Best Caribbean Vacations
Your expectations for the perfect Caribbean getaway can fade fast without proper research and planning. Many islands boast the stereotypical ocean breezes, warm white sand and crystal clear water of postcard lore. But some have limited activities away from the resorts and beaches that are too jam-packed to enjoy. Let our research help you pick the best and most affordable Caribbean vacation for any time.
Why go: You'll find first-class beaches, plenty of activity and excellent nightlife and shopping opportunities on St. Martin-St. Maarten, not to mention a terrific assortment of hotel options, based on your budget. This is also a great island for eating; consider having lunch at one of the lolos, or open-air eateries, located along the shore.
Why go: St. Kitts proves that it's not just college kids that like fun in the sun. Just look at the "mature" partiers enjoying the sands of Oualie or wiling a few hours away in Mr. X's Shiggidy Shack on Frigate Bay. When you want to get away from this popular, sophisticated spot, just hop a quick ferry to the quieter, more-secluded island of Nevis.
Why go: One of the most scenic destinations in the Caribbean, the Cayman Islands are also premiere diving sites. Eden Rock on Grand Cayman and the Captain Keith Tibbetts Wreck of Cayman Brac are particular favorites, and they shouldn't be too challenging for beginning or intermediate divers. Best of all; this archipelago features some of the best hotel deals in the Caribbean, so you can enjoy the white beaches and clear waters for less than some of the more well-known isles.
Read on: Top Things to Do in Cayman Islands»
Why go: While you'll certainly find the standard Caribbean luxuries – beaches, golf courses, and palatial resorts, Barbados offers more unique flares. Here, you can sample bittersweet Mount Gay Rum, attend a horse race, and dance the night away to a calypso tune. And if those distractions don't tear you away from the resort grounds, the buzzing streets of Bridgetown and breathtaking sands Bottom Bay and Soup Bowl will draw you out.
Read on: Top Things to Do in Barbados»
Why go: Spring is the season to enjoy the USVI, particularly in late April when St. Thomas' boisterous Carnival season gets under way. Not up for the party? You can still enjoy the unspoiled beauty of a St. John beach or historic trivia on a St. Croix plantation tour.
Why go: These well-liked islands transform into Spring Break nerve centers each year, so it's best you avoid them if you don't like crowds. Still, the Bahamas are unparalleled when it comes to flight deals and discounted room rates.
Read on: Top Things to Do in Bahamas»
Why go: Aruba has beautiful beaches, lively clubs, and adventurous activities (rent an ATV for off-terrain fun in Arikok National Park or for drives near the California Lighthouse). Divers claim this island is one of the best spots for offshore activities in the Caribbean, plus it's a safe destination for families. Lodging in Aruba can be expensive, so plan ahead.
Read on: Top Things to Do in Aruba»
Why go: Fancy French culture with glorious weather and scenary? Try Martinique. With fine beaches like Les Salines and possibly the best foodie scene in the Caribbean, this island rarely disappoints. All it really lacks is good word of mouth.
Read on: Top Things to Do in Martinique»
Why go: Turks & Caicos offers some of the most stunning white beaches of the Caribbean, such as Grace Bay. It makes a wonderful getaway for those who seek maximum comfort in a tropical setting. But be aware that the price is somewhat high for adventurous travelers and honeymooners.
Read on: Top Things to Do in Turks & Caicos»
Why go: "Posh" is the best word to describe the British Virgin Islands. The residents and the guests here are very well off and enjoy an exceptionally relaxed and gorgeous atmosphere. The shoreline at Cane Garden Bay is exquisite, and The Baths are mystifying. Infused with refined British culture, this archipeligo offers the epitome of Caribbean luxury. But be ready to pay dearly for it.
Why go: With its easy accessibility from the U.S. and fantastic bargain deals, this island offers excellent options for adventure travelers as well as history lovers. Puerto Rico's size guarantees plentiful beaches (like Mosquito Bay and Carolina Beach), plus San Juan is always buzzing.
Read on: Top Things to Do in Puerto Rico»
Why go: While many people think of Bermuda as just another Caribbean island, it is actually quite unique. First off, Bermuda is in the Atlantic Ocean, which means the water is much colder. Second, the islands (yes, it's plural) are part of the British Commonwealth, so expect to see golf courses, cricket matchs, biscuits, and afternoon tea. Bermuda is one of the most sophisticated places on our list, so bring your best clothes and a thick wallet.
Read on: Top Things to Do in Bermuda»
Why go: Jamaica has long been a go-to for lively Caribbean culture and adventure activities, and relatively cheap airfare and hotel rates are part of the allure. The many all-inclusive resorts appeal to honeymooners and young families, while adrenaline-racing activities like hiking in the Blue Mountains or climbing up Dunn's River Falls draw the wild ones.
Read on: Top Things to Do in Jamaica»
Why go: A little island that few people have ventured to, Dominica is perfect for the ecotourist on a budget. You can spend a few days exploring the waterfalls (see Trafalgar Falls) and nature trails of Morne Trois Pitons National Park. But Dominica has very little of what vacationers associate with a stereotypical Caribbean getaway: Beautiful beaches, ideal swimming conditions and abundant water sports activities are scarce.
Read on: Top Things to Do in Dominica»
Why go: You're practically guaranteed an excellent flight and hotel rate in Punta Cana, but we can't promise cultural authenticity – this Dominican Republic city is all about tourist comfort. And steer clear of Spring Break season, when hordes of twenty-somethings invade the area.
Read on: Top Things to Do in Punta Cana»
Why go: Those vacation planners looking for a slightly more authentic Dominican Republic experience will like Puerto Plata better than resort-laden Punta Cana. Plus, you're just a stone's throw away from one of the best kite-surfing areas in Cabarete. But hotel prices fluctuate wildly here, so start hunting for hotels early.
Read on: Top Things to Do in Puerto Plata»
Why Go: This island's got it all: sprawling chalk-colored beaches, staggering mountains, luxurious resorts, and bargain bungalows. You can start your day with a hike through the mighty Piton Mountains, soak up some midday sun along Reduit Beach, and watch the sun set over the glimmering Caribbean waves as you sip cocktails at the Anse Chastanet. St. Lucia really is the complete package.
Read on: Top Things to Do in St. Lucia»
Why Go: This member of the French Caribbean family certainly deserves a few "ooh-la-las." Sunbathers have ample scenery to enjoy as they soak up the rays. Khaki-colored beaches separate the island's lush, hilly landscape from the lapping turquoise waters. Just be prepared to splurge: St. Barts is in vogue for the moneyed set, beckoning to Hollywood's finest. But you can score some good deals if you plan well in advance.
Read on: Top Things to Do in St. Barts»
Why Go: The Dominican Republic's capital city is perfect for travelers looking to add a little spice to their vacation. Salsa and meringue rhythms mingle with the mouthwatering scent of conch gratinée in the city streets. When you're not testing your dance moves in Malecón or appeasing your appetite in the Zona Colonial, take a gander at Santo Domingo's stunning historic sites.
Read on: Top Things to Do in Santo Domingo»
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