Popular Destinations In The Caribbean
The Caribbean is one of the most popular holiday destinations in the world. From the pristine shorelines of the Dominican Republic to the vibrant nightlife in Jamaica, the hardest part about planning a Caribbean holiday is knowing which islands to visit. We’ve rounded up the most popular destinations, why we love them and our top resort picks for families, couples, friends and more.
Barbados
Known for: rum & the Platinum Coast
Barbados is famous for being the birthplace of rum, and distillery tours at major rum producers like Mount Gay Rum are some of the most popular tourist activities. It’s also well-known for its beaches, particularly the pristine, sheltered sands on the country’s west coast, also known as the Platinum Coast.
The best Caribbean holiday for: families & friends
Barbados has a laid-back yet lively feel that’s perfect for group holidays with friends or family. Young families will love destinations like the Folkestone Marine Park, while adult groups can make the most of the late-night karaoke nightlife at popular destinations like Saint Lawrence Gap.
Our top resort picks
For families, we love The Palms Resort, located in a relaxed residential area. Rooms include fully equipped kitchens, and The Palms Penthouse can fit up to six guests. For adult groups, Worthing Court Apartment Hotel is a budget-friendly boutique just five minutes from Saint Lawrence Gap. Make use of your kitchenette or dine at the on-site restaurant offering traditional Bajan cuisine.
Jamaica
Known for: culture & cuisine
From reggae music to jerk cooking, Jamaica’s culture is world famous. You can learn more about the country’s Rastafarian cultural movement at the Rastafari Indigenous Village, near one of the best beaches on the island: Montego Bay.
Where to go in the Caribbean for: partiers & foodies
Jamaica’s nightlife is one of the best in the world, from open-air beach parties to tightly packed dance halls playing reggae, rock, pop and more. For foodies, ordering an authentic jerk meal is a must-do for any visitor, alongside oxtail stew and Jamaican rum, and coffee-lovers will want to try the country’s famous Blue Mountain Coffee.
Our top resort picks
Montego Bay is one of Jamaica’s best-loved tourist spots, with white-sand beaches and luxury retail on its doorstep. The adults-only Secrets Wild Orchid Montego Bay is one of the best resorts in the area, exclusively located on the stunning peninsula. Alternatively, Grand Palladium Jamaica Resort & Spa in Lucea is great for families, with kids’ clubs, plenty of water sports and ten restaurants to choose from.
Dominican Republic
Known for: stunning beaches
Every Caribbean nation has picture-perfect beaches, but for many, the Dominican Republic is the creme de la creme when it comes to soft sands and clear blue waters. Go snorkelling with vibrant marine life or take kayak rides on the water.
The best Caribbean holiday destination for: honeymooners & families
The Dominican Republic is one of the best Caribbean holiday destinations for couples and families. There’s a great mix of family-friendly and adult-only resorts, so everyone is catered to. Enjoy romantic dinners on the beach or head out and explore historic sites like the Maravillas cave system.
Our top resort picks
The adults-only Excellence Punta Cana is perfect for couples, with a range of wedding, honeymoon and anniversary packages to choose from. Alternatively, Dreams Dominicus La Romana is excellent for families, with activity-packed kids’ and teens’ clubs, nearby golf courses and plenty of dining options.
St Lucia
Known for: rugged landscapes
St Lucia is well-known for its stunning coastline, lush forests and dramatic volcanoes. It’s packed with ecological diversity, including fresh fruits grown in volcanic soil and a wide array of land and marine animals, making it a must-visit for any nature-lover.
Best for: explorers & eco-tourists
While the beaches here are beautiful, St Lucia is one of the best Caribbean destinations for travellers who love to head off the beaten path. Hike the Eastern Nature Trail, explore the Diamond waterfalls or go zip-lining through national parks. When it’s time to chill out, visit the Sulphur Springs Mud Baths.
Our top resort picks
Bel Jou St Lucia is an adults-only, all-inclusive resort overlooking Castries, St Lucia’s capital. It has two pools, a relaxing spa and Creole cuisine at the on-site restaurant. Bay Gardens Inn is great for families, with affordable rooms and kids’ facilities.
Antigua
Known for: sailing & beaches
Antigua is known as the sailing capital of the Caribbean, hosting numerous major sailing events throughout the year. It’s also known for having 365 beaches, one for every day of the year.
Best Caribbean holiday destination for: water sports & beach-lovers
As the sailing capital of the Caribbean, it’s no surprise that Antigua has excellent water sports. Learn how to sail at the National Sailing Academy or go scooter snorkelling at one of the hundreds of beaches.
Our top resort picks
Hawksbill Resort Antigua is a boutique resort on Antigua’s serene west coast. Head out on a Hobie Cat, book a horse-riding tour or try your hand at the nearby 18-hole golf course. Alternatively, Jolly Beach Antigua, nestled amidst 40 acres of lush garden, offers excursions to Nelson’s Dockyard, Sting Ray City, a rainforest zipline and more.
Grenada
Known for: spices
Grenada is a stunning island packed with dense rainforests and picturesque botanic gardens. Also known as the Spice Isle, its fertile landscape has made it one of the world’s best-known spice producers (particularly of nutmeg).
Best for: foodies & history buffs
A nation known as the Spice Isle is always going to be a hit with foodies, and there are a number of food tours offering insight into the island’s traditional cuisine. You can also visit fascinating landmarks like the De La Grenade nutmeg garden and the Belmont Estate, where you can learn about the country’s history of chocolate production.
Our top resort picks
We love Royalton Grenada Resort & Spa for its two white-sand beaches, Diamond Club upgrades and Clubhouse Kids’ Club. Sandals Grenada Resort & Spa offers 4×4 jeep tours, nightly entertainment including beach parties and a reggae fest, and five different pools.
Trinidad and Tobago
Known for: Carnival
Carnival, a vibrant festival on the Monday and Tuesday before Ash Wednesday, is celebrated throughout the Caribbean, but the celebrations in Trinidad are among the biggest and the best in the world. Expect colourful costumes, re-enactments of historic events and lots of other live performances. Tobago also hosts an October Carnival, celebrating Tobago’s unique artistic expression and heritage.
Best for: everyone
The great thing about Trinidad and Tobago is the variety between the two islands. Trinidad is the larger of the two, with vibrant nightlife and diverse eateries. Tobago is smaller and packed with stunning nature and pristine beaches. There are daily ferry rides and flights between the two islands, so you can always stay on one but visit the other.
Our top resort picks
Starfish Tobago Resort is a family-friendly resort situated on Great Courland Bay, where turtles come to lay their eggs. Magdalena Grand Beach & Golf Resort is located on Tobago’s south coast and features three swimming pools, an 18-hole championship golf course and a full-service spa.
Book the best Caribbean holidays with Blue Bay Travel
These are the most popular destinations in the Caribbean, boasting luxury resorts, pristine beaches and vibrant cultures. From adventure-lovers to honeymooners, families to foodies, there’s a Caribbean getaway for everyone to enjoy. Give one of our expert travel agents a call and enjoy expert advice and exclusive deals for your next holiday.
