Sugar-soft white beaches, glistening turquoise waters, gently swaying palm trees and gorgeous sunshine make the shores of the Caribbean an absolute holiday paradise.

The destinations across this captivating region are brimming with breathtaking tropical beauty, with an abundance of attractions to discover and activities to enjoy. You’ll have the chance to explore lush rainforests, dive amidst colourful coral gardens, embrace enthralling cultures, feast on irresistible food and sample vibrant nightlife. Friendly faces will welcome you everywhere you go and your days will be filled with epic experiences and exhilarating escapades. A host of enchanting islands offer the chance for holiday relaxation, fun and adventure, while the Caribbean coast of Mexico is another option for a magical escape with family, friends, as a couple, or solo. Let’s take a closer look at some of the mesmerising destinations to choose from and help you decide where the best place is for your dream Caribbean holiday.

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Barbados

Barbados holidays have something for everyone, with the Eastern Caribbean island awash with things to do and places to explore. Kick back and unwind at Crane Beach, one of the island’s best stretches of sand, head to Carlisle Bay to scuba dive and swim with turtles, or seek out Rockley Beach (also known as Accra Beach) to snorkel and kayak. For a spot of culture and heritage, Bridgetown, the capital, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site offering an historic 18th century British garrison and charming colonial architecture. St Lawrence Gap, in Christ Church, is the place to party, while the weekly Oistins’ Fish Fry serves up fresh seafood, lively dancing and music on the beach. Active ventures to enjoy include fishing, karting and horseback riding, with ziplining and a challenge adventure course at Harrison’s Cave Eco Adventure Park.

Saint Lucia

If you’re craving awe-inspiring exotic beauty, then Saint Lucia is the island for your Caribbean holiday. This sublime destination is blessed with stunning volcanic beaches, verdant rainforests, coral reefs and the two iconic mountain peaks, the Pitons, which tower above the island. The jaw-dropping UNESCO World Heritage Site can be found in Soufriere, and is a must-visit spot. If beach relaxation is what you crave, scenic Reduit Beach, in Rodney Bay, is a great choice, while Anse Chastanet is perfect for snorkelling and scuba diving. Anse des Pitons, Vigie Beach and Anse Cochon are other picture-perfect choices. Saint Lucia’s sandy shores are also a draw for water sports enthusiasts, with kayaking, jet-skiing, water-skiing, windsurfing and stand-up paddle boarding among the activities to enjoy. Glass bottom boat rides and dolphin or whale-watching trips are activity options for families, while couples may prefer the romantic serenity of a magical sunset cruise.

Jamaica

Jamaica holidays promise to thrill the senses with captivating scenery, invigorating activities, tantalising cuisine and lively reggae beats. Immaculate white sands and crystal-clear waters await at the palm-lined Seven Mile Beach, in Negril, and Doctor’s Cave Beach, in Montego Bay, while the blonde sands of Treasure Beach provide an idyllic spot to watch the sun set. For adventurous hours, you could climb aboard a bamboo raft to sail down the Martha Brae River, plunge into the picturesque watery playground of Dunn’s River Falls, or zipline over YS Falls. Kayaking, 4x4 off-road safaris, horseback riding and mountain biking are among other activities that await. A visit to the Bob Marley Museum, in Kingston, is a must for music fans, while the delights of authentic Jerk cuisine are well worth discovering, along with Jamaican patties and the island’s famous Blue Mountain Coffee.

Dominican Republic

The Dominican Republic is a heaven for sun worshippers, offering more than 200 beaches. You’ll find soft sands and aquamarine waters at Punta Cana’s Bavaro Beach, fun and games at Long Beach, in Puerto Plata, and water sports galore at Kite Beach, in Cabarete. Away from the sand, a multitude of energetic activities await, with rafting, buggy safaris, whale watching and mountain biking among the options. If culture and history are more your thing, you’re sure to be in your element in the Dominican Republic. Alluring sites include the Basilica Cathedral of Santa Maria la Menor, Fortaleza Ozama, the oldest colonial fort in the New World dating back to 1502, and Columbus Alcazar, the first fortified European palace built in the Americas. For a flavour of local life, pay a visit to the bustling Colonial Market, in Santo Domingo. Who knows, you may even pick up a one-of-a-kind holiday souvenir.

Cancun

Embrace the party in paradise with a holiday on Mexico’s spellbinding Caribbean coast. Cancun is an ideal spot for sun-drenched fun and rejuvenation, as well as some of the best nightlife in the world. Spend your days relaxing on the pristine sands of Playa Delfines, Playa Marlin and Playa Chacmool beaches along the hotel zone, or exploring the alluring attractions. The ancient Mayan ruins of Chichen Itza – one of the New Seven Wonders of the World – are within day trip range, while activities to discover include fishing, golf, ziplining, mountain biking and a plethora of water sports. As the sun sets, you can feast on authentic Mexican street food dishes such as tamales, tacos, fajitas, burritos and quesadillas. Then it’s time to experience Cancun’s world-famous night spots, with the highlight being the iconic Coco Bongos.

Best time to visit

There’s no shortage of sunshine in the Caribbean, with the tropical climate resulting in hot and humid conditions all year round and an average temperature of 26°C. The dry season, between December and April is a great time to plan a holiday in this region, while the period from May to July is another option, depending on where you wish to visit. This is a good choice if you’re hoping to snap up a deal, or avoid the crowds. The hottest time of the year in the Caribbean is from July to August. However, with the rainy season running from June to November, it’s likely that you will experience rain, with any showers being heavy, but brief. The Caribbean also has a hurricane season, which falls between June and November. While most resorts take precautions to prepare for this, many people tend to avoid visiting the region during this time.

“The Caribbean is most people’s dream holiday destination, and it’s easy to see why.

“The paradise islands and coastal resorts across this phenomenal region are absolutely enchanting.

“You’ll fall head over heels in love with the palm-lined white beaches and turquoise waters, and wish you could stay forever.

“Each location offers something different, with unique, exciting and enriching activities and attractions, fascinating cultures and scrumptious cuisine to discover in all.

“You’ll have opportunities for relaxation, fun and excitement wherever your wanderlust takes you.

“The Caribbean is also brimming with superb hotels and resorts, with superb all-inclusive havens for families, party venues for friends and adult-only hideaways for couples.”

Savannah Beach Club Hotel & Spa

Barbados

Embrace carefree beach life on the shores of Barbados at this divine tropical sanctuary, located within easy reach of the island’s capital, Bridgetown. You’ll stay in exquisitely appointed accommodation and dine on mouthwatering cuisine across a trio of splendid restaurants. Other superb facilities that await at this charming hotel include two swimming pools, a gym, a kids club and a dedicated hangout space for teenagers.

Check out Savannah Beach Club Hotel & Spa

Sugar Cane Club Hotel and Spa

Barbados

Escape to a sanctum of exotic seclusion in Barbados with a blissful adults-only holiday at this sublime boutique hotel. Here you can let the stresses of everyday life drift away, relaxing amidst lush tropical surroundings and making yourself at home in your charming room or suite. Delightful cuisine is on the menu at both the La Salsa restaurant and the Chattel Bar, while additional amenities include two pools, a spa, gym and squash courts.

Check out the Sugar Cane Club Hotel and Spa

Bel Jou Hotel

Saint Lucia

Prepare to be seduced by the mesmeric tropical beauty of St Lucia during a blissful adults-only escape at this haven of delight. Restful nights await in the stylish accommodation, while authentic creole flavours and gourmet treats are among the culinary creations served in the hotel’s restaurants. Relaxing hours can be enjoyed in the tranquil spa or stretched out poolside, while you’ll also find a gym, games room, coffee shop and library.

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