17 best Caribbean islands for couples to escape to

If a private retreat with your loved one is your idea of romance, Princess Cays® Bahamas cruise delivers. This exclusive destination, available only to Princess guests, offers serene beaches and turquoise waters perfect for snorkeling, paddleboarding or simply soaking up the sun together. For ultimate relaxation, reserve a private cabana where you can enjoy the sound of the waves in your own secluded paradise. End your day with a walk along the shore, the soft Bahamian breeze completing the idyllic scene.

Can you see yourself standing atop a historic fortress, hand in hand with your significant other, with sweeping views of the Caribbean stretching before you? St. Kitts and Nevis offer a blend of lush natural beauty and timeless charm, the ideal retreat for couples. Wander through the vibrant gardens of Romney Manor, where colorful flowers and towering trees set a serene stage for romance. If you’re feeling adventurous, take a scenic hike to Brimstone Hill Fortress, often called the “Gibraltar of the West Indies,” or enjoy the warm sands and gentle waves of Pinney’s Beach for a relaxing, sun-soaked afternoon.

Looking for a destination where culture and luxury go hand in hand? St. Maarten has you covered. This enchanting island lets you and your partner explore both French and Dutch influences, from the chic bistros of Grand Case to the colorful streets of Philipsburg. Take a leisurely walk along the yacht-lined harbor, or unwind at one of the island’s pristine beaches, like the lively Orient Bay or the quieter Mullet Bay. If you need more to do, set sail on a catamaran cruise where you can toast to your love as the sun dips below the horizon.

St. Thomas is your gateway to romance, where every view feels like it’s straight out of a postcard. Start your day by soaking up the beauty of Magens Bay, consistently ranked as one of the best beaches in the Caribbean. For couples who enjoy a dose of activity, a kayak tour through the mangroves or snorkeling off the island’s coral reefs is the perfect bonding experience. Cap off your visit with a scenic gondola ride to Paradise Point for views of marvelous vistas and a shared tropical cocktail.

There’s a special magic in Old San Juan, where colorful colonial buildings and cobblestone streets create a storybook setting for romance. Spend your day hand in hand exploring centuries-old forts like El Morro and San Cristóbal, or immerse yourselves in the lively atmosphere of local cafés and plazas. For a more serene escape, visit one of Puerto Rico’s golden-sand beaches or the lush El Yunque National Forest, where waterfalls and tropical foliage provide a stunning backdrop for unforgettable memories.

St. Lucia practically defines romance. Its dramatic twin Pitons rise above emerald-green hills and turquoise waters, making it one of the Caribbean’s most photogenic islands. Couples can rejuvenate in luxurious spas, sip cocktails at waterfront restaurants or take a sunset sail around the island. You can also have a once-in-a-lifetime experience and venture to the island’s famous drive-in volcano, where a couples’ mineral-rich mud bath awaits.

Known as the Island of Spice, Grenada offers a sensory feast for couples who love to explore. Wander hand in hand through aromatic spice markets, or take a tour of a local nutmeg or cocoa plantation. If you’re more about sun and sea, relax on Grand Anse Beach, with its calm waters and soft sands, or snorkel together over colorful coral reefs. For a truly memorable experience, head to the Underwater Sculpture Park, where you can find an artful display beneath the waves.

Antigua is a paradise designed for lovers, with 365 beaches — one for every day of the year. Seek out a hidden cove for a private swim or relax on Half Moon Bay, where the waters stretch as far as the eye can see. For a touch of adventure, visit Shirley Heights, where panoramic views of the island provide the perfect spot to watch the sunset. And don’t miss a romantic catamaran cruise around the island, where you can toast to your partner as you sail over crystal-clear waters.

If you and your partner are always on the move, Dominica delivers plenty of sites and activities with its untouched natural beauty. Nicknamed The Nature Island, it’s home to dramatic waterfalls, hot springs and vibrant rainforests. Take a hike to Trafalgar Falls or Emerald Pool for a refreshing swim in a natural oasis, or relax in one of the island’s geothermal springs for a soothing and romantic experience. Dominica is a destination where love and adventure thrive in harmony.

Curaçao is where European charm meets Caribbean beauty, creating a one-of-a-kind romantic destination. Stroll through Willemstad, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, with its colorful Dutch-inspired architecture and enchanting boutiques. Afterward, relax together on the island’s secluded beaches, such as Cas Abao or Klein Curaçao. Don’t forget to explore Curaçao’s famous Blue Room Cave, a glowing underwater grotto perfect for snorkeling couples.

Bonaire is an underwater paradise for couples who love to explore the sea. Known for having some of the best snorkeling in the Caribbean, the island’s crystal-clear waters are home to vibrant coral reefs and marine life, including parrotfish, angelfish, sea turtles and colorful coral gardens. For a peaceful afternoon, unwind on the shores of Sorobon Beach or enjoy a quiet kayak trip through the island’s serene mangroves. Bonaire is the perfect place to relax and recharge together.

With year-round sunshine and picture-perfect beaches, Aruba is a slice of heaven for couples seeking a carefree escape. Wander the white sands of Eagle Beach, one of the best beaches in the Caribbean, or take a 4x4 tour of the island’s rugged desert landscapes. For a touch of local culture, visit the vibrant capital of Oranjestad, where you can shop, dine and soak up the island’s welcoming atmosphere.

Step back in time as you explore the Mayan ruins of Tulum, perched on a cliff overlooking the azure waters of the Caribbean. For adventurous couples, Cozumel offers endless snorkeling and scuba diving opportunities, with some of the best snorkeling in the Caribbean found in its coral reefs. After a day of exploration, treat yourselves to a romantic dinner featuring fresh ceviche, grilled lobster or the region’s famous cochinita pibil — a slow-roasted pork dish infused with citrus and spices. Pair it with a margarita or local mezcal for the perfect end to your day.

Sit back and embrace the best indulgences life has to offer in the Grand Caymans. Stroll hand in hand along Seven Mile Beach, often listed as one of the best beaches in the Caribbean, or swim with friendly stingrays at the famous Stingray City. For a taste of the island’s culinary delights, share a plate of conch fritters or savor a bowl of Cayman-style turtle stew at a waterfront restaurant like Macabuca or The Wharf. Don’t forget to try the island’s signature cocktail, a refreshing mudslide, made with vodka, coffee liqueur and creamy goodness.

You can count on a variety of activities when visiting Belize City, like finding tropical rainforests of the Cockscomb Basin Wildlife Sanctuary. Or, snorkel together at the Belize Barrier Reef, the second-largest coral reef system in the world. After your adventures, sample Belize’s signature dish, stew chicken with rice and beans, or enjoy freshly caught lobster, grilled to perfection and served with local sides. Round out your meal with a cup of Belizean coffee or a slice of coconut tart for dessert.

For couples seeking a tranquil escape, Grand Turk is a hidden gem. Its unspoiled beaches and turquoise waters provide the perfect setting for relaxation, while its colorful colonial architecture adds a touch of personality. After a morning of snorkeling in the calm reefs, share a plate of freshly fried conch or sip on a refreshing rum punch at a beachside bar like Jack’s Shack.

Roatán is a haven for couples who love nature and outdoor exploration. Dive into the world’s second-largest barrier reef, where colorful coral and tropical fish create an underwater wonderland. For a more laid-back experience, stroll through West Bay Beach or visit a local wildlife sanctuary to meet sloths and capuchin monkeys. Don’t forget to try the local favorite, guifiti, a spiced herbal rum said to have healing properties.