Runaway Bay

Runaway Bay runs along the northwest coast immediately south of busier Dickenson Bay, the two beaches separated only by a low headland. It offers the same warm, shallow, west-facing Caribbean water but with far fewer people, which makes it a quiet alternative for travelers who want calm swimming without the resort bustle.

The sand is soft and pale, and a handful of casual beach bars and a couple of small hotels dot the shore. Because the bay is sheltered and shelves gently, the water stays calm and clear, good for unhurried swims and for letting children paddle. Local families come here at weekends for the relaxed atmosphere.

Shade is limited away from the bars, so bring an umbrella. The beach faces due west, so this is one of the better spots near Dickenson Bay to settle in for sunset. Some erosion over the years has narrowed sections of the sand, but the long, open feel and easy access keep Runaway Bay a reliable, low-key choice.

Because the two beaches sit side by side, many visitors combine them, swimming and people-watching at lively Dickenson Bay, then walking the short distance to Runaway Bay for a quieter stretch of the same calm water. Parking is simply roadside, and there is no lifeguard, though the sheltered, gently shelving bay keeps conditions easy. With watersports vendors, bars, and restaurants all within a short walk, Runaway Bay gives you the convenience of the resort strip without the crowds, which is exactly why locals favor it at weekends.