be delighted with the plethora of restaurants in Virgin Gorda. From beach bars and local cafes to fine dining options, foodies have a lot to taste on the paradisiacal island.

Ordering fresh Atlantic seafood is a must in Virgin Gorda, but the local cuisine is also heavily inspired by Caribbean, Dominican, and Asian flavors. Many of the island's excellent restaurants pair fantastic views with their culinary mastery.

Some essential local dishes to try in the British Virgin Islands include:

• Fish and Fungi: the national dish, a savory blend of butter, okra, and cornmeal.
• Roti: an East Indian classic, this flatbread is filled with meat and vegetables bolstered by curry.
• Callaloo Soup: a bright, Caribbean favorite, this stew combines vegetables, coconut milk, and leaves.

Breakfast Spots In Virgin Gorda

Bath & Turtle Restaurant

• Hours: Daily, 7 AM - 9 PM
• Address: Spanish Town
• Recommended: Brunch | Omelets | Pancakes

Lunch Locations In Virgin Gorda

Sugarcane Restaurant

• Hours: Daily, 11:30 AM - 10 PM | Closed Tuesdays
• Address: Nail Bay, Virgin Gorda
• Customers Love: Mahi Tacos | Crispy Chicken Sandwich | Truffle Fries

Spanish Town Cafe

• Hours: Wednesday - Saturday, 5 AM - 5 PM | Tuesdays, 6 AM - 5 PM | Closed Sundays & Mondays
• Address: N Sound Rd, Spanish Town
• Recommended: Local cuisine | Fried Snapper | Mashed Plantain

Tourists should carefully plan their eating-out budget in Virgin Gorda. Food prices are comparatively high, and tourists could save money by staying at a vacation rental and utilizing a kitchen for some meals.

Dinner Restaurants In Virgin Gorda

CocoMaya Restaurant

• Hours: Daily, 3 PM -10 PM
• Customers Love: Shrimp Lettuce Wraps | Pork Belly Tacos | Cocktails
• Hours: Daily, 10 AM - 9 PM
• Customers Love: BBQ Chicken | BBQ Ribs | Views

Drinks In Virgin Gorda

• Address: North Sound Virgin Gorda
• Customers Love: Cocktails | Atmosphere

12 Where To Stay In Virgin Gorda

Vacationers should treat themselves to luxury when picking a place to stay in Virgin Gorda. While the island is often just a day trip destination to visit The Baths , tourists eager for a rejuvenating trip have several accommodations offering the chance to kick back and pamper themselves.

These include resorts with private beaches and watersports rentals or beachside hotels with spas and exclusive lounges.

Tourists should plan and book in advance to scope out the best deals. Most hotels are around Spanish Town.

Virgin Gorda's laid-back island vibes sometimes mean the rates found online can change or are not entirely accurate. Tourists should always check with the property for the most up-to-date information.

Luxury Stays In Virgin Gorda

Saba Rock Resort

• Prices From: $680
• Why You Should Book: Private Beach | Watersports Facility | Spa

Mid-tier Stays In Virgin Gorda

Mango Bay Resort

• Prices From: $285 per night
• Why You Should Book: Beachfront location | Near Gorda Peak National Park

Related 14 Best Family-Friendly US Virgin Islands All-Inclusive Resorts

Budget-friendly Stays In Virgin Gorda

Fischer's Cove Beach Hotel & Restaurant

• Prices From: Contact the property for rates
• Why You Should Book: Beach access | Restaurant & Bar | Spa

Travelers looking for deals in Virgin Gorda should check vacation rental sites like Airbnb for cheaper accommodations.

13 Best Time To Go To Virgin Gorda

Virgin Gorda boasts year-round warm temperatures with highs consistently averaging in the 80s. While vacationers might assume this means the British Virgin Island is a paradise any month of the year, there are two factors to consider when choosing which month to visit Virgin Gorda: rain and tourism.

April through July balance the least amount of tourists with the lowest chances for rain.

• Best Time To Visit Virgin Gorda: April - July
• Temperatures: Highs in the upper 80s and lows in the mid-80s

The dry season in the Virgin Islands lasts from January to March. These are the most popular months to visit to escape the winter cold and enjoy the Caribbean breeze without precipitation. Due to the ideal climate, the dry season is the busiest and most expensive time to visit Virgin Gorda.

Take it easy the first days on vacation in Virgin Gorda to acclimate. The sun and heat can cause wicked sunburns or dehydration. Tourists should apply plenty of sunscreen, stay in the shade as much as possible, and watch their alcohol intake.

Rainy Season

The rainy months in Virgin Gorda last from June to November and coincide with the Caribbean hurricane season. June and July average two inches of rain per month, while September to November is the worst time for precipitation.

While vacationers may have to contend with some rain at the beginning of the wet season, the island is quieter, and rates are cheaper. Temperatures are also warmer than the dry season, perfect for beach days.

Pack light when vacationing in Virgin Gorda. Bring a light rain jacket during the wet season, and always remember some bug spray.

Related Plan Your U.S. Virgin Islands Vacation During These Months

14 Best Ways To Get Around Virgin Gorda

Virgin Gorda is small and uncomplicated to explore on one's own. Whether to enjoy The Baths or go hiking at Gorda Peak National Park , tourists have multiple ways to venture across the island.

By Car In Virgin Gorda

Renting a car is the best way to get around Virgin Gorda. A rental car allows vacationers to visit all the island's beaches, viewpoints, and national parks in their own time at leisure. Americans only need to present a United States Driver's License to rent a car in Virgin Gorda.

Drivers should be aware that while the steering wheel is on the left, they also drive on the left side of the road in the Virgin Islands.

Some reliable car rental companies in Virgin Gorda include:

• Speedy's
• Virgin Gorda Car Rental

The roads in Virgin Gorda are notorious for their speed bumps and potholes.

On Foot In Virgin Gorda

Vacationers will spend plenty of time walking around the beaches, national parks, and the town of Virgin Gorda. Strolls are an excellent chance to soak in the island vibes. Beachgoers can walk from the arrival docks in Spanish Town to The Baths in about 30 minutes.

Moving between opposite ends or different sites in Virgin Gorda is too much for walking, so tourists should depend on other methods.

Some companies and hotels in Virgin Gorda offer guests bike and scooter rentals . While this can be an entertaining way to get around, many roads are too hilly or narrow.

Taxis In Virgin Gorda

Taxis are a reliable way to move around Virgin Gorda, especially for tourists staying in the southern half. Taxis charge per person, and riders should always confirm prices with the taxi driver before hopping in.

Before visiting Virgin Gorda, travelers should download a GPS map of the island for offline use.

Related How Easy Is It To Island-Hop Through The U.S. Virgin Islands?

15 Tips To Know When Visiting Virgin Gorda

Practical information for visiting virgin gorda.

• Travelers from the United States must show their passports when arriving in the British Virgin Islands.
• Vacationers should check that their ferry and flight tickets match their passport numbers.
• The United States dollar is the official currency in the British Virgin Islands.
• Most resorts and hotels will offer Wi-Fi, but tourists should check with their cell service provider before traveling.

Is Virgin Gorda Safe?

Vacationers will meet a vibrant variety of people in Virgin Gorda, from ex-pats and fellow tourists to locals. Almost everyone is friendly and welcoming, and travelers should return the favor, even with a simple 'good morning' or 'hello' when entering a shop. Virgin Gorda runs on island time, so visitors should be patient, go with the flow, and enjoy their time.

Virgin Gorda is considered one of the safest travel destinations in the Western Hemisphere , with economic stability and a low crime rate.

16 How To Spend The Perfect Day In Virgin Gorda

Although vacationers could spend two weeks recharging on Virgin Gorda, one of the prettiest Virgin Islands , the idyllic island makes for a fantastic day trip.

The perfect day in Virgin Gorda starts early with breakfast in Spanish Town before heading south to visit the renowned Baths . These famed beaches attract tourists from across the Virgin Islands for their giant granite boulders and spectacular natural pools, arches, and tunnels. Spend the morning exploring and taking selfies on the fascinating beach before returning to Spanish Town.

Wander through the Yacht Harbor for some retail therapy or to replenish reserves at one of many bars, restaurants, and cafes. Later, adventurists can find several watersports companies for rentals, tours, or excursions. Virgin Gorda boasts crystal clear waters, pristine beaches, and few tourists apart from The Baths.

Travelers should enjoy the serenity and kayak, snorkel near The Dog Islands , or take a yacht to one of the private islands in North Sound .

The best way to spend an evening in Virgin Gorda is the leisurely hike to the top of Gorda Peak or a rental car to one of the many viewpoints surrounding the national park. Either option will reward vacationers with stunning sunsets before concluding the day with traditional Caribbean fare and drinks at an upscale restaurant in Virgin Gorda.

Q: What Is Virgin Gorda Known For?

Vacationers debating between Jamaica and The British Virgin Islands have a tough choice. If they decide to visit the latter, Virgin Gorda is one of their must-see stops in The British Virgin Islands.

The third-largest of the British Virgin Islands, Virgin Gorda is known for its picturesque beauty in its mountains, unique beaches, and historical structures. One of the most-visited sites in Virgin Gorda is The Baths : a sprawling beach dotted by massive granite boulders that create natural pools and tunnels.

Q: How Long Should Travelers Spend In Virgin Gorda?

Virgin Gorda is an excellent destination because it uniquely caters to all its visitors. Couples on a stress-free vacation in the Virgin Islands can spend as little as one afternoon in Virgin Gorda, making a day trip to visit the famous Baths .

Other travelers can spend up to two weeks in Virgin Gorda for a rejuvenating beach vacation. The island offers endless watersports, beaches, leisurely hikes, day excursions, and more.

Q: Can Travelers Day Trip From St Thomas To Virgin Gorda?

Beachgoers have many options when deciding between St Thomas, St John, or St Croix in the Virgin Islands .

Vacationers should know if they choose to stay in St Thomas, they can easily make a day trip to visit the famous Baths , pristine beaches, and uninhabited islands of Virgin Gorda.

Several ferry services offer excursions from St Thomas to Virgin Gorda. For example, Speedy's transports visitors by ferry between the two islands every Saturday . Trips take about 90 minutes and cost $60 for a one-way adult ticket.

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17 Royal Caribbean Cruise Tips for First-time Passengers, According to Experts

Here's how to maximize your Royal Caribbean cruise, whether it's your first or fifth time on board.

Elizabeth Heath is a writer and editor living on a hill in Umbria, from where she writes about travel in Italy, the rest of Europe, and farther afield.

Courtesy of Royal Caribbean Cruise

If you’re shopping for a traditional cruise, chances are you’ll consider Royal Caribbean. The household name among big-ship cruise lines is the second-largest carrier on the seas (after Carnival). It has 27 ships in its fleet, including the new Icon of the Seas , the world’s largest cruise ship, with room for 7,600 passengers. Another four mega-ships are under construction. Even Royal Caribbean’s smallest vessels hold more than 2,400 passengers, so by any definition, they’re big.

If you’ve never sailed with Royal Caribbean, it can take a while to learn the ropes — nautical reference intended. And since your vacation time is precious, we asked some cruise line experts how to make the most of your first voyage. Here are their tips and tricks for first-time Royal Caribbean guests.

Don't wait to book.

It’s a piece of advice that goes for most cruise lines. Matt Hochberg of Royal Caribbean Blog , a fan and information site that's not affiliated with the company, says to book your Royal Caribbean cruise “as early as possible — as in now. It’s not like airfare where you can wait on the chance that prices will go down. Cruise prices stay where they are and only go up, and right now, demand is as high as it’s ever been. Your best bet is to book as early as you can, like 12 to 24 months out, to lock in the lowest price.”

Make show reservations in advance, too.

“Would you show up in New York for a theater weekend and simply cross your fingers and hope you get tickets to the shows you want?” asks Rob Clabbers, a Travel + Leisure A-List advisor and founder of Q Cruise + Travel . The answer is probably not, so use the "Manage My Cruise" feature on the Royal Caribbean website and book the shows you don’t want to miss. “You’re more likely to get the reservations you want and you’ll avoid having to scramble for seats or stand in line on your first day on board,” he adds.

Study the ship layout before your cruise.

If you’re like me, the anticipation of a cruise is half the fun. Use the weeks and months before your sailing to study deck plans and hone in on your favorite amenities. The largest Royal Caribbean ships are like small cities — the Icon and Oasis class ships even have their own neighborhoods. If you already have your bearings before embarking, you’ll waste less time riding the wrong elevator or wandering the wrong deck when trying to get to your destination — or back to your stateroom.

Get a jump on online check-in.

As soon as you book, access the "Manage My Cruise" portal on the Royal Caribbean website (the Royal Caribbean app has some of the same features). Then, as soon as online check-in opens, get right on it so you can secure the earliest possible window. “It makes the cruise terminal experience way faster,” says Hochberg. “About 30 days in advance, they’ll give you a check-in window. Arrive right around that time and you’ll breeze through — you don’t even stop moving.”

Opt for a drinks package.

You won’t go thirsty on a Royal Caribbean cruise, but free drinks are limited to standard coffee and tea, tap water, hot chocolate, milk, and a few other basics. Everything else costs extra — often a lot extra. “Even if you don’t drink alcohol, it may be worth checking out the options in advance, if you’re into premium coffees, sodas, juices, or bottled waters," says Clabbers. “Royal Caribbean occasionally offers promotions on the ‘Manage My Cruise’ [portal] that may save you money on certain beverage packages.”

Pack a swimsuit in your carry-on.

“Royal Caribbean ships have so many great pools and water features,” says Hochberg. And they get really crowded. Get ahead of the other passengers by packing a swimsuit in your daypack or carry-on. You can enjoy the pools, water parks, or the popular FlowRider surf simulator while you wait — often several hours — to access your cabin. “Embarkation day is one of the best times to go to the pools,” Hochberg adds. If you’re traveling with kids, you'll be glad you stashed those suits in your bag.

Splurge on a suite.

“Royal Caribbean ships can feel large and busy, so maybe you want to upgrade to a suite,” says Clabbers. Most suites start at around 300 square feet and go up from there — both in dimensions and price. You can expect to pay about twice as much for a suite, but the additional space may offer a welcome break from all the hubbub on board. Clabbers adds, “Depending on the category and ship you choose, you may enjoy suite-only restaurants and lounges, VIP treatment and embarkation, and even Royal Genie butler service.”

Asses how much drinking you’ll really do.

Royal Caribbean’s Deluxe Beverage Package — the only one that includes alcohol — follows a dynamic pricing model between $56 and $105 per day, per person, with prices varying depending on the ship, itinerary, and other factors. Alcoholic and soft drinks are expensive on board, but you still have to indulge a lot to make the package worth the investment. If you’re not sure how much you'll drink (and don’t want to feel obligated to do so simply because you’ve paid for a package), consider going a la carte for the first few days of your cruise. You can always add a drinks package later, as long as you still have at least four days left on your sailing.

Find your place in the sun.

If you want a poolside lounge chair, you'll have to arrive by 10 a.m. at the latest on most Royal Caribbean ships, according to Hochberg. “People who sleep in and roll up at noon are not getting a chair by the pool,” he says. That said, the ships do have plenty of outdoor space, even if it’s not right by a pool. “If you just want to be outside, there are other chairs. Walk to the front or back of the ship. The further away you are from the pool, the more chairs you’ll find,” he adds, noting the promenade deck on any Royal Caribbean ship is always a great spot to read.

Consider a balcony cabin.

Like most cruise lines, Royal Caribbean is adding more balcony cabins and suites on its ships, and that’s, of course, due to customer demand. “Balconies are the most popular option,” says Hochberg. Though they cost more than an interior or non-balcony room, they’re still reasonably priced compared to suites. Hochberg adds, “They offer more space and fresh air, and if you do get seasick, the view and fresh air help.”

Choose an older ship.

If your vacation is more about the destination than the journey, you should consider an older, smaller Royal Caribbean ship, especially given the demand for their newer Oasis and Icon vessels. Radiance and Vision classes are among the oldest and smallest in the fleet, but still offer plenty of big-ship amenities without the “city at sea” feel. Hochberg calls these ships “much more manageable,” to the point that you probably don’t even need to make show or specialty dining reservations in advance — though you might still want to book once you’re on board.

Look for no-kid zones.

Royal Caribbean is a family-friendly cruise line — there are a slew of facilities and programs made just for kids. But if you prefer a more adult experience, Royal Caribbean offers options. “Certain areas are adults-only, such as the casino and nightclubs,” says Hochberg. While bars and lounges technically allow children to enter, he says it’s rare to see kids in these areas in the evening. Later dinner seatings also mean fewer young kids. Almost every ship in the fleet offers the Solarium, an adults-only section with a pool and whirlpool, a sundeck, and a bar. On the brand’s private Caribbean island playground, Perfect Day at CocoCay , Hideaway Beach is the adults-only pool and beach, though entrance is for a fee. Hochberg also says that “on longer sailings — those past seven nights — the amount of kids drops precipitously.”

If you can’t snag a show reservation, try walking in.

Because booked passengers scoop up show reservations as soon as they’re offered online, you may not get your first choice when it comes to the many show offerings, which include ice-skating performances, aqua theater, and Broadway-quality productions. But don’t give up, says Hochberg. “Show up at least 30 minutes before the show, even if it's sold out,” he says. “You’ll almost certainly be able to get in, as people blow off their [advance] reservations.”

Cost out The Key program.

Clabbers says Royal Caribbean cruisers should look into The Key program , the paid upgrade that’s akin to the Genie+ service at Disney theme parks. “It provides priority boarding access, a welcome lunch, high-speed internet access, fast lane access to onboard activities, private time at the FlowRider surf simulator, dedicated theater seats at shows, and other niceties.” Prices fluctuate, though, so before you purchase, compare the cost of The Key versus that of Royal Caribbean’s Voom Surf & Stream internet package. If there’s not much difference in cost (remember, it’s per user, per day), The Key benefits are worth springing on. However, if there’s a big price difference — or you want to disconnect during your cruise — you can skip The Key.

Look into third-party excursions.

Shore excursions must also be reserved in advance, and depending on when you book, you might not get your first choice of activity or time slot. But that doesn’t mean you have to stay on board or near the port all day. “Of course, Royal Caribbean offers shore excursions wherever they go,” says Clabbers. “But if you like more options and potentially smaller groups or lower fares, take a look at excursions offered by third-party providers.” Clabbers likes Shore Excursions Group and Project Expedition . “If you prefer private [excursions], Context Travel offers cultural and historical tours and activities in cities around the world.”

BYOB — to a point.

Perhaps you don’t want to buy a beverage package, but you’d like to have a glass of wine or two during your cruise. Royal Caribbean lets you bring one 750-milliliter bottle of wine per cabin guest, per cruise, and for many light drinkers, that’s plenty. Don’t try and bring more than this, and don’t put it in your checked luggage — it will be confiscated and returned at the end of your journey, as will any alcohol you buy in ports of call. You can also bring up to 12 containers (bottles, cans, or cartons) with up to 17 ounces each of soft drinks per stateroom. If you bring your bottle of wine to a restaurant or other public area, you’ll be charged a corkage fee.

Skip the transatlantic cruise if you're a first-timer.

Transatlantic repositioning cruises are not ideal for first-time Royal Caribbean passengers, according to Hochberg. “Transatlantic cruises are like a fine wine. Once you’re more acclimated and know you like the shipboard experience, they offer great value priced per night,” he says. But you don’t want to get on board and find that you don’t like the brand, or worse, don’t like cruising. “They are long cruises with lots of sea days, and are very susceptible to the weather.”

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12 Travel Mistakes You Really Don't Want To Make in the Caribbean

Posted: September 5, 2023 | Last updated: September 5, 2023

If you’re lucky enough to visit the Caribbean, you’ll be enchanted by what it has to offer. This famous region is the stuff of tropical dreams, with turquoise sea views, lush greenery, and endless fruity drinks seemingly around every corner.

Before you jaunt off to paradise, however, make sure you have all your ducks in a row. That way, you will avoid wasting money by making rookie mistakes. Here are some of those mistakes that you can avoid on your next Caribbean vacation.

Compare the best travel credit cards for nearly free travel

Only considering a cruise

We aren't hating on cruises, but if that’s the only way you’ve ever explored the Caribbean, you might not realize that you have other options. 

Skipping a cruise is especially good advice if you want to avoid congested tourist bars and souvenir shops designed with mass appeal in mind, or if you're just looking to keep more money in your wallet .

The better way to get to this iconic destination arguably is via plane, as there are ample flights to a wide variety of destinations. And if you get to take a seaplane, that counts as a true adventure.

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Forgetting to bring cash

Many Americans simply don’t bother to have cash on hand. But when heading to the Caribbean, be sure to bring some money with you and secure it smartly.

Without access to cash, you might miss out on quirky side-of-the-road vendors, which aren’t exactly set up for plastic. You also need to be prepared to tip if you want the best service.  Many islands accept U.S. dollars, too, which is convenient. However, before you leave for your trip, find out if you will need to exchange currency.

Sticking to only all-inclusive resorts

As with cruising, spending your vacation at an all-inclusive resort takes the planning and coordinating out of your Caribbean vacation. Just keep those fruity and frozen drinks coming, right?

However, you might spend more money than you need to at these resorts. Be sure to read the fine print so you know what’s actually included. 

Also, Airbnb and even regular hotels offer some great options that are much cheaper, so check those out too.

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Not taking a long enough trip

Make sure you book a long enough trip, even if you’re planning on spending your entire Caribbean vacation poolside with an umbrella drink or lounging on the beach with a book.

It’s good to schedule enough time to account for things like flight delays, jet lag, travel from the airport to your final destination, and traffic delays. 

All of these issues can eat up more vacation time than you would expect.

Expecting everyone to speak English

Yes, the Caribbean is a popular tourist destination. But don’t assume that everyone in the region speaks English because of that.

This group of islands has a rich history, with a full spectrum of people, cultures, and languages, including Indigenous tongues, Spanish, French, and Dutch. 

That doesn’t mean you have to learn a language before going but be mindful that some folks might not know what you’re saying.

Presuming one island is just like the next

The Caribbean may be one region but don’t assume the islands are interchangeable. That aforementioned rich history extends to food, pop culture, traditions, and more.

The landscapes of each island are also wildly different, from the old city of San Juan in Puerto Rico to the mysterious Boiling Lake in Dominica. 

Even the wildlife varies from one place to the next, from swimming pigs in the Bahamas to green monkeys in Barbados.

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Not preparing for Island Time

Yes, it’s a thing — folks in the Caribbean generally aren’t in a rush. So, if you expect your guides and porters to hurry up, you’re inevitably going to be disappointed.

Rather than resist this slower pace, the best thing you can do is lean into it. After all, you are on vacation. So, expecting your waiter to make a drink faster means you’re not enjoying yourself properly.

Sit back, and let things happen when they happen if you want an authentic and enjoyable experience.

Not exploring the full island

What’s better than getting to your destination in the Caribbean to find the resort is gorgeous, the views are pristine, and the food is worthy of a Michelin star?

Not much, to be honest. But don’t make the mistake of staying at the resort the whole time. 

You have a whole island to explore, with fun activities, friendly and informative locals, and hidden gems awaiting your discovery. Don’t miss out on a chance to see something new.

Assuming the water is potable

Like many places in the world, not every island in the Caribbean has tap water that’s safe to drink. For example, you should steer clear of tap water in the Dominican Republic, even for brushing your teeth.

Generally, the best way to approach this is to ask your hosts or guides which water is safe for your health given that you are just a visitor. Otherwise, you might end up seriously sick on your vacation.

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Not planning around hurricane season

Hurricanes are a fact of life in the Caribbean, and they usually develop between June and November, with August and September being the peak season. 

While major storms only hit a few times a year, they can make travel to some islands unpredictable during this period.

Still, you can often score good rates and avoid the crowds during hurricane season, so your mileage may vary. 

Assuming there's cell service

You’d be hard-pressed to find an American who’s not super-reliant on their phone but don’t expect to have 5G and high-speed Wi-Fi everywhere you go in the Caribbean. 

Sure, you can probably count on your hotel, but that’s about it, especially in remote regions.

If you absolutely need service, consider signing up for an international data plan before you go. But ideally, leave work at the office and relax. Isn’t that why you’re in the Caribbean in the first place?

Not taking taxis

Some things are best left to the professionals, and that includes driving in the Caribbean. For starters, asking for directions might leave you confused, wondering at which palm tree to turn left.

Oh, and people drive on the opposite side of the road in many parts of the Caribbean. Then there are different traffic rules, and maybe even mountain roads that are barely paved. 

You’re probably not going to find an Uber, either, so just sit back and take the taxi. Remember to take your  top travel credit card with you if you want to stretch your dollars. 

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Bottom line

A vacation anywhere in the Caribbean can be a relaxing, adventurous, and overall fun experience for any traveler. Just be sure you don’t make a mistake that can put a serious cramp in your style, or have you missing out on something wonderful.

Sure, the Caribbean has tons of stunning beaches and delicious drinks, but there's so much more to discover. Don’t be afraid to wander off the beaten path.

If this story has you dreaming of a Caribbean visit this coming winter, it might be time to look into great ways to generate extra cash to pay for that trip.

More from FinanceBuzz:

• 6 genius hacks Costco shoppers should know
• 9 things you must do before the next recession.
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Best Luxury Hotel On Turks & Caicos: Amanyara Vs. Parrot Cay

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1. Location: Amanyara Vs. Parrot Cay

4. accommodations, 5. atmosphere, 6. best way to book, 7. conclusion.

When comparing Amanyara to Como Parrot Cay, both located on the Turks and Caicos Islands, it is immediately worth mentioning that both hotels are amongst the best luxury hotels in the Caribbean , so both are brilliant.

The Turks and Caicos Islands are approximately 575 miles southeast of Miami. Amanyara in Turks & Caicos is located on the west coast of Providenciales Island and is a short drive from Providenciales International Airport (PLS). The drive from Providenciales Airport to Amanyara takes approximately 25-30 minutes. The resort is spread out on a rocky peninsula hidden down a long and undeveloped track, with a beach to one side and reefs perfect for snorkeling.

COMO Parrot Cay is situated just a short boat or helicopter ride from the main island of Providenciales. This private island paradise is strategically positioned for a secluded and exclusive setting. Parrot Cay can be reached by a 35-minute boat ride from Providenciales, the main island in Turks and Caicos.

Amanyara basks on the secluded shores of an 18,000-acre nature reserve on the west coast of Providenciales Island. Amanyara is made up of lush tropical pavilions and villas that are spread out over the grounds, and it overlooks half a mile of white sand beaches and the turquoise waters of Providenciales’ North West Point Marine National Park.

Amanyara features a peaceful beach setting. The beach is known for its pristine white sand and calm, turquoise waters. Surrounded by palm trees and lush vegetation, it exudes a sense of tropical paradise.

The resort’s secluded location means the beach is uncrowded, providing a serene atmosphere for guests to relax and soak up the sun. The warm, gentle breeze rustles through the palm trees that fringe the beach, adding to the idyllic setting.

Review: Amanyara, Turks & Caicos

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It is no secret that Aman Resorts is one of my favorite luxury hotel brands, and Amanyara is certainly one of the best luxury hotels in the world. You can also read our review of Aman Canal Grande Venice. You will find some of the best beaches in the world on the Turks and Caicos Islands, and Amanyara resort is located along the pristine reefs of Northwest Point Marine National Park, acclaimed for some of the world’s best wall and reef diving.

On the eternal question of beach superiority, the beaches at Amanyara and Parrot Cay both have unique charms, much like a piña colada and a margarita, which both have devoted fans.

Amanyara boasts of a pristine white sand beach that seems to stretch on forever, inviting you to take long, romantic walks or just sit and contemplate the majesty of nature. The turquoise waters lapping at the shores only add to the picturesque setting. And let’s not forget the lush tropical vegetation that provides the perfect backdrop for your Instagram-worthy moments.

Parrot Cay offers a stunning three-mile-long beach with electric-blue water, perfect for those who want to feel like they’re in a postcard. It’s a bit more private and secluded, which is great for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life. Plus, it’s a private island resort, so you know you’re getting that VIP treatment.

Whether you prefer the expansive, picture-perfect beach at Amanyara or the private, electric-blue waters of Parrot Cay, it really comes down to personal preference. And remember, no matter which beach you choose, you’ll still be in a tropical paradise, so it’s a win-win situation!

Best Four Seasons In The Caribbean: Ocean Club Bahamas Vs Nevis Vs Anguilla

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Four Seasons has three exclusive hotels in the Caribbean, Four Seasons Resort Nevis vs. Four Seasons Resort and Residences Anguilla vs. the newly opened The Ocean Club, Bahamas, A Four Seasons Resort, but which is the best in the Caribbean? Four Seasons has had a presence in the Caribbean for more than 25 years, having operated Four Seasons Resort Nevis since 1990. Four Seasons Resort and Private Residences Anguilla was the second resort in the company’s Caribbean collection. The Ocean Club, Bahamas, A Four Seasons Resort is the third.

Amanyara boasts of a serene, Zen-like pool experience, with a vast stretch of water that mirrors the tranquility of the surrounding nature. The main infinity pool offers breathtaking ocean views, and is designed to blend seamlessly with the horizon and the lush tropical vegetation, creating a harmonious environment where you can relax and forget the world.

Guests can lounge on luxurious sunbeds or seek shade under umbrellas while enjoying poolside service. The pool area’s design is sleek and contemporary, perfectly complementing the natural beauty of the surroundings.

For those seeking even more privacy, some of the resort’s pavilions and villas have private plunge pools where guests can take a refreshing dip in seclusion.

Parrot Cay offers a more vibrant pool experience, with a splash of Caribbean color and energy. The pool is surrounded by vibrant flora and fauna, giving it a lively, tropical vibe. It’s like swimming in a postcard, with the azure water contrasting beautifully against the lush greenery. The pool area is designed to capture the essence of the Caribbean, with a lively atmosphere that invites you to let your hair down and enjoy the moment.

If you’re looking for a serene, tranquil pool experience, Amanyara is the place for you. But if you want a lively, vibrant pool experience that captures the spirit of the Caribbean, Parrot Cay is the way to go.

The secluded stand-alone villas at Amanyara punctuate the grounds and are surrounded by vegetation. Each is unique. The best-value villas overlook tranquil ponds. Further up the scale, villas offer their own private pools and direct ocean access. One has its own private sandy cove. At the top of the scale are four—and five-bedroom villas with their own private pool and direct beach access, which are pretty much perfect in every way.

Parrot Cay, a private island resort that offers a more vibrant and colorful experience. The accommodations here are bright and airy, with a touch of Caribbean flair. The villas are well-appointed and offer direct beach access, so you can roll out of bed and be on the sand in seconds. Speaking of the beach, Parrot Cay boasts a stunning three-mile-long stretch of white sand and electric-blue water, perfect for those Instagram-worthy moments.

Best Aman Resort In The Caribbean: Amanera vs Amanyara

When comparing Amanera to Amanyara, it is immediately worth mentioning that both hotels are amongst the best luxury hotels in the Caribbean. You can't go wrong with either resort, they are both stunning. Amanera is a clifftop resort located on the north coast of the Dominican Republic. Its tropical grounds meander down to golden sands with crashing waves. This is a place to laze on this stunning beach, catch some surf, horseback ride across the sands, and golf on the clifftops.

Amanyara offers secluded barefoot luxury at its finest. The resort’s setting on the tranquil shores of Providenciales creates an atmosphere of pure relaxation and indulgence.

Amanyara’s design is sleek and contemporary, with minimalist architecture and zen pools that blend seamlessly into the surrounding landscape of white sand beaches and crystal-clear waters.

Parrot Cay offers a more vibrant and colorful atmosphere. The resort is designed to capture the essence of the Caribbean, with bright and airy accommodations and a lively beach area. The atmosphere here is more energetic, perfect for those who want to enjoy the vibrancy of the Caribbean.

Book any luxury hotel, including any Aman hotel and Como Parrot Cay, with our luxury travel concierge to get additional free benefits, including prioritized room upgrades, free breakfasts, resort credit, and more.

Amanyara is a serene, Zen-like retreat and Parrot Cay is a vibrant, tropical paradise.

If you’re leaning towards a tranquil, nature-focused getaway, Amanyara is your best bet. It’s nestled in the lush jungle, offering a serene escape from the hustle and bustle of modern life. The accommodations are designed to blend seamlessly with nature, providing a tranquil atmosphere that’s perfect for relaxation. Plus, the beach at Amanyara is a sight to behold – a pristine stretch of white sand and turquoise waters that’ll make you feel like you’ve stepped into a postcard.

However, if you’re looking for a lively, vibrant atmosphere that captures the spirit of the Caribbean, Parrot Cay might be more up your alley. The resort is designed to capture the essence of the Caribbean, with bright and airy accommodations and a lively beach area. The atmosphere here is more energetic, perfect for those who want to enjoy the vibrancy of the Caribbean.

Both resorts offer top-notch service and amenities, so you can’t go wrong with either choice. It just depends on whether you want to experience a serene, tranquil atmosphere or a lively, vibrant Caribbean vibe.

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Image © BlueOrange Studio / Adobe Stock.

Note: Benefits & upgrades subject to availability. Benefits offered correct at the time of writing. Terms & conditions apply. Enquire for more information. Benefits offered correct at the time of writing but may be amended at discretion of the vendor. Posts may be sponsored by the proprietor or brand being appraised. All opinions remain our own & are in no way influenced.

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