1. Anguilla
This British West Indies island has beautiful, uncrowded beaches and rivals St. Barts as a vacation mecca for the rich and famous.
2. Antigua
Antigua is a water world, with beautiful beaches for sunbathers and perfect anchorages for sailors. Even its most historic attraction—Nelson’s Dockyard, once home to the British fleet in the Caribbean—is thoroughly nautical.
3. Aruba
Quiet lounging isn’t Aruba’s big draw—instead, people visit this desert island for near-perfect weather year-round and for the opportunity to fill their itineraries with activities.
4. British Virgin Islands
British Virgin Islanders could drape the terminal at Beef Island Airport in a giant banner that reads, “Welcome to the Sailing Capital of the World”—although they’d never actually do anything so crass. But that’s essentially what the BVI has become over the past 30 years: the globe’s number-one spot for summer (and honeymoon) sailors.
5. Cayman Islands
The islands that make up the Cayman Islands (Grand Cayman, Little Cayman and Cayman Brac) are surrounded by gorgeous, clear water, making them a diving hot spot. They also have a culture of politesse, which makes visitors feel safe and at home.
6. Barbados
Locals are proud that Barbados retains more British flavor than any other Caribbean landfall: Afternoon tea, driving on the left and cricket are a few of the customs the Brits left behind. And unlike islands where traditions are fading, Bajans (as the islanders call themselves) embrace these customs as part of their national character.
7. Curaçao
This little Dutch island off the coast of Venezuela is a melting pot of people from all around the globe: More than 50 different nationalities and ethnic groups are represented in an area about a sixth of the size of Rhode Island. This mix of cultures makes Curaçao one of the most cosmopolitan places on the planet—an island of interesting food, intriguing art and pretty good duty-free shopping.
8. Dominica
With 60 percent of the island still covered in rain forest—much of it protected within the confines of national parks—and more than 365 rivers (one for each day of the year), Dominica is a Caribbean version of the Garden of Eden.
9. Dominican Republic
Friendly people, a vibrant culture, miles of beaches and affordable resorts all attract visitors to the bustling, Spanish-flavored Dominican Republic.
10. Grenada
Also called “The Spice Island,” Grenada has grown its trademark nutmeg, along with mace, cinnamon and cloves, for centuries. The island is home to mountainous rain forests alive with tropical birds and monkeys, white- and black-sand beaches, and welcoming people.
11. Jamaica
There’s no better place for a laid-back honeymoon, where you’ll listen to hip-swaying music at every turn, than Jamaica—the birthplace of reggae.
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