Our Top 5 Must-Visit Caribbean Islands

If you’re fancying a holiday to one of the luxurious Caribbean islands, but don’t know which to pick, then we’re here to help! There’s so many things to do in the Caribbean, and each of the beautiful islands have their own pull for tourists. 

 

Each island offers a different insight into the exciting cultures in the Caribbean, and with plenty of stunning hotels, lots of activities and thrilling excursions, it can be hard to know where to choose first!

 

In no particular order, here’s our top five favourite Caribbean islands, with a breakdown of what makes them so special. 

 

Dominican Republic

Though it may be hard to award one country as the nicest Caribbean destination, the Dominican Republic is definitely a front runner. Aside from the stunning white sand beaches and wildlife filled forests, the Dominican Republic has a rich history making it, unsurprisingly, the most visited Caribbean destination. But what can you see when you’re there?

Zona Colonial, in Santo Domingo, is a UNESCO protected, walled neighbourhood where the New World began. It is the oldest continuously inhabited European-established settlement in the Americas, with the first settlement being in the 15th century. 

If you’re staying in Punta Cana, Hoyo Azul is a must visit. The ‘Blue Hole’ is a natural sinkhole that can be found just outside of Punta Cana. The turquoise waters in the blue lagoon are so bright they almost glow! There are lots of tours that take you to visit this natural beauty, and after a hike, you can even take a dip in the enticing waters.

If postcard-worthy scenery is what you’re searching for, then look no further than Isla Saona. Part of the East National Park, tropical Saona Island lies off the south-eastern tip of the country, and is surrounded by clear, shallow waters, perfect for a swim. Beach bars blast lively tunes across the beach, making it an exciting atmosphere tourists can’t get enough of. 

 

Jamaica

Jamaica is easily one of the most exciting places to visit in the Caribbean. Being the birthplace of Bob Marley, the island is filled with ringing tunes of lively reggae music and delicious jerk treats. 

One of the most memorable experiences when visiting Jamaica is rafting along the Martha Brae river. You can soak up plenty of tropical scenery while floating along the waters on a bamboo raft. This popular day trip is most accessible from Montego Bay and Ocho Rios. 

Dunn’s River Falls is one of the top attractions in Ocho Rios with 180 meters of naturally tiered waterfalls. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can climb up to the top of the falls with the help from a guide and then cool off in the enticing waters at the base.

Negril Beach, also commonly known as Seven Mile Beach, is the ideal spot for holiday makers looking for utter tranquility. The beach extends from Bloody Bay to Long Bay, and while it’s closer to four miles long than seven, you won’t be short of spots along the palm-tree lined shores to choose from.

 

Cuba

Cuba is the Caribbean’s largest island and is a fascinating country filled with history and culture. With streets filled with beautiful old buildings and an abundance of natural beauty on the coastline, Cuba really does have it all. 

Havana Old Town has been named a UNESCO World Heritage site, and thanks to its grand Baroque and neoclassical buildings, it’s easy to imagine what life in Cuba was like 200 years ago. The quaint town with cobbled streets is a great place to immerse yourself in Cuban history.

Varadero is one of Cuba’s most famous beach destinations, and home to one of the best beaches in the Caribbean. Along this beautiful beach, there are plenty of luxury hotels to choose from, meaning you can stay right beside crystal clear waters and soft white sands. 

Another Cuban UNESCO site is Parque Nacional Viñales – a picturesque valley in the Sierra de los Organos. For anyone wanting to explore the great outdoors, you can try your hand at hiking and horseback riding in the hills. As you look down to the floor of the valley, you will see lots of tobacco, fruit, and vegetables being grown and tended to. 

 

St Lucia

There’s no doubt that St Lucia is one of the most beautiful Caribbean islands, and with so many natural wonders to explore, it can be hard to cram them into one holiday! Our favourite activities and excursions in this stunning island all centre around its natural beauty. 

The Piton Mountains are jaw-dropping from all angles. If you’ve never seen them up close before, we can guarantee you will be blown away by how majestic the two peaks are. If you’re not up for pulling on your hiking boots and climbing up them, you can board a catamaran boat tour which will take you as close as possible.

For a fun and therapeutic experience, head to the bubbling mud baths in Soufriere. The Sulphur Springs are also a great place to learn about the creation of the volcanic Caribbean islands, as well as soaking up the benefits of relaxing in the mineral filled springs.

Set back from the glorious beaches you will find acres of luscious rainforests just waiting to be explored. More than 70% of the island consists of rainforest, and there are plenty of places to explore nature and hiking trails on foot.

 

Barbados

Barbados is filled with new experiences which will send you home with plenty of stories and memories to last a lifetime. From beaches to rainforests to exciting cuisine, this island really does have it all.

A must-do excursion for wildlife lovers in Barbados has got to be swimming with turtles. This really feels like a once-in-a-lifetime experience as you paddle along the shore alongside these majestic creatures.

Step back on land and explore local towns and villages, where you will find exciting cuisine that will have your taste buds tingling. You can try the popular Southern Caribbean dish, ‘dolphin’ – but don’t worry, it’s actually Mahi-Mahi, but locals refer to this fish as a dolphin.

Barbados is the birthplace of rum, so it’s only right you experience the tipple in its hometown! St Nicholas Abbey is one of Barbados’s best-kept stately homes and rum distilleries that will have you merrily swaying as you leave!

 

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