The Caribbean is a dream cruise destination for many and is home to some of the most beautiful beaches in the world.
Part of the charm of the Caribbean is its variety; it is just as easy to find mile-long white sand beaches and clear, turquoise lagoons as it is a wild, rugged coastline with gorgeous views and unique wildlife.
Whether you are looking for beach parties, watersports, or peace and quiet far from the tourist crowds, there’s a beach for you in the Caribbean.
So whether you already have a luxury cruise booked or you plan to take advantage of a special offer and pack your bags for a last-minute adventure, here are some of the best Caribbean beaches you can discover on a cruise.
Seven Mile Beach, Negril, Jamaica
Seven Mile Beach in Jamaica is one of the most popular beach destinations in the Caribbean and, as the name suggests, one of the longest beaches you will find there.
This long, wide expanse of sugar-soft white sand edged by crystal-clear blue waters is a treat, serving up stunning sunsets and awesome daytime activities in equal portions.
Swim, sail, scuba dive, or just sunbathe with a good book, Seven Mile Beach is one of the best destinations in the Caribbean.
Punta Cana Beach, Dominican Republic
One of the biggest names in Caribbean beaches, Punta Cana is world-famous for its pristine white sand and clear blue water.
With around 20 miles of beach, there’s always space to stretch out despite its popularity, and Punta Cana is home to some of the best, most luxurious resorts in the Caribbean.
Enjoy watersports like snorkeling or kite-surfing, take a horse ride along the beach, or just relax in one of the many chic bars and restaurants that line the sands, and drink in the views.
Maho Beach, St. Maarten
St. Maarten is one of the more under-the-radar Caribbean countries, tucked away in the Leeward Islands near Anguilla and St. Kitts and Nevis.
It occupies the southern half of a tiny island shared with its neighbor, Saint Martin, and both countries boast an array of stunning beaches.
Maho Beach is a particular highlight for cruise travelers, located just a short drive from the port, and is also near the airport, which means you are treated to the sight of low-flying airplanes coming flying just overhead as they come in to land.
Tulum Beach, Mexico
When most people think of the Caribbean, it is only the islands that come to mind.
But Mexico’s Caribbean coast is a gorgeous spot, and home to some of the most perfect beaches in the world. Chief among them is Tulum Beach, towards the southern end of the Riviera Maya coast.
Tulum itself has gained global recognition as a center of boutique ecotourism and luxury jungle hotels, but its beaches are truly something special.
Long, unspoilt stretches of pure white sand, gently lapped by the classic turquoise waters of the Caribbean, fringed first by palm trees and then by lush, verdant jungle.
Tulum Beach boasts clifftop Mayan ruins overlooking the sand, mysterious sinkholes known as cenotes, and some of the best fine-dining restaurants in Mexico.
Trunk Bay, St. John’s, US Virgin Islands
Looking for something a little more adventurous? Trunk Bay is a golden curve of sand backed by deep, dark jungle that reaches right down to the sand, even encroaching a little on the beach itself.
With a stunning blue sea and a calm bay, it’s a lovely spot to relax in, and you can also ascend the winding network of trails through the jungle and up the cliffs to explore ruined sugar plantations and a national park.