The Best Caribbean Islands For Seniors: A Holiday You’ll Never Forget

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Last updated on April 17, 2023 by Wandering our World

It’s no secret that the Caribbean is among the world’s most popular regions for vacation destinations. Yet with so many distinct resorts on a broad range of islands, it might be hard to select which island or islands to visit.

If you are a senior, you may have some additional considerations and concerns when deciding where to go on vacation too.

The landscape of the island, how simple it is to access, what activities are available, and what types of accommodation are available might all be different considerations for seniors than they are for other tourists.

While all of the islands in the region are excellent choices, we’ve found that there are some Caribbean islands that are better for seniors than others.

As we know this region so well, we decided to help out. So here’s our list of the best Caribbean islands for seniors to visit. We promise that each choice offers an unforgettable vacation.

THE BEST CARIBBEAN ISLANDS FOR SENIORS

  1. Barbados
  2. St. Martin/St. Maarten
  3. US Virgin Islands
  4. St Lucia
  5. Puerto Rico
Trunk Bay, St John, United States Virgin Islands.
iStock.com/SeanPavone

The Five Best Caribbean Islands for Seniors: Expect Adventure, Views and Fun

1. Barbados

Barbados is an excellent choice for seniors seeking a tropical setting without the difficult terrain seen on most islands.

There are numerous possibilities for various budgets on Barbados, and lots of easily accessible tourist activities. While the island as a whole is very accommodating to guests of all ages.

Let’s delve deeper into why Barbados makes our list of the best Caribbean islands for seniors.

Area/Terrain

Barbados is a small island with a lot of flat terrain, making it easy to navigate on foot and car. The island’s elevation is normally in the 180-foot range, with moderate rolling hills.

Barbados is also rather small, with a length of 21 miles and a width of 14 miles, which makes it an easy island to explore, with no long road trips needed.

The island’s capital, Bridgetown, is one of the most densely inhabited places on the island. But because it is near the shore, it has a flatter location with lovely walking spaces and 17th-century architecture and many museums and cultural attractions to explore.

Sandy Bay, Caribbean beach on the South Coast of Barbados (1)
iStock.com/Above Barbados

Activities

Barbados offers a variety of activities for seniors who want to experience the island in a less rigorous way.

Scenic bus trips throughout the island are common and an excellent opportunity for visitors to see the island from a variety of perspectives. Picnics, especially in one of the island’s numerous parks, are also a terrific and relaxing way to enjoy Barbados.

Some of the nicest parks are the King George V Memorial Park, Errol Barrow Park, National Heroes Square, Welchman Hall Gully, and Queen’s Park. All of these parks provide spots for picnics, strolling, and taking in breathtaking sights that you won’t find anywhere else.

The Barbados Boardwalk is located just south of Bridgetown, and well worth a visit too. The boardwalk, which stretches a full mile down the coast, is a great spot to stroll from place to place since it is lined with restaurants and bars. Not to mention the incredible ocean view you’ll have the entire time. If you’re looking to enjoy a drink in the sun with great views and a lovely walk, the boardwalk is unbeatable.

On top of all that, there are several history and wildlife trips and tours available on the island too.

Plantation homes dating back to the 17th century may be seen all around the island, and there are plenty of parks to observe the vegetation and even animals that live on Barbados.

Furthermore, the Garrison Historic Area and the Barbados Museum are both excellent venues to learn about the island’s fascinating history.

A close up shot of a Barbados Green Monkey holding her baby.
iStock.com/Paul ODoherty

Accommodation

There are two main hotel areas where people of all ages tend to stay on the island – the west coast and the south coast.

The island’s west shore is recognized for having more luxurious hotels, making it the most costly area. But both sections of the island are great options for vacationing and touring the island, with many excursions available from each.

When looking to experience the best in luxury and world-class service, it’s hard to beat the 5-star Coral Reef Club resort. It’s located on the island’s west coast, within walking distance of many famous beaches. The rooms are spacious and comfortable, with high-quality furnishings and amenities and a lovely balcony.

The hotel offers a buffet breakfast every morning with extensive facilities for guests. There’s a bar, an on-site restaurant that serves various international dishes and vegetarian options, a fitness centre with state-of-the-art equipment, a spa with massages and facials from local experts in the field, and an outdoor swimming pool overlooking the sea below. You’ll also enjoy all kinds of activities on the property, including cycling, windsurfing, snorkelling, scuba diving and more. See photos and rates here.

The Coral Sands Beach Resort, Sugar Bay, and Southern Palms Beach Club are among the more affordable alternatives on the south coast.

Wherever you end up staying, you will have access to beautiful accommodation choices with even more amazing ocean views.

The fact is the entire island is surrounded by beaches with fine white sand and access to the ocean, so shoreside resorts are likely to have easy access to a fantastic beach. Which is one of the reasons why Barbados made our previous list of best Caribbean islands for beaches!

Beautiful sunset over the sea with a view at palms on the white beach on a Caribbean island of Barbados
iStock.com/fyletto

2. St. Martin and St. Maarten

Despite the fact that their names are spelled differently, St. Martin and St. Maarten are two sides of the same island. St. Martin is the island’s north half and is governed by France, whereas St. Maarten is the island’s south half and is governed by the Netherlands.

The two areas are very well connected though and both have a lot to offer visitors and vacationers.

Why does that make this Caribbean island great for seniors? Well when we’ve stayed on the island it feels like spending time in two different Caribbean destinations but without the hassle of plane journeys and/or ferries!

Yet as they are part of the same island, it’s easy to access and enjoy both sides, while staying at the same hotel or resort.

Marigot, St. Martin town skyline in the Caribbean at dusk.
iStock.com/SeanPavone

Area/Terrain

The entire island is mountainous, with a few small lakes strewn around. The more you travel inland, the higher you will get. That provides some spectacular views from the island’s center, where you will get panoramic views of the island as well as the ocean.

Both sides are highly inhabited, and the cities and villages that border the beaches are easily accessible by foot.

Despite the terrain, there’s plenty of tours that go around the island, and the roads are well maintained so there should be no trouble if hiring a car.

Anse Marcel beach and boats on french side of St Martin Sint Maarten Caribbean
iStock.com/BackyardProduction

Activities

There is plenty to do on both sides of the island. On the St. Maarten side, there are over 20 casinos where you may play blackjack, roulette, and other games. Many of these casinos also provide additional tours and excursions, which are ideal for individuals who wish to see the island while also gambling.

On St. Maarten, Phillipsburg is a fantastic spot to visit too. Phillipsburg has hundreds of businesses and lovely walking spaces and is undoubtedly the island’s hub. The city also has several fantastic eateries that are guaranteed to satisfy your appetite.

The side of St. Martin has a lot of fun activities as well. Fort St. Louis, a fort erected in 1767 that currently sits above the city, is located in Marigot Bay. The fort is easily accessible by car, and if you don’t want to travel alone, there are several trips that go there and back.

This fort is a must-visit and one of the best places on the island to get a panoramic view. And if the weather is clear enough, you might even be able to see all the way to the island of Anguilla!

Delicious grilled lobsters on the island of Grenada in the Caribbean
iStock.com/Anfise Tukane

Accommodation

For your stay in St. Martin and St. Maarten, there are several very nice hotels and resorts.

The Grand Case Beach Club is a fantastic hotel on the St. Martin side. They provide spacious apartment-style accommodations to make you feel more comfortable during your stay.

The resort also has two completely private beaches as well as a swimming pool with views of Grand Case Bay. There’s also an on-site restaurant, a gym, and spas. See rates and photos here.

On St. Maarten’s side, the Divi Little Beach Resort has exceptionally big rooms with a long list of facilities. This resort, which is situated on a tiny peninsula, has immediate beach access as well as beachfront dining and drinking.

Divi Little Beach also has various pools, a fitness facility, and a spa on site. Excursions and outings to some of the nicest spots on the island are also available, so you can enjoy hassle-free sightseeing. See photos and rates here.

beach holidays, luxury swimming pool with palm trees
iStock.com/anyaberkut

3. US Virgin Islands

The three islands that make up the US Virgin Islands are ideal for a variety of senior activities.

Resorts, excursions, and amazing places to view abound on St. Thomas, St. Croix, and St. John.

All three islands are quite different, as we show you below. But with good connections between all three, you can have an island hopping adventure with little stress. If you’re looking for more of an adventurous holiday, then these islands could be perfect.

Area/Terrain

While the islands are under the same name, they each have their own distinct appeal.

Tourists flock to St. Thomas because it is heavily inhabited by stores, resorts, bars, and other attractions.

With almost 84 square miles of land, St. Croix is the biggest of the three islands. It is the most culturally and historically significant, and while not the most popular, it’s got many cultural and historical sights to explore.

Finally, St. John is the island to visit if you want to see animals and natural wonders. It’s ideal for individuals who want to be more active because of the magnificent scenery and incredible adventure opportunities.

Cruz Bay, St John
iStock.com/SeanPavonePhoto

Activities

On each of the islands, there are several activities suitable for senior citizens. And with so many trips to choose from, there is bound to be something for everyone.

The Big Blue Excursions company are ideal for individuals who want to get out on the ocean and see the island from a different perspective. They make trips to some of the greatest beach spots on both St. Thomas and St. John. If you’re feeling really daring, snorkeling equipment is available so you can observe the water life up close.

IslandBuddy Jeep Tours are a fantastic way to experience the islands if you want to stay on land. Your driver and tour guide will make sure you get to see some of the most beautiful parts of St. Thomas and St. John. There are beaches, ruins, and possibilities for swimming, hiking, or simply relaxing outdoors if that’s your thing.

Each island also offers several historical sites and museums to visit for history aficionados.

Fort Christiansvaern in St. Croix is one of the greatest. This 18th-century fort is around seven acres in size and is still fully intact, allowing you to explore practically every portion of it. Along the route, there are even monuments and displays to give you a taste of the area’s history while you explore.

Sunset over Charlotte Amalie St Thomas
iStock.com/BackyardProduction

Accommodation

The resorts and hotels in the US Virgin Islands, like its activities, are plentiful and of exceptional quality.

The Ritz-Carlton, the islands’ sole 5-star resort, is located on St. Thomas. This hotel provides several trips to tour the island along with stunning views from every bedroom and miles of beaches to enjoy.

The resort also has four restaurants on-site that provide a variety of delectable cuisines. Staying here gives you a real feeling of luxury. See rates and photos here.

The Buccaneer, a four-star resort on St. Croix is another great choice and is located on the coast with private beach access. It’s also close to Christiansted, making it simple to go out and about on the island without needing to abandon the resort.

If you want to remain on the premises, The Buccaneer also offers an all-inclusive package that includes all meals. The resort includes a spa, golf course, aquatic activities, and more. See photos and rates here.

The pristine Cane Bay Beach in St. Croix US Virgin Islands
iStock.com/Benjamin Velazquez

4. St Lucia

St. Lucia is a small island between Martinique and St. Vincent and the Grenadines that has a lot to offer, and more adult-only resorts than most Caribbean islands too.

There is a great variety of things to appreciate around the island, with fantastic views from the elevated interior and great experiences to be had in the coastal cities around the island.

The magnificent Pitons mountains may just be the most spectacular sight in the Caribbean too.

Although, we have to admit that compared to the other destinations on our list of best Caribbean islands for seniors, St Lucia’s infrastructure and road system is a little more difficult. However there are also plenty of positives.

Area/Terrain

The Pitons, a pair of mountains on the island, are St Lucia’s most prominent feature. Many routes around the mountains lead to some stunning locations with streams, waterfalls, and a variety of intriguing fauna in the interior.

Castries, the island’s capital, is located on the more populous shore. Some of the greatest restaurants, shops, and atmospheres on the island and in the Caribbean can be found in this region. It’s also a major cruise ship port.

The city is quite accessible and simple to explore on your own, making wandering about and visiting the city a simple and pleasurable experience.

St Lucia Caribbean, woman on vacation at the tropical Island of Saint Lucia Caribbean ocean
iStock.com/fokkebok

Activities

St. Lucia has a variety of activities that are enjoyable for people of all ages.

The St. Lucia Rainforest Aerial Tram excursion is one of the most unique, allowing travelers to ride above the jungle canopy in an open air gondola!

Starting from up high, the jungle tram trip allows you to enjoy a pleasant descent while learning about the island’s vegetation, animals, and history. It’s adventurous and exhilarating, but best of all it’s all done sitting down!

If you prefer a more active activity, there are many stables on the island that allow you to ride horses across St Lucia and take in some of the greatest coastline sights the island has to offer.

If horseback riding isn’t your thing, there are a variety of off-road buggy trips that provide all of the same sights and activities without the extra stress of riding a horse.

The Diamond Falls Botanical Gardens and Mineral Baths are also a great nature experience for travelers who don’t mind a little walking. This tranquil region, which spans over six acres, allows you to explore big waterfalls, rich foliage, and the island’s variety and beautiful flora.

Marina landscape of Castries, St Lucia
iStock.com/NAPA74

Accommodation

St. Lucia boasts a far higher number of adult-only lodgings and resorts than other Caribbean islands, making it suitable for seniors seeking a more peaceful vacation without children running about. That’s another reason why St Lucia has made our list of the best Caribbean island for seniors.

The five-star Sandals Grande St. Lucian adults-only resort is a fantastic spot to consider staying. There are a variety of room types available, including oceanfront of course, as well as private pools and tropical gardens.

There are 12 on-site eateries and another 15 nearby, so there is plenty of places to dine at the Grande St. Lucian. Private cabanas, on-site stores, and local excursions are among the many facilities available. See rates and photos here.

The Jade Mountain Resort is another adults-only resort with a spectacular view of the ocean and the Pitons from its hilltop perch. The resort ensures that each visitor gets the most out of their stay by offering just 29 suites. A private infinity pool or a double jacuzzi is included in each suite.

Furthermore, eating options are numerous, with on-site dining as well as the option of having any meal delivered to your hotel! The bulk of Jade Mountain’s facilities are located offsite, including the restaurant, spa, and beach access. See photos and rates here.

The 80-room Sugar Beach Resort is worth considering too. It’s situated between the two Pitons, in arguably one of the most beautiful locations in the Caribbean! Each suite has a private pool as well as butler service. Villas and cottages are also available if you are traveling with a group or a family.

Sugar Beach also has two beaches, one that is available to everyone and the other that is just for adults. The on-site restaurants and beachside dining are among the best in the area and are easily accessible too. See rates and photos here.

Beautiful white sand beach in Saint Lucia, Caribbean Islands
iStock.com/IngaL

5. Puerto Rico

We’d be remiss if we didn’t mention Puerto Rico, which is one of the Caribbean’s most popular islands, and for good reason.

It is consistently one of the top options out of this big collection of islands, with some of the greatest food, experiences, and resorts in the Caribbean.

It’s also an island where English is widely spoken, making it easy and simple to communicate and get around.

Area/Terrain

While the center of the island is made up of steep slopes and mountainous landscapes, the commercialized and developed coastal cities are easy to explore and good fun to walk around. That’s one of the reasons why Puerto Rico makes our list of the best Caribbean islands for seniors.

San Juan and Vieques are two of the greatest places to visit for fun. One of the best aspects about this island is the fact there are many unique activities all within walking distance of one another, so you won’t have to drive far to locate the next thing you want to do.

Dorado Beach, Puerto Rico
iStock.com/Javier_Art_Photography

Activities

In Puerto Rico, there is never a shortage of things to do.

The Bioluminescent Mosquito Bay in Vieques may be one of the most remarkable experiences. The bay appears ordinary during the day with a beautiful view of the ocean, but it becomes anything but ordinary at night. Hundreds of thousands of creatures known as dinoflagellates create a blue glow at night, lighting up the whole bay and creating a one-of-a-kind scene.

Early mornings in Old San Juan provide a unique opportunity too, with a chance to experience the neighborhood without the crowds. The historic district is bordered by well-built structures and well-known landmarks.

If you want a real experience of Puerto Rican food, there are street vendors and eateries throughout San Juan, and the old neighborhood is one of the finest on the island for getting a true sense of the culture.

El Morro is the place to go if you’re interested in learning about the island’s history. This castle was erected between the sixteenth and eighteenth centuries, and has hosted a variety of residents, including Portuguese troops and American military personnel. It is even a UNESCO World Heritage Site because it is the site of many historical events.

Colorful image of city centre of San Juan with large Puerto Rican flag above the street. Blue and pink buildings in the street. Sunny day. Red and white stripes, white star and blue colored national flag of Puerto Rico.
iStock.com/Napa74

Accommodation

In Puerto Rico, there’s no shortage of fantastic hotels and resorts. In fact there are over 130 hotels and resorts to select from despite the island’s tiny size.

The five-star Hyatt Hacienda del Mar is one of the most luxurious. The Hacienda del Mar, located near Dorado, offers a variety of lodging alternatives to suit any scenario. The Mahi Mahi Bar and Grill, located near the beach and pool, provides breakfast, lunch, and supper, eliminating the need to leave the resort.

The resort also provides a variety of options and forms of exploration throughout the island, allowing you to find something new to try with ease. See rates and photos here.

Another wonderful resort choice on the island is Dorado Beach, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve. There are a variety of rooms available, several of which offer immediate beach access.

Dorado Beach also ensures that you don’t have to leave the resort to dine if you don’t want to, with five on-site restaurants and room service. There is also a fitness facility and spa for guests to utilize, as is customary in resorts.

Finally, Dorado Beach provides a broad choice of incredible experiences, including water activities, land adventures, golf, and even a photographic concierge, ensuring that you get the most out of your time in Puerto Rico. See rates and photos here!

Lastly, Isabela’s Villa Montana Beach Resort is a beachfront resort with plenty to offer. The resort has suites and villas with one to three bedrooms, as well as patios and jacuzzis. There are also two pools, tennis courts, free-to-use bicycles, and private beach picnics, among other amenities.

Golf, horseback riding, and even fishing are among the many excursions and activities available at Isabela’s resort. To top it all off, the award-winning Eclipse Restaurant is the resort’s on-site food and beverage provider, offering some of the greatest eating in Puerto Rico. See rates and photos here!

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  • Wandering our World

    Hi and welcome to Wandering our World! This article was written by one of the Wandering our World team - a team of travel enthusiasts who live around the globe.