The Caribbean is a perfect destination for beach and summer lovers, but what are the best Caribbean islands for solo travel?
I have traveled the Caribbean region as a solo female traveler for five years, and I am becoming quite the expert on Caribbean travel if I may say so myself.
The Caribbean region is an incredible tropical paradise that spans more than 700 islands. It consists of 28 island nations and approximately 100 inhabited islands.
Beaches aside, the Caribbean also has an incredibly rich history, a delightful mix of English, Spanish, French, Dutch, African, and indigenous peoples heritages, creating a unique and vibrant atmosphere on each island that entices travelers worldwide!
14 Best Caribbean Islands For Solo Travel
After island-jumping solo in the Caribbean for years, I have identified a range of factors that are important for solo travelers to have fun, to feel safe, and to have the options to choose between social or solitary traveling.
These include:
- Safety
- Available group activities and tours
- Nightlife
- Transportation
- Affordability for single travelers
- The overall friendliness of the local communities
This list features 14 unique Caribbean islands, and every one of them has a distinct appeal and uniqueness for solo adventurers seeking a memorable and safe tropical experience.
PS: If you want to keep an eye on the adventure budget for your Caribbean getaway, you might also want to check out the cheapest time to visit the Caribbean region.
1. Aruba
Let’s start with Aruba! With its pristine white sand beaches and crystal-clear turquoise waters, it is a dream destination for any traveler and also one of the best Caribbean islands for solo travel.
The island boasts a low crime rate, making it one of the safest Caribbean islands to explore, which is important for feeling good for those of us who love to head out on our own.
Also, Aruba offers tons of fun group activities, from water sports like snorkeling and scuba diving to exploring unique national treasures like the Arikok National Park.
The diverse culinary scene and friendly and helpful locals are always up for a chat, which makes your solo travel experience on this beautiful small island a memorable one.
Aruba’s unique landscape is influenced by its desert-like climate, which makes it quite different from other Caribbean destinations that tend to have a lush green tropical climate.
If you travel to Aruba solo, you can venture off the beaten path and explore the island’s rugged terrain, including the striking rock formations at Ayo and Casibari.
Besides “mandatory” Caribbean beach activities, Aruba’s cultural events, such as the weekly Bon Bini Festival, allow you to connect with the local culture and make new friends if you want to.
Traveling solo does not mean traveling lonely!
Tours & Accommodation
Top-rated places to stay in Aruba:
Top-rated tours in Aruba:
- Island Ultimate Jeep Safari In Aruba
- Aruba Catamaran Sailing With Snorkeling
- Aruba Champagne Breakfast and Lunch Cruise
2. British Virgin Islands
The British Virgin Islands (BVI) is an idyllic destination for solo travelers seeking adventure, relaxation, or both!
This Caribbean island group consists of four main islands and many smaller islets, so it is technically an archipelago.
Known for its beautiful beaches, the BVI offers a wide range of water sports on any of the islands, including sailing, snorkeling, and scuba diving.
You will find a laid-back vibe across the British Virgin Islands, and combined with the low crime rate, it is definitely one of the best islands for safe solo travel, including solo female travel.
Tortola, the largest island in the BVI, is home to the capital, Road Town, and the rainforest-filled Sage Mountain National Park that you definitely want to explore.
In Road Town, you can find several charming small neighborhoods, and there are excellent opportunities for day trips to other nearby islands. If you like island-hopping, check out this top-rated all-day tour of Tortola.
Each of the British Virgin Islands has its charm, with the smaller islands like Virgin Gorda and Jost Van Dyke having the most laid-back atmosphere.
Virgin Gorda is particularly famous for the island baths, a beautiful rocky labyrinth of huge boulders with seawater sifting in, creating crystal-clear pools and grottoes where you can immerse yourself.
The BVI also has a strong sailing community that adds a social element to your solo journey, and it is often referred to as the “sailing capital of the world.
You can join a one-day 5-star sailing trip here to visit multiple islands and enjoy the stunning scenery and meditative turquoise waters on your way!
Tours & Accommodation
Top-Rated Places to Stay:
- Luxury: Long Bay Beach Resort Tortola Island
- Budget: Sebastian on the Beach Hotel
Top-Rated Tours in the British Virgin Islands:
3. Grand Cayman, Cayman Islands
Grand Cayman is the largest of the three Cayman Islands and offers a variety of activities for solo travelers on their own or those who want to join a group!
I traveled around Grand Cayman solo and stayed for over a month. The island is small, safe, gorgeous, and has lots to do, and I loved it.
The island is home to the world-famous Seven Mile Beach, a spectacular stretch of soft white sand and crystal-clear water surrounded by hotels, restaurants, and beach bars.
Grand Cayman is also a scuba diving haven, with numerous dive sites teeming with vibrant marine life.
The low crime rate in Grand Cayman makes it a safe and comfortable choice for you to explore the island on your own with little to worry about.
In addition to the Caribbean climate that you find all over the region, Grand Cayman offers unique attractions for solo travelers.
Among the most spectacular ones, in my opinion, are the bioluminescent bay at Rum Point and the chance to interact with friendly stingrays at Stingray City, which I loved!
I also rented an electric bike for a day, which is an amazing way to explore without needing taxis or joining group activities.
Grand Cayman has an incredibly diverse culinary scene, influenced by various cultures, ensuring a delicious dining experience.
Make sure you go to Camana Bay and eat like a local, trying dishes like coconut shrimp, fish fritters, spicy beef, or chicken!
You will hardly break a sweat flying along the shoreline for miles, and you can stop wherever you want!
After dinner, the vibrant nightlife in George Town is a great place to make new friends and have ample opportunities to socialize and meet fellow travelers.
EpicNomadLife Tip: Try out the Office Lounge or the Vine and Tap.
Tours & Accommodation
Top-rated places to stay on Grand Cayman Island:
- Luxury Grand Cayman: The Ritz Carlton Grand Cayman 9.8/10
- Budget Grand Cayman: Ocean Feel @ Fruitfulville
Top-Rated Tours in Grand Cayman:
- Stingray City Experience Swim With Stingrays
- Night Bioluminescence Snorkeling Tour
- Cayman Crystal Caves Tour
📍 Check out other Caribbean & The Americas destination hubs:
4. Puerto Rico
Puerto Rico, a vibrant Caribbean island with a rich cultural history and stunning scenery, is a fantastic destination for solo travelers. As it is also a US overseas territory, it is super easy for Americans to travel here.
The island has an exciting mix of lively cities like San Juan and breathtaking natural landscapes like El Yunque National Forest.
Puerto Rico’s well-developed public transportation system makes it easy for you to explore the island’s many attractions at your own pace.
Additionally, the island’s lively nightlife and relatively low prices make it an excellent choice for solo travelers on a budget.
Puerto Rico’s history and diverse cultural heritage are evident in its historical sites, such as the impressive fortresses of San Felipe del Morro and San Cristobal.
Traveling solo, you can explore the island’s beautiful coastal towns, like Rincón, famous for its surfing, or Ponce, known for its colonial architecture.
End your day with a small group sunset catamaran cruise from San Juan, where you can contemplate your adventures and find inner peace!
Also, local festivals, like the San Sebastian Street Festival that takes place every January, offer unique opportunities to experience Puerto Rican culture and get to know the locals.
Tours & Accommodation
Top-Rated Places to Stay Puerto Rico:
- Luxury: Copamarina Beach Resort and Spa
- Budget: Remodeled Beach House With Pool
Top-Rated Tours in Puerto Rico:
- San Juan Guided Snorkel Tour
- Flavors of San Juan Food Tour
- En Yunque Natural Waterslide and Rainforest Hike
5. Dominican Republic
The Dominican Republic, on the island of Hispaniola (that it shares with Haiti), is a diverse Caribbean destination that offers solo travelers a wide range of experiences.
I visited the DR solo for two months in 2023 and discovered firsthand all the island’s fun group activities, tours, and excursions you can also take advantage of.
Take a guided tour to learn about your destination, snorkel from a catamaran, or explore unique cultural experiences in the historic surroundings.
From the colonial capital city of Santo Domingo with the charming Zona Colonial to the fun activities and tranquil beaches of Punta Cana and the ravishing northern shores, this island nation has something for everyone.
The Dominican Republic also has very reasonable prices for accommodation and activities and easy transportation options.
Cheap long-haul bus services make it an attractive destination for solo adventurers on a budget!
Don’t miss out on the Dominican Republic’s beautiful natural sites, such as the 27 Waterfalls of Damajagua, with thrilling experiences like waterfall jumping and swimming in natural pools.
You definitely should explore the country’s fascinating history by visiting sites like the Alcázar de Colón and Los Tres Ojos cave system in Santo Domingo or the Amber Museum in Puerto Plata.
You might want to do an organized tour of Los Tres Ojos as a solo traveler, as you will miss out on the fascinating history without a guide.
You can book a historic trip from Punta Cana, too, if that is where you are staying.
You will find friendly locals throughout the island eager to talk, share their culture, and make your solo trip memorable.
Tours & Accommodation
Here is my best advice for top-rated places to stay in three different destinations in the Dominican Republic.
Santo Domingo:
- Luxury Santo Domingo: VIP Exclusive Apartement 9.7/10
- Budget Santo Domingo: Cozy Suite 8 Zona Colonial 10/10
Punta Cana:
- Luxury Punta Cana: Caribbean Galaxy Hotel 9.8/10
- Budget Punta Cana: Hermosa Suites centro Punta Cana 9.7/10
Puerto Plata on the northern shores:
Top-Rated Tours Dominican Republic:
- Adventure Bundle Monkeyland, Zipline, and Buggies Punta Cana
- Full Day Santo Domingo City Tour from Punta Cana
- Small Group Cruising and Snorkeling Catamaran Tour
6. Cuba
Cuba is a fascinating destination for solo travelers, and the reason I know this is because I have traveled solo to and in Cuba for five years, staying for long periods of time.
This unique and incredibly weird island offers a remarkable blend of history, culture, and politics that has shaped it for over 500 years. It is also one of the safest islands in the region for solo travelers.
The island’s vibrant cities, like Havana, Trinidad, and Santiago de Cuba, are filled with colorful architecture and live music scenes among colonial architecture in various states.
Cuba’s world-class white-sand beaches, such as Playa Ancon in Trinidad and Playa Varadero, offer tons of opportunities for relaxation under the palm trees and water sports like snorkeling and scuba diving.
Overall, the island is considered very safe, and its friendly locals are more than willing to help you!
Cuba is not just a hidden, until recently very closed, beach paradise. Do you know that Cuba is home to 9 UNESCO World Heritage sites on the island?
Lush landscapes like the mogotes in Viñales Valley, the Sierra Maestra close to Santiago, and Sierra del Rosario offer hiking, biking, and even horseback riding opportunities.
For a pure pampering Caribbean holiday, you should go to Varadero, Cayo Coco, or Cayo Santa Maria, where you will find a tropical dream holiday.
The island’s strong artistic traditions provide an interesting cultural experience, with plenty of art galleries, historic sites, and museums to explore.
Take a dance lesson, an Old City walk in Havana, a classic car tour, or a cooking class in Varadero.
Tours & Accommodation
Here is my best advice for top-rated places to stay in two different destinations in Cuba.
Havana:
Varadero:
Top-rated Tours in Cuba:
- The Iconic Havana Private Classic Car Tour
- Ciénaga de Zapata National Park Day Trip
- Matanzas and Bellamar Cave Tour
7. Barbados
Barbados is an enchanting island in the Caribbean known for its friendly people, stunning beaches, and vibrant nightlife. It is a perfect destination for solo travel.
The island also has a very low crime rate and a great transport system, making it an easy destination for solo travelers.
From exploring the historic capital city of Bridgetown to discovering the island’s natural beauty, such as Harrison’s Cave, there’s plenty to see and do in Barbados.
Generations ago, Barbados was even renowned for its sand’s mystical healing properties, and people from across the globe journeyed to get well.
At Cattlewash Beach (yes, cattle used to bathe here) in St. Andrew, the sick would come and bury themselves neck-deep in the sand as a form of treatment that supposedly would cure any illness, even the illness of the mind!
Barbados today is also a food lover’s paradise, offering a diverse culinary scene ranging from local Bajan cuisine to international dishes.
Oistins Fish Fry, a popular weekly event, is a must-visit for solo travelers looking to enjoy delicious seafood and immerse themselves in the local culture.
Discover the island’s rich history by visiting sites such as the George Washington House and the Barbados Museum & Historical Society.
Everyone speaks English here, so it is easy to strike up a conversation.
Tours & Accommodation
Top-rated places to stay in Barbados:
Top-Rated tours in Barbados:
- Barbados Catamaran Turtle and Shipwreck Snorkeling Cruise
- Original Bajan Walking Food Tour
- E-Bike Island Adventure Tracks and Trails
8. St. Lucia
Saint Lucia is a true paradise for solo travelers seeking both relaxation and lush green adventure.
The island has vibrant rainforests, picturesque beaches, and the iconic volcano Piton Mountains that provide a stunning backdrop for activities like hiking, zip-lining in the green, or snorkeling in the big blue.
Friendly locals and a welcoming atmosphere make St. Lucia a safe and enjoyable destination for solo explorers where you don’t need to worry about much else than your adventures.
You will find that St. Lucia has a unique blend of cultures influenced by African, French, and British traditions, which you can experience firsthand through cuisine, music, and various festivals.
Solo travelers can attend events like the St. Lucia Jazz & Arts Festival in May or the vibrant weekly street parties in Gros Islet. One thing you really should make time for is a visit to Sulphur Springs, the world’s only drive-in volcano.
Needless to say, this is a unique experience that you cannot get anywhere else!
The island is home to numerous smashing wellness retreats, from which you will leave completely relaxed, rejuvenated, and with peace of mind and heart.
St Lucia is also a great destination for non-solo travelers; if you are traveling with your family, there are top-rated resorts like Coconut Bay Beach Resort & Spa that will make everybody happy.
Tours & Accommodation
Top-Rated Places to Stay in St. Lucia:
Top-rated tours in St. Lucia:
9. Grenada
Grenada is known as the “Spice Isle” because of its fragrant spice plantations, which produce nutmeg, cinnamon, ginger, cocoa, and cloves.
The island is home to characteristic black sand beaches and lush rainforests and will offer solo travelers a unique blend of natural beauty, history, and culture.
Grenada’s history is visible in its well-preserved landmarks, such as Fort George and Fort Frederick, where you can learn about the island’s part in historical events.
Because of the mix of friendly locals, low crime rate, unique scenery, and variety of group activities available, it is a perfect destination for solo travelers loving to venture around on their own.
Don’t miss a visit to the Grenada Underwater Sculpture Park, a brilliant one-of-a-kind underwater art installation that promotes marine life conservation and the natural wonders of the world!
The island also has lively cultural events, like the annual delicious Grenada Chocolate Festival in May.
Also, the colorful Spicemas Carnival offers solo travelers great opportunities to engage with locals or connect with other travelers while exploring the Grenadian culture in full.
(And no, it is not in December, but in August! From August 1st through 15th, 2023, you can experience the Spicemas Carnival).
Tours & Accommodation
Top-rated places to stay in Grenada:
- Luxury Grenada: Citrine Condo Suite 10/10
- Budget Grenada: RNM The Clubhouse 9.3/10
Top-Rated Tours in Grenada:
- Full Day Concorde Waterfalls, Chocolate Factory, Rum Destillery and Grand Etang
- Sail and Snorkel Cruise Underwater Sculpture Park
- Grenada Sunshine Highlights Tour
10. Guadeloupe
Guadeloupe, a French Caribbean archipelago, is an enticing destination for solo travelers who appreciate natural beauty and a distinct cultural experience.
As part of the French West Indies, 99 percent of the population here speaks French, and a form of French Creole language is called Patois Creole, also known as Antillean Creole.
(So unless you speak either of those, charge up your best translation app before you go).
Primarily, Guadeloupe is renowned for its high-grade brown sugar and rum production; the importance of these products can be traced back several centuries.
The islands offer diverse landscapes, from famous volcanic peaks and rainforests to picturesque beaches.
Caribbean solo travelers can easily explore Guadeloupe’s many attractions on their own, thanks to the extensive public transportation system and affordable prices.
Guadeloupe’s unique culture is a centuries-long mix of French, African, and Indian influences, which is reflected in its music, dance, cuisine, and of course, history!
You definitely should visit sites like the Memorial ACTe Museum and Fort Delgrès.
Solo travelers can enjoy the lively Gwo-Ka music (a French Creole word for big drum) and dance performances or savor traditional Creole dishes.
Tours & Accommodation
Top-Rated Places to Stay Guadaloupe:
- Luxury: Le Ralais du Moulin
- Budget: L’Amirade chez Michelle
Top-rated tours in Guadaloupe:
11. Antigua and Barbuda
Antigua and Barbuda, primarily known for their 365 beaches, offer solo travelers a stunning setting for relaxation and adventure.
The islands are considered super safe and very welcoming, which will provide a comfortable atmosphere for exploring solo travelers.
Antigua is also famous for its UNESCO-protected 18th-century Nelson’s Dockyard and Shirley Heights, which offer solo travelers insight into the island’s colonial past.
Then you have Barbuda, the smaller and more secluded of the two islands, which boasts pristine beaches and a large frigate bird sanctuary.
The annual Antigua Sailing Week 29. April to 5. May (2023) and Carnival celebrations at the end of July and the start of August are perfect opportunities to find your inner Caribbean Spirit.
Antigua and Barbuda’s rich culture, history, and a wide variety of things to do make them one of the best islands for solo travel in the mesmerizing Caribbean region!
Tours & Accommodation
Top-rated places to stay in Antigua:
- Antigua luxury: Breeze By The Sea 10/10
- Antigua budget: Tropical Garden Studio 10/10
Top-rated tours Antigua and Barbuda:
- Adventure Antigua – The Xtreme Circumnavigation
- Turtle Beach Power Snorkeling Adventure
- Scenic Tour of Antigua
12. Martinique
Martinique, another French Caribbean island, is an ideal destination for solo travelers who appreciate a unique blend of European and Caribbean cultures.
The island’s diverse landscape, including lush rainforests, black sand beaches, and a towering volcano, provides plenty of opportunities for adventure.
The perks of traveling solo to Martinique are the island’s low crime rate and friendly (French-speaking) locals, making it a safe and delightful destination for solo travelers.
Martinique’s cultural richness can be experienced through its music, dance, and art, as well as its historic landmarks, such as the Saint-Louis Cathedral and La Savane Park.
Solo travelers can also explore a tranquil day of contemplation in the island’s beautiful botanical gardens, like the Balata Gardens or the Domaine d’Emeraude.
If you can travel in February, the annual Martinique Carnival is a colorful and lively event.
Tours & Accommodation
Top-Rated Places to Stay Martinique:
- Luxury: Le Panoramique Studios and Bungalows
- Budget: Paradise Turquoise Location
Top-rated tours in Martinique:
13. St. Kitts And Nevis
The twin-island nation of St. Kitts and Nevis is kind of a hidden gem in the Caribbean, offering solo travelers an authentic and laid-back experience.
The islands boast a rich history, stunning natural beauty, and friendly locals who welcome visitors with open arms.
St. Kitts and Nevis have a safe and very relaxed atmosphere for solo adventurers to explore the islands’ many attractions without worries.
It also offers solo travelers a wide range of outdoor activities, including hiking to the summit of Mount Liamuiga or exploring the fascinating Brimstone Hill Fortress National Park.
Explore the island’s sugar plantation history at the Fairview Great House or the St. Kitts historic Scenic Railway, which is considered one of the most beautiful train rides in the world.
Annual events like the St. Kitts Music Festival in June and the Nevis Culturama Festival in July/August will really show you the island’s rich cultural heritage.
Tours & Accommodation
Top-Rated Places to Stay St. Kitts and Nevis:
- Luxury: Marriott St. Kitts Beach Club
- Budget: Seaview Inn in Basseterre
Top-Rated tours St. Kitts and Nevis:
- St Kitts Deluxe Catamaran Snorkeling Tour
- Amazing St Kitts Flyboarding Experience
- Private Historical Walking Tour of Nevis
14. Anguilla
Anguilla is mostly a tranquil Caribbean paradise perfect for solo travelers seeking relaxation and rejuvenation.
A British overseas territory in the Eastern part of the Caribbean, Anguilla is famous for its incredible and ecologically important coral reefs.
The island is also known for its powdery white sand beaches, crystal clear waters, and low crime rate.
Anguilla’s upscale resorts, world-class dining, and welcoming locals make it a luxurious and safe destination for solo adventure.
The island’s art scene is thriving, and solo travelers can explore numerous art galleries showcasing the work of local artists.
You can learn about the island’s rich history through visits to sites like the Wallblake House and the Heritage Collection Museum.
Anguilla’s annual Summer Festival in August and the Moonsplash Music Festival both take place just before Easter.
Solo travelers have ample opportunity in Anguilla to connect with locals and experience the island’s vibrant culture if your journey happens to be around that time.
Tours & Accommodation
Top-Rated Places to Stay Anguilla:
- Luxury: Carimar Beach Club
- Budget: Little Lux Living
Top-rated tours in Anguilla:
- Sunset Sail and Cocktail Hour in Anguilla
- Best of St Maarten Private Nightlife Tour
- City Tour of St Maarten
- Morning Kayaking Tour to Little Bay
5 Best Caribbean Islands For Solo Female Travel
When picking the best Caribbean islands for solo female travelers, I have included a few key aspects that matter most to solo traveling women.
These include overall safety, how locals typically treat female travelers, the prevalence of issues like harassment or catcalling, and the general risks of theft and robberies.
This list of the top five Caribbean islands considers all these factors, helping to ensure that solo female travelers can have a fantastic and worry-free travel experience.
📍 Here is the top Caribbean Island list for solo traveling chicas:
- British Virgin Islands
- Grand Cayman
- Puerto Rico
- Aruba
- And last but not least: CUBA!
You can also check any destination in the solo female travel safety index for yourself!
About The Mesmerizing Caribbean Region
Nestled between North and South America, the Caribbean islands are renowned for their breathtaking natural beauty.
From pristine white sand beaches to lush rainforests and imposing volcanic landscapes, these islands offer a diverse array of picturesque settings for travelers to explore.
The Caribbean’s warm climate, combined with the prevailing trade winds, creates a perfect environment for outdoor activities such as sailing, snorkeling, scuba diving, and hiking.
Also, its diverse cultural influences are apparent in its many languages, which include English, Spanish, French, Dutch, and various Creole dialects.
This linguistic diversity contributes to the region’s rich tapestry of artistic and cultural expressions.
Music and dance play a significant role in the Caribbean’s cultural landscape, with styles such as reggae, calypso, soca, salsa, and zouk reflecting the region’s multifaceted heritage.
The Caribbean’s history is marked by centuries of European colonization, which has left a lasting legacy on the region’s architecture, language, and customs.
Historic forts, sugar plantations, and colonial-era towns can be found throughout the islands, offering fascinating insights into the Caribbean’s storied past.
UNESCO World Heritage Sites, such as the historic city of Bridgetown in Barbados, the colonial-era forts in St. Kitts, and the Pitons Management Area in St. Lucia, provide visitors with a window into the region’s rich history.
Caribbean Travel & Tourism
The Caribbean’s tourism industry is well-developed, catering to a wide range of travelers, from budget-conscious backpackers to luxury-seeking vacationers.
Accommodation options are plentiful, including all-inclusive resorts, boutique hotels, eco-lodges, and private villas.
The region’s extensive network of inter-island flights and ferries makes it easy for visitors to island-hop and experience the unique charm of each Caribbean destination.
From exploring the rich history of Cuba to basking in the sun on the pristine beaches of Anguilla, there’s a destination to suit every solo traveler’s preferences and desires in this lush paradise, the Caribbean.
Wrap-Up Best Caribbean Islands For Solo Travel
By now, I hope you feel that the Caribbean offers a plethora of exciting and beautiful destinations for solo travelers!
From the safety and tranquility of the British Virgin Islands and Grand Cayman to the vibrant culture of Puerto Rico, stunning national parks, and the best things to do in Cuba, there are endless opportunities for adventure and relaxation.
With so many amazing islands to choose from, it’s no wonder that the Caribbean is a top destination for solo travel.
Each island has its unique charm and personality, ensuring that every solo traveler will find their perfect Caribbean paradise.
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5 Best Caribbean Islands For Solo Female Travel By An Expert
