Tag: Beaches

LOCATION: At the end of tree-shaded Route 35 on St. Thomas’ north shore.

Deeded to the island as a public park, this beach has made many of the world’s “most beautiful” lists. It’s as breathtaking when seen from the perspective of the road above, as from the shore or from the warm and clear waters. You may see couples getting married at the shoreline as well as family picnickers around a table. Restrooms, showers and dressing areas add to the overall comfort and convenience of the public park.

One inside tip for those seeking seclusion is to make your way to the western end of the beach. It is less crowded and offers some of the better snorkeling opportunities at Magens Bay. Of course, to take in the full beauty of this place, step back and watch how the perfect waters are framed by green mountainous peaks on the east and west horizons.

Clearly THE destination for all beach lovers, Magens offers powdery white sand beach, a flat sand bottom and peaceful seas. The rocky areas on each end of the mile-long, heart shaped cove afford the best snorkeling. Everyone from early morning walkers to cruise ship day trippers seem drawn to world renowned Magens Bay.  Services available include covered picnic tables, showers, dressing rooms, a boutique, snack bar, pizzeria, full-service bar and snorkeling and small sailboat rentals. Admission is $1 per car, $3 per adult and 25 cents per child under 12. Taxis are plentiful throughout the day.

LOCATION: ON THE NORTH SHORE AT THE END OF HULL BAY ROAD JUST WEST OF MAGENS BAY.

A relatively quiet beach (except during fishing tournaments) this northern shore bas serves as a local anchoage.  The rougher waters at the bay’s western tip attract surfers.  Along the shaded beach the water is usually placid and pleasant.  You can usually find parking near the water’s edge-except on weekends in season.

Although serious surfing is a relative rarity on St. Thomas, when you hear the words “Surf’s Up” you can bet the cry is coving from Hull Bay. The beach is rocky but generally appealing to outdoor types. Bring the kids and the dogs.  Taxis are usually not available. Hull Bay Hideaway is right there with convenient restrooms and a casual beach bar restaurant featuring famous “Arthur burgers.” If you want a ‘stay all day’ hangout, this is it!

[googlemaps addr=’Hull Bay Virgin Islands’ zoom=’15’ width=’350′ height=’350′]

LOCATION: AIRPORT ROAD

Closest to the airport, yet a world away, this delightful oasis offers the added convenience of several adjacent hotels including the Island Beachcomber, Emerald Beach and Carib Beach. Bear in mind your reverie will be regularly challenged by the sounds of commercial and private planes taking off and landing at nearby Cyril E. King airport.

Three hotels and Walkers’ By The Sea share this ultra-calm shoreline. The bay is named after famed aviator Charles Lindbergh who is said to have landed his aircraft in the area on several occasions. It’s a sweet spot to walk along the water’s edge and take in the tropical sights. Snorkeling is usually disappointing at best but Carib Beach hotel offers a dive center. Friendly restaurants and bars with restroom facilities are available.

LOCATION: Marriott Frenchman’s Reef Beach Resort.

Morningstar provides everything you need for beach fun and comfort. Hire a lounge chair and umbrella for the day and sit back with a cool drink from one of the bars. If you are more adventurous, rent snorkeling gear and explore the reefs at either end of the beach. For a little more action, you can sharpen your skills on a Sunfish or learn to windsurf from a certified instructor.

This is a spot where locals-in-the-know often come and “play tourist.” Enjoy everything from a properly concocted frozen drink to the luxury of comfy rentable lounge chairs and beach umbrellas.  You have two handy beach bars and snacks from the restaurant.  The fully stocked state-of-the-art water sports center even has professional instructors on hand. Enjoy snorkeling, windsurfing and other water toys.  Get in the swim or just sit back and watch the world go by.  Ample parking and taxis are available.