caribbean island to visit in august

Caribbean Uncovered

17 Best Caribbean Islands to Visit in August 2024

Looking for the best Caribbean Islands to visit in August this year? Visiting the Caribbean in August offers a great chance to experience some of the most stunning islands in the world without having to worry about crowded beaches and peak pricing.

Some of these islands sit outside of the hurricane belt, and those that do not have historically low rainfall during this time . Or, August may be a time of festivals or the perfect time to go diving. I’ve been to Caribbean Islands like St Croix and Aruba in August, so trust me when I say – don’t let the rainy days get you down!

The temperatures on these islands are still warm and inviting, making them perfect for beach activities and sightseeing.

To top it off, prices are also low during August, as this is the off-season for tourism in the Caribbean. All in all, you can still enjoy a trip to the Caribbean in August. Let’s check out these best Caribbean islands to travel to in August.

Where is the best weather in the Caribbean in August?

In terms of the lowest average rainfall in August, these are the best islands to visit in August

• Aruba (1-2 inches)
• Dominican Republic (1-2 inches)
• Holbox Island, Mexico (3 inches)
• Curacao (1-3 inches)
• Turks and Caicos (3 inches)

BUT! No one can control the weather. I always recommend purchasing travel insurance before heading to the Caribbean, especially during hurricane season!

Compare travel insurance plans and rates through Travel Insurance Master ►

17 Best Caribbean Islands to Visit in August

• Average rainfall in August: 1-2 inches
• Average high: 91 °F
• Where to Stay: Bucuti and Tara Beach Resort (Adult Only)
• What to do in August: Jeep Safari to Arikok National Park

On top of the list of Caribbean islands to visit in August is the beautiful island of Aruba.

Aruba averages about 1 inch of rain in August which makes it the perfect time to visit. The temperatures in August are 59°C / 80°F – 32°C / 91°F. In fact, the weather in Aruba is beautiful from January to December !

For a clean and cost-friendly place to stay, consider  Palm Beach Retreat . It’s located about 15 minutes walking distance from Palm Beach and saves you pricey hotel costs and resort fees. (Which is always a plus!)

While you’re in Aruba stop by two of the most popular beaches on the island: Eagle Beach and Palm Beach . Both beaches are known for their turquoise blue water and their iconic Caribbean beach look.

Note that Eagle Beach is a little more low key whereas Palm Beach is lined with high-rise hotels and is known for water sports and activities. Both should not be missed!

Another activity to enjoy in Aruba is a visit to the Butterfly Farm. This enclosure gives visitors an up-close look at butterflies in their natural-like habitat.

Aruba is also a popular spot for off-road ATV tours and Jeep Tours to get to off-the-beaten-path natural sites around the island. Keep in mind that jeep tours are better for the environment than ATV tours while you’re booking your trip.

It’s perfect for families, photographers, and nature enthusiasts – and no question that it’s the best Caribbean island in August and October . Stop by Conchi Natural Pool and Airkok National Park for some more beautiful nature destinations.

Enjoy your visit to beautiful Aruba in August!

By Chelsea Espinoza from  Adventures of Chels

2. Isla Mujeres, Mexico

• Average rainfall in August: 3-5 inches
• Average high: 90 °F
• Where to Stay: La Posada de Chacón
• What to do in August: Swim with Whale Sharks

Isla Mujeres is a beautiful Caribbean Island just off the coast of Cancun, Mexico . Meaning “Island of Women,” Isla Mujeres is famous for gorgeous turquoise waters, white-sand beaches, great snorkeling, laid-back vibes, ancient Mayan Ruins, and swimming with whale sharks.

The Isla Mujeres whale shark season runs from May 17 to September 17, which makes August the best time to visit for those who want to swim with the whale sharks — the largest fish in the sea.

If this is on your bucket list, you’ll need to  book an Isla Mujeres whale shark tour   to go. The whale shark zone is about 1-1.5 hours off-shore, and you have to get there by boat.

If you don’t want to swim with the whale sharks, you can also do some snorkeling. There are some great reefs just off-shore, as well as the MUSA Underwater Sculpture Park, with about 500 submerged sculptures.

While August is in the rainy season, snorkeling and swimming with whale sharks aren’t weather-dependent, so you can do both even if it’s raining.

Since August is the rainy season, you can expect lower prices at hotels, so you might even be able to find a great deal at some of the best hotels on the island, like Mia Reef All-Inclusive Resort. All this makes Isla Mujeres the second best island to visit in August.

Submitted by Shelley of Travel Mexico Solo

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3. Dominican Republic

• Average high: 89 °F
• Where to Stay: Natura Cabana in Cabarete
• What to do in August: Explore Jaragua National Park or take an authentic cultural tour

The Dominican Republic is one of the best islands to travel to in August. Whilst it is the peak of hurricane season, the temperature remains in the top 80s, and the evenings stay warm.

Plus there are only 28mm average rainfall, and it usually only rains in short sharp bursts and often only at night, making it a good choice for this time of year.

In terms of things to do there are plenty, as it is one of the most popular islands in the Caribbean, but if you look hard enough there are still lots of   hidden gems in the Dominican Republic .  From ATV Punta Cana tours to adult-only party cruises, it is more than worth visiting !

For example, you can do a street art tour in the colorful city of Santiago de los Caballeros or see flamingos in the wild at Laguna de Oviedo. But if you really want to go off the beaten track, explore Jaragua National Park near the border with Haiti .

There is a secluded beach called Bahia de las Aguilas which is pretty much only known to locals, so you will likely have the pristine beaches all to yourself!

A great place to stay in Dominican Republic is Natura Cabana in Cabarete, a treetop cabin with all the luxuries including a spa and a private beach.

Submitted by Roshni from  TheWanderlustWithin.com

4. Puerto Rico

• Average rainfall in August: 5-7 inches
• Average high: 81 °F
• Where to Stay: Tropica Beach Hotel
• What to do in August: Visit El Yunque National Forest

Although hurricane season is in full swing by the Fall season, Puerto Rico is one of the best Caribbean islands in August to go visit because it is the start of the offseason for this enchanted island.

Things like  transportation , hotels, and even excursions will be much cheaper during this time of year. You’ll also find the island to be less crowded with tourists.

Aside from hurricanes, Puerto Rico does receive high average rainfall year-round and August is no exception with an average of 16 days in the capital city of San Juan.

If you feel like venturing out further from the typical tourist destinations in Puerto Rico like San Juan, try visiting Cabo Rojo and Guanica on the southern and western coasts. They tend to see significantly less rainfall in August with an average of 12 days in Cabo Rojo and only an average of 5 days in Guanica. 

Regardless of where you visit on the island the best things to do are out in the water or out in nature.

On the eastern coast, the best place to visit is El Yunque National Forest which is the only tropical rainforest in the United States National Forest system . If it’s going to rain, you might as well be in the rainforest! And trust me, there’s nothing more magical than exploring El Yunque in a downpour.

The western coast is the most beautiful and one of the best places to visit here is La Parguera Nature Reserve. 

Contribution by Haley of Fernweh Foreigner

• Average rainfall in August: 5 inches
• What to do in August: Carnival of Havana

August – in particular the first half of August, is a great time to visit Cuba! It is just before the months of September and October when hurricanes and tropical storms tend to occur on the eastern side of the island. But, visiting this Caribbean island in October also brings its positives.

Even though afternoons in August may have the odd shower, Cuba sees some very sunny days in August!

Visiting Cuba in August means you will get to experience the Carnival of Havana – an unmissable traditional Cuban festival! Thousands of people join the street parade and join in the dancing.

August is also when the International Festival of Cuban Rumba is held, which is a must for anyone interested in Cuban music, culture, and dance! Of course, you’ll need to visit the  salsa clubs in Havana  in the evenings to show off the moves you picked up!

While there are many hotels in Cuba, staying in a Casa Particular is advisable. Casa Particulars are Cuban homestays and are plentiful across Cuba.

You have the opportunity to gain real insight into the Cuban lifestyle when staying with a local! It’s the best way to fully immerse yourself in Cuba’s fascinating culture!

Contributed by Catrina of 24 Hours Layover

6. St Thomas and St John, USVI

• Average rainfall in August: 3-6 inches
• Where to Stay: Ritz Carlton St Thomas in Red Hook
• What to do in August: Antigua Carnival

Visiting St Thomas and St John is the perfect vacation because you get two islands in one! There are so many things to do, from scuba diving to sailing around the islands. On St Thomas, you can visit iconic attractions such as 99 Steps to Blackbeard’s Castle or kayaking and snorkeling in Cas Cay.

You can also enjoy incredible seafood at one of the many beachside restaurants, or relax in the sun on one of its stunning beaches. Coki Beach and Magens Bay cannot be missed while you’re in St Thomas!

When you’re done exploring St Thomas, head to the Red Hook ferry port and take a short 20 minute island to one of the most beautiful islands in the Caribbean – St John USVI!

On St John, you can explore Virgin Islands National Park and discover secluded beaches and hidden bays, with crystal clear waters that are perfect for swimming or snorkeling.

There are also numerous hiking trails in St John to enjoy so you can take in the natural beauty of the island and discover hidden gems like Cinnamon Bay Nature Trail.

If you’re looking for the perfect beach resort, you can’t go wrong with the Ritz Carlton St Thomas in Red Hook . So if you’re looking for an idyllic vacation with plenty to do, then St Thomas and St John are perfect

7. St Croix, USVI

• Average rainfall in August: 5-8 inches
• Where to Stay: Buccaneer Beach and Golf Resort
• What to do in August: Buck Island Reef National Park Tour

Shockingly, I’ve only been to St Croix in August. And, as you probably know, is peak rainy season! However, I only saw the rain on the way to and from the airport.

In August, you’ll see quick rain showers in the afternoon. Sometimes they’re nice just to cool down the humid summer days!

St Croix is the largest US Virgin Island territory. Buck Island Reef National is off the coast. You can’t visit without taking a tour to the island (which is the only way to get there, since it’s all protected land!).

If you do happen upon a rainy day, you can explore the historic sites or shops in the two main cities, Christiansted and Frederiksted. There’s no much to do for singles, couples, families, and groups! Rain or shine, it’s safe to visit St Croix in August.

8. Antigua and Barbuda 

• Average rainfall in August: 4 inches
• Average high: 87 °F
• Where to Stay: Hermitage Bay   or  Dickenson Bay Beach

Antigua and Barbuda is one of the prettiest Caribbean destinations that you must visit once in your life. 

Just like for any other Caribbean Islands, August falls in the wet season, because the chances of rain and hurricane are pretty high at this time of the year. 

However, if you look at the stats the average rainfall during August in Antigua and Barbuda is only 3.7 inches, with a 30% probability of rain. 

Considering the bright side of traveling in August to Antigua , I would take my chances.  In fact, in August you will find lower prices, fewer crowds in Antigua, and still a lot of sunny days and blue skies. This is also the month of the Antigua Carnival when you’ll find the island turns into a whole festival of celebration!

Also, the weather changes very quickly during the day so you may experience some passing showers, which local calls liquid sunshine, but still a lot of sun time. So I wouldn’t change my beach plans if you wake up with rain, as it may pass in half an hour. 

Also, the water temperature is nicely warm, making it an excellent time for snorkeling tours and sailing trips around the island.

Antigua is mainly known as a couples´ destination either for honeymoons or couples’ getaways, mainly for its romantic views of the Caribbean sea from ultra-luxury hotels.

If you want to stay in one of them, Hermitage Bay is one of the top properties on the island with a beautiful private beach and private cottages with their plunge pool overlooking the bay. 

If your budget is smaller you can opt for one of the lovely apartments at Buccaneer on the spectacular Dickenson bay beach. 

A great idea is to rent a car for a couple of days, explore the island, check out the hidden beaches, and take a walk in the charming English Harbour Marina.

Contributed by Isabella from Boundless Roads 

• Average high: 86 °F
• Where to Stay: Wade’s Garden Inn
• What to do in August: Tour Bermuda’s famous pastel-colored houses

While Bermuda sits outside of the Caribbean, it’s a perfect island to visit in August for a few reasons. It’s also still part of the CARICOM (Caribbean Community). Bermuda is a beautiful island in the North Atlantic Ocean known for its pink-sand beaches, crystal-clear waters, and historic sites.

One of the best times to visit Bermuda is in August, as the island has historically low rainfall and is located outside of the traditional hurricane belt. This makes it a great destination for those looking to avoid the potential for bad weather during the summer months.

Bermuda typically receives less than 100 mm of rain in August. This makes it an ideal destination for beach-goers and outdoor enthusiasts looking to escape the summer heat and enjoy the island’s many natural attractions. 

There is plenty to do in Bermuda in August, with various outdoor activities such as snorkeling and scuba diving, visiting the many beaches such as Horseshoe Bay, and going to its historical sites such as St. George’s, Unesco World Heritage site.

You can also take a tour of the island to see the famous pastel-colored houses and see the blocal flora and fauna.

Bermuda offers a wide variety of accommodation options to suit all budgets. Definitely consider the Fairmont Southampton Hotel which has fantastic views and even a private beach so you can enjoy your time on the island to the fullest.

Submitted by Victoria of Guide Your Travel (IG)

10. The San Blas Islands

• Average rainfall in August: 8 inches
• Where to Stay: Explora San Blas
• What to do in August: Take a boat tour through the islands

The San Blas Islands are a group of over 300 islands off the coast of Panama. They are the true definition of paradise! These protected islands are home to the indigenous Guna people. This means these picture-perfect remote islands remain untouched with very little development.

There are a lot of rainy days in San Blas in August, with an average of 6-8 inches. However, there’s plenty of sun throughout the month as well! Plus, The San Blas islands are protected from hurricanes because of their location and proximity to land.

One of the draws of the San Blas islands is that the local population has prevented mass development so don’t expect fancy hotels or resorts here.

Saying that, you can feel truly at one with nature and spend time relaxing and enjoying the environment. Snorkeling, swimming in natural swimming pools, and reading in a hammock are the perfect activities to do in the San Blas Islands.

You cannot visit the San Blas Islands without organizing a tour from either Panama City or a Boat trip to Cartegena in Colombia that has been approved by the Guna People. The whole area is protected so this allows the local population to enjoy their lands and also reap the benefits of tourism. 

11. Holbox Island, Mexico

• Average rainfall in August: 3 inches
• Average high: 88 °F
• Where to Stay: Nomade Holbox Resort
• What to do in August: Swim with whale sharks

Isla Holbox (pronounced hole-bosh) is fast becoming a must-visit in the Mexican Caribbean. It makes for one of the  best day trips from Tulum , Cancun, or Playa del Carmen, as it’s a great place to escape the crowds in these popular towns. Another popular day trip is visiting to Cozumel .

Holbox Island, Mexico is a nature lover’s paradise with miles of white-sand beaches, mangroves to kayak through, bioluminescence in the sea at night, and epic bird-watching — those lucky enough may even see the famous Holbox flamingos.

It is a chill town, perfect for a relaxing visit. Holbox is famous for its hammocks on the beach and in the Caribbean Sea, streets paved in beach sand, no traffic lights, no flashy tourist shops, fresh seafood, street art, and friendly locals.

Though Holbox was once a sleepy fishing village, it has grown in popularity in the last few years. Nowadays, there are accommodations for every budget, so no matter your price range, you’ll find something nice — but if you want to splurge, don’t miss Nomade Holbox Resort.

Holbox is a great Caribbean island to visit in August for one big reason: you can go swimming with whale sharks! These boat tours are only offered from May 17 to September 17 during the whale shark season , and August is known as one of the best months to see them since it’s right in the middle of the season.

Submitted by Shelley of Tulum Travel Secrets

12. St Lucia

• Average rainfall in August: 6-7 inches
• Where to Stay: St. James’s Club Morgan Bay
• What to do in August: Land and Sea Tour of St Lucia Attractions and Waterfalls

Saint Lucia is one of the most beautiful and loved Caribbean islands. Whether you are looking for a relaxing getaway or a romantic vacation, the scenic and tranquil waters of the island won’t disappoint you.

You will see mostly glorious sunny days in Saint Lucia during the month of August. Temperatures are an average of 30°C and can drop as low as 24°C. The average rainfall is up to 7 inches and there are very few showers during the day.

Due to the hot and humid climate, you will find good deals on resorts and hotels in Saint Lucia. There are no significant storms that cross the island. Make sure you pack your  summer essentials  accordingly to protect yourself from heat.

There is very little risk of hurricanes in Saint Lucia during any time of the year as it is geographically located very far from the hurricane belt. You can participate in activities like snorkeling, kayaking, and sailing . St Lucia also offers some of the best hiking in the Caribbean.

A St Lucia snorkel tour with land and sea tours is the best way to see the Toraille Waterfalls, twin volcanic peaks of Pitons, Sulphur Springs, and Marigot Bay. Although you want to try to avoid these activities when cruise ships are in port.

The R oots & Soul festival is also a highlight for visitors during the month of August. Stay at St. James’s Club Morgan Bay , an all-inclusive hotel located on the secluded Choc Bay beach on the northern coast of Saint Lucia.

If you’re just searching for beaches, St Lucia isn’t the best choice – try out Turks and Caicos or Grand Cayman instead.

Submitted by Anjali of Cheerful Trails

13. Martinique

• Where to Stay: Hotel Pelican
• What to do in August: Scuba dive in the warm waters

Martinique is an overseas department of France, and together with Guadeloupe, they are part of the French West Indies – not to be confused with the more northern island St Maarten and St Martin (half dutch/half french island)

In August temperatures are between 28° and 30°. On the climate side, the days are characterized by frequent precipitations (average rainfall is 227 mm), as in most of the Caribbean regions. But the island is mostly protected from hurricanes and violent storms.

It’s true that sunny days are rarer, but August is considered the high season because of school vacations. The ideal temperatures make it one of the best periods to explore, just remember your rain poncho for the long treks!

Another reason to visit Martinique in August? It’s the festival season! From Jazz festivals to Marathons and other sports events, you will find something perfect for you when visiting.

The frequent rains change the landscapes into vibrant green. The vegetation is beautiful and this is one of the best period to visit Jardin Balata and the   Martinique Zoo and Latouche dwelling .

Due to the warmer temperatures of the waters, it’s the best time to go scuba diving in the crystalline waters. There are so many ideal spots although the best is around “ Trois Ilets ” (which translates as Three Small Islands) area.

Anita Sericano of Anita Beyond the Sea

14. Turks and Caicos

• Where to Stay: Seven Stars Resort and Spa
• What to do in August : Take a snorkel tour to the Turks Barrier Reef

15. Puerto Viejo

• Average rainfall in August: 8-12 inches
• Average high: 80 °F
• Where to Stay: Selina Hotels
• What to do in August: Tours of chocolate plantations and culinary experiences

You might be interested to hear that the vibrant coastal town of Puerto Viejo on Costa Rica’s east coast is a great place to visit in August if you’re searching for Caribbean vibes.

The small boho-casual fishing town of Puerto Viejo has much of its culture stemming from the Caribbean and local indigenous tribes which you can explore during your time there.

You will find superb entertainment like lively reggae bars dotted along the beachfront and guided tours from chocolate plantations and culinary experiences to visiting the indigenous tribe, surfing and jungle trekking.

There are plenty of soft sandy beaches to explore, abundant wildlife , and with the rainforest abutting the coast, you’d be forgiven for thinking you were on an island!

Even though August in Costa Rica falls into the rainy season, you’ll be happy to hear that Puerto Viejo experiences less rain than the Pacific coast, however, it will still be wet.

Visiting at this time has its peaks, you will experience a lush tropical rainforest and fewer crowds, and accommodation can also be cheaper. One of the best places to stay in Costa Rica  are the Selina Hotels, and luckily, there is a nice one in Puerto Viejo!

Submitted by Abi from I’m Going on an Adventure

16. Curacao

• Average rainfall in August: 1-3 inches
• Where to Stay: Lagoon Ocean Resort or Sandals Resort
• What to do in August: Explore hidden bays tucked into coves

Curacao is an amazing tropical paradise located off the coast of Venezuela. Curacao is famous for its white sandy beaches and beautiful hidden bays tucked into coves. The marine life in Curacao is impressive, with a snorkel you can encounter sea turtles, parrot fishes, and many more interesting tropical fish. 

Not only the marine life but also the culture of Curacao is amazingly diverse. Because of its history, there are Spanish, Dutch, British, and South American influences all over the island.

These influences are responsible for the great diversity in food, languages and backgrounds of people found on the island.  The colorful capital city Willemstad is the cultural, vibrant center of activity on the island. 

August is the perfect time to visit Curacao. While the climate on the island is sunny and warm year-round, there are only about 9 rainy days in August.

Curacao is located outside the hurricane belt, so there is no extreme weather, weather you visit in August or January . Rainy days usually consist of an hour of rain per day, with lots of sunshine for the rest.  

If you are looking for a nice place to stay in Curacao, I can recommend Sandals Resort in Santa Barbara Beach. If you wish for a more quiet and relaxed accommodation, I can recommend renting a house in the Lagun Ocean Resort in Playa Lagun.  

Submitted by Sabrina of Shades of Summer

17. Nicaragua

• Where to Stay: Aqua Nicaragua
• What to do in August: Go volcano boarding on Cerro Negro

We’re topping off the best tropical places to visit in August. A great choice for August in the Caribbean is the hidden gem country of Nicaragua . It is the land of beautiful beaches, active volcanos, and abundant wildlife .

Neighboured by Costa Rica and Honduras, just southwest of Jamaica , Nicaragua is one of the best surfing spots in Central America, but also has plenty of unique activities, such as volcano boarding on Cerro Negro near Leon, paddle boarding with monkeys around the islets on Lake Nicaragua and exploring the colorful buildings in the colonial city of Granada.

If you love an adventure make sure you visit Masaya Volcano, it is one of the few places in the world where you can see an active lava lake bubbling away.

The average amount of rain in August is 130 mm, which equates to about 17 rainy days, but this time of year is considered off peak so prices do reflect that. 

Nicaragua has plenty of hostels to stay at but as you can bag yourself cheap prices at this time of year, you can splurge and experience one of their more exclusive options. Such as one of these  cool treehouses in Nicaragua , including one with its own plunge pool, set high up in the trees where daily visits from howler monkeys can be expected!

FAQ Visiting the Caribbean in August

Is august hurricane season in caribbean.

Hurricane season officially runs from June 1 to November 30. However, not all islands are on the hurricane belt. Interestingly, some Caribbean islands see less than 3 inches of rainfall, on average! So, don’t write off a trip to the Caribbean in August just yet!

Which Caribbean island is safest from hurricanes?

While no Caribbbean island is completely safe from hurricanes, Aruba and Curacao are located away from the hurricane belt and rarely see dangerous hurricanes or tropical storms.

Is August a good time to go to the Caribbean?

Despite the risk of hurricanes, August is a great time to go to the Caribbean. In August, tourism in the Caribbean is at its lowest due to fear of storms.

This means that prices for flights and accommodation are also much lower than in other months. So, you’ll have more money to spend on excursions and adventures.

Further, many special activities take place in some of these Caribbean islands to visit in August like the International Festival of Cuban Rumba in Cuba or s wimming with Whale Sharks in Isla Mujeres, Mexico.

Take advantage of festivals celebrating Caribbean culture. Or, bask in the warm weather with outdoor activities like snorkeling, scuba diving, and beach-hopping. Ultimately, you can enjoy many Caribbean islands in August, especially if you are looking for an affordable and secluded vacation.

Summary of Best Caribbean Island to Visit in August 2023

So, hopefully, you aren’t deterred from visiting the Caribbean during “rainy season” after this post. These 17 Caribbean islands to visit in August offer an incredible variety of activities and excitement for any weather.

Yes, you may catch some rainy afternoons and hotter temperatures. But, you’ll save a whole lot of money and experience these islands with little to no tourism!

Rachel is passionate about encouraging you to stop waiting and start exploring. After over a decade of traveling through the Caribbean islands, Rachel is sharing all of her secrets. She's passionate about sharing her expert Caribbean travel tips with you to make planning your trip as easy as lying on the beach.

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9 Best Caribbean Islands in August For A Family Trip!

March 14, 2023.

If school vacation is rolling around, you and your family are probably itching for a fun-filled summer trip. The Caribbean is a magical place to spend it, but figuring out the best Caribbean island in August can be tricky.

August is off-season in the Caribbean. Americans have warm weather at home, and so aren’t always looking to head south. Plus, the dreaded hurricane season is in full swing in the Caribbean in August, which often discourages travelers from heading to the region. 

Nevertheless, we’re huge fans of visiting the Caribbean in July/August. The off-season offers a chance to see a quieter side of the islands, with lower price tags a huge bonus too. And if you know where to go, you don’t need to let hurricane season scare you away. 

From the best weather and local events to reasonable off-season prices and crowds, we’re going to share the best Caribbean destinations in August. So slather on the sunscreen and start packing your bags! 

Table of Contents

Caribbean family travel resources.

Before we dive in, let’s be sure you have our best travel resources at your fingertips.   

Did you know we have a whole collection of recommended family hotels in the Caribbean – including in these great summer vacation destinations? I’ll let you in on a secret, it’s sort of our pride and joy. 

Wishing someone else would just handle the logistics for a change? We also offer bespoke Caribbean family t ravel planning services.  Our specialty? Helping parents identify the best Caribbean island and hotel for a top-notch family trip. Let us take something off your plate. 

Now, pour yourself a mojito and start planning your summer trip to the Caribbean… 

This post contains affiliate links from our trusted partners

Top reasons to consider a summer caribbean trip.

Here at Mango Tree Travel, we love summer Caribbean travel. It feels like we’ve discovered a secret way to see the authentic side of the islands. 

We’ve found some of our favorite destinations in August, including Bequia Beach Hotel  in Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, and the magical beaches of Bonaire . 

There are spectacular but often overlooked benefits of being in the Caribbean during the summer months. With the off-season in the Caribbean islands comes:

• Lighter crowds
• More affordable prices on accommodations 
• Guaranteed hot weather, even if a bit of rain comes along with it 
• The opportunity for a longer trip, with your kids on summer break! 

If you’re contemplating an island vacation in August, we encourage you to go for it! 

Caribbean Weather in August

You probably want to know what kind of weather to expect when visiting the Caribbean in summer. 

No matter which Caribbean island you choose to visit in July or August, you can expect warm, humid days,  in the 80s on average, and often up into the 90s .  It’s the hottest and wettest time of year on most islands.

The rainy season in the Caribbean runs from roughly June through November. In most Caribbean destinations in the summer, that means occasional tropical storms and afternoon showers. It rarely means full-day rain, so you should not let rain in the forecast scare you off. 

Caribbean Hurricane Season

According to the  National Hurricane Center , hurricane season in the Caribbeans runs from June to October. But what’s often miscommunicated to families thinking about heading to the tropics for their summer vacation is that most islands are unaffected by hurricanes each year. 

Many islands in the southern Caribbean Sea are outside or right on the edge of the hurricane belt, which really targets the northern Caribbean islands, Bahamas, and parts of Florida.  August is not  the best time to visit Key Wes t, for example, but would be a great time to visit Tobago at the far end of the Caribbean chain.  

Southern islands will provide the most reliable weather in the Caribbean in August, though others should not be written off.  (For the same reason, we also think the Caribbean is a sleeper hit for a  fall break destination in October. ) 

If you don’t want to limit yourself to the southern Caribbean, certain islands in the rest of the region offer a better probability of good weather in August.

We recommend considering the British Virgin Islands, Puerto Rico, Grand Cayman, and Montego Bay, Jamaica as potential August Caribbean destinations. Even though technically fall in the hurricane belt, they tend to be less impacted by the region’s rain and storms than other destinations.

Mango Tree Travel Tip: 

If you want to travel to the Caribbean in August, don’t let hurricane season deter you. But be sure to purchase good travel insurance that includes hurricane coverage!   

We recommend getting a quote from IMG Global . Travel interruption benefits are triggered under most IMG Global plans by a NOAA hurricane watch or warning at your destination.  

Best Caribbean Destinations in August 

For all the reasons above, the best Caribbean island to visit in August is one outside the hurricane belt. As the weather is warm and sunny for much of the southern Caribbean, it’s hard to choose just one.

The best Caribbean destinations in August include: 

• Trinidad and Tobago
• Vincent and the Grenadines

These aren’t all islands, of course. But some of the best tropical weather and beach vibes, in our experience, can be found in Central and South American countries with Caribbean coastal regions. 

We love these destinations so much for tropical travel – especially in the summer — that we had to include them on the list. 

Aruba is one of the most popular Caribbean destinations for families , with picturesque beaches, warm weather, and tons of family activities and entertainment. It’s also known as one of the safest destinations in the Caribbean.  

It’s a little built up for some travelers’ tastes, but if you’re looking for an easy, kid-friendly place, with some of the best August weather, she’s your gal.  

August Weather in aruba

August in Aruba is typically warm and sunny, with little rainfall. The average temps during the day are around 88°F (31°C), and can drop to the upper 70s at night. Humidity levels are relatively low. 

The ocean will also be nice and warm for fun water activities, averaging at about 84°F (29°C). Expect a chance of occasional rain showers and thunderstorms, which pass pretty quickly. 

Things to do in Aruba in August

August is a quiet month in Aruba, as far as special events go. But the natural attractions and beaches are enough. Aruba has so many unique wildlife experiences that kids will love, especially animal encounters at the Butterfly Farm ,  Donkey Sanctuary , or  Ostrich Farm .  Not to mention  horseback riding to natural hot springs , and spotting flamingos. 

To explore the great outdoors, wander the trails of Arikok National Park or have some fun in the sand at Palm Beach or Eagle Beach.

Where to Stay in Aruba with Kids

Aruba is known for large hotels and inclusive resorts.  Most families choose to stay at a hotel on either Palm Beach or Eagle Beach, Aruba’s two most popular stretches of white sand.  Popular choices include the 400-room  Aruba Marriott Resort & Stellaris Casino  and the 350-room  Hyatt Regency Aruba Resort & Casino  (both of which have kids’ clubs and casinos, an excellent combination).

It’s no secret that we prefer small, more unique hotels, though. (And frankly, for that reason, Aruba is not our top-choice of the Dutch Islands.) But those exist in Aruba too!

If your kids are over age 12, consider the  Boardwalk Boutique Hotel Aruba , an intimate 46-room hotel just off Palm Beach with grills, hammocks, and pastel-colored casitas. 

Or, for something in between a boutique hotel and a massive resort, try  Amsterdam Manor Beach Resort  on Eagle Beach. Its 72 rooms include two-bedroom apartments with kitchens, and there’s a dedicated kids’ pool. Plus, it has more charm than the average big resort in Aruba. 

If you want similar weather to Aruba, but in a smaller off-the-beaten path island setting, head to her sister island, Bonaire.  It’s one of our favorite vacation spots in August for families. You and your kids will have epic opportunities for snorkeling in one of the world’s most biodiverse marine environments.  If you’re interest is piqued, learn more about why we can’t stop raving about Bonaire as a family destination.  

August Weather in bonaire 

August in Bonaire is warm and sunny, with little rainfall. The average daytime temps hover around 88°F (31°C), and can drop to the upper 70s at night. 

With ocean temperatures in the mid-80s, your family can enjoy perfect swimming, diving, and snorkeling conditions. 

Expect a chance of rain showers and thunderstorms passing through, but they don’t last long and shouldn’t interfere much in your vacation. 

Things to Do in Bonaire in August

You can enjoy the Taste of Bonaire  Food Festival in August. This is a great way to sample mouthwatering local cuisine and enjoy cultural performances. 

The best way to experience Bonaire, though, is to rent a car and explore the local beaches . Never leave your snorkeling gear behind, and always be prepared to get in the water.  You can also go kayaking, windsurfing, birdwatching, or hiking in the stunning Washington Slagbaai National Park.

Where to Stay in Bonaire With Kids

We recommend four hotels when in Bonaire with kids, depending on what you’re looking for. Check out our full hotel profiles of the first three for all the details. 

First, we love Harbour Village Beach Club for a laid-back, family-friendly vibe with well-appointed rooms and a beach you can’t wait to return home to at the end of each day.  

Second, Delfins Beach Resort is the right choice for families looking for a lively atmosphere, a great pool, and delicious food.  

Third, Bellafonte Bonaire is our recommended choice for families traveling with older kids looking for a mix between a luxury boutique hotel and a self-catering apartment.

And finally, there’s Buddy Dive Resort. If you’re looking for one of the Caribbean’s best resorts for scuba diving, Buddy Dive tops every list. This hotel is all about diving – but they make it easy for parents to get underwater. They have suites with multiple bedrooms, seasonal kids’  camps, and offer babysitting.

No matter the hotel or activities you choose for your family trip, you simply can’t go wrong in Bonaire.

The third island in the ABC Dutch islands presents yet another option for an August family getaway.  Our ABC island guide  will help you decide which of our top three August Caribbean destinations are for you. 

Curacao is a rich cultural and beach destination that will satisfy everyone in your family. The island  boasts warm, sunny weather in August, several sandy beaches, and a plethora of historic sites, restaurants, and museums to uncover. 

You definitely can’t go wrong in choosing Curacao for your August family getaway (even if you do not know how to pronounce it ).  Our Curacao overview will be sure to get you excited to book your flights. 

August weather in curacao

The weather in Curacao in August is quite warm and sunny, with little rainfall. Average highs during the day are 91°F (31°C). At night, temps will drop to an average of 79°F (26°C). 

The ocean is also very warm for incredible swims and watersports, at an average of 84°F. 

Luckily, you won’t have to worry too much about rain except for the occasional shower or thunderstorm. And humidity is relatively low during August as well.

Things to Do in Curacao in August 

Curacao is always bursting with both indoor and outdoor activities to keep you entertained all vacation long. You won’t be lacking for things to do on this bustling island.

Explore the island’s rich cultural heritage in pastel-colored Willemstad. You can take a historic walking tour, visit the Kura Hulanda Museum, Serena’s Art Factory, stroll across Queen Emma Bridge, or go shopping at Mambo Beach. 

For outdoor fun, swim or snorkel at Cas Abao Beach, wander the Hato Caves, or explore the magical coastal inlets of Shete Boka National park. 

In short, there are endless ways to take in Curacao’s natural and cultural beauty.

Where to Stay in Curacao with Kids

The hotel choices in Curacao range from stylish boutique hotels in town to eco-lodges to the highest-end luxury. There’s something for every family, so read our full hotel profiles to get all the details. 

If you want true luxury on the beach, head to  Baoase Luxury Resort . The beach setting hereis spectacular, unlike anything we’ve experienced. You’ll eat your gourmet dinner with your feet in the sand and relax on plush loungers on a pink-tinted beach with stunning views.

For more of an eclectic, in-town boutique hotel experience, consider the colorful oceanfront hotel,  Scuba Lodge . It sits in the center of the Pietermaai district, offering easy access to the city’s cozy cafes and fine-dining – but with views of the Caribbbean sea and a plunge pool that’s just big enough to really unwind.

Finally, f or a more traditional beach resort, with pools, restaurants, and easy beach access, all for a very affordable price, we think  Avila Beach Hotel  is a great choice for families. On top of the family-focused amenities, it’s walkable to the Pietermaai district – a location that’s hard to beat.

4. Trinidad and Tobago

Trinidad and Tobago is a unique, underrated Caribbean destination for families – especially the island oasis of Tobago.  While Trinidad is a vibrant, cosmopolitan destination, Tobago offers the slow, beach vibes that most families dream of when concocting a Caribbean getaway. The fact that English is the official language of this Caribbean gem makes it an easy destination on the ground, too. 

Being outside the hurricane belt, Tobago could very well be the best Caribbean island to visit in July and August. Enjoy picturesque beaches, warm weather for watersports, and truly get away from it all before school picks back up again in the fall.

August Weather in trinidad and tobago

In Trinidad and Tobago, August is warm and humid, with average daytime temps around 90°F (32°C). At night, temps drop to an average of around 75°F (24°C). 

You can expect regular rainfall in August, with occasional showers and thunderstorms. These storms can be heavy but don’t last long! There’s still plenty of outdoor fun to be had in Trinidad and Tobago in August.

Things to Do in Trinidad and Tobago in august

August is a fun time to visit Trinidad and Tobago, as there are a few culturally significant annual events taking place. 

Emancipation Day culminates on August 1st, commemorating the historic slavery emancipation. 

And Independence Day on August 31st commemorates independence from Britain. Both offer live music, traditional performances, food stalls, and parades.

Aside from local events, there are always lots of outdoor activities to choose from. 

Like many other islands, you’ll find beautiful beaches in Trinidad and Tobago, from cooling off in the ocean at Maracas Bay, to snorkeling and sunbathing at Pigeon Point Beach.

Or consider exploring the lush rainforest on a guided tour or trail walk. Find recommendations and guided activities at the Asa Wright Nature Centre or Caroni Bird Sanctuary. You’ll see monkeys, butterflies, tropical birds, and tons of unique plant life. 

Where to stay in trinidad and tobago with kids 

Our full collection of hotels in Trinidad and Tobago is coming in 2023.  But for now, let us just say that we’re itching to stay at  Castrara Retreats  in Tobago, with hillside cabins and a stunning backdrop.  

We’re also intrigued by the tiny  Acajou Hotel  in a fishing village on Trinidad’s northern coast that’s one of the largest nesting sites for Leatherback turtles. 

5. St. Vincent and the Grenadines

Considering St. Vincent and the Grenadines? This Caribbean destination is a great family vacation spot in August!  We know from personal experience, as our Caribbean trip to Bequia Beach Hotel  was one of the inspirations for Mango Tree. 

The islands of the Grendines – Bequia, Mustique, Canouan, the Tobago Keys – have been a haven for yachters and cruisers for years.  But if you can brave the journey to get there, the Grenadines are a paradise for families as well, with secluded beaches, chill vibes, and simply stunning, seemingly untouched scenery.

August Weather in the Grenadines

August in St. Vincent and the Grenadines is quite warm and humid, with average daytime temps of around 88°F (31°C). At night, temps drop to an average of around 77°F (25°C). 

Expect frequent rainfall in August, with occasional rain showers and thunderstorms. These are heavy but typically brief. Humidity is relatively high, but the trade winds cool off the island to make it more comfortable.

Things to Do in Saint Vincent and the Grenadines

On Saint Vincent, you can explore the lush tropical plants at St. Vincent’s Botanical Garden, or take a hike around La Soufriere Volcano for panoramic views. 

But the true treat of this tropical nation is the outer islands beyond the capital.  

We wholeheartedly recommend that families make the island of Bequia their home base. Just an hour ferry ride from the main island of Saint Vincent, this small island exudes charm, and is perfect for a laid-back vacation.

From boat trips in the crystal clear waters, to beach days in glittering sand, Bequia sings a song of the untouched Caribbean of years past. Check out our complete Bequia guide  for all the details you need on what to do on your family trip.

Where to Stay in Saint Vincent and the Grenadines with kids

C all  Bequia Beach Hotel  home while you explore the gorgeous white-sand beaches and you’ll be counting down the days until lyour return.

If ultimate barefoot luxury is what you’re after, learn why the ultra all-inclusive private island escape of Petit St. Vincent should be on your radar.  There are only 22 cottages on the entire island, with beaches and water everywhere you look.

6. Barbados

In Barbados, you’ll find the classic Caribbean vibes with a sophisticated edge. This former English colony offers up an array of attractions, activities, and sights that are sure to make your trip unforgettable. 

The island’s west coast, facing the Caribbean Sea, is renowned for its beautiful beaches that offer wonderful opportunities for swimming, snorkeling, or simply basking in the sunshine.  

Barbados is a popular destination, especially among Brits, attracting hundreds of thousands of visitors per year.  What makes it one of the best Caribbean destinations in August is the low season, where you’ll find significantly fewer crowds than in peak winter months, with more affordable prices too. 

August Weather in Barbados

August in Barbados is quite warm and humid, with average daytime temps of around 88°F (31°C). At night, temps generally drop to around 77°F (25°C). 

Expect rainfall in August, with occasional rain showers and thunderstorms. The good news is, these rarely last for long and won’t stop you from having outdoor fun! Barbados is also less likely to get hit by a hurricane in August than many of its Caribbean counterparts.  

Things to Do in Barbados in August

August is an exciting month for cultural festivals and events in Barbados! Don’t miss  Crop Over Festival , a traditional and colorful harvest festival that’s been celebrated on the island for centuries. This week-long carnival celebration offers family-friendly activities, live music, the Bridgetown Market, and delicious local delicacies.

Year round, Barbados is beloved for its gorgeous beaches, especially along the Caribbean Sea on the island’s west coast. Whenever you make the journey to Barbados, take advantage of sunbathing, swimming, or snorkeling at Bathsheba Beach or Crane Beach.  

There are also a plethora of incredible wildlife preserves to explore. Witness native animals and plants at the Flower Forest or Barbados Wildlife Reserve.

Where to stay in Barbados with kids

Barbados gets lots of British visitors and has a relatively well-developed tourism infrastructure. With dozens of resorts, there’s something for all budgets here. 

Our full recommendations are coming soon, but in the meantime we’ve got our eyes on the following hotels:

For a luxury stay, start your search with Cobbler’s Cove or Coral Reef Club.

For spacious suites in a charming boutique hotel a little off the beaten path, with great beachfront snorkeling and a top Barbados restaurant on site, Little Good Harbour has caught our eye. 

For families on a budget, the mid-range, family-focused Bougainvillea Barbados  is a solid choice. 

7. Panamá (Bocas del Toro)

Bocas del Toro, on Panama’s Caribbean coast, is an awesome destination in August. The shoulder season will let you experience the region with the right balance of low prices, fewer crowds, and rainfall to bring the sublime natural beauty of the rainforest to life. 

Panama offers a unique blend of outdoor adventures like snorkeling and zip-lining, as well as diverse cultural experiences to enjoy.

August Weather in Bocas del Toro

August in Bocas del Toro, Panama is warm and relatively humid, with a range of daytime temps from 75°F (24°C) to 85°F (29°C). At night, temps drop to around 70°F (21°C). 

Expect rainfall in August as it falls at the end of Panama’s rainy season. (There’s much more rain and surf in July , though.) There is a high chance of thunderstorms through the month, but these are usually during the afternoon or evening, with sunny mornings.  The rainstorms cause ocean swell, which makes August a good surfing month. That said, things start to dry out by the end of August, and conditions begin to calm. 

Things to Do in Bocas del Toro 

Waterfalls are at their fullest during this time, so be sure to prioritize time for waterfall hikes and rainforest exploration during your summer trip to Panama.  

Your kids, in particular, might love a zip-lining adventure through the rainforest canopy this time of year. Immerse yourself in the pristine jungle; keep your eyes peeled for wild sloths, monkeys, and colorful birds. 

At the end of August, as sea conditions calm, you can also enjoy snorkeling in Admiral Bay, and the untouched beaches of Bastimentos and Cristobal. 

Bocas del Toro highlights the island’s rich Afro-Caribbean culture. Experience it fully with a history tour, or try traditional dishes like plantains, rice and beans, and fish stew.

Where to stay in Bocas del toro

Our comprehensive Bocas del Toro hotel recommendations are coming soon. Based on our research, we are most excited to check out the following family friendly hotels:

Tranquilo Bay Eco Adventure Lodge

Al Natural Resort

La Loma Jungle Lodg e (age 8+ only)

8. Cartagena 

Cartagena, Columbia is one of our favorite destinations for a family trip .  Many travelers don’t think of heading to Cartagena with kids, but the vibrant colors, live music, carriage rides through the center of this Spanish-speaking city , and delicious food will keep the whole family entertained. 

August Weather in Cartagena

August in Cartagena is hot,. Daytime temps average out at around 82°F (28°C) but can get up above 90 degrees year round. At night, temps drop slightly to around 79°F (26°C).  

You can expect occasional rainfall in Cartagena in August. Fortunately, the rains are usually short, limited to the afternoon – a perfect time for a nap – and you can expect mostly sunny days!

Things to Do in Cartagena in August

There are many ways to spend a family getaway in Cartagena.  We recommend a mix of time in the historic, colonial city center and time exploring the Caribbean islands and beaches just outside. 

For the beach, you’ve got options, like Playa Blanca, Rosario Islands, and Bocagrande. Or take a day trip to nearby mud volcanoes. Check out our full guide to planning a beach vacation in Cartagena .

Want to enjoy Cartagena’s rich culture and history? The Castillo San Felipe de Barajas fortress is fascinating to explore. Or wander the vividly colored streets of Old City and sample local foods. 

The cuisine here is a delicious fusion of Spanish and African influences. So try all the arepas, ceviche, empanadas, and fresh seafood .

Where to stay in and around cartagena with kids

Cartagena is full of small boutique hotels offering a totally unique experience. Picture historic mansions turned cozy hotels, oozing colonial charm and comfort, with couryard pools peeking out from behind ivy-trimmed brick wall s. 

Read our full review of our favorite Cartagena hotel,  Casa San Agustin , a  luxury boutique hotel that’s the complete package—central location, delicious food, lush beds, and an inviting courtyard pool.

If that’s not the one for you, learn why we also recommend the following Cartagena hotels for families: 

Sofitel Legend Santa Clara

Bastion Luxury Hotel

Casa Claver Loft Boutique Hotel

Hotel Capellan de Getsemani

If you want to escape the city for some time at the beach, dont miss our detailed profile of Hotel Las Islas  on Isla Baru, a beachfront island escape with thatched roof bungalows and touches of luxury throughout. 

Finally, we have arguably saved the best for last! Grenada is our original Caribbean love – and we discovered the island during hurricane season.  We learned from  the book that inspired the name for Mango Tree Travel  that, because Grenada sits outside the hurricane belt, it’s a popular destination for the summer and fall months.

So off we went.

In August in Grenada, you’re likely to encounter a community of cruisers  – folks spending extended periods of time exploring the Windward Islands by boat.  Cruisers need to retreat from the hurricane zone during the season. Grenada is below the below, and also offers numerous bays for safe anchorage.  

As boaters flock to Grenada over the summer like geese in winter, the summer and fall months here are more lively than many other Caribbean islands, making it a special time to visit the island.

August Weather in Grenada 

In August, Grenada is not hot but the weather is generally sunny and dry. With an average high of 88°F (31.1°C) and low of 76°F (24.4°C), August can be a great time for families to explore all that Grenada has to offer.

In August, Grenada experiences the tail end of its rainy season. This means that you can expect to get some welcomed afternoon showers during your stay on the island. Don’t worry though – these showers are typically short-lived and they won’t put a damper on your vacation. Plus, as a bonus, they add to the lush green of the island’s forests and wildlife.

Things to do in Grenada in August

There’s so much to do in Grenada with kids that we can’t fit it all into this post – you’ll have to check out our complete Grenada travel guide to get all the details!  

And for those families interested in a truly local experience where you can connect with the island and the people who live there, prioritize the activities on our Grenada ecotourism guide .

In August in particular, though, you’ll encounter Grenada’s version of Carnival:  Spicemas .  The streets fill with brightly colored costumes, calypso and steel drum music, and a general joie de vivre.  Carnival celebrations may not inherently be the most kid-friendly events, but Grenada’s Spicemas can be entertaining for all ages – at least for portions of it.

Where to stay in Grenada

The Spice Island has charming choices for every family, from budget friendly eco conscious resorts to the highest luxury. Learn why Mango Tree recommends these Grenada hotels for families: 

Mount Cinnamon Resort  – An eco-friendly, family-owned, boutique beach resort on a hillside overlooking Grenada’s epic Grand Anse beach; 

Spice Island Beach Resort  – All-inclusive luxury with beachfront rooms mere steps from Grand Anse beach; 

Blue Horizons Garden Resort  – Affordable cottages in a lush garden setting, with access to Spice Island’s beach facilites; 

True Blue Bay Eco Resort  – Bright and quirky suites and villas on a bay, in an eco-chic family-run resort with unique amenities and activities for all the family to enjoy. 

Frequently Asked Questions

Which caribbean island has the best weather in august.

For the best weather in the Caribbean in August, head to the islands outside the hurricane belt.  Islands in the southeastern Caribbean – Trinidad and Tobago, the Grenadines, Grenada, and Barbados – typically are spared direct hits from hurricanes.  Likewise, the Dutch ABC islands off the coast of Venezuela are considered outside the hurricane belt. 

There are also islands and coastal destinations on the Central American Caribbean coast, such as in Belize, Panama and Honduras, that are less likely to see major storms. 

And, although technically in the hurricane zone, Jamaica, Antigua, and the US Virgin Islands have very low average rainfalls in August.  

Is August a good time to visit the Caribbean? 

  Yes! The weather may not be perfect in the Caribbean in August, but if you pick the right island, you can still get long, sunny days and benefit from off-season pricing and fewer crowds. Just be sure to buy hurricane insurance to protect your trip investment.

Which Caribbean islands have festivals and events in August? 

There are some exciting annual festivals and special events happening in the Caribbean in August. They include the epic ten-day Anguilla Summer Festival , an island-wide event involves boat races, costumed parades, block parties, and live outdoor music; the national Jamaica Independence Celebrations ; Spicemas  in Grenada; and   Crop Over Festival  in Barbados. 

Protect your August Caribbean Trip

When you book travel with your kids – to the Caribbean or elsewhere – you should always make sure you have trip insurance in case things go wrong. You want to be sure you’re covered for trip delays or cancellation, medical costs, and lost luggage. 

This is especially true if you travel to the Caribbean during hurricane season. 

As mentioned above, we  suggest getting a quote from IMG global . The  Travel SE plan will offer sufficient coverage for most family trips. And we like it for the Caribbean in particular because, on top of having comprehensive medical, cancellation, and luggage protection, the hurricane protection is better than most. If NOAA issues a hurricane warning or watch for your destination 24-72 hours before departure, trip cancellation benefits kick-in (read the fine print for all plan details, of course).  

Get Caribbean Family Travel Tips Right Into Your Inbox 

If you found this post helpful, don’t miss our other  Caribbean destination guides for families . 

And for even more Caribbean and family travel inspiration, sign up for our biweekly newsletter! We feature a new destination each month, highlighting our favorite hotels and family travel tips. Keep the travel dreaming coming all year long. 

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August in the Caribbean: Weather, What to Pack, and What to See

TripSavvy /  Julie Bang  

With uncrowded resorts and plenty of elbow room on the beach, August makes a fine time to visit the Caribbean . Plus, you're likely to find the best deals on Caribbean flights and hotels.

Some destinations may feel a bit "dead" at this time of year, with many attractions closed for the offseason. With temperatures in the northern latitudes about the same as in the tropics at this time of year, travel to the Caribbean doesn't have as much "fun in the sun" appeal during August. But it's a great time to connect with the locals and enjoy the unhurried pace of island life.

Hurricane Season Considerations

Hurricane season in the Caribbean kicks into high gear in August, though your odds of encountering a storm remain lower than in September. However, to lessen your chance of getting caught in a hurricane or major storm on your trip, stay clear of the more eastern islands, including Jamaica , Haiti, Cuba, and the Bahamas . The southern Caribbean, from Aruba to Tobago , is usually the safest place to spend hurricane season, as these islands sit outside of the so-called hurricane belt.

Caribbean Weather in August

Although August is one of the hottest months in the Caribbean, it is still only a few degrees higher on average than the "coldest" months, as the ocean regulates the tropical air temperature year-round. With more than 7,000 islands spread across 1 million square miles of water, the Caribbean experiences surprisingly little temperature variation in its coastal areas, with most of the island nations reporting average highs and lows within 5 degrees of each other.

• Average high temperature: 88 degrees Fahrenheit (31 degrees Celsius)
• Average low temperature: 78 degrees Fahrenheit (25.5 degrees Celsius)

In August, the Caribbean Sea reaches its warmest temperature as well, with an average of 83 degrees. The biggest weather fluctuations occur in rainfall, with mountainous islands typically receiving more rain on their windward sides. On average, there are about 12 rainy days in the Caribbean in August, which marks the beginning of the rainy season. Wetter locations in August include Nassau in the Bahamas, as well as Martinique and Dominica.

What to Pack

Loose-fitting cotton or rayon keeps you cool during the day, but cotton holds moisture, especially on the more humid islands. Don’t forget a swimsuit, plenty of sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses. While you can purchase almost anything you need, prices on the islands reflect the cost of importing products.

Though most resorts and hotels provide poolside towels, you may want to pack your own beach towel because many do not allow you to take pool towels onto the sand. Also, a light jacket comes in handy if you plan to travel to any of the higher elevations, such as the Blue Mountains of Jamaica or the Cordillera Central range in the Dominican Republic, or to combat overzealous air conditioning. Umbrellas won't do much good in a tropical storm or hurricane when strong winds accompany the rain, but a plastic poncho could protect you from a regular summer downpour without taking up much room in your luggage.

Pack dressier clothes for visiting nice restaurants or clubs. It's always a good idea to check the dress code policy before going out; some places require a sports coat, some a collared shirt. You'll also want a more formal pair of shoes than just flip-flops or sneakers.

August Events in the Caribbean

• Anguilla Summer Festival : This annual tradition features boat races, beach parties, and parades, with lots of delicious food, exuberant music, and pageantry to fuel the fun.
• Aruba International Regatta : Sailors from around the world come to the island to race all manner of watercraft, from yachts to sunfish to miniature boats and even stand up paddle boards.
• Crop Over Festival Barbados : This six-week event extends into the first week of August, culminating in the Grand Kadooment Day celebration, which turns the streets of St. Michael into a kaleidoscope of sequins and feathers and colorful costumes.
• North Sea Jazz Fest Curacao : This event closes out the month with some of the hottest names in music such as past performers Prince, Rod Stewart, Alicia Keyes, Stevie Wonder, John Legend, India Arie, Sting, Carlos Santana, Sam Cook, and others joining the island's best homegrown talent for three days of nonstop entertainment.

August Travel Tips

Consider purchasing travel insurance to cover your expenses in the event that a storm cancels or interrupts your trip. Pay attention to the fine print, though, as some policies specifically exclude hurricanes.

Inquire about package deals in August that bundle excursions with your hotel accommodations at a favorable rate, for example, or let you book an adjoining room for the kids at a discount.

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Best Caribbean Islands In August To Visit

Visiting one of the Caribbean islands during hurricane season can be nail-biting.

You obviously don’t want your vacation to be ruined by a hurricane, so you want to ensure that you book the right island.

Besides hurricanes, you also have to worry about rain this time of year. Most likely you don’t want to go on a tropical vacation and have it rain the whole time.

I have spent a lot of time in the Caribbean during the month of August working on the yachts, so I know which islands to avoid during this time of year.

So I decided to make a list of my favorite islands with the least amount of rain and the least likely chance of getting hit by a hurricane.

Don’t let the hurricane season stop you from booking your Caribbean vacation, just know what islands to visit and which ones to avoid.

Top 10 Best Caribbean Islands To Visit In August

Probably the best Caribbean island to visit in August is Aruba.

Visiting Aruba in August is the perfect choice for those looking to explore the Caribbean without being weighed down by rain.

Actually, any of the ABC islands are a great choice this time of year.

While some islands in the region experience significantly worse rainfall during this month, Aruba typically only has light showers and plenty of sunshine.

Which is why it is our least rainy island on this list. With average temperatures of around 80-90 degrees Fahrenheit and only 2 average inches of rain for the month of August, the weather is almost perfect.

You can enjoy clear skies while enjoying all your outdoor activities or simply just enjoy chilling on the beach.

With its crystal-clear waters, white sand beaches, and vibrant culture, it’s easy to see why so many people are drawn to this tropical paradise each year.

Renaissance Island, Aruba is the perfect spot to visit if you want to check on the flamingos on the beach.

There are loads of direct flights from most major US cities and numerous accommodation options, it’s simple to plan your dream vacation.

✅ Below The Caribbean Hurricane Belt

💧 2 inches average rainfall for August

I absolutely loved my time in Curacao. It is the perfect mix of a Caribbean island with the sophistication of Europe.

Imagine beautiful beaches, with amazing European food. One of my favorite Caribbean islands for sure.

August in Curacao is an ideal time to visit for those looking for a Caribbean getaway. With temperatures rarely dipping below 80°F (27°C) and average rainfall of only 2 inches. You can expect plenty of sunny days with very few rain showers.

Stay active with some of the best snorkeling and scuba diving that the Caribbean has to offer.

Enjoy the vibrant culture, making it an idyllic destination for anyone seeking a fun summer vacation in the Caribbean sun.

If you are into the night scene you will love the island’s nightlife and bar atmosphere. There is plenty of fun to be had in Curacao.

3. Bocas Del Toro

So this is more of a set of islands rather than one, but Bocas Del Toro has to be on the top of my list of places I have been.

It is so unique and so cool that I can’t not add it on to this list. It is also not one of the more popular Caribbean destinations, so still remains untouched.

Bocas del Toro in August is a great time to come enjoy the Caribbean Sea, especially if you’re looking for an unforgettable getaway.

You can only expect about 3 inches of rain which is perfect if you want to make the most of your beach days, outdoor activities, or exploring the beautiful local attractions.

Whether you’re interested in adrenaline-filled adventures on zip-line tours or relaxing in the sun with a good book, Bocas del Toro has something to offer every kind of traveler.

My favorite thing about this spot is rather than getting around in cars everyone takes water taxis to get where they are going, since it is 100s of islands rather than one big island.

It is the perfect spot if you want to enjoy loads of boat trips.

✅ Below The Hurricane Belt

💧 3 inches of average rainfall for August

4. Saint Lucia

August is a great time to visit Saint Lucia! With plenty of sunshine, luxuriously warm temperatures, and only an average of 3.9 inches of rainfall, it’s the perfect place for someone wanting to escape to the Caribbean this summer.

The island is known for its beautiful beaches, lush tropical forests, and extensive outdoor activities such as boat tours, snorkeling, fishing and horseback riding.

Saint Lucia is a great place for anyone looking for a romantic getaway or family vacation, it has something for everyone.

You can stay in world-class overwater bungalows to boutique villas you’ll find plenty of options when it comes to accommodation.

Plus, there are plenty of places to enjoy local cuisine – from roadside restaurants serving authentic Caribbean fare to fine dining establishments with international menus.

Be sure to eat at one of the best restaurants in St. Lucia .

5. Saint Vincent and The Grenadines

Another one of my all-time favorites in the Caribbean has to be Saint Vincent and the Grenadines. And August is a great time to visit.

With average daily temperatures around 85 degrees Fahrenheit, it’s a great way to escape the summer heat and enjoy a bit of Caribbean sunshine.

The weather is also ideal for exploring all that Saint Vincent has to offer: stunning beaches, lush rainforests, and vibrant reefs for snorkeling.

Plus, you can only expect an average rainfall of just 4 inches throughout the month! With its breathtaking views and unique culture, Saint Vincent is the perfect destination for your Caribbean getaway.

💧 4 inches of average rainfall for August

6. St Thomas (US Virgin Islands)

August is an ideal time to escape to St. Thomas in the Caribbean, a breathtakingly beautiful destination.

With an average rainfall of just over 4 inches in August, you can expect clear skies and plenty of sunshine during your stay.

You can explore the old town of Charlotte Amalie, take in the incredible views from Drake’s Seat, or relax on one of many golden sand beaches. Magens Bay is also a must.

St. Thomas is a great option for anyone who doesn’t have a US passport , as you will not need one to visit this Caribbean island.💧 4 inches of average rainfall for August

7. Dominican Republic

Visiting the Dominican Republic in August can provide a wonderful combination of sunshine, beaches, and culture.

The average temperature in August is a pleasant 82°F, with the coastal areas being slightly warmer than the inland regions.

Punta Cana is a hot spot to visit in the Dominican Republic. It is full of beautiful beaches and epic hotels, including my favorite swim-up rooms .

There is an average of 8 days of rainfall throughout the month, so we are starting to get a bit rainer on our list.

The vibrant culture of the Dominican Republic is fueled by its lively music scene, lively festivals, and unique art galleries.

💧 5 inches of average rainfall for August

8. Trinidad and Tobago

 August is an ideal time to visit Trinidad and Tobago. Since it is below the hurricane belt, you won’t have to worry about hurricanes ruining your vacation.

With its tropical climate, August is a great month to experience the sunny beaches and lush rainforest landscapes.

The average rainfall in August is usually around 5 inches or less per month, making it a relatively dry month that’s perfect for enjoying the outdoors.

The crime rate is a bit higher than other islands mentioned on this list, but as long as you are smart when you travel and pay attention to your whereabouts you should be fine.

9. Puerto Rico

Another island that you won’t need your US passport to visit. Puerto Rico is a great destination if none of the other spots on this list sparked your interest.

It is an easy last-minute option if you don’t have time to get your passport.

August is the ideal time to visit, as it has warm temperatures and relatively low rainfall compared to other months.

It is not yet rainy season, so you can enjoy great weather.

Puerto Rico also has a vibrant nightlife, beautiful beaches, and stunning waterfalls.

The main language is also Spanish, making it feel like you left the US when you really didn’t.

💧 5.5 inches of average rainfall for August

10. Holbox Island, Mexico

Another one of my top favorite places I have been in the Caribbean has to be Holbox. A small island off of Mexico, with no paved roads or cars.

Enjoy cruising the island in a golf cart, what more could you ask for?

Holbox is a secluded and picturesque Mexican island located in the Caribbean Sea. It is the perfect destination for those seeking an escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. There is still plenty to do here .

August is a great month to visit as it is still Whale shark season. Get up close and personal with these magical creatures.

My favorite part about this place is it is off the beaten track and largely unknown to most tourists, Holbox is a beautiful, peaceful oasis where you can relax and recharge.

Holbox offers a tranquil retreat that will leave you feeling relaxed and renewed in every way. Whether you’re looking for an intimate getaway or a romantic adventure with your partner, Holbox is the perfect destination for anyone wanting to experience the Caribbean without the crowds.

💧6 inches of average rainfall for August

Is August Hurricane Season In The Caribbean?

Yes! August is actually known as the peak month for Hurricanes. The hurricane season in the Caribbean, officially runs from June 1st to November 30th.

During this period, warm sea surface temperatures and atmospheric conditions cause hurricanes to form in the Atlantic.

The Caribbean is particularly vulnerable to these weather systems, with many countries and territories facing the potential threat of destructive winds, heavy rainfall, storm surges, and flooding.

If you are worried about Hurricanes ruining your vacation, it might be a good idea to stay below the hurricane belt, where hurricanes are less likely to hit.

Which Caribbean Island Is Safest From Hurricanes?

While no Caribbean island is entirely immune to hurricanes, some are considered safer due to their geographical location and historical hurricane patterns and locations.

These islands are typically located in the southern or western Caribbean, farther from the typical hurricane tracks. And below the hurricane belt.

Here are a few Caribbean islands that are considered relatively safer from hurricanes

• St. Vincent
• Trinidad and Tobago

Summary of Best Caribbean Island to Visit in August

Well, there we have it. I hope that this list will help you decide on which Caribbean islands to visit in August.

No matter which Caribbean island you choose you are bound to have a good time. So imagine yourself on those secluded beaches with a cocktail in hand. Your vacation awaits you.

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Caribbean Weather in August: Best Islands to Visit

Cruise and resort tourism starts to decline in response to the riskier weather. Still, August is part of summer, and summer remains a popular time to visit the Caribbean.

Heavier rainfall begins to show up in the Caribbean in August as the annual hurricane season gets more active.

On average, the Bahamas are especially hard hit. Other destinations that often get drenched include Dominica, Guadeloupe and Martinique as well as Belize and Costa Rica. Western Caribbean cruise ports such as Cozumel and Grand Cayman get more rain than usual.

The higher risk of rain doesn’t stop people from taking western Caribbean cruises or visiting destination resorts. Some travelers get lucky and don’t experience any rain at all. But the odds of rain do go up.

Caribbean weather in August historically averages three major storms with two that become hurricanes. The chart below shows figures from the Caribbean meteorological services that indicate August weather averages over various 30-year periods for 17 major Caribbean destinations.

The figures are averages and may vary from one year to the next. But they show trends that help travel planners know what kind of weather to expect and whether to go in June or July instead.

Best Caribbean Islands in August

The best Caribbean islands to visit in August include Aruba - Curacao - Jamaica (Montego Bay), St. Maarten - Antigua and St. Thomas . They all average four inches of rain or less. Aruba and Curacao average about one inch. They have the lowest risk of rain in the entire Caribbean.

Caribbean islands to avoid in August include the Bahamas, Barbados, Grand Cayman, Cozumel, Dominica, Guadeloupe, Martinique, Puerto Rico and St. Lucia. They all average at least five to six inches of rain historically and sometimes as much as 10 inches. The Central American countries of Belize, Costa Rica and Panama also have high levels of rain.

The longer list of Caribbean destinations to avoid is the result of the Caribbean hurricane season.

10-Day Weather Forecasts | See Caribbean monthly weather in: January - February - March - April - May - June - July - August - September - October - November - December

Caribbean Rain in August

Anyone wanting the lowest risk of rain will have an easy choice. Aruba and Curacao historically average about one inch of rain each August.

The ABC islands of Aruba, Bonaire and Curacao lie off the coast of Venezuela and just on the edge of the Caribbean hurricane belt. They are the most arid islands in the region all year and see only slight increases of rain during the hurricane season.

But August is the end of their normal dry season. On average, their rainfall increases from about one to two inches each month during most of the year to about three inches in September, October and November, according to Netherland Antilles Meteorology.

Several other destinations average about four inches of rain in August and also may have lower risk. They include Antigua, Cancun, Montego Bay, Punta Cana and St. Maarten.

Islands with a higher than normal risk of rain include Bahamas, Dominica and Martinique. Total rainfall in the Bahamas jumps by 50 percent versus July.

The popular Central American destinations of Belize and Costa Rica, which are famous for their rainforests, usually see high levels of rain as well.

Caribbean Temperatures in August

Staying warm in the Caribbean isn’t a problem in August. Places such as Cancun, Cayman Islands, Cozumel, Aruba and Curacao all see average high temperatures exceed 90 degrees Fahrenheit on many days.

Anyone who has visited those locations in the summer know that the heat can be unbearable at times, especially inland or walking on beach sand in the middle of the afternoon. Aruba and Curacao in particular have arid interiors with little to no shade. Visitors should try to do any shore excursions on land in the mornings when temperatures are lower.

Locations with more moderate temperatures include Antigua, St. Lucia and Dominican Republic.

Cruise Weather in August

Higher rainfall and hot temperatures make western Caribbean cruises less appealing in August for Cancun, Cozumel, Grand Cayman and the Central American countries.

Eastern cruises are only slightly better, but travelers should avoid the Bahamas because of much higher than normal rainfall. San Juan and St. Lucia also have wet months.

Southern Caribbean weather makes cruises there a better choice, especially for ones that visit the dry islands of Aruba and Curacao.

Anyone who wants to take a Caribbean cruise during the summer and has some flexibility with their schedules may want to cruise during July and especially during June. The average rainfall is lower for most destinations.

But at least August is better than September. Historically, September is the worst month of the year for rain, storms and hurricanes in the Caribbean.

• Cruise Ports

17 BEST Places to Visit in the Caribbean in July & August!

Categories Caribbean , Summer Travel

Where to go in the Caribbean in July & August, the main summer holiday months is a popular question because the Summer in the Caribbean is known as not the best time to visit the Caribbean …

However, this shouldn’t put you off! There are plenty of good islands in the Caribbean to visit in the Summer months that offer dry, nice weather away from the hurricane season that is common during the summer months in this region.

Generally, the low season in the Caribbean is from  June to November and the high season is from December to April.

There are lots of positives to visiting the Caribbean in low season and off peak season too like less crowds and lower prices and the chance to focus on the amazing Caribbean water activities whilst the rain passes!

Best Places to Visit in the Caribbean in July & August

On my travel blog, I’m trying to find the best places to visit in the Summer months of July & August because so many people, especially families with children off school want and need to travel in these months.

So far, I’ve shared the best places in Asia to visit in July & August and the best places in Africa to visit in July & August !

Best Places to visit in Caribbean in Summer

I’ve teamed up with a group of travel bloggers who love the Caribbean to give their recommendations on visiting in the Caribbean (and the nearby region) during July & August. In this list expect to find the best islands to visit in the Caribbean in July , the best islands to visit in the Caribbean in August , the best places to visit in Central America in July & August on the Caribbean Coast and where to visit nearby the Caribbean in July & August .

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The little island of Aruba is easily one of the best places in the Caribbean to visit in July or August because it’s less rainy compared to the winter months . Aruba’s dry season lasts from mid-January until September , and during this time it’s usually very sunny and warm, making it the perfect time to swim at the beach and soak up sun.

One of the best things to do in Aruba is the popular ATV tour, which goes to several places around the island like Arikok National Park and the California lighthouse, which was built in 1916. There’s even a rock bridge you can walk on, and a natural tide pool where you can swim during the tour.

Here are some of the tours that you must enjoy in Aruba

If you enjoy hiking, there are several trails in the Arikok National Park that are relatively easy and have nice views of the ocean. Families with kids can also do a little bit of easy hiking at the Casibari and Ayo rock formations in central Aruba, where you can see big boulders and petroglyphic writing. It’s a fun activity if you want to get off the beaten path and away from the tourist crowds.

Aruba is especially famous for its white sand beaches, which can be found in all corners of the island. Two of the best beaches are Arashi and Palm Beach , where you can enjoy the sunset every evening. Another great option is Boca Grandi beach in eastern Aruba , which is popular for kitesurfing.

Overall, Aruba is the perfect island to visit in July or August!

Suggested by: David & Intan from The World Travel Guy

Jamaica makes for a great destination for a family holiday . It offers sandy beaches, water activities, stunning coastline and fun activities for everyone. December to April is the peak season for Jamaica. We visited in August for a beach wedding and it hardly rained .

August to October is the Caribbean hurricane season but we hardly experienced any rain. There were lesser crowds and cheaper rates at the all-inclusive resorts that this tropical paradise is known for.

For a family trip, I would recommend sticking to the north corridor in Jamaica . You can base yourself in one of the all-inclusive beach resorts at Negril, Montego Bay or Ocho Rios . An all-inclusive resort works well for a family vacation. You can perhaps split your Jamaica itinerary at a couple of resorts in different parts of the island. I recommend the Beaches resort in Ocho Rios for its location, private beach, several restaurant choices on the premises and proximity to several tourist attractions.

Being a tropical island, Jamaica is all about the ocean, water activities and exploring its scenic coastline. Hire a private boat or take a group cruise to explore the seas. There could be a chance for a tour in the open ocean to get cancelled because of weather changes. Other popular water activities include swimming, snorkelling and diving.

Look at these tours:

A visit to Dunn falls to climb the waterfalls at Ocho Rios is a good option for something different from the beach . Dunn’s River falls is a 65 foot waterfall located within a natural park. In peak season, this popular sport gets super busy. Not that we had it to ourselves in August, but it was much less crowded.

Suggested by: Shweta from Zestinatote

Bonaire is one of the best Caribbean islands to visit if you love scuba diving. But, that’s definitely not the only thing this island has to offer.

Bonaire is a bit of a hidden gem in the Caribbean , and a great place to visit in July and August for several reasons. Its geographical location shields it from hurricanes , making it a safe destination during these months when many other Caribbean islands face unpredictable weather.

Bonaire offers a plethora of outdoor activities suitable for families and travelers of all ages. The island is renowned for its world-class diving and snorkeling opportunities. With crystal-clear waters and vibrant marine life, Bonaire’s underwater world is a real paradise. If you’ve never tried scuba diving before, Bonaire is a great place to learn.

In July and August the winds are also great for windsurfing and Bonaire’s Lac Bay is a world famous windsurfing destination, great for both beginners and experienced wind surfers.

Nature enthusiasts can explore Bonaire’s diverse landscapes, from the otherworldly salt flats of Pekelmeer where you can spot lots of flamingos, to the scenic Washington Slagbaai National Park , home to indigenous flora and fauna.

With its beautiful beaches and laid-back island vibe Bonaire is also a great island to just relax and get away from it all. It’s much less developed than some of the most well known Caribbean tourist destinations , giving it a more unique island vibe.

Spend the day in the cute, small capital of Kralendijk, book a relaxing sunset cruise, or take a watertaxi to Klein Bonaire which is a beautiful small island just off the coast of Bonaire.

Overall, Bonaire in July and August offers a perfect blend of adventure, relaxation, and natural beauty. Its weather, combined with diverse activities for all ages, makes it a great choice for a Caribbean vacation during the summer months.

Suggested by: Sanne Wesselman

Bocas del Toro

For those pondering the best periods to visit the Caribbean , Bocas del Toro in Panama shines as a standout choice during July and August. While it is a common misconception that these summer months are not ideal for a Caribbean adventure due to typical regional weather patterns, Bocas del Toro defies expectations with its own set of perks.

As the region waves goodbye to the rainy season, the area meets visitors with a mix of sunny days and occasional refreshing rains that showcase the islands at their lush best. The post-rainy season climate is perfect for anyone looking to explore the outdoors without the extreme heat or downpours .

The end of the rainy season also brings another advantage — fewer tourists.

This translates into a more laid-back experience for all types of travelers, including families. Quieter beaches, more space on tours, and a relaxed pace all contribute to a stress-free holiday. With smaller crowds, you’re more likely to get a spot on that sunbed or enjoy uninterrupted views on a jungle trek.

For families, these quieter months mean children have the freedom to play and explore without the hustle and bustle, and parents can relax a little easier knowing that the environment is calmer and the party crowd is elsewhere.

Surfing, which is popular in Bocas del Toro , becomes an activity almost tailored for beginners during these months. The waves are friendly, and the absence of crowds means more room and waves to catch for everyone interested.

Lastly, the lack of hurricanes is a significant advantage. When other parts of the Caribbean are bracing for storms, Bocas del Toro remains blissfully outside the hurricane belt , providing peace of mind for all visitors.

Suggested by: Josephine from Josephine Remo

San Blas Islands

San Blas islands, a stunning archipelago located off the Caribbean coast of Panama , is a hidden gem that should be at the top of your list for a summer getaway in July and August. I have been there personally and can provide valuable information based on real experience.

The ideal weather is one of the most compelling reasons to visit San Blas in these months. July and August mark the dry season in this region, ensuring you’ll experience sunshine and relatively low humidity . These conditions make it perfect for enjoying the pristine, white-sand beaches, clear turquoise waters, and vibrant coral reefs that San Blas is renowned for. Snorkelling, scuba diving, and water sports are at their best during this period.

Families will particularly enjoy San Blas as it offers a tranquil and safe environment . The Kuna indigenous people who inhabit the islands welcome tourists with open arms, providing a unique opportunity to immerse in their rich culture. Families can visit local villages, interact with the Kuna, and learn about their traditional way of life.

However, be prepared for higher prices during the peak tourist season, and book accommodations and tours well in advance. Also, while the weather is generally excellent, be mindful of the occasional tropical rainstorm that can interrupt your plans. Despite these considerations, San Blas in July and August promises an unforgettable Caribbean experience for families and travellers.

Suggested by: Victoria from guideyourtravel

One of the best places to visit in the Caribbean during the summer months is Curacao island . It’s located in the south of the Caribbean off Venezuela and is a Dutch territory, along with its neighboring islands: Aruba and Bonaire.

What makes Curacao a good option to visit is that it is situated below the hurricane belt . You’re less likely to have bad weather or have your trip disrupted since you won’t be dealing with hurricane season like many of the other islands. Curacao’s weather is similar throughout the year with warm, tropical days and cool trade winds, perfect for beach vacations.

One of the best things to do is hit the beach as Curacao is known for its beaches and beautiful, turquoise coves . The island is also a great place for diving if you’re scuba certified and there are many nearby reefs and wrecks to explore.

Another highlight is wandering through the capital city of Willemstad. Willemstad is full of brightly colored Dutch colonial buildings and is situated by the water. There are multiple points of interest nearby including the Queen Emma Bridge and the Rif Fort –a historic fort turned shopping center. Along the north tip of the island is where you’ll find the Shete Boka National Park . It’s a rocky area with underground caverns where you can see the waves crashing through.

Curacao has a lot of beautiful places within the island whether you explore the colorful town, the beaches or national park. It’s the perfect spot for a summer getaway.

Suggested by: Ashley from jetsetjansen

Belize is a small Central America with the Caribbean coastline that is located at the door step of the Great Mesoamerican Barrier Reef – the second largest barrier reef in the world that’s known for its superb diving and snorkeling opportunities.

August and July are low season in Belize as the country is in the middle of the rainy season which means your opportunities for water activities can be limited.

But don’t worry, you can still enjoy Belize during this time of the year. All you need to do is visit the country’s mainland where you can enjoy caving, explore Mayan ruins and swing through the jungle on a zip line.

If you are visiting Belize in summer, make sure to check out San Ignacio , an adventure hub in Western Belize near the border with Guatemala.

San Ignacio provides access to some of the best Mayan ruins in Belize like Xunantunich, Caracol, and Altun-Ha, where you can learn the history of the area.

If you feel adventurous, take a day trip to ATM caves , part of the Belizean cave system – the largest in Central America, where you can learn about the ancient Mayan rituals that were taking place here thousands of years ago and swim in the caves accompanied by your guide.

Don’t miss the chance to experience these incredible tours – they’re sure to make your trip unforgettable:

Another popular day trip from San Ignacio is Barton Creek Cave where you can float on an inflated tube through the caves while learning about the significance of this place.

Cave tubing is one of the best things to do in Belize and a perfect activity to enjoy during summer when the country’s coastal destinations experience rain . Finally, you can also take a day trip to neighboring Guatemala to visit Tikal or book a zip lining tour, one of the most popular activities in San Ignacio .

Suggested by: Daria from thediscoverynut

Turks and Caicos Islands

A great place to visit in the Caribbean during July and August are the Turks and Caicos Islands. Due to the location of the islands, they tend to avoid a lot of the summer rains in comparison to some of the other destinations. Temperatures stay around 31c/81f, with the sea temperature almost the same as the air temperature!

The Turks and Caicos Islands are a British Overseas Terrritory, and English is the official language. The most popular island is Providenciales, which is home to the international airport. Grace Bay is the largest town, with many of the large resorts and accommodation options close to the picturesque Grace Bay Beach.

Here are some accommodation options near picturesque Grace Bay Beach – Explore and Book now!

There are lots of things to do for families, to make the perfect   Turks and Caicos itinerary . A highlight includes an eco-tour to the nearby Mangrove Cay. Several companies offer both stand-up paddle boards or kayaks for the trip. Younger children are allowed to sit on the front of an adult’s paddle board or you may prefer to use a double kayak instead.

Another unique activity for families is to walk the puppies at Potcake Place . This is a non-profit charity that cares for rescued Potcake dogs. Guests are encouraged to take the puppies for a 2-hour ‘socialisation walk’ to Grace Bay Beach!

For places to eat, the Thursday Night Fish Fry in Bight Park gathers a range of local food trucks, market stalls, and live music each week. This is a great way to sample some of the local dishes.

Suggested by: Kylie from Between England and Everywhere

Corn Islands

Corn Islands is a hidden gem off the Caribbean coast of Nicaragua, boasting a calm and less-touristy Caribbean vacation. It is made up of two islands – Big Corn and Little Corn Island . Neither island has resorts nor chain restaurants, making it an incredible place to experience local cuisine and way of life. Little Corn Island even doesn’t have motor vehicles on the island and is only accessible via boat from Big Corn Island!

It is an amazing place to visit at any time throughout the year , even during the rainy season. The rainy season typically consists of a short period of heavy rain , usually in the morning, followed by partially clouded skies. It then leaves you with much of the day to explore what the islands have to offer! Plus, a brief break with the rain is a great time to relax in your hotel, or run through the rain to cool off from the hot Caribbean temperature!

These remote islands offer many of the best things to do in Nicaragua, including incredible scuba diving and snorkeling, and tasty Caribbean delicacies such as Conch. With crystal clear water, you’re bound to spot fish just from swimming near the shore. The beaches on the island are not busy at all, making it feel like you are on your own private island, especially in the off-season!

Despite being very remote and less touristy, it is a very safe destination to travel to whether solo or with a family. The locals are extremely nice and the island is safe at night. You can even opt to walk around the entire perimeter of both islands during your stay to take in the views of the ocean.

Suggested by: Devin of Deventuretime

Tortuguero is located in Costa Rica and is a great place to visit in the Caribbean in July or August. It is a unique destination known for its lush rainforests and abundant wildlife. This area is part of the Tortuguero National Park and is a breeding ground for several species of sea turtles. The park is truly marvelous and boasts a network of canals, rivers, and lagoons surrounded by dense rainforest offering great opportunities to explore the Costa Rican wilderness.

Visiting Tortuguero during July and August is particularly good to see sea turtles nesting on Tortuguero’s black beaches.

This period is the peak of the sea turtle nesting season, especially for the endangered green turtles. It’s a wonderful thing to see these majestic creatures coming to the shore at night to lay their eggs on the beaches.

July and August are a part of the wet season in Costa Rica, but don’t let this hold you back from visiting. Next to the sea turtles, it on of the best times during the year to see wildlife . The rainforests are teeming with life, and you can see a variety of animals such as monkeys, sloths, toucans, crocodiles, and many more in their natural habitat.

On a family trip, you can enjoy various activities such as guided canoe trips, jungle hikes, and boat tours , which are safe yet adventurous. As a traveler, you can also experience the local culture by interacting with the community in the village of Tortuguero and enjoying the amazing food they have on offer.

You can reach Tortuguero by bus and boat coming from the capital San José. Alternatively, consider a boat trip from Limon, Puerto Viejo, or Cahuita to Tortuguero , which allows for a lot of wildlife spotting!

Suggested by: Annelies from travelersanddreamers

One of the main reasons people avoid the Caribbean in the summer is because it’s also hurricane season in that region. However, the island of Roatan is located below the hurricane belt and hasn’t been hit by a hurricane since 1998.

Rotan is a small, tropical island that is part of Honduras. It’s a popular cruise port and vacation destination. In fact, the only real industry on the island is tourism. Since it’s not susceptible to hurricane season, there isn’t a bad time to visit. However, less people tend to visit in the summer so you’ll find smaller crowds and lower prices.

There are many great things to do in Roatan in the summer. There are many great adventure activities such as ziplining, atv tours, and horseback riding. In addition to adventure activities, there are amazing white sand beaches in Roatan such as Little French Key, West Bay Beach, and Maya Key.

Finally, if you aren’t looking for beach time or adventure, there are many great cultural excursions on the island. You can you’re a local chocolate factory and learn all about the production process. You can also take a cooking class with a local to learn all about Honduran cuisine.

The most common way to get to Roatan is on a Caribbean cruise . However, you can also fly directly to the island from some airports in the United States or mainland Honduras. Once you are in Roatan, there are many beach resorts and vacation rentals for groups of all sizes and budgets.

Since there is such a variety of things to do in Roatan, it’s a great destination for couples, families, and even solo travelers. There is something to do for any age group or interest.

Suggested by: Lauren from thetravelingmoore

In general, Cuba is similar to other locations in the Caribbean when you visit them in the summertime. It is not as crowded as in winter (still locals are on holiday then), so prices are better. But it is not the cheapest season like spring or autumn . Also, the weather is hot (up to 100°F) and humid. Toward the end of summer, hurricanes are possible, but Cuba has the best system to respond to this kind of emergency in the area.

The best advantage of Cuba is its size. Cuba is by far the biggest Caribbean islands with 111.000 square kilometers and almost 11 million inhabitants. On its 3,570 miles of coast, you can find many beaches to cool down all around the island, from westernmost Maria la Gorda, Playa Ancon at Trinidad, Varadero Beach with resorts, luxury Cayo Largo, local playa Siboney in the east.

It offers many activities from visiting caves, coffee farms, horse riding, visiting cities (Havana, Santiago de Cuba, Santa Clara, Trinidad). Summer in Cuba is the season of events, the two biggest being festival and carnival in Santiago de Cuba. Festival del Caribe aka Festival of Fire in July is a week-long festival in Santiago with Caribbean concerts and many other cultural events.

The carnival at the end of July is the biggest in the region and you can enjoy its main parade, dance, music, and colors. During the carnival, they make a pause to celebrate 26 July as the date when the revolution has begun – an attack on Moncada Barracks . Revolution made this country special in many aspects, but one interesting for tourists would be riding in oldtimer cars. So you will have a chance to experience the Caribbean in summer with extra options not found elsewhere in the region.

Suggested by: Dzangir from drjamtravels

North Coast of Colombia

Colombia’s northern coastline is a popular tourist destination for travellers seeking out a sunny spot along the Caribbean coast. Through July and August it can get a bit wet and stormy , but in our experience the rain comes in predictable bursts allowing you to still make the most of the area whilst enjoying fewer crowds and more affordable accommodation.

The coast extends along the northern section of Colombia, with most travellers opting to explore Cartagena, Santa Marta, Minca, Tayrona National Park and Palomino. This route offers the perfect mix of historic cities, mountain villages, hiking and beaches.

Cartagena is the perfect place to fly into and to pick up essentials like cash and a Colombian sim card . You can easily spend a few days wandering through the colourful streets. From here you can take a bus and taxi to the mountain village of Minca. This is a beautiful place to slow down and relax, however, the hiking here is also incredible. The most famous of which is the Lost City Trek.

After Minca, head to the coast and explore the picturesque beaches in Tayrona National Park and Palomino. You can even take a tour to the flamingo sanctuary where you can see hundreds of flamingos – they prefer this time of the year which makes July and August perfect! Just note that with Tayrona you will need to hike quite a distance so be mindful of the weather and avoid days with heavy rainfall.

Overall, this trip is perfect for everyone. Backpackers will find a string of hostels along the route, whilst couples or families can find resorts and retreats ranging from affordable to luxury.

Suggested by: Delilah from travelsimexpert

Puerto Rico

When considering the best places to visit in the Caribbean during the summer months , you should consider taking a trip to Puerto Rico. This beautiful island is full of diversity with impressive landscapes, breathtaking beaches, and rich history. If you’re coming from the States, you don’t even need a passport!

San Juan, Puerto Rico’s capital, is especially colorful, with charming alleyways and stunning cobbled streets. However, Puerto Rico is mostly frequented by tourists simply for its gorgeous white sandy beaches.

With even 4 days in Puerto Rico , there is tons of fun to be had. From exploring waterfalls in El Yunque National Forest and beach hopping to learning the rich Spanish History at El Morro and exploring pink salt flats, there is something for everyone.

For foodies, Puerto Rico is an excellent place to visit . Take part in one of the many food tours in Old San Juan, or enjoy Piña Colas and Bacardi, both integral to Puerto Rican culture.

Here are some tours you shouldn’t miss when visiting Puerto Rico:

While Puerto Rico can be very hot and humid in the summer , you have the ocean to take a dip in and cool off!

Additionally, there are several summer festivals . Make sure to check out the Piña Colada Festival (where you can buy Piña colada’s for as little as $4). Or, the Aibonito Flower Festival, where locals come together to host live music, create plant displays, and sell authentic food. Also, don’t forget to go to La Placita during the weekend.

Puerto Rico is also very family-friendly. Activities such as zip lining, visiting national parks, and water activities are all great options that all ages can enjoy.

Suggested by: Samantha Oppenheimer from Find Love and Travel

Isla Mujeres

One of the best places to visit in the Caribbean in July and/or August is the beautiful island of Isla Mujeres. Nestled off the coast of Cancun, this tropical paradise beckons with its warm turquoise waters and sun-soaked beaches.

While these summer months fall within the peak of the Yucatan Peninsula’s rainy season, don’t let the occasional downpour dampen your spirits. Typically, the rain lasts a short amount of time during the day , meaning you have plenty of time to explore! There are plenty of things to do in Isla Mujeres that will fill up your days. Whether you’re relaxing on Playa Norte or

The island is surrounded by coral reefs and so be sure to venture into the crystal-clear waters for unparalleled snorkeling and scuba diving experiences. The marine life is abundant, and the visibility is often at its best during these months. Encounter majestic sea turtles and vibrant coral reefs as you explore the underwater wonders. July and August are the perfect time to go snorkeling with whale sharks in Isla Mujeres! These gentle giants are amazing animals.

If you need a break from the water, head south to Punta Sur . The cliffs along the water are stunning and keep your eyes open for iguanas sunbathing. You’ll learn about the history of the island and the Mayan culture of the region. It’s a great place to take families.

In the evening, head out to some of the smaller beaches and try to spot turtles laying their eggs. You’ll see signs about how to protect the turtles, so be sure to follow them. Don’t use flash photography, keep your distance, and don’t get between them and the water.

So, if you’re seeking a tropical escape with a touch of tranquility and a splash of cultural vibrancy, Isla Mujeres in July and August invites you to indulge in a summer vacation that is memorable for the whole family.

Suggested by: Pamela from directionallychallengedtraveler

July and August can be an awesome time to visit Tulum , Mexico. There’s lower demand to visit during this timeframe, due to the steamy and rainy weather. But, that’s great news for you—you should be able to snag awesome deals on airfare and hotels!

Plus, it usually just rains for a few hours in the afternoon anyway, allowing you plenty of time to enjoy the beach and explore (and have an afternoon siesta, if you want!). It will also be less crowded and have less of a party vibe than it normally does—so it’s a great time to visit if you’re traveling with a family or just looking to have a more chill vacation.

Additionally, it’s one of the best times of the year to see whale sharks around the Yucatan . These magnificent creatures, which hold the title of the largest fish on the planet, migrate around the waters of Cancun, Isla Mujeres, Isla Contoy, and Isla Holbox to feed during this timeframe.

There’s plenty of other activities to keep you busy in Tulum. For example, the Yucatan Peninsula is known for its plentiful cenotes, which are underground caverns, formed from porous limestone that’s caved in and filled with crystal clear groundwater. Consider joining any number of Tulum cenote tours to get to enjoy swimming through the cool water of the dozens of otherworldly sinkholes that surround the city and seeing their unique stalactites and wildlife up close and personal.

Alternatively, consider learning a bit more about the Mayan history of this region . For example, head over to explore the Coba Ruins, a sprawling complex of Mayan ruins that are over two thousand years old. Because of their location, nestled away deep in the jungle, they tend to be a lot less crowded than other options in the area, like Chichen Itza.

Suggested by: Jess from uprootedtraveler

Dry Tortugas National Park

If you’re looking for one of the best places to visit in the Caribbean in July and August then you cannot beat Dry Tortugas National Park. See, this incredible natural oasis of beautiful beaches and stunning coral reefs is a series of seven islands that lie 70 miles west of Key West. 

Because of their remote location, the Dry Tortugas do not receive the same number of visitors that many other places in the Caribbean do at this time of year. 

In fact, the park only receives around 70,000 visitors annually. So, be sure to visit if you hate crowds but still want to enjoy one of the best things to do in Florida . Because even in July and August, you’re likely to have the place all to yourself. 

To get to the park, reserve a ticket aboard the Yankee Freedom III for around $190.00 per person. In total, the trip will take around two hours and fifteen minutes each way. However, food is included in the price of your ticket. You’ll also love cruising past some of the most stunning scenery in the Caribbean. 

Upon arrival, explore historic Fort Jefferson, relax on the pristine beaches of Garden Key,  look for Sooty Turns on Bush Key, or cool off from the intense summer heat with some snorkeling on the moat wall. 

And if you’re feeling extra adventurous, go scuba diving around the Windjammer shipwreck. The ship itself dates back to 1875 and sits near Loggerhead Reef. Additionally, this is where you’ll find a lovely lighthouse and where you can spot some cute sea turtles cruising through the water.

Suggested By: Victoria of Florida Trippers

I hope this list helps you with the best places to visit in the Caribbean in July and the best places to visit in the Caribbean in August!

• For more of my posts from the region and these months see:
• Dominica Travel Guide! A Complete Guide To Dominica Travel!
• 10 Unique & Fun Things To Do in Dominica That You Have To Do!
• What To Pack For A Caribbean Holiday! Caribbean Packing List!
• 20 BEST Places to Visit in Africa in July & August – Good Weather & Less Crowded Places!

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Best Caribbean Islands For... , Caribbean , Destinations · April 20, 2024

The 7 Best Caribbean Islands to Visit in August

The month of August is peak vacation season around the world. With summer break in full swing, many families take the opportunity to go on vacation. At this time of year, not many people consider putting the Caribbean at the top of their list. But, having spent the last three years in this part of the world – and approaching our fourth – we’re ready to provide you with a list of the best Caribbean islands to visit in August, so you can plan the perfect summer trip that will be uninterrupted by bad weather.

Is August a Good Time to Go to the Caribbean?

August can be a great time to visit the Caribbean – if you avoid the main areas of the hurricane belt. There won’t be many other tourists around because peak season is long gone, you can find some great deals on flights and accommodation and, if you pick the right island, the weather can be gloriously warm with minimal chance of being affected by storms and hurricanes.

Is August Hurricane Season in the Caribbean?

Yes, mid-August until early October is peak hurricane season, meaning islands are most likely to be impacted by hurricanes and tropical storms during this time. However, there are some areas and islands within the Caribbean that have a much lower chance of being impacted by hurricanes, meaning they’re great to visit in August.

Read More: The Best Caribbean Island to Visit in July: 7 Top Choices

The Best Caribbean Islands to Visit in August

All of the best Caribbean islands to visit in August sit either outside the hurricane belt or on the southern edge of it. Typically, hurricanes follow one of three paths across the Atlantic before passing through the Caribbean. Usually, islands south of Guadeloupe are less impacted, and the further south you go the slimmer the chances are you’ll feel the impact of a hurricane.

The best Caribbean islands to visit in August are:

• St Vincent and the Grenadines

Grenada is in our top 3 Caribbean islands, and we frequently have to debate if it’s our favourite. It’s undoubtedly one of the best Caribbean islands to visit in August because it’s Spicemas ! A 10-day carnival celebration that is honestly one of the best atmospheres and energy we’ve ever experienced. Affectionately named after the islands’ nickname, the Spice Island, Spicemas is the party season in Grenada. Events take place for months beforehand and culminate in Soca and Calypso concerts as well as multiple parades including Jouvet, Pageant, Monday Night Mass, and Parade of the Bands. These festivities occur across August 12th and 13th in 2024.

To put things into perspective, Spicemas Launch is on May 4th – that’s how important carnival is in Grenada.

Outside of Spicemas, August is an awesome time to visit Grenada because it’s an island that has everything and so many things to do . Whether you want to get out and adventure while soaking up local life, go island hopping to Carriacou , or you prefer ultimate relaxation and luxury in one of the many 5-star resorts – you’ll find it in Grenada.

As it’s the rainy season, the rainforest will be lush and in full bloom, the impressive waterfalls will be flowing and natural swimming pools perfect for cooling off. Also, Grenada is home to some of the most beautiful beaches in the region, particularly the awe-inspiring Grand Anse Beach . And Grenadians are some of the happiest, welcoming and generally friendly people we’ve ever met.

🎒 Things to do in Grenada in August

• Enjoy a  sunset cruise  on the beautiful Grand Anse Beach
• Taste Grenadian cuisine on a  walking food tour
• Snorkel in the  world’s first Underwater Sculpture Park
• Trek to and swim at  Seven Sisters Falls
• Make chocolate and taste local Rum a historic plantation and Rum Distillery
• Hike Mount Qua Qua  and spot Mona Monkeys

Read more: Travel guides and inspiration for Grenada

Aruba is a dream destination for many people. Famous for its incredibly clear waters and beautiful white sands, Aruba had to be on the list of the best Caribbean islands to visit in August. The main reason it’s a top choice this time of year is that it sits outside the hurricane belt, meaning Aruba enjoys a sunny climate year-round, with minimal concerns about tropical storms and hurricanes. Also, it’s the international hub of the ABC islands (the main area of the Dutch Caribbean), meaning it’s super easy to get to.

Aruba has the influence of over 90 nationalities, meaning this island is incredibly diverse. The food, language, architecture and the people – it really is a melting pot of cultures. What’s great about Aruba is there really is something for everyone. If you’re a beach bum, then the white sands and turquoise waters of Baby Beach are calling. Prefer nature and adventure? Arikok National Park covers nearly 20% of the island, with rugged terrain, indigenous wildlife, and ancient Arawak paintings to be discovered. We particularly recommend heading out on an ATV and exploring these amazing scenes.

To escape the stress of seasonal storms, Aruba is definitely a top pick for the best Caribbean islands to visit in August, particularly if you’re a first-timer . Aruba is the more tourism-established island of the ABC islands, meaning you’ve got the most choice when it comes to accommodations, activities and places to eat.

🎒 Things to do in Aruba in August

• Explore Aruba’s rugged landscape with an ATV adventure
• Cruise and snorkel along the coast on a catamaran excursion
• Go scuba diving on Aruba’s vibrant coral reef
• Take a horseback ride through Arikok National Park to its stunning natural rock pools
• Experience a Caribbean sunset from the water
• Dive into Aruba’s nightlife with bar hopping in Oranjestad

Bonaire is one of the best Caribbean islands to visit in August for eco-tourists and water sports lovers. This place is celebrated for its pioneering role in marine conservation and has status as a diver’s paradise. The island’s commitment to protecting its natural environment is evident in every crystal-clear snorkel and dive site around its coast. Bonaire’s surrounding waters are part of a national marine park, ensuring the preservation of the coral reefs, meaning it offers some of the best diving in the world.

Also, if you’re into windsurfing or kitesurfing , then Bonaire is a great spot. Lac Bay is ideal for windsurfers of all levels because of its shallow waters and consistent winds. Kitesurfers have their spot on the southern beaches, where the conditions are just right for the sport.

The island’s landscape is a stark contrast to what you find underwater. On land, Bonaire has rugged terrain with salt pans , cactus-clad hills and the occasional pink flamingo sighting at Goto Lake or the Pekelmeer Flamingo Sanctuary. There are also plenty of trails for hiking and biking across desert-like scenery in Bonaire’s national park, Washington Slagbaai .

Overall, Bonaire is a place where you can unwind easily after a day of adventure. Whether you’re looking to get out on the water or to relax on land, Bonaire provides a simple, unspoiled setting for both.

🎒 Things to do in Bonaire in August

• Admire the stunning pink salt flats and their pyramids
• Go  scuba diving  at the iconic underwater sites of Bonaire
• Stroll along the pristine white sand beaches
• Enjoy a private catamaran cruise around the island
• Paddle through mangroves in a clear-bottom kayak
• Set out for a deep-sea fishing adventure

Curacao, the last of the ABC islands, is also one of the best Caribbean islands to visit in August due to its location outside the hurricane belt.

Curacao’s beaches are where the real magic happens and we recommend spending at least a day beach hopping . You’ve got your choice of hidden coves, long stretches of pristine sand and amazing snorkelling spots where the water clarity is off the charts. If you like a bit of adventure with your beach time, hiking up to the highest point in Christoffel National Park offers some seriously epic views.

Curacao caters to a diverse crowd, but it’s perfect if you’re looking for paradise beaches (like Playa Kenepa), fun outdoor activities and a real taste of island life and history, without the typical tourist congestion. The island’s accessible snorkelling sites, colorful streets of Willemstad’s UNESCO-listed city center , and friendly locals make it one of the best Caribbean islands to visit in August for families, couples, and solo travellers.

🎒 Things to do in Curacao in August

• Swim with turtles at Grote Knip Beach
• Go on a catamaran excursion to explore the coastline
• Island hop to the uninhabited island of Klein Curaçao
• Explore the  colourful streets of Willemstad
• Spend the day  visiting Curaçao’s best beaches
• Try local cuisine on a  food tour

5. St Vincent and the Grenadines

We called St Vincent and the Grenadines home for around 6 months, and we would recommend this country to anyone, particularly those looking to experience the real Caribbean. You won’t find giant resorts – this country is one of the few that haven’t been taken over by mass tourism. If waterfalls, island hopping , tiny paradise islands, deserted beaches, crystal clear waters and the most laid-back vibe you could imagine sounds like your thing, then St Vincent and the Grenadines are the best Caribbean islands to visit in August. 

This island chain has a total of 32 islands and cays, many of which are uninhabited. The few that do have inhabitants are like nowhere you’ll have ever experienced before. 

• St Vincent – the mainland – is raw, rugged and quintessential Caribbean. You’ll find waterfalls , black sand beaches , La Soufriere volcano , and beautifully dense rainforest. 
• Bequia , the largest of the Grenadine islands and probably the best equipped for tourism, is just 7 square miles in size. It has great restaurants and beaches and is the perfect base to explore from.
• Mustique and Canouan are island escapes for some of the most wealthy and famous people in the world.
• Mayreau is a dot in the ocean with a population of around 250 people, and is home to some absolutely sensational beaches.
• Union Island , the furthest south, has the clearest waters and whitest sand – it’s also a great kitesurfing spot.

Overall, we love St Vincent and the Grenadines, and if you want to experience the real Caribbean (the kind of vacation that staying in a resort will never provide), then you should put this at the top of your list of the best Caribbean islands to visit in August.

🎒 Things to do in St Vincent and the Grenadines in August

• Discover the  waterfalls and pirate history  on St Vincent island
• Go  clear kayaking to Fort Duvernette
• Swim at the iconic  Salt Whistle Bay
• Relax and sunbathe on the beaches in Bequia
• Hike La Soufriere volcano
• Island hop to  private and uninhabited islands

Read more: Travel guides and inspiration for SVG

6. Barbados

Barbados is one of the best Caribbean islands to visit in August because it marks the end of the Crop Over Festival , which takes place throughout the majority of July and into early August, culminating in Grand Kadooment Day, which is on August 5th 2024. This sees parades of Masquerade bands take to the street – essentially this is carnival. 

However, one of the main reasons Barbados is up there with the best Caribbean islands to visit in August is because of the lack of crowds. Throughout the year, Barbados is one of the most popular Caribbean destinations. Its well-established tourist infrastructure and huge choice of accommodations make it a hotspot. However, in the quieter months, you can bag yourself a deal and experience Barbados like most people never do. The beaches will be quiet, you won’t need to make reservations at every restaurant, the traffic will have calmed and none of the main things to do on the island will be ruined by crowds. 

Because of its abundance of choice, range of things to do and easy accessibility, overall, Barbados is probably the best Caribbean island to visit in August for families and first-timers.

You Might Love: 7 Best Caribbean Islands for First-Timers

🎒 Things to do in Barbados in August

• Set sail on a catamaran adventure
• Explore the untouched beauty of Bathsheba and the east coast
• Go snorkelling with the sea turtles of Barbados
• Get up close and feed the famous Green Monkeys
• Experience Bajan cuisine on a culinary walking tour
• Taste the heritage of Barbados during a rum tasting session at Mount Gay Distillery

Read more:  Travel inspiration and guides for Barbados

Tobago is one of the best Caribbean islands to visit in August for its unspoiled landscapes and connection to nature. It’s smaller than its sister Trinidad, but don’t let size fool you; it packs a punch with pristine beaches, laid-back vibes and some of the most jaw-dropping nature you’ll ever encounter.

Nature in Tobago is next level – much of the island is a nature reserve. The Main Ridge Forest Reserve, the oldest protected rainforest in the Western Hemisphere, is 3958 hectares (9780 acres!) of beautiful, tropical rainforest, and offers hikes through lush greenery and plenty of waterfalls, like Paria Falls . And, you’ll be able to spot an abundance of wildlife , including the rare Tobago parrot. Tobago is also great for getting underwater, with some of the best snorkelling spots around and vibrant coral gardens.

There are resorts in Tobago , meaning there’s plenty of choice for accommodations. So, if you’re someone looking to escape to a tropical island but still want access to ultimate luxury, then Tobago is a great choice that’s away from the more established islands.

🎒 Things to do in Tobago in August

• Snorkel around Buccoo Reef and Nylon Pool
• Discover every corner of the island with a full island tour
• Adventure through Tobago Main Ridge Forest Reserve
• Go beach hopping, waterfall chasing & sightseeing
• Chase the cascades at Paria Waterfall and Argyle Waterfall

Which Caribbean Islands to Avoid in Hurricane Season?

The Caribbean islands that have experienced the most hurricane landfall are:

• The Bahamas
• Saba and St Eustatius
• British Virgin Islands
• St Kitts and Nevis
• Antigua and Barbuda

However, hurricane paths are unpredictable and can change in an instant. It is best to avoid anywhere in the northern area of the Caribbean chain. A good rule to follow would be to stay south of, and including, Guadeloupe during peak hurricane season.

The Best Caribbean Islands to Visit in August Summarised

August can be an amazing time to visit the Caribbean if you choose your island carefully. To avoid the potential stresses of hurricane season, it’s best to stay south in the island chain. This doesn’t mean you won’t be affected by tropical storms and perhaps be on the occasional hurricane watch, but you will be at less risk. Choose one of the seven best Caribbean islands to visit in August we’ve suggested, and you’ll be on track to having a great vacation.

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The 3 Best Caribbean Islands in August

S chool’s out, summer is in full swing, and you’re MORE than ready for some sun, sand, and laid-back island vibes! If you’re craving delicious food , vibrant culture, and unbelievably beautiful landscapes, then the Caribbean islands will check every box – and then some. Read below to check out our picks for the best Caribbean islands in August!

With their glittering, turquoise waters and pristine beaches, the Caribbean islands are the stuff of dreams. However, if you’re considering an escape to the Caribbean this summer, then chances are you have plenty of questions – and weather-related concerns are undoubtedly at the top of that list.

Nevertheless, August is an incredible time to visit the Caribbean. You can achieve the summer escape of your dreams – as long as you know which island to choose!

What Island is Best to Go to in August?

“Best” is certainly a relative term – what’s best for you may not be what’s best for your coworker, neighbor, or cousin! With this in mind, there are still a few key factors to consider. Basically, you’ll want to choose an island that lies outside the hurricane belt. As a result, you’ll have the best chance of avoiding severe, wet weather. This is especially important during peak hurricane season, which begins in mid-August.

So Which Caribbean Islands Are Outside the Hurricane Belt?

The Grenadines, Grenada, Trinidad and Tobago, Aruba, Barbados, Bonaire, and Curaçao, are only some of the Caribbean islands that lie outside the hurricane belt. St. Vincent and Providencia Island are also good options. Therefore, these islands offer generally pleasant weather even during peak hurricane season! Additionally, they make great ports of call during an August cruise.

Aruba lies south of the hurricane belt, so you can rest assured that tropical storms and hurricanes are extremely unlikely. The last hurricane to hit Aruba was Hurricane Felix back in 2007 – nearly 20 years ago! Furthermore, the island sustained only minor damage.

Additionally, Aruba has plenty to offer outside of its ideal location. Here you’ll find vibrant culture and bustling nightlife in Oranjestad, incredible wildlife (like the island’s famous flamingos!), and an array of undeniably adventurous outdoor activities like snorkeling , hiking, and ATV’ing .

From romantic restaurants to breathtaking sunset sails, Aruba also offers plenty of opportunities for romance . Don’t be afraid to turn up the heat – the island’s tantalizing trade winds provide a pleasant breeze that significantly cools things down.

2. Barbados

Meanwhile, travel 700 miles east of Aruba and you’ll find yourself on the beautiful island of Barbados. This is a fun-loving island that’s both relaxing and high-energy. Most significantly, Barbados lies just outside of the hurricane belt. As a result, this magical island is often spared the dramatic effects of particularly intense tropical storms.

Obviously, it’s no secret that Barbados boasts some of the world’s most beautiful beaches. With swaying palm trees, clear waters, and pink-hued sand, you may be rather tempted to spend every moment on the beach.

Indeed, with its laid-back vibe and lively atmosphere, Barbados provides the perfect blend of sun-soaked relaxation and a carefree party atmosphere. The vibrant Bajan culture is a blend of British and West African influences, creating a unique destination that boasts both incredible cuisine and unforgettable island energy.

However, Barbados has much to offer beyond the beach. Here, you’ll discover dazzling marine life (i.e. the famous Leatherback turtle) along with land-loving wildlife like monkeys and exotic birds . Meanwhile, you’ll find adventure around every corner with exciting activities like ziplining and exploring shipwrecks.

Obviously, you won’t want to leave Barbados without sampling the island’s world-famous rum. Before jetting off for home, be sure to join a local guide for a stress-free rum tour or rent a car to explore the island’s four active rum distilleries and countless rum shops.

When you visit Barbados, you’ll have island vibes at your fingertips. With this in mind, it’s no wonder this vibrant island tops our list of the best Caribbean islands in August!

Is August a Good Time to Go to the Caribbean?

Generally, August in the Caribbean means low crowds and fantastic deals. While the temps are high and the sun is strong, you’ll enjoy pristine beaches, vibrant marine life, and clear, turquoise waters (just don’t forget the SPF!).

In the Gulf of Mexico, Atlantic Ocean, and Caribbean Sea, hurricane season generally begins in June and runs through November, with peak hurricane season falling between mid-August and late October. Consequently, August can be a fabulous time to visit the Caribbean – IF you know where to go!

Just off the coast of Venezuela lies the tiny – but undeniably magical – country of Grenada . Like Aruba and Barbados, Grenada is an ideal Caribbean destination in August because its location is outside the hurricane belt. Straddling the southern edge of the hurricane belt, Grenada is generally safe from major storms. Surprisingly, the region has only experienced one major hurricane in the past 60 years!

An ancient volcanic island, Grenada is part of the Caribbean’s Windward Islands. Though many people assume that Grenada is a single island, the country is actually comprised of one large island (Grenada) and six smaller islands, including Petit Martinique and Carriacou.

A Nature Lover’s Paradise

A nature lover’s paradise, Grenada boasts lush rainforests, spectacular beaches, and surprisingly beautiful botanical gardens. Indeed, Grand Etang National Park & Forest Reserve has certainly earned its reputation as a magical tropical escape. You’ll especially enjoy Grand Etang Lake, a picturesque crater lake that lies in an extinct volcano and hasn’t erupted in 12,000 years!

Likewise, you won’t want to miss Grenada’s EIGHTEEN majestic waterfalls. These natural spectacles are unquestionably breathtaking, providing views unlike anything else on the island.

For a stress-free experience, take a guided tour that includes Concord Waterfall which also includes stops at a rum distillery and chocolate factory. Otherwise, you can explore them all (especially the breathtaking Seven Sisters Waterfall) by renting a car or hopping aboard the island’s minibus transportation system.

Moreover, Grenada is equally appealing to families, solo travelers, and couples alike. But if you’re looking for a honeymoon or romantic getaway, consider Sandals Grenada for an unforgettable romantic stay. This all-inclusive beachfront resort offers not only fine dining and onsite activities but also a full-service spa, private cabanas, and other luxury amenities. The resort is explicitly adults-only. As such, you’ll enjoy a sophisticated vibe with a markedly romantic atmosphere.

Which Caribbean Island Has No Rain in August?

If you’ve ever been to the Caribbean, then you know that daily showers can be surprisingly common. Therefore, there’s no such thing as a Caribbean island with NO rain, even in the dry season. As a result, you may not be able to avoid rain altogether. However, even in the middle of hurricane season, you can achieve a generally rain-free island escape – as long as you choose your destination carefully.

So You’re Ready to Book an Island Escape in August …

If you have your sights set on the Caribbean this summer, then we’re here to help! From choosing the perfect Caribbean destination to making your island dreams a reality, we can make it happen whenever you’re ready. In fact, we may even have a few surprises for you!

Contact us today to book the island escape of your dreams! Don’t wait to book your fantasy Caribbean vacation – the earlier you book, the better the prices!

The post The 3 Best Caribbean Islands in August appeared first on Teach Travel Discover .

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The Best Caribbean Islands to Visit in 2024

By Brian Major

I’ve been fortunate to travel widely across the Caribbean over the last 30 years. I’m also a descendant of Caribbean people, so many folks assume I’ve visited every island. Not likely—the Caribbean consists of 28 islands encompassing just over one million square miles. So while I’ve visited most, there are still a handful I’ve yet to encounter. But that’s a good thing. Many know the Caribbean of picture-perfect views —all lush green hillsides, soft beaches, sunny skies, sun loungers, and poolside cocktails. But that’s really just the white-sandy surface of this region, where each island has something distinct to offer. On Dominica , hiking is unmatched, notably its Boiling Lake, a flooded fumarole located in Morne Trois Pitons National Park, where you can traverse across the rim of an active volcano. The best island hopping is in the British Virgin Islands , while Barbados is the action island, where the historic Garrison horse racing takes place year-round.

If you’re looking to soak up some winter sun by a pool lounger and nothing more, then any island in the Caribbean will do—the hotels in St Barth's are amongst some of the best in the world. But if you’re willing to dig a little deeper and venture beyond the resort gates, these are the best islands in the Caribbean.

Which is the best Caribbean island for families?

When little travelers are involved, the ease of a resort jam-packed with activities can take the strain off parents and let everyone enjoy the trip. For this reason, Barbados is the ideal Caribbean island for families, and there’s everything from larger, more affordable resorts to smaller boutique offerings. For intergenerational holidays and trips with slightly older children, consider hiring out a villa— Oliver’s Travels allows customers to filter results by ‘great for kids.’

All listings featured on Condé Nast Traveler are independently selected by our editors. If you book something through our links, we may earn an affiliate commission.

Best island for: action

Barbados might just be one of the best all-rounder islands in the Caribbean. Some of the top hotels in the region are found here, as are some of the best beaches, all accessible to the public—there are no private beaches in Barbados. Poolside beverages are spiked with rum, distilled on the island and best learnt about at St. Nicholas Abbey, a plantation house, museum, and rum distillery. Those looking for more diverse action can find it at the heritage railway, the racing car circuit, and the Garrison Savannah, a popular horse race that takes place throughout the year. And then there are the surrounding reefs, where you can swim with turtles, snorkel with seahorses, and spy whales in winter months.

Where to stay: Sandy Lane Hotel is one of the most glamorous hotels on the island complete with a British or American country club vibe—there are three golf courses on the hotel grounds. For something more low-key, Little Good Harbour ’s rooms feel more like private cottages and its fuss-free restaurant, The Fish Post, is beloved as one of the best in Barbados. For more ideas, consult our list of the best all-inclusive resorts on the island .

Best island for: romance

The Caribbean is synonymous with honeymoons but it's St Lucia that tops them all when it comes to serving up romance. You can thank the island’s mountainous landscape for that—it’s all about a room with a view of the 2,000-foot high Piton mountains, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the island’s calling card.

There’s adventure to be found too, like exhilarating zip lines high above the island’s rainforest canopy or mud baths in Sulphur Springs, a geothermically active basin of hot springs and fumaroles within the the dormant Qualibou volcano in Soufrière.

Where to stay: Coconut Bay is the biggest crowd pleaser on the island—all inclusive and catering to couples, families, and even wedding parties. For something more private, Ladera is an eco-lodge where rustic suites have private plunge pools. See our edit of the best resorts in St Lucia for more.

Best island for: beaches

In a region characterized by beautiful beaches , Anguilla has the best in the region. Partly for their mesmerizing ribbon of blue water but also because their powdery white sands invariably host only a handful of other beach-goers. There are 33 beaches in total, and while each one I’ve encountered has been memorable, the standouts to see include Cove Bay, Maundays Bay, Rendezvous Bay, and Shoal Bay.

Anguilla is also a worthy choice for its culinary scene. Refreshingly there are no chain restaurants on the island. Instead, restaurants and eateries tend to be small family-run businesses. If you visit just one, make it Tasty’s, which serves up a stellar coconut-crusted fish and marinated conch salad by Anguillan chef Dale Carty.

Where to stay: The Aurora Anguilla Resort & Golf Club is the newest shiny address on the island, with seven restaurants and bars and a fleet of private jets transporting guests to and from the property. Find more editor-vetted Anguilla hotels here .

British Virgin Islands

Best island for: island hopping

The British Virgin Islands (BVI) territory has few chain restaurants and no large hotels or mass tourism attractions. Instead, you’ll encounter turquoise waters, lush green hillsides, and distinctive cuisine and culture across the four main islands: Anegada, Jost Van Dyke, Tortola, and Virgin Gorda.

Hopping from island to island—whether via public ferry or private catamaran—is the characteristic way to explore the BVI. On my last visit I sailed to Jost Van Dyke’s White Bay, home to casual beachfront eateries serving dangerously delicious rum cocktails and locally caught fish. Another fantastic spot is Willy T’s Floating Bar and Restaurant near Norman Island. Moored offshore, the cargo ship has been converted into an ultra-relaxed eatery.

Where to stay: Located on a broad, secluded calm-water bay on Virgin Gorda, Rosewood Little Dix Bay has 80 villas and suites each staffed with a personal butler. The Reef House is one of three restaurants and features farm-to-fork dining with fresh provisions sourced locally.

Emily Pennington

Charlie Hobbs

Kaitlin Menza

CNT Editors

Best island for: diving

The calm waters surrounding Dominica make it one of the best diving spots in the world. The rainbow-colored seascape is best viewed at Champagne Reef, named for its bubbling waters generated by volcanic thermal springs rising from on the ocean floor. The reef also comprises plummeting cliffs, towering volcanic formations and the remains of a 17th-century Spanish shipwreck.

Another highlight is L'Abym, a dive site located on the island’s southern tip and suited to all skill levels due to Soufriere Bay’s gentle current. Underwater wonders are visible from 20 feet below the surface right down to a 1,500-foot maximum depth. An underwater wall extending its entire length gives the site its name.

Where to stay: Cabrits Resort & Spa Kempinski is the smartest place to stay on the island. All of the classic hallmarks are here—a full service spa, four swimming pools—but it’s the lush grounds, which incorporate Cabrits National Park, that make this spot memorable.

Best island for: natural beauty

Grenada’s 133 archipelagic square miles are laced with waterfalls, hot springs and tropical rainforests across three main islands: Grenada, Petit Martinique, and Carriacou. Ringed by 45 white- and nine black-sand beaches, the hilly isles are dotted with acres of fruit and spice trees.

One-ninth of Grenada’s land mass is dedicated to national parks and wildlife sanctuaries, best seen on a guided hike of Grand Etang Forest Reserve. Sister Island Carriacou is a worthy day trip too, especially for the top-shelf diving and snorkeling.

Where to stay: Few places capture Grenada's understated magic like the Silversands Grenada resort , found at the sleepy end of the two-mile Grand Anse Beach. The biggest draw here is the 330-foot infinity pool, said to be the longest in the Caribbean, which stretches from the hotel’s entrance all the way to the sea.

Puerto Rico

Best island for: history and culture

There’s a distinct energy to Puerto Rico , one that draws upon a fascinating blend of Hispanic, African, American, and Caribbean culture and history. To see it start in colonial San Juan , the second oldest European-founded city in the Americas. Head to the old town where cobblestone streets are lined with colorful Spanish buildings housing trendy bars, boutique shopping and all-night entertainment.

Hundreds of thousands of Africans arrived in Puerto Rico via forced migration in the colonial era. Their contributions to the island’s culture, art, music and cuisine live on today in Loiza, home to Puerto Rico’s largest Black population. You can witness it via the artwork on display at Samuel Lind Studio, or at the Don Rafael Cepeda School of Bomba and Plena which puts on traditional music and dance workshops.

Where to stay: Caribe Hilton is within walking distance of historic Old San Juan and the Condado entertainment district. Designed in tropical modernist style by legendary Puerto Rican firm Toro Ferrer, the grounds incorporate 17 acres of tropical landscaping as well as nine restaurants and an oceanfront pool complex. See our edit of the best hotels in Puerto Rico for more.

St. Kitts and Nevis

Best island for: visiting two islands in one trip

Lush natural beauty and historic attractions are the hallmarks of this twin-island nation. Most travelers visit both islands, as smaller Nevis is a breezy 20-minute ferry ride from larger St. Kitts. Sightseeing on St. Kitts is best done via the scenic train—the only working railway in the Caribbean—which circumnavigates the island on routes that once transported plantation sugar cane. Another highlight is the Brimstone Hill fortress, built of hand-chiseled stones by enslaved Kittitians and now a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Stand among the fort’s ramparts and cannon while taking in panoramic views of neighboring Saba, Statia, St. Maarten, and St. Barths .

Tiny Nevis’ resplendent landscape is overlooked by 3,232-foot high Nevis Peak, located at its center and visible from virtually every point on the island. Mountainside hiking and ATV tours uncover haunting ruins of colonial-era plantations and sugar mills.

Where to stay: Hide away in one of the traditional West Indian–inspired cottages at Belle Mont Farm . As the name suggests, dining here is farm-to-table, serving up freshly foraged organic fruit and vegetables plus seafood plucked straight out of the ocean.

This article was originally published on Condé Nast Traveller UK .

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• World's Best

The 25 Best Islands in the Caribbean, Bermuda, and the Bahamas in 2022

The best islands in the Caribbean, Bermuda, and the Bahamas run the gamut from off-the-grid hideaways to ultra-luxe retreats, according to Travel + Leisure readers.

Note: If you’re looking for our most recent recommendations, check out the 2023 list of our favorite islands in the Caribbean, Bermuda, and the Bahamas .

The Caribbean, Bermuda, and the Bahamas are a delightful mélange of islands — sunny stalwarts with shimmering blue waters, palm-fringed shores, and ultra-luxe resorts. But for all their common denominators, there's plenty that makes each island stand out, too. Some are rustic and rugged, bereft of any modern meddling, while others are well-developed oases with lots of shops, restaurants, and hotels to choose from. And Travel + Leisure 's list of the region's best islands this year is proof of its vast and varied offerings.

Every year for our World's Best Awards survey, T+L asks readers to weigh in on travel experiences around the globe — to share their opinions on the top cities, islands, cruise ships, spas, airlines, and more. Readers rated islands according to their activities and sights, natural attractions and beaches, food, friendliness, and overall value.

The British Virgin Islands dominate this year's rankings, with Jost Van Dyke (No. 9), Virgin Gorda (No. 16), and Tortola (No. 23) all making appearances. The Bahamas, too, are well-represented — the Exumas (No. 4) earned marks from one reader for the "prettiest water and beaches you will ever see," while Eleuthera (No. 24) was touted as "enchanting, pristine, and beautiful"

Several readers also raved about the beaches and turquoise waters on Anguilla (No. 3), with one calling it "paradise found." Another said, "Anguilla is my favorite spot on this earth. Nothing compares. The beaches, the people, the food, the enjoyment…total bliss."

Meanwhile, Grenada (No. 6) got a nod for its "incredibly kind people," and runner-up St. Vincent and the Grenadines (No. 2) received praise for "fantastic water excursions."

At No. 5, St. Lucia — home to the majestic Pitons, beautiful beaches, and plenty of chocolate and rum — was described as "a great spot for active travelers on a romantic escape." Another T+L reader said, "St. Lucia is an untouched gem in many ways, a very beautiful island with a delightful culture and many activities to enjoy."

But the No. 1 spot, according to this year's World's Best Awards survey, belongs to Dominica, concisely described by one reader as "stunning." Read more about Dominica, and get the full list of best islands in the Caribbean, Bermuda, and the Bahamas below.

1. Dominica

Nicknamed the Nature Island, Dominica is not defined by the combo of pristine white sand and shiny resorts that's often synonymous with the Caribbean. Instead, the anything-but-average island lures eco-travelers with a jumble of rain forests, volcanoes, hot springs, thunderous waterfalls, and black-sand beaches. It has an undiscovered quality that can be rare not only in the region, but the world over. It's a dream for hikers, snorkelers, and all kinds of adventurers, but the island also offers pockets of over-the-top luxury, including this year's best resort hotel in the Caribbean — Secret Bay, tucked within the rain forest with tree-house-style villas, jaw-dropping nature views, and private plunge pools.

Score: 91.00

2. St. Vincent and the Grenadines

Score: 89.79

3. Anguilla

Score: 89.43

4. Exumas, Bahamas

Score: 88.07

5. St. Lucia

Score: 87.86

Score: 87.71

7. Turks and Caicos

Score: 87.64

8. St. Bart's

Score: 87.60

9. Jost Van Dyke, British Virgin Islands

Score: 87.31

10. St. John, U.S. Virgin Islands

WBA Hall of Fame honoree. Score: 86.41

Score: 86.25

12. Harbour Island, Bahamas

Score: 86.11

Score: 85.93

14. Vieques, Puerto Rico

Score: 85.83

Score: 85.63

16. Virgin Gorda, British Virgin Islands

WBA Hall of Fame honoree. Score: 85.46

17. Bermuda

Score: 85.45

18. Bonaire

Score: 85.39

19. Jamaica

Score: 85.05

20. Cayman Islands

Score: 83.84

21. Antigua

Score: 83.78

22. Barbados

Score: 83.71

23. Tortola, British Virgin Islands

Score: 82.92

24. Eleuthera, Bahamas

Score: 82.91

25. St. Maarten/St. Martin

Score: 82.66

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And where to go right now? Here are our picks for seven places to visit in August, part of a new regular monthly feature we’ll be bringing you.

Anegada, British Virgin Islands Whether you’re a veteran of the British Virgin Islands or you’re an island collector looking for a new catch, Anegada is for you. Long one of the best-kept secrets in the BVI, this beach-and-lobster-filled paradise is now the crown jewel of the BVI, from luxe glamping to more traditional boutique stays and the kind of old-school beach bars that will make you instantly fall in love. And with regular ferry service, it’s remarkably easy to get here from Tortola. So what are you waiting for?

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• Destinations

Top 15 Islands To Travel To In August

Islands hold a special place in the hearts of travelers as destinations that represent an escape due to their physical separation from other land masses. August is a great month to make a trip to an island. It's a time when many kids in the U.S. are out of school, and families often plan vacations during that break. Some islands supply fabulous weather or have special events going on during this period, whether a culinary celebration or music festival.

August is a popular month to travel in general. According to data from the  U.S. National Travel and Tourism Office , nearly 6 million international visitors came to the United States in August 2022, and more than 7.5 million American tourists left the country in the same month. For those eager to get in on the action, we've used a variety of sources, including our personal travels, to put together a range of experiences to discover across islands in August.

The easternmost island in the Caribbean, Barbados, is a place of coral with great diving, snorkeling, music, and nightlife. It's also where rum was invented. Since it's a Caribbean island safe from hurricanes, Barbados makes for a viable destination year-round. But August stands out because Crop Over ramps up then, an annual event that marks the end of the sugar cane season and dates back to the 1600s. The celebration lasts about a month and has become what some consider the Bajan equivalent of carnival. It features parties, performances, music, and a final week of revelry, usually in early August, playfully known as the Last Lap.

All the energy culminates in the final event, Grand Kadooment Day, held on the first Monday of August. The capital of Barbados, Bridgetown, explodes with color as masquerade bands wind through the city's streets, and the infectious, unflagging vigor of participants dressed in sequined, feathered outfits spreads in all directions. The island has a wide range of accommodations to use as a base for enjoying the festivities, and beach lovers should lodge near Bridgetown. The well-reviewed  Radisson Aquatica Resort Barbados is close to the action. For a local culinary fave, head about 30 minutes down the road to the village of Oistins for the Friday night fish fry.

The Dutch Caribbean island of Curaçao has earned a reputation for its stunning beaches. It sits outside the hurricane zone, closer to South America than any other major landmass, with direct flights from a few U.S. cities to the island. It also hosts a huge music festival with many global names appearing on stage. Known as the Curaçao North Sea Jazz Festival , the production occurs over the last three days of August. Past performers have included John Legend and George Benson.

The shows take place across three stages at the World Trade Center Curaçao, at the edge of the capital Willemstad. Outside the festival, there is much to keep visitors excited, from restaurants that every foodie will want to try  to pink flamingos and a broad selection of sandy retreats. For a luxe stay at a romantic resort with a private plunge pool, check in to Baoase Luxury Resort.

While fireworks are undeniably bad for the environment, they have a hypnotic hold on people. Whether it's their sudden blasts of sound, loud enough to make observers jump, or the bright plumes of color against the night sky that appear like jewels on an inky sea, they somehow put even adults in a child-like trance. But if you think you've seen a fireworks display, like those on July 4, that can't be bested, think again. On Honshu, Japan's main island, the Nagaoka Fireworks Festival Show puts other fireworks extravaganzas to shame. The reviews on Tripadvisor are glowing; excuse the pun. Held over a couple of days at the beginning of August, the show features 20,000 fireworks blasted into the ether.

The event can be traced back to post-World War II when the Japanese sought to heal from the ravages of the past and look forward. These days, vast bursts of light flash above the city, which sits a few hours northwest of Tokyo by road. One set is playfully named Niagara Falls for its curtain of explosions that seem to flow down like a cascade. The Hotel New Otani Nagaoka is part of a well-established Japanese hotel chain with clean, comfortable rooms and is a dependable choice for your stay during the festival.

Summer in Iceland means long days and pleasant weather. Visitors can enjoy more than 17 hours of sunlight in August, which allows for plenty of time outdoors. That's good for fans of berries since August typically marks the beginning of the berry-picking season. Spending hours outside at this time of year to pluck berries, or "berjamór" in Icelandic, is a beloved experience for many locals, with varieties like blueberry, bog bilberry, and stone bramble sought out.

Perhaps the most special day of the month falls in late August when the capital, Reykjavik, comes alive with celebrations. Known as Culture Night, it's a day-and-night event running from early afternoon through evening. The city springs to life during those hours, with museums, theaters, and performance spaces staging special events. One commentator on Tripadvisor called it a fun and festive time.

People even open their homes to serve coffee and waffles to the public during Culture Night. There is a sense of community and a shared bond between locals and tourists. Would you like a chic hotel with striking artwork and sleek rooms with heated oak floors to act as your home base during the festivities? Check out 101 Hotel Reykjavik.

Key West, a Florida island that has long attracted dreamers, revelers, families, and the inquisitive, is the southernmost point on the United States mainland. The island attracts visitors year-round, but in August, it holds a particular appeal to rum lovers. Rum Fest Key West celebrates this strong spirit through a variety of events spread over five days in the middle of the month. The celebration kicks off with a sunset sail on a catamaran, followed by a poolside party at a hotel.

Other highlights of Rum Fest include a cocktail party at a sandbar, a dinner with rum pairings, live music, and seminars covering the drink's finer points. Tasting sessions will sate participants eager to tickle their palates with various rums. The Perry Hotel & Marina sits at the heart of the festival — it's where the pool party takes place — and has polished rooms and a great island feel, with views over packs of boats.

Lewis and Harris

A nation not known for its sultry climates, Scotland does have hundreds of islands, many with gorgeous, clear blue seas ringing them. Among them is the island of Lewis and Harris, part of the Outer Hebrides chain. August promises excellent weather, and while it will never feel tropical (on a map, Lewis and Harris sits at about the same latitude as central Canada), it will undoubtedly be pleasant. In August, the wildlife viewing reaches its zenith, with seals and sea birds visible in large numbers. Visitors who take a boat ride around the island might even see dolphins and whales at this time of year.

While the weather can be unpredictable, with buffeting winds possible, the general conditions and sight of wildflowers make it the best month to visit. There's lots to explore, from seaside cliffs and incredible sea stacks to ancient castles and stone circles. Locally made toiletries, Scottish food, and cozy rooms at  Hotel Hebrides will round out your stay.

This island at the eastern end of Indonesia is home to the country of Papua New Guinea and the Indonesian provinces of Papua and West Papua. In rugged, mountainous West Papua, which sits due north of the Australian city of Darwin, the eye-opening Baliem Valley Festival takes place each August, and it is a truly incredible spectacle. 

During the event, locals stage mock wars while wearing full tribal regalia, with body and face paint, ornate headdresses, and rudimentary bows and arrows, all part of the experience. Many different tribes take part, like the Yali, Dani, and Lani, each with its own beliefs and customs, some of which have little connection to the modern world. More than 1,000 tribe members amass each year, firing spears and arrows at one another in the same manner as might have happened centuries ago.

Alongside the otherworldly action, expect to hear the calming music of the Pikon, an instrument constructed of bark, dances, and pig races. In the region, Baliem Valley Resort has spacious bungalows and a chic rustic dining space, and you can arrange trips to see all the action.

The Southeast Asian nation of Malaysia encompasses hundreds of islands, including Sipadan, which boasts one of the best island reefs in the world. The island of Penang might not be a big snorkeling or diving destination, but it does have a buzzing street food scene, praised by celebrity chef Martin Yan, and a sizable Chinese population. That's why, generally, in August (the lunar calendar governs the exact dates), visitors will witness the Chinese event of Phor Thor, or the Hungry Ghost Festival, around the island of Penang.

Also known as Yu Lan, this annual homage to the dead marks the time when spirits are allowed back on Earth for a month, and living descendants will offer food, prayers, and burn ceremonial papers for the souls of their ancestors. There are performances around Penang, like opera or dance, where rows of seats are left empty so the spirits have a place to enjoy the entertainment. The island is hot and sticky this month, and rain is frequent. A cool property with a storied past to stay at during your visit is the Eastern & Oriental Hotel.

The Cook Islands are sprinkled across the South Pacific and embody what a tropical paradise should look like. You'll find striking beaches with sand as soft as confectioner's sugar, skinny palm trees along the shore whose leaves crackle together in the gentle breeze, and verdant interiors that contrast beautifully with the clear turquoise seas. August is the month that sits slap bang in the middle of the dry season, and with sunny days touching the high 70s and minimal rain, visitors can expect to enjoy the outdoors without fear of uncooperative skies.

This month is also when cultural events unfold to mark the independence of the nation, which happened on August 4, 1965. Known collectively as Te Maeva Nui, the week of celebrations includes dance performances, craft shows, musical get-togethers, and lots of opportunities to sample local food. The action takes place in Rarotonga, the main island in the archipelago and home to the capital, Avarua. It's a small isle that you could drive around in less than an hour, with buildings lower than a palm tree and a laid-back rhythm of life. Rarotonga has plenty of places to stay, and among the top-rated ones is Ikurangi Eco Resort, where glamping brings the outdoors in.

Saint Lucia

The Caribbean island of Saint Lucia has many things to do , and it is perhaps most famous for its two towering peaks, the Pitons. It also has a deep connection to chocolate. Cocoa has been grown on the island for centuries, and today, it has embedded itself into many facets of the hospitality industry. It's celebrated during the annual Chocolate Heritage Month, which runs in August, during which farms, restaurants, resorts, and purveyors hold special events, packages, promotions, and tours.

Visitors can sign up for a plantation tour at spots like  Morne Coubaril Estate to get a sense of the industry in Saint Lucia, which began exporting cocoa beans to Europe as far back as the 1700s. Resorts also offer chocolate treatments, from scrubs to facials, that are great for the skin and smell good enough to eat. To get into the spirit of proceedings, book a room at Jade Mountain, which has accommodations with private plunge pools that look onto the Pitons and its own chocolate farm and laboratory.

August in Sicily can be sweltering, with hot, tight days, though nights can feel cool and crisp. It's a great time to visit the island, see the ancient buildings, or head to one of the many beaches. This month is also a savvy time to head to the city of Cefalù on the north coast. During August, the Festival of San Salvatore is a smorgasbord of events, processions, and feasts. The festival aims to honor the town's patron saint, San Salvatore, which some believe also refers to Jesus Christ. The heart of proceedings is the cathedral, or "Duomo," part of a Unesco World Heritage site.

What to expect here? Crowds, of course, are a given, but they come for specific events. The huge procession is the crowning glory, but travelers can also enjoy live music, lots of food served at street stalls, fireworks displays, and a unique event called "ntinna a mari," which means sea antenna. Adventurers must walk along a pole over the water to pluck a flag fluttering on its end; many entrants end up in the water below. The Ossuna Bay Hotel Boutique has fine views of the Mediterranean Sea and is within walking distance from the Duomo.

A small city-nation just above the Equator, Singapore is a place of blinding efficiency and home to an airport with few rivals, repeatedly winning awards as the best airport in the world from  Skytrax . August is a special month for Singaporeans, when the island marks its independence on August 9. It's a day of parades, aeronautic flyovers, and a huge fireworks display that lights up the night sky. But there is another special event this month when the city is set ablaze in color: the Singapore Night Festival.

Running for two weeks, usually toward the end of the month and sometimes spilling over into September, the festival sees buildings mostly around the arts district of Bras Basah Bugis illuminated each evening. Sometimes, they are bathed in bands of light, but they can also feature moving images projected onto facades or streetscapes that become kinetic installations. Musical performances and great food round out the festival. Raffles Singapore, one of the most famous hotels in the world, sits within walking distance of it all.

South Island

The islands of New Zealand are frequently lauded for their majestic scenery, from jagged mountains with snowy peaks to long stretches of beach with clear blue seas. And yet, in August, the middle of winter in New Zealand, the star attraction is what's going on indoors. Visitors can get a handle on the local and international film scene at the annual  New Zealand International Film Festival .

Held in four cities across New Zealand's two main islands — the North Island and the South Island — and running throughout the entire month, the festival screens international content, but the focus is firmly on local talent. There are two competitions for short films, one for New Zealand's best short and the other for shorts concerning Maori culture. Base yourself in the largest city in South Island, Christchurch, which is also one of the destinations for the event. It's a charming spot with architecture that recalls buildings from the United Kingdom, and it is where you can find the dramatic Observatory Hotel.

The teardrop-shaped island at the bottom of India, Sri Lanka, has much to offer travelers. Enjoy everything from religious sites to colonial buildings, adventure tourism to trips around tea plantations, and even a gorgeous tented lodge worth booking a stay at.  During August, which sits in the monsoon season, tourists can expect hot, humid days and some periods of relentless rain. They can also look forward to Kandy Esala Perahera , which takes place in the central city of Kandy. A commenter from the city shared on Reddit that it offers the chance to see the whole country's cultural events in one place.

A 10-day bonanza of Buddhist celebrations and grand processions, Kandy Esala Peraher is a riot of color and sound. The event dates back centuries and involves the ritual of cleaning the room where the sacred tooth of Buddha is displayed. The tooth is a main attraction for processions in the streets for five days, seen as a way to banish evil. Devotees dressed in religious garb, fire dancers, and elephants draped in red coverings also wind their way down the streets. A few miles from the city's heart, Kandy House is a beautiful country refuge to use as a home base for your visit.

Vancouver Island

A long, broad island across from the Canadian city of Vancouver, Vancouver Island is a realm of fabulous nature. It's worth visiting any time of year, but it shines in the summer. August, in particular, is a month of warm days, cool nights, and orca whales in the waters offshore. The island also has something special for blues music lovers this month: the Nanaimo Blues Festival .

Held in the city that gives the event its name, the festival brings together performers from around the world for four days of moving, soul-filled music. The event occurs at Maffeo Sutton Park, right by the water, where the audience can enjoy wistful tunes and views of the sea and harbor. Prior lineups have included greats such as Thornetta Davis and Anthony Geraci. If you favor convenience for your accommodation, travelers can walk to the shows from the Best Western Dorchester Hotel.

Methodology

We scoured official tourism and trade travel sites, reviewed behemoths like Tripadvisor, and used firsthand knowledge to bring you a range of island experiences to try out in August. For some locations, this time of year represents winter, while for others, it's one of the hottest months in the calendar. Either way, there is plenty to keep visitors happy and entertained. We also ensured a good geographical spread, listing islands all over the planet for travelers to choose from.

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The Best Caribbean Island to Visit in August

Regardless of which island you choose, traveling to the Caribbean in August means warm air and sea temperatures, low to no crowds, and best of all, great prices on airfare, cruises, hotels and island excursions. If you can handle the late-summer thunderstorms and hot and humid climate, the best Caribbean island in August is the one with the liveliest festivals, most affordable resort price and the least likely chance for a hurricane.

Hurricane Hold-Offs

The Atlantic hurricane season runs from June through November, but most storms hit from mid-August through late October. If you're worried about getting caught in the middle of an August evacuation, consider a Caribbean island that is the least likely to be in the path of a hurricane. Statistically, these islands include the Dutch ABC islands of Aruba, Bonaire and Curacao, and Trinidad. Keep in mind that the ABC Islands are at the lowest southern point in the Caribbean, so airfare or cruise prices may be higher.

Festival Season

If you prefer commotion and celebration during your time in the Caribbean, check out Antigua or Barbados in August. The first Monday in August marks the final day of Barbados' Crop-Over Festival, a summerlong calypso music and dancing event that originally marked the end of the sugar harvest. Now "Kadooment Day" -- "Commotion Day" -- is the most celebrated day of the second-largest festival in the Caribbean. Meanwhile, on the first Tuesday of August in nearby Antigua, another event is underway: the Antigua Carnival. Celebrating the abolition of slavery in August 1834, the Antigua Carnival is an islandwide festival with roaming bands that meet in the capital city of St. John's.

Budget Beach Getaways

If you're heading to the Caribbean on a budget in August, consider Jamaica and the Dominican Republic. Of the 250 or so all-inclusive resorts in the Caribbean, over 200 of them are on these two islands, and per-night prices are competitive. Like cruises, all-inclusive resorts are one of the easiest ways to save money, because your transportation, activities, meals and accommodations are covered by one price. Traveling in the low season, which includes August, means even more savings. In Puerto Plata, Dominican Republic, prices are as low as $80 per night for two travelers, as of time of publication.

Where Not To Go

In August, you're most likely to cross a hurricane's path while traveling to the islands of Saba, St. Eustatius, St. Maarten, St. Kitts, Nevis, St. Barths and Tortola. Not considered part of the Caribbean but often on the same cruise itinerary, the Bahamas are the likeliest target for hurricanes.

If you have a hard time with extremely hot weather, avoid the southernmost Netherlands Antilles islands in August, which include the Dutch ABC islands of Aruba, Bonaire and Curacao. Off the northern coast of South America near the Equator, these scorching islands are at their heat peak in August, and may not work for travelers who are sensitive to extreme heat.

• Frommer's: The Caribbean: Planning a Trip: When to Go
• Caribbean Storm Network: Hits and Misses
• Lonely Planet: A Caribbean Carnival of Carnivals
• Price of Travel: 13 Cheapest Caribbean Islands and Destinations for All-Inclusive Resorts
• U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention: Travelers' Health: The Caribbean
• U.S. Department of State: Smart Traveler Enrollment Program
• National Hurricane Center
• Lonely Planet: How to Choose a Caribbean Island
• Independent Traveler: Top 25 Ways to Save on Caribbean Travel
• The Official Tourism Website of the Caribbean

About the Author

Leah Waldron is the head of Traveler Services at First Abroad, a gap year travel company based in Boston and London. As a travel, research and LGBT news writer, Waldron has publication credit on magazines and newspapers including "Curve Magazine," "USA Today," "The Sun Sentinel" and the "The Houston Chronicle." Waldron has a bachelor's and master's degree in creative writing from Florida State University.

Photo Credits

• Steve Mason/Photodisc/Getty Images

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The 12+ Best Caribbean Islands To Visit in 2023 [Month-by-Month Guide]

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Table of Contents

Why visit the caribbean, when to visit the caribbean, these are the 12 best caribbean islands to visit, best caribbean islands to visit in winter and spring, best caribbean islands to visit in summer and fall, best caribbean islands to visit by month, final thoughts.

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With hundreds of islands, the Caribbean offers an array of destinations for travelers seeking a vacation with sand, sun, and crystal clear waters. Located just southeast of the U.S., it’s relatively easy to get to many Caribbean destinations from numerous U.S. hubs.

From family-friendly islands to honeymoon destinations, affordable escapes, and seasonal options, these are the best islands to visit in the Caribbean.

A Caribbean vacation offers travelers a fun-in-the-sun getaway, but there’s also so much more to get out of a Caribbean vacation. Caribbean vacationers can explore history, culture, cuisine, adventure, and incredible natural landscapes, such as volcanoes, waterfalls, bioluminescent bays, and unique flora and fauna.

It’s easy to get to the Caribbean from many U.S. destinations and airports, and U.S. travelers don’t have to worry about jet lag like they would when visiting islands like Fiji or Bali.

Divers and snorkelers may find the Caribbean especially enticing, as it’s home to some of the most exotic marine life in the world, as well as sea turtles and whales. The islands are also known for having friendly and welcoming locals, as well as iconic Carnival celebrations and festivals throughout the year.

Although the Caribbean islands have a hot and tropical climate year-round, it’s important to understand that most destinations have 2 main seasons: rainy and dry. The dry season from December to May is usually when visitors can enjoy the best weather. The rainy season is from June to November and includes the Atlantic hurricane season. The months of the edges of each of these seasons are considered the shoulder seasons.

Visiting during the rainy or shoulder season may offer better deals on airfare, activities, and hotels. Rainy season could mean sunny skies most of the day with an occasional tropical rain shower, or it could bring a hurricane.

The Caribbean is divided into 3 groups: The Bahamas, Greater Antilles, and Lesser Antilles . Although The Bahamas aren’t technically in the Caribbean Sea, these islands are still considered part of CARICOM, the Caribbean Community. Also, Turks and Caicos is part of the Lucayan Archipelago alongside The Bahamas.

However, most travelers aren’t too particular about such distinctions, so we’ve included both The Bahamas and Turks and Caicos in our roundup. After all, these islands offer what most Caribbean travelers are seeking, such as crystal clear waters and fine white sands.

Read on to learn about the best places to visit in the Caribbean and what type of traveler each island caters to, as well as the best Caribbean islands to visit by season and month.

1. Best Caribbean Island To Visit on a Budget: Jamaica

Excepting Jamaica’s luxurious Sandals resorts, the island can be a rather affordable destination for travelers who want a budget Caribbean vacation . Low-cost air carrier Spirit offers cheap flights from Fort Lauderdale (FLL) or flights with a layover in FLL from hubs including Chicago (ORD) or Dallas (DFW) for less than $280 round trip on select winter dates.

A quick search on Booking.com revealed many hotels under $100 per night, such as the charming Westender Inn , an oceanfront property with a pool and garden. For under $200 per night, you can lounge on the crystalline sands of the Sand and Tan Beach Hotel in Ocho Rios or enjoy grand sea views at the Hotel Grand A View .

Once in Jamaica, there are plenty of affordable activities to do during your stay. Lounge on the blissful Seven Mile Beach (which, despite its name, is actually only 4 miles long), or pop into a reggae bar to listen to the locals jam from your hammock.

If you’re really in the market for an affordable escape, use your points and miles to fly to the Caribbean — we detail the best ways to do so.

2. Best Family-Friendly Caribbean Island: The Bahamas

From pirates to marine life to endless fun in the sun, The Bahamas offers everything a family with young children, teens, or even older adults could ever want. The massive resort complex Atlantis on Paradise Island, home to 5 different hotels, offers family-friendly services like stroller rentals, plus kids 6 and under eat free. There’s also an on-site water park and kids’ club activities. Teens will love the Atlantis underwater video arcade and the teen-only nightclub.

Meanwhile, Nassau is one of the best Caribbean islands for kids, thanks to its interactive Pirates of Nassau Museum , a fit for kids of all ages. You can get up close and personal with wildlife, such as flamingoes at Ardastra Gardens , a wildlife center that also features pigs, monkeys, and other animals. And it’s not just the most developed islands in The Bahamas that cater to kids. The serene stretches of soft sands and calm waters on islands like Exuma or the Abacos are some of the best Caribbean Islands to visit with toddlers, ideal for little kids to run, play, and shout to their hearts’ content.

3. Best Caribbean Island To Visit for All-Inclusive Resorts: Dominican Republic

One of the best Caribbean Islands to visit for all-inclusive hotels is the Dominican Republic , thanks to resort areas like Punta Cana, La Romana, and Puerta Plata, all home to numerous resorts that offer all-inclusive packages.

Punta Cana has endless options for all-inclusive travelers , whether you’re on your honeymoon or on the hunt for a family-friendly all-inclusive resort. Choose from the luxury of the Sanctuary Cap Cana (a Marriott resort), the contemporary, family-friendly Hyatt Ziva Cap Cana (home to a water park), and the Hyatt Zilara Cap Cana (adults only), plus 2 new Hyatt Sunscape Resorts opening in 2024 and an all-inclusive, adults-only W Punta Cana coming in 2025 (one of the first all-inclusive W properties in the world).

If you’re hoping to book a Hyatt resort in the Dominican Republic for your next Caribbean getaway, you can save 40% when booking by December 13, 2023 .

What does all-inclusive mean ? Find out how to get your money’s worth at an all-inclusive hotel in our detailed article.

4. Best Caribbean Island To Visit With Friends: Anguilla

Anguilla is known as one of the friendliest islands in the Caribbean , which means visiting with friends will be lots of fun. You can interact with locals at the beach parties of Sandy Ground Beach and enjoy participating in the local culture, including Anguilla’s Carnival celebrations, which happen each summer and include boat races, street jams, and parades. The U.S. State Department has also named Anguilla one of the safest Caribbean islands ( marked as a Level 1 ) to visit, so you and your friends should be able to frolic freely without worry.

Anguilla has quite a bit of diversity in what to do on your vacation. Of course, there are those stunning Caribbean beaches, like the picture-perfect Shoal Bay or the pinkish-hued sunsets of Mead Bay. Friends can also hit up art galleries, visit museums, go snorkeling or diving, birdwatch, and share a meal on the famous island of Scilly Cay, a tiny island home to the Gorgeous Scilly Cay Restaurant , where you can dine on local grilled lobster or Caribbean-inspired surf and turf.

5. Best Caribbean Island To Visit on a Honeymoon: St. Lucia

One of the best Caribbean islands for a honeymoon , St. Lucia’s breathtaking scenery, gorgeous hotels, and impressive natural wonders make it the perfect Caribbean island to visit as a couple . Visitors can admire the island’s emblematic backdrop, the moss-covered Piton Mountains that seem to rise directly out of the sea. Choose from world-class resorts such as Jade Mountain , home to its own chocolate farm and laboratory, and Hyatt’s all-inclusive Zoetry Marigot Bay , flanked with verdant foliage.

Pigeon Island National Park is one of the best spots on the island for couples who want to experience history, a wooded islet home to former British forts. Nature buffs should explore the cascading waterfalls, dense rainforest, and sulfur springs near Soufrière.

The only thing better than a honeymoon in St. Lucia is a free one. You can redeem World of Hyatt points to stay at Hyatt’s AMR Collection properties across the Caribbean. To stock up on Hyatt points, apply for The World of Hyatt Credit Card or earn flexible points that can transfer to the World of Hyatt program with a card such as the  Chase Sapphire Reserve ®  or  Chase Sapphire Preferred ®  Card .

6. Best Caribbean Island To Visit for Endless Beaches: Antigua

The Caribbean is indeed known for having some of the most beautiful beaches in the world. But not every island is created equal, and some have more beaches and better beaches than other destinations. Antigua wins for quantity when it comes to beaches, with around 365 different sandy stretches — you could spend a year there and never go to the same beach twice!

However, the large number of beaches can make it difficult to decide which ones to visit, especially if your trip is just a week long and not a year. We recommend Half Moon Bay, a crescent-shaped stretch of sand with a reef for snorkeling. Ffryes Beach is the one to visit for photos of sparkling sands and transparent waters, especially beautiful around sunset.

7. Best Caribbean Island To Visit for First Timers: Cayman Islands

Between the 3 different Cayman Islands, first-time travelers can get a true taste of what a Caribbean vacation is all about. Grand Cayman, the largest and most popular of the 3, is the perfect place to start , offering visitors a more curated, traditional resort stay and access to perfect Caribbean sands and waters, as well as plenty of dining, amenities, and activities. We love the Kimpton Seafire Resort & Spa , an IHG resort located directly on the famous Seven Mile Beach.

Those looking for something more off-the-beaten-path will also find it in Cayman on the other 2 smaller islands: Cayman Brac and Little Cayman. Both of these islands are known for offering incredible marine life accessible to snorkelers and divers, plenty of solitude, and a general far-flung, deserted island feel.

8. Best Caribbean Island To Visit Solo: British Virgin Islands

Some Caribbean islands are safer than others, and solo visitors should feel comfortable heading to the British Virgin Islands : Tortola, Anegada, Virgin Gorda, and Jost Van Dyke — plus more than 50 other tiny islands and cays. It holds the lowest travel safety advisory rating (a 1) from the U.S. State Department . This means travelers should exercise normal caution.

Often referred to as BVI, these islands offer comfortable and luxurious resorts like the Rosewood Little Dix Bay or Scrub Island Resort, Spa & Marina (unfortunately, no longer affiliated with Marriott) for those that want to relax in style. There are also plenty of secluded beaches and hidden spots to hide away from more mainstream tourism.

Solo travelers who want to make new friends should head to Cane Garden Bay on Tortola, a picturesque stretch of white sands that features beach bars and hotels with live music, happy hours, and other activities. Another must-see is The Baths in Virgin Gorda, a mix of sea boulders, hidden coves, and white sands accessible by land or boat. Consider heading there first thing in the morning or later in the day to beat the day trippers. For a bit more solitude, consider Anegada, a quieter island known for its wildlife and peaceful beaches.

Don’t have a passport but really want to visit the Caribbean? You can visit the U.S. Virgin Islands (USVI), which became U.S. territories in 1917: St. John, St. Croix, and St. Thomas.

9. Best Caribbean Island To Visit for Luxury: St. Barts

St. Barts isn’t the easiest Caribbean island to access, which is why high-profile celebrities and athletes often vacation there to get away from the general public and shutter-happy paparazzi. An overseas territory of France, the island oozes French sophistication combined with Caribbean glamour.

Besides the many exclusive luxury hotels, such as   Eden Rock , a seafront property that offers sophisticated amenities like yacht rentals, and the Rosewood Le Guanahani , which feels intimate and secluded, thanks to its 66 rooms and suites, it’s also a paradise for shoppers. Thanks to duty-free status, you’ll pay a lot less tax on luxury goods on the island.

10. Best Caribbean Island for History and Wildlife Buffs: St. Kitts and Nevis

While the 2 islands of St. Kitts and Nevis boast blissful beaches, lush rainforest, and coveted Caribbean waters, the destination is also ideal for those who want to understand more about the culture of the Caribbean . St. Kitts was Great Britain’s first settlement in the Caribbean. Nevis featured the region’s first hotel, the Bath Hotel, which dates back to the 18th century. These days, when it comes to hotels, we favor the elevated Park Hyatt St. Kitts Christophe Harbour .

Learn more about the island’s history at the Brimstone Hill Fortress National Park , a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Animal lovers may also enjoy the fact that this island is home to hundreds of free-roaming vervet monkeys. Just don’t get too close to them! Between the months of June and September, visitors can spot 3 different species of turtles hatching: the hawksbill, the leatherback, and the green turtle.

11. Best Caribbean Island for Adventure Travelers: Dominica

Known as the nature hub of the Caribbean, Dominica’s viridescent landscape is home to extensive rainforests, tree-covered mountains, dramatic gorges, inviting freshwater lakes and hot springs, and even active volcanoes. The island’s landscape is decidedly unique, from the bubbling saltwater rising up from the sea floor at Champagne Beach to the sulfur springs of Wotten Waven, rumored to have healing properties.

With 3 national parks on the island, there’s much to do in the way of hiking, whether it be to reach a secret waterfall, wander through a cloud forest, or just enjoy dramatic views of the island’s memorable landscape. You can enjoy some of the island’s best natural wonders right from the hotel if you stay at the   InterContinental Dominica Cabrits Resort & Spa , which overlooks the Caribbean Sea and the greenery and volcano of  Cabrits National Park .

12. Best Caribbean Island for Top-Rated Beaches: Turks and Caicos

Turks and Caicos has some of the very best beaches in the Caribbean, with the whitest, finest sand, and clearest, most enticing waters. Although some may argue that Turks and Caicos isn’t really a part of the Caribbean, we’re including them in this roundup. With 40+ different islands, this archipelago has plenty of sand to go around — and all beaches are public, so you can visit as many as you’d like.

Grace Bay is probably the most famous beach on the islands, often snagging the top spot on best beach lists. It’s home to a reef system, and a portion of it is part of the Princess Alexandra National Park . Long Bay Beach’s winds are ideal for kiteboarders, while families should head to the lagoon waters of Half Moon Bay. AvGeeks should head to Pine Cay Beach, where you can feel the breeze from landing airplanes landing at and taking off from the Pine Cay Airstrip , though definitely don’t expect to spot any 747s.

The Atlantic hurricane season runs from June until the end of November, so winter and spring are the best times to visit almost any of the Caribbean Islands if you’re looking for sunny, dry weather .

However, with peak season comes peak prices and high crowds, so if you’re visiting during prime time, you might want to consider one of the more affordable Caribbean islands (Jamaica or Dominica) to stay within budget, or one of the more obscure Caribbean islands (Grenada or St. Vincent and the Grenadines) to have a crowd-free Caribbean winter escape.

The ABC islands of Aruba , Bonaire, and Curaçao sit outside of the Atlantic hurricane belt , so they’re less susceptible to major or damaging storms. These are the best places to visit if you’d like to escape to the Caribbean in the summer, which coincides with hurricane season.

The best southern Caribbean islands to visit include St. Vincent and the Grenadines, Barbados, and Grenada, as well as Trinidad and Tobago . These islands are closer to Latin America and are usually less likely to get hit by a hurricane, though they’ve all seen their fair share of intense tropical storms.

Just remember, there are no guarantees when it comes to nature, so if you want to minimize the risk of hurricanes or other tropical storms, visit the Caribbean during the dry season (December to May). The highest risk of hurricanes is from August to October, so you may want to consider avoiding those months in the Caribbean if you’re worried about bad weather.

If you visit the Caribbean during the summer months, make sure to get travel insurance . Don’t forget that many popular credit cards come with travel insurance — we detail some of the best in our guide.

Beyond just hurricanes and budget, there are certain times of year when it’s ideal to visit specific Caribbean islands. From underwater visibility to whale migrations to iconic cultural celebrations, these are the best islands to visit in the Caribbean each month.

Best Caribbean Islands To Visit in January

Foodies should head to the Cayman Islands in January for the Cayman Cookout , which brings together revered chefs, mixologists, and spirits connoisseurs from around the world (January 9 to 15, 2024). This year’s event also includes a musical performance from the Goo Goo Dolls.

Grenada is another island to visit in January (and the beginning of February), as the destination hosts Grenada Sailing Week . The event (January 28 to February 2, 2024) consists of sailing races and lots of parties back on dry land.

January is one of the sunniest and driest months in the Caribbean, so you’ll likely have excellent weather on all of the islands. Just book ahead to get the best prices, and know that you may encounter crowds this month and in the months following, especially around spring break .

Best Caribbean Islands To Visit in February

It’s prime sperm whale season throughout the Caribbean, but especially in Dominica between November and March. Head out on a boat around areas like Scotts Head, Roseau, Layou, and Point Round to admire these gentle giants — just make sure not to lure the animals. You may also spot spotted and spinner dolphins.

For those that want an iconic Carnival experience outside of Brazil, Trinidad and Tobago’s Carnival event (February 12 to 13, 2024) is famous worldwide, featuring parades, partying, and some of the most elaborate costumes you may have ever seen.

Finally, celebrate the leap year and welcome in the month of March with the St. Maarten Heineken Regatta (February 29 to March 3, 2024), home to 4 days of sailing and lots of cuisine and Heineken beer.

Best Caribbean Islands To Visit in March

March is another perfect month in the Caribbean, with smooth seas for sailing and excellent visibility for diving and snorkeling. Head to Antigua for the Superyacht Challenge (March 11 to 17, 2024) to see boats race for the win.

Or, focus on the delights of the underwater world, diving and snorkeling around the Turks and Caicos Barrier Reef , Grenada’s Molinere Bay  Underwater Sculpture Park , or Bonaire, where the capital of the island, Kralendijk, translates to coral reef.

Best Caribbean Islands To Visit in April

April brings continued sunshine to the Caribbean, as well as the BVI Spring Regatta and Sailing Festival (April 1 to 7, 2024), home to sailing and lots of fun.

For a unique Caribbean experience, let’s not forget about Cuba , a country a few hundred miles away from Florida. April brings the island’s Afro Cuban Dance Festival (March 30 to April 9, 2024) to Havana. U.S. citizens can travel to Cuba if they meet one of the 12 categories of travel set by the U.S. government , which include things like educational activities, support for Cuban people, public performances, and workshops.

Best Caribbean Islands To Visit in May

May is an excellent month for travelers looking for the best Caribbean islands to visit on a budget — although there’s just slightly more rainfall, the prices are usually more affordable, and the crowds start to dissipate. It’s the perfect time to visit St. Lucia thanks to the St. Lucia Jazz and Arts Festiva l (April 30 to May 9), which blends jazz, blues, R&B, swing, calypso, and Latin music with cuisine, dance, craft markets, and more.

This month also brings one of Antigua’s most notable events: Antigua Sailing Week (April 27 to May 3, 2024).

Best Caribbean Islands To Visit in June

As the Atlantic hurricane season gets its start, the ABC islands, which have more stable and drier weather, become more popular as they reside outside the Atlantic hurricane belt. This is why heading to Bonaire’s Rum Week (June 12 to 17, 2024) is the optimal plan for travelers who want a trip focusing on Caribbean spirits, cigars, cuisine, and sunshine.

Pineapple lovers should travel to The Bahamas for The Bahamas Pineapple Festival (June 7 to 8, 2024). Here, you can chow down on this flavorful fruit alongside other Bahamian desserts and beverages.

Concerned about the possibility of a hurricane? Consider getting one of these cancel for any reason travel insurance policies .

Best Caribbean Islands To Visit in July

July is a month for celebration in the Caribbean . Enjoy Carnival celebrations in St. Vincent and the Grenadines ( Vincy Mas , July 4 to 10, 2024), St. Lucia (July 10 to 17, 2024), and Antigua (July 26 to August 6, 2024).

St. Kitts and Nevis celebrates Restaurant Week (July 13 to 23, 2023), where restaurants around the island will offer special menus around a theme ingredient. The upcoming festival’s ingredient is pineapple.

Finally, Jamaica gets festive with its Reggae Sumfest (July 16 to 22, 2024), featuring nonstop concerts and events.

Best Caribbean Islands To Visit in August

Brave the heat and humidity to attend Anguilla’s Summer Fest (August 1 to 11, 2024) , celebrating the 50th anniversary of the island’s Carnival history. Events include the Miss Anguilla competition, boat races, concerts, parades, and more.

Both the British Virgin Islands and St. Kitts and Nevis honor their Emancipation Days in August. To celebrate, these destinations feature several days of music, parties, and more.

Best Caribbean Islands To Visit in September

Hurricane season lasts about half the year. However, the most common time for cyclone activity is around September 10, according to the National Hurricane Center. Still, that doesn’t mean storms will definitely occur around that time. If you’re willing to brave the possibility of hazardous weather (most often intermixed with plenty of sunshine), September happens to be prime turtle-hatching season on many Caribbean islands . Spot them on islands such as Aruba, St. Kitts and Nevis, The Grenadines, and even in Mexico, Florida, and Puerto Rico , too.

Best Caribbean Islands To Visit in October

Remember, even during the peak of the Atlantic hurricane season, the ABC islands often see much less inclement weather , so October is a good time to visit.

If you’re willing to brave a bit of rain, visit St. Lucia, which celebrates its Creole Heritage Month in October. Festivities begin October 1 with Oktoberfest and end on the last Sunday in October to celebrate Creole Day. Or, vacation in Barbados , known as the birthplace of rum. The island celebrates its Food and Rum Festival each October.

Best Caribbean Islands To Visit in November

November welcomes the final month of hurricane season, so you may see clear skies as the end of the month approaches. Families and adults alike can celebrate at the Pirates Fest in the Cayman Islands . It’s celebrated on all 3 islands (Little Cayman, November 3 to 5, 2023; Grand Cayman, November 9 to 19, 2023; and Cayman Brac, November 24 to 26, 2023). The merriment includes parties, cultural events, turtle releases, costumes, dancing, and plenty of pirate fun.

Those looking for a slightly higher-brow experience than “Yo ho ho and a bottle of rum” can find it in St. Bart’s. The annual St. Barth’s Gourmet Festival (November 7 to 12, 2023) welcomes top chefs and hungry foodies from around the world.

Best Caribbean Islands To Visit in December

Spending the holidays in the Caribbean is the ideal winter getaway. The weather starts improving, so those in search of winter sun will find warm and drier conditions in nearly all of the Caribbean Islands . However, we suggest a visit to The Bahamas, where 16 of the islands celebrate Junkanoo , which includes dancing, music, and elaborate costumes. The festival occurs on the day after Christmas annually.

Meanwhile, the U.S. Virgin Island of St. Croix celebrates the Crucian Christmas Carnival , which begins in December and culminates on Kings Day, which is January 6.

If the beach and sunshine don’t inspire you around the holidays, consider a trip to Europe, home to some of the world’s best Christmas markets , instead.

With so many islands in the Caribbean, it’s easy to find the right one for you . Whether you’re on a budget, looking for the best beaches, or want to travel in a specific month or season, the wide range of Caribbean islands offers something for every traveler.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What caribbean island should i visit first.

Most Caribbean islands are ideal for first-time visitors, but we suggest heading to the Cayman Islands, which offers a little bit of everything. Islands such as the U.S. Virgin Islands are also easy for first-timers, as you don’t need a passport, and most locals speak English.

What is the cheapest and safest Caribbean island to visit?

One of the most affordable Caribbean islands is Jamaica. Dominica, a more under-the-radar destination, is also cheaper. Visiting any of the Caribbean islands during the low season (June through November) means you may get better prices. The safest Caribbean islands are the British Virgin Islands, ideal for solo travelers, and Anguilla, which markets itself as a very safe Caribbean destination.

Which is the nicest part of the Caribbean?

If you’re looking for a luxury vacation, the nicest part of the Caribbean may be St. Bart’s, an island frequented by the rich and famous. If you’re traveling with your family, The Bahamas is the best Caribbean island to visit with toddlers, children, and teens, with lots to do and see.

Where is the prettiest place in the Caribbean?

The prettiest place in the Caribbean is debatable. Antigua and Turks and Caicos are known for beaches, while islands like Bonaire may be most beautiful underwater, with extensive marine life. If you love natural wonders like waterfalls, hot springs, and rainforests, St. Lucia and Dominica are 2 of the prettiest Caribbean islands.

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About Lori Zaino

Lori is an intrepid traveler who loves creating itineraries that exude “luxe on a budget.” She’s written for CNN, NBC, The Infatuation, and more, and loves to muse about points-fueled trips to Sri Lanka, Sicily, and Myanmar.

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10 Best Islands to Visit in August

By Kerry Spencer

Last updated: May 23rd, 2024

• Find a Cruise

Whether you’re looking for long days of sunshine and idyllic beaches or extraordinary wildlife encounters, the world’s best Islands to visit in August offer travelers some fantastic once-in-a-lifetime experiences.

From searching for blue-footed boobies in the Galapagos Islands to sizzling Sardinia, with its myrtle-scented hikes, culture-rich capital, and dreamy beaches, there is an island to visit in August for every type of traveler.

Late summer is a wonderful time to get away and recharge before a new season begins. From searching for migrating humpback whales in Iceland’s cool waters to sunbathing on a deserted Caribbean beach, take your pick from these island destinations.

Mykonos is beautiful and glamorous in equal parts. In August, this Greek island’s bars are hopping and its beaches are buzzing with party-loving travelers.

The weather is balmy and the water is warmed by the Mediterranean sunshine, making this Cyclades spot among the best islands to visit in August.

Super Paradise, Mykonos

One of Mykonos’ biggest draws is its beaches, with dozens of soft shores to enjoy. If you prefer to be in the thick of the action, go to Paradise, Super Paradise, or Psarrou beaches on the south coast.

There is a quieter side to this windswept island, though. For a calmer Mykonos beach with fewer visitors, try Paralia Ftelias, tucked into the central north coast.

Enjoy a soothing dip in the clear water before drying off and dining at the chic and relaxed Ftelia Pacha, a beachfront restaurant and bar with an Ibiza vibe.

Mykonos Town

Mykonos Town, also known as Chora, is filled with chic boutiques such as Amnesia for gorgeous jewelry, floaty dresses, and leather sandals.

Try Themis Z for stylish tablescapes and stylish resort wear, while Rarity is a must-visit if you’re looking to extend your art collection. There are outposts of Dior and Gucci, and an abundance of fashion, leather goods, and home boutiques to explore.

One of the best things to do in Mykonos , however, is simply to stroll among Chora’s pretty whitewashed buildings with their floral doorways and brightly-painted balconies.

Admire the gleaming white church of Panagia Paraportiani in Mykonos, which is actually five churches, one built on top of the other.

Little Venice, Mykonos

Visit the head-turning Windmills of Mykonos and watch the sun disappearing into the horizon from laid-back Little Venice. For prime sunset viewing, right on the waterfront, you’ll want to arrive early or book ahead.

Gulfoss Waterfall, Iceland

If you’re looking for jaw-dropping adventures, Iceland is one of the best islands to visit in August.

This mid-north Atlantic island is home to dramatic black-sand beaches, brooding volcanoes, and thundering waterfalls. The wildlife in Iceland is extraordinary, too, especially during summertime.

Puffins in Iceland

Thousands of migratory eider ducks descend on the tiny grass-covered Vigur Island, 66° north, near Ísafjörður in Iceland’s Westfjords.

Join a bird-watching safari to the island, which is also teeming with around 100,000 puffins, a rare colony of black guillemots, razorbills, and Arctic terns. There are regular whale sightings in the waters around Vigur Island, too.

Whale watching in Iceland

Summer is undoubtedly the best time of year for whale watching in Iceland. From Dalvik, near Akureyri in north Iceland, you could go in search of Eyjafjordur’s humpback whales, white-beaked dolphins, minke whales, harbor porpoises, and even blue whales, fin whales, and orca.

Similarly, from Iceland’s capital, Reykjavik , try a fast-paced RIB (rigid inflatable boat) whale-watching trip to look for marine mammals on the west coast.

Hallgrímskirkja Church in Reykjavik, Iceland

Reykjavik is especially inviting during August. Visit the striking Hallgrímskirkja church, the tallest building in Iceland that pierces the sky with its razor-sharp architecture.

The elegant Harpa concert hall, a magnificent oceanfront building that reflects the water in its glass facade, hosts a repertoire of opera, jazz, blues, and other musical genres.

Harpa concert hall in Reykjavik, Iceland

Join a 45-60 minute guided tour to go behind the scenes at Harpa before wandering through Reykjavik’s walkable city center. There’s a colorful blend of street art, independent boutiques, cafés, restaurants, and bars, centered around Laugavegur, the city’s main shopping strip.

For a relaxing experience, head to the rugged landscape of the Reykjanes Peninsula and the soothing waters of the Blue Lagoon, one of the most beautiful places in Iceland .

Blue Lagoon, Iceland

The geothermally-heated pool’s silica-rich water has deep hydrating and cleansing benefits and the backdrop of the volcanic Mount Þorbjörn against the Blue Lagoon’s milk-hued water is otherworldly.

Read: Unique Summer Vacations Ideas

Zakynthos, Greece

Lying in the dazzling Ionian Sea, to the west of Greece’s mainland, you’ll find sun, sea, and delicious food on Zakynthos , also known as Zante.

Zakynthos is one of August’s best islands to visit for its warm sea, perfect for swimming.

Shipwreck Beach in Zakynthos, Greece

The star attraction on Zakynthos is Shipwreck Beach, or Paralia Navagio, on the north of the island.

This sandy cove, carved into soaring limestone cliffs, is one of the most beautiful places in Greece and is only accessible by boat. In the center of Navagio is the rusting shipwreck of MV Panagiotis, which ran aground here in 1980.

Tsilivi Beach in Zakynthos, Greece

Swimming and diving in Zakynthos’s clear waters are among the island’s most popular activities. Greek beaches , including Tsilivi, Alykanas, and Laganas, are within easy reach of the capital and offer sweeping soft sand, watersports, bars and restaurants, and sun loungers.

Loggerhead sea turtle

There’s a kaleidoscope of marine life to be discovered underwater, too, with the island a breeding site for the endangered loggerhead sea turtle.

The Barracuda and Octopus reefs on the Keri Peninsula and the island of Marathonissi, in the southern part of Zakynthos, also draw divers and snorkelers for their colorful array of grouper, bream, and moray eels.

Bóchali Venetian Castle in Zakynthos, Greece

Studded with mountain villages, olive groves, monasteries, and wineries, Zakynthos’ hinterland is equally rewarding, while culture-hungry travelers will enjoy the island’s capital, also called Zakynthos.

Delve into Zakynthos’ 16th-century Agios Markos Church, which draws parallels with St. Mark’s Basilica in Venice, and climb to the ruins of Bóchali Venetian Castle, high above the town. Stop at the castle for an iced tea or coffee and gaze at the unending sapphire-blue views that unfold toward the mainland.

Bonaire is a nature lover’s paradise, and with fewer crowds than other Caribbean islands and temperatures hovering around 86-88°F, August is a wonderful time to visit.

Bonaire is the most unspoiled of the three ABC Islands , with the wildlife-filled Washington Slagbaai National Park occupying the northern swathe of the island.

Follow one of the walking tracks or three hiking trails to search for parrots, iguanas, parakeets, and flamingoes, while sea turtles nest on the tropical white shores.

Snorkeling in Bonaire

You’ll want to pack a snorkel, with the turquoise waters around Bonaire and the smaller island of Klein Bonaire—one of the largest uninhabited Caribbean islands—a protected marine reserve.

Witness the dazzling display of Caribbean coral reefs , mangroves, and seagrass beds and some of the 350 species of fish that inhabit these rich waters, such as mahi-mahi, clownfish, blue parrotfish, barracudas, and queen angelfish.

Klein Bonaire

For a totally tropical island experience, one of the best things to do in Bonaire is to take a water taxi from Kralendijk, the capital of Bonaire, to visit Klein Bonaire Beach, famous for its chalk-white sand.

Alternatively, commandeer a kayak in Lac Bay, where a wild tangle of mangrove forest meets a remarkable reef, home to queen conch, baby seahorses, and baby rays.

Cork, Ireland

Roughly the size of Indiana, the green-hued island of Ireland is a wonderful place to explore, especially during August when the country sees the least rainfall.

In characterful Cork, southwest Ireland, savor the local delicacies at the historic English Market. You’ll find stalls brimming with regional produce that Ireland is known for , such as cheese, sourdough bread, smoked salmon, oysters, and whiskey.

Cork City Gaol, Ireland

Take a history lesson at the castle-like Cork City Gaol, which housed prisoners in the 19th and early 20th centuries, including the socialist, suffragist, Irish politician, and revolutionary, Countess Constance Markievicz, in 1919.

Cobh, Ireland

Consider spending time in the attractive seaside town of Cobh (pronounced “cove”), with its rainbowed-colored houses and skyline-defining cathedral.

Cobh is also known as the location of the Titanic’s final port of call before embarking on its voyage across the Atlantic Ocean in April 1911. Visit the White Star Line’s former ticket office to learn more about the world’s most famous ocean liner.

Read: Ireland Travel Tips

Cozumel, Mexico

Chen Rio Beach in Cozumel, Mexico

Located adjacent to Playa del Carmen on the mainland’s Yucatán Peninsula, Cozumel is an undisputed paradise island thanks to its swaying palm trees, crystal-clear water, and sugary sand.

Enjoy the slow pace of life on some of Cozumel’s best beaches . Check out Chen Rio Beach on the east coast for its out-of-the-way, relaxed feel, or Playa San Francisco on the west coast for sun loungers and jet ski rental.

Cozumel Reefs National Park, Mexico

The 30,000-acre Cozumel Reefs National Park surrounds the island, lying within the north section of the Mesoamerican Reef, the largest barrier reef in the Western Hemisphere and the second largest in the world.

Dip below the surface to see the ethereal display of coral and swim among snappers, groupers, parrot fish, angel fish, and scorpionfish. Pods of playful dolphins, sea turtles, and manatees can also be spotted offshore.

San Miguel in Cozumel, Mexico

In San Miguel , the capital of Cozumel, explore Mercado Municipal, the traditional market, where mango, pineapple, banana, and papaya fill vendors’ stalls. Taco stands, freshly squeezed juices, spices, vegetables, and other street-food stalls are also available.

Cozumel is also home to some of Mexico’s lesser-known Mayan ruins , including El Cedral, dating back to 800 A.D. This unassuming ruin belies its former stature as a revered ceremonial site.

San Gervasio in Cozumel, Mexico

Further north, the larger UNESCO-listed San Gervasio archaeological site features a number of structures, though none are intact, including a temple, a chapel, and what was the residence of the Mayan ruler of Cozumel.

Tuerredda Beach, Sardinia

If a languid day spent on a sun-kissed beach is your idea of a vacation well spent, opt for a dose of la dolce vita on Sardinia for your August island getaway.

While many European hotspots can become crowded during the peak of summer, with over 1,000 miles of coastline, Sardinia offers ample space for sunseekers to unwind.

Travel to Tuerredda Beach on the southern tip of Sardinia for its seductively soft sand and rustic feel. This Sardinian beach is flanked by a thick pine forest and faces the tiny Isola di Tuerredda, after which it takes its name.

Spiaggia del Poetto, Sardinia

To remain close to the capital, Cagliari , head for Spiaggia del Poetto for its four-mile stretch and the pink flamingos that can be spotted in the wetlands behind the beach.

You may struggle to tear yourself away from Cagliari, though. The city oozes beauty and glamor, with layers of history, and exquisite Italian gastronomy.

Tuvixeddu, Sardinia

Discover the necropolis of Tuvixeddu, a sprawling hillside burial site established by the Carthaginians in the 6th century B.C. Tick off several city sights in the Castello district, starting with the opulent Palazzo Regio.

This former royal residence was built in the 14th century, though it has been extensively modified over the centuries and features brilliant frescoes and a grand staircase.

Read: Best Beaches in August

The island of Curaçao is a wonderful vacation choice in August. Outside of peak season, travelers will see fewer crowds but still experience warm temperatures.

What strikes visitors most about Curaçao’s capital, Willemstad, is its UNESCO-listed downtown area, with its prevalent Dutch colonial architecture. Stroll along the vibrant Handelskade on St. Anne’s Bay to admire the colorful waterfront buildings and browse the local market.

Queen Emma Bridge, Curaçao

Saunter across the swinging Queen Emma Bridge, opened in 1888, this pedestrian pontoon bridge connects the Punda and Otrobanda districts.

One of the best things to do in Curaçao is to visit the Kurá Hulanda Museum for its thought-provoking history of the African slave trade. The Curaçao Maritime History Museum is insightful, too, for its exhibition detailing the island’s seafaring past.

Christoffel National Park, Curaçao

Active travelers will love Curaçao’s sprawling Christoffel National Park in the north of the island. Set on three former plantations, this jungle-covered park is dominated by the mighty Christoffel Mountain, the island’s tallest peak at 1,230 feet.

You could join a jeep safari or take off on one of the eight hiking trails to go in search of the park’s four species of orchids, nine reptile species, and some of the 263 bird species, including the brown-throated parakeet, crested caracara, and the blue-tailed emerald.

Cas Abao Beach, Curaçao

Carve out time on one of Curaçao’s incredible beaches for a lazy afternoon by the water. Try Cas Abao Beach, a 40-minute drive north of Willemstad for its milk-white sand, arching palm trees, and thatched parasols.

Galapagos Islands

The remote and largely uninhabited Galapagos Islands are unique because of their flora and fauna. Lying roughly 600 miles off the coast of Ecuador in the Pacific Ocean, this 19-island volcanic archipelago is among the best islands to visit in August.

At this time of year, the Humboldt Current cools the waters, slightly cooling land temperatures, too, creating the perfect environment for nature hikes.

Blue-footed boobies in the Galapagos

The Galapagos Islands are a real-life natural history museum. Inspiring Charles Darwin’s theory of evolution by natural selection in 1859, its species include frigatebirds, sea lions, land iguanas, giant tortoises, blue-footed boobies, flightless cormorants, and penguins.

Visit the Charles Darwin research center before gazing at unique cacti formations, land iguanas, giant tortoises, and pink flamingos on Santa Cruz .

A highlight for many travelers here is observing nesting blue-footed boobies—with the best time to see them between June and August.

Sally Lightfoot crabs in the Galapagos

Watch sea lions lolling on the beach, and look for scavenging lava gulls and Sally Lightfoot crabs on Mosquera Island. Don a wetsuit and head underwater, where you might spy sea turtles, marine iguanas, sharks, manta rays, dolphins, and orcas.

Valletta, Malta

With temperatures consistently reaching 80 to 85°F, Malta is one of the best islands to visit in August for warm-weather seekers.

This tiny speck of an archipelago—consisting of the largest island of Malta, plus Gozo and Comino—lies in the southern Mediterranean. Travelers are greeted by Megalithic temples,  shipwreck dive sites, tranquil coves, and golden beaches .

History is, arguably, Malta’s biggest bragging right with evidence that the islands were first inhabited 7,000 years ago. Begin to unpack some of Malta’s past in Valletta , the honey-colored UNESCO-listed capital.

Set on the north side of Malta’s Grand Harbour, facing the Three Cities, Valletta is a compact, walled city on a rocky outcrop home to fanciful balconied buildings and magnificent Baroque churches.

St. John’s Co-Cathedral in Valletta, Malta

One of the most bewitching is St. John’s Co-Cathedral, where travelers pore over the domed-frescoed ceiling and Caravaggio’s The Beheading of Saint John , painted in 1608.

The city’s rich tapestry of decadent palaces and extravagant buildings was established by the Knights of St. John in the 16th century. By contrast, one of Valletta’s newest buildings is the 2015 Renzo Piano-designed Parliament House, next to the ruins of the Neoclassical Royal Opera House and minutes from St. George’s Square and the Grand Master’s Palace.

Lower Barrakka Gardens in Valletta, Malta

From the peachy, photogenic streets of Valletta, make your way to Lower Barrakka Gardens on the edge of the city walls and down to the Grand Harbour.

One of the best things to do in Malta is to relax on a traditional taxi boat as you’re guided from the city’s walls, across the sparkling water, to the captivating Three Cities, Vittoriosa, Senglea, and Cospicua.

Blue Lagoon in Gozo, Malta

If you’re in Malta to unwind, travel via boat to Gozo’s Blue Lagoon for a thrilling day of paddling, snorkeling, and sunbathing. Go as early as possible to secure a sun lounger and try to beat the crowds.

There are plenty of superb seaside spots around the main island, too, including Singita Miracle Beach, Marsaskala, and Marsaxlokk.

Mykonos, Greece

Are you ready to plan your next summer escape? Explore our August cruises to some of the world’s most beautiful islands and book your next getaway.

Kerry Spencer

Kerry Spencer has been writing about travel for 15 years. A former magazine editor and the UK editor of Cruise Critic, she lives in London, where she now writes for a number of print and online publications, including Imagine Cruising, Cruise Critic, and Selling Travel, among others.

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12 Best Caribbean Islands to Visit in 2024

Travel Advice

Updated: December 15, 2023

by Haley Parker

When choosing your next vacation, I’m sure a few things sound as appealing as a wonderful Caribbean holiday. Imagine cocktails, adventure, soft, white sandy beaches, crystal-clear turquoise waters, and palm-fringed beaches.

But choosing can be difficult. The whole Caribbean destinations area has more than 7,000 islands, keys, and islets, so I don’t know about you, but choosing the best Caribbean islands sounds like a feat too great for man. 

Narrowing down your options isn’t easy, and that’s where I come in. This is a comprehensive guide to the best islands in the Caribbean , and I promise, there’s an island or romantic vacation for everyone here. 

The Best All-Inclusive Resorts in The Caribbean

Sandals Resorts (Adults-Only) and Beaches Resorts (Family-Friendly) offer the best all-inclusive packages across eight islands in the Caribbean. Explore their specials and deals available today.

My Bottom Line Up Front: The Best Island in the Caribbean 

Calling the best Caribbean island winner is no easy feat, with thousands of islands to choose from. After much consideration, there can only be one: St. Lucia . 

St. Lucia’ s beauty is epic. There are loads of activities for everyone – whether you visit while on your honeymoon or with your family. You won’t be bored.

My Selection Criteria for the Best Caribbean Islands 

When I decided to look into the best islands in the Caribbean region, I figured a checklist or selection criteria had always worked well for me, so why not trust this process again? 

To choose the best islands in this part of the world, I considered: 

• You, my dear reader. Every person is different – some want a chilled vacation where they laze and tan about on the beach, while others are into shopping, adventure, or cultural experience. My selection of the best Caribbean islands caters to all kinds of people. 
• How to get there. There are multiple flights from various U.S. cities to these islands, and where there are layovers and needing to take a ferry or boat, it’s more than worth it. 
• Where to sleep. Not everyone has the budget to stay in exclusive all-inclusive resorts, so I wanted to ensure there’s an accommodation option for every traveler – wealthy or on a budget. 
• What to do. The islands I chose offer a variety of activities to keep you and your family engaged – all vacation long. 
• The X factor. I also considered some of the lesser-known and smaller Caribbean islands for my guide. These islands offer something extra special in the uniqueness factor, ensuring they are a must-visit. 

12 Best Caribbean Islands 

Looking for the best island(s) to enjoy your vacation or trip? Here are the 12 best Caribbean islands for you! 

St. Lucia 

Best for: Those who love the outdoors 

When it comes to first impressions, St. Lucia easily wins. With the duo Piton Mountains rising out of the Caribbean sea, the beautiful famous beaches, and tropical rainforests, it’s a sight to behold. 

St. Lucia is ideal for honeymooners, couples, or those traveling with kids. It has something for everyone to enjoy. You can just chill at the beach, book a tour, partake in numerous water sports, hike through lush rainforests, or sample the local culture and Caribbean cuisine. 

Where to Go in St. Lucia  

• Soufrière 
• Anse Chastanet beach 
• Reduit Beach 
• Pigeon Island National Park
• Marigot Bay 
• Rodney Bay 

What to Do in St. Lucia

• Hike up Gros Piton or Petit Piton (or #both) 
• Walk the Tet Paul Nature Trail 
• Join the Gros Islet Beach Party every Friday night 
• Drive into a volcano 
• Take a mud bath in the sulfur spring pools 
• Stroll through the Diamond Falls Botanical Gardens 
• Book an ATV tour, a rum tour, or a tour of a sugar mill plantation
• Splash for fun at the Splash Island Water Park 

Consider These St. Lucian Accommodation Options 

• Sandals Regency La Toc
• Sandals Grande St. Lucian
• Sandals Halcyon Beach
• Calabash Cove 
• Stonefield Villas Resort 
• Sugar Beach 
• Royalton St. Lucia Resort and Spa

The Cayman Islands

Best for: A chilled or adventure-filled experience 

The Cayman Islands is home to 66,000 friendly locals. They live on any of the three islands that form the Caymans: 

• Grand Cayman – an elegant island 
• Little Cayman – a tranquil island 
• Cayman Brac – an island ideal for the adventurous spirits 

There’s something for everyone in the Cayman Islands. 

It may feel like you never left the U.S. when you vacay on these 102 square miles of islands; you get a South Florida vibe in the Cayman Islands. But it’s more chilled with less traffic. 

Where to Go in the Cayman Islands  

• Georgetown, the capital 
• Starfish Point Beach 
• Black Pearl Skate and Surf Park 
• Locked Inn Cayman 
• Cayman Craft Market 
• Oasis Aqua park 

What to Do in the Cayman Islands

• Visit the colonial forts like St James Castle 
• Explore the museums that chronicle Carib piracy and British maritime history 
• Be amazed at the stingrays, multi-colored iguanas, starfish, and endangered sea turtles 
• Get your tan on at sun-kissed beaches like Seven Mile  
• Attend al fresco parties at the Sunset House or cocktail parties at Billy Bones 
• Go scuba diving, deep diving in Cayman Trench, or snorkeling 

Consider These Cayman Islands Accommodation Options 

• The Residences at the Ritz Carlton 
• Treasure Cove Guest House 
• Holiday Inn Resort, Grand Cayman 

The Dominican Republic 

Best for: Souls that love nature 

If you know a little about the Dominican Republic (not to be confused with Dominica, which is also located in the Caribbean), you’ll know it’s an international golfers hub. However, this Caribbean island offers much more than getting your “tee” on.

The Dominican Republic shares its island with Haiti, so you may want to visit both if you have the time and resources. Choose to get your share of vitamin sea by visiting the beautiful beaches, or check out the colonial towns, mountains, rainforests, mangrove lagoons, and waterfalls. 

Where to Go in the Dominican Republic 

• La Romana for the best beaches and Bayahibe, an off-the-grid fishing village 
• Santo Domingo, the capital and UNESCO World Heritage Site 
• Punta Cana 
• Bavaro Beach and Macao Beach 
• The 3 Eyes National Park (Los Tres Ojos) 
• 27 Charcos (or waterfalls)

What to Do in the Dominican Republic

• Golf (#ofcourse) 
• Try out some water activities – snorkeling, diving, fishing, kayaking, or scuba diving 
• Horseback riding 
• Enjoy the vibrant nightlife in the capital
• Immerse yourself in the medieval era at Altos de Chavon
• See the stunning waterfalls (#ElLimon) 

Consider These Dominican Republic Accommodation Options 

• Boca Chica All-Inclusive Beach Resort 
• Calle El Conde (Old Quarter) 
• Hotel Riazor 

Jamaica  

Best for: Reggae fans 

Jamaica is one of the most famous Caribbean islands, and it’s for a good reason too. It’s #home to jerk chicken, reggae, and Bob Morley.  With nightlife and the smells of  jerk chicken , honeymooners kick back on beachside decks and sip Red Stripe to the sunset. Jamaica also offers soft, sandy beaches with pristine waters, delicious food at the local markets (soursop, ackee, and fried breadfruit), all-inclusive resorts, and action-packed activities.

Did you know? Rap music was initially created in Jamaica and became popular in the USA. 

Where to Go in Jamaica 

• Kingston, the capital 
• James Bond Beach 
• Seven Mile Beach 
• Frenchman’s Cove
• Bob Marley Museum  
• Blue Hole 

What to Do in Jamaica

• Hike through the Blue Mountains (where some of the best coffee in the world is sourced) 
• Be in awe of the Negril Cliffs 
• Explore the Ocho Rios jungle  or Seven Mile Beach
• See the birthplace of the legendary Bob Marley at Nine Mile 
• Soak up the rum in the Kingston bars while you enjoy the Rasta off-beat tunes
• Climb Dunn’s River Falls
• Enjoy an ATV ride along the beach

Consider These Jamaican Accommodation Options 

• Sandals Montego Bay
• Sandals Ochi
• Sandals Royal Plantation
• Sandals Royal Caribbean
• Sandals South Coast
• Sandals Negril
• Beaches Negril
• Beaches Ocho Rios
• GoldEye 
• The Half Moon 
• Secrets Wild Orchid Montego Bay

Turks and Caicos 

Best for : Those who are into water sports and stunning beaches 

The Turks and Caicos Islands are a British Overseas Territory consisting of 40-low-lying coral islands on an archipelago. Only eight of these islands and islets are inhabited. 

The Provinciales, the third largest paradise island, is busy with restaurants and cocktail bars, so if peace and quiet are more your scene, escape to the other islands in the archipelago. 

Combine that with the brilliant,  white sand beaches  that stretch for miles and it’s easy to see why its beauty continually captures the world.

Where to Go in Turks and Caicos  

• Cockburn Town, the capital 
• Grace Bay Beach – is considered to be the best in the world for its exceptional white sand and turquoise waters 
• Grand Turk for diving 
• Chalk Sound National Park  

What to Do in Turks and Caicos

• Try deep-fried conch clams 
• Go on a glass-bottom boat tour 
• Take a boat cruise to Little Water Cay (an iguana sanctuary), Water Cay (secluded beach), or Fort George Cay (sandbars and sunken cannons) 
• Hike through the thick mangrove forests (Bird Rock Trail is a must) 
• Enjoy water sports activities like stand-up paddleboarding, windsurfing, deep-sea fishing, snorkeling, and scuba diving with more than 200 dive sites to choose from 
• Horse riding at Long Bay 
• Free-dive at the Wall (an underwater plateau)

Consider These Turks and Caicos Accommodation Options 

• Beaches Turks and Caicos
• Grace Bay Club 
• The Palms Turks and Caicos 
• Blue Haven Resort 
• Villa del Mar 

Anguilla  

Best for: The ultimate chic vacation vibe 

Anguilla is a small Caribbean island with more than 30 picturesque beaches you can enjoy , with magnificent  coral reefs , Plus, the water is warm all year. (#coulditgetanybetter?) 

You’ll get all the local Caribbean authenticity you need in Anguilla; there are no high-rise hotels, casinos, or cruise ships (#embargo). So you have access to all the low-key beachfront villas, coral-filled waters, and pretty sandy beaches or white sand beaches. 

Where to Go in Anguilla  

• Heritage Museum
• Prickly Pear Cays  
• Shoal Bay East Beach
• Meads Bay 
• Rendezvous Bay 
• Scilly Cay 

What to Do in Anguilla

• Get a drink and enjoy the music at Dune Preserve, a funky-mellow bar owned by local celebrity and artist Bankie Banx 
• Enjoy a meal at Veya, a treehouse-style restaurant 
• Snorkel at Little Bay 
• Try various water sports like wakeboarding, sailing, and stand-up paddleboarding
• Sample the local BBQ in the Valley 
• Have a spa day at Aurora Anguilla, Malliouhana, or Zemi Beach House 

Consider These Anguillan Accommodation Options 

• Belmond Cap Juluca 
• Zemi Beach House, LXR Hotels and Resorts 
• Frangipani Beach Resort 

Best for: Those looking to experience the old-world charm 

Saba (pronounced “say-bah”) is a tiny island only five square miles away. The island is a special Netherland municipality. With four main villages (called The Bottom, Windwardshide, Zion’s Hill or Hell’s Gate, and St. Johns, you’ll immerse yourself in old Caribbean charm. 

Saba is “The Unspoiled Queen:” it has fewer than 2,000 residents and no traffic lights, cruise ships, casinos, fast-food joints, or high-rise hotels. 

You can reach the quaint Caribbean island via a 12-minute flight from St. Martin or a 90-minute ferry ride. 

Where to Go in Saba  

• Sea Saba’s Dive Shop 
• Five Square Gallery (for Saba lace ) 
• Jobean’s Glass Art Studio  
• Mount Scenery 
• Tide pools at Flat Point 
• Saba National Marine Park 

What to Do in Saba

• Climb the steps of the Ladder at Well’s Bay 
• Explore Mt. Scenery Trail and make your way to the highest point on Saba 
• See the neighboring islands of Montserrat, St. Kitts and Nevis, and St. Eustatius from St. John’s 
• Feel like you’ve time traveled and visit Crispeen Track
• Visit a sulfur mine 
• Check out Sandy Cruise Trail and take in the views of the Saban coastline and Diamond Rock 

Consider These Saban Accommodation Options 

• Queen’s Garden Resort & Spa 
• Juliana’s Hotel 
• The Cottage Club 

Best for: Spices, chocolate, and waterfalls 

Grenada is also called Spice Island. I can imagine the salty ocean air mixed with the wafts of nutmeg, cinnamon, vanilla, and other spices. 

If you haven’t heard about this Caribbean island, that’s okay. It is closer to Venezuela and not a tourist hotspot, which makes this island so utterly charming. You wouldn’t have to worry about overcrowded dive spots, beaches, or nutmeg plantations. 

Grenada has one main island and six smaller ones. Besides being known for its spices, Grenada is famous for its beaches, waterfalls, rainforests, chocolate, and colonial cities. 

Where to Go in Grenada  

• Sandals Grenada
• St. George 
• Grand Anse Beach 
• Morne Rouge Beach 
• Levera Beach 
• Seven Sisters Waterfall  

What to Do in Grenada

• Take a tour of one of the spice plantations (and buy some spices for home use) 
• Explore the Underwater Sculpture Park 
• Get to the tallest point in Grenada by climbing Mt. Saint Catherine 
• Hike through the Grand Etang National Park and Forest Reserve 
• Tube down Balthazar River 
• Shop at Market Square 
• Laze around on black and white sandy beaches 

Consider These Grenada Accommodation Options 

• Mount Cinnamon Resort 
• Spice Island Beach Resort 
• Royalton Grenada Resort and Spa
• Montserrat 

Best for: Ecotourists and nature lovers 

Montserrat , called the Emerald Isle, may sound like a French Caribbean island, but it’s British. It’s one of the least visited Caribbean islands, with around 8,000 visitors annually . In 1995, a volcanic eruption destroyed a lot of the island, which is still recovering. The severely affected areas aren’t open to tourists and form part of an exclusion zone. 

But that isn’t to say 10-mile-long Montserrat shouldn’t be one of the best Caribbean islands. The island sees mostly day visitors, but you can stay for longer too. 

Get to Montserrat via ferry or plane from Antigua. 

Where to Go in Montserrat  

• Montserrat Soufrière Hills Volcano Observatory  
• Plymouth, the former capital (the Caribbean’s Pompeii) 
• Lime Kiln Bay 
• Marguerita Bay 
• Foxes Bay 
• Bunkum Bay 

What to Do in Montserrat

• Indulge in a frothy Guinness at one of the pubs 
• Marvel at the volcano from Jack Boy Hill, or check out Garibaldi and views of Plymouth, Old Towne, and Salem 
• Enjoy a drink at the Runaway Ghaut 
• Hike any one (or all!) of the nine marked trails, like Dry Waterfall Trial (check out the Montserrat Petroglyphs), Oriole Walkway Trail, and Blackwood Allen Trail, and immerse yourself in the fauna, flora, and animal-life 
• Beachcomb at Woodlands Bay and spot the washed-out driftwood 

Consider These Montserrat Accommodation Options 

• Tropical Mansion Suites 
• Gingerbread Hill 
• Grand View Bed & Breakfast

Dominica  

Best for: A quiet getaway 

Dominica is like the Garden of Eden for the Caribbean because it’s so lush with rainforests, peaks and valleys, rivers (more than one for every day of the year), volcanic beaches, hot springs, and waterfalls. The undeveloped landscape will appeal to you if you love nature and are into green tourism. 

Where to Go in Dominica  

• Morne Trois Pitons National Park  
• Mero Beach 
• Scotts Head 
• Batibou Beach 
• Soufrière Bay Beach 

What to Do in Dominica

• Take in the Boiling Lake and go for a dip in one of the nearby waterfall pools 
• Go birdwatching at Caroni Bird Sanctuary or the Syndicate Parrot Reserve 
• Relax on the black sandy beaches 
• Swim in the Emerald Pool 
• Check out Victoria Falls 
• Enjoy the Caribbean sea turtles as they nest or hatch 

Consider These Dominican Accommodation Options 

• Jungle Bay 
• Fort Young Hotel 
• Beau Rive 

Guadeloupe 

Best for: Tourists and adventurers 

Like some other islands on this list, you may not have known about Guadeloupe’s existence. But you will surely now remember it. 

The Guadeloupe island is shaped like a butterfly, with wings spread over the two main islands (the largest ones) – Grande Terre and Basse Terre. Between the islands, you’ll find a few man-made bridges.

Grande Terre is the more touristy of the two islands, while Basse Terre is the wilder one. 

Where to Go in Guadeloupe  

• Pointe-à-Pitre, the largest city 
• Anse des Cayes 
• Plage de la Caravelle
• Pointe des Châteaux (Castle Point) 
• Damoiseau (rum) Distillery 

What to Do in Guadeloupe

• Explore the nightlife of Gosier 
• Be brave and check out Morne à l’eau’s haunting graveyards 
• Relax and get some vitamin sea at the Caravelle beaches 
• Hike to the tallest point in the Lesser Antilles – La Grande Soufrière (the Tall Lady; an active volcano)
• Find your inner Indiana Jones by sightseeing the ancient Arawak archaeological sites 
• Dive at one of the many spots on Basse Terre 

Consider These Guadeloupe Accommodation Options 

• Marco Polo Resort 
• Hotel Bakoua Les Trois Ilets 
• Le Jardin Malanga 
• La Creole Beach Hotel & Spa

Best for: Sampling Curaçao

I’d never have guessed that Curaçao is part of the Netherlands; it’s such a Spanish-sounding name! The Caribbean island is famous for Curaçao since it’s the birthplace of this delicious orange-flavored liqueur. The Lahara orange peels are used to make the liqueur, and it’s indigenous to the island. 

Curaçao is blessed with great weather all year round: perfect temperatures, sunny days, and cool trade winds. 

Where to Go in Curaçao  

• Chobolobo Distillery (where Curaçao is made) 
• Willemstad , the capital and a UNESCO World Heritage Site 
• Shete Boka National Park 
• Fort Amsterdam
• Jan Thiel 
• Christoffel National Park 
• Playa Lagun 

What to Do in Curaçao

• Explore the Hato Caves 
• Take in the multi-colored Dutch mansions in the capital 
• Fawn over the diverse fauna, flora, and more at the national park – the Lady of the Night orchid, cottontail rabbits, deer, hummingbirds, divi-divi trees, and the massive stone peak 
• Cross the Queen Emma Pontoon Bridge that links Otrobanda and Punda, the two halves of the capital 
• Go on a SCUBA excursion

Consider These Curaçao Accommodation Options 

• Sandals Curacao
• Curaçao Marriott Beach Resort 
• LionsDive Beach Resort Curaçao 
• Curaçao Avila Beach Hotel 

Caribbean Island FAQs 

Question: what is the nicest of the caribbean islands .

Answer: There are many nice Caribbean islands, but the nicest are St. Lucia, Anguilla, Aruba, Antigua, the Cayman Islands, Guadeloupe, Montserrat, Grenada, Jamaica, Saba, and Turks and Caicos. 

Question: What are the top 5 safest islands to visit in the Caribbean? 

Answer: Unfortunately, some Caribbean islands have gotten a rep for being unsafe, but it’s always up to you to stay safe when visiting another country. Nonetheless, the safest islands to visit in the Caribbean are: 

• Anguilla 
• St. Martin 
• St. Barts 
• The Cayman Islands 

Question: What is the least touristy Caribbean island? 

Answer: A few islands in the Caribbean offer an authentic, non-touristy vibe. These are Montserrat, Dominica, Guadeloupe, Saba, Curaçao, and St. Vincent and the Grenadines. 

My Final Thoughts on the Best Caribbean Islands 

You can visit thousands of Caribbean islands, and if that’s your #bucketlist, you won’t ever get bored. There’s plenty to do, see, and experience in the Caribbean. 

I love St. Lucia because it’s a versatile island – whether you want to be in awe of the mountains and the green forests, do something adventurous, or just chill and sip a cocktail (or three). 

Plus, the other guides on EpicCaribbean.com will further help you and give you the necessary information. Check out: 

• 4 Places to visit in the Caribbean without a passport
• 21 Best beaches in Jamaica  
• The ultimate guide to Caribbean island hopping  

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8 caribbean islands you can fly to for less.

Maximize your vacation budget with wallet-friendly beach destinations.

Affordable Caribbean Islands

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Head to these Caribbean islands to stay within your travel budget.

Dying to visit the Caribbean but haven't yet settled on an island? While struggling to pick a place may be stressing you out, it puts you in a better spot budget-wise, since some Caribbean islands are much more expensive to fly to.

To help you find some of the cheapest Caribbean islands to visit, U.S. News compared airfare prices from three American cities – Chicago, New York and Miami – to most major airports in the Caribbean for several travel dates this year and next. Ultimately, choosing specific Caribbean islands and airports can help you save huge sums.

The list includes some classic favorites like Jamaica and St. Thomas , as well as new destinations you have yet to discover. Read on to learn about the most affordable Caribbean destinations to fly to this year and next.

Puerto Rico

One of the cheapest Caribbean destinations to visit through next year is the sunny capital city of Puerto Rico , San Juan. This low-cost tropical paradise is known for its colonial architecture, vibrant nightlife and nearby sugar-sand beaches that make it a popular vacation spot. Best of all, the cheapest flights average around $300 from the U.S. during July and November of 2023, all the way into February 2024. Check out nonstop options operated by JetBlue if you're on the East Coast.

More expensive than its busier sister airport in San Juan but still affordable enough to make the ranking, Aguadilla has a smaller airport in Puerto Rico that welcomes inexpensive flights from Chicago , Miami and New York City . This destination may be ideal if you want to lay back and relax or stay busy with activities. After all, Aguadilla is known for its surfing and diving, as well as its rocky beaches and oceanfront scenery. Flight deals to quieter Aguadilla for the same time period average $415 and are often a viable alternative to flying into San Juan, especially if you're staying in one of the intimate boutique hotels nearby.

[See more of Puerto Rico: Things to Do | Hotels ]

Dominican Republic

The Dominican Republic is a true Caribbean playground, filled to the brim with all-inclusive resorts, kid-friendly attractions and, of course, turquoise seas. Las Américas International Airport in Santo Domingo was found to be the second-cheapest Caribbean airport to fly into overall, with an average flight price of $367 round trip (leaving you with plenty to spend on the ground).

Punta Cana is another popular destination in the Dominican Republic for families, couples and groups of friends since nearly all the all-inclusive resort brands are found there. You can find package deals that bundle in nonstop flights from many U.S. cities, which makes it easier to save big. This destination is also known for its high-energy adventure activities, including zip lining, ATV rides, snorkeling and more. The average flight cost here works out to $474 round trip through late 2023 and early 2024, with cheap flights coming mostly from Miami and New York.

From the iconic pink towers of The Royal at Atlantis to the equally iconic pink sands of Harbour Island, the Bahamas are a colorful Caribbean destination. The lively capital of Nassau hosts the Lynden Pindling International Airport and is a hub for Bahamasair. While the average flight to Nassau costs as little as $409 on average, you can expect to pay even less if you're departing from Miami, Florida, where you can nab a flight from around $270 if you catch a sale.

[See more of the Bahamas: Things to Do | Hotels ]

Grand Cayman, Cayman Islands

Grand Cayman is a tropical paradise known for its family-friendly atmosphere and incredible beaches. In fact, this island is home to Seven Mile Beach, which is frequently rated as one of the best white sand beaches in the world . While accommodations and food and drink in this Cayman Islands destination aren't cheap, you may be able to find flights to this island for a surprisingly low price. The U.S. News analysis found that the average price for U.S. flight deals to Grand Cayman works out to $411, but flights from Miami cost an average of just $312.

[See more of the Cayman Islands: Things to Do | Hotels ]

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Montego Bay's Sangster International Airport sees more than a million visitors every year. Its popularity is due in part to its status as a gateway to the rest of the Caribbean, as well as its relative affordability, with an average flight price of $421 from U.S. airports. From here, you can check into one of the famous all-inclusive resorts like Sandals Montego Bay or Secrets St. James , a luxe adults-only hideaway.

[See more of Jamaica: Things to Do | Hotels ]

Turks and Caicos

Providenciales International Airport in Turks and Caicos is where you fly if you want to stay along the shores of the famous Grace Bay . This destination provides travelers with a range of lodging options to choose from, including all-inclusive resorts like Beaches Turks & Caicos and Alexandra Resort as well as a plethora of high-end oceanfront Airbnbs. Flights into this Turks and Caicos airport average $425 throughout the year, and you can fly in for as little as $320 from Miami.

[See more of Turks and Caicos: Things to Do | Hotels ]

St. Thomas, U.S. Virgin Islands

A destination in and of itself – as well as a gateway to the other U.S. Virgin Islands of St. John and St. Croix – St. Thomas is next on the list, with an average flight price of $474. Given the bulk of affordable flight options from New York City and Miami, you may be able to score airfare for less than $400 round trip, leaving plenty of extra dough for zip lining in the rainforest, snorkeling in Magens Bay or shopping in the duty-free shops of Charlotte Amalie.

[See more of the U.S. Virgin Islands: Things to Do | Hotels ]

Finally, you can consider the Dutch island of Curaçao , a neighbor of both Aruba and Bonaire, if you are looking for inexpensive flight deals. This destination has a range of hotels for budget-conscious travelers, as well as high-end luxury resorts. For example, Sandals recently opened one of its newest adults-only resorts here, Sandals Royal Curaçao. The average cost for U.S. flights to Curaçao came in at $501, which should leave you with some coin to spend on beach-hopping excursions, catamaran tours and snorkeling sessions.

[See more of Curaçao: Things to Do | Hotels ]

Why Trust U.S. News Travel

Holly Johnson is a travel writer veteran who has visited more than 50 countries, including many of the islands in the Caribbean. Johnson frequently covers all-inclusive resorts and cruises in the Caribbean, and she loves searching for the best deals and planning budget vacations for her family of four.

You might also be interested in:

• The Best Places to Visit in the Caribbean
• The Best Cheap Caribbean Vacations
• The Top Affordable All-Inclusive Resorts
• The Cheapest Travel Insurance Companies

Cheap Tropical Vacations

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• # 1 South Island, New Zealand
• # 4 Bora Bora

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