Punta Cana, Dominican Republic. Photo by Joe deSousa on Unsplash

Sure, we’d all love to leave our jobs and responsibilities behind to jet off to a remote island getaway somewhere, somehow. Not all islands are alike, however, as there are many nuances that differentiate one from the next.

As far as islands in the Caribbean go, take a look at our top picks, divided into four important categories:

Most affordable

The Dominican Republic

Try Punta Cana or La Romana for a selection of budget-friendly resorts and retreats. Be careful not to travel there during hurricane season, however.

Puerto Rico

Fly into San Juan in the fall for the best bang for your buck.

Most beautiful beaches

Antigua

White sand, crystal-clear water, and nothing but chill vibes.

Most delicious food

Jamaica

So much more than jerk chicken; be adventurous and try oxtail stew or curried goat.

Most impressive sites for water sports and activities

The Cayman Islands

Snorkel and scuba dive in the crystal-clear water, and be sure to visit “Stingray City” to eye some impressive sea creatures.