I’ve asked the travel experts, and they have reported back with the top 20 cheapest destinations in the Caribbean, perfect for your tropical vacation!
From the pristine beaches found across the Belize shoreline to the historic ruins of Mexico, I have collected plenty of personal experiences in the best cheapest places to travel to in the Caribbean. Whether exploring places to visit in the Caribbean for cheap, or planning a Caribbean cruising adventure, these cheap places to travel to in the Caribbean are amazing!
So grab your free travel planner, equipped with budgeting guides and itinerary worksheets, and get ready to explore the cheapest destinations in the Caribbean featuring some of the best vacation spots in Central America!
Disclosure: This post may contain affiliate links, which means I’ll receive a commission if you purchase through my link, at no extra cost to you. Please read full disclosure here.
Barbados
Nestled amongst the eastern Caribbean islands, Barbados is one of the most special places in the world. There are countless reasons to visit Barbados, one being that it is one of the cheapest destinations in the Caribbean! Stick around to learn about the cheapest city in Barbados, Bridgetown.
Bridgetown
Recommended by Ellie
As the bustling capital of Barbados, it is no wonder Bridgetown is one of the top cheapest destinations in the Caribbean worth visiting. With the pristine beaches at Carlisle Bay and fascinating attractions found downtown, you should definitely add Bridgetown to your bucket list.
Originally named after the native Amerindian bridge found crossing the Constitution River, you will notice that Bridgetown is split into two areas. Today, the river is frequently referred to as the Careenage and is a main free focal point in town.
Popular things to do in Bridgetown include shopping at the duty-free shops on Broad Street, swimming in the turquoise waters of Carlisle Bay, sailing and snorkeling tours, and exploring the city’s interesting museums.
History buffs will fall in love with the Barbados Garrison— a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Another free activity is strolling along the city’s magnificent colonial buildings and snapping your best pictures.
The National Heroes Square is tucked between the Parliament buildings and the Inner Basin of the Constitution River. This area is free to access but can be busy with traffic, so make sure to arrive early to explore. The area around the square is home to three significant memorials including a cenotaph, a bronze statue of Lord Horatio Nelson, and a clamshell-shaped fountain.
Where to stay in Bridgetown: Eclectic Chic House (from $65 a night) in the Saint Lawrence neighborhood or Sweetfield Manor (from $90 a night) 1.8 miles from the city center.
Belize
The cheapest destinations in the Caribbean, especially in Belize, aren’t the most obvious for eager travelers. While Belize has often been noted as one of the most expensive destinations found in the Caribbean, there are plenty of affordable accommodations and activities in the cities of Caye Caulker and Placencia for you to enjoy and explore!
Caye Caulker
Recommended by Joanna from The World in my Pocket
Caye Caulker is one of Belize’s most affordable islands in the Caribbean. Located in the beautiful Caribbean Sea just off the coast of Belize, Caye Caulker’s motto is “Go Slow”, therefore there are no cars on the island. And there is no need, as you can reach most places by walking.
Caye Caulker is one of the cheapest Caribbean islands in Belize, this is why often backpackers choose it as their beach destination. There are a few hostels offering competitively priced rooms. If you prefer hotels, you can book a private room for as little as 40USD a night.
Snorkeling in Caye Caulker is one of the most popular activities to do on the island. There are a lot of shops offering half or full-day excursions to the nearby reef, where you can see not only many different species of fish but also manatees and turtles.
One of the best places to relax and sunbathe in Caye Caulker is Koko King, a private beach easily reached by boat. You can spend the entire day here, enjoying some cocktails in the sun and fresh fish dishes. The sun loungers, water floaties, and the boat are free of charge when you spend 10USD in the bar. In the evenings, backpackers gather at the Split, an affordable beach bar where the best parties are.
When it comes to food, you must try the local grilled lobster. Compared to other places around the world, lobster in Caye Caulker is quite affordable, with prices starting at 10USD per dish.
Where to stay in Cay Caulker: A great place on the beach to stay is The Novelo (from $60 a night), alternatively, check out the Barefoot Beach hotel (from $45 a night) for a more affordable spot.
Placencia
Recommended by Adrienne from The Haphazard Traveler
Caribbean travelers in search of amazing snorkeling and laid-back beach vibes on a budget should head to Placencia, Belize. The airport in Belize City (BZE) has international flights from within the region, and inexpensive buses depart twice daily to the village of Placencia.
Placencia is located at the end of a 16-mile peninsula which forms Belize’s longest coastline. Between the peninsula and the mainland is a lagoon, the perfect place to kayak in the mangroves and look for manatees, sea turtles, and many species of birds. On the other side of the peninsula lies the Belize Barrier Reef.
This provides spectacular opportunities for snorkeling and beach time. Or hop on a bus inland for a day trip to the world’s only jaguar preserve for a day of hiking, bird spotting, and relaxing in a hidden waterfall at Cockscomb Basin Wildlife Sanctuary.
Placencia has a variety of accommodation options including affordable beach resorts and Airbnbs. The best place to stay is along the Placencia Sidewalk, the pedestrian-only “main street” lined with hotels, shops, restaurants, and colorful island homes. From here, walk to anywhere within the village, or many hotels have free bikes to borrow.
Grab a Belikin beer and try Belizean rice and beans, fresh seafood, and barbecue at inexpensive local spots like Dawn’s Grill and Omar’s Creole Grub, or check out the village’s upscale option Rumfish y Vino.
One “must-do” activity in Placencia is a snorkeling day trip. Talk to tour operators along the Sidewalk to book; the closest and most budget-friendly is Laughing Bird Caye, which usually includes a picnic lunch on the island. Then head back for happy hour and sunset at one of the village’s friendly, low-key beach bars.
Where to stay in Placencia: Dolce Cabana Waterfront Suites (from $89 a night) offers an entire waterfront apartment for you to explore the area. Another great, beachfront accommodation is Heavens Gate Beach Bungalows (from $85 a night).
Cayman Islands
The Cayman Islands offer plenty of opportunities perfect for sticking to a strict budget in the Caribbean. With bargains around every corner, you will fall in love with the affordable destinations in the Caribbean found amongst the Cayman Islands. The cheapest spot in the Cayman Islands according to travel experts is Grand Cayman. Stick around to here the cheapest things to do in the Cayman Islands as one of the cheapest destinations in the Caribbean!
Grand Cayman
Recommended by Ashlee from The Happiness Function
Grand Cayman Island is a vacation hot spot, especially when looking for a safe and cheap Caribbean getaway on a budget. Visiting Grand Cayman during a shoulder season such as early December is the way to budget travel in the Caribbean.
Visitors can find four and five-star Vacation Rental by Owner (VRBO) or Airbnb accommodations fully equipped with kitchens, pools, hot tubs, and waterfront balconies for less than $200 USD/night right on famous Seven Mile Beach. Be sure to head to the local grocery stores to buy food. Preparing meals at your VRBO or Airbnb will save a lot of money. Use taxis to get around. No need to rent a car. Shop for airfare ahead of time to get the best deal.
You can spend a week traveling outdoors on Grand Cayman Island doing simple beach activities for free. Beach fun in the sun activities galore includes walking Seven Mile Beach, soaking up the sun rays, watching waves, admiring sunsets, swimming in turquoise blue water, and snorkeling. If you are big into snorkeling, bring your own snorkeling gear to save money. The waters of Grand Cayman Island are wildly rich with sea life.
Be sure to check out the different beaches and bays such as Rum Point, Starfish Point, Smith Cove, and Spotts Beach. All four of these locations have free access!
Splurge and take a boat tour to Stingray City. A must do to get up close and personal to beautiful stingrays in the Caribbean.
Colombia
As a whole, Colombia is one of the most affordable destinations in the Caribbean. This budget-friendly country offers numerous cities that boast affordable accommodations and cheap/free activities for everyone to enjoy! Stick around to learn about the most affordable city to visit in Colombia, San Andrés!
San Andrés
Recommended by Lozzy from Cuppa to Copa Travels
Isla San Andrés, an island owned by Colombia but situated near Nicaragua, is a wonderfully inexpensive place to experience the beauty of the Caribbean.
Return flights from the Colombian mainland cost as little as $90 USD and hostel prices start from $10. The island itself is only 7.5 miles long, and the coastal road around it can be driven around in a golf buggy in a few hours – buggy hire can be as little as $25 USD a day.
There are plenty of fun things to do on San Andrés Island, and most of them can be found along this coastal route. Stop off at Hoyo Soplador to have a gush of air and water blown into your face from the geyser, dive into turquoise waters at La Piscinita, or sun yourself on the beaches of San Luis, Rocky Cay, or Spratt Bight.
Just off the island, a day trip to the paradise islet of Johnny Cay and a natural aquarium where all sorts of marine life gather will only cost you $11 USD including the national park tax.
Food on Isla San Andrés is a little pricier than the Colombian mainland, but still cheap by North American or European standards in the Caribbean. Very local places offer a no-frills 2-course lunch with a juice for around $3.50 USD, and even the swankier restaurants such as La Regatta might set you back just $20 for a main meal and cocktail.
Where to stay in San Andrés: A great accommodation option for your stay is Zippy’s Sea View Apartments (from $57 a night) which are highly rated and are beachfront. A hotel in the area is Apartahotel Caribe Diez (from $54 a night), around 1,000 feet from the beach.
Cuba
Cuba, since it’s recent border opening to United States vacationers, offers various affordable vacation spots perfect for anyone. From the historic sites in Varadero to the colorful streets of Havana, you will be able to explore this world-class Caribbean country on a budget. Stick around to learn about the cheapest destinations in the Caribbean found in Cuba, Holguin, Trinidad, and Varadero.
Holguin
Recommended by Carley from Home to Havana
Located on the less-touristy eastern side of Cuba, the city of Holguin is a popular Caribbean destination to visit for those traveling onward to the incredible beaches in the area. However, Holguin is a lovely town with a lot to offer visitors, even those on a budget in the Caribbean.
White sand beaches and very warm water make nearby beaches like Guardalavaca a popular destination, and at just an hour away from central Holguin, it is an easy day trip. The city has a variety of private home rentals, many in restored colonial homes, also known as “casas particularles” and staying at a casa particular in Holguin is one of the best ways to enjoy the city on a budget.
One of the best free things to do in Holguin is to hike to the top of the Loma de la Cruz – a hill overlooking the city with a large cross – for an incredible view over the city’s center. The historical center of the city is beautifully preserved as well, with a series of colonial plazas to discover and gems like the St Isidore Cathedral.
For those looking to travel on the beach in the Caribbean, public buses and shared taxis leave frequently to Guardalavaca just about an hour from the city, making it an easy day trip. Even less touristy and more secluded beaches nearby including Baracoa, also known as a popular destination for rainforest hikes.
Trinidad
Recommended by Michelle from Wander Eat Write
Trinidad, Cuba is a vibrant colonial town in the Caribbean whose multi-colored buildings and cobblestone streets have been recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It’s a nice getaway from Havana and nearly all of the top things to do in Trinidad are either free or cost very little.
The most well-known sightseeing destination for visitors is the historic center, which includes Plaza Mayor, Museo Histórico Municipal, and Convento de San Francisco. All of these sites are a must-see and are free of charge to check out. You can also climb to the top of the iconic bright yellow bell tower for sweeping views of the city.
To cool off, Playa Ancon is a quiet beach just outside of town perfect for sunset. It’s also a great walking beach in the Caribbean for those looking for flat shores and soft white sands.
In the evening, visit Casa de la Musica for live music in Plaza Mayor. You can join the locals on the stone steps to enjoy the free entertainment, join the dancing, or get a drink from the nearby bar.
The most typical accommodations are casa particulares, or private rooms offered by locals in their homes, much like a bed and breakfast and usually cost less than $35 per night. Most casa hosts will also offer breakfast or a home-cooked dinner for $5-$10, allowing you to enjoy a delicious meal on a budget and also a unique cultural experience.
Varadero
Recommended by Carley from Home to Havana
Just two hours east of Havana, the Caribbean beach town of Varadero, Cuba is a surprisingly cheap destination for travel in the Caribbean and boasts some of the Caribbean’s most beautiful beaches.
While the coast in Varadero is dotted with hotels and all-inclusive resorts that can get pricey, apartment rentals and even private beach houses for rent that are quite inexpensive, and just steps from the beach and the laid-back center of town.
With 18 kilometers of some of the most beautiful white sand in the Caribbean, much of Varadero’s best beachfront remains public, meaning that one of the best things to do in Varadero, Cuba is free. If you’re looking for beach amenities, hotels rent a chair or palapa quite cheaply, and even a day pass to enjoy the pool is affordable.
Varadero is also known for its inexpensive seafood and has plenty of restaurants to enjoy inexpensive and fresh lobster. Check out La Rampa for some of the best grilled lobster in Varadero, which is surprisingly affordable and deliciously prepared. You can end the evening at La Vaca Rosada, with its rooftop bar and restaurant for a view over the ocean with a drink in hand.
Curaçao
With Curaçao quickly becoming the highlight of many visits to the Caribbean, you could say it is the new hip vacation spot of Central America. More and more people are choosing Curaçao for their budget-friendly Caribbean travel, with visits to the country’s beautiful and super affordable city, Willemstad!
Willemstad
Recommended by Melinda from Mel On The Go
Hip and historic, Willemstad, Curaçao mixes Euro indie cool with Caribbean spice and belongs on your must-visit list.
Comfortable and cheap buses run throughout the 171 square miles island from downtown and get you anywhere for $1-2 a ride. You can easily find plenty of affordable Airbnbs, hip hostels and budget hotels are available in Willemstad city center, or by the beach, if you wish!
Willemstad is a culinary hotspot where you can hop between food trucks, snack bars, and market halls tasting the Dutch-Caribbean dishes. There’s even a Food Truck Festival! Make sure to try Bitterballen when in this Caribbean city, a meat stew rolled into a ball, breaded, and fried.
With nearly 40 beaches on the Caribbean Sea, you’ll fill up on Vitamin D – and Sea – in beautiful Curaçao. Snorkel and scuba in the clear water with turtles and more. Sign up for a free walking tour of Willemstad and learn more about this remarkable city. Further, sign up for a 2-hour tour in English or Dutch. Later, explore Willemstad’s diverse street art where you can snap many Insta-worthy photos to take home with you.
Head over to the old town, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site filled with colorful buildings, markets, and views. Stroll the canals, through the old fort, and palace for free. The unique Queen Emma Bridge is another must-see in Willemstad. Walk across the pontoon bridge and when it opens wide, take the fun, and more importantly, free ferry.
Where to stay in Willemstad: If you are looking for an authentic and quirky stay, check out BOHO Bohemian Boutique Hotel (from $89 a night). A more affordable option sits near the beach as First Curacao Hostel (from $65 a night).
Guadeloupe
Another option as one of the cheapest Caribbean islands is Guadeloupe. These colorful islands are located a mere 20-50 minutes from each other– a premier island-hopping adventure. Make sure to consider Guadeloupe for your future travel as an archipelago filled with over a dozen sun-kissed islands. Stick around to learn about one of the cheapest destinations in the Caribbean, Le Gosier!
Le Gosier
Recommended by Alex from Alex Getting Lost
This pretty beach town on the volcanic island of Guadeloupe is an incredibly cheap destination in its own right, but it also makes a great base for exploring the rest of this lesser-known French Caribbean paradise.
There are plenty of Airbnbs to choose from for your stay, and the area is also packed with restaurants where you can sample delicious Creole Caribbean cuisine. Le Ti Maki is a lively little Le Gosier restaurant that serves authentic local meals (and delicious cocktails, FYI), at brilliant prices.
Don’t just stick to Le Gosier’s beautiful beaches on the mainland. Visible from the shore, Îlet du Gosier is an island haven waiting to be explored. Relax on one of the tiny island’s beaches, trek through the forest to the old lighthouse, and visit the sorbet lady for a coconut sorbet. (Trust me, you won’t regret it.)
Boats to Le Gosier leave the mainland every half hour and cost €5 per round trip. Alternatively, if you’re a strong enough swimmer you can swim there fairly easily!
If you’re up for exploring a bit further afield, the colorful city of Pointe-a-Pitre is just down the road. Filled with colorful street art and colonial-era architecture, this city has New Orleans vibes and is an amazing place to soak up the culture of Guadeloupe. Buses run all over the island, making it extremely easy to navigate on a budget in the Caribbean.
Where to stay in Le Gosier: If you are looking for a fantastic, beachfront stay, check out Studio 18 (from $73 a night). Another affordable hotel option is Hotel La Maison Creole (from $96 a night).
Martinique
For anyone looking for the cheapest destinations in the Caribbean, Martinique is the country for you! Martinique can be a very inexpensive country if you focus on Martinique’s cheaper cities like Les Anses d’Arlet. With plenty of affordable accommodation options and activities for cheap Martinique travel, why not visit this affordable Caribbean vacation spot?
Les Anses d’Arlet
Recommended by Elisa from France Bucket List
Les Anses d’Arlet, in Martinique, is one of the cheapest destinations in the Caribbean for some days of sun and fun in the French Caribbean.
Located in Western Martinique, not far from the international airport in Fort-de-France, Anses d’Arlet is home to some of the best beaches in Martinique, and they are quite different, from golden sandy beaches to black beaches of volcanic origin. Anses d’Arlet is also home to Le Bourg, the prettiest town in Martinique and all French Antilles, famous for its pontoon and colorful church.
In Anses d’Arlet, things are affordable as long as you live like the locals. For example, accommodation is less expensive if you rent an apartment instead of a hotel. You will also save money if you eat and drink locally, instead of imported from France mainland.
Beaches in Martinique are free to visit, and despite there are some interesting things to visit around, the beaches of Ansest d’Arlet are so different from each other that you will want to explore them all. Beaches are also great places for a picnic at lunch or a casual dinner in one of the beach bars.
Les Anses d’Arlet, and Martinique in general, is also interesting for European travelers in the Caribbean. The currency in Martinique is the euro, so it avoids losing money when changing currency.
Where to stay in Les Anses d’Arlet: For a panoramic ocean view, book your stay at Domaine de Robinson (from $103 a night). Another great beachfront option is La Yole (from $120 a night).
Mexico
While many would say Mexico is one of the more expensive destinations in the Caribbean with the large amount of all-inclusive resorts, but I would say, they just don’t know where to go! Mexico can be one of the cheapest destinations in the Caribbean if you head into the cheaper cities of Mexico. Make sure to visit the Mexico cities of Cancun, Holbox, Playa del Carmen, Tulum, and Valladolid on your budget vacation!
Cancun
Recommended by Nicole from The Abroad BlogA trip to Cancun, Mexico needs to be on everyone’s bucket list! First, it’s beautiful. Cancun is full of stunning all-inclusive resorts, miles of white sand beaches, and is only a stone’s throw away from one of the Seven Wonders of the World, Chichen Itza!Second, Cancun is extremely affordable. Hence why it’s popular among college students for spring break and extended family vacations. If you’re looking to score the deal of a lifetime in Cancun, check out CheapCaribbean.com. On this site, you’ll be able to find the best flight + resort bundles, which can save you hundreds.Looking for an affordable all-inclusive on the beach right in downtown Cancun? Check out the Occidental Costa Resort, one of the cheapest resorts in Cancun. It will cost you about $600/person for two people to stay here for 3 days in Cancun, plus the cost of round-trip airfare. There are several tour operators in the area operating full-day excursions to cenotes and Chichen Itza that will cost you less than $100/person. Definitely take advantage of one of these while you’re in the Caribbean!Lastly, be sure to hit the beach! Cancun is full of pristine white sand beaches which are fun to explore and make for the perfect (not to mention free) day activity!
Where to stay in Cancun: To stay in one of the cheapest casas, check out Casa el Limonero (from $18 a night). If you would prefer a hotel, book your stay at Hotel Casa Maya (from $84 a night), located right on the beach.
Holbox
Recommended by Victoria from Guide Your Travel
Holbox is a medium-sized but sparsely populated island located in Yucatan, Mexico. It’s far less touristy than the nearby islands of Isla Mujeres or Cozumel. It’s known as a sort of badly kept secret for travelers who enjoy a quiet holiday and don’t want to spend too much money.
Going to Holbox should be at the top of your list for things to do in Mexico and the Caribbean. There are almost no cars on the island and everyone gets around by golf cart. This is the perfect spot the relax by the beach or admire the incredible nature. You can spot flamingos and many other species of birds here.
A great budget activity is to go to the beach at night and admire the incredible magic of bioluminescent plankton. You’ll love how laidback life in Holbox is and the many little street food stalls that sell some of the best and most affordable tacos.
It’s highly recommended to go snorkeling during your time in Holbox. You don’t have to book an expensive tour to do this. Simply snorkel at the beach or walk out to the beautiful sandbanks during low tide.
Where to stay in Holbox: Stay right on the beach at La Diosa Kali Beach Front Hotel (from $41 a night), or Hotel Mittoz Holbox (from $73 a night), featuring a rooftop pool.
Tulum
Recommended by Shelley from Travel Mexico Solo
As a whole, Mexico is one of the most budget-friendly countries. The same holds true for the Mexican Caribbean destinations, like Tulum, located in the Yucatan Peninsula.Visiting Tulum on a budget is actually easier than many think. While it has plenty of high-end resorts and trendy, upscale restaurants, Tulum also has a much more budget-friendly side. The Yucatan Peninsula was one of the most important places for the Mayan Empire in Mexico. Located right on Tulum Beach, the beautiful Tulum Ruins are great for both exploring this fascinating history, and are totally kind to your budget!
Admission to the Tulum Ruins costs just $70 pesos ($4). After exploring the ruins, take the staircase down to the beautiful beach cove of Playita Tortugas (Turtle Beach), for an amazing, and nearly-free day in Tulum. Though there are amazing beach clubs in Tulum, they do come with high price tags of $500-$1,000 pesos (approx. $25-$50) for a day pass. Stick to the free areas of the beach, or skip the beach clubs entirely and head to see the cenotes instead.
These swimmable sinkholes are located throughout the Yucatan and provide an experience only available in this part of the world. Located just minutes from Downtown Tulum, head to Cenote Calavera, Gran Cenote, Cenote Tankah, Cenote Car Wash, and Cenote Zacil-Ha, which all cost just $50-$175 (approx. $3-$8) pesos to enter.
Speaking of Downtown Tulum, AKA Tulum Town, sticking to this area is a great way to visit the Caribbean town of Tulum on a budget. In general, downtown is much less expensive and much less touristy, than Tulum Beach.
There are many affordable hotel and hostel options in Tulum Town, as well as great street food. Head to Taqueria Honorio, Antojitos La Chiapaneca, and Burrito Amor for the best cheap eats in Tulum, and a way to eat some traditional Mexican street food.
Where to stay in Tulum: If you would prefer to stay in Tulum’s city center, check out Arcos Tulum Hotel (from $42 a night). Alternatively, book your stay on the beach at Diamente K (from $78 a night).
Valladolid
Recommended by Carolin from Happy When Abroad
Valladolid is a small Spanish colonial town also located on the Yucatan Peninsula in the southern area of Mexico found in the Caribbean. Even though the charming town has become more popular in recent years, Valladolid is still a budget-friendly and very authentic destination in the Caribbean.
In contrast to the tourist hotspots Cancún and Playa del Carmen, you can still feel the Mexican charm and culture in this town. Besides walking around the old streets and soaking in all the Mexican vibes, there are numerous other things to do in Valladolid.
Completely free activities include taking photos of the colorful colonial facades in the street Calzada de los Frailes or strolling around the main square, where you can also find the church Iglesia de San Servacio. If you want to escape the Mexican heat for a while, swimming in Cenote Zaci, a beautiful open-air cenote, or visiting the air-conditioned chocolate museum “Choco Story” will be a refreshing alternative.
Other must-see activities in Valladolid are the cenotes Suytun and Xkeken as well as a trip to Chichén Itzá (30-40 minutes from Valladolid) – one of the new 7 wonders of the world.
Regarding cheap places to eat, the restaurants La Selva, Loncheria El Amigo Casiano, and El Sazon de Valladolid will offer you a delicious Mexican dish. If you prefer cooking by yourself, you can buy fresh fruits and vegetables at the Mercado Municipal, close to the town center.
Where to stay in Valladolid: An excellent accommodation is located right in the Valladolid city center at Hotel Colonial Zaci (from $39 a night). Another great option with historic charm is Hotel Palacio Canton (from $30 a night).
Puerto Rico
San Juan
Recommended by Julia from The Cure For Curiosity
With many inexpensive direct flights from the US and no need for a passport, San Juan, Puerto Rico is an easy and affordable tropical getaway. As soon as you land on the island you’ll be greeted by the strong sun, reggaeton music, and of course delicious food and drinks!
No matter what your interests, there are plenty of activities in San Juan to keep you busy – and on budget! Fill your days with the many free activities around the city, like soaking up the sun on the beautiful beaches, wandering the colorful streets of Old San Juan, practicing your Spanish as you explore the eclectic shops, or hiking through El Yunque National Forest in search of waterfalls. Or, spend a little more for activities like touring the Bacardi Rum Factory and snorkeling the clearest waters in the Caribbean.
Once the sun sets, it’s time to find dinner – don’t miss the opportunity to try mofongo and empanadillas – and head to Plaza del Mercado de Santurce, better known as La Placita. This area comes alive at night with locals and tourists alike looking to dance the night away to the infectious beats of salsa and reggaeton music. Drinks tend to be inexpensive and most clubs and bars have no cover charge, making a night out a fun and affordable affair.
A cheap Caribbean vacation to San Juan is sure to keep a smile on your face from beginning to end, no matter what your budget!
Where to stay in San Juan: If you are comfortable staying in a hostel, Nomada Urban Beach Hostel (from $55 a night) offers safe accommodation at a cheap price. Another option is a beachfront apartment Isla Verde (from $71 a night).
Turks & Caicos
Providencales
Recommended by Nikki from She Saves She Travels
If you’re looking for one of the cheapest destinations in the Caribbean, then Providenciales in Turks and Caicos needs to be on your list! This Caribbean island chain is spectacularly beautiful, with pristine white sand beaches and turquoise water that is worthy of creating envy in all your family and friends.
But perhaps the best thing about Providenciales is that it’s an affordable destination if you plan the right kind of trip. It’s completely possible to travel to Turks and Caicos on a budget.
A budget-friendly trip to Providenciales will likely mean you will stay at a vacation rental property instead of a pricey hotel right on the beach. Rent a car and the island is yours to explore! Stick to beach-hopping for free things to do.
In the heart of Providenciales is Grace Bay Beach. It’s been rated as one of the top beaches in the world several times, so that’s worth a visit! If you’re looking for snorkeling right off the beach, head down to Bight Beach or the Beach at Smith’s Reef.
Another way to make your trip to Providenciales affordable is to skip the restaurants right on the ocean. Look inland for affordable options. And better yet, if you have a kitchen in your condo, pick up a few meals at the local grocery store and eat at your vacation rental.
Providenciales is a prime example of how you can travel to a luxurious vacation destination for way less in the Caribbean!
Where to stay in Providenciales: The most affordable luxurious stay in Providenciales is The New Grace Bay Suites (from $152 a night) located in Grace Bay. Another spot found in Turtle Cove is Hotel La Vista Azul (from $175 a night).
US Virgin Islands
Charlotte Amalie
Recommended by Anna from Stuck on the Go
Charlotte Amalie is the capital of the US Virgin Islands and is located on the largest island of St. Thomas. If you live on the east coast or in a state lining the gulf, then St. Thomas is one of the easiest and cheapest Caribbean destinations to get to.
There are flights from these locations for as low as $150 but you can easily find flights from $200 – $300 depending on your departure airport. Accommodation will be the largest part of your budget, but if you book far enough in advance you can find many affordable options on Airbnb.
In the town of Charlotte Amalie, you can climb the 99 Steps to Blackbeard’s Castle where you’ll find a lookout tower and historic homes plus gorgeous views of the bay and city below. Down near the ocean take a walk along Long Bay Waterfront and through the open-air market next to Fort Christian.
If you’re looking for the best beaches on the island then head over to Coki Beach where they have chairs and snorkel gear to rent. There is some of the best snorkeling on the island to the right side of the beach near all the rocks. You’ll also find little food and drink stalls that serve cheap but delicious fish and cocktails.
For affordable food options make your way out to Red Hook and try Tap & Still, Island Time Pub for dinner, and Lattes in Paradise for breakfast. Iggie’s Beach Bar is also a popular spot with an affordable lunch menu!
Where to stay in Charlotte Amalie: The Galleon House Hotel (from $72 a night) offers panoramic views of Charlotte Amalie at an affordable cost. Another option that offers spectacular views is Olga’s Fancy (from $99 a night).
Frederiksted
Recommended by Rachel from Means to Explore
Enjoy a relaxing beach getaway with amazing sunsets in Frederiksted, St Croix, USVI. No expensive high-rise resorts here! Frederiksted is low key and relaxing but also bursts into life when cruise ships dock at the Frederiksted pier.
Only 15 minutes from the airport, Frederiksted is on the western edge of St Croix and has THE BEST sunsets! Rent a house on the beach with some friends, and enjoy a drink on your deck for every sunset.
St Croix has plenty of unforgettable experiences, and Frederiksted is the perfect home base for many of them. The beaches are all public and free; the historical sites charge small entry fees; even the rum distillery tours aren’t outrageously priced.
Swimming, paddling, kayaking, and snorkeling are all available at beaches in and within 10 minutes of Frederiksted. The calm west coast waters are ideal for families with little ones.
Hike up to Hams Bluff Lighthouse and see stunning views of the north shore. Don’t mind the rustling in the leaves. Goats wander these hills! If you’re looking for some history, Fort Frederiksted still protects the pier with its cannons! Or visit the Whim Estate Sugar Cane Plantation Museum to learn more about St Croix’s colonial past.
Spend evenings eating, drinking, & partying with the locals at Rhythms at Rainbow Beach, an energetic bar on the beach. Locals love this spot; it gets crowded on Friday and Saturday nights and you’ll hear the music for miles!
St John
Recommended by Elle from 5 Suitcases
Did you know that Americans can experience the Caribbean without a passport? One of the most remarkable islands in the Caribbean is the island of St. John. More than 60% of the island is protected by the United States National Park Service meaning that a vast majority of the island has been left in pristine condition.
The island is home to one of the Top 10 Most Beautiful Beaches in the World, Trunk Bay. The picture-perfect white sand beach features an underwater snorkeling trail that gives visitors a glimpse of the reef the tropical fish that inhabit it.
Another highlight on the island is the Annaberg Sugar Plantation Ruins. A windmill, slave cabins, and a handful of buildings are all that remains of what was once one of the most successful sugar plantations in the Caribbean.
St. John is the perfect destination for those who enjoy the outdoors. The Ram Head Trail offers stunning vistas of the island. The island is also ideal for kayaking, stand up paddle boarding, and boating. Of course, you can never go wrong with a good old fashioned day at the beach, either. The best beaches on the island include Coral Bay, Maho Bay Beach, and Francis Bay.
The island is full of affordable places to stay ranging from vacation homes to resorts and villas. While you’re there, be sure to check out The Long Board Restaurant and Extra Virgin Bistro.
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