The Caribbean, a sprawling archipelago nestled between North and South America, is a treasure trove of history, culture, music, and cuisine.

While it's pristine beaches attract plenty of sun-seekers, the real magic lies in exploring it's islands beyond the shoreline.

Whether on foot, by bike, or in search of wildlife, the Caribbean rewards those who venture deeper and connect with its vibrant people. In this travel guide, we’ll show you the must-see spots and the hidden gems, with our honest take on what to love and what to skip.

Active Holidays in the Caribbean

While the Caribbean is renowned for its beaches, it also offers an exciting range of activities for the adventurous traveler. Beyond the sun and sand, you’ll find every type of watersport, from sailing and diving to kayaking and paddleboarding.

Dominica: Nature's Playground

Known as the Nature Island, Dominica is a haven for outdoor lovers. With lush rainforests, volcanic craters, boiling lakes, and dramatic gorges, the island offers a striking landscape for hikers and nature enthusiasts.

Haiti: A Hidden Gem

Often overlooked due to political instability, Haiti is a treasure trove of history, art, and natural beauty. It;s untouched beaches rival those of any other Caribbean island, making it a destination for the curious traveler willing to go off the beaten path.

Trinidad & Tobago: Double the Fun

Trinidad & Tobago offers a dynamic blend of culture, nature, and adventure. Trinidad, famous for its Carnival and Calypso music, is a birdwatcher’s paradise, while Tobago is known for it's stunning beaches and pristine reefs.

Cuba: A Caribbean Classic

Cuba, the largest island in the Caribbean, has it all – from vibrant music and dance to stunning landscapes and historical cities. Whether you're a history buff, adventure seeker, culture lover, or beach aficionado, Cuba can tick off all the boxes.

Bird Watching in the Caribbean

The Caribbean is a birdwatcher’s paradise, with over 565 species of birds, both resident and migratory. For birding enthusiasts, St. Lucia, Dominica, and Trinidad & Tobago are top hotspots. Whether you’re watching shimmering hummingbirds at feeders or spotting pelicans gliding over the water, there’s no shortage of avian action here.

Water Adventures

With it's crystal-clear waters, vibrant marine life, and perfect conditions for water activities, the Caribbean is ideal for a variety of aquatic sports. From snorkeling and kite surfing to diving and sea kayaking, the region is made for exploring the water.

St. Lucia: The Ultimate All-Rounder

St. Lucia is a Caribbean jewel that offers something for everyone. The north coast caters to tourists with its lively atmosphere, while the rest of the island is a UNESCO World Heritage site filled with stunning landscapes, rich Creole culture, and tropical reefs.

Dolphin Tourism

Across the Caribbean, many dolphinariums and marine parks offer tourists the chance to interact with captive dolphins—whether by swimming with them, petting them, or watching them perform. However, we believe that keeping dolphins in captivity is ethically and morally questionable. For a more natural experience, consider taking a boat trip around the Caribbean.

Food, Shopping & People in the Caribbean

Eating & Drinking in the Caribbean

Bakes – A staple at breakfast across the islands, bakes are fried or baked dough, often served with a local twist.

Corn Soup – In Trinidad and Tobago, thick, hearty corn soup is a beloved street food, filled with chunky vegetables and meats.

Doubles – A popular street food in Trinidad and Tobago, doubles feature two pieces of fried flatbread, filled with curried chickpeas and often topped with chutneys.

The people of the Caribbean are known for their warmth, and language plays an integral role in the region's diverse culture. English is the dominant language on most islands, but you’ll also find Spanish in Cuba and the Dominican Republic, and Haitian Creole in Haiti. What’s more, the region’s long history and African influence has led to the emergence of numerous Creole and Patois dialects.

These languages blend elements of French, English, Spanish, and African languages, offering a fascinating window into the Caribbean's past.