Fringed by swaying palms and kissed by turquoise waters, the beaches of St. Thomas offer a sun-soaked invitation to explore the natural beauty of the U.S. Virgin Islands. Whether you’re planning a romantic escape, traveling with family or chasing coral reefs and sea turtles, this island has the perfect stretch of sand for every traveler.
Some of the best beaches in St. Thomas are Magens Bay, Coki Point Beach, Lindquist Beach, Sapphire Beach, Secret Harbour, Hull Bay, Brewers Bay, Limestone Beach and Lindbergh Bay, each offering a different mix of scenery, snorkeling and amenities.
From calm beaches near the cruise port to scenic spots for snorkeling, here’s your complete guide to the best beaches in St. Thomas.
1. Magens Bay: Most Famous Beach
One of the most family-friendly beaches in St. Thomas, Magens Bay is the island’s most famous shoreline for good reason. Its mile-long crescent of powdery sand and calm, shallow waters make it ideal for swimming with kids or simply floating the day away. Facilities include lifeguards, restrooms, a café and chair rentals—everything you need for a stress-free beach day. Surrounded by lush green hills, it also happens to be one of the most photogenic beaches in the Virgin Islands.
2. Coki Point Beach: Best Snorkeling
Coki Point is one of the best beaches for snorkeling in the Virgin Islands, known for its vibrant reef right off the shoreline. Fish swarm in schools just feet from the sand and gear rentals are available from vendors. Coki Beach, situated right next to Coral World Ocean Park, is one of the liveliest local beaches. It offers plenty of food and facilities, making it an ideal spot if you're looking to enjoy music, drinks and a vibrant social atmosphere alongside your swim.
3. Lindquist (Smith Bay): Quiet and Scenic
For those seeking romantic, calm beaches in St. Thomas, Lindquist Beach in Smith Bay Park offers serenity and beauty. This stretch of pristine shoreline features sparkling turquoise water, soft white sand and a peaceful ambiance far removed from the busier resort areas. It’s a top pick for couples, solo travelers and photographers and is often rated one of the most beautiful beaches in the Virgin Islands.
4. Sapphire Beach: Water Sports Hub
Sapphire Beach is ideal for adventurous travelers. It’s one of the top beaches in St. Thomas for kayaking, snorkeling, windsurfing and jet skiing. The water here is as clear as glass, with coral just offshore and views of St. John and the British Virgin Islands on the horizon. Local vendors and a beachside bar make it a fun, convenient place to spend the day.
5. Secret Harbour: Calm Swimming and Snorkeling
Tucked into a quiet cove, Secret Harbour is one of the calmest beaches near the cruise port, offering great visibility for snorkeling and gentle waves for swimming. It’s also home to a small resort with a beach restaurant and bar—perfect for lunch with a sea view. This beach is especially popular with couples and return visitors looking for a low-key experience.
6. Hull Bay: Local Surf and Chill
Hull Bay is a favorite among locals, offering a relaxed setting with fishing boats bobbing in the water and a casual beach bar serving cold drinks. It’s one of the few surf beaches in St. Thomas, especially in the winter months when swells pick up. Even if you're not surfing, it’s a peaceful spot to read under the shade trees and feel like you’re part of the neighborhood.
7. Brewers Bay: Sea Turtles
Brewers Bay is one of the best family-friendly beaches in St. Thomas if you’re looking for wildlife encounters and easygoing charm. Located near the university and airport, it’s surprisingly quiet and full of nature. Sea turtles often surface in the calm shallows and food trucks serve up island favorites like fried plantains and johnnycakes. It’s a great blend of natural beauty and local culture.
8. Limestone Beach: Off-the-Beaten-Path
This secluded, rocky beach is a great spot for nature lovers and those looking for a unique photo opportunity. While not ideal for swimming, Limestone Beach offers tide pools, dramatic rock formations and the feeling of stumbling on a hidden corner of the island. No amenities here—just raw, rugged beauty.
Shore Excursions to St. Thomas's Beaches
Many shore excursions include beach stops paired with sightseeing or water activities. Some popular options:
- Magens Bay Scenic Tour – Combine scenic island overlooks with swimming at the island’s top beach.
- Coral World & Coki Beach – See marine life up close, then snorkel right off the beach.
- Sapphire Beach Sail & Snorkel – Cruise along the coast and snorkel near reefs.
- Lindquist Beach Picnic – Enjoy a relaxing half-day at one of the most serene beaches in St. Thomas.
Quick List of Top Beaches by Traveler Type:
- Magens Bay – Best for classic postcard beach days and families
- Coki Point Beach – Best for snorkeling and lively beach vibes
- Lindquist Beach – Best for couples seeking privacy and unspoiled scenery
- Sapphire Beach – Best for water sports and scenic snorkeling in the Virgin Islands
- Secret Harbour Beach – Best for calm swimming and a romantic beach lunch
- Hull Bay – Best for local beach vibes and surfing in winter
- Brewers Bay – Best for sea turtle sightings and food trucks
- Limestone Beach – Best for off-the-beaten-path exploration
FAQs About St. Thomas Beaches:
1. What is the best beach in St. Thomas for families?
Magens Bay is the best beach for families in St. Thomas. It offers calm, shallow water, lifeguards and amenities like restrooms, food and chair rentals—perfect for a worry-free beach day with kids.
2. What beach in St. Thomas is best for couples?
Lindquist Beach is best for couples seeking privacy and tranquility. Its soft sand, clear water and quiet setting make it one of the most romantic beaches in the Virgin Islands.
3. Where can I snorkel in St. Thomas?
Coki Point Beach is the best beach for snorkeling in St. Thomas, with coral reefs just off the shoreline. Sapphire Beach and Secret Harbour also offer great visibility and active marine life.
4. What is the closest beach to the cruise port in St. Thomas?
Lindbergh Bay and Brewers Bay are calm beaches near the cruise port. Both are under 15 minutes by taxi and offer a relaxed setting for a quick beach break.
5. Are there any beaches in St. Thomas with food and facilities?
Yes, Magens Bay, Coki Point, Sapphire Beach and Secret Harbour all have food options, restrooms and gear rentals. These are great local beaches with full facilities.
6. Which beach in St. Thomas is best for water sports?
Sapphire Beach is the best beach for water sports. You’ll find rentals for jet skis, kayaks, windsurfing and snorkeling gear, plus a dive shop and beach bar.
7. What beach in St. Thomas is good for seeing sea turtles?
Brewers Bay is one of the best beaches for spotting sea turtles. They often feed in the nearby seagrass and can be seen from the shore or while snorkeling.
8. Is there a beach in St. Thomas for surfing?
Hull Bay is the best surf beach in St. Thomas, especially in winter. It’s a local favorite with a laid-back vibe and occasional waves for experienced surfers.
9. What is the quietest beach in St. Thomas?
Lindquist Beach is one of the quietest beaches on the island. It’s part of Smith Bay Park and tends to be less crowded, especially during weekdays.
10. Which beach in St. Thomas is best for cruise passengers short on time?
Brewers Bay is the best beach for cruise passengers with limited time. It’s close to the port, offers calm waters and has food trucks and facilities nearby.
