Imagine paradise. For many, the mind conjures images of pristine, sun-kissed beaches, swaying palm trees casting shadows on white sand, and an endless expanse of turquoise water meeting the horizon. Ask where this idyllic escape might be found, and the answer is often unanimous: "Somewhere in the Caribbean."
The Caribbean, however, is far from a singular destination. It’s a sprawling and diverse archipelago encompassing over 700 islands, reefs, and cays scattered across roughly one million square miles. This vast region is a tapestry woven from 13 independent island nations and 12 dependent territories, each with its own unique character, history, and cultural influences, often reflecting close ties to Europe and the United States.
Choosing the perfect island for your Caribbean getaway can feel overwhelming. To help navigate this sea of options, we’ve compiled a curated list of the 20 best Caribbean Islands to visit, from the Dutch charm of Aruba to the vibrant culture of Barbados. This list is a great guide if you’re looking for the 20 Best Caribbean Islands to Visit.
1. Barbados: A Blend of Beach, History, and Surf
Barbados, nestled in the West Indies, offers a rich blend of experiences. History and culture intertwine with breathtaking beaches and world-class surfing conditions. Begin your journey in Bridgetown, the capital, with a walking tour led by Characters of Town, delving into the island’s fascinating past. Then, embark on a snorkeling adventure with Calabaza Sailing Cruises, swimming alongside graceful sea turtles.
For culinary delights, Treasure Beach’s Tapestry Restaurant offers fresh Bajan cuisine. Surfers should head to Bathsheba Beach, a renowned spot favored by surfing legend Kelly Slater. As the birthplace of rum, Barbados boasts over 1,500 rum shops and the world’s oldest rum distillery. While Mount Gay Rum offers tours, the Rum Vault at Colony Club provides a unique experience with rum and chocolate tastings, flights, and pairing dinners. Barbados is truly one of the 20 Best Caribbean Islands to Visit.
2. New Providence, Bahamas: History, Beaches, and Lively Nights
The Bahamas, a chain of approximately 700 islands stretching across 100,000 square miles of ocean, offers a multitude of choices. Among the 20 main islands, New Providence stands out. Make Nassau, the capital, your base for exploring its rich history, pristine beaches, and vibrant nightlife.
Climb the Queen’s Staircase for panoramic views from Bennett’s Hill, the island’s highest point, and tour the historic Fort Fincastle. Sample rum at John Watling’s Distillery, browse handicrafts at the Nassau Straw Market, or enjoy thrilling water rides at the Aquaventure Waterpark at Atlantis Resort. For further exploration, take a short flight to Exuma Cays, famous for its swimming pigs.
3. Puerto Rico: A Passport-Free Caribbean Paradise
As a U.S. territory, Puerto Rico provides a taste of the Caribbean without the need for a passport. Immerse yourself in nature at El Yunque National Forest, the only tropical rainforest in the U.S. national forest system, home to 150 native fern species and the charming coquí tree frog.
Experience the magic of Puerto Rico’s bioluminescent bays on a glass-bottom kayak tour, with Mosquito Bay on Vieques offering the brightest display. Explore Old San Juan, the oldest city in the Western Hemisphere, and savor a piña colada at either Caribe Hilton Hotel or Barrachina, both claiming to be the cocktail’s birthplace.
4. St. Croix: Culinary Delights and Natural Wonders
Just 40 miles east of Puerto Rico, St. Croix, another U.S. Virgin Island, boasts a diverse array of attractions. It offers one of the best culinary scenes in the Caribbean, with restaurants like Savant and Rumrunners serving rum cocktails and local specialties such as blackened fish.
Nature enthusiasts can hike to the Jack and Isaac Bay Preserve, home to 400 fish species and endangered green and hawksbill turtles. Buck Island Reef National Monument, off the northeast coast, offers excellent hiking and snorkeling opportunities.
5. Virgin Gorda, British Virgin Islands: Safety and Natural Beauty
The British Virgin Islands, comprising over 50 islands and cays, are popular for their safety and stunning beauty. Virgin Gorda is a must-visit, home to Spanish Town and the Baths, the BVI’s most famous natural attraction.
The Baths are characterized by granite boulders, tidal pools, and grottos, perfect for snorkeling, swimming, and capturing memorable photos. Hike up Gorda Peak, the island’s highest point, and explore the ruins of a copper mine in Spanish Town.
6. St. Lucia: A Honeymooner’s Dream
St. Lucia is renowned as a honeymoon destination, and for good reason. With a centuries-old tradition of cacao production, the island is a chocolate lover’s paradise, offering "bean to bar" estate tours, chocolate spa treatments, and delicious treats.
The twin peaks of the Piton mountains, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, are a popular hiking destination. Snorkel at Jalousie Beach or Anse Chastanet, indulge in a mud bath at Sulphur Springs, and consider staying at one of the island’s signature three-walled resorts.
7. Aruba: Flamingos and White-Sand Beaches
Aruba, the most well-known of the ABC islands (Aruba, Bonaire, and Curaçao), is famous for its flamingo population. Its iconic white-sand beaches, Palm Beach and Eagle Beach, are idyllic, while Hadicurari and Dos Playa are popular among windsurfers and surfers.
Arikok National Park, covering nearly 20% of the island, features desert landscapes, a limestone cave system, and a natural tide pool.
8. Jamaica: Reggae, Jerk Cuisine, and Waterfalls
Jamaica, in the Greater Antilles region, offers live reggae music, jerk cuisine, and natural gems, including magnificent waterfalls that can be hiked.
Explore Montego Bay, the capital of St. James Parish, and sample some rum.
9. Dominican Republic: Diversity and Beauty
The Caribbean’s second-largest country, the Dominican Republic, is diverse and beautiful. Explore the 16th-century Ciudad Colonial in Santo Domingo, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and relax in the national botanic garden.
Hike Pico Duarte, the Caribbean’s highest mountain, or tour Chocal, a women-run cacao plantation. With 30 miles of coastline, a trip to the beach is a must, whether you visit Playa Bavaro in Punta Cana or Isla Saona.
10. Antigua: The Land of 365 Beaches
Antigua, the larger of the two islands that make up Antigua and Barbuda, is known for its white-sand beaches and clear waters.
Spend your time beach hopping, from Half Moon Bay to Carlisle Bay Beach. Swim with stingrays at Stingray City or snorkel around the Pillar of Hercules. Tour Nelson’s Dockyard in English Harbour and sip martinis at Skullduggery Cafe.
11. Providenciales: Grace Bay and Turquoise Waters
Providenciales, the most popular island in Turks and Caicos, is home to Grace Bay, consistently ranked among the world’s best beaches.
Explore Princess Alexandra National Park, snorkel at Smith’s Reef or Bight Reef, and take a ferry to Middle Caicos for hiking and a tour of the Conch Bar Caves.
12. St. Martin/St. Maarten: A Dual-Nation Island
Governed by both the French and Dutch, St. Martin/St. Maarten offers diverse experiences. In St. Maarten, ride the world’s steepest zip line, hike throughout an 8,800-acre natural reserve, and watch planes fly overhead at Maho Beach.
Wander the streets of Phillipsburg and visit Guavaberry Emporium. In St. Martin, sample French Caribbean cuisine in Grand Case, hike and zip line at Loterie Farm, and relax at Orient Bay.
13. Cuba: Culture and History
Get your cultural fix in Havana, Cuba’s capital, with museums, art galleries, jazz clubs, and restaurants.
Sip daiquiris at El Floridita, drink mojitos at Hotel Nacional, and marvel at Cuban art at the National Museum of Fine Arts. Visit Trinidad, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
14. St. Barts: Luxury and Glamour
St. Barts is known for its grandeur and is a favorite among celebrities.
Stay in a private villa or luxury hotel, kayak or kite surf at Anse de Grand Cul de Sac, browse shops in Gustavia, and sunbathe on the beaches.
15. Anguilla: Relaxation and Beaches
Relaxation is key on Anguilla, home to 33 fantastic beaches. Shoal Bay East is consistently ranked among the best in the Caribbean.
Visit Meads Bay, tee off at Aurora Anguilla Resort & Golf Club, and visit Dune Preserve for rum punch and live music.
16. St. Kitts: History, Adventure, and Beaches
This Eastern Caribbean island has historical attractions, outdoor adventure, and beach bars.
Hike Mt. Liamuiga, snorkel the Coconut Tree Reef, and tour Brimstone Hill Fortress National Park. Ride the St. Kitts Scenic Railway and shop at the Caribelle Batik store. Take a ferry to Nevis for a day trip.
17. Curaçao: Dutch Charm and Beaches
Curaçao, the "C" in "ABC islands," features Dutch architecture in Willemstad.
Admire the buildings along St. Anna Bay and relax at outdoor cafes. Visit Curaçao’s beaches, including Playa Piskado, Jan Thiel, and Playa Kenepa Grandi.
18. Grenada: The Spice Island
Grenada, the "Spice Island," offers cultural activities and natural attractions.
Visit the Gouyave Nutmeg Processing Station, shop at the Spice Market, and dive at Jason deCaires Taylor’s underwater sculpture park. Explore waterfalls like Annandale and Au Coin Falls.
19. St. Vincent: Natural Beauty and Sailing
St. Vincent, the largest island in the Grenadines, is a worthy vacation destination.
Climb La Soufrière, hike the Vermont Nature Trail, and visit the botanical garden. Explore Dark View Falls and Fort Charlotte. Set sail across the Grenadines to Tobago Cays Marine Park.
20. Bermuda: Pink Sand and Underground Caves
Bermuda boasts pink-sand beaches, with Horseshoe Bay being the most famous.
Explore the Crystal and Fantasy Caves, try a Dark & Stormy cocktail, and embark on a sunset cruise. Consider staying at the Hamilton Princess & Beach Club. Choosing from the 20 Best Caribbean Islands to Visit is a tough choice but worthwhile.
