Two years prior, I had the pleasure of visiting Anguilla during its annual Culinary Experience—a vibrant and unique five-day celebration of food and beverages. I participated in a cook-off, attempted (and failed) to sabre a champagne bottle, mastered the preparation of local johnnie cakes, indulged in an array of local delicacies (from swordfish to lamb to octopus), and sampled a diverse selection of drinks I didn’t anticipate, beyond just rum. Most of these experiences unfolded on some of the most picturesque beaches, including the stunning Maundays Bay, where my elegant accommodations at Cap Juluca were set against pristine white sands, and the breathtaking Shoal Bay, reminiscent of a paradise that Robinson Crusoe might have enjoyed.

The Caribbean is home to some of the world’s most beautiful beaches, making it only natural that it also boasts outstanding beach bars. Here’s a selection of bars that effortlessly blend excellent drink options with delicious food, stunning views, and the opportunity to cool off in the waves while enjoying your favorite cocktail.

Sandbar and Sandy Island, Anguilla

This charming bar and restaurant located in Sandy Ground may surprise you with its impressive wine selection, featuring champagne, albariño, Carmel pinot noir, and Argentinian malbec, all paired with tempting small plates like kung pao cauliflower and lobster salad. Just a short water taxi ride away lies Sandy Island, a stunning sandbar known for its delectable grilled seafood, lively music, and refreshing Domaine Ott rosé.

Chat ‘n’ Chill, Stocking Island, Bahamas

Located just minutes by water taxi from the bustling George Town on Great Exuma, this delightful beach spot was originally a simple gathering place for boaters. It remains laid-back but now attracts anyone wishing to enjoy an ice-cold beer in the sun, swim with stingrays in the crystal-clear waters, and savor an exceptional conch salad. Don’t miss Starfish Beach located further north on the island, but remember not to remove starfish from the water as they cannot survive out of it.

Shipwreck Beach Bar & Grill, St Kitts

Situated between two stunning bays on St Kitts, North Friar’s Beach is untouched and faces the Atlantic Ocean, while South Friar’s Beach offers a beautiful stretch of golden sand looking toward the Caribbean. Here, you’ll find the laid-back Shipwreck bar, the perfect setting to enjoy fish tacos alongside a refreshing drink known as a Green Flash, made from blue curaçao, coconut rum, and pineapple. You might also catch a glimpse of the local monkeys that frequent this spot.

Spice Island Beach Resort, Grenada

Although primarily a luxury hotel, Spice Island deserves mention for its prime location on the exquisite, two-mile-long Grand Anse Beach. With an extensive beverage menu, it essentially qualifies as a beach bar. As the resort follows the all-inclusive model, guests can enjoy Sunny Days cocktails—made with sparkling wine, passionfruit, and Cointreau—or rum punches, all while lounging on sofas near the water or in deck chairs on the beach.

Soggy Dollar, Jost van Dyke

Historically, visitors would leap off their boats and swim to this iconic bar, their cash held in their mouths to keep it dry. Situated beside the palm trees lining White Bay on Jost van Dyke, a British Virgin Island renowned for its stunning beaches, the Soggy Dollar claims to be the birthplace of the Painkiller, a tempting concoction of dark rum, orange juice, coconut cream, and pineapple that has become a favorite throughout the region.