More likely than not, you’ve spent some time recently dreaming about the beach. You’re not alone. There’s plenty to look forward to, especially on a future cruise since we sail to many destinations that make for the ideal spot to kick back in the sand and sun.
From top-notch surfing in Barbados to the Instagram-worthy Pink Sand Beach in The Bahamas, to the chill and active beach options at our private destination, Perfect Day at CocoCay, there’s a beach (and a ship sailing there) for everyone.
Check out our list of must-see beaches for some travel inspiration:
While Bathsheba Beach is known for its impressive rock formations and surfing, travelers can also enjoy leisure activities and beach picnics.
Credit: iStock
Bathsheba Beach, Barbados
If stunning, natural scenery is what you’re after, look no further than the eastern coast of Barbados, home to the striking Bathsheba Beach. From a distance, travelers are greeted by what appear to be massive rock formations that have washed ashore. They’re actually remnants of ancient coral. This makes Bathsheba Beach, along with other local sites like the six-acre Andromeda Gardens or the mountaintop Gun Hill Signal Station, a photographer’s dream.
Bathsheba Beach is also famous for drawing surfers from all over the world, who come to participate in local and international surfing competitions. Not quite ready to grab your board and enter a contest? You can still relax on the beach with a rum cocktail, and watch the surfers from afar.
Find out all the ways you can sail to Bathsheba Beach here.
The dutch-inspired architecture is typical of Oranjestad, Aruba.
Credit: Royal Caribbean
Oranjestad, Aruba
When you visit Oranjestad, you may hear a local or two shout “bon bini” your way, meaning “welcome.” A destination that blends Dutch traditions and island living, Aruba is a multifaceted vacation spot with a little something for everyone, from winding through streets of Caribbean-colored Dutch Colonial “gingerbread” homes, to stepping foot on powdery white beaches set against the backdrop of aquamarine waters that are brimming with marine wildlife.
Aruba’s capital also offers a taste of the world, incorporating flavors from the likes of Argentina, Venezuela and, of course, the Dutch. Not to be missed is the keshi yena—a large round ball of cheese stuffed with spiced meat. Also be sure to order a pan bati or “smashed bread” before heading back to the ship.
Let your wanderlust lead you to Aruba here.
St. John’s most famous beach is also one of the island’s most photographed.
Credit: Royal Caribbean
Trunk Bay, St. John
Trunk Bay in St. John in the U.S. Virgin Islands is a beach named after the leatherback turtle—also known as a trunk turtle—which is native to the region. As part of the Virgin Islands National Park, Trunk Bay and its surrounding waters are not only home to local trunks but also a colorful coral reef and more than 300 species of fish. It’s no surprise then that vacationers who go snorkeling while visiting St. John often come away with incredible photos of the 225-yard-long underwater coral trail.
Of course, you don’t need to go underwater to enjoy the beach. The Virgin Islands National Park encompasses more beach, a subtropical rainforest and semi-arid scrubland. Before relaxing on the beach, take in the local wildlife of the marshes via an open-air jeep or go shopping in the nearby town of Cruz Bay.
Plan your next vacation to the island of St. John and other Caribbean islands here.
Pink Sand Beach seems endless, stretching for up to 3 miles long and 100 feet wide.
Credit: iStock
Pink Sand Beach, The Bahamas
While The Bahamas is best known for its vibrant, lively capital, Nassau, not too far away is the more laidback Harbour Island, famous for its Pink Sand Beach. Stretching three miles along the coast, the beach is named after its pink-tinged sand, which comes from microscopic pieces of red coral that wash ashore.
With warm waters all year round and an easygoing vibe, Pink Sand Beach makes for the ideal seaside spot. You can sunbathe, snorkel and swim at your leisure since the water is relatively calm and shallow. Adventure is near, as a trip to Pink Sand Beach can easily be combined with an excursion to the nearby Atlantis water park.
Discover cruises that will take you to The Bahamas here.
Perfect Day at CocoCay is Royal Caribbean’s private island destination.
Credit: ROYAL CARIBBEAN
Perfect Day at CocoCay
Get ready for an experience like no other at Royal Caribbean’s private island destination in The Bahamas. The pristine, undisturbed beaches making up Perfect Day at CocoCay are just the tip of the iceberg in terms of what awaits: With a one-of-a-kind obstacle course for kids, 13 waterslides (the most of any waterpark in the Caribbean) and an epic helium balloon ride, our tropical escape is jam-packed with thrills. Also on the docket: Oasis Lagoon, the largest freshwater pool in the Caribbean, a 1,600-foot-long zip line, complimentary food and beach snacks (including burgers, hot dogs, salads and much more) throughout the island. Visitors can also opt for relaxed luxury at Coco Beach Club, featuring The Bahamas’ first floating cabanas.
Book your cruise vacation to Perfect Day at CocoCay here.
For even more inspiration, check out this video of the best beaches in the Caribbean:
Ready to set sail? Check out our itineraries to hundreds of destinations around the world to find the beaches of your dreams.
