Did you know there are over 5,000 islands, cays and reefs in the Caribbean? Each of them has its own beauty and appeal to the Caribbean traveler. In recent years, we have traveled to some of the most spectacular islands and have been treated to exclusive excursions that you will only find in these gems of the Atlantic Ocean.
There is a misconception that trips to the islands are very expensive, and while costs and amenities vary, it really depends on the island that you love to visit. With so many different places to go, there are several ways to travel to the Caribbean that would be suitable for any budget. From our experience, even getting to the island is a fun, new experience.
Costs of a Caribbean Trip
Accommodations
There are several ways to stay in the Caribbean. SFX has a resort directory that rates and reviews all types of resorts in places like The Bahamas, Jamaica, St. Maarten, the Virgin Islands and many more! Some of these resorts may also be featured in Resort Escapes.
Food
Prices definitely vary depending on your tastes and where you stay. Some islands offer amazing street food. You will find a plethora of options at bargain prices in the Dominican Republic, costing as little as $10 USD in some cases. However, if you travel to Aruba, you may pay a little more. If you decide on an all-inclusive resort, you will not have to worry about food costs, but you don’t want to skip out on having a meal at one of the local restaurants. This is an experience worth the price!
Transportation
Getting around the islands is relatively inexpensive. There are bicycles, bus services and taxis systems. On some islands, it is also relatively safe to travel as a hitchhiker (not in Jamaica, Dominican Republic, Cuba and Haiti). If you happen to stay on an island without a bus system, you have to get a taxi, and fares tend to be about $15 USD. If you want to island hop, you can always hire a charter or hop on a tour boat. In the Lower Antilles, there is a ferry that connects the island together. It’s a wonderful experience to view the island and have a little adventure!
Excursions
Tours, historical museums, architecture, beaches and jungles are some of the top activities to indulge in while you are on vacation in the islands. Some resorts may offer excursions with dolphins or scuba diving as well. There are all types of activities, and you can pick and choose to keep your budget on the right path. Snorkeling is a favorite and typically costs about $20 per person for a day trip.
Tips for Saving on Your Caribbean Travel
While each island is different, these are a few general tips to help you navigate your budget and plan ahead.
Off-Season Travel
You will find the best deals when you choose to travel around times that are less popular such as in April, when prices typically plummet for this area. In addition, November to December is another off-season time to travel and experience resorts when they are less populated.
Cruise Offers
If you are an SFX member, you already know that you can use the SFX Travel Store and More to find great deals on cruise travel. Cruises are a great way to see multiple islands, experience the food and culture, and even jump onto scuba diving boat to explore when you dock. You can typically find cruise offers for $50 a day per person.
Camping
One of the newest ways that travelers are saving money is by choosing a few nights to actually camp out on the beach. Some islands have specific camp sites set up that typically cost $10 USD per night. You should pick a safer, less inhabited beach if you plan on camping.
What to Do and See in the Caribbean
Dunn’s River Falls, Jamaica
This is one of the most spectacular places to visit in Jamaica. At 660 feet, this waterfall is beautiful and consists of multiple plunge pools that lead directly out into the ocean. You can also add bouldering as one of your excursions if you want a more energetic and adventurous way to get back to the beach.
Snorkeling and Diving
The reefs in the Caribbean are absolutely amazing. You can get certified to dive in one day typically, then you will be able to dive around shipwrecks and hang out around coral reefs teeming with tropical fish, turtles and sharks! The waters around most of the islands have popular and secret reef locations. Diving trips are a little expensive, but worth it to see a whole new world. If you want the free option, you can always bring your own snorkeling gear and check out some of the popular reefs near beaches in areas around the Bahamas.
Cayman Turtle Farm, Cayman Islands
The Turtle Farm is a top attraction for any island traveler. This is the only farm of its kind i nthe world, and it specializes in controlled breeding of turtles. There are so many different kinds and sizes of turtles here that it is a full trip, and it is especially fun for kids.
