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List of Caribbean Countries and Capitals


Explore and learn key facts about the 13 Countries that make up the Caribbean and their capitals.
List of Caribbean Countries and Capitals. Explore and learn key facts about the 13 Countries that make up the Caribbean and their capitals.

The Caribbean is a vibrant and culturally rich region consisting of islands and coastal countries scattered across the Caribbean Sea. Famed for its turquoise waters, tropical climates, and rhythmic sounds of reggae, calypso, and salsa, the Caribbean is more than just a popular tourist destination — it is a region with deep historical roots, political diversity, and global cultural influence.

The Caribbean consists of 13 independent countries and numerous territories that are overseas dependencies of other nations. Each Caribbean nation has its own capital city, often serving as the economic, cultural, and administrative heart of the country.

In this article, we present a complete list of all sovereign Caribbean countries and their capitals, followed by a quick overview of each, answers to frequently asked questions, and other insights to help you understand the unique identity of this beautiful region.
 

List of Caribbean Countries and Capitals (Alphabetically)

  1. Antigua and Barbuda

    • Capital: St. John’s

    • 🇦🇬 This twin-island nation in the Eastern Caribbean is known for its 365 beaches—one for each day of the year. Antigua is the larger island and home to the capital, while Barbuda is more secluded. The country thrives on tourism, coral reefs, and colonial architecture. It’s also a member of the Commonwealth.

  2. Bahamas

    • Capital: Nassau

    • 🇧🇸 An archipelago of over 700 islands, the Bahamas lies just southeast of Florida and is one of the Caribbean’s most popular travel destinations. Nassau, on New Providence Island, is famed for its resorts, casinos, and British colonial heritage. Tourism and offshore banking drive its economy.

  3. Barbados

    • Capital: Bridgetown

    • 🇧🇧 Located in the Lesser Antilles, Barbados is known for its British colonial history, vibrant festivals, and cricket legacy. Bridgetown is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. In 2021, Barbados became a republic, severing official ties with the British monarchy while remaining in the Commonwealth.

  4. Cuba

    • Capital: Havana

    • 🇨🇺 The largest island in the Caribbean, Cuba has a rich revolutionary history, iconic classic cars, and vibrant music and dance. Havana is a city of historic architecture and cultural depth. Cuba’s political system is one of the most unique in the Western Hemisphere.

  5. Dominica

    • Capital: Roseau

    • 🇩🇲 Known as the “Nature Island,” Dominica is a paradise of rainforests, waterfalls, and volcanic landscapes. Roseau, its quaint capital, is nestled along the Caribbean Sea. Dominica is less developed for tourism, preserving its raw natural charm.

  6. Dominican Republic

    • Capital: Santo Domingo

    • 🇩🇴 Sharing the island of Hispaniola with Haiti, the Dominican Republic is known for its beaches, resorts, and rich Spanish heritage. Santo Domingo is the oldest continuously inhabited European city in the Americas. The economy is the largest in the Caribbean.

  7. Grenada

    • Capital: St. George’s

    • 🇬🇩 Nicknamed the “Spice Island,” Grenada is one of the world’s largest exporters of nutmeg. St. George’s is a picturesque capital nestled in a volcanic crater. The country’s lush mountains and beaches attract eco-tourists and cruise visitors alike.

  8. Haiti

    • Capital: Port-au-Prince

    • 🇭🇹 The first independent Black republic, Haiti has a rich culture shaped by African, French, and Caribbean influences. Port-au-Prince is a bustling but earthquake-prone capital. Despite economic struggles, Haiti remains a symbol of resilience and freedom.

  9. Jamaica

    • Capital: Kingston

    • 🇯🇲 Globally known for reggae music, Bob Marley, and Olympic sprinters, Jamaica is a cultural powerhouse. Kingston, located on the southeast coast, is the cultural and political capital. Its diverse landscape ranges from lush mountains to pristine beaches.

  10. Saint Kitts and Nevis

    • Capital: Basseterre

    • 🇰🇳 This is the smallest sovereign state in the Western Hemisphere by both area and population. Composed of two islands, St. Kitts and Nevis offer scenic beauty, historical sites, and an expanding tourism sector. Basseterre is located on St. Kitts.

  11. Saint Lucia

    • Capital: Castries

    • 🇱🇨 Famous for the dramatic Pitons mountains, Saint Lucia is a lush volcanic island with vibrant Creole culture. Castries, the capital, is a port city surrounded by hills. Tourism, bananas, and offshore banking are key economic drivers.

  12. Saint Vincent and the Grenadines

    • Capital: Kingstown

    • 🇻🇨 This island country consists of the main island of Saint Vincent and a chain of smaller Grenadine islands. Known for sailing and yachting, it’s a haven for marine life lovers. Kingstown offers colonial buildings and a lively market scene.

  13. Trinidad and Tobago

    • Capital: Port of Spain

    • 🇹🇹 Located near Venezuela, this dual-island country has rich oil reserves, Carnival festivities, and the steelpan music tradition. Port of Spain is a bustling, multicultural capital. Trinidad is more industrialized, while Tobago is known for beaches and coral reefs.

FAQs About Caribbean Countries and Capitals

How many countries are there in the Caribbean?

There are 13 sovereign Caribbean nations, along with several dependent territories.

What is the largest country in the Caribbean by population?

Cuba is the most populous country in the Caribbean, with over 11 million people.

What is the smallest Caribbean country?

Saint Kitts and Nevis is the smallest by both land area and population.

Which Caribbean country is a republic?

Barbados became a republic in 2021, removing the British monarch as head of state.

Are all Caribbean islands independent?

No. While there are 13 independent countries, many islands are overseas territories of the UK, France, the Netherlands, and the USA.

Which Caribbean capital is the oldest?

Santo Domingo in the Dominican Republic is the oldest European-established city in the Americas.

What is the official language of most Caribbean countries?

English is the most widely spoken official language, though Spanish, French, Dutch, and Creole languages are also spoken.

What is the most visited Caribbean country?

The Dominican Republic attracts the highest number of tourists in the Caribbean region.

Do all Caribbean countries use the same currency?

No, currencies vary. Some use the Eastern Caribbean dollar (XCD), others use US dollars, pesos, or their own national currencies.

Is the Caribbean a continent?

No, the Caribbean is a region that is part of the continent of North America.
 

The Caribbean is a stunningly diverse region that offers far more than sun and sea. Each of the 13 Caribbean nations has its own unique identity, reflected in its capital city, culture, and people. Whether you're learning about world geography, planning your travels, or simply curious, understanding the Caribbean countries and their capitals is a great way to appreciate the richness of this region.