Do you want to visit the best Caribbean islands for winter vacation? Then don’t worry, we have got you covered. The Caribbean’s decorated palm trees, delightful temperatures, and crystal clear blue waters draw a large number of visitors each year.
The Caribbean island chain, discovered by Christopher Columbus in 1492, consists of over 700 islands and cays. Everyone has their special fusion of culture, cuisine, history, and scenic beauty. Anguilla and the Bahamas are popular winter vacation spots for the approximately 13 million tourists who visit the islands each year.
Travelers wishing to avoid the throng and exorbitant costs of popular places will find that certain Caribbean islands are great since they are less congested and more reasonably priced.
With so many options, it can be difficult to find the ideal location for your Caribbean winter getaway. To make things easier for you, we have compiled the ultimate list of the best Caribbean destinations to visit in winter.
12 Best Caribbean Islands For Winter Vacation
Aruba
In December, Aruba is one of the best Caribbean islands for winter vacation. In December, Aruba is also one of the hottest islands in the Caribbean.
The tropical haven Aruba, along with Bonaire and Curacao, is part of the ABC-island group. Aruba is known for its pristine white-sand beaches, turquoise waters, and flamingos on the beach.
Aruba’s holiday season officially begins in December. The majority of the island’s areas have festive decorations and events, creating a joyful and vibrant atmosphere. You can also take some amazing Instagram photos.
Another reason to visit Aruba in December is that it is off-season, which means it is significantly less expensive – and the weather is fantastic. There are numerous exciting things to do in Aruba in winter.
Aruba has warm and pleasant weather in December. Temperatures typically range between 27 and 29 degrees Celsius (81 and 84 degrees Fahrenheit). The island has a tropical climate with light trade winds, low humidity, and little rain.
Isla Mujeres
Visiting Isla Mujeres in December is the best Christmas present you could give yourself. The beautiful Caribbean island is only a 30-minute ferry ride away from the popular Mexican beach resort Cancun, but it has the more relaxed vibe of a village, making one of the best Caribbean Islands For Winter Vacation.
If you travel before Christmas, December is one of the best months because the hurricane season is over, and you will get great winter weather but at low-season prices.
If you don’t mind spending money, you can spend Christmas in the Caribbean, where the sky is blue and the temperature is warm. There is also plenty to do in December on Isla Mujeres. You can go on some amazing snorkeling or scuba diving excursions, whether or not you are certified.
The average temperature on Mexico’s Isla Mujeres is between 24 and 27 degrees Celsius (75 and 81 degrees Fahrenheit), which is a pleasant and temperate month.
Curacao
Curacao is one of the best Caribbean islands for winter vacation. Their holiday decorations are spectacular. Curacao has lovely beaches, stunning hidden bays, and spectacular sunsets. During the Christmas season, the mood on the island is upbeat and festive.
The best things to do in Curacao are a boat trip to Klein Curacao and snorkeling on the island’s most beautiful beaches. Explore the colonial capital city of Willemstad’s neighborhoods and see the beautiful and colorful houses. The Pietermaai District and Punda are popular tourist destinations
If you’re looking for adventure, check out the hidden beach Playa Gipy or the SheteBoka National Park. Sandals Royal Curacao All Inclusive is a great place to stay.
Curacao has warm and inviting weather in December, with temperatures averaging around 27-29 degrees Celsius (81-84 degrees Fahrenheit). During this time, the island has a sunny and dry climate.
St Kitts
The annual Sugar Mas Carnival is held in St Kitts in December, making it one of the best Caribbean islands for winter vacation. The streets of Basseterre are alive with activity from mid-December to January 2nd, with the main carnival events taking place between the J‘ouvert parade on December 26th and Last Lap on January 2nd.
The entire carnival week is worth seeing for the brightly colored costumes, music, and traditional Caribbean dancing. If the excitement of Carnival wears you down, visit the historic Brimstone Hill fortress, a UNESCO World Heritage site, or travel to sister island Nevis to explore some of the best beaches in the Caribbean.
Saint Kitts Marriott Resort and The Royal Beach Casino are two places to stay. Temperatures in St. Kitts and Nevis range between 25 and 28 degrees Celsius (77 and 82 degrees Fahrenheit). Days will be warm and sunny, ideal for relaxing on the beautiful beaches.
Puerto Rico
Puerto Rico is one of the most accessible and best Caribbean Islands For Winter Vacation, with incredible opportunities for adventure activities, as well as beautiful beaches and resorts.
Puerto Rico comes alive with holiday festivities in December. Combine this with some of the year’s lowest rainfall and you have the ideal Caribbean island to visit in December.
When visiting in December, make time to see the sights: visit El Yunque National Forest to see the waterfalls, walk the streets of San Juan, and visit the islands of Culebra and Vieques. If you’re looking for a little more adventure, travel across the islands to Parquera and swim in the bio-luminescent bay.
Puerto Rico has pleasant and warm weather in winter, with temperatures ranging from 24-28 degrees Celsius (75-82 degrees Fahrenheit). In winter, the island has many sunny days.
The Dominican Republic
The Dominican Republic is one of the best Caribbean destinations to visit in December. The Dominican Republic and its neighboring country, Haiti, share the island of Hispaniola.
The Dominican Republic has something to offer every type of visitor. There are plenty of all-inclusive resorts in Punta Cana if you just want to relax on the beach.
You can also plan your own Dominican Republic road trip and explore the country’s amazing waterfalls, pristine beaches, and lush vegetation.
December is an especially good time to travel because the dry season is beginning, but you can still take advantage of low and shoulder season prices. Typically, this lasts until a few days before Christmas.
The Dominican Republic has lovely weather in winter, with temperatures averaging around 25-28 degrees Celsius (77-82 degrees Fahrenheit). The country has a tropical climate with plenty of sunshine and warmth. The best place to stay in The Dominican Republic is Grand Sirenis Punta Cana Resort.
The Cayman
The Cayman Islands are made up of three islands: Little Cayman, Cayman Brac, and Grand Cayman. However, most people are only aware of the latter.
In winter, you can escape the colder weather to the north and enjoy daily average temperatures of 83 degrees Fahrenheit. Instead of shoveling snow, now is an excellent time to visit the beach or go snorkeling.
The Walkers Cayman Islands Marathon is an excellent activity for fitness enthusiasts. With the option to run, walk, or do a relay, the event is suitable for everyone, regardless of fitness level.
Look no further than the Stingray adventure if you prefer to relax or participate in water activities during your Best Caribbean Islands For Winter Vacation. It is one of Grand Cayman’s most popular excursions because it allows you to interact with gentle stingrays on a sandbar.
Grand Cayman Marriott Resort is a good place to stay. Grand Cayman has beautiful and warm weather in December, with temperatures ranging from 25-28 degrees Celsius (77-82 degrees Fahrenheit). There are very few, if any, rainy days.
Cozumel
Cozumel is one of the best Caribbean Islands for winter vacation and a must-see for anyone planning a trip to Mexico. There are numerous activities on the island, such as snorkeling, diving, and exploring ancient ruins.
Furthermore, some excellent resorts provide all-inclusive packages to help you make the most of your vacation. Cozumel offers an unforgettable experience that will leave you wanting more, from its beautiful beaches to its crystal clear waters.
The island’s location makes it ideal for scuba diving and snorkeling because the warm tropical waters provide ideal conditions all year. Visiting the archaeological site of San Gervasio is also a must while on Cozumel because it provides insight into Mayan culture and history.
Temperatures in Cozumel in December typically range between 24-27 degrees Celsius (75-81 degrees Fahrenheit). During this time, the island experiences a dry season with little rainfall.
Bermuda
Bermuda in winter provides a delightful escape with its pleasant weather and festive atmosphere. December also brings fewer visitors, allowing them to enjoy the island’s natural beauty and attractions in a more relaxed atmosphere.
The abundance of Christmas activities is one of the highlights of visiting Bermuda in December, making it one of the Best Caribbean Islands For Winter Vacation. The island is decked out in holiday decorations, and various events, including the annual New Year’s swim in the ocean, take place throughout the month.
Visitors can immerse themselves in the holiday spirit by strolling through the charming streets of Hamilton, the capital, browsing local shops, enjoying ocean views, and making friends with locals.
Bermuda, in addition to the holiday festivities, offers a variety of activities to enjoy during December. The stunning pink sand beaches of the island
Bermuda has a mild subtropical climate in December, with average temperatures ranging from 70°F (21°C) to 75°F (24°C). This makes it an ideal destination for those looking to escape the colder winter climates.
Cuba
Cuba is a fantastic Caribbean island to visit all year, but December is especially lovely. Begin your Cuba trip in Havana, where there is no shortage of exciting activities. Exploring Havana Vieja, which is densely packed with history, museums, and art galleries, is one of the best things to do in Havana.
The Museo de la Revolucion is a must-see for anyone interested in the history of the revolution. You should not pass up the chance to ride in a vintage car, especially if it drives along the Malecon, the famous waterfront.
Other must-see destinations in Cuba include Vinales, where you can hike through a beautiful valley dotted with mogotes (unusual hill formations); and Trinidad, which is probably Cuba’s best example of colonial architecture.
The weather in December is milder than it is during the peak summer months, with average temperatures ranging from 22°C to 27°C across the country. This month is also one of the driest in the country.
Dominica
Dominica, also known as the Nature Island of the Caribbean, is an adventurous and one-of-a-kind Caribbean island destination you’ll enjoy. You’ll fall in love with this hidden Caribbean gem’s soaring, forested mountains, plunging waterfalls, and dramatic landscapes.
December is also one of the best months for whale watching from Dominica, making it a popular time to visit the island. Dominica is the only place on the planet where sperm whales can be seen all year, though they are most visible during the cooler winter months.
For one of the most incredible wildlife encounters in the Caribbean, embark on a whale-watching excursion with a guide who knows where mother whales and their babies tend to swim.
Dominica’s weather in December is mild, with temperatures ranging from 22 to 27 degrees Celsius (72 to 81 degrees Fahrenheit). The climate on the island is tropical rainforest, and December marks the start of the dry season, with less rainfall than other months.
Bonaire
Bonaire is also undoubtedly one of the best Caribbean islands for winter vacation. The pristine marine life is well-known on this small but adorable paradise island.
December is the dry season in Bonaire, which is ideal for snorkeling on the island’s beaches. Aside from diving and snorkeling, there are numerous other activities on Bonaire.
In Bonaire, you can see flamingos and explore the interesting beaches of the Washington Slagbaai National Park. The pink salt lakes and slave huts are always interesting to see. Of course, you must visit Kralendijk, the colourful capital city.
This is also where cruise ships drop off passengers who are only staying for one day on Bonaire.
Ocean Breeze Boutique Hotel and Marina Bonaire are two places to stay. Bonaire has has pleasant and warm weather in December with temperatures averaging around 27-30 degrees Celsius (81-86 degrees Fahrenheit).
Conclusion
Finally, here are the best Caribbean islands for winter vacation. In general, winter is an excellent month for a trip to the Caribbean. Most islands have a dry season during which you can enjoy pleasant weather.
Many Caribbean islands host beautiful Christmas celebrations that you can attend to get into the holiday spirit. This may not be your typical romantic Christmas getaway, but we guarantee you’ll get into the Christmas spirit regardless.