St. Thomas USVI Beaches

NORTH SIDE BEACHES

Magens Bay Beach
Conde Nast Traveler rated
one of World's top 10.


Little Magens Bay Beach
St. Thomas' only nude beach
and former Presidential favorite.


Coki Point Beach
Spectacular snorkeling.
Coral World close by.


Grand Beach
Off Route 38 - don't miss
this "grand" surprise!



EAST END BEACHES

Secret Harbour Beach
The "secret" is out. Great
family beach - worth the visit.


Sapphire Beach
Easy access, glorious views.
Spend the day with a gem.


Lindquist Beach
One of St. Thomas' prettiest!
Home to many TV commercials.



SOUTH SIDE BEACHES

Morning Star Beach
Some call this Frenchman's Bay Beach.
Young and Restless hang out here.



WEST OF CHARLOTTE AMALIE

Brewer's Bay Beach
Popular, sometimes crowded.
Look at the clear water!


Lindbergh Bay Beach
Named after Charles A. Lindbergh.
Used mainly by locals.



OFF THE BEATEN PATH

Water Island's Honeymoon Beach
Catch the ferry and catch romance!
Beautiful and quite. Charming.


Bluebeard's Beach
Become a part of history.
You gotta say, "Arrrrr!"

Bluebeard's Beach, St. Thomas USVI

If I took you to this beach in St. Thomas and we walked along for a bit you certainly wouldn't believe me if I told you that it is one of the less frequented beaches on the Island. But it shouldn't be. The sand is fine and there are some very good shade spots on the beach. Plus, if you get adventuresome, there is some pretty good snorkeling along the left shoreline out to the point. There are rocks here and you just have to use a little common sense to know when it is calm and safe to go out. But there are a lot of fish to be seen and some nice coral, too. If you're into diving, this might not be the best beach to dive from, but then again, there are more dive sites around St. Thomas than you can shake a stick at.



Welcome to Bluebeard's Beach. In charming Vessup Bay, Bluebeard's Beach is another classic white sand strand. And you'll want to visit because this is historic as well as relaxing.

Though now a resort, Bluebeard's Castle, or what's left of the fortress, dates back to the 1600's. It is said that Bluebeard, the infamous pirate, constructed his lookout on the hilltop overlooking the harbor (present Charlotte Amalie), so he could see when prospective ships were arriving, or sailing by.

The view from the "castle" is spectacular. But it's not near the beach.

Bluebeard also has a beach named after him. The beach is located not far from the town of Red Hook (think Deep-Sea Fishing), and is postcard perfect. As you venture down Bluebeard's Road (Rte. 322), follow it down as it leaves Route 30.

Behind the beach are rocky hills and semi-arid vegetation like cactus and agave plants. Of course the sea grape trees are everywhere.

There are water sports available and tons of room for you to stretch out and call your own, because - not many know of this beach! Enjoy.

Bluebeard's Beach - BEACH INDEX:

• Sand - medium grain/white
• Facilities - full service nearby.
• Shade - palms and beach huts.
• Sports - rentals available right at the beach.
• Notes - off the beaten path and very nice!

We are off to St. Croix with - well, you thought St. Thomas was super... wait until you see the beaches on the next island over... those are NEXT! >>

Lindbergh Beach - St. Thomas USVI

For whatever reason I always thought that this would be a great beach to come to simply for the historical reasons. In my book Lindy was a pretty great hero and even though his political views can be debated, he made some wonderful contributions to flight. Even though Lindbergh was buried in Maui, there are places all over the globe that bear his name. One of my favorite beaches on St. Thomas is this bay mainly because of the way the shoreline curls around and the rocks jut out of the water. The beach here is fantastic as well.


Sometimes named Lindbergh Bay, Lindbergh Beach was named after the famous American aviator, Charles A. Lindbergh. Here again, there are two hotels that anchor the strip. On one end we have the Emerald Beach Hotel, and on the other we have the Island Beachcomber Hotel.

It's a tranquil beach, seemingly good for relaxing with a book or just blocking out the world. There are rentals for all water sports at the hotels. But, the beach here isn't good for snorkeling. The bottom is mainly sandy.

Because of the quiet surf, the locals have made this their place to meet and relax. And, there's even a playground on one end of the beach, it's the perfect place to bring their families - and yours, as well.

The hotels serve drinks out on the beach and the sand around the facilities is kept clean. There are a few restaurants at the hotels and open-air bars, always fun.

Lindbergh Beach is located just west of Charlotte Amalie. You can reach it by taking the Fortuna bus going west. Taxis and rental cars are also great options for you.

Lindbergh Beach - BEACH INDEX:

• Sand - soft, medium grain, white
• Facilities - full service
• Shade - sea grape and palm trees abound, umbrella rentals.
• Sports - rentals available at the hotels.
• Notes - child friendly, used almost exclusively by locals, political rallies sometimes held here.

Next, lets take a look at some other beach options on St. Thomas before we head on over to St. Croix. Right HERE >>

Brewer's Bay Beach - St. Thomas USVI

No, it wasn't the college students at the nearby university that gave this beach its namesake. And I'm not sure where Brewer's came from, but there are a couple of places in the Caribbean called that. The bay is really pretty and the sand is simply brilliant white. This contrasted with super blue sky and emerald water, just pull up a beach chair and something cold to drink and I think I could stay here for at least a day. And here you don't even need to pack a lunch!


Although it's billed as one of St. Thomas' more popular beaches, Brewer's Bay is not one of the best. Popular because it's near the University of the Virgin Islands in the southwest of St. Thomas. But don't expect those awesome reefs of coral near the shore.

In fact, at Brewer's Bay Beach, we thought the best thing to do is just relax in the sun and bring along a good friend, or a book you need to finish. It's tranquil here, and there are facilities right at the beach.

Beach vendors will be able to sell you a light lunch along with drinks. Seems the tradition from other beaches across the world is set here as well. Vendors often have something you're not like to find elsewhere in souvenirs and guidance.

This beach is big - almost the size of Magens Bay. Where Magens has rock among the sandy bottom, promoting great coral growth, Brewer's Bay has none.

Don't confuse this beach with Brewer's Bay, Tortola. We cover that on our site on Tortola. St. Thomas has many, many options for beaches - so many, you'll soon find your favorite and the exploration will end there. Try to squeak out a few more adventures so you don't miss out on a once in a lifetime treat.

From downtown, look for the "Fortuna" bus that's westbound. Get off right at Brewer's Bay, across the street from the Reichhold Center.

Brewer's Bay - BEACH INDEX:

• Sand - white, medium grained.
• Facilities - full service.
• Shade - look for trees along the beach line.
• Notes - near the University, can get crowded.

Okay, it has bathrooms and a lifeguard, and it's the beach named after a famous American aviator - NEXT! >>

Sapphire Beach - St. Thomas USVI

Here's a beach that is fun for walking and nice for swimming in a few good areas. But along the shore there has always been shallow grassy areas that give way to a near shore reef. That can be creepy walking through if you've never done it, but remember you don't have to enter there. You can go around to the Doubletree and enter there, then slowly make your way out with snorkel and fins and gently glide over the beauty of this small bay. Well worth a day trip here.

When you arrive at Sapphire Beach, St. Thomas, you can visualize that there must have been some settlement here long before the current Doubletree Sapphire Beach Resort and Marina. Because of the nature of the coast, one can imagine a ship offshore and small dinghies making their way to the beach. With St. John in the distance, protection was good from the open ocean.

One thing that keeps ships away from shore are the large reefs. Many a ship has gone down because of a collision with the hard formation. Sapphire Beach boasts one of the largest reefs, close to shore.

No ship has gone down here, that we know of, anyway, but the reef adds to the charm of this lovely cove. Walk along the shore and take in the waves as they end in the sand, or walk among the trees, some with spectacular blooms in Caribbean colors!

You can lunch at the Doubletree, while you're watching the boats go about the offshore cays, and the windsurfers who enjoy the direction and speed of the wind here. You can rent snorkel gear and umbrella shade right at the beach.

To get to Sapphire Beach, take the east end bus from town in the direction of Red Hook. Tell the driver you'd like to get off at the entrance to Sapphire Bay. You'll have to walk a piece, but it's not far. Plan on spending the day!

Don't forget the suntan lotion!

Sapphire Beach - BEACH INDEX:

• Sand - white/medium grain/some debris.
• Facilities - the Doubletree.
• Shade - some trees line the shore.
• Sports - rental at the beach.
• Notes - recommended.

They call the next beach a mere "strip" - but it ranks as one of St. Thomas' prettiest! NEXT >>

Grand Beach - St. Thomas USVI

There's nothing big about big about Grand Beach and that's fine with us. You may even be one of the few out there for a bit on any given day except weekends because of the location. Like secluded? We do, too. The sweet part is that the water here and sand are simply unbelievable. The open bay makes this an infinity pool of sorts that almost overloads the senses. Grab the beach towel and a good book, or take the camera because Grand will not disappoint.

Short and sweet and just off Route 38, you'll find Grand Beach. As a matter of fact, on your rush to Coral World or Coki Point, you may just pass it. But don't! Find a parking spot and gather your things for a day at the Grand.

This is one of the secret beaches that many simply run by on their way past Smith Bay. Here, you will find some of the best sand on the island; certainly one of the best views, and in our opinion, one of most charming.

It's not just for laying back, however. Grand Beach is outfitted with some of the best water sports. You'll find everything here from snorkel to diving, kayaking to beach floaties.

You can also rent items from your hotel. That may be cheaper. Just check their rates and know that the beaches will all have about the same going rates for rentals.

So mark this one down, or print it out - Grand Beach, off Route 38, not too far from Coki Point Beach. Visit the Coral World Aquarium while you're there.

Discover peace and beauty right in the beautiful U.S. Virgin Islands.

Grand Beach - BEACH INDEX:

• Sand - mainly medium grain, soft - from coral.
• Facilities - full.
• Shade - both palms and umbrellas.
• Sports - a variety of good sports are available here.
• Notes - recommended.

Coming next, a beach they thought would stay a secret - yet the secret is out - in an awesome way! >>

Little Magens Bay Beach - St .Thomas USVI

Imagine waking up to water in so many shades of blue that you, well, never get use it. A sailboat sails slowly by as it makes its way into deeper water. You hear gulls overhead as they compete with the gentle Caribbean breeze. It's almost hypnotizing, but you know you're here in St. Thomas and moments away from planting your feet in that powdery, white sand. This beach is one of my favorites because it's small and has both sand and rocks and water that will knock you out.

Though nude beaches are not a big thing in the U.S. Virgin Islands (it's not legal and only unofficially tolerated), there are a few. One of the more popular ones is just down the trail from well-known Magens Bay Beach. To get there, just follow the signs.

We have very few pictures of Little Magens Bay Beach, but these shots will give you an idea of how beautiful Little Magens Bay is.

Little Magens Bay Beach is separated by rocks and water from the grand Magens Bay Beach.

Little Magens Bay BEACH INDEX:

• Sand - medium grain/coral composition.
• Facilities - must go back to Magens Bay Beach.
• Shade - palm trees and afternoon shade from nearby mountain.
• Notes - it's illegal to be nude in the USVI.

Our next beach on St. Thomas offers some spectacular snorkeling! Bring the camera and let's head northeast - Next! >>

Magens Bay Beach - St. Thomas USVI

This huge expanse of a beach is set next to the rolling mountains of St. Thomas, and what makes this SO beautiful is that the mountains literally roll right down into the Caribbean Sea. The water around this enchanted Island is so blue, and I'm happy that pictures of St. Thomas normally pick up the hues. It is even more breathtaking in person. Have you been? What did you think? Care to comment below and let us know. We'd be happy to post any pictures you have as well.

Conde Nast Traveler gave this beach a rating of one of the world's 10 most beautiful beaches. What makes it so is that it spans between two mountains. It's accessible - only three miles north of the capital.

Yes, the turquoise waters are heavenly and perfect for snorkeling or swimming. But remember, St. Thomas is a great port for cruise ships so you'll often find Magens Bay Beach very crowded. Choose mid-afternoon as your time to visit.

They have everything here, from snorkel rental to changing facilities. Kayaks are available as well. However, there is no bus service out to Magens Bay. Some hotels run shuttles; check with yours.

Magens Bay Beach is gated. The gates are open from 5 AM to 6 PM and by late afternoon you'll need insect repellent. It costs $3.00 to get into the beach and ample parking is available.

Magens Bay - BEACH INDEX:

• Sand - powdery white, coral substance.
• Facilities - full.
• Shade - palms and some umbrellas.
• Sports - all available. Check local vendors.
• Notes - gets crowded.

Hey, close-by you'll find former President Clinton's favorite beach on St. Thomas. It's clothing-optional! Next! >>

Three Best Beaches on St. Thomas - U.S. Virgin Islands

Did pirates really have the pleasure of spending any of their booty? I tend to think they loved the sport and what they gained was either lost or confiscated and sent back to the motherland. In any case, what they did enjoy were the beaches of the Caribbean. Colombus discovered it, hurricanes have ravaged it, and many a Spanish galleon have graced its ports. With quite the history, it's no wonder St. Thomas must have been a beautiful place to relax and unwind. And that tradition has not slowed down.

One thing you can say about St. Thomas that may not be true on any other Caribbean island is that there is definitely a beach for everyone. If you have been searching for a party beach, St. Thomas has them. If you are looking for a beach perfect for sun tanning, you'll find it right here in St. Thomas. If you love water sports, from snorkeling to scuba, parasailing to riding those funny banana shaped floats they tow behind jet skis, oh, and if you want to Jet Ski, there's a beach for all of that, too.

Perhaps you want a more laid back beach, one where the wind gently blows and waves lap up on shore as they've done for thousands of years, no problem - we have that beach getaway as well right here on St. Thomas.

And remember this - as you plan your vacation to the U.S. Virgin Islands, all beaches are open to the public. Now what does that mean, exactly? Well, the sand is yours to wander upon and use, but right about where the tree line starts and heading inland, that's normally private property.

You'll find that some of the Virgin Island beaches have huge resorts built close by. This means that you can't fake that you're a guest and use their chairs and umbrellas, towels, sports gear, swimming pools - you get the picture. Don't get in trouble. If in doubt, ask.

To find our top three was a challenge, but we're happy to start out with number three.

Lindberg Bay

Named after the famous aviator, Charles A. Lindberg, Lindberg Bay is one of the beaches where people looking for a quiet day hang out. Sea Grapes and Palm trees line the beach that is home to the beautiful Emerald Beach Hotel and the Island Beachcomber. Why they didn't name the hotel Lindberg Bay Resort is anyone's guess.

This beach is perfect for kicking back. You can rent all of those fun floaties and not worry about waves. For sports, the hotels have rentals from snorkel gear to windsurfing to kayaks. You can even take a Hobie Cat out and enjoy the blue water.

Kids will have fun in the shallows. And guess what?! This beautiful beach has a playground located at one end of the beach.

And as if they thought of everything, you can snack or eat right at the restaurants or bars at the hotels. They are open-air and always fun.

You're a short drive from the airport - not like you would land and come right to the beach, but so you know, you don't have to go far. The beach is a few minutes from Charlotte Amalie. You can get here by rental car, taxi or even the public bus. We recommend getting a rental car when visiting St. Thomas. This will afford you the freedom of coming and going when you choose. You'll find that if you rent in your home city you will get a lower rate. Make sure you follow the rules that come from the rental agency; some roads can be challenging.

BEACH INDEX:

• Sand - soft, fine grain
• Facilities - full service
• Shade - sea grape and palm trees abound, umbrella rental from the hotels
• Sports - rental available at the hotels
• Notes - child friendly, not over-populated, clean water

Coki Point Beach

This is the beach that the cruise ships bring their crowds, but wait! Don't let that keep you from visiting. St. Thomas offers up the luxurious white sand gem that is popular among the locals as well. This beach offers a little more action. If you have snorkel gear, bring it. It's awesome.

As you can see, you could lie out in the sun all day and go home with wonderful memories. And that's fine - but - we would be remiss if we didn't tell you that right under the surface, right along shore is one of the world's best snorkel spots for beginners. How so?

Coki Beach gets little wave action, and because of this, there isn't much cloudy water caused by wave action with sand. On top of that, there is the rocky area near the shore. The less sand, the more coral growth activity and the better chance you have for seeing beautiful, colorful tropical fish. You'll see when you get in how super clear the water is. Wear a T-shirt because the water will wash off your tanning lotion and you will want to stay in longer than the sun takes to burn your back.

Be prepared for what comes along with the cruise tours: vendors, hair braiders, and pickpockets. You'd think St. Thomas would want to spend a little more effort here. The bathrooms are primitive. What they have for restaurants are a couple of bars and beach shacks with a few picnic tables.

On the positive side, there are chair rentals, taxis readily available, a great local dive shop, Jet Ski rental and a place called Coral World Marine Park right next to the beach.

Now why would the locals and cruises come here in droves? And why do we even give it a mention? Because it's that good. The beach is just great and the fact the reef is that close is an added touch that is too good to pass up.

So when you are on St. Thomas, don't miss Coki Beach. Spend a day with the locals and do some power-people watching. (Get some great snorkeling in, as well!)

BEACH INDEX:

Sand - soft, fine grain
Facilities - full service
Shade - some along the tree line
Sports - local dive shop, jet skis
Notes - can get a little crowded when the tours arrive, get your spot and enjoy, snorkeling world class


Magens Bay

Imagine a Christmas present of unimaginable magnitude. Shortly after that holiday in 1946, the people of the Virgin Island received the generosity of Arthur S. Fairchild, former Wall Street genius, long time island resident, and philanthropist.

So what was the gift? Land. Mr. Fairchild knowing what local governments could do deeded the land to the people - 56 acres of the most beautiful area of St. Thomas - Magens Bay.

Magens encompasses a former sugar cane plantation called Louisenhoj, named after Louisa Rohde, nee Magens - the daughter of a prominent Danish family. Thus the name, Magens Bay. So today, it's a public park on a grand scale.

Rated by National Geographic Magazine as one of the world's top ten, Magens Bay, St. Thomas, is quiet during the week and picks up a little during the weekends. The turquoise, shimmering water isn't known for snorkeling - that nice sandy bottom makes for kind of boring snorkeling scenery. But if you insist, locals say go straight out to the buoys, just about center bay, and you might be lucky enough to see one of the turtles that often hang out there.

Many films and commercials are shot here. Scenes from Weekend at Bernie's 2, Kawasaki Jet Skis, Doublemint Gum and Monsoon Perfume to name a few. That gives you an idea just how precious this place is. It is a recommended beach.

There is a concession stand offering food, drink, rentals and a small boutique. Some cruise ships do send their tourists here, normally around noon. The beach can get busy on Sunday and local holidays. There is an entry fee of $3.00 per person, $1.00 for your car, and 25 cents for each child.

BEACH INDEX:
Sand - white powder/fine-medium grain
Facilities - full service
Shade - adult palm trees
Sports - a kayak/sailing center offers limited rentals
Notes - don't miss this beach, the best of the USVI