Whether you’re planning a vacation for two or a family getaway, the Caribbean is the perfect destination. With over 7,000 islands to choose from and countless activities to enjoy, it’s hard to know where to begin. Planning ahead and doing your research is the best way to figure out exactly what you want to get out of your Caribbean vacation and where you want to visit.

Anywhere you go in the Caribbean, you’ll find a mixture of laid back beach life and the bar scene. The balance of the two depends on where you visit. The bigger islands, like Jamaica tend to have more nightlife as opposed to the smaller islands, like St. John with its many areas of tranquility and seclusion. The same goes for beach activities. Anywhere you go in the Caribbean you’re going to find water activities like boating and snorkeling. Many of the US Virgin Islands have ideal beaches for snorkeling right off the shore, without going out by boat. However, many islands like the Bahamas and Roaton also provide extraordinary deep sea diving and snorkeling opportunities only a short boat ride from the beach.

Financial planning is probably going to be the most important aspect of your trip. The best way to avoid a pricy vacation is to avoid the peak in the vacation season. If you plan your visit during the off-season, which is usually between the end of April through November, you will find great deals on airfare and hotels for your time in the Caribbean. Where you decide to visit is also going to affect your budget significantly. Popular resorts like Atlantis in the Bahamas and the Ritz-Carlton on St. Thomas are pure luxury, but they will definitely put a dent in your finances. There are plenty of great destinations to discover within your budget that are sure to give you a total island experience if you do your research.

Where you’re going to visit on your trip to the Caribbean can be overwhelming. With so many places to consider, you may think it near impossible to find the perfect place. If you do your research and know exactly what you want to get out of your Caribbean experience, you’ll be able to find the perfect destination for you and your family. Make sure you plan ahead so you can save yourself time and money on your island getaway.