Did you know there are more than 7,000 islands in the Caribbean that are part of approximately 28 nations? With so many to choose from, the biggest question is which stunning tropical spot should you sail to?
While we’d argue there’s a reason to visit every destination available on our Caribbean cruises, some places really speak to a traveler’s vacation style, be it relaxed and indulgent or adventurous and on-the-go (or anywhere in between). If you’re wondering where to begin, we’ve gathered some thought-starters here.
Check out our list to find your ideal warm-weather escape:
Prepare to spiral down a 135-foot plunge on Daredevil’s Peak, the tallest waterslide in North America.
Credit: Royal Caribbean
Perfect Day at CocoCay, The Bahamas
Whether your dream vacation day involves lounging on a white-sand beach, sipping cocktails poolside or taking a plunge down the tallest water slide in North America, you can do it all at Perfect Day at CocoCay, Royal Caribbean’s private island paradise. It’s an adventure like no other: Soar 450 feet above the air in a helium balloon—the highest vantage point in The Bahamas—or take a dip in the largest freshwater pool in the Caribbean and get your adrenaline pumping at Thrill Waterpark, which has 13 hair-raising waterslides. When it’s time to unwind, Chill Island offers a serene escape with gorgeous, undisturbed beaches and roaming bartenders. Craving some upscale TLC? Check out the new Coco Beach Club, which includes private attendants and floating cabanas.
Belize was formerly the capital of the Caribbean country.
Credit: Royal Caribbean
To take in all of the natural beauty surrounding you in Belize, you’ll want to climb to the top of El Castillo; at more than 130 feet, it’s one of the tallest Mayan structures in this small nation. From the top, you can see the lush rainforest region of Peten and the nearby mountains across the border in Guatemala.
You also can explore the amazing Altun Ha pyramid, an ancient temple built as a symbol of Mayan honor and devotion to the Sun God. If you’re looking for Belize City’s “wild side,” look for flocks of toucans and parrots in the treetops, manatees along the coast, baboons at the Community Baboon Sanctuary, crocodiles and wild howler monkeys along the Old Belize River, and jaguars, pumas, ocelots and more at the esteemed Belize Zoo. Royal Caribbean’s shore excursions also include snorkeling along the barrier reef, cave tubing and a riverboat ride to get you up close and personal with nature.
Downtown Kralendijk features pastel stucco style buildings, inspired by it’s Dutch origins.
Credit: iStock
The main port on the island of Bonaire in the Caribbean Netherlands, Kralendijk is a picturesque and charming town lined with delightfully pastel stucco houses decked out in pink, orange and lime green. Scores of pink flamingos call the island home, but it’s what lies below the surface that makes the destination even more enticing. The city is widely considered a top diving destination in the Caribbean.
For a sampling of what this dreamy island has to offer, enjoy snorkeling or diving among coral reefs, turtles and brightly colored fish in the protected Bonaire National Marine Park. Above ground, we’d recommend the local salt flats and mountains; and don’t miss the local gastronomic delicacy, cactus soup.
Roseau’s Old Market square is a vibrant market place filled with local vendors and goods.
Credit: Royal Caribbean
The capital—and largest—city of Dominica, Roseau is a compact urban settlement. If you appreciate the finer things in life, we have two words for you: Champagne Beach. These effervescent waters produce an actual “fizz” from the volcanic sea floor. After swimming alongside parrotfish in bubbly waters, there are plenty of other ways to make the most of your time, including ogling the West Indian architecture in town while scouring the local boutiques. You also can treat yourself to the relaxing and therapeutic powers of Dominica’s natural mineral waters while surrounded by the island’s lush tropical vegetation.
Adventurers can zoom through the canopy rainforest of Gumbalimba Park.
Credit: iStock
This narrow strip of land was born with an adventurous spirit, as it was once the domain of Spanish conquistadors and British pirates. Roatan lies in the Caribbean at the southernmost tip of the second biggest barrier reef in the world. Diving with sharks and snorkeling with pods of squid and other exciting sea life are popular pastimes, and Royal Caribbean also offers a survivor-style challenge course that will have you scurrying along jungle paths in the thick rainforest, crawling in mud ravines and climbing cargo nets and hills. If you prefer your challenges with altitude, the Adrenaline Zip-Line Adventure will take you soaring through the skies and between mountains.
Mayan ruins like that of Chacchoben give a glimpse of life dating back to 360 AD.
Credit: iStock
Costa Maya, once a trading post for the Mayan Empire, is best known for its jungles, beaches, lagoons and ruins. While this corner of the Caribbean might look serious and sedate at first glance, there is a wealth of history to be explored. The ancient city of Chacchoben dates to 360 AD, when it played an important role in the distribution of such precious items as wood, jade and exotic birds. It was largely unexplored until 1999, but archaeologists now believe this fascinating locale was a thriving metropolis 1,500 years ago. On a shore excursion like the Chacchoben Ruins Exclusive Drive, you the chance to marvel at the temples, stroll their surrounding gardens and dive deeper into this culture.
We look forward to taking you on your next Caribbean adventure when possible. Until then, stay safe.
