Secluded Bays Only Accessible by Yacht
- Kayla Anderson
- Dec 22, 2025
- 16 min read
The Caribbean’s hidden bays offer unparalleled privacy and natural beauty, accessible only by yacht. These destinations, protected by reefs and remote locations, provide serene escapes far from crowded resorts. From pristine beaches to thriving marine life, each bay offers a unique charm. Here’s a quick look:
Colombier Bay, St. Barths: Road-free isolation, coral reefs, and historic preservation.
Prickly Pear Cays, Anguilla: Uninhabited islands with coral reefs and a small seafood restaurant.
White Bay, Jost Van Dyke: Famous for the Soggy Dollar Bar and calm snorkeling waters.
Rendezvous Bay, Antigua: Lush surroundings with no commercial distractions.
Sandy Spit, British Virgin Islands: A tiny islet with untouched sand and vibrant marine life.
Stocking Island, The Exumas: Blue holes, conch-lined beaches, and the lively Chat 'N' Chill bar.
Tahiti Beach, Abaco Island: A stunning sandbar revealed at low tide, perfect for relaxation.
Mopion Island, St. Vincent & The Grenadines: A tiny sandbank with a single thatched umbrella.
Cumberland Bay, St. Vincent: Jungle-framed anchorage with nearby trails and waterfalls.
Why Yacht Travel? Yachts provide access to these secluded spots, with shallow-draft designs and local expertise ensuring safe navigation. LuxcharterYacht offers tailored itineraries, luxury onboard amenities, and rates starting at $2,500 for day trips.
These bays are the definition of tranquility, offering a pristine experience far from the crowds. Ready to explore the Caribbean’s best-kept secrets?
Our "Secret" Spots: Best Secluded Anchorages in the Exumas
Colombier Bay, St. Barths
Colombier Bay is a rare gem on St. Barths, as it's the only beach on the island without road access. This isolation has helped it maintain its untouched charm over the years. The beach features a crescent of white sand framed by clear, shallow waters, with dramatic hills rising behind it. Getting there requires a bit of effort - either a 20- to 30-minute hike or a yacht ride - but that natural barrier keeps the crowds away.
The bay’s exclusivity has a storied history. In the 1960s, David Rockefeller purchased the land surrounding the bay to ensure its preservation, earning it the nickname "Rockefeller's Beach." Decades later, in 2023, a historic 130-acre estate in the area sold for a staggering $136 million . Today, the bay is part of the Saint Barthélemy Nature Reserve, which protects its coral reefs and seagrass beds, creating a sanctuary for marine life.
"The calm and transparent waters of this beach will take your breath away"
The bay’s underwater world is thriving. Between 2007 and 2008, scientific monitoring showed a 9% increase in coral coverage. More than 50 species of algae and five types of seagrass, including Turtle Grass and Manatee Grass, flourish here. Marine life is abundant, with green sea turtles, rays, and hundreds of giant orange starfish calling the bay home. For the best snorkeling, head to the rocks on the right side of the bay, where you'll find the highest concentration of turtles and fish. Recent regulations now restrict large vessels from anchoring, ensuring the bay retains its tranquil atmosphere.
Colombier Bay offers a pure, back-to-nature experience. You won’t find restaurants, shops, or beach bars here, so be sure to bring everything you need before you arrive. For a truly magical visit, aim to arrive early in the morning to swim alongside sea turtles or come at sunset for an unforgettable romantic moment.
Prickly Pear Cays, Anguilla
Just 6 miles northwest of Sandy Ground in Anguilla, the Prickly Pear Cays offer a slice of Caribbean paradise. These two uninhabited islands - Prickly Pear East and Prickly Pear West - are the perfect spot for a tranquil getaway. Prickly Pear East boasts a stunning white-sand beach and a salt pond that stretches about a mile. Meanwhile, its smaller neighbor, Prickly Pear West, spans roughly 0.75 miles and features rugged coral terrain. Between the two lies a shallow channel, an ideal spot to anchor your yacht and soak in the peace and quiet.
These islands are a wonderful mix of untouched natural beauty and a touch of luxury. Lonely Planet even suggests these beaches rival "even Anguilla's tiara of beaches". As part of Anguilla's Marine Park, the surrounding waters are home to vibrant coral reefs and diverse marine life. You can snorkel among the reefs, spot nurse sharks gliding by, or explore fascinating shipwrecks beneath the waves. The rocky reefs of the Western Cay also serve as nesting grounds for red-billed tropicbirds, brown pelicans, and even hawksbill turtles.
If you're feeling hungry, there's a small restaurant open from 11:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. (Tuesday through Sunday). It runs on battery power and serves fresh seafood, with main courses priced between $18 and $50.
"Prickly Pear offers the best of both worlds... Untouched, natural beauty... and a terrific restaurant and bar." - Louise Fayet, Anguilla-Beaches.com
Arriving by private yacht is the ultimate way to experience the Prickly Pear Cays. You can anchor in the protected channel, explore the reefs at your own pace, and watch the sun set as stingrays glide through the water. If you're lucky, you might even have a friendly encounter with the local Bananaquits, affectionately known as "Sugarbirds", which might perch on your hand. For a truly memorable visit, LuxcharterYacht offers the perfect vessels to take you to these secluded gems.
White Bay, Jost Van Dyke, British Virgin Islands
Tucked away on the small island of Jost Van Dyke, White Bay is a serene crescent of powdery white sand, home to just 200–300 residents. Accessible only by sea, this secluded paradise feels like a hidden gem. A coral reef stretches along most of the beach, creating calm, crystal-clear turquoise waters that are perfect for swimming and snorkeling. It’s no wonder Caribbean Travel & Life named it one of the top ten beaches in the world.
Without docks, visitors anchor in the sheltered bay and either swim or take a dinghy to shore. This quirky tradition inspired the name of the iconic Soggy Dollar Bar, where guests often arrived with wet cash in hand. The bar is famous for creating the "Painkiller" cocktail in the 1970s - a tropical blend of dark rum, coconut cream, orange and pineapple juice, topped with a sprinkle of nutmeg. Alongside the Soggy Dollar, other laid-back beach spots like Hendo's Hideout, One Love Bar and Grill, and Ivan's Stress-Free Bar add to the relaxed, carefree vibe of the bay.
The coral reef not only protects the beach from heavy waves but also offers fantastic snorkeling opportunities. Here, you can spot tropical fish, sea turtles, tarpon, and vibrant hard corals. Two small channels in the reef allow boats to anchor closer to the shore, making it a convenient spot for visitors. Temperatures stay between 75°F and 85°F year-round, though hurricane season from August to November can bring unpredictable weather.
If you’re planning to visit, arrive early to secure one of the limited mooring balls. And for a truly unique experience, treat yourself to a massage at Ocean Spa - a floating spa hut gently swaying in the bay’s tranquil waters.
Rendezvous Bay, Antigua
Rendezvous Bay, nestled on Antigua's south coast, is a serene half-mile stretch of untouched white sand, bordered by lush tropical rainforest and striking green mountains. With no roads or commercial facilities in sight, this slice of paradise has remained blissfully unspoiled. While most visitors arrive by yacht or tender, adventurous souls can embark on a rainforest hike lasting anywhere from 30 to 90 minutes to reach this secluded haven.
For yacht travelers, Rendezvous Bay offers a rare combination of privacy and natural beauty.
"Rendezvous Bay beach is quite possibly the best beach in Antigua! This beach is absolutely pristine, boasting a long stretch of white sand, crystal clear water, and beautiful back drop of nothing but tropical greenery." – Exploring Antigua
The bay’s crystal-clear turquoise waters are perfect for swimming, kayaking, and paddleboarding, with gentle, inviting waves. A vibrant reef teeming with marine life and surrounding 1,000-foot hills make it an excellent spot for snorkeling, all while providing a breathtaking backdrop. With water temperatures peaking at a comfortable 84°F in September, you can enjoy aquatic activities here year-round.
Since there are no restaurants or facilities, visitors should come prepared with essentials like snacks, drinks, and reef-safe sunblock. The remote location often means you’ll have the beach almost entirely to yourself, offering a level of tranquility that's hard to find elsewhere. With a 9.3/10 rating from Exploring Antigua and recognition as a runner-up for Best Caribbean Beach by USA Today 10Best Readers' Choice Awards, Rendezvous Bay is a hidden treasure that embodies the exclusivity of luxury yacht charters.
Planning to linger until sunset? Be sure to pack strong insect repellent, as mosquitoes and sandflies tend to emerge after the sun dips below the horizon. Conveniently located about 20 minutes by boat from English Harbour, Rendezvous Bay is a must-visit for yachts cruising Antigua’s stunning southern coastline.
Sandy Spit, British Virgin Islands
Sandy Spit perfectly captures the secluded charm and exclusivity that make Caribbean yacht charters so special. This tiny, uninhabited islet spans less than half an acre - roughly the size of a soccer field - and is surrounded by powdery white sand, shimmering turquoise waters, and a few iconic coconut palms. Nestled near the eastern tip of Little Jost Van Dyke, it offers a true castaway experience.
As described by IYC:
"Hardly more than a tuft of sand and palms adrift in the sea, Sandy Spit near Jost Van Dyke looks like something sketched straight from a castaway's dream." – IYC
Getting to Sandy Spit is part of the adventure. Accessible only by yacht or tender, visitors anchor in shallow waters and wade ashore to this untouched paradise. Arriving early often means having the entire island to yourself, as day-charter groups usually set out later from Jost Van Dyke.
The islet is a favorite among snorkelers. On the south side, you'll find a sloping coral reef teeming with sea turtles, stingrays, and vibrant parrotfish. The north side, on the other hand, reveals fascinating tide pools during low tide. Since the island has no facilities, shade, or trash bins, you'll need to bring your essentials - think high-SPF sunscreen, a hat, plenty of water, snacks, and snorkeling gear - and make sure to pack out everything you bring in.
Managed by the BVI National Parks Trust, Sandy Spit is protected to preserve its delicate ecosystem. Visitors are encouraged to use designated mooring buoys and follow local conservation guidelines. The absence of mooring balls adds to the feeling of exclusivity, making it seem like a hidden gem that few have discovered. Sandy Spit’s untouched beauty and tranquil isolation make it a must-visit spot for those seeking a unique and luxurious yacht charter experience in the Caribbean.
Stocking Island, The Exumas
Stocking Island stretches about 4 miles along the eastern edge of Elizabeth Harbour, acting as a natural shield that protects George Town from the Atlantic's powerful swells. With just 10 permanent residents, this slim island offers yacht travelers a mix of pristine nature and a few lively social spots - all accessible only by boat. Its unique layout makes it a haven for diverse beach experiences.
The beaches here are among the most stunning in the Bahamas. Conch Shell Beach is a standout, with thousands of discarded conch shells lining the shore, creating a one-of-a-kind, crunchy landscape underfoot. On the Atlantic side, you can find stromatolites - ancient macro-fossils - dotting the surf-washed beaches, an extraordinary sight highlighted by the Bahamas Ministry of Tourism.
But the island isn’t just about its beaches. It also features calm harbors and lush surroundings. On the west side, Hurricane Hole offers a tranquil natural harbor encircled by mangroves. This spot is perfect for exploring by kayak or yacht tender, leading you to secluded coves teeming with birdlife. At the southern tip lies Moriah Harbour Cay National Park, a protected area spanning 13,440 acres of beaches, sand dunes, and mangrove creeks. For breathtaking views of the Exuma Cays, take a hike to The Beacon, a high point marked by an old gas monument once used for navigation.
The underwater scenery is equally mesmerizing. Mystery Cave, a blue-hole grotto located 70 feet below the island, was famously explored by Jacques Cousteau's team, who ventured roughly 1,700 feet into its depths. These tidal blue holes have strong currents, so diving here requires careful timing with the tides. For those who prefer calmer waters, nearby coral gardens and undersea caves provide excellent snorkeling opportunities.
When it’s time to unwind, Chat 'N' Chill is the island’s go-to social hub. This boat-access-only beach bar is famous for its Sunday pig roast, which runs from 12:00 PM to 7:00 PM and attracts sailors from all over the harbor. Just steps away, you can swim with friendly stingrays in the shallow waters. Guy Britton, Managing Editor of Caribbean Journal, perfectly sums up the vibe of Stocking Island:
"It's the kind of place where boaters drop anchor and don't leave for days. Where birthdays and chance meetings and lazy afternoons blur into one long, salt-sweet memory".
Tahiti Beach, Abaco Island, Bahamas
Tahiti Beach is tucked away at the southern tip of Elbow Cay in the Abaco Islands, Bahamas. This crescent-shaped stretch of white sand is framed by crystal-clear turquoise waters and lined with soaring coconut palms, creating a picture-perfect tropical escape. Guy Britton from Caribbean Journal describes it as a "tiny tucked away paradise with perfect white sand and iconic palm trees". But the real magic happens when the tide goes out.
At low tide, a sweeping sandbar emerges, curving gracefully into the Sea of Abaco. It’s a natural playground, perfect for wading, beachcombing, and soaking in the serene surroundings. With water temperatures ranging from the low 70s°F in winter to the mid-80s°F in summer, the beach offers comfortable conditions no matter the season. For those exploring by yacht, Tahiti Beach provides a secluded and pristine destination.
For yacht travelers, this beach is a fantastic day stop. It’s conveniently located about 2.6 nautical miles from Hope Town and 5.9 nautical miles from Pelican Cays Land and Sea Park. The calm, protected waters on the western side of Elbow Cay make it an ideal anchoring spot, with most yachts dropping anchor just north of the sandbar where the water is especially tranquil.
The shallow waters here are perfect for paddleboarding, kayaking, and snorkeling. Adding to the charm is the Thirsty Cuda, a floating bar and grill that serves up delicious food and tropical drinks right to boaters relaxing in the shallows. And if you're aboard your yacht as the sun sets, the west-facing orientation offers breathtaking sunset views - an unforgettable way to end the day.
While Tahiti Beach feels wonderfully remote, it’s just a short trip from Hope Town, where you can enjoy local restaurants and dining spots. Lazy Locations highlights its unique mix of seclusion and accessibility, making it a favorite among boaters seeking a laid-back atmosphere.
Mopion Island, St. Vincent & The Grenadines
Mopion Island is the picture-perfect definition of a tropical castaway dream. This tiny sandbank, stretching anywhere from 65 to 100 feet depending on the tide, lies northwest of Petit St. Vincent in the Grenadines. Its most iconic feature? A single thatched umbrella standing proudly on its pristine white sand. There are no trees, no buildings - just pure simplicity. As Lonely Planet describes it, Mopion truly is "the place of tropical castaway fantasies". Its remote location makes it an exclusive destination, accessible only by yacht.
Reaching Mopion isn’t straightforward - you’ll need a yacht, tender, or water taxi from Union Island. This remoteness not only preserves its untouched beauty but also rewards visitors with shallow, crystal-clear waters and vibrant coral reefs. For snorkeling enthusiasts, it’s a paradise waiting to be explored. The island’s charm is deeply tied to its solitude, offering a sense of exclusivity that only a yacht can provide.
BVI Yacht Charters eloquently captures its essence:
"Mopion, a dollop of sand surrounded by a transparent sea, is without a single palm tree."
Interestingly, the thatched umbrella wasn’t placed there for aesthetics. It was originally installed as a navigational marker to help sailors avoid the shallow reef. Over time, the island’s name shifted from "Morpion" (French for "pubic louse") to the more inviting "Mopion". Today, the umbrella is maintained by the Petit St. Vincent resort staff and has earned the nickname "Engagement Umbrella" because of the many proposals that have taken place under its shade.
Visitors should come prepared - there’s no shade beyond the umbrella, and the reflective white sand intensifies the sun’s glare. Bring plenty of sun protection, as well as all the essentials like food, water, and supplies, since there are no facilities on the island. You might also spot a bottle opener and carved names on the umbrella pole, small details that hint at the island’s storied past. For those arriving by yacht, Mopion Island offers a rare and unforgettable escape, perfectly capturing the essence of Caribbean adventure.
Cumberland Bay, St. Vincent
Cumberland Bay offers a deep, sheltered anchorage where yachts can anchor impressively close to the shore. One of its standout features is the "Tahitian-style" mooring, where sailors tie their stern lines to coconut trees on the beach [76,77]. This unique setup creates a personal and memorable connection to the natural surroundings, something you won’t encounter at busier Caribbean ports.
Jungle-covered bluffs frame the bay on both sides, with steep rocky slopes and a vibrant coconut palm forest along the shoreline [75,76]. Adding to its charm, a freshwater river flows across the beach and into the sea [76,77]. Lonely Planet describes it perfectly:
"A lovely secluded bay framed by jungle-covered bluffs, Cumberland is a popular anchorage for more adventurous yachties"
The bay’s natural beauty is complemented by practical onshore amenities tailored for yacht travelers. The Cumberland Beach Recreational Park features a jetty, laundry services ($15.00 per load), showers ($3.00), and local dining options. Local linehandlers, like the well-known "Joseph Rasta", assist with securing shore lines, accommodating up to 30 yachts [77,78].
But the adventure truly begins once you step ashore. The Cumberland Nature Trail winds through dense vegetation, offering the chance to spot the rare St. Vincent parrot. Nearby attractions like Wallilabou Falls (1.19 miles away) and Dark View Falls (3.4 miles away) provide opportunities to explore stunning waterfalls [75,77,78,79]. Chris Doyle captures the essence of the area:
"The west coast of St. Vincent is a scenic tropical wonderland and, in the case of Cumberland Bay, very friendly. It is an excellent place to hike, arrange tours into the wilder areas, and just relax"
Since Cumberland Bay is not an official port of entry, it remains refreshingly quiet, offering a secluded escape with just the right mix of local amenities. From serene nature trails to friendly local eateries, this bay delivers a uniquely tranquil experience, perfect for yacht travelers seeking both adventure and relaxation.
How LuxcharterYacht Provides Access to These Locations
Exploring the hidden gems of the Caribbean isn’t as simple as hopping on any vessel - it requires skilled navigation and the right equipment. LuxcharterYacht’s professional crews bring invaluable local expertise to the table, ensuring safe passage through delicate reefs and narrow bay entrances that would challenge less capable vessels. This knowledge is especially critical in areas like Anegada, where the highest point rises just 28 feet above sea level, and over 300 shipwrecks have been documented.
The fleet’s shallow-draft design, paired with onboard tenders, allows for direct access to secluded bays and grottoes that larger ships simply can’t reach. As Edmiston puts it:
"A superyacht charter is your passport to most secluded Caribbean islands, which are out of bounds to most"
LuxcharterYacht takes this experience a step further with its personalized concierge service. They craft custom itineraries that steer away from the usual tourist routes, ensuring unmatched privacy. From securing private island permits to arranging exclusive dining and spa experiences, their team handles every detail to create a seamless and luxurious journey.
Onboard, the luxury continues. Professional chefs prepare gourmet meals using fresh, locally sourced ingredients - whether it’s a farm-to-table feast or a beachside barbecue served on fine china. The yachts are also equipped with a wide range of water sports gear, including kayaks, paddleboards, snorkeling and scuba diving equipment, jet skis, and Seabobs, so guests can immerse themselves in the pristine marine environments.
Paradise Connections sums it up perfectly:
"Our professional crews will make sure each charter guest experiences the perfect personalized itinerary for their Virgin Islands sailing vacation"
Whether you’re diving among historic shipwrecks off Anegada or relaxing in a secluded bay, LuxcharterYacht’s combination of skilled crews, expertly designed vessels, and comprehensive services ensures you’ll explore the Caribbean’s most exclusive destinations in safety and comfort.
Conclusion
The Caribbean’s best-kept secrets aren’t found on tourist brochures. From Mopion Island’s tiny 20-yard sandbank with its lone thatched umbrella to the serene, reef-protected waters of Long Bay in Tortola, these yacht-access-only destinations offer a level of solitude that’s hard to come by. While hotspots like Magens Bay and Cane Garden Bay attract crowds, these hidden gems remain blissfully quiet and untouched.
What sets these locations apart isn’t just their vibrant coral reefs or rich marine ecosystems - it’s the natural barriers that keep them secluded. Narrow reef channels, shallow waters, and the lack of road access preserve what locals lovingly call “the Caribbean as it once was”. As IYC puts it:
"The best [beaches] are revealed to those who arrive by yacht or tender"
These destinations highlight the perfect mix of natural seclusion and timeless charm, making yacht travel more than just a luxury - it’s the key to experiencing the Caribbean’s authentic tranquility. Accessing these hidden treasures requires the right vessel, expert navigation, and a touch of local know-how.
That’s where LuxcharterYacht steps in. With rates starting at $2,500 for day charters, $6,800 for weekend getaways, and $18,500 for week-long adventures, their premium fleet of motor yachts, sailing yachts, and catamarans unlocks destinations that remain off-limits to most travelers. Their professional crews expertly navigate complex reefs, while shallow-draft designs and onboard tenders make it possible to anchor in tucked-away coves that larger ships can’t reach. This level of access transforms a yacht charter into a gateway to the Caribbean’s most secluded and breathtaking spots.
Whether you’re dreaming of a short escape or an extended island-hopping adventure, the destinations mentioned above promise unparalleled privacy and natural beauty. The only question left is: when will you take the plunge into these pristine, hidden bays?
FAQs
Why is traveling by yacht the best way to explore secluded bays?
Traveling by yacht offers an experience that’s hard to match when it comes to privacy and exclusivity. It’s your chance to leave the crowds behind and immerse yourself in tranquil, untouched spots. Think hidden bays, unspoiled beaches, and lively coral reefs - places you simply can’t reach by road or commercial transport.
What makes yachting even more appealing is the freedom to design your own adventure. You’re not tied to fixed schedules or crowded itineraries. Instead, you can craft a journey that’s all about what you love, whether that’s swimming in crystal-clear waters, snorkeling among vibrant marine life, or just soaking up the breathtaking scenery around you. Exploring by yacht isn’t just travel - it’s a deeper connection to some of the most secluded and stunning destinations out there.
How does LuxcharterYacht ensure safe and secure travel to secluded Caribbean bays?
LuxcharterYacht places a strong emphasis on safety, ensuring your luxurious journey is as secure as it is enjoyable. Their licensed, professional crews bring extensive experience in navigating the Caribbean’s unique challenges, from hidden reefs to narrow channels and sudden weather shifts. Each yacht is outfitted with cutting-edge navigation technology, including GPS, AIS, and real-time weather tracking, allowing for meticulously planned routes.
Before every voyage, the crew performs comprehensive safety checks, inspecting life rafts, fire extinguishers, and emergency beacons. Guests are also given a detailed safety briefing to ensure everyone is prepared. Throughout the trip, the crew keeps a close eye on weather updates and sea conditions, adjusting the course as necessary to steer clear of any risks. Thanks to their in-depth knowledge of the region, they can safely anchor and guide you to even the most tucked-away Caribbean bays, letting you savor the tranquility and exclusivity of these breathtaking destinations.
What should I bring when visiting secluded Caribbean bays without facilities?
When venturing into secluded Caribbean bays that are only accessible by yacht, preparation is key. These hidden spots are breathtaking but often come without the convenience of on-site facilities. Packing thoughtfully ensures you can fully enjoy activities like swimming, paddleboarding, or simply unwinding on the beach.
Start with the basics: pack swimwear, a quick-dry towel, and broad-spectrum sunscreen to enjoy the tropical waters while staying protected from the sun. Since you won’t find shops or restaurants nearby, bring along food, snacks, and plenty of water to stay fueled and hydrated. For added comfort, include a hat, sunglasses, and a lightweight cover-up to shield yourself from the sun during breaks.
Planning for water activities? If snorkeling or paddleboarding is on your agenda, it’s a good idea to bring your own gear or check with your yacht crew about equipment availability. To safeguard your belongings from unexpected splashes, pack them in waterproof bags or dry cases - a simple step that can save you a lot of hassle.
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