The Caribbean is much more than idyllic beaches and tropical cocktails. It’s a region brimming with adventure, culture, and natural beauty. Here’s an expanded guide to the top 10 activities to make your Caribbean getaway unforgettable:
1. Hike St. Lucia's Pitons
The Pitons, Gros Piton and Petit Piton, are iconic volcanic peaks that dominate St. Lucia's skyline. Hiking Gros Piton offers stunning views of the island and its azure waters. If you’re less inclined to hike, a boat tour around the peaks or simply admiring them from Sugar Beach is equally breathtaking.
2. Visit Grenada's Underwater Sculpture Park
Dive or snorkel into a unique fusion of art and marine conservation in Molinere Bay. The sculptures, designed to foster coral growth, include haunting human figures and abstract creations, making this underwater experience both surreal and thought-provoking.
3. Experience Puerto Rico's Bioluminescent Bay
Paddle through Mosquito Bay on Vieques Island or Laguna Grande in Fajardo to witness a magical spectacle—water that glows when disturbed, thanks to bioluminescent plankton. A moonless night provides the most dramatic effect.
4. Belly Up to the Bars in Jost Van Dyke
This tiny British Virgin Island is legendary for its beachside bars and signature drinks. The Soggy Dollar Bar, home of the Painkiller cocktail, and Foxy’s Tamarind Bar, known for its lively parties, are must-visit spots.
5. Witness the World's Only Drive-In Volcano
Soufrière, St. Lucia, boasts an active geothermal site where you can literally drive into the crater. Enjoy a mud bath at the nearby sulfur springs, which locals believe has healing properties, and marvel at the bubbling pools of water and steam vents.
6. Visit St. Martin's Maho Beach
Experience a rush of adrenaline as planes fly just feet above you at this unique beach near Princess Juliana International Airport. The spectacle of low-flying aircraft combined with a stunning beach is a surreal photo opportunity.
7. Dive & Dine in Anegada
The remote island of Anegada in the British Virgin Islands is a diver’s paradise, offering pristine coral reefs and shipwrecks to explore. After a day in the water, feast on freshly caught lobster at one of the island’s famed beachside restaurants.
8. Experience French Caribbean Cuisine on St. Martin or St. Barts
Indulge in exquisite French-Caribbean fusion cuisine, blending European techniques with tropical flavors. From creole seafood dishes to freshly baked pastries, the gastronomic delights in these islands rival those of Paris.
9. See the View in Shirley Heights in Antigua
Climb to this historic hilltop fort for panoramic views of English Harbour and the turquoise sea beyond. Visit on a Sunday for the famous sunset party, complete with steel drum music, barbecue, and a festive Caribbean vibe.
10. Explore the Baths on Virgin Gorda in the British Virgin Islands
Discover a maze of massive granite boulders, secluded caves, and crystal-clear pools. The Baths are a natural wonder and perfect for exploring, swimming, and snapping stunning photos.
The adventure sports rider add-on from MissionSafe is for international travelers who love to stay active. It covers multiple activities and provides a bit of extra protection for thrill seekers. Ask us about this coverage when purchasing your next travel medical plan!