7 Must-Visit White Sand Beaches
Discover paradise with these seven must-visit white sand beaches in your expert guide to the best powdery sand and sun-kissed vibes in the Caribbean.
By Zachary Laks | Published on September 5, 2025
Few things can match the blissful paradise of an incredible beach. The soothing sound of the waves washing ashore, the bright sun overhead, and the powdery, sun-warmed sand underfoot ease you into total relaxation. The best beaches with white sand and clear water are a portal to a happy place where your troubles melt away. Looking to get away to the best white sand beaches? Consider the ease and convenience of a cruise to paradise. Read on for a list of the must-visit white sand beaches in the Caribbean, all easily accessible by cruise. Here's a tip: Number five, with its delectable fish tacos, might just have the best combo of powdery sand and seaside eats!
1. Seven Mile Beach, Grand Cayman, Cayman Islands
A long stretch of paradise awaits at Seven Mile Beach, hugging the west coast of Grand Cayman Island. The beach is one of the longest in the Caribbean, and it's a quick 10-minute drive from the cruise port. Once you arrive, you'll be greeted with exceptionally soft sand as far as the eye can see and crystal-clear waters. Grab some fresh coconut juice from a beachside stall and stroll along the shore for a long walk. Snorkel the nearby Cemetery Reef, where you'll see colorful fish and marine life, hop on a wild banana boat ride or go for a relaxing swim in the Caribbean Sea's azure waters. The beach's northern end is where you'll find a mix of food trucks, bars and fine dining spots great for any vibe.
2. Long Bay Beach, Tortola, British Virgin Islands
Escape to the quiet, unspoiled shores of Long Bay Beach in Tortola and enjoy the natural wonders of this white sand beach in the Caribbean. This mile-long stretch of soft white sand is a 30-minute drive from the cruise port. Upon arrival, you'll be immediately charmed by a shoreline framed with lush green hills and swaying palm trees. Unlike some busier beaches on the island, Long Bay Beach maintains an untouched feel, perfect for escaping the crowds. This is a local favorite, with calm waters great for wading and swimming and the best rum punch around. Head to the rocky points at either end of the beach for the best snorkeling spots.
3. Eagle Beach, Aruba
Take a quick 10-minute drive north from Aruba's cruise port and you'll arrive at Eagle Beach, one of the Caribbean's most famous beaches. Eagle Beach is a top destination for its powdery white sand, crystal-clear turquoise waters and famous divi-divi trees. The iconic trees dramatically dot the shore, twisting up from the sand and offering a respite of shade or a fun photo op. Along the beach, you'll find a nice mix of relaxation and water sports fun, including rentals of kayaks, paddleboards and Jet Skis as well as parasailing — and you'll understand right away why this is one of the best islands on southern Caribbean itineraries.
4. Magens Bay, St. Thomas, U.S. Virgin Islands
Magens Bay is the go-to beach on St. Thomas, set in a heart-shaped bay along the island's north coast. A 20-minute drive from the cruise port will bring you to the remarkably soft, white sand and calm turquoise waters set among lush green hills on three sides. The mile-wide beach is protected from strong winds and waves, creating an almost lake-like ocean experience perfect for relaxing and swimming. The calm, clear waters are family-friendly, with plenty of shallow areas ideal for young children. The vibes here are more relaxed, with plenty of space to find your oasis of peace in paradise. Kayaks and stand-up paddleboards are available to rent, along with snorkeling gear to check out the colorful fish and small sea turtles that can often be found near the rocks. It's such an idyllic spot, and it also has a rich history of pirates — Blackbeard and Bluebeard came here searching for treasure.
5. Playa Paraíso, Cozumel, Mexico
A 10-minute drive from the Cozumel cruise port, Playa Paraíso (Paradise Beach) lives up to its name as one of Cozumel's most popular beaches. Here, amid lush palm trees, you'll find pristine white sand that's soft and powdery, turquoise waters and excellent snorkeling at nearby reefs. This beach is known for its day clubs, which welcome guests with a host of amenities, including all-you-can-eat and drink packages (with plenty of Mexican treats like margaritas, piña coladas, tacos and guacamole). You'll also find infinity pools, swim-up bars and water sports equipment rentals. Snorkel Playa Paraíso for the chance to see the vibrant coral reefs brimming with sea turtles, stingrays and a large variety of colorful fish. Rentals are available for kayaking, paddleboarding and paddleboats, all of which are great ways to admire the picturesque coast from a different point of view.
6. Orient Bay Beach, St. Martin
Opt for the 25-minute drive from the cruise port in St. Maarten to Orient Bay Beach and you'll be rewarded with a day of splendor in what is often referred to as the "St. Tropez of the Caribbean." Orient Bay Beach earns this reputation for its picture-perfect tropical setting, with powdery white sand and gentle turquoise waters. This is the island's hub for water sports, with plenty of thrills such as Jet Skiing, parasailing, windsurfing, kiteboarding, paddleboarding and banana boat rides. There's a steady breeze off the ocean and notably calm waters here, which makes it ideal for all water fun. After the fun in the sea, soak up the upbeat, social vibe as live music and hopping beach bars welcome locals and travelers from around the world.
7. Pigeon Island Beach, St. Lucia
Pigeon Island Beach in St. Lucia offers an excellent balance of relaxing experiences and exploration. A 25-minute drive from St. Lucia's cruise port, Pigeon Island Beach is considered by many to be the best white sand beach in the Caribbean. The waters are calm and clear, ideal for scouting the vibrant coral reefs near the shore. Get active with rentals on the beach, which include snorkeling equipment, kayaks and stand-up paddleboards. The islet is also known for its rich historical significance, dating back to the 18th century, when it was a military outpost that changed hands between the British and French. Hike one of the many trails of Pigeon Island National Park to trace the steps of British soldiers who used to spy on the French in Martinique and be rewarded with remarkable ocean views.
Picture the warm, soft grains between your toes, easing you into a state of bliss. Now start planning your trip to the best white sand beaches on a cruise to the Caribbean!
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