We’ve been saying it for years, and we’ll keep saying it: in some ways, the Caribbean is even better in the summer months. The water is warm. It’s a bit less crowded, a little bit quieter. At night, the trade winds cool you down, making it far nicer than it is in any competing summer hotspot further north. And yes, the prices are considerably lower, too. 

In recent years, particularly since the pandemic, more and more travelers realized this. This awakening began in large part when popular summer destinations in places like Europe were closed, and people turned their travel fortunes toward the Caribbean, which was far more open at the time. And once these travelers realized how wonderful the region was in the summer, they kept coming. And coming. 

We’ve gathered 11 of the best islands we think should be on your radar for your perfect summer vacation, from adventure-focused getaways to energetic urban journeys and voyages to remote, secluded islands.  

Here are our best islands to visit this summer. 

Antigua and Barbuda You may already know that Antigua and Barbuda has 365 beaches — or, as they like to say, one for every day of the year. And when you begin to explore the island, you get it: the coastline of the island is contoured with endless little coves and bays and inlets — all with perfect rings of white sand — meaning you never lack for the perfect beach — and there’s always another one to explore. But that’s not the only thing the destination has in large supply. It’s also home to easily the best collection of top all-inclusive resorts anywhere in the Caribbean, from hot new adults-only retreats like The Verandah Antigua to celebrated spots like Hammock Cove and up-and-coming boutiques like the Keyonna Beach Resort.