The Best Beaches in Saint Vincent and the Grenadines

Fluffy white sand, azure water and great local beachside restaurants make for blissful days on the wide strand of Lower Bay. Spend the afternoon lounging in the sun and snorkelling with stingrays and turtles in the shallow bay. As night falls, watch the sunset set the sky ablaze while the smell of grilled lobster wafts through the gentle Caribbean breeze.

One of the smallest Grenadine beaches, the sandy shores of Jamesby Island, surrounded by the cerulean waters of the Tobago Cays, give you the feeling of being at the edge of the world. The expanse of shallow, glimmering water stretches for what feels like miles before transitioning to a lively barrier reef that quickly drops off into the navy waters of the Atlantic.

Salt Whistle Bay is a two-for-one deal, where two beaches come to a point at a narrow, low-lying spit of sand. On the leeward side, beach bars abound, each with their own style and charm. Vibrant beachwear is strung between the trunks of towering palms, as visitors hop between bar stools and the sea. Meanwhile, on the windward side, kitesurfers streak past the shallow reef as landlubbers stroll the shoreline.

Chatham Bay sits on the calm, leeward side of Union Island. Not easily accessed by land, the deep round bay is backed by a meandering, forested ridge. Ashore, a wide crescent of soft white sand blankets the coastline. Locals serve up potent rum punches from small wooden beach bars, creating a jovial vibe. The clear, warm water of the turquoise bay is so inviting you may never want to leave.

Secluded and wild on Mustique’s windward coast, Macaroni Beach unfurls from under the shade of a large palm grove. Rumbling Atlantic waves kiss the shoreline where the sand meets sea. Book a picnic table and enjoy lunch in this tropical paradise – snorkel among the reef fish, and explore the small, winding trails that lead to the headland.

The beaches that fringe reef-dotted Richmond Bay satisfy the socialite and naturalist alike. With tranquil seas and swaths of white sand, it’s easy to see why Sparrow’s Beach Club is a popular afternoon escape. Grab a cold cocktail and lounge in the beach chairs, or wander to the next beach for the chance to find that perfect shell, while land crabs scurry between the dark green foliage of the mangroves.

The calm coastal waters of Mayreau are quiet and serene; waves lap at the gently-sloping white sand, seabirds circle confidently overhead and translucent ghost crabs scatter into their sandy homes. The northern end of the beach is lined with thick green foliage, providing respite from the hot Caribbean sun. At the southern end, a few luxury villas sit undisturbed. When it’s time to cool off, grab a snorkel mask and explore the patches of coral and seagrass.

A popular sailing destination, Bequia’s beaches are some of the most beautiful in Saint Vincent and the Grenadines. Stand-up paddleboard along the coastal waters of Princess Margaret Beach, or relax in the shade of an almond tree as yachts sail across the cloudless horizon. You never have to wander too far to find a cold rum punch. Alternatively, take a seat under a beach umbrella and have them delivered to you.