When thinking of the Caribbean, many people first think of tranquil waters, sipping cocktails on the beach, and relaxing in luxury, but for the party seekers amongst you, this might not sound like a dream getaway.
Well, worry not, because we love a good party from time to time too, and it’s for that reason we want to help you find the perfect spot to party the night away on a gorgeous island.
With perfect weather weather year-round, white sandy beaches, and vibrant nightlife, the Caribbean makes a great escape for an unforgettable fun-filled vacation. So read on, to discover the 10 best party islands in the Caribbean.
Barbados
When you think of a party island in the Caribbean, most people first think of Barbados, and this island certainly lives up to its reputation.
Home to some of the best nightlife the Caribbean has to offer, you can find great beachside clubs and open-air parties, and some of the best rum bars in the region. If you’re looking for something a little more relaxed, Barbados has you covered, as there’s a great range of English-style pubs down in St. Lawrence.
St. Lucia
Known best for its stunning landscapes, rich culture, and gorgeous beaches, it may come as a surprise to learn that St. Lucia is a great spot for those who love an adventure or a party.
Here, you can spend your days discovering historical attractions, gorgeous exotic orchards, and quaint villages.
When the sun sets, it’s time to head down to Rodney Bay Village, where the nightlife is best. Be sure to sample the island’s local Piton beer, and if you’re on the island on a Friday evening, be sure to skip dinner, as there are lively street parties held every week in the fishing village of Gros.
Trinidad & Tobago
Trinidad and Tobago is known for being quite lively, they even have their own lingo that goes with the party lifestyle!
If heading out with a group for a fun-filled night, you’ll want to make your way down to Rust Street, where the streets are bursting with energy. Dancehall music is played at numerous bars in the area, so if this is the kind of party you’re looking for, then this is the place to be.
Port of Spain and San Fernando are also both great destinations if you’re looking for a great nightclub to visit.
Antigua
Another great spot for a night out is Antigua, no matter what kind of party person you are, you’ll be certain to find something to satisfy your tastes.
Spend your days relaxing under the sun and indulging in delicious BBQ, before you head out for a night on the town.
In Antigua, you can dance your heart out at one of the island’s best nightclubs, or, if it’s more your scene, head out to one of the great casinos.
Aruba
Aruba boasts stunning sandy beaches to relax on beneath the palm trees during the day, but when the sun sets, this gorgeous island truly comes to life.
Whilst this island is famous for its rum and scenic backdrops, there’s plenty on offer no matter what your usual go-to drink is. Whether it’s tequila, Blue Curacao, Peach Schnapps, coconut rum, or just a signature cocktail, you’re certain to find your tropical drink of choice at one of the great huts, where bartenders truly know their craft and partygoers dance to island rhythms.
One great party feature of Aruba is the Kukoo Kunuku party bus, so if this is your destination, be sure not to miss out!
St. Barts
An incredibly underrated destination in the Caribbean amongst those who don’t know it too well is St. Barts. Arguably the most chic island in the region, you can enjoy a luxury stay at a private villa, feast at gourmet restaurants, and even go celebrity spotting due to the abundance of superyachts and private jets that frequent this exclusive destination.
When the sun sets, be sure to visit the fabulous beachfront bars, or even go party-hopping on the luxury yachts that can be found in the harbor.
Puerto Rico
Puerto Rico is definitely party-central. Known for its amazing festivals, these are an occasion you don’t want to miss out on. Ensure you visit during either January (when the San Sebastian Festival is held), or during June (if you’re looking for an all-night Mardi Gras party).
Arguably the nightlife capital of the Caribbean, it’s more famously known as being the birthplace of the piña colada, so if this is your drink of choice, there’s no need to consider going anywhere else!
St. Martin
Known as both St. Maarten (Dutch side) and St. Martin (French side), this great metropolitan island is the place to go if you’re looking for great food, stunning beaches, and vibrant nightlife.
In fact, they enjoy their drink so much on this island that there’s even a legend that says the French-Dutch border was established as the result of a drinking contest back in the 18th century.
Nowadays, St. Martin is said to have more bars per capita than any other island in the Caribbean.
If you’re a fan of a night out at the casino, head on over to the Dutch side of the island, where you can find the ‘Las Vegas of the Caribbean’, with a total of 14 great casinos.
Jamaica
Of course, this list wouldn’t be complete without the addition of Jamaica.
Known for being a laid-back destination with copious amounts of rum and other great drinks, when the sun sets, people in Jamaica party hard.
The Seven Mile Beach in Negril is one of the best party beaches on the island, with legendary parties and breathtaking sunsets, it truly is the place to be. With busy bars, live music, and an abundance of street vendors selling snacks late into the evening, why go anywhere else?
Jost van Dyke
Although a little less common when it comes to choosing the picture-perfect Caribbean destination, Jost Van Dyke is the ultimate destination for those who like to party.
During the day, there are stunning white sandy beaches to relax on, and in the evening, it’s time to get bar hopping around some of the best bars the British Virgin Islands has to offer. If you’re visiting during New Year’s Eve or for Halloween, there are excellent parties at the famous Foxy’s Bar.
Like to stick to one Venue for the night? The Soggy Dollar Bar is the birthplace of “the Painkiller”, arguably the most famous cocktail to have been created in the Caribbean, or join in with one of the yacht parties in the harbor.