Discover the Pristine Beaches of St. Thomas: Your Ultimate Guide to Sun, Sand, and Paradise
Want a perfect getaway? St. Thomas is excellent! This island in the Caribbean has stunning beaches, each like a piece of paradise.
This tropical paradise is home to some of the most beautiful beaches in the Caribbean. Each offers its own slice of heaven.
St. Thomas has a beach for you, no matter what you want.
- Want peace? Find a hidden cove to chill.
- Want fun and action? Hit a lively beach with lots to do!
- The sparkling turquoise water is perfect for swimming, snorkeling, or diving.
- Clean beaches have bathrooms, showers, and lifeguards for safety. ️
- There is something for everyone, from quiet relaxation to exciting activities.
- Lush green surroundings to escape the daily grind.
So, if you're dreaming of the perfect beach vacation, St. Thomas awaits you!
Beaches in St. Thomas: A Guide to the Virgin Islands' Coastal Paradise
Sapphire Beach: Your Family Beach Paradise in St. Thomas!
Are you looking for the perfect beach day with your family? Sapphire Beach in St. Thomas is just the spot! Here's why:
- Calm & Clear: Relax and play in gentle waves and crystal-clear waters, perfect for little swimmers and snorkelers.
- Easy Access: No worries about steep drops! The sandy beach slopes gently into the bay, making it safe and easy for everyone to enter.
- Shade & Snacks: Break under shady trees, spread out a picnic lunch, and grab yummy treats from nearby vendors.
- Snorkel Adventure: Discover a colorful underwater world with fish, sea turtles, and coral reefs!
- Water Fun: Rent kayaks, paddleboards, or sailboats for an exciting family adventure on the water.
- Everything You Need: Restrooms, showers, and lifeguards are there for your comfort and safety.
- Food & Drinks: Enjoy delicious meals and refreshing drinks at restaurants and bars steps from the beach.
Forget the stress and head to Sapphire Beach for an unforgettable family beach day!
Things to do at Sapphire Beach with kids
Looking for a beach day with the whole family? Sapphire Beach has it all! Here's why it's perfect:
- Gentle waves are perfect for splashing and swimming, even for little ones.
- Explore a colorful underwater world with fish, turtles, and coral!
- Build sandcastles and play beach games for hours!
- Rent kayaks or paddleboards for a fun family outing.
- Relax under the shade trees and enjoy a delicious picnic lunch.
- Let the kids explore tide pools and collect cool shells and rocks.
- The calm waters and protected area make it one of the safest beaches for kids in St. Thomas.
So grab your sunscreen and towels and head to Sapphire Beach for a beach day your family will never forget!
Tips for visiting Sapphire Beach with a family
Planning a beach day at Sapphire with your family? Here are some quick tips to make it awesome:
- Beat the crowds: Grab a shady spot early and avoid the rush.
- Sun protection: Pack reef-safe sunscreen, hats, and cover-ups for everyone.
- Save cash: Pack a picnic lunch or snacks instead of buying everything at the beach.
- Spot your little ones: Have kids wear bright rashguards in the water for easy visibility.
- Protect those toes: Bring water shoes for exploring tide pools and swimming in rocky areas.
- Safety first: Always have an adult supervising swimmers, even tiny ones.
- Stay calm & hydrated: Drink plenty of water and reapply sunscreen regularly.
Follow these tips, and you're set for a fun, safe, affordable beach day with your family!
Magens Bay Beach
Magens Bay Beach's unique shape lets visitors find their quiet area away from the busy crowds, allowing them to enjoy nature alone.
Described as one of the most beautiful beaches in the world, Magens Bay Beach has a curved shape with palm trees and lush plants along the shore.
The gentle waves and colourful coral reefs make it a perfect place for swimming, sunbathing, and snorkelling.
The clear and calm waters at Magens Bay Beach are great for people who enjoy swimming and exploring the underwater world with a snorkel. The lively marine life adds even more excitement to this tropical paradise.
As you walk on the soft sand, look at the stunning views of the blue water, green plants, and clear skies.
It's not just a beach - a peaceful place to slow down, unwind, and feel connected to nature in its purest form.
Lindquist Beach
Lindquist Beach is a top choice for families looking for free things to do in St. Thomas. This famous beach has pristine white sand, gentle waves, and excellent amenities. And the best part is that entrance and use of Lindquist Beach are entirely free!
Located on the island's eastern end near Smith Bay, Lindquist Beach is known for its calm, clear waters and sandy beach access. The shallow entry is perfect for small children. Down the shoreline, a protected cove area offers excellent snorkeling opportunities. Picnic tables and trees provide shade.
Other amenities include restrooms, outdoor showers, lifeguards, volleyball nets, food vendors, and equipment rentals. There's also free public parking across the street. Lindquist Beach has everything families need for a full day of fun without spending a dime!
Some of the top free activities at Lindquist Beach include:
Swimming and playing in the gentle waves
Building epic sandcastles
Snorkeling the cove to see tropical fish
Trying beach volleyball or other games
Picnicking under the trees
Watching planes land at the nearby airport
With its free access, outstanding amenities, and atmosphere, Lindquist Beach is a must-visit for budget-conscious families looking to have a fantastic beach day in St. Thomas!
Coki Beach
Coki Beach is another top choice for families visiting St. Thomas. This crescent-shaped beach features soft white sand, gentle surf, and obvious turquoise waters. It's on the island's north shore, nestled in a protected cove.
This beach is like a big party, with soft sand, calm waves, and clear water. You can try cool stuff like scuba diving or relax and soak up the sun. There are even fun bars and restaurants right on the beach! Perfect for families or anyone who wants a lively beach day.
Coki Beach is excellent for swimming and snorkeling. There's a sizeable offshore reef that you can view from shore. It attracts many types of tropical fish, sea turtles, and more. Equipment rentals and experienced guides are available to take you to the reef.
Vendor kiosks line the back of the beach, selling food, drinks, and souvenirs. There are also restrooms and outdoor showers. The beach has picnic tables and trees, offering patches of shade as well. You'll find parking and public transportation options nearby, too.
Family-friendly amenities at Coki Beach
Coki Beach offers several amenities that make it an ideal spot to take kids, including:
Calm, clear water with a sandy bottom - safe for swimming
Easy entry and protected conditions
On-duty lifeguards for added safety
Snorkel gear rentals for all ages to view tropical fish and coral
Shaded picnic areas to get out of the sun
Food, drink, and souvenir vendors nearby
Outdoor showers and well-maintained restrooms
Nearby parking and public transportation options
This calm beach has everything families need for a great day out. Soft sand, clear water, and lots of fun things, like swimming and playing. Plus, there are even places to get yummy food and drinks! Perfect for a relaxing and enjoyable beach day with your loved ones.
The reef access and water clarity make it one of the best spots for snorkeling with kids on the island.
Hull Bay Beach: Surfing, Beach Bar, and More!
1. Hull Bay Surfing
Hull Bay Beach is known for having some of the best surfing in the Virgin Islands. The waves at Hull Bay are consistently good, with swell coming in from the Atlantic Ocean.
The reef break offers both lefts and rights, enabling surfers of all levels to catch waves. The waves at Hull Bay are fun and cruisy, perfect for longboarding and learning. However, when the swell gets bigger, there are also some faster hollow waves that more advanced surfers can enjoy.
Surfboard and stand-up paddleboard rentals are available right on Hull Bay Beach through independent operators. With its gentle waves, Hull Bay is arguably one of the best beaches in the Caribbean to learn how to surf.
The best time to surf Hull Bay is during the winter swells from November to April. But there are rideable waves year-round.
2. Hull Bay Beach Bar
Every trip to Hull Bay Beach is complete with stopping by the Hull Bay Beach Bar. Located right on the sand, this open-air beach bar has been serving cold drinks and island vibes since the 1960s. It's one of the most iconic and longest-running beach bars in St. Thomas.
Grab a stool at the bar or relax at one of the shaded picnic tables on the sand. The menu features classic bar food like burgers, nachos, chicken wings, and tropical rum drinks. Try their famous Bushwacker, made with five rums and topped with a float of dark rum.
In addition to drinks and food, Hull Bay Beach Bar has live music on weekends. Local bands play reggae, calypso, soca, and contemporary hits, often turning into lively beach parties. They also host full moon parties once a month.
Whether you want to chill out with a tropical cocktail or dance the day away, Hull Bay Beach Bar is a quintessential Caribbean experience.
3. Hull Bay Beach Water Sports
Secret Harbour Beach
Secret Harbour Beach is a secluded stretch of pristine white sand and calm turquoise waters on the southwestern coast of St. Thomas in the U.S. Virgin Islands. Despite its idyllic setting, this beach remains relatively unknown to most visitors to St. Thomas.
Upon arrival, visitors are greeted with postcard-worthy views - swaying palms, bright turquoise waters, and a shoreline of powdery white sand.
The beach is relatively narrow, but the protected cove keeps the waters calm and clear, creating excellent conditions for swimming and snorkelling.
Secret Harbour Beach is located along the southern coast of St. Thomas, approximately 2 miles west of the famous Red Hook neighbourhood. It sits at the bottom of a residential hillside neighbourhood.
Parking is minimal, with space maybe for up to 10 cars squeezed along the sides of the access road and a small lot that fills up quickly. Visitors may need to walk 5-10 minutes down to the beach if arriving later in the day.
While a bit tricky to find and access, the "hidden" nature of Secret Harbour Beach is a massive part of its off-the-beaten-path appeal.
One of the most popular activities is swimming and snorkelling. The calm, clear waters create perfect conditions for swimming.
The beach is also excellent for relaxing, sunbathing, and enjoying a picnic. Visitors should bring their chairs, blankets, umbrellas, food, and refreshments, as no rentals or vendors are available.
Water Bay Beach
Water Bay Beach in St. Thomas is a picturesque stretch of sand and sea that allows visitors to experience the island's natural beauty. Located on the island's north side, Water Bay features calm, clear waters perfect for swimming and snorkelling. It's also home to some hidden gem beaches that provide a more secluded experience.
While Water Bay attracts visitors, it is less crowded and more developed than the famous Magens Bay Beach on the island. Its tucked-away coves and offshore reefs make it feel more secluded and undiscovered, especially the Secret Sands and Fortuna beaches.
Water Bay Beach is located along the north shore of St. Thomas, about 10 minutes from downtown Charlotte Amalie. It stretches from Water Bay to Rustenberg Bay, near Route 30 and Route 302.
The primary public access point is along Route 302 in the central section of the beach, near Secret Sands and Fortuna Beach. You'll find parking areas, restrooms, picnic tables, and grills here. This area tends to be less crowded than the ends of the beach.
To access Secret Sands specifically, turn onto Water Bay Road off Route 302, then turn left onto a narrow dirt road marked with a small sign for "Secret Sands." Follow the road to the shoreline, where you'll arrive at this hidden cove beach.
There are no lifeguards on duty at Water Bay Beach, so swimmers should exercise caution. Be sure to wear reef-safe sunscreen to protect the offshore coral ecosystems. Pack out any trash and help preserve the natural beauty.
Come early on cruise ship days if you want to beat the crowds. Otherwise, enjoy the peace and seclusion of St. Thomas' hidden gem beaches!
Frenchman's Reef Beach
Frenchman's Reef Beach is considered one of the most beautiful beaches in St. Thomas. It is located on the island's northeastern side and offers stunning turquoise waters, soft white sand, and excellent amenities. This beach is a favorite among both locals and visitors.
The beach is only about 6 miles from downtown Charlotte Amalie and Cyril E. King Airport, making it very convenient to reach. It is accessible by car, taxi, or hotel shuttle service.
Parking is available at the Marriott Frenchman's Reef Resort near the beach. Public transportation, like safari buses, can also drop visitors off nearby.
Frenchman's Reef Beach stretches over a half-mile coastline, offering plenty of space to relax on the sand or dip in the refreshing waters. The beach has a protected cove, providing calm conditions perfect for swimming and snorkeling. The white sand is soft and powdery, while palm trees offer patches of shade.
Full amenities on Frenchman's Reef Beach include:
- Beach chair and umbrella rentals.
- Restrooms and showers.
- Food and beverage services.
- Water sports rentals.
- Lifeguards are on duty.
- Parking.
The beach is very accessible, located adjacent to the Marriott Frenchman's Reef Resort & Spa. It tends to be less crowded than some other St. Thomas beaches due to its location on the quieter northeast side of the island.
Morningstar Beach
Morningstar Beach stretches over half a mile long, with lush green hills providing a picturesque backdrop. The beach's western end features calm, shallow waters perfect for swimming and snorkeling.
As you walk east, the beach becomes more secluded, with rocky outcroppings jutting into the sea. Morningstar Beach has been awarded Blue Flag certification for its cleanliness, safety, and environmental standards.
No significant resorts are located directly on Morningstar Beach, adding to its quiet and serene atmosphere.
The natural beauty and lush landscape surrounding Morningstar Beach make it a picturesque place to relax and enjoy the Caribbean.
Amenities at Morningstar Beach
Despite its serene atmosphere, Morningstar Beach offers plenty of amenities for visitors, including:
- Beach chairs, umbrellas, paddleboards, and snorkel gear are available for rental
- Food trucks and beach bars serving casual fare and tropical drinks
- Restroom and shower facilities
- Lifeguards and medical services are on duty
- Designated walking trails with ocean views
- Nearby parking
- Scuba diving, snorkeling, sailing, and fishing charters depart from the beach.
Drake's Seat Beach
Drake's Seat has a long and rich history, beginning with the indigenous Taíno people who originally inhabited St. Thomas. The Taíno lived across the Caribbean islands and extensively used the region's natural resources for fishing, farming, and more.
When colonial powers arrived in the 16th and 17th centuries, St. Thomas became a haven for pirates, privateers, and sailors. As mentioned earlier, some accounts suggest Sir Francis Drake came ashore at this beach during his Caribbean voyages in the 1500s.
The beach is relatively small, extending just over 100 feet when the tide goes out. Tall sea grape trees offer patches of shade along the cliff's base.
Since no large resorts or public facilities are nearby, Drake's Seat has an untouched, secluded feel. Craggy rock formations and limestone bluffs frame the beach beautifully on all sides.
Despite its remote location, Drake's Seat offers visitors several recreational activities and amenities.
First and foremost are swimming and snorkeling. The calm, clear waters allow excellent visibility for snorkelers wanting to view the colorful reefs and marine life offshore.
Beachgoers can enjoy relaxing on the sand beneath shady trees. Some people bring picnic items or enjoy the views while sunbathing.
There are also hiking trails traversing the cliffs above, offering stunning aerial sights of Drake's Seat and the seascape beyond. Photographers flock to capture photos from these dramatic clifftop overlooks.
Conclusion
St. Thomas is a haven for beach lovers from the sun-kissed sands of Sapphire Beach to the secluded serenity of Lindquist Beach. Whether you seek adventure, relaxation, or simply the pleasure of soaking up the Caribbean sun, this vibrant island has a beach that will captivate your senses and leave you longing for more.
FAQs
- What is the best time to visit St. Thomas for beach weather? The best time to visit St. Thomas for ideal beach weather is during the dry season, which runs from December to April.
- What are some activities to enjoy on the beaches of St. Thomas? The beaches of St. Thomas offer a wide range of activities, including swimming, snorkeling, kayaking, scuba diving, and sunbathing.
- Are there any beaches in St. Thomas that are suitable for families? Yes, several beaches in St. Thomas are ideal for families, including Hull Bay Beach and Lindquist Beach.
- What amenities are available on the beaches of St. Thomas? The beaches of St. Thomas offer varying amenities, such as beach bars, restaurants, water sports rentals, and restrooms.
- Is it safe to swim in the waters off the beaches of St. Thomas? Yes, swimming in the waters off the beaches of St. Thomas is generally safe. Still, it is always advisable to be cautious and follow any safety precautions posted by local authorities.
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