10 Hidden Islands in the Caribbean For a More Secluded Escape

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Imagine sipping fresh coconut water on a stretch of beach where the only footprints in the sand are yours. Picture drifting in crystal-clear waters without dodging crowds or trying to stake out a prime beach chair. If that sounds like your ideal getaway, these 10 lesser-known Caribbean islands are calling your name.

The Caribbean often conjures up images of bustling beach resorts, packed cruise terminals, and lively nightlife. While those spots have their charm, there’s something special about an island where the loudest sound is the rustling of palm trees and the waves lazily kissing the shore. Fortunately, beyond the well-known destinations, the region is sprinkled with tiny, lesser-known gems perfect for those who crave peace, quiet, and a bit of adventure.

Tobago Cays, St. Vincent and the Grenadines

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If you’ve ever dreamed of swimming alongside sea turtles without a horde of tourists snapping photos, Tobago Cays is your spot. This cluster of uninhabited islands sits in a marine park, offering some of the best snorkeling in the Caribbean. The coral reefs here are vibrant, and the waters shimmer in every shade of blue imaginable. Sailboats often drop anchor for the day, but by sunset, you’ll feel like you’ve got the place to yourself.

Ile-à-Vache, Haiti

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Haiti might not be the first place that comes to mind for a tranquil island escape, but Ile-à-Vache is a hidden paradise waiting to be discovered. This small island off the country’s southern coast is home to white-sand beaches, lush hills, and some of the friendliest locals you’ll ever meet. There are no cars here, just walking paths and a handful of boutique hotels offering an off-the-grid experience.

Little Corn Island, Nicaragua

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Although Nicaragua isn’t technically part of the Caribbean, its eastern coastline and offshore islands share the region’s tropical charm. Little Corn Island is the definition of laid-back. There are no roads, no high-rises, and no stress. You can walk the island in under an hour, stopping along the way for fresh seafood and hammock naps. At night, the bioluminescent waters create an otherworldly glow that’s straight out of a dream.

Cayo Espanto, Belize

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This private island takes exclusivity to another level. Just a short boat ride from Ambergris Caye, Cayo Espanto offers overwater bungalows and personalized service that makes you feel like royalty. The entire island can be rented if you want complete solitude, but even if you’re just staying in one of the villas, you’ll hardly see another soul. The clear waters are perfect for snorkeling, and the island’s gourmet dining makes every meal unforgettable.

Barbuda, Antigua and Barbuda

Antigua_and_Barbuda
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While Antigua gets most of the attention, Barbuda remains blissfully under the radar. With miles of pink-sand beaches and only a handful of resorts, this island feels like it belongs to you alone. The Frigate Bird Sanctuary, home to one of the world’s largest colonies of these fascinating birds, is worth the boat ride to see. Barbuda’s waters are so clear that even from a boat, you can spot colorful fish darting through the coral.

Guana Island, British Virgin Islands

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This privately owned island is one of the most untouched places in the Caribbean. Guana Island’s owners have gone to great lengths to preserve its natural beauty, allowing only a limited number of guests at a time. The result? A true escape where hiking trails lead to secret beaches, and the only interruptions come from chirping birds or the occasional iguana crossing your path.

Isla Holbox, Mexico

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Just north of Mexico’s Yucatán Peninsula, Isla Holbox is a serene alternative to the bustling beaches of Cancun. No cars are allowed here, just golf carts and bicycles. The island’s powdery sand, shallow waters, and relaxed atmosphere make it a haven for those looking to unplug. Between May and September, visitors can swim alongside gentle whale sharks, an experience that feels both humbling and exhilarating.

Carriacou, Grenada

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Known as the “Land of Reefs,” Carriacou is a snorkeler’s paradise. This tiny island, part of Grenada’s tri-island state, is home to some of the most pristine coral reefs in the Caribbean. The locals embrace a slow, easygoing lifestyle, and the island’s festivals offer a glimpse into its vibrant traditions. Unlike its busier neighbors, Carriacou doesn’t cater to massive cruise ships, meaning the beaches stay blissfully uncrowded.

Saba, Netherlands Antilles

Secret Caribbean Islands You’ll Want to Escape to Before Everyone Else Finds Out
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Saba is often called the “Unspoiled Queen of the Caribbean,” and for good reason. This volcanic island rises dramatically from the sea, with lush green cliffs and misty mountaintops. There aren’t any sprawling beaches, but the island is famous for its world-class diving and stunning hiking trails. If you’re up for a challenge, the trek to Mount Scenery’s peak rewards you with breathtaking views and a cool, cloud-kissed atmosphere.

Anegada, British Virgin Islands

Secret Caribbean Islands You’ll Want to Escape to Before Everyone Else Finds Out
Photo Credit: Heidi Baker/Flickr

Unlike its mountainous neighbors, Anegada is flat, making it a rare sight in the British Virgin Islands. What it lacks in elevation, it makes up with stunning, secluded beaches and the largest coral barrier reef in the Caribbean. The island is famous for its fresh lobster, which is reason enough to visit. With only a few small guesthouses and little development, Anegada remains one of the most peaceful places in the region.

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Disclaimer – This list is solely the author’s opinion based on research and publicly available information.

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