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11 Tropical Destinations to Visit on a Cruise from Miami

A Carnival® cruise from Miami to The Bahamas or the Caribbean is a wonderful way to enjoy a family or group vacation. You and your loved ones will visit a number of beautiful tropical destinations and create memories that will last a lifetime.

Fortunately, a cruise from Miami with Carnival has everything you need and more: relax poolside with a refreshing cocktail, enjoy entertaining shows and performances, partake of a wide array of delicious cruise dining and visit multiple exciting ports of call. When you are planning your cruise vacation, be sure to check out this detailed list of tropical destinations to explore in The Bahamas and the Caribbean.

There is so much to see and do—which destination will be your favorite?

carnival ship and choose fun airship in miami

1. Grand Turk

Beautiful Grand Turk offers up big adventure as well as noteworthy sightseeing opportunities. The island is home to historic towns, several famous landmarks and serene beaches. When looking for things to do in The Bahamas, you’ll find plenty in Grand Turk. Go enjoy a scenic boat ride along the coast and go snorkeling, or cuddle up to some stingrays on a beautiful white sand beach!

2. Nassau

This historic tropical destination in The Bahamas is lively and friendly, making it one of the most popular destinations for cruise ships each year. You’ll definitely find plenty of island flavor and cultural attractions in Nassau, the capital of The Bahamas, which was at one time a hub for famous pirates! Explore towns whose streets are lined with British colonial buildings, swim with dolphins or make your family cruise even more fun with a family beach day.

3. Amber Cove

This delightful port of call in the Dominican Republic was founded by Christopher Columbus. It’s a Caribbean paradise with plenty of exciting things to do, including shopping for gifts and souvenirs, tasting regional local dishes at local restaurants and enjoying peaceful, tropical beaches for some relaxing fun in the sun. Some of the best experiences to be had on Amber Cove include swimming with dolphins, sharks and sea lions, touring historical museums, forts and rum factories and discovering secret waterfalls.

a beautiful day at the beach in grand turk

4. Half Moon Cay

One of the best parts about vacationing with Carnival is getting to visit Half Moon Cay. On this private tropical island, you can bask in the serenity of calm ocean breezes or participate in exclusive activities you might not find anywhere else. Consider a horseback ride along the coast, a tram tour across the island or a scenic and historic nature walk.

a woman at the beach relaxing on a palm tree floatie

5. Cozumel

As part of a Caribbean cruise you may choose to visit Cozumel, a spectacular island. You can relax like the locals or explore some of the amazing adventures this port of call has to offer, including zip lining and snorkeling, a visit to a world-famous archaeological park, a tour of an ancient kingdom, an off-road jeep excursion and so much more!

6. San Juan

Enjoy the laid-back vibes in the capital of Puerto Rico, where welcoming streets exhibit cosmopolitan flair with a mixture of modern and classic architecture. There are plenty of quaint cafes, gift shops, boutiques and art galleries to spend the day in. While you are here, you can also ride horses through the rainforest, take some surfing lessons or experience a tour of the top 10 sites of San Juan.

a carnival ship in san juan puerto rico

7. Princess Cays

This private island is another desirable destination during a cruise to The Bahamas. When you arrive you’ll find an extensive barbecue already prepared for you, and a welcoming beach with lounge chairs calling your name. Yet if you seek more adventure, Princess Cays has that too. Go on a glass bottom boat cruise, enjoy surf fishing or bike across the island.

8. Aruba

Aruba is known for some great weather year-round, as well as its white sand beaches and happy vibes. It’s definitely a fun place to be, and you’ll find plenty of things to do while here. Try a jeep safari across the island or go sailing and snorkeling on a pirate ship!

9. Grand Cayman

The largest of the Cayman Islands, Grand Cayman is filled with a mixture of culture, art, beaches and coral reefs. There are plenty of attractions and shops—you can be certain your visit to the Cayman Islands will be a busy one! Be sure to explore some of the most popular attractions, such as a famous beach, a famous post office in “Hell” and tropical forests and ancient caves.

a dad taking a picture of his family on a grand cayman beach

10. St. Thomas

You’ll find a Caribbean paradise at St. Thomas. Stroll along beautiful beaches, take in the culture and history or get in some great shopping. Photo opportunities are plentiful, as are the shore excursions offering a wide range of activities. See the landscape like never before from a zipline tour, party with friends and family on a party boat in the harbor and go parasailing!

11. Key West

The southernmost island of the Florida Keys is the famous Key West. You’ll find chill vibes and lots of charm in this town. Filled with colorful houses and bungalows, Key West also has plenty of cafes and saloons where you’ll enjoy some tasty fare and refreshing drinks. While you’re here, take a historical tour or go on a pub crawl!

Cruising with Carnival from Miami gives you the opportunity to see extraordinary tropical destinations in the Caribbean! There’s so much more to see and do at each fantastic island, and the cruise ship is always packed with endless onboard fun. Book a Caribbean cruise and don’t miss out on an amazing vacation adventure!