Secret Caribbean Beaches and How to Find Them
The Caribbean’s many beaches are a top attraction for holiday makers from every continent. Golden sands, crystal blue waters and more activities than you could possibly indulge in during one visit mean that most of them are jam-packed most of the time. For a more relaxed and private experience, try visiting some of these hidden gems.
Smith Cove, Grand Cayman
A local favourite, Smiths Cove is frequented predominantly by local wild life with only a spattering of families during the week.
There are no garish giftshops, no rawkus bar-flies and no jet-skies. There are also no amenities, so you’ll have to go prepared with a picnic basket and some towels to lounge on.
Located a short distance from George Towns main road, it’s easy to find. It’s a long walk, but local taxi services can take you there in a matter of minutes.
Water’s Island Honeymoon Beach, St. Thomas
You won’t find a quieter, more romantic beach to unwind and soak up those glorious rays of Caribbean sun. It’s the very definition of ‘hidden’ – secluded, deserted, with not a gift shop in sight. With crystal clear waters by golden sand bordered by rows of coconut palms, the only other people you will find here are locals, and they only appear on weekends.
Shore excursions are readily available from cruise companies, and there’s also a shuttle boat that leaves Crown Bay Marina twice in the morning, with returns twice every afternoon.
Cupecoy Beach, St. Maarten
Striking a welcome balance between complete seclusion and the amenities of nearby bars and restaurants, Cupecoy Beach is an elegant strip of golden sand bordered by sandstone cliffs that create private coves. It’s privacy lends it to clothing optional areas, while it’s subtle popularity makes it safe and convenient.
Getting there is difficult without a car, but if you’re visiting the Caribbean as part of a package holiday or Caribbean cruise call on the local knowledge provided by the resort staff or crew, who visit almost all of these areas and can ensure you bypasses the many obstacles to getting to this genuinely secluded sunspot.
La Sagesse, Grenada
A few miles from Grand Anse Bay, Grenada’s most popular beach, La Sagesse reclines lazily on the shoreline, it’s white sands gracing cool waters as gentle waves lap the shore, tempered by scenic rocky headlands that nearly close the bay from the wider ocean. Unlike the busier beaches, La Sagesse lacks unsightly developments, with it’s primary attraction being a nature reserve and hiking trails that lead to a flurry of further secluded beaches.
A short mile south of St Davids, La Sagesse is only accessible through the Nature Centre. The journey will give you a good idea of nearby restaurants and other amenities, and, as is the case with these secluded locations, either an excursion from your cruise company or a local taxi is the best way to get there hassle free.
Mayreau, St. Vincent
Another secluded beach with a local flavor, Mayreau is a small island with it’s only village having a population of only a couple of hundred. Daily shuttle boats run to the island, and further excursions to one or several of it’s outlaying and majestic five islands, including Palm Island and the Tobago Cays.
It’s a perfect family beach, with usually activities available. Snorkle, surf or simply bathe in the sun or the clean, cool waters.
