12 Caribbean Getaways So Expensive and Luxurious They’ll Make You Think Twice About Your Travel Budget
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The Caribbean is a bucket list destination for many travelers. However, the promise of sun-kissed beaches, crystal-clear turquoise waters, luxury 5-star resorts, and world-class cuisine doesn’t come cheap. As such, the Caribbean is renowned for being a playground for the rich and famous.
If you dream of living a life of luxury and exclusivity in the Caribbean, there are many expensive islands to choose from. To learn more, we’ve compiled a list of 12 of the most expensive destinations in the Caribbean. These destinations were selected because they offer unparalleled luxury, many things to see, and have a high average daily travel cost. Let’s dive straight in.
Barbados
One of the most obvious places to start this list is Barbados, an Eastern Caribbean island with a reputation for offering visitors dramatic landscapes, pristine beaches, 5-star resorts, and many exciting things to see and do. When you’re not sipping cocktails by the pool or sunbathing on the beach, get lost exploring the island’s most fascinating attractions.
Key highlights of a visit to Barbados include Harrison’s Cave, St. Nicholas Abbey and Steam Railway, Carlisle Bay, and Bridgetown. If you’re looking for somewhere luxurious to stay in Barbados, check out Cobblers Cove. This beautiful 5-star hotel sits in a beachfront location with a palm-tree-lined pool, luxury suites, spa, and restaurant. The average daily travel cost in Barbados is $377.
Travel Tips
- Animal Flower Cave: Explore the cave’s natural pools and coral formations. Don’t forget to try their catch of the day and poutine.
- Andromeda Botanic Gardens: Stroll through lush gardens, tropical plants, and flowers. for $15. It’s open from 9:30 AM to 4:30 PM.
Read also: Caribbean Tourist Traps To Avoid
Antigua and Barbuda
Antigua is a breathtaking country consisting of two namesake islands in the Atlantic and Caribbean Sea. Like Barbados, these islands are famed for their luxury resorts, tropical beaches, and spectacular landscapes. As such, Antigua and Barbuda are a big hit with honeymoon couples who wish to unwind, relax, and celebrate.
You’ll spend most of your time on the islands sunbathing in places like Half Moon Bay, exploring 18th-century ruins, and relaxing by the hotel’s beachfront swimming pool. What’s not to like? As expected, these luxuries come at a cost. To be exact, $352 daily. Regarding somewhere to stay, the adult-only, 5-star Sandals Grande Antigua is a stunning example of what’s on offer.
Travel Tips
- Nelson’s Dockyard: Explore this UNESCO World Heritage site from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM Monday to Saturday to learn about Antigua’s naval history and enjoy harbor views. Guided tours start at $20.
- Shirley Heights Lookout: Visit on a Sunday evening for the famous sunset party with live music and barbecue.
Read also: Best Caribbean Destinations for First-Timers
Saint Martin
Saint Martin is one of the most unique islands in the Caribbean because it’s co-owned by the Netherlands and France. The southern side (Sint Maarten) is Dutch-owned, and the northern (St. Martin) is French-owned. Therefore, visitors can experience the charms and cultures of both nations in one vacation. Unfortunately, visiting the island isn’t cheap.
The average daily travel cost in Saint Martin is approximately $350, more than double that of Jamaica. However, with delightful fusion cuisine to try, high-end shopping experiences, secluded coves to discover, and beautiful beaches to relax on, the high price tag is worth it. Consider staying at Simpson Bay Resort Marina & Spa during your stay.
Travel Tips
- Maho Beach: This beach is famous for its proximity to the airport runway, where you can watch planes land and take off.
- Grand Case Dining: Enjoy triggerfish, foie gras, and lobster bisque at La Villa Restaurant.
Read also: Awesome Adventures for Solo Travelers in the Caribbean
Curacao
Nestled between Aruba and Bonaire off the coast of Venezuela, Curacao is a stunning Caribbean island that offers untold luxury to travelers with a big budget. If you visit the island, you can expect mesmerizing white sand beaches, intriguing African and Dutch cultures, charming Old Towns, and many things to see and do.
Curaçao Marriott Beach Resort is a fine example of how luxurious the island is. This 5-star hotel offers gorgeous beachfront bedrooms, a swimming pool, three restaurants, and endless activities. However, it will cost you approximately $332 daily to visit Curacao. Significant points of interest on the island include Queen Emma Bridge, Mambo Beach, and Hato Caves.
Travel Tips
- Queen Emma Bridge: Visit in the evening when it’s lit up for a charming experience. Watch out as it swings open for passing ships.
- Guided Tour: Book a 6-hour tour to explore the Hato Caves, swim and snorkel at Playa Kenepa, and discover marine life at Playa Piskado for $101.25.
Read also: Tourists Do’s and Don’ts When Visiting the Caribbean
British Virgin Islands
The British Virgin Islands is a British overseas territory in the Caribbean best known for its beautiful beaches, vibrant coral reefs, luxury yachts, and magnificent landscapes. However, the British Virgin Islands is also renowned for being one of the Caribbean’s most expensive destinations. The average daily travel cost on the islands is $330. Tortola is the largest island in the British Virgin Islands.
You’ll find many exciting places here, such as the Sage Mountain National Park, Road Town, Smuggler’s Cove, and Long Bay Beach. Virgin Gorda, Anegada, and Guana Island are other popular places to stay in the British Virgin Islands. As for accommodation, you can’t go wrong with Scrub Island Resort, Spa & Marina. This gorgeous hotel offers luxurious sea-view suites, multiple pools, and world-class cuisine.
Travel Tips
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- Sage Mountain National Park: Explore the trails and enjoy the panoramic views from the highest point in the British Virgin Islands. A day pass costs $3.
- Smuggler’s Cove: This secluded beach is a great place to enjoy snorkeling.
Read also: Caribbean Trip Planning Tips
Turks and Caicos Islands
If you’ve always dreamt of spending a vacation wandering along white sand beaches, swimming in turquoise waters with marine life, indulging in upscale cuisine, and sunbathing under wall-to-wall sunshine, Turks and Caicos Islands are perfect. Popular with honeymooning couples, visiting the islands costs approximately $330 per person daily.
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Noteworthy points of interest in Turks and Caicos Islands include Grace Bay Beach, Taylor Bay Beach, Turks and Caicos National Museum, and Chalk Sound National Park. The Palms Turks and Caicos is one of the best 5-star resorts on the islands. Ideally placed on Grace Bay Beach, this lovely hotel offers impressive coastal views, rooms fit for a king, a beautiful pool, and a sunbathing terrace.
Travel Tips
- Grace Bay Beach: This stunning beach is free to access and open all day. Bring your own towel and sunscreen to enjoy a relaxing day by the turquoise waters.
- Turks and Caicos National Museum: Learn more about the islands’ history and culture in the historic Guinep House building. Entry fee costs $5.
Read also: Fascinating Facts about the Caribbean
Aruba
Picturesque white sand beaches, crystal-clear turquoise waters, clear sunny skies, and a vibrant culture are just some of the things that await you in Aruba. A true Caribbean paradise, this mind-blowingly beautiful island in the Caribbean Sea is well-known for offering visitors celebrity treatment. Unfortunately, you’ll need a big budget to enjoy the island.
The average daily travel cost is $325 per person. The island’s gorgeous coastline and coral reefs teeming with marine life are arguably its biggest draw, but its unique towns, scenic hiking trails, and delicious cuisine are also highlights. The accommodation in Aruba is also pretty special. The breathtaking Riu Palace Aruba is the most popular 5-star hotel on the island.
Travel Tips
- Arikok National Park: The entry fee costs $22, and its visitor center in San Fuego is open from 8:00 AM to 3:30 PM. Get a chance to see the ‘Cascabel,’ the endangered Aruba Island rattlesnake.
- Palm Beach Sunset: Head to Palm Beach in the evening to catch a beautiful sunset. Bring a camera to capture the beautiful colors over the ocean.
Read also: Popular Landmarks in the Caribbean
Saint Kitts and Nevis
Saint Kitts and Nevis is a dual-island nation in the Atlantic and Caribbean Sea. Recognized for its impressive mountain landscapes, vibrant towns, and beautiful beaches, this country is an excellent place to stay if you want to escape the hustle and bustle of daily life and enjoy a relaxed vacation. However, on average, it costs a single person $310 daily to visit Saint Kitts and Nevis.
However, if you stay somewhere luxurious like Park Hyatt St. Kitts, you could argue the significant expenses are worth it. This gorgeous 5-star seafront resort features breathtaking views, luxury suites with private pools, a spa, and a restaurant. Notable attractions in Saint Kitts and Nevis include Brimstone Hill Fortress National Park, Mount Liamuiga, and Cockleshell Bay Beach.
Travel Tips
- Brimstone Hill Fortress National Park: Explore this UNESCO World Heritage Site for $15 to explore this well-preserved fortress and enjoy panoramic views of the island.
- Mount Liamuiga Hike: Book a 6-hour guided hike for around $78 to explore this dormant volcano. The views from the summit are worth the effort.
Read also: Inexpensive Beach Destinations in the Caribbean
Saint Barthelemy
Saint Barthelemy, better known as St. Barts, is a small French-speaking Caribbean island famed for its glorious white sand beaches, vacation resorts, high-end shopping, and laid-back atmosphere. In Gustavia, the island capital, you’ll find a beautiful yacht-filled harbor, many resorts, upscale restaurants, and designer shops. You’ll also find historical attractions like the Wall House.
Other points of interest include Anse de Grand Cul-de-Sac, Fort Karl, and Colombier. The average daily travel cost in St. Barts is $307 per person. Meanwhile, the 5-star Hotel Christopher Saint Barth is one of the island’s most luxurious places to stay. This gorgeous hotel has a sun terrace, swimming pool, ocean-view suites, two restaurants, and a fitness center.
Travel Tips
- Fort Karl: Visit this historic site for free and enjoy a short hike to the top. The fort offers panoramic views of Gustavia and the surrounding coastline.
- Colombier Beach: Access this secluded beach by hiking a scenic trail or taking a boat. It’s free to visit, and the hike takes about 30 minutes.
Read also: Surreal Places in the Caribbean
Grenada
Grenada is the first Caribbean destination on our list with an average daily travel cost below $300. You can expect to pay approximately $296 daily per person. Grenada is a beautiful island loved for its scenic landscape, vibrant coastal towns, and pristine beaches. In St. George’s, the island capital, you can experience local cultures, shop in high-end designer shops, visit historical landmarks, and relax on the beach.
Popular attractions in the capital include Grand Anse Beach, Fort George, St. George’s Market, and the Grenada National Museum. Regarding accommodation, Royalton Grenada, An Autograph Collection All-Inclusive Resort, is one of the island’s most luxurious 5-star hotels. It sits on Magazine Beach, featuring a swimming pool, three restaurants, and oceanfront suites.
Travel Tips
- Grenada National Museum: Explore colonial-era exhibits and artifacts for free. It’s open from 9:00 AM to 4:30 PM, Monday to Friday.
- Fort George: Enjoy panoramic views of St. George’s and the harbor for $2, and it’s open from 7:00 AM to 5:00 PM.
Read also: Unforgettable Caribbean Adventures for Your Bucket List
Cayman Islands
The following Caribbean destination on our list is the Cayman Islands, a British Overseas Territory consisting of three islands in the Western Caribbean Sea. Grand Cayman is the largest of the three islands, a luxury destination best known for its stunning beaches, coral reefs, turquoise waters, and luxury 5-star resorts.
During your vacation, explore George Town, swim in the sea, snorkel, and relax on White House Beach and Seven Mile Beach. A trip to the Cayman Islands will cost approximately $326 daily per person. Regarding accommodation, we recommend staying in The Ritz-Carlton. This royal-esque 5-star hotel sits on Seven Mile Beach and has truly remarkable decor. Notable features at the hotel include a sauna, a bar, a hot tub, and a restaurant.
Travel Tips
- Stingray City: Book a catarman cruise for around $79 to visit this unique sandbar where you can swim with friendly stingrays and snorkel in warm Caribbean waters.
- Cayman Turtle Centre: Learn more about sea turtles and local wildlife for $27.
Read also: Stunning Caribbean Locations to Live for Under $1,000
Guadeloupe
The final Caribbean destination on our list is Guadeloupe, a French overseas region and group of islands in the Southern Caribbean Sea. This stunning collection of islands is best known for its impressive tropical landscapes, palm-tree-lined beaches, turquoise waters, and rum trade. It’s an excellent place to stay if you want to relax, unwind, and explore at the same time.
Some of Guadeloupe’s most popular places to visit include Plage de Grande Anse, Jardin Botanique de Deshaies, La Grande Soufrière, and Plage de la Perle. Visiting Guadeloupe costs $271 daily. For celebrity treatment, panoramic sea view swimming pools, beautiful suites, spa treatments, and world-class cuisine, stay at the 5-star La Toubana Hotel & Spa during your vacation.
Travel Tips
- Local Dining in Pointe-à-Pitre: Try traditional Creole food like griot de porc (fried pork) and riz pois d’angole (rice and pidgeon peas) at Claudette Restaurant.
- Jardin Botanique de Deshaies: The entry fee is $18, and it’s open from 9:00 AM to 5:30 PM. Wander through the lush gardens to explore diverse flora and fauna.
Read also: Amazing Caribbean Adventures for Couples
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How sustainable are these destinations though?
great, now just gotta convince my parents to take me to one of these places lol
Visited several of these islands over the years. Well compiled list, though personal experiences might differ.
Absolutely, ClaraBea. It’s all about what you make of the trip.
any tips for doing these spots on the cheap?
Aruba’s my happy place! Can’t wait to go back. Everybody needs to experience it once.
Interesting list, but how did you decide on these particular destinations? Was there a specific criteria you used?
Yeah, was wondering the same. Some hidden gems here for sure.
Bet it’s just tourist spots. There are better places out there.
Just visited Saint Barthelemy last month and it was amazing!
Not sure if any of these spots are worth the hype everyone makes them out to be
Been to both Aruba and the Cayman Islands last year. Aruba’s got the perfect mix of nightlife and beaches, while Cayman is great for snorkeling. Can’t go wrong with either.
Which would you say is less crowded?
Hey, was wondering if you think Barbados or Grenada’s better for a chill vacay? Can’t decide lol.