During autumn, tourists may get some incredible prices in the Caribbean when airfares decrease, hotel rooms free up, and beach crowds diminish. But there’s a catch: it's also the height of the Atlantic hurricane season, which technically spans from June 1 to November 30.

There are other islands situated near to South America that are outside of the major storm belt, and hence a better bet this time of year. While these islands have a minimal likelihood of being directly damaged by a cyclone, situations may change fast. So how to negotiate a tropical trip with this vulnerable time of year? Read ahead for pre-booking information and insight, plus five islands to consider this time of year.

What to know

First, make sure you have travel insurance. Tracey McGoughy, a travel adviser with Ensemble Travel Group, advises independent travel insurance over plans tied to your credit card or airline because it provides customers more comprehensive and flexible coverage.

“Most travel insurance companies now provide a ‘cancel for any reason’ provision, which is fantastic piece of mind if anything comes up that stops you from going as planned,” she added.

McGoughy also urges tourists to avoid being enticed by cheaper, non-refundable prices and to book hotels and airlines with flexible policies even if they have trip insurance. “Plan for the unexpected,” McGoughy advised. “Book as many travel components with flexible cancellation as you can. Pack as though you may have to stay a few additional days at your destination, and when you arrive, pick up a few non-perishable food necessities, such crackers, peanut butter, snack bars, and bottled water. Even if you don't need to involuntarily prolong your stay, you'll still be able to enjoy these foods while you're on the go.”

With those recommendations in mind, here are five islands to explore.

Aruba

Situated roughly 15 miles off the coast of Venezuela, Aruba provides a unique blend of beautiful white-sand beaches and arid surroundings. The island has a varied population as well: most people speak at least four languages, including English, Spanish, Dutch, and Papiamento, the indigenous Creole language. One of the island's best properties, Aruba Marriott Resort & Stellaris Casino, stands on a perfect length of the legendary Palm Beach and boasts eight restaurants and bars, big guest suites with breezy balconies, and two stunning pools (one with a swim-up bar and a waterfall) (one with a swim-up bar and a waterfall).

Off the resort, first-timers may visit the Aruba Aloe Factory: a guided tour of the over 130-year-old business is free and includes a make-your-own aloe scrub session. For a little excitement, spend the day exploring Aruba’s mountainous shore on ATVs. Food selections are extensive and represent the island’s variety; start your day with substantial pancakes at Linda’s Dutch Pancakes, lunch on jerk chicken and oxtail at O’Niel Caribbean Kitchen, and have an intimate evening at the recently established Peruvian bistro Lima Bistro.

Trinidad

Trinidad is famed for its colorful Carnival celebrations, calypso music, and steelpan drumming, but also for its laid-back feel; here, you won’t find many of the corporate restaurants or all-inclusive resorts you’ll see on other Caribbean islands. To escape off the grid, guests may check out the rustic cottages at Acajou Hotel on Trinidad's northern shore. For a premium choice, consider The Brix, set high in the hills of Port of Spain—the sleek resort features a magnificent pool deck and rooftop bar.

Trinidad is situated six miles from the coast of Venezuela, and its culture is a combination of African, Indian, Portuguese, and Asian elements. You’ll notice that variation mirrored in the cuisine: Local eateries serve Indian meals including curried chicken and roti, Japanese sushi, and bake and shark, a local staple consisting of fried flatbread packed with fried fish and vegetables. Ideal for adventure-seekers, Trinidad also offers a network of caverns and stunning waterfalls to explore.

If you can, spend a few days on Tobago, Trinidad’s sister island. Only a 30-minute flight from Trinidad, attractions include the picturesque Pigeon Point Beach and the Main Ridge Forest Reserve, a large tropical mountain ridge that runs along the center of the island.

Grenada