Discover hidden gems in the Caribbean

It’s time to set your out of the office and update your watch to island time. But, before you do, it is worth researching to find the Caribbean vacation spots that provide you with the perfect backdrop for your well-deserved island getaway. It is common knowledge that the best time to visit the Caribbean is during the dry season when there is a lower chance of hurricanes and extreme weather. So, to avoid the crowds during this busy time it is worth venturing off the beaten track to enjoy some of the top Caribbean destinations for natural seclusion. From the popular island escapes of Mexico to the lesser trodden beaches of Martinique, there is no shortage of island experiences to discover. Choose the best Caribbean islands to visit and start planning your next vacation today!

Mexico has been one of the most popular Caribbean destinations for years. While staying in the Riviera Maya, spend time visiting the ancient Mayan temples or venture into the wilderness at Xcaret Park. Once done exploring this corner of paradise, hop on one of the local ferries and head to the neighboring island of Holbox. This bohemian enclave sits right in the middle of the Caribbean sea is one of the best Caribbean islands to visit in July. This is thanks to the bioluminescence phenomenon that illuminates the oceans at night creating a natural light show that cannot be missed. The best way to see the island’s natural beauty is by bike so be sure to hire one before heading off to snap a selfie in front of the Holbox hammocks or to enjoy a spot of snorkeling in the crystal clear waters.

Escape the buzz of Punta Cana and spend a day away from the glitzy resort hotels at one of the best Caribbean vacation destinations. Isla Saona is everything you imagine a tropical island to be and more and most luxury hotels organize excursions to visit it. Step off the world at Canto de la Playa beach and soak up the rays on its paperwhite sandy shore. Due to the shallow waters, it is possible to find starfish and many other aquatic curiosities living in the crystalline waters. Get a closer look with a guided scuba diving tour, or for a more relaxing experience snorkel your way around the hidden coves of Saona island. Don’t miss out on a whale-watching adventure and make it extra romantic by booking a sunset excursion complete with sundowners. The secluded nature of this island makes it one of the best Caribbean islands for those searching for pure relaxation.

Escaping the world and enjoying peace and tranquility is the name of the game when visiting the Caribbean and the island of Martinique provides just that. It is the third-largest island of the Lesser Antilles and offers the perfect blend of West Indian and French culture. Martinique is high on the list of beautiful Caribbean islands to visit thanks to its rugged, wild appearance, a stark contrast to the typical picture-postcard Caribbean island. The untamed nature lends itself perfectly to hiking which can be enjoyed in many spots across the island such as Mount Pelée, the site of the 1902 volcanic eruption, and the Jardin de Balata, a beautifully manicured garden. Discover the ancient history of the island with a trip to La Savane des Escalaves, a slavery history site, and then toast to the island’s incredible beauty at Habitation Clément a rum distillery that offers guided tours.

There is nothing quite like a vacation with your best friends, especially when traveling to one of the least visited Caribbean islands. Caye Caulker is a must-visit when on vacation in Belize. Once a quiet fishing village, this island is now a backpacker hotspot and one of the best destinations for scuba diving the Great Blue Hole, a giant sinkhole off the coast of Belize, and a recognized UNESCO World Heritage Site. Since the island measures a meager 5 miles, the most popular mode of transport is walking. Golf carts and bicycles are also available for rental for those looking for speedier alternatives. The motto of the island is ‘Go Slow’ and that is exactly what you should do. While away a few hours soaking up the sun at ‘The Split’ the island’s top swimming spot. And be sure to snorkel in the gentle turquoise waters for the chance to see rainbow sea life up close.

Sometimes you don’t need to venture into the great unknown to enjoy some downtime in paradise. This can certainly be said for Aruba, a Dutch-owned island off the coast of Venezuela. It is one of the best Caribbean islands to visit for beach lovers and the luxury hotels offer everything you could need to have fun in the sun. But, this sandy corner of paradise is undergoing a revival and is now the go-to place for wellness breaks. From beach yoga to premium aromatherapy massages in Aruba’s top hotel spas, there is no shortage of ways to pamper weary travelers. As you float from beach to beach stop off at one of Aruba’s cultural highlights such as the local Aloe Vera farm or take in the magnificence of the ancient gold mills which are now in ruins. Aruba is one of the safest Caribbean islands for tourists and with proximity to the USA, it is ideal for a quick break in the sun.

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