Nothing beats the paradise of the Caribbean paired with a Magnum Marine boat on the water. Travel to the best Caribbean islands for vacation and spend your time soaking in the sun! Read the article below to find out all the best islands to visit in the Caribbean!
What is the best Caribbean island for your next vacation?
Well, that really depends on what you are looking for. I’ve been coming to the Caribbean for 13 years now, visited numerous Caribbean islands and yes, they all have something to offer. But, some Caribbean islands are better for families, others are a paradise for scuba divers, for foodies or for a luxury vacation. And that’s what I want to share in this article: the best islands in the Caribbean with an explanation of what type of traveler they are perfect for. And, because I haven’t been to every Caribbean island (yet), I teamed up with some incredible travel bloggers who know the islands well, to create this detailed list. I hope you’ll find it helpful to decide where to go to in the Caribbean!
The Best Caribbean Islands For Different Types of Vacations
1. Antigua
The island of Antigua is well-known as a sailing mecca but is perhaps more famous for its beaches.
This eastern Caribbean island has a beach for every day of the year. That’s right, 365 beaches on one single island. And they’re all publicly accessible by law, even those that back onto some of the many exclusive all-inclusive resorts on the island.
Sailors will love Antigua, beach lovers too and if you like luxury, then there are some incredible resorts to stay at.
Antigua isn’t just for the mega-rich though – there’s a network of local mini-buses and affordable places to stay. The local bus service will take you to more off-the-beaten-track spots, where you’ll be able to eat local and enjoy the famous Antiguan Black Pineapple, which is unique to the island.
There’s even the potential to volunteer in return for your board and lodge at the Antigua Donkey Sanctuary.
For those interested in history, the island is dotted with forts, which make for super workouts if you want to walk up, and stunning views when you get there.
And when it comes to stunning views you simply can’t beat the iconic Shirley Heights for sunset. Whether you walk here or take a taxi, you’ll definitely not want to be the designated driver, the rum cocktails on the Sunday night parties are both recommended and strong!
2. Bonaire
Bonaire is a small island and a “special municipality” of the Netherlands. Situated quite close to Venezuela, it is outside of the main hurricane zone.
With a population of only about 20,000 people and a very dry climate, it has a laid-back vibe, perfect if you prefer to avoid a loud, party atmosphere.
Bonaire is a great place to visit if you like exploring the natural world.
The birdwatching is excellent, and the island is home to a flamingo sanctuary. You can kayak through mangrove forests or take a hike among the cactuses in Washington Slagbaai National Park, keeping your eyes open for lizards or the feral pigs, donkeys and goats that roam the island.
The main draw of Bonaire, though, is its waters. The island is surrounded by the Bonaire National Marine Park, which covers the entire shoreline from the high tide mark to a depth of 60 meters. This makes it a dream destination for divers and snorkelers.
Rather than having to get on a boat and travel to beautiful dive sites – though that’s also possible – you can just choose pretty much any spot and wade in.
The coral reefs all around the island are in good shape, generally undamaged by boats or overtourism. Although, as is true everywhere, they are suffering from the effects of the ocean’s warming.
The best plan, if you’re a diver, is to rent all the equipment you need by the week. Then, whenever you want to go diving, all you need to do is stop at the dive shop for refilled air tanks. Drive wherever you’d like, kit up and wade in.
Snorkeling is just as easy; anywhere you snorkel you’ll see beautiful tropical fishes. Choose a place away from the busier hotel beaches if you want to see intact coral.
3. US Virgin Islands
The US Virgin Islands are the perfect Caribbean destination for anyone who enjoys spending their days exploring the outdoors. With some of the best snorkeling in the Caribbean, lush hiking trails, and pristine beaches, it’s a nature lover’s dream.
St. Thomas, the hub of the US Virgin Islands, is just a quick flight from the United States (with no passport requirements for US citizens) and serves as the perfect home base.
Without any high-rise buildings along the shore, the smaller condos and resorts right on the beach offer a more natural and intimate feel. You could easily fill up a week just on St. Thomas snorkeling Coki, Sapphire, and Secret Harbour Beaches, or visiting Magen’s Bay, which consistently ranks as one of the best beaches in the world.
But, if you truly want a nature lover’s paradise, take the short ferry ride to St. John. Over half of the island is within the Virgin Islands National Park, offering several hiking trails. One of the most interesting ones is the Reef Bay Trail which winds past incredible views of the island, waterfalls, plantation ruins, and even petroglyphs.
After exploring the tropical forest, stop off for a dip in the famous crystal clear waters of Trunk Bay or head to Waterlemon Cay for the best snorkeling in the US Virgin Islands.
Click here to view more Caribbean Islands for visiting!
Original article published on spendlifetraveling.com