Paradise found: The 15 best beaches in the Caribbean

The Caribbean is more than just a destination. It’s an invitation to slow down, dig your toes into powdery white sands and let the sound of gentle waves wash away your stress. Want to visit the best beaches in paradise?

This guide provides comprehensive information on the best beaches in the Caribbean, whether you're planning a once-in-a-lifetime getaway or considering a second home with sea views and salty air.From postcard-worthy pink shores to snorkeling havens, we’ve gathered the 15 best Caribbean beaches that deliver beauty, adventure and relaxation. Let’s dive in.

A map shows the locations of the best beaches in the Caribbean.

Grace Bay Beach offers lush greenery that opens to turquoise waters and white sands, an ideal Caribbean beach destination.

1. Grace Bay Beach

Best for calm, clear waters and luxury relaxation⭐ Tripadvisor rating: 4.9It’s not easy to choose which Caribbean island has the best beaches, but this one is our top pick. Grace Bay Beach is considered by many to be the best beach in the Caribbean and the standard by which all others are judged. This beach is renowned for its almost blinding white sand fading into water so clear and blue it seems surreal. It’s ideal for travelers looking to unwind in style — think high-end resorts, exceptional dining and soft breezes year-round.

Location: Providenciales, Turks & Caicos
Nearby attractions: Princess Alexandra National Park, Coral Gardens Reef
Dining spots: Coco Bistro, Bay Bistro, Da Conch Shack
Beach activities: Paddleboarding, catamaran tours, snorkeling, kayaking, glass-bottom boat rides

Insider tip: Grace Bay Beach has virtually no rocks or seaweed, making it ideal for families with young swimmers.

At Devil's Bay, granite boulders and turquoise waters create a scenic escape among the top Caribbean beaches.

2. Devil's Bay

Best for adventurous swimmers⭐ Tripadvisor rating: 4.8Getting to Devil’s Bay is half the fun — you’ll hike through a path of tunnels and caves carved into smooth granite boulders known as The Baths. At the end of the trail, you’ll find one of the most beautiful beaches in the Caribbean. It’s one of the few places where you can snorkel, sunbathe and climb through ancient boulders in a single afternoon.

Location: Virgin Gorda, BVI
Nearby attractions: The Baths, Spanish Town, Spring Bay
Dining spots: Top of the Baths Restaurant, Chez Bamboo
Beach activities: Snorkeling, swimming, rock scrambling, photography

Insider tip: Wear water shoes and bring a dry bag — the hike through The Baths is through slippery stone surfaces.

Leaning palms and crystal water under a clear sky highlight Shoal Bay East, one of the best Caribbean beaches.

3. Shoal Bay East

Best for relaxing and snorkeling from shore⭐ Tripadvisor rating: 4.8Shoal Bay Beach is exactly what comes to mind when you think of the Caribbean: wide, clean and blissfully uncrowded. It’s also one of the most beautiful Caribbean beaches and a top snorkeling spot in the region. The offshore reef is close enough to swim to and teems with vibrant marine life. It’s a dream destination for couples and families alike, with easy snorkeling access just steps from your towel and plenty of local flavor at laid-back beach bars. Check out what could possibly become your dream vacation home here.

Location: Anguilla
Nearby attractions: Fountain Cavern National Park, Heritage Collection Museum
Dining spots: Gwen’s Reggae Grill, Madeariman, Tropical Sunset
Beach activities: Snorkeling, kayaking, paddleboarding, beach walking

Insider tip: On Sundays, Gwen’s features live reggae and beachside BBQ — perfect for enjoying the local delicacies.

Two visitors relax on Pink Sands Beach, facing the sea—one of the most beautiful Caribbean beaches.

4. Pink Sands Beach

Best for romantic strolls with one-of-a-kind scenery⭐ Tripadvisor rating: 4.8Pink Sands Beach isn’t a poetic nickname — it’s a literal description. The beach gets its blush color from microscopic coral insects called foraminifera, which leave behind red-hued shells. When the sun rises or sets, the sand emits a pink glow, making the entire place look like a pastel dream sequence. Beyond being one of the prettiest beaches in the Caribbean, Pink Sands Beach is excellent for swimming, with gentle waves protected by an offshore reef.

Location: Harbour Island, Bahamas
Nearby attractions: Dunmore Town, Lone Tree, Glass Window Bridge
Dining spots: The Landing, Rock House, Sip Sip, Malcolm 51
Beach activities: Horseback riding, snorkeling, paddleboarding, shell collecting

Insider tip: Book a sunset horseback ride along the beach. You’ll feel like the protagonist of a fantasy romance.

Massive boulders frame glowing turquoise water at The Baths, one of the most beautiful beaches in the Caribbean.

5. The Baths

Best for adventurous cave exploration⭐ Tripadvisor rating: 4.7The Baths is more than a beautiful beach. It’s a geological marvel. Giant granite boulders, some as large as small houses, are scattered across a white sand beach and into the sea, forming grottoes, tidal pools and secret passages. It’s a place where you can climb, crawl, wade and wonder, all in one of the most unique environments the Caribbean has to offer.

Location: Virgin Gorda, BVI
Nearby attractions: Devil’s Bay, Spanish Town, Copper Mine Ruins
Dining spots: Poor Man’s Bar, Top of the Baths, Bath & Turtle
Beach activities: Cave exploring, snorkeling, rock scrambling, photography

Insider tip: Arrive early in the morning, before cruise excursions arrive, to have the grottoes nearly to yourself..

Palm trees and clear waves meet green hills on Rendezvous Bay, one of the nicest beaches in the Caribbean.

6. Rendezvous Bay Beach

Best for peaceful shoreline strolls⭐ Tripadvisor rating: 4.7Rendezvous Bay lives up to its name. It’s the best Caribbean beach to take a momcation or some well-deserved time for yourself. Imagine relaxing under the shade of a palm tree near your own vacation home. The beach stretches for 2 miles with a backdrop of Saint Martin across the water. The soft, sparkling waves and uncrowded sands make it a peaceful alternative to more built-up Caribbean beaches.

Location: Anguilla
Nearby attractions: Aurora Anguilla Resort & Golf Club, Dune Preserve
Dining spots: Sunshine Shack, The Place, Bankie Banx’s Dune Preserve
Beach activities: Paddleboarding, kayaking, shell collecting, sunset walks

Insider tip: For the best photos, visit during golden hour when the sky and sea blur into a dreamy ombré of pinks and blues.

White sand and blue waves stretch for miles at Seven Mile Beach, one of the best beaches in the Caribbean.

7. Seven Mile Beach

Best for convenience and family-friendly amenities⭐ Tripadvisor rating: 4.7Don’t let the name fool you — Seven Mile Beach is closer to 6 miles today thanks to natural changes, but it remains one of the top 10 beaches in the Caribbean. Its clear, calm waters are ideal for young swimmers, and the beachfront is lined with resorts, restaurants and water sports centers. The energy is lively but not chaotic, making it perfect for families or first-time Caribbean visitors. It’s the perfect spot to own a vacation home close to family-friendly amenities.

Location: Grand Cayman, Cayman Islands
Nearby attractions: Camana Bay, Stingray City, Cayman Turtle Centre
Dining spots: Tillie’s, Luca, The Wharf
Beach activities: Jet skiing, snorkeling, banana boating, sailing

Insider tip: For a calmer atmosphere, head to the northern end of the beach toward West Bay.

Fofoti trees and white sand meet turquoise sea at Eagle Beach, one of the prettiest beaches in the Caribbean.

8. Eagle Beach

Best for romantic getaways and relaxing beach days⭐ Tripadvisor rating: 4.7Eagle Beach is one of the top Caribbean beaches, thanks to its pristine white sand, calm waters and the famous Divi Divi trees leaning in the breeze. It’s a favorite for honeymooners and wedding parties — and for good reason. You’ll find luxury hotels nearby, but the beach itself remains wide and welcoming, rarely feeling overcrowded. It’s also a sea turtle nesting site. If you visit from March to September, you might just catch a hatchling heading out to sea.

Location: Aruba
Nearby attractions: Bubali Bird Sanctuary, Alhambra Casino
Dining spots: Passions on the Beach, Screaming Eagle, Chalet Suisse
Beach activities: Parasailing, snorkeling, sunset photography, beach volleyball, turtle watching

Insider tip: Bring a beach umbrella or get there early. Natural shade is limited, and it gets hot.

Boats, blue water, and red rooftops show the charm Saint-Jean, a true best Caribbean beach.

9. Saint-Jean Beach

Best for people watching and diverse activities⭐ Tripadvisor rating: 4.6Saint-Jean Beach is where French elegance meets tropical charm. Located near the Gustaf III Airport, the beach offers two distinct vibes: One side is calm and perfect for swimming, while the other buzzes with beach clubs and luxury villas. Despite its glamorous feel, Saint-Jean still feels refreshingly laid-back.

Location: Saint Barts
Nearby attractions: Eden Rock Hotel, Nikki Beach Club, Gustavia
Dining spots: Nikki Beach, Sand Bar, Lil’ Rock Beach Bar
Beach activities: Windsurfing, kiteboarding, kayaking, people-watching

Insider tip: Sit at a beach bar and watch planes fly just overhead for an unexpected thrill.

An image of Mullet Bay features soft sand and blue waves in a quiet cove, showcasing one of the top beaches in the Caribbean.

10. Mullet Bay

Best for surfers and locals⭐ Tripadvisor rating: 4.6Located on the Dutch side of Sint Maarten, Mullet Bay is one of the nicest beaches in the Caribbean, with just the right balance of scenery and scene. It’s shaped like a gentle crescent, with larger waves on windy days that attract bodyboarders and surfers. Unlike the busier Maho Beach nearby, Mullet feels more relaxed and less touristy.

Location: Sint Maarten (Dutch)
Nearby attractions: Maho Beach, Cupecoy Bay, Simpson Bay
Dining spots: Rosie’s Snack Bar, Tortuga Maho, Daleo’s
Beach activities: Surfing, bodyboarding, beach football, volleyball, sunbathing

Insider tip: When hunger strikes, don’t fret. There are plenty of beach shacks serving up delicious local BBQ.

11. Toiny Beach (Anse de Toiny)

Best for surfing and hiking⭐ Tripadvisor rating: 4.5Toiny Beach, located on the rugged southeast coast of St. Barts, is for those who like their beaches untamed and uncrowded. With rough Atlantic waves and rocky cliffs framing the sand, it’s not ideal for casual swimming. However, it’s a slice of paradise for surfers and hikers. For people who enjoy solitude, it’s worth considering buying a second home in the area.

Location: St. Barts
Nearby attractions: Grand Fond hiking trail, Le Toiny trail
Dining spots: Le Toiny Restaurant (reservations recommended)
Beach activities: Surfing, trail hiking, shell collecting, photography

Insider tip: The terrain is rocky and uneven. Wear good shoes for walking.

Palm-lined white sand meets turquoise sea and skies at Bavaro Beach, one of the best beaches in the Caribbean.

12. Bávaro Beach

Best for resort-style comfort⭐ Tripadvisor rating: 4.5Bávaro Beach is the crown jewel of Punta Cana’s resort coast. The sand is soft, the water is warm and shallow and the beach runs for miles — perfect for long walks or morning jogs. It’s one of the top Caribbean beach destinations for travelers seeking easy access to food, drinks, excursions and entertainment.

Location: Punta Cana, Dominican Republic
Nearby attractions: Indigenous Eyes Ecological Park, Dolphin Explorer
Dining spots: Jellyfish, Passion by Martín Berasategui
Beach activities: Jet skiing, scuba diving, parasailing, beach soccer

Insider tip: To avoid larger crowds, consider staying near Los Corales, where you can enjoy more local flavor and the same amazing views.

Golden sand and calm waters backed by lush hills define Magens Bay, one of the best beaches in the Caribbean.

13. Magens Bay Beach

Best for family outings and gentle swimming⭐ Tripadvisor rating: 4.4Magens Bay is often described as one of the prettiest beaches in the Caribbean and it’s easy to see why. This heart-shaped bay is ringed by forested hills, and the water is so calm it resembles a massive infinity pool. It’s a safe haven for families, thanks to its gentle slope and lifeguard presence.

Location: St. Thomas, USVI
Nearby attractions: Drake’s Seat, Paradise Point, Hull Bay
Dining spots: Gladys’ Café, Amalia Café Restaurant, Side Street Pub, Mafolie Restaurant
Beach activities: Swimming, sunbathing, beach picnics

Insider tip: On a clear day, you can see Puerto Rico from Paradise Point and Drake’s Seat.

A photo shows Orient Beach, a lively area with waves and green hills, capturing the essence of beaches in the Caribbean.

14. Orient Bay Beach

Best for letting yourself go ⭐ Tripadvisor rating: 4.3Known as the “Saint-Tropez of the Caribbean,” Orient Bay is vibrant, diverse and perfect for social beachgoers. It’s one of the few beaches in the region where you’ll find a clothing-optional section, upscale cabanas and every kind of water sport you can imagine.

Location: Saint Martin (French)
Nearby attractions: Hope Estate ruins, Cul-de-Sac kayaking
Dining spots: Bikini Beach, Le String, Kontiki, Kakao
Beach activities: Windsurfing, jet skiing, beach club lounging, paddleboarding

Insider tip: Reserve beach chairs at one of the upscale clubs for prime seating and next-level service.

Grand Cul de Sac beach features clear water and white sand, showing why it's one of the top beaches in the Caribbean.

15. Grand Cul de Sac Beach

Best for water sports beginners⭐ Tripadvisor rating: 4.0Grand Cul de Sac takes its place as one of the top beaches of the Caribbean. This quiet lagoon has shallow waters and gentle waves, making it the best Caribbean beach for beginner kiteboarders or kids learning to snorkel. The soft breeze keeps things cool, and nearby resorts add a touch of luxury without dominating the shoreline.

Location: Saint Barts
Nearby attractions: Nature Reserve, Le Barthélemy Hotel & Spa
Dining spots: Aux Amis, Le Sereno
Beach activities: Kiteboarding, paddleboarding, kayaking, snorkeling

Insider tip: If you're a water sports enthusiast, owning a vacation home nearby, such as the Villa Borderline, is the perfect way to stay close to the beach without the hassle of finding accommodation.

Why you should buy a vacation home in the Caribbean

Dreaming of more than a week in paradise? That’s next-level living. A vacation home is a wonderful option to help you indulge in the Caribbean lifestyle. In case you need a bit more motivation, here are a few more reasons why buying a second home in this gorgeous region makes sense:

Year-round tropical climate: Escape winter with year-round warm temperatures and blue skies. It’s ideal for snowbirds or remote workers.
Tax advantages: Many islands offer favorable tax conditions for property owners. Diverse property options: From beachfront villas to hillside retreats, you’ve got choices for buying or renting. You can have guaranteed access to amenities and hidden gems.
Relaxing lifestyle: Island life is slower and sweeter. Whether you want a relaxing family getaway or to enjoy retirement, there’s a place in the Caribbean for you.
Cultural experiences: Discover vibrant local traditions, cuisine, music and festivals unique to the Caribbean.
Ease of access: Many islands are just a short flight from the U.S., with international airports in top destinations.

Pro tip: Pacaso makes it easy and convenient to co-own a luxury vacation home without the cost and maintenance of full ownership.

Your access to the best sand, sun and Caribbean fun

Whether you’re searching for the best beach getaway for a dreamy honeymoon or eyeing a long-term place in paradise, the Caribbean delivers like nowhere else. These 15 beaches offer a mix of nature and luxury, perfect for travelers who want to make the most out of the places they visit. Start planning your island getaway today and make your dream of owning a second home in the Caribbean a reality.