Discover 7 Secluded Swimming Spots in the Caribbean and Mexico
Nothing inspires serenity quite like a secluded swim. Escaping the crowds to commune with nature soothes the soul and rejuvenates the spirit.
Explore these hidden gems in the Caribbean and Mexico, where pristine waters and tranquil shores await without the masses.
Little Bay, Anguilla
As the saying goes, the best things come in small packages—and Little Bay exemplifies this. Nestled on Anguilla's northern coast, this secluded cove boasts soft sands and turquoise waters.
Access it exclusively by boat or, for the adventurous, by descending the steep surrounding cliffs. Charter a vessel, rent a kayak, or seek out local favorite Calvin under the tamarind tree at Crocus Bay—he'll happily ferry you across and return when you're ready to depart.
Relish a picnic lunch, snorkel vibrant reefs, and savor the thrill of uncovering a true hidden treasure.
Secret Harbour Beach, St. Thomas, U.S. Virgin Islands
Among St. Thomas's smaller, lesser-known beaches, Secret Harbour lies in a serene bay on the island's east end. Approaching by sea, it's easy to overlook this protected cove within Nazareth Bay.
Calm waters make it ideal for swimming, while snorkelers can explore the rocky coastlines flanking the bay, teeming with coral reefs, reef fish, lobsters, and diverse marine life.
Anse Mamin Beach, St. Lucia
Anse Chastanet is St. Lucia's top snorkeling destination, adjacent to a marine reserve. Yet the true jewel hides just around the corner: Anse Mamin Beach.
Reach it via a 15-minute walk or short boat ride. This rustic counterpart to Anse Chastanet features soft sands, sunny stretches, and shady retreats perfect for sunbathing or a relaxing nap.
Point of Sands on Little Cayman, Cayman Islands
This powdery white-sand beach extends over a mile along Little Cayman's eastern shore—a spot so captivating, you might linger all day without wanting to leave.
Shell-collect and snorkel freely; as a spring turtle-nesting site, it lacks amenities, but the solitude and gentle waves create an idyllic setting for a romantic sunset picnic. Access by car or bike from anywhere on Little Cayman, reachable by short flight from Grand Cayman.
YS Falls, St. Elizabeth Parish, Jamaica
While not entirely secret, YS Falls remain under-the-radar for many visitors. Situated on Jamaica's South Coast, 50 miles south of Montego Bay, these seven cascading waterfalls feed into natural pools—perfect for rinsing away your worries.
For added adventure, try a canopy zipline guided from the falls' summit to base. Afterward, wander the lush surrounding gardens.
Playa del Amor, Marietas Islands
Within Mexico's Marietas Islands, Playa del Amor—the famed 'hidden beach'—hides inside a vast cavern opening, invisible from afar. It offers shaded and sunny nooks amid crystal-clear waters.
Enter by swimming or kayaking through a 40-foot tunnel to this natural wonder. Once inside, unwind or snorkel the Pacific's vibrant reefs, teeming with colorful marine life.
Colombier Beach, St. Barts
Colombier Beach spans an entire secluded bay on St. Barts, accessible only by boat or a 20-minute hike from Gustavia's port—no public roads lead here. Locals cherish its uncrowded allure; the sole structure is David Rockefeller's abandoned 1960s villa.
Author: Sheryl Nance-Nash
