Best Ports for Beach Lovers: Top Beaches for Cruises

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When planning a cruise, one of the most exciting parts is deciding which ports offer the best beaches to relax, swim, or dive into crystal-clear waters.

Whether you’re a fan of serene sands or adventurous water activities, beach days during port stops are the perfect way to unwind.

For those who have never been on a cruise, beach destinations at cruise ports are often ranked among the best in the world.

Let’s dive into a list of some of the top beaches you can visit on a cruise, including how to get there and what makes each one unique.

Best Ports for Beach Lovers Around the World

1. Cozumel, Mexico – Paradise Beach

Location: Cozumel Island, off the eastern coast of Mexico’s Yucatan Peninsula.

Getting There: Paradise Beach is just a 15-minute taxi ride from Cozumel’s main cruise terminal.

Taxis are affordable and readily available, with drivers familiar with all the popular beach destinations.

The short ride takes you along scenic Cozumel, offering a glimpse into this beautiful island.

Why It’s the Best: Paradise Beach truly lives up to its name with its expansive white sands and calm, vibrant turquoise waters.

The beach features a popular beach club with a large pool, comfortable sun loungers, umbrellas, and even an array of water sports options like snorkeling, paddleboarding, and kayaking.

The nearby reef makes snorkeling a highlight, allowing you to witness colorful fish, unique coral formations, and even the occasional turtle.

Families, couples, and solo travelers will all find this beach a perfect escape thanks to the attentive service, range of amenities, and tranquil atmosphere.

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mountains at cruise port viewed from deck of cruise ship

2. Grand Turk, Turks and Caicos – Governor’s Beach

Location: Grand Turk Island, Turks and Caicos.

Getting There: Governor’s Beach is just a 5-minute taxi ride from the cruise port or a scenic 20-minute walk, making it a convenient option for beachgoers looking to enjoy a leisurely stroll or a short drive.

Why It’s the Best: Known for its soft, white sand and remarkably clear waters, Governor’s Beach is a quintessential Caribbean paradise.

Despite being close to the cruise terminal, it remains peaceful and uncrowded, creating an ideal setting for relaxation.

The shallow water and gentle slope make it perfect for wading and swimming, and the nearby reefs offer a colorful underwater world full of fish.

Natural shade from trees is available, providing a respite from the sun, while the quiet, unspoiled ambiance makes this beach a hidden gem in the Caribbean.

3. St. Thomas, US Virgin Islands – Magen’s Bay

Location: St. Thomas, US Virgin Islands.

Getting There: A 20-minute taxi ride from Charlotte Amalie’s cruise port leads you directly to Magen’s Bay, with taxis conveniently waiting for passengers right outside the terminal.

Why It’s the Best: Consistently rated among the world’s most beautiful beaches, Magen’s Bay is known for its crescent shape, calm waters, and lush surroundings.

The beach offers pristine white sand and shallow, turquoise waters that are ideal for families, swimmers, and sunbathers alike.

Facilities include restrooms, beach chairs, and a café serving food and drinks, making it easy to spend an entire day enjoying the beauty of Magen’s Bay.

Paddleboarding is a popular activity here, allowing visitors to glide across the calm bay and take in panoramic views of the surrounding hills.

With its combination of amenities, beauty, and tranquility, Magen’s Bay provides a quintessential Caribbean experience.

4. Nassau, Bahamas – Cable Beach

Location: Nassau, Bahamas.

Getting There: Cable Beach is an easy 15-minute taxi ride from Nassau’s cruise port. Alternatively, public buses are available for a budget-friendly option.

Why It’s the Best: Cable Beach is one of Nassau’s most popular beaches, known for its pristine white sand and shimmering turquoise waters.

Lined with luxurious resorts, Cable Beach offers a wide variety of amenities such as restaurants, beach bars, and water sports rentals.

For snorkelers, the beach provides opportunities to see colorful fish and intricate coral reefs just off the shore.

Families and couples will enjoy the lively yet relaxing atmosphere, with ample space for both relaxation and adventure.

Whether lounging under an umbrella or enjoying a refreshing drink from a beach bar, Cable Beach provides a dynamic yet accessible introduction to Nassau’s beach scene.

isolated beach with mountain in background

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5. Aruba – Eagle Beach

Location: Located just outside of Oranjestad, Eagle Beach is Aruba’s most celebrated beach.

Getting There: Eagle Beach is approximately a 10-minute taxi ride from the Oranjestad cruise port, with taxis costing around $10-$15 and shuttle services sometimes available through the cruise line.

Why It’s the Best: Eagle Beach is famous for its pristine, white sand and iconic divi-divi trees, which lean gracefully due to Aruba’s consistent trade winds.

This beach is known for its width, allowing visitors ample space to find a quiet spot even during busy hours.

Eagle Beach’s calm waters make it an ideal place for swimming, and rental vendors provide options for jet skiing, paddleboarding, and other water activities.

The clear waters and visibility also make it a snorkeling hotspot, where you can observe tropical fish close to the shore.

Unlike other beaches, Eagle Beach is noted for its cleanliness and the welcoming atmosphere, and it’s frequently ranked as one of the best beaches in the Caribbean.

The beach offers rental loungers and cabanas for a comfortable day in the sun, and with food vendors and local shops nearby, you’ll have everything you need for a perfect beach day.

6. Bora Bora, French Polynesia – Matira Beach

Location: Located on Bora Bora, French Polynesia’s most famous island.

Getting There: Matira Beach is a short taxi ride from Bora Bora’s cruise tender port, costing about $10.

Why It’s the Best: Matira Beach is often called the “most beautiful beach in the world,” with shallow, crystal-clear water stretching out from the shore, perfect for wading, snorkeling, and swimming.

With soft white sand and a lush mountain backdrop, this beach is as stunning as it is serene.

The water is so clear that you can see fish swimming by without even needing snorkeling gear.

There are also several local cafés and beachside eateries nearby, allowing you to enjoy fresh French-Polynesian cuisine while soaking in the view.

Matira’s beauty, combined with its quiet, uncrowded nature, makes it an ideal beach for relaxation and an iconic destination that leaves a lasting impression on any visitor.

7. Barbados – Carlisle Bay Beach

Location: Situated in Bridgetown, Carlisle Bay Beach is one of Barbados’s best spots for marine life.

Getting There: A short 5-10 minute taxi ride from the cruise port costs around $10.

Why It’s the Best: Known for its calm, clear waters and underwater shipwrecks, Carlisle Bay Beach is a haven for snorkelers and divers.

The beach is clean and quiet, with soft, golden sands perfect for sunbathing.

Just a short swim from the shore, several shipwrecks provide a home for an array of marine life, including sea turtles, rays, and colorful fish.

Beach vendors offer snorkel gear rentals, and a few beachside bars serve up cold drinks and local specialties, making this beach perfect for a day of both adventure and relaxation.

With sun loungers, umbrellas, and beachside amenities, Carlisle Bay offers a mix of excitement and tranquility that’s sure to delight.

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8. Maui, Hawaii – Ka’anapali Beach

Location: Located on the west coast of Maui, in Lahaina.

Getting There: After docking in Lahaina, take a 10-15 minute taxi or shuttle to Ka’anapali Beach, costing around $15.

Why It’s the Best: Ka’anapali Beach is one of Maui’s crown jewels, known for its golden sands, stunning ocean views, and proximity to Black Rock, a volcanic rock formation ideal for snorkeling and cliff jumping.

The beach is lined with high-end resorts, shops, and restaurants, so everything you need is within reach.

Black Rock is home to schools of tropical fish, and for the brave, it’s a popular cliff-jumping spot.

For a more relaxing experience, the wide shoreline offers ample space for lounging and enjoying Hawaii’s famous sunshine.

Ka’anapali Beach embodies the laid-back luxury of Maui and provides a little bit of everything—whether you’re looking to explore underwater, indulge in local cuisine, or simply soak up the scenery.

9. Roatán, Honduras – West Bay Beach

Location: Located on the scenic island of Roatán, known for its beautiful coral reefs and tropical landscapes.

Getting There: West Bay Beach is approximately a 25-minute taxi ride from the cruise port, with a typical fare of around $20-$25. Taxis are readily available, and drivers often provide helpful recommendations for enjoying the beach.

Why It’s the Best: West Bay Beach is renowned for its crystal-clear turquoise waters and vibrant coral reef, which is just a short swim from the shore, making it a haven for snorkelers and divers.

The calm waters and high visibility make this beach perfect for spotting an array of marine life, including colorful fish, sea turtles, and occasional stingrays.

Several beach clubs along the shore provide comfortable loungers, umbrellas, and beachside service, allowing visitors to relax and enjoy refreshments without leaving the sand.

Beach vendors offer options for kayak rentals, paddleboarding, and guided snorkeling tours.

The beach’s natural beauty and tranquil atmosphere, combined with its friendly, laid-back vibe, make West Bay Beach one of Roatán’s most popular destinations and a must-visit for nature enthusiasts.

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10. St. Maarten – Maho Beach

Location: On the Dutch side of St. Maarten, near Princess Juliana International Airport.

Getting There: Maho Beach is about a 20-minute taxi ride from the Philipsburg cruise port, costing around $15-$20.

Taxis are easy to find, and the drive offers a glimpse of the island’s vibrant culture and scenic beauty.

Why It’s the Best: Maho Beach is globally famous for its thrilling proximity to Princess Juliana International Airport, where planes fly astonishingly low over beachgoers as they come in for landing.

For aviation enthusiasts and thrill-seekers, it’s a truly unique experience.

The beach itself boasts clear blue waters and soft sand, ideal for a quick swim or sunbathing while awaiting the next flight.

Local beach bars serve refreshments and snacks, and “flight schedules” are often posted so visitors can time their photos with approaching planes.

Maho Beach’s exciting ambiance, combined with the natural beauty of the beach and nearby amenities, creates an unforgettable experience for visitors who crave a bit of adrenaline with their beach day.

11. Santorini, Greece – Perissa Beach

Location: Situated on the southeast coast of Santorini, near the village of Perissa.

Getting There: From the Fira cruise port, Perissa Beach is about a 30-minute taxi ride or bus journey.

Taxis cost around €20-€25, while public buses are an affordable option at about €2.

Why It’s the Best: Perissa Beach is famous for its unique black volcanic sand, which contrasts beautifully with the crystal-clear Aegean Sea.

The beach is well-equipped with sun loungers, umbrellas, and beachfront tavernas serving traditional Greek cuisine, fresh seafood, and local wines.

Water sports rentals are available for paddleboarding, windsurfing, and jet skiing.

The scenic mountain backdrop of Mesa Vouno adds a dramatic visual element, and a small trail nearby leads to the ancient ruins of Thira.

Perissa Beach offers a relaxing yet immersive cultural experience, making it a standout spot on Santorini for beach lovers.

12. Key West, Florida – Smathers Beach

Location: Located on the southern shore of Key West, Florida.

Getting There: Smathers Beach is about a 10-minute taxi ride from Key West’s cruise terminal, with fares averaging around $10.

The beach is accessible via bike rentals as well, offering a scenic ride through the charming streets of Key West.

Why It’s the Best: Smathers Beach is the largest public beach in Key West, offering expansive sandy areas for sunbathing, calm waters for swimming, and plenty of shaded picnic spots.

The water here is shallow, making it ideal for families with children and casual swimmers.

Vendors along the beach offer rentals for activities such as paddleboarding, kayaking, and parasailing.

Food trucks and nearby cafes provide a variety of snack options, from Cuban sandwiches to fresh smoothies.

With restroom facilities, picnic areas, and convenient parking, Smathers Beach is both accessible and comfortable, making it a favorite among locals and visitors alike.

13. San Juan, Puerto Rico – Isla Verde Beach

Location: Near the Isla Verde district, just outside of San Juan.

Getting There: A 15-minute taxi ride from the cruise port in Old San Juan, costing approximately $15.

Why It’s the Best: Isla Verde Beach is a lively, expansive stretch of golden sand with a vibrant atmosphere.

Known for its soft sand and gentle surf, it’s perfect for beachgoers of all ages.

Nearby luxury resorts offer beach access with amenities like cabana rentals, towel service, and beachfront dining.

Isla Verde is popular for water sports, including jet skiing, banana boat rides, and parasailing.

Local food vendors serve traditional Puerto Rican dishes such as mofongo, empanadillas, and piña coladas.

Isla Verde Beach combines natural beauty with a touch of island sophistication, providing a memorable experience of Puerto Rican culture and hospitality.

14. Mykonos, Greece – Paradise Beach

Location: South of Mykonos Town, near the town of Paraga.

Getting There: A 15-minute taxi ride from Mykonos Town or a short bus ride to Paradise Beach for around €2.

Why It’s the Best: Known for its lively beach clubs, vibrant nightlife, and beautiful sands, Paradise Beach is a top destination for those looking to combine relaxation with a festive atmosphere.

By day, it’s a stunning beach where visitors can sunbathe, swim, or snorkel in clear waters.

As the evening approaches, beach clubs start their renowned parties, complete with music, dancing, and cocktails.

It’s also possible to rent sun loungers, umbrellas, and water sports equipment.

With on-site dining options and beach bars, Paradise Beach offers an all-in-one destination that’s perfect for both relaxation and celebration.

15. Phuket, Thailand – Patong Beach

Location: On the west coast of Phuket Island.

Getting There: Patong Beach is about a 20-minute taxi ride from the Phuket cruise terminal, with fares typically around 400 Thai Baht (about $12).

Why It’s the Best: Patong Beach is the liveliest beach on Phuket Island, with a bustling atmosphere, soft golden sand, and an abundance of activities.

Water sports enthusiasts will find plenty to enjoy, including parasailing, jet skiing, and snorkeling.

The beach is lined with cafes, bars, and restaurants, where you can try Thai street food, seafood, and tropical cocktails.

After sunset, Patong’s nightlife scene comes alive with beach bars and nightclubs, offering a fun evening for those looking to dance or socialize.

Patong Beach combines natural beauty with the vibrant spirit of Thailand, making it a perfect stop for an action-packed beach day.

16. Bahamas – Blue Lagoon Island

Location: Located on a private island just off Nassau, Bahamas.

Getting There: Blue Lagoon Island is a 30-minute boat ride from Nassau’s cruise port, with round-trip boat service available as part of many beach day packages.

Why It’s the Best: Blue Lagoon Island is an exclusive, tranquil oasis away from the hustle of Nassau.

Known for its soft sands and crystal-clear waters, it offers a serene experience perfect for families and couples.

The island has an array of amenities, including beach hammocks, loungers, and shaded cabanas.

Visitors can book dolphin and sea lion encounters, enjoy beachside dining, and explore a calm lagoon ideal for kayaking and paddleboarding.

The secluded, resort-like feel of Blue Lagoon Island creates a sense of escapism, making it a top destination for cruisers looking for a quiet and scenic beach retreat.

17. Ocho Rios, Jamaica – James Bond Beach

Location: Located a short drive from Ocho Rios, in Oracabessa Bay.

Getting There: A 15-minute taxi ride from Ocho Rios cruise port, costing around $20.

Why It’s the Best: Named after the famous spy, James Bond Beach features clear blue waters, golden sands, and a relaxed, uncrowded environment.

It’s surrounded by lush tropical greenery and offers excellent snorkeling opportunities.

Beachgoers can rent kayaks, swim, or explore the nearby coral reef.

The beach bar, known for its jerk chicken and rum punch, provides a taste of Jamaican flavors.

Known for being a filming location for the Bond film Dr. No, this beach is perfect for movie buffs and those wanting a mix of beauty and culture in their beach experience.

18. Antigua – Dickenson Bay

Location: Near the city of St. John’s on the northwest coast of Antigua.

Getting There: A 10-minute taxi ride from the cruise port, with an approximate fare of $15.

Why It’s the Best: Dickenson Bay is known for its wide, sandy shore and calm, shallow waters, making it an ideal destination for families and swimmers.

The beach is lined with resorts, restaurants, and bars, all offering loungers, umbrellas, and water sports rentals.

The warm, clear water and gentle waves make it a popular spot for kayaking and paddleboarding.

Beachside vendors serve local Antiguan snacks and drinks, creating a relaxed, enjoyable atmosphere.

Dickenson Bay is both beautiful and accessible, offering everything needed for a classic Caribbean beach day.

19. Dubrovnik, Croatia – Banje Beach

Location: Just a short walk from Dubrovnik’s historic Old Town.

Getting There: A quick 10-minute walk from the Old Town port or a short taxi ride.

Why It’s the Best: Banje Beach combines the rich history of Dubrovnik with the crystal-clear waters of the Adriatic Sea.

This pebble beach offers fantastic views of Dubrovnik’s medieval city walls and the nearby Lokrum Island.

Visitors can rent loungers, umbrellas, and even cabanas for added comfort. The water is calm and clear, making it a great spot for swimming and snorkeling.

Banje Beach also has a few beach clubs and cafes, providing a range of food and drink options.

The combination of history, scenic beauty, and modern amenities makes Banje Beach a unique Mediterranean destination.

20. Corsica, France – Palombaggia Beach

Location: Near Porto-Vecchio on the eastern coast of Corsica.

Getting There: A 20-minute taxi ride from Porto-Vecchio’s cruise port, with fares around €20.

Why It’s the Best: Known for its fine white sand, clear blue water, and backdrop of pine trees, Palombaggia Beach is often described as one of the most beautiful beaches in France.

The calm, shallow waters make it ideal for families and snorkelers.

The beach has a variety of beach clubs and restaurants serving Corsican specialties, offering visitors a taste of the local cuisine.

Palombaggia’s natural beauty and pristine conditions make it an idyllic spot for a relaxing day in Corsica.

Tips for Planning Your Beach Day on a Cruise

Bring Cash for Transportation: Some beach destinations only accept cash for taxis and other local transportation.

Check with Your Cruise Line for Excursions: Many cruise lines offer organized beach excursions that provide added convenience and can include perks like gear rentals or exclusive beach areas.

Pack Essentials: Be sure to pack sunscreen, a beach towel, a reusable water bottle, and a small waterproof bag for valuables.

Return Early: Allow plenty of time to return to your ship, aiming to be back at least an hour before departure to avoid any last-minute stress.

Find Your Perfect Beach Stop on Your Next Cruise

Cruising allows travelers to explore some of the world’s most breathtaking and diverse beaches with ease.

Each of these beaches offers a unique experience, whether you’re interested in underwater adventures, scenic lounging, or discovering local cuisine.

By choosing the right beach for your preferences, planning ahead, and enjoying the incredible natural beauty each destination has to offer, you can create unforgettable beach memories on your next cruise adventure.