Travelers often think of the Caribbean as one big, sunny playground filled with islands surrounded by sandy white beaches and palm trees swaying gently in the breeze. And while that’s true to some extent, there’s far more variety in the 700-plus islands of the Caribbean than meets the Ray-Ban-covered eye.
Many Caribbean islands are lush and tropical, but others are windswept desert islands dotted with cacti, not palms. Nearly all islands share African influences, but the cultures differ depending upon who colonized the islands—the English, Spanish, French, Dutch or even the Danes.
Some islands have expansive, modern resort districts, while others work hard to preserve the laid-back atmosphere that first attracted tourists to the Caribbean a century ago.
No Caribbean island truly offers something for everyone (despite what the local tourist board might tell you). But regardless of what kind of traveler you are, there is a Caribbean island that’s right for you.
Read on to discover our list of the best Caribbean islands for every type of traveler.
1. St. Barts for Luxury Travelers
Suggested accommodation: Eden Rock - St Barths
The tiny French Caribbean island of St. Barths is practically synonymous with luxury travel in the Caribbean and a frequent haunt of movie idols, rock stars and other one-percenters. Here, visitors enjoy the chic vibe and French influences as they browse the upscale shops and dine at gourmet restaurants.
Among the many high-end resorts is Eden Rock—a five-star hotel situated in the picturesque St. Jean Bay. Frequented by celebrity guests, this resort exudes laid-back elegance.
2. Barbados for Solo Travelers
Suggested accommodation: Sandy Lane Hotel
Safety is a primary concern for many solo travelers, and while most Caribbean islands are generally safe to visit, a few stand out. The fascinating volcanic island of Montserrat hasn’t had a murder in more than a decade, for example, and St. Barths, the Cayman Islands, and Turks and Caicos also have some of the lowest crime rates in the Caribbean.
It’s not all about safety for solo travelers, of course. The opportunity to meet new people also ranks high among the priorities of those flying solo. That makes Barbados, with its combination of low crime and vibrant nightlife, especially attractive.
While in Barbados, solo travelers will enjoy staying at a resort, such as the Sandy Lane Hotel because it offers additional security, luxury amenities and the welcoming atmosphere makes it easy to meet other guests.
3. Bahamas for Families
Suggested accommodation: The Royal @ Atlantis, Grand Hyatt Baha Mar
If your kids are content with chilling on the beach or playing in the pool, you can pretty much take them to any island in the Caribbean. But some islands and resorts offer a lot more kid-friendly activities than others. Out of all of the Caribbean islands for families, The Bahamas stands out due to its resorts that cater to kids.
The Royal at Atlantis in Nassau, Bahamas, has long been famed for its 141-acre Aquaventure water park and marine habitat with animal encounters and educational programs. Also in Nassau is Baha Bay water park at the rival Baha Mar resort complex, a $200 million aquatic playground with more than 30 attractions that debuted in 2021.
4. St. Lucia for Couples
Suggested accommodation: Jade Mountain Resort
As a top honeymoon destination, it’s no surprise that the island of St. Lucia exudes romance with its white sand beaches and serene waterfalls. Here, couples can bask in the sun, go for a swim or enjoy the island’s many activities. The island is also renowned for its cuisine, making it the perfect destination to eat like a local.
The island also boasts many luxury resorts, so you don’t have to lift a finger during your romantic getaway. Jade Mountain Resort, widely regarded as the top resort on the island, provides guests with award-winning cuisine, relaxing spa services and top-notch service.
5. Dominican Republic for Budget Travelers
Suggested accommodation: Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Punta Cana
It used to be that all-inclusive resorts were the easy answer for budget travel in the Caribbean, but some have switched to a five-star model offering butler service, fine dining and prices to match. That said, it’s still possible to find resorts that offer accommodations, food, drink and activities at a moderate price, particularly in the Dominican Republic.
The Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Punta Cana, for example, has surprisingly affordable rates, and in general, it’s hard to beat the Dominican Republic for its combination of reasonably priced hotels and flights. Plus, there are many things to do in Punta Cana, from ziplining and golfing to swimming in crystal blue lagoons.
6. Curaçao for LGBTQ+ travelers
Suggested accommodation: Baoase Luxury Resort
Like the Netherlands itself, the former Dutch islands of the Caribbean—Aruba, Bonaire, Curaçao and St. Maarten—are noted for their warm welcome of LGBTQ+ visitors. Curaçao, in particular, has prioritized attracting diverse travelers by banning discrimination, legalizing gay marriage and hosting one of the Caribbean’s longest-running Pride parades, held annually since 2012.
Gay rights also are protected in the French islands of the Caribbean (including St. Barths, Martinique, St. Martin and Guadeloupe), and Puerto Rico has a lively local LGBTQ+ scene that includes gay-friendly hotels and nightlife in San Juan.
If you want to hit more than one island, consider embarking on a LGBTQ-friendly cruise that stops at a few different destinations.
7. Dominica for Adventure Seekers
Suggested accommodation: Coulibri Ridge
If you’re looking to experience an epic adventure on your Caribbean vacation, look no further than Dominica. Renowned for its lush forests and natural hot springs, the island offers the perfect combination of relaxation and adventure.
Here, visitors can hike to waterfalls, horseback ride along the shore, scuba dive on coral reefs and go canyoning around the island. There’s no shortage of adventures to experience in Dominica.
When visiting the island, consider staying in an off-grid eco-resort, such as Coulibri Ridge. Here, you can enjoy the beauty of Dominica without harming its natural resources.
8. Anguilla for Privacy Seekers
Suggested accommodation: Four Seasons Resort & Residences Anguilla
As a smaller island in the Caribbean, Anguilla doesn’t see the same amount of foot traffic as other destinations, making it the perfect place for a relaxing escape. With its pristine beaches, high-end resorts and delicious culinary scene, it’s the perfect place to fully unwind.
If you’re looking for the ultimate luxury experience, consider staying at the Four Seasons Resort & Residences Anguilla. At this resort, you decompress at the spa, bask in the sun at the beach or one of the resort’s many pools and enjoy local dining.
9. Puerto Rico for History Buffs
Suggested accommodation: Dorado Beach, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve
While all islands in the Caribbean have a distinctive and rich culture, Puerto Rico truly stands out. With a combination of indigenous, Spanish and African influences, the city comes alive with traditional dancing, festivals and music.
Determining what area of Puerto Rico to visit depends on your interests. The capital, San Juan, is ideal for history buffs, with its Spanish forts, museums and historic Old San Juan district.
Meanwhile, if you’re hoping to relax at the beach, consider visiting Dorado and staying at the Dorado Beach Resort. Known for its beautiful beaches and world-class golf, it is ideal for travelers seeking a tranquil getaway.
10. Bonaire for Scuba Divers
Suggested accommodation: The Bellafonte Luxury Oceanfront Hotel
One of the biggest draws to the Caribbean is its scuba diving opportunities. Each year, divers flock to the islands to see lively coral reefs and aquatic wildlife through the crystal clear waters.
While many Caribbean islands have excellent diving, Bonaire stands out due to its excellent visibility, diverse marine life and vast number of dive sites. In fact, the island is known as the “Shore Diving Capital of the World” because the 60+ dive sites are located so close to the shore.
After a long day of diving, head back to your hotel to unwind and sip on a tropical drink. The Bellafonte Luxury Oceanfront Hotel has everything you need for a relaxing getaway, including a plunge pool, on-site restaurants and a private pier to watch the sunset.
11. Aruba for Beach Bums
Suggested accommodation: The Ritz-Carlton, Aruba
While many of the islands could win the “best beaches” award, Aruba gets our vote. The beaches here have soft white sand, crystal blue water and aren’t overly crowded. While Eagle Beach and Palm Beach are the most renowned, you can find plenty of other hidden gems scattered around the island.
Beach bums looking for accommodation will want to stay at The Ritz-Carlton, Aruba. The hotel boasts all of the classic amenities like swimming pools, restaurants and a spa, plus a casino and a kids club.
Visit the Caribbean With AAA
There are so many islands to explore in the Caribbean. Try a destination that sounds appealing, and on your next trip, try a different one. Cruising is a great way to island-hop and mix and match different experiences—family fun at one port of call, for example, and luxurious amenities for the adults at another.
Whether you decide to book a cruise or stay at a resort, AAA travel services can help you plan the Caribbean trip of your dreams. And don’t forget that your AAA membership can help you save money on cruises, hotels and more.