The Caribbean conjures up postcard-perfect images of white sand beaches, emerald waters and palm-studded islands. However, many of the top destinations also include a hoard of tourists. Craving some peace and quiet? For a perfect crowd-free vacation, choose off-the-beaten-path destinations that are unspoilt by mass tourism, offering easy-going vibes, empty beaches and culture aplenty.
With over 400 million annual visitors to HotelsCombined, we’ve found the best Caribbean islands for a crowd-free vacation away from the honeymooners and spring breakers. Along with highlighting the top experiences on each island, we’ve included the top hotels, from romantic beachside villas to all-inclusive gems.
St Vincent & the Grenadines
Laid-back and low-key, St Vincent & the Grenadines is the perfect spot for a crowd-free vacation. This unspoilt island escape offers a mix of luxury and natural beauty, showcasing what the Caribbean looked like before cruise ships and all-inclusive resorts arrived. Comprising picture-perfect islands and cays, this tranquil destination suits honeymooners and couples alike looking to kick back and enjoy gorgeous island scenery with a tropical cocktail in hand.
What to See & Do in St Vincent & the Grenadines
- Explore the bright coral reefs and exotic marine life in the clear, calm waters of the Tobago Cays.
- Day trip to the island of Canouan, which boasts white sandy beaches, championship golf courses and diving centres.
- Visit the eight-hectare Botanical Gardens to see vibrant displays of tropical flora and fauna and centuries-old trees.
Where to Stay in St Vincent & the Grenadines
Bequia Beach Hotel Luxury Resort & Spa
Bequia Beach Hotel Luxury Resort & Spa is a family owned-and-run, 5-star boutique resort. Set amidst four hectares of beautifully landscaped gardens, it sits on the pristine crescent-shaped Friendship Bay Beach. At night, browse the classic Italian menu at Blue Tropic or sip cocktails at Jack’s Beach Bar.
Luxe accommodation comes in the form of Suites, Cottages and Villas with upgraded units offering private pools, terraces, kitchens and living rooms. The Estate Villa is the most luxe, featuring a private pool, sun deck and wrap-around terrace.
Star Rating: 5*
Price: USD 182 – USD 1,268
Guest Rating: 9.1
Address: Friendship Bay, Friendship Bay, Saint Vincent and the Grenadines
Hotel Location
Aruba
Aruba is the A in the ABC islands, a tiny Dutch-owned Caribbean gem beloved for its white-sand beaches, crystal-clear waters and beachfront hotels. Away from the shore, there is a long list of outdoor attractions to enjoy for your crowd-free vacation, including scuba diving sites, a national park and ancient caves. Alternatively, the glitzy casinos and sailing tours will keep your itinerary packed full of adventure.
What to See & Do in Aruba
- Bask in the sunshine at one of Aruba’s best beaches, including Eagle Beach and Palm Beach.
- Enjoy scenic hikes and wildlife watching at Arikok National Park and explore the nearby Guadirikiri Cave filled with ancient paintings.
- Learn about this tiny island’s history and see 4,000-year-old artefacts at the National Archaeological Museum Aruba.
Where to Stay in Aruba
Aruba Marriott Resort & Stellaris Casino
A top luxury resort in Aruba, Aruba Marriott Resort & Stellaris Casino offers exceptional resort amenities within its tropical paradise. Not only does it have a 24-hour casino, but it also boasts a full-service spa with a sauna and whirlpool. Kids can make a splash in the outdoor pool while the adults-only pool serves specialty cocktails in private cabanas.
Dine at one of the multiple on-site eateries, then relax in one of the chic rooms with private balconies and ocean views. The Governor’s Suite is the epitome of luxury with a separate living room, offering Tradewinds Club access to luxe services and complimentary meals.
Star Rating: 4*
Price: USD 294 – USD 1,219
Guest Rating: 9
Address: LG Smith Boulevard 101, Palm Beach, Aruba
Hotel Location
St Kitts & Nevis
Neighbouring St Kitts & Nevis are two of the most off-the-radar islands in the Caribbean, which is ideal for a quiet, crowd-free vacation. You’ll have a range of exciting island activities at your fingertips, from rainforest trekking and scenic railway tours to a UNESCO-listed national park with an imposing military fortress. There’s plenty of sun and sand too, as well as clear turquoise waters teeming with marine life.
What to See & Do in St Kitts & Nevis
- Hop aboard the Kitts Scenic Railway and enjoy gorgeous views of the coast or explore history at Brimstone Hill Fortress National Park.
- Catch rays on the pristine shoreline of Oualie Beach and Pinney’s Beach in Nevis or Cockleshell Bay and Frigate Bay in St. Kitts.
- Zipline the lush rainforests or hike up Mt. Liamuiga, a dormant volcano with waterfalls and rainforest.
Where to Stay in St Kitts & Nevis
Park Hyatt St. Kitts
Park Hyatt St. Kitts offers the highest level of luxury in its beachfront accommodation. Many of its suites offer private pools, sundecks and stunning Caribbean Sea and Nevis island views. Also, a lavish Three Bedroom Villa has a game room and wellness area.
In addition to inviting outdoor pools, the hotel boasts three signature restaurants. The Great House restaurant has a Rum Bar while The Fisherman’s Village boasts ocean views and ocean-to-table dining. Golfers can practice their swing at nearby Royal St. Kitts Golf Club.
Star Rating: 5*
Price: USD 232 – USD 850
Guest Rating: 9
Address: Banana Bay Complex, Basseterre, Saint Kitts and Nevis
Hotel Location
Grenada
Grenada ticks all the boxes for a perfect island escape, offering an authentic Caribbean experience with an appealing mix of local culture and natural beauty. It’s easy to plan a crowd-free vacation in this atmospheric paradise, where island hopping, exploring rainforest landscapes and chasing waterfalls are popular activities. Taking a spice plantation tour, visiting a rum distillery and getting lost in the charming capital are also fun adventures.
What to See & Do in Grenada
- Relax on the shores of Grand Anse Beach, a three-kilometre stretch of sand framed by sea grapes, almond trees and coconut palms.
- Wander the narrow streets of St. George’s, one of the prettiest port towns in the Caribbean and pick up souvenirs at Market Square.
- Take a tour of the Belmont Estate & The Grenada Chocolate Company and nearby Carriacou and Petite Martinique islands.
Where to Stay in Grenada
Coyaba Beach Resort
Nestled on the picturesque Grand Anse Beach, Coyaba Beach Resort is on the best white-sand beach in Grenada. Stylish rooms boast either garden, pool or ocean views and include cable TV, mini-fridges, air conditioning and private balconies or patios.
In addition to mesmerizing ocean views, on-site amenities include an oceanfront restaurant serving local specialties, an on-site scuba diving and water sports centre and a luxe spa. Also, there’s a tennis court and fitness centre. When you’re ready to explore, climb to the summit of nearby Fort George for dazzling harbour and city views.
Star Rating: 4*
Price: USD 199 – USD 520
Guest Rating: 9.3
Address: P.O. Box 336, Grand Anse Beach, Grenada
Hotel Location
Dominica
Dominica is an eco-friendly paradise, home to secluded beaches, kilometres of hiking trails and tropical rainforests. Nicknamed the Caribbean’s “Nature Isle”, it’s dotted with hidden waterfalls, freshwater lakes, black-sand beaches and steamy hot springs. Its unspoilt landscapes are perfect for adventure-seekers. You can explore the rugged coastline via scuba diving, canoeing and kayaking, while a national park offers a range of scenic hiking trails.
What to See & Do in Dominica
- Trek the UNESCO-listed Morne Trois Pitons National Park to see Trafalgar Falls, Victoria Waterfall and The Boiling Lake.
- Explore the seaside promenade of Roseau, which boasts a colourful landscape of West Indian cottages and the Old Market.
- Visit the Carib Territory to see traditional basket weaving and learn about the largest remaining tribe of Carib Indians.
Where to Stay in Dominica
Cabrits Resort & Spa Kempinski
Surrounded by Cabrits National Park, Cabrits Resort & Spa Kempinski is a secluded five-star luxury resort. Offering panoramic Caribbean Sea views, it boasts a full-service spa, multiple restaurants and bars and a modern fitness facility. In addition, there’s two tennis courts and four sparkling swimming pools, while kids will love the entertaining activities in the Kids Club.
Lights and airy rooms feature flat-screen TVs, Nespresso machines and complimentary Wi-Fi, as well as private terraces with mountain views. For stunning views of Douglas Bay, upgrade to an Ocean View Suite. Further, upgraded suites add living rooms with sofas and extra bedrooms.
Star Rating: 4*
Price: USD 215 – USD 846
Guest Rating: 9.1
Address: Bell Hall Road, Douglas Bay, Portsmouth, Dominica
Hotel Location
Guadeloupe
Guadeloupe is an enticing mix of stunning natural beauty and rich Creole and French culture, offering white sandy beaches, colourful local markets and a diverse food scene. Along with its palm-fringed coastline, active travellers will want to explore its tropical, lush landscapes, cascading waterfalls, hot springs and mountain scenery. Alternatively, brave hikers can climb to the summit of an active volcano.
What to See & Do in Guadeloupe
- Enjoy sunny beaches on the islands of Les Saintes, La Desirade and Marie-Galante.
- Follow the rainforest-laden trails in Guadalupe National Park, a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve home to the La Soufriere volcano.
- Visit Fort Napoleon on Terre-de-Haut to explore its cultural museum and historical site and enjoy gorgeous views overlooking Les Saintes Bay.
Where to Stay in Guadeloupe
La Toubana Hôtel et Spa
Conveniently located at the entrance of the colourful fishing village of Sainte-Anne, La Toubana Hôtel et Spa is a charming boutique hotel. Overlooking the ocean, the hotel offers beautiful beachfront landscapes as well as multiple eateries, a luxury spa and infinity pool with mesmerizing sea views.
Luxe bungalows feature king-size beds, flat-screen TVs and large terraces furnished with chairs and tables, while spacious Master Suites add private pools. However, if you’re with a group, the hotel’s lavish four-bedroom Villas add fully-equipped kitchens and ocean-facing pools.
Star Rating: 5*
Price: USD 261 – USD 834
Guest Rating: 8.8
Address: Bp 63, Le Gosier 97180, Guadeloupe
Hotel Location
Anguilla
Home to white-sand beaches and clear blue waters, Anguilla is considered one of the Caribbean’s most treasured gems. It’s both alluring and unassuming, offering a dazzling collection of postcard-worthy beaches, friendly locals and an authentic island vibe. Travellers looking for peace and serenity will find this island an oasis, as it offers tranquil snorkeling spots, fish-filled reefs and quaint cultural attractions such as art galleries and museums. You can even take a ferry to nearby St. Barts.
What to See & Do in Anguilla
- Work on your tan at Shoal Bay East, swim in the calm waters at Meads Bay Beach or collect seashells at Rendezvous Bay.
- Visit Anguillita, Sandy, and Prickly Pear for snorkeling and scuba diving.
- Day trip to Sandy Island, a small islet with snorkeling, sunbathing and fresh seafood such as Caribbean grilled lobster.
Where to Stay in Anguilla
Belmond Cap Juluca
While Anguilla is home to numerous beachfront resorts, Belmond Cap Juluca is considered the island’s ultimate luxury escape. Nestled between Maundays Bay and Cove Bay, you’ll have access to some of the island’s most beautiful beaches. On site, there’s a luxe spa and an ocean-facing infinity pool.
Sign up for snorkelling, kayaking and scuba diving excursions, then enjoy gourmet dining at the Caribbean-focused Pimms and Venetian-inspired Cip’s by Cipriani. Accommodation ranges from modern rooms with ocean-view terraces and king-size beds to private pool suites and oceanfront private pool villas.
Star Rating: 5*
Price: USD 878 – USD 3,659
Guest Rating: 9.3
Address: P.o. Box 240- – Anguilla, West End Village, Anguilla
Hotel Location
Antigua & Barbuda
Antigua & Barbuda are former British colonies in the eastern Caribbean, known for having some of the best beaches in the region. Antigua boasts 365 beaches, one for every day of the year, while Barbuda is a sleepy sister island with pink-hued sands and stylish resorts. A hotspot for celebrities, these islands are suited for a crowd-free vacation filled with swimming, surfing and sunbathing. If you’re up for shopping and museum hopping, you can explore St. John, Antigua’s colourful capital.
What to See & Do in Antigua & Barbuda
- Visit Antigua’s popular beaches, including Galley Bay Beach for surfing, Half Moon Bay for tranquillity and Dickenson Bay, considered the island’s best.
- Trek up to Shirley Heights for incredible panoramic views of the island, Montserrate volcano and nearby Guadeloupe.
- Learn about the island’s past at Nelson’s Dockyard, a cultural heritage site and beautifully restored English Harbour.
Where to Stay in Antigua & Barbuda
Hermitage Bay
Nestled on the hillside of a sandy bay, Hermitage Bay is a luxury, all-inclusive resort with 5-star facilities. The posh spa offers bespoke healing rituals, meditation and Yoga, while freshly caught seafood is on the menu at the poolside lounge and restaurant. At night, enjoy live music with steel drum, calypso and jazz bands.
The secluded, honeymoon-worthy suites offer unbeatable ocean views. Some offer direct access to the beach, while others offer hillside views, private plunge pools and wrap-around decks. Authentic experiences include cooking classes, farm tours and catamaran cruises.
Star Rating: 5*
Price: USD 1,020 – USD 1,786
Guest Rating: 8.8
Address: Jennings New Extension, Jennings, Jennings, Antigua And Barbuda
Hotel Location
Martinique
Often flying under the radar, beautiful and distinctly French Martinique is a crowd-pleaser for beach lovers looking for a crowd-free vacation. Its combination of quiet beaches, tropical gardens and dramatic mountain scenery will lure you in, offering a chance to enjoy diving, snorkeling, hiking and feasting on fine French and Creole cuisine on your island escape. However, many come to this picture-perfect paradise to simply bask in the sunshine.
What to See & Do in Martinique
- Dig your toes in the sand at Les Salines, which offers a glimpse of classic Caribbean scenery with soft, white sand.
- Admire tropical plants at Balata Botanical Garden or bring the kids to the family-friendly Zoo Martinique – Habitation Latouche.
- Visit Saint-Pierre to see dramatic views of volcanic Mount Pelee and ancient stone ruins from the eruption in 1902.
Where to Stay in Martinique
Hotel La Pagerie
Save money by staying at Hotel La Pagerie, an affordable beachfront property less than a five-minute walk from the shores of Baie de Fort de France. Spacious rooms offer garden or pool views, as well as free Wi-Fi and flat-screen TVs. For a few added perks, upgrade to rooms with kitchenettes and furnished balconies.
Guests will love the outdoor pool with a swim-up bar and wellness area with poolside massages, while Le Tropical Cafe offers respite from the sun with exceptional cocktails and rums. Le Pitaya restaurant serves dishes bursting with Creole flavours, and there’s a weekly Lobster Night.
Star Rating: 4*
Price: USD 118 – USD 220
Guest Rating: 8.5
Address: Rue Chacha Point Du Bout, Les Trois-Îlets 97229, Martinique
Hotel Location
Enjoy a Crowd-Free Vacation at These Low-Key Caribbean Islands
Escaping to the Caribbean’s quieter beach getaways may take a little bit more planning, but the reward is worth it. Venture off-the-beaten-path for a slice of paradise at your own secluded stretch of beach. Not only can you enjoy a crowd-free vacation, but you’ll have access to charming coastal cities and luxury island hotels all to yourself.
What is your favourite crowd-free vacation destination? Let us know in the comments below.
