These eight island destinations are safely outside of the hurricane belt, making them the safest best for your summer vacation.
Unfortunately, hurricane season, which runs from June through the end of November, spans both wedding season and the entire summer vacation season when newlyweds and families head to the Caribbean for the sun, fun and beautiful beaches. But a pesky hurricane can certainly ruin anyone’s trip and be costly for hotel and flight cancellations.
You might be surprised to learn that there are some islands in the Caribbean that are outside of the hurricane belt and thus a safe bet during those summer months. Aruba, Bonaire Curaçao, Barbados, Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, Grenada, Trinidad and Tobago, and San Andrés and Providencia Islands are all situated outside of the region in the Caribbean Sea where hurricanes more frequently occur.
So don’t worry. Go ahead and book that much-needed summer vacation.
1 of 8 ARUBA
Aruba doesn’t take its mantra, “One Happy Island” for granted. The island boasts 365 days of sunshine each year so there are no vacation spoilers here. The people are friendly, the activities are endless, and the winds offer a welcome breeze where windsurfing is a must-try sport for adrenaline junkies. While this island offers some of the best water sports activities, if you need to take a break from the beach, visit Aruba’s native Butterfly Farm.
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Barbados is teeming with great beaches, vibrant nightlife, and some of the friendliest locals you’ll meet anywhere. Take in the rich culture and learn a few of the island’s local customs. Take a Bajan cuisine cooking class or learn to play a steel pan drum.
3 of 8 Bonaire
Bonaire is a Dutch Island nicknamed a “Diver’s Paradise,” thanks to its protected marine park where both snorkelers and scuba divers can experience some of the Caribbean’s most amazing underwater sea life. Bonaire is an island made for exploring. Rent a bike and explore some of the dozens of trails or take a guided tour of the scenic Washington Slagbaai National Park. If you’d like to go it on your own, there are blue-painted rocks that mark the island’s bike paths.
4 of 8 Curaçao
Curaçao, a Dutch Caribbean island, is known for its stunning azure blue seas against pristine white sand beaches, with hidden bays tucked into coves that offer some pretty impressive coral reefs rich with marine life.
If shopping is your favorite vacation past-time, you’ll love wandering the streets of Curaçao’s capital, Willemstad. In the arts district, local artisans line the cobblestone streets selling their unique creations. But don’t miss taking a social media photo on the street lined with famous rainbow-colored buildings.
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Grenada, the Spice of the Caribbean, is the ultimate destination for foodies and beach lovers. There are dozens of spice plantations, five chocolate factories, and three rum distilliers that tantalize all of your senses. No trip to Grenada would be complete without a visit to the spice and chocolate plantations. But even better, the island’s culinary tours are the best way to satisfy your tastebuds.
6 of 8 St. Vincent & the Grenadines
St Vincents & the Grenadines actually consist of 32 islands known for lush tropical landscapes and some of the Caribbean’s most beautiful coral reefs and turquoise lagoons. Bequia, the second largest island in the group and sister island to celebrity-favorite Mustique, is all about ambiance.
Hiking is the best way to explore the island and capture some amazing views of this part of the Caribbean. Hike up to Bequia’s highest point, Ma Peggy, which offers panoramic views of the neighboring islands.
7 of 8 San Andrés & Providencia
Two relatively unknown islands off the coast of Colombia and nearby Nicaragua, San Andrés & Providencia
, are stunning, unspoiled, and most of all, off the beaten path for most Caribbean travelers. Visit Old Point Regional Mangrove Park, a wildlife sanctuary where you can learn all about the island’s crabs, iguanas, and migratory birds.
8 of 8 Trinidad and Tobago
TTrinidad and Tobago, sister islands near Venezuela, each have their own distinctive personality. Trinidad is all about celebrating its Creole traditions and cuisines and that lively feeling is spread throughout the island. If laying on the beach is on your agenda, Tobago is best known for its tranquil beaches including Turtle Beach, where leatherbacks nest for the season. Spend a day exploring the massive Queen’s Park Savannah, followed by a visit to the Royal Botanic Gardens and Emperor Valley Zoo.
