If you are looking for some sun, beach, and relaxation, a trip to the Caribbean islands may be just what the doctor ordered. Based on user votes and expert insights, plus variables like accessibility to beaches, tourist attractions, and pleasant hotels, U.S. News developed a list of the top places to visit in the Caribbean for a holiday. Vote for your favorite vacation spots so we can better determine next year’s top picks. If you need somewhere to stay, I recommend reading up on the Top Hotels in the Caribbean.
Top 10 Places to Visit in the Caribbean
St. Lucia
The expansive chalk-colored beaches, towering volcanic peaks, and luxurious resorts of St. Lucia are all reasons to plan a trip there. You can start the day with a hike through the Pitons, relax on Reduit Beach in the middle of the day, and end the day watching the sunset over the Caribbean. Sulphur Springs is the only drive-in volcano in the world, so be sure to schedule some time there. Couples flock to St. Lucia because of the island’s abundance of luxurious hotels with breathtaking views of the Pitons.
U.S. Virgin Islands
The U.S. Virgin Islands are most enjoyable in the spring, and late April in particular is when the raucous Carnival season on St. Thomas begins. Try to spend at least one day relaxing on one of the numerous beautiful beaches along St. John’s coast, especially the well-known Trunk Bay beach. Or, visit a fort on St. Croix for a touch of Danish colonial history during your holiday. What’s even better? These Caribbean nations do not require passports from visitors from the United States.
Turks & Caicos
Grace Bay, located in the Turks and Caicos Islands, is widely regarded as one of the Caribbean’s most stunning stretches of white sand. This cluster of coral islands is home to one of the world’s largest barrier reef systems and provides exceptional opportunities for snorkelers and scuba divers. These islands are perfect for anyone looking for a relaxing vacation in a tropical atmosphere, whether they want to spend most of their time on land or underwater. However, hotel prices can be greater here than in other Caribbean places, especially during the peak winter season.
Cayman Islands
Eden Rock and Devil’s Grotto are just two of the world-class dive sites that call the Cayman Islands home. There are also several beautiful beaches in the Cayman Islands, including the famous Seven Mile Beach. Stingray City is a great place to swim with stingrays and enjoy the clear water if you choose to stay close to shore. Enjoy the palm-fringed white sand beaches and calm water without breaking the bank by traveling during the summer, when hotel and airfare prices are often lower.
Bahamas
The beauty of the Caribbean Sea and its surrounding islands is what draws tourists to the 16 main islands and hundreds of islets that make up the Bahamas. There is a wide variety of beaches in the country, from the crowded Cable Beach to the Pig Beach and the Pink Sand Beach (named for their most distinctive features, respectively). After basking in the Caribbean rays, venture into one of the Bahamas’ many pristine parks, such as Lucayan National Park. If you don’t want to spend all of your vacation money on travel, plan to visit just one or two islands.
Grenada
St. George’s harbor in Grenada is a beautiful sight, with its brightly colored buildings and natural elements. Grenada has more than 45 beaches, the longest of which is Grand Anse Beach at 2 miles in length, so you shouldn’t stand there staring for too long. Clear water and white sand may be found at any of the shorelines here, all of which are framed by verdant vegetation. If you’re getting tired of the sand, you may take a chocolate tour at Belmont Estate or go trekking in Grand Etang National Park & Forest Reserve.
Antigua
Antigua has a large number of beaches (365, to be exact) and a wide variety of beach types. So, whether you’re looking for a quick bite to eat at Valley Church Beach or a more private, romantic getaway at Half Moon Bay, you won’t be let down. In addition, some of the finest Caribbean resorts may be found in Antigua. Nelson’s Dockyard, built by the British Navy using slave labor, and Betty’s Hope, an early sugar plantation, are just two of the many historical monuments on the island that pay tribute to Antigua’s Colonial past.
Aruba
Aruba has something for every kind of tourist. People who like to gamble can go to the casinos, people who like to be close to nature can visit Arikok National Park or hike through the Ayo and Casibari rock formations, and people who like to be near water can go on a boat tour or explore the sea. Beach bums can relax on a lounge chair along the shore and soak up some sun. Thanks to Aruba’s steady breeze, most people don’t get too hot. This island is also outside the storm belt, making it a great place to visit any time of the year, though late summer is usually the best time to get a room.
Jamaica
Jamaica has beautiful beaches, tall mountains, thick rainforests, and colorful coral reefs. Its varied landscapes draw tourists from all over the world. Hikers, rock climbers, and divers can all enjoy Seven Mile Beach. People who want to relax can lie on the beach’s soft white sand or swim in the clear water. There are many all-inclusive resorts on the island where you can spend your whole trip having fun and resting. But to really experience the culture of the island, go to Kingston, the capital, to enjoy a lively fair, listen to reggae music, and eat Blue Mountain Coffee and jerk chicken.
St. Barts
St. Barts is famous for its beautiful beaches, like Anse de Grande Saline and Anse des Flamands, and its unique French Caribbean culture, which can be seen in its food and lively events held every year. Luxury is also linked to St. Barts, so there are a lot of high-end hotels, resorts, and ports where megayachts can dock. Get food at a nearby grocery store before going to the beach for a picnic to save money.
