Aruba pairs easygoing Caribbean charm with a sun-splashed, desert-tinged landscape and some of the region's clearest water. Just beyond the port, Oranjestad charms with pastel Dutch-colonial buildings, lively shops and cafes, while the island's famous beaches invite swimming, snorkeling and simple relaxation beneath the trade winds. Inland, rugged cacti, windswept shorelines and striking natural pools reveal a wilder side of this welcoming island.

Curaçao has 30+ beaches and the cosmopolitan capital Willemstad, whose colorful historic center spans Sint Anna Bay and is linked by the floating Queen Emma Bridge. In Punda, find cafés, galleries, shops, and a floating market, plus Fort Amsterdam, a 17th-century synagogue, and the Curaçao Maritime Museum. Nearby Pietermaai is known for nightlife. Clear waters and reefs make snorkeling superb. On land, see prehistoric art in the Hato Caves and taste Curaçao's blue liqueur at Chobolobo.

Kralendijk means "coral dike" in Dutch, and the name fits: snorkeling off Bonaire's main port reveals vivid marine life in clear waters. Explore by kayak, glass-bottom boat, or by diving in. The island is ringed by protected reefs, while inland you'll find desert scenery of divi-divi trees and cacti in Washington Slagbaai National Park. For history, visit the Terramar Museum or the Museum of Natural History.

Falmouth Harbour, on Antigua's scenic south coast, is a celebrated yachting haven where sheltered waters, palm-fringed shores and a relaxed Caribbean rhythm set the tone. Nearby English Harbour and Nelson's Dockyard offer a glimpse of the island's maritime heritage, while the surrounding beaches, viewpoints and clear blue sea invite swimming, sailing and leisurely exploration.

Anguilla combines celebrated Caribbean beaches with a laid-back, off-the-beaten-path feel. Relax on Sandy Ground's soft sands and calm, clear waters, swim or lounge in the sun, and sip the island's famous rum punch. In about 20 minutes, you can reach other sights, from luxury resorts and golf courses to Wallblake House, the island's only remaining plantation home. Kayak or take a glass-bottom boat to secluded bays, limestone cliffs, sea caves, and coral reefs.

Virgin Gorda is known for dramatic geology, unspoiled scenery, quiet coves, and beautiful beaches. Gorda Peak National Park offers panoramic views, while the Baths-its best-known landmark-features huge granite boulders, tidal pools, grottoes, and arches around Devil's Bay and Spring Bay. Spanish Town and Virgin Gorda Yacht Harbour are the main hubs. Visit the copper mine ruins or Little Fort National Park, and explore the boat-access-only North Sound, home to upscale resorts and watersports.

San Juan, Puerto Rico's capital, blends old and new. Founded in 1521, it was a key Spanish colonial port; El Morro still guards the harbor. Old San Juan, behind thick stone walls, keeps blue cobblestone streets, plazas, and colorful heritage buildings, and serves as the island's cultural hub. Nearby Santurce is the trendiest district, with shops, restaurants, and nightlife. Minutes away, Condado and Isla Verde offer iconic palm-lined Atlantic beaches.