The best islands in the Caribbean
The Caribbean has captivated travellers from the temperate zones for centuries. And after nearly 40 years visiting 75 islands (several a dozen times) in nearly 30 countries and dependencies, each with its slightly different but distinctly Caribbean story, I am still wowed by the islands’ tropical beauty: the coral cays and sandbars with cream-coloured strands set in dazzling turquoise sea, and the vertiginous drama of the volcanic islands with their million shades of jungle green.
The Caribbean air rings to the sounds of island rhythms – reggae, steel pan, soca, merengue, zouk and salsa – and as many languages – Spanish, French and Dutch and their Creoles, and English. Island life is demonstrative, lively and colourful. West Indians themselves are welcoming and generally laid back.
A Caribbean holiday is the perfect antidote to winter. There are pockets of sophistication and metropolitan style – some of the world’s finest beach hotels await you on the west coast of Barbados and on St Barths – but the Caribbean also has its own distinctive vibe, in its scores of upbeat resorts, boutique inns and charming beachside hideaways. And beyond the seafront screen of coconut oil and palms, there is a more natural island life to discover. Below are the best islands in the Caribbean. Perhaps their heart-stopping beauty will captivate you in your turn.
Which is the best Caribbean island for families?
When little travellers are involved, the ease of a resort jam-packed with activities takes the strain off parents and lets everyone enjoy the trip. Barbados is probably the best island in the Caribbean for families. Resorts offer Kids’ Clubs, activity programmes and special menus, smaller boutique hotels arrange child-minders and baby-sitting. For intergenerational holidays and trips with older children and teens, consider renting a villa from Oliver’s Travels.
What is the prettiest Caribbean island to go to?
There is geographical drama aplenty in the islands, but the diminutive grandeur of Nevis makes it the Caribbean’s prettiest island. You will fall in love as you approach it across the Narrows from St Kitts in a water taxi, its concave faces sweeping up to Nevis Peak, just 3232 feet and always capped by a cloud. The traditional stone buildings of tiny Charlestown speak of a more gracious West Indian age, and on the forested hillsides the intricate fretwork and finials of pretty gingerbread houses peek from among the jungle greenery.
Best islands in the Caribbean at a glance
- Best Caribbean island for beaches: Anguilla
- Best Caribbean island for diving: Dominica
- Best Caribbean island for honeymoons: St Lucia
- Best Caribbean island for island hopping: British Virgin Islands
- Best Caribbean island for families: Barbados











