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Things to Do

The Most Beautiful Beaches on St Thomas, US Virgin Islands

Beautiful Brewers Bay is a top snorkelling destination, home to eagle rays and turtles | © NAPA / Alamy

Anny Wooldridge

1 November 2021

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The island of St Thomas is a true tropical utopia, home to some of the prettiest coves in the Caribbean. Drop anchor and explore these secluded bays – from pristine Honeymoon Beach to snorkelling haven Coki Point. After all, the US Virgin Islands aren’t called America’s Paradise for nothing.

Charter a yacht with SamBoat to explore these beaches for a day without the crowds. Or, take your time discovering beautiful beaches with a boat hired from Dream Yacht Charter.

Lindquist Beach in Smith Bay

Natural Feature

Tropical palms and a small strip of sand edge the sea in St Thomas island, US Virgin Islands, Caribbean

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.

Magens Bay Beach in Enighed

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A girl walks into the sea at Magen's Bay where a group are swimming, US Virgin Islands, Caribbean

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.

Sapphire Beach in Saint John Bay

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Tourists enjoy Sapphire Beach, some sun bathing on the sands while others swim in the tropical waters

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.

Secret Harbor Beach in Nazareth

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The sun sets at Secret Harbor Beach where palm trees sway and boats pootle across the water, US Virgin Islands, Caribbean

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 Beach in Charlotte Amalie West

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A tall palm tree sits by white sands at Brewers Bay Beach, US Virgin Islands, Caribbean

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.

Hull Bay in Ensomned

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The north shore around Hull Bay provides tropical waters and forested hills, US Virgin Islands, Caribbean

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.

Neltjeberg Beach near Inner Brass Island

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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.

Honeymoon Beach on Water Island

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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.

Coki Point Beach in Smith Bay

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A rocky coast on Coki Point Beach with Thatch Cay island in the background

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.

Vessup Bay Beach in Red Hook

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Sunbathers rest on white loungers at Vessup Bay

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.

Spend a day discovering dreamy beaches by chartering a yacht with SamBoat. Or, linger longer by hiring a boat with Dream Yacht Charter.

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The Most Beautiful Beaches on St Thomas, US Virgin Islands

Lindquist Beach in Smith Bay

Magens Bay Beach in Enighed

Sapphire Beach in Saint John Bay

Secret Harbor Beach in Nazareth

Brewers Bay Beach in Charlotte Amalie West

Hull Bay in Ensomned

Neltjeberg Beach near Inner Brass Island

Honeymoon Beach on Water Island

Coki Point Beach in Smith Bay

Vessup Bay Beach in Red Hook

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