Just because COVID-19 has us stuck inside doesn’t mean we can’t celebrate Earth Day 2021!

What is Earth Day?

Earth Day is an annual event celebrated around the world on April 22 to demonstrate support for environmental protection. First celebrated in 1970, it now includes events coordinated globally by the Earth Day Network in more than 193 countries. Find out more about Earth Day from Wikipedia

In honor of Earth Day, we compiled a list of some of our favorite ecotourism locales from across the Caribbean! The Caribbean is at the forefront of ecotourism developments and is committed to protecting the fragile beauty of the islands.

While you do your part by social distancing, you can plan an outdoor-focused vacation to the bright and sunny Caribbean!

Recommended Caribbean Destinations for Earth Day 2021

ANTIGUA AND BARBUDA

Known for its tropical landscape, Antigua and Barbuda is every ecotourist’s dream. From venturing inland to hike Antigua’s rainforest nature reserve to birding on mangrove-rich Barbuda, there is plenty to enjoy.

 

Located on the southwestern section of Antigua is the Wallings Nature Reserve, recognized for its picturesque vistas and panoramas. Some of Antigua’s most beautiful hikes are nestled among the towering trees and tropical flowers. If you’re quiet, you just might spot some of Antigua’s more rare tropical birds.

Overlooking the Atlantic, on the northeastern tip of Antigua, Devil’s Bridge is one of the country’s stunning geological wonders. A designated National Park, this limestone arch was shaped by the ever churning sea. Enjoy the panoramic view of the ocean and the power of the seawater geysers shooting through the cracks. Not only that, but Devil’s Bridge holds historic significance to the island. Local lore says Devil’s Bridge is where enslaved West Africans leapt to their deaths rather than endure slavery.

JAMAICA

Jamaica is home to exciting ecotourism opportunities that will sweep you off your feet and into the heart of the action. Quite literally, in fact! Jamaica is home to the longest stretch of zip line located in the Caribbean, the Big Timba. Almost 500 meters long, this zipline takes you near Montego Bay and into the tree canopy, over the rural farmland and verdant hills.

Snorkeling, one of Jamaica’s most popular activities, lets you dive head-first into the natural beauty of the Caribbean waters. One of the most beautiful spots is Rockhouse Beach, proving that taking the time to look for unspoiled spots is worth the effort. But across the island, some of Jamaica’s best snorkeling experiences are within the small coves and caves. Be on the lookout for schools of small fish colorful starfish.

MONTSERRAT

Montserrat is a paradise for nature enthusiasts with endless hiking trails, bird watching and turtle watching activities. The British Virgin Islands welcome 200 species of bird, many of which can be spotted from the beaches. Peregrine falcons, ospreys and kestrels are also known to make appearances to the islands.

With mountainous landscapes and stunning rainforest, join a guided hike for an immersive experience of this dynamic landscape. And for the daring, join a hike over the Soufriere Hills to the outlook of the Soufriere Hills Volcano

PUERTO RICO

From the lush green tropical rainforest of EL Yunque to kayaking in the bioluminescent bay at Laguna Grande, there are plenty of opportunities to enjoy Puerto Rico.

With mountainous landscapes and stunning rainforest, join a guided hike for an immersive experience of this dynamic landscape. And for the daring, join a hike over the Soufriere Hills to the outlook of the Soufriere Hills Volcano.

PUERTO RICO

From the lush green tropical rainforest of EL Yunque to kayaking in the bioluminescent bay at Laguna Grande, there are plenty of opportunities to enjoy Puerto Rico.

Both islands have spectacular trekking opportunities. For instance, Mount Liamuiga on St. Kitts guides hikers through an unspoiled rainforest to the outer fringe of a dormant volcano. A hike up Nevis peak will take visitors to the tip of this cone-fashioned island. Atop these mountains, hikers can observe local colorful birds, flowers and butterflies.

Snorkeling is also popular thanks to the local waters’ superb coral reefs. With warm climate, miles of sea shores and turquoise waters, there are a lot of outside undertakings from snorkeling to climbing to horse-riding. There is no shortage of opportunities in St. Kitts and Nevis.

No matter what outdoor activity you find yourself missing during this lockdown, there is a Caribbean Island that has what you’re looking for. Just because you didn’t see your favorite activity here, doesn’t mean it isn’t somewhere in the Caribbean! Browse through the rest of our island destination pages and see what you might find! Let us know what your favorite ecotourism activities are and which Caribbean Island you plan to visit next.

Sign up for Earth Day 2021