Choose from 419 Fun Things to Do in Caribbean
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Playa Dorada
Playa Dorada is one of the most popular beaches in the Puerto Plata area. Here you will find a number of the major resorts along its shoreline. The gated community features around a dozen luxury resorts and hotels that border the Amber Coast.
If you are not staying along the bay of Playa Dorada, one of the best ways to experience the area is from the water. Take a catamaran tour along the North Coast from Playa Dorada to the Bay of Sosua. If the idea of spending an afternoon on a boat isn’t appealing, resorts along Playa Dorada rent watersports equipment. Try your hand at windsurfing, kayaking, sailing or parasailing. The waters at Playa Dorada are crystal clear and the shallow, sloping beach makes it a popular spot for families with small children. You can go snorkeling right off the beach with coral reefs only a short swim away.
If you want to experience more than a day on the beach, Playa Dorada has a number of options to keep you busy. Go shopping at the plaza, which features boutiques, restaurants and a cinema. There is also an 18-hole golf course designed by Robert Trent Jones. Other non-beach activities include an equestrian center and several casinos. Playa Dorada is also home to the Caribbean’s biggest go-kart center, complete with three tracks.
Practical Info
Playa Dorada is considered the Dominican Republic’s first tourist area but it still remains one of the best. The beach is only a five-minute drive from Puerto Playa. Other things to see and do in the area include the 16th-century San Felipe Fortress and a cable car ride up to the Mount Isabel de Torres summit.
Address: Puerto Plata, Dominican Republic
From $ 59
Playa Caleta
A small, rocky beach frequented by locals, Playa Caleta gives visitors a more cultural taste of beach life in the Dominican Republic than other beaches in La Romana. You'll enjoy stunning scenery and local cuisine while at Playa Caleta.
This remote beach area comes equipped with stunning scenery, local cuisine and a small bay ideal for swimming. Snorkel equipment may come in handy here, as there are fish and sometimes other sea creatures to see off its shores. There are also many vendors at Playa Caleta who serve fresh fish and other local delicacies like yaniqueques. Bring pesos or be prepared to bargain, as vendors don't always have change for American dollars. Finish off your meal with a refreshingly cold Presidente beer, a favorite brew in the Dominican Republic.
Practical Info
Hop in a cab to get to La Caleta, or take a tour bus. If taking a cab, arrange a time for the driver to pick you up. Otherwise, you may have a hard time getting back to your resort or cruise ship. The beach is quite rocky, so you may want to pack a pair of water shoes to avoid the pain that comes from stepping on sharp rocks.
Address: La Romana, Dominican Republic
From $ 110
Phantasea Tropical Botanical Garden
Finally opening its gates in February 2015 after a 20-year-long construction, the Phantasea Tropical Botanical Garden offers a unique collection of tropical plants, spread over a 2-acre plot. The scenic gardens stretch along a mountain ridge at 1,100 feet, with viewpoints offering impressive views across Magens Bay and Tortola, and the paved walking trails dotted with benches and gazebos to relax in. The real highlight is the plants themselves – a colorful collection featuring over 1,000 orchids, plus hundreds of palm trees, bromeliads and heliconias, creativity arranged and marked with information boards.
Practical Info
The Phantasea Tropical Botanical Garden is located in Lerkenlund on St Thomas Island and is open daily from 9am-5pm. Adult admission at the time of writing is $10.
Address: Lerkenlund, St Thomas, U.S. Virgin Islands, US Virgin Islands
Hours: Open daily from 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Admission: Adults: $10; Childen (5-12) -$5
From $ 10
Pinel Island
Located just off of the west coast of St. Martin, Pinel Island is a haven of white sand and clear water perfect for kayakers, stand-up paddleboarders, snorkelers, and those who want a tranquil escape from the modern world.
The Basics
Pinel Island is one of St. Maarten’s best-kept secrets and a favorite snorkeling spot. Travelers can visit independently or explore Pinel island as part of tour that might include the island with other coastal stops such as Creole Rock or Tintamarre Island for relaxing, snorkeling, and swimming with sea turtles.
Things to Know Before You Go
- A trip to Pinel Island is suitable for solo travelers, couples, and families who want to get away from it all.
- Tours may include roundtrip hotel transfers, food and drinks, use of snorkeling equipment, towels, and guides. Check tours for specific details.
- Remember to bring sun protection, swimwear, and a towel.
- The island has two restaurants, both with plenty of fresh seafood.
- No cars are allowed on island.
- Bring cash or credit cards; there is no ATM on the island.
How to Get There
Pinel Island is just off the west coast of St. Martin, easily accessible by ferry boat, kayak, or paddle board. Take a taxi or drive to French Cul de Sac, just across from the island where you can rent snorkeling gear and watersports equipment. The ferry boats run frequently during the day and take about 5 minutes to reach the islands.
When to Get There
Popular with locals, the island is more crowded on weekends. Visit St. Maarten in the shoulder seasons of spring and fall to find fewer crowds and cheaper rates, with rain less likely. The weather is pleasant year-round, with summer being the hottest. Humpback whales can be observed from February to June.
A Hidden Beach
Walk to the ocean side of Pinel Island to get away from the merrymaking crowds. Follow a path behind Le Karibuni bar that leads up and over the top of the hill to reach a quiet and isolated beach where seashells wash up on the shore.
Address: St Maarten
From $ 99
Ocean World Adventure Park
Snorkeling opportunities, dolphin shows, and a beach full of lounge chairs all contribute to Ocean World Adventure Park’s standing as a top family attraction in the Dominican Republic. The park is prime for kids during the day and transforms into a casino after dark, complete with a restaurant, slot games, a disco floor, and a Vegas-style show, offering parent-friendly nightlife with Caribbean flair.
The Basics
A day pass to Ocean World Adventure Park is a good value for a day of fun, granting access to most of the park’s major attractions and activities, including Dolphin Beach, a freshwater pool, and the Tropical Reef Aquarium, in addition to a buffet-style lunch. Daily sea lion and dolphin shows entertain, while the tropical bird exhibit and iguana habitat spotlight animal species native to the tropical rainforest. For those who want to play after dark, the Bravissimo show offers a live performance with unlimited drinks and optional dinner followed by casino games and a disco party. Dinner show packages are available, as are day trip tours from Santo Domingo.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Programs often sell out, so it’s best to guarantee entrance by booking ahead.
- Be sure to bring a bathing suit, towel, sun protection, and spending cash.
- The site features changing rooms and shower, and fee-based lockers are available.
- All facilities are wheelchair accessible, and wheelchairs are available for visitor use with advance notice.
- Flip-flops and shorts are not permitted at the Bravissimo Show.
- Kids are allowed at the Bravissimo show, but visitors must be 18 or older to enter the casino or disco.
- Ocean World Adventure Park offers the chance to swim with dolphins, sea lions, and sharks for an additional fee. Prices start at $79, and reservations for these interactive programs are required.
How to Get There
Ocean World Adventure Park is set three miles (five kilometers) west of Puerto Plata on the Dominican Republic's north coast, about a 30-minute drive from Gregorio Luperon International Airport. Most tours include hotel pickup and drop-off from the Puerto Plata area, although hotels farther out can incur additional fees. Those who wish to arrive and leave on their own schedule can travel by private vehicle or taxi.
When to Get There
Ocean World Adventure Park is open Tuesday to Sunday from 8:30am to 5:30pm. The Bravissimo Show runs on Wednesday, Friday, and Saturday at 9pm.
Dolphins at Ocean World Adventure Park
Ocean World Adventure Park boasts the largest man-made dolphin habitat in the world, currently home to 15 Atlantic bottlenose dolphins from Cuba and Honduras. They each eat up to 26 pounds of fish per day.
Address: Calle Principal #3 Cofresí, Puerto Plata 57000, Dominican Republic
Hours: Daily: 9am - 6pm
Admission: Ticket prices vary
From $ 69
Parliament Square
The island of Nassau is the seat of the Bahamian government and the four bubblegum pink buildings that house its key branches lend a distinctly island vibe to what’s known as Parliament Square.
The pastel Georgian-style buildings of the Supreme Court, the Public Library and Museum and the Houses of Parliament surround the square, where a statue honoring Queen Victoria stands. This government center is within walking distance from the main cruise ship ports, as well as numerous shops and restaurants, making it a perfect stop to learn a bit of history while touring the town.
The pastel Georgian-style buildings of the Supreme Court, the Public Library and Museum and the Houses of Parliament surround the square, where a statue honoring Queen Victoria stands. This government center is within walking distance from the main cruise ship ports, as well as numerous shops and restaurants, making it a perfect stop to learn a bit of history while touring the town.
Practical Info
Parliament Square is located on Bay Street across from Rawson Square. It is free to visit and tourists are welcome weekdays from 10 a.m. until 5:30 p.m.
Address: Parliament Square, Nassau, Bahamas
Hours: Daily 10am-5:30pm
From $ 23
Philipsburg Courthouse
The centerpiece of the Philipsburg is the courthouse on Watney Square, at the heart of the Front Street shopping area. The historic wooden building is bright white with a bell tower that sports a clock and small spire with a pineapple at the top, which symbolizes welcome. It was originally built in 1793 as the home of the town’s founder, Commander John Philips, and has since been used as jail, post office and fire station. Today the building is a working courthouse, but if you’re interested to learn more about the town’s history, you can walk five minutes east down Front Street to visit the St. Maarten Museum.
Practical Info
The courthouse sits right at the center of the small town, and is easily spotted as you’re passing through. From the cruise ship dock it’s a 10-minute walk to the courthouse, and if you're driving into town, there's a parking lot about a block from the courthouse.
Address: Front Street, Philipsburg, St Maarten
From $ 79
Philip's Animal Garden
If you’re an animal lover, visiting Philips Animal Garden in Noord is a must during your vacation to Aruba. Philips Animal Garden is a non-profit organization that provides a sanctuary for over 52 species of animals. Philips Animal Garden raises money through its tours of the property as well as from donations. The cost of your visit goes toward the upkeep and care of the animals that Philips Animal Garden rescues and rehabilitates. You’ll find an assortment of tropical birds, pigs, leopards, deer, alpaca and many other types of animals at Philips Animal Garden.
While visiting you’ll get to walk around the tropical grounds, which have walking trails next to the enclosures the animals are in. You’ll also get the chance to interact with the animals, including feeding them. Plus, your admission ticket gets you a tour of Philips Animal Garden with a guide who will share information with you about the animals.
Practical Info
Philips Animal Garden is open Monday through Sunday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Located on the northeast portion of the island, Philips Animal Garden can be easily reached by car or taxi from the popular vacation spots of the capital city of Oranjestad and Eagle Beach on the island.
Address: Alto Vista 116, Noord, Aruba
Hours: Daily 9 a.m.-5 p.m.
Admission: Adults $10, Children Under 10 are $5
From $ 45
Ozama Fort (Fortaleza Ozama)
This 16th-century fortress located in the Colonial Zone of Santo Domingo was built by the Spanish and is recognized today as a UNESCO World Heritage site. History buffs can explore La Fortaleza—which is the oldest European-style military building in the Americas—and learn more about how this old-school castle that once guarded the port of Dominica Republic’s capital city. Travelers can explore the grounds of this imposing castle that once served as a prison on their own or with the help of a local guide. A climb to the Torre del Homenaje offers incredible 360-degree views of the city, and a nearby powder house and rows of cannons reflect the fort’s important military history.
Practical Info
The fort is located on Calle de las Damas. It is open Monday through Saturday from 9 a.m. until 6:30 p.m. and on Sunday from 9 a.m. until 4 p.m. Admission is RD $70.
Address: Calle Las Damas, Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic
Hours: Mon-Sat 9am-6:30pm, Sun 9am-4pm
Admission: RD $70
From $ 50
Paseo de la Princesa
Quite literally meaning walkway of the princess, Paseo de la Princesa does indeed have enough romance and beauty fit for royalty. A perfect spot to enjoy the Old World charms of San Juan – strolling through this romantic 19th century avenue is perhaps one of San Juan’s most romantic escapes – and yet it’s located just outside the city walls. Lined with antique street lamps, shade trees, and fruit cart vendors – walking the Paseo de la Princesa embues a leisurely sense of ancient romance and serene beauty. With the impressive Old San Juan fortifications towering above you and the glistening San Juan Bay on your left, the Paseo de la Princesa stands a good chance of being your favorite simple escape while in San Juan.
Practical Info
The Paseo de la Princessa is located on the south side of Old San Juan near Plaza de Hostos. Along with fruit cart vendors there is also an open air café which hosts live music on the weekends.
Address: Old San Juan San Juan, Puerto Rico, San Juan, Puerto Rico
From $ 33
Nylon Pool
Leave the hotel swimming pool behind on a trip to Tobago’s Nylon Pool. This huge offshore sandbar is a picturesque shallow bank about a mile from Pigeon Point, and a hugely popular spot for visitors to swim and snorkel under the Caribbean sun. Supposedly, the name was bestowed Princess Margaret when she visited the pool in 1962 and reportedly said the clear water reminded her of looking through a nylon stocking. The shallow corals of Buccoo Reef surround the sandy bottomed bathing area, making it a perfect spot to swim with local reef fish. Bring a mask and snorkel and keep watch for parrotfish, queen angels and trumpet fish flitting among the reefs.
Practical Info
A number of tour boats offer day trips to Nylon Pool as part of their coastline or snorkeling tours. Because Nylon Pool is one of Tobago’s most popular attractions, you can expect to find large crowds here and a Caribbean party atmosphere with boats playing music and visitors sipping rum punch as they soak up the sun and sea.
Address: Tobago, Trinidad and Tobago
From $ 50
Palm Groves Garden (Gibbons Garden)
Palm Groves Garden is a privately owned garden in Bermuda. Luckily for travelers to Bermuda, the Gibbons family that owns the garden open it up to visitors. Palm Groves Garden stands out due to its meticulously manicured grounds and lovely lily pond.
Within the grounds of Palm Groves Garden, you’ll find coconut trees, palm trees and more foliage that all add up together to create an exotic tropical escape from the hustle and bustle of Bermuda’s cities. The lily pond is a fun aspect of the garden for visitors to see as it has plants within it in the shape of Bermuda as seen on a map. Both children and adults will also enjoy checking out the limestone huts on the property and visiting the aviary, which is home to a number of parrots.
Practical Info
Palm Groves Garden is open Monday through Thursday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. It is located in Devonshire Parish on the southern side of the island off of the main South Road, and you can easily get there via car or another form of public transportation. Another hassle-free way of seeing Palm Groves Garden is on a sightseeing day tour, which takes you around the island to show you the top sites with an expert Bermuda guide.
Address: 38 South Road, Devonshire Parish, Bermuda
Hours: Mon-Thurs 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
From $ 56
Pedro St James Historic Site
Pedro St. James Historic Site is a living heritage museum, re-creating life on Grand Cayman in the 18th century. An impressive three-story building of stone and wood, Pedro St. James was built by an English plantation farmer in the late 18th century. Known locally as ‘the castle,' today the restored house is furnished with period details and surrounded by landscaped grounds.
A visit to the great house includes a multi-sensory 3D presentation outlining the history of Pedro St. James and the Cayman Islands.
Practical Info:
Pedro St. James Historic Site is set along the seashore, 20 minutes from George Town.
Address: Sandy Ground Drive, Savannah KY1, Cayman Islands
Hours: Open daily 9am - 5pm, closed Christmas Day
Admission: CI$8
From $ 12
Pirates of Nassau
Get out your eye patch and peg leg and get ready to delve into one of the most infamous and legendary aspects of Caribbean history. During the Golden Age of Piracy, from 1690 to 1720, pirates patrolled the waters of the Caribbean, terrorizing merchant ships and no place played a greater role in illegal pirate operations than Nassau, home base to the world's largest concentration of swashbuckling seafarers.
A trip to Pirates of Nassau takes one back to the Golden Age when pirates ruled the Caribbean. A favorite of both adults and children alike, this museum is one you won't want to miss. It is said that when a pirate slept, he did not dream of heaven, but of returning to Nassau. Come and find out for yourself what made Nassau pirate paradise.
Practical Info
Located in downtown Nassau, the museum is a short distances from most places on the island and easy to access.
Address: King and George St., Nassau, Bahamas
Hours: Open Mon - Sat from 9am - 6pm, Sun from 9am - 12pm
Admission: Adults: US$12
From $ 108
Otrobanda
Across the mouth of St. Anna Bay from Willemstad’s Punda area is the other of the city’s historic downtown, Otrobanda, which literally means “the other side.” While Punda was settled in 1635, Otrabanda was built about a century later. If you walk from Punda across the Queen Emma Bridge, Otrabanda offers a great view of the iconic and colorful Punda waterfront. One of Otrobanda’s most popular attractions is Riff Fort, which was built in 1828 to help defend the city. Today the fort is a shopping mall where you can buy souvenirs or have a meal at one of the fine dining restaurants with wonderful views of the waterfront. In this area of the city, you’ll also find the Curacao Museum, which exhibits the works of local artists, antique furniture and the cockpit of the SNIP, the Dutch airline KLM’s first airplane to fly from Holland to Curacao.
Practical Info
As in Punda, Otrabanda is quite safe and easy to explore on foot. The main street through the center of the neighborhood is Breedestraat, while Riff Fort sits just south of the Queen Emma Bridge.
Address: Willemstad, Curaçao, Curacao
From $ 39
Ocho Rios Cruise Port
Ocho Rios, Jamaica, is the ultimate gateway to a plethora of sightseeing and cultural experiences on the north coast of the island. Originally a fishing village, Ocho Rios has grown into a well-known port of call for cruise ships with its bustling economy surrounding the port.
The Basics
Most shore excursions from Ocho Rios head for the north coast. Popular day tour destinations include the terraced Dunn’s River Falls, which visitors can climb in the company of a guide for views over the surrounding area. Horseback riding tours allow travelers to enjoy the Caribbean Sea while learning about marine life and the ecosystem. Cruisers can pay tribute to the iconic film Cool Runnings by checking out the bobsled and rain forest canopy chair lift ride at Mystic Mountain. Ocho Rios’ Green Grotto Caves are full of geologic wonders and subterranean history, and the nearby Blue Hole is a popular stop for its azure waters and rock formations. Other Ocho Rios shore excursions include water sports such as river rafting and tubing, catamaran cruises, and kayaking outings.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Most Ocho Rios shore excursions include round-trip transportation from the port.
- If you’d like to visit farther Jamaica destinations from Ocho Rios, such as Falmouth or Bob Marley's home at Nine Mile, expect a full-day tour.
- Booking a private tour ensures cruisers can make the most of their (often short) time in port.
How to Get to Downtown Ocho Rios from the Ocho Rios Cruise Port
From the cruise port, it’s possible to walk to downtown Ocho Rios, where you’ll find six shopping plazas and an abundance of bars and restaurants. Taxis are plentiful in the area.
Port Information
English is the official language of Jamaica, and the currencies are the Jamaican dollar and the US dollar.
Address: Ocho Rios Bay Beach, Ocho Rios, Jamaica
From $ 44
Pigeon Island National Landmark
The 44-acre (18-hectare) Pigeon Island National Landmark, also known as Pigeon Island National Park, is a nature reserve on St. Lucia's northern tip, where travelers can trace the island's colonial past, and sunbathe and swim on its beaches. Not only one of the most beautiful spots in St. Lucia, the park is also one of the most historic landmarks in the Caribbean.
The Basics
Travelers typically visit Pigeon Island National Landmark on half- or full-day group or private tours from Castries or Rodney Bay. Most tours include time for water activities such as scuba diving, snorkeling, or sailing, while others incorporate sightseeing by convertible or Segway. Other popular Pigeon Island activities include hiking natural trails through dry tropical forests to the waterfront and visiting the lookout point at the top of Fort Rodney for panoramic views of St. Lucia’s northwest coastline.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Pigeon Island National Landmark is popular among nature and history lovers of all ages.
- A small admission fee is required to enter the park. The fee is often included in the price of a tour.
- The islet features a restaurant and bar.
- Remember to bring sun protection, swimwear, a towel, and water for hydration.
How to Get There
Pigeon Island National Landmark is on the west coast of St. Lucia, near the northern tip of the island, and is joined to the mainland by a manmade causeway. From the capital, Castries, expect about an hour's drive. Parking is available.
When to Get There
The park is open from 9am to 5pm daily, year-round. The visitor center is closed on Sundays. Visit in May to experience the annual St. Lucia Jazz Festival, which fills Pigeon Island with an abundance of live music and delicious food.
Pigeon Island Museum
Itself a living museum of the history, Pigeon Island also features a physical museum where travelers can learn about St. Lucia's history. Discover artifacts dating back to 1000 AD, from the original Amerindian inhabitants, the Arawaks, and later, the Caribs. You can also see multimedia displays detailing the island's back-and-forth colonial victories, including the decisive 1782 Battle of the Saints during which the Brits defeated the French.
Address: St Lucia
Admission: Varies
From $ 22
Old San Juan
The cobblestone streets of Puerto Rico’s Old San Juan, lined with brightly colored Spanish colonial houses, lend themselves to aimless yet inspired wandering, but don’t let yourself pass by the neighborhood’s key attractions. From the UNESCO World Heritage-listed forts of Castillo San Felipe del Morro (El Morro) and Castillo San Cristobal to restaurants serving plates of aromatic rice and fried plantains, Old San Juan charms travelers at every turn.
The Basics
Old San Juan is a staple in city sightseeing tours, which offer an easy way to get an overview of the historic city (founded in 1521) and cross must-see sites such as La Fortaleza off your list. More tailored options include food tours and walking tours with a private tour guide. Those preferring to minimize walking can opt for a Segway tour or a cruise on San Jose Bay.
Things to Know Before You Go
- The neighborhood is a must-see for history buffs and those seeking postcard-worthy views.
- Visitors flock to Old San Juan year-round, so be prepared for crowds, especially in the busy summer season.
- Wear comfortable walking shoes to help navigate the cobblestones, and pack lightweight clothing and sun protection for the near constant warm weather.
How to Get to Old San Juan
Old San Juan is located on an islet, attached to the mainland of Puerto Rico by three bridges. If you’re coming from the mainland or the airport, book an airport transfer or drive over the bridges. Those arriving as Caribbean cruise ship passengers will likely dock at one of the many cruise ship piers in the neighborhood. Once in Old San Juan, getting around the area is easy by foot or taxi, and a free trolley system also runs through the area.
When to Get There
Old San Juan is most popular during winter and summer, when vacationers flock to this classic Caribbean destination. This is especially true for visitors from the United States who can travel to and from the US territory of Puerto Rico without a passport. If planning a spring trip, expect temperatures hovering around 80°F (26°C) and diminished crowds.
Address: San Juan, Puerto Rico
Admission: Free
From $ 33
Palm Beach
Aruba’s Palm Beach hosts many of the Caribbean island’s luxe high-rise hotels, which is no surprise, as these lovely two miles (3.2 kilometers) of sand are prime real estate. The beach hosts sunbathing vacationers, refreshment stands, and water sports booths. Two piers lined with restaurants and shops offer entertainment and some much needed shade.
The Basics
Northwest of Aruba’s capital, Oranjestad, Palm Beach is a hub for activities day and night. The long stretch of sand leaves plenty of room for relaxing, and the blue Caribbean waters are calm enough for snorkeling and swimming just offshore. Parasailing, scuba diving, and horseback riding are other popular daytime activities.
Aruba tours that circle the island often include a stop at Palm Beach, as well as other island highlights. There are also guided expeditions via bus, Jeep, ATV, or party bus. Boat tours and Aruba catamaran sails pass Palm Beach for views and photo ops before proceeding to a sunset viewing location, the famous Natural Pool, or the Antilla shipwreck scuttled just off Arashi Beach. A typical Aruba sightseeing tour stops at Palm Beach in combination with other landmarks such as Arikok National Park, Baby Beach, Eagle Beach, the California Lighthouse, or the Natural Bridge.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Palm Beach is one of the more crowded beaches on Aruba. If you’re after peace and quiet, a farther-flung beach (such as Arashi Beach or Malmok Beach) may be more your speed.
- Palm Beach is chock full of amenities, which makes it great for families with kids who frequently need snacks, activities, or bathroom breaks.
- Many Aruba island activities leave from the Palm Beach area, making it a great jumping-off point for those who aren’t content to just lounge on the beach all day.
How to Get There
Palm Beach is located about six miles (9.8 kilometers) northwest of Oranjestad and the Queen Beatrix International Airport. As Palm Beach is a busy area, parking is not easy. The Arubus has several stops along Palm Beach on J.E. Irausquin Boulevard.
When to Get There
Since Palm Beach is lined with high-rise hotels featuring clubs and restaurants, the nighttime activities are almost as plentiful as those for daytime. Aruba sees great weather almost year-round. Prices are highest in winter for northerners escaping the snow, so April through August is the best time to find a deal.
Off-Road Tours
Palm Beach is a popular starting point for off-road and ATV tours that explore Aruba’s interior. Choose from self-drive or guide-driven off-road adventures that get you off the beaten path for a view of the real, natural Aruba—far from the high-rise hotels.
Address: Aruba
From $ 40
Peterson Cay National Park
Peterson Cay, a tiny island off the south shore of Grand Bahama, is home to Peterson Cay National Park, the smallest national park in the Bahamas, covering only 1.5 acres. Small though it may be, the cay is home to one of the most beautiful reefs in the Bahamas, and the gorgeous coral structures are replete with snorkeling and diving opportunities.
Past the initial soft coral near the beach, the main reef is a short swim off the shore, so be sure to go past the initial soft-branch. There is also a wide variety of aquatic life that calls the reef home, so keep your eyes out for tropical fish, and even manta rays and barracuda.
The pristine sandy beaches provide a perfect spot for quiet relaxation and afternoon picnics, and the calm atmosphere of the island is ideal for any Bahaman vacation.
Practical Info
Access to Peterson Cay National Park is by boat only. You can either hire a boat out of Port Lucaya Marina, or take a kayak yourself out of Barbary Beach. Be sure to exercise caution when kayaking up to the cay, avoiding the delicate coral reefs.
As with any Bahaman national park, it is illegal to take shells, vegetation, or pieces of coral off of the island, so be sure to leave it where it lies.
Address: Grand Bahama, Bahamas
Admission: Check fees at Entrance Booth
From $ 59