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Are you ready for a Caribbean getaway this year? These are the best islands to visit for every type of traveler in 2024.
Whether you're looking to travel on a budget, splurge on luxury, enjoy nature, or explore a new culture, these are the top destinations in the Caribbean.
Best For Budget-Conscious Travelers: Jamaica
Jamaica is one of the most affordable Caribbean islands if you're looking for a getaway to paradise without breaking the bank.
Right now, airfare to Jamaica is at its lowest, making early 2024 a great time to travel. You can also find great deals on all-inclusive resorts and hotels in Jamaica, particularly in Montego Bay and Ocho Rios.
Jamaica experienced a record-breaking year for tourism in 2023, with millions of travelers flocking to the island to enjoy its gorgeous beaches and laidback lifestyle.
Best For Culture: Puerto Rico
If you're interested in soaking up history and culture on your Caribbean vacation, and not just lying on the beach all day, Puerto Rico is the perfect island to visit this year.
Although it's a territory of the United States, Puerto Rico has a strong, distinctive culture and lots of history.
Begin your trip with several days in San Juan, the historic colonial capital of Puerto Rico. There are tons of things to do in this vibrant city, and there are also great beaches nearby.
Best For All-Inclusive Resorts: Dominican Republic
The Dominican Republic is the best destination in the Caribbean for all-inclusive resorts, making it perfect for travelers who want a relaxed, hassle-free vacation. At an all-inclusive resort, your nightly rate includes your room, all food and drinks, and many activities.
The Dominican Republic, along with Jamaica, is also one of the cheapest destinations in the Caribbean for a beach getaway. So not only does it offer a great variety of all-inclusive resorts, many of them are very affordable.
You can find resorts for every type of traveler in the Dominican Republic. Whether you're looking for an adults-only or family-friendly resort, whether you want to save money or splurge, you can find the right resort for you in the DR.
Best For Scuba Diving: Bonaire
If you're interested in scuba diving, the best Caribbean island to visit in 2024 is Bonaire. Part of the ABC Islands along with Aruba and Curacao, this Dutch dependency is renowned for its diving.
In particular, you'll find excellent shore diving in Bonaire, which makes great dives more accessible. In addition to diving, Bonaire is home to unique sites like pink salt flats and lots of free-roaming flamingoes, as well as fantastic beaches.
Best For Couples: St. Lucia
Looking for a romantic getaway in the Caribbean? St. Lucia is one of the most beautiful islands in the Caribbean that is perfect for couples, whether you're celebrating a honeymoon, anniversary trip, or just want a romantic vacation for two.
There are quite a few adults-only resorts in St. Lucia, making it perfect for a couples getaway.
St. Lucia also has some of the cheapest airfare from the United States this winter, making it a good time to visit.
Best For Luxury: St. Barts
If you're looking for no-holds-barred luxury on your next vacation, it's the perfect time to plan a trip to St. Barts.
This French overseas territory is known for being the premier luxury destination in the Caribbean, a long-time favorite of jet-setters and celebrities.
According to Condè Nast Traveler, St. Barts is the number one best island in the Caribbean, making it worthy of a bucket list trip.
Best For Outdoor Adventures: Dominica
Finally, if your idea of a great Caribbean vacation includes more hiking and outdoor adventures than it does time on the beach, Dominica is the best place to go.
This hidden gem island is still untouched by mass tourism. Its mountainous terrain makes it an excellent hiking destination, and you can also enjoy other outdoor activities like exploring the Caribbean's only sea kayaking trail or discovering stunning waterfalls in the lush jungle.
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This article originally appeared on TravelOffPath.com
Opinions expressed here are the author’s alone, not those of any bank, credit card issuer, hotel, airline, or other entity. This content has not been reviewed, approved or otherwise endorsed by any of the entities included within the post.
Kelly E Schneider
Wednesday 14th of February 2024
How come no one talks about Cuba? Better than all these islands 🏝
Bianca Scheepbouwer
Wednesday 14th of February 2024
you forgot Curacao! This pretty island with its colorful world heritage architecture and kind people has it all. Small but vibrant city AS WELL AS gorgeous beaches, hiking places and diving; exciting party scene AS WELL AS romantic little bars and restaurant, both safe to dance the night away, whether your travel together or solo, international atmosphere AS WELL AS a local small island community vibe, fine dining AS WELL AS local food markets, super luxury hotels and holiday homes AS WELL AS cute apartments and air bnb's, easy to navigate (one road around the whole island to all the beaches, cannot get lost). bit off the beaten track, not yet spoilt.
Dale
Wednesday 14th of February 2024
@Bianca Scheepbouwer, Curacao is awesome! It could definitely go on this list too.
Stephen Suley
Sunday 11th of February 2024
I've been to all those places and the list is a good one. With one exception. Replace Dominican Republic. There's several other options I would choose. The most recent one I've experienced and was very impressed with was Roatan Island in Honduras. For many reasons I would put this location in place of Dominican Republic. But safety and a community vibe versus the unsafe stuck on your resort vibe being the main one.
CeeCie
Tuesday 13th of February 2024
@Gabi, I’m not the OP, but I would guess that safety is an issue in the DR. There is currently a travel advisory, or recently was one to US citizens for travel to DR, as well as Bahamas, Jamaica & Barbuda, not Barbados. I’ve heard & read that DR is a “stay on your resort” island, but I haven’t been there, nor Roatan Island. I’m sure that somebody will reply to my post & say that it’s all BS, and I shouldn’t judge if I haven’t been. I will repeat, I base this post on hearsay, internet posts, & articles I’ve read…well, and the fact that there HAVE been travel advisories for DR, but I don’t recall seeing any for Roatan Island.
Went to Aruba a couple of years ago. A bit Americanized, but very safe. Much, much more safe than America itself. You can rent a car, and drive anywhere. Very friendly locals. Much to do. Beautiful beaches. Highly recommended.
Gabi
Sunday 11th of February 2024
@Stephen Suley, which one os unsafe? Roatan or DR?