Editor’s Note: Coronavirus cases remain in flux across the globe. Health officials caution that travel increases your chances of getting and spreading the Covid-19 virus. Unless you’re fully vaccinated, staying home is the best way to stem transmission. This was last updated on September 21.
If you’re planning to travel to the islands of the Caribbean, here are some resources to help you plan your trip during the ongoing Covid-19 pandemic.
The first thing to keep in mind is the Caribbean Sea region consists of 13 independent island nations. There are even more overseas territories. Each of them has its own rules, subject to change.
Damage from Hurricane Fiona in mid-September could possibly make a trip to parts or all of some islands difficult or impossible in coming days and weeks – especially the Dominican Republic, Guadeloupe and Puerto Rico. Check the latest news reports before you leave.
Here’s a roundup of 10 popular Caribbean destinations with links that provide the latest information about Covid-19:
Aruba
What’s on offer: Days are usually dry and sunny. Arikok National Park features caves, desert landscapes and giant lizards. Wide beaches bordering clear jade water are the big draw.
US CDC travel advisory: Level 3 (high).
Find out more: Aruba’s official tourism site | Visit Aruba News | Embarkation and disembarkation card | Optional Aruba visitors insurance | US Consulate | CDC Aruba advisory
The Bahamas
What’s on offer: The chain has 700 islands – from the hustle and funky beats of the capital city, Nassau, on New Providence, to the peaceful beaches on many less-visited islands. You can swim with pigs or dive with sharks.
US CDC travel advisory: Level 3 (high).
Find out more: Bahamas travel website | Bahamas Travel Health Visa | US Embassy | CDC Bahamas advisory
Barbados
What’s on offer: Golf, history and architecture get visitors beyond the beach on the most easterly island in the Caribbean. Rum distilleries offer tours and the local cuisine – a blend of African, Indian, Irish, British and Creole flavors – will soak up the spirit.
US CDC travel advisory: Level 3 (high).
Find out more: Visit Barbados website | BIMSafe travel app | US Embassy | CDC Barbados advisory
Curaçao
What’s on offer: The island’s coral reefs and sunken ships are accessible via scuba and snorkeling outings. Willemstad, the capital and a UNESCO World Heritage site, is a don’t-miss for history buffs. Nature lovers will find orchids and birds at Christoffelpark.
US CDC travel advisory: Level 3 (high).
Find out more: Traveling to Curaçao | Curaçao news bulletins | Digital immigration card | US consulate | CDC Curaçao advisory
Dominican Republic
What’s on offer: Top-notch beaches and a range of resorts await visitors. Diverse geography, including lush forests and mountains and semi-arid areas, contrasts with Santo Domingo’s historic Cuidad Colonial – a lively and romantic spot to explore.
US CDC travel advisory: Level 3 (high).
Find out more: GoDominicanRepublic.com | Electronic entry and exit form | US Embassy | CDC Dominican Republic advisory
Guadeloupe
What’s on offer: Gorgeous, white-sand beaches in this French island chain are just the start. The National Park of Guadeloupe offers more than 74,100 acres of rainforest to explore. Music ensembles practice for Carnival by playing a variety of traditional music styles year-round in villages. French Créole specialties such as red snapper delight diners.
US CDC travel advisory: Level 3 (high).
Find out more: Air arrivals to Guadeloupe | US Embassy | CDC Guadeloupe advisory
Jamaica
What’s on offer: Jamaica’s reggae and dancehall music and laid-back vibe are perennial draws. Tropical beaches, waterfalls and delicious jerk cuisine also lure visitors.
US CDC travel advisory: Level 3 (high).
Find out more: Visit Jamaica | Immigration Customs C5 card | US Embassy | CDC Jamaica advisory
Puerto Rico
What’s on offer: Charming and historic Old San Juan is ripe for exploration. The island’s casinos and El Yunque rainforest are also top attractions that stretch beyond the water activities at the island’s many beaches.
Find out more: Visit Puerto Rico | Travel declaration form | CDC Puerto Rico information
Turks and Caicos
What’s on offer: This British overseas territory – northeast of Cuba and southeast of the Bahamas – is known for its coral reefs, ripsaw music and a low-key vibe. Whale watching, snorkeling and a range of other outdoor activities pair well with the islands’ natural aquatic beauty.
US CDC travel advisory: Level 3 (high).
Find out more: Visit Turks and Caicos | US Embassy | CDC Turks and Caicos advisory
US Virgin Islands
What’s on offer: Fine dining, scuba diving and golfing draw visitors to St. Croix. The pristine beaches of undeveloped St. John make it a favorite place to relax. Boating and duty-free shopping are big draws in lively St. Thomas.
Find out more: US Virgin Islands update | USVI Department of Health | CDC US Virgin Islands information
CNN’s Forrest Brown and Marnie Hunter contributed to this report.