After Island-Hopping The Caribbean, These 13 Spots Are Still My Favorites
After months island-hopping through the Caribbean, I learned something simple but powerful not all islands leave the same mark. Some dazzled for a day, then faded. But others?
They stayed with me. Whether it was the warmth of the people, the rhythm of the streets, or a stretch of beach that felt like it belonged only to me, certain places had that something I couldn’t shake.
These are the islands I keep dreaming about my absolute favorites that stirred something deeper and keep calling me back, long after the plane ride home.
1. Grace Bay Beach, Turks and Caicos
When people ask about the most beautiful beach I’ve ever seen, Grace Bay immediately comes to mind. The powder-soft sand feels like walking on silk between your toes.
Stretching for miles along Providenciales, this beach offers some of the clearest water I’ve encountered anywhere. You can see your feet even when you’re chest-deep in the ocean.
The coral reef protection keeps the waves gentle, making it perfect for swimming and snorkeling. Luxury resorts line the shore, but there’s plenty of public access. The sunsets here paint the sky in colors that photos simply can’t capture.
2. Dunn’s River Falls, Jamaica
Climbing Dunn’s River Falls remains one of my most exhilarating Caribbean adventures. The 600-foot terraced waterfall creates natural steps that you can actually climb with the help of experienced guides.
Cool mountain water rushes over your feet as you make your way up the limestone rocks. The experience takes about an hour, and every step offers a new perspective of the cascading water.
What makes this special is the human chain you form with other climbers – everyone helps everyone reach the top. The pools along the way provide perfect spots to rest and take photos. It’s challenging but absolutely worth the effort.
3. Pink Sands Beach, Harbour Island, Bahamas
Few beaches in the world can claim truly pink sand, but Harbour Island delivers on this magical promise. The unique color comes from tiny coral particles and crushed shells mixed with white sand.
Stretching three miles along the island’s eastern shore, this beach feels like stepping into a fairy tale. The contrast between the pink sand and bright blue water creates an almost surreal landscape.
Golf carts are the main transportation here, adding to the laid-back island charm. The colonial-style houses painted in pastel colors make perfect backdrops for photos. Swimming here feels like floating in a dream sequence from a tropical movie.
4. The Pitons, St. Lucia
Standing between Gros Piton and Petit Piton feels like being in the presence of ancient giants. These twin volcanic peaks rise dramatically from the sea, creating one of the Caribbean’s most iconic landscapes.
The view from Ladera Resort, perched on the ridge between them, took my breath away every morning. You can hike to the summit of Gros Piton if you’re feeling adventurous – the trail is challenging but manageable.
What struck me most was how the Pitons change throughout the day. Morning mist clings to their slopes, afternoon sun highlights every ridge, and sunset bathes them in golden light. They’re truly nature’s masterpiece.
5. Seven Mile Beach, Grand Cayman
Despite its name, Seven Mile Beach actually stretches about 5.5 miles, but who’s counting when you’re walking on such perfection? The consistently soft sand and calm waters make this beach ideal for families and water sports enthusiasts alike.
Stingray City sits just offshore, offering one of the world’s best shallow-water snorkeling experiences. You can actually swim with and feed southern stingrays in their natural habitat.
The beach never feels crowded despite its popularity, thanks to its generous length. Beachfront bars serve cold drinks and fresh conch fritters. The water stays warm year-round, and the gentle slope makes entering the ocean effortless for swimmers of all abilities.
6. Trunk Bay, St. John, US Virgin Islands
National Geographic once called Trunk Bay one of the world’s most beautiful beaches, and after snorkeling its underwater trail, I completely understand why. The beach sits within Virgin Islands National Park, ensuring its pristine condition.
The underwater snorkel trail features plaques that identify different coral species and fish. Even beginners can follow the marked path and learn about marine life while swimming in crystal-clear water.
What sets Trunk Bay apart is the perfect combination of beach relaxation and underwater adventure. The beach facilities are well-maintained but not overdeveloped. The view from the overlook as you drive down is absolutely stunning – a perfect crescent of white sand embraced by turquoise water.
7. Harrison’s Cave, Barbados
Descending into Harrison’s Cave feels like entering another world entirely. This crystallized limestone cave system stretches for miles underground, featuring massive stalactites and stalagmites formed over thousands of years.
The electric tram tour takes you through the most spectacular chambers, including the Great Hall with its 40-foot ceiling. Underground streams and pools reflect the cave formations, creating mirror-like surfaces that double the visual impact.
The temperature stays cool year-round, providing welcome relief from Caribbean heat. Professional guides share fascinating geological information throughout the journey. The emerald pools and flowing streams make this one of the most unique attractions in the entire Caribbean region.
8. Eagle Beach, Aruba
It’s easy to see why Eagle Beach earned its environmental credentials the powdery white sand and crystal-clear waters feel almost untouched, even during busy months.
The famous divi-divi trees, sculpted by constant trade winds, create natural shade and perfect photo opportunities. These iconic trees have become symbols of Aruba itself.
What I love most about Eagle Beach is its consistent perfection. The water temperature stays around 80 degrees year-round, and the gentle waves make swimming pleasant for everyone. Sea turtle nesting season brings additional magic as these ancient creatures return to lay their eggs under moonlight.
9. Blue Hole, Belize
Seeing the Blue Hole from above remains one of my most jaw-dropping Caribbean moments. This perfectly circular sinkhole measures 1,000 feet across and plunges 400 feet deep into the ocean floor.
Jacques Cousteau declared it one of the top diving sites in the world, and experienced divers still make pilgrimages here. The contrast between the deep blue hole and surrounding turquoise shallows creates an otherworldly sight.
Even if you’re not a diver, the scenic flight over the Blue Hole is unforgettable. The limestone formations and stalactites inside tell the story of when this was a dry cave system. It’s a natural wonder that photographs can’t fully capture – you have to see it to believe it.
10. Magens Bay, St. Thomas
Magens Bay’s heart-shaped coastline creates one of the most photographed views in the Caribbean. The mile-long beach curves gracefully between two green peninsulas, forming a natural amphitheater of sand and sea.
The calm, shallow water makes this beach perfect for families with children. You can walk out quite far before the water reaches your waist, and the gentle waves rarely exceed a few inches.
Beach chairs and umbrellas are available for rent, but finding a spot under the natural shade of sea grape trees costs nothing. The beach bar serves local specialties, and the changing facilities are clean and well-maintained. It’s consistently rated among the world’s most beautiful beaches.
11. Anegada Island, British Virgin Islands
Anegada stands apart from other Caribbean islands as the only coral atoll in the volcanic chain. This flat, remote island rises just 28 feet above sea level, creating a unique landscape of salt ponds and endless beaches.
The island is famous for its lobster, and local restaurants serve some of the freshest seafood I’ve ever tasted. Flamingos wade through the salt ponds, adding unexpected wildlife viewing to your beach day.
Getting here requires effort – either a charter boat or small plane – but that’s exactly what keeps it special. The beaches stretch for miles without development, and you might have entire sections to yourself. It’s the Caribbean as it used to be.
12. Horseshoe Bay Beach, Bermuda
With its gentle curve and signature blush-pink sand, Horseshoe Bay stands out as Bermuda’s most iconic beach.
Massive limestone rock formations dot the beach and water, creating natural sculptures that have been carved by centuries of waves. These rocks provide perfect climbing spots and photo opportunities.
The beach facilities include restrooms, concessions, and rental equipment, but the natural beauty remains the main attraction. Strong swimmers can explore the rock formations, while families enjoy the protected coves. The contrast between pink sand and bright blue water creates an almost magical atmosphere that feels distinctly different from other Caribbean beaches.
13. Flamingo Beach, Renaissance Island, Aruba
Swimming with flamingos sounds like a fantasy, but Renaissance Island makes it reality. This private island resort features a dedicated flamingo beach where these elegant birds roam freely among guests.
The flamingos are surprisingly social and often pose for photos, though they maintain their wild instincts. Watching them wade through the shallow water while you’re swimming nearby creates surreal moments you’ll never forget.
Access requires staying at the Renaissance Resort or purchasing a day pass, which keeps the island from becoming overcrowded. The adult-only section ensures a peaceful environment for both humans and flamingos. It’s definitely a splurge, but sharing a beach with these magnificent pink birds is worth every penny for the unique experience.