Affordable Caribbean Islands Offering Travelers the Most Bang for Their Buck

Image: Rockhouse Hotel. (Photo Credit: Michael Condran)

by Mariette Williams
Last updated: 11:10 AM ET, Wed February 14, 2024

The Caribbean has all the ingredients for a good vacation: warm weather, white-sand beaches, and exciting activities on both land and sea. For most Americans, getting to the Caribbean is relatively easy, resulting in a recent travel boom.

The United Nations World Tourism Organization reported that the Caribbean received 26.5 million visitors in 2023, a 15.7 percent increase over the previous year. And while the Caribbean offers high-end, ultra-expensive experiences, it’s also possible to plan a more low-key, affordable trip, especially if you visit during the summer shoulder season or the low season in the fall.

If you’re looking for a Caribbean island where the U.S. dollar goes a little further, check out these five destinations.

Cura?ao

Part of the Caribbean’s ABC chain of islands, which includes Aruba and Bonaire, Cura?ao offers great beaches, a charming downtown area, and a diverse food scene that’s influenced by the island’s Dutch, Spanish, and African populations.

There’s lots to do here, but some top activities include visiting Queen Emma Bridge for views of the colorful Handelskade buildings on the waterfront or taking a day trip to Klein Cura?ao, a gorgeous uninhabited island with white-sand beaches.

Curacao is also home to several charming boutique hotels. The Kura Botanica Hotel located in Willemstad is an adults-only property that used to be an 18th-century family home. The hotel, which includes a spa and five restaurants, is also in a great location for sightseeing. Nearby activities and attractions include strolling through the colorful streets of Otrabanda or checking out the lively bars in the historic Pietermaai District.

Jamaica

Jamaica has long been a favorite vacation spot for travelers, and it’s easy to see why with its lush mountains and soft sand beaches. Though Montego Bay is the hub of tourism on the island, Negril, a sleepy beach town on Jamaica’s western coast, is ideal for a more laid-back stay. The area is home to the famous Seven Mile Beach and some of the best sunsets in the Caribbean.

Rockhouse Hotel is popular with travelers to the area. The artsy, bohemian property was one of the first to open in Negril and has hosted guests like Bob Marley and the Rolling Stones. Accommodations include thatched roof villas and stylish guest rooms carved from stone. Meanwhile, the Pushcart restaurant and rum bar serves fresh seafood and the island specialty, jerk chicken.

If it’s your first time to Negril, stop by Rick’s Cafe just down the street from the hotel. The cliffside restaurant is a great place to catch a sunset or watch the local cliff divers show off their skills.

Grenada

Grenada has a friendly, relaxed vibe, and the eastern Caribbean island is nicknamed the “Spice Isle” for its production of aromatic spices like nutmeg, cinnamon, and ginger. The peaceful island has over 40 beaches along with scenic waterfalls and volcanic mountains.

A major draw is the island’s underwater sculpture park, which was recently expanded to include five unique new installations. The sculpture park is the first of its kind in the world and can be accessed via snorkeling or diving.

It’s hard to beat the views at Bay House Grenada, a charming cottage-style 15-room boutique hotel that overlooks Grenada’s famous Grand Anse Beach. The hotel is outfitted with hardwood floors, teal and white interiors, and unobstructed views of the water. Conveniently located in St. George, the island’s capital, the hotel is close to nightlife and just steps from the Grenada Golf & Country Club.

Trinidad and Tobago

If you like your Caribbean vacation with a side of adventure, consider Trinidad and Tobago. The dual island nation is known for its vibrant Carnival celebrations in February, but it’s a year-round haven for travelers who want uncrowded beaches and quiet accommodations.

Besides the secluded beaches, you won’t be disappointed with the local food which includes doubles (fried dough stuffed with chickpea curry), roti and crab dumplings.

Travelers can fly into Trinidad and take a short flight to Tobago where they’ll have access to Mount Irvine Bay Resort, which has lots of amenities like a golf course, a freshwater swimming pool and two restaurants on-site. Off the resort, travelers can explore Tobago by taking a glass-bottom boat ride to Buccoo Reef or a kayak ride on Bon Accord Lagoon for a bioluminescent experience after dark.

Puerto Rico

Puerto Rico’s allure lies in its mix of exciting nightlife, history and culture, and serene beaches. Also, U.S. travelers don’t need a passport, which makes Puerto Rico an ideal weekend getaway. Though San Juan is the island’s most popular tourist destination, consider heading to Puerto Rico’s quiet coastal towns if you want to unplug for a few days.

The waters off the coast are full of marine life, perfect for boating, diving and snorkeling.

If you want a quiet getaway, the Wyndham Palmas Beach & Golf Resort is the only resort on the southeast coast and doesn’t skimp on amenities. The recently updated resort has four restaurants and bars, an infinity pool, two golf courses, and an equestrian center. The resort is a little over an hour from San Juan, so travelers can still explore the cobblestone streets of the Old Town or take a day trip to the nearby El Yunque National Forest.

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