St. Croix, the largest of the US Virgin Islands, is a stunning tropical paradise with an abundance of natural beauty and crystal-clear waters. We’ll take you on a journey to discover the top 7 beaches in St. Croix, from hidden coves to popular hotspots. Get ready to be transported to a world of crystal-clear waters, powdery sands, and mesmerizing sunsets. Whether you’re seeking a tranquil escape or an action-packed adventure, we’ll provide you with all the insider information you need.
We’ve scoured the island to find the very best beaches that will leave you spellbound. Imagine a secluded cove where the only sounds are the rustling of palm trees and gentle waves lapping at the shore. Or picture a lively beach where you can sip on a tropical drink while watching the sun dip below the horizon.
We’ll provide you with all the insider information you need to know about each beach, including what it’s like there, what you’ll find, and any food, activities, or attractions nearby. From snorkeling and scuba diving to beachfront restaurants and bars, we’ve got you covered.
So, grab your sunscreen and your sense of adventure, and join us on this journey to discover the best beaches in St. Croix.
Haypenny Beach, located toward the southeastern end of St. Croix, is a secluded paradise for those seeking a tranquil escape. This hidden gem offers a long stretch of soft, white sand and crystal-clear waters, perfect for swimming, snorkeling, and paddleboarding. The beach’s stunning coral reef is a must-see for snorkelers, providing an opportunity to spot exotic sea creatures such as sea turtles, colorful fish, and rays.
While there are no food vendors or restaurants directly on Haypenny Beach, visitors can pack a picnic lunch and enjoy it at one of the shaded picnic tables or under one of the many palm trees.
Haypenny Beach is not just about relaxing on the sand or exploring the reef. It’s also a quick drive from
Point Udall, the easternmost point in the United States, where visitors can take in stunning views of the Caribbean Sea. Those looking for more excitement can visit
Divi Carina Bay Casino, just a short drive away, to try their luck at the slot machines or enjoy live entertainment.
Overall, Haypenny Beach’s stunning natural surroundings, tranquil atmosphere, and secluded location make it a must-visit for those looking to escape the crowds and unwind in paradise. Whether you’re a beachcomber, a nature lover, or simply seeking some rest and relaxation, Haypenny Beach is not to be missed.
Cane Bay Beach is located on the north shore of St. Croix, just a few miles from Frederiksted. It’s a long, sandy beach that’s perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and snorkeling. The water is clear and calm, and there are several areas where you can swim out to the coral reef for some amazing snorkeling. Be sure to bring your underwater camera as you’ll definitely spot some colorful fish, sea turtles, and other marine life.
There are several beach bars and restaurants located directly on Cane Bay Beach, offering a variety of food and drinks. One popular spot is
The Landing Beach Bar at Cane Bay, which serves up tasty burgers, seafood, and tropical cocktails overlooking the beach. Another favorite is
Ama at Cane Bay, known for its upscale Caribbean-inspired dishes. Looking for a more low-key vibe? Grab a Run Punch at
Off the Wall or
Spratnet Beach Bar for a laid-back beach experience.
If you’re looking for more adventure, Cane Bay Beach is also a popular spot for scuba diving. There are several dive shops located nearby that offer beginner and advanced dives to the many reefs and shipwrecks in the area. For those who prefer to stay above water, kayaking and paddleboarding are also popular activities on the calm, clear waters of Cane Bay.
Nearby attractions include the
Salt River Bay National Historical Park and Ecological Preserve, just a short drive away. This park is a beautiful natural area with mangrove forests, sandy beaches, and ancient archaeological sites. You can take a guided kayak tour of the area or explore on your own.
Overall, Cane Bay Beach is a beautiful and inviting destination that offers something for everyone. Whether you’re looking to relax on the beach, enjoy some water sports, or explore the natural beauty of St. Croix, Cane Bay Beach is definitely worth a visit.
Isaacs Bay Beach, a secluded haven tucked away on the eastern coast of St. Croix, offers a serene escape for those seeking a quieter slice of paradise. Hidden away amidst lush greenery, this gem provides an intimate setting with soft sands and turquoise waters that invite you to unwind and soak in the natural beauty.
The calm and clear waters of Isaacs Bay Beach make it an ideal spot for swimming and snorkeling. As you wade into the gentle waves, you’ll be greeted by a colorful world of marine life, with vibrant fish darting among the coral formations. Snorkelers will revel in the chance to explore this underwater wonderland.
While Isaacs Bay Beach doesn’t have on-site vendors or restaurants, it’s advisable to pack a picnic to fully enjoy your time in this serene sanctuary. Remember to bring plenty of water, snacks, and any essentials you may need for the day.
Be sure to check out nearby
Point Udall, which is the easternmost point of the United States. Point Udall is an amazing place to witness the majesty of early morning sunrises. President Joe Biden rang in the new year on St. Croix and was seen enjoying the last 360-degree views from Point Udall as well as chatting and taking selfies with locals and visitors.
For those looking to add a bit of adventure to their beach day, Isaacs Bay Beach is conveniently located near popular hiking trails, offering opportunities to explore the island’s drier and more arid part of the island. The Annaly Bay Trail, in particular, is a short hike downhill that leads to stunning overlooks of the coastline, providing a rewarding experience for nature enthusiasts.
Isaacs Bay Beach is a true testament to the natural beauty of St. Croix. Its tranquil shores, desert feel, and vibrant marine life offer a peaceful retreat for those looking to escape the crowds. Whether you’re seeking a quiet day of relaxation or an adventure on the nearby trails, Isaacs Bay Beach promises an unforgettable experience. Embrace the serenity and natural wonders of this hidden gem on your visit to St. Croix.
Rainbow Beach, located on the west end of St. Croix, is a vibrant and lively beach with something for everyone. This popular beach offers a long stretch of golden sand and crystal-clear waters, perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and beachcombing. Rainbow Beach’s calm waters are also ideal for kayaking, stand-up paddleboarding, and snorkeling, providing an opportunity to spot a variety of sea life such as colorful fish, rays, and even sea turtles.
Rainbow Beach has plenty of amenities, including beach chairs and umbrellas available for rent, showers, and changing rooms. Visitors can also enjoy a delicious meal or tropical drink at the on-site
Rhythms at Rainbow Beach restaurant and bar, which offers a variety of local and international dishes and live music on weekends.
For those looking for more adventure, Rainbow Beach is also home to
West End Water Sports which offers a variety of water sports activities such as jet skiing and parasailing.
Rainbow Beach is also conveniently located near Frederiksted, a historic town with plenty of shops, art galleries, and restaurants. Visitors can take a stroll along the
Frederiksted Pier or explore Fort Frederik, a historic landmark that offers a glimpse into the island’s rich history.
Overall, Rainbow Beach’s lively atmosphere, beautiful surroundings, and range of amenities make it a popular destination for locals and tourists alike. Whether you’re looking to relax on the beach, try new water sports, or explore the nearby town, Rainbow Beach has something for everyone. Don’t miss out on this vibrant and exciting beach on your next visit to St. Croix.
Nestled on the western shores of St. Croix,
West Beach is a slice of paradise awaiting your discovery. This picturesque stretch of coastline boasts soft, powdery sands that gently kiss the beautiful blue waters of the Caribbean Sea. It’s the perfect setting for those seeking a tranquil escape, where the stresses of everyday life seem to melt away with each gentle wave.
The calm, clear waters at West Beach make it an ideal spot for families and leisurely swimmers. Kids can splash and play close to shore while parents relax under the shade of towering palm trees. The beach also offers excellent conditions for kayaking and paddleboarding, allowing visitors to explore the coastline at their own pace.
For those with a penchant for underwater adventures, grab your snorkel gear and head towards the coral reefs just off the coast. Here, a vibrant underwater world comes to life, teeming with colorful fish and fascinating marine creatures. It’s a snorkeler’s dream, where every glimpse beneath the surface reveals a new and enchanting discovery.
If you’re looking for a more active beach, check out
Dorsch Beach which is just a few steps away. Dorsch Beach is home to
Sandcastle on the Beach and
Cottages on the Beach, both of which boast quaint hotel accommodations right on the sand! On the weekends, you can find lots of locals enjoying family time, get-togethers, and barbecues.
When it’s time to refuel, West Beach has you covered. The nearby town of Frederiksted offers an array of dining options, from casual beachside cafes like
Flyers Bar & Grill to charming eateries with stunning sea views like the restaurant
The Fred. Savor local delicacies like freshly caught seafood or indulge in international flavors – there’s something to satisfy every palate.
As the sun begins to set, West Beach transforms into a captivating backdrop for a romantic evening. Witness the sky painted in hues of orange and pink, casting a warm glow over the tranquil waters. It’s a moment you’ll want to cherish forever.
For those seeking a bit more excitement, the nearby
Frederiksted Pier is a popular spot for diving enthusiasts and catching unobstructed views of the incredible sunsets. Explore the vibrant marine life and coral formations that thrive beneath the surface, creating a diver’s paradise. Pop into St. Croix Underwater Bluewater Adventures or Cane Bay Dive Shop to find out more about their amazing diving experiences.
In every sense, West Beach in St. Croix offers a serene and idyllic escape, where time slows down and the beauty of nature takes center stage. Whether you’re building sandcastles with the family, exploring the underwater wonders, or simply basking in the sun’s warm embrace, this beach is sure to leave a lasting impression. Don’t miss the opportunity to experience the magic of West Beach on your visit to St. Croix.
Sandy Point Beach, nestled on the western tip of St. Croix, is a true Caribbean jewel. This two-mile stretch of powdery white sand and crystal-clear waters is nothing short of breathtaking. As a protected nature reserve, Sandy Point is not only a picturesque destination but also a sanctuary for the endangered leatherback sea turtles.
The beach exudes a serene and untouched ambiance. Its unspoiled beauty provides a perfect backdrop for sun worshippers and nature enthusiasts alike. The calm waters gently lap against the shore, inviting visitors to take a refreshing dip or simply bask in the warm Caribbean sun.
Sandy Point Beach is such a special and protected area that it is closed to visitors from April to August because it becomes a nesting ground for leatherback sea turtles. So if you want to experience this wonder, you’ll have to be on the island between September and March.
Another great feature of Sandy Point is its inclusion in major Hollywood films. Be sure to watch the final scenes of Trading Places and Shawshank Redemption to see if you can spot where these iconic films were shot. For information about filming on St. Croix, contact the
USVI Film Office.
While Sandy Point Beach doesn’t have on-site vendors or restaurants, it’s the ideal spot for a leisurely excursion with family and friends. For those seeking more substantial dining options, nearby Frederiksted offers an array of restaurants serving delectable local cuisine and international fare.
Adventurous souls will find plenty to explore in the surrounding area. A short drive away, Fort Frederik Historical Museum offers a glimpse into the island’s rich history. Alternatively, a visit to the nearby Frederiksted Pier provides an opportunity for world-class scuba diving and snorkeling, with vibrant coral reefs and marine life.
Sandy Point Beach is a true treasure of St. Croix, offering a harmonious blend of natural wonder and conservation efforts. Whether you’re marveling at the nesting sea turtles, taking a leisurely swim, or exploring the history of Frederiksted, this beach promises an unforgettable experience for all who visit. Don’t miss the chance to immerse yourself in the beauty and wonder of Sandy Point Beach during your St. Croix adventure.
Turtle Beach
Turtle Beach, located on
Buck Island, is a captivating stretch of coastline that lives up to its name. Known for its regular turtle sightings, this beach is a haven for nature lovers and water enthusiasts alike.
The pristine waters of Turtle Beach are a vibrant tapestry of coral reefs and aquatic life. Snorkeling and scuba diving here are like entering an underwater wonderland, where graceful sea turtles glide through the azure depths alongside colorful fish and fascinating marine creatures. The clarity of the water allows for an immersive experience, making it a must-visit spot for any lover of marine life.
The beach itself boasts fine, soft sand that’s perfect for leisurely strolls along the shore. Shaded areas provided by natural foliage offer a peaceful retreat for those looking to relax while still enjoying the mesmerizing views. It’s an ideal spot for families, couples, or anyone seeking a tranquil escape with a touch of adventure.
While Turtle Beach doesn’t have on-site amenities like restaurants or shops, there are nearby options to cater to your needs. A short drive will take you to the town of Christiansted, where you’ll find a delightful array of eateries serving up local and international cuisine. Be sure to try some of the freshly caught seafood for a true taste of the island.
For those looking to add some extra excitement to their day, consider booking a guided tour to Buck Island, a protected marine park known for its spectacular snorkeling trails. The tours often include stops at Turtle Beach, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in the natural wonders of the area. Check out tours with
Big Beard’s Adventure Tours and
Caribbean Sea Adventures for details on their packages and tours to Buck Island and Turtle Beach.
Turtle Beach offers a unique blend of natural beauty and wildlife encounters that make it a standout destination on St. Croix. Whether you’re exploring the underwater world or simply basking in the tranquility of the shoreline, this beach promises an unforgettable experience for all who visit. Don’t miss the chance to be enchanted by the wonders of Turtle Beach on your St. Croix adventure.
