The Caribbean is famous for its collection of small islands, warm climates, excellent hotel resorts, and amazing beaches. The atmosphere in the Caribbean is ideal for those looking to get married, honeymooners, couples looking to get away, or even families that want to soak up the sun. The Caribbean appeals to those looking for romance and those looking to vacation with their family.
Best Caribbean Islands to Escape the Cold
As with any other area of the world, selecting a Caribbean island destination can be a difficult task. The Caribbean region is southeast of the Gulf of Mexico and the North American mainland, east of Central America, and North of South America. The weather stays warm year-round, and there are so many islands to choose from.
If you have the winter blues and are looking for a warm, tropical escape consider our list of Caribbean destinations to visit. In no particular order, these are our top six islands in the Caribbean to visit to escape the cold weather of winter.
1. Turks and Caicos
The Turks & Caicos Islands are located in the Atlantic Ocean. The two islands are not far from the Bahamas. These Caribbean islands are noted for their beautiful beaches and underwater adventures. The ocean water near Turks & Caicos Island is home to extensive coral reefs and diverse wildlife. These reefs bring in tourists from all around the world. Aside from traditional beach activities, you can enjoy fishing, diving, and snorkeling.
This island is famous amongst honeymooners due to the all-inclusive resorts that provide a romantic atmosphere and beautiful luxury hotels and spas with overwater bungalows and beachfront villas.
2. Tortola
Tortola is located in the Caribbean in the British Virgin Islands (BVIs). Many claims that the Tortola beaches are the best in all of the Caribbean. Tortola visitors are encouraged to visit Smugglers Cove and Long Bay Beach. These beaches are surrounded by the Caribbean sea and have crystal clear waters. There are many palm trees to provide shade in the Caribbean heat.
Tortola is the capital of and largest of the British Virgin Islands. Besides visiting beaches, visitors can hike up Mount Sage to the highest point of the BVI and look at all the islands from the elevated view. Tortola is a popular destination for cruises and frequently welcomes cruise guests to the island.
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3. Canouan Island
Canouan Island is in the Grenadines, which is found in the Caribbean. Out of the destinations on this list, Canouan Island is one of the least discussed and visited islands in the Caribbean. It is a hidden gem in the Caribbean that has managed to stay under the radar. It comes highly recommended by beach lovers, and the beautiful island is surrounded by one of the most extensive coral reefs in the Caribbean. Beach activities include windsurfing, snorkeling, scuba diving, and sailing. Canouan Island is most well-known for its private, intimate settings and luxury resorts. While many beaches on Caribbean islands fill up yearly with tourists, Canouan Island is still relatively undiscovered.
4. Jamaica
Jamaica is home to beautiful beaches, including the famous Seven Mile Beach in Negril. While Jamaica has several resorts with beautiful turquoise waters and soft sand beaches, they are most famous for their reggae music and fun watersports.
Vacationers can visit the capital of Jamaica, Montego Bay, or other parts of the island, such as Negril and Ocho-Rios. There are many all-inclusive resorts on the island, and the included perks will make any honeymoon perfect in this paradise. No matter what part of the island you experience, Jamaica will not leave anyone unsatisfied.
5. The Cayman Islands
The Cayman Islands is another popular summer vacation destination in the Caribbean. It comprises three islands: Grand Cayman, Little Cayman, and Cayman Brac. The islands are home to some of the best beaches in the Caribbean, the most popular Being Seven Mile Beach on Grand Cayman Island. All three islands offer numerous on and offshore activities. Vacationers looking for more intimate settings in the Cayman Islands often vacation at one of the smaller islands, Little Cayman and Cayman Brac. Since the islands are close to each other, many visitors visit all three.
6. Puerto Rico
Puerto Rico is an excellent destination for Americans that want the international vibe of Caribbean beaches but do not have a passport. Puerto Rico is an unincorporated US territory, so US citizens do not have to present passport documents when traveling to and from the island.
This island is famous for its beautiful beaches and vast rainforests. It is a popular destination for adventurers and thrill-seekers to go hiking, ziplining, kayaking, and many other fun outdoor activities. Similarly, it is a romantic destination and attracts honeymooners and vacationing couples who love to relax on the white sand beaches and stay at romantic beach resorts.
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Final Thoughts
Millions of tourists flock to the Caribbean for summer vacations each year. These islands are the best islands in the Caribbean to visit. If you have not visited the Caribbean area, you are encouraged to get down there and see what you have been missing.
While this is not a comprehensive list of all the beautiful destinations in the Caribbean, it summarizes some of the most popular and overlooked destinations that will make your winter escape unforgettable.
This article originally appeared on The Impulse Traveler.
