20 Best Caribbean Islands to Visit

The Caribbean is a region of islands located in the Atlantic Ocean that are known for their white sand beaches, crystal clear waters and laid-back lifestyle. If you’re looking for a tropical escape, the Caribbean islands are a great option.

But with so many picturesque islands to choose from, how could anyone possibly make a decision on which to visit on their Caribbean vacation?

Admittedly, picking the 20 best Caribbean islands to visit was no easy task. After all, this is a region teeming with stunningly gorgeous tropical oases! But we gave it a go, and here’s what we came up with.

From Aruba’s casinos and nightlife to Dominica’s lush rainforest, there’s something for everyone in the Caribbean – Whether you’re looking for white sand beaches, swaying palms, crystal-clear waters, or all of the above, you’ll find your perfect Caribbean paradise on our list!

20 Best Caribbean Islands

1. Jamaica

Jamaica is one of the most popular and well-known tourist destinations in the Caribbean. The island of Jamaica is known for its beaches, resorts, and reggae music, as well as its rich culture and welcoming locals.

There are also many historical sites to visit in Jamaica, such as the Bob Marley Museum and Port Royal.

Start your Jamaica trip by landing in Montego Bay where you can relax on the beach, try some local cuisine, or explore the city.

This is the most popular destination for tourists visiting the island, so you’ll find lots of high-end hotels, all-inclusive resorts, and rental accommodations in this area. Some of the top-rated hotels on the island include the Half Moon, Round Hill Hotel and Villas, and Secrets Wild Orchid Montego Bay.

For a more action-packed vacation, head to Negril for watersports and hiking.

The stunning white sand and dramatic sunsets of Negril’s Seven-Mile Beach make this the perfect place to try your hand at jet skiing, scuba diving, snorkeling, or an adventurous ATV ride along the beach! For a more relaxing experience, opt for a catamaran cruise around Montego Bay.

If you’re looking for a more laid-back atmosphere, Negril has that as well. Here, you can spend your days lounging on the beach or exploring the cliffs.

Ocho Rios is another popular spot for visitors as it’s home to many of Jamaica’s best attractions, including Dunn’s River Falls, Blue Hole Mineral Spring, and Green Grotto Caves.

For a taste of Jamaican culture, be sure to visit Kingston to see the Bob Marley Museum and learn about the Rastafarian religion.

For foodies visiting the island, Jamaica is also a great place to try local foods like Jamaican jerk chicken and fiesty curried goat!

See Related: Non-Touristy Things to do in Nassau (Secrest from Locals)

2. Turks and Caicos

This British Overseas Territory is located in the Atlantic Ocean and consists of 40 small coral islands and cays, only eight of which are actually inhabited.

Grace Bay Beach, located on the island of Providenciales, is widely considered one of the best beaches in the world and is a major draw for visitors to Turks and Caicos.

In addition to its natural beauty, Turks and Caicos is also home to some of the best luxury resorts in the Caribbean. If you’re looking to splurge on your vacation, this is the place to do it! World-famous resort chains like COMO Parrot Cay and Grace Bay Club offer visitors the chance to relax in luxury.

But while most visitors come to Turks and Caicos for its beaches and resorts, there are also plenty of other activities to keep you busy.

Going on a glass-bottom boat tour to explore the amazing underwater world, or taking a nature hike through thick mangrove forests, or along Bird Rock Trail is a great way to get up close and personal with the native wildlife of Turks and Caicos.

For those looking for a more active vacation, Turks and Caicos also offers great scuba diving and snorkeling opportunities.

There are over 200 dive sites around the islands, making it a paradise for both beginner and experienced divers. You can also go deep-sea fishing, stand-up paddleboarding, or even windsurfing!

For a taste of the local culture, be sure to visit Grand Turk, the capital island of Turks and Caicos.

This is where you’ll find the National Museum, which houses artifacts from the Lucayan people who once inhabited the islands. You can also learn about the island’s salt-producing history at the Turks and Caicos National Historical Park.

If you’re looking for a place to relax and rejuvenate, Turks and Caicos is the perfect Caribbean island to visit.

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3. The Bahamas

The Bahamas is a chain of islands located in the Atlantic Ocean, east of Florida, and is a popular destination for both tourists and Caribbean cruise ships.

The island nation is known for its white-sand beaches, clear turquoise waters, and beachfront resorts. Visitors can also enjoy diving and snorkeling in the many coral reefs around the Bahamas or take a catamaran ride to see the dolphins!

The Bahamas is made up of over 700 islands, so there are plenty of paradises to explore. Start your trip in Nassau, the capital city, where you can visit the historic Fort Charlotte or shop for duty-free goods.

Nassau is known for its colonial architecture, so be sure to stroll through the streets and snap some photos!

From Nassau, you can take a ferry to one of the many nearby pristine islands like Paradise Island or Grand Bahama Island. These islands are popular tourist destinations and offer plenty of activities and attractions, such as golfing, fishing, and exploring caves.

For a more remote and natural experience, take a ferry to the Exumas, a chain of over 350 islands.

Here, you can explore uninhabited islands, go swimming with pigs at Big Major Cay, or visit the Thunderball Grotto made famous by the James Bond movie Thunderball! The water surrounding the Exuma Islands is also crystal clear, making it a popular spot for snorkeling and diving.

See Related: Hidden Gems in the Caribbean Sea (You Can’t Miss)

4. St. Lucia

St. Lucia is a small island nation located in the Caribbean Sea, off the coast of Central America. The island is an ideal destination for couples or families looking for a relaxing vacation. Visitors can spend their days lounging on the beach, hiking through lush rainforests, or exploring the local culture and cuisine.

The beaches in St. Lucia are some of the best in the Caribbean, with pristine white sand and clear turquoise waters. Popular beaches include Reduit Beach, Anse Chastanet Beach, and Sugar Beach.

For a more remote and natural experience, take a hike to one of the many hidden beaches along the coast and get lost in the beauty of St. Lucia!

In addition to its beaches, St. Lucia is also known for its lush rainforests. Inland, you’ll find the stunning Pitons, two volcanic mountains that are a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This is one of the best places to visit for nature lovers and adventurers visiting this island.

Visitors here can hike through the rainforest to see these amazing geological formations and experience the island’s diverse flora and fauna, or take a zip-line tour for a bird’s-eye view!

For a taste of the local culture, be sure to visit the capital city of Castries. Here you can stroll through the streets and soak up the vibrant atmosphere, or visit the local market to find fresh produce and handmade goods. You can also learn about the island’s history at the Saint Lucia National Museum.

5. Antigua and Barbuda

Antigua and Barbuda is a twin-island nation located in the Caribbean Sea. The islands are best known for their pristine beaches, secluded resorts, and excellent sailing conditions. Visitors can also enjoy diving, snorkeling, windsurfing, and deep-sea fishing in the island’s warm waters.

The island of Antigua is the larger of the two islands and is home to the capital city of St. John’s. Antigua is a popular tourist destination, with its many beaches, luxury resorts, and historic sites.

Visitors can spend their days lounging on the beaches of Rendezvous Bay of Half Moon Bay, exploring the rainforest, or visiting one of the many historic sites.

Barbuda is a smaller island located just north of Antigua but is just as beautiful. The island is known for its secluded beaches, lush rainforest, and native bird population. Barbuda is also a popular destination for scuba diving and snorkeling, as the island is surrounded by coral reefs.

While staying on Antigua, you can take a day trip tour to explore the beauty of Barbuda for a day before returning to your hotel.

For a taste of the local culture, be sure to visit St. John’s. The capital city is home to many historic sites, such as the St. John’s Cathedral and the Museum of Antigua and Barbuda.

You can also stroll through the streets and soak up the vibrant atmosphere, or visit the local market to find fresh produce and handmade goods.

Be sure to try some of the local dishes, like roti and Johnny cakes, while you’re here!

See Related: Best Romantic Getaways in USA

6. Barbados

Woah! I’m going to Barbados!

Barbados is an island that you’ve definitely probably heard about before – certainly if you’re old enough to get that Typically Tropical reference.

It’s one of the most popular tourist destinations in the Caribbean, and honestly, we can see why! The island is home to pristine beaches, resorts of all shapes and sizes, and vibrant culture.

Visitors to this iconic Caribbean island can spend their days lounging on the beach, exploring the rainforest, or visiting one of the many historic sites.

The beaches in Barbados are some of the best in the world, with white sand and clear turquoise waters. Popular beaches here include Sandy Lane Beach, Mullins Beach, and Paynes Bay Beach.

The clear water is almost completely see-through and the vibrant colored reefs beneath the surface make for some of the best snorkeling and diving in the Caribbean.

Like many of the other islands mentioned on this list, Barbados is home to many luxury hotels and 5-star resorts, such as the Barbados Hilton. If you’re looking for a more budget-friendly option, there are also many 3- and 4-star resorts to choose from.

Aside from beaches and fantastic resorts, Barbados is also home to some pretty unique natural landmarks as well.

On the island, you’ll find the stunning Harrison’s Cave, a limestone cave system that dates back as early as the 1730s. While in Barbados, you can take a guided tour of the caves and descend into the depths of this natural wonder.

To really immerse yourself in the culture and get the complete Barbados experience, you should definitely visit the capital city of Bridgetown, where you can learn about the island’s history at the Barbados Museum or take a tour of the Parliament Building.

You can fly into Bridgetown International (BGI) – although I’m not sure Coconut Airways is still operational…

See Related: Things About Long Term Travel You Can’t Miss

7. Aruba

Even if you haven’t visited Aruba yet, chances are you’ve seen photos of this beautiful island – the “A” of the ABC islands.

It’s known for its idyllic beaches that are sprawling with bright pink flamingos that inhabit the island. This Netherlands-owned Caribbean island is a tropical paradise located just north of Venezuela and is a popular tourist destination for those looking to escape the cold winter months.

Aruba is also a popular destination for scuba diving and snorkeling, as the island is surrounded by coral reefs and pristine beaches.

One of the most popular beaches in Aruba is Eagle Beach, which is known for its soft sand and clear waters and is a popular nesting spot for Aruba’s iconic flamingos. Other popular beaches include Baby Beach, Palm Beach, and Hadicurari Beach.

The stunning island of Aruba is also home to many 5-star resorts and private villas, such as the Ritz-Carlton Aruba and the Aruba Marriott Resort & Stellaris Casino. Not only is it one of the most well-known islands in the Caribbean, it’s also becoming one of the most expensive.

If you do decide to visit this Caribbean island, I recommend booking your flight well in advance and reserving your accommodation quickly to try to get the best deal possible!

But, there are still ways to enjoy Aruba without breaking the bank. One way is to take advantage of the many free activities that the island has to offer, such as hiking through Arikok National Park or exploring the Aloe Vera Plantation.

You can also visit one of Aruba’s many cultural landmarks, such as the California Lighthouse or the Aruba Archaeological Museum.

For a taste of the local culture, be sure to visit Oranjestad, Aruba’s capital city. The capital city is home to many historic sites, such as Fort Zoutman and the Archaeological Museum. Here, you can get an in-depth look at Aruba’s history and learn about the Dutch influence on the island.

Aruba is one of the best Caribbean destinations for those looking for a mix of both luxury and culture on their vacation.

To experience the best of what has to offer, be sure to visit during the months of January and February when the island comes alive for Carnival – an annual event that celebrates the island’s Afro-Caribbean culture with music, food, and dancing.

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8. Bermuda

This stunning Caribbean island has had a historically bad reputation for centuries due to the number of shipwrecks and missing planes that have occurred near the island (thanks for nothing Bermuda Triangle!), but it is still a popular beach destination for those looking to escape the cold winter months!

Bermuda is located in the western North Atlantic Ocean, about 650 miles off the coast of North Carolina. This picturesque British Overseas Territory is known for its pink-sand beaches, clear turquoise waters, and gorgeous coastline.

Bermuda is home to many beaches, and all of them are beautiful and unique in their own right. Elbow Beach, Horseshoe Bay Beach, and Warwick Long Bay are just some of the popular beaches on the island.

There’s no shortage of things to do in Bermuda either!

A day exploring Cooper’s Island Nature Reserve, taking a sunset cocktail cruise from South Hampton, visiting the Unfinished Church, or discovering Bermuda’s underwater beauty on a glass-bottom boat tour are just some of the unique things to do in Bermuda.

The capital city of Hamilton is also worth a visit while on the island! This historic city is home to many landmarks, such as Fort Hamilton, the Bermuda National Gallery, and the Bermuda Maritime Museum.

Hamilton is also a great place to do an authentic Bermuda food tasting experience, and indulge in local cuisines like Bermuda Fish Cake, Spiny Lobster, and Black Rum Cake.

With all this in mind, it comes as no surprise that Bermuda is also known for its high-end hotels and resorts. The island is home to many 5-star resorts, such as the Grotto Bay Beach Resort.

See Related: Best Ski Resorts in the US to Visit

9. Cayman Islands

This territory is a series of three separate islands spread out over 102 square miles across the western Caribbean sea.

This island location is a top spot for expensive resorts, clear waters, world-class diving, and much more. Grand Cayman is the largest of the three islands and is home to the capital city of Georgetown, which is well-known around the world for its duty-free shopping.

Seven Mile Beach is the most popular beach destination on Grand Cayman, and for good reason! This gorgeous stretch of beach is known for its crystal clear waters and powdery white sand. Visitors here can enjoy plenty of activities, such as swimming, sunbathing, stand-up paddle boarding, and more.

When you’re not spending your days soaking up the sun out on the water, the luxury resorts lining the island have many amenities for you to enjoy, such as golf courses, spas, and restaurants.

Many of the resorts here offer all-inclusive packages, so you can truly relax and enjoy your time on the island. One of the best is the Westin Grand Cayman Seven-Mile Beach Resort.

Some of the best scuba diving in the world can be found off the coast of Grand Cayman. The island is home to many reefs and shipwrecks, making it a popular destination for divers of all levels.

If you’re looking to explore the underwater world, be sure to check out some of the best diving spots, such as the North Wall, Stingray City, and Eden Rock, and consider doing a snorkeling experience or scuba diving tour.

See Related: Best Vacations For A Group Of Friends

10. Dominica

Officially named the Commonwealth of Dominica (and not to be confused with the nearby Dominican Republic), this island country is located in the Lesser Antilles region of the Caribbean Sea.

Dominica is known for its lush rainforests, waterfalls, hot springs, and volcanic beaches. This unspoiled island is the perfect destination for those looking to get away from it all and enjoy some time in nature.

The Morne Trois Pitons National Park is one of the most popular tourist destinations on the island.

This park is home to many waterfalls, hot springs, and volcanoes, and is a great place to go hiking or take a dip in one of the natural pools. The Boiling Lake is one of the most popular attractions in the park, and is the world’s second-largest hot spring!

Dominica is also a great place to go birdwatching. The island is home to many different species of birds, such as the Sisserou parrot, the red-necked parrot, and the imperial amazon. If you’re looking to spot some of these amazing creatures, head to the Syndicate Parrot Reserve or the Caroni Bird Sanctuary.

And last but not least, Dominica is also known for its black sand beaches. These unique beaches are created by volcanic activity on the island and make for a beautiful and secluded spot to relax.

Some of the best black sand beaches on Dominica can be found at Scotts Head, Batibou Beach, and Mero Beach. When it comes to where to stay in Dominica, there are many accommodation options on the island, from exclusive resorts to more budget-friendly hotels.

However, one of the best ways to experience the island is by staying in an eco-lodge or villa. These accommodations are often located in remote areas, allowing you to truly immerse yourself in the natural beauty of Dominica.

See Related: Fun & Best Things to do in Dominica Island

11. Grenada

Located in the West Indies, Grenada is an island country made up of the island of Grenada and six smaller islands. The island is best known for its spice plantations, beaches, rainforests, and waterfalls. Grenada is a popular destination for those looking for a romantic getaway or a family-friendly vacation.

One of the most popular things to do on the island is to visit a spice plantation. Grenada is best known for its nutmeg production, and many of the spice plantations offer tours where you can learn about the history of nutmeg production on the island.

You can also purchase fresh spices to take home with you!

Grenada is home to many beautiful beaches, such as Grand Anse Beach, Morne Rouge Beach, and Levera Beach. These beaches are perfect for swimming, sunbathing, snorkeling, and more. Divers will love the Underwater Sculpture Park!

And if you’re looking for a more secluded spot to relax, there are plenty of hidden coves and beaches to explore.

For those interested in adventure, Grenada is also a great place to go hiking. There are many trails of varying difficulty levels, so you can find one that’s perfect for you.

And if you’re looking for even more of a challenge, you can try your hand at climbing Grenada’s tallest mountain, Mount Saint Catherine. Grand Etang National Park & Forest Reserve’s hiking trails are highly recommended.

When it comes to accommodation, Grenada has something for everyone. There are idyllic resorts, such as the Spice Island Beach Resort and the Royalton Grenada Resort & Spa. Or, if you’re looking for something more budget-friendly, there are plenty of hotels and guesthouses to choose from.

See Related: Best Hiking Trails in America

12. Guadeloupe

This French territory is made up of a group of islands in the Lesser Antilles region of the Caribbean Sea. Guadeloupe is best known for its beaches, hiking trails, and waterfalls.

Scuba divers on the island will be happy to know that Guadeloupe is one of many world-class dive sites, as there are many shipwrecks to explore, as well as reefs and underwater caves. And if you’re lucky, you might even spot some turtles!

One of the most popular things to do on the island is to go hiking. Guadeloupe is home to many different trails, ranging from easy hikes that are perfect for families to more challenging trails for experienced hikers.

And if you’re looking for even more of a challenge, you can try your hand at climbing the highest point in Guadeloupe, Pic des Trois-Rivières.

Of course, no trip to Guadeloupe would be complete without spending some time on the beach. The island is home to many different beaches, such as Grand Anse Beach, Plage de la Caravelle, and Anse des Cayes. These beaches are perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and simply relaxing.

When it comes to accommodation, Guadeloupe has something for everyone. There are superb resorts, such as the Hotel Bakoua Les Trois Ilets and the Marco Polo Resort.

Like most islands, things here can be a bit pricey. However, there are also plenty of more affordable accommodation options, such as guesthouses and apartments.

See Related: Most Beautiful Places in the World

13. Martinique

Another island owned by France, Martinique is also located in the Lesser Antilles region of the Caribbean Sea and is best known for its beaches, rainforests, and volcanoes.

It is rumored that Martinique got its name from Christopher Columbus, who saw the island on his journey to the Americas and thought it was the most beautiful thing he had ever seen. He is said to have named the island Madinina, meaning “island of flowers”, or Matinino, “island of women”.

One of the best things to do in Martinique is to explore the island’s mountainous interior. The island is home to the active volcano, Mount Pelée, as well as many other hiking trails. And if you’re looking for a challenge, you can try your hand at climbing Mount Pelee.

Martinique is also known for its beaches, such as Grande Anse des Salines, Les Trois-Îlets, and Sainte-Luce. These beaches are like something you’d see in a postcard and are perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and simply taking in the stunning views.

And of course, there’s no shortage of classy resorts and hotels on the island. Resorts as the Hôtel Frégate Bleue and the Hotel Bakoua Martinique are a popular choice for those looking for a luxurious and relaxing vacation in Martinique.

Don’t forget to try the food here! Martinique is known for its Creole cuisine, which is a blend of French and African flavors.

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14. Saint Barthélemy

Saint Barthélemy (also called Saint Barths or St. Barts) is a small island located in the Lesser Antilles region of the Caribbean Sea.

The island is best known for its decadent resorts, beaches, and nightlife. In fact, Saint Barthélemy is often referred to as the playground of the rich and famous, due to it being a popular destination for celebrities and the wealthy. Saint Barts is a go-to destination for couples looking for a romantic vacation or anyone looking for a luxury getaway with a private beach or private island feel.

One of the most popular things to do on the island is to go to the beach. Saint Barthélemy is home to over 11 public beaches, such as Saline Beach, Flamands Beach, and Corossal Beach.

Saint Barthélemy is a fairly small island, spanning only about 8 square miles. However, there’s still plenty to do here. The scenery surrounding Saint Barts is simply breathtaking, and the best place to take in the views is from one of the many resorts on the island.

Some of the most popular lodging options on the island include the Hotel Christopher St. Barth and Le Barthelemy Hotel & Spa. These are known for their luxury accommodations and world-class service.

15. Saint Kitts and Nevis

Officially named the Saint Christopher island, Saint Kitts is located in the West Indies and is best known for its beaches, rainforests, and waterfalls. The island was one of the first to be colonized by Europeans, and was actually named by Christopher Columbus after his patron saint, Saint Christopher.

There are many different things to do while on the lovely island of Saint Kitts. One of the most popular activities is taking a tour of the island’s natural wonders, such as the Romney Manor and the Emerald Pool.

Jetskiing, scuba diving, a sail and snorkel tour, and kayaking are just a few of the watersports that you can indulge in while visiting one of Saint Kitt’s many sandy beaches.

Saint Kitts is also well known for its rum. In fact, the island is home to the oldest rum distillery in the world, the Brimstone Hill Fortress National Park. Visitors can take a tour of the distillery and learn about the history of rum on the island.

Set aside some time to explore the island’s capital, Basseterre, where you can find the National Museum, the Circus, and the Treasury Building.

There are many different accommodation options on Saint Kitts, ranging from deluxe resorts to more affordable hotels and guest rooms.  The Park Hyatt St. Kitts Christophe Harbour and St. Kitts Marriott Resort & The Royal Beach Casino are both popular choices for visitors on the island.

16. Trinidad and Tobago

Trinidad and Tobago is the southernmost island in the Caribbean and consists of the two main islands, Trindad and Tobago, as well as many other smaller islands.

Interestingly, tourism is not the main industry in Trinidad and Tobago, with the islands being best known for their oil and gas reserves.

Because they don’t see as many visitors as some of the other Caribbean islands, their islands are thriving with natural beauty that has been untouched and unharmed by years of tourism. If you’re looking to relax on a quieter island, this is the Caribbean destination for you.

However, there’s still plenty to see and do on the island, especially if you’re looking to get away from the more tourist-heavy Caribbean islands.

Bucco Reef, a natural coral reef on Tobago, is a popular spot for snorkeling and scuba diving. You can also explore the island’s rainforest, hike to one of its many waterfalls, or take a tour of the Asa Wright Nature Centre.

While in Trinidad, a visit to the capital city, Port of Spain, is a must. Here, you’ll find a melting pot of cultures, with a vibrant nightlife scene and many different restaurants and cafes to choose from. This is a great place to take a food tour!

There are also several historical sites in Trinidad and Tobago that are worth visiting. The Fort George Historic Site, the Temple in the Sea, and the Tobago Museum are all great places to learn more about the island’s rich history and cultural heritage.

For a cultural experience, you can attend Divali, the Hindu festival of lights, which is celebrated every year on the island of Trinidad.

When it comes to finding somewhere to stay in Trinidad and Tobago, there are many different options available. The Hilton Trinidad & Conference Centre, the Hyatt Regency Trinidad, and the Kapok Hotel are all popular choices for visitors to the island.

17. US Virgin Islands

For those looking for a tropical getaway with no passport required, the US Virgin Islands are the perfect destination. This group of islands, which includes St. Croix, St. John, and St. Thomas, is a US territory, which means that American citizens don’t need a passport to visit.

The US Virgin Islands are best known for their sandy beaches, swaying palm trees, crystal clear waters, pristine white sands, and tropical nature. St. John is home to the Virgin Islands National Park, where you can hike to beaches, snorkel in coral reefs, and explore the island’s many caves and coves.

On St. Croix, you can visit the Cruzan Rum Factory, the only rum distillery in the US Virgin Islands, or take a tour of the island and the 18th Century Fort Christiansvaern. And on St. Thomas, you can explore the capital city of Charlotte Amalie, visit Blackbeard’s Castle, or go parasailing across the Caribbean Sea!

There are many different accommodation options available in the US Virgin Islands, from fancy resorts to more affordable hotels and guesthouses. The Ritz-Carlton St. Thomas, the Marriott’s Frenchman’s Cove, and Bolongo Bay Beach Resort are all popular choices for visitors to the island.

Whether you’re looking for a relaxing beach vacation or an action-packed getaway, the US Virgin Islands has something for everyone. It’s the perfect choice for those looking for an exciting getaway in a new destination without having to worry about a passport or the language barrier!

And if you do want to worry about your passport, there’s always the stunning British Virgin Islands next door!

See Related: Best Spring Break Destinations For Families

18. Puerto Rico

Puerto Rico is a popular destination for visitors from the US, as it’s also a US territory, which means that no passport is required for American citizens!

Puerto Rico is best known for its beautiful beaches, but there’s much more to this island than just its sandy shores.

El Yunque National Forest, the only tropical forest in the US National Forest system, is located in Puerto Rico and is a must-visit for nature lovers. Here, you can hike through the forest’s many trails, swim in its waterfalls, and even take a kayaking tour through the forest.

San Juan, Puerto Rico’s capital city, is also worth a visit. Old San Juan, with its Spanish colonial architecture, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and there are plenty of restaurants, bars, and shops to explore in the city.

Puerto Rico has many different accommodation options available, from seaside resorts to more affordable hotels. The St. Regis Bahia Beach Resort and the Courtyard by Marriott Isla Verde Beach Resort are all popular choices for visitors to the island.

See Related: Ultimate Vacation Packing List (+ Printable PDF)

19. Curaçao

Part of the Kingdom of the Netherlands located in the southern Caribbean Sea, Curaçao is a popular destination for visitors from all over the world. It’s also the “C” of the ABC Islands.

The island is best known for its beaches, which are some of the best in the Caribbean, but it’s also pretty famous for its orange-flavored liqueur by the same name. That’s right, Curaçao is the birthplace of Curaçao liqueur, and visitors to the island can tour the Chobolobo distillery where it’s made!

While there are many different types of orange liqueurs on the market, only the ones made on this island use the peels of the Lahara orange, which is indigenous to Curaçao.

The island is also home to the Hato Caves, a series of limestone caves that were once used as a shelter by the native Arawak people. Today, visitors can explore the caves and see the various stalactites and stalagmites that have formed over the years.

Perfectly situated between Europe and The Americas, Curaçao is blessed with ideal temperatures, cooling trade winds, and sunny days year-round. This makes it the perfect destination for those looking to escape the cold winters of the north or the hot summers of the south.

Willemstad, Curaçao’s capital city, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and home to many different shops, restaurants, and bars. The city is also situated on the island’s best beaches, so it’s the perfect place to relax and soak up the sun.

And when it comes to finding accommodation on the island, there are plenty of options to choose from, including chic resorts, beachfront properties, and budget-friendly hotels.

20. Cuba

Last but most certainly not least, we have Cuba, the largest island in the Caribbean. Cuba is best known for its rich history, beautiful beaches, and of course, its cigars.

The Cuban Revolution of 1959 put an end to the Fulgencio Batista regime and ushered in a new era for Cuba under the leadership of Fidel Castro.

Today, visitors can learn about the country’s tumultuous past by taking a walking tour of Havana, visiting the Museum of the Revolution, or touring the Ernesto “Che” Guevara Mausoleum.

For those looking to enjoy some time on the beach, Cuba has plenty to offer.

Varadero Beach, located on the Hicacos Peninsula, is one of the most popular beaches on the island and is known for its clear blue waters and white sand beaches. Other popular beach destinations include Cayo Santa Maria, Guardalavaca, and Trinidad.

Cuba is also home to some of the best cigars in the world. Cuban cigars are hand-rolled using tobacco leaves that are grown in the country’s Vuelta Abajo region. Visitors to Cuba can take a cigar-rolling workshop, tour a tobacco plantation, or visit one of the many cigar factories on the island.

Popular resorts on the island include The Melia Cayo Coco, The Melia Varadero, and The Iberostar Ensenachos. Budget-friendly accommodation can also be found at Casa Particulares, which are privately owned homes that rent out rooms to travelers.

PRO TIP: Make sure that if you are traveling from the US to Cuba, follow the US Treasury Department’s guidance on travel to Cuba.

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