The Caribbean islands are a dream for many travelers, but their popularity often means big crowds during the high season. If you prefer a quieter escape, consider visiting these islands in the off-season or choosing lesser-known Caribbean gems that don’t attract as many tourists. Not only are these hidden spots more budget-friendly, but they also offer an ideal getaway for those seeking a peaceful, natural retreat.
These lesser-known islands are perfect for travelers who want to immerse themselves in nature. With a laid-back vibe, charming local markets, and fresh Caribbean cuisine, they promise an unforgettable experience.
While some Caribbean destinations experience occasional rains from September to November, you’ll likely encounter only a few passing showers or some cloudy days—nothing to disrupt your plans.
If you’re looking for an affordable, uncrowded getaway this fall, add these underrated Caribbean islands to your list.
Saba
Saba is a hidden Caribbean gem, known for its lush landscapes and incredible dive sites. Mount Scenery, the highest point in the Netherlands, offers breathtaking views of the island and the Caribbean Sea on a clear day. To explore Saba’s rich heritage, a visit to its capital, The Bottom, is a must. The charming red-roofed houses here showcase Saba’s distinctive architecture.
Windwardside, one of Saba’s most picturesque villages, serves as the island’s cultural hub and is home to the Saba Museum, where you can learn about the island’s history and heritage. Another notable spot is Ladder Bay, once the main port of entry to the island, known for its iconic steep staircase called The Ladder, historically used to transport goods and people up to the island. Today, Ladder Bay is a fantastic place for snorkeling, diving, and enjoying Saba’s rugged coastline.
Be sure to explore local shops selling unique Saba lace, natural beauty products, and handcrafted souvenirs. Cozy, welcoming restaurants on the island offer the perfect place to relax and savor Caribbean cuisine, making Saba a true treasure for those seeking a tranquil escape.
Dominica
Dominica, known as the “Nature Isle,” is celebrated for its rich tropical landscapes. As one of the largest and northernmost of the Windward Islands in the Caribbean, it boasts dense rainforests, stunning waterfalls, hot springs, and striking black sand beaches. A visit to Morne Trois Pitons National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, offers a chance to explore highlights like the Boiling Lake and Trafalgar Falls. But the true charm of Dominica lies in its endless hiking trails. For a gentler trek, Syndicate Falls provides an easier path with minimal elevation, making it perfect for a relaxed hike.
Champagne Reef is a must-visit for snorkeling enthusiasts, offering warm waters and colorful marine life. For a glimpse of colonial history, Cabrits National Park is home to Fort Shirley, a restored 18th-century British garrison with sweeping views. For a mystical swim, head to Titou Gorge, a narrow canyon with a hidden waterfall and a small pool nestled in the rock.
The capital city, Roseau, is filled with vibrant, colorful buildings, lively markets, and historic sites like the Old Market and the Dominica Museum, making it a perfect blend of nature and culture.
Guadeloupe
Guadeloupe, a butterfly-shaped Caribbean island, is famed for its serene natural beauty and vibrant culture. One of its main highlights is the La Soufrière volcano, surrounded by lush landscapes and the deep blue waters of the Caribbean. The island is also home to Shoal Bay East, one of the world’s most stunning beaches, with powdery white sand and warm, tropical weather—a paradise for sunbathers.
For adventure lovers, Guadeloupe National Park offers scenic hiking trails that wind through breathtaking waterfalls and rich tropical flora and fauna. To uncover the island’s history, a visit to Fountain Cavern National Park is essential. This remarkable archaeological site features a network of caves adorned with ancient petroglyphs carved by the indigenous Arawak people.
In East End Village, the Heritage Collection Museum showcases Anguilla’s diverse cultural heritage, offering visitors a deeper connection to the island’s unique history.
Grenada
Grenada is often hailed as the most breathtaking island in the Caribbean, with its stunning beaches and lush, green landscapes. While exploring this remarkable island, you can bask on the soft white sands of Grand Anse Beach and take a refreshing dip in the Caribbean’s clear blue waters. For a taste of the Caribbean’s most picturesque city, visit St. George, the charming capital of Grenada. Built around a horseshoe-shaped harbor, St. George boasts colorful colonial buildings, cobblestone streets, and historic forts. A visit to Fort George offers stunning panoramic views of the city and harbor, while Market Square fills the air with the enticing aromas of fresh nutmeg and vanilla.
For thrill-seekers, Annandale Falls—just a short drive from St. George—offers a chance to try cliff diving from a 30-foot drop into pristine waters. Marine enthusiasts will find a unique adventure at the Underwater Sculpture Park off Molin Bay, where more than 60 sculptures are submerged, creating an incredible underwater gallery.
Hiking trails in Grand Etang National Park & Forest Reserve offer an opportunity to stretch your legs and enjoy Grenada’s exotic wildlife, making it a must for nature lovers seeking a full island experience.
Curaçao
Curaçao is the ultimate Caribbean dream destination, known for its historic charm, rugged landscapes, and pristine beaches. Its capital, Willemstad, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is famous for the iconic Handelskade—a vibrant row of Dutch colonial buildings that line St. Anna Bay. For hiking enthusiasts, Christoffel National Park offers trails up Mount Christoffel, the island’s highest peak, with breathtaking views of Curaçao and the turquoise Caribbean Sea from the summit.
The island’s stunning beaches are a major highlight, especially Playa Kenepa (Grote Knip), a picture-perfect spot with soft sand, coconut palms, and crystal-clear waters. To explore Curaçao’s marine life, head to the Curaçao Sea Aquarium, where you can swim with dolphins and view the Caribbean’s incredible coral reefs up close.
For a taste of the island’s famous blue liqueur, visit the Landhuis Chobolobo distillery, where you can also learn about the crafting process. For cultural insights, the Museum Kura Hulanda in Willemstad’s Otrobanda district delves into the African slave trade and its impact on Curaçao and the Caribbean.
There’s nothing like a Caribbean escape to soak up the warm, golden glow of autumn. Pack your bags and prepare for a tropical fall getaway!
