Best Caribbean Islands For Activities (The Ultimate Guide)

Are you searching for the best Caribbean islands to visit for activities? Then, we have all the answers for you in this article.

Each Caribbean island is unique with features that are distinctive. If you love the outdoors and adventure, then there are certain islands that have more options so that you can enjoy yourself.

In this article, we summarize the best islands for visit for phenomenal activities. We believe that you will have an amazing experience.

So, let’s get started.

1. Aruba

Our first recommendation is the beautiful Dutch Caribbean Island of Aruba.

Fondly referred to as the Happy Island, Aruba is an excellent destination for hiking in a desert like environment, butterfly farm tours and donkey farm tours.

Furthermore, the destination has pristine white sand beaches with turquoise waters, top tier golf courses and so much more.

Top Things To Do In Aruba

Take A Parasailing Tour– this is a lovely activity to experience the beauty and landscape of the island from the sky.  There are individuals available to capture your moment of bravery.

Explore ATV Tour- see various off the beaten path spots on ATV such as secret beach and caves. This is truly a great way to experience the desert like landscape of Aruba.

Bar hop via bus ride to various entertainment hotspots in Palm and Eagle Beaches. There is a live DJ and music on the bus. A great way to experience the city at night

Day Trip To A Private Island -do you love private islands? Then, De Palm Island is a great place for an all-inclusive experience. There are waterslides, boat rides, flamingos, underwater helmet walks and more. A great activity for every member of the family!

Where To Stay In Aruba

The best place to stay in Aruba is the capital city of Oranjestad or at a resort on the famous Eagle and Palm beaches.

To enjoy the white sands and turquoise waters of these above beaches, we recommend Coconut Inn, MVC Eagle Beach and Board Walk Boutique Hotel Aruba.

For high end accommodation on Eagle and Palm beaches, The Ritz Carlton, Aruba and Bucuti & Tara Boutique Beach Resort are two premium options.

For accommodation options in the capital city of Oranjestad, we recommend, Wonders Boutique Hotel and Hyatt Place Aruba Airport.

For a private island escape where you can take instagrammable pictures with the pink flamingos, we recommend Renaissance Wind Creek Aruba Resort.

2. Grenada

Next up is a Caribbean island which is affectionately known as the isle of Spice.

Grenada is situated in the Southern region of the Caribbean and though it is only 133 square miles.

Additionally, the destination is blessed with waterfalls, white sand beaches, tropical rainforest, exotic cuisine and opportunity for island getaway.

Carriacou and Petite Martinique are the island’s two dependencies which has its own unique culture and charm.

Top Things To Do In Grenada

Day Tour- spend a day visiting Concord Waterfall where you can bathe and relax in the pool. Also explore the Grand Etang lake region where you can possibly spot the mona money.

The Diamond Chocolate Factory will give you insight into how chocolate is harvested and processed into delicious chocolate bars.

Rivertubing Adventure- visit the Balthazar river in the Grand Etang area and float with the river’s current.

The mona monkey lives in this region so you may be able to see them if you are in luck. This tour also involves a stop at the Annandale Falls near the capital city.

Authentic Grenadian Experience– this tour truly embraces Grenada’s trademark of being the isle of spice which involves visiting the House of Chocolate Museum in the capital city. The tour then goes to De La Grenadine Industries and Annandale Waterfall.

Where To Stay In Grenada

Grenada has a wide cross section of accommodation options for you to make your selection. There are guest houses, apartments, cottages and hotels.

The South of the island is the perfect place to stay as you will be within close proximity to malls, supermarkets, the iconic Grand Anse beach, restaurants and banks.

For hotels within walking distance to these amenities mentioned above, we recommend Siesta Hotel and Blue Horizon Hotel.

These are also near the public transportation which is ideal for budget travelers interested in using the local buses.

For adults only all-inclusive experience, we recommend the luxurious Sandals La Source Grenada which is located a short five minutes from the Maurice Bishop International Airport.

If you are spending time in the Northern part of the island especially for hiking trails, waterfalls and lakes, Petite Anse Hotel is great for easy access to these excursions.

3. Dominica

Our third suggestion is none other than the Nature Island of Dominica. This island is truly great for persons who enjoy the outdoors.

It is home to 365 rivers being one for every day of the year as well as Middleham Falls which is the tallest waterfall in the Eastern Caribbean.

Dominica is the only island in the Caribbean with pre-Columbian Carib Indians knows as Kalinago alive today.

It is also easy to access neighboring islands of St Lucia, Martinique and Guadeloupe via ferry services.

Top Things To Do In Dominica

Go Whale and Dolphin Watching- excursions are available via boat where you can see pilot whales, sperm whales and humpback whales.

Guides are knowledgeable and can provide detailed explanation of the various species.

Enjoy A Canyon Experience- rappel and jump into some of the natural features of the island.

These include natural pools and waterfalls. Tour companies often provide safety gear for your convenience.

Take A Safari Jeep Tour- enjoy the breathtaking views of the island and visit various sulphur springs as well as view beautiful scenic locations such as Titou Gorge.

Hike To Middleham Falls-trek to the largest waterfall in the Eastern Caribbean situated in the UNESCO World Heritage Site called Morne Trois Pitons National Park.

Middleham Falls is approximately 200 feet and magnificent to behold. The hike to this location is moderately difficult.

Where To Stay In Dominica

Fort Young Hotel is the best place to stay in the capital city of Roseau. There is an excellent restaurant on site, an outdoor infinity pool and spectacular views of the Caribbean Sea.

For a breathtaking beach front 5 star stay in Portsmouth, The Intercontinental Dominica Cabrits Resort & Spa is the ideal place to stay.

Nestled in the historic Northern region of the island, the hotel is equipped with fitness centre, kids club and restaurant.

For an eco-friendly stay, Rosalie Bay Eco Resort is an outstanding choice. The property features a stunning river, sea and mountain views. There is a fitness centre, spa facilities and garden.

4. Belize

Belize is our next recommendation which is perfect for persons interested in diving, snorkeling, hiking and chasing waterfalls.

The island has been made famous through Madonna classic song where she sang that she fell in love with San Pedro.  This town is the hotspot for nightlife in Belize and is located in Ambergris Caye.

Belize is bordered by Mexico to its North and Guatemala to the West and South. This allows a visitor to access these countries via taxi or bus.

From Guatemala, a visitor can continue overland to El Salvador and Honduras.

Top Things To Do In Belize

Cave Tubing- enjoy a scenic drive through a rainforest and hike to approximately 20 minutes to a river. Then take an adventure via inner tube through natural caves.

Actun Tunich Muknal Cave Tour- located in San Ignacio, this place is sacred to the Mayans. Explore the traditions as well as the cave system with a professional guide.

Enjoy A Waterfall Adventure– Belize has many spectacular features such as waterfalls. This tour allows you to explore the forest of Belize Cayo using a Pontoon boat.

Where To Stay In Belize

If you are searching for a hotel in Belize City, we recommend The Great House Inn, Best Western Plus Belize Bitmore Plaza or Radisson Fort George Hotel & Marina.

For stay in Caye Caulker, Tropical Paradise or Blue Wave Guest House are options to consider.

In San Pedro which is the hotspot for nightlife, Hotel Del Rio or Ambergris Sunset Hotel are two great properties to stay.

For stay in San Ignacio if you are visiting Mayan ruins, Venus Hotel and Rumors Resort Hotel are outstanding places to stay.

5. Barbados

Located 100 miles East of St Vincent & the Grenadines, Barbados is a popular vacation spot in the Caribbean that is loved for its white sand beaches, lively nightlife atmosphere, historical spots, caves and horse racing.

Due to the large volume of visitors to the island, there are numerous direct and non- stop international flight options to the island.

Top Things To Do In Barbados

Explore Harrison Caves– this excursion is truly one of the island’s natural wonder where you can tour a network of limestone caves using electric trams. There are also refreshments at the facilities as well as souvenir shops.

Tour The Capital City– The capital city of Bridgetown and its Garrison holds tremendous history with many archaeological buildings to explore. This could be combined with a food tour to experience the many local dishes that Bajans enjoy.

Ride the St Nicholas Abbey Heritage Railway– delve into the history of the island visiting a great house, museum and distillery. This activity is wheelchair accessible.

See The Underworld with an Atlantis Submarine Day Tour– this is a unique attraction where you can explore the marine and sea life from a submarine. You can also consider sailing around the island in a Catamaran may be awesome activities to consider.

Where To Stay In Barbados

The South Coast is an excellent region to stay as there are a number of restaurants, bars, grocery stores, fast food chains which makes life without a car seamless.

On a whole, hotels in Bridgetown and Christ Church are excellent regions to consider as they are near to the city centre and other amenities.

Budget Options– Pirate’s Inn and Coral Mist Beach Hotel

Mid-Range Options– Coral Sands Beach Hotel and Coconut Court Beach Hotel

Luxurious Options– Savannah Beach Club, Hilton Barbados Resort, Courtyard By Marriott Bridgetown

6. Jamaica

Fondly referred to as the land of wood and water, Jamaica is the perfect spot for a quick Caribbean getaway.

The flying time from Miami International Airport to Jamaica is a little less than two hours.

Jamaica is an extreme diverse destination which is great for persons who love reggae music, white sand beaches, waterfalls, river rafting, exotic foods and entertainment

Top Things To Do In Jamaica

Rastafari Experience, Montego Bay- explore the country side on ATV and get an opportunity to have an authentic Jamaican lunch, swim and  see a ganja or marijuana field.

Luminous Lagoon Night Tour, Montego Bay– discover the unique bioluminescence lagoon by boat. You can enjoy the chance to swim in lagoon. Included are welcome drink as well as hotel pick up and drop off.

Dunn’s River Falls, Secret Falls and Blue Hole Tour- swim in the Blue Hole, Dunn’s River Falls and Secret Falls from Montego Bay all in one day. Tour includes stop at local jerk shop and Columbus Park. Hotel pick up and drop of from Montego Bay Hotels are available.

Where To Stay In Jamaica

If you are considering spending time in Negril and the iconic Seven Mile Beach, we recommend Negril Treehouse Resort, Merrils Beach Resort II and Negril Palms.

Furthermore, to enjoy the countryside of Montego Bay, Toby’s Resort and Altamont West Hotel are excellent accommodation providers.

For all inclusive options in Montego Bay, S Hotel Jamaica and Riu Reggae are two amazing choices.

Alternatively, if you are interested in staying in Ocho Rios, Ocean Palms, Hibiscus Lodge Hotel and Pineapple Court Hotel are places that we recommend.

7. Dominican Republic

The Dominican Republic is an excellent destination for activities. The island is blessed with amazing white sand beaches and in particular Bavaro Beach in Punta Cana which is one of the longest in the Caribbean.

Furthermore, the island is home to the tallest mountain as well as the tallest waterfall in the entire Caribbean.

Punta Cana which is located in the South Eastern region is well loved by persons seeking a bustling nightlife atmosphere.

Top Things To Do In Dominican Republic

Puerto Plata Cable Car, Dominican Republic- riding the teleferico is a must visit attraction in the Dominican Republic.

The ride gives you a chance to explore and enjoy the lush and tropical scene from above.

Charcos de Damajagua, Dominican Republic-these are 27 small waterfalls located in the Puerto Plata region.

Access to the 27 waterfalls at Charcos de Damajagua is via hiking though a tropical rainforest. This attraction may be challenging for small children.

There is a restaurant on site so you can grab a meal after your swim in one of the many waterfalls.

The 3 Eyes National Park, Dominican Republic- is a limestone cave with three lakes called “Los Tres Ojos” in Spanish.

It contains three lakes and is one of the most popular attractions in the Dominican Republic.

The three lakes are called Lago de Azufre, La Nevera and El Lago de las Damas.

Isla Saona, Dominican Republic- located off the Southeastern coast of the Dominican Republic is a 42 square mile island that is truly paradise.

Isla Saona is preserved as part of the Cotubanama National Park and is an area where turtles nest.

Access to the island is via speedboat or catamaran. The island is a favorite spot for visitors for its majestic white sand beaches with turquoise waters.

Mano Juan is the only region of the island that is inhabited.

Where To Stay In The Dominican Republic

We recommend the capital city of Santo Domingo for persons interested in sightseeing.

Catalonia Santo Domingo and Radisson Hotel Santo Domingo are two locations to consider for stay in the capital city.

Alternatively, Punta Cana is one of the most popular areas to stay in Dominican Republic for beaches and a lively nightlife atmosphere.

Hotel Marimba, Punta Cana and Hotel and Casino Flamboyan are great places to consider for your stay on Bavaro Beach which is one of the longest in the Caribbean

For all inclusive experience, we suggest Catalonia Royal Bavaro, RIU Palace Bavaro and Bahia Principe Grand Aquamarine.

8. St Maarten

The island of St Maarten is truly one of the most unique in the Caribbean as the destination shares its landmass with the French Caribbean island of St Martin.

Therefore, the island is often described in terms of the French side referring to St Martin and the Dutch side referring to St Maarten.

The island is a great place for white sand beaches and in particular experiencing jet blast at the iconic Maho Beach.

At Maho Beach, planes fly at a low altitude which attracts adventure seekers from all over the world.

Furthermore, St Maarten is a great destination for persons who enjoy island hopping.

There are efficient ferry services that provide connections to St Barths, St Kitts, Saba and St Eustatius.

Where To Stay In St Maarten

The best place to stay in St Maarten is the capital city of Philipsburg which is great for shopping and going to the beach.

For your stay in Philipsburg, we recommend Holland House Beach Hotel and Divi Little Bay Beach Resort.

Alternatively, Simpson Bay is an excellent location to stay for beaches, restaurants and relaxation.

We suggest that you consider Commodore Suites and Baker’s Suites for your stay.

9. Puerto Rico

The beautiful Caribbean island of Puerto Rico is an excellent place for activities and is ideal especially for US travelers visiting the Caribbean for the first time.

As an overseas territory of the United States of America, no passports are required for entry and exit.

Puerto Rico is an excellent destination for history buffs are there are numerous historical landmarks that exists to this day.

Additionally, it is a great island for luxury shopping, white sand beaches, kitesurfing, adventure parks, island getaways and hiking in rainforests.

Top Things To Do In Puerto Rico

Take A Food Tour- experience the many flavors of the island and sample authentic dishes such as plantains and sofrito.

The tour includes visits to various locations where you admire the colonial architecture and cobblestone streets. There is an expert guide who can explain the history of Old San Juan.

Sail To Icacos Island– as part of the Cordilera Keys Nature Reserve, this island is about 30 hours from Fajardo.

Enjoy the beach as well as snorkel with all equipment provided. A buffet with lunch and drinks is available. Great activity to enjoy with a group of friends.

Kayak In Condado Lagoon– this tour is in a clear bottom boat with LED lights at night time. Complimentary locker is available to store your valuables.

Where To Stay In Puerto Rico

The capital city of Old San Juan is a great place to stay for sightseeing, soaking up the culture, and visiting historic landmarks.

We recommend Sheraton Old San Juan Hotel and CasaBlanca Hotel for your stay.

Alternatively, if you are thinking of spending time at the beach and enjoy fine dining, we recommend that you stay in Condado.

For accommodations, we recommend El Canario Lagoon Hotel and Acacia Boutique Hotel.

For a more upscale experience, we suggest AC Hotel By Marriott San Juan Condado and Condado Palm Inn San Juan, Tapestry Collection By Hilton.

10. Bahamas

Our final suggestion is the Bahamas which is one of the most visited islands in the Caribbean.

It is located little more than one hour flying time from Miami International Airport.

Therefore, this island is perfect for a vacation for Senior Citizens or for a family traveling with toddlers.

The Bahamas is loved for its amazing white sand and pink sand beaches, historic landmarks and entertainment.

Top Things To Do In The Bahamas

Enjoy A Swimming Pigs Encounter- from Nassau take a 30 minute boat ride to picturesque Rose Island, where you can swim and play with the pigs. Additionally, you can enjoy snorkeling and a range of water sporting activities.

Take An ATV Island Tour- explore the capital city of Nassau on an Outlander 450 ATV. Tours are conducted in the morning and afternoon. There is an expert guide to share the history of the island as well as stops to sites such as Queen’s Staircase and Fort Charlotte. Pick and drop off are included.

Take A Nassau Food & History Tour By Bus– learn from an experienced guide the traditional food and drinks of the island. This includes tasting bush teas and authentic Bahamian dishes. The tour also includes visiting a cake factory, historical museum and ancient forts.

Where To Stay In The Bahamas

The best place to stay in the Bahamas for easy access to a range tours and proximity to key landmarks as well as the night life hotspots is the Nassau.

For more budget friendly accommodations, we recommend Ocean West Boutique Hotel and Orange Hill Beach Inn.

For a high end premium experience in Nassau, we suggest Grand Hyatt Baha Mar and SLS at Baha Mar.

Paradise Island is also a great location to stay.  We recommend Comfort Suites Paradise Island, The Coral at Atlantis and The Royal at Atlantis.

Final Thoughts: Best Caribbean Islands For Activities

We trust that you found the above suggestions useful as you are planning to visit the Caribbean to enjoy the various activities on the islands.

Most notably, if you are visiting during the months of June to November that is the most active part of the hurricane season in the Caribbean.

It is prudent to consider travel insurance for which we recommend World Nomads Insurance in the event of accidents and travel interruptions.

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