15 Most Beautiful Caribbean Islands to Visit
Dreaming of crystal-clear waters, white sandy beaches, and lush tropical landscapes on one of the most beautiful Caribbean islands? Aren’t we all!?
The Caribbean islands each offer its own slice of paradise. The major hurdle for you is going to be which to choose first!
If you’re craving adventure, relaxation, or a bit of both, these stunning destinations are sure to take your breath away.
You’ll go from the soaring peaks of St. Lucia to the untouched shores of Anguilla. I’ve rounded up the most beautiful Caribbean islands that should be on your travel radar!
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1. Dominica
Nicknamed the “Nature Island,” Dominica is a lush paradise filled with rainforests, waterfalls, and volcanic landscapes.
It’s a perfect island for those who want to hike through scenic trails to soaring waterfalls like Sari-Sari Falls and dive into marine reserves like Champagne Reef, where volcanic bubbles rise from the ocean floor.
You’ll also get insane views from Scott’s Head and can spend hours snorkeling with the fish here.
This is one of the islands that truly sparked my love for travel, it’s raw, rugged, and criminally underrated!
Best time to visit: February to May for the driest weather.
READ MORE: 8 Things To Do in Dominica and How This Trip Changed My Life
2. St. Lucia
St. Lucia’s iconic twin Piton mountains rise dramatically from the sea, creating one of the most photographed vistas in the Caribbean.
The island offers a mix of adventure and relaxation, from hiking Gros Piton (a TOUGH hike) to lounging on its black and white sand beaches.
Don’t miss a visit to the world’s only drive-in volcano at Soufrière or a dip in the Sulphur Springs mud baths for an unforgettable experience!
Best time to visit: December to April when it’s dry and sunny.
Read More About St. Lucia:
- 19 Things To Do in St. Lucia—Best Beaches and Adventures!
- 9 Incredible Beaches in St. Lucia for Epic Beach Bumming
- Sugar Beach, St. Lucia: EVERYTHING You Need to Know!
- Where to Stay in St. Lucia: 10 Incredible Resorts!
3. Turks and Caicos
Turks and Caicos is a dream for beach lovers, with its impossibly turquoise waters and powdery white sands.
Grace Bay Beach on Providenciales is consistently ranked among the world’s best, perfect for relaxing or snorkeling.
Beyond the beaches, take a boat tour to explore the smaller, untouched cays. While technically not part of the Caribbean, the close location and vibes say otherwise, in my opinion!
Best time to visit: April to June for warm weather and fewer crowds.
Read More About Turks and Caicos:
- 17 BEST Things To Do in Turks and Caicos + Tips
- 15 Best Beaches in Turks and Caicos
- Clear Kayaking to Iguana Island in Turks and Caicos
- Where to Stay in Turks and Caicos: 13 Resorts and Hotels
4. Guadeloupe
Guadeloupe is an archipelago of five islands, each offering something unique.
The largest, Basse-Terre, boasts lush rainforests, waterfalls, and the impressive La Soufrière volcano. Over on Grande-Terre, you’ll find stunning beaches and charming French-Caribbean culture.
This blend of nature and culture makes Guadeloupe an unforgettable and beautiful Caribbean destination.
Best time to visit: December to May for the best weather and festivals.
READ MORE: Best Things to Do in Guadeloupe – 4 Day Itinerary
5. Antigua and Barbuda
With 365 beaches, Antigua and Barbuda are the epitome of Caribbean paradise.
Antigua’s crystal-clear waters are ideal for sailing and snorkeling, while Barbuda is more secluded, with pink sand beaches like those at Princess Diana Beach.
For history buffs, a visit to Nelson’s Dockyard, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is a must and for arguably one of the prettiest spots on the island, the famous Shirley Height’s viewpoint!
Best time to visit: December to April for sunny skies and warm temperatures.
READ MORE:
Adventurous Things to Do in Antigua and Barbuda + Tips
9 BEST All-Inclusive Adults-Only Resorts in Antigua
6. Anguilla
Anguilla’s beaches are world-renowned for their untouched beauty and tranquility.
Shoal Bay is often cited as one of the Caribbean’s prettiest beaches, while a boat trip to Prickly Pear Island offers an even more secluded slice of paradise.
The island has a low-key, luxurious vibe that makes it perfect for those seeking relaxation with an extra dash of pamperedness.
Best time to visit: May to August for the warmest beach days.
READ MORE:
A Mini Guide to Anguilla: Things to Do, Beaches, & More
5 Incredible Anguilla Resorts and Villas to Stay In
How to Get to Anguilla: The Easiest and Cheapest Option
7. Jamaica
Jamaica is known for its stunning landscapes, from the Blue Mountains to its golden beaches.
You can experience a little of everything here: cascading waterfalls like Dunn’s River Falls, snorkeling in Montego Bay, or just chilling to reggae beats on Seven Mile Beach in Negril.
The island’s culture is as colorful as its scenery, making it a standout in the Caribbean. This was actually the first country I ever went to on a family holiday!
Best time to visit: November to mid-December for mild weather and fewer crowds.
READ MORE: Things to Do in Jamaica: A 2-Week Itinerary
8. British Virgin Islands
The British Virgin Islands are a paradise for sailors and beach lovers alike. With over 60 islands and cays, you’ll find countless hidden beaches and coves to explore.
The Baths on Virgin Gorda are a standout, with their giant granite boulders forming natural pools and grottos that are perfect for exploring.
The turquoise waters and laid-back vibe make this one fo the prettiest Caribbean Islands, heads down!
Best time to visit: December to April for the driest, sunniest weather.
READ MORE: Island Hopping The Caribbean—How To + Itinerary Ideas
9. Rosario Islands, Colombia
Just off the coast of Cartagena, the Rosario Islands are a Caribbean treasure.
This archipelago is perfect for a beach getaway, with clear waters ideal for snorkeling and coral reefs teeming with marine life.
Playa Blanca, though busier, is one of the most beautiful beaches in the region, offering the quintessential Caribbean vibes.
Best time to visit: December to March for dry weather and calm seas.
READ MORE: 15 Adventurous Things To Do in Colombia
10. Holbox, Mexico
Holbox is a car-free island that feels like a secluded paradise, where the streets are made of sand, and life slows to a relaxing pace.
Known for its bioluminescent waters and whale shark tours, this island is a natural wonder.
The colorful murals, relaxed atmosphere, and stunning beaches make Holbox a must-visit for anyone craving an escape!
Best time to visit: May to September for whale shark season and warm weather.
READ MORE: Your One Week Yucatan, Mexico Itinerary
11. Bocas del Toro, Panama
Bocas del Toro is an archipelago with pristine beaches, lush rainforests, and a relaxed, backpacker-friendly vibe.
Red Frog Beach and Starfish Beach are two of the most picturesque spots, while the surrounding waters offer great snorkeling and diving.
When you’re done here, you can continue on to exploring Costa Rica—start out in Puerto Viejo which offers more of the Caribbean style but minus the island part!
Best time to visit: January to April for dry weather and calm waters.
12. The Bahamas
While technically outside the Caribbean Sea, the Bahamas are often included in Caribbean travel lists, and for good reason.
With 700 islands and cays, the Bahamas offer some of the most beautiful beaches in the world.
The Exumas, in particular, are famous for their crystal-clear waters and swimming pigs. Nassau is one of the most popular islands.
As a Floridan, I’ve lost count of how many times I’ve visited the Bahamas!
Best time to visit: November to mid-December for pleasant weather and fewer tourists.
READ MORE: A Guide to Unique Experiences in the Bahamas
13. Dominican Republic
The Dominican Republic is a Caribbean gem, offering a diverse landscape of lush mountains, tropical rainforests, and stunning beaches.
Punta Cana is the go-to for all-inclusive resorts and postcard-perfect beaches, while the Samana Peninsula offers a more off-the-beaten-path experience with waterfalls and whale-watching.
Best time to visit: December to April for sunny skies and dry weather.
14. Saint Maarten
Saint Maarten is a vibrant island split between French and Dutch influence, offering visitors a unique blend of cultures.
Maho Beach is famous for its close-up views of planes landing right above, but beyond that, the island has a wealth of beautiful beaches like Mullet Bay and Orient Bay.
Best time to visit: December to April for sunny, dry weather.
15. Ambergris Caye and Caye Caulker, Belize
Though technically part of Belize, Ambergris Caye (San Pedro) and Caye Caulker offer the same tropical charm as any of these other beautiful Caribbean islands!
Ambergris Caye is the larger of the two and is famous for its proximity to the Great Blue Hole and Hol Chan Marine Reserve, both incredible snorkeling and diving spots.
Caye Caulker, with its “go slow” vibe, is a quieter, more laid-back alternative. I think both are worth a visit while you’re exploring Belize!
Best time to visit: February to May for the sunniest days.
READ MORE: 27 Amazing Things To Do in Belize — A Complete Guide!