Last updated on June 9th, 2024 at 11:27 am
Synonymous with paradise-like beaches, spectacular weather, and surreal landscapes, there truly isn’t a place in this world like the Caribbean. Consisting of 28 islands, all of which bear their own uniqueness and beauty, this magnificent place quickly became a favorite vacation destination for travelers of all kinds as it offers something for everyone’s enjoyment. Whether you desire to spend your time lounging by the beach and admiring the almost-blinding white sands and azure waters with a refreshing cocktail in your hand or want to discover the underwater depths and get your adrenaline pumping with various watersports, the Caribbean is the key to the perfect vacation.
However, when it comes to which is the best Caribbean island, travelers typically have a lot of different opinions. Some never forget Anguilla’s serenity, while others fall for all the action happening in Barbados. For anyone who’s been lucky enough to explore all 28 of them, you already know how daunting this can be! Nevertheless, this is a much bigger challenge for those looking to discover the Caribbean for the first time since each island is a masterpiece in its own.
The team behind Haute Retreats knows this luxurious paradise in the palm of their hand. With that in mind, we’re highlighting the best Caribbean islands along with their one-of-a-kind features. Given the traveling style diversity, we’ll also mention which island is suitable for families, island-hopping, and so much more! Prepare to be mesmerized by the Carribean magnificence and gear up for the most pleasurable voyage of your life.
Barbados
Barbados is, by far, one of the best Caribbean islands to visit. This place is widely known for its beautiful beaches, none of which are private, as well as the ever-famous St. Nicholas Bay, and of course – rum production. That said, expect some of the most tantalizing rum-infused cocktails you’ve ever tasted!
Additionally, Barbados is home to countless luxurious villas and resorts, offering superb service that will make your vacation a dream. Speaking of, unlike the other Caribbean islands, Barbados is known to attract many families due to the numerous activities you can do on the island. While you’re enjoying your time in the sun, your kids can get familiar with marine life, build soaring sandcastles and so much more! Once night falls, you can also hit up some museums or even check out Rihanna Drive, the street where the pop diva grew up in!
Anguilla
Although far less popular than Barbados, there’s no denying that Anguilla is part of the best Caribbean islands. While considerably smaller than the rest of them, there’s a reason why so many travelers flock down here for their summer vacations – its beaches.
Anguilla boasts a total of 33 beaches, all of which are enriched with dazzling waters and white sands, forming the perfect picture of an oasis. Even though it’s small, it’s jam-packed with activities! As you can imagine, the beach vibe during the day is as lively as ever, so you can’t go wrong with whichever you choose. But if you want to experience the true soul of Anguilla, you might want to check out Cove Bay and Rendezvous Bay. Finally, don’t be too surprised if you don’t see any restaurant chains on this best Caribbean island. In fact, most of them are family-owned, though they serve the most delicious food which will always make you come back for more!
British Virgin Islands
When we’re talking about the best Caribbean islands to visit, we simply cannot exclude the gorgeous British Virgin Islands. Much like Anguilla, this little piece of paradise is filled with spectacular beaches that are bound to take your breath away. Sadly, the British Virgin Islands were struck by a devastating hurricane back in 2007, but its beauty never faded. Travelers come around here year after year, having the most enjoyable vacation of their lives.
However, there’s another reason why these Caribbean islands are favored by vacationers so much. Namely, out of all of the bunch, the British Virgin Islands have the most convenient location, meaning they’re ideal for island-hopping. That said, if you’re the kind of person who has a thirst for adventure and wants to discover as much as you can during your trips, freely mark this as your next destination.
Dominican Republic
Finally, our list of the best Caribbean islands would be incomplete without the incomparable Dominican Republic.
Like the British Virgin Islands, Dominican Republic also has a spectacular location, perfectly suitable for island-hopping. Moreover, the area of San Juan is always buzzing, so when you want a break from relaxing – if that’s even humanly possible – you can always hit up some of the bars and restaurants in the area. Finally, whatever you do, ensure to add Samaná Peninsula to your itineraries, especially in winter. Many white humpback whales stop by here during their migration and like to show off, so missing this one-of-a-kind sight is truly out of the question!
The visit to the Sanctuary of the Humpback Whales in Samana is one of the most beautiful excursions in the Dominican Republic, the beautiful Samana Bay and the Silver Bank, located in the Northwest of the country, where every year, between December And March.
Book of one of the Dominican Republic Villas click here
St Barts
Anyone who has never been to St. Barts has a view on its ethos. “It’s all about money,” “It’s way too social,” or “Oh no, it’s not for me,’ they say. Regulars don’t do much to contradict these assumptions—this is our secret place, and we want to keep it that way. It’s true: getting here can sometimes feel like a Sisyphean task—the airport shuts at sundown, so if you miss your connection you have to overnight in Antigua or St. Maarten. And it’s a magnet for the rich, particularly between Christmas and New Year, when billionaires parade their super-yachts in the port of the capital, Gustavia. Passers-by—like ornithologists spotting a rare bird—pass the time identifying which boat belongs to whom (such as Bernie Arnault’s Symphonyor David Geffen’s Rising Sun). It all adds to the allure of this citronella-scented adventure playground, which curiously, despite the glitz, manages not to feel vulgar or ostentatious.
When it comes to luxury villas, St. Barts is home to some of the best in the Caribbean—sleek beachfront villa stays where sustainability and luxury intertwine effortlessly.
We know that your mind is already storming with ideas about your next vacation in one of the best Caribbean islands, but bear with us for just a little bit more! If you have Dominica on your eye, you might want to check out the Ani Villa – one of the most luxurious accommodations offered on Haute Retreats. This 14-bedroom estate features the most breathtaking ocean sights, while its interiors speak a tale of its own. You’ll get to enjoy life’s little pleasures in the most fabulous atmosphere and there’s a world of adventures awaiting your exploration. If this isn’t up to your taste, don’t worry – we have so many other splendid options waiting for you!
We hope you’ve enjoyed our selection of the best Caribbean islands. As you already know, every island is special in its own way, so choose whatever speaks most to your heart. Or, you can always make an adventure out of it and check out as many as you like! Nevertheless, you’re bound for a spectacular time with Haute Retreats!
For more information, get in contact with our luxury vacation planners.
