16 Best Caribbean Islands to Visit Right Now
Ready to trade your daily grind for island time? We’ve got the ultimate rundown of the best Caribbean islands that are begging for your attention.
Dust off your passport and find out which destinations should be on your travel radar this year! Here’s where you need to point your compass right now:
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1. Dominica
Known as the “Nature Isle,” Dominica stands apart from its Caribbean siblings with its untamed wilderness and geothermal wonders.
Hikers can trek to the world’s second-largest hot spring, Boiling Lake, while snorkelers float through the otherworldly Champagne Reef, where volcanic bubbles create a natural jacuzzi effect.
Insider Tip: Visit the Indian River at dawn when the morning mist creates an ethereal atmosphere perfect for photography.
Where to Stay: Fort Young Hotel – A swanky boutique hideout in a centuries-old fort, complete with a trendy bar in the old troop quarters.
2. Barbados
Welcome to the birthplace of rum! This coral island blends British sophistication with laid-back Caribbean charm. Underground marvels await at Harrison’s Cave, where crystalline formations glitter beneath limestone ceilings.
After dark, the St. Lawrence Gap comes alive with the rhythm of calypso and the tempting aromas of fresh fish frying.
Insider Tip: Visit the Fish Fry at Oistins on Friday nights – skip the tourist-heavy spots and head to Pat’s Place for the best grilled mahi-mahi.
Where to Stay: Sandy Lane – A legendary resort with world-class golf courses for the ultimate pampering getaway.
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3. Aruba
The “One Happy Island” lives up to its nickname with year-round sunshine and those famous trade winds that keep you cool while lounging on Eagle Beach’s powdery white sand.
Beyond the pristine shores, Oranjestad charms visitors with its Dutch-influenced architecture painted in cheerful Caribbean pastels.
Adventure seekers can windsurf in the constant breeze, while night owls will find their groove at the world-class casinos and vibrant beach bars.
Insider Tip: Skip the tourist crowds by heading to Mangel Halto Beach to snorkel among the mangroves.
Where to Stay: The St. Regis Palm Beach Aruba Resort, opening in late 2024, promises to be the new crown jewel of Aruba’s luxury scene.
4. Antigua
With 365 beaches to choose from, this island delivers a new slice of coastal heaven every day of the year.
The real magic happens at Shirley Heights on Thursday and Sunday nights, where rum punch flows freely while steel drums play against spectacular sunsets.
History buffs will adore exploring Nelson’s Dockyard, the world’s only continuously working Georgian Era dockyard.
Where to Stay: Cocos Hotel offers private hilltop cottages nestled between two beaches, perfect for romantic getaways with stunning sea views.
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5. Eleuthera
This slender Bahamian gem dazzles with its pink-sand beaches and dramatic Glass Window Bridge, where the deep blue Atlantic meets the turquoise Caribbean waters.
The island’s caves tell fascinating tales – from Preacher’s Cave, which sheltered the first settlers, to the more adventurous Spider Cave and Hatchet Bay Cave.
Insider Tip: Take a dip in one of the island’s mysterious blue holes, said to have healing powers.
Where to Stay: The French Leave Resort offers luxurious waterfront villas and complimentary golf carts for zipping around the property.
6. St. Martin/Sint Maarten
This dual-nation island serves up double the cultural flavor with French sophistication on one side and Dutch liveliness on the other.
The island’s 37 beaches range from bustling strips lined with beach bars to hidden coves perfect for private sunbathing.
Insider Tip: Time your visit to the famous Maho Beach during peak flight arrival times for those iconic plane-spotting photos.
Where to Stay: Hotel L’Esplanade offers bright rooms with private terraces featuring stunning sea views of Grand Case Bay.
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7. St. Barts
This chic French outpost serves up a delicious slice of Mediterranean flair in the Caribbean. Designer boutiques line the streets of Gustavia, while pristine beaches like St. Jean offer front-row seats to sunset yacht parades.
The island’s legendary beach clubs pump out smooth beats as beautiful people sip rosé under striped umbrellas.
Insider Tip: For the best local pastries, hit up La Petite Colombe in Lorient before the morning rush.
Where to Stay: Le Toiny – Twenty-two hillside bungalow suites with private pools and spectacular ocean views, plus an exclusive Beach Club accessible by golf cart.
8. St. Lucia
Nestled between the majestic Piton mountains, St. Lucia dazzles with its dramatic landscapes and soul-stirring beauty. The island’s volcanic beaches shimmer with black and golden sand, while hidden waterfalls cascade through rainforest trails.
Foodies will swoon over the fresh catch at Castries Market and the aromatic Creole cuisine simmering in local kitchens. For thrill-seekers, zip-lining through the rainforest canopy offers an adrenaline rush with jaw-dropping views.
Insider Tip: Skip the crowded sunset spots and head to Anse Chastanet beach for a more intimate golden hour moment.
Where to Stay: East Winds, St Lucia – A charming collection of 30 cottage-style suites scattered across tropical gardens, offering complimentary boat trips to swim with Hawksbill turtles.
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9. Grenada
The “Spice Isle” seduces visitors with the sweet scent of nutmeg wafting through the air. This under-the-radar gem boasts thick rainforests, hidden waterfalls, and authentic Caribbean charm without the crowds.
The Grand Etang National Park offers spectacular hiking trails, while the 17th-century Belmont Estate showcases the island’s rich agricultural heritage.
Where to Stay: Spice Island Beach Resort is a luxurious, all-inclusive resort with unpretentious yet sophisticated Caribbean charm.
10. St. Vincent And The Grenadines
This string of 32 islands offers an exclusive escape for those seeking pristine shores and secluded coves. Made famous as a filming location for “Pirates of the Caribbean,” these islands now attract luxury yacht enthusiasts and nature lovers alike.
Want to get your heart racing? Hike the volcanic landscape of La Soufrière. For underwater thrills, grab your snorkel and dive into the crystal-clear waters of the Tobago Cays.
Where to Stay: Young Island Resort offers private cottages on a secluded island just off St. Vincent.
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11. Tobago
Craving a Caribbean escape without the crowds? Tobago’s your hidden gem. This tiny island packs a punch with its untouched beauty and chill vibes.
Dip your toes in the powder-soft sands of Store Bay or Pigeon Point, where turquoise waters beckon you for a swim. Fancy a bit of underwater adventure? Snorkel around the famous Buccoo Reef and say hi to the colorful fish.
Insider Tip: Try the street food at Store Bay, especially the crab and dumplings.
Where to Stay: Coco Reef Resort offers beachfront luxury with a private lagoon.
12. Guadeloupe
This French Caribbean butterfly-shaped island offers a perfect blend of European sophistication and tropical allure.
Grande-Terre features resort-lined beaches and colonial architecture, while Basse-Terre boasts rainforests and the towering La Soufrière volcano.
The island’s French-Creole cuisine and vibrant markets make it a foodie’s dream. Visit the local markets on Wednesday and Saturday mornings for the freshest produce and spices.
Where to Stay: La Toubana Hotel & Spa offers stunning oceanfront bungalows with a chic, tropical vibe.
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13. Martinique
Ready for a Caribbean getaway with a French twist? Martinique’s got you covered. This island blends Creole spice with Parisian flair, creating a vibe that’s totally unique.
The island’s northern region features dramatic volcanic landscapes and black-sand beaches, while the south offers golden shores and resort amenities. The capital, Fort-de-France, showcases beautiful colonial architecture and bustling markets.
Insider Tip: Take a rum distillery tour to sample some of the finest rhum agricole in the Caribbean.
Where to Stay: La Suite Villa offers artsy bungalows with private hot tubs and killer views of the bay.
14. Jamaica
Ready to shake off those winter blues? Jamaica’s got the cure. This Caribbean hotspot is more than just beaches and Bob Marley tunes. Dive into crystal-clear waters at Doctor’s Cave Beach or hike up to the peak of Blue Mountain for jaw-dropping views.
The island’s north coast sparkles with luxury resorts, while the south reveals authentic fishing villages and hidden surf spots.
Insider Tip: Head to Boston Bay for the most authentic jerk chicken and pork – this is where the famous seasoning originated.
Where to Stay: Half Moon Resort brings old-world Caribbean charm with modern luxury, featuring private villa pools and a natural swimming cove.
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15. Puerto Rico
This vibrant island meshes colonial charm with modern energy. Old San Juan’s cobblestone streets lead to colorful buildings and historic fortifications, while El Yunque rainforest beckons with its mystical trails and waterfalls.
The island’s surf scene at Rincon draws wave-chasers from around the globe. Make sure you visit the bioluminescent bays during a new moon for the most magical light show.
Where to Stay: Dorado Beach, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve, offers an ultra-luxurious escape with private plunge pools and personal butlers.
16. Cayman Islands
Crystal-clear waters teem with marine life, making this destination a diver’s dream. Stingray City offers unforgettable encounters with gentle sea creatures, while Seven Mile Beach presents a pristine shoreline perfect for sun-seekers.
These islands serve up a perfect blend of laid-back vibes and sophistication. You can go from sipping rum punch on the beach to dining at world-class restaurants in no time.
Insider Tip: Visit during the summer months for better rates while still enjoying perfect weather and fewer crowds.
Where to Stay: The Ritz-Carlton Grand Cayman spans 144 acres across Seven Mile Beach, offering world-class dining and a la prairie spa.
