Choose from 419 Fun Things to Do in Caribbean
ShowingFilter 341-360 of 419 listings.
Water Island
Water Island is the smallest of the main US Virgin Islands, and that’s what gives it its charm. Rather than shops and restaurants, it’s the thatched cabanas and lazy vibe of idyllic beaches like Honeymoon Beach that are its main draw.
Away from the beach, you can tour the underground tunnels and watchtowers of Fort Segarra, built during WWII. Getting around the island by bicycle is highly recommended.
Around 160 people are fortunate enough to live on Water Island, but the volcanic island remains undeveloped. Facilities are limited to a few food outlets, dive shops and charters, a beach bar, fishing operator and ferry dock.
The US Virgin Island’s so-called fourth island, Water Island only joined the group relatively recently, in 1996, and so far it’s kept its low-key atmosphere and local character.
Away from the beach, you can tour the underground tunnels and watchtowers of Fort Segarra, built during WWII. Getting around the island by bicycle is highly recommended.
Around 160 people are fortunate enough to live on Water Island, but the volcanic island remains undeveloped. Facilities are limited to a few food outlets, dive shops and charters, a beach bar, fishing operator and ferry dock.
The US Virgin Island’s so-called fourth island, Water Island only joined the group relatively recently, in 1996, and so far it’s kept its low-key atmosphere and local character.
Practical Info
Water Island is a 10-minute ferry ride from Charlotte Amalie. It lies southwest of the capital in the harbor, adjacent to Hassel Island.
Address: US Virgin Islands
From $ 103
Sangre Grande
The Trinidadian town of Sangre Grande sits due east of the Port of Spain. As the largest town in the northeast of the island, Sangre Grande is an important hub for surrounding villages, and it’s a crossroads for various attractions in the northeast of Trinidad. At Aripo Savannah, birdwatchers can spot species like red-bellied macaw and southern lapwings. The Hollis Resivoir is a man-made lake surrounded by mountains where you can find hiking trails, shady picnic spots and look for local wildlife like howler monkeys, deer and caiman. Head east from Sangre Grande to visit Matura Bay. From March to August, this sandy stretch is a protected nesting site for endangered leatherback turtles. Permits are required to visit the beach at night, and guides can make the arrangements for a once-in-a-lifetime turtle watching excursion.
Practical Info
Sangre Grande is located on the Eastern Main Road in the northeast of Trinidad. To get there from Port of Spain, take the Churchill Roosevelt Highway and take the right fork. The drive takes about an hour.
Address: Sangre Grande, Trinidad, Trinidad and Tobago
From $ 100
San Juan Bay
San Juan Bay sits at the heart of the city of San Juan, with innumerable sites, neighborhoods and attractions ringing its shores. The most iconic spots on the bay are the pair of fortresses that face each other at the bay’s mouth. On the eastern side sits El Morro, flanked by the 500-year-old cobblestone streets of Old San Juan. Across the way, the Islas de Cabras National Park boasts the San Juan de la Cruz Fort. Both are UNESCO World Heritage Sites, but visitors can only walk around the outside walls of the San Juan de la Cruz Fort, as the inside in closed to the public. Just south of Isla de Cabras, you’ll find another icon of Puerto Rico overlooking the bay—the Bacardi Rum Visitor Center, where you can take a tour and enjoy a rum tasting.
Practical Info
For easy access to different side of the bay, or simply to take a trip on the water, hop the ferry in the port of San Juan for the 8-minute ride across to Cataño. From there it’s easy to catch a quick cab to the Bacardi Visitor Center or Isla de Cabras.
Address: San Juan 00962, Puerto Rico
From $ 70
Sunnyside Garden
This five-acre private garden is home to some of the oldest mahogany trees in Grenada, as well as some of the island’s most treasured native plants and flowers. With the ocean bordering one side of the estate and the mountains facing the other, the gardens are particularly scenic and are frequently featured as a top garden spot in the Caribbean.
Some garden highlights include the Japanese area and fish ponds; exotic tropical flowers such as hibiscus and bougainvillea; and the variety of tropical fruit trees such as coconut, mango and banana. Hummingbirds and other small local birds are a common sight, and large tortoises roam the grounds. Of course, the scent of spice plants on the “Spice Island,” as Grenada is known, follows visitors throughout. Nutmeg and cashews are also grown here, and it’s best to visit with a guide who can point out the various exotic plants.
Practical Info
Sunnyside Garden is just outside of St George's on Grenada, off the St Paul’s main road. Access to the private residence is by appointment or via an authorized tour operator only.
Address: St. Paul's, St. George's, Grenada
Hours: By appointment or tour
From $ 63
Wacky Rollers Adventure Park
The Wacky Rollers Adventure Park is for everyone who wishes they could star in Survivor. Aerial rope walks, Tarzan jumps, ziplining across a river – Wacky Rollers presents adventurers with an extreme challenge course in the Dominican jungle.
Eco-friendly fun and safety are uppermost at Wacky Rollers, including a briefing and demonstration, harness, helmet and gloves.
Expect a workout, jungle views across the treetops from the zipline, and a welcome drink and chill-out session after your adventure.
Eco-friendly fun and safety are uppermost at Wacky Rollers, including a briefing and demonstration, harness, helmet and gloves.
Expect a workout, jungle views across the treetops from the zipline, and a welcome drink and chill-out session after your adventure.
Practical Info
The Wacky Rollers Adventure Park is on the Layou River outside Roseau.
Address: Layou River, Roseau 00152, Dominica
Hours: Open daily
Admission: $81
From $ 63
Scarborough
Scarborough is the capital city of Tobago. With around 17,000 people, it is home to nearly one-third of the island’s population. Europeans settled this historic town in the mid-1600s, and the English, Dutch and French battled for its control. In 1769, the English made Scarborough the island’s capital, and their mark can still be seen at Fort King George, an 18th-century garrison that overlooks the settlement. Today the ruins are well worth visiting for the spectacular views, and a small on-site museum offers a glimpse of the island’s history, with weapons, maps and pre-Columbian artifacts on display. While Scarborough does have a newly built deep-water port for cruise ships, the town itself maintains an unpretentious local feel, with wooden ginger-bread houses alongside more functional concrete structures. The Scarborough Mall, across from the harbor, is home to the tourism information office, and the best place to in town to go shopping.
Practical Info
Visitors can travel between Port of Spain, Trinidad and Scarborough, Tobago, via ferry service, which takes 2.5 hours and runs regularly throughout the day. If you prefer to fly directly to Tobago, you’ll land at Arthur Napoleon Raymond Robinson International Airport, which is about eight miles from downtown Scarborough.
Address: Scarborough, Tobago, Trinidad and Tobago
Hours: Daily
From $ 50
Sapphire Beach
With more than 40 major beaches lining St Thomas’ shores, how do you decide which to visit?
One of the most popular is Sapphire Beach, located on the east end of the island. This area of St Thomas is known for its laid-back atmosphere and is home to some of the best views of neighboring St John. With a mix of red-tiled roof homes and commerical buildings, the area is anchored by Red Hook, a popular spot for boating enthusiasts and where the historic center of Charlotte Amalie is located.
Sapphire Beach, an ideal stop for cruise ship passengers exploring St Thomas for a day, features about 35 acres of fine white sand beaches and is also a great choice for families. The waters are calm and good for snorkeling, while the sea grape trees on the right end of the beach provide some shade for beach goers. The left side, however, is ideal for sunbathing. Keep your eyes open for ducks and iguanas wandering the shores.
At the nearby Sapphire Beach Resort, visitors can rent lounge chairs and snorkeling equipment, or opt for other water activities, such as windsurfing, kayaking, jet skiing and sailing.
Practical Info
Beaches in St Thomas are public property and typically extend to the tree line. There are no clothing-optional beaches in St Thomas, and public nudity is illegal. Do not remove shells from the beaches or feed the marine life and sea birds.
Address: Sapphire Beach, St Thomas, US Virgin Islands
From $ 89
Savonet Museum
Take a trip through Curacao’s history at the Savonet Museum, located within one of the island’s oldest plantations at the heart of Christoffel Park. The museum’s exhibits include depictions of local life starting from the original Arawak inhabitants who came to the island about 4,000 years ago, through the Dutch colonial era and modern day. Choose the audio tour to get in-depth details about life on the plantation, or ask for a guided tour from one of the museum’s docents. As you explore, you’ll see historical artifacts, documents, and pictures, and after you’ve looked around the museum, you can take a hike through the surrounding park to spot local wildlife like the Curacao white-tailed deer or the Palabrua, a native barn owl.
Practical Info
The Savonet Museum is location on the north end of the island, within the Christoffel Park nature preserve. To get there, drive north from Willemstad along Weg Naar Westpunt, the main road, for about 40 minutes. The museum is open 7 days a week and costs $7 for adults, $5 for children.
Address: Weg Naar Westpunt, Christoffel Park Nature Preserve, Curacao
Hours: Mon-Sat 7:30am-4pm, Sun 6am-3pm, Hours subject to change, refer to website for up to date times.
Admission: Adults $7, Child $5
From $ 99
Windward Road
Take a day to explore the picturesque countryside of Tobago along the Windward Road. This 22-mile stretch of coastal road connects Scarborough with Speyside, winding through lush valleys, past remote beaches and through rural Caribbean towns along the way. You’ll be stopped by traffic jams of slow moving goats, and spot friendly local waving from their porches and roadside rum shops. Must-see stops along the way include the Hillborough River, where you may spot a caiman lurking in the water. Stop at the fresh fish market in Barbados Bay, once the site of Georgetown, Tobago’s original British capital. Just before Roxborough, you’ll want to stop and marvel at Argyle Waterfall, which tumbles into a refreshing swimming hole. A guide and admission fee is required to walk the trails; official guides wear khaki uniforms and carry ID. Once you reach Speyside, you can relax with a drink along the waterfront, enjoying the views of Goat Island and Little Tobago.
Practical Info
To drive directly from Scarborough to Speyside on the Windward Road takes about 1.5 hours. However, it’s a good idea to slow down and make frequent stops as you explore the countryside.
Address: Tobago, Trinidad and Tobago
From $ 110
Santiago
Santiago, or Santiago de los Caballeros, is located in the Cibao Valley, and with nearly 1 million residents, it’s the second-largest city in the Dominican Republic. Santiago’s origins date back to 1495, when Christopher Columbus built a fort on the banks of the Yaque del Norte River. Santiago was once named Santiago de los Treinta Caballeros (Saint James of the 30 Knights), a nod to the 30 Spanish aristocrats who helped form the original community.
Many people refer to Santiago as the “heart city,” as it’s located at the center of what was once Hispaniola. Santiago has a large arts and culture scene. Do not miss the Museo del Tabaco (Cigar Museum), where visitors can learn about the art of making cigars and purchase some of the most famous brands. Other museums of note include Museo Folklórico Yoryi Morel, which features exhibits related to Santiago’s Carnival, and Museo Histórtico Fortaleza San Luis, which once served as a municipal prison.
Sports are also a popular aspect of life in Santiago. Baseball and basketball are the most popular sports in the city. A number of notable Major League Baseball players are originally from the Dominican Republic. Fertile lands in the region support Santiago. Items like cigarettes, rum, furniture, soaps, leather goods and pharmaceuticals are produced in this region. Foods like cacao, dairy, coffee and milled rice are also staples in Santiago. While not typically a tourist destination, the city is seeing a slight increase in tourism.
Practical Info
Santiago de los Caballeros is located in the inland part of the Dominican Republic. There are direct flights into Santiago from several locations in the United States and parts of Central America and the Caribbean. Be cautious of your belongings, especially in the Centro Historico, as thieves and pickpockets are plentiful.
Address: Santiago, Dominican Republic
From $ 89
San Juan National Historic Site
Established in 1949, The San Juan National Historic Site is home to some of the city’s most famous attractions. Visitors can climb to Castillo San Felibe del Morro, overlooking the San Juan Bay, for an up close look at military efforts more than 250 years ago. Travelers can learn about historic battles that took place against the English and Dutch while visiting the restored lighthouse, chapel and vintage cannons.
History buffs will also love Castillo San Cristobal, near the gate of Old San Juan. While El Morro protected Puerto Rico from seaside attacks, Castillo San Cristobal was designed to stop intruders approaching by land. With grounds stretching some 27 acres, this is Puerto Rico’s largest fortification site, as well as the biggest built by the Spanish after discovering the New World.
Practical Info
The National Historic Site is an easy walk from the pier where most cruise ships dock. Travelers can head north past the Plaza Colon to access most sites. Free trams are also available every 20 to 30 minutes. Most attractions are open from 9 a.m until 6 p.m. daily, except Thanksgiving, Christmas and New Year’s.
Address: San Juan 00901, Puerto Rico
Hours: Daily 9am-6pm, Closed Thanksgiving, Christmas, & New Year's Day
Admission: Adults $5, Children Under 15 Free
From $ 62
Scharloo
Just inland from Willemstad’s city center, Punda, is a historical section of the city called Scharloo, which is included on the UNESCO World Heritage list, along with the Punda, Otrabanda and Pietermaai neighborhoods. Scharloo served and something of a colonial-era suburb, and today you can still stroll the streets to marvel at the abundance of beautifully restored mansions that sit within easy walking distance of what was the central business district of colonial Willemstad. Some of these restored homes have been converted to hotels and guesthouses.
Practical Info
To visit Scharloo from Punda on foot takes about 15 minutes. To get there, simply walk north along Gouvernementsplein and across the footbridge, then follow Scharlooweg into the heart of Scharloo.
Address: Willemstad, Curaçao, Curacao
From $ 25
Scape Park at Cap Cana
Set in the Dominican Republic’s Cap Cana Resort, the Scape Park ecoadventure site draws thrill-seekers and families who come to enjoy the property’s varied outdoor activities. You’ll find more than 247 acres (100 hectares) of limestone topography and jungle, including an active marina and the popular Juanillo Beach.
The Basics
With a variety of available tours, you can focus on just one way of exploring Scape Park, or pack your day with different activities. Go ziplining over the treetops, horseback riding along the beach, or off-roading in an adventure buggy. Scuba diving and snorkeling tours allow you to discover the Caribbean island’s underwater flora and fauna, while catamaran and yacht tours showcase the landscape above sea level, including the scenic Juanillo coastline. Swim in the otherworldly turquoise water of the Hoyo Azul cenote (an underground limestone sinkhole), or opt for kayaking, windsurfing, paddleboarding, fishing, or sailing. Try a cave expedition or lagoon tour for extra adventure. Many combination tours from Punta Cana pair adventurous activities with cultural tours or ecotours, most with transportation included.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Both adults and kids will find activities to enjoy at Scape Park, making this day trip a crowd-pleaser for families.
- Wear clothes you won’t mind sweating in; most tours here involve some level of activity.
- The hot, humid jungle climate makes sunscreen and bug spray necessities.
- Buying tickets ahead of time minimizes the chance you’ll have to wait in line at this popular attraction.
- Scape Park’s rugged terrain makes it unsuitable for wheelchair users or strollers.
How to Get There
Centrally located just seven miles from the Punta Cana airport, Scape Park is located below Farallon Cliff in Cap Cana. If you’re staying at one of the many resorts in Punta Cana, Bavaro, or Bayahibe, you can arrange for a complimentary tour bus to pick you up from your resort.
When to Get There
Scape Park is open daily from 8am to 6pm. The busiest times to visit the Dominican Republic are from mid-February to mid-June, when many visitors from the northern United States book trips to escape freezing temperatures. The rainy hurricane season lasts from June to November.
Hoyo Azul
One of the most popular attractions in Scape Park is the Hoyo Azul. Meaning “blue hole,” Hoyo Azul is a sinkhole resulting from the collapse of limestone bedrock that exposed groundwater underneath. The Hoyo Azul eco tour involves a descent into the cave where you can walk on boardwalks above the water. Guided commentary talks about the formation of the water feature, plus the flora and fauna that flourish there.
Address: Punta Cana, Dominican Republic
Hours: Daily
Admission: Varies
From $ 129
San Juan Cathedral
Built in 1521, The San Juan Cathedral (aka La Santa Catedral San Juan Bautista de Puerto Rico) is one of the highlights of any trip into Old San Juan. The second oldest cathedral in the Americas, this historic landmark lies right in the heart of Old San Juan and boasts an impressive array of religious and historical artifacts including the tomb of notorious Spanish conquistador Ponce de Leon and the mummy of St. Pio. An operational cathedral, you can attend mass here Saturdays at 7 pm, Sunday at 9 and 11 am, and weekdays 7:25 am and 12:15 pm. And experience a traditional catholic mass, or, when service isn’t being conducted, you can wander the nave free of charge, gaze at the huge stained glass windows, or marvel at the construction of the oldest church on U.S. soil.
Practical Info:
The San Juan Cathedral is located at 151 Calle Del Cristo and is open from 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. daily. Entrance is free with optional donation.
Address: 151 Calle Del Cristo, San Juan 00902, Puerto Rico
From $ 40
White Bay
People travel the entire world in search of tropical paradise, when all along it’s been sitting right here—hanging out in plain view. Here on tiny Jost Van Dyke in the British Virgin Islands, yachties, bar flies, sunseekers, and divers all gather together on a white sand cove that’s back by a turquoise sea. Grab a snorkel and swim through schools of small, silvery fish, or watch as pelicans swoop through the sky in search of an easy meal. After splashing in the shallow waters, order a plate of conch fritters from one of the beachside restaurants, or sip on a frozen “Painkiller” cocktail at the infamous Soggy Dollar Bar. The name, it’s said, is derived from sailors who would swim to shore and purchase drinks with wet bills—which is still a tradition that visiting yachties casually enjoy to this day. To stretch your legs between drinks and meals, stroll the length of White Bay and scramble around the rocks, taking in views of the natural harbor that’s dotted with sailboats and yachts. Even for all of its beauty, however, and renowned tropical fame, Jost Van Dyke remains unpretentious and true to its casual roots.
Practical Info
Jost Van Dyke is most easily accessed by boat from St. Thomas or St. John. Both islands have regular ferries that visit Jost Van Dyke—although passports are required when re-entering the small U.S. territory. It’s also possible to visit from Tortola or neighboring Virgin Gorda, or charter your own boat and drop anchor directly offshore White Bay.
Address: Jost Van Dyke Island, British Virgin Islands, British Virgin Islands
From $ 105
White River Valley
White River Valley prides itself on its eco credentials, offering all manner of outdoor adventures.
The white limestone rocks give the White River its name, causing the water to tumble over rapids and forming tranquil lagoon pools for rafting.
You can go tubing or kayaking in the White River, or even saddle a horse for a ride along trails leading through tropical rainforest! Visit the landscaped Village of Flowers, and seek out the old Spanish Bridge dating back to the 1600s.
Practical Info
White River Valley is 7 miles (11 kilometers) inland from Ocho Rios, between the parishes of St. Mary and St. Ann. The river mouth is in Ocho Rios.
Address: A1 Highway, Ocho Rios JMCAN19, Jamaica
Hours: Open daily
Admission: Free
From $ 50
Saona Island (Isla Saona)
Saona Island (Isla Saona) is the Dominican Republic's largest coastal island, clocking in at 15 miles (25 kilometers) long and three miles (5 kilometers) wide, with a population of little more than 300. Part of the National Park of the East, the island features plenty of photo-worthy white sands, swaying palm trees, and turquoise waters.
The Basics
Set sail across the Caribbean Sea on a speedboat or catamaran cruise to Saona Island to spend a day swimming, snorkeling, and sunbathing at the island's beaches and lagoons. Full-day Saona Island tours run from Punta Cana, La Romana, Bayahibe Beach, and Santo Domingo, and often include visits to mainland sights such as Altos de Chavon. Alternatively, arrive in style on a private helicopter to enjoy spectacular views along the island's southern coast.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Be sure to take everything you need as there are no shops on the island. Sunscreen, a swimsuit, and a sunhat are essentials.
- Bring cash if you want to purchase food or drinks from beach bars and kiosks—most do not accept cards.
- There is no Wi-Fi on the island.
- Many passenger ferries and private boats to Saona Island are wheelchair accessible, but it's best to check with the operator in advance.
How to Get There
Saona Island is located at the southeastern tip of the Dominican Republic, and is only reachable by boat. The closest mainland town is Bayahibe. From there, Saona Island is 40 minutes away by speedboat, or two hours away on a leisurely catamaran cruise.
When to Get There
The most popular time to visit Saona Island is during the dry summer months from December through February, and resorts can fill up quickly during the this time. Thanks to the mild Caribbean climate, it's possible to visit year-round, but while off-season visitors can benefit from reduced prices, boat tours can be canceled due to rough weather during hurricane season from August through November.
Exploring Saona Island
After visiting the village of Mano Juan, exploring Cotubanamá Cave, and strolling the pristine Canto de la Playa beach, take a dip at a natural pool filled with giant starfish or swim and snorkel at Palmilla Beach. The island has plenty of offshore wonders too—look out for bottlenose dolphins, turtles, manatees, and whales as you cruise around the coast.
Practical Info
Measuring around 15 miles long (25 km) by 3 miles wide (5 km), Saona Island is part of the National Park of the East (Parque Nacional del Este) in the Dominican Republic. The closest towns are Bayahibe and Boca de Yuma.
Address: Dominican Republic
Admission: Free
From $ 67
San Juan Gate
Named in honor of Saint John the Baptist, La Puerta de San Juan was originally one of five doorways to the city used to protect its streets from invaders and each gate has its own unique function. Today, this towering red and white entryway that’s tucked into the city’s surrounding stonewall offers a truly magical way to enter and explore Puerto Rico’s capital city.
Travelers who pass through this historic entrance will find energetic vendors selling traditional snacks and ice-cold piragua along walkways heading towards the historic old town. Ancient trees stretch high into the sky and provide cool shade for lovers on romantic strolls. Narrow cobblestone streets lined with restored Spanish colonial homes and ornate balconies add to the charm of this favorite San Juan attraction.
Practical Info
Travelers who start their walk to the gate from Paseo la Princesa will find the most picturesque views of San Juan Bay.
Address: Paseo de la Princesa, San Juan, Puerto Rico
From $ 33
The Baths
Many travelers to the British Virgin Islands make their way to Virgin Gorda to see the beautiful Baths. Laden with exotic pools and grottoes set among sea caves, the site was formed by mammoth boulders, around which explorers can swim and snorkel with crystal clarity.
If you happen to be a geological buff, you will notice that the boulders on the beach are indicators of the island's volcanic origins, which placed the granite that eroded into the splendid formations of The Baths.
Practical Info
The Baths' main entrance can be reached by heading west from Spanish Town along the conveniently signposted road. You can park a car at the elegant Top of the Baths restaurant. The site is also accessible through water trails reached via Devil's Bay. If careful and attentive, it's possible to spot sponges and corals in the water. Another such path leads to Spring Bay, where you can see many fish and other aquatic life.
Address: Virgin Gorda, British Virgin Islands
Hours: Open daily
From $ 800
Sapodilla Bay Rock Carvings
On Providenciales’ southern coast, follow the rocky trail winding uphill east of the ruined Mariner Hotel and you’ll come across rock carvings dating back to the early 1800s.
It’s thought the carvings were made by shipwrecked sailors as they looked out to sea, hoping to be rescued. The intricately carved lettering incised into the rocks atop the hilltop records the dates of the sailors’ enforced stay on the island.
Climb to the top of this rocky hilltop and you’ll also be rewarded by panoramic vistas over the island and neighboring Chalk Sound National Park.
It’s thought the carvings were made by shipwrecked sailors as they looked out to sea, hoping to be rescued. The intricately carved lettering incised into the rocks atop the hilltop records the dates of the sailors’ enforced stay on the island.
Climb to the top of this rocky hilltop and you’ll also be rewarded by panoramic vistas over the island and neighboring Chalk Sound National Park.
Practical Info
The Sapodilla Bay Rock Carvings can be found on a rocky hilltop at the far eastern end of the Sapodilla Bay peninsula on the Caicos Island of Providenciales.
To get there, follow a rocky trail beginning a little east of the abandoned Mariner Hotel in the south of the island near Chalk Sound National Park.
To get there, follow a rocky trail beginning a little east of the abandoned Mariner Hotel in the south of the island near Chalk Sound National Park.
Address: Turks and Caicos
From $ 100