Best Caribbean Islands: Discovering the Top Caribbean Islands
The Caribbean boasts some of the loveliest islands in the world. In this list of the best Caribbean islands, we detail some breathtaking Caribbean islands that are truly special. Whether you are looking for relaxation or adventure, there is sure to be an island on this list that meets your criteria.
This list of the best Caribbean Islands will highlight top islands throughout the Caribbean and help you plan your next trip. With this list, you can make sure to visit the top Caribbean Islands and enjoy all that they have to offer visitors and guests.
For even more travel help, check out our list of the best travel accessories, the best travel blogs, and the best travel sites. This list will help you get where you want to go and make sure that you have everything that you need to have a great trip!
Top 15 Caribbean Islands:
1. The British Virgin Islands
Highlights: Plenty of Islands to Choose from, Excellent Shopping and Dining.
About Caribbean Island: Comprised of 60 islands, cays, and islets, the British Virgin Island’s biggest island is Tortola. Word class beaches of every shape and size are to be found here, as well as abundant shopping and dining.
2. Saint Vincent and the Grenadines Islands
Highlights: 32 Different Islands to Choose from and Explore, Plenty of Activities in the Water, and Out of It.
About Caribbean Island: With 32 islands making up St. Vincent and the Grenadines, there is always something new and fun to do. Turquoise waters, coral reefs, and remote, secluded areas are a big draw for nature lovers looking to get away from it all.
3. Grand Cayman Island
Highlights: Largest of the Cayman Islands, Home to One of the Best Beaches in the World.
About Caribbean Island: The biggest and most populated island in the Cayman Islands, Grand Cayman, provides a host of activities and amenities. Spa services, the famed Seven Mile beach, and Stingray City are just some of Grand Cayman’s draw.
4. Dominica Island
Highlights: Not as Over Crowded, Plenty of Exploring on Land and in the Water.
About Caribbean Island: Nicknamed the nature island, Dominica is not to be confused with the larger island of the Dominican Republic. Perfect for hiking and diving, Dominica is an excellent choice for those looking to avoid hoards of people.
5. Providenciales, Turks and Caicos Islands
Highlights: Highly Rated by Visitors, Upscale Resorts, Plenty of Diving, and Snorkeling Opportunities.
About Caribbean Island: The island of Providenciales is the most populated of the Turks and Caicos Islands and is consistently rated as one of the best islands by visitors. Stunning beaches, upscale resorts, and excellent snorkeling and diving make Providenciales well-deserving of its rating.
6. Barbados Island
Highlights: Surfing Availability, Access to Local Food and Culture, Relaxing Beaches, and Water Activities.
About Caribbean Island: Home to the singer Rhianna, the lush West Indian island of Barbados, offers something for everyone. Both calm and surf-ready water is available, and delicious local food offerings round out the island’s appeal.
7. Aruba Island
Highlights: Eagle Beach, Plenty of Activities to Choose From.
About Caribbean Island: Boasting the quintessential sand, sun, and water of the Caribbean, but with a Dutch flair, Aruba is a definite must-see. The island’s Eagle Beach has received high acclaim, and a host of available activities make the island fun for the whole family.
8. Puerto Rico Island
Highlights: U.S. Citizens Don’t Need a Passport to Visit, Full of Historical Sites to Explore, Plenty of Shopping and Dining Options.
About Caribbean Island: With an array of historic sites, shopping, and white sand beaches, Puerto Rico makes for a great Caribbean island getaway. U.S. citizens can also visit Puerto Rico without a passport, making it ideal for a last-minute getaway.
9. Saint Lucia Island
Highlights: Lush and Unspoiled, Offers Something for All Types of Vacation Goers.
About Caribbean Island: Whether you are looking for romance, adventure, or relaxation, the Lesser Antilles island of Saint Lucia has it all. Lush and unspoiled, Saint Lucia is an excellent option for tough to please vacationers.
10. Saint Martin Island
Highlights: Offers a French Side and Dutch Side, Excellent Shopping and Dining, Access to Stunning Beaches, and Views.
About Caribbean Island: Part of the Leeward Islands, the northern half of Saint Martin is the French side, while the southern half is the Dutch side. Both sides, however, feature stunning beaches and great shopping. And, if you are a foodie, Saint Martin has excellent fusion cuisine.
11. Eleuthera Island
Highlights: Offers Tranquil Waters and Excellent Surfing Options, Excellent Views of the Water, and the Cliffs on Land.
About Caribbean Island: Long and slender, Eleuthera has the best of two worlds: a calm, tranquil Caribbean shoreline and a surfer’s haven on the Atlantic shoreline. Pink sand beaches and cliff vistas round out the island’s appeal, and the variety of water sports available on the island makes it a perfect getaway for both families and singles alike.
12. Antigua Island
Highlights: 350+ Beaches to Choose from, Excellent Sailing and Water Activities, Top-Notch Dining, and Island Culture.
About Caribbean Island: Located in the middle of the leeward islands, Antigua and its smaller sister island of Barbuda are prime Caribbean destinations. Antigua offers 365 public beaches, as well as great sailing and dining, allowing visitors plenty of things to do.
13. Paradise Island
Highlights: Plenty of Beachline to Choose from, Excellent Island Tours, Fine Dining, and a Fun Nightlife.
About Caribbean Island: With miles and miles of powdery white beaches, you will be able to find your little slice of paradise. Away from the beach, you will be able to round out your trip with unique tours of the island, fine dining, and a happening nightlife.
14. Nevis and St. Kitts Island
Highlights: Fun Historical Sites and Landmarks to Explore, Excellent Fine Dining Options.
About Caribbean Island: Keeping in stride with the rest of the islands on this list, Nevis and St. Kitts are going to offer up amazing beaches and crystal clear water. Along with the beaches, though, they also have some interesting historical sites and landmarks that are worth checking out as well. With all the activities, amenities, exploring, and fine dining, it is easy to see why Nevis and St. Kitts made our list of the best Caribbean Islands.
15. Klein Curaçao Island
Highlights: Largest of the Dutch Caribbean Islands, Cave Exploring, Plenty of Activities to Choose From.
About Caribbean Island: At its largest point, the island of Klein Curaçao is 180 square miles, making it the largest island of the Dutch Caribbean Islands. Whether you are looking to spend time at the pristine beaches, exploring the “Hato Caves,” or experiencing the culture, luxury resorts, and fine dining, there is going to be something for everyone on the island of Klein Curaçao.
Editor’s Pick: Best Caribbean Island for Relaxation
Saint Lucia Island
Saint Lucia stands out for its breathtaking natural beauty and tranquil vibe. Whether you’re looking for luxurious resorts or a quiet retreat in nature, Saint Lucia offers everything needed for a perfect relaxing getaway. From its pristine beaches to the iconic Pitons, it’s an idyllic escape for those seeking a peaceful holiday.
Frequently Asked Questions About the Best Caribbean Islands
What is the best island in the Caribbean for adventure?
For those seeking adventure, Dominica Island is an excellent choice. Known as the “Nature Island,” it offers unparalleled hiking, waterfalls, and vibrant wildlife. It’s also famous for its diving opportunities and pristine rainforests.
Which Caribbean island is the best for families?
Aruba Island offers the perfect balance of family-friendly activities, including beautiful beaches, water sports, and family resorts. Its calm waters make it an ideal destination for families with children.
Can I visit the Caribbean without a passport?
Yes! Puerto Rico Island is a U.S. territory, meaning U.S. citizens do not need a passport to travel there. It’s perfect for a quick getaway without the hassle of international travel requirements.
Tips for Visiting the Best Caribbean Islands
1. Plan Your Travel Around the Off-Season
Traveling during the off-season (typically from May to November) can offer significant savings. The weather is still warm, but there are fewer tourists, allowing for a more peaceful experience. If you’re looking to avoid crowds, this is the best time to visit islands like Dominica and Eleuthera.
2. Pack for All Activities
The Caribbean offers a variety of outdoor activities, so be sure to pack accordingly. Whether you’re planning to dive, hike, or simply relax by the beach, make sure to bring comfortable clothes, swimwear, and any necessary gear for activities like hiking or snorkeling. Saint Lucia and Barbados are great spots for both adventure and relaxation.
3. Stay Hydrated and Protect Your Skin
The Caribbean sun can be intense, so don’t forget to drink plenty of water and apply sunscreen regularly. Islands like Aruba and Saint Martin are known for their sunny weather, so protect your skin from harmful UV rays by wearing a hat and using reef-safe sunscreen.
4. Embrace the Local Cuisine
The Caribbean is known for its delicious local food, so be sure to sample traditional dishes such as jerk chicken in Jamaica, seafood in Barbados, or conch in The Bahamas. Local food markets are great places to explore new flavors.
Best Caribbean Islands Conclusion
It is hard to picture having a bad time on any of these great Caribbean Islands, but if you are only able to visit one of a few of them, you want to be able to determine which ones are going to be the best fit for you.
Each of these islands in our list of the best Caribbean Islands is going to have a slightly different vibe and feel to it. So hopefully, we have provided you with a great starting point for planning your next vacation to one of several of these fantastic islands!
Are you still looking for more fun in the sun? If so, make sure to visit our lists of the best tropical vacations, the best Greek islands, and the best beaches in Florida.
Have you visited one of these islands? Let us know your thoughts in the comments below.
