25 Best Caribbean Islands to Visit in 2021

In this article we take a look at the 25 best Caribbean Islands to visit in 2021. Click to skip ahead and jump to the 5 best Caribbean Islands to visit in 2021

What are the best Caribbean islands to visit in 2021? Don't you daydream of relaxing under the palm trees with a coconut drink in your hand on a sunny day on a Caribbean island? Now I'm sure many of us share the same thought of a Caribbean holiday. This year has brought us a series of unlucky events and a pandemic. If the travel authority permits, we hope you can use our list to plan your next Caribbean trip next year!

The travel industry is one of the worst hit during the Covid 19 pandemic. Companies and businesses operating in the wide spectrum of the travel fraternity, starting from airlines to hotel chains, have suffered in terms of profits and revenues. The Covid crisis led Boeing (NYSE:BA) going for a second layoff plan in a year in August after it had already been struggling with the grounding of the 737 MAX. The company recently announced plans to lay off another 7000 employees. Commercial Airplanes third-quarter revenue decreased to $3.6 billion, and total backlog was of $393 billion. Disney (NYSE:DIS), a section of which operated theme parks and hotels, is reportedly facing a loss of over $2 billion. The Disneyland Resort went under a 200-day closure. As the second wave of pandemic continues, the travel industry hopes to bounce back soon with the possible success of vaccines. The recent initial public offer (IPO) by Airbnb Inc., provides a similar hope for a better 2021. The IPO is likely to be the biggest this year, and provides a bit of optimism, as the company makes positive projections for travel and lodging after the economic recovery. However, when the economy finally does open up travel is likely to see some major trends and makeover. For starters innovation and business transformations will help travel industry players survive as safety and sanitation will become important aspects. When that happens Caribbean is still going to be one of the top most attractive destinations, as hotels plan to provide massive discounts to speed up recovery.

The Caribbean is one of the happiest vacation destinations in the world! The archipelago is primarily seated between North America and South America. With over 7,000 islands and 13 separate nations, the Caribbean islands boast fine white sand, palm-fringed beaches, and beautiful blue waters, which make it one of the most visited holiday destinations in the world.

To present you with the 25 Best Caribbean Islands to visit in 2021, we used a points system according to the most number of appearances of the island per search. For example, if Jamaica ranks first on one website, it gets 25 points. If a Caribbean island ranks second on a different website, it will receive 24 points. And if it lands the third spot on another source, it will get 23 points and so on. We analyzed the most-searched Caribbean islands and averaged their respective score in our points system. This "crowd-sourcing" approach helped us come up with a solid list of the favorite Caribbean islands of holiday goers.

The Caribbean offers a diverse corner of the globe- believe us when we tell you there's so much more to this beautiful gem than its crystal waters and the beaches. There are also some islands like the Bahamas and the Bermuda, which are technically not located in the Caribbean region, however, are clubbed together with other Caribbean islands by most tour operators. This is because of a strong Caribbean connection within the culture of these islands. In this article, you'll find out more about what the archipelago has to offer- vibrant culture, food, wildlife, and why you should pay them a visit after this pandemic is over, hopefully by 2021. Here's a sneak peek of the 11 Easiest Islands to Get to in the Caribbean to give you more reference on how to travel to the islands.

25. Martinique

Score: 6 pts

From its beautiful centerpiece of beaches in Saint Anne to the attractive port capital in Fort-de-France, no wonder Martinique is one of the best Caribbean islands to visit. Martinique offers you slow days and a chill vibe- walk around narrow streets, visit stunning architectural sites such as Schoelcher Library and St. Louis Cathedral. A trip to Martinique won't be complete if you don't drop by at The Dillon distillery. It is popular for its vintage and white rum production since 1922. Don't forget to mention tasting the Appellation agricultural rum is just phenomenal!

24. Trinidad & Tobago

Score: 6 pts

One of the most diverse Caribbean islands on our list is Trinidad and Tobago. It offers a wide range of activities for travelers of different ages: from chilling on white-sand beaches, trailing lush mountains, and attending a Carnival (Dimanche Gras) celebrated before the Lenten season. Trinidad and Tobago are well-known for their Caribbean dessert called Soursop ice cream. This unique ice cream is made with ripe soursop, cornstarch, salt, water, and condensed milk.

23. Curacao

Score- 10 pts

Curacao is also known as the Most Colorful Capital of the Caribbean with its traditional bright pastel-colored buildings and Dutch-inspired architecture in Willemstad, Curacao's capital city. One of Curacao's gems is the Klein Knip beach as it offers a pristine view of the bright blue Caribbean sea. The island enjoys year-round sunny and warm days. One of the best things about Curacao is its floating market in Punda every morning wherein you can experience shopping with the locals. You can buy the freshest exotic produce from Venezuelan vendors such as mangoes, spices, herbs, papaya, and fishes.

22. Haiti

Score- 13 pts

Do you still remember how Haiti was hit by an earthquake in 2010? Ten years later, Haiti is a much better place today! It is home to beautiful beaches and the best views of mountains lurking the ocean. Make sure to include Haiti in your Caribbean island tour as you will experience an epic gastronomic adventure here! One must not leave Haiti without trying the popular Haitian dishes like bouillon (stew), griot (fried pork), and soup joumou (pumpkin soup).

21. St. Kitts and Nevis

Score- 14 pts

St. Kitts and Nevis is a two-island country in the Caribbean. It's getting more famous with tourists as it welcomes bigger cruise ships in the peak winter season. The most iconic national park in St. Kitts and Nevis is the scenic fortress on Brimstone Hill. On the other hand, if you want to go all-in with your Caribbean vacation, add Oualie beach to your list. The powdery sand of the secluded Nevi coast matches the warm blue waters at the beach. From overflowing mojitos and rums, jet ski rental, and tropical garden, what more could you ask for a Caribbean luxury trip!

20. Montserrat

Score- 20 pts

Montserrat is a small charming island that shares the stretch of the Caribbean sea. It is well-known for the Soufriere Hills Volcano, a star attraction on the Caribbean island. The newly-built capital island of Montserrat is Brades. If we'll map it out, it is a small neighboring island of Puerto Rico. Brades is also known as the "Emerald Isle of the Caribbean" as it boasts a verdant rainforest that houses many exotic plants and animals. Don't miss the chance to visit the old capital city of Monserrat, Plymouth! If you are looking for an off-the-hook kind of adventure, taking a tour in this deserted town is one for the books!

19. Guadeloupe

Score- 20 pts

Have you ever heard of Guadeloupe? Yup, it's one of the best Caribbean islands you should visit. Guadeloupe is grouped into two main islands: Basse-Terre is the capital city and Grande-Terre is the main tourist city. If you are a fan of slow sunny days and gourmet experience, you will love Basse-Terre as it shares a mix of French culture with a Caribbean twist. Adventure junkies would love Guadeloupe as it is a place for canyoneering, scuba diving, and hiking!

18. Barbados

Score- 27 pts

Barbados is translated as the "bearded ones" which refers to the fig trees that the explorers found on the island. Barbados is also known as "Little Britain" with its historical ties with the U.K. Barbados flaunts long boardwalks and pleasant beaches like Sandy Lane Beach and Bayshore Beach. On the other hand, Lakes Beach is a favorite for surfers and kayakers. When in Barbados, one should not miss its mouthwatering cuisine- pepperpot, flying fish, and pork stew.

17. Bermuda

Score- 28

Ah, you heard that Bermuda is the shipwreck capital of the world, correct? It's because of the extensive coral reefs and the thunderstorm combination that makes perfect circumstances for shipwrecks. This mysteriously beautiful North Atlantic archipelago is a tourist head-turner as it offers pink sands, picture-perfect Caribbean architecture, and delicious cuisine. It's a beloved destination for honeymooners too!

16. St. Vincent & the Grenadines

Score- 30

The compacts islands seduce visitors with its palm-fringed beaches and scenic bays that offer fun water activities. If you are the type of person that would chase waterfalls, then you should visit the Dark View Falls on the western coast of St. Vincent. St. Vincent also offers unspoiled scuba diving places like Petit Byahaut. If social distancing permits, you'll be happy to attend the Vincy Mas, the annual Carnival celebration in St. Vincent held in July.

15. St. Martin

Score- 30

Have you ever visited a nude beach before? If not, this is your chance to experience nude beaches and trendy shops in the Caribbean! St. Martin is a French region that is divided between France and the Netherlands. Marigot is St. Martin's capital city. It welcomes an endless flow of tourists as the town is known for colorful ginger houses and sidewalk bistros. Experience lavish shopping at Rue la de Republique, a mall at Marigot with a 19th-century façade!

14. Grenada

Score- 30

Grenada offers an array of classic white beaches, lakes, forts, waterfalls, plantation houses, floral gardens, and rum distilleries. Grenada is also known as "The Spice Isle" as it is home to many spices like nutmeg, ginger, cinnamon, cloves, and cocoa. Don't forget to take your IG-worthy snaps in the streets of Grenada where your eyes can enjoy fascinating historical Colonial buildings.

13. St. Bart's

Score- 32

If you want a grandeur Caribbean experience, one would never go wrong in visiting St. Bart's. From exclusive boutiques to the most luxurious resorts on the planet. If you are looking for adventurous water activities, go to Anse de Grand Cul de Sac. If you are looking for a food trip and local bistros, head to Baie de St. Jean. Also, if you're into laidback nightlife, make sure to visit the island's capital city Gustavia.

12. Dominican Republic

Score- 35

Once travel restrictions are lifted, make sure to include Dominican Republic in your Caribbean islands to visit in 2021. The Dominican Republic is famous for its glistening blue waters and white powdery beaches. Punta Cana is the most popular destination on the island as it is home to numerous luxurious hotels and resorts. If you’re more of a mountain person, go ahead and visit the exciting trail to Enriquillo Valley!

11. British Virgin Islands

Score- 41

One of the most visited Caribbean islands in the British Virgin Islands. It offers the best of both worlds as boasts its beauty where the Caribbean Sea meets the North Atlantic Ocean. One of the unique travel spots in the British Virgin Islands is The Baths (Virgin Gorda). From huge granite boulders to crystalline waters, an adrenaline junkie would enjoy the breathtaking adventure The Baths has to offer. If you like scuba diving, head over Anegada Island also known as the “Drained Island”. With more than 300 shipwrecks to explore, the adventure never stops! The British Virgin Islands is the dream destination of water sports enthusiasts. Experience one of kind yachting and sailing thru the Caribbean Sea!

10. Cayman Islands

Score- 41

The Cayman Islands is proudly known as the culinary capital of the Caribbean! From fresh plates of seafood to farm-to-table foods, Cayman has it for you. Scuba diving professionals and enthusiasts alike flock into the Cayman Islands as it offers some of the best diving spots in the Caribbean. One should not miss the underwater adventure at Grand Cayman, Cayman Brac, and Little Cayman. If you are looking for a peaceful place to relax, Seven Mile Beach is the right place to be! And have you met a stingray before? If not yet, check out Stingray City! You can feed and even interact with these satiny creatures!

9. Cuba

Score- 41

Pearl of the Antilles. Aside from the fascinating beaches, Cuba is mostly known for its rich culture and history. That’s why it is one of the best Caribbean islands to visit. The picturesque old streets and exceptional architecture make it stroll-worthy! One should not miss visiting Old Havana where you’ll find a 16th-century fort called Morro Castle. From Cadillacs to real mojitos? Seriously, where do we even begin exploring Cuba?

8. Antigua & Barbuda

Score- 42

Antigua and Barbuda is a wildly popular Caribbean destination. The main tourist attractions as well as luxurious resorts are located in Antigua. Have you ever heard of the Devil’s Bridge? It’s a naturally formed bridge at the rugged east coast of Antigua. Where’s the best place to end the day? Enjoy a sunset meal at Bumpkins! A must-try is a chicken jerk and Caribbean seafood ceviche! Good food, good company, the best time of the day. You can never go wrong in spending the evening at Pigeon Point Beach!

7. Puerto Rico

Score- 45

If you are looking for vibrant historical sites, endless natural scenery, gorgeous beaches, and a lovely tropical climate, Puerto Rico has it for you! It is popularly known for its energetic locals, good music, and did anyone mention Salsa? When in Puerto Rico make sure you enjoy the plantains and local pork cuisines with their ever famous rum! Walkthrough the Old San Juan to witness stunning architecture. Pay a visit to El Morro also known as the New World's Spanish Fort!

6. St. Lucia

Score- 52

If you are a foodie like me, you should not miss visiting St. Lucia. It only boasts the Caribbean standards of the freshest crabs and lobsters! Castries is the capital city of St. Lucia where you will find all the lovely local restaurants offering delicious Caribbean cuisines! If you are seeking a wonderful trail, hike to the summit of Gros Piton! St. Lucia has a lot to offer from sulfur springs to lush rainforests!

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Disclosure: No positions. 25 Best Caribbean Islands to Visit in 2021 is originally published on Insider Monkey.