Canto de La Playa

This Untouched Beach Was Just Named Best in the Caribbean—and It has Crystal-clear Waters, Zero Crowds, and Calm Waters

"Named the No. 1 beach in the Caribbean and No. 6 globally by The World's 50 Best Beaches, this mile-long stretch on Saona Island features soft white sand, a lush palm grove, and exceptionally clear turquoise water ideal for swimming and snorkeling around vibrant coral reefs. Part of Cotubanamá National Park, it feels remote and undeveloped—there are no beach bars, restaurants, or restrooms—so visitors usually reach it by a roughly 50-minute bus ride to Bayahibe followed by a boat, with many tours stopping in the island’s only inhabited village, Mano Juan; alternatively you can hike from Mano Juan or arrange a private boat. Celebrated for its peaceful, natural ambiance and absence of commercial activity, it’s best suited for travelers seeking an unspoiled Caribbean experience and who bring sunscreen, water, snacks, and snorkeling gear." - Lydia Mansel Lydia Mansel Lydia Mansel is a writer with more than eight years of experience editing and writing for both brands and online publications—with a particular focus on travel, fashion, and lifestyle. She’s also the founder of the travel site justpacked.com.  Travel + Leisure Editorial Guidelines