Things to Do in Caribbean

Happy Bay Beach is a beautiful, small, and secluded stretch of sand on St. Martin’s northwest coast. Since it requires a short hike to reach the beach, crowds tend to go elsewhere. The secluded nature of the beach makes it popular with clothing-optional sunbathers.

Known locally as Iguana Island, Little Water Cay emerges from the crystal clear waters just outside Providenciales. The tiny islet is ringed by white sandy beaches—a tranquil habitat for the endangered Turks and Caicos Rock Iguana, a charismatic green lizard endemic to the islands.

Like much of this capital city, Faro a Colon, a bold and imposing cross-shaped structure, serves as a tribute to one of the world’s most famous explorers. Built in a style that’s more urban office building than coastal treasure, this mausoleum and museum does have one distinct feature that’s responsible for its namesake. Columbus Lighthouse projects a unique cross-shaped beam with a light so bright it can be seen from the shores of Puerto Rico.

Travelers who venture to this concrete structure can explore a vast collection of Columbian jewelry, an ancient boat from Cuba and what locals say are the remains of Christopher Columbus.

Perched along St Lucia’s southwest coast and protected as a UNESCO World Heritage site, the dramatic twin peaks of Gros Piton and Petit Piton are among the Caribbean island’s most memorable landmarks. Towering 2,619 feet (798 meters) above sea level, the Gros Piton, the larger of the two, is also a popular challenge for avid hikers.

The River Antoine Estate is home to the oldest rum distillery in Grenada, where the originaly owners began producing rum in 1785. Today's owners continue the tradition, serving as a huge part of the Grenadine culture and history and offering a glimpse into the production of one of the country’s most famous exports.

Visitors can learn about and witness the process of production, from the initial picking of the sugarcane plant, which is compressed by a water wheel and boiled, to the fermentation and distilling processes. The site's water wheel is actually the oldest in the whole of the Caribbean. Of course there are opportunities to sample and taste the famous finished product, which is completely organic.

River Antoine rum is made entirely from the sugarcane juice during Grenada’s dry season (January to May) and supplemented with molasses in the wet season (June to December). Two different strengths are produced here, one of which is illegal to bring on a plane home, as it contains more than 70 percent alcohol!

Dark View Falls are two spectacular waterfalls in St Vincent, cascading down a sheer cliff face one above the other into natural pools below. The falls flow from a tributary of the Richmond River at the southern foot of La Soufrière volcano in the northwest of the island.

Ideal for children and those who enjoy nature but who don’t wish to complete long hikes, the short 15-minute walk from the main center to the falls is perfect. The path to the lower waterfall is both scenic and exhilarating, with a rickety bamboo bridge spanning the tumbling river leading to a pretty bamboo grove within the forest. A steeper trail then leads to the upper waterfall, where you’ll find a larger bathing pool to splash around in.

You can visit this attraction by booking a hiking tour to Dark View Falls, which includes the entrance fee and a professional guide. Don’t forget your swimwear if you’re planning to take a dip in the bathing pools.

Established in 1979, Bonaire National Marine Park displays the biodiversity of Caribbean coral reefs in all of their richness and vibrancy. The park offers 6,700 acres (2,700 hectares) of reefs, seagrasses, and mangroves and is home to rare species such as the green sea turtles and queen conch.

Macao Beach (Playa Macao) is one of the Punta Cana region’s least-crowded public beaches, set away from most resort hotels. A favorite among locals, this stretch of white sand is considered one of the Dominican Republic’s most beautiful coastal escapes, with clear blue waters and a beach break known for its surf-friendly waves.

The cobblestone streets of Puerto Rico’s Old San Juan, lined with brightly colored Spanish colonial houses, lend themselves to aimless yet inspired wandering, but don’t let yourself pass by the neighborhood’s key attractions. From the UNESCO World Heritage-listed forts of Castillo San Felipe del Morro (El Morro) and Castillo San Cristobal to restaurants serving plates of aromatic rice and fried plantains, Old San Juan charms travelers at every turn.

Once the pinnacle of Haiti’s national defense, the imposing Citadelle Laferrière is now an architectural icon. Located on the summit of Bonnet à l’Evêque mountain, the UNESCO World Heritage Site—which dates back to the beginning of the 19th century—can be seen from almost anywhere in northern Haiti.

Jardin de Balata is a botanical garden created by the poet and horticulturalist Jean-Philippe Thoze, who designed the space to reflect his childhood memories and celebrate Martinique’s natural beauty. The traditional Creole house at the center of the garden also offers views of the ocean, lush jungle, and giant palm trees.

Largely regarded as one of Jamaica’s best rum distilleries, the Appleton Estate has been producing the liquor since 1749. With its sprawling sugarcane plantations and facilities, the estate covers an 11,000-acre (4,452-hectare) plot and makes about 10 million liters of rum per year.

Los Haitises National Park is a hidden gem full of fascinating caverns, unspoiled beaches, and mangrove forests. Visit to enjoy hiking, kayaking, and caving, as well as some of the Dominican Republic’s best bird watching. The park is also home to caves full of carvings made by indigenous Taíno Indians.

With vibrant coral reefs, crystalline waters, and some of the largest southern rays in the Caribbean, it’s no wonder that Stingray City is one of the most visited attractions in the Cayman Islands. Dive into the warm Caribbean waters of the North Sound to swim and snorkel in an area known for its wild stingrays and learn more about the magnificent creatures and their conservation.