The Caribbean is the perfect choice if you’re looking for warm weather, crystal clear sparkling water, palm trees and a vacation to just relax and do nothing. Here in our list of five Caribbean islands to visit, we show you much more. You’ll find islands that offer unique culture, history and adrenaline-inducing fun things to do.
Here are Travelmath’s five Caribbean islands to visit this summer:
One: Barbados
Barbados is the only country in the Caribbean with restaurants rated by Zagat ratings guide. This former British colony has an average temperature between 75-85 degrees but most importantly it doesn’t have the oppressive humidity like many other tropical islands. The average humidity is only around 57-74 percent, which makes it one of the most pleasant islands to visit year round.
This island appeals to history buffs, foodies and sun-worshippers. Barbados is the site of the second oldest Jewish synagogue in the western hemisphere and the only country visited by George Washington. The George Washington House was restored in 2006. These historic places are among the many to visit when you vacation in Barbados.
History buffs should also check out Speightstown located in the northwest coast. Some say the town reminded them of Charleston South Carolina.
Barbados is served by over 10 airlines. Grantley Adams International Airport (BGI) is located 10 miles from Bridgetown, the capital of Barbados. Bridgetown and its Garrison is a UNESCO Heritage Site.
The best beaches to swim and enjoy the sun are located in the west central coast and south coast of Barbados.
Two: Saint Lucia
Saint Lucia is 108 miles from Barbados. This island offers unique natural landscape with acres upon acres of unspoiled rainforest and swinging palm trees. The Piton Mountains sets Saint Lucia apart from the rest of the Caribbean islands.
According to UNESCO, The Pitons are two volcanic spires rising side by side from the sea and linked by the Piton Mitan ridge. The large one is called Gros Piton and the other is Petit Piton. The Pitons attracts nature lovers, hikers and mountain climbers from around the world. Some of the attractions also include hundreds of plant species, reptiles, birds and indigenous rodents.
Diving is another activity popular in Saint Lucia. 60% of The Pitons Management Area is covered with coral reefs. UNESCO’s survey found that there are 168 species of finfish, 60 species of corals, 14 sponges, eight molluscs, 11 echinoderms, 15 arthropods and eight annelid worms in the area.
For families looking for activities that cater to every age group at a resort located by the beach we recommend Cotton Bay Village. Cotton Bay Village is located on the golden sand of Cas en Bas Beach. It has a collection of villas, apartments and townhouses.
Three: Nevis
For unspoiled, sun-drenched and quiet beaches in the Caribbean we recommend Nevis Island. Vance W. Amory International Airport is served by six airlines. If flying from the United States you will need to fly into Robert L. Bradshaw International Airport (SKB) in St. Kitts.
From SKB airport, you’ll need to get to Port Zante (about 10-minute drive) and go on a 40-minute boat ride to Nevis Island.
Information: Nevis Island
Four: Bermuda
Bermuda is only two hours from New York and Boston. Delta flies directly from Boston to L.F. Wade International Airport (BDA). JetBlue, Delta, American, United and US Airways fly non-stop from New York JFK airport to BDA. You have many options when it comes to getting a flight from US East Coast to Bermuda.
For those who hate flying, Norwegian Cruise Line and Royal Caribbean are some of the cruise lines offering 7-day cruises from New York to Bermuda.
Bermuda is known for its soft pink sandy beaches and golf courses. Conde Nast Traveler readers have voted it 18 times since 1994 as the “Best Island in the Caribbean/Atlantic”.
Five: Puerto Rico
It is easy to get to Puerto Rico for Americans without a passport. According to U.S. Customs and Border Protection:
U.S. Citizens and Lawful Permanent Residents (LPR's) who travel directly between parts of the United States, which includes Guam, Puerto Rico, U.S. Virgin Islands, American Samoa, Swains Island and the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands (CNMI), without touching at a foreign port or place, are not required to present a valid U.S. Passport or U.S. Green Card. However, it is recommended that travelers bring a government issued photo ID and copy of birth certificate.
Puerto Rico has something for everyone in your family. Some of the best beaches in Puerto Rico include Luquillo Beach, Carolina Public Beach, Pine Grove Beach, Boqueron Beach and Ocean Park. For history, culture, food and architecture you must visit Old San Juan.
Do you have a favorite Caribbean island? Let us know.
