If you think a cheap Caribbean vacation is an oxymoron, think again. There are a number of fantastically inexpensive options that will allow you to stick to your budget while still enjoying an unforgettable tropical escape. From intimate boutique beachfront hotels to family-friendly all-inclusive resorts, a trip to the Caribbean is possible for vacationers of all types.
Hotel Riu Negril, Jamaica
This beachfront all-inclusive resort is one of the best bargains in the Caribbean. It is located in one of Jamaica’s top destinations, nestled in the western tip of Negril. It sits right on the beach, although one of the most popular places for guests to hang out is on the umbrella-shaded loungers that surrounded its two huge swimming pools, both of which are over 3,000 square feet. It tends to attract those who are looking to get wild, with complimentary mini-bars and liquor dispensers in all guest rooms that are regularly restocked. The resort’s nightclub gets guests up on their feet and dancing the night away to great reggae, and when a little solitude is needed, tranquility can be found in the solarium terrace.
Key Amenities:
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All-inclusive with 24/7 dining and drinks available
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Beach access, three pools and fitness center with sauna
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Daily entertainment for kids and adults
Norman Manley Boulevard, Bloody Bay Beach, Negril, Jamaica— +1 876-957-5700
Iberostar Rose Hall Beach, Montego Bay
If you’re hoping to escape the winter blues, you’ve probably noticed that many of the Caribbean islands are a lot more expensive in the wintertime, but Montego Bay in Jamaica is one of the few reasonably priced spots to stay during high season, from about mid-January through early April. Accommodations can be low, and there are even a number of high-quality all-inclusive options that offer a very good value, like the Iberostar Rose Hall Beach. This five-star, all-you-can-drink mega-resort that crushes its competition, is renowned for its outstanding cuisine, liquor, service and activities, which include free scuba tours. An on-site spa and a kids club make this a great pick for families.
Key Amenities:
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Packages including food and drink
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On-site spa, beach access and water activities
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Daily entertainment with kids’ club
Branch Developement, Rose Hall Main Road Little River, Montego Bay, Jamaica— +1 876-680-0000
The Catamaran Hotel, Antigua
After a stay at The Catamaran Hotel, you’ll never want to shell out hundreds of dollars a night for a room in the Caribbean again. It’s just a short stroll from the center of English Harbour on the southern coast of Antigua, tucked between tropical flowers and palm trees. You can enjoy gazing out from your balcony taking in the views that extend across the harbor and the beach, with rooms opening up directly onto a small, intimate stretch of sand where you can borrow a rowboat at no extra cost to explore the hidden beaches around the bay. Air conditioning and WiFi is included in the very affordable rates. This hotel also was featured for its positive body image support, with rooms upgraded to welcome plus-sized people.
Key Amenities:
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Rooms with kitchenettes and balconies on hidden beach
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Accommodations for plus-sized guests
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Sunbathing deck and pool
Falmouth Harbour Antigua, Antigua and Barbuda— +1 268-460-1036
The Coral at Atlantis, Paradise Island, Bahamas
The Coral at Atlantis is considered its “cheap seats,” though plenty of renovations have been made for modern times, like flat-screen TVs, mini-fridges and coffeemakers with Starbucks. Just keep in mind that while the rooms are the least expensive at Atlantis, the restaurant prices can be steep, but it does provide the best value if you have your heart set on Paradise Island. You’ll have access to 11 pools, including a lazy river and a large pool that sits adjacent to the building, as well as an expansive stretch of white sandy beach and free admission to Aquaventure, marine exhibits, a casino and nightlife.
Key Amenities:
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Family-friendly, spacious rooms and suites
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Free access to Aquaventure water park
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Marine exhibits, beach access, casino and nightlife
One Casino Drive Suite 7, Paradise Island, The Bahamas— +1 242-363-2000 ext. 64380
Villa Del Mar Resort, Turks and Caicos
Villa Del Mar Resort is located within walking distance of downtown Providenciales and offers what may be the very best rooms for the price in Turks and Caicos. A condominium property, it includes spacious, modern rooms, most with full kitchens and all with private balconies or patios, is just steps away from Grace Beach, often named among the best beaches in the world with its powdery soft, striking white sands and crystal clear azure waters. While there is no restaurant on-site, the property does host two pools and a poolside bar that serve a complimentary poolside breakfast. Guests also have a reserved beach area complete with umbrellas and lawn chairs, and a small fitness center.
Key Amenities:
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Condos with kitchens and private balconies or patios
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Reserved beach area with gear provided
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Pools and poolside bar with complimentary breakfasts
Bonaventure Cres, Grace Bay TKCA 1ZZ, Turks and Caicos Islands— +1 877-345-4890
Sweet Retreat Hotel, Bequia
Bequia is often referred to as a hidden treasure – lush, green and hilly, it’s also been called “the most perfect” of all the Caribbean isles. It’s home to Princess Margaret Beach, renowned as one of the best beaches in the region as a mostly unspoiled slice of paradise, and it’s just steps away from the quiet capital of Port Elizabeth, with its colorful wooden buildings, a few scattered beach bars and eateries. Here you’ll find outstanding best places for snorkeling, as well as ideal spots for enjoying a relaxing snooze underneath the palm and sea grape trees. Sweet Retreat Hotel makes it possible to enjoy all of this at a budget-friendly price (and with breakfast included in your rate). The intimate property hosts only a handful of individual rooms, each with beautiful views of Lower Bay Beach and yacht-filled Admiralty Bay.
Key Amenities:
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Intimate rooms with private entrances and balconies
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Access to Lower Bay Beach and complimentary beach equipment
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Homemade breakfast included daily
Bequia lower bay, St Vincent and the Grenadines— +1 784-498-3921
Siesta Hotel, Grenada
Grenada is often overlooked, which makes it not only a bargain for those who do visit but a destination where you’ll be unlikely to have to battle the crowds. St. George’s harbor is one of the most beautiful in the Caribbean, and its myriad of colors are gorgeously reflected in the clear, turquoise waters. While you won’t find lots of glitzy resorts, you will discover more intimate, affordable properties like Siesta Hotel. This boutique hotel offers easy access to Grand Anse Beach. They even have free airport transfer to make your stay even more convenient,
Key Amenities:
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Access to Grand Anse Beach
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On-site restaurant and pool
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Free airport transfer
Bougainvillea Barbados, Barbados
Not only is getting to Barbados cheaper than ever thanks to direct flights from major cities but reasonable resort rates can also be had too. Bougainvillea Barbados is a Mediterranean-style resort on its south coast. All rooms have either a kitchen or kitchenette, making it easy to save on meals, and guests can also dine at one of two waterfront eateries. The property also has a fitness center, spa, kids’ club and offers water sports.
Key Amenities:
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Beachfront rooms with kitchenettes
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Pools, water sports on beach and fitness center
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On-site spa and kids’ club
Princess Heights Luxury Boutique Condo Hotel, St. Martin
Princess Heights enjoys a dramatic location at cliffside overlooking Dawn Beach in St. Martin and offers jaw-dropping views from nearly every angle including the rooftop pool and spacious, private balconies. Despite the budget-friendly rates, each of the one-or two-bedroom condo-style units includes a full kitchen, as well as a pull-out couch that makes it easy for groups of friends or families to save while still being comfortable. While the property doesn’t include a restaurant or bar, guests are just steps away from the Westin resort providing convenient access to multiple dining options, a casino, shops and the beach.
Key Amenities:
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Condo-style units with full kitchen and private balconies
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Rooftop pool open 24 hours a day
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Conveniently located to beaches, restaurants and bars
156 Oyster Pond Road St Maarten, Dawn Beach, Sint Maarten— +1 721-543-6906
Arubiana Inn, Aruba
The Arubiana Inn offers one of the least expensive deals in the Caribbean and is nothing like the more impersonal, high-rise hotels nearby. You’ll get a warm welcome from the friendly Dutch innkeeper, while restaurants, shops, and Noord district attractions are just a short drive away and Eagle Beach can easily be reached on foot. This intimate property has a small number of rooms, with large comfy beds and mini-fridges filled with complimentary drinks while the swimming pool in the courtyard, surrounded by palm trees and hammocks, makes an ideal place to relax or mingle with other guests in the evening.
Key Amenities:
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Rooms with pool views and stocked drinks
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Rates that include breakfast available
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Conveniently located to Eagle Beach and Noord district
