7 Most Popular Western Caribbean Islands & Cruise Ports
Some of the most popular cruise destinations in the Western Caribbean are Mexico, Bahamas, and Honduras. With so many great Western Caribbean Islands worth visiting, it can be overwhelming to choose where to go.
I can’t even keep track of how many Western Caribbean cruises I’ve taken, but definitely more than 6. I’ve been to nearly every port and can tell you they are all worth a visit.
Below, I list the most popular cruise ports in the Western Caribbean, including some islands and some destinations on the mainland. For each, I share my experience, tips, and the best things to do.
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Island Ports in the Western Caribbean
1. Roatan Honduras
Roatan is an amazing spot with a cool mix of beach and jungle vibes. It’s a small island in Honduras, but it’s packed with fun stuff to do, like awesome beaches, ATV tours, and even a chocolate factory.
The snorkeling here is world-class because it’s right on the Mesoamerican reef, which is often considered the “Great Barrier Reef” of America.
I’ve been to Roatan twice in the past couple years and loved it each time. I’ve only visited it as a cruise port but am strongly considering it for a future week long vacation.
The first trip, we did an ATV tour around the island, hitting up a chocolate factory and a beach, and it was a bit scary but super fun.
The second time, I got to hold a monkey at an animal sanctuary (which was fun even in the pouring rain) and relax at a beach club.
Roatan is a great island for a mix of chill beach time and some active adventures. It’s also south of the hurricane belt, so it’s great to visit year-round.
Top Things to Do:
- Customizable Private Island Tour – This tour is a great way to do a lot of the top things to do in Roatan in one day with the help of a local guide.
The tour includes a visit to a local community with time to shop and explore. You can also zipline, visit an animal sanctuary, spend time at the beach, tour a chocolate factory, or anything else that interests you.
- ATV Island Tour – The best way to see the small communities and rugged landscape of Roatan is on an ATV. Plus, it’s super fun if you’re an adrenaline junkie (like me).
- Snorkeling the Mesoamerican Reef – As I mentioned above, the snorkeling in Roatan is amazing. You can either take a snorkeling boat tour or snorkel directly off of one of the amazing beaches on the island.
Staying Longer? Best Place to Stay: Grand Roatan Caribbean Resort
Closest Major Airport: Juan Manuel Galvez International Airport (RTB)
Read More About Roatan Honduras ➡️
2. Cozumel Mexico
Cozumel, a favorite on Western Caribbean cruise routes, is a small island just off Cancun’s coast. It’s a great place to rent a car and hop around between beach clubs.
Snorkeling here is fantastic since it’s on the Mesoamerican reef, just like Roatan. There is also a ton of natural beauty, and even a National Park.
I’ve been going to Cozumel since I was a kid, and it’s always been a blast, from getting my hair braided on the beach back then to now, where I love to rent a car and drive around the island.
The best part? Stumbling upon this tiny roadside shack and having the best mojito ever – it’s those little surprises that make Cozumel special.
Whether you’re lounging at a beach club or exploring the island, there’s always something fun to do here.
Top Things to Do:
- Island Loop Drive – Rent a car and drive around the Southern Loop of the island. Some of the best stops are Alberto’s beach bar, Welcome to Miami (mojito referenced above), and Punta Morena Beach.
- Snorkeling the Mesoamerican Reef – Either take a snorkeling tour or rent gear from one of the beaches. Some animals you might see are turtles, sting rays, and tons of colorful fish.
- Punta Del Sur National Park – To see the more natural side of Cozumel, visit the national park. Some of the best spots to hit are the mangrove lookout tower, with views of the mangrove all the way to the ocean or the lighthouse with views for miles down the coastline.
Staying Longer? Best Place to Stay: Westin Cozumel
Closest Major Airport: Cozumel International Airport (CZM)
3. Falmouth Jamaica
Falmouth, Jamaica, might have a bit of a reputation for being unsafe, but don’t let that stop you from visiting – with a few smart precautions, you’re set for an amazing time.
This place was the highlight of my latest Western Caribbean cruise, and for good reason. When I was there, we had this awesome experience floating down a river, which was super relaxing and fun.
Then, we topped it off with a local food tasting at the beach – seriously, the flavors are incredible!
Falmouth is full of energy and has a real authentic Jamaican vibe. It’s a must-visit, especially for those who love combining a bit of adventure with some tasty local eats.
Just remember to stay aware of your surroundings, and you’re in for a fantastic time.
Top Things to Do:
- Blue Hole – This is probably the most unique thing to do in Falmouth. You can climb the (slippery) waterfalls to explore and swim in the natural pool at the base. It’s stunning.
- River Tube Float – Floating the river on an inflatable tube is a great way to see the Jamaica jungle. It’s mostly a slow float, but there are some rapids for a small thrill.
- River Bamboo Raft – Similar to floating the river on an inflatable, you can also take a guided tour to go down the river on an authentic bamboo raft. There are no rapids on this option.
Staying Longer? Best Place to Stay: Royalton Blue Waters Montego Bay, An Autograph Collection All Inclusive Resort
Closest Major Airport: Montego Bay (MBJ)
4. Ochos Rios Jamaica
Ocho Rios in Jamaica is a place I haven’t personally visited yet, but if it’s anything like Falmouth, travelers are in for a real treat.
Known for its stunning waterfalls, lush scenery, and vibrant culture, Ocho Rios is a popular spot on many Caribbean cruise itineraries.
From what I’ve heard, it offers a mix of adventurous activities like zip-lining and relaxing beach time. The area is renowned for its natural beauty, with attractions like Dunn’s River Falls being a major draw.
Though I haven’t experienced Ocho Rios firsthand, it’s only 90 minutes from Falmouth, so I can assume it is equally as beautiful and worth visiting.
Closest Major Airport: Ian Fleming International Airport
5. Georgetown Grand Cayman
Georgetown in Grand Cayman turned out to be a bit of a letdown on my recent Western Caribbean cruise. The first snag was that it’s a tender port, meaning you have to take a small boat from your cruise ship to the shore.
This process alone took us over an hour, and I really missed just being able to walk off the ship straight into the port.
When we finally got there, the place was super crowded – four ships were in port that day! Getting a taxi was a hassle, and by the time we got to the beach, all the chairs were already taken.
Another bummer was seeing the state of the famous Seven Mile Beach. It used to be this stunning spot, but a hurricane a few years back had pretty much washed most of it away. Many of the beach clubs are gone, and the beachfront that’s left is much smaller than before.
In hindsight, maybe trying out Stingray City, a popular attraction in Grand Cayman, would have been a better choice. I haven’t been there in over a decade, and it might have made for a more memorable day.
So, if you’re heading to Georgetown, you might want to plan your day a bit differently to make the most of it, especially considering these challenges.
Top Things to Do:
- Stingray City – Stingray city is a shallow sandbar in the North Sound where you can interact with friendly southern stingrays in their natural habitat. The experience allows you to swim, snorkel, and even feed them.
This is the most popular thing to do in Grand Cayman and my top recommendation for what to do.
Funny story – I visited Stingray City as a kid immediately after Steve Erwin was tragically killed by one and I was so terrified the whole time, I clung to my dads back. But don’t worry, this excursion is very safe.
- Seven Mile Beach – If you’re interested in a beach day, I recommend Coral Beach Club on Seven Mile Beach. It’s the best option if you want to rent a chair and have bar/restaurant service.
However, it can be very crowded and you need to take some steps to get from the seating to the water due to erosion.
Staying Longer? Best Place to Stay: Ritz Carlton Grand Cayman
Closest Major Airport: Owen Roberts International Airport (GCM)
6. Cruise Line Private Islands
Many major cruise lines have a private island in the Western Caribbean. Most of these are small island in the Bahamas that can only be reached via cruise ship.
The benefit to cruise private islands is you can have free food and use your beverage package, the same as onboard the ship. It’s a great way to have a relaxing beach day in a controlled environment without having to worry about getting transportation or navigating around.
The downside to private islands is they lack the local culture and exploration that you will find at other destinations.
Royal Caribbean – CocoCay
CocoCay is my favorite private island in the Caribbean. It’s a dynamic destination featuring Thrill Waterpark with its towering water slides, calm Oasis Lagoon, and the luxurious Coco Beach Club.
Disney Cruise Line – Castaway Cay
Disney’s private island in the Bahamas is a family-friendly paradise with activities and areas catering to all ages, including character experiences, water play areas, and quiet adult-only beaches.
Norwegian – Great Stirrup Cay
This island offers beautiful beaches, a range of water sports, and various dining options. The island is known for its snorkel garden and beaches.
MSC – Ocean Cay
Known for its emphasis on ecological sustainability and marine conservation, Ocean Cay is a large, serene destination with stunning beaches and activities geared towards nature lovers.
Carnival – Half Moon Cay
Known for its crescent-shaped beach, this idyllic island in the Bahamas offers horseback riding, stingray adventures, and a tranquil environment for relaxation.
Other Western Caribbean Ports
7. Belize City Belize
Belize City is a super popular Western Caribbean cruise destination. I haven’t been before, but am planning a visit for 2024.
The city streets are lively with music and great street food. If you’re into history, the Belize City Museum is a must-see. It used to be a prison and now it’s full of cool stories about Belize’s past. There’s also this old Swing Bridge that still works.
For those who love nature, the Belize Barrier Reef isn’t far. It’s a great place for snorkeling and seeing all sorts of fish and coral. You can also take a river tour to see crocodiles or visit the Community Baboon Sanctuary to see howler monkeys.
Overall, Belize City seems like a great mix of city life and nature. I can’t wait to visit and share all my experiences with you.
Closest Major Airport: Philip S.W. Goldson International Airport
8. Costa Maya Mexico
Costa Maya, a little port town in Mexico a few hours south of Cancun, is a cool spot that’s mostly visited by cruise ships. I’ve been there twice and had a blast, but it feels like I’ve pretty much seen and done everything there is to do.
It’s not really a place people go to for a standalone vacation, as it’s mainly geared towards cruise passengers.
Near the port, there are a few beaches you can check out, but most of the action is about an hour’s drive away. The big draws here are the Chacchoben ruins and Bacalar lake, which are both worth your time.
So, while Costa Maya has its charms and is definitely worth a visit, keep in mind that you might have to travel a bit to get to the really cool stuff. After a couple of visits, you might feel like you’ve seen all it has to offer.
Top Things to Do:
- Chacchoben Ruins – The Chacchoben ruins are an archaeological site located around 90 minutes from the Costa Maya cruise port. These ruins are believed to have been inhabited by the ancient Maya civilization from around 200 BC to 1100 AD.
One of the most prominent features of the site is the Great Acropolis, a towering structure that offers breathtaking views of the surrounding jungle. If you’re interested in exploring the ancient wonders of the Mayan civilization, a visit to the Chacchoben ruins is a must-see.
- Bacalar Lake – Bacalar, also known as the “Lagoon of Seven Colors,” is a picturesque town located about 90 kilometers north of Costa Maya. The best things to do in Bacalar are take a boat tour of the lake and visit the underwater cenotes.
Closest Major Airport: Belize City Municipal (TZA)
9. Cruise Line Private Destinations
Above, I talked about cruise line private islands in the Western Caribbean. A few cruise lines also have private destinations that are a portion of a larger island.
For example, Royal Caribbean’s Labadee is a part of Haiti, exclusive to cruise passengers.
Although not as special as a complete private island, these private destinations are still a great place to visit on a Western Caribbean itinerary.
Royal Caribbean – Labadee
Located on the northern coast of Haiti, Labadee is an action-packed destination. It boasts the world’s longest over-water zip line, an alpine coaster, and several beaches offering a range of experiences from lively to tranquil.
Princess – Princess Cays
This island on the southern tip of Eleuthera in the Bahamas offers a quieter beach experience. With water sports, a coral reef for snorkeling, and less crowded beaches, it’s ideal for those seeking a more relaxed day.
Sample Western Caribbean Cruise Itineraries
There are so many Western Caribbean cruises to choose from. Below, I list 12 cruise lines that operate in the Caribbean and there are even more than that!
If you’re planning a Western Caribbean cruise, I recommend first selecting a cruise line, then browsing itineraries. They will vary greatly by date and duration.
To give you an idea of some itinerary options, here are three that I would personally choose from Royal Caribbean:
5 Nights | Liberty of the Seas | From Ft Lauderdale
Ft Lauderdale > Cruising > Cozumel > Costa Maya > Cruising > Ft Lauderdale
6 Nights | Symphony of the Seas | From Ft Lauderdale
Ft Lauderdale > Cruising > Falmouth > Labadee > Cruising > Nassau > Ft Lauderdale
7 Nights | Icon of the Seas | From Miami
Miami > Cruising (2) > Costa Maya > Cozumel > Cruising > Cococay > Miami
Browse more Western Caribbean cruise itineraries
Map of the Western Caribbean
Cruise Lines that Visit the Western Caribbean
| Cruise Category | Western Caribbean Cruise Lines |
|---|---|
| Luxury | Regent Seven Seas Seabourn Crystal Cruises Ritz Carlton |
| Mid-Range | Celebrity Virgin Disney Cruise Line |
| Budget | Royal Caribbean Carnival Holland America MSC Norwegian Cruise Line |
Summary: Top 3 Best Western caribbean Islands
As I mentioned at the beginning, all of these Caribbean cruise ports are worth visiting at least once. However, I know vacations are special and you want to see the best when using your precious money and vacation time.
If I had to choose, these would be my top three favorite Western Caribbean island cruise ports:
- Roatan Honduras
- Cozumel Mexico
- CocoCay Bahamas
Before you go…
If you’re planning a Caribbean cruise or just a Caribbean vacation, I encourage you to consider destinations in the Eastern and Southern Caribbean as well.
I know, this makes it even more overwhelming. However, my guide to the best and worst Caribbean cruise ports will help you narrow it down!
Related Posts:
- Royal Caribbean Western Caribbean Cruise Tips And Itinerary
- Best and Worst Caribbean Cruise Ports for Vacationers
- 17 Top Things to Do in Labadee Haiti: 1-Day Port Guide
- 17 Best Things to Do in Nassau Bahamas Cruise Port
- CocoCay Bahamas Things To Do & One Day Itinerary
- Top Things To Do In Roatan – What To Do In Roatan Honduras In One Day
- Ultimate Royal Caribbean Southern Caribbean Cruise Guide And Itinerary
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