The Best Caribbean Islands to Visit & Why

What is the best Caribbean island for your next vacation?

Well, that really depends on what you are looking for.

I’ve been coming to the Caribbean for more than 15 years now, visited numerous Caribbean islands and yes, they all have something to offer.

But, some Caribbean islands are better for families, others are a paradise for scuba divers, for foodies, or for a luxury vacation.

And that’s what I want to share in this article: the best islands in the Caribbean with an explanation of what type of traveler they are perfect for.

And, because I haven’t been to every Caribbean island (yet), I teamed up with some incredible travel bloggers who know the islands well, to create this detailed list.

I hope you’ll find it helpful to decide where to go to in the Caribbean!

The Best Caribbean Islands For Different Types of Vacations

1. Antigua

By: Sarah from A Social Nomad

The island of Antigua is well-known as a sailing mecca but is perhaps more famous for its beaches.

This eastern Caribbean island has a beach for every day of the year. That’s right, 365 beaches on one single island. And they’re all publicly accessible by law, even those that back onto some of the many exclusive all-inclusive resorts on the island.

Sailors will love Antigua, beach lovers too and if you like luxury, then there are some incredible resorts to stay at.

Antigua isn’t just for the mega-rich though. There’s a network of local mini-buses and affordable places to stay. The local bus service will take you to more off-the-beaten-track spots, where you’ll be able to eat local and enjoy the famous Antiguan Black Pineapple, which is unique to the island.

There’s even the potential to volunteer in return for your board and lodge at the Antigua Donkey Sanctuary.

For those interested in history, the island is dotted with forts, which make for super workouts if you want to walk up, and stunning views when you get there.

And when it comes to stunning views you simply can’t beat the iconic Shirley Heights for sunset. Whether you walk here or take a taxi, you definitely don’t want to be the designated driver, because the rum cocktails on the Sunday night parties are both recommended and strong!

2. Bonaire

By: Rachel from Rachel’s Ruminations 

Bonaire is a small island and a “special municipality” of the Netherlands. Situated quite close to Venezuela, it is outside of the main hurricane zone.

With a population of only about 24,000 people and a very dry climate, it has a laid-back vibe, perfect if you prefer to avoid a loud, party atmosphere.

Bonaire is a great place to visit if you like exploring the natural world.

The birdwatching is excellent, and the island is home to a flamingo sanctuary. You can kayak through mangrove forests or hike among the cactuses in Washington Slagbaai National Park, keeping your eyes open for lizards and the feral pigs, donkeys and goats that roam the island.

The main draw of Bonaire, though, is its waters. The island is surrounded by the Bonaire National Marine Park, which covers the entire shoreline from the high tide mark to a depth of 60 meters. This makes it a dream destination for divers and snorkelers.

Rather than having to get on a boat and travel to beautiful dive sites – though that’s also possible – you can just choose pretty much any spot and wade in.

The coral reefs around the island are in good shape, generally undamaged by boats or overtourism. Although, as is true everywhere, they are suffering from the effects of the ocean’s warming.

The best plan, if you’re a diver, is to rent all the equipment you need by the week. Then, whenever you want to go diving, all you need to do is stop at the dive shop for refilled air tanks. Drive wherever you’d like, kit up and wade in.

Snorkeling is just as easy; anywhere you snorkel you’ll see beautiful tropical fish. Choose a place away from the busier hotel beaches if you want to see intact coral.

Also Read: The Best Dive Sites in Bonaire

3. US Virgin Islands

By: Kristin from Snorkelandhike.com

The US Virgin Islands are the perfect Caribbean destination for anyone who enjoys spending their days exploring the outdoors. With some of the best snorkeling in the Caribbean, lush hiking trails, and pristine beaches, it’s a nature lover’s dream.

St. Thomas, the hub of the US Virgin Islands, is just a quick flight from the United States (with no passport requirements for US citizens) and serves as the perfect home base.

Without any high-rise buildings along the shore, the smaller condos and resorts right on the beach offer a more natural and intimate feel. You could easily fill up a week just on St. Thomas snorkeling Coki, Sapphire, and Secret Harbour Beaches, or visiting Magen’s Bay, which consistently ranks as one of the best beaches in the world.

But, if you truly want a nature lover’s paradise, take the short ferry ride to St. John. Over half of the island is within the Virgin Islands National Park, offering several hiking trails. One of the most interesting ones is the Reef Bay Trail which winds past incredible views of the island, waterfalls, plantation ruins, and even petroglyphs.

After exploring the tropical forest, stop off for a dip in the famous crystal clear waters of Trunk Bay or head to Waterlemon Cay for the best snorkeling in the US Virgin Islands.

Also Read: How to Snorkel – Simple & Practical Snorkeling Tips

4. British Virgin Islands

By: Jenny Bhatia from Traveling Party of 4

The British Virgin Islands are an archipelago of four main islands, plus about 60 tiny islands and Cays, located in the Caribbean Sea east of Puerto Rico. They are a sailor’s dream come true.

Each island is unique in its charm and offers something for all tastes, from strolling the pristine white sandy beaches to endless watersports, fresh seafood, tropical fruits, and peace and tranquility.  

If you are a scuba diver, snorkeler, water sports enthusiast, or want to peacefully float around and take in the beauty of the crystal clear blue sea, then the British Virgin Islands are precisely what you need.

Hike to the top of The Baths on Virgin Gorda and try the Roti, a curried stew with meat and potatoes folded up in a wrap.

Scuba dive the Wreck of the RMS Rhone off Salt Island, where the 70s classic movie, The Deep, was filmed. 

Taste the brews on Cooper Island.

Discover the best lobster the islands have to offer in Anegada.

Stand-up paddleboard and snorkel at Monkey Point. And sip the famous Pain Killer in White Bay on Jost Van Dyke.

The highlights and experiences are endless!

The Best Caribbean Island in the BVI

Norman Island will always be my favorite.  The Bight in Norman Island is a protected harbor, smooth and calm, perfect for spending a night on a boat.

Tip: to rent a (sail)boat in the BVI, either with or without a skipper, check out Click&Boat

The island is known as the inspiration for Robert Louis Stephenson’s novel Treasure Island and has a longstanding pirate history as a famous hiding place for pirate booty.  The legend is that the loot is still there for treasure hunting in the caves of Norman Island.

When you finish hunting for treasure, try snorkeling, stand-up paddleboarding, kayaking, or a personal favorite, floating around on a noodle sipping Champagne.

The Pirate’s Bight is the only restaurant on Norman Island, completely remodeled after the devastation of category five hurricane Irma, and offers fine dining right on the beach — lobster, conch, and the freshest seafood.  And yes, they have burgers, grilled cheese, and chicken tenders for the kiddos.

And then there is Willy T, the famous (or maybe infamous) bar in Norman Island’s bay.  There is a history here. Hurricane Irma beached Willy T in 2017 and rendered him uninhabitable. After rebuilding, relocating, and relocating again, the Willy T is now back home and is worth visiting. Not a family-friendly bar, but if you are in for some rowdy fun, don’t miss it.

Editor’s Note: While the BVI and the USVI are located right next to each other, they are distinctly different.

The USVI, understandably, attracts more visitors from the US and the BVI more visitors from the UK. The USVI are a popular and lively cruise ship destination whereas the BVI are popular among sailors or anyone interested in spending some time aboard a sailboat, cruising between islands.

Both groups of islands though rightfully made it onto this list of best Caribbean islands. 

Also Read: Sailing From St Maarten to the BVI

5. Dominican Republic

By: Chris, an expat living in the Dominican Republic

Thanks to its sheer size, being the second-largest country in the Caribbean (on the second largest island in the Caribbean), the Dominican Republic offers an enormous diversity which makes it unique compared to other Caribbean islands.

There is something for everyone here. It doesn’t matter if you are looking for cute fishing villages, soaring mountains, cozy beach bars, rustic glamping, luxury accommodation, good music, pristine beaches, unique scenery, or centuries-old cultural heritage.

The Dominican Republic (located on the island of Hispaniola, together with Haiti) is the queen of diversity among the islands in the Caribbean.

 However, there are certain key characteristics where the Dominican Republic is just unbeatable compared to other islands in the Caribbean.

If you are one of the following types of travelers, you should definitely pick the Dominican Republic as your next Caribbean destination:

Road-Trip Lovers

If you are into road trips, the Dominican Republic is your best Caribbean island.

There are so many different regions to discover, thanks to the well-maintained roads (for Caribbean standards). There are road-trip itineraries for a couple of days, one week, or even two weeks, starting from Santo Domingo or Punta Cana, depending on your time.

Beach Explorers

The Caribbean, including the Dominican Republic, is an unbeatable sub-continent for beach lovers, but are you a beach explorer as well?

If you love to see different kinds of beaches, you will find your paradise in the Dominican Republic!

It doesn’t matter if you prefer 10-mile beaches with elegant beach clubs like in Punta Cana, pristine beaches without a single person like in Samaná (Playa Lanza del Norte, Playa Las Cañas, etc.), beaches with some of the cheapest mojitos in the Caribbean (like in Las Terrenas or Cabarete) or beaches where the only way to access them is a 7-mile hike (Playa Trudillé), the beaches in the Dominican Republic offer something for everyone.

Adventurers

The Dominican Republic can be called an adventurer’s paradise, as there is so much to do.

Even after living on the island for nearly 6 years, it still doesn’t get boring when looking for new exciting options.

You can hike to remote beaches, explore soaring waterfalls, go canyoning in turquoise rivers, have a paragliding trip in the mountains, cliff jump from various spots, or take a multi-day hike to the highest peak in the Caribbean – the choices are nearly endless.

All-Inclusive Vacationers

Ok, after all these highlights for active travelers, the Dominican Republic isn’t complete without mentioning the famous all-inclusive resorts.

And indeed, there is a reason why so many people love coming to the Dominican Republic for their Caribbean vacation. The price-value ratio is excellent, flight connections from all over the world are abundant, the people are always smiling and the resorts are doing a great job pleasing their guests.

Especially compared to other Caribbean islands, all-inclusive resorts in Punta Cana and other parts of the Dominican Republic are very affordable and can please even lower budgets.

Also Read: The Best Luxury Resorts in the Caribbean, Including one in the Dominican Republic

6. St Kitts and Nevis

By: Steph & Lewis from Book It Let’s Go!

St Kitts and Nevis are a hidden gem when it comes to Caribbean islands.

The tiny twin-island nation is the smallest country in the Americas. Don’t let its tiny size fool you though, there are lots of great things to do on St Kitts and Nevis from beautiful beaches and top snorkeling spots to historic plantation houses and UNESCO world heritage site Brimstone Hill fortress.

On Nevis, relax in the volcanic hot springs or wander around the beautiful botanical gardens. Watch out for the wandering wildlife on Nevis as there are free-roaming wild donkeys and both islands have wild vervet monkeys.

The islands have a luxurious feel and are dedicated to luxury travel with 5* hotels such as the Park Hyatt Resort and the Four Seasons, fantastic boutique hotels at Kittitian Hill and Montpellier, and the exclusive private docks of Christophe Harbor for the super-rich and their yachts.

St Kitts and Nevis is not a cheap destination, and there are no all-inclusive hotels on the islands. But, the exclusivity means that the beaches are not packed with tourists, restaurants are plentiful and the quality of the food available is high.

St Kitts and Nevis are often referred to as the Caribbean ‘how it used to be’ with a laid-back vibe and friendly locals on both islands.

Stop at the top of Timothy Hill and check out the narrowest part of St Kitts where you can see both the Atlantic Ocean, the Caribbean Sea and views over to Nevis Peak.

If you ask me, St Kitts and Nevis are two of the best islands in the Caribbean and they are not to be missed.

Also Read: What It’s Like to Move to and Live in St Kitts

7. Cuba

By: Ben from Ticket 4 Two Please 

Cuba is an island famous for its world-renowned rum, sandy beaches, and an incredible array of seafood available in its restaurants.

And while these little nuances give the country irresistible charm and character, there are many more things that contribute to the overall flavor of Cuba.

As the largest island in the Caribbean, Cuba is often associated with its somewhat rocky past. From Che Guevara to Fidel Castro, Cuba has been home to some very influential figures of history in the last century. 

As a result, many of the world’s economies were reluctant to trade with Cuba, and it is this political isolation that has given Cuba its unique personality. Much of the island has yet to be discovered by tourists, giving you all the more reason to visit and explore. 

Cuba is a brilliant Caribbean island to visit if you love learning about the history of a country while you travel. Whether it’s uncovering the stories behind the colonial-era architecture in the streets of Havana, or cruising past the beach at Trinidad in a 1950s Chevrolet, Cuba’s past is truly inescapable. 

On top of its fascinating political history, the island is also renowned for its most famous tobacco export – the Cuban Cigar. 

Located a two-and-a-half-hour drive from the capital city of Havana, you will find the farming region of Viñales. Tobacco leaves have been grown in the area for over 200 years and today, the locals are more than happy to guide you around their prized plantations.

Take a walk through the tobacco fields, or better still, a ride on the back of a horse, as you discover the vast scale of the tobacco growing operation in Viñales. All the plants are ready to be cultivated, fermented, dried and packaged into Cuba’s most treasured export.

Whether you smoke cigars or not, discovering the history of the industry is wonderfully insightful.

Yes, Cuba has some of the best seafood in the world, on top of the best quality rum found anywhere on the planet, but it is the history of the country that makes it one of the best destinations to visit in the Caribbean.

Also Read: 3 Historical Sites in Cuba You Should Visit

8. Jamaica

By: Summer from Standby for Summer

Jamaica should be added to every Caribbean lover’s bucket list. It’s great for families and couples and relatively affordable compared to other Caribbean islands. 

Montego Bay is the most populous resort city, but Negril and Ocho Rios have the most beautiful beaches.

All-inclusive resorts are popular in Jamaica, and you can book one in any price range.

Several resorts include free beach activities, like paddleboarding, snorkeling, kayaking, and sailing. The water is bright blue and it’s easy to see marine life- I even saw a stingray while paddleboarding in Negril. 

Catamaran trips around the island are available and are a fun way to see more of the island and swim and snorkel at incredible locations.

Negril is known for its rugged cliffs and is fun for cliff jumpers. If you’re not into cliff jumping yourself, just grab a drink at Rick’s Cafe and watch locals and tourists jump from 10, 20, and 30-foot cliffs!

If you want to venture out from the beach, book tours to see different waterfalls or raft down the Martha Brae River on a bamboo float.

Dunn River Falls is close to Ocho Rios, and the YS Waterfalls are south of Negril. The Martha Brae River is in between Montego Bay and Ocho Rios.

Jamaica is a relatively new country but its culture is alive and well. Dance along to Bob Marley and reggae on the beach, and relax with a glass of Appleton rum. Try the local food like Jamaican patties and jerk chicken, and see for yourself what this island is all about.

9. Grenada

By: Anjali from Cheerful Trails

Grenada offers idyllic white-sand beaches, picturesque waterfalls, the bluest of waters, stunning coves, tropical rainforests, and nature trails.

If you are up for some adventure, go on a scenic hike to the Seven Sisters waterfall in Grand Etang National Park. Take a refreshing dip into one of the pools at the base of the waterfall and visit the Grand Etang Lake.

Home to the world’s first underwater sculpture park, and with a wide range of dive sites, Grenada is a popular destination for scuba divers.

The most popular and largest beach in Grenada is Grand Anse, which is well worth visiting. Soak up some sunshine while gazing at the sea or enjoy water activities such as diving, kayaking, swimming, or snorkeling.

If you are looking for a less crowded beach, then Morne Rouge Beach would be amazing for you.

Stroll through the seaside harbor, Carenage in St. Georges, and admire the colorful buildings across it.

The St. George’s Market Square is a perfect stop to shop for spices, souvenirs, fresh tropical food and veggies.

Discover the rich history of the island at the Grenada National Museum which exhibits many historical collections and artefacts.

The House of Chocolate in St. Georges is a retreat for chocolate lovers. Here you can learn about the production of cocoa and buy some of the finest Grenadian chocolates. Visit the Belmont Estate for more chocolate tastings.

Visit Fort George for mesmerizing panoramic views of the port and the colorful buildings of the charming city.

Grenada offers so many activities, for so many different types of travelers, making it one of the best Caribbean islands.

Editor’s Note: For such a small country Grenada truly has a lot to offer! From stunning waterfalls and idyllic beaches offering all sorts of watersports to luxury resorts and affordable Airbnbs.

If you travel to Grenada, do take a ferry, flight or boat trip up to Carriacou.

While Grenada’s main island is well developed, Carriacou moves at a slower pace. Plus, some of the best diving and some of the most beautiful uninhabited islands can be found around Carriacou.

And if you are sailing in the Caribbean, then Grenada is a sailing destination I can highly recommend!

Also Read: Anchoring in Sauteurs Bay and What It’s Like to Live in Grenada

10. Anguilla

By: Michele Peterson from A Taste for Travel 

Anguilla is an exclusive destination and a paradise for culinary travelers.

 While this island in the British West Indies is best known for its 33 beaches and offshore cays, it’s got another draw that makes it a top choice among food lovers. Anguilla also happens to be home to a wealth of fabulous dining opportunities.

From laid-back beach shacks, food trucks, and local eateries to award-winning restaurants such as Straw Hat and Jacala, it’s considered by many to be the gastronomic capital of the Caribbean.

Other top places to eat and drink on Anguilla include live music venues such as the Dune Preserve, a popular hangout on Rendezvous Bay owned by reggae star Bankie Banx.

A beautiful area you should visit if you are in Anguilla is Prickly Pear Cay, which is located six miles from the mainland. This pristine pair of uninhabited islands offers idyllic snorkeling in turquoise blue waters teeming with colorful tropical fish, nurse sharks, and other marine life. There’s also a beach bar where you can enjoy freshly-caught grilled lobster (or local crayfish) and cocktails.

Other memorable offshore islands include Scilly Cay and Sandy Island where you can spend an unforgettable day listening to live music, sipping rum punch and swimming.

But Anguilla’s not just about nature and food.

There’s also Anguilla’s Heritage Collection Museum, a highlight on Anguilla’s Heritage Trail, a self-guided tour that showcases the island’s history including stops at early Arawak Amerindian sites dating to 800 AD.

Editor’s Note: Anguilla is one of the first islands I visited and it is still very high on my list of best Caribbean islands.

The island is well known as a destination for the rich and famous, offering incredible villas and hotels. It is also less touristy than some of the other islands in this part of the Caribbean. But, it doesn’t have to be expensive, as this Anguilla guide explains. And, it can be a great day trip from nearby St Maarten.

11. Barbados

By: Jane and Duncan from To Travel Too

Barbados! Just mentioning the word conjures up images of swaying palm trees, silvery-white sand, crystal blue waters, and luxury accommodation.

Barbados is that and more. For an island that measures 32 km from north to south and 25 km from east to west, it sure does pack a punch.

Whether you are traveling solo, as a couple, as a family, or with friends, Barbados offers the traveler a variety of things to do.

If you enjoy nature, you can head to the interior of the island and visit the unique Harrison’s Cave, Welchman’s Gully, Barbados Wildlife Reserve, Hunte’s Garden, and the Flower Forest.

If it is beaches you are seeking Barbados does not disappoint. Head to Crane Beach, Miami Beach, Bath Beach or, a firm favorite, Bathsheba.

For history buffs head to St Nicholas Abbey, Sunbury Plantation House, Arlington House Museum, the Jewish Museum, Gun Hill Signal Station and Morgan Lewis Windmill.

Oistins Fish Fry on a Friday night is a popular event for both locals and travelers. Head there early to grab a table, dine on the freshest seafood, and enjoy an ice-cold Banks Beer, the local beer.

For foodies, you can enjoy a Lickrish Walking Food Tour around Bridgetown, the capital of Barbados, tasting the local delicacies of Barbados whilst learning about the history of the island. Mount Gay Rum runs tasting tours and food pairing tours, which we can highly recommend.

For children and for sea-loving adults you can look for Nemo with Atlantis Submarines on their daytime or nighttime dives. You can swim with turtles and enjoy a buffet lunch with Action Charters on their catamaran cruises.

Barbados has a range of accommodations that suit all types of travelers and budgets.

Barbados is an all-round island destination offering so much for any type of traveler on any type of budget.

12. Aruba

By: Nichola from Global Mouse Travels

Aruba is a fantastic Caribbean island and one that is perfect to visit with kids.

Set just 20 miles from the coast of Venezuela it feels slightly separate from many of the other Caribbean islands and has its own distinct personality.

Some of the best beaches in the Caribbean are here and those on the southeastern coast, such as Baby Beach, can often feel very quiet. In fact, this can be a great location to find yourself swimming with turtles, amongst the colorful shoals of fish. A really special experience for all the family!

In the middle of the island you find Arikok National Park, which is perfect for a ramble through. Here the cacti stretch tall into the sky and make it feel as though you’re in a wilderness which is a fantastic place for a family walk, especially with a knowledgeable guide from the visitors center.

Another wonderful, atmospheric location to explore is Bushiribana Gold Mine which is completely abandoned but perfect for young imaginations.

There’s an adorable donkey sanctuary, a great butterfly farm, and numerous family-friendly boat trips to take.

With some fantastic family resorts, Aruba is a great island to come and relax on but also explore with kids of all ages.

Also Read: The Best Destinations for Families

13. Tobago

By: Claire from Stoked to Travel

The island of Tobago is the perfect, quieter island to visit for those looking for a destination where they can get a little bit closer to island life, and really soak up the relaxed atmosphere – rather than staying within the boundaries of a luxury resort hotel.

Tobago is renowned for its abundance of beaches. From the pristine white sands of the Caribbean coast to the ash-gray volcanic sands of the Atlantic coast, visitors can easily enjoy their own slice of paradise.

But there’s plenty more to do on the island too, including discovering the wonders of bio-luminescence, paddle boarding, surfing, kitesurfing, or windsurfing. In fact, Tobago is a world-class destination for the sport of kitesurfing – especially in the winter months. Lambeau is one of the best spots with its consistent wind direction. Beginners should head to Pigeon Point, where they can enjoy lessons on land before hitting the shallow, clear blue waters nearby.

The island also offers some fantastic mountain biking, with plenty of invigorating cycle trails. One of the best – although not for the faint-hearted, is to cycle along the Main Ridge Forest Reserve. This beautiful reserve is one of the oldest protected rainforests in the western hemisphere and the mountain range elevates up to an impressive 1,900 ft!

Alternatively, for something a little less exhilarating, but equally as beautiful, join Chala’s Trail, which was created by local villagers and meanders through the community via a single track.

Finally, the diving around Tobago is also exceptional. Some of the best diving spots are at Crown Point, Charlottesville, and Speyside. You can opt for wreck diving or reef diving, where you can spot turtles, or see exotic shoals of fish, stingrays, nurse sharks, and barracuda!

Also Read: The Best Dive Sites in the Caribbean

14. Holbox Island, Mexico

By: Shelley from Travel Mexico Solo

The Mexican Caribbean island of Holbox (pronounced hole-bosh) is one of the best beach towns in Mexico. It is located in the famous Yucatan Peninsula, about three hours from Cancun — yet it feels like it’s a world away.

Isla Holbox is a small town, and feels as charming as any Mexican pueblo; except of course that it’s located in the gorgeous Caribbean Sea. The streets are paved with beach sand, there are no cars allowed on the island (people use bikes and golf carts), and every place is shoes-optional.

In addition to being one of the safest and most beautiful places in Mexico, Holbox Island also feels humble. There are no big-name all-inclusive resorts, no chain restaurants, no tourist shops; everything is run by the island’s 2,000 residents.

For those seeking the true beauty of Mexico, away from the party towns of nearby Cancun, Playa del Carmen, and Tulum, Holbox is the place for you. It has the same world-famous beaches as those other destinations, but a more authentic feel. In fact, Holbox is a popular day trip from Cancun for that reason.

Nature lovers will enjoy Yum Balam Nature Reserve, a protected natural area on and around Holbox Island. The reserve is home to many birds all year, and in winter you might be lucky enough to see some wild flamingos.

In the summer months, large numbers of whale sharks migrate past this island.

Yum Balam Reserve also has the Yalahau Cenote within it. Cenotes are underwater sinkholes located throughout the Yucatan Peninsula that contain beautiful, clear freshwater, and make for amazing natural swimming pools.

At night, many head to Punta Cocos beach to see the bioluminescence on the sand and in the sea. This amazing phenomenon is caused by phytoplankton in the water that gives it a twinkling effect, as though there were tiny stars in the sea.

Though Holbox is a great place for nature enthusiasts and those seeking a peaceful Caribbean Island getaway, it also has a posh side along the main beach, Playa Holbox.

Here, you’ll find plenty of gorgeous hotels, even some luxury resorts, nice restaurants, and hip rooftop bars.

In short, Holbox is perfect for those seeking to connect with nature but who also want comfortable accommodations.

To get to Holbox Island, you’ll fly into Cancun International Airport and then drive or take a bus for about three hours to the small town of Chiquila. From here, you’ll board the 30-minute ferry to Isla Holbox.

Also Read: Things to Know Before Going to Mexico and A Day Trip to Isla Mujeres, Mexico

15. Caye Caulker, Belize

By: Maartje & Sebastiaan from The Orange Backpack

Belize is one of the best destinations in the Caribbean with its stunning reef, bounty beaches, and tropical island. If you only have time to visit one destination, the Belizean island of Caye Caulker will probably be at the top of your list.

Caye Caulker is located in the north of Belize and can easily be reached from both Mexico and the Belizean capital, as there is a frequent ferry connection.

It’s probably the most popular beach destination in Belize and the more budget-friendly alternative to its nearby neighbor Ambergris which is known for its spectacular luxury resorts.

When visiting Caye Caulker, you cannot leave without snorkeling or scuba diving on the Great Belizean Reef. It’s the second-largest reef in the world and you can see some stunning parts of it close to Caye Caulker.

If diving is one of your main travel goals, consider a trip to the famous Blue Hole not far from Caye Caulker. It’s a bucket list experience for most divers.

Other than snorkeling and diving, Caye Caulker is known for its laidback vibe. Its motto is ‘go slow’.

Though the island has surprisingly few beaches for a Caribbean island, there are plenty of restaurants and beach bars to relax and unwind. Especially around happy hour. Iguana Reef Inn is one of the most popular spots because of its seahorse reef, instagrammable swing, and pelican feeding. 

16. Utila, Honduras

By: Carine from We Did It Our Way

There’s a little island off the coast of Honduras, in the Caribbean that’s a perfect paradise getaway for scuba diving lovers: Utila!

People often avoid Honduras because of safety concerns, but we promise you that it’s safe, if you know what to expect and what to do.

Most people will only visit Roatan, which is why we recommend you head to Utila instead. Roatan is a popular stop on the cruise ship circuit. And although it is bigger than Utila, we found the latter more charming.

There are plenty of things to do in Utila, whether you’re looking to chill out, party or learn something new.

Utila is one of the cheapest places in the world to learn to scuba dive or free dive, so if this is a skill you’re looking to develop, it’s the place to do it.

The waters are clear and warm, and there are a ton of dive shops and dive sites to choose from.

Utila is also a great place to party. The drinks are cheap and there are plenty of bars to choose from on the main road. 

If you’re looking to chill out instead, there are a few beaches you can choose from, either on the island or a short boat ride away. Our favorite would have to be a trip to Water Cay, a tiny uninhabited island right off Utila. It’s the perfect place to set up your hammock under the trees and chill out in clear waters. Basically, it’s paradise!

Finally, if you’re looking to do some more adventurous activities, you can hike up Pumpkin Hill, hike along the cliffs, snorkel in one of the many spots, and kayak down the small canal in the middle of the island.

There are a ton of places to stay in Utila, with many budget-friendly options.

If you want to be in the heart of the action, the main street is the best place to be. That’s also where you’ll find the best restaurants on the island!

Utila is a great place to visit, either for a few days or even a full week. You’ll surely make some new friends and a ton of amazing memories.

Also Read: How to Save Money When Traveling

17. San Blas Islands, Panama

By: Joseph from The Culture Portrait

The San Blas Islands archipelago is a hidden gem in the Caribbean, located on the Caribbean coast of Panama. What makes the San Blas Islands special is that you can not only visit one island, but dozens, which still feel untouched and virgin.

Visiting the San Blas Islands is one of the best things to do in Panama!

The archipelago is composed of around 365 islands of varying sizes, of which only 49 are inhabited. You get to experience the full beauty of the Caribbean while still being technically in Central America and explore what it has to offer as well.

This Caribbean paradise is ideal for sailors, snorkelers, paddle-boarders, nature lovers, and those who love untouched, intact, virgin islands.

You can charter a boat through an agency and sail from island to island, and feel like a real pirate. You can spearfish like one of the Native Americans who live on the islands, snorkel in the pristine water and see coral reefs, and paddleboard like there is no tomorrow.

One of my favorite activities on the islands is getting to see starfish in their natural habitat. If you ask, your tour agency will take you to a special spot where there are endless numbers of starfish. You can see them lying on the seafloor through the beautiful transparent water and it is amazing.

Additionally, if you get lucky, you might get to see whales passing by as well.

Editor’s Note: You might see pictures online of people holding starfish out of the water. Please don’t do that because that can actually kill them. You can read more about why in this article.

If you choose to stay on the islands (highly recommended), you should know that most accommodation is very basic. There are no luxury resorts on the islands, but that only helps contribute to the virginity of the place and adds to the experience.

During your trip, the Native American Kunas who manage the islands will gladly feed you the seafood they caught that same day, and you’ll taste the freshest seafood ever.

There are three ways to get to the San Blas Islands; you can fly directly from Panama City, you can sail there or you can take a 4×4 jeep from Panama City and a water taxi. The 4×4 jeep and water taxi combination is your cheapest option, flying there is your fastest option, but sailing there is probably the most fun option.

There is a range of tours you can book, from day trips to multi-day tours.

Most tours start from Panama City and your tour agency can pick you up right in your hotel or Airbnb and take you directly to the islands.

Overall, a visit to the San Blas Islands archipelago is a great addition to your Caribbean bucket list, and some travelers have called these islands the most beautiful islands in the world.

Also Read: Funny and Interesting Facts About Panama

Conclusion: The Best Caribbean Destinations

Well, as you can tell from this long list of islands, the Caribbean has a lot to offer!

I hope this article has given you some travel inspiration and helped you decide where to go in the Caribbean.

Also Read: Travel Planning Tips – How to Plan Your Perfect Trip

For more Caribbean travel inspiration:

• The Most Romantic Islands in The Caribbean
• The Best Things to Do in St Maarten & St Martin
• The Best Luxury Resorts & Villas in the Turks and Caicos
• Where to Go for the Best Diving in the Caribbean
• Delicious Caribbean Recipes to Try at Home
• A Guide to Sailing in Grenada
• A Guide to Sailing in Saint Lucia

 

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