6 Best Hidden Gems for Middle-Class Families in the Caribbean

Summer is almost over and fall is just around the corner, but that doesn’t mean we’re done with vacations. Because vacations are a year-round experience, it’s always a good time to plan one. If you’re in a middle-class family and you want to head to the Caribbean anytime soon, we’ve got your back — especially if you want to save money along the way.

GOBankingRates spoke to travel experts to find out where exactly are the best places in the Caribbean for middle-class families to travel to. Here are the six best hidden gems for middle-class families in the Caribbean.

If you want to keep your trip in the United States, here are the eight best hidden gem locations for middle-class families.

Mohd Rizwan, travel expert and director of Travelosei, is all about Curaçao.

“A stunning island with the architecture and feel of a Dutch colony, Curaçao has budget-friendly, family resort-type hotels and beaches that are child-friendly and shallow,” he said. But it’s not just about the beaches — Rizwan added, “It also provides an opportunity to visit art galleries, accessible museums, snorkeling and beautiful sceneries that come with hiking.”

Aaron Sutherland, founder at Jetsetter, backed this up.

“Curaçao is known for its diverse culture, rich history and stunning natural beauty — all at a more affordable price point than many other Caribbean destinations,” he said.

Chantale Baker, travel agent and founder at Global Vibes Travel, agreed.

“Curaçao is part of the ABC islands (ABC: Aruba, Bonaire, Curaçao). They are known to be outside of the hurricane belt and are not often impacted by hurricane season,” she said. “Over the last few years, Curaçao has been more and more popular with vacationers. It’s still in an emerging phase that it’s still a hidden gem.”

Sutherland estimated a five-day trip for a family of four could start from $3,500. Not too shabby for a slice of paradise!

Michael Santiago from RetireGuide can’t stop raving about Dominica.

“Dominica is a natural haven for nature-loving families, with rugged landscapes and unique outdoor adventures,” he said. “The island has fewer tourists and is more affordable, which provides you and your family with many opportunities to explore the hiking trails, hot springs and waterfalls across the island.”

Dean Van Es, founder and CEO at Fast Cover Travel Insurance, added, “Dominica is a lesser-known destination, but it’s well worth exploring if your family values time outdoors. Nicknamed the ‘Nature Isle of the Caribbean,’ it lives up to its moniker with fascinating landmarks, ranging from hot springs and waterfalls to even a boiling lake.”

Santiago loves the island of Grenada for an affordable getaway.

“Grenada is known as the ‘Spice Isle’ and offers pristine beaches, lush resorts and natural attractions to explore like rainforests and waterfalls,” he said. “This isle is less commercialized than other Caribbean destinations, which provides guests with a tranquil and budget-friendly excursion.”

When it comes to costs, a five-day trip for a family of four could start from $2,000.

Rizwan was all about Guadeloupe.

“This unit of French territories in the Caribbean may be the ideal place for families who wish to have their vacation infiltrated with culture, sun, sand, and activities,” he said. “Renting a car on the island is cheap and there are many markets where you can get souvenirs every site of interest to the island does not charge a dime to visitors.”

Sutherland chimed in, “Guadeloupe offers a unique cultural experience with French influences, cuisine, and diverse landscapes. It’s also less crowded than many other Caribbean islands.”

He estimated a five-day trip for a family of four, including flights, accommodations and activities, could start from $4,000.

Van Es put Roatán on our radar.

“Featuring crystal-clear waters and coral reefs, Roatán is an island paradise off the mainland of Honduras. As one of the cheaper places in the Caribbean for snorkeling, it’s a great chance to take your family on an underwater trip,” he said. “Roatán is also home to exceptional family-friendly activities, particularly if your kids love wildlife. There are many destinations to consider, but Daniel Johnson’s Monkey and Sloth Hang Out will undoubtedly be a highlight of their vacation.”

When it comes to cost, a five-day trip for a family of four could start from $2,000.

Vanessa Gordon, publisher at East End Taste, was all about Antigua and Barbuda.

“My family has had a home in Antigua for over 60 years, and in my opinion, visiting still provides one of the most authentic island experiences in the Caribbean,” she said. “On the island, there are 365 beaches which are all publicly accessible and free.”

Talk about a beach lover’s paradise!

As far as price, a five-day trip for a family of four could start from $2,500.

Baker loved these lesser-visited cities in the Dominican Republic as hidden gems just waiting to be explored. Although Baker said they can be “overshadowed by the popularity of Punta Cana,” they’re both still absolutely lovely.

La Romana is just an hour from Punta Cana and has “a few popular name brand all-inclusive resorts there, such as Dreams resorts and Iberostar,” according to Baker, whereas Puerto Plata is similar and has its own nearby airport.

Both cities are inexpensive overall — you can get away with a five-day trip for a family of five to the tune of about $3,000 a week.