There are over 7,000 islands throughout the warm waters of the Caribbean. While you might not be able to see them all, there are several fabulous spots tourists can visit when choosing a cruise destination. The following are ten of the most popular destinations for travelers when taking a Caribbean Cruise.

Ocho Rios, Jamaica

Ocho Rios is a popular port because of its access to Jamaica’s magnificent waterfalls. A traveler can go tubing down Dunn’s River or horseback riding along the beach. Visitors should take the time to visit the magnificent Dunn’s River Falls while taking in the gorgeous trees and flowers that Jamaica has to offer. Dolphin Cove is a great spot to visit and offers guests the opportunity to interact with the marine life. To get off the beaten path, travelers may want to explore the Blue Hole. This is a local spot hidden in the hills of Ocho Rios, offering a waterfall and peaceful swimming. If you happen to come into port on the other side of the island in Kingston, visiting the Bob Marley Museum or the Strawberry Hill Resort along the Blue Mountains are good choices.

Ocho Rios, JamaicaTomashDevenishek / Foter.com / CC BY

Cozumel, Mexico

Cozumel is a small island off Mexico’s east coast with beautiful reefs to explore. Palancar Reef features stunning coral with swim through tunnels throughout the reef. The Columbia Reef and the Santa Rosa Wall are also diving spots worth exploring. This is not only a favorite spot for divers but visitors can take an excursion up to the ancient Mayan ruins at Tulum. Travelers can also explore the coastline or do some shopping in downtown San Miguel. This is a busy port with lots for travelers to do while visiting.

Cozumel, MexicoRafael Robayna – ecocentrik.com / Foter.com / CC BY-NC-SA

St. Thomas

Duty free shopping is definitely one of the highlights for those stopping at St. Thomas. Charlotte Amalie has streets full of shops and bargains for travelers. Visitors can enjoy a sky ride right up to Paradise Point and witness stunning views of the Caribbean. Coral World Ocean Park offers an interactive aquarium experience as well as a variety of water sports. Of course the aqua water and gorgeous beaches is another reason to enjoy a stay at St. Thomas.

St. Thomaspraline3001 / Foter.com / CC BY-NC-ND

Belize City, Belize

For such a small country Belize has lots to offer. Adventure seekers might want to book a tour to go tubing through some of the caverns or experience a zip line tour over the rainforest. The Mayan ruins and temples are a cultural wonder that shouldn’t be missed. Belize is also famous for its great diving, featuring the second longest reef in the world. Of course lounging on the beach and shopping in the city is still a great way to spend the day for those looking for more low key options.

Belize City, Belizekuyman / Foter.com / CC BY-NC-SA

Bridgetown, Barbados

An excursion in Barbados might include a tour of the stunning orchids in Orchid World or time spent exploring the wildlife reserve. Visit the Boatyard and enjoy the ocean trampoline, the rope swing, and a diving platform. For a cultural experience check out the Parliament buildings and George Washington House. Religious sites include St. Michael’s Cathedral and the oldest Jewish Synagogue in the Western World.

Bridgetown, Barbadosscaturchio / Foter.com / CC BY-NC-ND

The Cayman Islands

George Town is a popular destination for cruise ships on the Cayman Islands. The Cayman’s are famous for great snorkeling and diving spots. The popular seven mile beach, which is actually a bit shorter, is lauded as one of the most beautiful beaches throughout the Caribbean. There are two golf courses that are fairly close to Georgetown. Other attractions include Queen Elizabeth II Botanical Park, featuring gorgeous flowers, and Stingray City.

The Cayman Islandsrcbodden / Foter.com / CC BY

Aruba

This Dutch island is deep in the southern waters of the Caribbean, less than 20 miles off the coast of Venezuela. Aruba has a reputation for some of the most pristine beaches in the world. This island is known not only for its tropical beauty but designer fashion shops. Travelers could indulge in some snorkeling or take a tour of the Aloe Balm factory. There are also caves to explore, an amazing butterfly farm, and old gold mine ruins.

Arubamdanys / Foter.com / CC BY

Basseterre, St. Kitts

This coastal town provides many charming attractions for travelers to visit. For those interested in culture, St. Kitts offers many old estates with their gorgeous gardens, the Circus area, and the National Museum. Other points of interest include St. George’s Anglican Church, Mount Liamuiga, and Frigate Bay, just southeast of Basseterre.

Basseterre, St. Kittsroger4336 / Foter.com / CC BY-SA

St. John’s, Antigua

There’s a lot of culture and history to explore when visiting Antigua. Bus tours of the island often include stops at Nelson’s Dockyard as well as other historical sights associated with Britain’s military past. A traveler can also enjoy the beauty of the Botanical Gardens or visit the Antigua Brewery. For those who just want to relax on the beach, Antigua offers Hawksbill Beaches. This actually includes four separate beaches.

St. John’s, AntiguaFoter.com / CC BY-SA

Punta Cana, Dominican Republic

The Dominican Republic has a variety of sites to see and activities to enjoy. Travelers shouldn’t miss Manati Park. Flamingos, toucans, and iguanas are all part of the animal experience. Cruisers looking for adventurous tours that last less than five hours might want to check out Dolphin’s Island or take a Dune Buggy tour through the countryside. There are also great golf courses and many restaurants to enjoy.

Punta Cana, Dominican RepublicCamera Eye Photography / Foter.com / CC BY