The Ultimate Guide to Tobago’s Best Beaches: Personal Recommendations
Tobago, with its untouched natural beauty and crystal-clear waters, is home to some of the most stunning beaches in the Caribbean. Whether you’re looking for a secluded escape, calm waters for swimming, or vibrant beachside culture, there’s a beach for every kind of traveler.
This guide showcases the best beaches in Tobago I’ve personally visited, providing details on what makes each one unique. The beaches are organized in order of their location, as if you were taking a scenic drive along the coast.
As I continue discovering more of Tobago’s coastline, this list will grow—so stay tuned for updates! This list is current as of March 2025.
Sandy Point Beach (Crown Point)
Sandy Point Beach is a quiet stretch of sand located at the end of the airport runway, making it more of a curiosity than a prime beach destination. While it’s worth a visit if you’re determined to explore every beach in Tobago, it’s not ideal for swimming due to strong winds and frequent blasts of sand and debris from departing planes. The beach itself is usually empty, but the surrounding area sees plenty of activity from people passing through. That said, it does offer a stunning vantage point for sunset views—just be mindful that the atmosphere can feel a bit isolated at times.
Store Bay Beach (Crown Point)
Store Bay is one of Tobago’s most well-known beaches, offering a lively atmosphere, convenient amenities, and some of the best local cuisine on the island. It’s the perfect spot to try the famous crab and dumplings while soaking in the vibrant energy of beachgoers and vendors. The turquoise waters are inviting, and the beach’s central location makes it easily accessible.
However, expect a high number of vendors approaching to sell souvenirs, boat tours, and refreshments—this is the busiest beach in Tobago for sales pitches. While it’s a must-visit at least once for its cultural and culinary experience, you may prefer to explore Tobago’s quieter, more secluded beaches afterward.
Coconut Bay (Crown Point)
For those seeking a more exclusive and tranquil beach experience, Coconut Bay at Coco Reef Resort offers a peaceful retreat with soft white sand and crystal-clear, shallow waters. Thanks to a man-made breakwater, the sea here is calm year-round, making it one of the best spots for leisurely swims without worrying about waves or strong currents. The resort’s private setting ensures a more relaxed atmosphere, away from the crowds of public beaches like Store Bay or Pigeon Point.
Non-guests can typically purchase a day pass to enjoy the beach and resort amenities, including lounge chairs, dining options, and tropical cocktails just steps from the shore. Whether you’re looking for a serene escape or a touch of luxury during your Tobago stay, Coconut Bay delivers an idyllic setting to unwind in style. You can read my full review of Coco Reef Resort here.
Swallow’s Beach (Crown Point)
Just a short walk from Store Bay, Swallow’s Beach offers a more relaxed alternative for those looking to escape the hustle while still being close to the island’s popular spots. With its shallow, inviting waters, this beach is perfect for families, casual swimmers, and anyone looking to enjoy a quieter stretch of sand.
The left side of the beach boasts soft sand and calmer waters, making it the ideal area for lounging and swimming. Meanwhile, the right side, closer to the road, has a rockier seabed with patches of coral, offering a more rugged, natural feel. If you plan to explore this side, water shoes or Crocs are highly recommended.
For refreshments, Bago’s Beach Bar sits right on the sand, serving up cold drinks and local bites with a laid-back island vibe. While Swallow’s Beach doesn’t have the same buzz as Store Bay, it offers a peaceful atmosphere with easy access to amenities, making it a great spot for a relaxed beach day.
Pigeon Point (Crown Point)
Pigeon Point, located on Tobago’s southwestern coast near Crown Point, is one of the island’s most iconic beaches. Known for its soft, white sand and crystal-clear waters, it’s perfect for swimming, snorkeling, and relaxing under the sun.
The beach features an iconic wooden jetty offering stunning views and excellent photo opportunities. With calm, shallow waters and a variety of water sports available, including paddleboarding and kayaking, it’s a great spot for both adventure and relaxation. The beach also has amenities like beach chair rentals, showers, and local restaurants serving fresh seafood.
Though popular, it’s spacious enough to find a peaceful spot, making it an ideal destination for anyone seeking a beautiful, serene setting on Tobago’s coast.
No Man’s Land (Bucco Reef)
No Man’s Land is a secluded sandbar, accessible only by boat, offering a serene escape in Tobago. With its pristine white sand and shallow, crystal-clear waters, it’s a popular spot for swimming, snorkeling, and relaxing picnics.
Often included in boat tours to Buccoo Reef and the Nylon Pool, it’s a peaceful haven that feels a world away from the island’s busier beaches. You can check out my post here about taking a glass bottom boat tour.
Recently, however, the atmosphere has shifted slightly, with the arrival of food vendors and more tour groups. While this brings additional amenities and dining options, the beach still retains much of its natural charm. It’s a perfect spot to enjoy the beauty of Tobago’s coastline, whether you’re seeking tranquility or a taste of local flavors.
Grange Bay (Mount Irvine)
Grange Bay, located near Mount Irvine, is a peaceful and relatively quiet beach that offers a serene escape from the more tourist-heavy areas of Tobago. The beach’s gentle waves and scenic surroundings make it ideal for bodyboarding and swimming, particularly for those seeking a more relaxed beach experience. The golden sand stretches along a calm bay, perfect for lounging or taking a leisurely stroll.
Grange Bay is also known for its stunning sunsets, making it a popular spot for evening relaxation. Access is simple, with parking available right off the road, and the beach tends to attract locals for morning swims or evening dips after work. Whether you’re looking to unwind with the sound of the waves or enjoy the sunset with a peaceful view, Grange Bay offers a refreshing and laid-back atmosphere.
Mount Irvine Bay Resort Beach (Mount Irvine)
Located within the Mount Irvine Bay Resort, this private beach offers a serene escape with public access, allowing visitors to enjoy its stunning natural beauty without the crowds of more popular spots. The beach is known for its calm, turquoise waters and soft golden sand, making it an ideal location for swimming, snorkeling, or simply unwinding under the sun. It has to be one of the best beaches in Tobago.
Though the beach is part of the resort, it welcomes the public, offering a peaceful environment with access to resort amenities like loungers, umbrellas, and beachside refreshments. Mount Irvine Bay is also perfect for water sports, with calm waters ideal for paddleboarding, kayaking, and sailing. Whether you’re staying at the resort or visiting for the day, it provides a relaxing and picturesque setting with a touch of luxury, combining the charm of Tobago’s natural beauty with the comfort of a resort atmosphere.
Mount Irvine Bay Beach Facility (Mount Irvine)
Mount Irvine Bay Beach Facility is a lively and popular spot, especially for locals. The beach features clear, calm waters ideal for swimming during the day, but the atmosphere shifts as the evening approaches. Loud music and energetic crowds create a rowdy vibe, making it a hot spot for those seeking a lively, social experience. Anchor Bar and Grill, the beach bar, adds to the beach’s charm with its casual vibe, serving delicious food and drinks, perfect for a post-swim snack or sunset drink.
The beach has basic amenities, including restrooms and shaded areas, making it comfortable for a day by the sea. Whether you’re looking to join in the fun or simply enjoy the local culture, Mount Irvine Bay Beach Facility provides a unique, exciting atmosphere on Tobago’s coast.
Back Bay Beach (Mount Irvine)
Tucked away from the more popular tourist areas, Back Beach offers a rugged and natural escape with breathtaking views. The beach is surrounded by dramatic rocky formations at its far end, known as Rocky Point, making it a perfect spot for adventure lovers and those seeking scenic beauty.
The journey to this hidden gem isn’t for the faint of heart—it requires a hike down a steep, rugged hillside, and the return trip can be a bit challenging. However, the effort is well worth it. With minimal crowds and a tranquil, untouched atmosphere, Back Beach provides a peaceful retreat for those willing to venture off the beaten path.
Stonehaven Bay / Grafton Beach (Black Rock)
Stonehaven Bay, also known as Grafton Beach, is a beautiful and tranquil stretch of golden sand that offers the perfect escape for those seeking peace and relaxation. The beach is relatively quiet, with fewer crowds, making it an ideal spot for long, leisurely walks along the shore or simply unwinding in a serene setting. Its picturesque landscape and calm waters provide a stunning backdrop for sunset views, creating a perfect spot to end the day.
Waves, a popular beachside restaurant at the northern end of the beach, offers a relaxed atmosphere where you can enjoy a refreshing drink or a delicious meal while soaking in panoramic views of the bay and surrounding coastline. Whether you’re looking to relax in solitude or enjoy a sunset dinner, Stonehaven Bay offers a peaceful retreat in Tobago.
Turtle Beach (Black Rock)
Turtle Beach offers a tranquil escape with a long, scenic shoreline perfect for peaceful walks, beachcombing, and even a game of beach volleyball. From March to August, it’s a prime spot to witness leatherback turtles nesting or hatchlings making their way to the sea. The calm waters are generally good for swimming, though tides can be strong at times.
Less crowded than Pigeon Point or Store Bay, it’s an ideal place to unwind. The beachfront Starfish Tobago Resort provides convenient dining options, while small vendors occasionally sell snacks. Visitors can also book guided turtle-watching tours for an unforgettable, eco-friendly experience.
Castara Bay (Castara)
Castara Bay, located on Tobago’s west coast, is a serene and picturesque destination perfect for those seeking peace and natural beauty. Surrounded by lush hills and vibrant tropical flora, this unspoiled beach offers calm, clear waters ideal for swimming and snorkeling. Its gentle waves make it especially family-friendly, providing a safe and relaxing environment for all visitors. The charming village of Castara adds to the laid-back atmosphere, where travelers can watch local fishermen bring in their catch or simply enjoy the quiet surroundings.
Beyond its peaceful vibe, Castara Bay also offers outdoor activities like kayaking and stand-up paddleboarding, with rentals often available. Nature lovers can explore the nearby hills for panoramic views of the bay and the coastline. Whether you’re looking to relax by the shore, engage in water sports, or simply enjoy a breathtaking sunset, Castara Bay provides the perfect blend of tranquility and adventure, making it a hidden gem on Tobago’s coastline.
Englishman’s Bay (Parlatuvier)
Tucked away on the northern coast of Tobago, Englishman’s Bay is one of the island’s most beautiful and secluded beaches, offering a peaceful escape for nature lovers and beach enthusiasts alike. Surrounded by lush rainforest and towering palm trees, the bay’s pristine golden sand and crystal-clear waters create a picture-perfect setting. The calm, sheltered waters make it an excellent spot for swimming and snorkeling, with vibrant marine life just below the surface. The serene atmosphere is ideal for those seeking solitude, away from the crowds of more popular beaches.
The beach is relatively quiet, with few facilities, which only adds to its charm and untouched beauty. A short walk down a scenic trail from the main road leads you to this hidden gem, making it feel like a private paradise. Englishman’s Bay is also a great spot for picnics, beachcombing, or simply relaxing under the shade of the surrounding trees. For the adventurous, there are opportunities to explore the nearby rainforest or take in the stunning views of the bay from above. Whether you want to unwind in a tranquil setting or explore the natural wonders around you, Englishman’s Bay offers an unforgettable tropical experience.
Palatuvier Bay (Parlatuvier)
Nestled on the northwestern coast of Tobago, Palatuvier Bay is a tranquil and secluded beach, perfect for those looking to immerse themselves in nature. Surrounded by lush greenery and rolling hills, this hidden bay offers a serene atmosphere with its calm waters and soft sand, making it an ideal spot for swimming and relaxing. The gentle waves and unspoiled surroundings provide a peaceful retreat away from the crowds, allowing visitors to unwind and enjoy the beauty of Tobago’s coastline in a quiet, unhurried setting. We simply enjoyed taking in the view of this beach from Glasgow’s Bar – a must visit. There was minimal people visiting the beach on a Saturday.
The bay is also known for its vibrant marine life, making it a fantastic spot for snorkeling. Stingrays could be pictured swimming close to the shoreline. The clear waters offer excellent visibility to explore the colorful coral reefs and diverse sea creatures just off the shore. With few facilities and a relatively untouched environment, Palatuvier Bay remains a hidden gem that’s perfect for beachcombing, picnicking, or simply soaking in the beauty of the natural surroundings. Whether you’re looking for a peaceful escape or an opportunity to explore underwater, Palatuvier Bay provides an authentic and tranquil experience.
Batteaux Bay (Speyside)
Batteaux Bay, located in the charming village of Speyside on Tobago’s northeast coast, is a hidden gem known for its peaceful atmosphere and stunning natural beauty. This quiet, secluded bay offers a pristine stretch of sand surrounded by lush greenery and turquoise waters. The calm, shallow waters make it perfect for a relaxing swim or a peaceful kayak ride, while the surrounding hills provide a dramatic backdrop that enhances the bay’s serene setting.
Batteaux Bay is also an ideal spot for nature enthusiasts, with nearby trails leading to breathtaking panoramic views of the bay and the island’s rugged coastline. The bay is relatively quiet and less visited, making it a perfect escape for those looking to enjoy the beauty of Tobago without the crowds. For those interested in snorkeling, the waters here are home to vibrant marine life, adding an extra layer of adventure to this tranquil retreat. Whether you’re looking to unwind by the beach or explore the surrounding nature, Batteaux Bay offers an unforgettable, off-the-beaten-path experience.
Rockly Bay (Scarborough)
Rockly Bay, located in Scarborough, Tobago, is a key point of arrival for many visitors, as it serves as the port where both ferries and cruise ships dock. While it’s not a beach for swimming or lounging, the bay offers stunning views of the coastline and the surrounding hills. It’s a scenic stop for travelers passing through, providing a peaceful moment to take in the natural beauty of the area.
For those arriving by ferry or cruise ship, Rockly Bay is often the first glimpse of Tobago’s landscape, making it an important and memorable part of the journey. With its tranquil atmosphere, it’s a perfect place to pause and appreciate the island’s charm before venturing further into Tobago’s more bustling or secluded destinations.
Conclusion
Tobago’s beaches offer something for everyone, from secluded hideaways to lively hotspots. Whether you’re planning a luxury escape, an off-the-beaten-path adventure, or a simple day soaking up the sun, these beaches showcase the island’s undeniable beauty and charm.
What do you think is the best beach in Tobago? I’d love to hear about your experiences—drop a comment below!
If you found this guide helpful, be sure to bookmark this page and check back for updates as I continue exploring Tobago’s coastline. Follow along for more beach reviews, travel tips, and insider recommendations.
