When you think of the Caribbean, big-name destinations like the Bahamas, Jamaica or the Dominican Republic probably come to mind. They’re all beautiful, but what if you’re craving something a bit quieter, a little more off the radar? You know, the kind of place where you don’t have to jostle for a spot on the beach or fight the crowds for a sunset view?
Lucky for you, the Caribbean is sprinkled with hidden gems — small islands that offer a more laid-back, intimate vibe without sacrificing the stunning scenery or island charm. Here are some lesser-known islands that deserve a spot on your travel radar.
Saba: The Unspoiled Queen
Saba is your island if you love a rugged, untouched landscape and adventure. Often referred to as The Unspoiled Queen, Saba is all about wild beauty. It’s a volcanic island, and the towering Mount Scenery (yes, that’s really its name) dominates the skyline.
There are no sprawling resorts or tourist traps here. Instead, Saba’s charm lies in its quaint villages, friendly locals and incredible hiking trails that take you through lush rainforests and rugged cliffs.
Saba is also a diver’s paradise. The surrounding waters are part of a protected marine park, and the underwater world is nothing short of spectacular. If you’re a scuba enthusiast or just curious about snorkeling, Saba’s reefs, vibrant marine life and underwater pinnacles are a dream come true.
Bequia: The perfect blend of tradition and tranquility
Bequia might be part of St. Vincent and the Grenadines, but it’s got its own vibes. This tiny island perfectly balances old Caribbean traditions and a laid-back beach lifestyle. It’s where everyone waves at you as you walk by, and time seems to move a little slower — perfect for unwinding and recharging.
If you’re into sailing, Bequia has long been a favorite stop for yachts, with Admiralty Bay serving as a picturesque harbor. The island’s whaling heritage is still alive, though, on a much smaller and controlled scale, it’s a glimpse into Bequia’s past and the tight-knit community spirit that defines this place.
Whether you’re exploring the local markets, lounging on the white sands of Princess Margaret Beach, or enjoying a fresh seafood dinner, Bequia feels like a best-kept secret that you’ll be hesitant to share.
Montserrat: The Emerald Isle of the Caribbean
Montserrat is often overlooked due to its volcanic history, but that’s part of what makes it so intriguing. After the Soufrière Hills volcano erupted in the 1990s, much of the island’s southern half — including its capital, Plymouth — was abandoned, now lying under ash layers. It’s eerie but fascinating. You can even take tours to see the buried city.
Despite its volcanic history, Montserrat is incredibly lush and green, earning it the nickname The Emerald Isle of the Caribbean. It also has a bit of an Irish connection, making some unique cultural blends. If you visit around St. Patrick’s Day, you’ll enjoy a fun celebration of both Irish and African heritage.
Montserrat’s appeal lies in its serenity. With fewer tourists, the beaches are often yours to enjoy in peace, and the hiking trails — many of which wind through dense forests and lead to stunning viewpoints — are as tranquil as they are scenic.
Culebra: A slice of paradise in Puerto Rico
Tucked off the eastern coast of Puerto Rico, Culebra is one of those places you go to when you just want to unplug. No resorts, traffic lights and big crowds — just pristine beaches, crystal-clear water and a lot of peace and quiet. Flamenco Beach is the star here, often named one of the best beaches in the world, but the whole island is a dream for beach lovers.
Culebra also has an interesting history. During World War II, the U.S. Navy used parts of the island for military exercises, which is why you’ll find rusting tanks on Flamenco Beach — an odd but intriguing reminder of the island’s past. Nowadays, Culebra is all about nature conservation, with much of its land designated as wildlife refuges, perfect for snorkeling, bird watching and turtle spotting.
Dominica: The Nature Island
If you’re more into hiking boots than flip-flops, Dominica (not to be confused with the Dominican Republic) is the place for you. This island is a natural playground featuring thick rainforests, boiling lakes and even waterfalls that seem like they’re straight out of a movie.
Dominica isn’t your typical sunbathing destination, but it’s perfect for eco travelers and adventure seekers. You can spend your days hiking through Morne Trois Pitons National Park, swimming in emerald pools, or diving in the Soufriere-Scotts Head Marine Reserve, known for its volcanic underwater landscape. And if you’re into wellness, Dominica’s natural hot springs are a great way to relax after a day of exploring.
What makes Dominica even more appealing? It’s not overrun with tourists so you can experience the island’s beauty without the hustle and bustle.
Anguilla: Low-key luxury
Okay, Anguilla might be a bit more on the radar than the other islands on this list, but it still maintains a low-key vibe compared to flashier Caribbean destinations. Known for its incredible beaches (there are 33 of them!), Anguilla offers a mix of luxury and laid-back living.
You won’t find cruise ships docking here, and the island has strict building codes that keep the development low and the charm high.
What’s nice about Anguilla is that it caters to different travelers. You can stay at a high-end resort or a charming guesthouse and still enjoy the same stunning beaches and clear waters.
The food scene here is also a hidden gem in itself, with everything from beachside BBQ shacks to upscale restaurants serving fresh local seafood.
Discover your own slice of Caribbean paradise
The beauty of the Caribbean lies in its diversity. Sure, the more famous islands have their perks, but there’s something undeniably special about finding your own slice of paradise, away from the crowds and tourist hotspots.
Whether it’s the rugged cliffs of Saba, the peaceful beaches of Culebra or the lush landscapes of Montserrat, these off-the-beaten-path islands offer a chance to experience the Caribbean in its purest form.
So, why not skip the usual suspects and venture somewhere a little different on your next island getaway?