If you think that cheap Caribbean vacations are just a mirage on the horizon, you may be surprised to learn that they’re more attainable than you thought. These beautiful Caribbean Islands are amazingly cost-effective, making them super options for couple, family and group getaways.
As well as reasonably-priced activity rates, low-price daily food and drink costs and varied accommodation options, the cheapest Caribbean Islands still deliver. Yes, they still promise that effortless escapism and those showstopper beaches which vacation dreams are made of. What’s not to love?
Cheap Caribbean Islands that won’t break the bank
When looking to soak up a cheap Caribbean vacation, first and foremost you’ll want to banish that pricey hotel room. Instead, opt for a villa rental where you can split the cost into an affordable, per person nightly rate. Share with your family and friends, for the ultimate luxurious experience! Who thought you could have exclusivity and affordability in one sentence? You can with Top Villas.
Read on for our most affordable Caribbean Islands, listed in order of budget-saving kudos.
Top Caribbean destinations
#1 Jamaica
This year-round beach destination may be world-famous for its rich Island beauty and culture. But it doesn’t mean you need to pay world-famous prices! Jamaica is home to beautiful beaches, lush rainforests and a plentiful variety of accommodation options. Its laidback vibes offer an authentic setting in which to indulge in some affordable Caribbean fun. Sightsee away at the Bob Marley Museum, Dunn’s River Falls and Park or enjoy classic beach days, watersports or adventure activities on Mystic Mountain. With so many cool things to enjoy in Jamaica, you’ll find plenty of free things to enjoy too. From dipping into the excitement of Seven Mile Beach to exploring Devon House and savoring island cuisine from one of Jamaica’s cheap eats.
Where to stay in Jamaica
When searching for accommodation, resorts and hotel room rates can add up — particularly if you’re traveling in a group. For a cost-effective solution, our Jamaican rentals promise a unique holiday experience, with all the benefits of a luxury hotel.
Even our most luxury Jamaica villas work out at a very reasonable rate, when the cost is shared per person, per night. That dream Caribbean getaway with your family and friends really can be a dream come true.
#2 The Dominican Republic
A perfect all-rounder, the Dominican Republic is a popular choice for enjoying an adventure, relaxation or family break. Thanks to its welcoming year-round climate, there’s always a good time to visit the Dominican Republic. Aside from its world-class golf and resorts, you’ll find breathtaking beaches and reefs that won’t cost the earth to explore, such as the well-kept public Juanillo Beach and the free beaches and clubs of Punta Cana.
Aside from the palm-lined coast, soak up the Island’s fun music scene and dance culture, or take in the timeless colonial architecture and museums. Some more great affordable things to do in the Dominican Republic include taking in the buzz of downtown Santo Domingo, discovering the hidden gem of Muñoz, horse trekking in Las Terrenas and enjoying the rooftop views across the nightly markets, from one of the downtown city restaurants.
The landscape in itself is a feast for the eyes, with sweeping beaches contrasting with mangrove forests, mountains and even deserts!
Where to stay in the Dominican Republic
Of course when looking to stay, finding affordable accommodation in the Dominican Republic may seem like a distant mirage. At Top Villas you will be able to combine an effortless villa experience with a price that suits.
#3 St Lucia
A famous destination for honeymoons and romantic getaways, St Lucia packs a punch when it comes to Caribbean vacations. Enjoy breathtaking views of the Pitons from the world-class beaches or head out on a jungle tour or snorkeling day by the Anse Chastanet reef. Usually just the word ‘honeymoon’ is cue for overpriced activities and accommodation. Not so in St Lucia. Here is a Caribbean Island where all the beaches are public and where you can dip into the nature and hiking trails of Tet Paul, the Pigeon Island National Park and of course, scale the volcanic heights of the Pitons.
Other fun cheap things to do in St Lucia include a day trip to the Sulphur Springs, the Diamond Falls Botanical Gardens and the chance to savor the authentic Caribbean music and cuisine at the weekly Gros Islet street party.
Where to stay in St Lucia
If staying in St Lucia seems too much like a daydream, you’ll be glad to know every budget can be catered for.
From renting a scenic 3-bedroom townhome in Rodney Bay to a 3-bedroom private villa with pool, our homes in St Lucia offer an affordable way to soak up the Caribbean. For those looking to go all out, we also have a fabulous selection of VIP homes to indulge in, which again work out very reasonably when staying as an adult group or multigenerational family.
#4 St Barts
Another suprisingly affordable Caribbean Island is St Barts. Aside from the high-end restaurants and shops which overlook Gustavia’s yacht-laden marina, St Barts offers a tempting array of affordable attractions and accommodation — if you know where to look.
Blessed with 11 public beaches, St Barts invites you to dip into unhurried paradise days, without the Caribbean price tag. Explore the island’s Swedish colonial-era past, with a trip to visit the 17th century Fort Karl or head out on a picturesque hike to Colombier Beach, Le Toiny and Grand Fond Beach. Those who prefer a more difficult climb will enjoy a trek to the Island’s hidden gem of Petit Cul De Sac (weather dependant). If dining out at one of the fancy restaurants is not an option, pack a timeless picnic. Soaking up the views whilst on the beach, out on a hike or sightseeing trip is always a great budget saving idea. Better yet, you get to pick the view!
Where to stay in St Barts
When looking where to stay on a budget in St Barts, avoid the pricey hotels and resorts. Instead, check-in to a private self-catering rental. This solution by no means will diminish the lustre of your Caribbean getaway. In fact, it will most certainly enhance your vacation, especially when it enables you to hire a private villa and split the cost with your family and friends. You won’t be missing a pokey hotel room when you’re stretching out on a sun lounger by your very own private pool!
#5 Aruba
Another affordable Caribbean option is Aruba. With 40 public beaches to dip into, this Caribbean Island offers the main event for free! Each offers a unique and beautiful haven in which to live out your Caribbean dream. Soak up the awesome swimming spots of Arashi Beach, the Instagrammable fofoti trees along Eagle Beach, the serenity of Manchebo Beach or the watersports which line the buzzing, resort-style Palm Beach. Aruba is also a super destination for shipwreck dives.
Off the sand, this Caribbean Island offers some inexpensive sightseeing trips. From an outing to the Aruba Aloe Factory, Musuem and Store to the beauty of the Butterfly Farm and taking in the geological wonders of the Natural Pool and the Ayo and Casabari rock formations — Aruba promises a laid-back and unspoilt Caribbean vacation.
Where to stay in Aruba
From staying in a budget 2-bedroom condo with pool access to a luxury private villa with pool for groups of 10, Aruba will spoil you with its super range of affordable self-catering options. Far more cost-effective than a hotel room, you will be able to spill out and entertain in your very own private space. Some of our luxury villas even offer beach access, for the ultimate way to start your vacation.
#6 Turks & Caicos
Home to world-class public beaches, the Turks and Caicos Islands deliver a true taste of Caribbean escapism. With sugar soft sand and incredible snorkeling spots, you won’t need to spend big when your days are spent soaking up paradise beaches!
Take in the tranquil gems of Taylor Bay Beach and Chalk Sound, or soak up the award-winning Grace Bay Beach with your family and friends. Of course, under the sea you’ll find a wealth of snorkeling and diving spots to explore, including ship wrecks. You can also get the adrenaline going with some watersports.
Away from the beaches, discover the beauty of the Turks and Caicos with a scenic boat excursion, an Island buggy tour or a kayak trip to explore the mangrove estuaries, which are teaming with wildlife. You may also be tempted to enjoy a tipple whilst on the Turk’s Head Brewery tour or sign up for lessons at the Turks and Caicos Islands Tennis Academy or kiteboarding school.
Where to stay on Turks & Caicos
\in out \turks and Caicos villas, you get to enjoy the beauty of the Caribbean from the comfort of your own vacation home. Of course, many of our rentals come fully staffed. They also boast the VIP amenities that you’d expect from a high-end hotel. With such exclusivity on tap, one of the best cost-saving solutions also happens to be the most luxurious!
