Readers' Favourite Islands: Anguilla, Antigua, and Curacao Picks

Each year, travelers rank Caribbean destinations based on real experiences  from beaches and local food to culture, safety, and value. Three islands consistently appeared at the top of readers’ polls and travel surveys: Anguilla, Antigua, and Curaçao. Each offers something distinct: calm seclusion, beach-to-bar energy, or multicultural life   while staying true to Caribbean authenticity. Here’s a closer look at what makes them readers’ favorites right now.

Anguilla: Tranquility and Local Connection

Anguilla, a British Overseas Territory north of St. Martin, remains a top pick among repeat Caribbean travelers. The island’s focus on low-density tourism and public beach access has kept it free from overcrowding. It has 33 beaches, most notably Shoal Bay East, Meads Bay, and Rendezvous Bay, all open to the public with calm waters suitable for swimming and snorkeling.

In 2025, the island’s tourism board expanded its Culinary Experience Series, highlighting small local restaurants rather than resort-only dining. Popular spots such as Blanchards Beach Shack, Veya, and Sunset Lounge continue to draw visitors for their consistency and local flavor.

Anguilla also appeals to travelers seeking safety and community connection. The island has one of the lowest crime rates in the region and prioritizes sustainable tourism. Recent infrastructure updates include the expansion of Clayton J. Lloyd International Airport and improved ferry services from St. Martin are both part of a 2024–2025 accessibility upgrade.

The main challenge for visitors is limited direct air access, but those who arrive are rewarded with an island that balances comfort with genuine Caribbean pace.

Antigua: The Island of 365 Beaches and Year-Round Events

Antigua’s slogan, “One beach for every day of the year,” remains accurate; the island boasts over 360 accessible beaches, from family-friendly Dickenson Bay to quiet Half Moon Bay. But in 2025, readers ranked Antigua high not just for its beaches but also for its vibrant cultural calendar and strong infrastructure for mid-range travelers.

The Antigua Sailing Week, held every April, continues to attract international yachts and onshore festivities at Nelson’s Dockyard. Meanwhile, Carnival Antigua (July–August) offers a colorful mix of calypso, soca, and parades, making it one of the region’s most organized summer festivals.

Tourism growth has remained steady, with the VC Bird International Airport handling increased arrivals due to new routes from North America and the UK. The government has also invested in renewable energy for resorts and local businesses, making Antigua one of the region’s leaders in eco-friendly tourism initiatives.

Recent hotel reopenings and expansions include Hammock Cove Resort & Spa, Curtain Bluff, and new villa properties on the west coast. The island also benefits from its twin-island relationship with Barbuda, offering travelers the chance to visit the Frigate Bird Sanctuary and the Pink Sand Beach via day trips.
Antigua’s mix of accessibility, entertainment, and natural coastline makes it a well-rounded choice for both first-time and seasoned Caribbean travelers.

Curaçao: Culture, Color, and Year-Round Adventure

Curaçao, part of the Dutch Caribbean alongside Aruba and Bonaire, continues to grow in international popularity. Its capital, Willemstad, a UNESCO World Heritage site, stands out for its pastel-colored waterfront and colonial architecture. But what readers noted most in 2025 surveys is Curaçao’s cultural diversity and affordable long-stay travel options.

The island’s mix of Dutch, African, and Latin influences shapes its food, language, and festivals. Events like the Curaçao North Sea Jazz Festival (August 2025) and Kaya Kaya Street Festival draw both locals and international visitors. Unlike many islands, Curaçao maintains a strong year-round tourist season, thanks to its location outside the hurricane belt.

For divers and snorkelers, Curaçao is recognized as one of the top shore-diving destinations in the Caribbean. Sites like Playa Lagun, Tugboat Wreck, and Mushroom Forest are accessible without boat trips. Recent updates to the Marine Park expansion have improved reef protection, ensuring sustainable tourism growth.

New direct flights from Miami, Toronto, and Amsterdam added in 2026 have boosted connectivity. Additionally, Curaçao’s hospitality sector has diversified, with boutique hotels like Bayside Boutique Hotel and Scuba Lodge providing locally managed alternatives to large resorts.

Why These Three Lead in 2025

What unites Anguilla, Antigua, and Curaçao is their balance of local authenticity with visitor comfort. They’ve adapted to changing travel patterns, more independent travelers, flexible stays, and sustainable tourism demand   while maintaining identity.

Anguilla appeals to visitors seeking peace, food, and unspoiled beaches.

Antigua attracts culture enthusiasts and event travelers.

Curaçao offers culture-rich stays, diving, and city energy within an affordable budget.

Collectively, these islands show how Caribbean destinations are evolving beyond resort tourism toward experiences built on heritage, community, and access. For readers and travelers in 2026, these are not just vacation spots, they are living islands offering genuine Caribbean life with every visit.