US Virgin Islands Beaches Guide
The 10 Best Beaches in the US Virgin Islands
Welcome to the US Virgin Islands
Beaches in the U.S. Virgin Islands are some of the most beautiful in the Caribbean. The US Virgin Islands beaches are a dream to explore, from awe-inspiring blue waters and beautiful white sands to pristine shorelines within national parks. Pack your swimsuit and use this guide to the best beaches in the US Virgin Islands to plan an amazing getaway to ‘America’s Paradise.’
US Virgin Islands Map
Table of Contents
St. John Beaches
Trunk Bay Beach
St. John
Trunk Bay, located in St. John, is renowned for its stunning beauty and is considered one of the most popular beaches in the area. This picturesque quarter-mile stretch of soft, powdery white sand is truly breathtaking, with its combination of ivory sands and turquoise waters. The beach is further enhanced by the magnificent half-moon formation of Trunk Bay,
adding to its allure. As part of the Virgin Islands National Park, a visit to Trunk Bay Beach is a must for anyone traveling to St. John. Don’t forget to explore the self-guided snorkeling trail, which features informative signs about the mesmerizing coral formations. While snorkeling, keep a lookout for fascinating marine creatures such as sea turtles, giant hermit crabs, and stingrays, adding to the enchantment of this underwater paradise.
Beach Amenities: Entrance Fee, Public Restrooms, Public Showers, Rentable Chairs and Snorkel Equipment, Minimal Public Parking.
Honeymoon Bay Beach
St. John
Honeymoon Bay Beach, situated within the Virgin Islands National Park, stands out as a distinctive coastal destination. What sets it apart is its accessibility, as visitors can reach it either by boat or by following a scenic hiking trail. Renowned as one of St. John’s hidden treasures, this beach boasts powdery white sands and tranquil turquoise waters that are simply perfect for snorkeling. The picturesque shoreline is adorned with swaying coconut palms, providing a delightful shade canopy.
In addition to snorkeling, water enthusiasts can indulge in popular activities such as paddle boarding and kayaking. To enhance the beach experience, a dedicated watersports shack has been recently introduced, offering rentals for kayaks, stand-up paddleboards, snorkeling masks, fins, and beach chairs. It’s worth noting that during peak times, when cruise ships dock nearby, the beach can become quite crowded.
Beach Amenities: Public Restrooms, Public Showers, Rentable Beach Chairs, Minimal Public Parking.
Maho Bay Beach
St. John
Maho Bay Beach offers a tranquil and secluded experience for those seeking a peaceful getaway. Renowned as the ‘Visitors Favorite Beach’, it boasts a stunning view of a shallow turquoise bay, complemented by a picturesque stretch of powdery sand. The beach’s sandy bottom extends approximately 20 yards into the sea, providing an ideal setting for wading, swimming, and simply unwinding. Don’t forget to keep an eye out for the green sea turtles that inhabit this beach, as they add to its natural charm. For a higher likelihood of catching a glimpse of these majestic creatures, consider visiting Maho Bay Beach early in the morning or staying late.
Beach Amenities: Public Restrooms, Public Pavilion, Picnic Tables and Grills, Beach Vendors, Ample Public Parking.
Cinnamon Bay Beach
St. John
Cinnamon Bay Beach, situated in the Virgin Islands National Park, is renowned for being the longest stretch in St. John’s. Its breathtaking coastline offers a mesmerizing view, complemented by crystal-clear water, seagrass beds, and vibrant coral reefs, making it an ideal spot for snorkeling enthusiasts. The beach is a popular destination for visitors who choose to stay at the picturesque Cinnamon Bay Campground.
US Virgin Islands Beaches
It’s worth noting that the afternoons here tend to be quite windy, making it a haven for windsurfers. Additionally, hiking enthusiasts will be delighted to know they can embark on the Cinnamon Bay trail, conveniently located across the road from the beach parking lot. The trailhead is marked by intriguing ruins, adding an extra touch of allure to the experience.
Beach Amenities: Public Restrooms, Changing Facilities, Showers, Gear Rental, Beach Wheelchairs Available, Ample Parking.
Salt Pond Beach
St. John
Salt Pond Beach offers a delightful combination of sunshine, sandy shores, and refreshing ocean breezes. To reach this secluded haven, one must embark on a moderate hike from the road, but the effort is certainly rewarded upon arrival. This picturesque beach is perfect for swimming and snorkeling, with its vibrant coral reefs and an array of brilliantly colored tropical fish waiting to be discovered. For those seeking a touch of adventure, various hiking trails can be explored from the beach. However, if relaxation is your goal, Salt Pond Beach is equally ideal for basking in the warm embrace of the Caribbean sun.
Beach Amenities: Pit Toilet, Shaded Picnic Tables, Beach Vendors, Rentable Chairs, Public Parking.
St. Thomas Beaches
Magens Bay Beach
St. Thomas
Magens Bay Beach, located in the U.S. Virgin Islands, stands out as the most renowned and frequently visited beach in the region. While some travelers may feel overwhelmed by the large number of people flocking to this popular shoreline, it remains an absolute must-visit destination due to its breathtaking natural beauty. The beach boasts a picturesque heart-shaped bay, encompassed by verdant hills, creating a truly mesmerizing sight.
Spanning a mile in length, Magens Bay Beach offers tranquil waters, making it an ideal spot for leisurely wading, swimming, and engaging in various water sports activities. Additionally, visitors can conveniently rent floats, paddleboards, and kayaks from the beach’s rental shack, and there is also a snack bar available for refreshments. It is important to note that there is an entrance fee of $2 (USD) for individuals aged 12 and above, which should be taken into consideration when planning a visit to this remarkable beach.
Beach Amenities: Entrance Fee, Public Restrooms, Public Showers, Beach Vendors, Rentable Chairs and Umbrellas, Public Parking.
Lindquist Beach
St. Thomas
Nestled within the expansive 21 acres of Smith Bay Park on the eastern tip of St. Thomas, lies a hidden treasure of a beach. Lindquist Beach, with its breathtaking crystal blue waters, offers the perfect setting for a tranquil and secluded beach day. What sets this beach apart is its pristine white sand, which boasts a subtle touch of pink, adding a touch of uniqueness to its beauty.
Visitors can enjoy a range of amenities, including the presence of a vigilant lifeguard, convenient picnic areas, and well-maintained bathrooms. However, it’s important to note that there is a nominal admission fee for accessing this beach. Residents with a valid ID can enter for just $2, while non-residents are required to pay $5. Additionally, car parking is available for a fee of $2. It’s worth mentioning that children under the age of 13 can enjoy complimentary access to this idyllic beach paradise.
Beach Amenities: Entrance Fee, Public Restrooms, Beach Attendants and Vendors, Ample Public Parking.
Sapphire Beach
St. Thomas
Sapphire Beach, known for its stunning blue waters, offers more than just beauty. With a variety of water activities available, such as kayaking, snorkeling, and jet-skiing, there is no shortage of fun to be had. For those seeking an underwater adventure, the reef near Pettyklip Point offers excellent snorkeling opportunities. Additionally, windsurfing and parasailing are popular choices for the more adventurous beachgoers. The right side of the beach, with its shallow rocky ledge and reefs, is perfect for snorkeling enthusiasts. While it can get crowded during peak tourist season, Sapphire Beach remains one of the top beaches in the U.S. Virgin Islands.
Beach Amenities: Public Restrooms, Rentable Gear (Snorkel, Kayaks), Ample Public Parking.
St. Croix Beaches
Turtle Beach, Buck Island
St. Croix
Turtle Beach, situated on Buck Island in the U.S. Virgin Islands, is a must-visit destination for those seeking the enchanting sight of sea turtles. This idyllic stretch of coastline, adorned with pristine white sands, is located approximately 1.5 miles away from the shores of St. Croix. Buck Island, a tropical paradise, is not only home to hawksbill turtles and brown pelicans but also encompasses the Buck Island Reef National Monument, spanning 176 uninhabited acres in the USVI.
Whether you choose to bask in the soothing warmth of the sun on the sun-kissed sand, explore the tranquil waters through snorkeling, or simply take a stroll along the stunning beach, Turtle Beach promises an unforgettable experience amidst nature’s splendor.
Beach Amenities: Public Restrooms, Picnic Tables and Grills, Rentable Chairs and Snorkel Gear, Ample Public Parking.
Cane Bay Beach
St. Croix
Cane Bay Beach is a beloved spot for both residents and tourists, offering something for everyone, including families and dog owners. Whether you prefer to relax under the radiant Caribbean sun, indulge in a refreshing swim in crystal-clear waters, or explore the underwater world through scuba diving or snorkeling, this beach has it all. It is renowned as one of the premier diving destinations in the Caribbean,
with the opportunity to embark on a shore dive along the famous Wall. This remarkable geological formation transforms the ocean floor into a dramatic cliff, plunging over 2 miles deep along the Puerto Rico Trench. However, it’s important to note that during the peak tourist season, Cane Bay Beach tends to get quite crowded.
Beach Amenities: Street Parking, Rentable Chairs, No Additional Amenities Available.
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