Most of us schedule our vacations around good weather. But while sun is practically guaranteed all year round in the Caribbean, there is one thing you should watch out for.
Yes, we’re talking about the infamous seaweed, which has ruined the beach experiences of thousands of travelers and is likely to affect many more.
If you don’t want to be threatened by seaweed blobs, you’re at the right spot. On this list, you will find the best Caribbean beaches which have historically been known to be seaweed-free for most of the time.
What is sargassum seaweed?
Sargassum is a type of brown algae that forms into large floating patches. They provide food, protection, and habitat for many marine species.
However, for various reasons, one of them being warmer water, sargassum has started to flourish more and often appears washed away on the shores of Caribbean beaches.
Characterized by a distinctive smell, it creates an unpleasant experience for beachgoers. The organisms living there can also cause skin irritation, which makes the sea unswimmable.
When is sargassum seaweed season?
Sargassum loves warm weather and large amounts of it usually arrive in the Caribbean Sea already in April or May. It continues its presence until September and sometimes even October, with the peak season between June and August.
10 Best Caribbean Beaches Without Sargassum Seaweed
Ffryes Beach, Antigua
Even the paradise-like Antigua has suffered from the seaweed issue in recent years. However, there are a few locations that have remained untouched. One of them is Ffryes Beach on the west coast of the island. Thanks to its position, seaweed barely ever makes it to the shore, meaning its waters are crystal clear most of the time.
Bayahibe Beach, Dominican Republic
If you’re looking for a clean beach in the Dominican Republic, we recommend heading to Bayahibe Beach – a powdery white stretch of sand not far from La Romana. Nearby ocean currents usually direct seaweed elsewhere and even when some bits and pieces make it to Bayahibe, local authorities make sure it’s gone before sunrise.
Grace Bay, Turks and Caicos
Not only is Grace Bay considered one of the most beautiful beaches on the planet, but it also rarely falls victim of a seaweed invasion. It spreads over several miles, and therefore never feels crowded, even with its popularity. Moreover, as it’s surrounded by a barrier reef, it’s especially calm and suitable for families with children.
Eagle Beach, Aruba
Each Beach is a popular white-sand beach on Aruba that features beach huts, lounge chairs, restaurants, and plenty of opportunities for watersports, including kayaking, snorkeling, paddleboarding, or jet skiing. Lucky for you, it also lies outside of the seaweed belt hence is always clean. What’s more, it’s very wide, so you won’t feel packed like in a tin of sardines even during peak times.
Playa Norte, Isla Mujeres
Mexico’s beaches have been always hit badly by the sargassum in the Caribbean in the last few years. If you don’t want to give up on vacationing there in summer, there are still a couple of beaches with very little seaweed, such as Playa Norte on Isla Mujeres in Quintana Roo. It has powder-white sand, calm waters, and great amenities. Also, unlike other destinations, it‘s not overcrowded with tourists and boasts a laid-back, relaxed vibe.
Playa Porto Mari, Curacao
Playa Porto Mari is one of Curacao’s most beautiful beaches. No wonder. This private piece of shoreline is well-taken care of, so you won’t come across any traces of the nasty seaweed plus you will have access to top-notch facilities. It’s also a fantastic choice for those who like hiking. There are two scenic trails starting right at the beach, and they provide breathtaking, panoramic views of the ocean.
Secret Beach, Belize
If you’re looking for the ultimate beach escape, head to Secret Beach in Belize. It’s less commercialized than other beaches and is perfect for truly unwinding by chilling on a sunbed, having a drink at a bar, or engaging in various watersports. On top of that, Secret Beach has remained secret to sargassum as well, as it hasn’t arrived yet.
Long Bay Beach, Jamaica
Long Bay Beach in Negril is another idyllic beach destination. It’s nestled in a pristine, natural setting and offers turquoise waters, white sands without sargassum, and beach shacks serving tasty local dishes. It also has excellent surfing conditions and is suitable for beginner and experienced surfers alike.
Morne Rouge Beach, Grenada
Looking for a family-friendly refuge with zero sargassum? You will find it at the ’Spice Island,’ or on Morne Rouge Beach, to be precise. Thanks to its calm waters, a wide range of amenities, and watersport activities, it’s an ideal option even for small children, but will surely please couples and solo travelers likewise. Don’t get confused if you see it as ’BBC Beach’ on the map, that’s what locals call it.
Little Bay Beach, St. Maarten
Located on a serene peninsula just outside the capital city of Phillipsburg, Little Bay Beach is a popular retreat for those searching for an intimate atmosphere. Rocky outcroppings protect it from both sides, so it’s also almost never affected by seaweed. To get the most out of your stay there, take a scenic boat tour (the ones during sunset are the best.)