These are the 15 best beaches in the Caribbean

19.09.2024 - 17:45 / lonelyplanet.com

Sep 19, 2024 • 6 min read

With its palm-fringed bays, shallow reefs and rustic rum bars, the Caribbean offers some of the world’s best tropical beach breaks.

You’ll find thousands of beaches with clear waters and warm weather on these diverse islands, which extend in a chain from the southern tip of Florida to the northern coast of Venezuela. From St Lucia and St Vincent to Cuba, Jamaica, Dominican Republic and the Bahamas, there are plenty of sandy shores across the tourist-friendly region. But with so many dreamy island coastlines to choose from, which are the best beaches in the Caribbean? Read on to find out.

Cuba’s famous “blue beach” comprises several pristine areas that stretch out over 12.5 miles (20km) along a long peninsula. Silky white sand, shady palms and warm waters await sunseekers who want a picture-perfect shoreline to explore. 

Natural beauty blends seamlessly with beach amenities at Playa Varadero. Resorts are plentiful here and offer guests access to chairs and loungers, as well as a good variety of beach activities, should you tire of swimming and sipping cocktails. 

Keep an eye out for bicycle souvenir kiosks that regularly roll along the beach selling a selection of bongos, sarongs, sun hats and shell jewelry to bartering tourists.

In the shadow of the towering Pitons (a World Heritage site) lies secluded Anse Chastanet Beach. Bordering 600 tropical acres, this black-sand beach has prime snorkeling and diving opportunities among coral-covered rocks. 

Just 10 yards from the water’s edge, the protected house reef is home to over 150 species of fish including moray eels, parrotfish and angelfish. The team at the on-site dive shop can kit you up shoreside and take you on guided scuba and snorkel trips through the colorful corals. 

After a big snorkeling session, unwind with a cheeky rum cocktail (or three) from the beach bar and stay for the sunset as the skies blaze with a kaleidoscope of pastel colors. 

Planning tip: Like all beaches in St Lucia, Anse Chastanet is a public beach with free access to all, and you don’t need to be a resort resident to sunbathe here. Beach day trippers can arrive by car, taxi or boat and are welcome to use the on-site restaurant, beach bar and dive shop. 

Located on the coastal highway on the Península de Pedernales is the popular pebble beach Playa Los Patos. This pretty swim-and-surf spot also has several shacks selling ice-cold cerveza (beer) and tasty snacks – perfect for post-surf refreshment, 

Experienced surfers can take advantage of the consistent and strong swells, which provide long rides along the shore. Be mindful of rocks and rips while riding the fast-breaking waters – they can catch even pro wave riders out. 

Planning tip: There’s a natural swim