9 Best Caribbean Islands to Visit in December

So, you’re looking for some winter sun? Well, you’ve made a good choice choosing this part of the world as the place to go. Deciding where to visit in the Caribbean can be challenging, there are over 7,000 islands, islets, reefs, and cays here. In this blog, we take a look at 9 of the best Caribbean islands to visit in December, to hopefully make your decision a little easier. We’ve got a mixture of tourist hotspots and quieter hidden gems, so whatever you’re in search of, you’ll find it here.

Is December a good time to visit the Caribbean?

Yes, yes, yes! December is the early part of peak tourist season in the Caribbean. The weather is warm (but not too hot) and rain is very minimal. Although you’d expect it to be incredibly busy (which it can be), there are often quieter times on the run-up to and during Christmas. Prices will be at their highest, but in terms of weather and activities, December is undoubtedly a great time to visit the Caribbean.

The Best Caribbean Islands to Visit in December

1. Jamaica

Let’s start with the home of Reggae, the land of wood and water: Jamaica. After our trip to Jamaica, just before Christmas, we can highly recommend it as one of the best Caribbean islands to visit in December. As one of the larger, more-visited countries in the Caribbean, there is a huge choice of places to stay and things to do on this amazing island. You’ll find pristine white sand beaches, like Seven Mile Beach in Negril, amazing hiking and swimming at the Blue Hole, lots of cascading waterfalls in the lush rainforests, plenty of tasty Jamaican jerk-inspired food and so much more. 

Honestly, Jamaica is a vibe, it’s slow-paced, chilled and a place we fell in love with. Also, it’s a great choice for people who are looking for Caribbean islands to visit in December with luxury, 5-star all inclusive resorts.

🏡 Places to Stay in Jamaica

1. Sandals Royal Plantation All Inclusive – Couples Only – Adult-only resort in Ocho Rios with oceanfront views and personalised butler service.
2. S Hotel Jamaica – All-Inclusive – Super aesthetic all inclusive resort in Montego Bay on the beach.
3. Riu Palace Tropical Bay – All Inclusive – Family-friendly hotel in Negril with beachfront access, fine dining, water sports, and entertainment.

🎒 Things to Do in Jamaica in December

1. Go on a Rasta ATV Safari
2. Tour the south coast to visit YS Falls, floating Pelican Bar, Black River safari and Appleton Rum
3. Swim in the crystal clear waters at Chuck Norris Secret Falls
4. Take a guided tour of the Appleton Rum Distillery and enjoy tastings
5. Try Bamboo Rafting along the Martha Brae River
6. Go cliff jumping at Rick’s Cafe and relax at Seven Mile Beach

2. The Bahamas

Made up of over 700 islands, the Bahamas is a Caribbean destination where you can find something for everyone. If you’re in search of a city escape that has pristine beaches, casinos, grand resorts, and all the amenities you can imagine, then you can head to Nassau. Alternatively, if you want to find solace in nature on a deserted beach, you can venture to the outer islands like Exuma. 

Famous the world over first its powdery white sand and clear azure waters, the Bahamas is many people’s definition of paradise. However, it’s one of the best Caribbean islands to visit in December because the country comes alive with Junkanoo (carnival celebrations). So, you get to experience everything the Bahamas has to offer with the addition of carnival energy – it’s an amazing experience. While the parades and major events don’t start until Boxing Day (December 26th), you’ll find plenty of build-up throughout the month. 

🏡 Places to Stay in the Bahamas

1. Grand Hyatt Baha Mar – A luxurious resort in Nassau featuring the Caribbean’s largest casino, white sand beaches, lots to do and exclusive dining.
2. Kahari Resort, a Peace and Plenty Resort Property – An intimate, beachfront resort on on Stocking Island with access to barrier reefs and the famous Chat ‘N’ Chill beach bar
3. Grand Isle Resort & Residences – Situated on Great Exuma, an elegant beachside resort with stunning sea views, a championship golf course and spa.

🎒 Things to Do in the Bahamas in December

1. Go swimming with the famous pigs
2. Enjoy a full day excursion in Exuma (swimming, snorkelling and sightseeing)
3. Snorkel around Pablo Escobar’s plane crash wreck
4. Taste Bahamian cuisine on a food tasting and cultural walking tour
5. Escape to your own private cabana at Pearl Island
6. Discover Nassau, Bahamas capital, on the only Segway tour

3. Cuba

Cut off from the US, and much of the outside world, since the 1960s, Cuba is literally like stepping back in time. It has an undeniable charm and the lively spirit of the Cuban people (despite the difficulties they face) is infectious. The country is huge and has so much to offer, including crystal clear waters, powdery white sand beaches, mountains, valleys, rum, cigars, mojitos, and more.

There are two ways you can experience the enigma that is Cuba. Firstly, you could do what most people do and head for Varadero or Cayo Coco (or similar) and enjoy ultimate luxury in a resort. Alternatively, you can experience the real Cuba and travel to places like Havana, Vinales, Cienfuegos, Trinidad, Santiago de Cuba and others.

For us, Cuba was one of the most eye-opening travel experiences we’ve had, which is why we rate it as one of the best Caribbean islands to visit in December. If you do a trip to Cuba correctly, it will be a life-changing experience.

🏡 Places to Stay in Cuba

1. Trinidad Hotels Hostal El Placer – A cosy guesthouse with a spa(!), ideally located to explore colonial Trinidad.
2. Casa Las Españolas, Vinales – A well-reviewed Casa Particular in Vinales, a really great location for exploring this beautiful area of Cuba.
3. Havana Hostal Marques de Liz – Gorgeous architecture and centrally located in Cuba’s capital city, Havana to walk to all the hotspots and things to do.

🎒 Things to Do in Cuba in December

1. Witness a stunning sunrise on a hike in the Vinales Valley
2. Explore the colonial beauty of Trinidad on a guided tour
3. Discover Cuba’s natural beauty by visiting Topes de Collantes waterfalls
4. Learn about Cuba’s famous tobacco plantations (and try a Cuban cigar!) on a tobacco plantation tour in Vinales
5. Explore all the best things to do in Havana
6. Attend a rumba or salsa dancing class

4. St John, USVI

If a tiny island that is around 60% nature reserve that has pristine white sand beaches, luscious undulating hills and teeming reefs sounds like your vibe, then St John in the USVI should top your list of best Caribbean islands to visit in December. As you can imagine, around the holiday season, the USVI comes alive. It’s incredibly easy to get here from the US, and you don’t even need a passport (if you’re a US citizen). 

A short hop over from the neighbouring islands of St Thomas or St Croix, St John is the calm amidst the chaos of its busier sister islands. If a slow-paced vacation with plenty of sailing, diving, snorkelling and island hopping is what you’re looking for, then St John is a great pick.

🏡 Places to Stay in St John

1. The Westin St John Resort Villas: Located on Great Cruz Bay, this resort has villas with kitchens and balconies, a beautiful pool, tennis courts, water sports and 3 restaurants. Ideal for families and couples.
2. Cruz Bay Boutique Hotel: Cosy hotel in Cruz Bay (the main town on the island) with complimentary breakfast and super close to shops and dining.
3. Wharfside Village Hotel: Waterfront hotel close to Honeymoon Beach and Trunk Bay with direct access to shops, restaurants, and bars. Perfect if you want to be in the centre of the action while enjoying beachfront views.

🎒 Things to Do in St John in December

1. Head out on a private full day catamaran charter (the Captains will work with you to organise a customisable itinerary so you can stop at the best islands, beaches, coves and snorkelling spots)
2. For a half-day adventure, head out on the water on a half-day boat charter
3. Tour the island on a safari taxi island tour
4. Go island hopping and visit The Baths and White Bay in the British Virgin Islands
5. Spend a day sailing, snorkelling and eating at the floating Taco Bar 
6. Watch the sunset on a luxury sunset sail trip
7. Go hiking and snorkelling in the US Virgin Islands National Park

5. Virgin Gorda

Next on the list of best Caribbean islands to visit in December is the jaw-droppingly beautiful Virgin Gorda. The second largest island in the British Virgin Islands, and home to some of the most breathtaking, boulder-ridden landscapes we’ve ever encountered, this place is a truly special destination. On this island, you’ll find the finer things in life, with plenty of high-end villas, a few small boutique resorts, and some sensational dining. 

Although it’s small, there are plenty of things to do on Virgin Gorda, including visiting The Baths National Park, hiking to the island’s highest point, diving and snorkelling, and relaxing on the often deserted white sand beaches. 

🏡 Where to Stay in Virgin Gorda

1. Rosewood Little Dix Bay – A top hotel where Queen Elizabeth II vacationed with a secluded white sand beach, excellent dining and great service.
2. Bayview Vacation Apartments – An affordable option, these apartments with kitchens are centrally located with beautiful gardens.
3. Bellamare – A luxury private villa on Mahoe Bay with a pool, garden, barbecue, tennis court and lots more.

🎒 Things to Do in Virgin Gorda in December

1. Book a private boat charter for a day of island hopping, snorkelling, eating, drinking and swimming with turtles.
2. Visit Tortola (the “main” island in the BVI) and explore on an full island tour
3. Wander the grottoes at The Baths National Park
4. Enjoy great food at the incredible restaurants in Virgin Gorda
5. Stroll and enjoy a picnic at the secluded Savannah Bay
6. Go hiking at Gorda Peak National Park

6. St Lucia

Famed as one of the world’s top honeymoon destinations, St Lucia has to be one of the best Caribbean islands to visit in December. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing vacation filled with nothing but luxury, or you’re an adventurous soul who wants to get out, chase waterfalls, explore local villages or climb mountains, you’ll be right at home in St Lucia. 

Yes, there are loads of things to do in St Lucia for couples, but it’s not just a couples-only destination – we think families and groups of friends would love it here too. In the south of the island like Soufriere, you’ll find majestic mountainous landscapes, waterfalls and nature-based experiences, and in the north, you’ll find golf courses, marinas, and more choices for restaurants and resorts. 

Another reason St Lucia is one of the best Caribbean islands to visit in December is its festival of lights. Celebrated on Saint Lucy’s Day, December 12th, every year with parades, light shows and lantern displays in Castries.

🏡 Places to Stay in St Lucia

1. Jade Mountain Resort – One of the most beautiful hotels in the Caribbean – incredible views of the UNESCO Pitons and open rooms with sea views.
2. Sugar Beach, A Viceroy Resort – Nestled between the Pitons, this elegant resort is ideal for couples or families with luxurious amenities and beautiful surroundings.
3. Bel Jou Hotel – An adult-only, all inclusive hotel with stunning hilltop views over Castries and the Caribbean Sea.

🎒 Things to Do in St Lucia in December

1. Hike Gros Piton for a once-in-a-lifetime adventure
2. Indulge in the Tree to Bar chocolate making experience at Project Chocolat
3. Enjoy a boat charter to Soufriere along the west coast
4. Soothe your body Sulphur Springs mud baths at the world’s only drive-in volcano
5. Sail around the island on a full day catamaran excursion
6. Trek the picturesque Tet Paul Nature Trail for easy views of the Pitons up close.

7. Bequia

We’ve spent over six months living on this tiny 7 square mile island in St Vincent and the Grenadines and we couldn’t recommend it enough as one of the best Caribbean islands to visit in December. If you’re someone who’s looking to experience the traditional Caribbean, stepping onto Bequia is like stepping back in time. There are no huge resorts, no chain restaurants, and the ultimate island laid-back vibe. 

Bequia is a place where the locals are super friendly and people will stop you in the street to say good morning and have a chat. Even though it’s tiny, there are plenty of things to do in Bequia and a great selection of restaurants too. What makes many people fall in love with Bequia are the beautiful beaches – they’re likely some of the best you’ll see anywhere, and they’re usually empty. If disconnecting from the outside world is your aim, Bequia is the place to be.

🏡 Places to Stay in Bequia

1. Bequia Beach Hotel – A beautiful, family-friendly hotel on Friendship Bay with a beachfront restaurant, beach bar, and two pools.
2. Tropical Hideaway – Stunning apartments with an infinity pool and some of Bequia’s best views over Admiralty Bay.
3. The Sweet Retreat – An affordable accommodation option with views over Princess Margaret Beach, one of the best beaches in Bequia).

🎒 Things to do in Bequia in December

1. Bask in the sun and relax on the best beaches in Bequia
2. Plan a trip to hop between private and uninhabited islands
3. Discover the quaint charm and colours of Port Elizabeth
4. Take a leisurely stroll along the Belmont Walkway
5. Go on a day trip to St Vincent to discover waterfalls and the pirate history
6. Challenge yourself with a hike up La Soufriere volcano on St Vincent

8. Montserrat

Monsterrat is one of the most intriguing Caribbean islands to visit, with almost half of the island still an exclusion zone due to the active Soufriere volcano that buried the former capital city, Plymouth. Back in 1995, Soufriere Hills first erupted, followed by years of activity, before the government decided to abandon Plymouth and leave it ghost town in 1997. 

Now, Montserrat is harnessing the growing popularity of disaster tourism with certain areas of the exclusion zone now deemed safe enough to explore. If you’re an adventurer, then Montserrat can definitely be one of the best Caribbean islands to visit in December. Another reason to choose to visit Montserrat in December is the Montserrat Carnival. From mid-December until New Year’s Day, there are plenty of events, parties and parades to get involved in.

🏡 Places to Stay in Montserrat

1. Oceanfront Villa – An extremely beautiful luxury villa with sea views, 3 bedrooms and a private pool. The owners can also help you arrange car hire.
2. Chez Mango Villas – 20 incredibly spacious villas on Lime Kiln Beach with barbecue and picnic areas and beautiful grounds.
3. Avalon Villa – Oceanfront villa fully equipped with everything you need, within walking distance to the beach private, a swimming pool and spacious sunbathing deck and incredible views of the mountain and the beach.

🎒 Things to do in Montserrat in December

1. Take a helicopter tour to experience the volcano of Montserrat and the still-active lava dome
2. Explore on a Jeep off road adventure
3. Take a guided tour of the exclusion zone and visit the ghost town of Plymouth
4. Enjoy the Montserrat Carnival from 16th December 2024 onwards
5. Go hiking through rainforests, waterfalls and rivers
6. Hike the scenic Rendezvous Bay trail to reach the island’s only white sand beach

9. Aruba

Aruba is the most popular and easily accessible, of the ABC islands in the Dutch Caribbean. The furthest south of the islands we’re recommending as the best Caribbean islands to visit in December, Aruba is a dream destination for many people. Known for its fancy resorts, casinos, beautiful beaches and amenities, Aruba can definitely offer a home away from home experience – with the added bonus of having sensational weather year-round.

Because Aruba is so popular, it is very well developed for tourism, meaning there is an endless list of things to do, particularly if you enjoy getting out on or in the water. On land, Aruba, unlike many of the lush rainforest-covered islands, is actually more like a desert, which makes for some exciting exploring, especially on an ATV tour or in a jeep. So, if you’re looking for adventure and exploring, Aruba could be a great option out of the best Caribbean islands to visit in December.

🏡 Places to stay in Aruba

1. Bucuti & Tara Beach Resort – Well reviewed adult-only beachfront resort on Eagle Beach, a pristine white sand beach.
2. The Ritz-Carlton, Aruba – A luxurious beachfront hotel with oceanfront rooms, a spa, and multiple dining options, great for families.
3. Manchebo Beach Resort & Spa – This one is great for couples. An intimate luxury resort with only 72 rooms, located on Aruba’s widest beach.

🎒 Things to do in Aruba in December

1. Go off-road an ATV tour
2. Visit natural rock pools after a horseback ride through Arikok National Park
3. Enjoy a catamaran sail around Aruba
4. Try scuba diving on the beautiful coral reefs
5. Head out on a catamaran cruise to watch the sunset
6. Go bar hopping in Oranjestad (Aruba’s colourful capital)

Should You Visit the Caribbean in December?

Yes! The Caribbean is the best place in the world for winter sun. No matter which of the best Caribbean islands to visit in December you choose, it will be a hive of activity, with tourism season in full swing. You’ll probably pay a little more than you would by visiting in the shoulder season or low season – if you visit in June or July, for example – but there’s a reason so many people visit this time of year. You’re guaranteed to have the perfect winter vacation on one of these best Caribbean islands to visit in December.