These Are 12 of the Cheapest Places To Visit in the Caribbean
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The Caribbean is often seen as a playground for the rich and famous, but it doesn’t have to be. In fact, there are plenty of affordable destinations in the region that offer stunning beaches, delicious food, and rich culture.
Whether you’re a backpacker looking for an adventure or a family on a budget, the Caribbean has something for everyone. So, to help you plan your next trip, we’ve put together a list of the 12 cheapest places to visit in the Caribbean.
To compile this list, we considered factors such as the cost of accommodation, food, activities, and transportation. We also looked at the overall value offered by each destination. While some destinations may be more expensive than others, they offer unique experiences and amenities that make them worth the extra cost.
1. Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic
The capital of the Dominican Republic, Santo Domingo, is a vibrant city with a rich history and culture. It also happens to be one of the cheapest places to visit in the Caribbean.
Santo Domingo offers a wealth of experiences for the budget traveler. Wander through the cobblestone streets of the Colonial Zone, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and marvel at the architecture dating back to the 15th century. Explore the Alcázar de Colón, the former residence of Christopher Columbus’s son, and immerse yourself in the city’s vibrant party scene, dancing the night away to the local live music.
The average cost of accommodation for one person in Santa Domingo is just $42 per day, so you’ll definitely be able to find an affordable place to lay your head at night here. Combine that with a typical $10.46 price tag for an inexpensive restaurant meal, and you’ll see your cash stretch far in Santa Domingo.
Read also: Cheap Caribbean Beach Spots
2. Puerto Plata, Dominican Republic
Another affordable destination in the Dominican Republic is Puerto Plata. This coastal city is known for its beautiful beaches, such as Playa Dorada, and its Victorian architecture. There are also plenty of affordable restaurants and bars where you can enjoy local cuisine and drinks.
Puerto Plata boasts a diverse range of activities for every budget. Hike to the top of Mount Isabel de Torres for breathtaking views of the city and coastline, or take a cable car ride for a more leisurely journey. Visit the Fortaleza San Felipe, a 16th-century fortress that played a crucial role in the island’s history. For a taste of local life, stroll through the bustling Mercado Modelo, a market filled with souvenirs, crafts, and fresh produce.
Public transportation in Puerto Plata is particularly cheap and efficient, with a one-way ticket costing only $0.86, while a movie ticket is just $4.30.
Read also: Cheapest Caribbean Islands
3. Caye Caulker, Belize
If you’re looking for a laid-back island vibe, Caye Caulker is the perfect place for you. This small island off the coast of Belize is known for its relaxed atmosphere and colorful houses, as well as its snorkeling and diving opportunities.
Caye Caulker’s charm lies in its simplicity and natural beauty, both costing very little to admire. Spend your days swimming in the crystal-clear waters of the Split, a channel that divides the island, or rent a bicycle and explore the island’s many hidden corners. For a unique experience, take a boat trip to the nearby Hol Chan Marine Reserve and Shark Ray Alley, where you can snorkel alongside sharks and rays.
A half-day snorkeling trip with equipment rental, transport, and admission to Belize Barrier Reef costs as little as $95. After enjoying a morning out exploring the ocean, you can expect to pay just $8.50 for a budget meal and a cold beer for just $3.
Read also: Inexpensive Caribbean Getaways
4. Roatán, Honduras
Roatán is the largest of the Bay Islands of Honduras and is a popular destination for divers and snorkelers. The island is home to the Mesoamerican Barrier Reef, the second-largest barrier reef in the world. There are also plenty of affordable hotels and restaurants on the island, making it a great choice for budget-minded travelers.
Roatán offers a variety of activities for both water enthusiasts and landlubbers. Explore the island’s lush jungle on a zipline tour, or visit the Roatán Museum to learn about the island’s history and culture. For a unique culinary experience, try the local specialty, baleadas, a type of flour tortilla filled with beans, cheese, and other toppings.
A popular island for diving, a one-tank dive led by expert guides costs only $60 in Roatán. As much fun as diving is, it’s tiring, so you’ll need to find somewhere to rest up after. Thankfully, the island has a hotel and hostel rooms for just $11 per night!
Read also: Caribbean Money-Saving Tips
5. Grenada
Known as the “Spice Isle,” Grenada is a beautiful island with lush rainforests, stunning beaches, and delicious cuisine. You can find budget-friendly accommodations, eat fresh seafood for a few dollars a meal, and explore the island’s many attractions.
Grenada’s natural beauty is a highlight for budget travelers. Hike through the Grand Etang National Park, home to a crater lake and diverse wildlife, or take a dip in the Seven Sisters Falls, a series of cascading waterfalls. For a unique underwater experience, snorkel or dive around the Underwater Sculpture Park, an underwater art gallery featuring sculptures made from concrete and rebar.
While a little more expensive than the other places on this list, there are plenty of accommodation options in the range of $66 to $130 a night here.
Read also: Top Travel Money Mistakes
6. Martinique
Martinique is a French overseas region with a unique blend of French and Caribbean culture. It’s also one of the more affordable Caribbean islands to visit, especially if you’re traveling during the off-season.
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Martinique’s allure lies in its diverse attractions, catering to various interests. Hike to the summit of Mount Pelée, an active volcano with gorgeous panoramic views of the island. Explore the vibrant markets of Fort-de-France, the capital, and sample local delicacies like accras (cod fritters) and ti punch (a rum-based cocktail).
You can find budget-friendly accommodations, with several options ranging from $42 to $85 per night, eat delicious Creole food for affordable prices, and explore the island’s many attractions, such as the Mount Pelée volcano and the Balata Botanical Garden. The latter is a beautiful, three-hectare private garden open to the public and costs just $17 to enter for adults, with discounts for children available.
Read also: Travel Money-Saving Tips
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7. Guadeloupe
Guadeloupe is another French overseas region with a diverse landscape of rainforests, beaches, and mountains. It’s also a relatively affordable destination, especially if you’re willing to stay in guesthouses or apartments.
Guadeloupe offers a wealth of natural beauty to explore. Hike through the Guadeloupe National Park, a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve with diverse flora and fauna, including waterfalls, hot springs, and the active La Soufrière volcano. Relax on the stunning beaches of Grande-Terre, or immerse yourself in the island’s Creole culture by visiting local markets and sampling traditional dishes like colombo (a curry-like stew) and bokit (a sandwich made with fried dough).
Local buses are the most affordable way to get around Guadeloupe, with fares starting at $1.30 while budget hotels won’t be breaking the bank, either, with an average cost of around $68.
Read also: Must-Do Activities in the Caribbean
8. Curaçao
Curaçao is a Dutch Caribbean island with a vibrant culture and colorful architecture. It’s also a relatively affordable destination when traveling during the shoulder seasons.
Curaçao’s unique charm comes from its Dutch colonial heritage, evident in its vibrant buildings of Willemstad, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Stroll along the Handelskade, a picturesque waterfront promenade lined with shops and restaurants, or visit the Mikvé Israel-Emanuel Synagogue, the oldest continuously operating synagogue in the Western Hemisphere. For a taste of adventure, go diving or snorkeling in the island’s clear waters, home to all sorts of marine life.
One of the island’s most popular attractions is the Curaçao Sea Aquarium which costs as little as $15 for adult tickets. Budget hotels are very reasonable here, too. Expect to pay as little as $51 per person per night in Curaçao.
Read also: Caribbean’s Instagrammable Spots
9. Dominica
Dominica is a nature lover’s paradise and lays claim to lush rainforests, waterfalls, and volcanic peaks.
Hike to the Boiling Lake, the world’s second-largest hot spring, or explore the rainforest trails of the Morne Trois Pitons National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Cool off in the Emerald Pool, a natural swimming hole surrounded by lush vegetation, or take a boat trip to the Indian River, a scenic waterway lined with mangroves.
A guided hike to the Boiling Lake costs $65 per person (minimum of two per group) and includes transport, an expert guide, and snacks. Overall, if you stick to cheaper meals and budget hotels, a trip to Dominica can cost as little as $89 per day, not too shabby for an island home to some of the world’s finest landscapes.
Read also: Famous Landmarks To Visit in the Caribbean
10. Havana, Cuba
Cuba and its capital, Havana, is a unique and fascinating country with a rich history and culture. Cuba’s allure lies in its time-capsule charm, with vintage cars cruising the streets and colonial architecture lining the plazas. And best of all? It’s a very cheap option when heading to the Caribbean.
Stroll along the Malecón, a seaside promenade that stretches for 12 miles, and soak in the vibrant atmosphere. Explore Old Havana, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and marvel at the well-preserved buildings, bustling plazas, and lively street musicians. For a taste of local life, visit a casa particular (a private homestay) that offers an authentic Cuban experience.
Budget-friendly accommodation can easily be sought out in Havana, with hotels starting at just $23 a night. You can also enjoy delicious Cuban food for a few dollars a meal, before exploring the city’s many free attractions, including Old Havana.
Read also: Budget Travel Destination Dupes
11. The Bahamas
The Bahamas is a popular tourist destination, but it’s also possible to visit on a budget. Beyond the glitz and glamour of luxury resorts, the Bahamas offers a wealth of affordable experiences for budget-minded travelers.
Explore the vibrant straw market in Nassau, where you can find souvenirs and handmade crafts, or for a taste of local life, head to Arawak Cay, a little island full of seafood shacks and bars.
If you’re smart with your money, you can keep daily food expenses to just $25 a day while in places like Nassau, a one-way ticket on local transport will only set you back $1.25.
Read also: Fun Facts About the Caribbean
12. Jamaica
Jamaica is known for its reggae music, beautiful beaches, and delicious cuisine. It’s also a surprisingly affordable destination, especially if you’re traveling during the off-season.
Jamaica’s vibrant culture and natural beauty are easily accessible to budget travelers. Visit the Bob Marley Museum in Kingston for $25 and learn about the reggae legend in his former home. If you want to get out in nature, hike through the Blue Mountains, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its coffee plantations and stunning scenery. To cool off, a trip to the natural water park of Dunn’s River Falls is just $25 per entry.
Day-to-day living costs are certainly manageable across Jamaica, if you don’t mind picking the more affordable options, expect to pay a daily average of $10 on meals, $6 on transportation, and $65 on hotels.
Read also: Avoid These Mistakes in the Caribbean
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carriacou has been totally destroyed by hurricane beryl.. shouldn’t be on your list for a while