The Most Romantic Beach Destinations in the Caribbean

Okay, so we all have a different definition of what exactly constitutes “romantic.”

Some couples may have a very traditional idea of romance; think rose petal-covered beds, candlelight dinners and Champagne with a view. Others, though, may find that getting out into nature or even crossing an adrenaline-fueled adventure off their bucket list is the perfect foreplay to a romantic evening. Some may prioritize quality time with their significant other above all else, enjoying leisurely activities— going to the spa, shopping, a wine tasting—in a relaxed environment, knowing those are the moments that are going to bring them closer together.

Whatever your idea of romance, though, you can find it in the Caribbean. Here are 10 beachy destinations throughout the region that offer a little bit of something romantic for every couple, from the classic adults-only, all-inclusive luxury getaways to the remote, off-the-grid hideaways for two.

Anytime you talk romance in the Caribbean, this is the destination that often comes up first and foremost—and for good reason. Saint Lucia touts some simply amazing romantic resorts, offering gorgeous views of the Pitons.

However, while you’ll find opportunities to stay inside and simply enjoy the scenery from bed, you’ll also have ample things to do if you’re more of the outdoor adventure-y type as well. Hiking and snorkeling are a must. 

Saint Lucia isn’t exactly the most budget-friendly destination on this list, but, if you’re trying to splurge on your sweetie, this island will do the trick.

For a blend of luxury, culture, cuisine and, of course, beaches, look no further than St. Barts. There’s a reason why this island is a favorite with celebrities.

Pick from an array of 5-star resorts and hotels. Shop for designer wares in Gustavia. Make sure to plan to dine at one of the amazing restaurants every single night.

The entire time, you’ll feel just a little bit removed from it all. The luxury and the lack of direct flights from the U.S. mainland to St. Barts mean it’s not a destination that just everyone’s flocking to. (You’ll need to get there via a small aircraft, ferry or yacht, from either San Juan, Puerto Rico, or St. Maarten.)

For active adventure, hike to a private beach (it’s called the Colombier hike), go snorkeling or go sightseeing from the back of your very own rented motorbike, scooter or bicycle.

There’s a lot for couples to love about Aruba (and this is coming from someone who spent their honeymoon there). The island experience can be as luxurious or budget-friendly, as adventure-packed or low-key as you’d like. It’s versatile in its offerings, and you’re absolutely not left wanting for options.

Plus, given that Aruba is a bit more popular with the general traveling public than some of the other options on this list, you won’t need to spend a pretty penny to get here and flight options are abundant. On top of that, the island sits outside of the Caribbean hurricane belt, meaning you have more options in terms of when you travel, without worrying about a storm cutting your trip short.

The beaches are picturesque, the desert side of the island is dramatic and you can spend your mornings on the sand and then go ATVing or hiking in the afternoons, before capping off your day with dinner in Oranjestad.

Barbados is similarly filled with near-endless variety, but if it’s romance that you’re after, consider staying near Crane Beach and its pink sands flanked by dramatic coastline. Wherever you end up setting up your camp for your getaway, though, there are plenty of luxury resorts to choose from, plus more affordable options that offer you access to many of the same great beaches and attractions.

The island is compact enough that you can tour it within a single day, and providers are on hand to take you and your honey on private driving tours of the top spots—though that choice may leave you wishing you had even more time to linger on the island.

The food scene is excellent for couples who enjoy visiting a range of eateries across a spectrum of formalities and price points, with even the humblest of Bajan cuisine sure to delight.

The U.S. Virgin Islands is made up of three primary destinations—St. Thomas, St. John and St. Croix. St. Thomas is the big one that attracts the majority of tourists and a large number of cruise ships. St. Croix is more remote and great for those seeking a very low-key, less-built up locale, with overall less tourist infrastructure and more natural attractions. St. John, meanwhile, sits right in the middle, offering you the best of both worlds.

Couples will love lying out on the spectacular white beaches, looking out at the islets off-shore, surrounded by turquoise water, the verdant rainforests at their back. There’s just enough infrastructure that you’ll not at all be left wanting for great accommodations options, dining and similar, but you also won’t be battling it out against the tourist hordes, either.

You really can’t go wrong with visiting either St. Kitts or Nevis, but of your two options in this dual-island nation, Nevis is your more intimate and more luxurious pick. The historic, charming island just seems to waft romance.

As for beaches, you have to go to the aptly named Lovers Beach (and, while the name isn’t as suitable for a romantic escape, Pinney’s Beach, the longest on the island, isn’t anything to turn up your nose at). If you’re feeling the heat and need to cover up your shoulders for a bit, take an afternoon to explore the Nevis botanical gardens. You can also climb up Mount Nevis, as well as take a horseback ride courtesy of the Nevis Equestrian Centre, if your romantic daydreams include some white knight-esque rescuing.

All right. I’ll hand it to you. Bermuda isn’t technically in the Caribbean—but who’s splitting hairs here? It’s still a gorgeous island that’s easily accessible from much of the United States, and it shares a lot of defining characteristics with its fellow islands a bit further south.

It’s actually that accessibility that, in part, makes it worth your consideration. 

You know what’s going to ruin a romantic trip extra-fast? Spending the entire first day of your honeymoon or other romantic trip in the airport, then on a plane, and only getting to your resort or hotel after dark, feeling significantly worse for wear and ready to snap at one another at any moment.

However, if you live on the East Coast, you could be in Bermuda in about two hours. That’s not even long enough for you two to cozy up on the plane and watch most movies. Nothing will be able to dull your spark.

Then, once you’re there, you can enjoy pink beaches, exploring cave grottos, luxury accommodations, historic towns and even golf, if that’s what you’re into.

Alongside Aruba and Curacao, Bonaire is one of the three ABC islands. However, both Bonaire and Curacao haven’t quite caught the same level of attention that Aruba’s garnered. As such, it offers some of the benefits of Aruba (lying outside of the hurricane belt, for instance), but far from the same number of crowds (though it’s hard to really say that Aruba is crowded, per se).

Bonaire is a great fit for your romantic trip if you love diving, as it’s a top-tier, respected destination within the sport. However, there’s more to enjoy here. You can go windsurfing. You can just hang out on the beach. You can go on various tours. Really, the world is your oyster—but ultimately, expect a relaxed vibe, great weather year-round and an intimate setting.

Foodie couples will love Trinidad and Tobago. The destination has done a superior job of blending all of its influences into one amazing culinary scene. Caribbean, South American, European, and Asian cuisines converge for something truly one of a kind.

When you’re not eating your way through this destination, though, you’ll have plenty of choices for beaches to visit, as well as other outdoor adventures, like going waterfall hopping. Accommodations stretch the gamut, from boutique properties to all-inclusives.

If you haven’t renewed your passport recently and you’re not keen on visiting the USVI, consider Puerto Rico. While, yes, you can visit and have a completely non-romantic trip, there’s also plenty of opportunities for romance if you know where to look.

Start by booking your hotel in Old San Juan, where you’ll be surrounded by gorgeous architecture and history at every turn. All the while, you’re never that far away from the beach and great spots for dining and drinking. The nightlife is going to be top-tier here and you’ll definitely want to plan on going out dancing. Maybe schedule a few salsa-dancing classes ahead of your trip, and extend the romance over the days and months leading up to your getaway.