The places, most named first
From the 8 guides that rank for "best beaches in the caribbean"
Named by 3 of 81. Shoal BayWhite sand and turquoise water; one travel site ranks it its number one beach.Calm water suits snorkeling and swimming.
Named by 3 of 82. Seven Mile BeachCloser to six miles long despite the name, and the island's social hub.Day trips to Stingray City leave from the island.
Named by 2 of 83. Eagle BeachWide soft sand and divi-divi trees that symbolize Aruba.Thatch umbrellas give shade, and the setting is calm.
Named by 2 of 84. Pink Sands BeachThree miles of pale pink sand made from crushed coral.Snorkeling is an easy add-on after a swim.
Named by 2 of 85. Trunk BayPart of Virgin Islands National Park and one of the most photographed beaches in the Caribbean.Has an underwater snorkeling trail, and lifeguards are on duty.
Named by 2 of 86. Varadero BeachRuns along a narrow peninsula for about 21 kilometres.Many resorts sit along the beach.
Named by 2 of 87. The BathsGranite boulders form grottos, tunnels and tidal pools at the shore.Busy; arrive early or late to avoid the crowds.
Named by 2 of 88. Crane BeachCliffs, palm trees, pink-hued sand and waves that draw swimmers and surfers.
9. Grace BayOften voted one of the world's best beaches, with calm turquoise water.Good for paddleboarding, kayaking and reef snorkeling just offshore.
10. Flamenco BeachOn Culebra island, a short flight from San Juan.Gentle waves suit families and couples, and the reef draws snorkelers.
11. Sunset BeachA crescent-shaped private beach along two miles of oceanfront.The resort's two-mile stretch is called one of the most striking coastlines the writers have seen.
12. Knip Beach (Playa Kenepa Grandi)White smooth sand, clear water and a quiet feel.Plenty of snorkeling spots right by the beach; the farther reef is a hard swim.
13. Maracas BaySet in a small fishing village in a mountainous area.The village is known for shark and bake sandwiches.
14. Half Moon CayVery clear water and soft white sand.Reachable only by cruise ship.
15. Colombier BeachReached only by boat or two small footpaths, so it stays quiet.Turtles, rays and lobster live in the calm water.
16. Little BayA small sheltered beach under limestone cliffs, hard to reach on foot.Snorkeling with marine life and spotting pelicans in nearby caves.
17. Englishman's BaySecluded, surrounded by tropical forest rather than resorts.
18. Pigeon Point BeachCalm, breezy water that suits kiteboarding and windsurfing.
19. Grand Anse BeachSuits families, with restaurants, watersports and beach vendors.
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When to go
Travel guides most often name December to April as the best time to visit The Caribbean.
Questions people ask
- Which Caribbean island has the prettiest beaches?
- Anguilla comes up often: it has 33 beaches, and one site ranks Shoal Bay its best anywhere.
- Which Caribbean island is best for families with children?
- Grand Anse Beach in Grenada is described as a good choice for families, with restaurants and watersports nearby.
