The Quirkiest Bars in The Caribbean

When it comes to great Caribbean bars, a come-as-you-are vibe and ice-cold drinks trump air-conditioning and fancy fittings every time.

Sure, a waterfront or hilltop location is a big part of the allure, but it’s the warm welcome and barefoot-casual atmosphere that brings party-hearty patrons back. So next time you’re in the mood for a beer minus the brouhaha, check out some of our favorite quirky Caribbean beach bars, no shoes or shirt required.

These are some of the funnest bars in the Caribbean:

Chat n Chill, Bahamas

If you’re in the Exumas, it’d be rude not to sail over to Stocking Island to visit the super-casual bar and restaurant that had made it famous. The Sunday pig roast is a local must-do, but the barn-like beachfront bar is fun any day of the week.

Karakter, St. Maarten

This school bus-turned-bar parked on the sands of Simpson Bay is so close to the runway at Princess Juliana International Airport that locals consider it the unofficial departure lounge. Snag a seat on the wooden deck, have the bartender make a strawberry daiquiri and watch the planes (and your cares) fly away.

Pelican Bar, Jamaica

Made almost entirely of driftwood and reclaimed lumber, this rickety south-coast staple sits on a sandbar about a half-mile from the bohemian village of Treasure Beach. We can’t think of a better place to raise a Red Stripe.

The Sandbar, Turks and Caicos Islands

If you find yourself on Grand Turk, we have two recommendations: Swimming with the stingrays at nearby Gibbs Cay, followed by a rum and coke at this simple but sweet beachfront bar, beloved by locals and visitors alike.

Seddy’s One Love Bar & Grill, British Virgin Islands

Good news: This popular spot on Jost Van Dyke’s White Bay has been rebuilt after 2017’s storms. Even better news: It looks almost the same, down to the plastic chairs and ceiling rafters embellished with old fishing nets, driftwood and weathered buoys.

Which Caribbean bar would you try?

Whether you're craving a rum runner drink or a cocktail with rum and coffee, the Caribbean has options for you. Which of these do you think would be your favorite bar in the Caribbean? Let us know if the comments section below.