Best Beaches in the Virgin Islands
St. Croix
- Sandy Point National Wildlife Refuge: Known for its wide, pristine shoreline and sea turtle nesting grounds. Open on weekends.
- Rainbow Beach: Popular for snorkeling, jet skiing, and live music; great spot for a lively beach vibe.
- Buck Island Reef National Monument: Not accessible by car, but this secluded island beach is perfect for snorkeling and has underwater trails.
- Cane Bay Beach: A diver’s paradise with access to “The Wall,” a dramatic drop-off teeming with marine life.
- Shoy’s Beach: Tucked away and quiet, with calm waters and soft sand, ideal for a more private beach experience.
St. Thomas
- Magens Bay: One of the most famous beaches, featuring clear waters, scenic views, and soft white sand. Great for swimming.
- Lindquist Beach (Smith Bay Park): Beautiful and quieter, with soft sands and vibrant turquoise waters.
- Secret Harbour Beach: Ideal for snorkeling and features calm, shallow waters. There are also amenities like a restaurant and bar.
- Coki Point Beach: Known for excellent snorkeling and a vibrant atmosphere; nearby Coral World Ocean Park adds to its appeal.
- Hull Bay: A local favorite for surfing and fishing, especially great in the winter months.
St. John
- Trunk Bay: A must-visit with its underwater snorkeling trail and stunning natural beauty, part of the Virgin Islands National Park.
- Cinnamon Bay: Offers calm waters, snorkeling, and a spacious beach for lounging and picnicking.
- Honeymoon Beach: Secluded and scenic, with soft sand, perfect for swimming and stand-up paddleboarding.
- Maho Bay: Family-friendly and great for spotting turtles and stingrays close to shore.
- Salt Pond Bay: Ideal for a more rugged, secluded beach day with amazing snorkeling and nearby hiking trails.
British Virgin Islands (BVI)
Jost Van Dyke
- White Bay: Iconic for its beach bars, notably the Soggy Dollar Bar, and its picturesque soft sands and turquoise water.
- Great Harbour: A quiet beach with gentle waters and nearby dining options.
Virgin Gorda
- The Baths: Known for its unique boulders and hidden caves. This beach is both visually stunning and a great place to explore.
- Savannah Bay: Quiet and expansive, with crystal-clear water, ideal for a serene beach day.
Tortola
- Smuggler’s Cove: Secluded, with calm waters and a relaxed vibe—perfect for snorkeling.
- Cane Garden Bay: A lively beach with restaurants, bars, and a popular spot for surfing during the winter.
Anegada
- Loblolly Bay: Known for its vibrant reefs and snorkeling opportunities. Very serene and secluded.
- Cow Wreck Beach: Famous for its shallow, warm waters, relaxed vibe, and a beach bar with stunning sunset views.