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Getting There

There are only two ways to get to your tropical Caribbean paradise of choice – by air or by sea – with flying certainly being the most direct way, offering speed and convenience that no cruise ship can rival. Many Caribbean islands have nonstop (no stops are made) or direct (a stop is made but you don't change aircraft) service from the US, with American Airlines operating the lion's share of routes, although US Airways, Delta, Continental, and budget airlines like JetBlue and Spirit Air have been adding their own new routes in recent years.

Major hubs are, not surprisingly, on the East Coast, with the bulk of Caribbean departures leaving out of New York or Miami. Fort Lauderdale is another substantial center, with numerous routes operating on Spirit Air, and several flight options on smaller carriers to the Bahamas and beyond. Delta operates numerous flights out of its hub in Atlanta, while US Airways has made Caribbean travel from Charlotte and Philadelphia a viable alternative. Continental, in turn, offers a good range of service out of Houston, ideal for travelers from the Southwest. Midwest travelers can turn to Northwest Airlines for service out of Detroit and Minneapolis, while United offers Chicago-area travelers flights to a handful of Caribbean spots. Even travelers from the West Coast at Los Angeles can find a couple of nonstop Caribbean flights these days (to San Juan, PR on American or Montego Bay on Air Jamaica).

The easiest islands to reach via nonstop service include the Bahamas, Puerto Rico, the US Virgin Islands, Jamaica, and the Dominican Republic. Some isles are more off the beaten track and will require a little extra effort (but will most likely reward you with fewer tourists to have to share your dream vacation with). For those isles, you'll need to continue on with an intra-Caribbean connecting flight from one of the main Caribbean gateways like San Juan, St. Maarten, and Montego Bay. American Eagle, American's local commuter carrier, is one of the most thorough inter-island carriers, with its major hub operating out of San Juan, Puerto Rico.

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MONEY MATTERS
Flying to the Caribbean was once a notoriously pricey endeavor, particularly during the winter high-season. Happily, that trend has been changing in recent years, as several of the popular low-cost US-based carriers and other legacy airlines expand their service to include popular Caribbean destinations. This competition has proved healthy for consumers, forcing more competitive fares and more route options. New routes are emerging frequently; JetBlue, for example, just launched nonstop service to Bermuda from New York in May 2006. American, the staple carrier of the Caribbean air market, still provides, by far, the most thorough network in the Caribbean (operated largely by its subsidiary, American Eagle) and offers fairly competitive pricing.

Round-trip flights are generally the least expensive to buy (rather than two one-way tickets), so even if you're planning on doing a bit of island-hopping on your Caribbean adventure, it may make economic sense to fly home from the same airport that you fly into. Try to book well in advance for the lowest rates, although you'll occasionally get lucky with a tempting last-minute fare, if your schedule and destination are flexible. Off-peak flights are always cheaper – that means bargain-hunters should avoid the winter high-season (mid-December to April) and weekend travel. Shoulder season (May to July) and low-season (August to November) fares drop considerably. If you're looking to travel during winter holidays like Christmas or New Year's, book as far ahead as possible (6-10 months in advance) as these seats sell out fast, and expect to pay a small fortune.

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ON THE PLANE
Keep in mind that many flights to the Caribbean leave early in the morning from the US, as most Caribbean airports don't have the infrastructure to accommodate nighttime landings. The miniscule landing strip at St. Barths, for example, makes for an infamously white-knuckle experience – and emphasizes why flights should only attempt to touch down in broad daylight.

Many of the smaller island-hopper airlines involve tiny planes and somewhat erratic service. Be sure to confirm your reservations a couple of days in advance – yes, we mean it – and to anticipate that schedules may change around a bit if the airlines don't find enough passengers to justify a previously arranged flight. Additionally, if you tend to be a jittery flier, you may want to avoid these smaller planes altogether, and look into possible ferry or cruise alternatives between islands. Finally, due to the small size of some planes, your luggage may not arrive with you on your flight if the plane is booked to capacity due to plane (not baggage) weight restrictions; pack a day's worth of necessities in a carry on just in case, especially for St. Barths, Anguilla, Saba, St. Vincent, and Nevis.

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AT THE AIRPORT
Given the tiny size of Caribbean airports, most planes disembark directly onto the tarmac. Some airports provide shuttles, but most of the time, passengers walk directly to the terminal from the plane. Travelers with physical restrictions should discuss this with the airline prior to booking.

Also, be warned that arriving at Caribbean airports can sometimes be a harrowing experience. Expect encounters with overworked (and sometimes rude) customs officials and beware of “porters” who will offer to help with your bags and then help themselves to them as they run off – Santo Domingo's Las Américas International Airport, in the Dominican Republic, is a particular problem spot.

HOW TO GET THERE
Figuring out the easiest way to puddle hop to your Caribbean vacation destination can be a daunting endeavor – that's why our editors have already done all of the research for you. Perhaps you have a specific island in mind, or are curious to see which ones are best serviced from the US mainland – check out our By Island directory for comprehensive information on air travel to each individual isle. Or, maybe you want to know where you can fly nonstop from your US hometown – our By US Departure City directory will fill you in on your options. Follow the links below for detailed information and resources on flying to the Caribbean:

HOW TO GET THERE: BY ISLAND
Individual islands are listed below, along with details on airlines that service them from the US and from within the Caribbean.

ANGUILLA
While there are no nonstop flights to Anguilla from the US, there are dozens of flights scheduled weekly from various Caribbean islands. Transfers are typically made through San Juan, Puerto Rico or St. Maarten. Factor in 1 hour of flight time from San Juan and just 7 minutes from St. Maarten.

Airport code: AXA

Via US Carriers: American Eagle/American Airlines (via San Juan)

Via Inter-Island Carriers: Winair; LIAT; Caribbean Star; TransAnguilla

Travel tips from the Tourism Board

ANTIGUA & BARBUDA
There are both direct flights and connections from the US via San Juan and St. Maarten. The point of entry is at V.C. Bird International Airport in Antigua. Service to Barbuda is available from Antigua via Carib Aviation. Travel to and from neighboring islands is available on several local and charter airlines. Factor in 4 hours of travel time from New York and 3 hours from Miami.

Airport code: Antigua (ANU)

Nonstop: New York-Antigua (Continental; BWIA); Miami-Antigua (BWIA); Atlanta-Antigua (Delta); Charlotte-Antigua (US Airways)

Via US Carriers: American Eagle/American Airlines (via San Juan); BWIA (via Miami or New York); Continental (via New York); Delta (via Atlanta); US Airways (via Charlotte)

Via Inter-Island Carriers: BWIA:Caribbean Star; Carib Aviation; LIAT

Travel tips from the Tourism Board

ARUBA
There are multiple nonstop flights from the US mainland to Aruba, with departures available from Atlanta, Boston, Charlotte, Chicago, New York, Miami, and more. Given the assortment of direct flights from the US, American travelers typically opt to forego a transfer in the Caribbean and to fly nonstop from the US mainland. Nonstop flights from Miami run about 2.5 hours; from New York its 4.5 hours; from Atlanta about 4 hours; factor in just over 5 hours from Chicago.

Airport code: AUA

Nonstop: Miami (American); New York (American; Continental; Delta; US Airways); Boston (American; US Airways); Houston (Continental); Atlanta (Delta); Chicago (United); Philadelphia (US Airways); Charlotte (US Airways); Washington, DC (United)

Via US Carriers: American Airlines (via Boston; Miami; NY; San Juan); Continental (via New York); Delta (via Atlanta); United (via DC or Chicago); US Airways (via Charlotte; New York; Philadelphia; Boston)

Via Inter-Island Carriers: American Eagle; BonairExpress; Dutch Antilles Express

Travel tips from the Tourism Board

BAHAMAS
Numerous carriers fly to the Bahamas, including major US carriers, discount budget airlines, and dozens of small Florida-based airlines, making it by far the most convenient island to reach from the US. BahamasAir, the national carrier of the island chain is also a good bet for finding conveniently scheduled and reasonably priced flights. The most frequent service is offered through airports throughout Florida, especially Fort Lauderdale and Miami. Nassau is the busiest airport in the Bahamas; from here connections can be made to assorted Out Islands airports. Freeport additionally has generous service options from the U.S. Nassau isa 45 minute flight from Miami; its 2 hours and 45 minutes from New York; and just over 2 hours from Charlotte.

Airport codes: Nassau (NAS); Freeport (FPO)

Nonstop: Atlanta-Nassau (Delta); Atlanta-Freeport (Delta; AirTran); Baltimore-Freeport (AirTran); Boston-Nassau (JetBlue); Charlotte-Nassau (US Airways); Cincinnati-Nassau (Delta's Comair); Cleveland-Nassau (Continental); Fort Lauderdale-Nassau (Delta; US Airways; American; Bahamasair; Chalk's Ocean Airways; Continental; Spirit; Gulfstream International); Fort Lauderdale-Freeport (US Airways; Gulfstream International); Houston-Nassau (Continental); Miami-Nassau (American; Bahamasair; Gulfstream International); Miami-Freeport (American; Gulfstream International); New York-Nassau (Delta; US Airways; Continental; Spirit; JetBlue); Orlando-Nassau (Delta; American; Bahamasair; Spirit); Philadelphia-Nassau (US Airways); Raleigh-Nassau (American); Tampa-Nassau (American); Washington, D.C.-Nassau (US Airways); West Palm Beach-Nassau (United; US Airways; Gulfstream International); West Palm Beach-Freeport (United; US Airways; Gulfstream International)

Via US Carriers: Delta (via Fort Lauderdale; Atlanta; New York; Orlando); US Airways (via Philadelphia; Charlotte; more); American (via Miami; Fort Lauderdale; more);

Bahamasair (via Miami; Orlando; Fort Lauderdale; West Palm Beach); Continental (via Fort Lauderdale; Houston; more); Gulfstream International (code-shares with Continental; flies from numerous Florida cities); Spirit (via Fort Lauderdale; New York; Orlando); AirTran (via Atlanta and Baltimore); JetBlue (via NYC or Boston); Twin Air (via Fort Lauderdale); Chalk's Ocean Airways (via Fort Lauderdale and Miami); Island Express (via Fort Lauderdale); Lynx Air International (via Fort Lauderdale); Cherokee Air (via West Palm Beach); Yellow Air Taxi (via Fort Lauderdale); Air Charter Bahamas (via Fort Lauderdale); Air Sunshine (via Fort Lauderdale); Bimini Island Air (via West Palm Beach); Florida Coastal Airlines (via Fort Lauderdale)

Via Inter-Island Carriers: BahamasAir; Gulfstream International; Air Sunshine; LeAir Charter; Take Flight Air Charters; Western Air; Island Helicopters Bahamas; Yellow Air Taxi; Southern Air Charter; Abaco Air

Travel tips from the Tourism Board

BARBADOS
Barbados is a regional hub, and is served well with both nonstop and connecting service. Flights are available from the US with gateways in New York and Miami, and with connecting service in San Juan. Factor in about 3.5 hours from Miami, 4.5 hours from New York; or 1.5 hours from San Juan.

Airport code: BGI

Nonstop: New York (American; BWIA; Air Jamaica); Miami (American; BWIA); Washington, DC (BWIA); Philadelphia (US Airways); Charlotte (US Airways); Atlanta (Delta)

Via US Carriers: American Airlines/American Eagle (via Miami; New York; San Juan); US Airways (via Philadelphia or Charlotte); Air Jamaica (via LA; NY; Chicago; more w/connection in Montego Bay); BWIA (via DC; Miami; New York); Air Jamaica (via New York); Delta (via Atlanta)

Inter-Island Carriers: BWIA; LIAT; Cayman Airways; Air Jamaica; Caribbean Star; Mustique Airways; SVG Air; Trans Island Air

Travel tips from the Tourism Board

BERMUDA
Nonstop flights to Bermuda are available from 10 US cities, with the most frequency out of New York and Philadelphia. There are no neighboring islands to Bermuda, so therefore all flights will be via a US connection. Flight times are under 2 hours from New York and Philadelphia; 3 hours from Miami; and 3.5 hours from Chicago.

Airport code: BDA

Nonstop: Atlanta (Delta); Baltimore (USA 3000); Boston (Delta; US Airways); Charlotte (US Airways); Chicago (United); Detroit (Northwest); Miami (American); New York (American; Continental: USA 3000; US Airways; Northwest; JetBlue); Philadelphia (US Airways; United; USA 3000); Washington, DC (US Airways)

Via US Carriers: Continental (via New York); American (via New York or Miami); Delta (via Atlanta or Boston); JetBlue (via New York); Northwest (via Detroit or New York); US Airways (via DC; New York; Charlotte; Philadelphia); United (via Chicago or Philadelphia); USA 3000 (via Philadelphia; New York; Baltimore)

Travel tips from the Tourism Board

BONAIRE
Reaching Bonaire typically requires a layover in San Juan, Montego Bay, Aruba, or Curaçao. There is one nonstop flight from the US, which was launched by Continental in December 2005, from Houston. Flight time from Houston is 5 hours; from neighboring Curaçao, factor in approximately 20 minutes.

Airport code: BON

Nonstop: Houston (Continental)

Via US Carriers: Continental (via Houston); American Eagle/American Airlines (via San Juan; Aruba; Curaçao); Air Jamaica (via Montego Bay)

Via Inter-Island Carriers: American Eagle; Air Jamaica; Dutch Antilles Express; BonairExpress; Divi Divi Air

Travel tips from the Tourism Board

CAYMAN ISLANDS
The Cayman Islands are easily accessible, with nearly 30 flights operating each week from Miami to Grand Cayman alone. Miami is the gateway from much of the US, although a handful of other cities do host nonstop service. Grand Cayman is home to the major airport of the three isles; Cayman Brac has a smaller one, while Little Cayman is serviced only by inter-island flights. Flight time from Miami is just under 1.5 hours; from Atlanta 3.5 hours; from Houston 2 hours and 45 minutes.

Airport codes: Grand Cayman (GCM); Cayman Brac (CYB)

Nonstop: Miami (Cayman Airways; American); Boston (Cayman Airways); Chicago (Cayman Airways); Tampa (Cayman Airways); Fort Lauderdale (Cayman Airways; Spirit); Orlando (Cayman Airways); Houston (Cayman Airways; Continental); New York (American; Continental; Delta); Atlanta (Delta); Detroit (Northwest); Minneapolis (Northwest); Charlotte (US Airways)

Via US Carriers: Cayman Airways (Miami; Boston; Chicago; Tampa; more); American (via Miami; New York; San Juan); Continental (via Houston or New York-EWR); Delta (via Atlanta or New York); Northwest (via Detroit or Minneapolis); US Airways (via Charlotte); Spirit Air (via Fort Lauderdale)

Via Inter-Island Carriers: Cayman Airways;Air Jamaica

Travel tips from the Tourism Board

CURAÇAO
There is daily nonstop service available to Curaçao's modern airport from Miami and New York. Flights on regional carriers are additionally available from San Juan, Montego Bay, Aruba, or Bonaire. Flight time from Miami is approximately 3 hours; a flight from neighboring Bonaire runs about 20 minutes.

Airport code: CUR

Nonstop: New York (Continental); Miami (American)

Via US Carriers: American Airlines (via Miami or San Juan); Continental (New York at EWR); Air Jamaica (from US gateways, via Montego Bay)

Via Inter-Island Carriers: American Eagle; Air Jamaica; BonairExpress; Dutch Antilles Express; Divi Divi Air

Travel tips from the Tourism Board

DOMINICA
There are no nonstop flights to Dominica from the US given the small size of the islands' two airports (one is closer to Roseau, the capital, the other, a newer international airport, is on the Atlantic side of the island, and far from most accommodations). Connections must be made via local carriers on nearby islands, such as Antigua, Barbados, Martinique, Puerto Rico, St. Maarten, Guadeloupe, St. Lucia, and others. The most direct route from the US is via San Juan, PR on American Eagle. Flight time from San Juan is about 1.5 hours.

Airport codes: Roseau (DOM); Dominica Cane Field (DCF)

Via US Carriers: American Eagle/American Airlines (via San Juan)

Via Inter-Island Carriers: American Eagle; BWIA, Continental, Caribbean Sun; LIAT; Caribbean Star; Air Jamaica

Travel tips from the Tourism Board

DOMINICAN REPUBLIC
There are five major airports, one each in Santo Domingo (the country's largest), Puerto Plata, La Romana, Santiago, and Punta Cana, that operate in the Dominican Republic. (Make sure to fly into the airport closest to your destination, as the DR is a big country.) Major US gateway cities include Miami and New York and there are lots of nonstop options to get you there – this is definitely one of the easiest destinations to access. Many visitors to the DR that book through tour operators will fly in on nonstop charters. Flight time to Santo Domingo is just under 3 hours from New York, just over 2 hours from Miami; and 4 hours from Houston.

Airport codes: Santo Domingo (SDQ); Puerto Plata (POP): Santiago (STI): Punta Cana (PUJ); La Romana (LRM)

Nonstop: Atlanta-Santo Domingo (Delta); Boston-Santo Domingo (American); Charlotte-Punta Cana (US Airways); Fort Lauderdale-Santo Domingo (American; Spirit; US Airways); Fort Lauderdale-Punta Cana (Spirit); Houston-Punta Cana (Continental); New York-Santiago (American; Continental; JetBlue; Delta); New York-La Romana (American); New York-Punta Cana (Continental; Northwest; American); New York-Puerto Plata (American; Continental); New York-Santo Domingo (American; Continental; Delta); Philadelphia-Punta Cana (US Airways); Philadelphia-Santo Domingo (US Airways); Miami-La Romana (American); Miami-Puerto Plata (American); Miami-Punta Cana (American); Miami -Santo Domingo (American); Miami-Santiago (American)

Via US Carriers: American Airlines/American Eagle (via New York; Miami; or San Juan); Continental (via New York or Houston); Northwest (via New York); Delta (via Atlanta or New York); JetBlue (via New York); Spirit (via Fort Lauderdale); US Airways (via Charlotte; Philadelphia; Fort Lauderdale); Copa (to Santo Domingo only, via Panama from New York; Orlando; LA; or Miami)

Via Inter-Island Carriers: American Eagle; Cubana; Sky King; Air Century

Travel tips from the Tourism Board

GRENADA
There limited nonstop flights to Grenada from the US operating out New York. There is also connecting service available on American Airlines/American Eagle, Air Jamaica, and BWIA. Regional carriers also provide service via nearby islands like Trinidad, Barbados, and Antigua. It takes about 4.5 hours of flight time from New York.

Airport code: GND

Nonstop: New York (Air Jamaica; Delta)

Via US Carriers: American Eagle/American Airlines (via San Juan); Air Jamaica (via Montego Bay and Kingston, or nonstop from New York); Delta (via New York); BWIA (via Barbados from New York and Miami)

Via Inter-Island Carriers: American Eagle; Air Jamaica; BWIA; LIAT; Caribbean Star; SVG Air

Travel tips from the Tourism Board

GUADELOUPE
Getting to Guadeloupe requires that US travelers fly to a neighboring isle and catch a connecting flight. The most direct route is American Airlines to San Juan, with connecting service on American Eagle to Guadeloupe. Martinique is another popular hub for regional carriers. Flight time from San Juan is 1 hour and 40 minutes.

Airport code: PTP

Via US Carriers: American Eagle/American Airlines (via San Juan); Air France (from Miami, via Port-au-Prince)

Via Inter-Island Carriers: American Eagle; Air Caraïbes, Air Antilles Express; LIAT

Travel tips from the Tourism Board

JAMAICA
Jamaica, with airports in Montego Bay and Kingston, is one of the most widely serviced Caribbean destinations from the US, with nonstop flights available from more than 10 US cities, including a nonstop flight from Los Angeles (to Montego Bay on Air Jamaica). Air Jamaica's strong U.S. presence, complimented by service from nearly all of the major US carriers (including American, US Airways, Continental, and more) makes getting to Jamaica a breeze, with little need for connecting flights. Flying time from Miami is 1.5 hours; from Atlanta, 2.5 hours; and from Los Angeles, 5.5 hours.

Airport codes: Montego Bay (MBJ); Kingston (KIN)

Nonstop: Atlanta-Kingston (Delta); Atlanta-Montego Bay (Delta); Baltimore/Washington D.C.-Montego Bay (Air Jamaica); Boston-Montego Bay (American; Air Jamaica); Charlotte-Montego Bay (US Airways); Chicago-Montego Bay (Air Jamaica); Cincinnati-Montego Bay (Delta); Detroit-Montego Bay (Northwest); Fort Lauderdale-Kingston (US Airways; Spirit Airlines); Fort Lauderdale-Montego Bay (Air Jamaica; US Airways); Houston-Montego Bay (Continental); Los Angeles-Montego Bay (Air Jamaica); Memphis-Montego Bay (Northwest); Miami-Montego Bay (American; Air Jamaica); Miami-Kingston (American); Minneapolis-Montego Bay (Northwest); New York-Montego Bay (American; Air Jamaica; Continental; Delta); New York-Kingston (Air Jamaica; Delta); Orlando-Montego Bay (Air Jamaica); Philadelphia-Montego Bay (Air Jamaica; US Airways)

Via US Carriers: Air Jamaica (via Los Angeles; Chicago; Boston; Baltimore/Washington, DC; New York; Philadelphia; Atlanta; Fort Lauderdale; Miami, Orlando); American Airlines (Miami; New York; Boston); BWIA (from US gateways to Kingston via hubs in Antigua; Trinidad); Cayman Airways (from US gateways via hubs in Cayman Islands); Continental (via Houston); Delta (via Atlanta; Cincinnati; New York); Northwest (via Detroit; Memphis; Minneapolis); US Airways (via Fort Lauderdale; Philadelphia; Charlotte); Spirit Airlines (via Fort Lauderdale)

Via Inter-Island Carriers: American Eagle; Air Jamaica; Air Sunshine; BWIA; Sky King

Travel tips from the Tourism Board

MARTINIQUE
There is only one nonstop flight to Martinique (from Miami on Air France); travelers from all other gateways in the US will need to transfer on another Caribbean island; a layover in San Juan on American Airlines is a popular route. Factor in 2 hours of travel time from San Juan; or about 3 hours from Miami.

Airport code: FDF

Nonstop: Miami (Air France)

Via US Carriers: American Airlines (via San Juan; Santo Domingo); Air France (via Miami)

Via Inter-Island Carriers: American Eagle; Air Caraïbes; Air Antilles; Take Air Lines

Travel tips from the Tourism Board

PUERTO RICO
Nonstop flights are abundant to San Juan, particularly with American Airlines which uses the large airport here as a hub for all other Caribbean destinations it services (on it subsidiary, American Eagle). While the main US gateways are New York and Miami, nonstop flights are scheduled from more than 20 US cities, including Los Angeles. Additional airports such as Ponce and Aguadilla are also serviced nonstop in select markets. Factor in 7.5 hours of travel time from LA; 4.5 hours from Chicago; just over 3 hours from New York; and 2.5 hours from Miami.

Airport codes: San Juan (SJU; SIJ); Ponce (PSE); Aguadilla (BQN)

Nonstop: Atlanta-San Juan (Delta); Baltimore-San Juan (American); Boston-San Juan (American; Delta-Song; US Airways); Charlotte-San Juan (US Airways); Chicago-San Juan (American; United); Cleveland-San Juan (Continental); Dallas/Fort Worth-San Juan (American); Detroit-San Juan (Northwest); Fort Lauderdale-San Juan (Spirit; American); Hartford-San Juan (American); Houston-San Juan (Continental); Los Angeles-San Juan (American); Memphis-San Juan (Northwest); Miami-San Juan (American); Minneapolis-San Juan (Northwest; Sun Country Airlines); New York-San Juan (American; Delta; US Airways; Continental; JetBlue); New York-Ponce (Continental; JetBlue); New York-Aguadilla (Continental; JetBlue); Orlando-Aguadilla (Pan Am); Orlando-San Juan (American; Delta-Song; Spirit; Pan Am); Philadelphia-San Juan (American; US Airways); Pittsburg-San Juan (US Airways); St. Louis-San Juan (American); Tampa-San Juan (American); Washington, DC-San Juan (American; United)

Via US Carriers: American (offers nonstop service from 14 US cities); Delta (via Atlanta; New York; Boston – note that some of these flights operate on Delta's low-cost carrier, Song); United (via Chicago or DC); Northwest (via Detroit; Memphis; Minneapolis); US Airways (via Philadelphia; Boston; Charlotte; more); Continental (via New York; Cleveland; Houston); Spirit (via Orlando or Fort Lauderdale); JetBlue (via New York); Sun Country Airlines (via Minneapolis); Pan Am Clipper Connection (via Orlando)

Via Inter-Island Carriers: American Eagle; Vieques Air Link; Cape Air; Seaborne Airlines; LIAT; Inter-Island Express

Travel tips from the Tourism Board

SABA
You'll need to fly into St. Maarten to reach Saba, as there are no nonstop flights to this small island from the US mainland. From there, Winair operates an island-hopper to Saba, which takes about 12 minutes.

Airport code: SAB

Via US Carriers: Flight availability to St. Maarten is available on American Airlines (via New York; Miami; San Juan); Delta (via Atlanta); US Airways (via Philadelphia or Charlotte); United (via Chicago or Washington, DC); Continental (via New York-EWR). Connecting service can then be made on Winair to Saba.

Via Inter-Island Carriers: Winair (offers the only connecting service from St. Maarten to Saba)

Travel tips from the Tourism Board

ST. BARTHS
Most flights into St. Barths are via nearby St. Maarten, where nonstop flights arrive from the US on US Airways, Delta, Continental, American Airlines, and United Airlines. From St. Maarten, the 10-minute flight to St. Barths can be made on Winair, Air Caraïbes, and St-Barth Commuter. The itsy-bitsy landing strip at St. Barths can't accommodate much more than a 20-seater plane, with a strip that's so short that flights can't land after dark. Also note that your bags may not make it with you to St. Barths if you're on a full flight, but will come up to a day late, as space (and weight) allows; pack a day's necessities in a carry-on, just in case.

Airport code: SBH

Via US Carriers: Flight availability to St. Maarten is available on American Airlines (via New York; Miami; San Juan); Delta (via Atlanta); US Airways (via Philadelphia or Charlotte); United (via Chicago or Washington, DC); Continental (via New York-EWR) – connecting service can then be made on an inter-island carrier to St. Barths.

Via Inter-Island Carriers: Winair; Air Caraïbes; St-Barth Commuter

Travel tips from the Tourism Board

ST. KITTS & NEVIS
US Airways operates nonstop flights out of Philadelphia and Charlotte on Saturdays; American also operates a nonstop flight out of Miami several days a week. Travelers from other US cities will need to make connections to regional carriers on isles like Antigua or St. Maarten. Nevis can only be reached by a connecting flight – popular routes are from San Juan on American Eagle or from St. Kitts on Carib Aviation or Winair. Allow 3.5 hours of travel time from Miami and 4.5 hours from Philadelphia.

Airport codes: St. Kitts (SKB); Nevis (NEV)

Nonstop: Charlotte-St. Kitts (US Airways); Philadelphia-St. Kitts (US Airways); Miami-St. Kitts (American)

Via US Carriers: American (via Miami or San Juan); US Airways (via Charlotte or Philadelphia)

Via Inter-Island Carriers: LIAT; Caribbean Star; Caribbean Sun; Carib Aviation; Winair; Air Jamaica

Travel tips from the Tourism Board

ST. LUCIA
There are five US gateways offering nonstop service to St. Lucia, including Atlanta, Charlotte, Miami, New York, and Philadelphia. Connecting service is additionally available on regional carriers, in hubs like Antigua and Trinidad. Factor in 3.5 hours of travel time from Miami and 4 hours from New York.

Airport codes: Castries (SLU); Hewanorra (UVF)

Nonstop: Atlanta (Delta); Charlotte (US Airways); Miami (American); New York (Air Jamaica); Philadelphia (US Airways)

Via US Carriers: Air Jamaica (via New York); Delta (via Atlanta); American (via Miami or San Juan); US Airways (via Philadelphia or Charlotte); BWIA (via Miami; New York; Washington, DC with layover in Barbados or Trinidad)

Via Inter-Island Carriers: LIAT; BWIA; Caribbean Star; Air Caraïbes

Travel tips from the Tourism Board

ST. MAARTEN/ST. MARTIN
The airport on St. Maarten (the Dutch side of the island) is the second busiest in the Caribbean, after San Juan, making it a convenient base for visiting other islands, and an easily accessible island from the US, with nonstop routes available from 7 cities. There is a second, smaller airport on St. Martin (the French half of the isle), which is only accessible by regional carriers. Flight time to St. Maarten from Charlotte or New York is about 4 hours.

Airport codes: St. Maarten (SXM); St. Martin (SFG)

Nonstop: Atlanta-St. Maarten (Delta); Charlotte-St. Maarten (US Airways); Chicago-St. Maarten (United); Miami-St. Maarten (American); New York-St. Maarten (American; Continental); Philadelphia-St. Maarten (US Airways); Washington, DC-St. Maarten (United)

Via US Carriers: American Airlines (via New York; Miami; San Juan); Delta (via Atlanta); US Airways (via Philadelphia or Charlotte); United (via Chicago or Washington, DC); Continental (via New York-EWR)

Via Inter-Island Carriers: American Eagle; LIAT; Winair; Caribbean Star; Caribbean Sun; Air Antilles; Air Caraïbes; St. Barths Commuter

Travel tips from the Tourism Board

ST. VINCENT & THE GRENADINES
St. Vincent is the gateway to the Grenadines, which is reached by air from the US via Caribbean gateways, including Barbados, Grenada, Puerto Rico, and more. There are no nonstop flights from the US. Flight time to St. Vincent is approximately 2 hours 20 minutes from Puerto Rico and 35 minutes from Barbados.

Airport code: St. Vincent (SVD); Canouan Island (CIW); Mustique Island (MQS); Palm Island (PLI); Port Elizabeth (BQU); Union Island (UNI)

Via US Carriers: American Airlines/American Eagle (via San Juan), BWIA (via Barbados from New York; Washington, DC; and Miami); Air Jamaica (via Barbados from New York)

Via Inter-Island Carriers: American Eagle; BWIA Express; Air Jamaica; Grenadine Airways; Caribbean Star; Caribbean Sun; LIAT; SVG Air; Trans Island Air; Mustique Airways

Travel tips from the Tourism Board

TRINIDAD & TOBAGO
BWIA is the islands' national airline, providing service to the main Port of Spain airport in Trinidad from New York, Washington, DC, and Miami, and also operating shuttles between Trinidad and Tobago. There are no nonstop flights to Tobago – connections can be made from Tobago on regional carriers like BWIA or Tobago Express. Flight time from New York is about 5 hours.

Airport codes: Trinidad-Port of Spain (POS); Tobago (TAB)

Nonstop: New York-Trinidad (BWIA); Miami-Trinidad (American; BWIA); Washington, D.C.-Trinidad (BWIA)

Via US Carriers: American (via Miami; San Juan); BWIA (via New York; Miami; Washington, DC)

Via Inter-Island Carriers: American Eagle; BWIA; Cairbbean Star; Liat; Tobago Express

Travel tips from the Tourism Board

TURKS & CAICOS
Airports in Turks and Caicos are located in Grand Turk, Providenciales, and South Caicos, but most flights from the US mainland arrive in Providenciales. Travel between individual isles in Turks and Caicos is readily available on regional carriers, such as Sky King and Air Turks and Caicos. Flight time is 75 minutes from Miami; under 3 hours from Charlotte; and 3.5 hours from Boston.

Airport codes: Providenciales (PLS); Grand Turk (GDT); South Caicos (XSC)

Nonstop: Atlanta (Delta); Boston-Providenciales (American); Charlotte-Providenciales (US Airways); Fort Lauderale-Providenciales (Spirit); Fort Lauderale-Grand Turk (Spirit); Miami-Providenciales (American); New York-Providenciales (American); Philadelphia-Providenciales (US Airways)

Via US Carriers: American (via Miami; New York; Boston; San Juan); US Airways (via Charlotte or Philadelphia); Delta (via Atlanta); Spirit (via Fort Lauderdale)

Via Inter-Island Carriers: Bahamas Air; Sky King; Air Turks and Caicos; Global Airways

Travel tips from the Tourism Board

VIRGIN ISLANDS (US)
Of St. Croix, St. John, and St. Thomas, St. Thomas is the most accessible gateway in the U.S. Virgin Islands, with nonstop flights available from 8 US cities. Smaller island-hopper planes operate between St. Thomas and St. Croix, although there are a few nonstop flights from the US to St. Croix, as well. There is no airport on St. John; it can only be reached by ferry from St. Thomas. Flying time is about 2.5 hours from Miami and 4.5 hours from New York.

Airport codes: St. Croix (STX); St. Thomas (STT)

Nonstop:
Atlanta-St. Croix (Delta); Boston-St. Thomas (American); Charlotte-St. Croix (US Airways); Charlotte-St. Thomas (US Airways); Chicago-St. Thomas (United); Fort Lauderdale-St. Thomas (Spirit); Miami-St. Croix (American); Miami-St. Thomas (American); New York-St. Thomas (American; Delta; Continental); Philadelphia-St. Thomas (US Airways); Washington, DC-St. Thomas (United)

Via US Carriers: American Airlines (via Miami; Boston; New York; San Juan); Continental (via New York-EWR); Delta (via Atlanta or New York); Spirit (via Fort Lauderdale); United (via Chicago or Washington, DC); US Airways (via Charlotte or Philadelphia)

Via Inter-Island Carriers: American Eagle; Cape Air; Caribbean Sun; Air Sunshine; Seaborne Airlines; LIAT; Bohlke International Airways

Travel tips from the USVI Tourism Board

Travel tips from the Tourism Board: St. Croix

Travel tips from the Tourism Board: St. Thomas

VIRGIN ISLANDS (BRITISH)
There are no direct flights to the BVI from the US, but connecting service is available via neighboring Caribbean islands such as Puerto Rico and St. Thomas. The most direct route is via San Juan on American Eagle. British Virgin Islands' main airport is located on Tortola; air travel via smaller airlines is available to Virgin Gorda, Anegada, Peter Island, or Jost van Dyke. Factor in 30 minutes of flying time to Tortola from San Juan or 15 minutes from St. Thomas.

Airport codes: Tortola-Beef Island (EIS); Virgin Gorda (VIJ)

Via US Carriers: American Airlines/American Eagle (via San Juan or St. Thomas)

Via Inter-Island Carriers: Caribbean Sun; Cape Air; LIAT; Caribbean Sta; Air Sunshine; Caribbean Wings; Fly BVI; Island Birds; Island Helicopter BVI; Bohlke International Airways

Travel tips from the Tourism Board

HOW TO GET THERE: BY US DEPARTURE CITY
There's no better way to fly to the Caribbean than nonstop from your hometown airport. And sometimes that kind of access is all you want. Accordingly, the list below will help you make the most informed decisions when finding the best islands to visit from your departure city. Currently, 25 US cities offer nonstop service to the Caribbean – while the majority of departures leave from the East Coast at Miami or New York, you'll find service across the continental United States, and even as far west as Los Angeles. Note that some of the routes mentioned here are seasonal or may not operate daily (many airlines choose to run routes only on the more popular weekend travel period).

ATLANTA
Antigua (Delta)
Aruba (Delta)
Barbados (Delta)
Bermuda (Delta)
Freeport, Bahamas (Delta; AirTran)
Grand Cayman (Delta)
Kingston, Jamaica (Delta)
Montego Bay, Jamaica (Delta)
Nassau, Bahamas (Delta)
Providenciales, Turks and Caicos (Delta)
San Juan, PR (Delta)
Santo Domingo, DR (Delta)
St. Lucia (Delta)
St. Maarten (Delta)
St. Croix, USVI (Delta)

BALTIMORE
Bermuda (USA 3000)
Freeport, Bahamas (AirTran)
Montego Bay, Jamaica (Air Jamaica)
San Juan, PR (American)

BOSTON
Aruba (American; US Airways)
Bermuda (Delta; US Airways)
Grand Cayman (Cayman Airways)
Montego Bay, Jamaica (American; Air Jamaica)
Nassau, Bahamas (JetBlue)
Providenciales, Turks and Caicos (American)
San Juan, PR (American; Delta-Song; US Airways)
Santo Domingo, DR (American)
St. Thomas, USVI (American)

CHARLOTTE
Antigua (US Airways)
Aruba (US Airways)
Barbados (US Airways)
Bermuda (US Airways)
Grand Cayman (US Airways)
Montego Bay, Jamaica (US Airways)
Nassau, Bahamas (US Airways)
Providenciales, Turks and Caicos (US Airways)
Punta Cana (US Airways)
San Juan, PR (US Airways)
St. Croix, USVI (US Airways)
St. Kitts (US Airways)
St. Lucia (US Airways)
St. Maarten (US Airways)
St. Thomas, USVI (US Airways)

CHICAGO
Aruba (United)
Bermuda (United)
Grand Cayman (Cayman Airways)
Montego Bay, Jamaica (Air Jamaica)
San Juan, PR (American; United)
St. Maarten (United)
St. Thomas, USVI (United)

CINCINNATTI
Montego Bay, Jamaica (Delta)
Nassau, Bahamas (Delta's Comair)

CLEVELAND
Nassau, Bahamas (Continental)
San Juan, PR (Continental)

DALLAS/FORT WORTH
San Juan, PR (American)

DETROIT
Bermuda (Northwest)
Grand Cayman (Northwest)
Montego Bay, Jamaica (Northwest)
San Juan, PR (Northwest)

FORT LAUDERDALE
Freeport, Bahamas (US Airways; Gulfstream)
Grand Cayman (Cayman Airways; Spirit)
Grand Turk, Turks and Caicos (Spirit)
Kingston, Jamaica (US Airways; Spirit Airlines)
Montego Bay, Jamaica (Air Jamaica; US Airways)
Nassau, Bahamas (Delta; US Airways; American; Bahamasair; Chalk's Ocean Airways; Continental; Spirit; Gulfstream)
Providenciales, Turks and Caicos (Spirit)
San Juan, PR (Spirit; American)
Santo Domingo, DR (American; Spirit; US Airways)
Punta Cana, DR (Spirit)
St. Thomas, USVI (Spirit)

HARTFORD
San Juan, PR (American)

HOUSTON
Aruba (Continental)
Bonaire (Continental)
Grand Cayman (Cayman Airways; Continental)
Montego Bay, Jamaica (Continental)
Nassau, Bahamas (Continental)
Punta Cana, DR (Continental)
San Juan, PR (Continental)

LOS ANGELES
Montego Bay, Jamaica (Air Jamaica)
San Juan, PR (American)

MEMPHIS
Montego Bay, Jamaica (Northwest)
San Juan, PR (Northwest)

MIAMI
Antigua (BWIA)
Aruba (American)
Barbados (American; BWIA)
Bermuda (American)
Curaçao (American)
Freeport, Bahamas (American; Gulfstream)
Grand Cayman (Cayman Airways; American)
Kingston, Jamaica (American)
La Romana, DR (American)
Martinique (Air France)
Montego Bay, Jamaica (American; Air Jamaica)
Nassau, Bahamas (American; Bahamasair; Gulfstream)
Providenciales, Turks and Caicos (American)
Puerto Plata, DR (American)
Punta Cana, DR (American)
San Juan, PR (American)
Santiago, DR (American)
Santo Domingo, DR (American)
St. Croix, USVI (American)
St. Kitts (American)
St. Lucia (American)
St. Maarten (American)
St. Thomas, USVI (American)
Trinidad (American; BWIA)

MINNEAPOLIS
Grand Cayman (Northwest)
Montego Bay, Jamaica (Northwest)
San Juan, PR (Northwest; Sun Country Airlines)

NEW YORK (including EWR)
Aguadilla, PR (Continental; JetBlue)
Antigua (Continental; BWIA)
Aruba (American; Continental; Delta, US Airways)
Barbados (American; BWIA; Air Jamaica)
Bermuda (American; Continental: USA 3000; US Airways; Northwest)
Curaçao (Continental)
Grand Cayman (American; Continental; Delta)
Grenada (Air Jamaica; Delta)
Kingston, Jamaica (Air Jamaica; Delta)
La Romana, DR (American)
Montego Bay, Jamaica (American; Air Jamaica; Continental; Delta)
Nassau, Bahamas (Delta; US Airways; Continental; Spirit; JetBlue)
Ponce, PR (Continental; JetBlue)
Providenciales, Turks and Caicos (American)
Puerto Plata, DR (American; Continental)
Punta Cana, DR (Continental; Northwest; American)
San Juan, PR (American; Delta; US Airways; Continental; JetBlue)
Santiago, DR (American; Continental; JetBlue; Delta)
Santo Domingo, DR (American; Continental; Delta);
St. Lucia (Air Jamaica)
St. Maarten (American; Continental)
Trinidad (BWIA)
St. Thomas, USVI (American; Delta; Continental)

ORLANDO
Aguadilla, PR (Pan Am)
Grand Cayman (Cayman Airways)
Grand Turk, Turks and Caicos (Spirit)
Montego Bay, Jamaica (Air Jamaica)
Nassau, Bahamas (Delta; American; Bahamasair; Spirit)
San Juan, PR (American; Delta-Song; Spirit; Pan Am)

PHILADELPHIA
Aruba (US Airways)
Barbados (US Airways)
Bermuda (US Airways; United; USA 3000)
Grand Cayman (Cayman Airways)
Montego Bay, Jamaica (Air Jamaica; US Airways)
Nassau, Bahamas (US Airways)
Providenciales, Turks and Caicos (US Airways)
Punta Cana, DR (US Airways)
San Juan, PR (American; US Airways)
Santo Domingo, DR (US Airways)
St. Kitts (US Airways)
St. Lucia (US Airways)
St. Maarten (US Airways)
St. Thomas, USVI (US Airways)

PITTSBURG
San Juan, PR (US Airways)

RALEIGH
Nassau, Bahamas (American)

ST. LOUIS
San Juan, PR (American)

TAMPA
Grand Cayman (Cayman Airways)
Nassau, Bahamas (American)
San Juan, PR (American)

WASHINGTON, DC
Aruba (United)
Barbados (BWIA)
Bermuda (US Airways)
Grand Cayman (Cayman Airways)
Montego Bay, Jamaica (Air Jamaica)
Nassau, Bahamas (US Airways)
San Juan, PR (American; United)
St. Thomas, USVI (United)
St. Maarten (United)
Trinidad (BWIA)

WEST PALM BEACH
Freeport, Bahamas (United; US Airways; Gulfstream)
Nassau, Bahamas (United; US Airways; Gulfstream)

See Caribbean Travel Guide