The 10 Best Beaches In The US Virgin Islands
Last Updated on June 12, 2024 ⋅ Written by Vanessa Howard ⋅ Edited by Laura Schulthies
Welcome to the US Virgin Islands
Beaches in the U.S. Virgin Islands are some of the most beautiful in the Caribbean. From awe-inspiring blue waters and beautiful white sands to pristine shorelines within national parks, the US Virgin Islands beaches are a dream to explore. 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.’
Beaches in the U.S. Virgin Islands are some of the most beautiful in the Caribbean. From awe-inspiring blue waters and beautiful white sands to pristine shorelines within national parks, the US Virgin Islands beaches are a dream to explore. 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
Contents
St. John BeachesSt. Thomas BeachesSt. Croix Beaches
St. John Beaches
Trunk Bay Beach
St. John
As one of the most popular beaches in St. John, this quarter-mile stretch of soft white powdery sand is breathtakingly beautiful. The combination of the ivory sands, turquoise waters, and the gorgeous half-moon formation of Trunk Bay is truly breathtaking. Trunk Bay Beach is part of Virgin Islands National Park, making it a must visit on any trip to St. John. Make sure to check out the self guided snorkeling trail, this underwater trail has signs providing information on all the stunning coral formations. While underwater, keep an eye out for sea turtles, giant hermit crabs, and stingrays.
Beach Amenities: Entrance Fee, Public Restrooms, Public Showers, Rentable Chairs and Snorkel Equipment, Minimal Public Parking.
Stay Nearby!Explore St. John hotels on TripAdvisor
Honeymoon Bay Beach
St. John
Honeymoon Bay Beach is also located in Virgin Islands National Park. It is a unique beach because it is accessible by boat or hiking trail. One of St. John’s true gems, the powdery white sands and gentle turquoise waters are perfect for snorkeling. This idyllic beach is lined with coconut palms that offer tree shaded vistas. Watersports are also popular here, including paddle boarding and kayaking. Recently a watersports shack was added for kayak and stand-up paddleboard rental, and beachgoers can also rent snorkeling masks, fins and beach chairs. Keep in mind this beach can become quite crowded when cruise ships dock nearby.
Beach Amenities: Public Restrooms, Public Showers, Rentable Beach Chairs, Minimal Public Parking.
Stay Nearby!Explore St. John hotels on TripAdvisor
Maho Bay Beach
St. John
If you’re looking for a bit more seclusion, you’ll find it at Maho Bay Beach, it has also been voted ‘Visitors Favorite Beach’. This beautiful stretch of powdery sand overlooks a gorgeous shallow turquoise bay. The sandy bottom of Maho Bay Beach extends about 20 yards into the sea – making it the perfect beach to wade, swim, float and just relax! Keep an eye out for the green sea turtles that call the beach home. If you really want to catch a glimpse of these majestic creatures, try arriving at Maho Bay Beach early in the morning or staying late for a better chance.
Beach Amenities: Public Restrooms, Public Pavilion, Picnic Tables and Grills, Beach Vendors, Ample Public Parking.
Stay Nearby!Explore St. John hotels on TripAdvisor
Cinnamon Bay Beach
St. John
Cinnamon Bay Beach is the longest stretch in St. John’s, and this stunning coastline is located in Virgin Islands National Park. The shallow, clear water, seagrass beds, and vibrant coral reefs make this beach excellent for snorkeling. The beach is often visited by visitors staying at the beautiful Cinnamon Bay Campground. Keep in mind that afternoons here can be quite windy, which is great for windsurfers. Those interested in hiking will love you can hike the Cinnamon Bay trail, which begins across the road from the beach parking lot. Ruins mark the trailhead.
Beach Amenities: Public Restrooms, Changing Facilities, Showers, Gear Rental, Beach Wheelchairs Available, Ample Parking.
Stay Nearby!Explore St. John hotels on TripAdvisor
Salt Pond Beach
St. John
Sun, sand, and salty breezes will meet you at Salt Pond Beach. This protected cove is accessible by a moderate hike from the road, but it’s worth it for a bit of seclusion on this beautiful beach. A great beach for swimming and snorkeling, make sure to check out the vibrant coral and stunning brightly colored tropical fish. There are several hiking options from the beach if you are looking for a bit more adventure, but this beach is also great for relaxing and soaking in the Caribbean sun.
Beach Amenities: Pit Toilet, Shaded Picnic Tables, Beach Vendors, Rentable Chairs, Public Parking.
Stay Nearby!Explore St. John hotels on TripAdvisor
St. Thomas Beaches
Magens Bay Beach
St. Thomas
As the most popular and most visited beach in the U.S. Virgin Islands, Magens Bay Beach has some travelers intimidated by the crowds at this incredibly popular shoreline. This is a must visit location because of the stunning natural beauty of the heart shaped bay that’s surrounded by lush green hills. This one-mile beach has calm waters that make it great for wading, swimming, and watersports. There is a rental shack off the beach that offers floats, paddleboards, and kayaks as well as a snack bar. Keep in mind that this beach does have an entrance fee of $2 (USD) for anyone over 12 years of age.
Beach Amenities: Entrance Fee, Public Restrooms, Public Showers, Beach Vendors, Rentable Chairs and Umbrellas, Public Parking.
Stay Nearby!Explore St. Thomas hotels on TripAdvisor
Lindquist Beach
St. Thomas
This hidden gem of a beach is the perfect spot for a secluded beach day. It’s located within the 21 acres of Smith Bay Park on the eastern end of St. Thomas. The stunning crystal blue waters of Lindquist Beach are great for swimming, and the bright white sand has just a hint of pink making it unique. Amenities here include a lifeguard, picnic areas and bathrooms. There is an admission fee at this beach, residents with an ID $2, non-residents $5, and car parking $2. Children under 13 are free.
Beach Amenities: Entrance Fee, Public Restrooms, Beach Attendants and Vendors, Ample Public Parking.
Stay Nearby!Explore St. Thomas hotels on TripAdvisor
Sapphire Beach
St. Thomas
The beach that got its name from the vibrant blue waters off its coastline has much more to offer than simply being gorgeous. You won’t run out of water activities at Sapphire Beach, try kayaking, snorkeling, or jet-skiing. There is excellent snorkeling at the reef to the east, near Pettyklip Point. Other adventurous activities at this beach include windsurfing and parasailing. The shallow rocky ledge and reefs to the right side of the beach provide great snorkeling. Sapphire Beach can become quite crowded during peak tourist season, but it remains one of the best beaches of the U.S. Virgin Islands.
Beach Amenities: Public Restrooms, Rentable Gear (Snorkel, Kayaks), Ample Public Parking.
Stay Nearby!Explore St. Thomas hotels on TripAdvisor
St. Croix Beaches
Turtle Beach, Buck Island
St. Croix
Those looking to spot sea turtles while in the U.S. Virgin Islands should experience Turtle Beach. This beautiful stretch of shoreline is located on Buck Island, the picturesque white-sand beach is about 1.5 miles off the coast of St. Croix. If you’re looking to experience tropical nature, Buck Island is home to hawksbill turtles and brown pelicans, and Buck Island Reef National Monument accounts for about 176 uninhabited acres in the USVI. Relax in the warmth of the sun while laying on the sun-kissed sand, snorkel in the calm waters or take a stroll down the gorgeous beach.
Beach Amenities: Public Restrooms, Picnic Tables and Grills, Rentable Chairs and Snorkel Gear, Ample Public Parking.
Stay Nearby!Explore St. Croix hotels on TripAdvisor
Cane Bay Beach
St. Croix
A popular hang out for locals and visitors alike, Cane Bay Beach is also great for families and dog owners. Lounge in the Caribbean sunshine, take a dip in the clear warm waters, scuba dive, or snorkel. In fact, Cane Bay Beach is one of the top diving destinations in the Caribbean. You can even shore dive the world famous Wall, a place where the ocean floor turns into a steep cliff that drops more than 2 miles deep along the Puerto Rico Trench. Keep in mind that this beach can become quite busy during peak tourist season.
Beach Amenities: Street Parking, Rentable Chairs, No Additional Amenities Available.
Stay Nearby!Explore St. Croix hotels on TripAdvisor
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This Post Has One Comment
I can’t wait to beach hop my way through the USVI! Thank you for the terrific guide!
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