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.  

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.

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.

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 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.