25 Most Breathtaking Spots in the Caribbean — From Emerald Sinkholes to Secluded Islands

Tahiti Beach, Bahamas

Situated at the southern tip of Elbow Cay in the Bahamas and reachable only by foot, boat, or bike, Tahiti Beach lingers in your memory long after you depart. "Despite my many visits to the Caribbean and the Bahamas, I thought I'd be immune to the allure of this sandbar, which vanishes at high tide. Yet its soft white sand, framed by the iconic Bahamian blue, captivates me every single time," says Greaves-Gabbadon. Alaska Airlines has also recently introduced nonstop flights from my home base in Los Angeles to Nassau, so I’m planning to return for Carnival next year. 

Canouan, St. Vincent and the Grenadines

Unspoiled by cruise ships and tourists, Canouan is a 3.2-square-mile island in the Grenadines, just a 40-minute flight from Barbados. It features the lush Soho Beach House and the coral-hued Mandarin Oriental by the beach. Snorkeling here is exceptional, with waters so vividly blue that they seem to glow.

Petit St. Vincent, St. Vincent and the Grenadines

Set across 135 acres of exclusive coastline in the Grenadines, Petit St. Vincent is a lavish resort boasting only 22 cottages just steps from the turquoise waters. “Elegant yet down-to-earth, this all-inclusive private island escape is a bit of a trek to get to (it takes two flights, a golf cart, and a boat from Miami), but every bit of the journey is worthwhile,” remarks Greaves-Gabbadon. “When I’m not enjoying a book on my cottage porch (where every cottage is attended by butlers in a fleet of Mini Mokes), I love to hike Marni Hill, relax on any of the four beaches, or sip a rum punch at the beach bar, Goatie's.”

Jakes Hotel Treasure Beach, Jamaica

I can easily recall the bumpy, winding roads from Kingston — a three-hour drive well worth it to find this serene spot on Jamaica’s southern coast. Here, you won’t find tall hotels or large crowds. Upon arrival, it’s a direct route to my haven at Jakes, a boutique hotel with seaside bungalows and villas nestled along Treasure Beach’s rugged coastline. Spend your day at Jakes' poolside bar, order a rum punch, and repeat. In the morning, enjoy a hearty breakfast of ackee and salt fish with fried plantain at the on-site restaurant. If you’re a reading enthusiast like me, don’t miss the biannual Cala International Literary Festival, a weekend where renowned authors share their works with the soothing sound of waves as a backdrop. 

Sheer Rocks, Antigua

Perched on a cliff along Antigua’s western coastline, this dining experience elevates the concept of a meal with a view. “It doesn’t get much more alluring than this waterfront eatery at Cocobay Resort, where you can savor your meal in cabanas nestled into the cliff and take a refreshing dip in ocean-view plunge pools between courses,” shares Greaves-Gabbadon. 

Stush in the Bush, Jamaica

This plant-based, farm-to-table dining experience takes place in the lush hills of St. Ann, just outside Ocho Rios. Here, the culinary delights of Jamaica are crafted as a tribute to the fertile land that nurtures the ingredients. Owners Chris and Lisa Binns aim to immerse guests in nature, offering a farm tour followed by a rustic dinner featuring a rotating menu that has included dishes like a Jamaican mezze platter with crispy plantain chips, coconut-crusted yams, and pineapple croquettes.

Wild Cow Run, Turks and Caicos

Grace Bay in Providenciales attracts plenty of visitors — and with good reason: Its powdery white sands are a match for those found in the Maldives.

Venture beyond Provo to discover Middle Caicos, the largest of the Turks and Caicos islands, showcasing its own untamed beauty. “Very few tourists make the effort to find this stunning beach at the southern tip of Middle Caicos, so I consider myself lucky to have been shown it by a local,” Greaves-Gabbadon shares. “Stroll through the grove of casuarina trees that guard the beach from the road, and you’ll be met with an extraordinary sight: two miles of entirely untouched, blindingly white sand that meets crystal-clear waters, shallow for nearly a mile. If beaches were a religion, this would surely be its cathedral.”

Jardin de Balata, Martinique

Renowned for its top-notch rums, Martinique also boasts stunning beaches, from Le Diamant to Les Anses-d'Arlet. For a change of pace from the coastline, visit Jardin de Balata and discover why Martinique is often dubbed the “Island of Flowers.” This vibrant three-hectare botanical garden, located just outside Fort-de-France, showcases over 3,000 species of plants in full bloom. Enjoy a canopy ride for breathtaking views. And for a taste of local culture, don’t miss Martinique’s lively three-day Carnival in February, where the audience becomes part of the parade in a celebration known as a vidé.

Grand Fond Natural Pools, St. Barts

On an island celebrated for its luxury and exclusivity, visitors can embark on an adventure that only requires sturdy walking shoes and a swimsuit. After a scenic 30-minute trek along a winding trail, you’ll discover two natural pools surrounded by jagged rocks rising from the sea. If the surf is high, it's wiser to admire from afar, but on a calm day, drifting in the vibrant emerald waters is pure enchantment.

Blue Hole, Jamaica

A prime destination in Ocho Rios, Jamaica, the Blue Hole features crystal-clear waters enveloped by lush greenery and rolling hills. “This area comprises a series of natural limestone sinkholes amid untouched forest. I visited with my fiancé and some dear friends. The view from the summit of the tropical falls is breathtaking, and if you’re adventurous like me, leaping from a 30-foot cliff gives you a rush of empowerment,” shares Forte.

Dominica

Known as the “Nature Island,” Dominica boasts rainforests, bubbling rivers, ocean kayaking routes, and spectacular waterfalls. Some of its stunning natural attractions include Morne Trois Pitons National Park, Champagne Reef, and the Botanic Gardens. For an eco-conscious getaway, stay at Coulibri Ridge, an off-the-grid luxury hotel featuring 14 suites powered by solar energy and an open-air yoga pavilion. For a black-sand beach retreat, my top choice is Secret Bay, perched on a secluded cliff with residential-style villas that come with their own plunge pools. In February, Dominica comes alive with the Mas Domnik Carnival, showcasing vibrant music competitions, lively parties, and masqueraders in colorful costumes.

Nayara Bocas del Toro, Panama

Featuring 16 overwater villas, this adults-only eco-resort on a private Caribbean island is a true gem. Surrounded by three miles of vibrant coral reefs, Nayara Bocas del Toro offers snorkelers an underwater paradise. You can kayak, paddleboard, and swim right from your room, but not before savoring Caribbean breakfast staples like johnnycakes. Some villas even have glass floor panels for a glimpse of the aquatic life below, while two one-bedroom bamboo treehouses rise about 40 feet above ground. The property also features the world’s first overwater beach, elegantly suspended on stilts, measuring 90 feet long and 20 feet wide.

Port of Spain, Trinidad

You’ve probably seen pictures of Trinidad’s Carnival — one of the most stunning and vibrant celebrations in the Caribbean — but its roots lie in a history of rebellion and celebration by enslaved West Africans. Today, the capital, Port of Spain, attracts revelers from across the Caribbean, Europe, and even Japan, all eager to party until dawn with rum in hand. My favorite part is J’ouvert — a joyful welcome to the sunrise, with bodies splattered in powder and paint — and Caesar’s Army’s A.M. Bush — a lively gathering in an open field. Pro tip: Purchase tickets early, as Caesar’s Army events are the hottest ticket during Carnival. Expect the energy to be as electric as ever in 2024.

Pigeon Point, Tobago

Undoubtedly one of the most stunning beaches in the Caribbean, Pigeon Point offers all the ingredients for a postcard-perfect experience: powdery white sand, brilliantly turquoise waters, and gently swaying palm trees overhead. Situated on the southwestern tip of Tobago, it’s a favored spot for sunbathing and water activities, all while maintaining a tranquil atmosphere away from the crowds.

Oil Nut Bay, Virgin Gorda

Nestled in the North Sound region of Virgin Gorda in the British Virgin Islands, Oil Nut Bay spans 400 acres of pure luxury. Guests can enjoy a beach club featuring three pools with a swim-up bar, dine at Nova, an overwater restaurant, and explore hiking trails offering stunning Caribbean views. The Compass Rose villa boasts 3,653 square feet and two swimming pools. For those wanting to explore further, The Moorings provides chartered catamarans and yachts to various destinations, including Virgin Gorda, the remote coral island of Anegada, and Saba Rock.

Grenada

Known as the Caribbean’s “Spice Isle” for its rich bounty of cinnamon, nutmeg, and more, Grenada attracts visitors seeking less crowded shores than its neighbors, stunning Grand Anse Beach, and the vibrant history of Jab Jab during Carnival season—where revelers are doused in black oil and paint as a celebration of Black pride. Don’t miss out on savoring crabback at BB’s. For breathtaking views, drive to Fort Frederick. To explore the island's treasures, I recommend my favorite guide, Roger Augustine. For accommodations, I always prefer the Black-owned Spice Island Beach Resort. Additionally, Six Senses La Sagesse will debut in early 2024, spanning 38 acres in the serene parish of St. David.

Jade Mountain, St. Lucia

Nestled between two stunning beaches on St. Lucia’s southwestern shore, Jade Mountain provides breathtaking views that merge beautifully with its cliffside setting above the Piton Mountains. The rooms feature soaring 15-foot ceilings, infinity pools, and round-the-clock butler service. Approaching by boat, it stands out as one of the most remarkable hotels in the Caribbean. If you're seeking a honeymoon destination, look no further. Although it may be tempting to stay in your luxurious room, the charming village of Soufrière, home to delightful restaurants like Orlando’s and the renowned Sulphur Springs, is just a short trip away.

Yemaya Reefs, Little Corn Island

Hidden among mangroves and lush jungle, Yemaya Reefs on Little Corn Island emerges roughly 50 miles off the eastern coast of Nicaragua. As you step onto the sandy beach, you can choose from 16 individual casitas, some equipped with plunge pools. The atmosphere is intimate, enhanced by personalized service and a shared yoga pavilion with a thatched-roof restaurant. The cuisine at Yemaya Reefs is noteworthy, featuring dishes that highlight Afro-Nicaraguan influences, including gallo pinto (rice and beans) and rondón, a hearty coconut stew filled with root vegetables and seafood like fish and crab. To reach Yemaya, you'll take a 90-minute flight from Managua followed by a 30-minute boat ride from Big Corn Island—arrangements can be made through the hotel.

Pinel Island, St. Martin

Situated just off the coast of St. Martin, Pinel Island is a tropical paradise that offers everything you need for a perfect beach day: powdery white sand, charming beachfront eateries, and various water activities. The ideal way to enjoy your time here? Secure a table or beach lounger at Karibuni and savor dishes such as octopus ceviche or a delightful platter of conch boudin and cod fish fritters. The ocean views alone are worth the trip.

Flamenco Beach, Puerto Rico

Upon my first visit to Flamenco Beach on Culebra Island, I paused for a moment, realizing that the short flight I had anxiously taken was completely justified by the stunning, secluded beach before me. This horse-shaped bay, featuring shallow turquoise waters, is accessible via a 15-minute flight or a 1.5-hour ferry ride. Once there, you'll find various food stalls to indulge in as well.

Ambergris Cay, Turks and Caicos

Spanning 1,100 acres, this private island offers a serene escape with 17 bungalows, eight villas, and a selection of luxury homes. You'll likely share the space with sunbathing iguanas and, if fortunate, some distant whales. My top choice is the beachfront suites, featuring private plunge pools and an unobstructed view stretching from the door to the ocean.

La Cabane, Barbados

For the quintessential Caribbean afternoon, this is your destination. It has all the essentials: fine rum and wine, a stunning uncrowded beach, and a laid-back atmosphere. La Cabane, located on Barbados’ west coast, offers a St. Tropez-style beach club experience without the frills. Stroll barefoot, order some lobster, and while you wait, take a refreshing swim at Batts Rock Beach just steps away. Don’t forget to try a rum punch before you leave. Another must-visit? Cutters. “I’ve been attending the Food and Rum Festival in Barbados for the past five years, and without a doubt, the best experience I've had on the island is at Cutters. They craft the finest rum punch, using top-notch ingredients, including freshly pressed sugar cane for their syrup,” shares Forte.

Guana Island, British Virgin Islands

Ultimate seclusion reigns supreme at this exclusive private island in the British Virgin Islands. “While there are private-island resorts, Guana Island stands out as so exclusive that non-guests can’t even drop by for a drink or dinner. The result? A luxurious yet laid-back retreat that’s consistently peaceful, where you’ll share its seven beaches with a maximum of just 31 fortunate guests,” explains Greaves-Gabbadon.

Emara Estate, Turks and Caicos

For a stunning group retreat spanning eight acres, consider Emara Estate in Providenciales. This 17-bedroom villa is nestled on its own private peninsula, surrounded by lush tropical trees. “It’s one of the most exquisite private villas I’ve visited — and it was previously owned by the legendary musician Prince Rogers Nelson,” shares Forte.  

Piton Mountains, St. Lucia

Rising dramatically from the Caribbean Sea like something out of Jurassic Park, these two volcanic plugs on St. Lucia’s southwestern coast never fail to amaze me. As I navigate the winding hills of the island, the mountains peek through at different turns, but my favorite vantage point is by boat or from the beach at Sugar Beach, A Viceroy Resort. Afterwards, make your way to Soufrière for lunch at Fedo’s. (Pro tip: Don’t miss the fresh juice of the day.)