The 9 Most Beautiful Beaches on St Thomas, US Virgin Islands

Part of the 8ha (21-acre) Smith Bay Park, this beach is one of the most pristine sandy crescents on St Thomas. Bump down the dirt track and you’ll find a turquoise bay lapping onto the white-sand coastline. Spend the afternoon riding a jet ski or playing a game of frisbee with your crew. Note: if arriving by land, there is a small admission fee to enter the beach. However, this means there is a lifeguard on duty, plus toilets and showers available to use.

This 1.6km (1mi) stretch of beachfront is considered the best beach on the island. Drop anchor in the southeast corner of the bay and dive in for a swim; it’s a popular spot for families with children, thanks to its calm waters. Expect to find plenty of locals here on Sundays, sunning themselves and picnicking on the sands. This is the only other beach on St Thomas that has an entry fee, so bring cash.

Sail your charter yacht straight into the Sapphire Beach Marina to enjoy this spit of sand, ideal for snorkelling from the beach. Spot vibrantly colored fan coral and tropical fish swimming beneath the surface. Back on land, flop under a sea grape tree for respite from the sun – just watch out for the iguanas trying to steal your snacks. If arriving by boat, make sure you rent a slip in the marina in advance; they are suitable for yachts up to 21m (68ft) but not catamarans.

As a smaller beach in St Thomas, Secret Beach offers a calm, sheltered bay in which to anchor. Favorable conditions make it a great place to swim and snorkel either from your yacht or the beachfront. Make sure you stay for the sunset; head ashore to the Sunset Grille for a jalapeno-infused spicy mango cocktail, followed by sizzling miso-glazed sea bass overlooking the water.

Brewers Bay is a top spot for catching some rays before a late afternoon flight from Cyril E. King Airport. Head to the left side of the beach to spot eagle rays, green turtles and hawksbill turtles who love to hang around in the seagrass. If you go to the beach, pack a picnic, a few beers and a towel. The beach is remote and has few facilities, but that’s all part of the magic.

Love surfing? Head to Hull Bay, a favorite beach with the locals and a popular surf spot. During the winter months, a big swell from the north Atlantic rolls in, creating prime conditions. It’s also a great place for fishing, so cast your line and see if you can catch something fresh for dinner. Note: there is parking available but no public toilets here.

For ultimate seclusion, make a beeline for Neltjeberg Beach. This hidden gem can only be reached by boat or if you hike down a beaten track. Its hard-to-reach location means you’re unlikely to find crowds here; expect a beautiful sweep of sand, coconut trees and little else. Remember to pack snacks, a towel and sunscreen as Neltjeberg Beach has no facilities, plus take your trash away with you.

Just off the south coast of St Thomas, Water Island is home to the prestigious Honeymoon Beach. The palm tree-laden beach boasts two watering holes, the most famous being Dinghy’s Beach Bar. Make sure you order the catch-of-the-day tacos, washed down with a Creamy Dinghy cocktail, their signature frozen drink made with rum, coconut and passion fruit. Afterwards, work it off by renting a paddleboard and exploring the cove. Book ahead for the best of Water Island’s beach tours.

Drop anchor and head ashore to Coki Point where sun loungers with umbrellas await, as well as a reggae rum bar and snack huts dotted along the shoreline. Bring your snorkel mask as there are two coral reefs to explore, both close to the Coral World Ocean Park and another on the rockier left side of the beach. During the week, cruise ships dock nearby; check the cruise schedule before you visit to ensure a crowd-free day.

This underdeveloped beach is close to the fishing village of Red Hook, where there is a marina, restaurants and stores. If you visit on the weekend, expect locals to be firing up the barbecue and dancing to reggae music. For a quieter visit, come here during the week. Kids will love the Jungle Float anchored just offshore, complete with trampolines, slides and diving boards.