Best Cruise Ports For Beach Lovers
When people picture cruises, they think of beautiful blue seas, sandy beaches, and a relaxed vibe.
Personally, I love cruises to warm, tropical places and have been on quite a few. If you’re in that same mindset and looking for top-notch cruise ports that offer beach experiences, I have the recommendations you absolutely need to check out.
1. Oranjestad, Aruba
Oranjestad, the capital of Aruba, is famous for its stunning white sand beaches. Eagle Beach, one of the island’s most popular spots, stands out for its beautiful beachfront resorts and is the widest beach.
It is perfect for many sunbathers and beach activities without feeling too crowded. You can relax or try water sports like jet skiing and parasailing here.
If you prefer a quieter beach experience, Malmok Beach is more of a local hangout and the way to go. It’s lined with homes right on the sand, and it’s well-known for fantastic snorkeling and calm waters, making it great for families looking for a laid-back beach day.
2. San Sebastian, Spain
San Sebastian is the place for you if you enjoy beautiful beaches paired with upscale shopping, stunning architecture, top-notch dining, and luxurious experiences.
It’s famous for its outstanding restaurants like Casa Urola, where you can savor delicious scallops in ajo blanco sauce, or Arzak, known for its divine tasting menu. The city is all about indulging in the finer things in life.
And when you’re not shopping or dining, San Sebastian’s location along the Bay of Biscay offers fantastic views and perfect swimming waters. One of the highlights is Playa de la Concha, with its crescent shape and incredible scenery, making it one of Europe’s most beautiful and famous beaches.
3. Dubrovnik, Croatia
When people think of Croatia, they often think of its rich history and gorgeous architecture, and Dubrovnik perfectly embodies this. The city is famous for its ancient city walls, dating back to the 13th to 16th century, and its UNESCO World Heritage Site of Old Town, showcasing a blend of Gothic, Renaissance, and Baroque architecture.
However, Dubrovnik also boasts some of the most magnificent beaches for cruise travelers looking for relaxation by the Adriatic Sea. One standout is Bellevue Beach, just a 20-minute walk from the Old Town. It’s renowned for its picturesque staircase leading to the small pebble beach and tranquil waters, surrounded by incredible views and unique rock formations. This secluded spot is sure to leave any beach bum happy.
4. Mykonos, Greece
Mykonos is an island in Greece that sits in the Aegean Sea. It’s widely known for its party atmosphere in the summer when beaches like Paradise and Super Paradise come to life. Look no further if you are after dance parties, DJs, and nightclubs complemented by beautiful beaches.
But don’t be discouraged by Mykonos’ party scene if you prefer a relaxed vibe! You’ll discover plenty of serene beaches like Platys Gialos, famous for its family-friendly environment and shallow waters.
With its diverse beaches, charming white buildings, fascinating history, and delicious food, Mykonos is an ideal cruise destination that will delight beach lovers and adventurers, ensuring a memorable experience for every cruise traveler.
5. George Town, Grand Cayman
The capital of the Cayman Islands is George Town, famous for its beautiful beaches, fantastic scuba diving spots, and lively island vibe.
It’s a perfect destination for cruise-goers who love the beach, with plenty to choose from. Seven Mile Beach is popular and loved for its long stretch of sand and excellent snorkeling. Another fun spot, though it requires a boat ride, is Starfish Point, named for its many starfish that you can see up close!
6. Maui, Hawaii
Maui has much to offer, from The Road to Hana and Haleakala Volcano to delicious food and stunning beaches.
Beach lovers will find endless options, one of the best being Ka’anapali. It’s known for its top-notch resorts and is perfect for relaxing and enjoying the views. It has incredible snorkeling opportunities that are worth experiencing for yourself.
Wailea Beach is another gem, ideal for sunbathing, swimming, and whale watching in winter.
7. St Thomas, U.S. Virgin Islands
Saint Thomas, part of the U.S. Virgin Islands, is home to some of the world’s most stunning beaches. Magen’s Bay Beach is one of my favorites, known for its soft sands and clear blue waters. It is perfect for a laid-back day in the sun and offers amenities like restrooms, picnic tables, and plenty of shade.
Another great spot is Coki Beach, famous for its excellent snorkeling and cozy beach huts offering snacks and drinks. You can sunbathe, snorkel, and enjoy live music at nearby bars, with water sports rentals available for added fun.
8. Roatan, Honduras
Roatan, Honduras, boasts an array of excellent beaches. One of the liveliest and most popular is West Bay Beach, known for being the longest beach on the island and offering numerous amenities like restaurants, bars, and dive shops. It’s a great choice if you’re seeking a vibrant atmosphere.
Tabyana Beach is a must-visit for exceptional scuba diving and snorkeling experiences. Its location near the Mesoamerican Barrier Reef makes it the perfect spot to explore marine life and the underwater world right off its shores. So, Roatan has plenty to offer, whether you’re after a lively scene, sun-soaked relaxation, or aquatic adventures.
9. St Maarten
St. Maarten stands out as one of the Caribbean’s most safe and beautiful islands. Its capital, Philipsburg, is famous for its charming cobblestone streets and vibrant buildings filled with numerous restaurants and shops.
The island is also renowned for its diverse range of beaches. One of the most well-known and unique spots is Maho Beach, where you can watch planes take off and land just above you. Due to its close location to Princess Juliana International Airport, this is a thrilling experience.
I get it if you aren’t into the thrill of massive objects flying directly at you. I have a few other options that are worth exploring. Consider visiting Great Bay Beach or Mullet Bay Beach. These spots are perfect for beach lovers looking to unwind under the Caribbean sun and maybe indulge in a seaside drink or two.
10. Grand Turk Island, Turks and Caicos
If you’re after that perfect island getaway vibe with unbelievable white sandy beaches, gorgeous blue waters, fantastic scuba diving opportunities, and the largest Margaritaville in the Caribbean, Turks and Caicos is your destination.
Grand Turk Island offers a fantastic experience for cruise travelers due to its proximity to the beaches from the cruise port. Cruise Center Beach is just a stone’s throw away from where your ship docks, making it incredibly convenient for beach enthusiasts who prefer to stay within a reasonable distance. However, it tends to get quite crowded.
Another popular option is Governor’s Beach, named after its proximity to the Governor’s mansion, which is just a quick walk from the beach access area. This beach is a beach lover’s dream, featuring incredibly soft sand and stunningly clear blue waters. It’s the perfect spot for sunbathing, taking a dip, and creating unforgettable memories.
11. Kusadasi, Turkey
Kusadasi is a lovely seaside town near the Aegean Sea in Turkey. You’ll want to check out Ladies Beach if you’re a beach lover. Despite its name from the past, when it was only for women, it’s now open to everyone and is one of the area’s best and most popular beaches.
You can relax under the sun on the many sunbeds and beach umbrellas along the shore. And if you’re up for it, you can try activities like jet skiing and parasailing. While Ladies Beach is my top pick, there are other great beaches nearby known for their beauty and amenities.
12. Ocho Rios, Jamaica
Ocho Rios offers the perfect blend for cruise travelers seeking beaches and adventure. Its fantastic location near many beaches like Ochos Rios Bay Beach is a paradise for beach bums.
At the same time, cruisers can enjoy a mix of relaxation under the Jamaican sun and thrilling adventures like Dunn’s River Falls, the Blue Hole Ocho Rios, or a visit to Mystic Mountain, an adventure park packed with ziplining, bobsledding, water slides, and more. Ocho Rios is the perfect cruise port for beach enthusiasts who also crave exciting shore excursions.
13. Nassau, Bahamas
Nassau, the capital of the Bahamas, is a tropical paradise teeming with stunning beaches, top-notch resorts, and unforgettable water adventures. While many may first think of the impressive Atlantis Paradise Island Bahamas Resort, which indeed offers a fantastic experience, what truly sets Nassau apart are its exquisite beaches.
Junkanoo Beach is one of the finest and most frequented, just a short stroll from the Prince George Wharf and cruise terminal. It’s famous for its lively atmosphere, vibrant music, and colorful shacks serving delicious food and drinks. One of the highlights here is renting a lounge chair, unwinding, and soaking in the breathtaking views, including spotting cruise ships at the cruise port just a short distance away.
For those seeking a quieter escape from the crowds, Saunders Beach is a hidden gem known for its tranquil waters, nearby playground for children, and convenient access to a gas station for snacks and refreshments.
14. Cozumel, Mexico
Cozumel, an island in the Caribbean off Mexico’s coast, is famous for its beautiful beaches, excellent snorkeling, and scuba diving spots. What I adore about Cozumel is its mix of delicious Mexican food, similar to places like Cabo San Lucas and Cancun, minus the large crowds due to its island setting. Although it is a popular cruise stop, it can sometimes get busy.
Plenty of beach options, including hidden gems with fewer people, are perfect for beach enthusiasts. Try Playa Punta Morena or Playa de San Martin if you want a secluded spot. For a livelier vibe, head to Playa Mia Grand Beach Resort.
15. Palma de Mallorca, Spain
Palma Mallorca is a picturesque island off the coast of Spain, famous for its grand cathedral, delicious cuisine, and stunning beaches. One of its best beaches is Playa de Illetes, surrounded by hotels, restaurants, and shops. It offers breathtaking views of the cliffs nearby and has a lively atmosphere, with options to rent sun loungers and umbrellas for a relaxing beach experience.
You might want to explore Cala Llombards, nestled among rugged cliffs, pine trees, and soft white sands for a more authentic local vibe. There’s a charming beach bar where you can grab refreshments and enjoy a laid-back beach day. While these are two of my favorite beaches for different reasons, Palma Mallorca has many more incredible beaches waiting to be explored by beach bums.
16. Belize City, Belize
If you’re looking for a city with fantastic beaches near the cruise port, along with a mix of historical sites, restaurants, shops, and scuba diving opportunities, Belize City is a must-visit destination.
Beach enthusiasts will particularly appreciate the range of beaches near the cruise port. Kukumba Beach stands out as one of the finest, within walking distance from the port and featuring an 80-foot water slide that families with children will adore.
A trip to Caye Caulker is highly recommended for beach lovers looking for an excursion. Although you’ll need to take a boat ride to reach it, the journey is well worth it for its local charm, pristine white sands, and the inviting atmosphere of Lazy Lizard Bar & Grill, perfect for enjoying beachside eats and drinks.
17. San Juan, Puerto Rico
Are you dreaming of visiting an island bursting with colorful buildings, a lively atmosphere, delicious food, and unreal beaches? You’ve got to see the San Juan Cruise Port.
Take a stroll through Old San Juan, where you’ll fall in love with the colorful colonial buildings, and afterward, make your way to Condado Beach, where you can enjoy time in the sun and appreciate the views.
San Juan is a vibrant city with plenty to explore, making it a hotspot for beach bums seeking a blend of relaxation under the sun and a lively cultural experience.
