Best Caribbean Island to Visit

With some of the world’s most stunning beaches and serene water packed with life, choosing the perfect Caribbean island to visit isn’t the easiest feat. But once you start looking, there’s plenty to distinguish each little slice of paradise, from food and bars to culture to wildlife and more.

To help you make the choice, our Travel Specialists have handpicked their top ten Caribbean Islands to travel to, picking out some of their key highlights, standout points and best places to stay based on their first-hand exeperience.

Take a look below at the top ten most visited islands in the Caribbean and speak to our Caribbean holiday specialists to start tailoring your own holiday. 

1. Barbados

The most-visited island in the Caribbean, Barbados is a popular holiday destination for holidaymakers from around the world and home to luscious beaches and award-winning restaurants.

Best Holiday for

A luxury beach holiday for all ages. Barbados has some of the best hotels in the Caribbean, as well as fantastic restaurants and fun activities.

Barbados Highlights

The ‘platinum coast’ of Barbados, which refers to the west side of the island, is where you’ll find beautiful beaches – think white sands, turtles frolicking in crystal waters and cocktails at sunset. It also has some of the Caribbean’s best restaurants.

Where to stay

For a luxurious beachside stay, why not visit the iconic Fairmont Royal Pavilion? Step onto the soft sands from your suite and breathe in the fresh air of your seafront setting. Fairmont has exceptional service and old-world charm that will leave you feeling completely relaxed, though you could also enjoy the complimentary yoga or the array of watersports on offer.

If you’re travelling with a family there’s plenty on offer here too with the Kids’ Activity Programme, including treasure hunts and swimming with friendly turtles. Food lovers also shouldn’t miss out on the exquisite dining experience at Palm Terrace and Cafe Taboras, where delectable flavours are served over incredible views.

2. Antigua

The beautiful island of Antigua is one of the most peaceful islands filled with vibrant colours and a friendly welcoming feel.

Best Holiday for

A true taste of island life! This welcoming island paints a pretty picture with the colourful town of St Johns, pristine beaches, azure Caribbean waters and historic sites.

Antigua Highlights

Antigua boasts perfect conditions for sailing and holds its own world-recognised annual regatta. Visitors love this island for its laidback atmosphere, 365 beautiful beaches and maritime hub: Nelson’s Dockyard.

Where to stay?

Perfect for a family getaway or a secluded couple’s break, Blue Waters is set in an incredible location with three beach coves and landscaped tropical gardens. Do as much or as little as you feel like whilst letting the relaxing island vibes recharge you.

Here, you can enjoy complimentary watersports to your heart’s content or lounge by one of the pools, if you prefer. There’s a secluded adults-only pool if you’re looking for some peace and quiet, while families can splash around at the beachfront pool.

Blue Waters is also perfectly placed for enjoying Antigua’s only PGA-rated par 69 golf course, Cedar Valley Golf Club, which is just three miles away.

5. Bahamas

Perhaps one of the most beautiful beach locations, the Bahamas is a popular destination for those looking to relax. The islands have plenty of unique personality too, from its pastel-toned buildings to colourful festivals. 

Best Holiday for

Beach lovers! The Bahamas is renowned for its abundance of paradisiacal beaches, including the famed Pink Sands and Pig Beach.

Bahamas Highlights

The Bahamas' clear Caribbean waters are ideal for snorkelling and fly fishing, while dining at the local fish fry and catching a live Junkanoo band will reveal the Bahamas’ colourful character. Wander sleek marinas, discover the bustle of its capital city of Nassau or head out by boat to visit more secluded cays.

Where to Stay?

The Bahamas has some beautiful hotels to feel at home in. The Ocean Club, A Four Seasons Resort is a popular location with fine dining, a Tom Weiskopf-designed golf course and much more. The Rosewood Baha Mar is also a fantastic choice with a selection of rooms, suites and villas as well as spa access.

6. Jamaica

One of the most famous Caribbean islands, Jamaica is a welcoming laid-back location with gorgeous beaches and plenty to see and do.

Best Holiday for

Culture lovers and fun-seekers. Listen to reggae rhythms and sip rum punch on the white sands or head out for some adrenaline-fuelled adventures in the rainforest.

Jamaica Highlights

Jamaica is one of the liveliest Caribbean islands, filled with fantastic music, bold flavours and historic sites. Experience the country’s vibrant party scene at one of its many dance clubs! Of course, it’s the birthplace of Bob Marley, but you’ll also find more tranquil beaches, epic surf spots and cascading waterfalls.

Where to Stay?

With a choice of villas and hotels, whether you’re travelling as a couple, family or a group there’s a location for you. For groups and bigger family holidays, Rose Hall Villas at Half Moon are ideal with an idyllic setting and attentive staff. Jamaica Inn is an elegant boutique hotel, with private beach access and watersports included.

7. Guadeloupe

With endless white beaches and pristine water, there’s plenty of culture to take in, sun to soak up and food and drinks to be consumed in Guadeloupe. You might also recognise the island as being the setting of the recent Death in Paradise TV series. 

Best Holiday for

A classic tropical escape with French-Caribbean charm. Less ‘touristy’ than many Caribbean islands, embrace the natural beauty of this gorgeous island.

Guadeloupe Highlights

Kick back on immaculate sands while surrounded by tropical beauty. Great for a classic Caribbean beach holiday, you can wander quaint villages, enjoy the perfect beach day on sun-kissed shores or head out for a rainforest adventure on this diverse island.

Where to Stay?

Guadeluope one of the more rustic islands in the Caribbean. The Mahogany Hôtel Résidence & Spa is a popular choice with tailor-made stays, though there are a number of resorts set along the sands or perched on the waterfront. 

8. St Vincent & the Grenadines

A paradisiacal island chain to the West of Barbados, St Vincent & the Grenadines is a tranquil location with beautiful white sand beaches perfect for holidaymakers who like to be out on the water.

Best Holiday for

Honeymooners and couples. A secluded hideaway, these islands are home to a plethora of beaches and unspoilt shorelines. Plus, stay on ultra-exclusive private islands.

St Vincent & the Grenadines Highlights

You can completely relax in total peace and quiet when staying in St Vincent & the Grenadines. This quintessential island paradise is made up of 32 islands, untouched by over-the-top tourist attractions, so you can snooze in your hammock and snorkel the pristine waters, undisturbed.

Where to Stay?

St Vincent & the Grenadines has a fantastic choice of hotels with rooms, suites and cottages available. Cotton House one of the most premium choices, being set on the exclusive island of Mustique. Petit St. Vincent is another sought-after private-island resort, with 22 individual cottages, incredible dining experiences and plenty of activities including diving and fitness trails.

9. British Virgin Islands

Home to some beautiful natural landscapes and stunning beaches, you’ll certainly not be disappointed if you choose a holiday in the striking British Virgin Islands.

Best Holiday for

Outstanding natural beauty — perfect if you want to fill your days with white-sand beaches, scenic hikes, sailing and world-class snorkelling.

British Virgin Island Highlights

These Caribbean islands offer the ultimate luxury beach break and it’s here you’ll find the renowned Necker Island. Watersports are very popular here and sailing conditions are almost perfect from November to May.

Where to Stay?

Couples can find idyllic romantic hideaways in the BVI, while larger families or groups of friends may consider whole island takeovers. Rosewood Little Dix Bay is a striking hotel on a pristine crescent beach with a vibrant coral reef. 

10. Grenada

Known as the spice island, Grenada is one of the most unique spots in the Caribbean thanks to its blend of beautiful ribbons of sandy beach, rainforest-clad mountains with cascading waterfalls, and vibrant St George harbour and quaint streets.

Best Holiday for

Foodies will love Grenada, as the ‘Spice Island’ is bursting with flavour. Visit spice and chocolate plantations to learn about the island’s incredible natural resources and produce.

Grenada Highlights

Exquisite beaches and delicious seafood aside, there’s plenty to do in Grenada. There’s amazing wildlife to marvel at and numerous festivals throughout the year that bring this Caribbean island to life. And when you are done soaking up its rich culture, sunbathe on one of the Caribbean’s best beaches: Grand Anse.

Where to Stay?

Grenada offers many hotels for you to indulge in beachside luxury. Spice Island Beach Resort is the perfect place to step out onto the golden sands of the Caribbean's most famous beaches, Grand Anse beach and let the beach butlers take care of you.

After adventure filled days of paddleboarding, snorkelling and other fun beach activities in the turquoise waters, rejuvenate in Janissa’s Spa, boasting an outdoor relaxation lounge, soothing water wall and a tempting sauna. Enjoy the chic simplicity and modern luxury of the variety of rooms and suites, all offering a peaceful atmosphere for you to fully embrace tranquillity on your Caribbean Island getaway.

Best Times to Visit the Caribbean

With its tropical climate, the Caribbean is hot and sunny all year. Peak season is from Christmas to Easter, but the shoulder seasons of early December, April and May typically still offer good weather and you’ll benefit from lower prices and find the best restaurants and attractions are a little less busy

How many Countries are in the Caribbean?

The Caribbean is made up of thirteen sovereign island nations:

• Antigua and Barbuda
• Bahamas
• Barbados
• Cuba
• Dominica
• Dominican Republic
• Grenada
• Haiti
• Saint Kitts and Nevis
• Jamaica
• Saint Lucia
• Saint Vincent and the Grenadines
• Trinidad and Tobago

However, the region is home to more than 700 individual islands, with some bigger dependencies like the Virgin Islands and the Cayman Islands.

Should you choose a big or small Caribbean island?

When it comes to size, the Caribbean offers everything from tiny castaway islands to bustling towns and expansive landscapes. So, it goes without saying that the size of the island you are visiting has a huge impact on the experience you have.

For instance, Jamaica is one of the largest islands in the Caribbean, as well as being one of the liveliest. It has three main ‘resorts’ that many visitors choose between Montego Bay, Negril and Ochos Rios. These areas offer plenty of things to do, while further afield you can explore Kingston, the Blue Mountains or stay at the famous GoldenEye — the former home of Ian Fleming.

If you were to visit one of the small islands, such as Nevis, you’ll find a more intimate experience. Beaches here are less visited and you can spot peaceful birds flitting between the hillsides. With fewer resorts, bars and restaurants rarely feel busy.

St Barths, on the other hand, is small but can be busier. With a sophisticated French influence, it’s known as one of the Caribbean’s most glamorous islands. Resorts here are highly sought-after and it’s a popular stopover for yacht crowds.

The best way to decide which Caribbean island is best to visit is to speak to someone who knows them best.

If you’d like some expert advice, contact us at Inspiring Travel to chat with one of our Travel Specialists.

Searching for your perfect Caribbean island?

The Caribbean boasts an array of captivating islands to explore. From the pristine beaches of Barbados to the vibrant culture of Jamaica, each destination offers its own distinct character and experiences.

To choose the best island for you, and arrange a once-in-a-lifetime getaway to its shores, speak to our Travel Specialists. We’ll help you create a personalised itinerary so you can make the most out of all the island has to offer.