Grab your sunnies and flip-flops because the Caribbean is calling! With golden sands, turquoise waters, and endless rum cocktails, this paradise has it all!
Caribbean holidays 2026 highlights
Beaches straight out of a fantasy with lush white sands and crystal waters.
A couples paradise
Thousands of islands to hop around
Family-friendly activities hotspot
A tropical haven giving pure relaxation vibes
For a Caribbean trip where EVERYTHING is included check our all-inclusive Caribbean holidays!
Fun Facts About the Caribbean 🎉
Pirates used to rule these waters! But don’t worry, the only booty being hunted down now is sun-kissed relaxation.
The Caribbean invented rum! So, yes, you’re literally sipping history with every mojito.
Pink beaches are a thing! Check out Pink Sands Beach in the Bahamas – it’s like Mother Nature’s version of a Barbie Dream House.
Which are the Tip-Top Hotels in the Caribbean?
It goes without saying that Caribbean holidays are at the top of everyone's bucket lists, and with so many iconic destinations to choose from, we thought we'd give you a helping hand picking the perfect hotel.
For Families 👨👩👧👦
Dreams Dominicus La Romana (Dominican Republic) – A five-star jolly for the whole fam complete with lush sea views, gorgeous sandy beach and more facilities than you can shake your tail feather at. Kids' clubs, waterslides, the works.
Moon Palace Jamaica (Jamaica) – This family-friendly spot has thought about all ages, from a teens lounge to a kids' club. There's even a FlowRider wave simulator, so what better way to vacay in Jamaica(y)?
Sugar Bay Barbados (Barbados) – Beachfront four-star with a kids' club, teen clubhouse, spa and watersports. Five restaurants and five bars mean nobody goes hungry or thirsty.
For Couples 💑
Jewel Paradise Cove Resort – Adults Only (Jamaica) – Escape the hustle and bustle at this lavish beachfront location where the only sounds are waves and clinking cocktail glasses.
Sandals Royal Barbados – Adults Only (Barbados) – The Sandals name speaks for itself. Rooftop pool, swim-up suites, tranquillity soaking tubs, and seven restaurants to work your way through. Pure romance.
Hideaway at Royalton Saint Lucia – Adults Only (St Lucia) – Nine restaurants, a private beach, and those famous St Lucian views. The Hideaway section adds extra luxury with Diamond Club perks.
Luxury 🌟
Sandals Ochi Beach Resort – Adults Only (Jamaica) – Sixteen restaurants, eleven bars, and a private beachfront in Ocho Rios. This is the full Sandals experience – butler service, swim-up suites, the lot.
Zoetry Marigot Bay (St Lucia) – Suites overlooking the bay, a private ferry to the beach, and 'MediterrAsian' fusion cuisine. Five-star St Lucia at its finest.
The Ocean Club, A Four Seasons Resort (Bahamas) – Michelin-star dining, three pools, and twice-daily housekeeping. This is where you go when only the very best will do.
All-Inclusive Favourites 🍹
Barcelo Bavaro Beach – Adults Only (Dominican Republic) – Part of the massive Barcelo complex with access to a casino, golf course, spa and about a million pools. Proper all-inclusive done right.
Beaches Negril (Jamaica) – Five-star all-inclusive right on the beach with nine restaurants, gorgeous pools, and that famous Jamaican atmosphere. Perfect for families.
Royalton Saint Lucia Resort & Spa (St Lucia) – Seven gourmet restaurants, a private beach, and views that'll have you reaching for your camera every five minutes.
Budget-Friendly 💰
Negril Tree House (Jamaica) – A three-star gem right on Seven Mile Beach. Pool, jacuzzi, beach bar, and proper Jamaican vibes without the massive price tag.
Barbados Beach Club (Barbados) – Beachfront all-inclusive in the St Lawrence Gap area with an outdoor pool, two restaurants, and watersports included. Great value for Barbados.
Tropikist Beach Hotel (Tobago) – Five minutes' walk from the airport and a few minutes from Store Bay Beach. Two pools, a swim-up bar, and proper value for money.
Local Lingo 🗣️
English is widely spoken here, but we'll let you in on some phrases that you just might hear out and about on your Caribbean holidays:
“Wah gwaan?” (Jamaica) – What’s going on?
“Irie” (Jamaica) – Everything’s all good.
“Likkle more” (Jamaica) – See you later!
“Mi deh yah” (Jamaica) – I’m here and ready for the beach!
Getting Around on your holidays to the Caribbean 2026
🚌 Buses - ready to travel like a local? Caribbean buses are cheap, cheerful, and give you a front-row seat to island life. You’ll be cruising around town for pennies – but be warned: these buses run on "island time." Translation? There’s no rush, so sit back, relax, and let the laid-back vibes sink in while you enjoy the scenic ride.
🚖 Taxis - they’re everywhere, and thankfully, they’re super affordable. But before you jump in, be sure to agree on the fare or check the meter—unless you fancy a surprise bill that might make you consider walking next time! Perfect for getting from the beach to your hotel after a day of sun-soaked fun.
🚤 Ferries and Boats - fancy a bit of island-hopping? Ferries and boats are the way to go for bouncing between paradise spots. Whether you’re exploring new shores or heading to a hidden gem for the day, these are your ticket to the Caribbean adventure of a lifetime.
🏍️ Scooters and Motorbikes - feel like living on the wild side? Rent a scooter and zip around like a true islander. Just watch out for those sharp bends and unexpected potholes—Caribbean roads can be as adventurous as the beaches!
Where to Stay on your Caribbean holidays
The Caribbean isn't one destination – it's dozens of dreamy islands, each with its own personality. Whether you're after party vibes or total peace, there's a spot with your name on it. Here's the lowdown on everywhere we can whisk you off to:
🇩🇴 Dominican Republic – The Caribbean's biggest hitter for package holidays, and for good reason. Think mega resorts, endless palm-fringed beaches, and enough activities to keep everyone happy – from zip-lining through the jungle to salsa dancing 'til dawn. Punta Cana is the main event, but Samaná offers a quieter escape.
🇯🇲 Jamaica – The birthplace of reggae, jerk chicken and "no problem" vibes. Jamaica's got lush mountains, tumbling waterfalls, and beaches that'll make your jaw drop. Brilliant for families (Dunn's River Falls is a must) and couples alike – plus the all-inclusive resorts here are legendary.
🇧🇧 Barbados – A touch more refined than some of its neighbours, Barbados blends Caribbean warmth with a dash of British heritage. Expect gorgeous west coast beaches, rum distilleries galore, and some of the best food in the region. Cricket fans, this one's for you.
🇱🇨 St Lucia – Those iconic Pitons aren't just for Instagram – they're the backdrop to one of the Caribbean's most romantic islands. Rainforest hikes, volcanic hot springs, and beaches framed by dramatic peaks make St Lucia the ultimate couples' escape.
🇧🇸 Bahamas – Just a hop from Florida, the Bahamas delivers that classic Caribbean look – think pink sand beaches, swimming pigs (yes, really), and crystal-clear waters perfect for snorkelling. Nassau's got the buzz, while the Out Islands offer total tranquillity.
🇦🇬 Antigua – Famous for having 365 beaches (one for every day of the year, if you're counting), Antigua is pure Caribbean postcard material. Smaller and quieter than some, it's perfect for couples and honeymooners who want to properly switch off.
🇹🇹 Tobago – Trinidad's quieter sister island is all about nature and authenticity. Rainforest reserves, empty beaches, and some of the Caribbean's best diving await. It's less developed than most, which is exactly the point.
🇦🇼 Aruba – Sitting outside the hurricane belt, Aruba's practically guaranteed sunshine. The island's got a different vibe – more desert-like with divi-divi trees and dramatic coastlines. Eagle Beach is regularly voted one of the world's best.
Our Top Picks by Traveller Type
💑 For Couples: St Lucia – Romantic beach strolls, sunsets over the Pitons, and volcanic hot springs. If you're not in love already, you will be after a couples holiday here.
👨👩👧👦 For Families: Jamaica – The ultimate family holiday destination. Waterparks, dolphin swims, jungle adventures – the kids won't stop talking about it (and neither will you).
👯 For Groups: Dominican Republic – Get your squad together for a group holiday filled with zip-lining, rum-tasting, and beach bar-hopping. The nightlife here is poppin', so bring your dancing shoes!
What are the best beaches for your holidays to the Caribbean 2026?
Ah, the beach. Toes in the warm sand, listening to the gentle waves, soaking up the sun - a truly unmatched jolly feeling, and the best part about this scorchio destination is that no matter what time of year it is, you can enjoy some toasty temps, heck, you could even come here to chase some winter sun, so buckle up for some of the must-visit beaches in the Caribbean:
Grace Bay Beach (Turks and Caicos): it's on the list of the world's best beaches for a reason guys. Crystal-clear waters and powdery sand that stretches for miles, you'll never wanna leave.
Seven Mile Beach (Cayman Islands): Sprawl out on soft white sand or walk along the calm, turquoise water surf of this stunning, world-renowned beach that spans... you guessed it, seven miles (almost).
Pink Sands Beach (Bahamas): Looks like Barbie fever is running rampant... or it could be the red coral in the sand giving the beach that famous pink hue, either way this is not one to miss for beach lovers who crave crystal waters and a flashy new Instapost.
Eagle Beach (Aruba): A serene paradise with pristine sand and plenty of water sports if you love seeking your next thrill - if you're lucky you might spot Turtles here too, Aruba is home to four different species that all make their lil' nests right here.
Shoal Bay Beach (Anguilla): Guess who's back? Pink-hued sands are back, except this time, it's personal. Two miles of Shoal Beach, perfect for a barefoot stroll, and with plenty of restaurants and bars lining the shore, there's no excuse to not make a day of it.
Playa Rincón (Dominican Republic): A beach only a postcard could love... and families... and couples... and groups - this gorge expanse of white sand is littered with palm trees and a 3 mile stretch of the kind of shoreline that assures you of a goodtime.
Fancy a jolly right now? We know you do. That's why if you browse through our last-minute holidays, you could be off on one quicker than you can ask the average price of a pint.
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Weather in Caribbean
Caribbean weather, where have you been all our life? If you're looking for temperatures that shimmy between 24-30°C all year round, the Caribbean's the place to be! If only the weather back in Blighty were the same!
But hold your horses, the weather in the Caribbean isn't just about sipping piña coladas in the sun. It's got its mysterious side too, you know. From June to November, the Caribbean struts into hurricane season, and those tropical storms do be making a fierce appearance.
Outside of hurricane season, the dry season takes centre stage from December to April. Perfect for exploring those colourful colonial towns or discovering hidden coves. And the rainy season? May to November, but it's nothing to get your swimsuit in a twist about. The showers are quick, and you'll be back on the beach before you can say "more rum, please!"
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FAQs
How long does it take to fly to the Caribbean?
How long does it take to fly to the Caribbean?
It takes about nine hours to fly to the Caribbean from the UK/Ireland, although this can vary depending on your destination, plenty of movies and nap time to squeeze in.
What’s the time difference between the UK/Ireland and the Caribbean?
What’s the time difference between the UK/Ireland and the Caribbean?
The majority of Caribbean destinations are 5 hours behind the UK/Ireland, but different time zones apply so make sure to check your chosen destination. Don't think about the jet lag yet... sorry, we guess you are now.
What currency do they use in the Caribbean?
What currency do they use in the Caribbean?
The Caribbean doesn't have a central currency, but the American dollar is accepted in many areas. Make sure you check the local information for your chosen destination so you don't get caught out by a different local currency including the Barbadian dollar, the Cuban peso and the East Caribbean dollar.
What language do they speak in the Caribbean?
What language do they speak in the Caribbean?
There is no official language of the Caribbean, but many islands speak English, French, Spanish or Dutch - you'll feel well travelled from one jolly! You are also likely to hear Creole and local dialects.
When is hurricane season in the Caribbean?
When is hurricane season in the Caribbean?
Hurricane season officially runs from June to November, with the peak months being August to October. That said, millions of people holiday in the Caribbean during this time without any issues – and you'll often find cracking deals. Most modern resorts have solid contingency plans, and if you're worried, some islands like Aruba sit outside the main hurricane belt altogether.
What's the best time to visit the Caribbean?
What's the best time to visit the Caribbean?
The dry season from December to April is peak time – expect sunshine, warm temps (around 25-30°C), and the best weather for beaches. It's also the busiest and priciest time to visit. The shoulder months of May and November can offer a sweet spot of decent weather and fewer crowds. Even in the wet season, showers tend to be short and sharp – you'll be back on the beach in no time.
Is the Caribbean good for families?
Is the Caribbean good for families?
Absolutely brilliant for families. Jamaica's got waterparks, dolphin encounters, and Dunn's River Falls. The Dominican Republic is packed with mega resorts with kids' clubs and aqua parks. The Bahamas has swimming pigs (need we say more?). Most all-inclusive resorts cater specifically to families with entertainment, kids' menus, and babysitting services.
Is the Caribbean safe for tourists?
Is the Caribbean safe for tourists?
Generally yes – the Caribbean is well set up for tourism and millions of Brits visit every year without any issues. As with anywhere, use common sense: stick to tourist areas, don't flash expensive gear, and use hotel safes for valuables. Resort areas in Jamaica, Dominican Republic, Barbados and the other main destinations are very safe. Check the FCDO travel advice for your specific destination before you go.
Can you drink the tap water in the Caribbean?
Can you drink the tap water in the Caribbean?
This varies by island. In Barbados, Aruba, and the Bahamas, tap water is generally safe to drink. In Jamaica, Dominican Republic, and Cuba, stick to bottled water to be safe – it's cheap and widely available. Most resorts provide bottled water anyway, and ice in tourist establishments is usually made from purified water.
What's the difference between the Caribbean islands?
What's the difference between the Caribbean islands?
Each island's got its own personality! Jamaica's all about reggae, jerk chicken and adventure. Dominican Republic is the king of mega all-inclusive resorts. Barbados feels a bit more upmarket with British colonial charm. St Lucia is dramatic and romantic with those famous Pitons. Cuba's a time warp of vintage cars and salsa. Antigua's quiet and beachy. Pick based on the vibe you're after.
Is all-inclusive worth it in the Caribbean?
Is all-inclusive worth it in the Caribbean?
For the Caribbean, we'd say absolutely yes. The long flight makes it extra nice to arrive and have everything sorted. Resorts here do all-inclusive properly – we're talking multiple restaurants, unlimited drinks, activities, and entertainment included. It also means you know exactly what you're spending upfront. Check out our all-inclusive Caribbean holidays to see what's on offer.






