The Caribbean is full of extraordinary sights and activities, from its rich, vibrant cultural offerings to breathtaking natural wonders—and for first-time visitors, deciding which island to visit can be overwhelming.
Widely regarded for their tropical climates and abundant, white-sand beaches, the Caribbean islands are some of the most popular vacation destinations in the world, and for newcomers, the best island to visit will depend on the desired travel experience.
Here are the best Caribbean islands for first-time visitors:
Aruba
Aruba is an ideal destination for travelers looking for a place to get away from it all. There are few urban centers to distract from the incredible beauty of its scenic, wind-sculpted deserts and gorgeous, white-sand beaches. The island is also home to a number of world-class resorts and restaurants, so new visitors will have plenty of premium options to choose from.
Aruba boasts a rich diverse culture, as well as a palpable sense of community among its residents. Travelers are invited to immerse themselves within the local customs, and indulge in what makes Aruba truly special.
The Bahamas
Newcomers to the Caribbean islands will be blown away by the Bahamas. This exotic vacation hotspot is a go-to destination for family-friendly adventure and fun-in-the-sun activities.
Looking forward to some water-based adventures, such as snorkeling or parasailing? Want to enjoy the sun and sand on a simply breathtaking beach? Or maybe you’re looking to take a tour of its parks and nature preserves? The Bahamas has something for every kind of traveler out there, so first-timers don’t need to worry about missing out on anything.
Consisting of more than 700 distinct islands, the Bahamas features plenty of all-inclusive resorts and exciting attractions—guaranteeing your first getaway here will be truly unforgettable.
Barbados
Hailed as one of the top destinations in the Caribbean, Barbados averages more than a million tourists per year. A favorite for solo and single travelers, it offers plenty of lively nightlife activities, along with relaxing, nature-based experiences including hiking, diving, guided tours, and more.
This island paradise boasts some of the best of all the Caribbean has to offer, including idyllic beaches, lush tropical forests, diverse and colorful cultures and cuisines, and wonderful year-round temperatures.
Barbados has everything for nascent travelers to enjoy a phenomenal Caribbean vacation.
The U.S. Virgin Islands
The U.S. Virgin Islands is an extremely popular destination for vacationers—with each of its three main isles renowned for their white-sand beaches, crystal-clear waters, and wealth of luxury resorts and associated amenities.
The two preferred islands for pioneering visitors are undoubtedly St. Thomas and St. Lucia. The former offers plenty of incredible shopping, dining and entertainment opportunities, while the latter is home to amazing volcanic peaks, fantastic snorkeling adventures, and picturesque hiking trails.
These islands are also favorites for those seeking romantic outings—with welcoming, tropical climates, secluded luxury resorts, and romantic hideaways scattered throughout. Couples can enjoy a relaxing day spa, lounge in one of the many in-suite infinity pools within its gorgeous hotels and resorts, take intimate walks to bask in the island's breathtaking beauty, and share intimate, candlelight dinners by the sea.
Jamaica
Jamaica is one of the most popular destinations in the Caribbean, and for good reason. This lively tropical paradise has something for everyone, no matter the desired vacation experience. Whether nature-loving adventurers, families craving fun-filled bonding time, or romantic couples seeking luxury—first-timers can find exactly what they’re looking for.
Lauded for its peaceful and friendly atmosphere, serene natural beauty and exciting nightlife, the island has all you need for an unforgettable Caribbean vacation. New travelers can enjoy pristine beaches with crystal-clear waters, lush vegetation and soaring mountains, scenic vistas, and lively, exciting cities. This magnificent destination is perfect for a relaxing, laid-back holiday or an exciting and adventurous experience.
With so many extraordinary choices, planning and arranging all the details of your trip can be overwhelming. You can take all the guesswork out of it by working with a qualified InteleTravel Advisor.
Our experienced advisors know the Caribbean inside and out, and will work with you to find the ideal island destination for your vacation and determine the perfect itinerary based on your preferences.
