Many vacationers jet off to the Caribbean in search of relaxation and warm sun. While most visitors are happy to spend the majority of their time lounging on the beach or sipping cocktails by the pool, there is so much more to explore.
The islands that make up the Caribbean are home to stunning landscapes and beautiful cultures and are rich in history. With so many incredible attractions in the Caribbean, it can be hard to know where to start. To make that easier, USA Today has just released its rankings of the top-rated attractions in the Caribbean.
6. Nelson’s Dockyard, Antigua
Nelson’s Dockyard National Park in Antigua is 15 square miles of scenic views, historic sites, and fun activities. Adventure lovers will enjoy over 12 miles of hiking trails that meander past beaches and ruins. History buffs can learn about the UNESCO-listed Naval Dockyard and the unique environment that made it ideal for repairing British Navy ships during the 18th century.
- Entry fee: $8
- What visitors love most: beautiful views, interesting history, and amenities, including shops, restaurants, and a beautiful pub.
5. Dunn’s River Falls, Jamaica
Is there any better way to get out and enjoy nature than by climbing up a waterfall? Dunn’s River Falls in Ocho Rios is one of Jamaica’s most popular spots attracting visitors who come to experience the unique waterfalls and the beautiful surrounding scenery. Visitors can hire a guide to lead them up the 960ft falls or watch from the decks overlooking the waters.
- Entry fee: $25
- What visitors love most: the feeling of accomplishment after an adventurous climb up the falls and having photographers and videographers do the photo-taking for you.
4. Shete Boka National Park, Curaçao
Shete Boka National Park stretches 6 miles along Curaçao’s rugged north coast and provides both stunning natural landscapes and vital protection for sea turtles. In fact, the park was established to safeguard Curaçao’s sea turtle nesting areas and is a popular research site during nesting season (May – December). Some lucky visitors might catch a glimpse of baby turtles making a break for the sea or see more mature turtles swimming nearby.
- Entry fee: $10
- What visitors love most: the sea turtles, of course, but also Boka Tabla, an underground cave where visitors can get a different perspective of the huge waves that crash ashore
3. St. Maarten 12 Metre Regatta, St. Maarten
Ever wanted to race a sailing yacht in the America’s Cup? Well, this is the next best thing.
St. Maarten’s 12 Metre Racing excursions allow everyday people to take part in thrilling head-to-head races on authentic America’s Cup race boats. Visitors can join in and help sail or sit back and take it all in.
Ticket cost: $90/adult, $65/under 17s
What visitors love most: exhilarating outing, impressive crew, and boats, a great way to try something new
2. Arikok National Park, Aruba
Nearly 20% of Aruba is contained within Arikok National Park. Visitors will find a rugged coastline, cave paintings, and historical adobe houses. Most of the inlets and trails in the park are uncrowded, with one exception. The park’s most popular attraction is the Natural Pool, also known as Conchi – a calm swimming hole surrounded by coastal rocks and rough seas.
Entry fee: $15/adult, free for under 17s
What visitors love most: good variety of hiking trails, impressive trees, and cacti, no crowds, incredible viewpoints, informative park rangers
1. Belmont Estate, Grenada
Chocolate lovers rejoice. Grenada’s Belmont Estate is part chocolate factory, part organic farm, and part heritage site. Local owners have transformed the estate from a 17th Century plantation with an oppressive past into a thriving agri-tourism business that supports the environment and local community.
Visitors to Belmont Estate can get involved with the chocolate-making process, enjoy a three-course chocolate-themed lunch, and meet the farm’s friendly goats and learn about goat cheese making.
Entry fee: guided tours start at $6
What visitors love most: delicious chocolates and cheese, great tour guides, beautiful grounds
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