You’ve finally decided on the week you want to spend on an island, but now have to decide where you want to go. How do you know which Caribbean island is the best place to spend your hard-earned dollars?

Below, we’ve outlined a little bit about five of the most popular Caribbean vacations

Cayman Islands

Although pricier than many other Caribbean destinations, the Cayman Islands has plenty to offer.

Crystal clear waters filled with diverse marine life create amazing scuba diving and snorkelling adventures. The terrain in the Cayman Islands is relatively flat and features a coastline with many small caves and shallow-water coral reefs.

Popular attractions include Seven Mile Beach, Stingray City, Bobby Pond Nature Reserve and numerous forested hiking trails.

Costa Rica

Five percent of the world’s biodiversity can be found in Costa Rica’s protected national parks and rainforests, which make up one-quarter of the island. A very rich, fertile soil created by volcanic activity has created the lush landscape that visitors have come to enjoy. The island offers world-class biking, hiking, white water rafting, zip-lining and surfing opportunities.

Named one of the most sustainable countries in the world by the World Energy Council, Costa Rica prides itself on its eco-friendly travel experience.

St. Maarten

Experience a unique island destination that has both French and Dutch portions. One of the most popular attractions is Orient Beach, a world-famous nude beach, which is free to enjoy.

By day, partake in parasailing, jet-skiing and windsurfing, and at night, explore the island’s amazing dining and nightlife scene.

St. Maarten has some of the best shopping in the Caribbean, with watches and diamonds being popular sought-after items.

Jamaica

Friendly locals and white sand beaches keep visitors returning to Jamaica again and again. When you tire of the beach, venture to nearby Dunn’s River Falls and enjoy a 1.5-hour hike to climb to the top.

 

Many resort clubs and nightclubs play Jamaica’s famous homegrown reggae. Kingston, the capital of Jamaica, is home to the Bob Marley Museum, dedicated to the famous singer who hailed from this island.

 

While in Jamaica, be sure to try the famous Jamaican jerk chicken, a well-seasoned Caribbean style roast chicken.

Dominican Republic

The “capital” of all-inclusive destinations, the Dominican Republic has something to offer families, couples, and adventure seekers. Featuring a variety of Spanish and Mexican architecture, 25% of the Dominican Republic’s land and shoreline are preserved as national parks, reserves, and sanctuaries.

From majestic mountains to pristine shores, the island is packed with natural beauty, history and culture from coast to coast. 

With one of the Americas’ oldest European settlements, the Dominican Republic’s beaches are some of the most popular in the Caribbean with Punta Cana on the eastern side of the island being the home to most of the luxury resorts. The birthplace of Merengue music, the island offers a wide variety of resorts and activities to suit all vacationers.