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. Read below to learn about some of the best places to visit in the Caribbean.
1. Grenada (from USD 105.0)
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.
Grenada: Welcome to your private sightseeing tour by taxi
Duration: 3.0 hour
2. Aruba (from USD 65.0)
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, even more, is that the island is not within the hurricane belt, and it experiences sun for 300 days in a year.
Aruba Full-Island Tour
Duration: 7 hours
3. Saint Martin & Sint Maarten (from USD 135.0)
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.
St. Maarten: Trimaran Sailing Cruise, Snorkeling and Lunch
Duration: 5.5 hour
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4. Punta Cana (from USD 129.0)
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.
Punta Cana Day Tour: ATV, River Cave, Snorkeling and Catamaran
Duration: 8 hours
5. Nassau (from USD 80.0)
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.
Nassau Island Highlights Sightseeing and History 2.5-Hour Tour
Duration: 2 hours 30 minutes
6. Martinique (from USD 76.0)
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.
Martinique in One Day: Rum Distillery, Ruins, Black Sand Beach
Duration: 5 hours
7. Cayman Islands
Cayman Islands Beach
Posted by Big 7 Islands on Friday, 13 October 2017
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, the rich local cultures, lush forests, and the mysterious caves require more than just a few hours if you want to soak in and enjoy some of the island’s greatest treasures.
8. Montego Bay
Montego Bay Jamaica
Posted by World Famous Things on Saturday, 7 October 2017
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.
9. Saint Thomas
St Thomas, Caribbean Islands
Posted by Tebogo Mmabatho Ojeng on Tuesday, 30 July 2019
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 a heavy cruise ship traffic, thus guaranteeing plenty of resorts and amenities for the ideal Caribbean holiday.
10. Saint John (from USD 37.0)
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.
Saint John Walking Tour
Duration: 2 hours
11. Dominica (from USD 78.0)
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.
Half Day Jeep Safari
Duration: 3 hours
12. Varadero
Kuba, Matanzas, Varadero Podrobné informace na zájezdy.cz www.zdy.cz/9yfz
Posted by Zájezdy.cz - z Třebíče do celého světa on Wednesday, 31 July 2019
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 21km(13miles) 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.
13. Saint Kitts & Nevis
St. Kitts and Nevis . . #basseterre #saintkitts #nevis #grenada #barbuda #antigua #barbados #saintkittsandnevis #sea...
Posted by Gigi Gram on Tuesday, 13 November 2018
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.
14. Jamaica
Posted by Jamaica Love on Saturday, 23 June 2018
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.
15. Saint Barts
Aguas Cristalinas de St. Jean beach, St. Barts
Posted by Paisajes Asombrosos - Enamorate on Friday, 21 October 2016
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.
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.
17. San Juan (from USD 131.0)
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.
From Fajardo: Icacos Deserted Island Catamaran & Picnic Cruise
Duration: 5 hours 30 minutes
18. Puerto Plata (from USD 135.0)
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.
Puerto Plata: Off-Road 2-Person Buggy Tour
Duration: 3 hour
19. Havana (from USD 42.0)
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.
Discover Old Havana: Small Group Walking Tour with Lunch
Duration: 3.5 hour
20. Saint Lucia (from USD 85.0)
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.
St. Lucia Ultimate Island Private Tour
Duration: 5 hour
21. Barbados (from USD 108.0)
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.
Barbados: 5.5-Hour Island Safari with Lunch
Duration: 5.5 hour
22. Guadeloupe (from USD 131.0)
Guadeloupe is a butterfly-shaped archipelago comprising of several sun-kissed islands that offer improbable outdoor fun opportunities. The country 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.
Guadeloupe Full-Day Private Guided Tour
Duration: 8 hour
23. Negril (from USD 16.0)
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.
Negril Sightseeing Tour with Sunset at Rick’s Cafe
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.
Road Town Shore Excursion: Tortola Island Adventure
25. Curacao (from USD 76.0)
The diversity in Curacao 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.
Curacao Half-Day Snorkel and Luncheon Sail
26. Anguilla (from USD 1093.0)
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.
Anguilla Day Charter
27. Antigua & Barbuda (from USD 117.0)
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 with plenty of opportunities for bird watching, snorkeling, hiking, and swimming among others.
Island Safari Historical Tour
Duration: 7 hours
28. Ocho Rios (from USD 51.0)
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.
Ocho Rios Highlights Tour
Duration: 5 hours 30 minutes
29. Santo Domingo (from USD 45.0)
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 with crowding.
Santo Domingo Colonial Walking Tour
Duration: 4 hours
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. 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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