The Caribbean boasts about 700 Caribbean islands, but only 26 of them are deemed sovereign states and dependent territories. Starting with the Bahamas and Cuba, located off the tip of Florida, the string of Caribbean countries arc down towards Venezuela. Each one has its own unique combination of history, geography, culture and attractions. Though most of them offer sun-centric activities like swimming in beaches, aquatic sports, fishing, hiking, bird watching and soaking up some rays.