White-sand beaches, crystalline waters, and lush rain forests are calling.
While there are many similarities between them, each has its own topography, history, and culture.
On some islands, well-preserved historical architecture enhances the idyllic setting.
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We think youll find the secluded beaches and pristine landscapes worth the extra effort.
Here are 18 of the most beautiful Caribbean islands to inspire your travels.
Keep reading to discover the rest of our picks.
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Bartsis a little over nine square miles with white-sand beaches, lagoons, and inlets.
An undersea nature reserve protects the shallow coral reefs surrounding the island, providing excellent snorkeling opportunities.
Divers can explore several sunken vessels as well as colorful marine life.
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The capital, Gustavia, is a picturesque harbor town with promenades, historic buildings, and restaurants.
Getting there involves chartering a plane or catching a flight or ferry from another island.
Croix, the largest.
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Visitors can snorkel among coral reefs, mangroves, and colorful marine life.
On St. John, theVirgin Islands National Parkis home to immaculate beaches, hiking trails, and historic ruins.
Mineral-rich mud pools, thermal baths, and sulfur springs are reminders of the islands volcanic origins.
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Puerto Rico
From beaches to mountains to rain forests,Puerto Ricooffers a diverse environment.
Trails inEl Yunque National Forestlead through lush greenery to natural pools and waterfalls.
Divers can enjoy its coral reefs, shipwrecks, andunderwater sculpture park.
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Jamaica
Located about 600 miles from Miami, Jamaica lures visitors withgorgeous beaches.
In addition to its palm-fringed sandy shores, the island has rivers flowing from its mountains into the Caribbean.
The Blue Lagoon, with its translucent, cerulean water, is another stunning spot to the east.
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Grace Bay Beach offers soft white sand, calm waters, and an extensive barrier reef.
Take in the island’s stunning scenery above and below the water while sailing, snorkeling, or paddleboarding.
Climb to the top of the lighthouse for breathtaking coastal views.
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Mont Pelee, an active volcano, is another natural wonder of this island north of St. Lucia.
The picturesque historical buildings and location outside of the hurricane belt are part of the allure.
All of them are beautiful and some are quite unique.
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The Abaco islands, meanwhile, are known for fishing, sailing, boating, and charming colonial towns.
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