If you're longing for a Caribbean getaway filled with sunshine, beaches and culture, but prefer to avoid large crowds, planning can become a bit more challenging. Many of the region’s most popular islands come in a and are bustling with visitors, especially during high season. This is especially true if you’re planning a , where finding the right balance between relaxation, activities and affordability becomes even more important.
Fortunately, there are several less crowded Caribbean destinations that offer a more relaxed atmosphere along with unique attractions and cultural experiences you might miss at more well-known spots. These quieter islands often come with added benefits too, like lower prices and a more laid-back vibe.
The only catch is that finding them can take a little extra research, but that’s where we come in. Below, we detail a selection of seven underrated Caribbean islands to visit, complete with suggestions on where to stay and what to do.
1. Bequia
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Discover the best of the Grenadines on the gorgeous island of Bequia, which offers the ultimate middle ground when you crave both serenity and excitement. This island is big and busy enough to deliver plenty of cultural perks and interesting attractions, but it remains a relatively quiet spot, being ideal for those who prefer to bypass the rowdy nightlife scene.
Bequia happens to have some of the Caribbean's best beaches, with visitors often making a beeline for the stunning Princess Margaret Beach. Featuring crystal clear water and lush greenery, this is a postcard-perfect spot. While Princess Margaret Beach is occasionally busy, it's typically quiet at Lower Bay Beach and especially Friendship Bay, which has choppier waters but is a great place for sunbathing.
If you're feeling ambitious, consider planning a hiking expedition at Mount Peggy, where you will be rewarded with mesmerizing views. If you prefer something a bit less rugged, you can still stretch your legs while taking a leisurely and downright stunning tour of the well-manicured Firefly Estate.
2. Canouan
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Another great option for a laid-back Grenadines getaway is the pristine island of Canouan, which lies southwest of Bequia and is charming in its own unique way. This stunning island hideaway boasts turquoise waters, sugar sands and a huge coral reef.
Outdoorsy types adore Canouan, where active adventures are always in store. The most rewarding expedition involves the trek up Mount Royal, which delivers plenty of wildlife viewing opportunities, along with awe-inspiring scenery upon reaching the top. If you prefer to simply soak in the sun, however, you can hang out on the gorgeous Godahl Beach, which is easily accessible from the upscale Mandarin Oriental.
The Mandarin Oriental goes above and beyond with additional activities, offering complimentary access to paddleboards, kayaks and even snorkeling equipment. By hitting the water, you get the best chance for spotting the beloved turtles for which this Caribbean island is named.
Like many Caribbean islands, Canouan has a thriving rum culture, which you can experience firsthand while enjoying mixed drinks at your hotel or resort. The Turtles lounge at the Mandarin serves delicious drinks and also promises jaw-dropping views of the beach.
3. Bonaire
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Part of the Leeward Antilles, Bonaire easily qualifies as one of the lesser-known islands to visit in the Caribbean, if not the least known. Bonaire is actually part of the Netherlands, with its Dutch influence most notable from the architecture in the capital city, Kralendijk. The language Papiamento (which draws on Dutch, Portuguese and Spanish) is widely spoken on this island, although you'll have no trouble getting around while speaking in English.
Flamingos are all the rage on Bonaire, which is home to sizable populations of these vibrant birds. There's plenty of Flamingo-inspired merch on offer, as well as flamingo viewing opportunities. Flamingos are most easily visible from the Pekelmeer Sanctuary, where the flamingo population exceeds 10,000. You won't be able to enter the sanctuary or hang out with the flamingos, but you can easily see them from nearby if you use binoculars.
While flamingos get all the attention, visiting donkeys can be even more rewarding. Founded by a Dutch couple in hopes of caring for ill and injured donkeys, the local sanctuary welcomes visitors, who get the chance to make friends with the very sweet donkey residents.
Many Bonaire visitors spend at least one day at Klein Bonaire, an undeveloped islet that, although excellent for sunbathing, is better known for its world-class snorkeling adventures. Another must-visit: Washington-Slagbaai National Park, which is a bird-watching hotspot.
4. Curacao
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Curacao is beginning to attract more attention, but this island still manages to fly under the radar. Still, it offers plenty of tourist amenities that make travel planning wonderfully convenient. It's important to note that this is a desert island, with an arid climate that stands apart from other Caribbean destinations.
Other than its desert environment, Curacao is best known for its spectacular diving. The island's best visuals arguably lie below the surface, where you can expect diverse underwater landscapes. Scuba guides are eager to introduce you to the best of Curacao's coral reefs. Intriguing wreck dive experiences are also available, with the Superior Producer Wreck site, in particular, attracting a great deal of attention.
If you prefer adventures on dry land, you'll find plenty of ways to keep entertained during your Curacao getaway. Enjoy a peaceful (but potentially tiring) escape at Christoffel National Park, where you will discover gorgeous hiking trails and even a museum housed in a plantation from the 19th century.
One of the advantages of booking a trip to Curacao instead of other underrated Caribbean islands is the vast number of things to see and do. You'll find a wider variety of accommodations, including many upscale hotels and resorts in and around the capital city of Willemstad. Enjoy a sophisticated experience at the Curacao Marriott Beach Resort or the nearby Baoase Luxury Resort, where you can expect gorgeous views and plenty of pampering.
5. Martinique
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Martinique is an underrated yet significant part of the Lesser Antilles. The island's French heritage lends it a unique culture, complete with mouthwatering Creole cuisine and architectural flair. Of course, you can always enjoy a classic Caribbean beach experience while hanging out at Plage des Salines. There, you'll encounter an impressive stretch of white sand, where you can lounge to your heart's delight.
Be sure to visit the agricultural estate known as Habitation Clément, which has a solid reputation for producing the most wonderfully mixable rums. Enjoy a tasting experience or check out the estate's thought-provoking art displays. History buffs will appreciate Fort Saint Louis, which is one of the Caribbean's best-preserved fortresses.
If you're feeling daring, spend some quality time at Mounte Pelee. As an active volcano, this "bald mountain" dominates the island's northern half and can be accessed via multiple scenic trails. Check out the crater from the unique vantage point of the Caldeira path.
6. Tobago
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Tobago may have a strong reputation as a Caribbean wonderland, but it still deserves a spot on this list, as it's often overlooked in favor of better-known island destinations. As the smaller of the islands Trinidad and Tobago, this charming spot is especially appealing to active travelers, who enjoy exploring hidden waterfalls and lagoons. Book an island tour to discover Tobago's most magical spots.
Many visitors are drawn to the Buccoo Reef, in part because it is more accessible than many other Caribbean reefs. A unique way to enjoy the reef experience at Tobago is while relaxing in a glass-bottomed boat. Snorkeling adventures are also popular, especially as snorkelers are often able to spot dolphins and turtles. Other turtle-viewing opportunities can be found at Turtle Beach and Stonehaven Bay. There's nothing quite like seeing leatherback turtles come ashore to nest.
There are also a few interesting historic sites, including Fort King George. This elevated fort offers not only the chance to view a wide range of fascinating artifacts, but also boasts some of the island's most sweeping coastal views. Be sure to visit local restaurants, where you'll find diverse menus influenced by the best of Caribbean and Indian culinary traditions.
7. Andros Island
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The Bahamas may not seem to fit the bill for an underrated Caribbean destination, but people often forget that the travel experience can look dramatically different from one island to the next. New Providence and Exumas may attract crowds, but these are less frequently found at Andros Island, which, despite being the largest island in terms of square footage, is also one of the least populated.
Often referred to as the "Big Yard," Andros Island promises a remote experience, complete with excellent hiking and even better fishing. The rugged nature of the island lends itself well to outdoorsy expeditions, especially as there are so many spectacular parks and hiking trails.
Blue Holes National Park is known for flood sinkholes known as blue holes. These natural wonders are surrounded by dense forests and can be viewed from multiple boardwalks. The massive West Side National Park takes some effort to reach but is well worth the journey, promising mangrove exploration plus plenty of birdwatching.
Many visitors are drawn to Andros Island for its amazing fishing opportunities, including both deep sea and flyfishing. This island is sometimes referred to as the world's bonefish capital, with local guides offering exciting adventures on the water. Diverse dive sites make Andros Island a top destination among scuba divers of all skill levels.
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