If you’re looking for a tropical getaway, the Caribbean Sea’s warm waters and lively islands are a must-do. Whether you are into adventures like snorkeling and ziplining or more laid-back activities like beach reading and sipping a frozen daiquiri, there’s aCaribbean island that’s right for you.
But which one should you explore first? Read on to learn more about each of the top Caribbean island destinations. Royal Caribbean sails to all 10 — so start dreaming now!
Are you looking forward to vegging out on a beautiful beach? Or is adrenaline more your speed? Located on the north coast of Haiti, this private Royal Caribbean beach is the spot for you. A gorgeous cove backed by jungle-covered mountains, Labadee lets you sink into white sand and enjoy 180-degree ocean views, or fly down the island’s 500-foot high, overwater zipline—the world’s longest.
Cozumel, MexicoCatch a little history in addition to your beach time with a visit to this island off the eastern coast of the Yucatan Peninsula. It is believed that the Mayans settled here in the early part of the millennium, and ancient relics and sites abound. After touring the island’s top historical sites (including the San Gervasio ruins, hidden deep in a lush jungle), try diving (a top activity here) or visit the mainland historic site of Tulum, which stands on a bluff overlooking the sea, proving that the Maya loved beachfront property as much as the rest of us!
Falmouth, JamaicaOn the island’s North coast, Falmouth was a center for dramatic social change during the English Colonial period. This rich history lends itself to the city’s 19th-century Georgian architecture that remains. Today’s Falmouth is really all about adventures in nature, as the port city is close to both Montego Bay, with its spectacular Dunn’s River Falls, and Negril’s beautiful beaches. You can also try the Caribbean’s version of a Venetian gondola ride: Be gently guided down the Martha Brae River on a long bamboo raft made for two.
St. Thomas, U.S. Virgin IslandsIf shopping is your favorite pastime, don’t pass up a visit here. The most cosmopolitan island of the US Virgin Island chain, lush St. Thomas is also considered one of the best sites for duty-free shopping. Be sure to pick up locally-made spice mixes, hot sauces and tropical jams for your friends and family, and some jewelry, linens, crystal and china for yourself. Another fun fact: St. Thomas was the center of the swashbuckling culture of the 18th century. So there just may be a few buried treasures among the ones you’ll find in plain sight.
St. MaartenThis island in the northeast Caribbean (about 190 miles east of Puerto Rico) is actually split into two parts: St. Maarten is the Dutch side and St. Martin is the French side. The result is the world’s smallest island inhabited by two countries! History aside, Philipsburg, the Dutch side’s capital, displays its heritage in its architecture and landscaping, with cobblestone streets and colorful buildings. Enjoy the view and indulge in local cuisine of succulent fried fish and lobster.
CocoCay, BahamasEnjoy the natural beauty of The Bahamas from our eco-certified, private island stretching 140 acres long. Take a waverunner tour to surrounding islands. Or simply take in views of the crystal clear Caribbean waters with a tropical drink in hand (you can’t leave without trying the CocoLoco, Royal Caribbean’s signature slushy blend). CocoCay also has a nature trail that circles the island, an easy hike where you’ll likely make a few iguana friends.
BarbadosDid you know? This southern Caribbean island boasts more than 3,000 hours of sunshine a year. A coral island, Barbados is home to white sand, blueish-green water and colorful reefs perfect for snorkeling or Scuba Diving. Since the island lies on the boundary of the Caribbean and South American continental plates, it also makes for some great geological attractions, especially for you cave spelunkers.
St. KittsCraving lush rainforests, rich history and once-in-a-lifetime adventures (did someone say lunch on a volcano?), this West Indies isle has it all, with more than a quarter of its land set aside as a National Park to preserve its 17th-and 18th- century military architecture (a UNESCO World Heritage Site). Plus, who doesn’t want to visit the land originally discovered by Christopher Columbus in 1493?
RoatanRoatan is a western Caribbean gem located off the coast of Honduras. Here you’ll find the Caribbean’s largest barrier reef, the Mesoamerican Barrier Reef, lying just off shore. The reef is rich with colorful corals and an amazing array of marine life, including huge groupers, sea snails, rare seahorses, Gorgonian soft corals and more.
CuraçaoThe largest of the six islands that comprise the Netherlands Antilles, you might know this island for its distinctive blue alcohol, made from laraha citrus fruit. But Curacao is so much more than that — the warm waters are perfect for scuba diving and snorkeling, there are 35 beaches all ready for you to frolic on, and Willemstad, the port city, has something for everyone.
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