13 Best Caribbean Islands for Hiking Adventures
I have visited a lot of Caribbean islands in my life – 13 to be exact. But the first one I visited that had major hikes and mountains was Puerto Rico. I quickly became obsessed with blending my love of outdoor adventure with my love for Caribbean islands.
Some people love sitting at the beach for days. If you’re here, that’s probably not you! You may not know it yet, but there are some epic opportunities to discover the best hikes in the Caribbean. Steep mountains, wet rainforests, dark caves, and more.
It didn’t take long for me to realize just how many Caribbean islands offer some incredibly unique hiking opportunities. Now, I love prioritizing the hikes and outdoor adventures these islands offer.
Below, I’m going to take you on an adventure through 14 of the best Caribbean islands for hiking, and which hikes you can’t miss out on. Get your bucket list out, because we’re about to add a few boxes to check!
1. Puerto Rico
Most popular hike on the island: El Yunque National Forest
Where to stay: Tropica Beach Hotel
If you find yourself in Puerto Rico, there’s no better hike than the El Yunque National Forest, towards El Yunque Peak. Unsurprisingly, you’ll run into plenty of rainfall as you ascend through the lush forest, lined with a few cascading waterfalls.
The journey up can get slippery at points – it is a rainforest after all! Traverse up muddy hills and enjoy the sound of the rainforest before reaching the spectacular lookout point at El Yunque Peak.
The last time I hiked up the mountain, I was greeted by an ocean of clouds. However, within a short 10 minutes, the skies cleared up, revealing miles of uninterrupted forest views. The experience was nothing short of incredible. I visited in March and the weather was rainy, but overall warm and perfect!
While El Yunque’s highlight is its famous waterfall, excessive rainfall could make swimming and exploring hazardous. Nonetheless, even if you can’t take a refreshing dip in the waterfall, the surrounding hikes through the rainforest remain exceptionally rewarding.
2. St Lucia
Most popular hike on the island: Gros Pitons Hike
Where to stay: Ladera
Saint Lucia is arguably one of the best Caribbean islands for nature lovers, with some of the most striking views and challenging terrain. It’s frequently known as one of the best land and sea destinations in the Caribbean. If you love Caribbean islands with mountains and beaches, heading to St Lucia is a must!
Visitors travel to St Lucia to tackle Gros Piton, a focal point of the country and a UNESCO World Heritage site.
While the trail is only about 3.2 miles, the entire first half is uphill to the summit. Then, you’ll turn around and descend the same way you came up the mountain.
A hiking guide is required; they’ll meet you in the small village at the base of the mountain. I’d recommend arranging for a guide for your small group so that you can set your own pace while hiking.
Stay at the Ladera when you visit St. Lucia, and you’ll have views of the Pitons from your open-air 3-walled suite (sounds magical, right? It is!) and you’re just a short drive from the hike.
There are only 37 rooms, all unique with woodwork crafted by local artisans and private plunge pools. You’ll be near plenty of snorkeling too!
The Ladera also has a short trail on the property, where you can climb up the ridge and enjoy more private views of the Pitons and Sugar Bay below, then discover plentiful fruit trees and a treehouse escape along the trail.
Pigeon Island National Park is another great spot for a shorter hike in St Lucia with beautiful views and the historic Fort Rodney.
3. Cuba
Most popular hike on the island: Vegas Grande waterfall
Where to stay: Hotel Mystique Trinidad La Popa
Cuba is an amazing and underrated hiking destination in the Caribbean that should be on anyone’s bucket list.
There is plenty of rainforest on the island and some of the most popular hikes lead to mesmerizing waterfalls like El Nicho and Vegas Grande waterfalls which are both located in the deep of the Topes de Collantes National Park.
You can easily reach the hiking trails by booking a shared taxi from your hotel in either Trinidad or Cienfuegos. But you can also find plenty of hiking trails around Las Terrazas and another of the best hikes in Cuba is to the top of El Yunque Mountain in Baracoa.
My favorite hike was by far to Vegas Grande waterfall, especially because I arrived early before the crowds arrived and had the entire paradise to myself.
4. St John US Virgin Islands
Most popular hike on the island: Peace Hill Trail
Where to stay: St John Westin Resort and Villas
Discover the ultimate Caribbean hiking destination: St. John USVI. St. John is a paradise for nature enthusiasts with its extensive network of hiking trails. Immerse yourself in the beauty of the Virgin Islands National Park, spanning 14,737 acres and encompassing 75% of the island. With over 20 trails to explore, the possibilities are endless.
Walk through its forests, along pristine beaches, and explore the remains of historical plantation ruins. One trail that stands out is the Peace Hill Trail, an easy and quick hike of less than 0.2 miles round trip.
As you go uphill to the old Peace Hill Windmill, prepare for the breathtaking views of Caneel and Truck Bays on one side and Hawksnest on the other.
And that’s not all – you’ll uncover a St John hidden gem as you descend from the trail. A shaded trail offers an easy hike to Denis Bay at the end. Keep your eyes peeled for hermit crabs along the way.
Other popular hikes are Rams Head Trail and Reef Bay Trail. There are many options for hiking on St. John. Plan your morning hike and beat the heat to make the most of your experience.
After a hike, treat yourself to a day of relaxation at a nearby beach. Pack a picnic lunch from North Shore Deli (my favorite breakfast sandwich on the island) in a backpack cooler.
Remember to bring snorkel gear, a beach blanket, a hat, and reef-safe sunscreen. St John is possibly the best Caribbean island for snorkeling and hiking- if you care to blend the two!
The largest hotel on the Island, St John Westin Resort and Villas, is a great place to stay, located near Cruz Bay.
5. Jamaica
Most popular hike on the island: Dunn’s River Falls
Where to stay: Bahia Principe Grand Jamaica
Whether you’re a seasoned hiker or a beginner, Jamaica has trails suitable for all levels of expertise. From the famous Blue Mountains and Lagoons to the stunning Dunn’s Falls, there are countless opportunities to explore the island’s natural beauty on foot.
And, if you’re looking for the most mountainous Caribbean island to explore, Jamaica is certainly a top contender!
One of the most iconic hiking spots in Jamaica is Dunn’s River Falls, a true gem nestled in the rainforest of Ocho Rios. Jamaica travel tip to remember: it’s in the rainforest, visiting during peak hurricane season – August-October may mean extra rain during your trip.
This magnificent waterfall offers an exhilarating hiking experience like no other, as visitors have the opportunity to climb up the cascading tiers of the falls, guided by experienced local guides.
If you’re searching for the best hotels in Jamaica that are conveniently located near Dunn’s Falls, look no further than the Bahia Principe Grand Jamaica. This all-inclusive resort offers a comfortable stay after a long day of exploring the island.
6. St Kitts
Most popular hike on the island: Mount Liamuiga Volcano
Where to stay: St Kitts Marriott Resort
One of my favorite tropical Caribbean islands, Saint Kitts, is not only a great destination for beaches, but it is also an incredible hiking destination! Vacationers who are interested in nature, adventure, wildlife, or beautiful scenery will find many hiking trails in St Kitts to put on their itinerary.
There’s a great variety of hikes in St Kitts. Some hikes go up densely-covered mountains, some end at sandy beaches and some go through the rainforest or ravines through lush greenery.
One of the most popular hikes in St Kitts is the hike up Mount Liamuiga Volcano at an altitude of over 3,500 feet. It is a difficult 6-hour round-trip hike that goes up a mountain and through the rainforest.
To make the hike, it’s much better to go in a group – there are plenty of group trips you can sign up for! And as many seasoned Caribbean hikers will advise, you should make sure to beat the heat of the sun by starting this hike as soon as the sun rises . This depends on when you go – January and early winter months tend to be much cooler than the later months like August.
If you are more of a casual hiker, there are less strenuous hikes around the island like Bat Cave Hike or Radio Tower Hike. No matter your fitness level, there is a hiking trail for your ability on St Kitts for you to enjoy.
7. Curacao
Most popular hike on the island: Christoffel Berg
Where to stay: Lagoon Ocean Resort
Curacao is an amazing destination for hiking in the Caribbean. The island has a hilly terrain and even a couple of bigger peaks that can be hiked.
Curacao mostly has mountains to offer for hikers, but there are also a couple of trails on the coastline, over the rugged cliffs.
The best hike in Curacao is without a doubt the Christoffel Berg. You’ll have to get going pretty early in the morning, before sunrise. It takes about two hours to reach the top, and the hike is pretty challenging. But from there you’ll have a stunning view of the entire island.
Inside Christoffel Park, you can find a couple of easier trails as well. There are also some driving trails, if you can’t hike for too long. Experienced hikers and climbers will love the Tafelberg, which is on the eastern part of the island.
The best area to stay in Curacao for hiking is far out in the West. The Lagoon Ocean Resort is my favorite place to stay.
The houses are super cute and have an amazing view. From there, you can reach Christoffel National Park in no time. They also have a great beachfront restaurant that serves a late breakfast after an early morning hike.
8. Barbados
Most popular hike on the island: St Andrew Look Out Loop
Where to stay: Crane Resort Barbados
Barbados is definitely one of the best hiking islands in the Caribbean because of its mild mountains, lush greenery, and breathtaking views of the ocean. One trail that stands out is the St Andrew Look Out Loop, a 3.4-mile path atop Chalky Mount.
What sets Barbados apart is the views of the ocean that you’ll encounter during your hikes. The crystal-clear waters can create a mesmerizing backdrop as you cross the trails. Hike anytime, but the sunsets and sunrises offer the most breathtaking views on the island.
Don’t forget to pack all your important belongings and document your travels to capture the magical moments Barbados has to offer.
When it comes to accommodations, I highly recommend staying at the Crane Resort Barbados This luxurious retreat offers not only world-class amenities but also convenient access to some of the best beaches on the island.
After a day of hiking, you can unwind and indulge in the resort’s top-notch services. Trust me, with the heat in the Caribbean, you’ll want some serious rest and relaxation afterwards!
9. Guadeloupe
Most popular hike on the island: La Grand Soufrière
Where to stay: TropicAngel Ecolodge
Guadeloupe is one of the islands of the French Caribbean, well known for its pristine beaches and natural wonders. The island is dominated by La Soufrière (1,467 meters), an active volcano that is the highest peak in the French Antilles.
The hike up to the volcano takes 2 hours one way, and it is well worth it if the sky is clear. Start early in the morning during the dry season (January, February, March are best) for the best sunrise views.
Guadeloupe has other great hikes through the forest, rainforest, and its famous botanical Garden. Sometimes, there are beautiful waterfalls at the end of the tracks!
Despite being able to climb up to the top of La Soufrière, we weren’t lucky with the weather, so we couldn’t see much. I preferred our hikes through the forest in the area around the Cascade des Ecrevisses.
A car is key for hikers as the best hikes are inland in the Guadeloupe National Park. Our Bungalow at Le Nid Tropical, in the town of Bouillante, was our favorite hotel during our Guadeloupe road trip, and it had free parking on-site.
10. St Croix US Virgin Islands
Most popular hike on the island: Annaly Bay Tide Pools
Where to stay: Sand Castle on the Beach (Adult Only)
St. Croix offers tons of unique outdoor adventures. Considered the most “country” of the main U.S. Virgin Islands, hikers will appreciate the flourishing rainforests on the Western side, as well as rugged coastlines and beaches.
One of my favorite hikes on the island is the challenging, but rewarding 5.2-mile hike to the Annaly Bay Carambola tide pools. Because who doesn’t love a Caribbean hike that ends at a hidden gem?
This diverse jungle trail leads through the rainforest, while providing scenic overlooks and ends at Annaly Bay.
Once you reach the rocky beach, the thrilling part begins as you precariously boulder over the rocky ledges to reach the tidepools. You’ll be rewarded with a refreshing swim in these crystal-clear natural pools.
The largest of the US Virgin Islands, Saint Croix boasts the clearest turquoise blue water, sink your toes in the sand, eclectic Caribbean cuisines, and rich history. It’s truly the ultimate Caribbean destination!
Looking for an amazing [adult-only] beach resort, I’d highly recommend checking out Sand Castle on the Beach in Frederiksted.
11. Grenada
Most popular hike on the island: Mt. Carmel Falls
Where to stay: Spice Island Beach Resort
Grenada is one of the southernmost islands in the Windward Island chain.
Much like some of her neighboring islands, like Saint Vincent, Grenada boasts a unique topography including white sandy beaches, mountains, jungles, and even volcanic activity nearby. Because of that, Grenada has so many different hikes to offer, especially if you are hoping to find a waterfall!
Grenada is one of the best Caribbean islands for adventure because it offers something for everyone.
Whether you are looking for a longer, more difficult hike, or a paved hike to a waterfall, you can find it in Grenada. Not only that, but the weather is steady, about 85 degrees Fahrenheit year-round, so while it may be warm, hiking to some of the spots provides a great swimming break to cool off.
As mentioned before, Grenada does have all different kinds of hikes, but the most common hikes that you will likely encounter are hikes to some of Grenada’s best waterfalls.
Most of them are located central to the island and vary in difficulty. My personal favorite is Mt. Carmel Falls. It’s a moderately difficult hike with beautiful areas to explore – and it’s actually Grenada’s tallest waterfall!
When you head to Grenada, there are many options for resorts and hotels, but my favorite is the Spice Island Beach Resort. Just a short drive from the airport, Spice Island Beach Resort truly has so much to offer!
12. Martinique
Most popular hike on the island: Mount Pelee
Where to stay: French Coco Luxury Boutique Hotel
The French Antilles island of Martinique is a glorious option for hiking in the Caribbean, as there are a variety of different types of hikes available.
You can hike in the rainforest of Martinique, or to the top of Mount Pelee, or take a hike that combines many of the different natural settings of the island.
More than two thirds of the island is protected parkland and there’s more than 80 miles (128 kilometers) of hiking on this piece of paradise in the Caribbean.
Heading to the summit of Mount Pelee, which is more than 4,000 feet high will take you around 7 hours. There are hikes along the Atlantic coast, but one of the best hikes in Martinique is the Circuit de la Caravelle.
There’s not a huge amount of elevation gain (only around 650 feet (200 meters), but what’s great about this hike is the variety of terrain that you’ll cover. It’s a 4-mile (6-kilometer) circuit and it’s well-marked, so you don’t need a guide.
You do, however, need sun protection as much of this hike is out in the open and the sun is brutal here, so start early! There are dry forest trails here, there’s a mangrove track and you’ll also hike along part of the coastal track. It’s really quite diverse.
It’s a favorite hike because you’ll also visit a lighthouse, with great views, and also the remains of a 17th-century plantation (which is well worth a stop off).
Stay at the French Coco Luxury Boutique Hotel for a great location close to the Caravelle, and a super swimming pool in which to relax when you’re done hiking.
13. Dominica
Most popular hike on the island: Waitukubuli National Trail
Where to stay: Stay along the trail, if you dare!
Wondering which is the best Caribbean island for exploring by foot? Look no further than the rich and stunning Dominica.
The Waitukubuli National Trail in Dominica is the Caribbean’s first long-distance walking trail. It is divided into 14 segments, each offering a unique experience.
Along the way, you will encounter a diverse range of terrain and natural attractions, including waterfalls, unique wildlife, mountains, and rainforests.
Some segments of the trail require you to register beforehand. There are campgrounds and hotels conveniently located along the trail, allowing you to rest and recharge before continuing your adventure.
This destination is perfect for those interested in multi-day hikes or backpacking in the Caribbean! If this famous Caribbean hiking trail is on your bucket list, you can start planning at the Forestry site of Dominica and the Waitukubuli Trail official site.
There’s lots of other hiking destinations on the island as well- Hike to Dominica’s famous boiling lake in Morne Trois Pitons National Park or visit the wandering trails of Cabrits National Park.
14. Antigua
Most popular hike on the island: Mount Obama
Where to stay: Cocobay Resort
Antigua is a great island for hiking enthusiasts. Its diverse landscape includes lush rainforests, mountains, and picturesque coastlines for beach lovers, offering a wide array of trails for every level of hiker.
My favorite hike is the Shirley Heights Lookout. From the top, you can see panoramic views of the southeastern part of the island. Avoid Sunday when Shirley Heights has its island party.
Other scenic hikes on Antigua include Mount Obama, which is the highest point on the island, and Pillars of Hercules, which also offers great snorkeling.
You’ll need a rental car to reach most of the hiking trails, but driving around Antigua isn’t too difficult other than remembering to drive on the left side of the road.
This makes choosing where to stay easier, as most hikes are a 30-minute or less drive away and you can do multiple hikes in a day if you really want to challenge yourself.
FAQ: Best Caribbean Hiking Trails
What is the most walkable Caribbean island?
Old San Juan in Puerto Rico and Aruba’s Palm and Eagle Beach near Oranjestad are both walkable Caribbean islands.
While there are other areas where a car may come in handy if you wanted to venture out, it is possible to get around these two cities with just your two feet!
Which Caribbean island has the best mountains?
Which Caribbean island has the best activities?
Jamaica and Puerto Rico are two Caribbean islands with some of the best activities.
You’ll find a wide variety of activities on both islands, from beautiful beaches and snorkeling to hikes up waterfalls, through rainforests and mountains, and even ziplining from peak to peak!
They both also offer an incredible blend of history, culture, and cuisine. In terms of variety and options, you can’t go wrong with visiting Jamaica or Puerto Rico.
Summary of the Best Caribbean Islands for Hiking this Year!
As you can see, the Caribbean offers a stunning array of hiking opportunities that cater to everyone from the casual walker to the seasoned trekker.
Each island presents a unique blend of natural beauty, rich culture, and diverse trails.
Whether you fancy exploring lush rainforests, scaling towering peaks, or meandering along stunning coastlines, there’s a Caribbean island ready to welcome you with a hiking adventure that’s nothing short of unforgettable.
Don your hiking boots, pack your spirit of adventure, and set your compass towards the Caribbean for your next hiking escapade!
Read More
- Is St Lucia Worth Visiting in 2024? (+ Travel Tips)
- Is St Croix Worth Visiting? (2024 Travel Guide)
- EcoTourism in Jamaica
- Best Hiking Trails in St John
- Best Hiking Trails in St Thomas
- Caribbean Packing List
- Visiting Punta Cana in January
- Best Caribbean Islands to Visit in January
- Best Caribbean Islands to Visit in August
- Best Caribbean Islands to Visit in October
- Visiting Aruba in December
