As any avid travelers know, Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport is one of the biggest and busiest in the world. At any given time it might even be the busiest, which always makes for great people-watching, so long as you’re not sprinting to your connecting flight. And while we don’t love the long lines and crowded gates (sit down until your boarding group is called!), the silver lining here is always variety.
Because ATL is Delta‘s southwestern hub, it is also considered to be a gateway to the Caribbean, which means it offers more direct flights than almost any city in the United States. And, if your city has few or no nonstop options, there’s a good chance you’ll pass through ATL to get to your special paradise. The hardest choice is deciding which island to visit, so take your time and consider each destination since they’re all worthy of your vacation hours.
Aruba
Delta flies nonstop to Aruba’s Queen Beatrix International Airport at just under four hours. be sure to grab some Hot Delight papaya hot sauce before your return flight.
Bahamas
Atlanta to Atlantis? It’s one of the quickest and easiest direct flights you’ll find, at just under two hours on Delta. In fact, if you close your eyes, you might even be able to hear the slot machine bells ringing through out the massive lobby at Atlantis Paradise Island. It’s better to hear them in person, though.
Cancun
This popular Mexican destination can be reached nonstop with multiple airlines. Delta is one, of course, but Frontier and Aeromexico also offer direct service from ATL, all at approximately two and a half hours.
Cayman Islands
A Grand time awaits in the Cayman Islands, especially at the famed Seven Mile Beach, which is widely regarded as one of the best in the Caribbean. Delta will have eager travelers at Owen Roberts International Airport on Grand Cayman in approximately two and a half hours.
Dominican Republic
Golden beaches, amazing golf, and luxurious resorts with fabulous amenities all await in Punta Cana and surrounding cities. Delta gets from ATL to Punta Cana International Airport (PUJ) in just over three hours. Be sure to schedule transportation to the resort ahead of your arrival.
Puerto Rico
Great food and a festive atmosphere await in San Juan, where visitors can learn about the history of this beautiful city, from the buildings and culture to the places that claim to be the birthplace of the piña colada. Delta arrives at Luis Muñoz Marín International Airport (SJU) in approximately three hours and 20 minutes.
U.S. Virgin Islands
The U.S. Virgin Islands has the advantage of allowing American travelers to leave their passports behind (also a huge bonus when you forget that whole six-month renewal dilemma), so the only stress here is choosing which island to visit. St. Thomas is the most popular because of its big, beautiful resorts, but don’t sleep on St. Croix when it comes to delicious food, amazing people, and fun nightlife. Delta arrives at both Henry E. Rohlsen Airport (STX) in St. Croix and Cyril E. King Airport in St. Thomas in approximately three hours and 40 minutes.
St. Lucia
Considered by many travelers to be the Caribbean’s version of Hawaii, at least in terms of diverse natural beauty and romance, St. Lucia is home to resorts that are popular choices for honeymoons and anniversaries. Several airlines will get you there, but only Delta does it direct, landing at Hewanorra International Airport (UVF) in four and a half hours.
St. Maarten
Just as Atlanta is a gateway to the Caribbean, St. Maarten is sort of like a gateway within a gateway, since you have to land at Princess Juliana International Airport (SXM) before traveling to neighboring islands like St. Barth and Anguilla, among others. But it’s also a wonderful place to visit, offering immense diversity unlike any other Caribbean island, which is why it is known as The Culinary Capital of the Caribbean. Delta will have travelers there is approximately four hours.
Jamaica
Montego Bay has long been a favorite choice for families looking for all-ages fun and couples seeking tropical romance—it is the ultimate “does it all” destination. Delta and Frontier make it incredibly easy to get there, as a flight to Sangster International Airport (MBJ) takes less than three hours.
