Top 5 Caribbean Picnic Beaches for the Perfect Alfresco Meal
White sand, shady palms, and crystal-clear seas make Caribbean beaches ideal for dining outdoors. Whether you pack your own picnic or pick up snacks from a local spot, these five stunning beaches will take your alfresco experience to the next level.
1) Tortuga Beach, Culebrita, Puerto Rico
For a true Robinson Crusoe-style picnic, Tortuga Beach on the uninhabited island of Culebrita is perfect. Located 5 miles east of Culebra, the island is a popular day trip spot for activities like swimming, snorkeling, and hiking. A scenic trail leads through a coral forest and rocky ridge, ending at the beach. Usually, you’ll have the place to yourself. Before you set out, stop by one of the local delis in Ensenada Honda to pick up a Spanish-style sandwich, like jamon y quesoor a Cubano.
2) Saloman Beach, St. John, U.S. Virgin Islands
The Northshore beaches of St. John are famous for their beauty, but they also attract many tourists. To avoid the crowds, head to Saloman Beach, accessible only by hiking or dinghy. You can hike the 0.8-mile Lind Point Trail from Cruz Bay or take a boat to this peaceful spot. Before you go, pick up grab-and-go snacks from Northshore Deli in Mongoose Junction. A quiet picnic on this hidden beach will make for a memorable day.
3) Tintamarre Island, St. Martin
Only accessible by boat, Tintamarre Island is a quiet retreat with pinkish sand and great snorkeling. The island is 2 miles off St. Martin’s northeastern coast. There are no shops or restaurants, so it’s best to bring a packed picnic. Visit one of St. Martin’s bakeries or gourmet stores to stock up on fresh baguettes, cheese, and wine. For those on day sail excursions, some operators even provide lunch, making this an easy and delicious escape.
4) Bathsheba, Barbados
On Barbados’s North coast, Bathsheba Beach is a favorite spot for watching surfers tackle the powerful Atlantic waves. Although it’s not ideal for swimming, the beach has plenty of shade, picnic tables, and nearby restaurants. You can easily find Bajan favorites like flying fish and chips, macaroni pie, and coleslaw to take away. This picnic-friendly beach is perfect for those seeking a relaxing afternoon by the sea.
5) Pigeon Point, Tobago
Pigeon Point is known for its stunning white sand beach and iconic thatched-roofed jetty. Located on Tobago’s west coast, it’s a great spot for a picnic. Although there are nearby restaurants and bars, you can visit the produce stand in Bon Accord to grab tropical fruits like mangos, papayas, and guavas. Whether you buy your food or bring your own, this picturesque beach is not to be missed.
These Caribbean picnic beaches combine stunning views with delicious meals, making them ideal spots for your next outdoor adventure.
Carol Bareuther has written for ALL AT SEA since 2004.
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