Beaches in Venezuela

Where the Caribbean meets the rainforest

Venezuela holds one of the most diverse coastlines in the Caribbean, stretching from the turquoise archipelagos of Los Roques to the mangrove-fringed cays of Morrocoy National Park. Unlike the crowded resort strips of other destinations, most of Venezuela's beaches require a little effort — and reward you with near-total solitude.

The water here runs unusually warm year-round, fed by the Caribbean current, and visibility in the outer archipelagos regularly exceeds 30 metres. Coral reefs, seagrass meadows, and pelagic drop-offs sit within a short boat ride of each other.

Beach season runs year-round, but December through April brings the driest weather and calmest seas. Venezuelans take to the coast during Semana Santa and the July school holidays — plan accordingly if you prefer quiet.

• Los Roques: 350 islands in a protected national park
• Morrocoy: coral cays by day, flamingo lagoons at sunset
• Margarita Island: kite surfing hub with reliable trade winds
• Choroní: colonial village 10 minutes from black-sand beaches
• Most remote beaches require boat access — that's what keeps them pristine