The islands in the Caribbean are full of clear waters, stunning landscapes, and plenty of activities for the adventurous. Although there are thousands of islands in the Caribbean, each has its own appeal over the others.
Ranking the islands in the Caribbean can be challenging. Nonetheless, the following list takes into account range of activities, accessibility, and cost of booking a stay. In this article, we’ll explore the top 10 best islands in the Caribbean for a golden vacation in no particular order.
Reasons To Visit The Caribbean
There is a multitude of islands in the Caribbean vacation we’ll suggest later, but let’s discuss why we chose this part of the world and what beauty it holds.
Beaches
The first image that pops into your head is of shimmery sand with crystal-clear waters lapping. Carribean islands boast some of the most scenic beaches in the world that makes them a hotspot for vacations, honeymoons, and romantic getaways. One of our top recommendations is Grand-Terre with offers numerous water activities to keep the entire party entertained, all the while indulging in beautiful views and soaking up the sun.
Food
You can’t mention Caribbean islands without celebrating their delectable food. Each restaurant seems to cater to all tastes while offering you ample opportunities to indulge in traditional Caribbean dishes. The Caribbean is notorious for its seafood which is beaming with spices and fusions to produce hot dishes. Though, if this isn’t ideal for sensitive mouths, there’s an array of rice, fish, chicken, coconut, sweet potatoes, and much more.
Culture
If you’re a jet setter looking to unwind and embrace a relaxed culture, look no further than the Caribbean islands. Locals bless the islands with a friendly personality that welcomes people from all walks of life. They’re infamous for a chilled charisma, making it the perfect environment to forget about your worries. From hotel staff to residents, everyone shares a beautiful spirit that will quickly rub off on you. But the island isn’t chilled all year-round. Embrace their cultural diversity by attending a festival to let your hair down and exude yourself with costumes and plenty of dancing. The party ambiance is a great way to feel welcomed with you hop on the island. Don’t forget to engage in some music festivals too for an authentic taste of life on the island.
The Top Caribbean Islands
1. Anguilla
With an average hotel room cost of $399, you will find plenty of places to be alone in the sun on Anguilla. Miles upon miles of pure white sand beaches kiss the most pristine waters. This setting makes for the most amazing pictures you will ever take.
The island has a romantic beach called Rendezvous Bay. This is the perfect place to work on your tan and rejuvenate your body and soul. Visitors can also enjoy sailing in glass-bottom boats and swimming with local dolphins.
2. Guadeloupe
At a modest $150 a night hotel stay, Guadeloupe is one of those islands in the Caribbean that is a must-see. There is no shortage of activities on this island. In fact, there are over 320 choices of fun to choose from.
The island is actually comprised of two islands that are unique in their own way. For those looking for white sand beaches and plenty of water activities, Grand-Terre is where you want to be.
Those who want to climb the mountains and enjoy stunning views, Basse-Terre is in order. Be sure to stop by the Guadeloupe National Park during your stay.
3. The British Virgin Islands
The average hotel room is $270 per night in the Virgin Islands. A vacation includes a stunning collection of 60 breathtaking small islands to choose from. For the adventurous types, there are over 200 different activities awaiting. The sailing around the islands is something everyone must try at least once in their lifetime.
Others will love venturing to the underwater coves throughout Virgin Gorda, visiting the rum distilleries around Tortola. For a relaxing holiday, you can just kick back at one of the many swim-up bars throughout Jost Van Dyke.
4. Turks and Caicos
Although a night stay on Turks and Caicos averages $450, you are staying at world-class hotels. Despite the number of pristine beaches, they are usually uncrowded during the year. There are over 115 outdoor activities in Turks and Caicos, including Grace Bay, considered to be the top beach in the world.
Although considered to be a destination for more upscale visitors, there are plenty of deals around if you do your homework. This is why we ranked this Turks and Caicos as one of the best islands in the Caribbean.
5. St. Lucia
A night stay on St. Lucia will run around $315 a night. However, it’s worth every penny. If you are looking for islands in the Caribbean with old plantations, luxury hotels, and hidden beaches, St. Lucia has it all and more. Those who are looking to relax away the day will enjoy the many sulfur springs that give you the chance to experience that one-of-a-kind spa treatment.
Anse Mamin beaches give vacationers the chance to slip away into their own private paradise. There is plenty of distance between the next couple on the beaches which creates a coveted intimacy. With well over 360 activities on the island, St. Lucia certainly has something for everyone.
6. Barbados
Nightly stays on Barbados average $200, but the memories will last an eternity. It doesn’t matter if you are on the hunt for incredible sites of natural beauty, dazzling nightlife or quiet beach resorts. Barbados has it all. The capital of Barbados, Bridgetown, is where you will discover the world-famous Mount Gay Rum Distillery.
On the western side of Barbados, you will discover calm and clear waters that are perfect for snorkeling, swimming or boating. The east side of the island is for the more adventurous, including wild surf and challenging terrains. There are more than 370 activities to keep you busy in Barbados.
7. Aruba
Although a night on Aruba will run you $250, you could enjoy peace and quiet on some of the most incredible beaches in all of the Caribbean. Part of the reason this is one of those islands in the Caribbean tourists flock is the incredible package deals offered by local hotels. With over 350 activities to enjoy, guests can customize their trips to enjoy as many of the activities as they wish.
Be sure to stop and visit the town of Oranjestad during your vacation. It is packed with famous landmarks, shops, pastel facades, vistas, and hidden beaches.
8. U.S. Virgin Islands
A stay on the U.S. Virgin Islands will run you around $230 a night, depending on where you stay. Vacationers can stay on St. Croix, St. Thomas or St. John. Each has its own prime sailing spots, nightlife, historic buildings, and hidden coves for exploring.
With an amazing 779 activities through the islands, there is plenty for everyone to enjoy during your stay. Ferries also make hopping from each island a breeze.
9. The Cayman Islands
A nightly stay on the Cayman Islands is $275 a night. Guests can choose from 440 different activities on the 3 main islands. Grand Cayman has the cosmopolitan feel, Cayman Brac has serene trails and incredible dining experiences, and Little Cayman completes with wall dives and quiet beaches.
Depending on your needs, you could have a little of everything during your trip to the Cayman Islands. That’s enough to make a vacation on the Cayman Islands worth your while.
10. The Bahamas
A night stay on the Bahamas would run you $320 a night. However, you should consider that you have over 700 islands to spend time visiting. From incredible beach resorts to amazing nightlife, vacationers will have plenty to keep them busy.
In Conclusion
This list of the top 10 islands in the Caribbean will get you started on your journey, but there is so much more to explore. With thousands of individual islands to choose, it is a paradise in waiting.
If you have visited other Caribbean islands that you feel should have made the list, let us know so our readers can add it to their bucket list.