When people want the ultimate tropical vacation, there’s one region they think of more than any other: the Caribbean. The collection of destinations that dot this region are some of the best that the world has to offer, which is why millions of people from around the globe flock there every year. And no matter where they come from, they all share in the same dream: to be sitting on an idyllic beach with bath-water-warm water only a stone’s throw away. It’s a dream that’s hard to argue with.
But, the Caribbean is home to countless beaches, and not all of them are created equally. When you want the ultimate Caribbean vacation, then you want the very best beaches. That’s why we’ve decided to put this list together. According to us, as well as numerous other travel experts, these are the very finest beaches that the Caribbean has to offer, and all for very different reasons.
So, why not check out what we’ve selected? Among these beaches, we’re sure you’ll find the perfect one to live out the Caribbean beach vacation dream that you’ve been having every night when you go to bed!
1. Grace Bay (Turks and Caicos)
Not too far away from civilization, this wonderful beach still has all the same charm as when the area surrounding it wasn’t developed.
2. Bathsheba (Barbados)
Those rocks out in the water make this Caribbean beach a perfect choice for someone who wants to get “likes” on Instagram.
3. Hanslollick (St. Thomas)
Although tough to get to, you’ll appreciate the exclusive atmosphere of this beach, which really allows you to soak in its resplendent beauty.
4. Exumas (Bahamas)
The charm and sun of this beach leads many travelers to compare it favorably with the famous Maldives beaches.
5. Saltwhistle (Mayreau, Grenadines)
As beautiful as it is remote, you’re sure to have a quite, relaxing and unforgettable time when you’re sprawled out on this stretch of sand.
6. Arashi (Aruba)
Aruba is a place that’s known for it’s pristine and idyllic beaches, and this one is widely considered to be the best of them all.
7. Playa Zoni (Culebra, Puerto Rico)
Much quieter than many of the other beaches nearby, this Caribbean beach is idyllic for someone who wants to get away from it all.
8. Sandy Spit (British Virgin Islands)
Just a tiny little bit of beach floating on its own, this Caribbean gem will have you feeling like a castaway… In a good way!
9. Playa Breton (Dominican Republic)
As one of the smaller beaches on this list, you’ll find that its grand in its beauty, situated as it is on the north shore of the Dominican Republic.
10. Magens Bay (St. Thomas)
If brilliantly clear bath-water-warm water is what you’re after, then this is the beach you need to get to!
11. Pink Sands Beach (Harbour Island, Bahamas)
It’s one of the most famous beaches in the world because of its – you guessed it – pink sands. You’ve got to see it for yourself!
12. Maracas (Trinidad)
It’s a gorgeous beach, but more populated than others on this list. However, that population means there’s plenty of places to get some delicious Trinidadian food.
13. Sandy Island (Anguilla)
When you’re hungry after a day of soaking in the sun, be sure to stop by this beach’s restaurant, which features scrumptious grilled lobster.
14. Low Bay (Barbuda)
As soon as you set foot on the beautiful Low Bay beach in Barbuda, you’ll notice how silky soft the white sands are.
15. Pinel Island (St. Martin)
Unlike some of the other beaches on this list, there’s entertainment to be had on this beautiful beach, so be sure to bring your wallet!
16. Seven Mile Beach (Grand Cayman)
It’s one of the most famous beaches in all the Caribbean, and that’s for good reason. Go see for yourself!
17. The Baths (British Virgin Islands)
The setting is what makes this beach so incredible, with tall trees and gigantic boulders providing shade when the sun gets too hot.
18. Les Saintes (Guadeloupe)
As a secluded beach situated on a secluded island, you won’t find many other people hanging around while you’re sunning here. It’s perfect for sunsets!
19. Frenchman’s Cove (Jamaica)
When you’re done soaking in the crystal clear salt water of Montego Bay, pop over to the beach’s fresh water river to rinse off!
20. White Bay (British Virgin Islands)
Stop by the Soggy Dollar Bar and get a Painkiller – the drink they invented – and then step out onto the sand and into the surf.
21. Tulum (Riviera Maya)
With Mayan ruins sitting on a cliff overlooking this beach, how could we possibly not include it? It’s gorgeous!
22. Anse La Roche (Carriacou)
This beach is well off the beaten path, and you may need a GPS to find it, but once you’re there, you’ll understand why the trip is worth it.
23. Anse de Grande Saline (St. Barths)
In the mood the let it all hang out? Then be prepared for this beach, which allows full nudity. Rawr!
24. Little Bay (Anguilla)
Accessed by a short trail, you’ll almost never find this Anguillan treasure crowded, which is what makes it so great.
25. Isabela (Puerto Rico)
Planning on bringing your surfboard to the beach? Then bring it here, and make sure you get there just before dawn.