Vacationers from all over the world flock to the best beaches in the Caribbean for their famed white sand, dazzling multi-hued sea, and laid-back vibe.
Our top picks included romantic bays, pink sandy shores, crystal-clear swimming holes, snorkeling hotspots, and bustling stretches near cities and towns.
Start planning your next tropical getaway with this list of the best Caribbean beaches.
Seven Mile Beach, Grand Cayman
Seven Mile Beach, Grand Cayman
Consistently ranked as one of the best Caribbean beaches, Seven Mile Beach in Grand Cayman is one of those places you must visit within your lifetime.
Lie back and enjoy looking at some of the clearest water in the Caribbean, as well as its white coral sand that extends into a crescent-shaped coast. Snorkel or scuba dive in its peaceful waters teeming with marine life, or try your hand at paddleboarding or parasailing, both popular activities at this stunning beach where you’ll easily lose track of time.
Eagle Beach, Aruba
Eagle Beach, Aruba
Powdery white sand and gorgeous Caribbean Sea views are the norm at Eagle Beach, one of the most popular sun-filled spots on the island of Aruba. Considered one of the best beaches in the world, Eagle Beach is located far away from the island’s high rise hotels, guaranteeing you’ll enjoy uncrowded stretches of sand and plenty of peace and quiet during your visit.
Read: Best Places to Snorkel in Aruba
Sugar Beach, St. Lucia
Sugar Beach, St. Lucia
Admire the mighty Pitons in the background as you lounge on Sugar Beach, which can only be described as a sun lover’s dream. Surrounded by 100 acres of lush rainforest, Sugar Beach in St. Lucia is also home to the luxurious Viceroy Resort, where you can stop by for lunch and enjoy a taste of the VIP treatment.
Read: Best Beaches in St. Lucia
Magens Bay, St. Thomas
Magens Bay, St. Thomas
There’s a reason why Magens Bay Beach is considering one of the best beaches in the Caribbean: with peaceful waters, a palm-lined coast, and powdery white sand, Magens Bay is as charming as it gets.
Put your feet up and relax while you breathe in the salty air. Take a bike ride up the hills surrounding Magen’s Bay and stop at Drake’s Seat, where you’ll want to take a photo of the spectacular view of the beach below.
Cockleshell Bay, St. Kitts
Cockleshell Bay, St. Kitts
With over two miles of powdery and pristine sand, Cockleshell Bay is unsurprisingly one of the most popular beaches in St. Kitts. Spot the hills of the island of Nevis in the horizon as you take a dip in the turquoise ocean, or walk along the long stretch of sand and duck into one of the many lively beach bars.
Crane Beach, Barbados
Crane Beach, Barbados
Sink your feet into the soft pink sand of Crane Beach, a picturesque escape with excellent swimming and snorkeling conditions.
Frequently ranked one of the Caribbean’s most beautiful beaches, Crane Beach in Barbados is protected by a nearby coral reef, allowing for carefree swims and the occasional sea turtle spotting.
Reduit Beach, St. Lucia
Reduit Beach, St. Lucia
Situated on a horseshoe-shaped bay, Reduit Beach is one of St. Lucia’s most popular destinations and one of the best beaches in the Caribbean. Stretching almost five miles long, Reduit Beach’s pristine white sand and sparkling water make it the perfect place to relax, take a refreshing swim, and enjoy the idyllic island view.
Princess Margaret Beach, St. Vincent and the Grenadines
Princess Margaret Beach, St. Vincent and the Grenadines
Next to Bequia’s Port Elizabeth lies Princess Margaret Beach, a gorgeous stretch of white sand and calm water that is easily accessible via car or water taxi. If you want to get some exercise in, you can also walk to the beach through a nature trail.
Carlisle Bay, Barbados
Carlisle Bay, Barbados
Discover a fascinating underwater world at Carlisle Bay, a natural harbor home to six shipwrecks and one of the best beaches in Barbados.
You could spend hours swimming around Carlisle Bay’s waters, which are teeming with tropical fish, rock lobsters, seahorses, and turtles, making it a prime spot for snorkeling in Barbados.
Playita del Condado, San Juan
Playita del Condado in San Juan, Puerto Rico
A small public beach located within the Condado district in San Juan, Playita del Condado has clear waters and golden sand. This lovely slice of heaven can get crowded during summer weekends, so try to head there early to nab a good spot near the water.
Read: Best Beaches in Puerto Rico
Honeymoon Beach, St. John
Honeymoon Beach, St. John
It doesn’t get more romantic than the appropriately-named Honeymoon Beach, one of the best honeymoon destinations in the Caribbean. The secluded beach isn’t that easy to reach (which is part of what makes it one of the best beaches in the Caribbean for couples), so you’ll need to arrive either via water taxi or by hiking through a short, steep trail.
Once you’re there, enjoy the many shades of blue in the water, go snorkeling, or paddle out on a kayak with your loved one and watch the sunset in the distance.
Playa El Cielo, Cozumel
Playa El Cielo in Cozumel, Mexico
Snorkelers will be in heaven when visiting Playa El Cielo in Cozumel, a beautiful beach with transparent blue water that makes it easier than ever to spot the many varieties of sea animals underwater. Dive in and explore El Cielo’s shallow sand bar, where you’re more than likely to encounter starfish, stingrays, and colorful schools of fish.
Mambo Beach, Curaçao
Mambo Beach, Curaçao
Also known as Seaquarium Beach, visiting Mambo Beach is one of the top things to do in Curaçao, and it’s easy to see why. With a long stretch of impeccable sand, crystal clear water, and lots of shady areas, Mambo Beach is the definition of a Caribbean oasis.
If you like a lively crowd, head to its busy boulevard lined with shops, restaurants, and bars, which is considered the place to be on Sunday nights.
Te Amo Beach, Bonaire
Te Amo Beach, Bonaire
You’ll fall in love with Te Amo Beach (translation: I love you beach), where you can lie on white sand and swim in refreshing waters teeming with tropical fish. Te Amo is conveniently located near the Bonaire airport and has a shallow reef that is ideal for beginner snorkelers and young kids.
Sapphire Beach, St. Thomas
Sapphire Beach, St. Thomas
Snorkel, swim, or simply unwind at Sapphire Beach, one of the top beaches in St. Thomas, which features an excellent view of St. John in the distance. Seagrape trees provide plenty of shade for those who just want to lie down with a good book, while schools of colorful tropical fish promise snorkelers an entertaining time in the ocean.
Grand Anse Beach, Grenada
Grand Anse Beach, Grenada
The secluded Grand Anse Beach, located on the southwest side of Grenada, is one of the island’s most popular beaches. Stretching over two miles long with impossibly soft white sand and stunning turquoise views, Grand Anse is home to a variety of hotels, restaurants, and beachside bars.
The water at Grand Anse is usually calm, making it the perfect spot for a tranquil swim. There’s also a great artisanal market, where you can shop for Grenadian food and spices, local crafts, and other souvenirs.
Read: Best Things to Do in Grenada
Escambron Beach Park, San Juan
Escambron Beach in San Juan, Puerto Rico
Take a bike ride around Puerto Rico’s landmarks and then relax for the rest of the day at Escambron Beach Park, a popular beach with families because of its palm-tree-lined sand, gentle waves, and close proximity to Old San Juan.
Escambron is a great location for snorkeling as it’s protected by a nearby coral reef. If you get hungry after a day out spotting fish, you can walk to nearby restaurants and food stalls and munch on Puerto Rican classics like tostones and mofongo.
Sorobon Beach, Bonaire
Sorobon Beach, Bonaire
One of the most relaxing things to do in Bonaire is to admire the turquoise waters of Sorobon Beach, a secluded area located near Bonaire’s Lac Bay. Famous for its near-perfect windsurfing conditions, Sorobon has played host to a number of windsurfing competitions in the past. If you’re not into water sports, Sorobon’s calm and shallow shore is ideal for floating in the ocean or taking a leisurely swim, too.
Blue Bay Beach, Curaçao
Blue Bay Beach, Curaçao
In the northwest of Curaçao lies Blue Bay Beach, a place where the water is calm and cool. Pull up a beach chair and spend hours under the shade of palm trees, or swim in the Caribbean Sea under the sun. Not only does the beach have comfortable facilities and a nearby restaurant, but it also has a water sports activity center, where you can sign up for scuba diving, kayaking, and more.
Palm Beach, Aruba
Palm Beach, Aruba
There’s no chance you’ll ever be bored during a visit at Palm Beach, one of the best beaches in Aruba, where you’ll find plenty of entertainment and things to do. Lounge on the beach during the day, and in the afternoon, walk to the nearby casinos, international restaurants and bars, or large shopping centers with movie theaters and bowling lanes. After a day at Palm Beach, you’ll understand why Aruba is nicknamed “one happy island.”
South Friar’s Beach, St. Kitts
South Friar’s Beach, St. Kitts
If you want to stay away from the crowds, head to South Friar’s Beach located in the southeast peninsula of St. Kitts. Aside from tranquil waters and white sand, South Friar’s Beach also has a restaurant, bar, and a variety of water sports to try out.
Pebbles Beach, Barbados
Pebbles Beach, Barbados
Just outside of Bridgetown, you’ll find Pebbles Beach, a tranquil beach with barely any waves or undertow, making it an ideal spot for families with young children and paddle boarders. Admire the bright blue ocean in the background or the many yachts that anchor off of the shore.
Playa Mia, Cozumel
Playa Mia in Cozumel, Mexico
Kick back and relax while the kids play in a pirate-themed splash zone, explore Mayan ruins underwater, or bounce around on the inflatable park in the ocean at Playa Mia, an exciting beach park in Cozumel with tons of attractions for the whole family to enjoy. There are plenty of activities for adults, too, including kayaking, playing a game on the volleyball courts, and soaking in the oversized massage tub.
The Baths of Virgin Gorda, Tortola
The Baths of Virgin Gorda, Tortola
One of the best Caribbean beaches can be found at The Baths of Virgin Gorda, one of the most spectacular natural attractions in the British Virgin Islands. Make your way past large granite boulders called batholiths and step inside the caves and grottoes of The Baths, where crystalline sea pools and the hidden beach of Devil’s Bay awaits. Once there, swim around the rocky formations, dive into the shallow, pristine waters, or simply relax and enjoy a day in paradise.
Grand Case Beach, St. Martin
Grand Case Beach, St. Martin
Located on the French side of the island, Grand Case Beach is a lovely white sand beach that stretches over one mile long. Practice your French as you order a glass of rum punch while relaxing on the beach, or go off and explore the lively town of Grand Case and its laid-back restaurants, lively beach bars, and sophisticated boutique hotels.
Maho Beach, St. Maarten
Maho Beach, St. Maarten
Find out what it’s like to have a plane fly right above your head at Maho Beach, a popular tourist destination next to Princess Juliana International Airport. Maho’s stretch of beach is directly in the flight path of incoming aircraft to St. Maarten, making it a popular spot with beachgoers and thrill-seekers that head there to see large jetliners approach the runway and soar less than 100 feet over the ground.
Knip Beach, Curaçao
Knip Beach, Curaçao
Knip Beach is beloved by both locals and tourists for its lush green palm forests and bright blue ocean. One of the top destinations for snorkeling in Curacao, advanced snorkelers can head out to the reef just off Knip’s shore for some excellent sightseeing. If you’re looking for a beautiful photo op, hike up the surrounding hills and take a pic of the enviable view.
Read: Best Beaches in Curaçao
Mullins Beach, Barbados
Mullins Beach, Barbados
Sparkling turquoise waters await at Mullins Beach, a lovely beach on the west coast of Barbados. Relax under the shade of a palm tree, let the kids play in the calm, roped-off areas of the beach, or head out into the ocean on one of the thrilling jet skis that are available to rent.
Buck Island, St. Croix
Buck Island, St. Croix
While in St. Croix, take a boat out to Buck Island, a national protected park and the first underwater protected monument in the United States. Buck Island spans over 19,015 acres and is made up of tropical dry forests, beautiful sandy beaches, and a vast Elkhorn coral reef, which takes up to two-thirds of the island.
During a day in Buck Island, see if you can spot some of the diverse species that call the island home, including endangered Caribbean animals like loggerhead sea turtles, brown pelicans, and the St. Croix ground lizard.
Read: Best Beaches in the U.S. Virgin Islands
Morne Rouge Beach, Grenada
Morne Rouge Beach, Grenada
On a horseshoe-shaped bay, you’ll find Morne Rouge Beach, another Caribbean paradise with picture-perfect sand and sea. One of the best beaches in Grenada, this secluded spot appeals to those looking for a quiet day at the beach since it only has a few boutique hotels and a laid-back restaurant on site. It’s also favored by families with young kids because of its gentle bay waters.
Cemetery Beach and Reef, Grand Cayman
Cemetery Beach and Reef, Grand Cayman
The water surrounding Grand Cayman is known for its high visibility and sea life, which makes it one of the best Caribbean beaches for snorkeling and scuba diving. At Cemetery Beach, you can wade in right from the sand and snorkel out by Cemetery Reef, home to an abundance of tropical fish and other sea creatures. The beach itself is peaceful and relaxing, with fewer crowds than the beaches that are closer to George Town.
Jolly Beach, Antigua
Jolly Beach, Antigua
There are over 365 beaches to explore in Antigua, but make sure to put Jolly Beach at the top of your list.
Jolly Beach is ideal for anyone looking to unwind in a tropical slice of heaven, with its bright blue waters and powder-soft sand making it one of the best beaches in Antigua. There are plenty of hotels on this Caribbean beach, as well as restaurants, shops, and a variety of water activities, that are sure to keep everyone happy.
Palancar Beach, Cozumel
Palancar Beach in Cozumel, Mexico
Water sports enthusiasts will love Palancar Beach, home to some of the best snorkeling in Cozumel, as well as paddleboarding and kayaking in the bright blue waters. If relaxation is on your mind, let the warm tropical weather and gentle breeze of this tranquil beach spot soothe you.
Great Bay Beach, St. Maarten
Great Bay Beach, St. Maarten
Over on the Dutch side of St. Maarten lies Great Bay Beach, spanning over two miles of pristine water and fine white sand. Its convenient location next to a promenade full of shops and restaurants is one of the reasons why it’s among the best beaches in St. Maarten. Spend a day in the water and then squeeze in some shopping and bring gifts to loved ones back at home.
Ffryes Beach, Antigua
Ffryes Beach, Antigua
See unrivaled views of Antigua at Ffryes Beach, a laidback destination where you’ll enjoy gentle sea breezes and little to no waves in the water. Ffryes Beach is easily accessible, with free public bathrooms and a nearby restaurant and beach bar where you can grab a bite in between dips in the ocean. Visiting the sandy beach is undoubtedly one of the best things to do in Antigua.
Lac Bay, Bonaire
Lac Bay, Bonaire
Tranquil Lac Bay is one of the best Caribbean beaches for beginner windsurfers, where you can hone your skills in the calm waters. If you prefer spotting animals underwater, snorkel around Lac Bay’s mangroves and shallow lagoon, where you might see barracudas, parrotfish, and eagle rays.
Cane Garden Beach, Tortola
Cane Garden Beach, Tortola
For a more active beach day in Tortola, head to Cane Garden Bay, where there are plenty of activities and venues to keep you entertained. Enjoy water sports like kayaking, snorkeling, scuba diving, or jet skiing. Stop by one of the surrounding beach bars and local restaurants, where you can sip on a tropical cocktail while enjoying live music.
Now that you’ve learned all about the best beaches in the Caribbean, it’s time to make your travel dreams come true with a Caribbean cruise. From Aruba to Antigua, Barbados to Bonaire, Celebrity Cruises sails to some of the most beautiful destinations in the region.
Browse through our Caribbean itineraries, choose your stateroom, and reserve exciting Caribbean shore excursions which include snorkeling expeditions, beach days at private clubs, and catamaran sails where you’ll have unrivaled views of the sunset.
