More than 700 islands and 2,000 cays make up this Caribbean oasis. A vacation to the Bahamas is marked by sun-filled days on stretches of immaculate beaches, swimming and diving in the clearest water on earth, and enjoying the islands’ fresh seafood served with a side of warm Bahamian hospitality.

Head to New Providence, home to well-known Nassau and Paradise Island, for a selection of beachside accommodations and activities. For a more laid-back and deserted-island vibe, the Exumas are the perfect getaway. Similarly, Eleuthera, the original island of the Bahamas, puts an authentic spin on the region with rolling pineapple fields. Or, swim with the beach-dwelling pigs of Big Major Cay and pet nurse sharks off the boardwalk of Compass Cay for an unforgettable Bahamian experience.

Cable Beach is the most well-known beach in Nassau. And if you’re not staying at a resort on Cable Beach, ask about day passes—many resorts sell passes for access to their beach, pool and beach amenities like chairs or cabanas. Otherwise, access the public portion of the beach on Goodman’s Bay, just be extra careful swimming as no lifeguard is standing by. Both families and couples enjoy Cable Beach as the water is calm and there are accommodations for every type of traveler. Tour, rental companies and souvenir vendors service the area, so whether you want to snorkel inshore, charter a boat to a nearby cay or pick up a gift, you’ll be able to do it all with your toes still in the sand.

Spend your day at Love Beach if you love snorkeling. Only 20 minutes from downtown Nassau, this beach has multiple acres of protected coral just asking for admiration right off the shore. Amenities are far and few between but Love Beach is worth the extra preparation, it’s quiet and often deserted. Colorful Compass Point Beach Resort huts dot the shore, adding a fun twist on the otherwise secluded beach. Fortunately, it does have a bar—Nirvana Beach Bar serves food and drinks made to order. If you plan to get a post-beach bite, head to nearby Dino’s Gourmet Conch Salad Restaurant—known for some of the best tropical conch salad on the island. Don’t forget to look for sea glass, Love Beach has plenty!

Cabbage Beach is tucked away on Paradise Island with transparent turquoise waters and white sand. It is so beautiful that both world-famous resorts like Atlantis Paradise Island Resort and Paradise Island Beach Club, along with some celebrity residences line this beach. The water is rougher than other beaches with consistently strong rip currents, but that doesn’t keep vacationers away. Cabbage Beach is equally as popular as Cable Beach, just often less crowded. Sunbathing, land activities and water activities like jet skiing and boat charters are this beach’s main draw. Keep your eyes peeled for vendors offering an “all you can drink” deal and enjoy endless tropical drinks out of a coconut while you sunbathe.

This beach’s name is pretty self-explanatory. Most people don’t think “surf” when they think of the Bahamas, but Eleuthera has a phenomenal surf spot hidden just south of Gregory Town. Whether you surf or not, this beach is a must-see. Grab your gear and hop in or watch the riveting sport from soft white sand. The best waves roll in September through March, but Surfer’s Beach is a popular spot year round. If you don’t have your own board just head to Rebecca’s Beach Shop and rent one from Surfer Pete. Ask a local about the “Bone Yard” before surfing here, this rock formation is dangerous and should be avoided.

Visit this beach if you’re looking for a quiet escape away from the city, vendors and resorts. You’ll need to bring your own provisions, but with the peaceful atmosphere, it’s a worthy trade-off. Xanadu beach gives you a secluded slice of sand just minutes from Freeport. Expect to see few visitors, if any at all, and crystal clear, calm water. You’ll notice retro remains of the once famed, Hotel Xanadu where big names like Frank Sinatra, Dean Martin and Lucille Ball used to visit. While you won’t see celebrities or vendors, Xanadu Beach remains a hidden gem in Freeport.

Harbour Island draws vacationers year round just to see it’s three-mile stretch of pink-hued sand. The sand is always cool enough to walk on and known for being extremely soft. However, there’s much more to this small island than colorful sand. The world-famous Current Cut Dive, snorkeling and swimming on outlying reefs and shopping in Dunmore Town keep visitors busy off the beach. Expect locals to wave as you walk by and fine hospitality wherever you stay—Brilanders are known to be extra friendly. Visitors often rent bicycles or golf carts to get around. Overall, Pink Sand Beach is calm, quiet and perfect for lounging outside your beach hotel or swimming.

Set foot on Grand Bahama’s “welcome mat” and enjoy the shallow, turquoise waters that made the perfect backdrop for a “Pirates of the Caribbean” movie. Gold Rock Beach is part of Lucayan National Park. The sandy shore is a tranquil place to wind down after exploring the park and its underwater cave system, the largest in the world. Shallow depths that extend far out into the ocean at low tide have made this beach famous and the perfect environment for children or wading. After walking the boardwalk across the street from the caves, you’ll approach white sand and seclusion. Aside from hungry raccoons, you’re unlikely to see many visitors on this beach. There are restrooms nearby and a shop with snacks, but it’s wise to bring your own supplies. Just be sure to hide your snacks from the raccoons, they’ve been known to take off with a beach bag or two.

Tahiti Beach is the perfect spot to get that iconic island photo everyone wants on vacation. Located on the edge of Elbow Cay, you can only reach this secluded beach by foot or boat. You’ll want to visit during low tide when you can walk far out into the ocean and the water still isn’t past your waist. Low tides make sand dollars, starfish and shells easy to find—enjoyable for both adults and children. It’s likely you’ll have the beach to yourself—even on its busiest days, Tahiti Beach only has a handful of visitors. If you’re lucky, the floating bar and restaurant will be anchored during your stay, or better yet, pack your own meals and enjoy a beach picnic. Many visitors simply can’t leave after just one visit and anchor their boat right off shore or stay at one of the nearby hotels.

Casuarina Pines line this large beach that offers calm water and privacy on the Caribbean side of Eleuthera. Most days the beach is deserted, but it does fill up from time to time. Pack drinks and snacks and follow the dirt road all the way there. Plan on swimming in the shallow, translucent water or snorkeling by the rocks on either end of the beach. Sand dollars, stingrays and sea stars inhabit this stretch of water so be sure to shuffle your feet and keep an eye out for the local inhabitants.

When there’s clear turquoise water as far as the eye can see, you’ve reached Treasure Cay Beach. Photos really don’t do this beach justice. Palm trees, mangrove alcoves and uninhabited swathes of sand stretch for three miles, making it easy to find a spot all to yourself, on the off chance there are other beachgoers. Treasure Cay Resort and Marina is a popular accommodation option and hangout spot on Treasure Cay Beach, in addition to other bars and restaurants close by. If you want some adventure on Abaco Island venture off the beach to the nearby blue hole.

Pull right off Queen’s Highway next to Alice Town Beach and you’ll land on manicured Radio Beach—the perfect spot for a comfortable family outing. As the only beach on Bimini with public facilities, it’s the most popular, but you can usually find your own peaceful spot of sand. Whether you take a leisurely beach walk and lookout for the Gallant Lady freighter marooned just off shore or cozy up in the shade with a good book, the sound of gentle waves will soothe your soul.

Minimal research on the Bahamas yields odd images of vacationers swimming in the water, not with fish, but full-grown pigs! Pink snouts and oinks greet you as you anchor at Pig Beach on Big Major Cay. This cay exists uninhabited—other than the pigs—and is only reachable by boat. Just how the pigs arrived here is a still a mystery, but there’s no shortage of folkloric explanations.

Be sure to bring a waterproof camera on this outing as it’s unlikely you’ll see swimming pigs surrounded by turquoise water more than once in your lifetime. Visit the pigs through a boat tour with Exuma Water Tours or Harbour Safaris, a waverunner tour through Exuma Water Sports or rent your own boat through Exuma Vacation. Thunderball Grotto, famous from the James Bond movie “Thunderball” and swimming with nurse sharks is also in the Exumas so be sure to ask your tour guide if you want to see all three attractions in the same day.

Glittering water in every shade of turquoise and blue draws divers, snorkelers, swimmers and beachgoers from all over to Dean’s Blue Hole—the second deepest salt water blue hole known to man. This daunting blue hole offers otherworldly views and an eerie sense of mystery. Prepare for total seclusion—getting to Dean’s Blue Hole requires a bumpy, unmarked drive on Long Island and not many visitors make the journey. Surrounded by a crescent of rocks on three sides and glistening white beach on the fourth, the blue hole doesn’t even start until you descend more than 60 feet below the surface.

Expect to see tarpon, sea turtles, octopus, seahorses and a variety of fish around the edges. Many climb the cliff and jump off into the hole, but it’s only recommended for strong swimmers, as there is frequently a current and the sand around the edges of the hole crumbles leaving you with no footing. The shallower area off the beach is perfect for non-swimmers. Freedivers hungry to break a record meet here annually for the Vertical Blue Freediving Competition.

From golden sands in the shadow of the Pitons to secluded coves, here’s where to find your perfect patch of paradise.

The first time I visited Saint Lucia, I was blown away by the island’s gorgeous landscape: the twin Piton Mountains, the miles of lush, tropical forests and the dozen or so beaches that ring the tiny island. Saint Lucia’s topography makes it one of the most unique in the Caribbean. It also stands out for another reason: the island is the only country in the world named after a woman. 

Saint Lucia has traditionally been a honeymoon haven, but it’s been attracting more solo and group travelers drawn to its adventurous side. From zip-lining over the rainforest to soaking in volcanic mud at a natural sulfur spring, or signing up for a guided hike of the Pitons, Saint Lucia is a playground for adventure seekers. 

The beaches in Saint Lucia are pretty spectacular too, ranging from sugary white to volcanic black sand. Whether you’re planning a trip to Saint Lucia to celebrate a milestone anniversary or disconnect for a few days by yourself, you’ll probably want to include a visit to the island’s stunning shoreline. Below, check out our guide to some of the island’s best beaches. 

Found on Saint Lucia’s southwestern coast, Sugar Beach is one of the island’s most sought-after destinations and it gets its name from the soft, sugary white sand. The beach is about 15 minutes by car from Soufriere, a cruise ship port and one of the main tourism hubs of the island. What makes this beach so special? Sugar Beach is nestled between the majestic Pitons and offers travelers one of the best views of the famous peaks. The famous beach is also the location of Sugar Beach, a Viceroy Resort, but you don’t need to stay at the resort to access the beach. Visitors can get dropped off or park in the adjacent free parking lot and then take a steep walk down to the public beach. Bring your own towel or inquire with a local vendor about renting a beach chair for the day. Also, look for Blaze’s Boat Bar, a floating bar run by a local known as “The Smoothie Man.” He serves fresh smoothies—with or without alcohol—directly from his boat.

Another great beach is Pigeon Island Causeway Beach, located on Pigeon Island, a national landmark open daily from 8 am to 5:30 pm. The island is on the northern tip of Saint Lucia, about a 10-minute drive from the center of Rodney Bay. Pigeon Island is connected to the mainland of Saint Lucia by a bridge and this tiny island (a little over 40 acres) offers a few swimming areas, like the popular Pigeon Island Causeway Beach. The beach can get lively on weekends and cruise ship port days, so consider planning your visit for midweek for a more private experience. For an added thrill, consider hiking up Signal Point. At the top, you can explore Fort Rodney, a military fort built by the British to protect the island.

Boasting golden sand and clear water, Reduit Beach is a popular place to cool off. Tucked into the island’s northern side, the beach is only 15 minutes from Pigeon Point Island, so you could hit up both in one day. The shallow water is great for kids or those who want to spend the afternoon snorkeling and beach umbrellas and chairs are available for a fee.  Reduit Beach is also within a 10-minute walk from the shops and restaurants in Rodney Bay. After a day at the beach, grab a table at Matthew’s Rooftop Restaurant for a lunch of coconut shrimp and fire-roasted octopus, or come later to watch the sunset from the rooftop restaurant. 

Anse Cochan is a quiet, black sand beach on the western coast and the best way to access this beach is via Ti Kaye Resort & Spa. The beach is at the end of a steep 166-step staircase, where you’ll be met with a few wooden pergolas for shade. Anse Cochon is a popular stop for day tours, but the boats usually stay for about an hour before you have the beach to yourself again. Ti Kaye Resort & Spa offers beach chairs (for a fee) and guided snorkel trips, making it a great home base for the day. Make lunch reservations at the hotel’s casual beachside bar, Ti Manje, or dine at the formal hillside restaurant, Kai Mange.  

Arguably one of the best beaches for snorkeling or scuba diving in St. Lucia, Anse Chastanet is a peaceful beachfront home to a resort with the same name, Anse Chastanet Resort. The black sand beach is on St. Lucia’s southwest coast and runs about a quarter of a mile long. If you’re snorkeling, the beach has a buoyed off “no-boat” area, ensuring the reef is preserved. The beach also has a world-class scuba diving center, Scuba St. Lucia, which offers equipment rental, group trips and lessons. The coral reefs are teeming with colorful fish, but if you’d rather stay on the surface, you can rent kayaks or paddleboards from the hotel’s watersports rental center.  

For a truly serene beach experience, consider a short hike to Anse Mamin, which is connected to Anse Chastanet by a picturesque beach path. The brief ten-minute walk leads you to the uncrowded, crescent-shaped cove. Anse Mamin is more secluded than Anse Chastanet and is perfect for those seeking a peaceful retreat (and the sunsets here are second to none.) If you’re hungry, the Jungle Beach Bar & Grill, operated by the Anse Chastanet Resort, is perched directly on Anse Mamin Beach. The restaurant offers a variety of dishes, from watermelon gazpacho to BBQ Dorado fish burgers and a decadent coconut mango panna cotta for dessert. 

Less visited than other beaches, Cas en Bas beach is on the island’s north end. The white sand beach, facing the Atlantic, benefits from the tradewinds and the windy area makes it a perfect sport for kiteboarders. If you’re looking to take lessons or rent equipment, check out Kitesurfing St. Lucia. The C-shaped remote beach is also ideal for horseback rides and you can book a scenic ride through the rugged terrain and across the beach through Trim’s National Riding Stable. On the weekends, locals come to picnic and fish, but weekdays are pretty uncrowded. Also near Cas en Bas Beach is Marjorie’s Beach Bar, one of the island’s most beloved beachside restaurants. The rustic watering hole serves local dishes, including grilled fish, and a stiff, spiced rum punch. 

Smuggler’s Cove, a secluded beach on the northern tip of Saint Lucia, is surrounded by dramatic cliffs and can be reached by a steep 90-step staircase. Once you get to the bottom, you’ll be rewarded with a nearly perfect golden slice of beach. A few loungers belonging to the neighboring Cap Maison Hotel are scattered on the sand, but there’s still plenty of room to lay out a beach towel and enjoy the quiet view. The beach is also home to The Naked Fisherman Restaurant, one of the island’s top restaurants. Make reservations to sample the restaurant’s shrimp toastadas and saltfish, and be sure to enjoy a little post-meal break on the beach before your climb to the top. 

Jamaica is the third-largest island in the balmy paradise of the Caribbean and a sought-after destination for travelers worldwide. From a lively afternoon of cliff jumping at Rick’s Cafe to taking in the wonder of historical sites like the Bellefield Great House and the Devon House Heritage Site, Jamaica is an easy-going locale with no shortage of intrigue.

Many people only know Jamaica for the reggae king himself, but this Caribbean jewel offers much more, including bustling downtowns in Kingston and Montego Bay. Some of the world’s finest coffee comes from the Blue Mountains—which are a popular cycling destination—waterfalls like YS and Dunn’s River are accessible from every major town and forget ziplining, Jamaica has a bobsled through the jungle.

Head to Negril for one of the most well-known stretches of shoreline on the island, Seven Mile Beach. Pirates were once known to trawl Seven Mile Beach, which is now mostly populated by sun-seekers and the occasional vendor. Blue waters, calm surf and soft sand make Seven Mile Beach a popular destination for island visitors.

This Port Antonio destination promises level waters and manicured white-sand shores. Tropical foliage runs right up to the shore, shielding the beach and making for a picture-perfect Caribbean postcard view. Blue lagoons draw boat tours and nearby Somerset Falls lures hikers into the brush. Many visitors cite Frenchman’s Cove as a preferred beach destination, though be aware that an entry fee is required for visitors.

Many say that Negril boasts some of the most attractive beaches on the planet. This resort town has no shortage of amenities and attractions, from cooling off at nearby Dunn’s River Falls to absorbing the local history at Negril Lighthouse. A trip to Jamaica isn’t complete without a beachy cocktail and a tan alongside Negril Beach.

Part of Ocho Rios, Dunn’s River Falls Beach is not far from the falls itself—a popular day trip destination. Nothing beats the connection to nature at this unmissable Jamaican landmark. You’ll notice local tour guides abound as many cruise goers hire a guide to visit the Falls during their stop. Along the beach, vendors peddle drinks and food to keep visitors satiated on their trek to and from the falls.

Set in Montego Bay, Doctor’s Cave Beach boasts the Doctor’s Cave Bathing Club to outfit beachgoers. Across the street, the Deja Resort is popular with visitors who want to make the brief trek to the water for snorkeling. A marginal admission fee is worth the lush views, and you’re bound to encounter friendly fellow tourists soaking up the sunshine on a lazy afternoon. The Captain Polly Glass Bottom Boat embarks from these shores and offers a worthy day trip.

What was once an old fishing village on the island’s southeast coast is now a hot destination for beachside cottages and villas. This upscale destination promises all measures of hipness, including dancehall DJs and high-end NYC-based design. There are plenty of budget-friendly options nearby, too, like 77 West, which still offers easy access to rugged, bright blue ocean waters.

Explore Jamaica’s northern shoreline with a visit to Bamboo Beach—a popular destination for the eponymous Bamboo Beach Club, which offers VIP tours for travelers. Nearby, the St. Mary Country Club draws guests for afternoon cocktails with compelling views. You’ll spot Sapphire Island off the coast and down the road you can get your pulse racing at Yaaman Adventure Park. Whether you’re settled in the sand or just enjoying the sights, Bamboo Beach keeps travelers entertained at every turn.

Cornwall Beach offers soaring views of far-off mountains right from your own beach hut. While nabbing a prime spot on the sand requires a bit of early-rising, waters are aquamarine. Not far off you’ll find the Aqua Sol Theme Park for thrill-seekers. For lodging, the Royal Decameron Cornwall Beach is just a stone’s throw away. Proximity to Sangster International Airport keeps a calming stream of planes soaring overhead.

Ocho Rios Bay Beach is a scenic, extensive beach for day-trippers and resort-goers alike. A nominal entry fee buys an afternoon by the water, where sailboats glide in and out of the harbor alongside a piled stone jetty. Not far off, you’ll see favorite sightseeing spots like James Bond Beach and Dunn’s River Falls Park. Book a tour with Marvyn’s Paradise Tours for a thrilling, more immersive island experience like river tubing or a Bob Marley tour.

Expect shallow blue waters and world-class snorkeling when you visit Hellshire Beach in Portmore, Jamaica. Though the shoreline is limited, the marine life is plentiful—giving restaurants and vendors, serving fresh fish, some of the best local cuisine travelers will find. The atmosphere here is casual and perfect for simply lounging in the shade of palm trees while watching boats drift by.

With 800 miles of coastline, the Dominican Republic, which shares the island of Hispaniola with neighboring Haiti, has a beach for everyone. Many of the Dominican Republic’s best beaches are lined with resorts, restaurants, shops and more, so you have any amenity you could need nearby. Whether you want to test your skills on the waves that roll in on the island’s north coast or escape to a secluded stretch of sand, the Dominican Republic beaches have you covered.

It’s the diverse topography that makes this island so unusual. You can climb a waterfall, snorkel a coral reef, dive into a cool and crystal-clear cenote, zipline through a rainforest, hike a mountain valley 1,640 feet above sea level, then watch sea turtles nesting in offshore cayes. After your adventures, sip a piña colada from a beach lounger.

In Bayahibe, a small fishing village situated between Punta Cana and La Romana, you’ll find Playa Dominicus, where currents are gentle and waters are placid. Open to all visitors, this is the first beach in the Caribbean to earn the Blue Flag distinction that recognizes outstanding safety, monitoring and management. An offshore reef protects the shallow bay and nearby restaurants and arts and crafts shacks make it easy to grab a snack or escape from the sun for a bit when your kids need a break.

On the island’s east coast, where Caribbean and Atlantic seas meet you’ll find Playa Bàvaro in Punta Cana. A quintessentially palm-fringed stretch of pristine sands and calm waters, thanks to the offshore reef that protects the bay, this beach is a popular tourist destination that retains its natural beauty with small coves where you and the kids can tuck away for an afternoon siesta. Playa Bàvaro is lined with resorts and packed with activities like banana-boat excursions and kayak rentals, ensuring your family never gets bored.

Located within Casa de Campo, a luxury resort in La Romana, Playa Minitas is a beautiful beach with calm waters and a relaxed atmosphere. Unlike the busier public beaches, this private stretch of sand is well-maintained and promises a peaceful escape from the crowds. While primarily for resort guests, visitors can access the beach with a day pass, making it an excellent option for those looking to enjoy a quieter, more upscale beach experience.

Thanks to its location on the Caribbean side of the island, the waters here are calm and crystal-clear, perfect for swimming and snorkeling without worrying about strong currents. For those after adventure, paddleboarding and kayaking are available, or you can simply relax in a lounge chair beneath the shade of a swaying palm. The beach club restaurant serves fresh seafood and tropical drinks, making it easy to spend the whole day soaking up the sun.

First-time surfers should head to Playa Encuentro in Cabarete, where consistent surf year-round and a lifeguard on duty make it a great beach for learning. The area known as Bobo’s Point is uncrowded and forgiving—the perfect spot for catching your first wave. Several surf schools have set up shop here and will guide you through the basics.

In addition to offering easy waves for beginners, areas of Encuentro are ideal for skilled surfers. Expert surfers know to hit the beach in the winter when ocean swells make for quality waves. One section known as The Left is best for intermediates and experts, and waves in the Coco Pipe area are known to barrel during a north swell.

Further to the east, La Preciosa serves up great surf during a swell but there are currents and rips and a decent paddle-out is required, so surfing here definitely requires plenty of experience. Nearby El Barco offers similar conditions. The Gran Bahia Principe San Juan is just a 20-minute drive to these expert surf spots.

For a quieter, more secluded beach experience, head to Playa Rincón—a postcard-perfect beach with palm trees, soft sand and brilliant turquoise waters. The crowds are light here due to lack of easy access—it requires a vehicle with four-wheel drive or a boat from nearby Las Galeras to bring you in. Here, the Caño Frio river flows into the sea, and there’s plenty of shade, courtesy of the palms and seagrape trees that fringe the shore. Despite Playa Rincón’s relative seclusion, there are a few small eateries here where you can grab lunch.

At Sosua Bay, the water is calm and clear enough that you can even bring your children along for a snorkel. Just 50 meters off the beach, you’ll arrive at the reef and there are several resorts nearby if you’d like to stay close to this snorkeling experience.

You’ll want to hire a local guide to help you get to Playa Morón, as the roads are not easy to traverse, but it’s well worth the trip. This perfectly paradisiacal beach features a 17th-century cannon, calm waters and a rainforest landscape bordering the cove. Amenities are few, so pack a cooler and prepare to spend a day in blissful solitude.

Dominica is one of those places that’s still relatively under the radar. When I first visited, I knew very little about Dominica, other than that it was often confused with the Dominican Republic. I soon discovered, though, that the tiny Caribbean island has its own unique identity. Situated between the French islands of Martinique and Guadeloupe, Dominica is affectionately nicknamed “The Nature Island” because of its rugged coastline and lush interior. And though people are drawn to the island’s many waterfalls, rainforests and rivers, the beaches are just as wild. 

Dominica’s beaches are a departure from the typical white sand beaches that are often associated with the Caribbean, and they range from volcanic black-sand beaches to golden-sand shorelines fringed by lush jungles. And since the island is only 29 miles long and 16 miles wide, you could easily hit up several beaches on a week-long stay.  If you’re ready to take a more “off the grid” Caribbean vacation, these are the best beaches in Dominica to visit. 

Tucked away on the northern coast of the island, Douglas Bay Beach is a stunning black sand beach in Portsmouth, the second largest city on the island. Douglas Bay Beach is also situated within Dominica’s Cabrits National Park, which means it’s pretty low-key and uncrowded throughout the year. If you’re planning a day trip to the northern coast, you can combine a visit to Douglas Bay Beach with Fort Shirley, a British fortress that was the site of a successful revolt led by enslaved soldiers. For an overnight stay, consider checking into the InterContinental Dominica Carib Resort & Spa, which has an infinity pool, three restaurants and an eco-friendly wellness center. 

The soft sand and placid water make this beach a clear contender for one of the best beaches on the island. Also located near Portsmouth, Purple Turtle Beach gets its name from the leatherback and hawksbill turtles that lay eggs here during nesting season. The black-speckled beach is generally uncrowded during the week, but it becomes a popular destination on weekends, especially when local events like soca or reggae concerts take place. For food, there’s no need to leave the beach: stop by the Purple Turtle Beach Club for a cold beer or coconut shrimp.  

Also, on the north side of the island, the secluded Batibou Beach is one of the only white sand beaches on the island. The family-owned beach has a $5 entry fee, and it requires some planning to get there. If you have a car, you can park it on the roadside and take a 10-minute walk down to the shore. Ringed by coconut palm trees and sea grape trees, Batibou Beach also has a gently sloping sea bed, which means you can wade out quite a distance. If you stay for the day, grab a table at Babitou Beach Grill, a no-frills restaurant with fresh snapper and coconut rum punch on the menu. 

Mero Beach is the island’s most popular beach, and though you won’t get a secluded beach experience, the beach—located on Dominica’s west coast—is still a “must-see” stop. Mero Beach’s popularity is partly due to its proximity to Roseau, the island’s capital and popular port of call for cruise ships. To avoid crowds, it’s best to come early on a weekday and try to avoid cruise ship days. The frequently visited beach boasts soft, black sand and is lined with several bars and restaurants, like the laid-back Indee’s Beach Bar and Restaurant. You can also rent lounge chairs and beach umbrellas for the day. 

Ever wanted to know what it’s like to swim in a giant glass of bubbly water? At Champagne Beach, you can find out. The southwest beach gets its name from the unique geothermal bubbles that rise from the seabed floor.  If you’re snorkeling or diving, the clear water around Champagne Reef makes it easy to spot marine life such as pufferfish and parrotfish. When it’s time to refuel, head to Jungle Bay Dominica, just a 3-minute drive away. The hotel’s restaurant, Calabash Restaurant & Bar, offers a diverse selection of vegan and vegetarian dishes, including curry roti and vegetarian patties.  

Located just south of Roseau, Soufrière Bay is a reddish, pebbly beach that has long attracted divers due to its underground rock formations. But if you’re not diving, Soufriere Bay offers a rustic thermal spa located by the shoreline. Created by locals who have erected makeshift rock walls to trap the warm water in shallow pools, these pools are a great way to soak your muscles after a long hike. Soufrière Bay is located not far from Scott’s Head, a small fishing village that serves as a gateway to the Waitukubuli National Trail, so you can visit here after a day of hiking. 

For something far less crowded, make a stop at Hampstead Beach on the north side of the island. This beach also has a claim to fame—it was one of the filming locations for  the Pirates of the Caribbean, and the beach makes an appearance in the scene when Jack Sparrow is filmed being chased by “natives.” The remote beach doesn’t have any amenities like restaurants or bars, so be sure to bring your own food for the day. The black sand beach is a bit rough, and it’s less known than the other beaches, which means that if you visit, you’ll likely have the whole place to yourself. 

Pointe Baptiste Beach comes with a bit of history. Located on the island’s northeastern coast, the beach is where the British landed when they colonized the island and the rugged shore was also known to be a hideout spot for pirates. The water here can become quite rough, making it unsuitable for beginner swimmers. The beach is a stunning expanse of golden sand framed by cliffs, and on a clear day, you can see neighboring Guadeloupe. If you’re looking to sightsee, near the beach is the Pointe Baptiste Estate, a historical guesthouse which houses a small chocolate factory.

Curaçao boasts a collection of beautiful beaches with 35 cove-style sandy havens around the small Dutch-Caribbean island. No matter which beach you choose for your ideal day of relaxation, you’ll find traditional Curaçaoan batidos (smoothies) and stunning views.

The historic port capital Willemstad is a destination in itself. You’ll find plenty of opportunities to learn about local culture and traditions by visiting the museums, historic homes and other cultural centers scattered throughout the downtown area. Curaçao is also a sunseeker’s paradise, a place to just relax on white-sand beaches and enjoy a few hours of swimming, snorkeling and diving.

Playa Piskado is an animal lover’s paradise. Not only is this secluded beach highlighted by sparkling blue water in a picturesque cove, but it’s also where resident fishermen come to haul in the day’s catch and cast off their scraps. Local sea turtles soon caught on to the possibility of a free meal. Now, sea turtles come in droves to feed on what the fishermen leave behind and swimmers and snorkelers alike enjoy their presence as they leisurely float around. 

What to do: Don your snorkel gear and wade into the calm, clear waters to witness sea turtles gliding gracefully beneath the surface. Snorkelers can enjoy a rare opportunity to see them up close, but be sure to respect their space—observe from a distance and never attempt to touch or chase them. If you’d rather stay dry, you can still watch the turtles from the pier as they periodically surface for air.

Playa Forti is a stunner of a beach on its own, but for those who crave an adrenaline rush, there’s a cliff jumping spot next to the clifftop restaurant just off the side of the beach. Locals and visitors alike know this to be the prime spot for cliff jumping in Curaçao. At 40 feet high, this jumping-off point is just enough of a challenge for daredevils. Gather your courage and take the leap, then find a spot on the beach to bask in the sun and enjoy the glory of having conquered your fears! 

What to do: For thrill-seekers, Playa Forti offers one of Curaçao’s most famous cliff-jumping spots. If you’re not quite ready to jump, you can always enjoy the spectacle from the clifftop restaurant while sipping a cold drink and cheering on the brave souls who take the leap.

For a truly remarkable beach day, head to Playa Kenepa, which makes up two of the most popular beaches in Curaçao, Grandi (Grote Knip) and Chiki (Klein Knip). Grote Knip is consistently ranked among the best beaches in the world for its natural beauty; it’s the kind of place you have to see to believe. At half the size of Grote Knip, Klein Knip is a smaller, quieter and more intimate beach, so you can relax in peace. In addition, there’s a coral reef near the beach that’s perfect for snorkeling. Park yourself underneath a thatched tiki hut on the sand or enjoy swimming, snorkeling and floating in the crystal-clear sparkling water of this cozy cove beach. 

What to do: Explore the calm, crystalline waters of Grote Knip from a unique vantage point by renting a stand-up paddleboard. Paddle along the shoreline to take in the scenery, or venture out toward the coral reefs for an unforgettable aquatic experience. If you’re lucky, you may even spot sea turtles or tropical fish swimming beneath your board.

Playa Kalki is a small and somewhat rocky cove of a beach that’s popular for diving and snorkeling. It also has a roped-off area with a floating platform for kids and kids-at-heart. It’s sometimes referred to as the “Alice in Wonderland” beach due to its distinctive mushroom-shaped coral formations. The nearby snack bar and dive shop make your daily adventures both easy and fully fueled. From Playa Kalki, take the set of steps leading up to the Kura Hulanda Lodge on the bluffs above—it’s the perfect spot for lunch. 

What to do: Grab your snorkel gear and explore the vibrant reef, where you’ll encounter colorful parrotfish, angelfish and even the occasional seahorse.

With no facilities (and of course no entrance fee), Jeremi Beach is one of the more peaceful public beaches of Curaçao. It’s a narrow cove of a beach with coarse sand and volcanic stones. There’s not much shade available, but the view at day’s end is out of this world as the sun sets over the water. Take the carved-out rocky path from the parking area to the water and enjoy your time at Jeremi Beach. 

What to do: Get away from it all. With no beach bars, rental chairs, or tourist facilities, it’s the perfect place to disconnect from the world and soak in Curaçao’s raw natural beauty. Bring a towel, a picnic and plenty of water and settle in for a day of swimming and sunbathing.

Playa Porto Mari is a popular beach for several reasons, most notably its beachside bar and restaurant and the “celebrities,” the local pigs, Willy and Woody. 

What to do: Meet the resident pigs, of course! When Willy and Woody tire of photos, Playa Porto Mari’s unique “double reef” is easily accessible from the shore and provides a hassle-free snorkel and dive site. Or, landlubbers will love hiking and mountain biking Seru Matteo Trail, History Trail and Bird Trail that begin at the parking lot.

Mexico’s largest Caribbean island sits just a 45 minute ferry ride from the mainland, and has it all, from wild jungles, vivid culture, world-renowned diving and believe it or not, deserted beaches. The second-largest barrier reef sits just off Cozumel’s white-sand shores, offering unbelievable snorkeling and diving, or you can simply enjoy the crystal clear surf from one of the beautiful beaches like Playa Palancar or Playa Uvas.

This island isn’t just for cruise goers though—there’s a number of beach accommodation around the island that make this a perfect base for soaking up the sun and exploring the Mayan ruins, deserted beaches and less popular dive spots. Whether you want to pick up souvenirs, swim with stingrays or unwind in a luxurious beach resort, Cozumel is for you. It’s time to explore the real Cozumel.

Playa Chen Rio is a removed but idyllic destination for island hoppers seeking new sights. Locals enjoy this beach for its calm waters and soft winds, while local decks offer beer buckets to keep your thirst satiated and your mood vacation-friendly. What’s more, the pescado frito, or fried fish, sold by the area’s vendors is absolutely delicious. Enjoy the placid water for swimming and snorkeling—it’s naturally shielded by a visible coral reef. Chairs and towels are available for rent, too.

If the well-loved restaurant right on the water isn’t enough to lure you to Playa Bonita, then come for the sweeping views. Enjoy a fish taco on the sand while you take in the rugged coastline with a cocktail. The East Coast of Cozumel is a little less traveled, so if you’re craving a day away from the more touristy spots on Cozumel, then it’s time to grab some local cuisine for lunch and have a refreshing dip at Playa Bonita.

Winds are a bit stronger on this side of the island, but views here are spectacular and the sand is white as can be. This little beach is a hotspot for cocktails, snacks on the beach and snorkeling. Access the south end of Chankanaab Reef in calm waters where you’re likely to see eel, stingray and exotic fish. Depending on the day, you may see hundreds of tourists or not a single one here, either way, it’s always easy to cool off with a drink and your toes in the sand.

Playa Uvas Sur keeps travelers and families entertained for hours. Pay the entrance fee and you’ll have access to beach chairs, kayaks, snorkel gear and turquoise water. From ready access to a catamaran ride or scuba diving to beachside hammocks and cocktails, this popular tourist spot services all tastes and interests. Kayak along coral reefs, relax on a beach chair or order up a massage.

The Cayman Islands are made up of three British territories—Grand Cayman, Little Cayman and Cayman Brac. Grand Cayman is the largest and most popular of the islands. On the west coast, miles of luxury hotels and resorts line the shores of Seven Mile Beach giving you immediate access to one of the best beaches in the world.

Little Cayman is much smaller, as its name suggests, but nonetheless enjoyable. Here you will find your Caribbean escape to that secluded island you’ve always dreamed of. Cayman Brac is the perfect place to appreciate Cayman nature along with its pristine beaches and diving opportunities.

An even blend of adventure, relaxation and luxury, Grand Cayman is the island chain’s main attraction. Home to a luxurious strip of velvet sand and topaz water known as Seven Mile Beach, you will find yourself spending most of your time here. Grand Cayman shares some of the best diving found in the Caribbean as well as wildlife attractions like Stingray City and Starfish Point. The Cayman capital, George Town, is in the heart of Grand Cayman and shares the Cayman Islands’ rich history and traditions.

Stretching only ten miles long and one mile wide, Little Cayman is an exclusive strip of soft sand and turquoise water. You can hear the heartbeat of the island while swimming in the South Hole Sound Lagoon. Just offshore, the Bloody Bay Wall remains one of the most popular diving sites in the world and is teeming with a vibrant spectrum of marine life. This wall drops thousands of feet towards the ocean floor creating a masterpiece of Cayman corals and wildlife.

Cayman Brac is the third island that leans a little more towards the adventurous side. Many find themselves rock climbing the side of the bluff or casually hiking a few winding trails. New caves and caverns are still being discovered on this island and there are a few worth visiting like Skull Cave which gets its name from its outer appearance resembling a human skull. Deep-Sea fishing excursions depart from Cayman Brac and your catch can be cooked on the island when you return. Stunning views and lots to explore makes Cayman Brac a great destination for those who want to venture off the beaten path.

The magic of the island sets in when you step onto the sugared sands of Seven Mile Beach. An alluring coastline shimmers in every shade of blue at the perfect temperature for a refreshing swim. Opportunities are endless here from excursions to the hottest attractions around the island to equipment rentals such as kayaks, jet skis or water-powered jetpacks. If you just want to relax and take it easy, grab a beach chair or a cabana, order a cocktail and sip slowly to the cool Caribbean breeze.

A quick trip off the coast will land you on a peculiar sandbar that’s been claimed and named appropriately. Wild Atlantic Stingrays roam freely here providing the perfect opportunity to get up close and personal with these friendly creatures. Here you can jump into the water, hand-feed them, pet them and, if you’re lucky enough, they will even give you slimy hugs and wet kisses. These are still wild animals so it’s important to respect their space. Just be sure to follow the instructions provided by your tour guide and it should be a safe and exhilarating experience. Excursions to Stingray City are readily available all over the island and it’s truly a staple in one’s Cayman adventure.