caribbean islands travel guide by Karla TYpes

Hi, I’m Karla, and for the past 10 years, I’ve been travelling all around the world and sharing my experiences here on my travel blog. One of my absolute favourite ways to travel is by cruise, and I’ve already visited quite a few Caribbean islands this way, with many more on my list! This page brings together everything you need to know about some of the most popular Caribbean destinations.

caribbean islands travel guide

What are the best Caribbean islands to visit?

Some of the best Caribbean islands to visit include Aruba, Roatan, Puerto Rico, Saint Lucia, Barbados, Antigua, the Dominican Republic, and Turks and Caicos. While I’ve visited many, my absolute favourites are Puerto Rico, Antigua, and Roatan. Some for their culture, and some for the incredible beaches!

antigua atv tour
one day in san juan

What is the best time of year to visit the Caribbean?

The best time to visit the Caribbean is generally from December to April, when the weather is warm, sunny, and relatively dry. For fewer crowds and potentially lower prices, consider May or June, and remember that hurricane season runs from June to November. We honestly always visit in November and we always had great weather.

How many days do you need for a Caribbean vacation?

A 7-to-10-day vacation is ideal for exploring one Caribbean island if you want a really relaxing holiday. That way, you can enjoy its beaches and experience the local attractions. We tend to book Caribbean cruises instead, as that way we can spend 10–14 days cruising around and enjoying multiple islands instead of just one!

pig beach bahamas tour
nassau bahamas one day itinerary

How do you travel between Caribbean islands?

You can travel between Caribbean islands by regional flights, ferries, private boats, or cruise ships, depending on the destinations and available connections. Flights are generally best for longer distances, while ferries and boats are perfect for shorter routes between nearby islands.

8 Caribbean islands travel guide

Discover the beauty and diversity of the Caribbean with my travel guides to eight incredible islands I’ve visited!

antigua atv tour

ANTIGUA GUIDE

things to do in aruba

ARUBA GUIDE

nassau bahamas one day itinerary

BAHAMAS GUIDE

OCHO RIOS

JAMAICA GUIDE

st. maarten beaches

ST.MAARTEN GUIDE

TORTOLA, BVI GUIDE

one day in san juan

PUERTO RICO GUIDE

roatan things to do

ROATAN HONDURAS GUIDE

Is it safe to travel to the Caribbean islands?

Many Caribbean islands are popular tourist destinations, but safety conditions vary depending on the island and area you visit as some islands require you to be more alert than others. Research your destination, check official travel advisories, use reliable transportation, and take basic precautions to enjoy a safer vacation. We have thankfully never had any problems.

SOUTH AMERICAN DESTINATIONS

Caribbean cruises often include South American destinations, and these are some of my favourites I’ve visited!

colon to panama city

PANAMA CITY GUIDE

cartagena one day itinerary

CARTAGENA, COLOMBIA GUIDE

things to do in puerto limon

PUERTO LIMON, COSTA RICA GUIDE

roatan things to do

ROATAN HONDURAS GUIDE

about Me

My name is Karla aka KarlaTypes

I’m a full-time travel blogger with a big love for my home country, Croatia as well as for the rest of the world. Before this adventure, I was a English teacher, but for the last 5 years my passion is sharing stories, tips, and guides to help you travel all over the world, with a focus on Croatia.

travel guides to europe by karla

15+ years exploring Europe and the world

5+ years publishing travel guides around the world

300+ Travel articles

300k+ annual readers

FAQ: Frequently Asked Questions

Which Caribbean island is best for couples and honeymooners?

Saint Lucia is one of the best Caribbean islands for couples and honeymooners, thanks to its romantic resorts, beautiful beaches, and spectacular Piton Mountains. Antigua, Barbados, Grenada, and Turks and Caicos are also excellent choices for couples seeking luxury, relaxation, and unforgettable experiences.

What should I pack for a Caribbean vacation?

Pack lightweight clothing, swimwear, comfortable sandals, sunglasses, sunscreen, and a hat to stay comfortable in the tropical climate. Also bring insect repellent, a reusable water bottle, travel documents, and a light jacket for cooler evenings, occasional rain or air-conditioned spaces.

Are there all-inclusive resorts in the Caribbean?

Yes, many Caribbean islands, including Jamaica, the Dominican Republic, Antigua, and Barbados, offer all-inclusive resorts with accommodation, meals, drinks, and selected activities included. These resorts are a convenient option for travelers looking for a relaxing vacation with predictable costs and plenty of on-site amenities.