The Finest Beach Vacation Destinations in the Caribbean

Below, we've compiled a brief guide some of the absolute best beaches in the Caribbean. But, bear in mind as you read: time of year is just as important as location. You've kind of got to nail just the right season. In the winter, even the Caribbean can get cold, and in the summer, it's just too crowded. Of course, we've listed some more out of the way, less touristy beaches, as well.

Little Bay in Anguilla, West Indies

Little Bay is shaped like a half moon facing the sea. The entire bay is completely surrounded by high cliffs, providing beautiful ambience and tranquil atmosphere. You're not likely to see too many other people here, as access is by boat only.

Shoal Bay, Anguilla

Shoal Bay is very close to Little Bay. Many people consider Shoal to be the best beach in Anguilla, but… well, you be the judge. Just know that, if many people consider it to be the best beach in the area, well, that means that many people will be there. Our recommendation: take a look at Shoal Bay. If it's a little too crowded for your tastes, well, Little Bay is just a hop, skip, and a jump away.

Johnson's Point in Antiqua

This little chain of hidden-away coves is covered in soft, white sand beaches. Just southwest of Antigua, this spot is awesome for the view at sunset. Nearby, you'll find Pigeon Point, which is a great place for snorkeling.

Pink Sand Beach in the Bahamas, Harbor Island

Pink Sand Beach is a small islet just off Eleuthera Island. Pink Sand Beach has actually been voted as the world's very best beach by a number of travel magazines, and holds the honor of being the most photographed beach in the world. The name comes from the sugar white coral sand mixed with flecks of red plankton, lending a nice, soft pink color to the beach. The beach stretches for about three miles, and, while popular for photographers, can still provide some serenity and quiet, as it is fairly out of the way, and most tourists in the Caribbean head straight to the more obvious spots like Shoal Bay.

Crane Beach, Barbados

The Crane Beach is only accessible through the Crane Resort, and is said to be one of the most beautiful beaches in Barbados. You can access the beach without staying at the Crane Resort by paying a small fee. The landscape is comprised of soft white sand, azure water, and huge cliffs.

Owen Island, Little Cayman, Cayman Islands

Little Cayman is renowned for its seclusion with the smallest population (less than 200 residents) of the Caymans and a size of just 12 square miles. Owen Island, a tiny islet roughly 200 yards away, opposite Little Cayman's Southern Cross Club resort, offers even more pristine seclusion. Although some have been known to swim to the island, most people rent a boat or hire someone to row them across. With no buildings, roads or development, Owen Island offers uncluttered snorkeling, diving, and powdery white sand surrounded by azure water. You are likely to have the place all to yourself, but since there are no restaurants or food stands, you will need to bring plenty of food and water to last you for the day.

Las Galeras, Dominican Republic

Many Americans overlook the beautiful Dominican Republic but the small country is becoming more popular as a safe and affordable Caribbean alternative. One choice spot is the small town of Las Galeras in the northeastern Samaná Peninsula. Las Galeras is the jumping-off point for other secluded beaches, including Playa Rincón Playa Frontón, and Playa Madama, a narrow beach along the area's dramatic shoreline. Local restaurants serve drinks and fresh seafood. Don't underestimate the beauty of this island.

Negril Beach in Jamaica

Negril beach is one of the top nudist beaches of Jamaica, but be warned, you might have to deal with the local hecklers! Still, the atmosphere is pretty laid back (hey, it's Jamaica!). Even with the locals, it's a bit more tranquil than say, Bloody Bay Beach (don't worry, it's just a name!). Be warned, there have been a few reports of thefts in the area.

Playa Flamenco in Puerto Rico, Culebra Island

Beautiful, wide sandy beaches, very minor commercial development, excellent for snorkeling and birdwatching, and, not very well known to the tourists. What more do you need to know? Here you have beauty, serenity, and wildlife, all in spades. You can't even reach the hotels without walking around some cliffs first.

Grace Bay, Turks and Caicos, Provo Island

If you're a NASA buff, you may remember John Glenn having spotted the forty Turks and Caicos islands from space and declaring "That must be paradise". Sadly, that was decades ago. This spot is certainly still gorgeous, and it does have historical significance, however, it's slowly but surely becoming the Fast Food Restaurant capital of the area.