11 Awesome Destinations for Your Caribbean Vacation
Sea breezes, gentle crashing of foaming waves, palm tree fronds swaying back and forth, seagulls calling, and a mojito in your hand as you sit under a colorful beach umbrella, taking it all in. It’s time to bask under the Caribbean sun and make this vision a reality!
The Caribbean region undoubtedly hosts some of the most beautiful islands in the world. From a travel perspective, it caters to all perspectives, from solo adventures to family cruises to honeymoon destinations.
At Riverdale Travel, our professional Caribbean travel consultants plan many personalized island voyages in this area every year. Check out this list of our favorite Caribbean island destinations, and let your temptations come alive!
1. Aruba
Where do we begin? Another popular destination for weddings and honeymoons, Aruba holds some prestigious awards and recognition on its own. For one, it was recognized as one of the top wreck-diving destinations by Scuba Diving Magazine.
Since Aruba has continuous trade winds, it is also known as a world-class destination for windsurfing and kitesurfing. Explore the vibrant nightlife, diverse culinary scene, and swimming beaches.
Things to Do in Aruba
On the lookout for another world-class beach? Eagle Beach, with its soft powdery white sand, was named one of the top 10 beaches in the world.
Visit Arikok National Park, a desert-like preserve showcasing rock formations, a variety of wildlife, and cacti. Yes, cacti in the Caribbean! Near this park, you can also explore the ancient paintings of the Caiquetio shamans who inhabited Aruba at least a thousand years ago. Check out the pictographs in the Fontein and Guadirikiri caves, or visit Aruba’s secluded Natural Pool known as “Conchi.”
No matter your vacation style, a Riverdale Travel expert can make your trip to Aruba your ideal island getaway!
2. The Bahamas
The Bahamas is actually a series of 700 islands sprinkled over 100,000 square miles of ocean and the closest Caribbean getaway from the mainland – just 50 miles off the coast of Florida.
Nassau is the capital and boasts colonial architecture, shopping, and cultural attractions. The archipelago is an ecological oasis featuring 700 breathtaking islands, more than 2,400 cays, and spectacular clear waters.
Cruise lines from all over the world port here in the major commercial city of Nassau, as well as other ports around the islands.
Things to Do in The Bahamas
View the world's deepest blue hole and the third-largest barrier reef in the world. Delight yourself through miles of pink-sand beaches, or visit the world's largest colony of pink flamingos.
Like exploring underwater? The Lucayan National Park on Grand Bahama Island is the site of the world’s longest-known underwater cave and cavern system. Parasail over the endless water and take in the spectacular views, or swim with wild dolphins.
Whether you choose to fly or cruise to the Bahamas, be sure to speak to one of our Bahama travel experts today and begin your dreamy vacation!
3. Bermuda
Bermuda has been voted “Best Island in the Caribbean/Atlantic” 18 times since 1994 by Condé Nast Traveler readers. Geographically located in the Atlantic, the tourism industry includes Bermuda as part of the Caribbean destinations.
Located 570 miles east-southeast of Cape Hatteras, North Carolina, Bermuda is subtropical – meaning in the wintertime, the temperatures can be in the 60s and low 70s Fahrenheit.
You can get to Bermuda by taking a non-stop flight from the mainland or including Bermuda as a cruise destination.
Things to Do in Bermuda
Bermuda is one of the most popular snorkeling destinations in the world. Try out Tobacco Bay Beach or Elbow Beach – the only snorkeling spot where there is a real shipwreck available from the beach.
Dine in one of the many award-winning restaurants, take a historical tour, explore Tom Moore’s Jungle, play a round of golf in one of Bermuda’s prestigious and beautiful ocean-front golf courses, go parasailing, or plan a fishing excursion. Start packing your bags for this unique destination!
4. British Virgin Islands
This exciting Caribbean destination full of history and culture is located 60 miles east of Puerto Rico and a few miles north of the US Virgin Islands. Even though the British Virgin Islands consists of 60 islands and cays, only approximately 27 are inhabited.
There are four main islands – Tortola being the largest at 24 square miles. The other main islands are Virgin Gorda, Anegada, and Jost Van Dyke. All offer exciting opportunities to explore, dine, and unwind.
Things to Do in the British Virgin Islands
Rent a bicycle or scooter to explore everything the island of Tortola has to offer. Take an inter-island flight or ferry for added adventure on the three other main islands.
In addition to world-class scuba, you can try “snuba” – a less cumbersome way to wander underwater. For an added one-of-a-kind experience, hop on board a sailing yacht with one of numerous sailing charters available.
Book an appointment with one of Riverdale’s experienced consultants who can help you with this Caribbean island hopper!
5. Cuba
Cuban tourism has been making a comeback thanks to a special visa called a people-to-people license. Travelers are allowed with the promise that they will participate in a cultural and educational experience.
Cuba is a memorable one-of-a-kind place to visit, no doubt, but safety traveling here is a priority. For the latest updates on traveling regulations and visa requirements, be sure and contact one of Riverdale’s knowledgeable consultants.
Things to Do in Cuba
Known for its tobacco, coffee, and rum, this destination is for the culturally curious. Hemingway escaped to Cuba and wrote seven books on this unique nostalgic island. Visit a few of Hemingway’s two favorite Havana watering holes – La Floridita and La Bodeguita del Medio – which still stand today.
Havana has five municipalities that are concentrated on attractions and tourist services, including Old Havana, which was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site for its historical and architectural appeal.
Tour an authentic Cuban cigar factory and learn about the country’s cigar history, or spend a day at one of Cuba’s picturesque yet uncrowded white sand beaches.
6. Dominican Republic
Discovered in 1492 by Christopher Columbus, this second-largest Caribbean country is rich in culture and very popular for weddings. It is home to diverse landscapes like pristine beaches and lush mountains.
Punta Cana and Puerto Plata are popular destinations, while Santo Domingo offers colonial architecture and cultural attractions.
Things to Do in the Dominican Republic
Here, you can dance to the excitement of the merengue, explore ancient relics, tour museums, relish the delicious Dominican cuisine, or enjoy ecotourism adventures in its magnificent national parks, mountains, rivers, and pristine beaches.
Book a fishing charter – the Mona Passage makes this destination ideal for world-class fishing. Love water activities? Cabarete’s Kite Beach is perfect for surfing, windsurfing, and boogie boarding.
Relaxing activities more your style? Schedule an all-inclusive spa day that will pamper your body from head to toe.
Or maybe you want a breathtaking stroll? Try a picturesque walk to the east of the village of Trafalgar and find one of the most popular attractions: the Trafalgar Falls. A 10-minute walk will take the visitor to a viewing platform for a panoramic view of two beautiful waterfalls.
Love zip-lining? Explore this and more when you book your Dominican Republic trip with a Riverdale consultant who specializes in this destination!
7. Puerto Rico
Only three islands of The Commonwealth of Puerto Rico are inhabited, and Puerto Rico is the largest, measuring over 3,000 square miles.
Things to Do in Puerto Rico
Watch a spectacular aquatic light show in one of three bioluminescent bays: Laguna Grande on the east coast, La Parguera on the southwest coast, or Mosquito Bay on the island of Vieques.
Take a rainforest stroll in El Yunque, the only tropical rainforest in the U.S. National Rainforest, where you can see waterfalls and native birds.
Want to learn a new dance? See and learn the salsa, plena, or bomba along San Juan’s Calle Loíza, where there are many dance club venues.
8. St. John
Being the smallest of the three U.S. Virgin Islands, St. John’s serenity and beauty make it one of the best in the Caribbean.
Two-thirds of the island is designated a national park and includes some of the world’s gorgeous beaches.
Things to Do in St. John
Speaking of gorgeous beaches, the renowned Trunk Bay, with its fine sand beach and underwater nature trail, makes this a must-visit beachy destination. Or go on a kayak expedition or visit the Annaberg Ruins, a former sugar plantation that is rich in history and culture.
Rent a jeep or four-wheel drive vehicle to access the most breathtaking landscapes that overlook the ocean. Dive into one of many water activities near and around Pillsbury Sound, including Snuba, which lets divers venture up to 20 feet below the surface.
9. Turks & Caicos
Just think and picture yourself in this serene landscape: bright turquoise water, the surf, the soft crashing of the waves, and your toes sunk in the light golden sand, and looking out at the horizon, it seems like there’s no tomorrow.
If you love the beach life with the crystal blue waters and all the water sports, Turks & Caicos checks all the boxes!
Things to Do in Turks & Caicos
The beaches at Providenciales are to die for, specifically Grace Bay Beach, which has been ranked “Best Beach” by Conde’ Nast magazine for several years. A visit to Providenciales and Grand Turk is a must.
Most islands are about 10 to 25 minutes by air, or you can take a ferry boat, which will travel from Providenciales to either North or South Caicos. Go scuba diving! This area unveils world-class fishing and scuba adventures. Or, take a cultural tour to learn about the history, music, and cuisine.
Schedule a consultation with an award-winning Riverdale Travel consultant today and plan out your one-of-a-kind vacation to spectacular Turks & Caicos – definitely a Caribbean jewel!
10. Cayman Islands
The Cayman Islands are located just south of Cuba in the Caribbean. They are famous for crystal-clear waters, excellent diving and snorkeling, and vibrant marine life.
Grand Cayman is known for Seven Mile Breach, while Cayman Brac and Littel Cayman are more secluded and adventurous. Whatever your preference, the Cayman Islands have something for everyone!
Things to Do in the Cayman Islands
There are many amazing and beautiful things to see when visiting the Cayman Islands. For example, you can check out the Cayman Turtle Centre, a wildlife park where you can swim with turtles! There are also many beaches to check out for swimming and sunbathing.
For the adventurous types, check out the Cayman Crystal Caves. The Crystal Caves formed over millions of years and contain fossilized shells and animal life.
If you’re a fan of rum, you definitely need to check out the Cayman Spirits Co., the home of Seven Fathoms Rum.
11. Grenada
Grenada is known as the “Spice Isle” for its production of nutmeg, cinnamon, and cloves. Celebrities such as Oprah, Martha Stewart, Donatella Versace, Kate Moss, and Mick Jagger have visited the renowned island’s luxury resorts.
Grenada is located north of Trinidad in the Caribbean, at the southernmost tip of the Windward Islands. Come here for the beautiful beaches, rainforest hikes, snorkeling, diving at an underwater sculpture park, and overall down-to-earth, old school island hospitality.
Things to Do in Grenada
In addition to beaches, there are plenty of waterfalls and rainforests to explore in Grenada. Saint George is a great place for city life, and don’t forget to check out the West Indies Beer Company and the River Antoine Estate Rum Distillery.
There is also the House of Chocolate Grenada Museum, which is a must for every chocolate lover.
See More of the Caribbean With a Multi-Island Cruise
If you can’t decide from the beautiful array of island destinations, book a cruise! Doing so will provide a fabulous sampling of several islands on one trip.
Also, if you love the spa atmosphere, there are many spa choices and locations both on land and ship – as well as endless entertainment.
Anytime can be a great time to cruise! Let one of Riverdale’s expert consultants prepare a luxurious cruise plan at the time you want to set sail to any of the Caribbean islands.
Where Do You Want to Be? Get There With Riverdale Travel!
Partner with Riverdale Travel and make the Caribbean your next adventure! Our custom vacation pages offer the best cruise lines, exclusive promotions, and personalized experiences.
Talk to us about your interests, travel style, budget, and size of your group, and let us handle the rest. Your stay will be memorable indeed!
It’s time to envision yourself on a pristine, breathtaking Caribbean beach with a Bahama Mama or other exotic cocktail in your hand. Call us today at 763-323-3665!