Have you ever dreamed of being a pirate or perhaps embodying the character portrayed by Johnny Depp? Depp brings Captain Jack Sparrow to life in the Pirates of the Caribbean movies. Fans of the films can explore some of the real-life Caribbean destinations featured in these iconic Disney productions.

Puerto Rico

While much of the fourth POTC film, released in summer 2011, was filmed in Hawaii, the final beach scene was shot off the east coast of Fajardo, Puerto Rico. Specifically, filming took place around the picturesque offshore islands of Palomino and Palominitos. Palomino Island is well known to guests of the renowned El Conquistador hotel, which offers various beach and water activities. Notably, scenes were also filmed in Old San Juan and at the historic San Cristobal Fort.

Dominica

The original Pirates of the Caribbean film featured significant sequences shot on the lush island of Dominica. This film contributed greatly to placing the island on the tourist map, reminiscent of how the Lord of the Rings films highlighted New Zealand’s stunning landscapes.

Scenes showcasing Dominica’s dramatic northeast coast, with its towering cliffs and vibrant greenery, were integral to the second film, Dead Man’s Chest. Key moments included boat scenes filmed along the Indian River, a cannibal village, and an intense fight sequence near a massive water wheel.

Locations for filming included Pegua Bay, Titou Gorge, High Meadow, Pointe Guinade, and Hampstead Beach, with sets constructed in Soufriere and Vielle Case.

Breakaway Adventures crafted a nine-day walking tour in Dominica, allowing travelers to witness many stunning vistas showcased in the films, like Indian River (which represented the movie’s “Pantano River”), “Cannibal Island,” and “Shipwreck Cove.”

“The excitement surrounding the ‘Pirates of the Caribbean’ sequel inspired us to create a tour that lets travelers see the film’s locations firsthand,” explains Carol Keskitalo, co-owner of Breakaway Adventures. “This remarkable island perfectly set the stage for thrilling sword fights, covert missions, and swashbuckling escapades.”

Bahamas

Other pivotal scenes for Dead Man’s Chest and At World’s End were filmed on Grand Bahama Island and Exuma in the Bahamas. These included sequences featuring the ghostly minions of Davy Jones. Additionally, visitors to the Bahamas may be interested in exploring the Pirates of Nassau Museum, which offers insights into real-life brigands and Buccaneers.

St. Vincent and the Grenadines

Returning to the first film, Pirates of the Caribbean: The Curse of the Black Pearl, Wallilabou Bay in St. Vincent was transformed into the fictional Port Royal, a well-known pirate haven situated on Jamaica’s north coast. (The original Port Royal was unfortunately destroyed by an earthquake in 1692—some speculate it was a consequence of its notorious reputation).

The Wallilabou Anchorage hotel and restaurant, as well as a natural stone arch at the bay’s entrance, were featured prominently in the film. Despite its newfound attention, the port maintains a laid-back atmosphere.

A trip to Wallilabou Bay can also include a stop at the enchanting Falls of Baleine, where a 60-foot cascade forms a refreshing natural pool. Additional scenes for The Curse of the Black Pearl were filmed in Kingstown, located on the island of Bequia in the Grenadines.

The Dominican Republic and Tortuga

The Samana region of the Dominican Republic was also integral to Capt. Jack Sparrow’s Caribbean adventures. Furthermore, you can visit Tortuga, the remote sandy island, which serves as the actual pirate’s hideout where Jack assembles his crew. This intriguing location is now part of Haiti.