A Traveler's Guide to the Caribbean: Top 5 Activities for 20 Iconic Destinations
The Caribbean is a world of its own, where each island offers a unique blend of vibrant culture, stunning landscapes, and unforgettable adventures. Whether you seek relaxation on a pristine beach, exploration of ancient ruins, or a deep dive into local flavors, there is a perfect island waiting for you. Here is your ultimate guide to the top 5 must-do activities for 20 of the region's most incredible destinations.
U.S. Virgin Islands
The USVI offers a classic Caribbean experience with an American twist. Comprised of St. Croix, St. Thomas, and St. John, these islands boast beautiful beaches, rich history, and a laid-back atmosphere.
Hike Virgin Islands National Park (St. John): With its pristine beaches and lush forests, this park covers two-thirds of the island and is perfect for hiking and snorkeling.
Explore Magens Bay (St. Thomas): Consistently ranked as one of the world's best beaches, its calm, clear waters are ideal for swimming and sunbathing.
Visit Buck Island Reef National Monument (St. Croix): A must-do for snorkelers, this protected area features an underwater trail with a vibrant coral reef and marine life.
Explore Blackbeard's Castle (St. Thomas): A historic watchtower offering panoramic views and a glimpse into the island's pirate history.
Go Kayaking at Salt River Bay (St. Croix): Paddle through mangroves and discover the bioluminescent bay on a unique guided tour.
British Virgin Islands
Known for their world-class sailing and secluded coves, the BVI are a yachting paradise. The main islands of Tortola, Virgin Gorda, Anegada, and Jost Van Dyke offer a tranquil and luxurious escape.
Sailing & Island Hopping: Rent a catamaran or join a charter to explore the dozens of secluded cays and beaches. It is the best way to experience the BVI.
Explore The Baths (Virgin Gorda): Discover a geological wonder of massive granite boulders forming stunning tidal pools, grottoes, and caves along the shore.
Party at Soggy Dollar Bar (Jost Van Dyke): Known as the birthplace of the Painkiller cocktail, this legendary beach bar is the epitome of relaxed Caribbean vibes.
Snorkel or Dive at The Wreck of the Rhone: Explore one of the world’s most famous shipwreck dive sites, teeming with marine life.
Hike to Mount Sage National Park (Tortola): Hike through the island's highest peak, a tropical forest with breathtaking views.
St. Martin / Sint Maarten
This island is a unique blend of French and Dutch cultures, with two distinct sides. The French side offers a laid-back, gourmet experience, while the Dutch side is known for its lively nightlife and casinos.
Watch Airplanes at Maho Beach: Experience the thrilling, world-famous sight of planes flying just meters over the beach as they land at Princess Juliana International Airport.
Indulge in French Cuisine in Grand Case: Known as the "culinary capital of the Caribbean," this village on the French side is a food lover's paradise.
Hike to Pic Paradis: Trek to the highest point on the island for a breathtaking 360-degree view of the island and its surroundings.
Explore Pinel Island: Take a short ferry ride to this tiny, peaceful islet on the French side for fantastic snorkeling and a tranquil beach day.
Go Shopping in Philipsburg: Explore the capital of the Dutch side, known for its duty-free shopping, vibrant boardwalk, and historic forts.
Jamaica
Jamaica is a land of lush mountains, vibrant culture, and the birthplace of reggae. It's an island that invites you to be a part of its rhythm, from its fiery jerk cuisine to its waterfalls and music.
Climb Dunn's River Falls: Hike up the terraced waterfalls in a human chain, a unique and iconic Jamaican experience.
Visit the Bob Marley Museum: Take a tour of the reggae legend's former home and recording studio in Kingston to immerse yourself in his life and music.
Relax on Seven Mile Beach: This beach in Negril is famous for its long stretch of white sand, calm turquoise waters, and stunning sunsets.
Go Rafting on the Martha Brae River: Take a relaxing, guided raft trip down the river on a 30-foot bamboo raft.
Explore the Blue Mountains: Hike or drive into Jamaica's misty highlands, home to the world-famous Blue Mountain coffee.
Dominican Republic
Known for its all-inclusive resorts and stunning beaches, the Dominican Republic also offers a deep well of history and natural beauty, from the colonial capital of Santo Domingo to the lush jungles.
Explore the Colonial Zone in Santo Domingo: Walk through the oldest European-settled city in the Americas, a UNESCO World Heritage Site with cobblestone streets, ancient churches, and museums.
Relax on the Beaches of Punta Cana: Sink your toes into the soft white sand and swim in the calm turquoise waters of world-renowned Bavaro Beach.
Go Whale Watching in Samaná Bay: From January to March, thousands of humpback whales migrate to this bay to mate and calve, offering a spectacular wildlife viewing opportunity.
Hike through Los Haitises National Park: Explore a remote, protected rainforest with impressive limestone karsts and ancient Taino cave art.
Zip-line through the Jungle: Get an adrenaline rush by soaring over the lush tropical landscape on one of the country's many zip-line courses.
Antigua
Antigua is famous for having a beach for every day of the year (365 of them!), offering travelers endless opportunities for sun, sand, and sea.
Visit Nelson's Dockyard: A UNESCO World Heritage Site, this fully restored Georgian naval dockyard is a living museum and the centerpiece of English Harbour.
Relax on Half Moon Bay: This sheltered, crescent-shaped beach is a local favorite, known for its soft pink sand and gentle waves.
Hike to Shirley Heights Lookout: Hike up to this restored military lookout for the most incredible panoramic views of English Harbour and a must-see sunset party.
Go Snorkeling or Diving: Explore the island's many coral reefs and underwater wrecks, especially off the coast of the neighboring island of Barbuda.
Take a Trip to Stingray City: Interact with and feed dozens of friendly stingrays in the clear, shallow waters of a sandbar.
St. Kitts & Nevis
These two islands are a captivating blend of volcanic landscapes, historic plantations, and a relaxed, uncommercialized vibe.
Ride the St. Kitts Scenic Railway: This historic railway, originally built to transport sugarcane, now takes passengers on a three-hour tour around the island with stunning views.
Hike up Mount Liamuiga: Trek through a lush rainforest to the crater of this dormant volcano for a challenging and rewarding experience with spectacular views.
Explore Brimstone Hill Fortress National Park: A UNESCO World Heritage Site, this formidable fortress is a monumental example of 18th-century military engineering.
Visit the Nevis Botanical Garden: A peaceful and beautifully maintained garden with tropical plants, orchids, and fountains.
Go "Liming" at The Strip (St. Kitts): Enjoy a vibrant, informal beachfront party with a string of lively beach bars and restaurants.
Guadeloupe
As a French overseas territory, Guadeloupe offers a unique blend of Caribbean spice and French sophistication. The island is shaped like a butterfly, with each wing offering a distinct landscape.
Hike to La Soufrière Volcano: Trek up to the top of this active volcano, the highest peak in the Lesser Antilles, for a breathtaking view from the crater.
Explore the Guadeloupe National Park: This lush rainforest on the Basse-Terre side is a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, featuring waterfalls and incredible hiking trails.
Go Snorkeling at the Cousteau Reserve: Named after Jacques Cousteau, this underwater sanctuary off the coast of Pigeon Island is a premier spot for diving and snorkeling.
Relax on the Beaches: From the black sand of Grande Anse to the white sand of Sainte-Anne, the beaches are incredibly diverse and stunning.
Visit Les Saintes: Take a ferry to these small, picturesque islands, known for their stunning bay, quaint fishing villages, and charming atmosphere.
Honduras
Honduras is a Central American gem known for its stunning natural beauty, ancient ruins, and incredible diving opportunities, particularly in the Bay Islands.
Explore the Copan Ruins: A UNESCO World Heritage Site, this ancient Mayan city is famous for its elaborate stone carvings and Hieroglyphic Stairway.
Dive or Snorkel the Mesoamerican Barrier Reef: The Bay Islands of Roatán, Utila, and Guanaja sit on the world's second-largest barrier reef, offering world-class scuba diving and snorkeling.
Go Canyoneering and Rafting in Pico Bonito National Park: For adventure seekers, this park offers exhilarating whitewater rafting and canyoneering adventures.
Visit the Cayos Cochinos: Explore this protected marine reserve of small, beautiful islands, known for their pristine waters and a strong commitment to conservation.
Relax on the Beaches of Roatán: Enjoy the beautiful white sand beaches, especially West Bay, known for its tranquility and vibrant coral reefs just offshore.
Martinique
Another French Caribbean island, Martinique is a blend of Creole culture and sophisticated French flair. It's known for its rum distilleries, stunning gardens, and dramatic volcanic landscapes.
Explore the Ruins of Saint-Pierre: Visit the Pompeii of the Caribbean, the former capital city that was destroyed by the eruption of Mount Pelée in 1902.
Hike Mount Pelée: For the adventurous, a hike up this active volcano offers incredible views and a challenging ascent through lush forests.
Visit a Rhum Distillery: Martinique is famous for its agricultural rum. Take a tour of a distillery like Habitation Clément or Rhum J.M. to learn about the process and enjoy a tasting.
Wander through Jardin de Balata: Explore this stunning botanical garden with a canopy walkway that provides a unique perspective of the tropical flora.
Relax on Les Salines Beach: One of the most famous beaches on the island, known for its pristine white sand and calm, turquoise waters.
St. Lucia
St. Lucia is an island of dramatic contrasts, from the iconic Pitons rising from the sea to the lush rainforests and volcanic mud baths. It’s a top destination for romance and adventure.
Hike the Gros Piton Summit: Take on the challenge of climbing one of the island's iconic volcanic spires for a rewarding view.
Visit a Drive-in Volcano & Mud Bath: Drive into the dormant caldera of Sulphur Springs and take a rejuvenating soak in the mineral-rich mud baths.
Go on a Chocolate "Tree-to-Bar" Tour: St. Lucia has a rich cocoa history. Visit a local plantation to learn how chocolate is made and create your own bar.
Sail or Snorkel at Marigot Bay: A beautiful natural harbor often described as one of the most picturesque in the Caribbean, perfect for sailing and snorkeling.
Relax on the Beaches of Anse Chastanet: Enjoy some of the most scenic beaches with stunning views of the Pitons and excellent snorkeling just offshore.
Barbados
Barbados is a Caribbean classic, with a vibrant culture, stunning beaches on both the Caribbean and Atlantic sides, and a deep history tied to rum and sugar.
Explore Harrison's Cave: Take a tram tour deep into this underground cave system to see incredible stalactite and stalagmite formations.
Go on a Rum Distillery Tour: As the birthplace of rum, a visit to a distillery like Mount Gay or Foursquare is a must for a tasting and history lesson.
Experience a Friday Fish Fry at Oistins: Join locals and tourists for a lively evening of music, dancing, and freshly grilled fish.
Relax on Carlisle Bay: Enjoy the pristine beaches and calm waters of this popular bay, which is also a great spot for snorkeling over shipwrecks.
Explore Hunte's Gardens: Wander through this magnificent tropical garden, set in a natural gully, with a rich collection of exotic plants.
Grenada
Known as the "Spice Isle," Grenada is a lush, volcanic island famous for its nutmeg, cinnamon, and stunning natural landscapes, from rainforests to waterfalls.
Explore Grand Anse Beach: This is Grenada's most famous beach, a two-mile stretch of white sand and calm, clear waters.
Visit a Nutmeg Processing Plant: Learn about the island's most famous spice and see how it's harvested and prepared for export.
Snorkel the Grenada Underwater Sculpture Park: Dive or snorkel to see a unique collection of sculptures that have become a vibrant artificial reef.
Hike in Grand Etang National Park: Discover lush rainforests, volcanic craters, and stunning waterfalls like Annandale Falls.
Wander through St. George's: Explore the capital city's horseshoe-shaped harbor, colorful Georgian architecture, and historic Fort George.
St. Vincent & the Grenadines
This multi-island nation is a sailor's paradise, with a string of 32 smaller islands and cays stretching south from the main island of St. Vincent.
Explore the Tobago Cays: A stunning marine park of five uninhabited cays, perfect for snorkeling with sea turtles and relaxing on secluded beaches.
Visit the Pirates of the Caribbean Film Set: Head to Wallilabou Bay on St. Vincent to see the props and set pieces from the famous movie franchise.
Hike La Soufrière Volcano: For a challenging trek, climb to the active crater of the volcano on St. Vincent.
Sail to Bequia: Visit the largest of the Grenadine islands, known for its charming harbor, quaint shops, and lively local culture.
Relax on a Secluded Beach: Discover the tranquility of the small cays and beaches, many of which are only accessible by boat.
Trinidad & Tobago
This two-island nation offers a vibrant cultural experience. Trinidad is a bustling, industrial island known for its Carnival, while Tobago is a laid-back, beautiful retreat.
Attend Carnival (Trinidad): Experience the ultimate Caribbean celebration with colorful costumes, lively music, and non-stop dancing in Port of Spain.
Go Bird Watching at the Asa Wright Nature Centre (Trinidad): A nature sanctuary and research station with incredible bird-watching opportunities.
Snorkel or Dive at Buccoo Reef (Tobago): Explore one of the most impressive coral reefs in the Caribbean, known for its vibrant marine life.
Visit the Nylon Pool (Tobago): Swim in this shallow, clear pool in the middle of the sea, which is said to have magical, rejuvenating properties.
Relax at Maracas Beach (Trinidad): Famous for its beautiful setting and the "Bake and Shark" sandwiches sold at the food stalls.
Puerto Rico
A U.S. territory with a rich Spanish heritage, Puerto Rico is a vibrant mix of historic architecture, lush rainforests, and stunning beaches.
Explore Old San Juan: Walk the cobblestone streets and admire the colorful colonial buildings, historic forts like El Morro, and vibrant atmosphere.
Visit El Yunque National Forest: Hike through the only tropical rainforest in the U.S. National Forest System, with its lush trails and stunning waterfalls.
Go Kayaking in a Bioluminescent Bay: Experience the magical glowing waters of one of the three bioluminescent bays on the island, a truly unforgettable night activity.
Relax on Flamenco Beach (Culebra): Consistently ranked as one of the world's best beaches, known for its powdery white sand and stunningly clear water.
Learn to Surf in Rincón: Head to the west coast for a laid-back surfer vibe and some of the best waves on the island.
Turks & Caicos
Known for their world-class beaches and incredible underwater life, the Turks & Caicos islands are the epitome of luxury and pristine nature.
Relax on Grace Bay Beach: Often named the best beach in the world, its 12-mile stretch of white sand and calm, turquoise water is simply perfect.
Go Snorkeling or Diving: Explore the world's third-largest barrier reef, with its vibrant coral formations and abundant marine life.
Explore Chalk Sound National Park: Rent a kayak or paddleboard to navigate the stunning turquoise waters of this natural lagoon.
Visit the Conch Bar Caves: Explore one of the largest cave systems in the Caribbean on Middle Caicos.
Go on a Whale Watching Tour: From late January to early April, spot majestic humpback whales as they migrate through the Turks Head Passage.
The Bahamas
A vast archipelago of over 700 islands and cays, the Bahamas offers everything from bustling resorts to remote, uninhabited islands, all with crystal-clear waters.
Swim with the Pigs (Exuma): Visit Pig Beach on Big Major Cay to swim with the famous, friendly pigs.
Explore Downtown Nassau: Discover a mix of colonial architecture, bustling markets, and historical sites, including the Queen's Staircase.
Relax on Pink Sands Beach (Harbour Island): Famous for its unique pink-hued sand, this beach is a one-of-a-kind natural wonder.
Go Snorkeling or Diving: The Bahamas is home to an incredible array of marine life, shipwrecks, and blue holes to explore.
Visit the Ardastra Gardens & Wildlife Conservation Centre: Get up close with Bahamian wildlife, including the famous marching flamingoes.
Cayman Islands
The Cayman Islands are known for their spectacular diving, luxury resorts, and as a world-class financial center. The main island, Grand Cayman, is a hub of activity.
Swim with Stingrays at Stingray City: Interact with dozens of friendly stingrays in the clear, shallow waters of a natural sandbar.
Relax on Seven Mile Beach: A world-renowned beach with white sand and clear, calm waters, perfect for swimming and sunbathing.
Explore the Cayman Turtle Centre: Learn about and interact with sea turtles in a conservation-focused environment.
Go Diving or Snorkeling: Discover the island's famous dive sites, including the USS Kittiwake shipwreck and the magnificent reefs.
Visit the Queen Elizabeth II Botanic Park: A beautiful and tranquil garden with a variety of native and exotic plants.
Aruba
Aruba is a Dutch Caribbean island known for its arid, desert-like landscapes, consistent trade winds, and stunning beaches on the leeward side.
Relax on Eagle Beach: One of the most famous beaches in the world, known for its pristine white sand and the iconic fofoti trees.
Explore Arikok National Park: Discover a rugged, wild landscape with natural pools, caves, and dramatic cliffs.
Go Windsurfing or Kitesurfing: The consistent trade winds make Aruba a top destination for wind-powered water sports.
Snorkel at Boca Catalina: A beautiful and calm bay with clear water, perfect for snorkeling and spotting colorful fish.
Visit the California Lighthouse: Hike or drive to this iconic lighthouse for a beautiful panoramic view of the island's northern coast.
Ready to start your adventure? We can help you turn any of these destinations into the trip of a lifetime.