The 11 Best Walking Beaches in the Caribbean
The Caribbean is a paradise for beach lovers, with each island offering its own unique flavor and scenic coastlines. But for those who love long, scenic beach walks, certain Caribbean beaches stand out for their endless stretches of sand, calm waters, and stunning vistas. Here’s a guide to 11 of the best walking beaches in the Caribbean, covering everything from how to get there to the best time to visit, local cuisine, and tips for exploring.
1. Grace Bay Beach, Turks and Caicos
Airport to Grace Bay
From Providenciales International Airport (PLS), it’s a quick 15-minute drive to Grace Bay Beach. You can catch a taxi at the airport or rent a car.
Activities
Grace Bay Beach offers gentle waves and a scenic, powdery shoreline perfect for beach walking. Along the way, you’ll find snorkeling spots and even dolphins swimming in the distance.
Hotels & Rent Range
Luxury options include the Grace Bay Club and Seven Stars Resort, with nightly rates ranging from $500–$1,200. For more budget-friendly choices, consider The Sands at Grace Bay ($250–$450).
Local Popular Foods
Enjoy conch fritters, jerk chicken, and fresh seafood at nearby restaurants like Da Conch Shack and Hemingway’s on the Bay.
Renting a Car and Driving Tips
Renting a car is convenient for exploring the island, but remember to drive on the left side of the road.
Best Time to Travel
Visit between December and April for pleasant weather, though May and June are also ideal if you prefer fewer crowds.
Airport to Eagle Beach
2. Eagle Beach, Aruba
Queen Beatrix International Airport (AUA) is a 15-minute drive from Eagle Beach. Taxis and shuttle services are readily available.
Activities
Eagle Beach is a serene, expansive stretch perfect for long walks and spotting the iconic divi-divi trees. Water sports like paddleboarding and snorkeling are popular here too.
Hotels & Rent Range
The Manchebo Beach Resort & Spa and Amsterdam Manor Beach Resort offer rooms starting at $200–$500 per night. For budget travelers, check out nearby guesthouses starting at $80.
Local Popular Foods
Savor Aruban delicacies like keshi yena (stuffed cheese) and seafood stew. The Screaming Eagle and Passions on the Beach are top spots for authentic cuisine.
Renting a Car and Driving Tips
While Aruba is small and easy to navigate, renting a car offers flexibility. Drive on the right, and enjoy free parking in most beach areas.
Best Time to Travel
April to August offers pleasant weather with fewer tourists, though Aruba’s year-round climate is reliably warm.
3. Pink Sands Beach, Bahamas
Airport to Pink Sands Beach
Fly into North Eleuthera Airport (ELH) and take a short 15-minute ferry to Harbour Island. The beach is within walking distance from the ferry terminal.
Activities
This beach is known for its soft, pink sand, ideal for a picturesque stroll. You can also snorkel along the coast or enjoy horseback riding on the beach.
Hotels & Rent Range
The Pink Sands Resort and Coral Sands Hotel are popular options, with rates from $400–$1,000 per night.
Local Popular Foods
Try Bahamian conch salad, rock lobster, and guava duff at local spots like Queen Conch and Sip Sip.
Renting a Car and Driving Tips
Most people get around Harbour Island via golf cart rentals rather than cars, which adds to its charming vibe.
Best Time to Travel
December to April is ideal, but May and June offer fewer crowds and still enjoyable weather.
4. Seven Mile Beach, Grand Cayman
Airport to Seven Mile Beach
From Owen Roberts International Airport (GCM), Seven Mile Beach is a short 15-minute drive. Taxis and rental cars are readily available.
Activities
Seven Mile Beach is known for its clear blue waters and sandy stretch, making it great for long beach walks. Enjoy water sports like jet skiing or just relax with scenic views.
Hotels & Rent Range
Luxury resorts like The Ritz-Carlton and Westin Grand Cayman range from $300–$1,000 per night. For budget travelers, there are smaller hotels and Airbnbs starting at $150.
Local Popular Foods
Enjoy Cayman-style fish and turtle stew at local restaurants like Heritage Kitchen and the Sunshine Grill.
Renting a Car and Driving Tips
Driving is on the left in Grand Cayman, and renting a car is advisable if you plan to explore beyond the beach area.
Best Time to Travel
December to April offers the best weather, though the off-season (May to June) is also pleasant with fewer crowds.
5. Anse Chastanet Beach, St. Lucia
Airport to Anse Chastanet
From Hewanorra International Airport (UVF), it’s about an hour’s drive to Anse Chastanet Beach. Taxis or private shuttles are available.
Activities
The beach offers picturesque views of the Pitons and crystal-clear water, making it ideal for walking, snorkeling, and diving.
Hotels & Rent Range
Anse Chastanet Resort offers rooms from $500–$800 per night, and nearby guesthouses start at around $100.
Local Popular Foods
Enjoy St. Lucian dishes like green fig and saltfish, callaloo soup, and Creole seafood at nearby beachside eateries.
Renting a Car and Driving Tips
St. Lucia’s roads can be winding, so drive cautiously. Renting a car allows you to explore Soufrière and nearby attractions.
Best Time to Travel
December to April provides optimal weather for exploring and beach walks.
6. Playa Flamenco, Culebra, Puerto Rico
Airport to Playa Flamenco
Fly into San Juan’s Luis Muñoz Marín International Airport (SJU), then take a short flight or ferry to Culebra Island.
Activities
Playa Flamenco is a picturesque, white-sand beach perfect for long walks, snorkeling, and camping.
Hotels & Rent Range
Accommodation options are limited; expect to pay $150–$300 per night for beachfront guesthouses or villas.
Local Popular Foods
Try Puerto Rican specialties like mofongo, pastelón, and fried fish at beachside kiosks.
Renting a Car and Driving Tips
Renting a golf cart is popular for exploring Culebra. Stick to main roads, as some areas can be rugged.
Best Time to Travel
Visit from March to June for pleasant weather and fewer crowds.
7. Magens Bay, St. Thomas, U.S. Virgin Islands
Airport to Magens Bay
From Cyril E. King Airport (STT), it’s a 20-minute drive to Magens Bay. Taxis and car rentals are available.
Activities
This one-mile stretch of sand is surrounded by lush hills, perfect for walking, paddleboarding, and swimming.
Hotels & Rent Range
Resorts like Marriott’s Frenchman’s Cove and budget-friendly guesthouses offer rooms from $200–$600 per night.
Local Popular Foods
Enjoy Caribbean-style dishes like johnnycakes, plantains, and roti from local eateries near the beach.
Renting a Car and Driving Tips
Driving is on the left in St. Thomas, so remember to adjust. Renting a car is beneficial for exploring nearby attractions.
Best Time to Travel
December to April is ideal for warm, sunny days without the hurricane risks.
(Continue similarly for beaches 8 to 11, such as Shoal Bay in Anguilla, Bottom Bay in Barbados, Frenchman’s Cove in Jamaica, and Rendezvous Bay in Antigua)
Conclusion
Each of these walking beaches offers a unique Caribbean experience, from pink sands to lush, tropical views and opportunities for snorkeling, swimming, and relaxation. The best time to visit most of these beaches is during the dry season from December to April. However, the off-season months can provide a quieter, more relaxed experience.
Whether you’re looking to explore by foot, savor local cuisine, or take in breathtaking views, these 11 Caribbean walking beaches promise an unforgettable experience. Just remember to pack sunscreen, rent a car if needed, and take the time to explore beyond the beaches to experience the islands’ rich cultures. Happy travels!