By Journey by Katie
You’ve narrowed it down to three absolute paradise islands, but now you’re stuck scrolling through endless photos wondering which one deserves your precious vacation days. As a travel expert who’s sent hundreds of clients to these Caribbean gems, let me break it down for you – no fluff, just the honest truth about what each island actually delivers..
🌴 ARUBA: Easy Breezy All-Inclusive Bliss
Pricing at a Glance
Peak Season (Dec-April): $300-550/night all-inclusive | Mid-range: $200-350/night
Off-Season (May-Nov): $200-400/night all-inclusive | Mid-range: $120-250/night
SAVINGS: Up to 40% off in shoulder season!
The Vibe
Predictable perfection. Constant sunshine (seriously, Aruba sits outside the hurricane belt and barely sees rain), calm turquoise waters, and resorts that handle absolutely everything so you don’t have to lift a finger.
Perfect For
First-time Caribbean travelers, families with kids, anyone who wants to unplug completely without any planning stress. You literally just show up, wristband on, and let the resort do all the heavy lifting while you work on your tan and mojito consumption.
The Reality Check
It’s easy – maybe too easy if you crave adventure. The beaches are gorgeous but can feel like a resort convention during peak season. The Dutch influence means everything runs smoothly and efficiently, but you might miss that raw Caribbean soul and local culture. On the plus side? Your biggest decision is piña colada or mojito, and whether to hit the beach or the pool.
Best Things to Do & Excursions in Aruba
Natural Pool (Conchi)
This remote natural pool formed by volcanic rock on Aruba’s rugged northern coast is absolutely worth the bumpy 4×4 ride through Arikok National Park. The waves crash dramatically over the rocks while you swim in the calm, protected pool. Book a UTV or jeep tour – going with a guide means you get the stories and don’t get lost in the desert landscape.
Snorkeling at Mangel Halto & Boca Catalina
Aruba’s calm southern waters are perfect for snorkeling. Mangel Halto offers mangrove forests teeming with juvenile fish, while Boca Catalina has vibrant coral reefs just steps from shore. Both are family-friendly and don’t require a boat tour – just grab your gear and walk in.
Sunset Catamaran Cruise
There’s something magical about sailing along Aruba’s coastline at golden hour with a rum punch in hand. Most cruises include snorkeling stops, open bar, and that perfect Instagram sunset photo op. Some even offer dinner cruises with fresh seafood.
Arikok National Park Exploration
This protected area covers nearly 20% of the island and showcases Aruba’s wild side – dramatic coastlines, ancient cave paintings, natural bridges, and desert landscapes dotted with divi-divi trees. Rent a UTV or join a guided tour to really explore beyond the resort zone.
California Lighthouse & Alto Vista Chapel
Start your day at the iconic California Lighthouse for panoramic island views, then head to the peaceful Alto Vista Chapel. It’s a quick morning activity that gives you those postcard-worthy photos before the crowds arrive.
Downtown Oranjestad & Renaissance Island
Stroll the colorful Dutch colonial streets of Oranjestad for shopping and local flavor. If you’re not staying at the Renaissance, you can still buy a day pass to their private island – home to the famous flamingo beach where you can literally swim with flamingos.
Eagle Beach & Palm Beach
These consistently rank among the world’s best beaches. Eagle Beach is wider, less crowded, and perfect for that classic Caribbean postcard shot with the iconic divi-divi trees. Palm Beach is where the resort action happens – more amenities, water sports, and beach bars.
🏝️ TURKS & CAICOS: Luxury & Those “Wait, Is This Real?” Beaches
Pricing at a Glance
Peak Season (Jan-March): $500-1,200/night luxury resorts | Mid-range: $300-500/night
Off-Season (Sept-Nov): $300-700/night luxury resorts | Mid-range: $200-350/night
SAVINGS: Up to 50% off during hurricane season (though Turks rarely sees major storms!)
The Vibe
Sophisticated, upscale, and ridiculously gorgeous. Grace Bay Beach isn’t just Instagram hype – the water actually looks like that liquid turquoise dream you see in photos. No filter needed. Seriously, I’ve had clients text me from the beach asking if the water color is real.
Perfect For
Honeymoons, milestone celebrations, couples who want romance without the party scene, serious divers, and anyone willing to splurge for the absolute best beaches in the Caribbean. This is where you go when you want to be pampered and don’t mind paying premium prices for premium everything.
The Reality Check
It’s expensive. Like, “did I just pay $18 for a beer?” expensive. Limited nightlife and cultural experiences – this is purely about beach luxury, world-class diving, and serene relaxation. It’s quieter, more exclusive, more… zen. Translation: bring your credit card, your sunscreen, and your best chill vibes.
Best Things to Do & Excursions in Turks & Caicos
Snorkeling at Smith’s Reef
This is hands-down one of the best shore snorkeling spots in the Caribbean. Just wade in from the beach and you’re immediately surrounded by healthy coral, sea turtles, colorful fish, and even occasional rays. It’s free, accessible, and absolutely stunning. Go early morning for the clearest visibility.
Island Hopping & Iguana Island
Take a boat tour to the uninhabited cays surrounding Providenciales. Little Water Cay (Iguana Island) is home to endangered rock iguanas that you can observe up close. Most tours include multiple snorkel stops, beachcombing on pristine sandbars, and that picture-perfect turquoise water everywhere you look.
Diving the Wall
Turks & Caicos is world-renowned for diving, particularly “The Wall” – a dramatic coral wall that drops thousands of feet. Even if you’re not certified, try a resort course or guided dive. The visibility often exceeds 100 feet, and you’ll see everything from eagle rays to reef sharks to massive groupers.
Thursday Fish Fry
This is your one authentic local experience and trust me, you need it after days of resort pricing. Every Thursday night, locals gather at Bight Park for live music, dancing, and food stalls serving fresh fish, conch, and Caribbean favorites at actual reasonable prices. The energy is infectious and the food is fantastic.
Grace Bay Beach (Obviously)
Consistently ranked the world’s best beach, and for good reason. Three miles of powdery white sand, impossibly clear shallow water, and barely a wave to disturb your float. Rent a cabana, order beachside service, and understand why people become obsessed with this place.
Kayaking Through Mangroves
Explore the island’s ecological side with a guided kayak tour through the mangrove wetlands. These nurseries are teeming with juvenile fish, baby sharks, and unique birds. Some tours offer bioluminescent kayaking at night, absolutely magical when the water glows with every paddle stroke.
Horseback Riding on the Beach
Several operators offer guided horseback rides along Long Bay Beach and even into the shallow ocean waters. Riding a horse through turquoise Caribbean waters at sunset is exactly as dreamy as it sounds.
Conch Bar Caves (Middle Caicos)
Take a day trip to Middle Caicos to explore these impressive limestone caves, the largest cave system in the Caribbean. Stalactites, bats, ancient Lucayan artifacts, and underground pools make this a fascinating geological adventure.
ST. MARTIN: Culture, Food & European Flair (with Optional Tan Lines)
Pricing at a Glance
Peak Season (Dec-April): $250-450/night beachfront | Boutique: $180-350/night
Off-Season (May-Nov): $150-300/night beachfront | Boutique: $100-220/night
SAVINGS: Up to 45% off + best restaurant deals in low season!
The Vibe
Two countries, one tiny island. Half French (sophisticated, gourmet, très chic), half Dutch (lively, colorful, party-ready), 100% charming. This is where you come for experience – world-class dining that’ll ruin you for regular restaurants, genuine local culture, beautiful beaches, and that perfect blend of relaxation and exploration.
Perfect For
Foodies (seriously, the French side has Michelin-level cuisine at Caribbean prices), couples who want romance with substance, adventurous spirits who like variety in their vacation days, culture seekers, and yes – free spirits who embrace clothing-optional beaches without judgment.
The Reality Check
Beaches are beautiful but not quite Grace Bay level of perfection. You’ll absolutely need to rent a car ($40-60/day) to truly explore both sides and hop between the best beaches, restaurants, and experiences. It’s more laid-back than luxurious, more authentic than polished. The island is still rebuilding its infrastructure after Hurricane Irma, but honestly? The spirit, culture, and food scene are stronger than ever.
The Nude Beach Situation
Let’s address the elephant in the room, or rather, the European sunbather without a swimsuit. Orient Bay has a well-established clothing-optional section (clearly marked, very chill) if you’re feeling liberated or just really committed to avoiding tan lines. Cupecoy Beach on the Dutch side also offers secluded clothing-optional coves nestled between dramatic rock formations. It’s very European, completely judgment-free, and way less awkward than you might imagine. That said, there are plenty of “clothes-required” beaches if that’s not your vibe!
Restaurant Heaven: Where to Eat in St. Martin
Le Pressoir (Grand Case)
This is French fine dining at its absolute finest. Chef Franck transforms local ingredients into culinary masterpieces, think seared foie gras, Caribbean lobster with truffle butter, wine pairings that make you weep. It’s pricey ($$$$) but worth every euro for a special night. Reservations essential.
LolĂł’s (Marigot)
Here’s where the locals eat, and where you should too. These open-air BBQ joints line the waterfront – you pick your protein (ribs, chicken, fish), choose your sides (plantains, rice and peas, coleslaw), they grill it to smoky perfection, and you feast like Caribbean royalty for about $15. Grab a Carib beer and soak in the authentic island vibe.
La Villa (Grand Case)
Romantic, intimate, and absolutely swoon-worthy. French-Caribbean fusion in a beautiful Creole house with a garden setting. The lobster ravioli is legendary, the service is impeccable, and the ambiance is pure romance. Perfect for anniversaries or proposals.
Karakter Beach Bar (Simpson Bay)
Feet in the sand, fresh catch of the day, epic sunset views, and prices that won’t induce sticker shock. This is beachfront dining done right – relaxed, delicious, and genuinely fun. Try the mahi-mahi tacos and stay for the sunset.
Spiga (Grand Case)
Yes, Italian on a Caribbean island sounds random – but trust me on this. The homemade pasta is chef’s kiss, the wine list is extensive, and somehow they’ve mastered that perfect Italian trattorĂa vibe in the middle of the Caribbean. The gnocchi will haunt your dreams.
Grand Case Beach Club Restaurant
Toes-in-the-sand dining with a sophisticated menu. Their weekly BBQ nights are legendary among locals and tourists alike. Great wine selection, beautiful beachfront setting, and that perfect balance of upscale and relaxed.
Best Things to Do & Excursions in St. Martin
Grand Case Culinary Walk
This tiny fishing village on the French side is known as the “Gourmet Capital of the Caribbean” – and it’s not marketing hype. Spend an afternoon (or several) strolling the main strip, popping into bistros for lunch, beachfront lounges for cocktails, and LolĂł’s for authentic local BBQ. Don’t rush it; savor every bite.
Maho Beach Plane Watching
This is bucket-list material. Princess Juliana Airport’s runway ends RIGHT at Maho Beach, meaning massive jets fly about 50 feet over your head before landing. It’s thrilling, slightly terrifying, and incredibly photogenic. Sunset Beach Bar posts the flight schedule so you know when to expect the big birds. Hold onto your hat – the jet blast is no joke!
Orient Bay Beach & Water Sports
The Caribbean’s answer to the French Riviera. This long, beautiful beach offers every water sport imaginable – parasailing, jet skiing, paddleboarding, sailing. Beach clubs line the shore with loungers, bars, and fresh seafood. The southern end is clothing-optional (clearly marked), the northern end is family-friendly. Take your pick!
Pinel Island Day Trip
Catch a quick water taxi from Cul-de-Sac to this tiny, pristine island. Two beach bars (Karibuni and Yellow Beach), crystal-clear snorkeling, powdery sand, and a total castaway vibe. It’s a mini paradise that feels like your own private island discovery.
Loterie Farm Zipline & Treetop Adventure
Hidden in the lush hillside forest, this eco-adventure park offers ziplines through the jungle canopy, rope courses, and the famous “Fly Zone” extreme course. After your adrenaline rush, relax at their spring-fed pool bar. It’s a totally different side of St. Martin that most tourists miss.
Marigot Market & French Side Exploration
Wednesday and Saturday mornings, the Marigot waterfront comes alive with an authentic local market. Fresh produce, spices, handmade crafts, local art, and Caribbean character. Afterward, explore the colorful French capital – Fort Louis for panoramic views, marina shopping, French bakeries for pastries that’ll transport you to Paris.
Sailing & Snorkeling Tours
Multiple operators offer full-day catamaran sails that hit the best snorkeling spots around the island – Creole Rock (sea turtles!), Tintamarre Island (protected marine reserve), hidden coves. Most include open bar, lunch, and that perfect “boat day” vibe with music and good energy.
Mullet Bay Beach
Often overlooked but absolutely stunning. Wide crescent of white sand, excellent bodysurfing waves (but still swimmable), far less crowded than Orient Bay, and that authentic Caribbean beach feel. Bring your own supplies as amenities are limited, but that’s part of the charm.
Pic Paradis Hike
For the adventurous, hike to St. Martin’s highest point (1,391 feet). The trail winds through tropical forest and rewards you with 360-degree views of the entire island, neighboring Anguilla, and the surrounding Caribbean. Best done early morning before the heat kicks in.
Border Hopping Experience
Where else can you literally walk between two countries multiple times in one day? There’s something delightfully quirky about having breakfast in France, lunch in the Netherlands, and dinner back in France. No passport control, no customs, just a simple sign saying “Bienvenue” or “Welcome” as you cross back and forth.
đź’° The Budget Breakdown (Because Money Always Talks)
Best Overall Value: St. Martin wins hands-down, especially off-season when you can find charming boutique hotels for $100-150/night. Factor in the incredible restaurant scene where even upscale French dining costs half what you’d pay stateside, and your dollar stretches beautifully here.
Best All-Inclusive Value: Aruba takes this crown. One price covers everything – rooms, unlimited food and drinks, most activities, entertainment, and you’ll find significant off-season deals. It’s budget-predictable, which some travelers absolutely love.
Prepare Your Credit Card: Turks & Caicos doesn’t apologize for its luxury pricing. Peak season averages can hit $1,544/night at top resorts (yes, really), though prices drop to nearly half that in fall. Even mid-range options and meals out will cost noticeably more than the other two islands.
Pro Insider Tip: Travel during shoulder seasons (late April-May or September-early November) for 30-50% savings across ALL three islands without sacrificing weather quality. You’ll miss the holiday crowds, enjoy emptier beaches, and your wallet will definitely thank you.
So… Which Island Is Calling YOUR Name?
Choose ARUBA if:
- You want zero stress and maximum ease
- Guaranteed sunshine matters (it’s the most reliable weather in the Caribbean)
- All-inclusive appeals to your vacation style
- You’re traveling with kids or elderly family members
- Your idea of a perfect vacation is alternating between beach and pool with a drink always in hand
Choose TURKS & CAICOS if:
- You’re celebrating something major (honeymoon, anniversary, milestone birthday)
- You’re ready to splurge on the most stunning beaches you’ll probably ever see
- Luxury, privacy, and sophistication are non-negotiable
- You’re a serious diver or snorkeler
- Peace and quiet trump nightlife and cultural experiences
Choose ST. MARTIN if:
- Food is a major part of your travel experience
- You want cultural richness and European flair with your Caribbean vacation
- You like variety – exploring different beaches, restaurants, and sides of the island daily
- You value authenticity and local interaction
- You want the best value for your vacation dollar
- You’re comfortable being adventurous (clothing-optional beaches, driving between countries, finding hidden gems)
Ready to Stop Dreaming and Start Booking?
The truth is, you can’t really go wrong with any of these three Caribbean gems – each offers something special that’ll give you those much-needed vacation memories and that enviable tan. The question isn’t which island is “best,” it’s which island is best for you and your travel style.
Wave season is winding down and Caribbean prices are about to jump. Don’t be the person who waits until peak season prices kick in and then complains about the cost. Early booking rates are available NOW, and the best resort inventory gets snagged quickly.
Let’s get you booked on your perfect island escape. I’ve personally sent hundreds of clients to each of these destinations, and I know exactly which resorts deliver, which excursions are worth your time and money, and how to maximize your vacation investment.
Contact me today for:
- Personalized island recommendations based on YOUR preferences and budget
- Exclusive package deals you won’t find on generic booking sites
- Insider tips on the best restaurants, beaches, and experiences
- Resort comparisons and honest reviews
- Custom itineraries that match your travel style
Ready to pack your bags? Contact me or drop me a message on social media. Your future tan – and your future self – will thank you for making the decision today instead of scrolling for another three months.
Which island are you leaning toward? ARUBA, ST. MARTIN, or TURKS & CAICOS? Let me know in the comments below!
Luxury Curated. Stories of a Lifetime| Journey by Katie | Your Personal Travel Expert
Specializing in Caribbean Escapes, All-Inclusive Resorts & Unforgettable Vacation Experiences.| 773-469-1195 | @journeybykatie