Travel insights from Jenna Buege, associate editor of The Compass

About the Author

Associate Editor of The Compass and world explorer, Jenna loves writing about all things travel. With a degree in journalism, advertising and media studies, Jenna takes pride in her commitment to bringing readers relatable, fun and accurate content. When she’s not busy writing, Jenna spends her time exploring the great outdoors, cuddling with her two black cats and researching her next big (sometimes strange) adventure.

10 of the Best Caribbean Beaches

One destination is always top of mind when scouting the perfect getaway for fun in the sun — the Caribbean. And with its amazing landscapes, food, culture and people, it comes as no surprise that the Caribbean holds a spot on many travelers’ bucket lists. However, perhaps the biggest reason for the region’s notoriety amongst vacationers is its bevy of majestic and pristine beaches, to which the West Indies is home to many.

And while it’s great to have options, too many choices can make it hard for travelers to narrow down which beach is the right fit for them and their vacation. Luckily, USA Today just dropped its 10Best Readers’ Choice Awards for 2022, including a list of its picks for the 10 best Caribbean beaches. So, grab a fruity drink and imagine your toes in the sand as we dive in and explore their beachy recommendations.

10. Seven-Mile Beach, Grand Cayman Island

Coming in at number 10 is Grand Cayman Island’s much beloved Seven-Mile Beach. Famous for its sweeping ocean views, dazzling blue waters and seemingly endless stretches of white sand, this tropical paradise is the ideal vacation spot for sun worshippers and ocean-lovers alike

And when visitors are ready for some action out on the open water they’ll find no shortage of exciting activities like jet skiing, scuba diving, glass-bottom boat adventures and more.

9. Shoal Bay, Anguilla

Perfectly clear turquoise waters and dreamy pink-tinted sand come together to “wow” travelers at Anguilla’s stunning Shoal Bay. Often referred to as Anguilla’s most famous beach, this two-mile stretch is jam-packed with restaurants, bars and hotels offering visitors a taste of island living.

In addition to amazing food and drink, watersports like kayaking, diving and snorkeling are huge hits among visitors to this surfside getaway.

8. Grace Bay Beach, Turks and Caicos

A peaceful retreat from the hustle and bustle of port cities and largely populated beach towns, Grace Bay Beach on the north side of Providenciales, Turks and Caicos is a peaceful retreat for the traveler looking to get away from it all.

The beach is three miles long and is home to what may be the softest white sand travelers will ever encounter. Plus, enchanting blue waters and unbeatable views make this destination pure bliss.

7. Honeymoon Beach, St. Johns, U.S. Virgin Islands

Hidden within St. John’s Virgin Islands National Park is Honeymoon Beach, a small stretch of gorgeous white sand nestled between two coral reefs. Unlike other popular Caribbean beaches, Honeymoon Beach is rather secluded and is only accessible by foot, kayak or boat.

However, this natural wonder is well worth the journey for outdoor enthusiasts as lucky travelers might catch a glimpse of the Green Sea Turtle, a majestic creature protected under the Endangered Species Act.

6. Maho Beach, Sint Maarten

Just a hop, skip and a jump away (literally) from Princess Juliana International Airport (SXM), Maho Beach is totally unique from other Caribbean hotspots thanks to its close proximity to the airport’s neighboring runway.

And when we say close, we mean close. The beach sits directly beneath the flightpath allowing travelers to observe commercial airliners from less than 100 feet away.

5. Dickenson Bay, Antigua & Barbuda

A hub for resort-goers in Antigua & Barbuda, Dickenson Bay is the perfect place to catch up with old friends or to make new ones thanks to its infectious social atmosphere. While Dickenson Bay checks all the boxes for sun and sand travels, one thing that really sets it apart is its floating Kon Tiki Bar, a wooden dock fashioned as a thatch hut pub that slings fruity drinks and favorite brews.

When their stomachs start to growl, travelers can head to the Dickenson Bay Beach Bar to nosh on traditional Caribbean fare like fresh seafood — hello, lobster lunch —and delicious rice and veggies.

4. Grote Knip, Curacao

With opportunities for cliff jumping, snorkeling above a coral reef and incredible scenery, whether it’s adventure or relaxation that they seek, travelers will find it all at Curacao’s Grote Knip.

When they’re done getting their thrills, visitors can curl up on a comfortable beach chair and soak in the glorious sight of crystal-clear water as far as the eye can see.
Hot tip: hungry travelers won’t want to miss trying a local fresh fruit smoothie served right on the beach.

3. Grand Anse Beach, Grenada

On the southwest coast of Grenada just six miles from the capital city of St. George, lies Grand Anse Beach, a world-famous stretch of sand, sun and fun that attracts thousands of visitors each year. While the region does attract a bit of the crowd, Grand Anse Beach never feels too crowded with two miles of white sand turf to explore.

Speaking of exploration, visitors will never run out of things to do as the beach plays host to no shortage of beach hotels, resorts, restaurants, bars, clubs and shops.

2. Eagle Beach, Aruba

Coming in at number two is Aruba’s incredible Eagle Beach. Award-winning several times over, this gorgeous spot is the widest beach in Aruba and is famous for its unbeatably soft white sands. In addition to the natural beauty of its sands and waters, Eagle Beach is also home to rare and highly photographed flora — the Fofoti Tree.

When it comes to fun and entertainment, tons of activities run the length of the beach. From bars and restaurants to lounge chairs and watersports. Also nearby are several historic landmarks including The Antilla — a historic shipwreck — and Old Dutch Windmill.

1. Paradise Beach, Carriacou

With a name fit for the number one spot on this list, Carriacou’s Paradise Beach is just that — paradise. Colorful fishing boats, lively beachfront bars and restaurants, and a rugged yet beautiful coastline set the scene as travelers kick back and relax at this tropical oasis.