Caribbean Visitor Guide
Dozens of islands, one dream of turquoise water — this Caribbean guide helps you choose where to go, when to go and where to stay.
The Caribbean is not one destination but many: powder-soft Bahamian cays, lush and lively Jamaica, ever-sunny Aruba, dramatic St. Lucia and refined Barbados, plus the Caymans, Turks & Caicos and more. Choosing the right island — and the right resort and season — is the whole game, and a travel specialist makes it simple.
Planning a Caribbean Trip
Choose your island
Match beaches, vibe and budget to your trip.
Right resort & zone
Adults-only, family, luxury or boutique.
Best time to go
Dry season, value season and hurricane-season tips.
Getting there
Nonstop flights, cruises and island-hopping.
Popular Caribbean Islands
Bahamas & Turks & Caicos
Easy beaches and famously clear water.
Jamaica
Adventure, culture and all-inclusive value.
Aruba & the ABCs
Reliable sun outside the hurricane belt.
St. Lucia & Barbados
Romance, scenery and refined resorts.
What This Guide Helps You Do
- Pick the right island for your style
- Choose a resort & zone
- Time your trip & find value
- Plan cruises & island-hopping
- Book with a vetted specialist
Ready to plan your Caribbean getaway?
Tell us your islands, dates and travel style and we’ll match the best value. Get up to 5 free, no-obligation quotes from a Caribbean travel specialist.
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Why Smart Traveler?
Smart Traveler is a service of the travel division of Best of the USA, Inc. Entrust your trip to seasoned professionals specializing in cruises, tours, vacation packages, all-inclusive resorts and international airfares. With over 50,000 travel advisors in our growing database, we’re sure to have the experts right for your travel needs!
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Insider access to rates and partnerships unavailable to the average traveler.
Caribbean Travel — Frequently Asked Questions
Which Caribbean island should I choose?
Bahamas and Turks & Caicos for beaches, Jamaica for adventure and value, Aruba for reliable sun, St. Lucia and Barbados for romance and scenery.
When is hurricane season?
Roughly June–November, peaking August–October; the ABC islands (Aruba, Bonaire, Curaçao) sit largely outside the belt.
Resort or cruise?
A resort for one island in depth; a cruise to sample several. Many travelers do both over time.
How do I get a quote?
Request up to 5 free, no-obligation quotes from a Caribbean travel specialist and compare islands, resorts and dates.