10 Best Caribbean Islands To Visit: Ultimate Guide
I have traveled all around the Caribbean over the years as a travel advisor, visiting 17 islands in total. Through this experience I have learned the ins and outs of each island. Not every destination has the idyllic beach with glistening blue waters we imagine. Lets face it, anytime you can get away to a tropical beach it’s a great idea, but there are definitely some destinations that stand out more than others.
Aside from exquisite beaches, the Caribbean has so much to offer in terms of culture, history, food, and amazing people. Since it’s also so close to the US, it’s easy to get to with many direct flights out of major cities.
Because I have visited each island so many times, I frequently get asked which one is my favorite. That’s a difficult question because they all having something unique to offer, but I wanted to list my top 10 islands overall to help make your decision easier!
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1. Saint Lucia
I first went to St. Lucia back in 2022 and it quickly became my favorite Caribbean island! Covered with lush rainforest and colorful flowers, it’s an idyllic tropical escape. It feels like a little piece of Hawaii, but much easier to get to.
The island is generally split between the north and the south. The southern area of Soufriere is more natural with the famous volcanic Piton Mountains, hiking trails, waterfalls, and natural springs. The north, on the other hand, is more developed with infrastructure and resorts.
We went on the Gros Piton hike, which is a 3 hour trek that ends with a panoramic view atop the mountain at about 2,600 feet. It wasn’t easy, and a guide is required, but the vistas are something I will never forget. The Tet Paul Nature Trail is much easier and only takes about 45 minutes with a nice lookout. Afterwards you can go for a swim at Sugar Bay Beach!
While exploring the south for at least a day is a must, I prefer to stay in the north around Rodney Bay where there are beautiful golden sand beaches accompanied by crystal clear water. With tons of dive sites around that area from ship wrecks to vibrant coral, I’ve had some of my best scuba experiences here.
St. Lucia has become a top destination for couples and honeymoons given its unmatched beauty. There are many top notch all-inclusive resorts specifically geared towards adults in Gros-Islet and Castries. The Friday night street party in Gros-Islet is also a super fun way to soak in the island vibes with some traditional food and music.
Key Considerations For Saint Lucia
- Saint Lucia is one of the safest islands in the Caribbean as it has a Level 1 Travel Advisory from the US Department Of State. We never felt unsafe when we were traveling around Soufriere and Gros-Islet, and for those who will stay around their resort property, you will be more than safe.
- The most common airport coming into St. Lucia is the Hewanorra International Airport (UVF). Flights are only three and a half hours out of Miami, but there are non-stop flights out of several major US cities.
- Helicopter transfers are available from the airport depending on where you are staying. We took a helicopter to our resort in Gros-Islet for $250 and it’s about 15 minutes rather than one and a half hours driving. It cuts down on time, but it’s also a super cool experience to see the incredible landscape from a bird’s eye view.
- You do not need a visa if you are traveling from the US for tourism purposes. You only need a valid passport for six months past your entry date and complete the online immigration form up to three days before arrival.
- St. Lucia is part of the Lesser Antilles just above St. Vincent and Barbados. It has a unique blend of British, French, and Caribbean heritage given the ties to past colonial rule.
Where I'd Stay In Saint Lucia
1
Sandals Grande St. Lucian
5 star hotel
9.9
Exceptional
Our Raiting
Consistently considered one of the world’s most romantic resorts, we were stunned not only by St. Lucia itself, but also by the natural beauty of the resort. Positioned on a private peninsula, Sandals Grande St. Lucian offers 360 degree views of the Caribbean paradise. With the famous Pigeon Island...
2. Turks & Caicos
Turks And Caicos has some of the most pristine white sand beaches and glowing listerine waters I have ever seen! Not only that, but the water feels very warm, granted we went in June when it’s a bit hotter overall. The resort we stayed in Providenciales along Grace Bay had perfectly soft sand with no seaweed, debris, or trash. For that reason, the beaches here are amongst my favorites in the Caribbean.
There are actually 40 islands and cays that make up the archipelago of Turks & Caicos. Several hotspots for snorkeling are located around the main island of Providenciales like Smith’s Reef or Coral Gardens. Here you can see colorful reefs located right off the beach with tropical fish, sea turtles, eagle rays, and more!
We also did a half day boat tour that goes to the eastern islands and uninhabited kays where you have a chance to enjoy absolutely incredible beaches and go snorkeling if you want. It cost about $150 per person, but it was worth it for island hopping to places like Bambarra Beach.
Turks And Caicos is also a popular destination for family vacations with kids because it’s relatively close to the US, it’s safe, and the water is very calm. If you can swing it, I recommend a stay at Beaches Turks & Caicos. There are tons of activities for children of all ages (and adults) and I guarantee that no resort will beat the level of service you will get from this resort!
Key Considerations For Turks & Caicos
- Turks And Caicos is very safe and has a Level 2 Travel Advisory from the US Department Of State, which is out of 4 Levels. Going around Providenciales felt very comfortable and we never had any safety issues in the 3 times we have visited.
- The most common airport for Turks And Caicos is the Providenciales International Airport (PLS). Flights are only one hour and fifty minutes from of Miami, and most resorts in Providenciales are under 25 minutes to drive to from the airport.
- You do not need a visa if you are traveling from the US for less than 30 days. You will need a valid passport for six months past your entry date and complete the immigration form that your airline will provide.
- The electrical outlets used in Turks & Caicos is 120 V and 60 Hz just like the US so you will be able to use any electronics or chargers you bring.
Where I'd Stay In Turks & Caicos
1
Beaches Turks & Caicos
5 star hotel
9.4
Exceptional
Our Raiting
If you ask around which all inclusive resort in the Caribbean is best for families, it won’t take long until you hear about Beaches Turks And Caicos. We have visited this gorgeous property three times now, and just got back after checking out the latest renovations. It’s my favorite beach in the Car...
3. Barbados
A jet-setter’s paradise, Barbados is one the most developed Caribbean islands but it still maintains the laid back vibe that we crave when seeking a tropical vacation. All of this investment has also made Barbados a haven for foodies unlike any other island. They have everything from Michelin-star restaurants to fried flying fish with fritters (a national staple that is a must try).
We went to the Friday fish fry in Oistins Bay Gardens where you can get your choice of fresh fish grilled or fried right in front of you at the market. There’s plenty of family style seating where you can also enjoy live music while you eat. Food starts around 7:00 PM, but you can get there a little earlier to enjoy the sunset from the pier.
In between meals, I recommend either walking or bicycling around the capital of Bridgetown. The city is famous for colorful British colonial architecture, while Broad Street has several fun souvenir stores and local artisans to go shopping at. Nearby is Carlisle Bay which is an incredible white sand beach that is famous for its scuba diving sites. You can choose from six different shipwreck dive sites at Carlisle Bay’s marine park that are all very close to each other so you can easily see them on one dive.
The island’s west coast is home to calm turquoise waters, upscale restaurants, and the best resorts. The east coast on the Atlantic side remains largely untouched with rugged scenery and dramatic surf. I personally stay in St. Lawrence Gap on the southwest corner of the island around Dover Beach. There’s a perfect blend of activities and relaxation, not to mention the Caribbean waters are absolutely stunning.
Key Considerations For Barbados
- Barbados is an extremely safe island with a Level 1 Travel Advisory from the US Department Of State, which is the safest rating. We have traveled all around the island, including Bridgetown and have never had any issues.
- The main airport in Barbados is Grantley Adams International Airport (BGI). Although it is the most eastern Caribbean island, flights are still just three hours and fifty minutes from Miami. Given that the island is relatively small, most resorts are also just a short drive from the airport of 30 minutes or less so it’s very convenient.
- You don’t need a visa if you are traveling from the US to Barbados for less than 30 days. You will only need a valid passport for six months past your entry date and also complete the immigration form 72 hours or less prior to your arrival.
- The electrical outlets used in Barbados are generally is 120 V and 60 Hz like the US. But a lot of sockets are just two pronged, so if you have a three pronged electronic, you can use an adapter. Most resorts will have adaptors or you can buy them at many shops around the island.
- One other favorite activity here is Harrison’s Cave in the center of the island. Here you can cool underground explore stalagmites, pools, and a waterfall. It’s a great option for kids as well, especially if it’s a rainy day or the weather is very muggy.
Where I'd Stay In Barbados
1
Sandals Royal Barbados
5 star hotel
9.6
Exceptional
Our Raiting
Sandals Royal Barbados offers an all-inclusive luxury experience. Situated on a private white sand beach in the gorgeous St. Lawrence Gap area, this 2017 built resort stands out with its distinctive innovations and elevated amenities. There are a lot of aspects that set this adults-only resort apar...
4. Jamaica
Jamaica is one of the largest Caribbean islands in terms of land area and population. That means there are a ton of spots to choose from and they are all very laid back! I’ve been to Jamaica many times and my favorite places are Ocho Rios, Negril, and Montego Bay – but it depends what you’re looking for.
Along the north coast is Ocho Rios, which has absolutely beautiful beaches and plenty of nature activities. The area is developed with several high end resorts now but has its roots as a quaint fishing village. What I specifically love is you’re surrounded by lush rainforests, rivers, and waterfalls. The famous Dunn’s River Falls is only a 10 minute drive away where you can experience the multi-tiered 180 foot tall waterfall (I recommend water shoes if you want to climb the falls).
Negril on the west coast really embodies the “no shoes, no shirt, no problem” vibe. It’s super laid back with some of the most friendly people around. I even had one of the local captains lend me a scooter and we adventured along the whole west coast while he showed me around. Negril is also home to 7 Mile beach which is arguably the nicest beach on the island, and that’s coming from a beach snob.
Lastly, Montego Bay is nice because it’s so close to the airport. This makes it especially ideal for first timers. You can fly in and be on the beach within 5 minutes. There’s a lot of action around the city in terms of restaurants, nightlife, and activities. One of my favorite experiences is the Martha Brae River rafting where you float down the river on a 30 foot bamboo raft with a guide. You can get there in only about 30 minutes from Montego Bay.
Key Considerations For Jamaica
- Jamaica has some of the most affordable resort options around the Caribbean. It also generally has cheap flights which makes this one of the most budget friendly destinations overall.
- Jamaica is considered safe with a Level 2 Travel Advisory from the US Department Of State, which is the second lowest rating out of 4. I have never felt unsafe on the island after visiting 4 times now, especially around the tourist areas. The Department Of State will list any higher risk areas on their website, if there are any to be cautious of.
- The main airport in Jamaica is Sangster International Airport (MBJ). Flights are only one hour and forty-five minutes from Miami so you can spend less time traveling and more time on the beach!
- I highly recommend getting Club Mobay at the airport which will expedite you through customs with a personal liaison and they have a very nice VIP lounge that you can relax in on your departure. It’s only $35 per person and is definitely worth it.
- You don’t need a visa if you are traveling from the US to Jamaica for less than 90 days. You will only need a valid passport for six months past your entry date and also complete the C5 immigration form prior to your arrival.
- Resorts in Negril and Ocho Rios or fully operating following Hurricane Melissa, but most resorts in Montego Bay and the south coast are reopening in the end of 2025. Ocho Rios and Negril look like they were not effected at all.
Where I'd Stay In Jamaica
1
Sandals Dunn’s River
5 star hotel
9.6
Exceptional
Our Raiting
After a much anticipated top-to-bottom renovation, Sandals Dunn’s River has officially reopened as the newest all-inclusive Sandals resort in Jamaica. I’ll be the first to say that the newly reimagined accommodations surpassed even my expectations. Located along the north coast of Jamaica in Ocho ...
5. The Bahamas
Even though the Bahamas are not technically in the Caribbean Sea, it’s still considered a Caribbean country, so I’m including it in my top list because I love them! They are actually made up of over 3,000 islands and cays, only about 35 of which are inhabited. So far I have been to Nassau, which is located in New Providence, and to Great Exuma.
Nassau is definitely the most lively city I have visited in the Caribbean. It has a vibrant night life with clubs and casinos. The historical center with the bright pink Parliament Square is also a must see.
More importantly though, Nassau has some of the best beaches in the world. If you want to kick back and relax, you absolutely can! My favorite is Cable Beach right in the hotel district. I walked down the beach to grab food and drinks without leaving the sand.
Great Exuma, on the other hand, has minimal infrastructure and only a few resorts. The focus here is on the flawless white sand beaches like Tropic Of Cancer Beach or Exuma Point Beach.
We went on a two hour journey north from Exuma to Major Cay where you can hangout with the infamous swimming pigs (you can also do this tour out of Nassau). This was my favorite experience in the Bahamas because you see other uninhabited cays along the way and go snorkeling if you want. On the island you can see endangered iguanas as well.
Aside from the trademark white sand beaches, the Bahamas are a great destination because they’re just a short flight from the US. It only takes 45 minutes to get to Nassau from Miami. For those on a tight schedule, the Bahamas are ideal.
Key Considerations For The Bahamas
- The Bahamas are the closest destination from the mainland US so it’s the quickest to get to out of all the Caribbean Islands. Once you arrive to Nassau you can easily island hop around via boat or plane.
- The Bahamas is considered safe with a Level 2 Travel Advisory from the US Department Of State. My wife and I never had an issue around Nassau or out in Exuma both times we visited.
- The main airport in the Bahamas is Lynden Pindling International Airport (NAS). Flights from Miami to Nassau are only fifty-five minutes so it’s super easy!
- Note that if you want to to go to Great Exuma the airport you will fly into is Exuma International Airport (GGT).
- You don’t need a visa if you are traveling from the US to the Bahamas for less than 8 months. You will only need a valid passport for six months past your entry date and also complete the immigration form provided by the airline prior to your arrival.
Where I'd Stay In The Bahamas
1
Sandals Royal Bahamian
5 star hotel
9.5
Exceptional
Our Raiting
After five days lounging around Sandals Royal Bahamian with my wife, I will admit, the staff went above and beyond to ensure every detail of our visit was perfect. Which is exactly what you would expect from a 5 star all-inclusive resort like Sandals. Situated on Nassau's stunning Cable Beach, Sanda...
6. Grenada
Known as the spice island, Grenada has lush rainforest that cultivate nutmeg, sugar cane, and cacao. The bright-white beaches lead into deep blue azure waters that are unique to the island. In the distance you soak in views of the rolling mountain side.
It’s the southernmost Windward Islands just south of St. Vincent. What I especially like about Grenada is it never feels overrun with tourists. You can easily explore the island’s plantations, waterfalls, and rum distilleries, with taxis or local buses for very cheap.
The capital of St. George’s is famous for the pastel colored homes and churches from the 18th century. We spent an hour walking around the spice market where you can get fresh fruits, trinkets, and of course, spices. Along Wharf Road you can look at the colorful boats in the harbor.
Grenada is also world-renowned for its dive sites. The Molinere Sculpture Park has a tour that covers the entire area where you can see bright coral and schools of tropical fish. The tour ends at the Sculpture Park which contains the famous concrete sculptures. The nice thing here is you can dive or snorkel because it is only about 15 feet deep.
We stayed on Pink Gin Beach on the southern tip of the island. There are tons of beaches to choose from, but this one is our favorite because the water is so calm and it’s relatively private.
Key Considerations For Grenada
- Grenada is considered safe as it has a Level 2 Travel Advisory from the US Department Of State. We have spent time all over the island, and in the Capital of St. George’s, without having any safety concerns.
- The main airport in Grenada is Maurice Bishop International Airport (GND). Flights from Miami are only three hours and forty-three minutes. There are direct flights from several other major US cities as well.
- Grenada has regular flights to Barbados and St. Lucia on InterCaribbean Airways so you can do some island hopping relatively easily if you want.
- You don’t need a visa if you are traveling from the US to the Grenada for less than 3 months. You will only need a valid passport for six months past your entry date and also complete the online immigration form up to 72 hours prior to your arrival.
- The electrical outlets used in Grenada are different than the US. They use 230 V and 50 Hz with three rectangular pins, but you can use an adapter for the outlets. Most resorts will have adaptors or you can buy them at shops around the island.
Where I'd Stay In Grenada
1
Sandals Grenada
5 star hotel
9.8
Exceptional
Our Raiting
When dreaming of an idyllic Caribbean escape, Sandals Grenada fits the bill perfectly. We recently visited this Sandals resort so we can share the inside scoop on what you can expect. Nestled between the lush Granadien rainforest and the Caribbean sea, this adults-only, all-inclusive resort deliv...
7. Saint Vincent & The Grenadines
Saint Vincent and the Grenadines has quickly become a popular Caribbean destination in just the last few years because of its tropical atmosphere, beautiful beaches, and uninhabited islands.
It’s actually made up of 32 islands and cays that are surrounded by crystal clear water. I was struck when we initially flew in. You can see all of the reefs perfectly below from the airplane.
One of my favorites here is island hopping to Mustique and Bequia (the second largest island), where you can see coral reefs and go snorkeling. Once you arrive, the island is super laid back so you can hit up Basil’s Bar for a drink and unwind in paradise. The locals here will definitely teach you a thing or two about chilling.
You can also do the Tobago Cays cruise which is absolutely beautiful and more geared toward snorkeling around the uninhabited islands that are surrounded by a giant horseshoe reef. Most of them are hardly touched and have immaculate white sand beaches.
The cool about St. Vincent is that it also has black sand beaches from volcanic activity. We spent a half day at Mt. Wynn beach, which has the most dramatic black sand on the island. There’s a small $5 USD entry fee but it’s definitely worth it.
Lastly, we did the La Soufriere Volcano hike up just over 3,000 ft to the top where you can see into the volcano’s crater and have amazing panoramic views of the island. Along the way you also walk through the rainforest along a volcanic gorge named Willibou River and also Richmond Beach. It takes about 4 hours and I highly recommend getting a guide (it might be required but I’m not sure).
Key Considerations For St. Vincent
- St. Vincent & The Grenadines is considered a very safe Caribbean island as it has a Level 1 Travel Advisory from the US Department Of State.
- The main airport in St. Vincent is the Argyle International Airport (SVD). Flights from Miami are only three hours and forty-five minutes since it is a bit further south.
- There are plenty of water taxis that go back and forth from Bequia (they cost about $25 USD) and the other cays so getting around is easy.
- You don’t need a visa if you are traveling from the US to St. Vincent for less than 30 days. You will only need a valid passport for six months past your entry date, proof of your accommodations, and an onward flight.
- The electrical outlets used in St. Vincent are usually different than the US. They use 230 V and 50 Hz with three rectangular pins (G style). Most resorts will have adaptors or even utilize US style plugins, if not you can buy them at shops around the island.
Where I'd Stay In St. Vincent
1
Sandals Saint Vincent
5 star hotel
9.8
Exceptional
Our Raiting
Saint Vincent and the Grenadines is a jet-setters paradise for its tropical atmosphere, beautiful beaches, and uninhabited islands. As the newest Sandals all-inclusive resort, Sandals St. Vincent embodies all of this and more. I’ll share my behind the scenes look after spending 5 nights here. One c...
8. Curacao
Curacao is an under the radar gem that’s one of the most unique Caribbean islands. This getaway perfectly blends white sand beaches, incredible rock formations, desert breezes, and glowing blue waters.
The Dutch island features colorful buildings in the capital of Willemstad. This UNESCO World Heritage city is filled with colorful colonial architecture, the famous Queen Emma Bridge, and the Punda Market. We spent a few hours walking the charming streets to see a more authentic view of Curacao’s history.
Around the island you will also note a peculiar blue liquor. You can visit the home of the genuine Curacao Liqueur, Landhuis Chobolobo, just outside of Willemstad. This 19th century distillery shows how the iconic liqueur is made, including tastings and fun facts about the product’s history.
For family adventures, I highly recommend the Curacao Sea Aquarium where there are live shows with dolphins and sea lions right on the coastline. There’s also various exhibits with sharks and stingrays, along with other interactive experiences with marine life. You can even get a photo with dolphins giving you a kiss on the cheek!
Key Considerations For Curacao
- Curacao is consistently one of the safest islands in the Caribbean with a Level 1 Travel Advisory from the US Department Of State. I have walked around Willemstad and drove all over the island without any safety issues.
- The main airport in Curacao is the Curacao International Airport (CUR). Flights from Miami take only three hours.
- You don’t need a visa if you are traveling from the US to Curacao for less than 90 days. You will only need a valid passport for six months past your entry date and complete the online immigration card up to 7 days before arrival.
- The electrical outlets used in Curacao are usually use the European 230 V and 50 Hz. Most new resorts will have adaptors or even utilize US style plugins, if not you can buy them at shops around the island.
Where I'd Stay In Curacao
1
Sandals Royal Curacao
5 star hotel
9.3
Exceptional
Our Raiting
As someone who has visited all 17 Sandals Resort locations, I can safely say that the Royal Curacao is perhaps the most unique location of them all after staying here. This all-inclusive, adults-only resort perfectly blends white sand beaches, incredible rock formations, desert breezes, and glowing ...
9. Antigua
Antigua is an island steeped in history but the attribute it’s most famous for is being the land of 365 beaches. You could literally go to a new beach every day of the year! The coastline is packed with stunning coves, long white sand beaches, and unique ports.
If your biggest priority is relaxing on a picture perfect beach with glowing azure waters, Antigua should be at the top of your list. What I really like is that most of the beaches are not overcrowded. There are some stretches that are busy by the beach bars, but overall it’s very tranquil.
Nelson’s Dockyard in English Harbor is the only Georgian Era dockyard left in the world that has been continuously operating since 1745. It once served as a base for the British Royal Navy but has now been converted to a museum and modern marina. As a result, Antigua is perhaps the biggest yachting hub in the Caribbean.
On Sundays you can join the party at Shirley Heights, the island’s best lookout. This is a restored gun battery that stands about 500 feet above the sea with spectacular views of the Falmouth and English harbors. Locals gather here every week for a traditional jerk barbeque and live music. They were quick to hand me a rum punch right when I arrived, and it certainly wasn’t the last.
The sunsets here are simply breathtaking, painting the sky in vibrant orange. You can look down at English Harbor when all of it is lit up.
Key Considerations For Antigua
- Antigua is consistently widely believed to be one of the, if not the, safest Caribbean island. It also has a Level 1 Travel Advisory from the US Department Of State.
- The main airport in Antigua is the V.C. Bird International Airport (ANU). Flights from Miami take three hours and twenty minutes.
- The island is very small and accessible. You can easily get around with taxis and water taxis throughout the entire island.
- You don’t need a visa if you are traveling from the US to Antigua for less than 90 days. You will only need a valid passport for six months past your entry date and complete the online immigration form up to 72 hours before arrival.
- The east coast of Antigua is less traveled and the coral lined waters keep the large number of boats away. Here you can find a peaceful oasis in places like Green Island and Half Moon Bay. There’s also fantastic snorkeling here!
Where I'd Stay In Antigua
1
Sandals Grande Antigua
5 star hotel
9.6
Exceptional
Our Raiting
Nestled on the famous Dickenson Bay, Sandals Grande Antigua boasts a unique blend of tropical oasis and beachfront luxury. It consistently stands as a top romantic destination in the world. The resort's adults-only policy ensures a serene and exclusive beach getaway, perfect for couples seeking ro...
10. Puerto Rico
The main island of Puerto Rico is pretty big and has a lot to offer. I recommend staying at least one day in San Juan to explore the colorful Spanish colonial buildings and massive fortresses. There’s also a vibrant nightlife scene with bars, casinos, and nightclubs.
After San Juan we drove east along the coast line headed to El Yunque National Forest. Along the way we stopped at several beaches like Playa Pinones (these beaches are way less crowded than San Juan).
Just outside the entrance to the national park there was a spot in the Rio Grande where the locals were hanging out and cliff jumping into the river. We stopped and joined them for about an hour. There was even a rope swing I was peer pressured into, but it was a blast!
Once inside the park there are a ton of different hiking paths and things to see. It was incredible because El Yunque is technically the only tropical rainforest inside the US National Forest System. There are towering waterfalls, vistas, and beautiful flowers everywhere! I would recommend blocking off at least a half day to cover as much ground there as possible.
From there we circled back to the airport to take a short flight out to Culebra, a smaller island off the east coast. You can take a ferry but it takes longer and we read horror stories of the ferry not even showing up. A lot of people mention Vieques, the other larger island, but we didn’t have enough time to visit both unfortunately!
Culebra is absolutely incredible. It’s very low key and you can rent a golf cart and cruise around the island. There are only a handful of stores and restaurants on the whole island – but enough to get by for a few days for sure. The beaches here like Flamenco Beach and Zoni Beach were my favorites in all of Puerto Rico.
Key Considerations For Puerto Rico
- Since Puerto Rico is a US territory, the US Department Of State doesn’t issue a Travel Advisory Level for the island regarding its safety. The island is of course very big, but I have walked around San Juan during the day and night, and out around the whole northeast cost, and also out to Culebra – I have never felt unsafe and I definitely went into some “non-tourist” areas. Exercising common sense when traveling goes a long way.
- The main airport in Puerto Rico is the Luis Muñoz Marín International Airport (SJU). Flights from Miami take only three hours.
- The island is very easy to rent a car and drive around. Taxis and Ubers are also available within San Juan.
- You do not need a passport if you are a US citizen traveling to Puerto Rico, but you do need a REAL ID Drivers License or passport.
- Puerto Rico is close to the mainland US, doesn’t require a passport, and has a lot of cheap flights and resorts making it a very affordable option.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the safest Caribbean Island?
Some of the safest islands in the Caribbean are generally considered St. Lucia, Antigua, Barbados, or Curacao. This is based on official reports from the US Department Of State wherein they all have Level One Travel Advisories, which is the lowest level possible. Other destination like Jamaica or Turks & Caicos still only have a Level 2 Travel Advisory, which simply means to exercise increased caution. All of these locations are highly developed tourist areas so the resorts also have good security precautions to keep guests safe.
When is the best time to travel to the Caribbean?
The best time to travel to the Caribbean for ideal weather is between December and April when there is sunshine, minimal precipitation, and temperatures more pleasant. For the best deals, traveling during should seasons between May to June and again in November will have fewer crowds and plenty of sunshine, but slightly higher average precipitation. Hurricane season is primarily in September and October. While it is still possible to get fantastic deals during those times, it is also advisable to get the travel insurance if you do.
What is the best Caribbean island for families with kids?
Two of the best Caribbean islands for families with kids would be Turks & Caicos and Jamaica because they are quite safe, affordable, have a short flight from the US, and have plenty of beaches with calm waters that are perfect for children. Additionally, there are many family oriented all-inclusive resorts like Beaches Resorts around those islands that are tailored for family vacations. On these islands there are also tons of activities for family outings.
What is the best Caribbean island for couples?
The best Caribbean Islands for couples include St. Lucia, St. Vincent, Barbados, and Antigua. These islands have breathtaking scenery with lush rainforests, mountains, and elite white sand beaches which makes the perfectly suited for romantic escapes. For those specifically looking for an adults only all-inclusive resort, look for options like Sandals Resorts that are specifically designed for couples in love. This will ensure your trip has special touches like couples massages, candlelight dinners, and private butler service.
BEST SANDALS RESORTS
Our favorite all-inclusive resort brand.
Sandals Grande St. Lucian
9.9
Sandals Grenada
9.8
Sandals Royal Barbados
9.6
Sandals Grande Antigua
9.6
Sandals Dunn’s River
9.6