This year’s pandemic has no doubt left people around the globe with a pent up desire to travel. Mass lockdowns and border closures have led to a sweeping wanderlust like never before. Thanks to the recent announcement of a potentially pandemic ending vaccine, many are gearing up for travel plans in 2021. The Caribbean is arguably the best place to visit after a crazy year like 2020. It’s got all the characteristics of a perfect vacay. Unspoilt nature, rich history, unbelievable food, vibrant nightlife and year-round sunny days perfect for lounging on the beach. So, without further adieu, here are the seven hottest Caribbean destinations for 2021.
Hottest Caribbean Destinations for 2021
1. Cuba
Cuba’s complicated and colourful history is enough to warrant a visit to the island. However, Cuba is just as visually stunning as it is culturally significant. Head to Havana where the capital seems to be frozen in an old era and get your fill of mojitos in the bumping nightclubs. Book a historical tour and learn about Che Gueverra and visit Ernest Hemingway’s old digs. Or how about lounging the day away on white sands just east of the city in Cojimar. Either way, Cuba will become a big check off the bucket list for 2021.
Book a stay in Havana at Gran Hotel Manzana Kempinski La Habana in the heart of Old Havana.
2. Aruba
Turquoise waters, jaw-dropping natural pools and the famous Divi Divi trees are just a few things this cosy Caribbean island has going for it. Aruba is on many peoples list of places to experience simply for its unique local culture. Despite being just off the coast of Venezuela, many parts of the island feel like a Dutch village. That’s right, Aruba belongs to the Kingdom of the Netherlands, and the Dutch influence can be seen throughout. Take in the charming Dutch Baroque style in the heart of the capital, Oranjestad or throw a few cocktails back on the famous Eagle Beach.
Go all out with a stay at Aruba’s famous Manchebo Beach Resort & Spa.
3. St. Kitts
St. Kitts has the type of Caribbean landscape that everyone should experience at least once in their lifetime. Lush rolling volcanic hills clash with the aqua blue waters and hold lots of secrets like hidden coves and forgotten sugar plantations. Go all out and spend the day hiking Mount Liamuiga, the island’s mighty stratovolcano or brush up on British colonial history at the Brimstone Hill Fortress. Whatever you do, be sure to save a whole day just for lounging on the pristine Banana Bay.
For the stay of a lifetime book your accommodation with Belle Mont Farm.
4. Puerto Rico
Puerto Rico has long been coined the “Island of Enchantment”, and it isn’t hard to see why. From its swaying palms and bioluminescent beach phenomena to 16th-century Spanish citadels and forgotten castles, it’s not hard to get hooked on the island. In addition to being a treasure trove of history and natural beauty, Puerto Rico serves up some of the best food in the Caribbean. Chow down on rellenos de papa and pasteles before bumming it on the magnificent Flamenco Beach.
There’s no better place to base for an epic Puerto Rican adventure than the heart of Old San Juan. We recommend Hotel El Convento.
5. Antigua
Antigua is the perfect escape when you want to just get away from it all. This Caribbean gem is a top destination for exploring the Great Outdoors via snorkelling, hiking and swimming. Take a dive to discover the surrounding corals bursting with vibrant colour and sea life or hike the trail up to Shirley Heights for a panoramic view to remember. If you’ve got any energy left, explore Mount Obama, the affectionately named peak after the 44th US president. Be sure to set aside some time to explore the mysterious caves on the sister island, Barbuda.
With so much beautiful scenery around, it’s worth splurging on accommodation. We recommend Cocobay Resort.
6. Barbados
Rum and sea turtles are the name of the game on this pristine Caribbean paradise. Barbados is known for its character-heavy rums like Mount Gay XO and Plantation Barbados 5. Even better, however, are the island’s sea turtles. Barbados is home to a dense population of Hawksbill and Leatherback turtles making it a prime spot for animal lovers. If you can believe it, the allure of Barbados goes even further and is loaded with natural beauty such as the famous limestone caverns and Carlisle Bay.
Enjoy a perfect escape with accommodation in Tent Bay’s ECO Lifestyle & Lodge.
7. Jamaica
From jerk chicken, picturesque beaches, warm locals and vibrant reggae culture, it’s no wonder that Jamaica is a prime Caribbean destination. Simply put, it checks all the boxes. Spend the day eating your way through Montego Bay or hike through the jungle in the majestic Blue Mountains on the east side of the island. Be sure to reserve a day to tour the Green Grotto Caves just east of Montego Bay and don’t leave without at least a dozen ‘flaming Bob Marley’ cocktails.
Arguably the best spot to book a stay in is Negril. Reserve a suite at the Rockhouse Hotel right on the Sea.