Which Caribbean island is best?
Planning a trip to the Caribbean is like choosing your favorite tropical cocktail or mocktail—there’s no wrong answer, but you need the right mix for your taste. Whether you’re craving adventure, romance, or just a well-earned nap on a beach, there’s a Caribbean island perfect for you. Let’s explore the highlights, budgets, and resort options for each dreamy destination.
Dominican Republic
Dominican Republic is your go-to if you want a budget-friendly paradise. With tons of beautiful all-inclusive resorts to choose from, you can indulge in unlimited cocktails and activities without breaking the bank. Punta Cana’s pristine beaches are ideal for relaxation, while Santo Domingo offers a dose of history. Non-all-inclusive options like boutique hotels are available but less common. Meals and activities off-site from your resort are also pretty affordable.
St. Lucia
St. Lucia, on the other hand, is the island of romance. This lush getaway, framed by the stunning Piton peaks, offers luxurious resorts with breathtaking views. Couples will love soaking in the mud baths at Sulphur Springs or hiking rainforest trails. All-inclusive resorts cater to honeymooners, but eco-lodges and villas provide a more intimate escape. You’ll most likely spend $300–$600 per night at an all-inclusive or $150–$250 at a boutique villa. Tours and spa treatments start at $50.
Jamaica
For fun culture and great food, Jamaica sets the tone. From jerk chicken to reggae beats, this island is alive with flavor and energy. Adventure seekers can climb Dunn’s River Falls, and if you’re a beach lover, you can lounge on Negril’s Seven Mile Beach. For lodging, Jamaica has a mix of all-inclusive resorts and independent guesthouses. I love the all-inclusive resorts in Jamaica; I would totally recommend staying at one, but there are also some smaller non-all-inclusive options. All-inclusive stays range from $150–$300 per day, while boutique options cost $100–$200 per night. Street food is a steal at $5–$15, and fine dining averages $30+.
Aruba
Aruba is perfect for sunshine lovers. Located outside the hurricane belt, it boasts year-round good weather. Eagle Beach is a must-see, with powdery sands and turquoise waters. Aruba offers very few all-inclusive resorts and mostly boutique accommodations. All-inclusive rates hover around $200–$400 per day, while non-inclusive hotels start at $150. Dining ranges from casual bites at $15 to upscale meals at $40+.
Puerto Rico
Puerto Rico is the ultimate cultural hub with no passport required for U.S. citizens. Old San Juan enchants with its colorful streets, while El Yunque National Forest satisfies nature lovers. Like Aruba, there aren’t many all-inclusive resorts here, so most people opt for non-inclusive stays, with accommodations ranging from boutique hotels in San Juan to luxury beach resorts. Rooms cost $100–$250 per night, and local meals, like mofongo, range from $10–$25.
Turks & Caicos
For sheer luxury, Turks and Caicos is unparalleled. Grace Bay Beach offers jaw-dropping beauty, making it a favorite among honeymooners. This upscale destination leans towards boutique hotels and villas, but a few all-inclusive resorts, like Beaches, cater to families. Expect to pay $400–$1,000 per night at an all-inclusive or $250–$500 at a villa. Dining is equally upscale, starting at $20 for casual eats and $50+ for fine dining.
Barbados
Finally, Barbados charms with its blend of British history and Caribbean warmth. The Platinum Coast offers calm waters and a few luxury all-inclusive resorts, while the east coast appeals to surfers. Non-inclusive options, like vacation rentals and boutique hotels, are more common than all-inclusive. Budgets range from $300–$600 per night at an all-inclusive to $150–$300 for non-inclusive stays. Enjoy casual meals for $10 or splurge on fine dining for $40+.
Which is best?
As you can see, each Caribbean island has its unique flavor, catering to different types of traveler and budget. If you’re looking for all-inclusive resorts, my favorite recommendations are Jamaica, the DR, and possibly St. Lucia or Turks. The other islands do a better job with non-all-inclusive properties. Whatever your budget and desires, there’s an island for you. Reach out; I’d love to help you find some sunshine! That perfect cocktail or mocktail will be waiting.
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