The Caribbean Dream
The Caribbean Sea holds over 7,000 islands, each offering its own slice of paradise. From the reggae rhythms of Jamaica to the Dutch architecture of Curacao, the Caribbean presents an incredible diversity of cultures, cuisines, and experiences—all surrounded by some of the world's most stunning beaches.
Choosing Your Island
- Bahamas: Crystal-clear waters, swimming pigs, and easy access from the US East Coast.
- Jamaica: Reggae culture, jerk cuisine, and dramatic waterfalls.
- St. Lucia: Iconic Piton mountains, luxury resorts, and volcanic hot springs.
- Barbados: British colonial heritage, excellent rum, and consistent surf.
- Aruba: Desert landscapes, constant trade winds, and stunning beaches.
- US Virgin Islands: No passport required for Americans, great sailing.
Best Caribbean Experiences
Beach Life
The Caribbean is synonymous with perfect beaches. Some highlights:
- Grace Bay, Turks & Caicos—consistently rated world's best beach
- Pink Sands Beach, Harbour Island, Bahamas
- Seven Mile Beach, Grand Cayman
- Trunk Bay, St. John—perfect for snorkeling
Water Activities
- Snorkeling and diving on world-class reefs
- Sailing between islands
- Swimming with stingrays in Grand Cayman
- Kiteboarding in Aruba's steady winds
Cultural Experiences
- Explore colonial Old San Juan, Puerto Rico
- Visit rum distilleries in Barbados
- Experience Carnival in Trinidad
- Sample jerk chicken at a Jamaican roadside stand
Sailing the Caribbean
For the ultimate Caribbean experience, consider a sailing trip. The consistent trade winds and short distances between islands make the Caribbean perfect for:
- Bareboat charters: Rent your own sailboat if you're certified
- Crewed charters: Relax while professionals handle the sailing
- Windjammer cruises: Join a group on a tall ship for adventure
- Day sails: Experience sailing without the commitment
When to Visit
The Caribbean has a tropical climate with considerations:
- December-April: Dry season with perfect weather and highest prices
- May-June: Shoulder season with good deals and pleasant weather
- Hurricane Season (June-November): Lower prices but weather risk. Southern Caribbean (Aruba, Bonaire, Curacao) stays below the hurricane belt.