Beach Vibe: Something for everyone
Entry Fee: None
Location: Southwest Side
A stretch of two miles of white sand, Grand Anse is the most expansive beach on island. You can truly find something for everyone depending on what part of the beach you land on. Want to be near a beach bar for food and drinks? Enter next to the Coyaba Beach Resort where you’ll find Umbrellas Beach Bar (which is also a fun night spot for drinks and live music). In the mood to go for a dive? Enter near the Raddison to Native Spirit Scuba Shop. Want to just get away from it all? Head to the southernmost end where the hotels and resorts recede. Plenty of snorkeling can be done here as well, and as always, be aware of the cruise ship docking schedule, as it can get busy during that time. In addition, sunset strolls are a lovely way to end the day on this beach.
MAGAZINE BEACH
Beach Vibe: Remote, Active Swimmer
Entry Fee: None
Location: Southern tip
Magazine Beach is a fun strip of sand near the southern tip of the island. As with most beaches in the Caribbean, the waves tend to pick up during high season, making the water suitable for those who have decent swimming abilities. Diving in and out of the waves can be a fun change of pace from the stereotypical calm Caribbean shores. While relaxing on the sand, a beautiful view of the capital and rolling hills can be taken in. There are no amenities on this beach, so if you’re looking for chairs, food and drinks, or even a restroom, you may be disappointed. However, it is typically not overpopulated with other beach-goers, and shade can be found under the sea grape trees, making for a relaxing beach day.
Beach Vibe: Tranquil meets Party
Entry Fee: None
Location: Southern tip
Blue gives way to green water hues at this stretch of island paradise. Morne Rouge, known by the locals as BBC Beach, is a perfect blend of tranquility and party depending on how long you stay. In the morning hours the beach can be sparsely populated - just you and the tiny crabs that make their homes in the sand. When you’re ready for something to eat, you can grab lunch at Sur la Mer or La Plywood Beach Bar Cafe. Kalinago Beach Resort calls this beach home, and you can find chairs there if you’d like. When venturing out into the water you will notice the sand gives way to an almost sticky, muddy feel at the ocean floor which can be alarming if you’re not aware of it. This is what gives the water it’s green hue. Towards the afternoon, especially on a weekend, you can hear music playing from one of the shed rentals for family gatherings or friends getting together to party. If it is a cruise ship day, you may have Rumrunners docking to drop off cruisers to the shore, making this beach a lively scene.