9 Hidden Caribbean Islands Unspoiled by Tourist Crowds

This tropical island seamlessly blends remnants of its 19th-century sugar cane plantation era, including a converted museum, windmills, and traditional oxcart transportation, with expansive golden sand beaches.

Situated in the Lesser Antilles of the Eastern Caribbean, Marie-Galante holds the unique status of being an overseas department of France.

Beyond the typical Caribbean offerings, such as snorkeling amid vibrant coral reefs and day trips to nearby islets, Marie-Galante boasts rum distilleries and charming eateries serving delectable French-Caribbean cuisine.

Situated just off the coast of Cancun, this petite island offers the allure of top-notch resorts without the accompanying chaos.

Isla Mujeres boasts quintessential Mexican Caribbean features: pristine white-sand beaches that gaze upon the vivid turquoise waters, with Playa Norte consistently earning a spot on the "best of" beach lists in the region.

Beyond the sun and surf, visitors can experience a sea turtle sanctuary, explore the ruins of a hacienda constructed by a pirate, and visit Garrafón Natural Reef Park, a popular spot for encountering whale sharks during the spring through fall months.

Anegada, a coral and limestone haven, is celebrated for its pristine white-sand beaches, and shallow warm waters.

Historically, the neighboring reefs posed a challenge for ships navigating the area. Nowadays, divers can explore the remnants of these reefs, delve into underwater caves, and encounter the diverse marine life that calls these waters home.

In the island's interior, salt ponds are a sanctuary for thousands of flamingos, while hiking trails and lookout points provide opportunities to observe these elegant birds in their natural habitat.

Nestled amidst lush volcanic landscapes, Canouan Island exudes luxury while preserving an intimate ambiance. Despite its opulence, the entire island spans just a few square miles and features a Mandarin Oriental resort, beach-front villas, rejuvenating spas, and a marina adorned with luxurious yachts.

Days on Canouan can be spent exploring cays and reefs teeming with sea turtles or honing your golf skills on the meticulously crafted 18-hole course designed by Jim Fazio.

For those seeking a Caribbean island getaway characterized by simplicity, where staying in an uncomplicated hut without internet access and savoring the day's catch by local fishermen is the epitome of the experience, the San Blas Islands beckon as a budget-friendly travel haven.

Situated in the Guna Yala indigenous territory of northwest Panama, these islands form part of a 378-island archipelago. The Gunas, dedicated to preserving their natural beauty, have successfully shielded the islands from mass tourism. The majority of these isles remain uninhabited, featuring stretches of pristine white sand adorned with palm trees and surrounded by shallow, warm waters - ideal for leisurely island hopping via a chartered sailboat or canoe.

Affectionately known as "The Emerald Isle of the Caribbean," Montserrat earns its nickname from its captivating landscape characterized by rolling green hills and towering cliffs. Adding to the allure is the island's historical connection to Ireland, as it once had a significant population with Irish roots.

The island's drama doesn't cease with its lush scenery. Visitors can embark on tours to witness a settlement preserved and entombed in ash from a volcanic eruption. Montserrat also boasts black sand beaches frequented by sea turtles and an interior teeming with a diverse array of bird species.

Once recognized primarily as a backpacker's haven, the two quaint islands of Big Corn and Little Corn have evolved into a more boho-chic destination while retaining their secluded charm, staying comfortably off the well-trodden tourist path.

Situated 43 miles east of mainland Nicaragua, these islands boast long, sandy, and private beaches, complemented by barrier reefs that create serene waters hosting an abundance of marine life. Accommodations range from upscale eco-cottages to vibrant, modest bungalows.

For those yearning to spend their days swaying in a hammock, Little Corn provides the perfect sanctuary. Spanning a mere 1.5 square miles and prohibiting motorized vehicles, the pace here is unhurried and stress-free, offering a serene escape from the ordinary.

South Caicos stands as an underappreciated gem, providing an ideal destination for travelers seeking a break from expansive resorts, opting instead for the simple pleasures of beachside relaxation, dolphin watching, and snorkeling.

Venturing Long Cay, nestled within the Admiral Cockburn Land and Sea National Park, opens up opportunities to observe a diverse range of protected animals, including herons, ospreys, Rock Iguanas, and more. South Caicos offers a tranquil haven for those desiring a more intimate and nature-centric experience in the Turks and Caicos archipelago.

In summary, the Caribbean often faces misconceptions of being a generic and touristy destination, causing many travelers to overlook its diverse offerings. However, the vast Caribbean Sea spans over 1 million square miles, revealing numerous hidden gems for those willing to explore.

It's important to note that higher prices on flights and hotels may require extra financial planning for any Caribbean trip this year. While the least expensive time to travel is typically in September and October, coinciding with hurricane season, savvy travelers can still make the most of their journey by leveraging top travel credit cards to earn rewards and save on expenses.