Definitive List of 11 Top Caribbean Islands for 2025-2026

1. Dominican Republic

In 2024 the Dominican Republic welcomed 11.19 million stop-over visitors, a 48 % increase from 2019.
Ranked by Expedia in 2025 as “Best for Adventure” among islands.

Why you might choose it: Strong resort infrastructure (Punta Cana, Puerto Plata), wide range of offerings (beach, mountain, culture).

A practical note: Due to the high volume of tourism, you’ll find good deals but also larger-scale resorts; for more local feel choose smaller towns or non-all-inclusive stays.

2. Jamaica

According to data, Jamaica was projected to attract ~4.1 million visitors in 2025. 
It leads Expedia’s 2025 Island Hot List regionally for "Culture, Adventure & Relaxation". 

Highlights: reggae and music culture (Kingston, Negril), versatile landscapes (beaches, Blue Mountains), all-inclusive resort options.

Watch-outs: Some traveller advisories exist in parts of the island; sticking to well-known resort zones helps.

3. Aruba

In May 2025, Aruba recorded a 5.3 % increase in stay-over visitors compared to May 2024 (117,125 visitors); year-to-date ~635,965 arrivals, a 3.4 % rise. 
Named by Expedia’s 2025 Island Hot List as “Best for Year-Round Sunshine”. Key strengths: strong tourism infrastructure, favourable safety rankings, reliable weather (less hurricane threat).

Consideration: Because of its popularity, peak-season costs may be higher; off-peak bookings may provide better value.

4. Barbados
Stay-over arrivals between Jan-Aug 2025 increased by 5.43 % compared to the same period in 2024 (503,000 visitors). The U.S. for the first time surpassed the UK as leading source market (179,753 U.S. visitors). 
In 2024 stay-over arrivals were 704,340, up 10.6 % over 2019, plus cruise arrivals up 24.5 %.

What makes it stand out: Blend of beach and culture, growing wellness and luxury-travel segment.

Tip: For a less-crowded feel, consider the island’s quieter sectors (versus main resort belt).

5. Curaçao

Through August 2025, hotel occupancy reached nearly 77 %, up more than four percentage points compared to the same period in 2024; revenue per available room (RevPAR) increased 13 %+ to US $202.

Advantages: Strong recovery momentum, growing appeal for independent stays, diving and eco-tourism niches.

Note: While well-positioned, connectivity (flight routes) may be fewer compared to the very top-tier islands plan ahead.

6. The Bahamas

The Bahamas welcomed 11.22 million visitors in 2024, with year-on-year growth of about 10 %.

Why it features: Extensive chain of islands offering diverse experiences (resorts, private islands, sailing, eco-adventure).

Important to check: Because of scale, there is strong cruise-ship traffic in certain areas if you prefer quieter stays, opt for less-visited islands or stay away from major ports.

7. St. Lucia

Cited among the top tourism destinations of 2025 in Caribbean Focus article.

Known for its iconic Pitons, combination of beach and rainforest, luxury resorts plus wedding/honeymoon market.

Best for: Couples, honeymooners, nature travellers wanting both resort comfort and scenic adventures.

To consider: Some premium pricing in luxury zones value may be better in off-peak or less-touristy areas.

8. Grenada

Though smaller in volume, Grenada is gaining traction cited in media as one of the “fast rising” Caribbean holiday spots for 2025, helped by new resorts and direct UK flights. 

Features: Less-crowded beaches, chocolate plantations, waterfalls, a more relaxed pace.

If you prefer off-the-beaten-path settings rather than mega-resorts, Grenada is worth considering.

9. Anguilla

According to 2025 rankings by World Population Review, Anguilla ranks as the safest Caribbean island. 

While luxury and boutique in nature (fewer mass-tourist infrastructures), it offers strong appeal for travellers seeking calm, high-quality stays.

Note: Access can be more complex (fewer airports, sometimes via ferry) — plan logistics in advance.

10. St. Vincent & the Grenadines

The new report mentions 17.3 % visitor growth in the first half of 2025 compared to 2024, driven by nature and luxury developments (e.g., turtle-island resorts). 

Best for: Nature lovers, sailing/yacht travellers, islands-within-islands experience.

Consideration: Less built-up than major resort islands infrastructure and services may be more modest but experiences more unique.

11. Puerto Rico

Ranked by Caribbean Focus Travel as a top destination for 2025 with over 8.1 million visitors in 2024.

Key points: No passport required for U.S. travellers (if arriving from the U.S.), blend of history (Old San Juan), rainforest (El Yunque), bioluminescent bays.

Useful for North American travellers seeking ease of travel + island experience.

Tip: For a more resort-style stay, select coastal resort areas; for cultural immersion, consider inland / historic towns.

Closing Considerations

Connectivity & flights: Many islands are improving air-connectivity; check direct flight options from your region.

Seasonality & cost: Off-peak or shoulder seasons often provide better value; also keep an eye on emerging tourist fees or taxes.

Sustainability & infrastructure: Islands are investing in sustainability, hospitality upgrades and diversifying source markets this means new hotels, revamped airports, better services.

Your travel style matters: Big resorts vs boutique stays; adventure/nature vs pure beach; accessibility vs remote exploration. Choose the island that aligns with your preferences.

Local dynamics: Safety, service quality, local support all vary island to island recent statistics show growth and shifts in source markets (for example U.S. overtaking UK for Barbados).

Budgeting: Popular islands may have higher accommodation/flight costs; lesser-known ones may require more transport planning.

Advance booking: With many islands in recovery/expansion mode, booking early for high season or special resorts is prudent.