Enchanting corners of paradise where beaches of fine white sand are lapped by incredibly azure seas. Destinations to be reached by a long-haul flight, after which you will discover the warmth of the people but also the possibility of adrenalin-pumping experiences and views that can only be found here. Although all the Caribbean offers spectacular destinations, we point you to 12 Caribbean islands that offer extraordinary thrills.
Jamaica
White beaches and turquoise sea, reggae music, high mountains and spectacular waterfalls characterise this beautiful island. You can climb the stepped structure of the majestic Dunn’s River Falls near Ocho Rios and snorkel and dive in Montego Bay. For an active holiday, you can parasail on Negril’s tropical beach and hike in the Blue Mountains where you’ll be thrilled by endless valleys. In the capital city of Kingston, the Bob Marley Museum awaits.
Barbados
Lively and romantic but also steeped in tradition, the Barbados islands captivate with their picturesque landscapes, the beaches of Crane Beach and Accra Beach, and the underground caverns of Harrison’s Cave. The picturesque seabed of Carlisle Bay, considered the most beautiful bay, is ideal for diving and snorkelling. In Bathsheba, head to the magical Andromeda Botanical Gardens and marvel at the hummingbirds flying between palm trees and tropical flowers. Enjoy banana boats and jet skis as well as glass-bottomed boats from which to admire stingrays and corals.
Bahamas
On these 700 islands off the coast of Florida you’ll find the world’s most beautiful beaches and unspoilt nature, with shady mangroves and seas where dolphins swim. For nightlife and shopping, head to Freeport, but if you want to discover colonial architecture, head to Nassau and stroll around the atmospheric Old Town. For excitement head to the lagoon between Acklins and Crooked Islands where you’ll find deserted beaches, incredible reefs and caves. For birdwatching, fishing and snorkelling, Andros awaits.
Dominican Republic
The Dominican Republic will surprise you with its beautiful landscape and architectural wonders. Not only will you appreciate the colonial style of Santo Domingo, but at Los Haitises Park in the Bay of Samaná, you will see dozens of spectacular mangrove-covered islets. If you are travelling with children, head to the Dolphin Island Aquatic Park in Punta Cana to swim with dolphins and enjoy the resort’s luxurious atmosphere. For an unforgettable memory trek to the Demajagua Falls in Puerto Plata.
Martinique
Martinique is a long-haul destination that surprises with black sands in the north and light sands in the south. In Fort de France, visit Fort Saint Louis and La Savane Park, but also the beautiful beaches of Anse Couleuvre, where the sand is black, Anse Dufour, a coastline with a sloping seabed, and des Salines with its charming bays. A sailing excursion will allow you to drop anchor in hidden, unspoilt bays of incredible beauty.
Saint Lucia
This romantic resort offers breathtaking views with the volcanic cones of the Pitons, silver and gold sandy beaches, and tropical forest. In the capital, Castries, visit Derek Walcott Square and the market, then head to Pigeon Island, a protected area where the golden beach is shaded by palm trees. When you reach Fort Rodney, you can enjoy a splendid view of the entire island. For windsurfing, choose Cas en Bas and Grande Anse on the Atlantic coast, where you can frolic among iguanas and sea turtles. In the central forests, on the other hand, you can go bird watching.
Cuba
The largest Caribbean island offers relaxation and fun, beautiful coral reefs and lush forests. Visit the island starting in the UNESCO-listed Old Havana, where you can admire the Caribbean baroque, and then head to the atmospheric waterfront of El Malecon. If you are interested in the history of rum, head to Santiago to visit the museum. For snorkelling, head to the Hicacos peninsula where you can dive into the crystal-clear waters of Varadero beach. Love trekking? The Vinales Valley, a Unesco Natural Reserve with tobacco plantations and impressive cave systems, awaits you.
Aruba
In magical Aruba you’ll find incredible natural landscapes, palm trees and plenty of sunshine warming heavenly beaches and romantic bays like Baby Beach. In the capital city of Oranjestad visit the stronghold of Fort Zoutman and then set off to explore soft sandy beaches such as Eagle Beach where you will snorkel among the cliffs. A visit to the Arikok National Park will also take you to the pristine beach of Dos Playa. Further north you will discover the fascinating Natural Rock Bridge.
Antigua and Barbuda
In Antigua, the colonial atmosphere, stone mills and lush forest, but also the Shirley Heights fortress, a true symbol of the island, are fascinating. You’ll find narrow alleys and wooden houses in the capital Saint John’s, home to the Marine Museum, but if you’re looking for the best beaches, choose Jolly Beach Bay and Dickenson Bay. In Barbuda, you’ll be surprised by the soft sandy expanse of Princess Diana beach, but also by the Frigate Bird Sanctuary where frigate birds nest.
Trinidad and Tobago
Two iconic islands where Trinidad meets the need for dynamism and Tobago the need for relaxation: on both you’ll find biodiversity, forests and diving opportunities. In Trinidad, discover the golden beach of Las Cuevas and marvel at the famous Maracas Bay, surrounded by rainforests and palm trees. Birdwatchers will be thrilled by the scarlet ibis in the Caroni swamp. In the green lung of Queen’s Park Savannah, the hippodrome and Stollmeyer Castle await. In Tobago, dense forests and iconic beaches like Pigeon Point are perfect for families with children.
Grenada
The spice island offers incredible rainforests and the fascinating Caribbean Sea. In St. George’s, the colourful capital, wander the steep lanes that climb hills and visit Fort George, a historic landmark with breathtaking views. In the calm waters of Grand Anse you can snorkel, while further south you will find the picturesque Morne Rouge Bay and white coves. The Grand Etang National Park, with its lake in the volcanic crater, and the Underwater Sculpture Park, a popular destination for divers, are well worth a visit.
Guadeloupe
Extraordinary wildlife and mangrove swamps, but also fascinating seabed in this magical Caribbean archipelago. Among the most beautiful beaches are the Caravelle, with fine white sand, suitable for children, and the paradisiacal Anse du Souffleur. For surfing, head to Anse Bertrand and Le Moule where you will find reefs of various levels. Don’t miss a visit to the Carbet waterfalls, surrounded by vegetation, and the smaller but impressive Écrevisses waterfalls.