The 10 best beaches you can visit on a cruise
For beach lovers, a cruise may be the ultimate getaway.
On a single week-long voyage, you sometimes can visit beaches in three, four or even more countries -- an impressive feat that would be difficult to do on any other type of trip.
Royal Caribbean's new seven-night Southern Caribbean Explorer itineraries out of Barbados, for instance, will get you to five island nations with stunning beaches: Trinidad and Tobago, Grenada, St. Vincent and the Grenadines, Dominica and St. Lucia.
On Western Mediterranean itineraries operated by the line and others, you often will have the opportunity to visit beaches in Spain, France, Italy and Malta -- all within a few days.
To be fair, some of the world's most spectacular beaches -- Balos Beach in Crete, for instance -- aren't easily reachable from the places where cruise ships dock. But cruise ships can take you to a surprising number of the world's most famous and alluring stretches of sand.
Here, a look at some of our favorite beaches at TPG you can visit on a cruise:
South Beach, Miami
Distance from cruise port: 6 miles
One of the world's most famous beaches is just down the road from the port that draws more cruisers than any other in the world. Miami's iconic South Beach, long a tourist hot spot, is located just north of PortMiami, the cruise world's biggest hub. That means that more than a million cruisers every year have the opportunity to begin or end their trips with a visit to the 2.2-mile stretch of white sand. In addition to a place to lounge on the beach, you'll be able to check out South Beach's storied art deco hotels.
Playa de la Barrosa, Spain
Distance from cruise port: 24 miles
Located near the port of Cadiz, Spain, Playa de la Barrosa offers nearly 4 miles of glittering sands, separated into two parts. There’s the main beach area with plenty of rental chairs, beachside cafes and restaurants and lifeguards, if you prefer having all the amenities. But there's also the southern side, which is a little more wild. It's home to sandy dunes and pine trees for travelers who really want to escape.
Related: 15 of the most beautiful beaches in Spain
Half Moon Bay, Antigua
Distance from cruise port: 17 miles
Named by TPG as one of the 10 best secret beaches in the Caribbean, Antigua’s Half Moon Bay tends to be more deserted than others on the island; there’s no sign identifying the mile-long stretch of pink and white sand. Once you find it, though, you’re in for crowd-free euphoria. The beach has something for everyone — windsurfers flock to the center to take advantage of the waves, while snorkelers float around the calmer water near the edges.
St. Peter’s Pool, Malta
Distance from cruise port: 7 miles
One of TPG's picks for the 11 best beaches in Europe, St. Peter's Pool isn’t really a beach — at least, not in the traditional sense. What you'll find at the destination, which is just a few miles away from where cruise ships dock in Valletta, Malta, is a stunning bay framed by smooth, flat rock instead of sand, with the rock appearing almost as if it was carved away to create a very special pool of water: Imagine swimming and sunbathing on the moon. “Beach”-goers can spread their towels out on the unusual stretch of coast and dive into the refreshing water.
Waikiki Beach, Oahu
Distance from cruise port: 3 miles
You'll see the full splendor of Oahu's Waikiki Beach from your ship as it pulls into Honolulu Harbor, and getting there is a breeze. Just hop in an Uber at the port, and you'll be there in less than 10 minutes. Once there, you can soak in the views of the famed Diamond Head crater, which frames the southeastern end of the beach. Or, pay homage to Duke Kahanamoku, Olympic swimmer and father of modern-day surfing, at the statue in his image. Visitors also can take surf classes or try their hand at canoe paddling along Waikiki, and you'll find lifeguards and restrooms.
Nusa Dua Beach, Bali
Distance from cruise port: 8 miles
Just 8 miles from the Bali cruise port of Benoa, the beaches at Nusa Dua are known for being some of the island's cleanest and most beautiful, as well as its least crowded. Relax in the white sands at Pantai Geger — the water temperatures here are among Bali's warmest. Then, take the boat out to Turtle Island, where you can see the area's cutest aquatic animals in a protected conservation area.
Related: 27 stunning Indonesian islands you should visit
Ka'anapali Beach, Maui
Distance from cruise port: 3 miles
Just a few miles from the cruise port at Lahaina on the island of Maui (and a bit farther away from the cruise port of Kahului) is one of Hawaii's most famous beaches, Ka'anapali. Located on Maui's West Shore, the 3-mile-long stretch of sand fronts a variety of big resorts (if you decide to come here on points, you'll find such favorites as the Hyatt Regency Maui Resort and Spa, and The Westin Maui Resort and Spa). It’s easy to swim and snorkel from this long, walkable and lifeguard-protected beach, which offers views of Lanai and Molokai. You can rent snorkel gear as well as surfboards and wakeboards at nearby shops, and also arrange for a shaded cabana. And be sure to keep an eye out for sea turtles in the water (and, during certain times of year, humpback whales breaching in the distance).
Seven Mile Beach, Grand Cayman Island
Distance from cruise port: 5 miles
This famous, gorgeous crescent of coral sand is easy to reach from the Grand Cayman Island cruise pier, and a top draw for cruisers visiting the island. Named by TPG as one of the world's seven great family beaches, it's particularly appealing to families due to its calm surf. It's also home to nearby Stingray City, where kids can swim with the gentle (and friendly) giants. Just don't be fooled into thinking it's really 7 miles long. It measures closer to 6 miles in length -- still an impressive stretch of sand that's open for strolling from end to end.
Manly Beach, Australia
Distance from cruise port: 12 miles
You'll need to take a 30-minute ferry to reach Manly Beach from the spot where cruise ships dock in Sydney, Australia. But it's well worth the effort. Lined with beachside cafes, restaurants and bars, Manly is one of the Sydney area's iconic beach getaways. It's best known as surfing hot spot (it's home to the Australian Open of Surfing every February) and is backed by a tree-lined promenade. Its fine soft sand has a lovely golden color.
Governor's Beach, Grand Turk Island
Distance from cruise port: 1 mile
Governor's Beach on the island of Grand Turk (part of the Turks and Caicos) can be crowded at times -- particularly on days when cruise ships are visiting the island. But it's popular for a reason. It offers a fine curve of white sand and clear turquoise water. It's also super close to Grand Turk Cruise Center, where cruise ships arrive when visiting the island, making it an easy outing for cruisers.
Matira Beach, Bora Bora
Distance from cruise port: 4 miles
Just about any spit of sand you find on Bora Bora will offer a little slice of paradise. But if your cruise vessel pulls into the famed French Polynesian island, we recommend a trip to Matira Beach -- on the southern tip of the island. This public beach is 2 miles long and open to all for free, and the sand is impossibly soft and silky. It's also rarely crowded (access for the public is right near the entrance to the InterContinental Le Moana Bora Bora). You'll find the water crystal clear and shallow out to the coral reef offshore. Just be sure to watch for falling coconuts.
Related: What to do when your ship docks in Bora Bora
Planning a cruise? Start with these stories:
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- A quick guide to the most popular cruise lines
- 21 tips and tricks that will make your cruise go smoothly
- 15 ways cruisers waste money
- 12 best cruises for people who never want to grow up
- What to pack for your first cruise
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There’s a lot to love about the Amex Gold. It’s a fan favorite thanks to its fantastic bonus-earning rates at restaurants worldwide and at U.S. supermarkets. If you’re hitting the skies soon, you’ll also earn bonus Membership Rewards points on travel. Paired with up to $120 in Uber Cash annually (for U.S. Uber rides or Uber Eats orders, card must be added to Uber app and you can redeem with any Amex card), up to $120 in annual dining statement credits to be used with eligible partners, an up to $84 Dunkin’ credit each year at U.S. Dunkin Donuts and an up to $100 Resy credit annually, there’s no reason that foodies shouldn’t add the Amex Gold to their wallet. These benefits alone are worth more than $400, which offsets the $325 annual fee on the Amex Gold card. Enrollment is required for select benefits. (Partner offer)Pros
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- You may be eligible for as high as 100,000 Membership Rewards® Points after you spend $6,000 in eligible purchases on your new Card in your first 6 months of Card Membership. Welcome offers vary and you may not be eligible for an offer. Apply to know if you’re approved and find out your exact welcome offer amount – all with no credit score impact. If you’re approved and choose to accept the Card, your score may be impacted.
- Earn 4X Membership Rewards® points per dollar spent on purchases at restaurants worldwide, on up to $50,000 in purchases per calendar year, then 1X points for the rest of the year.
- Earn 4X Membership Rewards® points per dollar spent at US supermarkets, on up to $25,000 in purchases per calendar year, then 1X points for the rest of the year.
- Earn 3X Membership Rewards® points per dollar spent on flights booked directly with airlines or on AmexTravel.com.
- Earn 2X Membership Rewards® points per dollar spent on prepaid hotels and other eligible purchases booked on AmexTravel.com.
- Earn 1X Membership Rewards® point per dollar spent on all other eligible purchases.
- $120 Uber Cash on Gold: Add your Gold Card to your Uber account and get $10 in Uber Cash each month to use on orders and rides in the U.S. when you select an American Express Card for your transaction. That’s up to $120 Uber Cash annually. Plus, after using your Uber Cash, use your Card to earn 4X Membership Rewards® points for Uber Eats purchases made with restaurants or U.S. supermarkets. Point caps and terms apply.
- $84 Dunkin' Credit: With the $84 Dunkin' Credit, you can earn up to $7 in monthly statement credits after you enroll and pay with the American Express® Gold Card at U.S. Dunkin' locations. Enrollment is required to receive this benefit.
- $100 Resy Credit: Get up to $100 in statement credits each calendar year after you pay with the American Express® Gold Card to dine at U.S. Resy restaurants or make other eligible Resy purchases. That's up to $50 in statement credits semi-annually. Enrollment required.
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Rewards Rate
| 4X | Earn 4X Membership Rewards® points per dollar spent on purchases at restaurants worldwide, on up to $50,000 in purchases per calendar year, then 1X points for the rest of the year. |
| 4X | Earn 4X Membership Rewards® points per dollar spent at US supermarkets, on up to $25,000 in purchases per calendar year, then 1X points for the rest of the year. |
| 3X | Earn 3X Membership Rewards® points per dollar spent on flights booked directly with airlines or on AmexTravel.com. |
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You may be eligible for as high as 100,000 Membership Rewards® Points after spending $6,000 in eligible purchases on your new Card in your first 6 months of Membership. Welcome offers vary and you may not be eligible for an offer.As High As 100,000 points. Find Out Your Offer.Annual Fee
$325Recommended Credit
Credit ranges are a variation of FICO® Score 8, one of many types of credit scores lenders may use when considering your credit card application.Excellent to Good
Why We Chose It
There’s a lot to love about the Amex Gold. It’s a fan favorite thanks to its fantastic bonus-earning rates at restaurants worldwide and at U.S. supermarkets. If you’re hitting the skies soon, you’ll also earn bonus Membership Rewards points on travel. Paired with up to $120 in Uber Cash annually (for U.S. Uber rides or Uber Eats orders, card must be added to Uber app and you can redeem with any Amex card), up to $120 in annual dining statement credits to be used with eligible partners, an up to $84 Dunkin’ credit each year at U.S. Dunkin Donuts and an up to $100 Resy credit annually, there’s no reason that foodies shouldn’t add the Amex Gold to their wallet. These benefits alone are worth more than $400, which offsets the $325 annual fee on the Amex Gold card. Enrollment is required for select benefits. (Partner offer)Pros
- 4 points per dollar spent on dining at restaurants worldwide and U.S. supermarkets (on the first $50,000 in purchases per calendar year; then 1 point per dollar spent thereafter and $25,000 in purchases per calendar year; then 1 point per dollar spent thereafter, respectively)
- 3 points per dollar spent on flights booked directly with the airline or with amextravel.com
- Packed with credits foodies will enjoy
- Solid welcome bonus
Cons
- Not as useful for those living outside the U.S.
- Some may have trouble using Uber and other dining credits
- You may be eligible for as high as 100,000 Membership Rewards® Points after you spend $6,000 in eligible purchases on your new Card in your first 6 months of Card Membership. Welcome offers vary and you may not be eligible for an offer. Apply to know if you’re approved and find out your exact welcome offer amount – all with no credit score impact. If you’re approved and choose to accept the Card, your score may be impacted.
- Earn 4X Membership Rewards® points per dollar spent on purchases at restaurants worldwide, on up to $50,000 in purchases per calendar year, then 1X points for the rest of the year.
- Earn 4X Membership Rewards® points per dollar spent at US supermarkets, on up to $25,000 in purchases per calendar year, then 1X points for the rest of the year.
- Earn 3X Membership Rewards® points per dollar spent on flights booked directly with airlines or on AmexTravel.com.
- Earn 2X Membership Rewards® points per dollar spent on prepaid hotels and other eligible purchases booked on AmexTravel.com.
- Earn 1X Membership Rewards® point per dollar spent on all other eligible purchases.
- $120 Uber Cash on Gold: Add your Gold Card to your Uber account and get $10 in Uber Cash each month to use on orders and rides in the U.S. when you select an American Express Card for your transaction. That’s up to $120 Uber Cash annually. Plus, after using your Uber Cash, use your Card to earn 4X Membership Rewards® points for Uber Eats purchases made with restaurants or U.S. supermarkets. Point caps and terms apply.
- $84 Dunkin' Credit: With the $84 Dunkin' Credit, you can earn up to $7 in monthly statement credits after you enroll and pay with the American Express® Gold Card at U.S. Dunkin' locations. Enrollment is required to receive this benefit.
- $100 Resy Credit: Get up to $100 in statement credits each calendar year after you pay with the American Express® Gold Card to dine at U.S. Resy restaurants or make other eligible Resy purchases. That's up to $50 in statement credits semi-annually. Enrollment required.
- $120 Dining Credit: Satisfy your cravings, sweet or savory, with the $120 Dining Credit. Earn up to $10 in statement credits monthly when you pay with the American Express® Gold Card at Grubhub, The Cheesecake Factory, Goldbelly, Wine.com, and Five Guys. Enrollment required.
- Explore over 1,000 upscale hotels worldwide with The Hotel Collection and receive a $100 credit towards eligible charges* with every booking of two nights or more through AmexTravel.com. *Eligible charges vary by property.
- No Foreign Transaction Fees.
- Annual Fee is $325.
- Terms Apply.