News

The Top 20 Islands to Live on in the Caribbean

By: Caribbean Journal Staff - July 18, 2018
1 of 20

We all dream of living in the Caribbean. We all think about waking up to the ocean, being in touch with the natural environment, of connecting with the region’s vibrant culture.

Everybody dreams of doing it — but some actually do it. And they all do it for different reasons.

But there are different kinds of islands for different kinds of desires. Maybe you’re looking for the natural life, away from the hustle and bustle, in harmony with the environment. Maybe you’re looking to take your tech startup to the next level in a friendly environment. Maybe you want to retire as a sailor.

Every island has its own unique identity, and there’s an island waiting for you, whether you want to buy a second home and live there six months out of the year; buy a passport and make it your permanent home; or retire there. You can find the right place for you the Caribbean.

Here are our picks for the top islands to live on in the region — a list we compiled by looking at a range of factors, from the natural environment to the business environment; real estate options to expat communities; culinary offerings to the cultural scene; retirement options to tax climates. We’ve also offered some initial ideas about how to actually go about doing it — and the growing number of citizenship by investment options in the region that range from one-time contributions to national development funds to buying a home on the island.

These are our favorites — and, crucially — they’re starting points. They’re meant to inspire you, to make you think about actually acting upon the dream.

Because once you make the decision that you want to spend more in the Caribbean, you’ll find the right destination.

islands to live on

Grand Cayman It’s the most livable island in the Caribbean, from fast Internet to a broad array of real estate options to culture, food and a growing arts scene. And did we mention Seven Mile Beach? Even better, the new Cayman Enterprise City program is the Caribbean’s best way to move your business to the Caribbean, one focused on startups, with everything from tax mitigation to permanent residency.


1 of 20
Popular Posts the sexiest beaches including this resort at atlantis

The Sexiest Beaches in the Caribbean to Visit Right Now 

One is a beach with a nightclub-style pool right next door. Another is filled with beach bars — and even has its own au natural corner. Then there’s a beach that’s practically a nonstop party.  There are so many things that […]


The Winners of the 2024 Caribbean Green Awards 

caribbean green

With almost 20,000 votes, the winners of the Caribbean Green Awards 2024 Presented by E-Finity have been crowned.  From state-of-the-art marine conservation projects to hotels that are redefining sustainability, the Green movement has never been stronger in the Caribbean.  “This […]


Curacao’s Newest All-Inclusive Resort Reinvents the Beach Bungalow

beach bungalow on the sand with reflection of water

Hyatt’s Dreams brand first debuted on the Dutch Caribbean island of Curacao back in 2019, a transformation of what had been the Hilton Curacao. In many ways, Dreams’ debut helped change the game for the island, helping to kick off […]


Related Posts Tamarind hotel with pool

British Airways Is Doubling Daily Flights to This Caribbean Island 

British Airways has plans to expand its service to one of its most popular Caribbean destinations next winter, Caribbean Travel Advisor has learned.  The carrier, which has been ramping up its Caribbean footprint, says it is doubling capacity to one […]


Caribbean Photo of the Week: Boca Catalina Beach in Aruba

aruba boca catalina

The latest Caribbean Photo comes from Caribbean Journal reader Annette Melching, who sent in this lovely shot of Boca Catalina beach on the island of Aruba. Have you taken a great photo in the Caribbean? Send it to news@caribjournal.com with […]


The Caribbean’s Most Exciting New Rooftop Bar Is In Antigua 

antigua rooftop

Sipping on an ice-cold Negroni on a warm Caribbean afternoon, peering out at the super yachts in the Caribbean Sea, a DJ set bumping in the background. This is precisely the purpose of the Caribbean’s newest (and most exciting) rooftop […]


SUBSCRIBE!

Sign up for Caribbean Journal's free newsletter for a daily dose of beaches, hotels, rum and the best Caribbean travel information on the net.


No. Thank You