From the jungle-dressed tips of Cuba to the white sandy beaches of Bermuda, the surfing reefs of Dominica, to the pirate hideouts in the Antilles, the Caribbean is a thrillingly diverse region with the kinds of attractions that will appeal to all types of travelers. It is one of the few destinations in the globe where outdoor enthusiasts, foodies, culture freaks and history buffs will have more than enough to do and see. The Caribbean, indeed, is a destination worth visiting at least once in a lifetime, and I’d love to stay in one of their luxury villas. Read below to learn about some of the best places to visit in the Caribbean.
Travel advisory
Hurricane season in the Atlantic Ocean, which according to The Times, lasts from June to the end of November, is always a threat to your holiday plans in the Caribbean. For 2024, NOAA predicted between 17 - 24 named storms developing in the region, and the trend is supposed to hold for the foreseeable future. According to Forbes, there are a few destinations in the Caribbean that have historically missed the onslaught of Atlantic hurricanes. They include Aruba, Curaçao, Barbados, and Trinidad and Tobago.
1. Grenada
It is not Grenada’s spices that give it a spot on the list of the best places to visit in the Caribbean. With over 45 beaches, grass-rimmed crater lakes, waterfalls and hiking trails that wind deep into the mountains, anyone in need of a tropical paradise will be glad to have made the trip to Grenada.
In addition to all these attractions, Grenada also has a very beautiful human side – friendly locals with diverse cultures and culinary diversity that feature some of the oldest rum labels in the world.
Good to know:
If you’d like to head somewhere unique, there’s probably no place better than The Molinere Bay Underwater Sculpture Park, hailed as the world’s first underwater sculpture park. The site can be easily toured with diving excursions departing from St. Georges, the capital of Grenada.
If you’d like to learn more about Grenada, check out its official tourism board page.
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2. Aruba
Aruba is a Caribbean destination whose appeal transcends all likes and interests. Whether you are a gambler scouting for the best casinos in the Caribbean, or you are a nature lover looking for the least visited camping grounds, or perhaps you are a foodie in need of the tastiest local delicacies, you will be pleased to learn that Aruba has it all for you in a single basket.
What’s more, is that the island is not within the hurricane belt, and it experiences sun for 300 days in a year.
Good to know:
You should check out San Nicolas, Aruba’s artistic hotspot! With vibrant street art and cool museums such as the Museum of Industry, it’s a must-see spot. Plus, getting around is super easy.
If you’re heading to Aruba in January, make sure to time your visit to catch the Carnival! From the colorful Fakkel Parade to Lighting Parade, the Carnival invigorates the island with music, dancing, and celebrations.
To know more about Aruba, check out its official tourism board page.
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Book Tours : Full-Day Aruba History and Must-See Landmarks Tour
3. Saint Martin & Sint Maarten
Saint Martin & Sint Maarten happen to be the world’s smallest area of land that has been divided into two nations – one half occupied by the Dutch and the other half occupied by the French. It is a hotbed of culture that features a rich African heritage with more than 120 different nationalities speaking over 80 languages.
The islands are destinations worth checking out if you want to sample some of the finest cultures and cuisines in the Caribbean. This is not to forget about the 37 fine sandy beaches, tranquil hidden bays, and coves, and the tropical jungles that provide wonderful outdoor opportunities for diving, snorkeling, jet-skiing, zip-lining and hiking among others.
Good to know:
If you’re here in November, you’re in for a treat! As the culinary capital of the Caribbean, the island offers special dining experiences with signature dishes at discounted prices in November. I’d be packing my bags for that dreamy winter vacation if I were you!
While in St. Maarten, you can easily take a boat to the tranquil shores of Anguilla or catch a high-speed ferry to the glamorous St. Barths, all just a short trip away.
If you’d like to learn more about Saint Martin & Sint Maarten, check out its official tourism board page.
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4. Punta Cana
Travelers looking for all-inclusive resorts that occupy broad swaths of cinematic beaches in the Caribbean will usually find Punta Cana as one of the highly recommended destinations.
The beaches in Punta Cana are some of the best in the region – well-known for their soft, white texture with the warm and clear aquamarine waters. They are idyllic, spacious and offer a variety of watersport entertainment. If all you need is sun, sand, and sea, with beautiful seascape where crowds will not be a bother, then you have every reason to head over to Punta Cana.
Good to know:
For the best experience, visit Punta Cana between December and April when the weather is cool, dry, and ideal for outdoor activities.
Punta Cana offers a mix of malls and street vendors, where you can haggle for great deals on local products like rum, cigars, and coffee. Just be cautious of fake amber and cigars from street vendors.
Visit the official tourism page for Punta Cana to get travel tips before planning your trip.
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5. Nassau
Nassau is the only city in the Bahamas, a great contrast to the relaxed vibe you will find in the Bahamas and the rest of the Caribbean. Rum-happy locals and noisy vendors are some of the sweet chaos that will greet you upon arriving in Nassau.
Back in the day, Nassau was a pirates’ haven and a favorite spot for them to blow their plundered doubloons on women and fine wine. Its strategic location also facilitated the smuggling of cargo during the American Civil War. Whether you are interested in shopping, partying, sightseeing, or eating, Nassau has wide options for these and other delightful urban excitements.
Good to know:
If you’re visiting in late December or early January, don’t miss the Junkanoo Parade! This lively celebration features colorful costumes, rhythmic music, and energetic street performances.
Taxis are the easiest way to get from the airport to your hotel, but if you’d rather drive yourself, car rentals are also available. There’s no ride-sharing though.
For getting around locally, try the local jitneys (buses) for a budget-friendly option or catch a water taxi for a fun, scenic ride.
If you’d like to learn more about Nassau, check out its official tourism board page.
Stay here:
Book Tours : Nassau Island Highlights Sightseeing Tour
6. Martinique
Martinique boasts cascading coastal hills, virgin forests, volcanic mountains and countless folds of beautiful beaches that paint the perfect picture of a real tropical paradise in the Caribbean. The cosmopolitan and sophisticated island is not just a mountainous stunner, but also a hotbed of exciting attractions, with the most notable ones being world-class hiking trails, a rich culinary diversity, a vibrant nightlife, and a colorful cultural life among others. If the crowd is going to be a problem, you can always head north where you will find more sedate beaches with plenty of alluring sceneries.
Good to know:
To explore Martinique, renting a car is your best bet since taxis can get pretty expensive. For a change of pace, hop on a ferry for a scenic and relaxing ride between the island’s marinas.
Martinique, known as the “island of flowers,” is home to the Jardin de Balata in Fort-de-France. It’s a peaceful spot filled with tropical plants like torch ginger and birds of paradise, plus you’ll probably catch a few hummingbirds putting on a show.
If you’d like to know more about the region, check out its official tourism website.
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7. Cayman Islands
It is believed that more than two million visitors come to the Cayman Islands every year. Though most of the visitors are cruise ship passengers who spend just a few hours shopping, sunbathing and swimming, the island is undeniably cosmopolitan, with a unique blend of attractions that might require a few days or weeks for full exploration.
Its pristine beaches, rich local cultures, lush forests, and mysterious caves require more than just a few hours if you want to soak in and enjoy some of the island’s greatest treasures.
Good to know:
While in the Cayman Islands, make sure to visit Cayman Brac. Just a 30-minute flight from Grand Cayman, it’s the perfect spot to explore rare flora, fauna, and breathtaking landscapes.
If you’re looking for a unique spot in the Cayman Islands, make sure to visit Hell in Grand Cayman’s West Bay. This quirky spot features striking black limestone formations and lets you send postcards straight from “Hell”!
If you’d like to learn more about the Cayman Islands, then visit its official tourism page.
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8. Montego Bay
In Montego Bay, you will have to choose between two distinct faces – the smooth tourist side that graces thousands of Caribbean brochures, then the gritty side that rivals Kingstone in terms of chaos and status. Both the two faces have something unique to offer to every tourist. You are free to make your choice based on the kind of experience you need.
If you love the bustling humanity and the deafening sounds of car horns characteristic of the Jamaican life, then you will remain in the city. However, if you are looking for big all-inclusive resorts with pristine beaches, then you will have to find your way to the suburb of Ironshore.
Good to know:
The best way to get around Montego Bay is by taxi, especially the official taxis such as those from the Jamaica Union of Travelers Association (JUTA). If you’re renting a car, be prepared for left-side driving, potholes, and confusing road signs.
For a fun-filled day in Montego Bay, visit Aqua-Sol Theme Park where you can enjoy go-karting, water slides, and tasty Jamaican food all right on the beach.
To learn more about Montego Bay, check out its official tourism page.
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9. Saint Thomas
Sadly, most people see Saint Thomas as a transit to the US Virgin Islands. They never take any time to explore it. However, for the lucky few that see it as a destination and not a route, the island has never failed to make a good impression.
The jungly cliffs, the yacht-dotted seashores, the expansive beaches, and the blue warm waters provide all you may ever need for a memorable holiday in the Caribbean. Besides, it is the most commercialized of the virgins, with heavy cruise ship traffic, thus guaranteeing plenty of resorts and amenities for the ideal Caribbean holiday.
Good to know:
If you love shopping, Charlotte Amalie in St. Thomas is the place to be. As the Caribbean’s shopping capital, it’s packed with duty-free stores, top-notch dining, and vibrant nightlife.
Don’t miss Coral World Ocean Park for a one-of-a-kind adventure. Here you can swim with sea lions, explore the ocean floor, and encounter sharks, turtles, and other marine life in their stunning aquariums.
Visit Saint Thomas official tourism website official tourism website to know more about local attractions.
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10. Saint John
Saint John is a blissfully low-key island compared to most of her neighbors, given that a third of it is a protected national park. It doesn’t have any cruise ship docks or airports that might occasionally interrupt its peace and tranquility. If you are looking for the best possible hiking and snorkeling opportunities in the Caribbean, then this is one of the best places worth checking out. The beaches are also prime for swimming, watching the sunsets, and spotting eagle rays and turtles.
Good to know:
Plan your visit to St. John around the Fourth of July so that you can catch the month-long celebration with vibrant pageants, music, food, and a stunning fireworks show to cap it all off!
For easy travel around St. John, you can rent a car or hop on an open-air taxi. If you’re driving, remember gas stations are only available in Cruz Bay, so top up before heading out.
If you’d like to learn more about this island, check out its official tourism page.
Stay here:
Book Tours : Saint John Walking Tour
11. Dominica
Also known as the Nature Island, Dominica has an aura of sheer majesty which you will not find in most of the Caribbean islands. It is a paradise for eco-adventurers and independent travelers with its superfluity of incredible natural attractions which include sulfurous hot springs, rainforest volcanoes, boiling lakes, and the first-ever long-distance hiking trail in the Caribbean. Additionally, with no airports or big cruise terminals, Dominica has retained its traditional charm which further accents the relaxed feeling that sweeps across the island from the moment you arrive to the moment you leave.
Good to know:
Kalinago Territory is a must-visit area in Dominica to experience ancient crafts and connect with the island’s rich indigenous culture.
Head up to Morne Trois Pitons National Park for an unforgettable adventure with stunning waterfalls, the famous Boiling Lake, and lush landscapes.
If you’d like to know more, check out Dominica’s official tourism page.
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Book Tours : Half Day Jeep Safari
12. Varadero
Varadero is one of the largest resorts in the Caribbean, and a heartbeat of Cuba’s tourism industry. It is the home to the famous 21 kilometers (13 miles) of uninterrupted blond sand beach, which also happens to be one of the finest beaches in the Caribbean.
With mega-resorts, friendly locals, richness in the culinary diversity, and a superfluity of cultures and historical attractions, Varadero has a unique blend of Cuban experiences for every type of traveler.
Good to know:
While in Varadero, take a short trip to nearby Cárdenas and Matanzas to immerse yourself in Cuban art, and culture.
The best way to get around Varadero is by taking the open-top Varadero Beach Tour buses. For 120 CUP (5 USD), enjoy unlimited stops at major hotels, shopping areas, and attractions.
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13. Saint Kitts & Nevis
The soft sands, expansive beaches, a vibrant nightlife, and the myriads of festivals are among the major attractions that put Saint Kitts & Nevis on the list of the best places to visit in the Caribbean.
The twin islands in the southern Caribbean are lesser-known, but they are exceedingly breathtaking. It is a destination ideal for travelers in need of a perfect blend of picturesque landscapes and resort relaxation, with a mild touch of history and adventure.
Good to know:
Taxis are the most convenient way to get around St. Kitts & Nevis, available at airports, cruise docks, and hotels. Drivers can also serve as tour guides but always confirm the fare beforehand.
Take some time to explore Basseterre. The lively capital city is packed with historic sites, local shops, cafes, and museums.
To learn more about this beautiful country, check out its tourism board page.
Stay here:
Budget: Seaview Inn, Basseterre
Book Tours : The Grand Tour of St. Kitts
14. Jamaica
The endless stretches of the powdery white-sands beaches, incredible natural sceneries, the lush-green jungles, the culture, and the art scenes have turned Jamaica into a wholesome Caribbean destination with a variety of vibes ideal for all kinds of travelers. Whether you are looking for fun with the water sports activities, or you want to go hiking, camping or zip lining in the jungles while you soak in the beauty of the country’s breathtaking landscapes, Jamaica has an incredible turn of experiences in store for you. Remember, this is also the birthplace of Bob Marley – a legendary icon who left behind a culture whose full depth you can only understand and experience in Jamaica.
Good to know:
For the best weather and deals, visit Jamaica between November and mid-December.
Make sure to haggle for better prices at shops and cabs, and opt for all-inclusive resorts to save on meals and extras.
If you’d like to learn more about Jamaica, check out its official tourism page.
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15. Saint Barts
Think of Saint Barts as a multifaceted jewel and a treasure-packed island in the Caribbean. The island brings in perfect harmony French’s sophistication and the undulating landscapes to create the atmosphere and sceneries needed for the perfect vacation experience in a tropical island. The isolated stretches of sun-kissed sandy beaches, the expansive green hills, the turquoise bays, and the beautiful flowering gardens full of hibiscus and bougainvillea has successfully turned it into a Caribbean destination cherished by the rich and the famous. Though an expensive destination,
Saint Barts isn’t just a preserve of travelers with deep pockets. Travelers with average budgets are also welcomed to enjoy its laid-back tempo since it has a plethora of exquisite beaches accessible to the public and which offer a variety of fun activities such as snorkeling, diving, windsurfing, and kitesurfing among others. But if you have the pockets to afford the luxury, then nothing should stop you from enjoying all the beautiful stuff Saint Barts has in store for you.
Good to know:
For an ideal St. Barts experience, visit between April and June. You’ll enjoy great weather, fewer crowds, and more affordable prices.
If you want to enjoy local food, head to Tamarin near Plage de Saline. I’d love to try out some of their specials.
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16. Trinidad and Tobago
A beautiful but pleasant contradiction awaits you in Trinidad and Tobago. In Trinidad, you will fall in love with the pristine rainforest hills and the mangrove swamps that shoulder the not-so-beautiful industrial estates and oil refineries. In Tobago, on the other hand, the typical Caribbean island, complete with palm-lined white sand beaches awaits you.
With such a combination, the twin islands offer a bit of both worlds, thus increasing the scope of activities that you can do during your trip. Some of the most popular activities include birdwatching, hiking, and waterfall swimming, besides the normal water sports activities you will find in typical Caribbean beaches. Then there is also the nightlife, which is nothing short of electric and fabulous. Finally, Trinidad and Tobago is also a foodie’s dream, given its culinary diversity derived from the sensational curries, an abundance of seafood, and the fresh ingredients used to prepare the various finger-licking delicacies.
Good to know:
Getting around Trinidad and Tobago is easiest by car, with rentals available at both airports. For shorter trips, you can take taxis. Buses are also an option but can be unreliable.
When visiting Trinidad and Tobago, make sure your U.S. passport is valid for at least six months. Also, visitors aged 5 and older must pay a 17 USD departure tax.
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17. San Juan
The Puerto Rican capital of San Juan is a diverse and sprawling city loved for its seamless blend of modernity and history.
Art districts, military forts, world-class cuisines, beautiful boutiques and plenty of rainbow-colored colonial buildings are some of the great scenes you will be enjoying while you make your way through the various points of interest. When visiting this port city, be sure to check out Museo de las Americas, Museum of the Sea, the history of rum at Casa Bacardi, and the Caribbean coffee experience at Hacienda Pomarrosa.
Good to know:
For shopping enthusiasts, Plaza Las Américas in San Juan is a must-visit. As the largest mall in the Caribbean, it offers everything from department stores and boutiques to a movie theater.
If you want some outdoor adventure, head to El Escambrón Beach where you can do jet-skiing, diving, and snorkeling.
For more information about the city, visit its city page.
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18. Puerto Plata
Puerto Plata is the oldest city and one of the prettiest destinations you will find not just in the Dominican Republic, but the Caribbean at large. The working port town is neatly tucked between the ocean and a towering mountain, hence providing nice outdoor opportunities for those in need of fun in the jungles and on the beaches.
The museums, run-of-the-mill shops, restaurants, the cable car rides and the technicolor homes constructed by wealthy Germans centuries ago, on the other hand, provide great alternatives for tourists who don’t love outdoors but still desire to soak in the beauty of a tropical paradise.
Good to know:
If you want to explore Puerto Plata on a budget, May and June will be the perfect months to visit. You can get up to 50% off on your stays.
Taxis are the best option to explore by. It’ll cost 150 to 250 DOP (3 to 5 USD) per ride and if you are good at bargaining you can save more money. Minibus rentals are convenient alternatives, but cars are pricier.
For more information, check out Puerto Plata’s tourism board page.
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Book Tours : Puerto Plata: Off-Road 2-Person Buggy Tour
19. Havana
Very rarely will you find the mention of the Caribbean without the inclusion of the Cuban capital of Havana. This is rightly so because the city is too audacious and contradictory at the same time – the six decades of neglect notwithstanding. Though old, its beauty and charm remain intact.
The mobster rule, long history of piracy, colonialism, the tropical jungles, and the indefatigable salsa energy enthused by her warm people are but a few of the endearing attractions that make many people want to visit whenever they are in the Caribbean. The cigars, the bohemian bars, and the 500-year history all make a good case for a visit before your vacation in the Caribbean is over.
Good to know:
Plaza de la Catedral in Old Havana is a must-visit for its stunning 18th-century cathedral, but it’s best to avoid the landmark when cruise ships are docked as it can get pretty crowded.
A great way to explore Havana is on foot, but for longer trips, taxis, including vintage American cars, are a fun and convenient option.
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20. Saint Lucia
Upscale resorts, towering volcanic mountains, and a plethora of chalk-colored beaches are the pictures that come to mind when you think about Saint Lucia. It is a fairly quiet destination, but one with lots of adventures that play to the tunes of those in love with the mountains and the seas.
Saint Lucia is particularly popular among couples in need of romantic luxury getaways in the Caribbean.
Good to know:
The Pitons are an iconic part of the island’s landmark, and the volcanic plugs each rise to a height of about 2,500 ft (762 m). It seems to me like a great spot to go hiking, especially as the area has abundant exotic flora and fauna.
Sailing is a popular activity in the country. A few popular boat charter companies here include Endless Summer Cruises and Sail Oasis at Oasis Marigot.
If you’d like to learn more about the country, check out Saint Lucia’s official tourism board page
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Book Tours : From Castries: St.Lucia Island Guided Tour
21. Barbados
Barbados is mainly known for its fantastic beaches, but it has plenty more to offer to nearly all kinds of visitors. The beautiful interior gardens, the smashing nightlife, the UNESCO World Heritage sites, and the welcoming, yet extremely laid-back populace form the right ingredients for an indelible Caribbean vacation experience. Additionally, the island has a variety of resorts offering a varying degree of comfort, hence, providing great budget options for travelers.
Good to know:
Grand Kadooment is the country’s iteration of carnival and celebrates the Crop Over, the end of the harvest season. Extravagant parades are organized with people dancing to groovy beats in spectacular outfits. The grandest parade is in Bridgetown and it starts from the National Stadium. Grand Kadooment is usually organized on August 5th.
Barbados offers a special work-from-home setup with its Barbados Welcome Stamp-a visa program. It allows remote workers to stay in the country for a year!
Want to learn more about the country? Check out their official tourism board page.
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Book Tours : Barbados: Catamaran Tour with Snorkeling and Lunch
22. Guadeloupe
Guadeloupe is a butterfly-shaped archipelago comprising several sun-kissed islands that offer improbable outdoor fun opportunities. The region is made up of two main islands joined together by a series of mangrove swamps and bridges. Each of the islands has a string of deserted beaches, old beach towns, and jungle-wreathed mountains that offer visitors with endless opportunities for fun in the forests or on the beaches.
Though times are modern, Guadeloupe has retained its yesteryear charms and it remains one of the best untouched and redolent destinations you shouldn’t miss when planning a trip to the Caribbean.
Good to know:
Island hopping is a must-do experience in the region and it’s very easy! The furthest ferry trip just takes 45 minutes, and roundtrips usually cost between 25 to 45 EUR (26.35 to 47.43 USD).
La Maison du Cacao in Basse Terre is a great place to check out if you want to learn more about the history of chocolate in the region. I’d suggest getting a few unique souvenirs as well!
Check out the archipelago’s official tourism board page for more information.
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Book Tours : Guadeloupe: Mangrove Stand Up Paddleboard Experience
23. Negril
On the western tip of Jamaica lies the town of Negril – a town reputed for some of the finest and the longest natural beaches in the region. Negril has a very strong local business community intent on preserving their precious ecology, making it a largely laidback destination occasionally interrupted by reggae concerts.
Other than the laidback vibe and the beach, coupled with the ensuing watersports activities, the other main attractions to this town are the precipitous cliffs, with some rising as high as up to 50 feet (15 meters), providing nice scenes for adrenalin junkies who enjoy taking the dip into the azure blue waters below.
Good to know:
Negril’s known for its nightlife, and the town’s Norman Manley Boulevard is a great spot to explore the scene!
Sweet Spice Restaurant is a favorite among locals and tourists for its delicious food. I’d suggest you head here whenever hunger strikes!
To learn more about the town, check out its official page.
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Budget: Coco La Palm
24. Tortola
Sharp peaks and bougainvillea-clothed hillsides litter Tortola’s landscapes, nestling pleasant opportunities for bird watching, hiking, and zip-lining among other incredibly adventurous outdoor opportunities.
But Tortola is not about the wilderness; it has a superfluity of beaches with great spots for surfing, swimming, and snorkeling. And, given that it is the Caribbean’s charter boat capital, the island has endless opportunities for day cruises to most of the neighboring islands.
Good to know:
Cane Garden Bay is a popular spot for surfing. The area also offers sailing charters, along with other anchorages at Soper’s Hole and Trellis Bay.
You can learn more about the island on its official tourism board page.
Stay here:
Book Tours : Historical and Beach Tour of Tortola BVI
25. Curaçao
The diversity in Curaçao makes it a potent attraction to a broad range of travelers. The town is well known for its multi-colored Dutch Mansions, the boat-bobbing harbors, the floating markets, and the many craggy boulders and cliffs.
With proximity to attractions such as national parks, museums, historical sites, and vibrant culture, as well as the presence of resorts offering diverse experiences, Curacao is a Caribbean destination whose charms will delight the heart, body, and soul of anyone who cares to find out more about its incredible treasures.
Good to know:
If you’re a sporty person, you might think about joining the KLM Curaçao Marathon! Besides the full marathon with a 10-kilometer (6.21-mile) course, there’s also a half marathon route if you want a less challenging run.
Christoffelpark is the largest national park in Curaçao and is a must-visit spot. I’d bring my camera along if I were you to photograph all the unique animals!
For more information about this beautiful country, check out its official tourism board page.
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26. Anguilla
Turquoise waters, powdery white sands, and a variety of lodging options make Anguilla among the most popular vacation destinations in the Caribbean. The beaches may be a mere 16 miles (25km) long, but the fact that they are pristine and the island enjoys warm weather throughout the year, makes it a busy and lively destination.
If you want to move away from the crowds to the more popular Shoal Bay East, feel free to check out Rendezvous Bay and Meads Bay.
Good to know:
If you want to enjoy the local music scene, head to Bankie Banx’s Dune Preserve. You might even get to catch a performance by the cafe’s famous namesake Bankie Banx. I’d love to get an autograph!
The official tourism board page has more info on the destination, so check it out.
Stay here:
Book Tours : The Best Sunset Sail and Cocktail Hour in Anguilla
27. Antigua & Barbuda
Corrugated coasts, plenty of perfect little coves, crystal clear waters, and fine sand beaches are a few of the alluring attractions of the tiny islands of Antigua & Barbuda. Other than the beaches, the islands have a vibrant history, as told by the historical forts that speak volumes about their colonial past. Any visit will also be pleasantly accentuated by the lovely and engaging locals, the rum-infused richness, and the rainbow-colored villages.
Though Hurricane Irma devastated the island of Barbuda in 2017, most of the top beaches were not affected, still offering plenty of opportunities for bird watching, snorkeling, hiking, and swimming among others.
Good to know:
Dickenson Bay is the best bet for those who want to keep urban comforts close while frolicking on the sands.
If you want an isolated shore to reconnect with yourself, Rendezvous Bay Beach will be a great spot. It seems to me like a great place to take some cute beach photos!
For more information, visit the nation’s official tourism board page.
Stay here:
Book Tours : Adventure Antigua - The Xtreme Circumnavigation
28. Ocho Rios
Ocho Rios was nothing but a little fishing village, with a beautiful wide bay and a few hotels. However, the region was developed into a tourist hub in the 1980s, and four decades later, it has become one of the leading tourist destinations in Jamaica.
Currently, the town has a relaxed vibe and it is mainly used as a base for exploring the country’s attractions on the north coast.
Good to know:
You can’t visit Ocho Rios and not head to Dunn’s River Falls! It’s world-famous (they even put it in their name), and rightfully so with the number of activities available here. You can enjoy zip-lining, run with the kids on the splash pad, or even have a wedding! It seems to me like a great spot to explore with friends!
For more information, check out the city’s tourism board page.
Stay here:
Luxury: Riu Ocho Rios - All Inclusive
Budget: Sea Shell Palms, Ocho Rios
Book Tours : Ocho Rios Blue Hole and Dunn's River Falls Tour
29. Santo Domingo
Santo Domingo, also known as La Capital, is a collage of attractions, cultures, neighborhoods, and experiences that are not just unique and rare but also thrilling and entertaining. At the heart of the city, you will find the Zona Colonial – a blend of attractions featuring the oldest surviving European fortresses, and ancient churches with incredible colonial history. The city center is insanely urban, with elegant restaurants, beautiful cultural institutions, and nightclubs where music and drinks flow all night long. The cobblestone streets will never fail to impress, though some might find the blasting horns from the chaotic traffic a bit repugnant.
Santo Domingo is also home to a myriad of soft sand beaches with enough room for everyone so that you are never bothered by crowding.
Good to know:
If you’d like to do something quirky, opt for a fun ride on the Chu Chu Colonial and have a quick tour of the city. The name’s a bit misleading though as the ‘train’ is just a car shaped like a locomotive pulling a few carriages. I think it would still be fun though, especially if you’re traveling with kids.
If you’d like to know more about the city, check out its tourism board page.
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A tropical paradise worth visiting at least once in a lifetime
There is no denying that the Caribbean has plenty of options for travelers in need of pristine tropical paradises. The laid-back vibes, long stretches of fine sand beaches, breathtaking landscapes and natural sceneries, the culinary diversity and a warm and welcoming populace make it a destination worth visiting at least once in a lifetime. I’d stay in one of their great resorts to make the vacation extra special. Use the above list of the best places to visit in the Caribbean to help you make up your mind on the destinations you should consider first for the ultimate vacation experience.
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