Sail to the Tropics: Five Bucket-List-Worthy Caribbean Islands

A blend of romance, relaxation and rugged coastlines await in Saint Lucia! Dominating the island’s skyline is a pair of dramatically tapered volcanic spires. These lush, emerald-green Pitons tower above the sparkling beaches and are a ubiquitous sight even from miles away! If you’re not in the mood for a hike through the Pitons, you can take a refreshing stroll in the Diamond Falls Botanical Gardens to admire the beautiful blooms.

The island’s beauty continues beneath the seas, where you can swim with the dolphins or don your snorkel to see the colourful coral reefs, tropical fishes and sea turtles. For a taste of the local lifestyle, hit the beach bars – day and night they buzz with traditional reggae and calypso rhythms, so you’ll soon find your feet naturally moving to the beat! This picture-perfect island is also considered a honeymooners’ favourite, with its secluded beaches, luxury accommodations and serene atmosphere.

The ‘ABC Islands’ comprise Aruba, Bonaire, and Curaçao and are a cluster of islands on the westernmost corner of the Leeward Antilles in the South Caribbean. Go on an idyllic island-hopping adventure and discover the individual charm and character of each of the three lovely isles. Set just outside the hurricane belt, you’ll enjoy pleasant, sunny weather here even during the rainy season, and the steady wind conditions ensure great kitesurfing and windsurfing experiences! 

Aruba is the smallest of three islands, boasting gorgeous beaches, colourful architecture and dramatic rock formations. Spot a flamboyance of pink flamingos prancing around the shoreline of Flamingo Beach – one of the best wildlife encounters you’ll have on the island. 

An island of contrasts, Bonaire combines a sleepy ambience with a vibrant marine life. With its coral reefs perfectly positioned near the shores, divers can easily discover the underwater marvels without a long-distance boat ride.

Culture seekers will find their ideal escape in Curaçao, the UNESCO-recognised capital of Willemstad – where you can embrace Dutch heritage, under the Caribbean sun, as you explore the island’s pastel, colonial architecture and delightful museums.

Dubbed a diver’s paradise, Cozumel is famed for its incredible scuba diving and snorkelling opportunities. The Mesoamerican Barrier Reef, the World’s second largest barrier reef system, straddles the coast of Cozumel, making it a world-class dive destination! This underdeveloped gem in Mexico offers crystal-clear waters, home to an impressive abundance of marine life along with shallow coral reefs.

When you’re not chasing adventure deep in the sea or lazing on the shores, why not wander around downtown San Miguel and admire the brightly-coloured buildings lining its quaint streets? You can also learn about the region’s infamous pirate history in the Cozumel Museum, discover a large selection of Mayan ruins at  San Gervasio Archeological Site and haggle for unique handmade crafts in the local artisan markets to make the most out of your Cozumel trip! 

Looking to spend some balmy days on the beach? Barbados is the perfect South Caribbean getaway! Bursting with life and action, there’s a plethora of things to do on this sun-baked and windswept island. From adrenaline-pumping water sports to rum distillery tasting tours, this culturally rich island offers something for every discerning traveller!

Barbados is a mecca for sun worshippers and beachgoers! Carlisle Bay’s beaches offer calm waters, with various offshore shipwrecks to explore. Bathsheba Beach, on the other hand, has a wonderful mix of dynamic surfing scenes and dramatic rock formations – appealing to photographers and surfers alike! Hidden away for you to discover is Miami Beach, small, intimate, and quiet on weekdays – this sandy gem is perfect for travellers craving freedom and solitude. 

Plus, don’t miss Harrison’s Cave, a magnificent rock formation formed by water erosion, with stalactites suspended from the cave’s roof and stalagmites sprouting from the ground. And what’s a trip to the Caribbean without South Caribbean Rum? Sample some of the world’s oldest rums at Mount Gay Rum Distillery, where you can learn about the history of rum on the island. Try your hand at mixing your own cocktails and grab a fabulous meal of the flying fish and Cou Cou – the national dish of Barbados – when it’s all over! 

St. Kitts is the larger one between the twin islands that comprise the nation of St. Kitts and Nevis – known as the more ‘outgoing’ sister with endless thrilling adventures and natural wonders! Perhaps the best way to see the island in all its glory is through a scenic train ride, which circumnavigates the coastline on routes that once transported sugar cane from the plantations to the mills.

Tracing the wonders below the waves, you’ll stumble upon diverse marine life, including sting rays, Hawksbill turtles and reef sharks. Out of the water, there are plenty of safari opportunities to explore the rainforest and mountain valley on a one-of-a-kind adventure! The premier spot for wildlife viewing is at Brimstone Hill Fortress and National Park, where you’ll find an old military fort, moat and all! Other great photography points include Black Rock, where the volcanic deposits have formed all sorts of awe-inspiring shapes, and Bloody Point, which allows for breathtaking views of Mount Liamuiga.

Featured Caribbean Cruises