caribbean travel in april

5 Best Caribbean Islands to Visit During April (2024 Reviews)

Destinations By Month

Updated: December 15, 2023

We all love St. Lucia or Puerto Rico . But do you know there are over 28 island nations and 7,000 individual islands in the Caribbean?

The Caribbean islands sprawl over 1.06 million square miles and comprise 13 sovereign states and 17 dependent territories. They are located primarily between North America and South America and are considered a tourist’s paradise. 

We reviewed the top 5 Caribbean islands to visit during your holidays in April. 

Now that we have the basics sorted let us discuss the most important topic — which are the best islands to visit in April for those planning a holiday in the Caribbean.

Here are your top five options to choose from:

1. St. Lucia

If you are a fan of chalk-colored beaches, St. Lucia is a must-visit. Pair them with beautiful volcanoes (Sulphur Spring is the only drive-in volcano globally) and a myriad of luxury hotels, and you are guaranteed a fun stay. 

Most visitors come here for relaxation and adventures like hiking through the Pitons. The island’s watersports and flourishing forests ensure you get your money’s worth back and more. Some all-inclusive resorts include unlimited watersports, so be sure to consider resorts like Sandals .

In addition, the quintessential St. Lucia bistros and bars will ensure that your smorgasbord of cravings is taken care of. 

Things to do in St. Lucia

• Sign up for the Saint Lucia Sulphur Springs Rejuvenating Mud Bath Tour.
• Explore Soufriere.
• Visit the Diamond Mineral Baths.
• Take a tour to the Petit Piton and Gros Piton.
• Go to the Marigot Bay. 

2. Barbados

Expansive golf courses , exuberant resorts and a plethora of sandy beaches make Barbados one of the best islands to visit in the Caribbean during April. Barbados has competition-caliber waves to its east and calm waters to its west. 

Its rum is famous throughout the country, and the fine soft sand beaches and turquoise waters make it one of the top destinations among the islands. 

Travellers will have a gala time on this island. They can swim with the turtles or visit the west coast for a delicious meal. If you are an early riser, you cannot miss the karaoke sessions on the south coast. There are fantastic all-inclusive and adults-only resorts in Barbados as well.

Things to do in Barbados

• Visit the Hunte’s Gardens to experience the variety of plants. 
• Take a tour of Harrison’s Cave.
• Do not miss out on visiting Mount Gay Visitor Center, the oldest distillery on the island. 
• Visit the Barbados Broadwalk to experience an array of beaches. 
• Tour Bathsheba Beach for its foamy waters. 

3. St. Vincent and the Grenadines

If watersports are your thing, St. Vincent and the Grenadines is a perfect getaway for you this April. Go snorkelling, sunbathing, diving, or take a boat and go fishing around this island, which is made up of 32 small islands. 

The area is largely uncovered and has a rich sailing and pirate history, making it unlike any other Caribbean island. For those who like to stay away from the hustle and bustle, most of its beaches are usually deserted and quiet, irrespective of the time of the year. 

Our favourite thing here? Those coconut-filled buns at the Sunshine Bakery. 

Things to do in St. Vincent and the Grenadines

• Visit the Dark View Falls Tour and Beach.
• Go on the Vermont Nature Trail Tour.
• Spend the day at Tobago Cays.
• Visit the historic Fort Duvernette.
• Go snorkelling at Tobago Cays Marine Park.

4. Turks and Caicos

Grace Bay, one of the best beaches in the Caribbean, is in the Turks and Caicos, as are so many other sprawling beaches. The areas are primarily tropical forests and marine wetlands, and you will find most of the population in the Providenciales. 

Visitors prefer sailing, scuba diving, and game fishing on the island. Grace Bay Beach is everyone’s favourite, and all the beaches on this island are free to public access. 

Club Med Turkoise and Beaches are some of the large resorts in this area, and they often schedule boat tours and other activities for guests. 

Things to do in Turks and Caicos

• Visit the Salt House Museum or the Boiling Hole to learn more about salt production.
• Try out a cruise on a catamaran.
• Shop for antiques at Alverna’s Craft Market. 
• Explore the ancient Majesty’s Prison.
• Pay a visit to the Conch Bar Caves.

Cuba is situated between the Caribbean Sea and the North Atlantic Ocean. Its capital is Havana, which is especially popular among tourists. This place is full of colonial architecture, and you will hear strains of Cuban music wherever you travel. 

People here love dancing and drinking, coupled with loud music, and celebrations are spread throughout the year. Even if you do not enjoy partying much, there is enough in Cuba to fulfil the traveller in you. 

Things to do in Cuba

• Visit the Peninsula de Zapata National Park.
• Take a tour of Trinidad for its colonial architecture.
• Visit one of the most famous Cuban beaches, Varadero.
• Experience the Vara Diving.
• Visit the House of Rum.

April is one of the busiest months in the Caribbean for several reasons. Its rich diversity and welcoming people ensure there is something for everyone. The delectable food and the sprawling beaches with corals and turquoise water make for a scenic experience like no other. 

The islands also run a volunteering program where visitors can get a free place to stay in exchange for work. So, your next visit to the islands can be free if you have skills, such as teaching or agricultural expertise. 

There is a lot to explore, and April is one of the best times to visit these islands and rejuvenate yourself. So, go ahead and plan your trip!

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Best Caribbean Islands For... , Caribbean , Destinations · February 13, 2024

The Best Caribbean Islands to Visit in April: 7 Top Choices

There are over 700 islands, islets, reefs and cays in the Caribbean (not all inhabited, of course), so it can be challenging to decide where is best to vacation. In this article, we’re going to take a look at the best Caribbean islands to visit in April, giving you a mixture of tiny hidden gems and some of the more developed spots. 

The Caribbean region has something for everyone. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing, 5-star retreat, a hiking adventure exploring rainforests, waterfalls, and volcanoes, or a sailing experience of a lifetime, you’ll find it on one of these paradise islands. 

Is April a Good Time to go to the Caribbean?

Yes! April is the perfect time to go to the Caribbean as it’s the back end of the busy tourist season. The crowds begin to subside a little, the temperatures are warm but not unbearable, and the ocean temperature is rising, making it perfect for swimming! Also, April is in the dry season, so rains and hurricanes won’t be a risk.

The Best Caribbean Islands to Visit in April

First up on the best Caribbean islands to visit in April is Jamaica. The home of reggae comes alive because April is when the carnival comes to town. In 2024, Carnival in Jamaica officially runs from March 28th – April 8th, but there will be plenty of events happening before and after. During the main week of festivities, there will be plenty of action and colour in the capital, Kingston, Montego Bay and Ocho Rios. 

Besides carnival, Jamaica is a beautiful destination for ultimate luxury and relaxation as well as adventure and exploration. Known as the land of wood and water, Jamaica is one of the larger Caribbean islands, boasting sensational beaches, like the 7-mile Beach in Negril, lush rainforests and beautiful waterfalls like Dunns River Falls.

If you’re an all-inclusive kind of traveller looking for 5-star luxury, Jamaica is a great choice!

🏡 Places to Stay in Jamaica

• Sandals Royal Plantation All Inclusive – Couples Only – Luxury all inclusive, adults-only, oceanfront, personalised butler service, in Ocho Rios
• S Hotel Jamaica – All-Inclusive – Trendy all inclusive resort with beachfront luxury, spa, and cuisine, in Montego Bay
• Riu Palace Tropical Bay – All Inclusive – Family-friendly, beachfront, all inclusive hotel with fine dining, water sports and lively entertainment, in Negril

You can find more amazing places to stay in Jamaica  here .

🎒 Things to Do in Jamaica in April

• Experience a  Rasta ATV Safari
• Take a private south coast tour (YS Falls, floating Pelican Bar, Black River safari and Appleton Rum)
• Venture to Chuck Norris Secret Falls
• Tour Appleton Rum Distillery with tastings of Jamaica’s famous rum
• Go  Bamboo Rafting along the Martha Brae River
• Explore Negril by  cliff jumping at Rick’s Cafe and swimming at Seven Mile Beach

You can find more things to do in Jamaica  here .

✈️ Find: Cheap flights to Jamaica

2. The Bahamas

The Bahamas is high on many people’s bucket lists, and for good reason. When people think of crystal clear waters and pristine white sand beaches, most people will name the Bahamas the go-to destination – and it definitely is! It’s one of the best Caribbean islands to visit in April (and many other months) because of these beautiful waters that are great for sailing, snorkelling, and diving.

Also, you’ll find an abundance of luxury resorts on the islands, so if that’s your vibe, then the Bahamas is probably the destination for you. It’s not cheap, but nowhere in the Caribbean is. 

April is also a great choice because the Bahamas hosts its spring Junkanoo (its version of carnival that is celebrated a few times a year). While the main event occurs around Boxing Day and New Year, spring is still incredibly lively, with people travelling far and wide to experience this carnival that is a real clash of cultures. This celebration is one of the reasons Bahamas has made it onto our list of the best Caribbean islands to visit in April.

🏡 Places to Stay in the Bahamas

• Grand Hyatt Baha Mar – Luxury resort overlooking white sand Cable Beach, Nassau; featuring the Caribbean’s largest casino and exclusive dining experiences
• Kahari Resort, a Peace and Plenty Resort Property – Located on Stocking Island; offers intimate beachfront luxury, exclusive access to barrier reefs and the famous Chat ‘N’ Chill beach bar
• Grand Isle Resort & Residences – Elegant beachside villas on Great Exuma, with stunning sea views, a championship golf course, and a relaxing spa

You can find more amazing places to stay in the Bahamas  here .

🎒 Things to Do in the Bahamas in April

• Swim with pigs at the famous Pig Beach and visit other iconic beaches
• Go on an Exuma full day excursion , swimming, snorkelling and experiencing all the best sites 
• Snorkel around Pablo Escobar’s plane crash wreck
• Take sightseeing to a new level in a pirate Jeep
• Taste Bahamian cuisine on a food tasting and cultural walking tour
• Escape the crowds and relax at a private ocean view cabana at Pearl Island
• Discover the capital of the Bahamas on Nassau’s only Segway tour

You can find more things to do in the Bahamas  here .

✈️ Find: Cheap flights to the Bahamas

3. British Virgin Islands

Made up of 50 islands and cays, the British Virgin Islands is a paradise for sailors and the wealthy. We won’t sugar coat it – the BVI isn’t cheap, but it makes up for it with some of the most beautiful scenery, landscapes, and waters in the region. We’ve spent over 6 months in total in the BVI, and we love it for its great mix of experience. 

The BVI is one of the best Caribbean islands to visit in April because there is a selection of events going on, particularly the BVI Food and Wine Festival , the Spring Regatta and the Easter Festival on Virgin Gorda .

• The main island of Tortola , the busiest of the inhabited islands, boasts beautiful beaches , restaurants , and hiking.
• Over on Virgin Gorda , you’ll find an island scattered with giant boulders (a landscape like nothing we’ve ever seen), a laid-back vibe, more traditional Caribbean vibe. 
• Jost Van Dyke , home to the famous Soggy Dollar Bar and Foxy’s, is an idyllic getaway that feels like being transported back in time. 
• Finally, Anegada , a flat island with some roads that are still sand is the closest you will ever feel to being on a deserted island. It feels like you’ve been dropped into a TV show or movie that’s set on an island cut off from the world – it’s incredible!

So, if you’re into island hopping and want a vacation with plenty of different experiences – we recommend the BVI as one of the best Caribbean islands to visit in April.

🏡 Places to Stay in the British Virgin Islands

You can find our Ultimate Guide to Where to Stay in the British Virgin Islands here , with reviews of each island and a bunch of accommodation recommendations.

Here’s some of our favourites across the islands:

• Rosewood Little Dix Bay – 5-star luxury hotel with soft white sand beach and stunning grounds. This is where Queen Elizabeth II and Prince Philip vacationed and stayed
• Almost Heaven Villa – Convenient location between iconic White Bay home to Soggy Dollar Bar, and Great Harbour, where you’ll find the famous Foxy’s
• Long Bay Beach Resort – Beachfront luxury rooms looking out to pristine white sand beach, rolling waves and peaks of other islands

You can find more amazing places to stay in the British Virgin Islands  here .

🎒 Things to Do in the British Virgin Islands in April

• Go on a full day boat charter  island hopping around the BVI
• Experience kayaking in the mangroves in Beef Island Lagoon
• Visit secret beaches and go snorkelling along coral reefs
• Hike in Mount Healthy National Park
• Head out on a powerboat to Virgin Gorda and snorkel spots
• Trek through Brewers Bay to the BVI’s only pineapple farm  
• Wander the Botanical Gardens and Fahie Hill Murals

You can find more things to do in the British Virgin Islands  here .

✈️ Find: Cheap flights to British Virgin Islands

4. Sint Maarten/St Martin

Sint Maarten is part of a binational island, with half of the island (Sint Maarten) being a Dutch territory and the other half ( Saint Martin ) belonging to the French. Even if you don’t know this island, you probably know one of the reasons it’s famous – there is a beach right at the end of the runway with planes landing just above people’s heads (see the picture below).

This gem of an island is a real fusion of cultures, with architecture and food showing the coming together of Dutch, Caribbean and French. So, why is it one of the best Caribbean islands to visit in April? Carnival ! Possibly the most looked-forward-to period on the island, the island comes alive with events, fetes, and masquerades. 

On the Dutch side of the island, you’ll find night nightlife, casinos, and shopping. Whereas the Saint Martin, the French side, is more nature-based activities. However, both Sint and Saint have great beaches and places to eat.

So, if you’re considering the best Caribbean islands to visit in April and you’re wanting a quieter trip, head to Saint Martin. If a lively atmosphere is what you’re after, Sint Maarten is your stop.

You Might Love: The 10 Best Caribbean Islands to Visit in March

🏡 Places to Stay in Sint Maarten/St Martin

• Sonesta Ocean Point Resort – Adults-only, all-inclusive luxury on Maho Beach, St Maarten, featuring a private beach, infinity pools, and fine dining
• Karibuni Boutique Hotel – Offers secluded bayside villas on St Martin, with personalised service and access to private islands and dining
• Esmeralda Resort – Nestled on Orient Bay, St Martin; known for its 18 luxurious villas, private pools, and exclusive beach access

You can find more amazing places to stay in Sint Maarten/St Martin  here .

Top Tip: For a more laid-back and relaxed atmosphere, stay in Saint Martin (the French side). If you’re seeking convenience and vibrant nightlife, opt to stay in Sint Maarten (the Dutch side).

🎒 Things to Do in Sint Maarten/St Martin in April

• Hop on a speed boat and go beach hopping and snorkelling with turtles and sting rays
• Discover the island on a private sightseeing tour to see the hotspots
• Go on a day trip to Anguilla Island and it’s beaches Meads Bay, Sandy Island, and Rendezvous Bay
• Explore Pinel Island & it’s huge population of iguana’s  
• Watch the sunset on a sunset catamaran cruise
• Go scuba diving around St Maarten’s reefs and wrecks

You can find more things to do in Sint Maarten/St Martin  here .

✈️ Find: Cheap flights to Sint Maarten/St Martin

Three things come to mind when many people think about Antigua: beaches , cricket, and sailing. Well, if you’re into sailing, you’ll love why Antigua is one of the best Caribbean islands to visit in April 2024. There are two major sailing events – the Antigua Classic Yacht Regatta and Antigua Sailing Week .

However, if sailing isn’t your vibe, it’s still an amazing time to visit. The island will be a hive of activity and anticipation, with sailors from around the region (and the world) flocking for the festivities. Even with the bustling atmosphere, you’ll be able to find a quiet corner of relaxation in paradise because there are a total of 365 beaches on the island and some incredible things to do in Antigua away from the sailing.

🏡 Places to Stay in Antigua

• Carlisle Bay  – Secluded, beachfront family-friendly upscale resort with options for all inclusive and breakfast only
• Curtain Bluff  – Premier, all inclusive with two beaches, world-class tennis, and dining
• Hermitage Bay  – 5-star eco-friendly hotel with beachfront suites, farm-to-table dining, and personalised spa services

You can find more amazing places to stay in Antigua  here .

🎒 Things to Do in Antigua in April

• Go on a complete circumnavigation tour of Antigua (365 beaches in one day!)
• Hop on a boat to secluded islands Maiden Island and Bird Island
• Go hiking across the coastline of Antigua  
• Explore the rainforest and beaches on a Tuk-Tuk
• Take an Antiguan jerk’ cooking class or rum cooking class
• Enjoy a full day tour of Antigua to see Devil’s Bridge, Nelson’s Dockyard, Shirley Heights and more

You can find more things to do in Antigua  here .

✈️ Find: Cheap flights to Antigua

6. Barbados

Barbados is the most developed of the eastern Caribbean islands, with more choices for accommodation, restaurants, groceries and shopping than any of the others. It’s become the most budget-friendly of the eastern Caribbean islands for this reason (particularly if you’re travelling from the UK ). 

The island is relatively flat, so it doesn’t boast the lush rainforests and mountains of other islands but it makes up for it everywhere else. Welcoming locals and a vibe that can be as lively or as chilled as you like make this an island that people return to year after year.

There is never a bad time to visit Barbados, but it’s one of the best Caribbean islands to visit in April for two reasons: Oistins Festival and Barbados Reggae Festival. 

• Oistins Fish Fry is a Bajan institution. This little fishing town comes alive every Friday night with vendors cooking up fresh catch and locals and tourists mixing, drinking, and dancing. In April, there is an official celebration of this tradition, where the event is taken up a notch – it’s not to be missed!
• The Reggae Festival doesn’t need much explanation. Reggae is synonymous with the region, and this festival attracts some well-renowned acts and lasts 5 days at the end of April.

🏡 Places to Stay in Barbados

• Sweetfield Manor – Charming, boutique hotel with peacocks, lagoon style outdoor pool, near Carlisle Bay
• Savannah Beach Club – Beachfront family-friendly hotel with Miami-style architecture and modern rooms
• Cobblers Cove – Elegant, British colonial-style hotel with gourmet dining, complimentary boat day to swim with turtles, and tropical gardens

You can find more amazing places to stay in Barbados  here .

🎒 Things to Do in Barbados in April

• Go swimming with turtles at Carlisle Bay shipwrecks
• Explore the whole island on a  private (and customisable) tour
• Spend the day on a  Catamaran Cruise Excursion
• Adventure through  Harrison’s Cave
• Discover the remote and rugged  Bathsheba beach and other off-the-beaten track coastlines
• Taste  Barbadian rum at Mount Gay Rum Distillery

You can find more things to do in Barbados  here .

✈️ Find: Cheap flights to Barbados

7. Saint Lucia

St Lucia is a dream destination to visit any time of year. Known for its jaw-dropping landscapes, such as the Pitons, sensational waterfalls , a mixture of white and black sand beaches and being a hotspot for chocolate-making – this island is a paradise for romantics, adventurers, and families and its why it’s undoubtedly one of the best Caribbean islands to visit in April.

We spent around 6 weeks on St Lucia and it was such an adventure – we loved every minute of it. While there are some incredible resorts on the island, we recommend doing everything you can to get out and explore. If you don’t, you won’t see the real St Lucia, feel the welcome of the amazing people, and see some of the most incredible landscapes you’ll ever lay eyes on.

Also, it’s one of the best Caribbean islands to visit in April for jazz fans and artists. Recognised in the region as the best jazz and arts festival (it’s been running for 30 years!), this 14-day event kicks off at the end of April and runs into May.

🏡 Places to Stay in St Lucia

• Jade Mountain Resort  – Iconic, luxury St Lucia resort with open-wall suites, private infinity pools, and stunning Piton views
• Sugar Beach, A Viceroy Resort  – Luxury beachfront resort nestled between Pitons with spa and villas with private pools
• Bel Jou Hotel  –  Affordable adults-only hotel with rooftop dining, wellness activities, and views over Castries, gardens and the Caribbean Sea. Read  our review .

You can find more amazing places to stay in St Lucia  here .

🎒 Things to Do in St Lucia in April

• Trek the UNESCO  Pitons on a guided hike
• Learn about cocao and make your own chocolate at Project Chocolat  (we recommend the Tree to Bar Experience)
• Spend the day on a private boat trip to Soufriere and St Lucia’s west coast
• Explore the  worlds-only drive in volcano and Sulphur Springs mud baths
• Experience colourful marine life by  SNUBA or Scuba Diving
• Sail around the island on a  full-day Catamaran cruise

You can find more things to do in St Lucia  here .

✈️ Find: Cheap flights to St Lucia

FAQs About the Best Caribbean Islands to Visit in April

What is the weather like in the caribbean in april.

The weather in the Caribbean in April is generally warm, sunny, and inviting, making it a popular time for visitors. April falls within the dry season for most of the Caribbean, which typically runs from December to May. During this month, you can expect minimal rainfall and average temperatures to range from the mid-70s to mid-80s Fahrenheit (around 24°C to 29°C). Although it can be slightly cooler in the evenings and in more northern islands, this period highlights the best Caribbean islands to visit in April, thanks to its excellent weather conditions.

Is April hurricane season in the Caribbean?

No, April is not part of the hurricane season in the Caribbean. The Atlantic hurricane season officially runs from June 1st to November 30th. 

Does it rain a lot in the Caribbean in April?

In April, the Caribbean generally sees less rainfall as it’s within the dry season. Average rainfall can vary by island but is typically lower than in the wet season.

For example, in the Bahamas, the average rainfall is around 2 inches (50 mm), with about 5 to 7 rainy days. While, in Barbados, the average rainfall is around 1.6 inches (40 mm) and approximately 5 to 8 rainy days.

Which Caribbean island has the best weather in April?

The Caribbean boasts excellent weather in April, with warm temperatures and low rainfall across the region. Generally, the southern Caribbean has slightly drier and more stable conditions due to its closer proximity to the equator. In contrast, the northern islands may see a bit more variability, including occasional brief showers.

The Best Caribbean Islands to Visit in April Summarised

Overall, April is an incredible time to visit the Caribbean. The weather is ideal, the high-season crowds have departed, and there are so many events and festivals taking place. Whether you’re looking for ultimate luxury in a resort or an experience that gets you off the beaten path, one of the best Caribbean islands to visit in April will give you exactly what you’re looking for!

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Spring Sun: The 7 Best Caribbean Islands to Visit in April

December is the time for snowbirds escaping North America and Europe . February is for the college breakers looking to party in San Juan and Cancun. Summer is beset by hurricanes. But what about the spring? Check out our guide to the best Caribbean islands to visit in April for tips on where’s hot and where’s not at this point in the calendar.

It runs through seven islands in the sparkling Caribbean Sea that we think hit something of a peak when March gives way to April. Low rainfall counts, decent levels of sunshine, but also dips in the visitor numbers are all in the offing, as are some seriously enticing islands.

Yep, our list of the best Caribbean islands to visit in April hops from the volcano-topped reaches of St Lucia to the picture-perfect sands of Grenada. It also throws in plenty of zingy jerk chicken and partying in the rowdy towns of Aruba for those looking for samba dancing until dawn. Let’s begin…

Table of Contents

Aruba makes it onto this list not because it’s a particularly great island to visit in April but because it’s a particularly great island to visit just about any time in the year. You see, little Aruba of the ABC isles might officially be a Caribbean island, but it actually sits just off the coast of Venezuela in South America. That keeps it neatly out of the main path of summer-fall hurricanes, and bathed in good warmth and sunshine for much of the calendar.

More than that, though, Aruba is a bit of a fav among North American snowbirds and spring breakers. They come down from December to March for the rambunctious nightlife and casino gambling that’s offered by the island’s capital, colourful Oranjestad. By April, most will be back at home in the stars and stripes nursing their rum-induced hangovers.

That means you’ll get the beaches largely to yourself. And what beaches they are! Check out award-winning Eagle Beach , where you can laze on sugar-white sand under the shade of divi-divi trees. Or head to Arashi Beach, which has waters that are positively swimming-pool-esque.

Let’s get this cleared up: St Lucia is a stunning, jaw-dropping island no matter the time of the year. With its volcano-carved coastline and arrowhead shoreline mountains, the Pitons, it looks wonderful bathed in sunshine but also haloed in wet-season mist. And there are hot springs to enjoy if the temperatures do dip a touch, which they very rarely do.

But April actually happens to be a sweet spot for visiting St Lucia, anyway. It’s the tail-end of the official peak season, which hits its own zenith with New Year and January. Temperatures sit steady at about the 28 C mark. Plus, and here’s the kicker, April is the driest month of the lot, with a mere 20mm of rainfall from the 1 st to the 30 th .

If that screams beach weather then that’s because it is! So, stick to the west coast, which has the most incredible string of white-tinged bays under soaring mountains. The best of them are Rodney Bay, Castries, and Soufriere, which is the home of those aforementioned Piton mountains and some of the most romantic honeymoon hotels this side of the Maldives.

Calling all culture vultures – there’s almost no better place in the whole Caribbean if you’re into music, art, and real, raw human stories than Cuba . Once a land denied to Western travelers, it’s been slowly opening since the early 90s and now offers a glimpse at a unique country of tobacco plantations, vintage Cadillacs, jazz bars, and Communism.

Ask any local here and they’ll tell you: April is a fantastic time to come to the isle of smoking cigars and Cuba Libre cocktails. It’s the hottest month of the traditional high season, which runs from December to April in all, but doesn’t yet have the soaring humidity counts of the main summer months.

The upshot? You’ll probably want to work in at least some beach time between walking tours of Havana. For that, head north to Varadero, a whole spit of a headland that’s encompassed by sugary sands and coral gardens.

Dominican Republic

The Dominican Republic is one of the larger countries in the Caribbean, occupying one half of colossal Hispaniola Island. The size means that there’s plenty to get through here, no matter if you’re after whale-filled bays or tobacco-covered sierras.

The vast majority of arrivals make straight for the resort strips of Punta Cana. That’s good and all if you want uninterrupted sunbathing sessions and luxury hotels. But there’s so much more to see that it almost seems wrong to while away your DR vacation in those parts and those parts alone.

Head to Samana Bay in the north and you can tread secret beaches of black sand topped by crowds of lanky coconut palms. Go further along the shores there to find Cabarete, a mecca for windsurfers that gets great swell in April. Or there’s the wild Parque Nacional Jose Armando Bermúdez, a land of lonely mountains stalked by parrots and wild pigs.

With a nickname like the Spice Isle, you’re surely expecting something special from Grenada. Well…you’re expecting right, because this is one seriously stunning member of the Caribbean chain. Made up jungle-tufted mountains and lush rainforests, it’s long been known as a center of cultivation for cardamom, cinnamon, nutmeg, and just about everything else that smells downright lovely.

They waft through the air and mingle with the balmy see breezes in April, a month which sees hardly a jot of rain to bring the mood down. In fact, April is the driest month of all in this corner of the Carib sea, with an average of just three days of the wet stuff.

On the coast, the elegant curve of Grand Anse Beach takes the biscuit. It’s got powdery sands that look like they’ve been dusted with bit of that homegrown cinnamon powder, and fringing of sea grapes and coconut palms. Be sure to add in at least one day’s adventuring in the Annandale Park, too, which has gushing waterfalls between pockets of colossal ferns and orchids.

Ah, Barbados – the island has become something of a byword for luxurious holidaying. Jet setters go for champagne on the quayside of Bridgetown; yachters crowd the harbors with their 100-million-dollar vessels. But it doesn’t have to cost a bomb. Vacation in April and you’re likely to find that hotel rates and flight prices in Barbados are about 20% lower on average.

The bargains come because most of the crowds here depart after spending the winter under the Bajan sunshine. April is when they call anchors aweigh and skim back to the Greek Islands or the Adriatic for the warmer months. It’s not really anything to do with the weather, because this island remains balmy and dry until around the middle of May.

That’s perfect for seeking out the eye-wateringly-wonderful beaches of the southern and western shores. We’re talking award-winning sands like Holetown, Crane Beach, and Bottom Bay. Said sands are pure, talcum white, and the seas are turquoise. Enough said.

The home of spicy jerk and bumping reggae is another joy for April travelers. The reason? The early spring sits neatly between the two peak vacation times for Jamaica , which means crowds – usually the number one enemy on this coveted isle – dip to a nice low, taking everything from flight prices to hotel rates with them.

There are two main choices when it comes to Jamaica. You can stick to the north shore around Montego Bay. Most will do that, because there’s a 57-mile stretch of shoreline that runs through a stream of impeccable beaches, including the James Bond-worthy Ocho Rios and big Discovery Bay. The other option is to go off the beaten path, up to the Blue Mountains to seek out coffee plantations, or over to Boston Bay for unexpected surf spots.

The only downside to a Jamaica trip in April is that the weather can’t be guaranteed. Stats show that there’s roughly a 59% chance that you’ll score a day of perfect sunshine at this time of year. Our two cents? That might just be a wager worth taking for accommodation costs that are a fraction of what they are in January.

The best Caribbean islands to visit in April – our conclusion

Our list of the best Caribbean islands to visit in April highlights a pretty enticing mix of destinations. You’ve got the reggae-bopping towns of Jamaica, the R&R meccas of Grenada and Barbados, and the adventure hubs or honeymoon mainstays of the Dominican Republic and St Lucia.

Most of those find a good balance between crowds and weather in April. It’s a month that’s typically warm but not too humid, dry throughout, and not as expensive as the high winter in December and January. Get a-booking folks!

For more than 11 years, Joe has worked as a freelance travel writer. His writing and explorations have brought him to various locations, including the colonial towns of Mexico, the bustling chowks of Mumbai, and the majestic Southern Alps of New Zealand. When he's not crafting his next epic blog post on the top Greek islands or French ski resorts, he can often be found engaging in his top two hobbies of surfing and hiking.

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Best Caribbean Islands In April

The Caribbean is a beautiful place to visit during the spring month of April. With so many islands to explore, there is something for everyone.

From white sand beaches and crystal clear waters of the Bahamas to the lush tropical rainforests of Grenada, you can find adventure in every corner!

The hardest part is choosing which island is right for you.

April is known as an ideal time to visit the Caribbean due to its warm temperatures and reasonable travel costs.

Most of the winter birds are back home, so prices tend to start dropping.

You are lucky too, because prices for hotels and airfare tend to be more affordable in April than in other months.

Making it a great time for budget travelers looking for a trip without sacrificing quality since the weather is still good.

So if you are looking to snorkel, scuba diving, or fish on your vacation, escaping to the Caribbean sea is the perfect trip.

You are bound to find sea turtles, dolphins, manta rays, and whale sharks living while you are on holiday!

Also, why not give sailing a try when you are down south?

But if you are looking for the best Caribbean islands in April, you are in the right place.

Here we discuss which islands are the best and why.

No matter what part of the Caribbean you decide on visiting in April – it’s sure to be an unforgettable experience! Whether you want to relax on sandy shores or explore ancient ruins – this tropical paradise will not disappoint!

11 Top Caribbean Islands In April To Visit

After spending the last 10 years in and out of the Caribbean, I can attest to the fact that it is a magical place and there are so many spots worth checking out.

That’s why I wanted to make this list of the best Caribbean islands to visit in April and why. April is probably the best time of year to visit.

Most of the travelers have headed home so there are great deals to be found.

Also, the rainy/ hurricane season has not started yet, so you can rest assured that you will have great weather.

Aruba in April is a great choice if you are not sure where to travel in the Caribbean.

With its stunning beaches, perfect weather, and a host of activities, Aruba is the ideal destination for a tropical getaway.

Temperatures remain relatively mild throughout the month, with average highs in the high 70s and low 80s Fahrenheit.

The water temperature is also pleasant this time of year, making it perfect for swimming or snorkeling.

If you love outdoor adventures, there are plenty of options on the island. Hike through natural parks, explore caves, and find hidden gems along the coastline.

Up for an adventure? Why not try kite surfing or exploring local wildlife on horseback?

Aruba also has decent nightlife from lively bars to romantic restaurants overlooking the beach. Aruba is truly an amazing destination no matter what time of year you visit.

With its incredible beaches and range of activities, there’s something for everyone in April when visiting this stunning Caribbean island!

Curacao in April is another great choice for a Caribbean vacation. With its vibrant culture, stunning beaches, and year-round tropical climate, there’s something for every type of traveler.

This island has a drier-than-normal climate, so any traveler that is wanting to avoid rain Curacao is a great option for you.

There is also amazing diving here if you are a scuba diver.

April also marks one of the best times of year to explore Curacao’s lively nightlife scene. It is a great island that mixes European vibes with Caribbean beaches.

You can easily walk or bike around to explore local restaurants, bars, shops, and music venues just steps away from the beach.

With so many incredible sights and experiences to choose from, Curacao should not be overlooked as a Caribbean destination this April.

Grenada is another great option to visit in April. Known as the spice island, anyone who is a true foodie will love this island.

You can also look forward to attending events such as the Spicemas Festival, a week-long series of carnivals and street parades.

The month of April is also known for its popular sailing regattas, which are held throughout Grenada’s many bays and coves.

Here you will find plenty of sunshine, beachfront, restaurants and cultural activities on offer, there’s something for everyone on this beautiful island during April.

If you are a runner, you might want to check out a Hash while you are there. A fun trail run through the hills of Granada that changes every week.

There is also a fun BBQ with live music at the end for everyone to mingle.

4. St. Martin

Another great option to visit in April is St.Martin or Saint Maarten. It is actually two territories on one island.

Enjoy the Dutch and French culture without having to leave the island. April is a special time for travelers to explore St. Martin because it marks the start of festival season on the Dutch side with a variety of events that celebrate the island’s culture and heritage.

You can also enjoy plenty of unforgettable activities such as diving, snorkeling, sailing, fishing, and more! With its beautiful beaches and incredible watersports, St. Martin offers something for everyone in April.

It is the perfect destination for a Caribbean getaway this spring! Be sure to check out Marigot Bay.

Also, Loterie Farm is another great escape on the island. Up in the hills surrounded by lush rainforests, it is a tropical escape. You might even be lucky enough to see monkeys.

5. St Lucia

Still not convinced with one of the islands listed above. St.Lucia is a beautiful island that you might want to consider. On this island, you will find many attractions and activities that make it an ideal destination.

If you love adventure you will love St.Lucia. With stunning natural beauty anywhere from rainforest hikes, to snorkeling with exotic marine life, or visiting a nearby waterfall.

Plus, the island offers some of the best tropical beaches for beach-goers to relax and soak up the sun. With so much to do and explore in a single location, there’s no better time than April to experience all that St. Lucia has to offer!

6. St. Vincent and the Grenadines

In April, St. Vincent and the Grenadines come alive with festivities that should not be missed! Music festivals, cultural celebrations, and events bring locals and visitors together to enjoy a vibrant atmosphere.

The islands also offer a variety of activities to explore — from snorkeling with sea turtles in crystal-clear waters and exploring secluded coves.

Plus, with stunning powdery sand beaches, a tropical climate, and unique historical sites. St. Vincent and the Grenadines are an ideal destination for those seeking relaxation and adventure alike.

With so much to see and do in April, St. Vincent and the Grenadines are perfect for those seeking a Caribbean getaway that’s full of culture, fun, relaxation—and memories!

7. Barbados

Barbados in April is a great time for travelers to experience the island’s unique culture and nightlife. The warm temperatures make it perfect for beach days and exploring all of the beautiful outdoor attractions.

Plus, it is still the dry season so you don’t have to worry about rain.

There are also plenty of eco-adventures like hiking trails, snorkeling spots, and bird-watching locations throughout the island.

For those looking to enjoy some pampering and relaxation during their stay in Barbados, there are incredible spas offering luxury treatments that will help you feel your best.

The island is also full of great luxury hotels. From lively festivals to stunning beaches and everything in between, Barbados in April offers something for everyone!

8. Dominican Republic

Punta Cana is the place to be in the Dominican Republic. The Dominican Republic is a great place to visit in April, especially for those looking for a unique cultural experience.

Punta Cana is full of some of the best beaches and great swim-up rooms .

With its lively culture and stunning scenery, the Dominican Republic is an ideal destination for travelers visiting in April!

The Dominican Republic is also known for its quality of food. Be sure to try Sancocho when you are there.

9. Cayman Islands

Grand Cayman is a wonderful spot to check out in April if none of these places on this list have sparked your interest.

It is one of the safest Caribbean islands .

A trip to the Cayman Islands in April will create memories to last a lifetime. With its white sandy beaches, crystal clear waters, and plenty of sunshine, travelers can indulge in a variety of activities such as snorkeling, scuba diving and kayaking.

This is the best time to explore this Caribbean nation since it is the most ideal weather for outdoor adventures.

There are also several unique attractions worth visiting like Stingray City , Hell Grand Cayman, and Seven Mile Beach.

For the foodies out there, be sure to enjoy some of their famous seafood cuisine along with traditional Caribbean dishes like Mussels in red sauce or Red Snapper Ceviche!

Whether you are an adventurer looking for an escape or a beach bum wanting to soak up some rays, the Cayman Islands should definitely be at the top of your bucket list this April!

10. Turks and Caicos

Turks and Caicos is a stunning Caribbean island with plenty of activities to explore in April. Here you can savor the crystal blue waters of Grace Bay Beach, considered one of the world’s best beaches. There are also many great restaurants and bars to enjoy.

Just be aware it is one of the more expensive islands to visit.

Those looking for a unique experience should visit Sapodilla Bay and Long Bay Beach on Providenciales Island.

For a more adventurous atmosphere, explore Chalk Sound National Park or Taylor Bay where you can go snorkeling and spot tropical wildlife like dolphins.

On North Caicos Island, explore the beautiful sandy beaches of Whitby Beach or wander around Flamingo Lake to take in the natural beauty of Turks and Caicos.

With its long list of powdery sands and beautiful national parks, April is an ideal time to visit this amazing Caribbean destination.

11. Bahamas

Probably one of the easiest and closest spots to get to has to be the Bahamas.

So if you are still reading this list, then the Bahamas might be the spot you have been looking for.

It is an ideal destination to visit in April. With its stunning beaches and crystal-clear waters, it’s easy to forget the world and just relax here.

It is also a great spot if you are looking for adventure, there are plenty of activities such as snorkeling, kayaking, and fishing available to explore the vibrant sea life of the Caribbean.

There are also plenty of hidden gems that can be discovered around each island, from natural attractions like Lucayan National Park to cultural experiences like exploring the local villages.

And with a wide range of accommodation options, visitors can easily find something that fits their budget and needs. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing getaway or an exciting adventure, April is the perfect time to visit The Bahamas!

Conclusions On Best Caribbean Islands In April

Well, that’s it guys. I hope this list helped you narrow down where you might want to go this April. And don’t worry, no matter which islands you choose you are bound to have a fabulous time.

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Skip The Heat In The 7 Coldest Cities In The U.S. This Summer

These mountains have higher fatality rates than mount everest, skip the heat in an underrated california town this summer.

Craving the perfect getaway this April? How about a destination with pristine turquoise waters and palm-fringed beaches , plenty of sunshine, and various outdoor activities to indulge in? Sounds like a vacation you’d consider? Look no further than the Caribbean Islands. But with over 7,000 islands and cays, how do you choose one? Check out this list of the top 10 Caribbean Islands to explore in April.

Related: These 3 Caribbean Hotels are Absolutely Stunning

10 St. Lucia

St. Lucia's appeal to honeymooners, nature enthusiasts, and families is well-founded. It is among the list of few islands that are less crowded in the Caribbean .

Nestled in the Eastern Caribbean, this stunning island has many iconic attractions, such as the majestic Pitons, two soaring volcanic spires, and the awe-inspiring Sulphur Springs. For those looking to immerse themselves in the island's natural beauty, the Diamond Falls Botanical Gardens offers an enchanting oasis of vibrant flora and fauna.

St. Lucia also boasts a perfect blend of pristine beaches and lush rainforests that vacationers can enjoy exploring during organized land and sea excursions.

• Things to Do: Land and sea excursions
• Where to Stay: Sandals Halcyon Beach
• Address: Castries-Gros Islet Highway, Castries

Jamaica is an island nation in the Caribbean Sea, known for its vibrant nightlife, reggae music, and warm hospitality. The island is home to iconic attractions such as Dunn's River Falls, Bob Marley Museum, and the Blue Mountains—a coffee-lover haven. The island is also renowned for its vibrant culture and rich history, influenced by African, European, and Indigenous peoples. Jamaica is one of the islands that offer the best Caribbean foods . Book your stay in one of its resorts to enjoy what the island offers.

• Things to Do: Guided tours, Dunn’s River Falls, nightfalls
• Where to stay : AC Hotel by Mariott
• Address: 38 Lady Musgrave Rd. Kingston

Related: 10 Best Beaches In Jamaica For A Blend Of Adventure And Relaxation

Barbados, the birthplace of renowned celebrity and musician Rihanna , is a breathtaking tropical island in the Lesser Antilles of the Caribbean Sea. Like other gems in the region, Barbados boasts stunning white-sand beaches and crystalline waters that offer the perfect backdrop for vacation pictures.

While there's no shortage of activities on the island, one experience that's not to be missed is the rum-making tour at the legendary Mount Gay Rum Distillery, where visitors can indulge in Barbados' rich heritage of rum production.

• Things to Do: Mount Gay Rum Distillery tour, explore the beach, water sports
• Where to stay : Butterfly Beach Hotel
• Address: Maxwell Main Road, Christchurch BB15037

Related: Bang for Your Buck: 10 Most Affordable Barbados All-Inclusive Resorts

Aruba is a popular Dutch Caribbean island that, in addition to beautiful white sand beaches, is also home to the Arikok National Park, famed for its rugged landscapes, natural bridges, and diverse ecosystems. The island is also renowned for its amazing cuisine, including tantalizing local delicacies such as Keshi Yena. Visitors can book a full-island tour to explore historic landmarks like the California Lighthouse and learn about Aruba’s rich cultural history at sites like the Aruba Historical Museum.

• Things to Do: Full island tour, try local cuisine, explore historic landmarks, relax at the beach
• Where to stay : Renaissance Wind Creek Aruba Resort
• Address: L.G Smith Boulevard 82, Oranjestad

San Juan, the capital city of Puerto Rico, is a charming Caribbean island known for its picturesque cobblestone streets, colorful buildings, and the best-preserved Spanish architecture in the Caribbean. Book a walking tour to explore the island’s colorful buildings and historic landmarks, such as the Cathedral of San Juan Bautista, or take a food tour to taste the island’s unique dishes, including Mofongo and Arroz Con Gandules.

• Things to Do: Explore San Juan on foot, take a food tour to explore local cuisine
• Where to stay : Condado Vanderbilt Hotel
• Address: 1055 Ashford Avenue, San Juan

Located off the east coast of Puerto Rico, Culebra is a small island, most popular for its stunning Flamenco Beach, which boasts crystalline waters and vibrant coral reefs. Despite her small size, there’s plenty to do on the island, from exploring natural attractions like the Culebra National Wildlife Refuge and snorkeling in Punta Soldado Beach to day-long cruises on high-speed catamarans.

• Things to Do: Culebra National Wildlife refuge, snorkeling, beach relaxation
• Where to stay : Andaz Costa Rica Resort at Peninsula Papagayo
• Address: Final De La Ruta Culebra 111

A few miles from Culebra is Vieques, an equally small island with an incredibly unique attraction- Mosquito Bay, one of the world’s brightest bioluminescent bays. The bay is home to microorganisms called dinoflagellates, which emit a bright blue-green light when they are agitated. Bioluminescence creates a surreal and otherworldly experience for those who visit the bay at night.

Visitors can take a guided boat tour to the bay, where they can witness the stunning display of glowing water that looks like stars twinkling on the surface. The experience is unforgettable, making Vieques a must-explore Caribbean island for nature lovers and adventure seekers. Book a stay at the heart of Vieques to enjoy easy access to the ferry, restaurants, bars, and other attractions on the island.

• Things to Do: Explore the bioluminescent beach at night, explore restaurants
• Where to stay : The Vieques Guesthouse
• Address: 297 Calle Flamboyan, Vieques 00765

If snorkeling, scuba diving, and water sports are your favorite, you should head to Curacao. The island is known for its stunning beaches and diverse marine life making it one of the top Caribbean islands for water sports. It’s located in the southern region, just north of Venezuela. In addition to water sports, vacationers should consider a day tour to Little Curacao/Klein, a 1.7km uninhabited island with a beautiful beach and crystal clear water.

• Things to Do: Water sports, boat cruise, relax at the uninhabited island
• Where to stay : Saint Tropez Boutique Hotel
• Address: Pietermaai 152, Willemstad 1111

2 Turks And Caicos

Turks and Caicos is not a single island but an archipelago of 40 islands and cays in the Atlantic Ocean, southeast of the Bahamas. The two largest islands, Grand Turk and Providenciales, are the main tourist destinations in Turks and Caicos.

The islands share many similarities but have unique characteristics, attractions, and activities. Visitors should consider a half-day trip to explore the two islands as much as possible.

• Things to Do: Visit Grace Beach, clear kayaking, fishing, sailing
• Where to stay : The Palms Turks and Caicos
• Address: Grace Bay Beach, Princess Drive Providenciales,16, TKCA IZZ

Related: 10 Most Popular Beaches In Turks And Caicos For Your Next Sun-Soaked Getaway

Prefer to explore a larger island on your bachelorette vacation ? Head to Cuba. As the largest island in the Caribbean , Cuba has plenty to offer.

From the Malecon, a long seawall and esplanade in Havana, tranquil cobblestone streets and colonial architecture in Trinidad, to the cascading waterfalls and natural pools in the Escambray Mountains, a visit to Cuba is guaranteed to blow any adventurer’s mind away. Traveling to Cuba is like taking a trip back in time; here are more things that make Cuba, such an amazing Caribbean Island . Be sure to book a multiday tour for the best experience.

• Things to Do: Checkout the Malecon, explore Trinidad, cascading waterfalls
• Where to stay : Super 8 by Wyndham Cuba
• Address: 28 Highway P, Cuba, MO 65453
• Bucket List Ideas

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18 Best Places to Visit in the Caribbean

Written by Anietra Hamper Updated Mar 19, 2024

The Caribbean, with its nearly perfect tropical weather, beautiful beaches, turquoise water, and island breezes, is a top vacation destination almost year-round. There are thousands of islands throughout the Caribbean Sea that are popular places to visit for tourists, each with its own flair and appeal.

One of the reasons for the popularity of these islands is the range of all-inclusive resorts that make vacations easy. There are adults-only resorts, family resorts, and bungalows available for solo travelers.

In the Caribbean, it's easy to plan visits to several destinations on a single trip, whether you are island hopping on an excursion or taking a Caribbean cruise to multiple islands.

For help planning your vacation, read our list of the best places to visit in the Caribbean.

1. British Virgin Islands

2. u.s. virgin islands, 3. st. lucia, 4. dominican republic, 5. the cayman islands, 8. turks & caicos, 9. puerto rico, 10. antigua, 11. barbados, 12. anguilla, 13. curacao, 14. grenada, 15. st. martin, 16. st. vincent and the grenadines, 17. bahamas, 18. guadeloupe, map of places to visit in the caribbean, best time to visit the caribbean.

The British Virgin Islands are hands-down one of the best places to visit in the Caribbean. For starters, there are 60 islands that make up the BVI, so there is no shortage of places to explore, reefs to dive, and white-sand beaches to sink your toes into while on vacation.

The British Virgin Islands has a mix of tourists and enough activities and lodging to accommodate high-end luxury, all-inclusive preferences, and more rustic experiences.

Beaches are a big draw in the BVI, from the popular family-friendly Cane Garden Bay on Tortola island to the quiet and picturesque Deadman's Beach on Peter Island .

The azure Caribbean waters that surround the islands are clear and perfect for surfing, diving, snorkeling, sailing, and windsurfing. There are many excursions you can take from the islands, like dolphin tours and sunset cruises.

• Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in the British Virgin Islands

The U.S. Virgin Islands are top places to visit in the Caribbean because travel to them is easy, especially from the United States. The U.S. Virgin islands consist of St. Thomas , St. John , and St. Croix . It is easy to island-hop between the three for day trips.

St. Croix is the largest of the islands and attracts honeymooners and scuba divers to its waters. The island is only 22 miles long, with two cities and a nice cultural scene with artisans and architecture.

St. Thomas is the most diverse with regard to visitors, and it generally attracts couples and families to its beaches and cultural city center.

The island of St. John is the smallest island and more rustic than the other two. St. John has a lot of natural beauty beyond well-known beaches like Trunk Bay. Two-thirds of the island is protected national park land, so you will see the Caribbean in its most natural state.

• Read More: Top-Rated Attractions & Places to Visit in the US Virgin Islands

The tropical paradise of St. Lucia is one of the top honeymoon destinations in the Caribbean, and it is easy to see why. It has many posh resorts and is equally as relaxing as it is fuel for adrenaline junkies. The clean beaches are where most vacationers spend a majority of their time. Anse Des Sables Beach and Plantation Beach are two of the popular ones.

St. Lucia has many activities to take advantage of on the island, from ziplining through the rainforest to off-roading. It is a desirable island for diving trips and snorkeling excursions. The island has quiet natural beauty but it also has nightlife and restaurants in Rodney Bay .

The Dominican Republic is the second-largest Caribbean country and one of the most popular for vacationers and honeymooners.

It is easy to get to the Dominican Republic, which is one of the reasons it is one of the best places to visit in the Caribbean. It is a two-hour flight from Miami and an eight-hour trip from most cities in Europe.

If the beach is your focus, you have 250 miles of beautiful beaches to choose from on the island.

Some of the best places for tourists to visit include Punta Cana and Puerto Plata , where you will find many resorts and departure points for excursions, like snorkeling and diving.

A visit to the capital, Santo Domingo , is also worthwhile for a taste of history.

• Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in the Dominican Republic

The Cayman Islands are top islands to visit for those looking for epic diving experiences in the Caribbean.

The island chain is made up of Grand Cayman , Little Cayman, and Cayman Brac . Grand Cayman is the most popular island for vacationers, and it has a number of popular dive sites, like the Kittiwake Shipwreck and artificial reef.

Grand Cayman is also famous for the tranquil Seven Mile Beach , one of the best beaches in the Caribbean , and Stingray City, where tourists can get up close to the giant sea creatures that will eat food right out of your hand.

You can stay at one of the many resorts on Grand Cayman and make day trips to the other two islands during your stay.

• Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in the Cayman Islands

The crystal-clear waters of Aruba are ideal for a perfect island getaway. Aruba is not as popular as some of the other Caribbean islands, which makes it one of the best places to go because you can enjoy the island's beaches and attractions at their best without large crowds of people.

Swimming in the Caribbean waters is the top thing to do in Aruba. Eagle Beach and Palm Beach are two of the best beaches on the island .

Diving is also popular in Aruba. If you are a novice, you can take a diving lesson from your resort and head out for a day to explore some of the nearby coral reefs and shipwrecks.

For non-beach activities, Arikok National Park is a popular excursion , and the Aruba Ostrich Farm is a fun experience, especially for families.

• Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Aruba

By the time most vacationers leave Jamaica, they feel like a local.

Almost everywhere you go, you will be immersed in Jamaican culture, from the reggae music to the jerk chicken cooking on a roadside grill. Jamaica is a popular Caribbean destination because there are frequent flights to the island and many all-inclusive resorts, making it an easy vacation to plan.

While Seven Mile Beach in Negril is where you will likely spend part of your vacation, Jamaica is great for travelers who enjoy being active. Dunn's River Falls is just one of many breathtaking waterfalls in Jamaica , where you can swim in the water and hike up the falls. There are also guided excursions to Blue Mountains National Park and snorkeling.

Like most of the Caribbean, some times are better than others for a visit. The best time to visit Jamaica may be when you have free time, but otherwise you may want to consider the weather and storm season.

• Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Jamaica

Turks and Caicos was dramatically impacted by the 2017 hurricane season, but it is still one of the best places to go in the Caribbean, especially as it rebuilds and looks to attract tourists. There are 40 islands and small cays that make up Turks and Caicos.

Grand Turk is home to the only cruise ship port. Providenciales, or " Provo ," is known for its top-shelf luxury resorts and one of the best beaches in the world , Grace Bay.

Diving and snorkeling in the Turks and Caicos is recommended around spots like Bight Reef, which has spectacular underwater reefs and fish.

• Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in the Turks and Caicos Islands

Puerto Rico is one of the best Caribbean getaways because there are plenty of flights to the island, and it appeals to various kinds of vacationers.

The clear-water beaches are nice for families, the shops in San Juan attract cruise ship passengers, the secluded island of Vieques is a quiet place for couples, and the 25-foot waves at Tres Palmas beach in Rincon attract surfers from around the world.

Kick back with your beach towel on Flamenco Beach or hike up to the El Morro fortress, one of the top attractions on the island . At night, you can step out to enjoy the bioluminescent microorganisms that glow in Mosquito Bay.

The other nice perk of Puerto Rico is that there are often discount packages available year-round, even in the winter months, when other Caribbean islands hike their prices.

• Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in San Juan

The main draw of Antigua is its 365 beaches that range from calm, shallow waters that are nice spots for swimming to deep water that is ideal for snorkeling.

Dickenson Bay is one of the most popular beaches on Antigua for relaxing. If you are looking for more secluded beaches, the tucked-away sands at Hawksbill Bay are quieter and ideal for couples and honeymooners.

Non-beach activities on Antigua are numerous, which is why this is one of the best places to visit in the Caribbean. For a panoramic view of the island, hike to the top of Shirley Heights, where you can even see the Montserrat volcano. Another fun outing is going to St. John's Saturday Market, where you can buy unique souvenirs, from spices to crafts.

• Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Antigua and Barbuda

Barbados has a laid-back vibe for a quiet Caribbean vacation, and that is one of its greatest appeals. The beaches in Barbados , like picturesque Bathsheba, Carlisle Bay, and Dover, have pristine white sands, where you can spend the day relaxing in between swimming in the lukewarm water.

Spend an afternoon in Bridgetown and look at the old architecture as you buy spices from local street vendors.

Barbados is a fun island to explore, with many attractions and natural landmarks that are open for tourists. Harrison's Cave offers a nice tour to see the stalactite and stalagmite formations, and Animal Flower Cave is a sea cave that you can access on your own.

If you enjoy snorkeling, you will want to book a day excursion that takes you to see shipwrecks and swim with sea turtles.

The island of Anguilla offers one of the most authentic Caribbean experiences because cruise ships are not allowed on the island, so it is a bit less touristy.

Instead of large hotels, Anguilla has small villas on the beach. You will find some luxury resorts on the island if you are looking for additional pampering, but the overcrowded tourist scene that is common on some other islands does not happen in Anguilla.

Most vacationers on Anguilla hang out on one of more than 30 unspoiled beaches, like Meads Bay, Shoal Bay East, and Rendezvous Bay. Day-trip excursions are popular for snorkeling, diving, and eco-tours around the island.

• Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Anguilla

The island of Curacao is unique because instead of the subdued blue and green colors that you see on buildings on other islands, you will see a vibrant and colorful Dutch influence in the historic architecture. The port city of Willemstad has a fun energy and old European flare, but the beaches are still the main draw.

The snorkeling and diving are excellent on Curacao, and many coral reefs are easy to access. Cas Abao Beach and Playa Lagun are top beaches on the island. It is easy to rent water sports equipment on the island or take a diving lesson.

The draw of Grenada is the experiences that you will have on the island, besides the memorable imagery of its beautiful beaches. You can spend mornings beachcombing for shells and afternoons touring one of the island's spice plantations. You will want to visit the colorful harbor and walk St. George's beautiful streets.

Grenada has 45 beaches, but two-mile Grand Anse Beach is the most popular. There are several natural areas to hike, like La Sagesse Nature Center and the Grand Etang National Park. Be sure to plan a little time to visit one of the fun spots on the island, Market Square, where you can pick up souvenirs from local vendors.

• Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Grenada

The small island of St. Martin is a bit more active with tourists than some other Caribbean islands. It is a dual-owned island, so one side is French and the other side is Dutch.

The beaches are tranquil and plentiful, so you can try a new one each day of your vacation. Orient Bay, Mulley Bay, and Cupecoy Beach are popular, but there are plenty of others to enjoy.

There are many non-beach activities on St. Martin, like ziplining near the Pic du Pardis mountains, snorkeling, and sailing. Day trips to Anguilla are popular and easy to book from St. Martin. You can also do a catamaran tour around the island.

The 32 islands that make up St. Vincent and the Grenadines capture the pure essence of the Caribbean with their remoteness and quiet tropical breezes. These are popular islands for anyone who wants to just lay in a hammock beneath a shade tree or soak in the sun next to the turquoise water, and not do much else.

If you do feel like exploring, there are plenty of attractions and things to do , from snorkeling, sailing, and hiking, to island-hopping. The charm of St. Vincent and the Grenadines is their many hideaways and small islands, which will make you feel like you have the tropical paradise to yourself.

There are many boutique hotels and resorts on the islands. While December through April is the popular season to visit, you can find nice hotel discounts and the same 80-degree temperatures by planning your trip in May, June, or November.

The Bahamas are popular tourist islands with more than 700 of them dotting the Caribbean waters.

The capital city of Nassau is a common port for cruise ships, so you will find attractions to fill your time like shopping, beaches, markets, Paradise Island, and the Ardastra Gardens & Wildlife Conservation Centre.

Some of the other islands in the Bahamas like Exuma , Eleuthera , Harbor Island , and Abaco have spectacular things to do like fishing, relaxing on beaches, diving, swimming in hidden coves, and exploring natural parks.

You can find lots of all-inclusive resorts in the Bahamas that take the guesswork out of planning, whether you are going for a romantic vacation or a family getaway.

Lots of people like to head to the Bahamas for a winter getaway from mid-December through mid-April. That is the ideal time to go to enjoy the Bahamas' consistently perfect weather outside of hurricane season, but you will have higher prices and more crowds during those months.

Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in the Bahamas

If you are looking for a more secluded Bahamas vacation in an unspoiled setting, then Guadeloupe will appeal to you.

This French Caribbean island is more rustic than other islands. Guadeloupe is made up of Grande-Terre and Basse-Terre , two isles separated by the Salée River and a cluster of smaller islands. You can spend a full week in each region or divide your vacation into day trips visiting the top attractions and sightseeing destinations.

Some of the highlights in Guadeloupe include hiking and birdwatching at the Guadeloupe National Park, snorkeling at the Jacques Cousteau Underwater Reserve, and soaking in the tropical gardens at the Jardin Botanique de Deshaies.

Guadeloupe is covered in lush forests and picturesque waterfalls, so there is always a quiet place to escape to, even during the busy months of December through May when the weather is ideal on the islands.

The seasons in the Caribbean are somewhat similar, but some months will see more rain than others, and the experiences on the islands vary at different times of the year. Spring Spring is a nice time to visit the Caribbean. March and April are still in the high season window, so prices will remain at a premium but deals can be found outside of spring break.

There are still a large number of tourists in the early spring, especially with spring break schedules. Late spring, in May, ushers in the shoulder season, so it is a nice time to go, when you have a balance of great weather and lower prices.

Spring temperatures are very warm and there is little rainfall. Beach days are optimal, and swimming, snorkeling, and diving are great, with clear and calm water before hurricane season arrives in June.

Summer The summer months of June, July, and August are the low season in the Caribbean . This is the time to snag great deals on resort stays and take advantage of additional perks that are usually offered to attract tourists, like free nights and dinners. The tourist crowds are gone during the summer months, opening up availability at resorts and giving you more room on the beach.

Summer is also the start of the turtle nesting season , which generally goes through October. If you are traveling to see the turtles, then this is an ideal time to visit. Check with your specific islands of interest to get detailed information on nesting locations, schedules, and excursions. The downside to visiting the Caribbean during the summer months is that it is the beginning of hurricane season and hot. You may run the risk of encountering a major storm.

June has more rain than July and August, which are usually sunny months. The summer has higher temperatures (averaging in the mid-to-upper 80s Fahrenheit) and high humidity, which is uncomfortable for some travelers.

Fall The fall months in the Caribbean are still within prime hurricane season and less popular months for tourists. September, October, and November are on the Caribbean shoulder season so there are a few advantages of going just before the high season starts in December. You can get great prices for hotels and airfare during these months and there are fewer people on the islands.

Fall is a great time to look for last-minute getaway deals on resorts and Caribbean cruises.

One bonus of visiting during the fall is the shorebird migration, which takes place as birds make their way from their northern nesting sites to their southern winter sites in South America. This is an opportunity to see dozens of species that cannot be seen otherwise. You should refer to the migration details of the country that you plan to visit to more precisely target the timeframe for that region.

The caution for fall Caribbean travel is that it is still hurricane season . While most days will have mild and comfortable temperatures, lower humidity, and less rain than in the summer, there is always a risk of a hurricane or tropical storm. It is best to purchase trip insurance if you plan to travel in the fall.

Winter The winter months of December, January, and February are the best time to visit the Caribbean. These are the ideal months to travel, with the best beach weather, tours in full swing, and sites open on the islands ready to cater to tourists. The winter months have the least rainfall .

The Caribbean islands are an easy travel choice, especially for North American tourists wanting to escape from the snow and cold weather. Flights are frequent to the Caribbean islands, and with so many to choose from, it is easy to book a winter vacation. You will also have an abundance of Caribbean cruise options during these months.

The only downside to booking a Caribbean vacation in the winter is the cost. Since this is high season, you can expect to pay a premium for hotels and resorts, flights, cruises, and tours. Early Availability is also reduced during the popular months, but with so many islands to visit, you should have no problem if you plan several months ahead.

Early January is typically quieter than the rest of the winter after the Christmas crowds have gone home and before people plan winter vacations.

More Related Articles on PlanetWare.com

More Caribbean Fun: Most people head to the Caribbean for the beautiful beaches , and there are thousands to discover, from The Bahamas to Cuba . The Caribbean is also a top vacation destination because it has some of the best luxury all-inclusive resorts in the world and is among the best places to go snorkeling in the world , so you can be assured of a relaxing and memorable vacation.

More on Bahamas

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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.

We may be compensated when you click on product links, such as credit cards, from one or more of our advertising partners. Terms apply to the offers below. See our  Advertising Policy for more about our partners, how we make money, and our rating methodology. Opinions and recommendations are ours alone.

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.

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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There’s never a bad time to visit the Caribbean

Nov 24, 2022 • 7 min read

There's an ideal time to visit the Caribbean, but the consistently tropical temperatures mean there’s lots to do year-round too © Getty Images / iStockphoto

Is there ever a bad time for a Caribbean vacation?

Aside from the threat of heavy rains during hurricane season, the region is generally blessed with consistently tropical temperatures, clear yet impossibly blue seas, infinite stretches of white sand, verdant rain forests and flavorful cuisine. 

While weather conditions vary slightly between destinations, vacationers looking for a respite from the winter months almost universally head to the islands during high season, between December and April, when humidity is low and breezes are cool. (The influx of visitors does bring higher prices and more crowds, however.) Luckily, the region’s calendar is packed year-round, so there’s always something to do. The low and shoulder seasons are also the perfect time to snag a travel deal.

Here’s what to expect throughout the year.

Visit between December and mid-April for peak whale watching

If you’re from an area that typically experiences harsh winters or a cold climate, the consistently favorable and warm Caribbean appeals between December and April. Yet you’ll find that plenty of other travelers will also be flocking to the islands, too, which means less availability on flights and accommodation, higher room rates and airfare, and more-crowded beaches and attractions.

Even so, high season is the optimal time for whale watching. Dominica is the whale-watching capital of the region and the only country in the world sperm whales call home year-round. The French island of  Guadeloupe harbors 15 species of whales and hosts multiple whale-watching excursions from December to May. 

Key Events: Three Kings Festival, Puerto Rico; Sugar Mas, St Kitts and Nevis; Atlantic Rally for Cruisers, St Lucia

Find the best prices from June to November  

While summer ushers in the Caribbean’s hurricane season, the increase in rainfall usually yields deals on everything from flights to hotel rooms. Wet weather doesn’t dampen the spirit of the either region or its resilient people. And many islands, such as St Lucia , St Vincent , Barbados  and Antigua , indulge in the revelry and splendor of carnival ( vaval ) between June and August.

It’s also turtle-nesting season in Barbados, Bequia , Nevis  and Dominica. In St Lucia, you can both decompress and satisfy your sweet tooth with decadent cocoa-infused tours, spa treatments and classes, where August is designated as Chocolate Heritage Month.

Key Events: Portland Jerk Festival, Jamaica; McLean’s Town Conch Cracking Festival, Bahamas; Pirate Week, Cayman Islands; Tour de Yoles Rondes, Martinique ; Anguilla Tranquility Jazz Festival; Spicemas Grenada

Hit the beach from mid-April to June  

Not only will you save money with discounts and deals during the region’s shoulder season, you will also avoid the touristy crowds. Your most difficult decision will be which alluring slice of sand to lounge on.

The Bahamas beckons with the silky, pale-pink sands of Harbour Island . Anguilla ’s pristine Shoal Bay regularly features on best-beaches lists. In Antigua and Barbuda, you’ll have your choice of 365 beaches, all with warm and tranquil waters. And the Baths in the British Virgin Islands are unmatched for sheer natural beauty. Truthfully, you will find the perfect pocket of powdery sand and pellucid waters on almost any Caribbean island. 

Key Events: Oistins Fish Festival, Barbados; French Surfing Competition, Guadeloupe; Hike Fest, Dominica

January is prime time for fishing in Grenada

Grenada ’s azure waters are ideal for deep-sea fishing all year long – but the prime time for a good catch falls in the high season between December and April. The  Spice Island Billfish Tournament draws anglers from around the region and beyond for a week of fishing, with local cuisine and music peppered throughout the festivities. The tournament follows international catch-and-release standards, allowing only potentially record-breaking billfish to be brought to the weigh station.

Trinidad & Tobago host the best Carnival in the region in February 

The Caribbean is known worldwide for its commitment to carnival celebrations, with several islands hosting their own version of the flamboyant festival throughout the year. But the largest – and arguably best – carnival event of the region is held in Trinidad and Tobago . The pre-Lenten party attracts thousands of revelers annually for a nonstop stream of fetes, limbo competitions, pulsating calypso and soca rhythms, and an exuberant costumed parade. There's even a term for that post-carnival comedown, or depression, you’re guaranteed to feel at the end: “carnival tabanca .” Expect it to hit hard.

The unparalleled Bermuda International Film Festival happens in March 

Since 1997, Bermuda has welcomed cinephiles for the Bermuda International Film Festival (BIFF). The nine-day extravaganza of world cinema is highly respected and features movies from the world's leading filmmakers and emerging talent. Attendees also have access to filmmaker Q&As, discussions, master classes and parties. In between panels, divers can take in Bermuda’s unparalleled views of the island’s coral and marine life, shipwrecks and underwater caves.

Head to Tobago in April for the Jazz Experience 

Trinidad commands the bulk of the attention, but the smaller half of the twin-island republic, Tobago , offers an idyllic escape. The Tobago Jazz Experience is a marquee event on the island, an opportunity for visitors to soak in the easygoing yet intoxicating atmosphere of the island in between performances by world-renowned jazz, R&B, soca, calypso, reggae and Latin artists. 

Antigua Sailing Week in May is one of the top regattas in the world

One of the top regattas in the world takes place in Antigua, just off the waters of English Harbour in Saint Paul Parish. Sailors from Russia to South Africa converge on the island in more than 100 yachts for equal parts competition and socializing during Antigua Sailing Week . 

The St Kitts music fest in June features the best of Caribbean music

St Kitts may be tiny, yet the island’s music festival  has a mighty international reputation. Besides the impressive lineup of soca, jazz, R&B, gospel and reggae performances, patrons can enjoy grabbing food from the local vendors onsite before settling in on a blanket for picnics on the expansive lawn at the Kim Collins Athletic Stadium in Basseterre. 

Jamaica’s best party, Reggae Sumfest, takes place in July

Jamaica boasts myriad musical legends, with none greater than reggae icon Bob Marley . His genre is honored at Reggae Sumfest , the largest music festival in Jamaica – and the entire Caribbean. The week-long event kicks off with a beach party, followed by a free street dance, a global sound clash and an all-white party. The final two nights feature live performances from the best reggae and dancehall artists in the world. Past bills have included local superstars Ziggy Marley, Barrington Levy, Vybz Kartel, Spice and Beenie Man – and, for good measure, international powerhouses 50 Cent, Rihanna and others. 

Kadooment Day on Barbados is August’s premier event

Barbados’ Crop Over tradition originated as a celebration to mark the end of the annual sugarcane harvest. Now it is the island’s premier event, combining music, arts, food and culture. The pièce de résistance of the three-month observance is the colorful, costumed carnival parade known as Kadooment Day, which takes place in early August. 

Immerse yourself in Aruba’s history during Fiesta di Cunucu in September 

Aruba ’s Fiesta di Cunucu is an immersive experience exploring the island’s heritage through its traditional housing. During the exhibition, cunucu homes are furnished with antiquities from the community museum to provide an authentic replication of past living conditions. The program also integrates Aruban music, folkloric dances, handcrafts and a farmers market with fresh local produce. 

Indulge in St Lucia’s best Creole cuisine during Jounen Kwéyòl in October 

St Lucia honors its French and African cultural influences throughout October – and the main event is Jounen Kwéyòl (Creole Day), on the the last Sunday of the month. Select communities around the island host locals and visitors alike for musical and cultural performances – and, of course, serve up plenty of creole fare, such as callaloo soup, bouillon, smoked herring, coconut balls, accras (fishcakes) and green figs and saltfish, St Lucia’s national dish. 

Turks & Caicos welcome the best chefs in the world in November

Foodies and wine lovers descend upon  Turks & Caicos in early November for the Caribbean Food and Wine Festival . This event sees top international chefs dishing up gourmet meals and wine tastings, set against the paradisiacal backdrop of the islands’ turquoise waters and white-sand beaches. 

The Bahamas celebrates Junkanoo in December

Carnival is not just a summer activity. The Bahamas celebrates both Boxing Day (the day after Christmas) and New Years Day with Junkanoo party parades in the capital of Nassau . But the vibrant pre-dawn festival vibe is also woven into celebrations in Bimini , the Exumas , Grand Bahama , Eleuthera and Harbour Island, the Abacos and all of the archipelago nation’s 16 islands.

This article was first published Jan 24, 2022 and updated Nov 24, 2022.

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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.

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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The Best Times to Visit the Caribbean for Beautiful Weather, Fewer Crowds, and Lower Prices

These are the best times to go to the Caribbean, according to experts.

When it comes to picture-perfect island getaways, the Caribbean consistently tops the list as one of the world’s best regions to visit. This region of more than 700 islands scattered across the Atlantic Ocean, Caribbean Sea, and Gulf of Mexico is known around the world for its palm-fringed beaches, jungle-covered peaks, crystal-clear water, diverse cultures, and deliciously tropical weather.

There is no wrong way to do the Caribbean, whether your interests are above or under the waves, onshore or off. But one of the best ways to set yourself up for success is to head to the Caribbean during a time that aligns with your interests, budget, and vacation style.

cdwheatley/Getty Images

"There is no one-size-fits-all approach [to the Caribbean],” said Stephen Bennett, a Caribbean expert and co-founder of Uncommon Caribbean . "The Caribbean offers just about everything — even ice skating. As such, top attractions and activities could mean wildly different things to different people."

To help you find the best time to visit the Caribbean for your next vacation, we've broken it down into a few main seasons: 

• High Season : January to May
• Shoulder Seasons : May to June and late October to mid-November
• Low Season : August to October

Matteo Colombo/Getty Images

Best Times to Visit the Caribbean for Smaller Crowds

The summer and fall seasons are the best times to avoid the throngs of tourists throughout the Caribbean. 

"We all know that the Caribbean's trademark soothing warmth is what draws the most folks in winter. So, naturally, crowds thin out nicely when temperatures are high where tourists live, mainly the U.S.A., Canada, and Europe," said Bennett.

At the same time, summer and autumn also fall during hurricane season. Atlantic hurricane season generally runs from June through November, but late summer and early fall can be a tempting time for travelers who want to avoid the crowds, says Bennett. His tips? Keep an eye on the weather, buy travel insurance, and book hotels that offer hurricane guarantees.

Yearly Carnival celebrations also draw crowds across the Caribbean, and the dates vary by island, but many happen in February and March or July and August. 

Chris Marinaccio/Travel + Leisure

Best Times to Visit the Caribbean for Good Weather

"Perfect weather" in the Caribbean would likely equate to sunny days with warm water, delightful breezes, and minimal rainfall and humidity. For that kind of weather, Brittney Magner, vice president of luxury travel sales at Royal Travel and a Travel + Leisure A-List Advisor , says January through May is the ideal time to visit.

"After the hurricane season is over, the water starts to get really warm. Just stay away from spring break time," she says. (School spring breaks tend to be in March and April.) 

Bennett adds that full days of rain are rare in most parts of the Caribbean and consecutive rainy days are even more unheard of. "If your definition of good weather constitutes clear skies and warm temperatures, then anytime is a great time to visit the Caribbean," he notes. "That is, of course, unless you're opting for a hillside mountaintop retreat somewhere in the Caribbean's many rainforests,” which he says can get chilly during the winter months. 

Lauren Breedlove/Travel + Leisure

Best Times to Visit the Caribbean for Low Prices

The best deals in the Caribbean can often be found when the weather is at its worst — during hurricane season. At the same time, a small window exists in the dead of winter when good deals can be found. "The most ideal bargain period extends from early January to early February," said Bennett. "Essentially from the time that all the New Year's Eve confetti is swept up until President's [Day]."

Magner adds that May is also a great time to get a good deal, right after the spring break season is over and the kids have gone back to school. 

Related: The Best Budget Travel Tips — From Saving Money on Air Travel to Spending Less on Hotels

Taylor McIntyre/Travel + Leisure

Best Times to Visit the Caribbean for Diving and Boat Carters 

January in the Cayman Islands offers some of the best diving in the Caribbean. However, March is the best time to encounter humpback whales in the Dominican Republic. Overall, the best diving in the Caribbean can be found between November and May.

A good portion of Magner’s clients are visiting the Caribbean for boat charters. "Everyone wants to go and see a different island," she said. "For example, if you go to Anguilla, you can take a boat over to St. Barts. Or you can experience all the little islands around the Dominican Republic or Turks and Caicos." 

The best times for boat charters, and most outdoor adventures, are in that January through May period when the weather is its best. 

elvirkin/Getty Images

Best Times to Visit the Caribbean for Foodies

The Caribbean offers a little bit of everything. Foodies in particular will find that each island has its own unique flavors (and loves to celebrate them). St. Kitts and Nevis, for example, holds its Restaurant Week in mid-July. It's a week-long celebration of local cuisine challenges, inviting chefs to create dishes featuring one key homegrown ingredient.

Bennet says that Martinique also holds an annual food festival, the Martinique Sainte-Marie Gourmet Food Festival, each year in May, which follows a similar format to the one in St. Kitts and Nevis.  In November, the BVI Food Fete comes to the British Virgin Islands of Anegada, Jost Van Dyke, Tortola, and Virgin Gorda, and it lasts the entire month.

Eric Ripert's iconic Cayman Cookout comes to the Cayman Islands every January. This gastronomic celebration features cooking demonstrations, poolside parties, wine pairings, and much more. 

Worst Times to Visit the Caribbean

As you can imagine, the worst time to visit the Caribbean is when it has the "worst" weather during hurricane season. Bennet says while he does not think there is a "worst time" to visit the Caribbean, he prefers to visit when the crowds have gone away. Ultimately, the best and worst times to go to the Caribbean depend on your island of choice and travel goals, but we think almost any time is a great time for a beach getaway .

Related Articles

Best Beaches in Caribbean in April

These are the best beaches in Caribbean in April , based on average sunshine, sea temperature, rainfall and temperature. Though many factors can come into play when choosing your beach destination, the beach weather will often be a deciding factor. Here we list the top beaches based on the average weather conditions and sea temperature.

• ← March

Best Beach Destinations in Caribbean in April

Varadero Matanzas, Cuba

April has average maximum temperatures of 30°C (85°F) which is very warm and perfect for sunbathing on clear days. The sunshine percentage is 69% making it sunny but overcast at times. The hours of sunshine per day are 8.8hrs making the days long and bright. April has total rainfall of 0cm (0inches) making it predominantly dry with occasional light showers on very few days. There are just 6.5 days with some rainfall so you can still enjoy the beach on the majority of rain free clear days.

It is a good time for sunbathing in Varadero Matanzas. Sea temperatures are a very warm 26°C (79°F) . April is an excellent month for swimming in Varadero Matanzas with very comfortable temperatures for bathing all day.

April has average maximum temperatures of 30°C (85°F) which is very warm and perfect for sunbathing on clear days. The sunshine percentage is 69% making it sunny but overcast at times. The hours of sunshine per day are 8.7hrs making the days long and bright. April has total rainfall of 0cm (0inches) making it predominantly dry with occasional light showers on very few days. There are just 6.5 days with some rainfall so you can still enjoy the beach on the majority of rain free clear days.

It is a good time for sunbathing in Cuba. Sea temperatures are a very warm 26°C (79°F) . April is an excellent month for swimming in Cuba with very comfortable temperatures for bathing all day.

Cayo Guillermo, Cuba

April has average maximum temperatures of 29°C (84°F) which is very warm and perfect for sunbathing on clear days. The sunshine percentage is 73% making it sunny and pleasant most of the time. The hours of sunshine per day are 9.3hrs making the days long and bright. April has total rainfall of 5.1cm (2.0inches) making it dry with only light showers in the very few rainy days each month. There are just 3.7 days with some rainfall so you can still enjoy the beach on the majority of rain free clear days and rainy days are few and far between.

It is a great time for sunbathing in Cayo Guillermo. Sea temperatures are a very warm 27°C (81°F) . April is an excellent month for swimming in Cayo Guillermo with very comfortable temperatures for bathing all day.

Saint Ann Parish, Jamaica

April has average maximum temperatures of 30°C (87°F) which is very hot and perfect for sunbathing on clear days. The sunshine percentage is 63% making it sunny but overcast at times. The hours of sunshine per day are 7.9hrs making the days quite long and bright. April has total rainfall of 0.7cm (0.3inches) making it predominantly dry with occasional light showers on very few days. There are just 8.2 days with some rainfall so you can still enjoy the beach on the majority of rain free clear days.

It is a good time for sunbathing in Saint Ann Parish. Sea temperatures are a very warm 27°C (81°F) . April is an excellent month for swimming in Saint Ann Parish with very comfortable temperatures for bathing all day.

Curacao, Curacao

April has average maximum temperatures of 31°C (88°F) which is very hot and perfect for sunbathing on clear days. The sunshine percentage is 58% making it quite sunny but with occasional periods of cloudy and overcast skies. There are 7.2 hours of sunshine per day. April has total rainfall of 1.6cm (0.6inches) making it extremely dry with very few light showers and most days are rain free. There are just 3.4 days with some rainfall so you can still enjoy the beach on the majority of rain free clear days and rainy days are few and far between.

It is a good time for sunbathing in Curacao. Sea temperatures are a very warm 26°C (79°F) . April is an excellent month for swimming in Curacao with very comfortable temperatures for bathing all day.

Largo, Cuba

April has average maximum temperatures of 29°C (84°F) which is very warm and perfect for sunbathing on clear days. The sunshine percentage is 53% making it quite sunny but with occasional periods of cloudy and overcast skies. There are 6.7 hours of sunshine per day. April has total rainfall of 0.2cm (0.1inches) making it extremely dry with very few light showers and most days are rain free. There are just 2.3 days with some rainfall so you can still enjoy the beach on the majority of rain free clear days and rainy days are few and far between.

It is a good time for sunbathing in Largo. Sea temperatures are a very warm 26°C (79°F) . April is an excellent month for swimming in Largo with very comfortable temperatures for bathing all day.

New Providence Island, Bahamas

April has average maximum temperatures of 29°C (83°F) which is very warm and perfect for sunbathing on clear days. The sunshine percentage is 70% making it sunny but overcast at times. The hours of sunshine per day are 8.9hrs making the days long and bright. April has total rainfall of 3.1cm (1.2inches) making it predominantly dry with occasional light showers on very few days. There are just 7.9 days with some rainfall so you can still enjoy the beach on the majority of rain free clear days.

It is a good time for sunbathing in New Providence Island. Sea temperatures are a warm 25°C (76°F) . April is a good month for swimming in New Providence Island with comfortable temperatures for most people.

Bequia, St Vincent and the Grenadines

April has average maximum temperatures of 30°C (86°F) which is very warm and perfect for sunbathing on clear days. The sunshine percentage is 67% making it sunny but overcast at times. The hours of sunshine per day are 8.3hrs making the days long and bright. April has total rainfall of 0.6cm (0.2inches) making it mostly dry but with short lived occasional showers. There are only 13.6 days with some rainfall so you can still enjoy the beach on the majority of days.

It is a good time for sunbathing in Bequia. Sea temperatures are a very warm 27°C (81°F) . April is an excellent month for swimming in Bequia with very comfortable temperatures for bathing all day.

St Vincent, St Vincent and the Grenadines

It is a good time for sunbathing in St Vincent. Sea temperatures are a very warm 27°C (81°F) . April is an excellent month for swimming in St Vincent with very comfortable temperatures for bathing all day.

Aruba, Aruba

April has average maximum temperatures of 32°C (89°F) which is very hot and perfect for sunbathing on clear days. The sunshine percentage is 58% making it quite sunny but with occasional periods of cloudy and overcast skies. There are 7.2 hours of sunshine per day. April has total rainfall of 2.7cm (1.1inches) making it extremely dry with only very rare light showers. There are just 2 days with some rainfall so you can still enjoy the beach on the majority of rain free clear days and rainy days are few and far between.

It is a good time for sunbathing in Aruba. Sea temperatures are a very warm 28°C (82°F) . April is an excellent month for swimming in Aruba with very comfortable temperatures for bathing all day.

Renaissance Island, Aruba

It is a good time for sunbathing in Renaissance Island. Sea temperatures are a very warm 27°C (81°F) . April is an excellent month for swimming in Renaissance Island with very comfortable temperatures for bathing all day.

Paradise Island, Bahamas

It is a good time for sunbathing in Paradise Island. Sea temperatures are a warm 24°C (75°F) . April is a good month for swimming in Paradise Island with comfortable temperatures for most people.

Willemstad, Curacao

April has average maximum temperatures of 31°C (88°F) which is very hot and perfect for sunbathing on clear days. The sunshine percentage is 53% making it quite sunny but with occasional periods of cloudy and overcast skies. There are 6.6 hours of sunshine per day. April has total rainfall of 1.6cm (0.6inches) making it extremely dry with very few light showers and most days are rain free. There are just 3.4 days with some rainfall so you can still enjoy the beach on the majority of rain free clear days and rainy days are few and far between.

It is a good time for sunbathing in Willemstad. Sea temperatures are a very warm 26°C (78°F) . April is an excellent month for swimming in Willemstad with very comfortable temperatures for bathing all day.

Cat Island, Bahamas

April has average maximum temperatures of 29°C (83°F) which is very warm and perfect for sunbathing on clear days. The sunshine percentage is 66% making it sunny but overcast at times. The hours of sunshine per day are 8.4hrs making the days long and bright. April has total rainfall of 3.1cm (1.2inches) making it predominantly dry with occasional light showers on very few days. There are just 7.9 days with some rainfall so you can still enjoy the beach on the majority of rain free clear days.

It is a good time for sunbathing in Cat Island. Sea temperatures are a warm 24°C (75°F) . April is a good month for swimming in Cat Island with comfortable temperatures for most people.

Cayo Ensenachos, Cuba

April has average maximum temperatures of 30°C (86°F) which is very hot and perfect for sunbathing on clear days. The sunshine percentage is 72% making it sunny and pleasant most of the time. The hours of sunshine per day are 9.1hrs making the days long and bright. April has total rainfall of 5.1cm (2.0inches) making it mostly dry with only light showers. There are just 6.1 days with some rainfall so you can still enjoy the beach on the majority of rain free clear days.

It is a great time for sunbathing in Cayo Ensenachos. Sea temperatures are a very warm 25°C (77°F) . April is an excellent month for swimming in Cayo Ensenachos with very comfortable temperatures for bathing all day.

Bahamas, Bahamas

April has average maximum temperatures of 29°C (83°F) which is very warm and perfect for sunbathing on clear days. The sunshine percentage is 62% making it sunny but overcast at times. The hours of sunshine per day are 7.9hrs making the days quite long and bright. April has total rainfall of 3.1cm (1.2inches) making it predominantly dry with occasional light showers on very few days. There are just 7.9 days with some rainfall so you can still enjoy the beach on the majority of rain free clear days.

It is a good time for sunbathing in Bahamas. Sea temperatures are a warm 24°C (76°F) . April is a good month for swimming in Bahamas with comfortable temperatures for most people.

Punta Cana, Dominican Republic

April has average maximum temperatures of 30°C (85°F) which is very warm and perfect for sunbathing on clear days. The sunshine percentage is 67% making it sunny but overcast at times. The hours of sunshine per day are 8.4hrs making the days long and bright. April has total rainfall of 6.5cm (2.6inches) making it mostly dry with only light showers. There are just 7.7 days with some rainfall so you can still enjoy the beach on the majority of rain free clear days.

It is a good time for sunbathing in Punta Cana. Sea temperatures are a very warm 27°C (80°F) . April is an excellent month for swimming in Punta Cana with very comfortable temperatures for bathing all day.

Tortola Island, British Virgin Islands

April has average maximum temperatures of 29°C (84°F) which is very warm and perfect for sunbathing on clear days. The sunshine percentage is 67% making it sunny but overcast at times. The hours of sunshine per day are 8.4hrs making the days long and bright. April has total rainfall of 6.2cm (2.4inches) making it mostly dry with only light showers. There are just 8.1 days with some rainfall so you can still enjoy the beach on the majority of rain free clear days.

It is a good time for sunbathing in Tortola Island. Sea temperatures are a very warm 27°C (80°F) . April is an excellent month for swimming in Tortola Island with very comfortable temperatures for bathing all day.

Beef Island, British Virgin Islands

It is a good time for sunbathing in Beef Island. Sea temperatures are a very warm 26°C (80°F) . April is an excellent month for swimming in Beef Island with very comfortable temperatures for bathing all day.

Anegada Island, British Virgin Islands

It is a good time for sunbathing in Anegada Island. Sea temperatures are a very warm 26°C (80°F) . April is an excellent month for swimming in Anegada Island with very comfortable temperatures for bathing all day.

Virgin Gorda, British Virgin Islands

It is a good time for sunbathing in Virgin Gorda. Sea temperatures are a very warm 26°C (80°F) . April is an excellent month for swimming in Virgin Gorda with very comfortable temperatures for bathing all day.

Anguilla Island, Anguilla

April has average maximum temperatures of 28°C (82°F) which is very warm and perfect for sunbathing on clear days. The sunshine percentage is 67% making it sunny but overcast at times. The hours of sunshine per day are 8.4hrs making the days long and bright. April has total rainfall of 6.4cm (2.5inches) making it mostly dry with only light showers. There are just 7.6 days with some rainfall so you can still enjoy the beach on the majority of rain free clear days.

It is a good time for sunbathing in Anguilla Island. Sea temperatures are a very warm 26°C (80°F) . April is an excellent month for swimming in Anguilla Island with very comfortable temperatures for bathing all day.

Tobago Cays, St Vincent and the Grenadines

April has average maximum temperatures of 29°C (84°F) which is very warm and perfect for sunbathing on clear days. The sunshine percentage is 67% making it sunny but overcast at times. The hours of sunshine per day are 8.3hrs making the days long and bright. April has total rainfall of 4.8cm (1.9inches) making it mostly dry but with short lived occasional showers. There are only 13.6 days with some rainfall so you can still enjoy the beach on the majority of days.

It is a good time for sunbathing in Tobago Cays. Sea temperatures are a very warm 27°C (81°F) . April is an excellent month for swimming in Tobago Cays with very comfortable temperatures for bathing all day.

St Maarten, St Martin

April has average maximum temperatures of 29°C (84°F) which is very warm and perfect for sunbathing on clear days. The sunshine percentage is 67% making it sunny but overcast at times. The hours of sunshine per day are 8.4hrs making the days long and bright. April has total rainfall of 6.1cm (2.4inches) making it mostly dry with only intermittent light showers. There are only 12.5 days with some rainfall so you can still enjoy the beach on the majority of days.

It is a good time for sunbathing in St Maarten. Sea temperatures are a very warm 27°C (80°F) . April is an excellent month for swimming in St Maarten with very comfortable temperatures for bathing all day.

Grand Cayman, Cayman Islands

April has average maximum temperatures of 30°C (85°F) which is very warm and perfect for sunbathing on clear days. The sunshine percentage is 48% making it quite sunny but with regular periods of cloudy and overcast skies. There are 6.0 hours of sunshine per day. April has total rainfall of 3.4cm (1.3inches) making it predominantly dry with occasional light showers on very few days. There are just 5.2 days with some rainfall so you can still enjoy the beach on the majority of rain free clear days.

It is a good time for sunbathing in Grand Cayman. Sea temperatures are a very warm 28°C (82°F) . April is an excellent month for swimming in Grand Cayman with very comfortable temperatures for bathing all day.

Saint Barthelemy, Saint Barthelemy

April has average maximum temperatures of 29°C (84°F) which is very warm and perfect for sunbathing on clear days. The sunshine percentage is 67% making it sunny but overcast at times. The hours of sunshine per day are 8.4hrs making the days long and bright. April has total rainfall of 6.7cm (2.6inches) making it mostly dry with only intermittent light showers. There are only 12.5 days with some rainfall so you can still enjoy the beach on the majority of days.

It is a good time for sunbathing in Saint Barthelemy. Sea temperatures are a very warm 26°C (80°F) . April is an excellent month for swimming in Saint Barthelemy with very comfortable temperatures for bathing all day.

Antigua, Antigua and Barbuda

April has average maximum temperatures of 29°C (84°F) which is very warm and perfect for sunbathing on clear days. The sunshine percentage is 67% making it sunny but overcast at times. The hours of sunshine per day are 8.4hrs making the days long and bright. April has total rainfall of 5.6cm (2.2inches) making it mostly dry with only intermittent light showers. There are only 14.6 days with some rainfall so you can still enjoy the beach on the majority of days.

It is a good time for sunbathing in Antigua. Sea temperatures are a very warm 27°C (80°F) . April is an excellent month for swimming in Antigua with very comfortable temperatures for bathing all day.

La Altagracia Province, Dominican Republic

April has average maximum temperatures of 30°C (86°F) which is very hot and perfect for sunbathing on clear days. The sunshine percentage is 65% making it sunny but overcast at times. The hours of sunshine per day are 8.2hrs making the days long and bright. April has total rainfall of 9.8cm (3.9inches) making it mostly dry with only light showers. There are just 6.5 days with some rainfall so you can still enjoy the beach on the majority of rain free clear days.

It is a good time for sunbathing in La Altagracia Province. Sea temperatures are a very warm 27°C (80°F) . April is an excellent month for swimming in La Altagracia Province with very comfortable temperatures for bathing all day.

Cienfuegos, Cuba

April has average maximum temperatures of 30°C (87°F) which is very hot and perfect for sunbathing on clear days. The sunshine percentage is 63% making it sunny but overcast at times. The hours of sunshine per day are 8.0hrs making the days quite long and bright. April has total rainfall of 8.2cm (3.2inches) making it mostly dry with only light showers. There are just 6.7 days with some rainfall so you can still enjoy the beach on the majority of rain free clear days.

It is a good time for sunbathing in Cienfuegos. Sea temperatures are a very warm 26°C (79°F) . April is an excellent month for swimming in Cienfuegos with very comfortable temperatures for bathing all day.

Turks and Caicos, Turks and Caicos

April has average maximum temperatures of 29°C (83°F) which is very warm and perfect for sunbathing on clear days. The sunshine percentage is 67% making it sunny but overcast at times. The hours of sunshine per day are 8.4hrs making the days long and bright. April has total rainfall of 8.8cm (3.5inches) making it mostly dry with only light showers. There are just 8.6 days with some rainfall so you can still enjoy the beach on the majority of rain free clear days.

It is a good time for sunbathing in Turks and Caicos. Sea temperatures are a very warm 26°C (78°F) . April is an excellent month for swimming in Turks and Caicos with very comfortable temperatures for bathing all day.

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Best cheap caribbean vacations.

Visitors on a budget can still enjoy a tropical vacation thanks to perks like free beach access and frequent deals on airfare and hotels. To help you find the right island for the right price, U.S. News ranked the best cheap Caribbean vacations based on top recommendations from industry experts and everyday travelers. Vote for your ideal bargain Caribbean getaway below, and for additional ways to save money on a Caribbean getaway, check out these Caribbean cruise deals .  (Note: The U.S. Department of State advises tourists to reconsider travel to Jamaica and Trinidad & Tobago due to crime; check the website for updates before booking your trip and be cautious if you do decide to travel here.)

Trinidad & Tobago

U.s. virgin islands, havana, cuba, st. kitts & nevis, santo domingo.

With optimal scuba diving conditions and protected coral reefs, Curacao is an aquatic lover's paradise. The island also appeals to outdoorsy types with its impressive flora and fauna, and to history buffs with its rich and unique Dutch and Jewish cultural heritage. Getting here can be pricey, but if you visit between May and November, you'll find steeply reduced hotel and flight rates. You can also snag deals on Curacao vacation rentals year-round. Stick to free activities like relaxing on Playa Lagun and checking out the Queen Emma Pontoon Bridge for additional savings.

Jamaica has long been a prime destination for tourists thanks to its laid-back culture, impressive scenery and varied attractions. You may spend more money than you would in some other Caribbean destinations, but you can nab flight and hotel deals if you're willing to visit between June and November (hurricane season). Protect your investment by purchasing an affordable travel insurance plan before your trip. Or, arrive in April or May to enjoy budget-friendly prices without the threat of a hurricane. You may also find deals on all-inclusive resorts , which cover lodging, food, drinks and often more.

Vacationers enjoy the contrast between bustling Trinidad and serene Tobago. Plus, there's no shortage of lodging options on either of these two islands, meaning you can easily find a reasonable room rate in an area that appeals to you. If you're planning to visit for the Trinidad Carnival in February or early March, book your accommodations well in advance to secure lower rates. As far as affordable activities go, head to one of the free or low-fee beaches or take advantage of your hotel's pool to soak up some sunshine.

Martinique's variety of free attractions (think: Les Salines beach and St. Louis Cathedral) and budget-friendly street food vendors make it an excellent option for a cost-effective tropical vacation . Plus, you can find deals on many of the island's hotels for less than $150 a night – much cheaper than lodging found on other Caribbean islands. And the hotels typically include plenty of on-site amenities, such as idyllic pools, beach access and tasty eateries. However, staying in popular tourist spots like Les Trois-Îlets and Fort-de-France can be pricey, especially during the peak winter and spring months.

Travelers frequently crowd this American paradisiacal territory, but if you plan far enough in advance – at least a few months – and visit outside the peak winter season, you have a solid chance of scoring a great hotel or vacation rental deal in the U.S. Virgin Islands. Just steer clear of the ports of call: The Virgin Islands are a popular stopping point for cruises, and prices around the docks are often inflated. While you're here, take advantage of the destination's many free outdoor attractions like Virgin Islands National Park on St. John and Sandy Point National Wildlife Refuge on St. Croix.

Grenada is often overlooked, meaning those who do visit can experience the island's white sand beaches and laid-back vibes without burning through their savings. Plus, it costs absolutely nothing to walk through Grenada's colorful capital, St. George's – including its aromatic Market Square – and swim in Grand Anse Beach's sheltered bay. The months from summer through fall are perfect times to visit: Deals on lodging and flights abound, and the island is less crowded. Save some extra coin by dining on fare from one of Grenada's local street vendors.   

Travelers planning a cheap Caribbean vacation should look no further than Havana. Not only is this vibrant Cuban city easy to navigate (many attractions can be found within a few miles of each other), but travelers can explore it at no cost on a free walking tour. When it comes to lodging, opt to stay with a Havana resident (these are called casas particulares); accommodations are regularly priced at less than $50 per night. Keep in mind, Americans will need a Cuba Tourist Card, a travel license, travel insurance and various customs forms to visit.

Finding a bargain in Barbados will require patience, especially if you plan to visit in winter. Warm temperatures, turquoise waters and lively festivals draw visitors in droves. If you can wait until May to experience the island, you'll find agreeable rates comparable to those available during hurricane season . To get the most bang for your buck, consider staying in one of Barbados' top-notch all-inclusive resorts . What's more, all of the island's 70-plus miles of white sand beaches are free to visit, regardless of where you stay.

These islands aren't the easiest to reach, but that's part of the appeal. With a lush rainforest to hike through and numerous beach bars serving tropical cocktails, there are plenty of ways to pass the time on culturally rich St. Kitts. Meanwhile, the quiet, secluded beaches in Nevis are perfect for relaxation. Finding affordable room rates in both locations is easy – you can often score hotel rooms for less than $200 per night – but keep in mind, some attractions and eateries close during the hurricane-prone summer months.

The capital of the Dominican Republic is an ideal destination for budget travelers. In addition to plenty of free or inexpensive attractions, such as the Zona Colonial and Los Tres Ojos National Park, visitors will find affordable room rates here for less than $100 per night. Plus, the city's favorable exchange rate ($1 is equal to roughly 55 Dominican pesos) makes it easy to make your dollars count. Just try to avoid traveling here during hurricane season, which lasts from about June to November; instead, time your visit between December and March to enjoy highs in the mid-80s.

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The Bahamas in April: The Ultimate Traveler’s Guide

Considering a trip to the Bahamas in April and need to know what to expect or what to do? We can help!

To sum it up, April in the Bahamas has moderate crowds and comfortable weather with less humid days and breezy nights. Some of the best things to add to your itinerary in April include boat tours, scuba diving and fishing inshore and offshore. Since April is part of the shoulder season for the islands, rates can be a little lower for vacations this month.

Since April is the start of shoulder season, it’s possible that you’ll be able to enjoy the great weather without fighting the crowds for a spot on the beach.

Planning to visit the Bahamas in April and want to know the best things to do? We’ve done all the work for you! Take a look at all the fun things the Bahamas has to offer in the month of April and plan the best trip possible!

Bahamas Weather in April

April in the Bahamas happens to be the least humid month of the year, while also being one of the sunniest months. This makes conditions extremely ideal for beach, water and underwater activities and tours.

April has really nice temperatures throughout the month, with daily highs hovering around 80 ° F and the lows around 70 ° F. The weather will be mostly warm day or night with occasional breezes and extremely low chance of rain or thunderstorms. Water temperatures are around 77 ° F which makes scuba diving even more pleasant in April.

Overall, April can be described as comfortable to warm, with clear skies, low winds and ideal temperatures in and out of the water. Despite the beautiful forecast, the only downside to April is that it’s the start of sea lice season.

Sea lice season sounds worse than it actually is. Sea lice is the term for jellyfish larvae which are prevalent in the months of April through July. They come in waves and can become trapped in swimwear, giving you a rash or a possible allergic reaction. This isn’t a worry for most visitors, it’s still worth paying attention to any local warnings on the beach or via health advisory .

Bahamas April Weather Cheat Sheet

Bahamas affordability & crowds in april.

April is still part of the high season in the Bahamas, although crowds do begin to thin out toward the end of the month as Summer is fast-approaching. Spring Break is over at this point, but many golf and fishing tournaments, as well as snow birds and retirees keep the crowd levels higher in April.

Since this is the busy season, you can ensure that restaurants, tours and hotels will be open and available this month. If you don’t mind fighting a few crowds or paying a little extra for certain experiences, April is a gorgeous month to visit the Bahamas.

Rates for all aspects of your trip will be pretty high this month, including transportation, flights, hotels, attractions and tours. The expense is definitely worth it if you prefer the great weather. However, if you would rather save the money and don’t mind hotter conditions, Summertime offers lower rates and fewer people.

Traveling to the Bahamas in April

Traveling to the Bahamas in April is a breeze where weather is concerned, but can be pricey and full of tourists. One of the best ways to get a full, all-inclusive and relaxing experience is to take a cruise. Cruises are ideal for anyone living in Florida or along the Atlantic Coastline since cruises often give you the choice of a 2 to 7 day long trip.

You’ll spend most of your time at sea, but many cruises have dedicated islands and activities for passengers when they arrive at the Bahamas. You can choose the cruise based on the number of days you want to visit, as well as the experiences they offer on board and ashore.

Ferryboats are another fun way to travel to the Bahamas this month, especially if you live in Florida . The ferry rides can be quite busy in April, but the weather should not cancel or delay trips from Miami or Fort Lauderdale to the islands. These rides last about 2.5 to 4 hours and will transport you to Nassau, Freeport or Bimini. The ride can be scenic but not as enjoyable as a cruise.

Lastly, guests can opt to book a flight to the Bahamas from just about anywhere. This may be the more expensive option, but it guarantees smooth and quick travel to your destination. To save money, book a direct flight to Nassau and then take another form of transportation to neighboring islands. If money is no object and you want to skip the busy city, fly into the beautiful Abacos or directly to North Eleuthera.

Best Bahamas Islands in April

All the islands in the Bahamas experience shoulder season in April, so it’s a little easier to plan a trip to any of them this month. However, if you love the idea of visiting the more popular islands without all the crowds, April is a great time to see Grand Bahama.

Grand Bahama

Grand Bahama is the second most popular island in the Bahamas , located only 52 miles off the coast of Florida. You can get to Grand Bahama in three hours from Palm Beach, Florida, take a cruise from anywhere on the Atlantic Coast or fly into Grand Bahama International Airport. Freeport serves as the main city and tourist hub, so most transportation will lead here.

Grand Bahama is an island known for water sports like boating and kite surfing, as well as snorkeling, fishing, sightseeing and shopping. If you’re looking for the ultimate tourist adventure, book with Bahamas Jeep Safari to get a quick history and tour of Freeport and surrounding areas. If you prefer to have a more relaxing day on foot, head over the Port Lucaya Marketplace for a grand shopping, dining and entertainment experience.

If a diving excursion is more your speed, Grand Bahama is full of great locations for your next trip. Tiger Beach in particular is great for diving with tiger sharks, especially in the Spring. There also several blue holes along the coastline, in addition to expansive underwater caves. Deadman’s Reef is another great dive , located on Paradise Cove: the storied pirate haven.

For those looking to stay on land, nothing beats sunbathing at Lucaya, William’s Town, Xanadu, Paradise or Taino Beach. There are often plenty of things happening on the shores of Grand Bahama, including beach jams and parties, bonfires, fish fries and more. The friendly residents of Grand Bahama are welcoming to outsiders, so popping into an impromptu party is no big deal.

Grand Bahama is also famous for it’s cinematic scenes like Golf Rock Beach at Lucayan National Park , which was featured in several Pirates of the Caribbean movies. The National Park is located on a 530-square-mile island northeast of Freeport and is home to a 40-acre mangrove forest that houses 18 different bird species unique to this island.

In general, Grand Bahama is perfect for outdoor adventurers who also enjoy nightlife, great dining and active forms of recreation. From snorkeling to swimming with dolphins or roaming miles of secluded beaches, Grand Bahama has the perfect balance of excitement and relaxation.

Best Things to Do in the Bahamas in April

The Bahamas are beautiful in April which allows you to do just about anything you want to do in the islands. The weather is pretty mild this month, the water is calm and the season is busy so lots of things will be available to do. As a matter of fact, there is so much to do in April that we’ve narrowed it down to only the best things you should plan on doing this month.

Explore the Coastline

While in the Bahamas you have to go parasailing, especially in the idyllic Springtime. Parasailing is an experience like no other where guests can soar to heights of up to 500 feet above water. Parasailing tours set sail from Nassau, Cabbage Beach, Freeport and a few other smaller islands in the area. On the journey, you’ll head out to deeper water right off the coast and strap into the parasail.

After liftoff, you’ll get breathtaking views of the islands and see deep into the clear blue waters. We’ve spotted lots of creatures from the sky, including rays to sharks. After about 10 to 15 minutes, the guides will reel the balloon back into the boat and sometimes dip your toes in the water on the way back in. Overall, it’s a very adventurous way to see the coastline.

You can get an undersea adventure by renting the Personal Underwater Subs for in Nassau . These unique single-person submarines take you on a short dive to the local reefs where you can find fish, coral and other creatures. Renters don’t need any previous diving experience to operate these underwater vehicles, so anyone can do it.

Other rentals are available from local island shops or at your resort. You’ll find anything from snorkel gear, jet skis, banana boats and glass bottom boats for rent on the beach. Any one of these rentals can enhance any beach day, especially if you want to spend less on an excursion and go at your own pace.

Book a Catamaran Tour

Catamaran tours are a fairly relaxing way to get out on the water at a leisurely pace. Catamarans give a more immersive experience than the typical sailboat cruise, so prepare to get wet and possibly help the captain on your journey. Some tours offer snorkeling stops and lunch, while others take you to specific islands for interactive swimming with pigs or turtles.

The Bahamas have lots of interesting tours to choose from, it can be difficult to pick one or multiple to fit in your vacation. The best strategy is to determine what your group wants to see and what level of activity or adventure they want to have. Some of the best tours in April include exciting sailing or driving excursions, but also include slow-paced walking or food tours.

Beach buggy tours are probably one of the most fun outings your group can do. They seat between 4 and 6 people and most companies have varying rental lengths. The rentals will allow you to explore the island on your own time if you choose, or you can opt to follow a guide on a tour of different sites around Nassau including the Queen’s Staircase , Fort Fincastle and natural landscapes like the dunes and caves.

There are even fancier dinner cruises available if you’re looking for a more romantic outing. The catamaran tours are priced lower than other tours, so this is a great opportunity to save a buck on an otherwise expensive trip.

If you’re looking for a cultural experience after days of island hopping, Nassau Food Tours is the way to go . There are several different tours available that combine different aspects of the island along with local food, including historical sites, wine tasting, rum distilleries and chocolatiers. For more historical sites at a slower pace, sign up for a regular walking tour of Nassau to see all the history up close.

Dive Reefs and Wrecks

April is a perfect month for diving in the Bahamas. The mahi begin to arrive in droves this month and it happens to be mating season for fish and lobster. The Bahamas are known for shark sightings year round and different species can be seen in different seasons. In April, you’re likely to find the usual Reef, Lemon and Nurse sharks, along with Oceanic White Tips, primarily near Bimini and Grand Bahama.

The sharks will circulate through the many different ship wrecks around the islands, as well as the coral reef formations just off the coasts. Some of the best diving sites include Sugar Wreck , known for bustling sea life, Steel Forest of three wrecks, and the Exuma Land and Sea Park .

In April the water will warm up so shallow dives are great in just a swim suit, but deeper dives may still require a full wet suit. There are many different options available to amateur or professional divers including lots of local dive operators to book with and liveaboard tours. Liveaboard excursions are several days to a week long and will take you to many different sites, so this option is often best for those who are strictly looking to dive in the Bahamas.

Fish Inshore and Offshore

The Bahamas are very well known as a bone fishing haven year round, so many anglers will want to fish inshore for these prized fish. Bahamian residents and charter captains claim that the Abaco Islands are the best place for bone fish along with Andros Island, New Providence Island or Yamacraw Beach. You could try it on your own inshore, but we recommend hiring a charter to guarantee a good catch.

There are a fair number of other species in season this month including Amberjack, Barracuda, Dorado, Grouper, Mackerel, White Marlin, Permit, Sailfish, Shark, Snapper. Many of these will be available inshore, so you can easily take your own boat out or hire a charter for several hours.

However, you’ll want to book with the professionals if you’re looking to catch billfish like White Marlin this month. Marlin and Sailfish are in season but can only be found in deep waters far offshore. These impressive fish can be difficult to catch and require lots of heavy gear and a steady hand. Marlin in particular are known for jumping and diving. Despite the imposing danger of the bills on these fish, they are really fun to hunt for and catch.

Swim with the Dolphins

Swimming with the Exuma pigs is one of the top experiences in the Bahamas and there are many tours that offer this as an option, including the aforementioned catamaran tours. While this can be a really unique excursion, we guarantee there will be many people vying for the pigs’ attention in April. As a matter of fact, there will be many people at many of the natural experiences this month, but we’ll mention a couple things that can be truly magical in April.

Swimming with the Dolphins is a really incredible experience that you can do any time of year in the Bahamas. What makes April special is that the water is warm enough to thoroughly enjoy the fun. The other good thing about a swim with the dolphins is that you can choose from multiple different venues including Blue Lagoon , Dolphin Cay , and Balmoral Islands .

The dolphins have really great personalities and love visitors. Some of the experiences will even include trick shows from the dolphins and trainers or will allow guests to feed the dolphins fishy treats.

Another fun way to experience the Bahamas’ natural wildlife in April is to find the iguanas. Allen Cay, otherwise known as Iguana Island , is one of the preferred places to spot these large reptiles. You’ll need to book a tour or have your own private boat to visit this island on the Northern end of the Exumas, but it’s well worth it for a trip in April when fewer people will be visiting the cay.

Hit the Links

Golf is lovely in the Spring and the conditions are outstanding for a full round. The weather can get windy, but there’s little chance of rain so most days will be great for the sport. There are many places to go golfing in the Bahamas in March, and it’s likely that your luxury resort has an 18-hole championship course on the grounds.

One of the most luxurious options is Baker’s Bay Golf Club designed by Tom Fazio. Baker’s Bay is a members-only resort located between Abaco and the Atlantic. Despite the grandeur and elevation of the resort, this club is famous for “barefoot golf” where players can play the beautiful greens shoeless. This is an 18-hole course that can accommodate all levels and features refreshment areas just off the greens.

Albany is less exclusive but equally as beautiful , offering players an 18-hole championship course, elite practice facilities and an extensive clubhouse. The Hero World Challenge is held at Albany each year as part of the PGA Tour, making the course even more special. Albany was designed by Ernie Els and comes equipped with high dunes and desert features, along with uniquely distinct scenery you won’t find anywhere else in the Bahamas.

April Events in the Bahamas

National Family Island Regatta

This fun family event features a traditional island sloop race that’s considered one of the greatest in the world . The best sailors in the Bahamas gather for four days to race their hand-built boats starting at Elizabeth Harbour on Exuma Island. In addition to the race, beach activities like markets, parties and various competitions take place for anyone to join.

Bahamas Billfish Championship

The Bahamas Billfish Championship follows up the Bacardi Rum Billfish Tournament in March, held at the same Bimini Bay Resort and Marina. Teams compete with dead bait and artificial lures to catch the most Blue Marlins by pound. At the end of the championship, funds are donated to the Bahamas Billfish Championship Scholarship Fund to support students studying marine related fields.

April in the Bahamas is a great time to plan a more relaxed vacation without too much fuss. It’s a little easier to plan a trip this month on shorter notice and also get to all the things you’d like to do. Since April is the first month after high season, it’s good for planning trips on a lower budget. The lower tourist crowds allows for better rates on transportation and accommodations.

There’s no shortage of things you can do in an April trip to the Bahamas. Tours and excursions are still open and available and should be easier to book this month, but it’s also a great time to go exploring on your own. Everything from snorkeling and diving to shopping and golfing is perfect this month.

Top locations like Grand Bahama are a lot less busy in April, making it a great month to for those who want a quieter vacation.

If you love to save money and appreciate a little more wiggle room in your itinerary, April is the perfect month to plan a vacation to the Bahamas!

This article is part of Roundtript’s series of expert Bahamas travel guides for every month of the year.

For a summary of each Switzerland month & season all in one place, check out our big guide to the Best Times of the Year to Visit The Bahamas.

The Bahamas in March: The Ultimate Traveler’s Guide

The Bahamas in May: The Ultimate Traveler’s Guide

© 2024 by Roundtript

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Get ready for a breathtaking journey through the Caribbean, where idyllic beaches, vibrant cultures, and lush landscapes await. This guide to the top vacation destinations in the Caribbean promises an unrivaled escape into paradise. Whether you're looking to unwind on the serene sands of the Bahamas , revel in the cultural festivities of Jamaica , or explore the historic richness of Puerto Rico , there's a perfect Caribbean vacation deal for everyone. Explore these enchanting Caribbean vacation destinations and find your ideal spot for relaxation, adventure, or both in this sun-kissed region.

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With more than 7,000 islands and some of the world’s most famous stretches of coastline, the Caribbean is the ultimate pinch-me-I’m-dreaming beach paradise. Stick your feet in the sand at iconic shorelines like Grace Bay Beach in Turks and Caicos and Flamenco Beach in Puerto Rico . Or soak up some “vitamin sea” on Varadero Beach in Cuba and Magens Bay Beach in the U.S. Virgin Islands .

The Bahamas is a popular Caribbean vacation package destination. The place to be? Pink Sand Beach , a 3-mile stretch of soft pink sand that’s regularly voted among the best beaches in the world. Stay steps away at Pink Sands Resort on Harbour Island and you’ll be looking at your surroundings through rose-colored glasses. If it’s those laid-back Jamaica vibes you’re chasing, you’ll find them at Seven Mile Beach . Add Sandy Haven Resort to your Caribbean vacation package and spend your days lounging on powdery white sands and under swaying palm trees at this shoreline in Negril .

Wherever you’re headed for your beach trip to the Caribbean , Expedia will help you find the perfect stay. Use our filters to search for properties with ocean views and near popular locations. We’ve also got some of the cheapest Caribbean all-inclusive vacations around. Check out our All Inclusive Resorts in the Caribbean that include your accommodations, meals, snacks and entertainment. Then, add your chosen stay to your vacation package for a beach break that truly comes with the lot — hotels and flights included!

Luxury Vacation Packages in the Caribbean

If you’re going to splurge, your Caribbean vacation is the time and place to do it. Browse our luxury hotels and resorts that offer guests the best of everything, from poolside bars and first-rate spas to fine dining and round-the-clock concierge services. They’re also in locations that’ll take your breath away, like Punta Cana in the Dominican Republic . Leave the kids with a babysitter and check in to Iberostar Grand Bavaro Adults Only - All Inclusive on world-famous Bavaro Beach . It’s full of 5-star fabulousness, from pools with ocean views and an 18-hole golf course to its exclusive butler and concierge service.

Planning a trip with the family? Go for a 5-star escape like Fairmont Royal Pavilion in St. James , Barbados . Spa treatments, pools, babysitting services and fun kids’ activities hosted and supervised by the staff make it the perfect getaway with your gang. When searching for your trip to the Caribbean with Expedia, use our handy filter tool to select your favorite amenities. Hit the 5-star rating, choose perks like spas and hot tubs or choose a “family friendly” traveler experience to view properties that come with kid-approved extras like water parks and pools.

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What could be more romantic than whisking your sweetheart away on a Caribbean island vacation? With plenty of postcard-perfect destinations and year-round hot and sunny weather, the Caribbean is made for romance. There’s a location to suit every type of lovebird, whether you’re looking to honeymoon someplace fancy like St. Barthelemy (St. Barts), or snuggle up somewhere relaxed like Grenada . Browse our romantic getaways in the Caribbean that can be added to your vacation package.

You’ll find outstanding properties like  Jade Mountain Resort , often named one of the world’s most romantic escapes. This 5-star hilltop retreat on the island of St. Lucia sets an unforgettable stage for a honeymoon, from its iconic views of both Piti and Gros Piton mountains to its private infinity pools. Adventurous couples will be tempted by the excellent diving and snorkeling in Curacao , while food-lovers will fall for Anguilla , known as the culinary capital of the Caribbean. Whatever you love to do together, you can plan the perfect romantic Caribbean vacation with Expedia.

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To find the  cheapest Caribbean vacation packages , just browse our incredible offers or enter your arrival and departure destinations and travel dates. You can sort your results by price, amenities and more. Another money-saving tip? Consider traveling to the Caribbean in the quieter months of mid-April to mid-December. You can expect fewer visitors and lower prices, but hurricanes can occur during this time. The busiest months are mid-December to mid-April. Annual Carnival celebrations in February can also be a very busy and expensive time in destinations like Trinidad and Tobago .

Things to Do in the Caribbean

Whether you want to dance to the rhythm of steel drums, trek through jungles or dive spectacular underwater worlds, a Caribbean vacation has something for everyone:

Nature : Cool off at Dunn’s River Falls in Jamaica, hike the paths of tropical El Yunque National Forest in Puerto Rico and interact with stingrays free roaming in shallow water at Stingray City in Cayman Islands . For something totally unique, swim with pigs in the Bahamas!

Adventure : Go tubing along Layou River Gorge in Dominica or dive the fascinating Grenada Underwater Sculpture Park . If you’d love to play captain for a day, take the helm on a private sailing tour in the U.S. Virgin Islands.

Family-Friendly : The kids will never forget whale watching in Samana Bay in the Dominican Republic. Or slip and slide the day away at Aquaventure water park in the Bahamas.

Culture : Visit Bob Marley Museum in Jamaica to learn about the legend of reggae music or join a Barbados Mount Gay Rum Tour to discover the local origins of this heady brew. Ready to dance? Attend one of the largest and most colorful parties in the world, Trinidad and Tobago’s Carnival .

For more inspiration, browse our What to Do in the Caribbean Islands guide and add some unforgettable activities and experiences to your Caribbean vacation package.

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The Bahamas are a popular vacation destination for people all throughout the states, thanks to the islands' tropical climates. What was once a pirate cove has since become home to luxury resorts and beachfront experiences defined by welcoming turquoise waters you won't want to miss out on. Plus, you'll find numerous watersports available here if you want to add some more thrills to your vacation.

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When you visit the US Virgin Islands, you'll find yourself in a Caribbean paradise. Much of the island is developed with travelers in mind, which is quite luxurious. Yacht charters are common here, but you can also simply relax at the beach. The islands are also known for rum distilling, so be sure to try out the local recipe during your visit.

Explore the island with Jamaica vacation packages

Jamaica is an exciting country that offers stunning cityscapes, welcoming beaches, and impressive natural features. In cities like Kingston, you'll find fascinating museums and delicious food, but that's just the beginning. The beaches have all the Caribbean flair you might expect, but inland adventure is also available. The dense forests are home to diverse wildlife, and you can see it all by trekking through on a hike.

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Puerto Rico Island is packed full of fun things to do, whether you're interested in history, relaxation, or adventure. The beaches here are some of the best in the world, allowing for swimming, snorkeling, and water sports like jet skiing. The history here is well preserved and lets you see old examples of colonial architecture as well as forts that are still standing.

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The 11 Best Islands to Visit in April

If you are a water lover and wondering where and when to plan your next trip, this article is for you!

Many people think summer is the most suitable time to embark on a vacation to islands . However, the comfortable weather and moderate temperatures that spring brings actually make it a more ideal season to travel to many islands.

Moreover, you also get to enjoy great hotel rates before the summer crowds start pouring in. Now that you are dreaming of an island vacation next April, take a look at the below-mentioned list!

Located in the Mediterranean sea 100 miles south of Sicily, Malta is an archipelago famous for its beautiful beaches and dazzling nightlife.

Not everyone is a party lover, though, so if you aren’t one, don’t worry! There are plenty of other activities to enjoy. The island houses several vineyards that are a major attraction for tourists.

The popular Malta International Fireworks Festival also takes place in April, which makes it the perfect time to visit the island.

Malta is also known for its historical sites, so do not miss the national community art museum, MUZA, which recently opened.

April is the best time to visit this beautiful Indonesian island. Here, spring kicks off in March, so you won’t have to deal with the hot and humid weather.

Apart from its stunning beaches and religious temples, Bali is also known for its premier water park, Waterbom, the #1 water park on the continent.

Whether you are looking to relax or witness wildlife in its natural habitat, Bali has it all! Because of the scenic beauty and peaceful environment it offers, the island is used by many people for yoga and meditation retreats.

The Bali zoo also features gorgeous animals from all over the world and is known for different activities, such as mud baths with elephants and breakfast in the friendly company of orangutans.

Situated 400 miles south of Bangkok, Koh Samui is the second largest island in Thailand. Koh Samui experiences tourism throughout the year, as it attracts both backpackers and high-end vacationers.

Palm-fringed beaches, coconut groves, and lush, mountainous forests, as well as luxury resorts and fancy spas, make it a popular tourist destination.

The best area to stay on Koh Samui is Chaweng, which is also generally known as the island’s capital. Chaweng is famous for its lively beach bars and nightclubs.

The fifth-largest island of Japan, Okinawa is located in the Pacific Ocean. The island is referred to as the “Hawaii of Japan” and is one of more than 160 islands that make up the Okinawa prefecture.

If you are fond of snorkeling or scuba diving, Okinawa should definitely be on your list. The island features scores of coral reefs.

Visiting the island in April is preferable because you will get to witness the amazing Ryukyu Kaiensai Fireworks Festival that honors Okinawan music and culture.

While you are there, don’t forget to check out the Iejima Lily Festival that takes place on Iejima Island, which is only a few miles away from Okinawa. The festival displays lilies from around the world, and the experience is quite majestic.

Whether you are a mountain lover or want to take a stroll along the sunny south coast where bananas, grapes, and sugarcane thrive in tiny fishing communities, this island offers it all!

It is famous for its Madeira wine and subtropical climate, but what makes it more attractive is the fact that it is one of the safest holiday destinations in the world. Madeira prides itself on being crime-free.

The Portuguese island also offers many fun-packed activities from mountain walks, sailing, dolphin and whale watching, and hiking to scuba diving, big game fishing, canyoning, surfing, and paragliding.

So, if you haven’t added Madeira to your list yet, do it now!

Hilton Head Island

Famous for its majestic beaches and top-notch golf courses, Hilton Head Island is located just off the coast of South Carolina in the United States.

The island is a perfect vacation spot for those US travelers who do not want to spend too much money on flying outside the country.

The upside of going in April is that the endless sunshine allows you to enjoy outdoor activities like biking, exploring the lighthouse, and building sandcastles.

If you are fond of history, do check out The Coastal Discovery Museum, which consists of trees, heritage buildings, and themed gardens.

This beautiful island in Malaysia is known for its cultural diversity, authentic cuisines, and heritage.

If you are a foodie at heart and looking for an authentic food experience, Penang is where you should plan to go for your next spring vacation. The street food that it offers is mouthwatering and will make you want to come back!

Along with the beautiful beaches, do not forget to visit the Penang National Park and explore its natural treasures.

The island offers a luxurious experience at an affordable price, which is why it attracts many foreign tourists.

Located in the Caribbean, St. Croix is one of the US Virgin Islands. The white-sand beaches and thick rainforests make for a perfect Hollywood movie backdrop. The island is also known for its food scene, wildlife, and adventures.

If you want to get a true taste of this paradise, do not miss the St. Croix Food & Wine Experience, which takes place in April.

The island offers many unique experiences. You can see the underwater world at Buck Island Reef National Monument, or, if you want to relax a bit, you can take a walk at Sandy Point National Wildlife Refuge.

To witness the wildlife, visit the St. Croix Ultimate Bluewater Adventures (SCUBA), Inc., and see some colorful creatures there. 

Situated off the coast of northern Panama, Isla Colon is the most inhabited island in the Bocas Del Toro archipelago.

If you are looking to experience Afro-Caribbean food and culture, head to the “Starfish Beach,” also known as Playa Estrella. But remember not to touch the starfish!

Do not miss the Playa Tortuga beach resort if you want to see the largest oceanfront pool in Bocas Del Toro.

The island also offers a world-class surfing experience, along with scuba diving and snorkeling, so be sure to try that if you are into water adventures.

If you are a nature lover, Dominica island, with its rainforests and natural hot springs, is a must-visit! 

This 290 square miles island is located in the eastern Caribbean and is ideal for visiting in spring. You can hike through the Morne Trois Pitons National Park, go whale-watching, and see the Boiling Lake, which is the second-largest hot lake in the world.

Along with offering scenic views, the island also hosts a carnival in spring, Mas Domnik. All kinds of activities can be enjoyed in the festival, from music, street dancing, and performances to calypso art, and the vibrant costumes are not to be missed!

Located about 65 kilometers off Honduras, this Caribbean island is famed for its diverse marine life, which can be found on both shallow reefs and sheer cliff walls.

The island is a paradise for divers and snorkelers . An astonishingly diverse coral reef filled with tropical fish encircles almost the entire coastline.

The island offers something for everyone. If you are not into water sports, you can enjoy zip-lining, golf, shore excursions, horseback riding, or cultural exploration.

The exquisite white sand beaches and the forested hills are a sight for sore eyes. This tropical paradise is also easy on the pocket, so you should definitely add it to your list of islands to explore. 

 Resources

• https://www.cnbc.com/2018/11/07/here-are-the-11-best-islands-in-the-world-to-relocate-to-in-retirement.html
• https://fisheyescuba.com/en/roatan-april-2021
• https://www.jetsetter.com/magazine/best-island-vacations-for-spring/#dominica

The 10 Best Places to Visit in April

From Amsterdam to New Orleans, you don't want to miss these destinations.

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There’s no denying that April is one of the best months to travel. In the Northern Hemisphere, the weather starts to warm up, flowers begin to bloom, and the spring season kicks off with lively festivals. And in the Southern Hemisphere, many bucket list beach destinations enter their shoulder season, meaning fewer crowds and lower prices. Whether you’re looking for a place to celebrate Easter or an eco-friendly escape to commemorate Earth Day, there’s no shortage of beautiful locales. Below, we’ve outlined some of the best places to travel in April. 

Kyoto, Japan

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With cherry blossom season at its peak and an average daily high of 68 degrees Fahrenheit, April is a wonderful month to visit Kyoto .  Hanami  (or cherry blossom viewing parties) takes place around the city, and scenic picnics happen in parks and gardens under a canopy of florals. Head to the Philosopher's Path —a walking route lined with sakura trees—for some premium cherry blossom viewing. Be sure to explore other Kyoto highlights, including temples, shrines, and centuries-old architecture. To immerse yourself in the city's old-meets-new atmosphere, stay at  Four Seasons Hotel Kyoto , which boasts a stunning 100,000-square-foot  pond garden  that dates back to the 12th century. If time allows, take a day trip to Arashiyama on the city's outskirts, where you can explore bamboo groves, temples, and scenic hiking paths—or take a boat ride along the Hozu River.

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With its gorgeous overwater bungalows, turquoise waters, and awe-inspiring marine life, the Maldives is a dream destination for ocean lovers—and one of the best times to visit is during the shoulder season month of April. With daily temperatures around 84 degrees Fahrenheit, the weather is still warm and sunny for the most part (though it’s not uncommon to experience the odd shower), yet the islands are less crowded. For Earth Month, opt to stay at  Coco Collection’s  luxurious and eco-conscious hideaways,  Coco Bodu Hithi Resort  and  Coco Palm Dhuni Kolhu , which weave sustainability and traditional Maldivian culture into the resort experience. Beyond the beautiful thatched-roof villas filled with hand-carved furniture is an impressive commitment to protecting the surrounding marine life. Case in point:  The Marine Turtle Rescue Center  at Coco Palm Dhuni Kolhu is the first and only veterinarian-led turtle rescue center in the Maldives. The resort works with local communities to protect nesting sites and prevent poaching.

Whistler, British Columbia

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Whistler is the ultimate spring ski destination, with March and April welcoming longer days, warmer temperatures, fewer crowds, and usually excellent backcountry ski conditions. Whistler's  World Ski & Snowboard Festival  takes place every April and brings a week of concerts, events, and snow sports competitions with it. It's a great excuse to experience the vibrant mountain culture of this British Columbian town. There's also plenty to do off the mountain. Head to the  Audain Art Museum , a 56,000-square-foot gallery with an expansive collection of First Nations and British Columbian art, or visit the  Squamish Lil'wat Cultural Centre  to learn about the rich culture of the First Nations groups that have stewarded the region for millennia. After all the action, be sure to carve out an afternoon at  Scandinave Spa Whistler , a tranquil Nordic spa with hot pools, steam baths, Finnish-style saunas, cold plunges, and fireplaces surrounded by the lush forest. For a luxe respite at the base of Blackcomb Mountain, stay on the Gold Floor of  Fairmont Chateau Whistler , a boutique hotel with elegant rooms, a private lounge, and top-notch dining experiences.

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April is the perfect time to visit the red rock playground of Moab. During this month, the temperature stays around 70 degrees Fahrenheit, creating ideal conditions for hiking, climbing, and mountain biking. Head to  Arches National Park , which has over 2,000 natural sandstone arches that can be appreciated from the trails or on a scenic drive. The beautiful views continue at  Canyonlands National Park , which boasts dramatic canyons, mesas, and buttes. For a truly unique experience, try rafting along the Colorado River. The water levels are typically higher in April than in the summer months, and there are fewer crowds, so you can get the breathtaking vistas all to yourself. There are several campsites and hotels, but for an unforgettable glamping experience, stay in one of  Under Canvas Moab's  safari-inspired accommodations. Each tent is outfitted with a plush king-size bed, en suite bathroom, and luxury hotel-grade amenities, while guest perks include nightly fires with s'mores and morning yoga.

Chiang Mai, Thailand

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Chiang Mai draws travelers to northern Thailand year-round, but the city is most lively in April when the  Songkran Festival  welcomes the Thai New Year (April 13 to 15). During this time, the streets are transformed into a giant water fight, with locals and tourists armed with water guns, water balloons, and buckets. After drying off, visit the city’s many ornate temples, including  Wat Phra That Doi Suthep ,  Wat Chedi Luang , and Wat Phra Singh. While there’s no beach, there’s plenty of nature to explore beyond the city, including the  Doi Inthanon National Park , where Thailand’s highest mountain rises from a lush forest. In the evening, head to the night markets to sample local food and shop for traditional crafts before retiring to  Anantara Chiang Mai Resort , a serene respite on the banks of the Ping River.

Rome, Italy

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Whether you celebrate Easter or not, visiting Rome during the Holy Week is a memorable experience. The festivities begin at the start of the month after Palm Sunday and include a Good Friday procession, when a flaming crucifix is raised into the night sky in front of the Colosseum, followed by an evening mass at St. Peter's Basilica. On Easter Day, another mass occurs in the square before the Pope's blessing to the congregation. Several other cultural events happen in April, including the Natale di Roma (Rome's birthday) celebration, which takes place on April 21 and includes parades, concerts, and fireworks. There's never a dull moment at the design-forward W Rome , which is set across two 19th-century palazzos next to the Spanish steps and features a bustling rooftop bar, a restaurant with a live DJ, and a "secret garden" with topical foliage if you need a break from all the action.

Turks and Caicos

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Turks and Caicos is proof that you don’t have to travel far to bask in paradise. Less than a four-hour flight from many East Coast cities, the Caribbean archipelago is a perfect choice for long weekend getaways, especially in April, when the dry season begins. During this time, temperatures peak between 84 degrees F to 87, and rain is minimal. Along with snorkeling and scuba diving adventures, travelers can see magnificent Atlantic humpback whales migrating through the area in April. Meanwhile, the turtles residing around Mangrove Cay are best appreciated from a clear kayak or paddleboard tour with Through the Looking Glass . Those looking to relax on the soft, white sandy shores should look no further than Wymara Resort & Villas , a luxury resort on the secluded western end of the world-renowned Grace Bay Beach. In addition to its 91 rooms, the property offers stunning one and multi-bedroom villas overlooking Providenciales’ famous turquoise blue waters, plus some of the best dining on the island. For an unforgettable dinner, head to the resort’s restaurant Indigo, where award-winning chef Andrew Mirosch spotlights fresh, locally sourced ingredients, Caribbean flavors, and specialties from his native homeland of Australia.

New Orleans, Louisiana

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New Orleans comes alive in April when temperatures rise to the 70s, making it easy to spend the day wandering, eating, and listening to music. Time your trip around the French Quarter Festival , which takes place in mid-April. If you miss it, the beloved New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival follows close behind at the end of the month, with multiple stages, food vendors, and some of America’s best musicians. The great thing about New Orleans is that you can have a fantastic time just by walking around the city. There’s always live music on street corners or inside the jazz clubs between Bourbon Street and Frenchmen Street. And with several well-appointed hotels like the opulent Four Seasons Hotel New Orleans , which overlooks the Mississippi River, blending all the action with some rest and relaxation is easy.

Amsterdam, The Netherlands

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Holland's picturesque flower fields bloom between late March and mid-May, so April is an excellent time to see them at their peak. From Amsterdam, take a 40-minute drive to Keukenhof , one of the world's most famous flower gardens, to see millions of tulips, hyacinths, daffodils, and other flowers in bloom. Beyond the iconic gardens, you'll also find plenty of colorful tulip fields in the countryside around Amsterdam. If you happen to be in the Dutch capital on April 27th, you can also join in the King's Day festivities, a series of parades, parties, and outdoor concerts that celebrate King Willem-Alexander's birthday. Regardless of the time of year, there's plenty to do in Amsterdam—from visiting the Rijksmuseum or the Van Gogh Museum to simply taking a stroll along the canals and enjoying the city's blossoming trees. The Dylan Amsterdam offers an understated and elegant base spread across two historic canal-side buildings in the heart of the Nine Streets area, plus a Michelin-starred restaurant.

Newport Beach, California

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Every year, thousands of gray whales migrate along the Newport/Laguna Beach coastline from Alaska to Baja California, and back again between January and April. While that alone is a good enough reason to book a whale-watching tour during the migration season, you’re also likely to spot other varieties of whales and several dolphin species in this marine life-rich stretch of Southern California. There are several tour operators in the area, including Newport Landing Whale Watching , which offers tours from Newport Harbor, and Capt. Dave’s Dolphin and Whale Watching Safari , which is a Dana Point-based eco-friendly tour operator with a catamaran with underwater viewing pods and a hydrophone to hear the whales sing. After spotting the magnificent creatures, carve out some time to explore the charming shops and restaurants on Balboa Island or go on a scenic hike in Crystal Cove State Park, where it’s common to spot whales and dolphins from the trail.

Where to safely vacation in the Caribbean during hurricane season

Head to the ABC islands: Aruba, Bonaire and Curacao

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With this year's Atlantic hurricane season predicted to have above-normal activity , some are contemplating scratching the Caribbean off their summer travel list. Instead, keep it on there. Islands like Aruba, Bonaire and Curacao in the Leeward Antilles sit south of the hurricane belt, providing tropical experiences with little risk. In this diverse corner of the Caribbean, nearly everyone speaks four languages — Papiamento, Dutch, English and Spanish — making communication a breeze. 

Aruba: one happy island

Getting to the Natural Pool is worth the trek

If you had to pick an island to be stranded on, this is the one. Home to pristine white sand beaches, natural wonders like Arikok National Park filled with caves and coves, and the colorful capital city of Oranjestad, Aruba enjoys an average annual temperature of 82 degrees with breezes courtesy of the trade winds. 

The hardest part of your vacation might be deciding where to go first. You could start at Eagle Beach, a gorgeous seaweed-free stretch of shore routinely listed among the world's best beaches , or one of the island's impressive scuba diving sites, like the SS Antilla, the largest shipwreck dive in the Caribbean. 

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Then there's Arikok National Park. Consider spending a full day here so you can see the Fontein, Huliba and Quadirikiri Caves, Natural Pool, Natural Bridge and landmarks like the Alto Vista Chapel and California Lighthouse. Guided tours are available and encouraged, since some spots are only accessible by four-wheel drive.

Ready to eat? In Oranjestad, stop at Come and Try , a tiny stand known for having the best pastechis on the island. (Get the ones with Gouda.) These traditional Aruban treats are similar to the empanada, the flaky crust holding meat, cheese or vegetables. 

For the freshest seafood, head to Zeerover in Savaneta. At this laid-back spot, your lunch or dinner was likely fished out of the water a few hours before it was put on your plate, and you can watch your meal being prepared by the fishermen.

To get a sense of Aruban hospitality, check into a smaller property like Ocean Z boutique hotel. The resort is "far from the touristy fray" and "across from the wild and scenic Malmok Cliffs," said Fodor's. To boot, its in-house restaurant faces the setting sun and is popular with locals. 

Bonaire: small but mighty

Scuba divers are drawn to Bonaire

The small island of Bonaire offers a big payoff for scuba divers and snorkelers. All around this island, there's a "vibrant world under the sea," Lonely Planet said, with coral reefs "just a few feet from the shoreline," making dozens of dive sites accessible without a boat. 

The National Marine Park covers the entire sea around Bonaire, starting at the high water line down to a depth of 200 feet, so protecting the reef is serious business here. All new divers, or those who have not been to Bonaire within the last calendar year, must attend an orientation to learn about the park's regulations.

Animals also find protection here, with multiple sanctuaries open to the public. The Donkey Sanctuary cares for more than 800 orphaned, sick and injured donkeys, who live out the rest of their lives in this spacious preserve. 

Echo is a conservation management organization dedicated to growing the population of the yellow-shouldered Amazon parrot, and visitors can tour its center and meet the ambassador parrots, Kiki and Lola. While the Pekelmeer Flamingo Sanctuary out on the salt flats is closed to visitors, if you stand on Pink Beach and look through binoculars, you can see some of the 10,000 flamingos living there.

The spirit of Bonaire can be found at the Cadushy Distillery, which makes a cactus liqueur. This might seem like a "prickly affair, but it's not as scary as it sounds," Lonely Planet said. Try it while relaxing in the distillery's courtyard, and bring back a bottle to enjoy at your hotel. 

The 22-room oceanfront Bellafonte offers a prime place to stay, as it has "some of the best views of the sparkling turquoise sea," Travel and Leisure said. Amenities include on-site diving facilities and a private pier with loungers.

Curacao: captivating culture

Willemstad is the vibrant capital of Curacao

The largest of the ABC islands, Curacao has a vibrant culture courtesy of its "mix of African, Caribbean, Creole, Dutch, Spanish and Portuguese influence," Afar said. Its Dutch colonial architecture is "delightful," Lonely Planet said, and visitors enjoy exploring the "thriving art and culinary scenes and excellent history museums," like the Kura Hulanda Museum in Willemstad that delves into Curacao's role in the transatlantic slave trade.

There's a lot to explore in Willemstad, the island's Unesco-protected capital. Dating back to 1735, Landhuis Bloemhof was formerly a plantation home and is now the "epicenter of the avant-garde in Curacao," Lonely Planet said, with abandoned cars covered in mosaic tiles and a cathedral made of thorns. 

More traditional works can be found at Gallery Alma Blou , with the city's largest display of pieces by Caribbean artists. In between stops, grab a meal at open-air dining hall Plasa Bieu. Meals are prepared using "huge barbecue grills with charcoal-fed fires," Afar said, with the traditional fare of fish, peas, rice, goat and plantains "reasonably priced."

Just like its sister islands of Aruba and Bonaire, Curacao has beautiful beaches — more than 30 of them — and world-class diving opportunities. For a calm place to snorkel, head to one of the sheltered bays on the island's west coast. 

Visit the Tugboat shipping wreck that is "only 15 feet deep and covered with tube sponges and coral," Condé Nast Traveler said, and go north to Playa Lagun for sea turtle spotting. 

Is boating more your thing? Stay at the Balinese-inspired Baoase Luxury Resort , and its team will help you plan a day at sea on the hotel's yacht.

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Catherine Garcia is night editor for TheWeek.com . Her writing and reporting has appeared in Entertainment Weekly and EW.com , The New York Times , The Book of Jezebel , and other publications. A Southern California native, Catherine is a graduate of the University of Redlands and the Columbia University Graduate School of Journalism.

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The Caribbean Hurricane Season Is Here—This Is What You Need to Know

Yes, it’s still possible to have a great caribbean vacation during hurricane season..

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Even if it is stormy around La Romana in the Dominican Republic, other parts of the Caribbean may have perfectly fine weather.

Photo by jeanestrella/Unsplash

The conventional wisdom is that the Caribbean is a no-go zone during hurricane season, which spans from June through November. But that isn’t necessarily always the case. When major hurricanes do occur, they usually affect only a small part of the islands at a time, which span approximately 1 million square miles of the Caribbean Sea.

“Even if a hurricane is impacting the southern Bahamas, most of the region would likely have ideal tropical weather,” says Frank J. Comito, the now-retired CEO and director general of the Caribbean Hotel and Tourism Association .

But if you do plan to visit the region during hurricane season, it’s important to be prepared for a chance of serious storms and severe weather. Here’s what you need to know about traveling to the Caribbean during hurricane season.

What are the different kinds of tropical storms?

Weather patterns can be difficult to understand, especially when the difference between a tropical storm and a hurricane can feel somewhat nebulous to most travelers. But the difference between the two all comes down to wind speed, which is the most important factor in determining the severity of a storm and its classification. A weather system is considered to be a tropical storm when wind speeds reach 39 miles per hour. Once it increases above 74 miles per hour, it enters hurricane, typhoon, or tropical cyclone territory. Hurricanes, typhoons, and tropical cyclones are all names for the same weather phenomenon—the only difference among them is where the storm is happening in the world.

Hurricanes occur in the North Atlantic, central North Pacific, and eastern North Pacific regions, while the same weather pattern is called a typhoon in the northwest Pacific. In the warm waters of the Indian Ocean and the South Pacific, the more generic “tropical cyclone” term is used to describe severe storms no matter how strong the winds are.

Why is the Caribbean prone to hurricanes?

The Caribbean’s unique geography makes it vulnerable to storms. The region’s warm water and high humidity result in wet summer months. As warm air evaporates and rises, it irritates the ocean’s surface and quickly results in thunderstorms, as well as tropical storms. Warm water keeps hurricanes active—something you can certainly find a lot of in this region.

In very simplified terms, think of a hurricane as a massive group of thunderstorms concentrated in a single area. When high amounts of rainfall combine with strong winds, an influx of water can be kicked inland. But as soon as tumultuous weather systems hit land and begin to cool off, you often see storms start to slow.

The Caribbean’s unique geography make it vulnerable to storms.

Photo by dibrova/Shutterstock

When is hurricane season in the Caribbean?

According to the U.S. National Weather Service (NWS) , hurricane season in the Caribbean runs from June 1 through November 30 and normally peaks in August and September . The Caribbean region is within the Atlantic hurricane basin, whose storms also affect Florida and other parts of the coastal southern United States. In 2022, the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) counted 17 named storms that passed through the Caribbean, and in 2023 this increased to 20. Its 2024 prediction: an 85 percent chance of an above-normal hurricane season and 17 to 25 named storms, of which eight to 13 are forecast to become hurricanes.

To be better prepared, check for updates from the National Hurricane Center before your trip. This NWS division tracks and predicts weather in the tropics and issues hurricane warnings and updates on weather conditions across the Atlantic Ocean up to 48 hours in advance.

Even if there are no reports of hurricanes in the weather forecast, you may experience some rain and tough weather patterns at your destination. Be prepared and take your best waterproof luggage , pack a rain jacket , and consider bringing a dry bag, like those by Sea to Summit , to keep important items like your camera and wallet dry while out and about.

The best places in the Caribbean during hurricane season

The southern Caribbean islands closest to South America typically see fewer storms and are generally considered the best options to visit during hurricane season. They include:

• Aruba , Bonaire , and Curaçao , which are world-class scuba diving destinations collectively known as the ABC Islands
• Barbados , whose capital, Bridgetown, is a UNESCO World Heritage site
• Trinidad and Tobago, popular for music and culture
• Grenada , known for its beaches and rum distilleries and located off the coast of Venezuela, outside of the Caribbean hurricane belt

Although not an island, the Central American country of Belize , whose coastline borders the Caribbean Sea, is another alternative in the region, since its location keeps it relatively protected from the worst hurricane activity.

It’s more affordable to visit the Caribbean from June to November

If you’re willing to travel during this time of year, you can expect lower hotel fares and smaller crowds. Airlines and hotels don’t explicitly market “hurricane rates,” but shoulder season can be one of the most affordable times to visit the Caribbean, with flight deals and discount resort offers in abundance. (Some islanders even take advantage of deals themselves to travel within the Caribbean.)

To keep an eye on flight deals , set up an alert in Google Flights or sign up for a deal newsletter such as Going , which regularly shares affordable flights to the Caribbean and other destinations.

Although many hotels close for annual maintenance for a few weeks or months, they’re open much of the season—look for fall promotions.

Buy travel insurance before you go

And in case things do go sideways, it’s best to be prepared. Purchase travel insurance that includes NOAA warnings and alerts for tropical storms. Most travel insurance policies also cover cancellations if a destination is deemed uninhabitable—as long as the policy was purchased before a hurricane or tropical storm was named. Sites like InsureMyTrip.com , which casts a wide net, and TravelInsurance.com , which offers tighter, more curated lists, let you shop and compare for the best travel insurance policies. Trip cancellation or interruption due to inclement weather and natural disasters, both at home and your destination, is covered under World Nomads ’ standard and more premium “explorer” plans.

According to Stan Sandberg, cofounder of TravelInsurance.com , purchasing a travel insurance plan is a necessary precaution to take , and it’s more affordable than most think. “You can get high-quality coverage for what amounts to the cost of a nice dinner out on vacation,” Sandberg says.

While prices vary depending on destination, trip cost, desired benefits, and even travelers’ ages and residences, travel insurance costs between 3 and 10 percent of the trip being covered—around $100 or $200 for a couple planning a $2,000 vacation.

To remain prepared, check for updates from the National Hurricane Center before your trip.

Photo by Drew McArthur/Shutterstock

Consider booking a cruise

Cruise ships will reroute when they receive storm warnings, meaning that unless you had your heart set on a particular island, your vacation will be virtually unaffected by unexpected storms. Caribbean cruise line options range from the high-luxury small ships of Silversea , Seabourn , and Azamara to the big vessels of Celebrity , Carnival , and NCL .

What to do if a hurricane strikes

If you booked a trip—and didn’t buy travel insurance—don’t panic if a hurricane hits. “In the Caribbean, we’ve become experienced at dealing with the impact of storms. We know as soon as any system forms and have pretty accurate predictions as to ETAs,” says Johnson JohnRose, former communications specialist for the Caribbean Tourism Organization . Local governments and hotels keep a close eye on storms’ development and have detailed activation plans in place for evacuating or sheltering guests.

If an impending storm looks serious, hotels and airlines often let guests cancel or reschedule without penalties. Ask about policies when you book travel, and if trouble seems to be looming, ask again about your options. “We are regularly made aware of instances where guest satisfaction levels increase during a storm,” says Comito of the Caribbean Hotel and Tourism Association. “They are well taken care of by the resort and staff.”

This article was originally published in 2015 and most recently updated on June 19, 2024, with current information. Jessie Beck and Erika Owen contributed to the reporting of this story.

Royal Caribbean expands Haiti trip suspension — and adds new replacement stops

A s gang violence continues in Haiti, Royal Caribbean has extended the suspension of its port calls to a private day resort it operates in the island nation’s northern tip.

Fourteen sailings that were scheduled to stop at Labadee will be rerouted through the end of April, the cruise line said Monday.

“The safety and security of our guests, crew, and communities we visit are our top priority,” Royal Caribbean said in a prepared statement. “Our Global Security and Intel Team is closely monitoring the evolving situation in Haiti, and in an abundance of caution, we are temporarily making adjustments to sailings visiting Labadee. We will continue to monitor and reassess calls as needed, and will communicate updates with guests directly.”

International news reports state that violence and killings continue in and around the nation’s capital, Port-au-Prince. Flights into and out of the city’s airport remain suspended, and gangs have overrun the nation’s main port, hindering entry of food and medicine.

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Royal Caribbean has been leasing the 260-acre Labadee attraction, built on a peninsula accessible only to the cruise line’s guests and employees, since the 1980s. It is located 130 miles north of Port-au-Prince and has remained unscathed during other periods of unrest.

The suspension will affect itineraries of three ships: Oasis of the Seas and Independence of the Seas, traveling from Port Miami, and Symphony of the Seas, leaving from Port Everglades.

Alternative destinations that were not announced during the first week of reroutings in mid-March include George Town, Grand Cayman; Bimini, Bahamas; and Philipsburg, St. Maarten.

Labadee stops on some sailings will be replaced by an extra day at sea or a stop at one of Royal Caribbean’s other private resorts, Perfect Day at CocoCay.

Here are the affected sailing dates and alternative port calls:

Symphony of the Seas:

March 23 sailing — Replaced with Falmouth, Jamaica, from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.

March 31 sailing — Replaced with Perfect Day at CocoCay on Day 2 from 7 a.m. to 5 p.m. Scheduled stop at Falmouth, Jamaica, will now be from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m.

April 6 and April 20 sailings — Replaced with Falmouth, Jamaica, from 7 a.m. to 4 p.m.

April 14 sailing — Replaced with Perfect Day at CocoCay on Day 5, from 7 a.m. to 5 p.m. Stop in Falmouth, Jamaica is now on Day 3.

April 28 sailing — Replaced with a day at sea. Stop in Falmouth, Jamaica will now be from 7 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Independence of the Seas:

April 4 and April 18 sailings — Replaced with stop at Grand Turk, Turks & Caicos, from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.

April 8 sailing — Replaced with George Town, Grand Cayman, from 9:30 a.m. to 6 p.m. New call time for stop in Nassau, Bahamas, is 7 a.m. to 4 p.m.

April 22 sailing — Replaced with Bimini, Bahamas, from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Nassau, Bahamas is now on Day 4 from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Perfect Day at CocoCay has been added to the itinerary on Day 5, from 7 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Oasis of the Seas:

March 24 sailing — Replaced with Falmouth, Jamaica, from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. Perfect Day at CocoCay will now stop from 7 a.m. to 6 p.m.

March 31 sailing — Replaced with an extra day at Perfect Day at CocoCay on Day 4 from 7 a.m. to 5 p.m. Stop in Falmouth, Jamaica will now run from 7 a.m. to 4 p.m.

April 7 sailing — Replaced with Philipsburg, St. Maarten on Day 4, from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m.

April 14 sailing — Replaced with a day at sea. New call time in Perfect Day at CocoCay will be 7 a.m. to 6 p.m. Stop in Falmouth, Jamaica, will now be from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Ron Hurtibise covers business and consumer issues for the South Florida Sun Sentinel. He can be reached by phone at 954-356-4071, on Twitter @ronhurtibise or by email at [email protected] .

©2024 South Florida Sun-Sentinel. Visit sun-sentinel.com. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.

Want an easy, cheap way to travel internationally? Cruise the Caribbean.

Nearly every time Kristin Chapman takes a cruise, she heads to the Caribbean .

The 38-year-old medical librarian has been on more than a dozen cruises, and itineraries packed with a variety of tropical destinations in the region have kept her coming back.

“What I really found enjoyable about the Caribbean was it really does give you the longer port days because the islands are so close together,” said Chapman, who lives in Connecticut. “It does make you feel like you have had more of an experience in where you're going, rather than the days at sea that you have in between different islands (on some other cruises).”

Caribbean cruises offer an easy, often affordable way to travel internationally from the U.S. “It’s a great way to check off a bunch of countries on your map,” Mike Harris, director of sales at online travel agency The Cruise Web.

Why are Caribbean cruises so popular?

Caribbean itineraries are the default choice of many cruisers – and with good reason. 

“Specifically, for the American market, it’s close to home,” said Harris. Cruise lines sail to the Caribbean from ports in cities ranging from Miami to Baltimore to New York City. “These are domestic ports that a lot of the country can drive to,” he added.

Once travelers set sail, there is something for everyone. “The versatility of the Caribbean is what makes it unique,” Harris said. That’s true of both the wide range of cruise lines operating there – including post-COVID-19 newcomers like Virgin Voyages – as well as its mix of beaches, cuisine, history, adventurous activities like cave tubing and zip lining and nightlife.

That combination of factors has proven increasingly compelling to guests. Demand for Caribbean cruises was up nearly 5% in the first two quarters of the year compared to the same time in 2019, according to Cruise Lines International Association, the industry’s leading trade organization.

The Caribbean’s market share in the industry is also at 44%, an increase from 34% in 2019, said Michele Paige, CEO of the Florida-Caribbean Cruise Association.

Pro tip: Cruises that leave from the Caribbean, like a Carnival Cruise Line sailing Chapman took from San Juan, Puerto Rico, tend to have fewer sea days and maximize your time in port.

When is the best time to take a Caribbean cruise?

The region has long been seen as a “warm weather destination” where travelers can go to escape the cold, according to Paige.

But in recent years, more lines have begun offering Caribbean sailings all year. “They have year-round great weather, but it’s more than just the weather,” she said.

Still, Harris said passengers will find the most variety of ships there from November through March. “You'll get the big contemporary ships, you get the medium premium brands, but you also get the very small deluxe and luxury brands that are going to very small, exclusive islands that a lot of people just haven't heard of,” he said.

In the summer, smaller ships typically reposition elsewhere – like Alaska or Europe – and the Caribbean is mostly populated by big ships catering to families with kids out of school.

( Click here for USA TODAY’s cruise line guide ).

Are Caribbean cruises expensive?

Because so many itineraries are offered throughout the year, Harris said travelers can often find cheaper sailings than in some other destinations. “You can find a Caribbean cruise for as low as $60 a day, all the way up to $2,200 a day just depending on the experience you’re looking for,” he said.

These items are banned on cruises: Read this before you pack

Upcoming Caribbean cruises

◾ Royal Caribbean International’s Independence of the Seas ship will sail a four-night Eastern Caribbean itinerary departing Nov. 15. The cruise will sail round-trip from Miami with a stop in Labadee, Haiti. The fare starts at $272 per person based on double occupancy, according to the line’s website .

◾ Norwegian Cruise Line’s Norwegian Sun ship will sail a 12-day Caribbean cruise round-trip from Baltimore, departing Dec. 9. The cruise will stop in San Juan; Philipsburg, Sint Maarten; Basseterre, Saint Kitts and Nevis; Saint John’s, Antigua and Barbuda; Saint Thomas in the U.S. Virgin Islands; Tortola in the British Virgin Islands and Puerto Plata, Dominican Republic. Cabins start at just under $849 per person based on double occupancy, according to the line’s website .

◾ Carnival Cruise Line will offer a round-trip six-day Western Caribbean sailing from Galveston, Texas, leaving Dec. 10. The sailing on the line’s Carnival Dream ship will visit Costa Maya and Cozumel in Mexico, as well as Belize. Available cabins currently start at $809 per guest based on double occupancy, according to Carnival’s website .

◾ Silversea Cruises’ Silver Dawn ship will depart on a 10-day cruise from Bridgetown, Barbados, to Fort Lauderdale, Florida, on Jan. 26. Passengers will visit Bequia in Saint Vincent and the Grenadines; Castries, Saint Lucia; Saint John’s; Gustavia in St. Barts; Saint Thomas; Spanish Town in the British Virgin Islands; and San Juan. Fares currently start at $5,350 per guest based on double occupancy, according to the luxury line’s website .

Nathan Diller is a consumer travel reporter for USA TODAY based in Nashville. You can reach him at [email protected].

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Planning on traveling for the Fourth of July holiday? Here’s how to avoid the rush

FILE - Motorists head southbound in the local and express lanes on Interstates 90-94 in slow and thickening traffic as a CTA train enters a station on the first day of the Fourth of July holiday weekend, July 1, 2022, in Chicago. Millions of Americans are preparing to get out of town sometime in the coming Fourth of July holiday week, which will likely mean busy roads as well as packed airports and train stations. (AP Photo/Charles Rex Arbogast, File)

FILE - Travelers walk with their luggage through Union Station in Washington ahead of the Fourth of July holiday, July 1, 2023. Millions of Americans are preparing to get out of town sometime in the coming Fourth of July holiday week, which will likely mean busy roads as well as packed airports and train stations. (AP Photo/Stephanie Scarbrough, File)

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NEW YORK (AP) — The Fourth of July is right around the corner, and the travel rush is already heating up.

Millions of Americans are preparing to get out of town sometime in the coming holiday week. That will likely mean busy roads, as well as packed airports and train stations.

Motor club AAA projects that some 70.9 million travelers will head 50 miles (80 kilometers) or more from their homes over a nine-day Independence Day travel period — surpassing pre-pandemic numbers for the U.S. holiday. And the Transportation Security Administration expects to screen over 32 million individuals in airports from this Thursday through July 8, up 5.4% from last year’s numbers.

Are you traveling for the Fourth? Here’s a rundown of what you need to know.

When is the best time to hit the road for July Fourth?

Smooth sailing for travel around any holiday is never a given. But avoiding the most hectic times, when others are rushing out of town, is a good way to start.

If you’re traveling by car for the Fourth of July, it’s best to hit the road in the morning, according to transportation data and insights provider INRIX. Peak traffic congestion varies by location, INRIX data published by AAA shows, but the worst times to drive on, or leading up to, the holiday are generally between 2 p.m. and 7 p.m. Either way, be prepared for the roads to be jammed.

“Road trips over the holiday week could take up to 67% longer than normal,” Bob Pishue, transportation analyst at INRIX, said in a prepared statement.

July Fourth falls on a Thursday this year, and many travelers will likely take Friday July 5th off to extend their trip into a four-day weekend. Drivers in large metro areas can expect the biggest delays on Wednesday July 3 and Sunday July 7 — as travelers leave and return to town, Pishue added.

And if you’re renting a car ahead of July Fourth, the busiest pickup days will be Friday, Saturday and Wednesday before the holiday, AAA notes.

When will airports be busiest?

Airports will also likely be packed all week long — but the TSA expects most people will take to the skies on Friday.

It anticipates that it will screen more than 3 million individuals Friday. That would surpass the agency’s current record for most people screened on a single day, which reached just under 3 million last Sunday.

“We expect this summer to be our busiest ever,” TSA Administrator David Pekoske said, adding that travel typical peaks around Independence Day.

Last year, the busiest day for Fourth of July air travel was also the Friday ahead of the holiday, TSA data shows. If past trends hold, travel will likely be higher on the days before and after the Fourth — particularly closer to the weekend. In 2023, for example, more than 2 million people were screened on the Fourth, which landed on a Tuesday last year, down from 2.88 million the Friday before.

What should I do if my flight is delayed or canceled?

Flights can be delayed or canceled for an array of reasons — from plane-specific mechanical problems to major storms impacting popular travel paths.

If your flight is canceled, airlines are required to provide refunds for customers, even if the cancellation is due to weather . Delays are trickier, because they typically have to meet certain criteria for relief, such as refunds or compensation — but carriers will often give customers to chance to switch to alternative flights, if available, at no cost.

In April, the Biden administration issued final rules that include requiring airlines to provide automatic cash refunds within a few days for canceled flights and “significant” delays. Those rules are set to take effect over the next two years, but the Department of Transportation has a site that lets consumers see the commitments each airline has made for refunds and covering other expenses when flights are canceled or significantly delayed.

Always check your itinerary before leaving home

It’s better to be stuck at home than locked in hourslong traffic or stranded in an airport terminal. Before heading out the door this holiday week, do yourself a favor and check the status of your travel plans.

Was your flight, train or bus ride delayed? Are there are traffic incidents set to disrupt your drive? And what about the weather? A quick look through your itinerary — such as trip updates on a carrier’s website — checking weather forecasts and monitoring traffic safety through services like the 511 hotline or your phone’s navigation apps can go a long way toward avoiding travel misery.

Here are a few more tips to keep in mind:

— Leave early: There are more people everywhere during a holiday week, so lines will be longer and roads will be busier. Give yourself more time to get to your destination or to make your way through airport security.

— Keep an eye on the weather — and not just for your destination: Look at the weather for your entire travel path. Even if it’s sunny skies both at home and the place you’re headed, it’s important to keep an eye out for any storms in between. You may need to do some rerouting.

— Be kind: A trip delay or cancellation can be really frustrating — but if you’re running into disruptions, chances are others are too. Customer service agents have a lot on their plate at this time of year, and it’s important to be patient and respectful as they try to help you.