This blog post was updated on June 12, 2023.

Imagine this: warm golden sand between your toes, the sound of gentle waves languidly rolling in from the ocean, and a cold cocktail in your hand. Sound good? Well, the dream of a Caribbean beach getaway doesn’t just have to live in your imagination. Traveling to an unbelievably beautiful beach can be much easier than it might seem. With this handy list of the best Caribbean beaches, you’ll know just where to start in finding a stretch of sand and sea that’s perfect for you!

The Cayman Islands

There’s no shortage of lovely beaches in the Cayman Islands. This group of three islands in the Caribbean is located about 150 miles south of Cuba. While most tourists flock to Grand Cayman, the largest island, Little Cayman and Cayman Brac also have their charms, and are especially popular for scuba divers. Whatever island you choose as your home base, you’ll find stunning beaches, colorful coral reefs, and plenty of rum punch drinks flowing in abundance.

Seven Mile Beach on the Grand Cayman Island is the most popular beach in the archipelago. This is where you’ll find the most luxurious hotels and resorts as well as loads of dining and shopping options. Seven Mile Beach is also popular due to its vast array of water sports offerings. The average water temperature — even in the dead of winter — remains about 80 degrees, beckoning beachgoers to dive in and enjoy.

Other popular activities in the Grand Cayman Islands include swimming with the stingrays at Stingray City or hiking the 200-year-old Mastic Trail. However you spend your time the Caymans and their many beaches, you’ll be sure to find yourself in pure relaxation mode in no time at all.

The Riviera Maya

Located on Mexico’s Yucatan Peninsula, the Riviera Maya is an amazing beach destination. The coastline is known for its white-sand beaches and sparkling turquoise waters. The region also features the opportunity to get up close and personal with historical archaeological sites, underwater caves, and a variety of natural parks. The Riviera Maya offers the perfect balance of stunning natural features, unique cultural opportunities, and exciting outdoor activities.

Try your hand at zip-lining through the lush jungle, snorkeling in the crystal waters, or touring the ancient ruins that dot the landscape of this region. As a bonus, you’ll also enjoy indulging in authentic Mexican cuisine when you make the Riviera Maya your next beach destination.

The Dominican Republic

The Dominican Republic offers a unique mix of all-inclusive resorts, beachfront condos, and bargain accommodations to suit any traveler and budget. While the most popular stretches of sand include Punta Cana and Playa Dorada, don’t limit yourself to these areas. The Dominican Republic is one of the best Caribbean beach destinations as it delivers an equal mix of relaxation and adventure. Visit a zip-lining center, go scuba diving, tee off on the island’s many golf courses, and more. After your day of adventure, head back to your resort for relaxation under the swaying palm trees with a tropical drink in your hand.

You may also enjoy: Six Underrated Caribbean Beaches You Need to Visit!

Turks & Caicos

Turks & Caicos comprises a network of approximately 100 idyllic islands and cays. The luxurious Providenciales is home to a number of premium resorts designed to please the most discerning traveler. The Grand Turk area is the cultural hub of the region, featuring a variety of museums and other historical attractions. Scuba divers will want to head to Salt Cay, the location of one of the largest reef systems on the planet. The spring is the perfect time to visit the Turks & Caicos, offering smaller crowds, lower prices, and glorious weather conditions.

The U.S. Virgin Islands

Featuring the popular St. Thomas, St. John, and St. Croix, the U.S. Virgin Islands has luxurious beaches for every possible taste. Every isle offers a slightly different experience. St. Thomas is known for its luxurious accommodations and high-end dining opportunities. History buffs will appreciate St. Croix with its colonial heritage evident in the plantations and forts that distinguish this island. Nature lovers will delight in all that St. John has to offer its visitors, including miles of untouched coastline and over 7,000 acres of parks. Or better yet, make time to visit all three of these destinations!

The Bahamas

The Bahamas encompasses over 700 islands that sit among 100,000 square miles of ocean. One of the biggest selling points of the Bahamas is its proximity to the U.S., making it an ideal choice for weekend travel from any point in Florida. The Bahamas are also a great choice for families who want a variety of kid-friendly activities, high-end resorts, and other tourist attractions. Head to the expansive Atlantis Resort on Paradise Island or go with something a little more remote by visiting Harbour Island and its gorgeous Pink Sand Beach. Be sure to leave some time to indulge in the fruity rum-based Bahama Mama drink while nibbling on conch fritters.

Pigeon Point Beach

Located on the southwest corner of Tobago, Pigeon Point Beach belongs on any trip itinerary in the Caribbean. Tobago is the sister island of Trinidad, making it a good pairing when exploring this part of the Atlantic. While at Pigeon Point Beach, you can choose to lounge on the sugar white sand, take a dip in the gorgeous aquamarine water, or participate in any number of water activities, including snorkeling, scuba diving, standup paddleboarding, and kayaking. Another fun thing to do while visiting Pigeon Point Beach is to take the glass bottom boat ride that travels to Nylon Pool. This shallow area of water is perfect for children and other tourists worried about waves.

Note that unlike most beaches in Trinidad and Tobago, Pigeon Point Beach charges a nominal fee for entry. It’s well worth the few extra dollars to enjoy all of the amenities of this beautiful destination.

Diamond Beach

Nestled in the town of Le Diamant on Martinique, Diamond Beach is distinguished for its long strip of sand that extends for over six miles. The beach gets its name from the famous rocky island located offshore known as Diamond Rock. Although many visitors to Martinique choose to spend their beach time at the more developed Pointe de Bout, Diamond Beach is a true hidden gem. This is a great beach to choose if you’re looking for a more laid-back and quiet experience while you soak up the sun and surf some waves.

You’ll find the beach situated approximately 20 miles south of Fort-de-France. A trip to this beach makes a great stop when you’re also visiting the famous Anse Cafard Slave Memorial. Surf conditions can often be rough at Diamond Beach, making it important to exercise caution if you enter the water. However, the beach makes a perfect backdrop for a walk along the shoreline or a picnic lunch.

Did we miss out on any cool Caribbean beaches? Let us know your thoughts in the comments section below!