27 Movies Filmed in the Caribbean to Inspire Your Next Vacation

Looking for inspiration for your next Caribbean vacation? Or, just looking to chillax and live vicariously through the characters in these 25 movies filmed in the Caribbean.

Whatever you’re looking for, kick your feet up and get ready for these adventurous films based in or movies set in Caribbean locations.

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List of 27 Movies Filmed in the Caribbean

From the classic “Pirates of the Caribbean” and “Twilight” series to the old-school Dr. Dolittle, Inspector Gadget, and beyond, these are 25 movies set in the Caribbean. What better way to plan your next trip than a good beach movie that takes place in the Caribbean? Here are your best Caribbean movies.

1. Into the Blue | Filmed in the Bahamas

If you’re anything like me, then you love a good movie. But what’s even better than a good movie? A good movie that takes place in a beautiful location. Into the Blue is just such a movie. This 2005 thriller was set in and around Nassau, Bahamas, and stars Jessica Alba and Paul Walker.

Not only does the movie have an amazing cast, but it was also filmed in one of the most gorgeous places on Earth. The Bahamas are known for their turquoise waters and white sand beaches, and Into the Blue does not disappoint. If you’re looking for a little armchair travel inspiration, then this is the movie for you.

Into the Blue follows a group of divers who discover a sunken treasure in the Bahamas. While exploring the shipwreck, they come up against some dangerous criminals who will stop at nothing to get their hands on the treasure. The movie is equal parts suspenseful and romantic, with plenty of action thrown in for good measure.

Where to watch: Free on YouTube, Tubi, Amazon Prime Video

2. Against All Odds | Filmed in Cozumel Island + Tulum, Mexico

Against All Odds is a 1984 film starring Rachel Ward, Jeff Bridges, and James Woods. The theme song from the film, also titled “Against All Odds,” even earned Phil Collins an Oscar nomination for Best Song in 1985 (though he lost to Stevie Wonder).

The film Against All Odds is about an ex-football player named Terry Brogan (played by Jeff Bridges), who’s down on his luck and penniless. A shady character he knows named Jake Wise (James Woods) hires Brogan to track down his ex-girlfriend, Jessie Wyler (Rachel Ward), who he hasn’t seen in years.

She is living in the Caribbean on Cozumel Island in Mexico, leading a quiet life. When Brogan first sees Jessie Wyler, it’s love at first sight — and her feelings are mutual.

The two fall in love and the twists start to appear. When Jake Wise gets wind of this, this love triangle takes a turn for the worst (and the most deadly).

The film is a romantic crime drama set in a few places in the Caribbean, including Cozumel Island, Tulum, Mexico, and even at the Mayan Ruins of Chichen Itza, one of the Seven Wonders of the World. Against All Odds is one of the only movies to have ever been shot there.

Submitted by Shelley of Tulum Travel Secrets

Where to Watch: Free on Philo; Buy or rent on Amazon Prime, YouTube, Google Play;

3. Wendy 2020 | Partially Filmed in Tulum

This film reimagines the classic story of Peter Pan and the desire to never grow up through the lens of a female protagonist, Wendy. In the film, Wendy lives in the rural South with her mother and twin brothers. Her life is changed forever when she sees one of her cousins following a hooded figure onto a train car as it passes. 

Years later, Wendy and her brothers climb onto the train, too. There, they meet Peter, who takes them to a tropical volcano that he calls, “Mother.” The children are reunited with their long-lost cousin, who hasn’t aged a day since he was last seen in his hometown. The children explore the island, reveling in youth and never aging a day so long as they believe in the magic of the “Mother.”

Wendy was directed by Benh Zeitlin, who was nominated for an Academy Award for his 2012 film, Beasts of the Southern Wild. The film stars Devin France, Yashua Mack, Gage Naquin, Gavin Naquin, Ahmad Cage, Krzysztof Meyn, and Romyri Ross.

Wendy was largely filmed in Montserrat, part of the Leeward Islands in the West Indies. Additional Caribbean filming locations include both Antigua, Antigua and Barbados, and Tulum, Mexico. 

Contributed by Amber from Amber Everywhere

Where to watch: Free on Hulu and Sling; Buy or rent on Amazon Prime

4. Captain Ron | Filmed in Puerto Rico

Captain Ron was set in Puerto Rico and stars Martin Short and Kurt Russell. This comedy was released in 1992.

When Martin Harvey (Martin Short) inherits a 60-foot yacht from his uncle, he takes his family to the island of St. Pomme de Terre to pick it up and sail it back to the United States. 

They hire Captain Ron (Kurt Russell) to navigate and teach them how to sail through the Caribbean waters, but Martin’s plan for a spontaneous adventure quickly becomes more than he bargained for.

Between the yacht being an unexpected pile of junk, giving rides to dangerous guerillas (not GO-rillas), getting arrested for said smuggling of guerillas, a rebellious daughter getting a tattoo, pirates of the Caribbean stealing the yacht, getting stranded in the ocean on a raft, and stealing their yacht back from the pirates, there is no end to the calamities. 

5. Cocktail | Jamaica

When you watch the movie Cocktail, you can’t help but feel the warm Jamaican sun and the cool breeze blowing through your hair.

The film, which was released in 1988, was shot on location in Jamaica and features stunning beaches and lush landscapes. Some of the gorgeous settings in the movie are Dunn River Falls and Dragon Bay Beach.

Tom Cruise stars as a bartender who falls in love with a beautiful woman played by Elisabeth Shue.

Brian (Cruise) is a big-city bartender whose dream is to open his own bar. He meets a mentor and heads to the Caribbean to pursue his dream.

In Jamaica, he meets Jordan (Shue) and they connect and quickly fall in love. The two share some unforgettable moments together against a backdrop of pristine beaches and crystal-clear waters.

Of course, it is not as simple as it sounds, and the couple faces their share of heartache and trouble along the way.

If you’re looking for a romantic comedy that will take you away to a tropical paradise, then Cocktail is definitely worth watching.

Submitted by Chantelle, Romantic Rambles

6. Final Scene of Shawshank Redemption | Filmed in USVI

Where to watch: Free with HBO Max, YouTube, Sling, fubo, Philo
Buy or rent on Amazon, Google Play, Apple TV

7. Pirates of the Caribbean: The Curse of the Black Pearl | St Vincent

Of course, when it comes to movies filmed in the Caribbean, there’s none more popular than Pirates of the Caribbean. Curse of the Black Pearl is a 2003 American pirate adventure film.

The film follows blacksmith Will Turner (Orlando Bloom) and pirate Captain Jack Sparrow (Johnny Depp) as they rescue Turner’s love Elizabeth Swann (Keira Knightley) from cursed pirates led by Sparrow’s mutinous former first mate, Hector Barbossa (Geoffrey Rush).

It is the first installment in the Pirates of the Caribbean film series. Filming took place in various locations around Jamaica and St Vincent.

Where to watch: Free with Disney Plus, Buy or rent on Amazon, YouTube, Google Play

8. Pirates of the Caribbean: On Stranger Tides | Partially Filmed in Puerto Rico

Pirates of the Caribbean: On Stranger Tides was released in 2011.  This movie was filmed in various locations around the world, with Puerto Rico being the only filming locale actually in the Caribbean.

This installment in the popular Pirates of the Caribbean series features Johnny Depp as the infamous Captain Jack Sparrow, Ian McShane as Blackbeard, and Penélope Cruz as Angelica, Jack’s former lover, and Blackbeard’s daughter.

The storyline of Pirates of the Caribbean: On Stranger Tides revolves around a quest to locate the mythical Fountain of Youth.  Captain Jack Sparrow is abducted by Angelica, finds himself a captive on Blackbeard’s ship, and is forced to lead Blackbeard to the Fountain.

A new wrinkle added to the myth of the Fountain of Youth is that the water from the Fountain must be drunk from two silver chalices (originally belonging to explorer Ponce de León).  One of the chalices must contain the tear of a mermaid, so there are subplots involving mermaids and the acquisition of the required tear.

As in all Pirates of the Caribbean films, there are plenty of over-the-top swashbuckling adventure scenes.  So, temporarily suspend your belief in the laws of physics, and enjoy the show!

Contributed by Lisa Garrett of Waves and Cobblestones

Where to watch: Free with Disney Plus, Buy or rent on Amazon, YouTube, Google Play

9. Pirates of the Caribbean: Dead Man’s Chest | Dominica

In the film Pirates of the Caribbean: Dead Man’s Chest, Johnny Depp stars as Captain Jack Sparrow. Unsurprisingly, this Pirates of the Caribbean chapter filmed many scenes in Dominica. In the movie, Depp portrays a swashbuckling pirate who is being pursued by the ghost of Captain Davy Jones. Jones is the ruler of the underworld, and he has come to claim Sparrow’s soul.

To avoid this fate, Sparrow must find the legendary Dead Man’s Chest, which contains Jones’ heart. The film follows Sparrow’s adventures as he tries to stay one step ahead of Jones and his crew of undead pirates.

Along the way, Sparrow finds himself caught up in a battle for control of the seas, and he must confront his own fears and doubts in order to save his soul. Pirates of the Caribbean: Dead Man’s Chest is a thrilling adventure that is sure to keep audiences entertained from beginning to end.

Where to watch: Free with Disney Plus, Buy or rent on Amazon, YouTube, Google Play

10. Miami Vice – Dominican Republic

Miami Vice is a 2006 American action crime thriller film about two MDPD detectives, Crockett and Tubbs, who go undercover to fight drug trafficking operations. Miami Vice stars Jamie Foxx as Tubbs and Colin Farrell as Crockett. The film also features Gong Li, Naomie Harris, Ciarán Hinds, Justin Theroux, and Luis Guzmán.

In Miami Vice, Crockett and Tubbs are investigating the murder of an informant who was working with them to bring down a drug lord. To infiltrate, Crockett and Tubbs pose as high-level drug dealers.

Where to watch: Free with HBO Max, Hulu; Purchase on Amazon, YouTube, Apple TV, Google Play

11. Love Wrecked | Dominican Republic

This 2005 rom-com movie in the Caribbean is a blast from the past starring Amanda Bynes, Jonathan Bennett, Jamie-Lynn Sigler, and Lance Bass. Love Wrecked is a blast from the past where Amanda Bynes finds herself stranded on a remote beach with her favorite rock star. Little does the rock star know, they’re not really stranded at all!

The summer-loving rom-com movie filmed in the Caribbean used locations in the Dominican Republic, including Ocean World, Sun Village Beach Resort, and Cabrera.

Where to watch: Free with Tubi, Amazon Prime, Vudu, Purchase on YouTube, Google Play, Apple TV

12. flipper | Filmed in the Bahamas

Flipper is a family-friendly movie about a teenager who has a hard time dealing with his parent’s divorce until he meets a friendly dolphin. The movie is set in the Florida keys but filmed in the Bahamas!

As you can see, the Bahamas is a popular filming location for movies and TV shows because of its beautiful scenery and clear blue waters

If you’re looking for a relaxing place to watch some beautiful marine life, the Bahamas is definitely the place to go!

13. Sugar 2022 | Cancun

In case you’re wondering, Canun is in the Caribbean!

One of the newest movies released in November 2022 is Sugar. It is inspired by a true story of two Canadian ladies who are traveling on a luxurious cruise ship around the world. Some of the scenes in the movie were filmed in the Caribbean, just off the Yucatan Peninsula coast, specifically in Cancun. The cruise around the South Pacific and the Caribbean is an amazing possibility for both women to gain followers.

The movie’s main cast is full of famous actresses like Katherine McNamara that played Mia Smoak in the series Arrow and Sonya from the Maze Runner. Another influencer that accompanies her during the cruise is Jasmine Sky Sarin. It is also worth mentioning Eric Bruneau, who is a Canadian actor that plays important role in the movie.

This drama/crime movie was directed by Vic Sarin. A filmmaker who has produced numerous award-winning films. One of his most prestigious awards was Kodak Lifetime Achievement Award for creating special visuals in Canadian cinematography.

By Paulina from the UK Every Day

Not available to watch yet

14. The Twilight Saga: Breaking Dawn | US Virgin Islands

In Breaking Dawn: Part 1 you can catch Magen’s Bay in some of the island scenes. Magen’s Bay is one of the most beautiful beaches in St Thomas and a sought-after location for many travelers!

The Twilight Saga: Breaking Dawn Part 1 is the fourth installment in the Twilight series. The movie picks up after Bella and Edward’s wedding, where they subsequently spend their honeymoon on a remote island off the coast of Brazil. While there, Bella realizes she is pregnant with Edward’s child, which causes great alarm to Edward, who is worried about the danger his newborn child poses to Bella’s life.

Where to Watch: Free with YouTube, Showtime, Sling, Hulu, Paramount+
Rent or buy on Amazon, AppleTV

15. Hush 1 | Barbados

Hush 1 is a Barbadian movie that was filmed on the Caribbean island of Barbados.

The movie is about a woman who gets pregnant and has to deal with the consequences. The woman’s boyfriend is not happy about the news and wants her to get an abortion. However, the woman is reluctant to do so and decides to keep the baby.

The movie follows the woman as she tries to cope with her new situation and make the best of it. Hush 1 is an informative movie that provides a unique perspective on the challenges faced by women who become pregnant unexpectedly.

Contributed by Giorgy from G-Extreme Travel

16. James Bond: No Time to Die | Jamaica 

17. Splash | The Bahamas

In the 1984 film Splash, Tom Hanks stars as a man who falls in love with a woman who is secretly a mermaid. The film was a hit at the box office and earned critical acclaim for its charming story and impressive special effects.

The film tells the story of a man named Allen Bauer who is rescued from drowning by a beautiful woman named Madison as a child. He falls in love with her but does not know that she is secretly a mermaid. When her true identity is revealed, Allen must decide whether to return to his life on land or join Madison underwater. Splash is a classic romantic comedy with a unique twist that has charmed audiences for decades.

18. Dr. No James Bond

In the first James Bond movie, Agent 007 battles the mysterious Dr. No, a scientific genius bent on destroying the U.S. space program. The movie begins with Bond being sent to investigate the murder of a fellow agent in Jamaica. There, he uncovers Dr. No’s evil plot to destroy the US airspace program. Can the original James Bond, Sean Connery, save the day?

19. The Deep | British Virgin Islands

The Deep is a short film starring Jacqueline Bisset and Nick Nolte shot in the British Virgin Islands. The movie tells the story of a young couple who get involved with treasure hunters in the deep sea. The film follows their journey as they explore the mysterious and dangerous world beneath the waves.

Along the way, they encounter strange creatures and wonders, as well as the perils of the deep. The film is a visually stunning exploration of the underwater world, and its creatures and dangers. It is also a thrilling adventure story, full of suspense and excitement. The Deep is a must-see for anyone who loves the ocean, or who wants to explore its mysteries.

Read more: US Virgin Islands vs British Virgin Islands

20. Guava Island | Havana, Cuba

Living on the oppressed “Guava Island” Donald Glover and Rihanna produce an Amazon Original film. The film takes you through their journey to hold a music festival to bring joy to the island. In the movie, you’ll see music, dancing, and a few twists and turns along the way.

Although Guava island is set in a fictional location, the movie was filmed in the Caribbean island of Havana, Cuba.

21. Superman II | Partially Filmed in St Lucia

Superman II is a 1980 American superhero film directed by Richard Lester and starring Christopher Reeve, Margot Kidder, and Gene Hackman. It is a sequel to the 1978 film Superman and was released in theaters on June 19, 1980. The film partially shot in St Lucia grossed $190 million worldwide.

Superman II follows Superman as he battles Lex Luthor, who has teamed up with General Zod, Ursa, and Non in an attempt to take over the world. Superman must stop them while also dealing with his dilemma of whether to reveal his secret identity to Lois Lane.

22. Dr. Dolittle (1967) | St Lucia

Dr. Dolittle is a 1967 American musical that has been remade time and time again. The original cast featured Rex Harrison as Dr. Dolittle. It was adapted from the series of children’s books of the same name by Hugh Lofting.

The film tells the story of a doctor who can communicate with animals, and his efforts to save an endangered species. Some of this everlasting film was shot on the island of St Lucia.

23. Panther: Wakanda Forever | Puerto Rico

As the Avengers takes the box office by storm, Black Panther, Wakanda forever, is no different. As the world says goodbye to Chadwick Boseman, the people of Wakanda fight to protect their own lands after King T’Challa passes away.

24. Inspector Gadget 2 | Filmed in St Lucia

Inspector Gadget 2 is a spinoff of the classic cartoon that follows the adventures of the titular character, a bumbling yet well-meaning detective. Inspector Gadget is equipped with a variety of gadgets and devices, which he often uses in haphazard and unexpected ways.

While his intentions are always good, his actions often unintentionally lead to chaos and destruction. Thankfully, his trusty sidekick, Penny, is always there to help him out of trouble. Together, they solved mysteries and exposed criminals, much to the chagrin of Inspector Gadget’s nemesis, Dr. Claw.

The beautiful landscapes and beaches you see in the movie? That’s St Lucia!

25. Fool’s Gold

The 2008 movie Fool’s Gold starring Matthew McConaughey and Kate Hudson is set in the Caribbean on the islands of St Vincent and Dominica.

The plot follows Matthew McConaughey’s character Ben Finnegan who is facing marriage problems with his wife Tess (played by Kate Hudson). They go on a wild treasure hunt in the Caribbean, trying to find a famous treasure of a sunken ship, trying to locate the wreck.

However, clues are few and far between and Finn has several debts putting pressure on the treasure hunt in addition to the other hunters who are always hard on its tail.

Fool’s Gold was filmed in several different locations, including Dominica and White Cay but also several places in Australia. The underwater scenes were mostly shot in a studio for the safety of the actors.

If you’re getting ready for a trip to the Caribbean this movie is the perfect easy watch to make you excited.

Submitted by Victoria from www.guideyourtravel.com

26. The Lost City | Dominican Republic

This comedy stars Sandra Bullock, Channing Tatum, and Daniel Radcliffe. While it may seem like an odd trio of stars, this satirical comedy special made me laugh from start to finish.

Sandra Bullock stars as a famous romance writer who just might happen to be the key to Daniel Radcliffe’s hidden treasure hunt! When Bullock’s character refuses to help Radcliff, he’s forced to kidnap the writer. Is Tatum successful in his hunt to save the damsel?

The Lost City is set in the Caribbean on a private island, but the movie was filmed in the Dominican Republic! Not a bad place to work for these three actors.

27. Gemini Man | Cartagena, Colombia

Gemini Man was released in 2019. It starred Will Smith and Clive Owen, and it was notable for its groundbreaking use of de-aging technology to see Smith face off against a younger clone of himself.

The film takes place in several locations, but one of the most prominent roles is given to the city of Cartagena, on Colombia’s Caribbean coast, and one of Colombia’s premier destinations.

After a hit goes wrong, Smith, in the role of the assassin of Henry Brogan, is being hunted down by his former employers. He narrowly escapes and flees to Colombia’s Caribbean, arriving first to the picturesque Rosario Islands, before setting up shop in the historic city of Cartagena.

There he encounters his younger clone, named Junior, who chases him on a thrilling motorcycle chase through Cartagena’s colonial streets and around and atop its colonial-era wall.

Afterward, Brogan flees to Hungary, where Junior allies with him, and they defeat their hunters.

While the film did not receive high ratings aside from its impressive graphics, Smith got lots of love from Cartagena’s population and released several videos and social media posts of him enjoying the city and all it has to offer.

By Adam McConnaughhay from CartagenaExplorer.com

What Famous Movies Have Been Filmed in the Caribbean?

Along with this list of 25 movies filmed in the Caribbean, some more popular movies that make the list are:

• How Stella Got Her Groove Back (Jamaica)
• Weekend at Bernie’s II (USVI)
• A Woman Named Jackie (St Thomas USVI)
• Jaws (Bahamas)
• Casino Royale (Bahamas)
  

Movies in the Caribbean FAQ

Conclusion: 27 Movies in the Caribbean

If you’re looking for a little bit of inspiration to plan your next vacation, look no further than this list of 27 movies filmed in the Caribbean.

From light-hearted comedies to heart-wrenching dramas, these films will have you dreaming of white sand beaches and turquoise waters in no time. So what are you waiting for? Start planning your Caribbean vacation today!

Start Planning Your Trip to the Caribbean!

Aruba:
Aruba Honeymoon, Best Resorts in Aruba, Sunset Cruises Aruba, Aruba vs St Lucia

USVI:
7 Day St John Itinerary | The Best of USVI 2022, Best Tours in St Thomas

Turks and Caicos:
Turks Itinerary, St Thomas vs Turks and Caicos, Turks vs Aruba