Many of the best bike trails in the Caribbean are also popular with hikers and walkers! They’ll take you to secluded, exciting places where cars can’t go…
The Caribbean may be well-known for swimming, surfing, and sunbathing, but that doesn’t mean you can’t indulge in other activities! Thanks to the region’s mountainous terrain (in most countries, anyway), you can also hike and bike to your heart’s content.
While you’re at it, you’ll see some of the world’s most breathtaking sites, like where the mountains meet the sea and the lush green jungle gives way to gorgeous crystal waters.
Island cycling can be extremely rewarding, especially if you’re well trained in mountain biking and are looking for an adventure. However, that doesn’t mean that novice bikers can’t enjoy Caribbean terrain. In fact, there are plenty of biking tours that are suitable for first-timers. You just have to know where to look.
Most Caribbean countries have places to rent bikes, helmets, and other gear you might need for your excursion, so don’t worry about packing these things in your luggage. In addition, you can book a tour with a tour company, who will provide everything you need for the trip.
Here are the best bike trails in the Caribbean, according to biking enthusiasts around the web:
Blue Mountain Trail, Jamaica
Arguably one of the most popular (or at least well-known) bike trails in the Caribbean, Blue Mountain Trail in Jamaica features a ride through the jungle under a lush green canopy of trees or through the foggy mountain air. You’ll see waterfalls, breathtaking views, and maybe even a curious creature or two!
It’s easy to book a tour like this one if you’d rather not go on your own. Most tour groups provide a picnic lunch and a taste of the famous Blue Mountain coffee.
Linear Park and Arikok National Park, Aruba
Aruba has a lovely family-friendly linear park in Oranjestad, a 2.5-mile long stretch that’s perfect for biking. The path begins at the airport and follows the sea shore, so you can get a glimpse of the ocean as you pass by. The route is paved and has plenty of places to rest and eat along the way.
However, if you’re looking for something a bit more adventurous, try Arikok National Park. There you’ll find miles of trails through rugged terrain, leading to mysterious caves and natural pools. Most bikers love to take a refreshing dip to cool off after a strenuous ride!
Read all about other things to do in Aruba here!
Tinker’s Trail, St. Lucia
Designed by two-time U.S. Olympian David “Tinker” Juarez, Tinker’s Trail in St. Lucia is not for the faint of heart (or lungs!). In fact, it’s probably one of the most challenging mountain bike trails in the Caribbean. But have no fear, there are at least 8 other trails available nearby on the Anse Chastanet beach resort, and some are suitable even for novice bikers. All rides feature lush jungle scenery, with fruit trees, wild orchids, and French Colonial ruins.
You can access these routes through tour company Bike St. Lucia.
San Juan, Puerto Rico
The capital city of San Juan is generally bike-friendly, with dedicated bike routes through historic streets by the sea. One popular route is from the capitol building, through the cobblestone streets, and along the Atlantic Ocean toward Fort San Felipe del Morro. You can book a tour with numerous companies around town, like Rent the Bicycle, for an insightful and exhilarating tour through the historic sector of the city.
Cayman Cave Trek, Cayman Islands
This route, which traverses Queen’s Highway Road, takes riders to the famous Crystal Caves of Cayman Island. The path is paved and mostly flat, allowing for an easy 6-mile ride. ECO Rides offers a tour package that includes entrance to the caves and historic stops along the way.
Jan Thiel Lagoon, Curacao
Jan Thiel Lagoon is a nature reserve in Curacao with various trails for bikers of differing abilities. It also has a challenging mountain bike trail that was created for the 2006 UCI Mountain Bike World Cup. You can book a guided tour to the reserve and to other places around Curacao with WannaBike. They specialize in bike tours to sites “you can’t reach by car”.
Read all about the Caribbean island of Curacao here.
Punta Cana Countryside, Dominican Republic
Worried about having enough energy to keep up with a biking tour that lasts a few hours or more? Try electric biking with Outback Adventures in the Dominican Republic. You’ll pedal from Macao beach to the Punta Cana countryside on both roads and off-road paths, a scenic ride that’s definitely worth the effort. However, you’ll have the option of getting a little support from the electric motor during the three hour tour.
The Dominican Republic was recently placed among the top 5 most beautiful countries in the world. See why here!
Guanica State Forest Trails, Puerto Rico
The Guanica Biosphere Reserve and State Forest has 12 trails of varying difficulty that bikers and hikers can enjoy. With its incredible ocean views and impressive ancient trees (some are thought to be at least 400 years old), the reserve is the perfect place for a challenging, unforgettable ride. A UNESCO International Biosphere Reserve since 1981, it is home to the ruins of the Spanish-built Fort Caprón, at least 700 species of plants, and roughly half of the island’s bird species.
Beach to beach trails in Anguilla
There are plenty of places to bike in Anguilla. In fact, since the island is just 17 miles long, you could even see the entire country by bike. Book an excursion with a tour company, or rent a bike and simply head out on your own. A popular route is along paved pathways from beach to beach (Anguilla has 33 gorgeous public beaches!)
Main image credit: Island Routes
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