The ultra-pristine coast of Princess Alexandra National Park enjoys oceanside restaurants and luxury resorts, including Alexandra Resort and Wymara Resort and Villas. The most famous of these is Horseshoe Bay, where angelfish and sergeant majors thrive, and there's no shortage of photo ops, though Elbow Beach is equally worth a visit. If you havent yet traveled to Cuba, add it to the top of your Caribbean islands bucket list. Robert Curley is a freelance writer and guidebook author specializing in Caribbean Island and Rhode Island travel. Beginners can opt for the Openwater Diver (OWD) or Advanced Open Water Diver (AOWD) trainings at many of the islands endless dive shops, opening the doorway to plenty of fun diving vacations for years to come. There are about 20 main islands or island groups, but we'd recommend New Providence if you have to choose just one to visit. If you ask them where their imagined paradise might be, they may likely say "somewhere in the Caribbean.". Just six square miles in size, its no wonder that the Colombian Caribbean island of Providencia is so off the beaten path, a hidden Caribbean gem that few travelers have yet to even hear of. Mention the word Caribbean and most people think of places like Aruba, the Turks and Caicos, the Bahamas, and other tourist-rich dollops of sand. Both smaller islands are well-known for their excellent scuba diving, though they have less of the picturesque white sand beaches Grand Cayman is known for. Grand Cayman is the spot for large, amenity-filled resorts, while the less-visited Little Cayman and Cayman Brac are must less frequently visited but hold their own gems and experiences for travelers looking to get off the beaten path. Go snorkeling at Jalousie Beach or Anse Chastanet, take a mud bath at Sulphur Springs, and, if you're willing to splurge a little, book a stay at one of the three-walled resorts St. Lucia is known for. If you don't have a passport, Puerto Rico is the perfect destination to get a taste of the Caribbean. The remaining two member states, Anguilla and the British Virgin Islands, would not have participated immediately, but would have requested time to consider the issue further. Also, the only active submarine volcano in the Eastern Caribbean is the Kick 'em Jenny volcano, located just 6.2 miles north of the island of Grenada. Officially a French overseas department, Guadeloupe is a group of five main islands with several other islets, offering tons of diversity and beauty in a small package. While many Caribbean islands share similarly dreamy destinations like stunning white sand beaches and clear, warm waters, you might be surprised to see how different and unique the islands of the Caribbean can be and how much they have to offer travelers. [19] Saba's bid for membership was reportedly supported by St.Kitts and Nevis and discussed at the 34thmeeting of OECS leaders in Dominica in July. 10 best Caribbean islands to visit | CNN Organisation of Eastern Caribbean States - Wikipedia Most people (including myself) prefer the beaches on the Caribbean Sea side of the islands. These islands often feel like your own private slice of paradise. Read More: 15 Best Things To Do in The Bahamas. On the three main islands, youll find the greatest array of accommodations, restaurants, and guided experiences to make your trip memorable even world-class ecolodges and eco-resorts for sustainably-minded travelers. Here, we incorporated a list of the best Eastern Caribbean islands. It's no wonder. Other Eastern Caribbean islands such as St. Kitts & Nevis, St. Vincent & The Grenadines are also worthy enough to spend your vacation in these islands. [32] In 2003, work had been initiated on the central issue of the creation of new Treaty arrangements to replace the Treaty of Basseterre which established the OECS. Climb Gros Piton or zipline through the jungle before retreating to the beach in the afternoon, and make sure to visit Sulpher Springs with its famous heated volcanic mud baths at the worlds only drive-in volcano. This is one of the most important historical attractions of St. Lucia. Las Cuevas Beach is about a 15-minute walk from this bay which is so beautiful and quite peaceful. Stretching out into the center of the Caribbean Sea towards the Cayman Islands, the longest of Cubas cays also has some of its very best beaches, with Playa Paraiso and Playa Sirena topping the list of Cubas most beautiful beaches. From the charming, cobblestone streets of Old San Juan to the world-class beaches of Fajardo and Rincon and the delicious Caribbean food, Puerto Rico is a perfect mix for travelers looking for engaging cultural experiences and stunning natural beauty. One prominent aspect of OECS economic bloc has been the accelerated pace of trans-national integration among its member states. Or stay at Jungle Bay it was one of our favorite parts of our stay in Dominica! Here, travelers will find live reggae, jerk cuisine, and plenty of natural gems in its interior, including magnificentwaterfalls that can be hiked to. St. Lucia is the peak honeymoon destination, and it's easy to see why. Millions of travelers access The Bahamas every year at one of the countrys many ports of call or the private islands exclusively for cruise ships, but these islands offer so much more for travelers looking to spend a bit more time here. So-called the "Spice Island" for its history of nutmeg, allspice, clove, and cinnamon production, Grenada is an excellent place for all your baking and cooking needs. The Cayman Islands may be last on our list of Caribbean Islands, but its certainly not the least! [53], This was achieved in 2013 at the Twenty-Fourth Inter-Sessional Meeting of the Conference of Heads of Government of CARICOM held in Port-au-Prince, Haiti, from 1819 February 2013. While legally separate, these two halves of the island are quite similar, and their border is easily crossable non-existent, really. Tropical Storm Bret grows stronger as eastern Caribbean islands prepare The view from this cave is astonishing and eye-piercing. [24][25] As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. Encompassing more than 700 islands, reefs, and cays in an area of approximately one million square miles, the Caribbean archipelago today counts 13 sovereign island nations and 12 dependent territories, with close political ties throughout the region to Europe and the United States. Its the stuff your Caribbean vacation dreams are made of. 30 Caribbean Islands To Add To Your Bucket List | Explorers Away Caribbean Cruise Destinations: Which Islands Are Where With 35 in all, you'll find a beach to suit every mood and occasion, whether you want to swim with sea turtles at Playa Piskado, party at Jan Thiel, or kick back and soak up the sun at Playa Kenepa Grandi. Jillian Dara is a freelance journalist and fact-checker. And if money is no object, consider booking a stay at the famed Hamilton Princess & Beach Club for an ultra-luxe experience. You can easily get to this beach and it is accessible by sea kayaking. The lesser-visited Meads Bay is just as stunningand features good restaurants and high-end resorts to bootwhile Little Bay Beach, though difficult to get to, wows with its rugged cliffs and aquatic life that makes for equally good snorkeling. Just a stones throw away from the U.S. Virgin Islands and connected by frequent ferry service, the British Virgin Islands is a stunning spread of islands, little visited but cherished by those who find a unique Caribbean paradise among their shores. You can feel the vibes of waves gushing through the cave and you can also be lucky enough to witness the humpback whales during February, March and April. The largest and most fascinating Caribbean island isnt even on many travelers radars. Both are infrequently visited but much loved by those whove made the trip. The population is around 10,878,246 and the population density is 220/km^2. Its practically easier than ever for travelers from the United States to visit Cuba. It doesnt get better thanNIDominican Republic, occupying its own private peninsula on the countrys north coast for 270-degree ocean views. UNICEF Many people think of the Caribbean as a singular destination, but it is a complex geographical region. There are 11 countries in the eastern Caribbean Sea: Antigua and Barbuda, Dominica, Grenada, Montserrat, Saint Kitts and Nevis, Saint Lucia, Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, British Virgin Islands, Anguilla, Martinique and Guadeloupe. OECS currently has eleven members which together form a continuous archipelago across the Leeward Islands and Windward Islands. Truly a laid-back, off-the-beaten-path destination, this island is home to just 4,000 permanent residents, with a colorful main street lined with shops, restaurants, and hotels that will take you back to the untouched Caribbean islands of years past. [61] it is said to generate savings of $5 million a year. Tropical Storm Bret is expected to roar across eastern Caribbean islands on Thursday, poised to pelt the region with . This lush national park was once the holdout for the indigenous Taino population and runaway enslaved peoples. The regional central bank oversees financial and banking integrity for the Organisation of Eastern Caribbean States economic bloc of states. They were called the leeward islands because they were to the lee side of ships arriving from Europe. There is no requirement for the members to have been British colonies; however, the close historical, cultural and economic relationship fostered by almost all of them having been British colonies is as much a factor in the membership of the OECS as their geographical proximity. Located to the east of the Caribbean islands, Barbados is an island country lying roughly 13N of the equator. The current Director General of the OECS is Dr. Didacus Jules (Registrar and Chief Executive Officer of the Barbados-based Caribbean Examinations Council), who took his new position on 1 of May 2014. A network of incredible trails crisscross the parks lush jungle, and white sand beaches like the famous Trunk Bay await. Known as the Spice Island of the Caribbean, Grenada is truly something special. The capital of Antigua and Barbuda is St. John. However, the US Virgin Islands remained interested in the OECS and, as of 2002, stated that it would revisit the issue with the US government at a later date. The functions of the Organization are set out in the Treaty of Basseterre and are coordinated by the Secretariat under the direction and management of the Director General. The several-day-long festival has roots in the celebration of the end of harvest season on the countrys sugar cane plantations and ends each year with the Grand Kadooment. Located just off the coast of Central America, Honduras Caribbean islands like Roatan might be a bit off the beaten path among other Caribbean islands. 1 2 3 4 Barbados and the Eastern Caribbean Countries The Office for the Eastern Caribbean Countries (ECC), headquartered in Barbados, was established in September 2006 to increase PAHO's country presence in the Eastern Caribbean. These countries are covered from our base in Bridgetown, Barbados with out-posted presence in Castries, Saint Lucia and Port of Spain, Trinidad. The administrative body of the OECS is the Commission, which is based in Castries, the capital of Saint Lucia. The United States Virgin Islands are some of the dreamiest island vacation destinations in the United States, located just east of Puerto Rico and easily accessible by frequent flights to the mainland. St. Lucia is arguably the most beautiful of all Caribbean Islands with its two UNESCO World Heritage designated Pitons standing proud. Out of Turks and Caicos' eight main islands, Providenciales is the most popular in the archipelagoand for a good reason. With less than 25,000 permanent residents, Bonaire is a tiny jewel offering huge travel experiences. One of the abandoned islands in the Eastern Caribbean islands, Scrub Island is located by the eastern tip of Anguilla. Alternatively, check out smaller towns in western Puerto Rico, like Aguadilla, or Fajardo in the east with its stunning beaches. All the better for relaxing on one of the islands white sand beaches like the world-famous Flamingo Beach! Make sure to have a little of both currencies on hand, or stick to U.S. dollars or credit cards, and pack an electrical converter while youre at it! Stock Photos provided by our partner Depositphotos, Varadero, Cuba: Ultimate Travelers Guide to Cubas Favorite Beach, San Blas Island Day Trips from Panama City, Dive shops around the island offer PADI courses, PADI Reef Renewal Diver Distinctive Specialty, island vacation destinations in the United States, 10 Tips for Finding Cheap Flights for Your Honeymoon, 30 Easy Hacks to Save Money for Honeymoon Travel, The Best Honeymoon Packages (+ How to Find Them), 22 Best Things To Do in Medellin, Colombia, Antigua & Barbuda: Ultimate Travelers Guide, Blue and John Crow Mountains National Park. [30], The Eastern Caribbean Supreme Court (ECSC), which was created during the era of WISA, today handles the judicial matters in the Organisation of Eastern Caribbean States. These cays make an unforgettable island vacation themselves or as a perfect day trip from a vacation spent enjoying the rest of Cuba. OECS was created on 18 June 1981, with the Treaty of Basseterre, which was named after the capital city of St. Kitts and Nevis. Theres so much to love about Wymara than just its divine location. Offering beautiful reefs along Anegada, Smugglers Cove Beach on Tortola, and countless opportunities for world-class sailing, youre in for a treat if you plan your next Caribbean getaway to the British Virgin Islands. It was agreed in the Declaration, that implementation of the Treaty would occur only after a year of public consultation, through a mass national and regional education programme with strong political leadership and direction. In fact, Antigua is home to 365 beaches, one for every day of the year. With so many islands to choose from, it can be hard to decide which one to plan a trip to. From the world-famous Atlantis Resort to the famousswimming pigs in the Exumas, youll find both incredible accommodations for a resort-centered stay and fascinating attractions for those who bristle at the idea of staying in a resort, no matter how nice it may be. Arikok National Park, which covers nearly 20 percent of the island, counts desert landscapes, a limestone cave system, and a natural tidepool among its treasures. Located at the Southernmost tip of the Caribbean islands, Trinidad and Tobago are one of the wealthiest countries in the Eastern Caribbean islands. A bird colony is located nearby this beach which is worth a visit. The storm was located some 605 kilometres east of Barbados and is expected to grow stronger before lashing several eastern Caribbean islands late Thursday at near-hurricane strength. Take the 45-minute ferry ride to Nevis, St. Kitts' sister island, for a fun day trip. While Bermuda is certainly not the only island in the Caribbean with pink-sand beaches, it arguably boasts the best in the region. 9 New Resorts In The Caribbean You Should Be Aware Of! 02 of 20 New Providence Pola Damonte via Getty Images / Getty Images The Bahamas are a chain of approximately 700 islands across 100,000 square miles of the ocean. The former Dr. Len Ishmael demitted the office at the end of December 2013. NAME: LOCATION: SIZE : POPULATION: LANGUAGE: Anguilla: Eastern Caribbean: 40 Sq. Beautiful, peaceful beaches and plenty of hotels with kids clubs make this a favorite spot for travelers with kids. Saint Lucia The Diamond of The Caribbean. Some of the best hidden gem Caribbean islands are closer to the shores of South America than they are to the rest of the islands in the Caribbean Sea. Here is the list of 7 best Eastern Caribbean islands: Anguilla Antigua and Barbuda Barbados The British Virgin Islands Dominican Republic St. Lucia Trinidad and Tobago Anguilla Anguilla is located to the east of Puerto Rico and the Virgin Islands. The Gros and Petit Pitons are two mountainous volcanic plugs that definitely contribute to the island's beauty. You can walk through the causeway connecting the island with the mainland and enjoy the view from the point. [31], A common OECS Passport was originally planned for January 1, 2003[32] but its introduction was delayed. Sailing is the most popular sport on these islands. Located in the West Indies, Barbados has a little bit of everything: beaches, history and culture, and some of the best surfing in the world. Some of the attractions in this country are: Being one of the most famous beaches in the Eastern Caribbean islands, Maracas Bay provides some breathtaking views combined with lined palm trees and crystal clear waters. FAMILY VACATION Introducing the new Icon of the Seas, a whole new class of Royal Caribbean adventure. When a trial surpasses the stage of High Court in an OECS member state, it can then be passed on to the ECSC at the level of Supreme court. Just west of Roatan, the tiny island of Utila may seem like just a speck in the ocean compared to other Caribbean islands on your radar, but dont count it out when planning your next Caribbean getaway. There are about 20 main islands or island groups, but we'd recommend New Providence if you have to choose just one to visit. Everything from hidden white sand beaches to lush jungles awaits in the Dominican Republic. List of Caribbean islands - Wikipedia The spray of pristine Caribbean islands that surround Puerto Rico, and are technically a part of Puerto Rico, is also well worth a visit. The United Kingdom Overseas Territories covered by the Eastern Caribbean Office are: Anguilla, British Virgin Islands, Montserrat and the Turks and Caicos Islands. Some of the attractions in St. Lucia are: Marigot Bay is one of the most beautiful bays in the Eastern Caribbean islands. According to the Declaration, the Treaty was to be signed, and the Economic Union was to be established by July 1, 2007. Both claim to be the birthplace of the rum-based cocktail, so wherever you end up, you're in for a treat. The Captial City is Santo Domingo. Cuba boasts historic cities like Havana, Trinidad, and Baracoa, little-visited but pristine national parks, great food, and friendly people. This site is not directly affiliated with Jimmy Buffett, Margaritaville.com, or Radio Margaritaville. The Secretariat consists of four main Divisions responsible for: External Relations, Functional Cooperation, Corporate Services and Economic Affairs. While plenty of travelers stay on St. Kitts, home to the international airport, dont count out the island of Nevis; there is nothing small about this up-and-coming Caribbean island destination. You can find the Scarlet Ibis, the national bird of Trinidad and Tobago, in large groups flying all over this Sanctuary. In St. Maarten, you can ride the world's steepest zip line, hike throughout an 8,800-acre natural reserve, and watch planes arriving and departing from Princess Juliana International Airport fly just overhead at Maho Beach. The three main islands are the hilly, volcanic islands of St. Thomas and St. John, which border the North Atlantic Ocean to the north and the . are allowed here. Located to the east of Puerto Rico and Northwest of Anguilla, the British Virgin Islands is a group of more than 50 smaller islands. With a centuries-old tradition of cacao production, the Caribbean island is a chocolate lover's dream, offering "bean to bar" estate tours, chocolate spa treatments, and cafs and bakeries doling out sweet treats. [20] Also in 2001, Sint Maarten, another part of the Netherlands Antilles, explored the possibility of joining the OECS. Best Caribbean Banks: List f the Top Banks In the Caribbean Being one of the best beaches in the Eastern Caribbean islands, Dickenson Bay is the place to relax, refresh your day by the bay. Get exclusive travel tips and offers straight to your inbox! Nature lovers will want to hike to the 301-acre Jack and Isaac Bay Preserve, home to some 400 species of fish and endangered green and hawksbill turtles. Consider St. Lucia for your next Caribbean island getaway, and youll discover why its such a popular destination among travelers returning time and time again. Impossibly cool boutique hotels like Finca Victoria and El Blok await, making Vieques perfect for an extended stay in paradise, or pair a visit with a trip to Culebra and Icacos for a deep dive into Puerto Ricos enchanting little sister islands. Read more about Dominica, and get the full list of best islands in the Caribbean, Bermuda, and the Bahamas below. While the San Blas Islands are technically a part of the country of Panama, these islands are also known as Guna Yala, the name given to them by the local Guna people and signifying Gunas Land. These islands are semi-autonomous, and while youll certainly see and interact with Guna people on your trip, the islands this people group populates are mostly not the ones that tourists visit. The authority within the OECS Secretariat is led by the Director General. These include the Eastern Caribbean Central Bank (ECCB); the Caribbean Community (Caricom) Secretariat; the Caribbean Regional Negotiating Machinery (RNM) [29] and the Caribbean Development Bank (CDB).