Top things to do in the Caribbean

The following article was written by me on behalf of Choice Hotels and I was paid to write this post. However, the opinions are entirely my own.

Imagine balmy breezes caressing your sun-kissed skin as you lounge on a white sandy beach, a perfectly chilled beverage resting next to you and a great book in your hands. Or, maybe you prefer to stroll along bustling streets with old world charm, exploring historic buildings and attractions. Or, you may prefer to hike through the lush, green rain forest, snorkel in crystal clear waters or kayak through waters illuminated with color from the microscopic bioluminescent organisms under the surface. It doesn’t matter if you’re dreaming of relaxation, exploration or adventure, you’ll find that and more in the islands of the Caribbean. Each island offers something unique with their own culture, history and attractions.

Top Things to do in the Caribbean

There are dozens of islands you can visit in the Caribbean; I’ve chosen to focus on the following:

Aruba

Home of some of the best beaches in the world, spectacular sunsets and great weather, Aruba is known for its beauty and romantic locale.  You may enjoy scuba diving or snorkeling, windsurfing, kitesurfing, an offshore fishing excursion, or enjoying the Dutch inspired architecture.

Don’t Miss:

Natural Pool, a rugged scenic area of coastline that is semi-private, accessible only by foot, 4 x 4 or horseback. Sit back and watch the spray of water against the rocks.

Arikok National Park, a desert like preserve located in the interior of the island, this national park takes up 20% of the island. With rugged terrain and stunning coastline, the park offers tours (self-guided tours also available) to explore the geological, cultural and historical sites within the park.

Dive up to 130 feet below the surface with Atlantis Submarines for an up close view of the marine life and sunken ships.

Bahamas

The scenic beauty and year round tropical temperatures make the Bahamas a popular tourist destination.

Don’t Miss:

The sprawling resort of Atlantis boasts an aquarium, water park and entertainment complex. Enjoy the high-speed slides and lazy river, and experience Dolphin Kay, one of the largest rescue-rehabilitation facilities in the world and swim with the dolphins. Save money and stay at the Comfort Suites Paradise Island Resort, a short walk from Atlantis, and still have full use of the Atlantis amenities.

Exuma Cays Land & Sea Park is the first marine protected area in the Caribbean. Popular with divers and boaters, snorkelers can experience 100-foot visibility on a good day.

Explore Nassau and climb the landmark Queen’s Staircase which was carved out of limestone by slaves in 1793 and 1794 to honor Queen Victoria.

Cayman Islands

One of the most visited islands in the Caribbean, the Caymans offer beautiful beaches and vibrant coral reefs for premiere diving.  Bird watchers will enjoy looking for the red-footed boobies.

Don’t Miss:

Grand Cayman, the largest of the Cayman Islands and home of the famous Seven Mile Beach. Stay at the Comfort Suites® Seven Mile Beach for the best lodging value on the island.

You’ll find more than turtles at the Turtle Farm. The habitat includes butterflies, sharks and more.

Queen Elizabeth II Botanical Park is a national gem which blends culture, history and the natural island surroundings. You’ll find Blue Iguanas, butterflies and a Woodland Trail that contains more than fifty percent of the Native Flora of the Caymans.    

Curacao

Boasting pastel-colored colonial architecture, stunning coral reefs, Curacao is the perfect locale for visitors who love water sports.

Don’t Miss:

Stroll across the Queen Emma Bridge which is supported by 16 pontoon boats to connect Willemstad’s two halves, Punda and Otrobanda this pedestrian bridge was built in 1888. This attraction is especially spectacular when it’s lit up at night.

Curacao Ostrich Farm offers a unique tour experience. Participants have the opportunity to ride on an ostrich and dine on ostrich at the on-site restaurant.

Mikve Israel-Emanuel Synagogue is the oldest surviving synagogue in the Americas and dates from the 1730’s. Attached to the synagogue is a museum with an impressive collection of artifacts of the Jewish faith.  

Puerto Rico

Puerto Rico is unique that it boasts the only rainforest in the U.S., has over 250 miles of coastline and is steeped in history with stunning architecture.

Don’t Miss:

Take a self-guided tour Old San Juan to find art, fountains and colorful historic buildings with old European charm and restaurants that serve food you’re not likely to forget anytime soon.

El Yunque Rainforest is the only rainforest within the U.S. and offers trails to explore, scenic views, waterfalls and historic features.

Kayak to see the tiny bioluminescent plankton that light up the Caribbean waters.

St. Maarten

St. Maarten is unique because the island I shared by two nations, as a result, the island has distinct influence from both the Dutch and the French.

Don’t Miss:

Put your feet in the sand at Maho Beach, and visit Sunset Bar and Grill, located at the end of the runway at Princess Juliana International Airport and enjoy the perfect vantage point to view the incoming planes as the fly overhead on the way to the runway.

Visit the Butterfly Farm to see hundreds of butterflies from around the world, take a guided tour and visit in the morning for the best chance of watching a butterfly emerging from their chrysalis.

Take a St. Martin and St. Maarten sightseeing tour to explore both the French and Dutch sides of the island to learn about the linguistic, culinary and cultural differences of the island.

Would you love to kick your feet up at one of these amazing islands? Now it’s more affordable than ever to plan and book an unforgettable Caribbean getaway. Choice Hotels offers reasonably priced hotels in prime locations on each of these islands that include key amenities to enhance your trip and make it that much better!

Visit ChoiceCaribbean.com to learn more and book your Caribbean getaway.

Which Caribbean island would you love to visit and what would you look forward to most? 

*All images supplied by Choice Hotels

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