The Caribbean’s Best Basic Beach Bars

True aficionados know that a really good beach bar is much more about the drinks than the décor. While a comely coastal spot is essential, it’s the casual and convivial atmosphere, not the fancy designer trimmings, that bring party-hearty patrons back. Check out some of my favorite “beer bones” Caribbean beach bars, no shoes or shirt required.  

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Karakter, St. Maarten

A must-do when arriving at or departing from Princess Juliana airport, this school bus-turned-beach bar is wedged between the white-sand beach and the runway. Chill out with a cramping cold Amstel Bright and watch the world go by as your cares float away.

 

 

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The Sandbar, Turks and Caicos Islands

As far as I’m concerned there are only two reasons to go to sleepy Grand Turk: To swim with the stingrays at nearby Gibbs Cay, and to chug a chilly Turks Head at this simple yet sweet watering hole.

 

 

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Pelican Bar, Jamaica

This rickety south-coast staple sits on a sandbar about a half-mile from the bohemian village of Treasure Beach. Somehow a cramping-cold Red Stripe always tastes best at the elevated drinkery, made almost entirely of driftwood, and rebuilt after every storm.

 

 

one love

 

One Love Bar & Grill, British Virgin Islands

Join the yachties and sip a signature Bushwacker at this popular White Bay, Jost Van Dyke spot where the rustic “décor” features old fishing nets and driftwood embellished with weathered buoys.