8 Best Caribbean Islands to Visit in Summer 2024

The perfect holiday is guaranteed for almost every Caribbean island you visit. However, choosing the right destination is not always easy, because there are so many getaways available.

One important factor to keep in mind that can ruin your Caribbean summer vacation is sargassum seaweed! June, July and August are the peak months of the seaweed season. Luckily for you, we’ve got you covered and we’ve picked the islands that statistically have the least amount of seaweed on their coasts.

Whether you’re an adventurous solo traveler, a honeymooning couple, or a family of five, this list has you covered the 8 best Caribbean islands to visit in the summer of 2024.

St. Croix (US Virgin Islands)

St. Crois is a great destination for an authentic Caribbean experience. Despite being the largest of the US Virgin Islands and offering easy access to the US mainland (and no passport required), it still goes unnoticed. But there are several reasons why you can fall in love with it.

In addition to beautiful beaches, it also has plenty to offer for history lovers – from colonial architecture to sights such as the Estate Whim Plantation Museum or Fort Christiansvaern. You can also enjoy a number of outdoor activities, such as hiking and diving, as well as top-class shopping and dining.

If you don’t want to stay in one place for too long, why not do a little island hopping? From St. Croix you can easily reach St. Thomas, St. John and the British Virgin Islands for an overnight stay.

And in case you didn’t know, Americans can visit the US Virgin Islands without a passport!

Bonaire

Part of the Dutch island trio ABC (Aruba, Bonaire, Curaçao), Bonaire has a relaxed atmosphere and many secluded places to relax. It is a great choice for those who like to spend their holidays in an unconventional waywithout crowds.

Head to Washington Slagbaai National Park to find the most remote beaches and the iconic salt flats with flamingos. The colorful buildings and dive shops of the capital Kralendijk are also quite impressive. From there you can take a trip to the small island of Klein Bonaire.

Do you like exploring the underwater world? Bonaire is also home to the first and oldest marine park – the Bonaire National Marine Park. Other water sports you can practice are windsurfing and kitesurfing. Lac Bay in particular is known for offering fantastic conditions for this.

Anguilla

Anguilla is a little-known Caribbean island that only became popular in recent years during the post-pandemic travel boom! It is a British Overseas Territory located in the eastern part of the Caribbean Sea and most tourists come from the US or Great Britain.

Anguilla Tourist Board (ATB) published statistics for the first quarter of 2024 showing that the country has more than 62,188 visitors that’s an increase of 22% compared to 2023. This little number tells you how much of a “kept secret” this island is.

The island only has 33 beaches in total and some of the best are Shoal Bay, Meads Bay, Rendezvous Bay and Sandy Island.

If you are an all-inclusive resort type, Anguilla Island is not for you! Due to its great food scene, the island only has about 5 all-inclusive resorts.

Aruba

With its diverse landscape and numerous activities, Aruba appeals to all types of travelers. Beach lovers will appreciate the powdery white sand and turquoise water, which invites them with perfect conditions for snorkeling, diving or windsurfing.

Aruba prides itself on having one of the most beautiful beaches in the world, as well as one of the most sought after seaweed-free beaches in the Caribbean.

On the other hand, those who want to reconnect with nature can head out Arikok National Park. It is not only a fantastic place to walk, but also to learn about the history, flora and fauna of the area.

Furthermore, because Aruba is outside the hurricane belt, it is safe to visit all year round. Moreover, the weather is always fantastic.

Dominica

For the ultimate diving opportunities you simply have to visit Dominica. The shores are full of extraordinary underwater landscapes, such as the flows of volcanic bubbles at Champagne Reef or the submerged volcanic crater of Scott’s Head.

Often called the Nature Island, Dominica also features lush tropical greenery, and the best way to explore is via one of the numerous hiking trails. One of the most popular hikes is Boiling Lake, the second largest hot spring of its kind in the world. For the daring, there is the Waitukubuli National Trail – the longest route in the Caribbean, stretching over 185 kilometers.

Alternatively, immerse yourself in the pristine beauty of Dominica via river tubing or on a guided eco-tour. Whatever your preferences, this island will enchant you.

Long Island, Bahamas

With its beautiful beaches and luxurious resorts, the Bahamas is a well-known holiday destination. However, because it is less developed than other Bahamian islands, Long Island is still off the regular tourist path and offers a true Bahamian experience.

Relax on secluded beaches and hidden coves, dive to see pristine coral reefs, sharks and even sea turtles, or let traditional Bahamian cuisine tempt your taste buds. The fishing and boating opportunities are also excellent there.

To wait. That’s not all. When you’re on Long Island, check it out Dean’s blue hole is simply a must. The second deepest underwater sinkhole in the world attracts freedivers from all over the planet. Now it’s your turn to swim, dive or snorkel across it (keep in mind that you need to be a good swimmer as it is quite dangerous).

Virgin Gorda, BVI

You’ve probably heard of the British Virgin Islands, but have you heard of Virgin Gorda? We are not surprised. The third largest of the archipelago is one of the Caribbean’s best kept secrets. Even though it boasts beautiful nature and beaches, it has managed to remain without pushy commercialism, and its unique atmosphere is waiting for you to discover it.

Hike the trails through the scenic landscape, enjoy the best views from Gorda Peak, or explore the island’s coastline on a yacht or sailboat. You can also relax in one of the luxurious resorts and treat yourself to delicious food and spa treatments. All that makes it a popular destination among celebrities, and you can feel that way too. At least for a week.

Jamaica

This Caribbean classic should certainly not be missing from our list. It boasts breathtaking beaches, plenty of natural wonders and outdoor adventures, a fascinating history and friendly locals. Whatever you’re looking for, Jamaica certainly has it!

However, what makes Jamaica so special is its vibrant culture. Almost every evening there is a street dance event or a reggae show somewhere. Plus the food is great. Don’t forget to try local specialties such as Blue Mountain Coffee or roasted chicken. But we warn you: it will never taste the same in your home country.

If you’re looking for an all-inclusive vacation, we recently put together articles with TOP 5 resorts in Jamaica offering summer deals for 2024.