There’s nothing better than a private dinner on the sand overlooking the turquoise sea savoring fresh seafood and tropical flavors. Whether it’s a special occasion or just a last-minute romantic interlude, treat yourself to the magical experience of seaside dining.
We’ve rounded up seven of the best beach dining experiences in the Caribbean. At these resorts, you can wiggle your toes in the sand, gaze at the sun setting over the horizon, and dine like a gourmand.
COMO Parrot Cay, Turks & Caicos
On this 1,000-acre private island, you’ll find plenty of space for a secluded interlude. Whether you choose a tiki hut for four or a beachside spot for two, you’ll enjoy delightful Asian-inspired cuisine served in an elegant manner. Delivered by your private butler, your four-course menu will be prepared to your liking and preferences as well as wine pairings selected by the sommelier. The moto here is foot-in-the-sand living as each of the beach houses and villas come with their own private pool and direct access to the white sand beach. The interior decor is light and fresh with a relaxed beach house aesthetic and a touch of contemporary spaciousness.
Bucuti & Tara Beach Resort, Aruba
Subtle candlelight and a view of the sea provide a magical experience for a romantic dinner along the soft white sands of Eagle Beach. Linger over a six-course dinner, and a bottle of wine and watch the sunset and the moonrise over the water from your intimate and cozy beach hut. This low-rise boutique property of just 104 rooms occupies a tranquil setting on 14 acres of white sand and is known for romantic escapes and wellness retreats. Join in any of the complimentary classes that include oceanfront Pilates, yoga on the beach, or Tai Chi and beach walks to stay fit.
Half Moon, Jamaica
After a horseback ride in the surf, a round of golf, or a day on the water you can retreat to a private dining experience at a gazebo over the water, on your patio, or right on the sand where your secluded dining space is draped for intimacy and lit by candles that flicker with the sea breeze. Set on two miles of private beachfront, there’s more than enough quiet corners to enjoy a gourmet dinner and a chilled bottle of champagne. Romantic moments include walks along the beach or nature strolls via the lush garden pathways. There are numerous private spots to find on the 400-acre estate.
Belmond Maroma Resort & Spa, Riviera Maya
With a setting between the Caribbean Sea and the lush jungles of the Yucatan, guests find a blissful and magical experience immersed in nature at Maroma. Torches line a white sand path down to the water’s edge where you’ll choose from a meticulously created menu for special occasions. Add flowers, music, wine and champagne, even fireworks if you choose. The resort features several additional culinary journeys to explore local cuisine and traditional flavors showcasing Mexican gastronomy. The Nixtamal Journey invites guests to learn about the artisanal process of making tortillas, the Journey into Agave offers an exploration into the origin and chemistry of tequila and mezcal and an educational visit to the Melipona Bee Sanctuary cultivates a connection with nature.
Palm Island Resort & Spa, Palm Island, SVG
The options for private dining on Palm Island abound from a cliffside gazebo, a specially prepared sunset culinary journey served while under sail, or a champagne breakfast in bed. The Heart Tree location allows for stargazing while dining with toes in the sand. Originally known as Prune Island, the name changed after the original hoteliers, the Caldwells, planted coconut palms. Later came a nursery to cultivate and supply fresh produce and herbs for the restaurant. Garden tours spotlight the flora and fauna on the island as well as the farm-to-table harvests, cooking demonstrations invite guests to learn and taste Caribbean flavors and rum tastings feature a variety of Caribbean rums.
Anse Chastanet, St. Lucia
Whether you choose to dine beachside along the water’s edge or hillside overlooking the sea below, private dining at Anse Chastanet is enchanting and majestic with mountain and sea views. You might choose a private gazebo on either Anse Chastanet Beach or a more remote setting at Anse Mamin Beach. Menu offerings include Caribbean and Creole flavors using organic produce from the resort’s farm on the Soufriere hillside. The resort sits hillside within 600 acres of natural habitat and sandy shores. One-of-a-kind rooms are decorated in locally inspired madras and whimsical island artwork hangs above the mahogany furnishings. Views of the Pitons and the beach below are around every corner.
Jumby Bay, Antigua
The experience at Jumby begins when guests are whisked away on a short cruise from Antigua to Jumby Bay Island, a 300-acre private island getaway with three beaches and lush surroundings. Here you’ll find barefoot luxury where indoor-outdoor living is emphasized, and the sea is steps away. Seaside dining is framed by torches, lanterns, and flowers set over powdery white sand where you can slip off your shoes and dig in your toes. Choose a place in the sand or at the end of the pier, for private picnics, there is Pasture Bay, a crescent of unspoiled beach backed with palms. Island cuisine with a European flair consists of organic and sustainably grown as well as fresh seafood is on the menu.
