Caribbean Travelers Recommend

After the sun goes down and the stars come out, the dark bays of Puerto Rico become illuminated by tiny bioluminescent plankton: one of the most spectacular sights in the Caribbean. Puerto Rico is home to some of the few remaining bioluminescent bays on the planet. Here are some places where you can enjoy the view from a kayak.

Laguna Grande Bio Bay Near Fajardo

Located within Las Cabezas De San Juan nature reserve, mangrove-lined Laguna Grande sits on the northeastern coast of Puerto Rico, and its calm waters make paddling easy. The world’s only bioluminescent lagoon shines with a blue-green light from thousands of tiny pyrodiniums bahamenses organisms as your kayak cuts through the water.

Mosquito Bay on Vieques

The island of Vieques, situated off the coast of mainland Puerto Rico, has its own bioluminescent bay, and it is considered the brightest in Puerto Rico. Though Mosquito Bay isn’t as easily accessible as Laguna Grande, the blue-green glow produced by the dinoflagellates in these waters is a worthy reward for your efforts. Nighttime tours typically involve an overnight stay on the island, and offer insight into the biology of these microorganisms and the role they play in the island’s ecosystems.

La Parguera Bio Bay in Lajas

The third of Puerto Rico’s bioluminescent bays is situated near the town of Lajas, making it the most accessible of the three. If you’re not into night kayaking, you can visit the bay on a guided boat trip, which often includes the opportunity to don snorkeling gear and jump in the gentle glowing water.

Best known for its cobbled colonial streets and old forts, Puerto Rico’s capital city has transformed into a major metropolis since Juan Ponce de León first landed here in 1508. The second-oldest European settlement in the Americas packs plenty of historical and cultural appeal and doubles as the gateway to the rest of this US territory in the Caribbean. Well over 3 million visitors come to Puerto Rico each year for sandy beaches, mangrove forests, colorful coral reefs, and the only tropical rain forest in the US. Here are our top picks for activities that you shouldn’t miss while on the island.

Temperatures start to soar in San Juan during the summer months, but with miles of sandy beaches to choose from, keeping cool is a breeze. Summer also marks the beginning of hurricane season and Puerto Rico’s off-season, so you won’t have to fight crowds or inflated hotel prices. Here’s how to enjoy a summer visit to San Juan.

• Take a walking tour and explore the colorful buildings and charming streets of Old San Juan.
• Cool off in the water on a snorkeling cruise to a nearby nature reserve.
• Get a taste of local flavors on a food tour.
• Keep cool with a rum cocktail after touring the Bacardi Distillery.
• Experience the natural wonder of a bioluminescent bay on a swim and snorkel tour after dark.
• Enjoy the breeze off the water on a sailing trip around the harbor.
• Siesta in the hot afternoon, then join an evening tour that takes in the local nightlife.
• Soar through the rain-forest canopy on a ziplining adventure.
• Spend the day snorkeling and sunbathing in paradise on a day trip to Culebra.
• Go off road on an ATV tour and explore the lush countryside.

San Juan is packed with both historic and cultural appeal, and it’s also surrounded by rain 

forest and beach-lined Caribbean islands, making it an excellent base for exploration. Here are our recommendations for how to spend three days in the Puerto Rican capital.

Day 1: City Sightseeing

Kick off your trip to Puerto Rico with some sightseeing in Old San Juan. Zip around the 500-year-old city on a guided Segway tour, or lace up your walking shoes and hit the cobblestones the old-fashioned way. No matter how you choose to tour, you’ll learn more about the island’s colonial history while visiting some of its most impressive sites, including the forts Castillo San Felipe del Morro and Castillo San Cristobal—together a UNESCO World Heritage Site—San Juan Cathedral, and Paseo de la Princesa. Continue your explorations in the afternoon with a visit to the Museu de las Américas to learn about the indigenous cultures of the area, the Museum of Art of Puerto Rico, or the Bacardi Rum Factory. In the evening, treat your taste buds to a tasting tour of Old San Juan to sample some of the island’s best craft beers, cocktails, and local foods.

Day 2: Aquatic Adventures

No visit to Puerto Rico (or the Caribbean, for that matter) would be complete without spending some time in the water. Choose your level of adventure today. Cruise aboard a high-speed catamaran to the island of Culebra for a day of swimming or sunbathing on the white-sand beaches; head to Vieques Island for some of the region’s best snorkeling; catch a wave during a surf lesson at La Pared Beach in nearby Luquillo; learn to scuba dive or Snuba; or charter a boat for a day of deep-sea fishing for blue marlin, dorado, wahoo, sailfish, or tuna. Back on dry land, sign up for an evening salsa lesson before hitting the town for a night of dancing.

Day 3: Into the Jungle

Puerto Rico holds the distinction of being home to the only tropical rain forest in the United States, El Yunque National Forest. There’s plenty to do within the park, from jungle trekking and ziplining through the canopy to waterfall rappelling or kayaking, depending on your interest. Alternatively, spend the day exploring two of Puerto Rico’s natural wonders in one tour. Start with a waterfall hike in El Yunque, with time for a cooling swim at the base of the waterfall. After lunch, continue your adventure to the mangrove channels of Laguna Grande, one of the island’s bioluminescent bays. Once the sun goes down, grab a paddle and head out onto the water, where tiny, harmless plankton illuminate the water to create an otherworldly scene.

Spring is possibly the best time to visit San Juan: The weather is warm and sunny, hurricane season has passed, and the winter crowds have gone home. If you are visiting between March and May, here are a few ways to make the most of it.

• Get a taste of local food culture on a food tour around Old San Juan.
• Embrace the warm spring weather by going hiking in El Yunque rain forest.
• Paddle through the glowing waters of a bioluminescent bay on a kayaking tour.
• Tour the Bacardi distillery and learn how to make classic cocktails at Casa Bacardi.
• Descend into a million-year-old cavern on a tour to Camuy cave.
• Soak up the sun on a white-sand beach lapped by turquoise waters on a day trip to Culebra.
• Catch some waves and hone your skills with a surfing lesson.
• Explore marine life in clear waters on a snorkeling, Scuba, or Snuba tour.
• Take advantage of the colors and light of spring and secure memorable images in a photography workshop.
• Sail into the sunset on a cruise around San Juan.

The lively Puerto Rican capital of San Juan has plenty to keep the whole family occupied. Activities range from outdoor adventures and food tours to art and music workshops. Here’s how to make the most of your San Juan vacation with young explorers in tow.

• Explore the underwater world off the coast of San Juan during a beginner-friendly snorkeling or SNUBA experience.
• Sample different Puerto Rican foods during a walking-and-food tour of San Juan.
• Explore the city and its surrounds by Segway, bike, car, or ATV on a private tour that can be tailored to the needs of your family.
• Make the most of San Juan’s nearby nature: kayak to bioluminescent bays, zipline through the jungle, go caving, or hike through El Yunque Rainforest.
• Let the little ones get creative during a painting class or Afro-Percussion drum workshop.
• Older kids and adults alike can enjoy a competitive game of Archery Tag at a ranch in the San Juan countryside.

San Juan’s sunny weather lures lots of northern-hemisphere travelers during the winter months. Though peak tourist season brings crowds, it’s the ideal time for outdoor exploration and adventure. Here are a few ways to experience San Juan in winter.

• Unpeel the layers of history in the colorful buildings and charming streets of Old San Juan on a walking tour.
• Go hiking in El Yunque, the only tropical rain forest in the United States National Forest system.
• Discover one of San Juan’s hidden waterfalls on a hiking adventure.
• Tour the distillery and learn how to make classic rum cocktails at Casa Bacardi.
• Embrace the outdoors on a rafting, caving, and hiking adventure.
• Soak up the sun on a day trip to the island of Culebra.
• Improve your wave-catching skills with a surfing lesson.
• Soar over the rain-forest canopy on a ziplining tour.
• Kayak through glowing water on a bioluminescent bay tour.
• Sail into the sunset on a cocktail cruise aboard a luxe catamaran.

Punta Cana beaches in the Dominican Republic are ideal picture of a waterfront paradise with their pristine white sand, turquoise waters, and countless palm trees. Here are our picks for the best Punta Cana beaches and what you can do while you’re there.

Bavaro Beach (Playa Bavaro)

As one of the largest and most popular beaches in the area, the town of Bavaro is lined with small shops and dotted with luxurious all-inclusive resorts. Most boat trips and snorkeling excursions to places like Saona Island (Isla Saona) leave from Bavaro Beach.

Macao Beach (Playa Macao)

The public beach of Macao feels relatively untouched. It's a great spot to enjoy water sports, including surfing, windsurfing, and parasailing. Don’t miss the chance to get muddy on a Macao buggy adventure.

Uvero Alto

Located far from the tourist activity of the main beaches, Uvero Alto is quieter than most and often reached by boat trip or off-roading adventure.

Playa Blanca

Its name translates to “white beach,” so it's no surprise that Playa Blanca has some of the most beautiful white sands in the country. The waters are calm here, and this stretch of sand can be accessed by dune buggy.

Cabeza de Toro Beach

Surrounded by tropical forest with palm trees and wildlife close at hand, Cabeza de Toro Beach is a great spot for snorkeling and getting in touch with nature.

Cap Cana

Located at the eastern tip of the coast, Cap Cana is famous for golfing and for its popular beaches where the Atlantic Ocean meets the Caribbean Sea.

Spring is an ideal time to head to the Caribbean for a getaway—you'll find fewer crowds and more deals than in winter, plus the warm island weather that entices travelers from around the world. Whether you're looking to cater to the kids, lay out on a relaxing catamaran cruise, or satisfy a family of adrenaline junkies, you'll find adventures from the Cayman Islands to Aruba. See below for the best surf lessons, catamaran excursions, submarine rides, and more.

Not going to the Caribbean? Check out top things to do for spring break in Cancun, Miami, and Las Vegas.

With its swaying palm trees, powder-white sands, and starfish-filled natural pools, Saona Island (Isla Saona) is every bit the postcard image of a Caribbean paradise. Reachable only by boat, the island makes a popular choice for a day trip from Punta Cana. Here are your options.

Group Tours

Group tours offer the best value for your money and typically include plenty of stops for swimming and snorkeling at the island’s beaches and natural swimming pools, along with a buffet lunch, an open bar, and onboard entertainment. Some tours also include a stop at Los Altos de Chavon, a visit to the island villages of Mano Juan and Catuano, or snorkeling and wildlife watching in the Del Este National Park.

Private Tours

Private tours ensure a personalized experience and can be tailored to your preferences, so you can fill your day with water sports and outdoor activities, or seek out a deserted beach to relax and sunbathe. A private tour can also be a big time saver. You’ll avoid long transfers with multiple pickups and drop-offs, and head straight to the island instead.

Things to Know

• Saona Island is located off the southeastern coast of the Dominican Republic and is reachable by boat from Bayahibe. A speedboat transfer to the island takes about 40 minutes, while catamaran cruises take two hours.

• Full-day tours from Punta Cana typically last between eight and 10 hours.

• Be sure to bring everything you need with you, as there are no shops on the island.

• Most full-day Saona Island tours include hotel pickup and drop-off, round-trip transfers from Punta Cana, and lunch.

Punta Cana’s sunny beaches, jungle canopies, and rugged countryside aren’t just for adults. This slice of Caribbean paradise offers loads of family-friendly adventures for the young and the young at heart. Here are some suggestions for things to do in Punta Cana with kids.

• Explore Punta Cana’s underwater wonders during a sailing and snorkeling excursion through the warm Caribbean waters.
• Learn about the island’s squirrel monkeys with a visit to the Monkeyland animal sanctuary.
• Go off-road into the Dominican countryside via a buggy adventure.
• Spend the day swimming, snorkeling, ziplining, and caving at Cap Cana Resort Scape Park.
• Soar through the canopy by zipline as you soak up the aerial views of the surrounding rain forest.
• Learn to surf on Macao Beach.

Punta Cana, situated on the eastern coast of the Dominican Republic, is a tropical playground of white-sand beaches, gently swaying coconut palm trees, luxe all-inclusive resorts, coastal golf courses, and the turquoise waters of the Caribbean. With 20 miles (30 kilometers) of sandy shoreline, overcrowding is rarely an issue. The biggest challenge facing any visitor to this little slice of paradise is deciding how to make the most of their time enjoying the sun, sand, and sea. Whether you plan to hit the beach and never leave or extend your explorations farther inland, see below for our top picks of experiences you simply can’t miss in Punta Cana.

Although fall in San Juan includes the tail end of hurricane season, it can be a great time to visit. You’ll avoid the humidity of summer and the crowds of winter while still enjoying sunny weather and warm temperatures. If you are visiting San Juan between September and November, here are some suggestions for what to do.

• Soak up the atmosphere in the charming streets of Old San Juan on a walking tour.
• Embark on a hiking tour of El Yunque, the United States’ only tropical rain forest.
• Visit a bioluminescent bay and paddle through glowing water on a kayaking tour.
• Soar through the rain-forest canopy on a ziplining adventure.
• Spend the day snorkeling and sunbathing in paradise on a day trip to Culebra.
• Tour the Bacardi Distillery and enjoy a glass of rum at the source.
• Explore life underwater on a snorkeling tour.
• Maximize your time with a combination tour to both Rio Camuy Cave Park and Arecibo Observatory.
• Learn some new moves in a salsa dancing class.
• Head just out of the city to Hacienda Campo Rico, a former sugar-cane plantation surrounded by rain forest and mangroves.

With two days to spend in the Puerto Rican capital, you’ll be able to tour the colonial old city, explore otherworldly bioluminescent bays, and head farther afield to experience Puerto Rico’s rain forests. Here are some suggestions for how to spend your 48 hours in San Juan.

Day 1: Classic San Juan

**Morning:**Start your day early with an orientation of the city. Whether you opt for a walking, biking, or Segway tour, you’ll get to see the cobbled streets of Old San Juan, St. John’s Cathedral, Ponce de León Square, and fortifications that make up a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Some tours include a visit to the Museo de las Américas or the Santurce arts district.

**Afternoon:**This afternoon, get a behind-the-scenes look at the distillery producing one of the world’s most famous rum brands, Bacardi. Sip a rum cocktail while touring the Casa Bacardi facilities to learn more about the company’s history and distillation, fermentation, and bottling processes. Pick up a bottle or two to take home with you.

**Night:**Puerto Rico is home to beautiful examples of a rare natural phenomenon: bioluminescent bays. Head out late afternoon to visit La Parguera for an evening cruising, snorkeling, or kayaking in the bay. After dark, the water will begin to glow as tiny plankton called dinoflagellates light up. It’s a magical experience you can have in few other places on the planet.

Day 2: Caribbean Paradise

**Morning:**This morning, get an early start for a visit to the only tropical rain forest in the United States, El Yunque National Forest. While most tours to the area last an entire day, it’s possible to make a morning visit to see some of the trails, waterfalls, and 240 species of plants and animals that live in this habitat.

**Afternoon:**If you opted for a half-day visit to El Yunque (or if you’d rather stick to the coast), spend the rest of your day snorkeling, sailing, Snubaing, or stand-up paddleboarding in the warm Caribbean waters just off the coast of San Juan.

**Night:**For your last night in Puerto Rico, kick back and relax aboard a leisurely sunset sail through Old San Juan Harbor. Opt for an old-fashioned schooner or modern catamaran as you glide pas El Morro Fortress, La Fortaleza, and Paseo la Princesa, all illuminated as day fades to night.

With consistently pleasant weather, the 21-mile-long (34-kilometer-long) island of Aruba is a popular Caribbean tourist spot. Boasting a plethora of land and sea activities, the tiny paradise offers a diverse mix of options to fill a 3-day itinerary. From ATV sightseeing tours to scuba diving lessons to sunset cruises, here’s how to make the most out of three days in Aruba.

Day 1: Island Paradise

Head out on your own ATV or as part of a 4x4 Jeep tour to see Aruba’s natural wonders and cultural highlights such as the Ayo and Casibari rock formations, with drawings by the Arawak Indians; the tiny yellow Alto Vista Chapel, which still holds services; and the California Lighthouse, considered one of the most photogenic spots in Aruba. Alternatively, join a hiking tour and discover the island’s rugged countryside on foot before the afternoon heat sets in.

In the afternoon, cool off with a relaxing swim in the calm blue waters of family-friendly Baby Beach and grab a bite to eat at a nearby snack shack. Huts are scattered throughout the beach for sun protection, and snorkel gear is also available to rent. Other beaches include Malmok Beach, which is rugged and popular for snorkeling, and Palm Beach, which borders the high-rise hotels.

Day 2: Sea Adventure

Just off the coast of Aruba lies De Palm Island, an all-inclusive destination that offers something for everyone, from families to couples. Get away from the crowds of Aruba on a day trip to this remote coral island, where you can go snorkeling, scuba diving, and ziplining. Hop on a banana boat and ride the waves, glide down a water slide, or simply grab a drink and relax on the beach.

Another option is to hop aboard a catamaran and head to Catalina Bay to explore the hidden treasures of the SS Antilla, which was sunk by its own captain to avoid Dutch possession. Be on the lookout for angelfish, parrot fish, grouper, octopus, and barracuda while swimming around the shallow coral reef. Or go deeper and join a scuba diving tour. Various options are available, such as introductory courses for beginners and 2-dive tours for advanced certified divers.

Day 3: Off-the-Beaten Path

Discover the other side of Aruba by visiting the island’s factories to learn how some indigenous products are made. Head to the Aruba Aloe Factory to find out more about the plant, or visit the Balashi Beer Brewery to see how islanders treat ocean water in order to brew beer. See how cigars are hand-rolled at the Aruhiba Cigar Factory, or head to a local rum shop to sample island-grown liquor.

Top off your visit to Aruba with a picturesque sunset sail. Enjoy a dinner of Caribbean dishes and cocktails onboard an open-deck catamaran as you watch the last rays of sun disappear. Alternatively, spend the evening barhopping around Aruba’s favorite watering holes with the help of a guide. A drink or shot at each stop is typically included with these type of pub crawls, plus you don’t have to worry about driving.

Blessed with miles of powder-fine sand, calm crystalline waters, and a balmy offshore breeze, Aruba has some of the best beaches in the Caribbean. From mellow shores filled with families to popular spots packed with activities, here are our picks for top Aruba beaches.

Baby Beach

A crescent of white sand along Aruba’s south coast, Baby Beach is aptly named, as its calm, shallow waters make it an ideal choice for families with young children. Visit as part of an Aruba sightseeing tour or off-road island tour, stopping at sights such as the Ayo Rock formation, the Natural Bridge, the Gold Mill Ruins, and the Natural Pool.

Palm Beach

Lined with high-rise hotels, beach bars, and lavish Aruba resorts, Palm Beach is the first port of call for many holidaymakers. This is the place to enjoy water sports, with everything from banana boat rides and sunset cruises to wakeboarding, parasailing, and Flyboarding. Eagle Beach, another one of Aruba’s most popular beaches, lies just to the south.

De Palm Island

A 5-minute boat ride from the mainland, De Palm Island offers nonstop entertainment for all ages. Splash pools, water slides, and beach volleyball courts line the beaches, and activities include SNUBA and Sea Trek excursions, ziplining, snorkeling with blue parrotfish, and salsa lessons.

Arashi Beach

Secluded white sands, abundant reef life, and the famous Antilla shipwreck—a sunken German WWII freighter—make Arashi Beach a top choice for Aruba divers. Set sail on a snorkel cruise or scuba diving excursion, walk the rocky shores of Boca Catalina, or visit the nearby California Lighthouse.

St. Maarten (and its French counterpart, St. Martin) is considered the melting pot of the Caribbean. Three days are enough time to experience the island’s rich diversity of cultures and activities, and even venture farther afield in the Lesser Antilles. Here’s how to make the most of your time there.

Day 1: Adventures on land

Spend your first day getting oriented on this 2-nation island. Start with a guided tour of the main attractions on both sides of the border. Active travelers might opt for a biking tour, while those who prefer traveling independently might purchase a hop-on hop-off bus pass. In the afternoon, try one of the island’s outdoor adventures: sail down Sentry Hill on the Flying Dutchman zipline (one of the world’s steepest); head off-road on a guided all-terrain vehicle ride to some of the island’s most beloved beaches; or if you’re traveling with kids, check out the aerial obstacle course at Loterie Farm. In the evening, enjoy the numerous restaurants, bars, and casinos at Maho Bay, St. Maarten’s version of Las Vegas. 

Day 2: Experiences at sea

Today is your opportunity to savor the white-sand beaches and turquoise waters for which the Caribbean is famous. Spend the day on a small-group sailing excursion along the coastline, stopping to swim or chill on the beach—or take a speedboat to Tintamarre and Pinel islands to explore the underwater world at some of St. Maarten’s top snorkeling spots. Alternatively, go deeper with a beginner-friendly scuba diving experience in Simpson Bay, or parasail above Orient Bay Beach. Wind down your day on the water with a romantic sunset cruise, Champagne in hand.

Day 3: Caribbean island hopping

St. Maarten is a desirable destination in its own right, but it’s also an excellent base for exploring other islands in the Lesser Antilles. A popular day trip takes visitors to Anguilla—known for its long beaches and lively beachside barbecues—with a stop at Prickly Pear Cays for some swimming and snorkeling along the way. Or, hike through the indigenous rain forest on the pristine island of Saba, grabbing lunch afterward in quaint Windwardside. Alternatively, gather your friends or family for a private day trip to glamorous St. Barth. At the end of a busy day, relax with a quiet dinner at your hotel.

With three days in Montego Bay, not only can you experience many of the area’s natural highlights and historical sites, but you’ll also have time to immerse yourself in local culture and take an excursion or two. Here’s how to get the most out of three days in this Jamaican city.

Day 1: MoBay Highlights

Spend your first day in Montego Bay soaking up the local ambience. Start with a walk down the Hip Strip, where you can pick up classic Jamaican souvenirs such as rum and coffee. From here, head straight to Doctor’s Cave Beach, a beautiful strip of white sand that leads out to calm, crystalline waters ideal for snorkeling and swimming. Grab lunch here before making your way out to the Rose Hall Great House, an 18th-century plantation home that’s allegedly haunted by a murderous former resident; those interested in the paranormal should consider sticking around for a ghost-themed night tour. Otherwise, head back to the city center in time to board a sunset cruise, many of which include free drinks and snacks; some also include a stop at a beach for an evening swim.

Day 2: Active Adventure and Rastafari Culture

Start your second day in Montego Bay with a trip out to the jungle. Don't miss the chance to go ziplining through the jungle canopy, a great way to get your adrenaline pumping while taking in a bird's-eye view of local fauna and flora. Alternatively, take an ATV ride through the jungle or go river tubing along the Great River, with its mix of calm stretches and rapids. Numerous tours depart from Montego Bay, and many are customizable depending on your interests. In the afternoon, head back to the Montego Bay area to visit to the Rastafari Indigenous Village. Here you can learn about the Rastafarian philosophy and way of life, explore the organic vegetable garden, learn about the Rastafarian ital diet, and even learn how to make and play drums. Finish your day back in the center of town with a laid-back dinner, or if you still have energy to burn, dance the night away at Margaritaville After Dark.

Day 3: Marley and Waterfalls

On your final day, head out to Dunn’s River Falls, a terraced waterfall a short drive from Montego Bay. If you like to hike, you can take a walk up to the top of the falls; otherwise, there’s an observation deck from which visitors can take in the site. Either way, be sure to pack a swimsuit so you can cool off in one of the falls’ many pools. In the afternoon, grab lunch in the area and then head to Bob Marley’s birthplace, Nine Mile. Here you can see where the king of reggae used to meditate, or pay your respects at his mausoleum; you’ll likely get the most out of your experience if you visit with a guide or as part of a tour. On the way back to MoBay, top off your trip with an evening boat ride (and optional swim) in the beautiful bioluminescent waters of the famous Luminous Lagoon. 

If you have three days in the town of Negril, in western Jamaica, you can enjoy a relaxing combination of beach time and outdoor activities in the nearby countryside, including climbing through waterfalls, zipping through jungle canopies, and riding horses on the beach. Here are some ways to spend 72 hours in this resort destination.

Day 1: Relaxing in Negril

Start your trip with a private sightseeing tour to get oriented, and check out attractions such as Seven Mile Beach. Afterwards head to the beach to swim, sunbathe, join a game of beach volleyball, go snorkeling or parasailing, or hop on a glass-bottom boat tour. Alternatively, you can head to Kool Runnings Adventure Park, a water park that offers a family-friendly way to stay cool, or take a catamaran cruise to nearby hotspots such as Floyd’s Pelican Bar. In the evening, find a great place to view the sunset, whether from a beachside bar or on a cruise to Rick’s Cafe, a popular watering hole on top of coastal cliffs. Later, check out Negril’s bars and clubs on a nightlife tour.

Day 2: Surrounding Adventures

On your second day, get active: Head out on a tour to the Black River and the well-known YS Falls, where you can take a boat ride, enjoy fresh-water swimming, and climb the tiers of a waterfall. You can also take zipline tours through the lush jungle canopy, horseback rides, and ATV tours that take you past villages and along off-road tracks. 

After you get your adrenaline going, make a stop at the Appleton Estate (which is included on some outdoor adventure tours) for some local rum, then head inland a bit to the Zimbali Mountain Cooking Studio for a cooking demonstration and dinner. End the day on Jamaica’s north coast with a boat ride on the Luminous Lagoon, where microorganisms create a natural shimmer in the dark water.

Day 3: Go Exploring

Jamaica has no shortage of attractions that show off the island’s lush natural beauty, and many are within easy reach of Negril. Take a day trip to Dunn’s River Falls and Park, near Ocho Rios, one of the island’s most popular locations. You can climb up the terraced waterfall, admire the scenic countryside, and go snorkeling; some tours even include a catamaran cruise. Then, for one last adventure, head to nearby Blue Hole, a natural swimming hole with a waterfall where you can climb, jump, and swim.

Locally known as ‘Provo’, Providenciales is the Turks & Caicos group’s beach resort capital. Luxury development has only come to Provo in the past 30 or so years, with Downtown and Kew Town the main settlements. Wilderness and pristine beaches remain intact, and the island’s west is protected by national parks.

Day 1: Beaches Provo’s choice beach resort is Grace Bay, with its 18-hole golf course, restaurants, shops, dive outfits, bars and, of course, lovely white-sand beach. There are coral reefs offshore for diving, snorkeling close to shore for beginners, and shady palm trees for beach bunnies. Other beaches include secluded Malcolm Road on the west coast; the Bight, west of Grace Bay, for kitesurfers and families with young kids; and remote Leeward on the island’s eastern tip.

Day 2: Diving & Snorkeling Dive into the waters off Malcolm Road beach into the coral wonderland of Northwest Point Marine National Park, home to sea sponges, turtles, rays and a glittering smorgasbord of tropical fish. The best sites are Black Coral Forest and Amphitheatre Or head to the island’s southwest to snorkel the electric-blue lagoon of Chalk Sound National Park. Just off Grace Bay, the mini coral wall is great for beginners while sites for more expert divers include Grouper Hole and Graceland.

Day 3: North Caicos Excursion Set sail from Provo to spend the day on neighboring North Caicos, 30 minutes away by boat. There are white sands and swimming at Whitby Beach, snorkeling at Three Mary’s Cays, and a surrounding string of deserted islands to sail to, including Middle Caicos and Pine Cay. Lush North Caicos is home to pink flamingos, frigate birds, sandpipers, ospreys and iguanas, and there are plantation ruins and caves to explore.

Known for its turquoise waters, rugged coastline, and popular beaches, the island of Aruba is a tiny tropical paradise that’s packed with plenty of outdoor activities, cultural sights, and picturesque views. Explore the island by sea with swimming and snorkeling tours and by land with ATV or 4WD tours. Here’s how to get the best of Aruba in just one day.

Morning: Ride an ATV Around Aruba

Start your day with an adrenaline rush as you ride an ATV around Aruba's rugged landscape. Along the way, take in the island’s main sights, including Wish Rock Garden, Baby Bridge, Black Stone Beach, the California Lighthouse, and the Bushiribana Gold Mine Ruins. Exploring Aruba’s craggy terrain by ATV is the perfect way to get the lay of the land, especially for adventurous travelers. Alternatively, join a guided 4WD Jeep tour to visit sights not easily accessible by standard vehicles. Plus, you’ll be able to sit back and relax while your guide/driver is behind the wheel.

Afternoon: Snorkel, Swim, and Scuba

Cool off from the afternoon sun with a refreshing dip in the Caribbean. Aruba is a popular destination for avid scuba divers and snorkelers, but you don’t need previous experience to enjoy these activities. Beginning divers can sign up for an introductory lesson, which typically starts with instructions in a pool before students explore a shallow reef or one of the island’s legendary shipwrecks. Advanced divers can either rent equipment or join a 2-dive group tour. Alternatively, head out on a catamaran to see the colorful sea life while snorkeling.

Night: Sail at Sunset

Whether from the beach, the water, or simply your balcony, catching the sunset in Aruba is a must. For a magical experience, set sail aboard a catamaran on a dinner cruise. Drink tropical cocktails and dine on traditional island fare as you watch the sun sink into the Caribbean waters. If you prefer to dine on land, choose a sunset sailing option that offers snacks and wine instead. Alternatively, certified divers can sign up for a guided night dive and use a special fluorescent light to see marine life such as corals, anemones, and crustaceans.

One of the most popular spots in Jamaica, Montego Bay is a laid-back, tourist-friendly city with excellent beaches, fascinating history, and a wealth of activities. Even with just one day here, visitors can experience many of MoBay's most interesting attractions. Here's how.

Morning: Shopping or Swimming

Spend your morning getting acquainted with Montego Bay. To discover the city’s best shops and boutiques and get the lay of the land with a guide, consider joining a shopping tour. Montego Bay is a good place to pick up everything from Jamaican Blue Mountain coffee to quirky souvenirs in Rastafarian colors of red, gold, and green, with numerous souvenir shops right on the main Hip Strip drag. Alternatively, make your way straight to Doctor's Cave Beach, a famous stretch of white sand flanked by turquoise water that's ideal for swimming and snorkeling. Grab lunch here.

Afternoon: Rose Hall Great House

After lunch, head out to see one of the most significant historic attractions in the area, the 18th-century Rose Hall Great House. This beautifully restored Georgian mansion sits in the middle of a former plantation and is an excellent spot to learn about life in Jamaica during colonial times. Be warned: The house is allegedly haunted by former resident Annie Palmer, the "White Witch of Rose Hall”; legend has it that she poisoned three of her husbands in the house.

Night: Luminous Lagoon

A highlight for many visitors to MoBay is an evening boat tour on the Luminous Lagoon in nearby Falmouth. The brackish lagoon gets its name from the phytoplankton here that emit a phosphorescent glow when agitated. Boatloads of visitors head out onto the lagoon every evening to see the lights in action; pack a swimsuit for the chance to jump in the waters to swim amongst the organisms. Visiting requires driving out to Falmouth's Glistening Waters Restaurant and joining a boat tour, but travelers without transportation can choose a package tour option that includes round-trip transportation from Montego Bay.

Spending two days on the island of Aruba lets you to explore its cultural and historical attractions, take advantage of a wide range of outdoor activities such as scuba diving and horseback riding, and schedule some down time at the beach. Here’s how to plan your stay.

Day 1: Sightsee and Sip Drinks

**Morning:**Whether you hop on an ATV or jump into a 4WD Jeep, exploring Aruba’s rocky landscape and visiting its top attractions during the morning hours is best, since you’ll beat the afternoon heat and strong sun. Highlights include the California Lighthouse, Alto Vista Chapel, and the Bushiribana Gold Mine Ruins.

**Afternoon:**Take it easy in the afternoon on one of Aruba’s popular beaches, such as Baby Beach, a favorite among both locals and tourists. Boasting soft sand and a calm, bathwaterlike lagoon, the family-friendly beach offers huts for sun protection and snorkel gear to rent.

**Night:**Explore island nightlife on a pub crawl of Aruba. Evening bar tours take place aboard lively open-air buses and include stops at several spots. If you’re new to Aruba, a tour like this is a good way to navigate the nightlife scene with the help of a guide.

Day 2: Horseback Riding and Water Fun

**Morning:**Start the day with a peaceful horseback ride around Arikok National Park, located on the eastern side of Aruba. You don’t need to be an experienced rider since most guides offer instruction and assign you a well-suited, well-trained horse to ride. Inside the park, visit one the island's highest points to snap photos.

**Afternoon:**Join a snorkeling or scuba diving tour—designed for both beginner and experienced divers—to explore the Caribbean waters and marine life around Aruba. (Full-day options, which depart in the morning, are available too, if you’d prefer to spend the whole day out at sea.) Alternatively, rent snorkeling gear at one of the beaches and explore close to shore.

**Night:**Cap off your short stay on Aruba with a sunset sail. Dine on an open-deck catamaran as you watch the sun disappear into the sea, or choose a sailing option without the meal and dine in town.

With its fine white sands, turquoise waters, and clear blue skies, Anguilla is an earthly paradise for beach lovers. For those visiting neighboring St. Maarten, this idyllic Caribbean island is an easily accessible day trip. Here’s what you need to know about Anguilla day trips from St. Maarten.

Highlights

• Choose a tour that involves sipping Champagne while sailing across the glassy Caribbean waters.

• Don a snorkel and swim among schools of tropical fish off the shore of Prickly Pear Cays, a pair of uninhabited islets off the coast of Anguilla.

• Tuck into succulent Caribbean barbecue at a beachside grill. 

• Lie out on the soft sand or swim in the warm waters of Shoal Bay, Rendezvous Bay, Maundays Bay, Sandy Island, and Meads Bay.

Things to Know

• Journey times to Anguilla can be as short as 15 to 20 minutes if you’re departing from Marigot on the north coast on the French St. Martin side of the island. From Simpson Bay on the southern Dutch St. Maarten side of the island, water taxis to Anguilla take 20 to 25 minutes.

• If you want to explore Anguilla independently, opt for a round-trip transfer. Alternatively, try a guided sightseeing tour that includes visits to various beaches and bays. For the ultimate luxury experience, consider a private charter.

• Most day trips from St. Maarten last six to eight hours.

• Many tours include lunch, on-board refreshments, and the use of snorkel gear. Immigration fees are typically not included.