Top Caribbean Beaches You Should Visit

Even though I reside in Miami, some of my absolute favorite beaches are located in the Caribbean. Many of these spots are just a quick flight away and are nestled in front of luxurious hotels. Others are free public beaches with ample parking available. Additionally, some can only be reached via cruise lines. When I created my list of "The Best Beaches of the Caribbean," I considered three key factors: the beauty of the location, the activities on offer, and, of course, the quality of the sand and water!

Knip Beach, Curacao

Playa Kenepa Grandi, known as "Big Knip Beach," is one of the most stunning beaches I’ve ever visited, both in the Caribbean and beyond. Located in the scenic hills of the eastern part of the Netherlands Antilles, this small yet vibrant island is an ideal destination for swimming, sunbathing, and snorkeling!

I first laid eyes on Big Knip during my cruise aboard the Dinogo Freedom in 2014, and I’ve been captivated by it ever since! This beach is truly the epitome of paradise: soft, white sand, crystal-clear waters, and a serene ambiance perfect for unwinding. There’s a nearby reef ideal for snorkeling, though it requires a strong swim to reach; don't worry, there are plenty of accessible snorkeling spots right by the beach!

Those stunning tiki huts you see? They’re free to use! Just keep in mind that they operate on a first-come, first-served basis, and the beach attracts many locals. Arrive early for a better chance to claim one for yourself!

Maracas Bay Beach, Trinidad

This beach is truly one of the most tranquil spots you’ll ever discover. Nestled in the quaint fishing village of Maracas Bay, it’s a hidden gem.

You might spot about 20 houses on your journey there. We arrived on a drizzly day, and after parking our car and making our way to the beach, I was completely taken aback by what I saw.

Even with the rain, people were enjoying the beach, playing in the waves and lounging on the sand. Maracas Bay is surrounded by mountains, and when the fog rolls in, it feels like you’ve entered paradise!

Don’t forget to bring some cash, as you’ll come across the renowned “Shark and Bake” stands, featuring a delicious fried shark sandwich that’s unique to Trinidad. The best ones are said to be in Maracas Bay! You’ll also find affordable turquoise jewelry right across the street. I love picking up jewelry when I travel in the Caribbean, as precious stones like turquoise are often much more reasonably priced than they are back in the States.

Half Moon Cay, Bahamas

What makes me adore Half Moon Cay in the Bahamas so much?

Here’s why:

Beaches are like unique snowflakes—no two are alike. Like Big Knip, some of the finest Caribbean beaches provide breathtaking views, soft white sands, or vibrant waters filled with tropical fish. Others present a dreamlike sense of solitude and escape. Half Moon Cay truly has it all!

Half Moon Cay stands out as a beach unlike any I’ve ever experienced. It boasts some of the most stunning waters in the Bahamas, so crystal clear that you can see schools of fish swimming around you without needing a snorkeling mask. The softest white sands make it heavenly, too, and it’s only reachable via Dinogos. Whenever I find myself at this particular stop, I feel like I’m part of an exclusive beach club.

Needham’s Point Beach, Barbados

Every beach in Barbados is beautiful, including Crane Beach, which has earned accolades as one of the best beaches in the world over the years. However, I’ve visited Crane twice and was disappointed both times to find the pink sand beach completely covered in kelp, which really detracted from the beach experience. Therefore, my top choice in Barbados is Needham’s Point Beach.

Needham’s Point Beach is a free public beach that’s conveniently located in Georgetown, Barbados. If you’re in port on a cruise, it’s an ideal spot to enjoy an afternoon.

The water is pleasantly warm, the waves are perfect for surfing, and the sand is so soft that you’ll find yourself wanting to kick off your sandals and never put them back on!

Indeed, surfing is available in Barbados! You can easily sign up for lessons right on the beach or bring your own boogie board and catch some waves without any formal instruction.

The water remains shallow far enough out that you can let the kids splash around in the surf without any concern about it being too deep. This is always a relief when traveling with little ones!

While you’re there, don’t miss out on trying a Bajan fish cake! You simply can’t find anything more authentic than fresh Bajan fish cakes enjoyed right on the beach!

Punta Cana, Dominican Republic

Having visited several regions of the Dominican Republic, each time I discover a new beach, I can’t help but wish I could live there year-round. Bavaro Beach in Punta Cana stretches for miles, featuring soft sand and stunning blue-green waters ideal for both splashing and simply gazing into. I must say, the sound of waves crashing and gently rolling onto the shore can truly put you in a hypnotic trance!

One of the aspects I adore about the beaches in Punta Cana is their suitability for both couples and families. There are plenty of water sports available, and body surfing is definitely a popular choice. The waves gently roll onto the shore after breaking, creating a relaxed atmosphere that’s perfect for kids to build sandcastles!

Bayahibe Beach, Dominican Republic

Sometimes, all we want to do is lie on a stunning beach and unwind, which is what I truly seek in the finest Caribbean beaches. However, there are moments when you crave an energetic, fun-filled beach experience. That’s precisely what awaits you at Bayahibe Beach in the Dominican Republic.

While you’ll certainly discover a stunning beach, it’s the additional amenities that truly distinguish Bayahibe Beach: a multitude of lounge chairs, palm trees offering generous shade, waitstaff delivering tropical cocktails right on the sand, and perhaps even a roasted pig buffet for lunch!

The beach features calm waters ideal for a relaxing swim, but there are also water sports to enjoy…if you can pull yourself away from the complimentary fresh coconut drinks!

Grand Turk, Turks and Caicos

If you’ve never visited Turks and Caicos, you’re truly missing out! Some of the best snorkeling adventures I’ve experienced have taken place here, but you don’t need to venture far to have an unforgettable time!

At the cruise port in Turks and Caicos, you’ll discover a stunning beach along with plenty of enjoyable shopping opportunities, including a Duty Free store and local shops offering crafts, jewelry, and clothing!

If you’re in need of a brief escape from the beach (which I can’t quite comprehend, but I’m sure it happens to some), you can always venture away from the sand and relax in the port center, where there’s a fantastic free pool, delicious food, refreshing cocktails, or even try out the surfing simulator!