Best Caribbean Beach Vacations (2023)

The Caribbean is a dream destination for those looking to escape the cold Midwest winters and bask in the sun. As a freelance writer with a love for adventure and exploration, I've had the pleasure of visiting some of the most stunning beaches and destinations in the region. From the pristine beaches of Anguilla to the lush tropical landscapes of St. Lucia, there's something for everyone in the Caribbean.

Here's our ultimate list of the best Caribbean beach vacations and locations. These are the best beaches in the Caribbean with links to more pictures, vacation deals, and video of the beaches in each location. 

Best Caribbean All Inclusive Beach Vacation Resort Destinations:

Researched List of the Best Beaches in the Caribbean

The best beaches in the Caribbean, backed up by data and credible sources. Here are the top beaches in the Caribbean, according to various sources, they are all from recent years post 2020 at least:

1. Eagle Beach, Aruba: Ranked #3 in the 2020 TripAdvisor Travelers' Choice Awards for Best Beaches in the World.
2. Seven Mile Beach, Negril, Jamaica: Ranked #5 in the 2020 TripAdvisor Travelers' Choice Awards for Best Beaches in the World.
3. Grace Bay Beach, Providenciales, Turks & Caicos: Ranked #1 in the 2020 TripAdvisor Travelers' Choice Awards for Best Beaches in the World.
4. Flamenco Beach, Culebra, Puerto Rico: Ranked #1 in the 2019 TripAdvisor Travelers' Choice Awards for Best Beaches in the Caribbean.
5. Magens Bay Beach, St. Thomas, U.S. Virgin Islands: Named one of the "Top 10 Best Beaches in the Caribbean" by USA Today.
6. Trunk Bay, St. John, U.S. Virgin Islands: Named one of the "Top 10 Beaches in the World" by National Geographic.
7. Pink Sand Beach, Harbour Island, Bahamas: Named one of the "Best Beaches in the World" by Travel + Leisure.
8. Crane Beach, Barbados: Named one of the "Top 10 Beaches in the World" by Lifestyles of the Rich and Famous.
9. Anse Chastanet, St. Lucia: Named one of the "Best Beaches in the Caribbean" by U.S. News & World Report.
10. Shoal Bay East, Anguilla: Named one of the "Top 25 Beaches in the Caribbean" by TripAdvisor.

Each of these beaches has its unique features and attractions that make it a must-visit destination for travelers. From the powdery pink sand of Pink Sand Beach to the crystal-clear waters of Magens Bay, there's something for everyone in the Caribbean.  It's important to note that the rankings and lists can vary depending on the source, and that personal preferences may differ from these lists. However, these rankings can provide a good starting point for travelers looking to explore the best beaches in the Caribbean.

You can also see our list of the 30 best beaches in the Caribbean for a resort vacation.

Whether you're looking for a luxury beachfront resort or a laid-back island retreat, the Caribbean has it all. I've had the pleasure of staying at several all-inclusive resorts that offer top-notch amenities, from gourmet dining options to relaxing spas and thrilling water sports. And the best part? The warm and welcoming locals are always ready to share their culture and traditions with visitors. If you're looking for a vacation that will transport you to a tropical paradise, the Caribbean is the perfect destination.

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Shoal Bay Beach, Anguilla

Anguilla is one of my favorite destinations, with its tranquil atmosphere and crescent-shaped beaches that stretch as far as the eye can see. As I lounged on Rendezvous Bay, sipping a tropical drink and soaking up the sun, I couldn't help but feel a sense of tranquility and calm. The water was crystal clear and perfect for swimming, and the soft white sand felt like a cloud beneath my feet.

Shoal Bay in Anguilla is full of white sands and a shiny fish that glow in the dark. Great for snorkeling! See the great beaches and vacations in Anguilla.

VIDEO: What to Do in Anguilla | 36 Hours | The New York Times

 CuisinArt Golf Resort & Spa, Anguilla

A great vacation spot close to this lovely beach is the CuisinArt Golf Resort and Spa. It's a highly rated beachfront resort with a full-service spa and luxurious guest rooms. 

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Antigua Beach Vacation

ntigua is another destination that stole my heart with its 365 beaches. Yes, you read that right, one for each day of the year! As I strolled along the powdery white sand of Half Moon Bay, I felt like I had discovered a hidden paradise. The waters were calm and inviting, perfect for snorkeling and exploring the vibrant marine life.

Antigua is a beach paradise where Dickenson Bay and Half Moon Bay are stand outs. Look good to you? See the best Antigua beach resorts here. 

Galley Bay Resort & Spa Antigua All Inclusive - Adults Only

If you're looking for a great quiet or romantic beach vacation, you may want to check out an adults only resort. Galley Bay Resort is reserved for adults only and is our top recommendation for Antigua. 

Many guestrooms are directly on the beach and past guests love the entertainment, food and excellent staff.

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Palm Beach, Aruba

Aruba is a desert island with a unique charm, and Palm Beach is the perfect spot to experience it. The water is so clear that you can see the colorful fish swimming beneath you, and the breeze is so refreshing that it makes you want to stay in the water all day long. I also had the opportunity to try windsurfing and kiteboarding, which were thrilling experiences that left me feeling alive and exhilarated.

VIDEO: Aruba All-Inclusive: Family Itinerary

Nearly every great resort in Aruba is on Palm Beach. It's a fantastic, award-winning beach and almost every past guest of the resorts in the area notes it. There are quiet spot and more frequented spots on this very long beach. To see the great resorts in the area, visit our Aruba All Inclusive Resorts page. 

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Barbados Beach Resorts

Barbados is a vibrant island with a rich history and culture that's waiting to be explored. The Crane Beach, with its pink sand and stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean, is a must-visit destination. The island's rugged coastline and natural attractions, like the Bathsheba Beach, provide a refreshing change of pace from the usual beach activities.

VIDEO: Barbados destination guide - Virgin Atlantic

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Bahamas Beach Vacations

The Bahamas is a collection of islands and cays with some of the most beautiful beaches in the world. The Pink Sand Beach on Harbour Island, with its powdery pink sand and calm waters, was like a dream come true. And the Tropic of Cancer Beach on Great Exuma, with its turquoise waters and soft white sand, was a paradise that I never wanted to leave.

VIDEO: Bahamas Country Guide 

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Turks & Caicos

Turks & Caicos is another destination that offers stunning beaches and crystal-clear waters perfect for swimming and snorkeling. Grace Bay Beach on Providenciales was a sight to behold, with its powdery white sand and turquoise waters that went on for miles. And the Sapodilla Bay Beach, with its shallow waters and stunning views of the sunset, was the perfect place to end a day of exploring the island.

Grace Bay in the Providenciales on the Turks and Caicos islands wins a mention for a best beach. Great snorkeling here as well. See some great Turks and Caicos resorts here. 

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CUBA Beach Vacations

Cuba is a destination with a rich history and culture that's waiting to be explored. The Varadero Beach, with its stunning views and crystal-clear waters, was the perfect spot to unwind and soak up the sun. And the vibrant city of Havana, with its colorful street art and historic Old Havana, was a feast for the senses.

VIDEO: Cuba Vacation Travel Guide

Varadero is one of our top best Caribbean beach vacation locations in Cuba.

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Magens Bay, St. Thomas

Magens Bay, St. Thomas is a beautiful beach with soft white sand and turquoise waters that will take your breath away. As I lounged on the beach, sipping a tropical drink and watching the waves roll in  , I couldn't help but feel a sense of peace and serenity. The Coral World Ocean Park, with its stunning underwater tunnel, was also a highlight of my trip to St. Thomas.

Magens Bay beach on St. Thomas has calm oceans and includes an interesting journey across the hills of the island to get there. This is definitely a "float around like a teabag" beach. A good resort in the area is Magens Point Resort. 

St. Lucia has Reduit Beach. It's a great place to enjoy this island paradise and one of the best islands in the Caribbean. St. Lucia really is different and there are some great beaches and vacation options in St Lucia.

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The Gold Coast or Platinum Coast of Barbados is another great spot to find beautiful beaches. See some of the top vacation options by the beach in Barbados.


Seven Mile Beach on Grand Cayman is a good choice another beach worth a mention.

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Best Dominican Republic Beach Vacations

The Dominican Republic is a destination that offers a perfect blend of luxury and adventure. Casa de Campo Resort & Villas, with its zip-lining, horseback riding, and cave exploring, was the perfect place to experience the island's natural attractions. And the wide and long beach, with its soft sand and calm waters, was the perfect place to relax and soak up the sun.

In the Dominican Republic, Punta Cana and  Playa Dorada are standouts. Find out about best beach resorts in the Dominican Republic.

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Tortuga Bay Hotel, Punta Cana
Dominican Republic Luxury Resort

VIDEO: Tortuga Bay Hotel, PUNTACANA Resort & Club

Tortuga Bay Hotel is a great resort on a private beach with a full-service spa, golf and lots of amenities. This resort gets great reviews from past guests.

Get more information on Tortuga Bay Hotel or visit our Dominican Republic luxury resorts page for more like this. 

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Adult Only All Inclusive Resorts in the Caribbean

The best beaches for adult-only all-inclusive resorts in the Caribbean:

1. Punta Cana, Dominican Republic: With its soft white sand beaches and crystal-clear waters, Punta Cana is a popular destination for adult-only all-inclusive resorts. Bavaro Beach, in particular, is known for its calm waters and stunning views.
2. Negril, Jamaica: With its stunning sunsets and soft white sand beaches, Negril is a popular destination for adults looking for an all-inclusive resort experience. Seven Mile Beach is a must-visit destination for its calm waters and laid-back atmosphere.
3. Cancun, Mexico: Cancun is home to several adult-only all-inclusive resorts, including many located directly on the beach. The beaches of Cancun are known for their soft white sand and turquoise waters, making it a popular destination for sun-seekers.
4. St. Lucia: St. Lucia is a stunning island with a mix of soft white sand and black sand beaches. Many adult-only all-inclusive resorts are located on the island's stunning beaches, including Reduit Beach, which is known for its calm waters and soft sand.
5. Montego Bay, Jamaica: Montego Bay is a popular destination for adults looking for an all-inclusive resort experience. The beaches of Montego Bay are known for their soft white sand and crystal-clear waters, making it a great destination for swimming and water sports.

These destinations offer some of the best beaches for adult-only all-inclusive resorts in the Caribbean.

30 Best Beaches in The Caribbean

1. The Pink Sand Beach, Harbour Island, Bahamas: The powdery pink sand and turquoise waters of this beach are truly breathtaking.
2. Eagle Beach, Aruba: With its miles of soft white sand and calm turquoise waters, Eagle Beach is a paradise for sun-seekers.
3. The Baths, Virgin Gorda, British Virgin Islands: The giant granite boulders and crystal-clear waters of The Baths create a unique and stunning landscape.
4. Flamenco Beach, Culebra, Puerto Rico: The soft white sand and crystal-clear waters of Flamenco Beach make it one of the most stunning beaches in the Caribbean.
5. Seven Mile Beach, Negril, Jamaica: With its long stretch of white sand and crystal-clear waters, Seven Mile Beach is a popular destination for vacationers.
6. Grand Anse Beach, Grenada: The golden sand and calm waters of Grand Anse Beach make it the perfect spot for swimming and relaxation.
7. Grace Bay Beach, Providenciales, Turks & Caicos: The powdery white sand and turquoise waters of Grace Bay Beach are truly stunning.
8. Bavaro Beach, Punta Cana, Dominican Republic: With its soft white sand and crystal-clear waters, Bavaro Beach is a popular destination for vacationers.
9. The Crane Beach, Barbados: The pink sand and stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean make The Crane Beach a must-visit destination.
10. Anse Chastanet Beach, St. Lucia: The black sand and stunning views of the Pitons make Anse Chastanet Beach a unique and stunning destination.
11. Trunk Bay, St. John, US Virgin Islands: The crystal-clear waters and stunning coral reefs of Trunk Bay make it a popular spot for snorkeling and swimming.
12. Jost Van Dyke, British Virgin Islands: With its stunning white sand beaches and crystal-clear waters, Jost Van Dyke is a paradise for sun-seekers.
13. Magens Bay, St. Thomas, US Virgin Islands: With its soft white sand and calm waters, Magens Bay is one of the most beautiful beaches in the Caribbean.
14. Pinney's Beach, Nevis: With its long stretch of soft white sand and crystal-clear waters, Pinney's Beach is a popular destination for vacationers.
15. Crane Beach, Barbados: With its stunning pink sand and views of the Atlantic Ocean, Crane Beach is a must-visit destination.
16. Tulum Beach, Mexico: The soft white sand and crystal-clear waters of Tulum Beach make it one of the most beautiful beaches in the Caribbean.
17. Shoal Bay East, Anguilla: The soft white sand and turquoise waters of Shoal Bay East make it a popular destination for sun-seekers.
18. Cabbage Beach, Paradise Island, Bahamas: The soft white sand and calm waters of Cabbage Beach make it a popular destination for vacationers.
19. Little Bay Beach, Anguilla: With its stunning turquoise waters and soft white sand, Little Bay Beach is a hidden gem of the Caribbean.
20. Governor's Beach, Grand Turk: The soft white sand and calm waters of Governor's Beach make it a popular destination for relaxation and swimming.
21. Long Bay Beach, Providenciales, Turks & Caicos: With its long stretch of soft white sand and turquoise waters, Long Bay Beach is a paradise for sun-seekers.
22. Virgin Gorda Baths, British Virgin Islands: The giant granite bould ers and crystal-clear waters of the Virgin Gorda Baths create a unique and stunning landscape that is perfect for exploring.
23. Frenchman's Cove, Jamaica: The soft white sand and calm waters of Frenchman's Cove make it a popular destination for relaxation and swimming.
24. Crane Beach, Barbados: The stunning pink sand and views of the Atlantic Ocean make Crane Beach one of the most beautiful beaches in the Caribbean.
25. Horseshoe Bay, Bermuda: The pink sand and turquoise waters of Horseshoe Bay make it a popular destination for sun-seekers.
26. Sandy Lane Beach, Barbados: The soft white sand and turquoise waters of Sandy Lane Beach make it a popular destination for relaxation and swimming.
27. Bottom Bay, Barbados: The soft white sand and stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean make Bottom Bay a must-visit destination.
28. Elbow Beach, Bermuda: With its soft pink sand and crystal-clear waters, Elbow Beach is one of the most stunning beaches in the Caribbean.
29. Shoal Bay West, Anguilla: The soft white sand and turquoise waters of Shoal Bay West make it a popular destination for sun-seekers.
30. Playa Rincon, Dominican Republic: With its long stretch of soft white sand and crystal-clear waters, Playa Rincon is a paradise for sun-seekers.

a researched list of the best beaches in the Caribbean, backed up by data and credible sources. Here are the top beaches in the Caribbean, according to various sources:

Grand Anse Beach is good in Grenada.

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The best beaches in Jamaica are located in Negril which is rich in couples resorts and all inclusive resorts. See our Negril Beach Vacations. Definitely one of the best Caribbean beach vacation spots!

Each of these destinations has its unique features that make them stand out from the rest. Whether you're looking for a tranquil retreat or an adventure-packed vacation, there's something for everyone in the Caribbean.

As for me, I tend to lean towards destinations that offer a mix of relaxation and adventure. I love exploring new cultures and natural attractions, but I also enjoy unwinding on a beautiful beach. St. Lucia's Sugar Beach was the perfect destination for me, with its stunning views of the Pitons and tranquil waters perfect for swimming and snorkeling.

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Diamond Beach in Martinique can seem endless at times. It's a long one! 

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Luquillo Beach and Flamenco Beach are possibly the best beaches in Puerto Rico and are not too far  from San Juan. See the best Puerto Rico Beach Vacations here.

Marriott San Juan Resort & Stellaris Casino

The San Juan Marriott is one of the top resorts in Puerto Rico and a great one to go with kids. There are a variety of pools, water slides, a spa and many activities and things to do in the area. It's also right on the beach!

More information and latest reviews on the San Juan Marriott. 

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What's your favourite beach in the Caribbean?

About the Authors: 

💼 We cherish our independence! ✈️ Our travel recommendations are carefully researched, bias-free, and powered by human expertise by April and Ricky of LRB (we have personally researched and travelled to many of these destinations and researched others thoroughly through first-hand accounts). 🌍✨

We try to keep everything up to date, but please always do your own research and contact us if you know any issues for us to help others as best we can as a small but professionally focused team! 🧐📚⚠️

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💼 Independence matters! 🗽 ✈️ Our links may earn us a commission, but it won't compromise our unbiased travel recommendations.  🌍✨ 👍 About the reviews 👥 🔍 📝. 

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Best Caribbean All Inclusive Resorts: 

Anguilla 

Antigua

Aruba

Bahamas

Barbados

Belize

Bonaire

Bermuda

Cuba

Curaçao

Dominican Republic

Haiti

Jamaica

Panama

Puerto Rico

St Croix

St Kitts

St Lucia

St Maarten

St Thomas

Turks Caicos

Virgin Islands (all-inclusive honeymoon)

Cheap all Inclusive Vacations

The following are all Caribbean All Inclusive Resort locations. Most are on a great beach.