You don’t know it yet, but St. Thomas is the tropical paradise of your dreams. Sugar-white sands line this US Virgin Island, and swaying green palms provide gentle shade when you’re not floating dreamily in the Caribbean Sea.
Whether you want to stretch out on the beach and relax, snorkel amidst the rich marine life, or park yourself at a beach bar, St. Thomas has the ideal beach to suit your needs. Here are some of the best beaches, from popular favorites to secluded spots loved by locals.
1. Magens Bay
Best beach for families and facilities
A frequent inclusion on lists of the most beautiful beaches in the world, Magens Bay truly lives up to its reputation. Although a fee is required for entry (US$7/day for non-residents), and it can get crowded when cruise ships are in port, the beach is tucked at the end of a deep horseshoe-shaped cove, with green hills snaking off into the horizon. Families will appreciate the changing facilities, restaurants, water sports rentals, picnic tables, and lifeguards available here.
2. Honeymoon Beach
Best beach for laidback adventures
After a brief 15-minute ferry ride from Crown Bay Marina to Water Island, followed by a short 10-minute hike, you will discover the picturesque Honeymoon Beach. This cove, lined with towering palms, boasts incredibly calm waters—ideal for renting a kayak or paddleboard. Moreover, the beach is dotted with low-key bars, making it a perfect spot for those long, leisurely lunches that often turn into happy hours.
3. Lindbergh Bay
Best beach for budding aviators
Lindbergh Bay is a plane spotter’s paradise. As you bask in the tropical sun, you can observe jets descending into Cyril E. King Airport. Named after the renowned aviator Charles Lindbergh, this long beach shaded by seagrape trees is perfect for swimming laps or taking a romantic stroll. There are two hotels on either end that provide convenient overnight options.
4. Lindquist Beach
Best beach for photo opportunities
Located within Smith Bay Park, Lindquist Beach is a stunning sight with its soft white sands leading to calm aquamarine waters. Due to its breathtaking views, it’s a favorite location for weddings and photo shoots. Families will enjoy the safety of having a lifeguard on duty, picnic tables for family meals, and a bathhouse for rinsing off.
5. Brewers Bay
Best beach for budget travelers
Renowned for its rich marine life, Brewers Bay is frequented by locals and is ideal for picnics and family gatherings. On weekdays, its tranquil setting offers a perfect getaway for budget travelers, complete with snack vans and public restroom facilities. Visitors can often spot sea turtles and stingrays swimming through the seagrass, making it a unique natural experience.
6. Sapphire Beach
Best beach for windsurfing
Characterized by its stunning turquoise waters, Sapphire Beach is a prime location for water sports enthusiasts. Although it’s known as a tourist hotspot, it is spacious enough to enjoy the beauty without feeling overcrowded. Additionally, the steady breeze makes it an ideal place for windsurfing and snorkeling near the coral reefs.
7. Neltjeberg Bay
Best beach for privacy and peace
For those seeking solitude, Neltjeberg Bay is an idyllic escape. A 20-minute hike leads to this pristine beach, which is surrounded by wild vegetation and coconut palms. With no facilities, this gem provides an untouched natural environment, making it perfect for those who wish to connect with nature.
8. Coki Beach
Best beach for snorkeling
Coki Beach is often recommended for snorkeling enthusiasts eager to explore the underwater world of St. Thomas. Even though the coral reefs have seen better days, visitors still encounter an array of tropical fish. However, beware that this beach can get crowded due to its proximity to Coral World, a nearby marine park.
9. Mermaid’s Chair
Best beach to paddle from the sea to the ocean
Adventure seekers are drawn to Mermaid’s Chair, a unique beach where you can literally place one foot in the Caribbean and the other in the Atlantic. Accessible via a 1.3-mile hike from The Preserve at Botany Bay, it’s best to visit at low tide to fully appreciate its captivating beauty.
