The Five Best Beaches in the Caribbean
Our top 5 picks for beaches in the Caribbean (and 5 more bonus beaches!)
Caribbean beaches are some of the most sought-after in the world. Just enter “Caribbean Beaches” in Google and it’s not hard to see why. A vibrant collage of tranquil turquoise waters accompanied by postcard-worthy palm trees and white sand so soft it feels like sugar in between your toes emerges. It’s no wonder that people have difficulty deciding the best places to sail in the Caribbean, there are so many phenomenal locations to visit.
These pearl-white sands, vivid blue waters and sky-reaching palms have undeniable appeal, but finding the best beaches in the Caribbean to visit can be difficult. So we have summarized our top 5 favorite beachy locations for you, with a bonus 5 locations for those looking for a hidden beach off the beaten track!
White Bay Beach, Jost Van Dyke BVI
Of course White Bay Beach – in the British Virgin Islands – looks amazing, but what makes it one of the Best Beaches in the Caribbean is the atmosphere. There is a specific buzz in the air that feels unlike anywhere else on earth, and that’s why we love it. Whether it’s the endless stretch of powdery white sand, the colorful and snorkel-friendly barrier reefs just off the coast (perfect for some of the best diving in the Caribbean), or the signature painkiller cocktails from the famed Soggy Dollar Beach Bar, there’s something you’ll always remember about your time on White Bay Beach.
Not all snorkel locations are easily accessed from the shore, to find the best reefs, marine life and underwater views, read our blog on the Best Snorkeling in The Caribbean.
Maho Beach, St. Maarten
Few beaches live up to the phrase “one-of-a-kind” quite like Maho Beach on Dutch St. Maarten (the counterpart to the island which the French named St. Martin. Better understand the two countries sharing this Island with our blog guide for first-time visitors). Due to its location right next to the airport, it’s not uncommon to see planes flying just tens of feet overhead, making this location one of the Best Caribbean Beaches, maybe even one of the most iconic beaches in the world. Watching the low-flying aircraft has become such a popular activity that nearby bars like the famed Sunset Bar and Grill list the arrival and departure times for the day.
Shoal Bay Village, Anguilla
Consistently voted as one of the best beaches in the world, Shoal Bay Village offers a dream-like vista of turquoise waters, bronze beach sand and swaying palms in a truly serene atmosphere. Pull up an umbrella chair and sunbathe the day away, snorkel with the fishes in the crystal-clear sea, or dine and drink at any one of the wonderful beach bars.
Anse du Gouverneur, St. Bart
This crescent-shaped, colorful and family-friendly inlet on the south side of St. Barthélemy is a fan favorite. While still exceedingly popular (a jewel in the Caribbean and many people’s favorite beach across all the islands), Anse du Gouverneur is a serene beach, offering ample sunlight and a calming atmosphere – far from the typical crowds. The waves are also great here, making Gouverneur a popular spot for surfing in the Caribbean.
Reduit Beach, St. Lucia
There’s no shortage of beautiful beaches in St. Lucia, but the incredibly located Reduit’s claims the title of ‘Best Beach in the Caribbean’ for many visitors and locals alike, and it’s not hard to see why. Situated on the northwest side of the island, near a handful of laid-back bars, restaurants and shops, Reduit is the place to be if you’re looking to get a taste of everything St. Lucia has to offer. The nearby Rodney Bay Marina offers plenty of rentable water toys for endless hours of fun on the water while renowned bars like Spinnakers serve up an array of island-inspired cuisine and cocktails.
Build your own Caribbean yacht charter with The Moorings and discover which of these locations claims the title of ‘Best Caribbean Beach’ for you.
The Five Best Hidden Beaches in the Caribbean
At The Moorings, we understand that sometimes you fancy a quieter, more remote beach day, or perhaps you’d like to explore on foot before uncovering a spectacular hidden beach. Well, we have added a bonus 5 beaches to our list – specifically for secluded spots that ooze peace and relaxation.
Here are our top 5 picks for the best hidden beaches in the Caribbean:
Cow Wreck Beach, Anegada, BVI
Out of the way from the busier destinations in the BVI, Cow Wreck Beach feels like a little slice of heaven. It is unusual to stumble across a place that boasts both a rave-reviewed bar & restaurant, as well as some of the most pristine scenery around. Declared by many as the “best beach in the BVI”, Cow Wreck Beach simply can’t be beat.
Loblolly Bay, Anegada, BVI
After spending a day on Anegada’s Loblolly Bay, chances are you’ll never want to leave. Prepare to immerse yourself in impeccable snorkeling conditions featuring the most vibrantly-colored coral reefs and an array of beautiful tropical fish. This place truly is a secluded piece of paradise.
“We are beach people, raised in Florida and make it a point to visit highly rated beaches not only in Florida, but in all of our travels, and had never heard of this place. How sad. By far, it is the most impressive beach that we have ever seen. Clean clear water, breathtaking color, unique natural soft sand with tiny specks of red coral and the best snorkeling we have ever experienced.”
– TripAdvisor Review
White Bay, Guana Island, BVI
If you’re enticed by breathtaking views and unrivaled peace & quiet, then White Bay at lushly-green Guana Island is your sanctuary. This ever-enchanting beach in the BVI is home to a set of parallel patch reefs, endless glistening white sand, and calm crystalline water that looks too blue to be true. The snorkeling here is phenomenal and onshore nature’s preserved beauty abounds. White Bay Beach is a haven away from home.
Prickly Pear Cays, Anguilla, St. Martin
Leave your worries behind at Prickly Pear Cays in St. Martin. Here you will be greeted with pure sugar-like sand, soothing island scenery, and a delightful beach bar serving delectable drinks and the freshest lobster dishes. There is no shortage of Things to do on a St. Martin yacht charter, but this pair of small uninhabited cays, separated by a narrow channel, is one of six marine protected regions in Anguilla. Iconic volcanic rocks characterized by reef limestone offer unique above-water views with a distinctive underwater canyon of ledges and caves below.
“The highlight was when we ordered a lobster. The owner was suddenly gone, and then he returned all wet with a live lobster that he just pulled from the ocean!”
– TripAdvisor Review
Tintamarre, St. Martin
Nestled within the boundaries of the St. Martin Nature Preserve, the island of Tintamarre is a prime location for second-to-none scenery and once-in-a-lifetime experiences both on and offshore. This uninhabited island is a popular destination for those on a St. Martin yacht charter, as it offers a desirable feeling of seclusion. If you’re interested in marine life sightings and snorkeling with sea turtles, Tintamarre is your hot spot.
Playa Tamarindo, Culebra (SVI)
Playa Tamarindo is a small pebbly beach located in the unspoiled Spanish Virgin Islands. Just off the coast of Culebra, this stunning place just exudes “paradise”. One of the top-ranked snorkeling spots in the world, Playa Tamarindo is a must-see destination during any Puerto Rico yacht charter vacation, especially if you’re eager to swim or snorkel with sea turtles in their natural protected environment.
A power yacht charter is all about experiencing the most of your destination. With unparalleled speed and maneuverability, your yacht empowers you to go farther and see more of the wonderful world at sea. Add the comfort of an elegant onboard living space and you’ve got the perfect platform for an unforgettable vacation on the water.
Unsure whether you’re qualified to set sail on our bareboat yacht charters? Check out our blog on qualifications to sail a power yacht or Contact Us.
Contributor
Leslie Montenegro
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