12 Most Peaceful Places To Retire in the Caribbean 2024

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If you’ve always dreamt of escaping cold winters and the hustle and bustle of big city life, island life is the right move for you, and the Caribbean is the perfect destination.

Imagine waking up to the sounds of crystal clear turquoise water lapping against the beach, the feeling of warm golden sand between your toes, the hot Caribbean sun kissing your face, and a small slice of paradise you can call yours—and you’re already there!

Are you looking for the most peaceful places to retire in the Caribbean? Here are 12 of the best islands to retire to and live out your golden years in peace, tranquility, and serenity.

Saint Lucia

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Saint Lucia, in the Eastern Caribbean, is an island nation best known for its dramatic pair of tapered mountains, the Pitons. The island’s coast is home to sandy volcanic beaches, luxury resorts, charming fishing villages, and reef-diving sites teeming with sea life. Meanwhile, the central part of the island features dense rainforests and impressive waterfalls.

In terms of living, Saint Lucia is characterized by its friendly locals, incredible quality of life, relaxed lifestyle, and modern facilities. When you’re not strolling along Anse Mamin Beach and admiring nature, you’ll find yourself dining in a restaurant and chatting with the locals. With so much to see and do, Saint Lucia seems the perfect option.

Barbuda

Barbuda is one of two islands comprising the Caribbean nation of Antigua and Barbuda. Thanks to its remote location, it has managed to maintain much of its exclusive feel and untouched character. Offering miles of breathtaking white and pink sand beaches, this is a top choice if you enjoy your company.

Lined with palm trees, Spanish Point and North Beach are two peaceful locations on the island, while the lively and vibrant St John’s offers retirees a way to stay connected. This blend of peace, tranquility, and community is the perfect balance for anyone seeking a relaxed and enjoyable retirement.

Dominica

Dominica is a mountainous Caribbean island home to tropical rainforests, pristine beaches, hot springs, and colorful towns. The island offers a tranquil lifestyle for nature lovers and those seeking peace. Property is more affordable, and the cost of living is lower. Meanwhile, the expat community continues to grow.

Aside from its natural beauty, Dominica’s wide range of activities is a big draw. You can learn more about the island’s history at Fort Shirley, hike in Cabrits National Park, scuba dive at La Sorciere, and meet up with friends in Roseau. On the topic of Roseau, visit the cobblestone Old Market to buy fresh fruit and vegetables and check out the latest exhibits at the Dominica Museum.

Barbados

Despite being one of the most popular holiday destinations in the Caribbean, Barbados has a slower way of life that’s perfect for anyone who wants to relax, unwind, and refresh. Secluded white sand beaches, quaint towns, tranquil gardens, and beautiful beachfront restaurants characterize the laid-back island lifestyle in Barbados.

In addition to gorgeous beaches, a slower pace of life, and small towns to explore, Barbados has endless opportunities to enjoy outdoor activities and watersports. Snorkeling, jet skiing, boat touring, and parasailing are all popular for those times when you want to live a little faster. Alternatively, keep moving slowly by enjoying regular spa treatments at one of several world-class wellness centers.

Anegada

Anegada is part of the British Virgin Islands, a volcanic archipelago in the Caribbean Sea. This secluded island has tropical beaches, beach bars, and coral reefs, but few people. Therefore, you could have this sandy slice of paradise to yourself.

Admittedly, you’d have to love seclusion to move here, but it’s ideal if you’ve always dreamt of a remote escape. In Anegada, you’ll spend your retirement walking, sunbathing, swimming, and spending your hard-earned cash on freshly caught lobster. The only downside to the island is that the cost of living is higher than in other Caribbean islands.

Aruba

World-class beaches, delightful weather, and welcoming culture are just some of the things that make Aruba a Caribbean paradise. The island’s stunning coastline is arguably the biggest draw, but look deeper, and you’ll find an island teeming with things to do. From unforgettable cuisine and unique towns to beautiful coves and picturesque hikes, Aruba will dazzle you with everything it offers.

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Aside from impressive natural beauty and a wide range of activities, Aruba is a convenient retirement place. Residents speak up to four languages, there are more sunny days than on any other Caribbean island, and direct flights are available from major US cities.

Dominican Republic

The Dominican Republic is one of two islands that occupy the island of Hispaniola. It’s one of the most affordable destinations in the Caribbean. It’s conveniently only a two-hour flight from Miami, making it accessible. The Dominican Republic isn’t as peaceful as other islands on this list, but there are plenty of places to find your little piece of peace and tranquility.

The island’s tropical climate, picture-perfect beaches, and outdoor activities also make it a pleasant place to live. Home to the oldest city in the Americas (Santo Domingo), retirees can learn more about the island’s history, kick back at Punta Cana Beach, try watersports in Cabarete, and play golf at the Teeth of the Dog Golf Course, amongst other things.

St Kitts and Nevis

Tucked away between the Caribbean Sea and the Atlantic Ocean, this dual-island nation is most famous for its dense rainforests, beautiful beaches, breathtaking mountains, and scenic hiking trails, and it offers a peaceful lifestyle perfect for kicking back and enjoying your retirement.

In addition to the island’s serene landscapes, St Kitts and Nevis offers a lenient Caribbean tax environment, zero income taxes on local and international income, and programs designed specifically for US nationals planning their retirement.

Some things you can do in retirement include taking the Sugar Train, exploring the Rainforest in Central Reserve National Park, kayaking at Cockleshell Bay, and trying local rum at the Brinley Gold distillery.

The Bahamas

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Thanks to the island’s proximity to the US, the Bahamas is one of the most peaceful places to retire in the Caribbean for retirees who want to travel back home frequently. Beyond the island’s convenience, the Bahamas offers a laid-back lifestyle, a serene tropical environment, and a retirement jam-packed with outdoor adventure.

Spend your days strolling along one of the many beaches, visiting the wild pigs at Big Major Cay, wining and dining with the rich and famous, snorkeling and scuba diving, and learning more about the Caribbean’s fearsome pirates. If you have enough money, you could live an ultra-exclusive retirement by purchasing a house on a private island.

Cayman Brac

Cayman Brac is an exotic island in the Cayman Islands in the Caribbean Sea. A short 30-minute flight from Grand Cayman, it’s a popular destination with scuba divers and individuals searching for tranquility. This island is incredibly exclusive, and the property is hard to come by, but that only makes it perfect for retirees seeking an escape.

You’ll have to fly to Grand Cayman to pick up most things you need, but what else do you expect from one of the most peaceful places in the Caribbean? Your days will most likely be spent exploring the Bluff and its many caves, hiking the sea cliffs, relaxing at Cayman Brac Beach, and scuba diving off the coast.

Roatan

Despite being a remote island, approximately 40 miles (65 kilometers) off the northern coast of Honduras, Roatan is quietly growing as a popular retirement destination. The thriving expat community has taken advantage of the island’s classic Caribbean charm and scenery by building luxury homes and condos and setting up a friendly community of like-minded people.

There aren’t many things to do in Roatan, so it’s an excellent option for those who want to take life slow. Having said that, there are plenty of places to snorkel, scuba dive, and try watersports. However, you’ll still spend most of your days wandering, sipping cocktails, and enjoying the tropical climate.

Grenada

Grenada is comprised of a main island and smaller surrounding islands. It has a vibrant culture and welcoming communities that help make it a lovely place to retire. The main island is home to lush rainforests, lively towns, and beautiful white-sand beaches. The island is also known for its thriving expat communities, rich history, and Georgian architecture.

Dubbed the “Spice Isle,” attractions on the mainland include nutmeg plantations, St. George (the capital), the 18th century Fort George, and Carenage Harbor. In the south, you’ll also find Grand Anse Beach, the perfect place to unwind and relax. Conveniently, this relaxed island also offers retirees favorable tax policies, excellent health care, and affordable real estate.