St. Croix is famous for its stunning white sand beaches, making it the crown jewel of the U.S. Virgin Islands. The best beaches on this paradise island are Rainbow Beach, Sandy Point Beach, Cane Bay Beach, and Shoys Beach. These beaches feature soft white sand, crystalline turquoise waters, and vibrant underwater ecosystems. Due to their pristine natural beauty, St. Croix beaches offer an idyllic escape.
St. Croix is home to over 30 stunning beaches. The best beaches are on the island’s west, east, and north sides. Some stretches of sandy shorelines are in protected, secluded bays with coral reefs close to the shore. Other beaches are long strips of pristine white sand stretching for miles. For example, the spectacular Sandy Point Beach is the longest in the U.S. Virgin Islands.
With so many beaches in St. Croix, deciding where to spend a beach day can be challenging. If you are visiting the island on an eastern Caribbean Cruise, your choices may be limited to beaches near Frederiksted. However, if you plan a longer vacation, you have a wider selection of beaches to explore.
Regardless of where you choose, St. Croix’s beaches promise an unforgettable experience.
This article is a comprehensive guide to the best beaches in St. Croix. You’ll learn what makes each beach unique and special and what facilities are available. I hope this article provides the information you need to plan your perfect beach getaway in the Caribbean.
Introducing St. Croix, USVI
St. Croix is the largest of the U.S. Virgin Islands and renowned for its stunning beaches. The beautiful island spans 84 sq. miles (217 sq. km) and offers a diverse landscape—from lush rainforests to arid plains and sandy shorelines. Its two main cities, Christiansted and Frederiksted, feature colorful colonial architecture and historical charm.
St. Croix offers a range of activities for travelers visiting on a cruise day or extended vacation. Apart from spending time at a beach, you can explore historical sites like Fort Frederik or Fort Christiansvaern, discover hidden gems like Point Udall, or hike lush nature trails to get to secluded beaches on the island’s east end.
Interactive Map of St. Croix Beaches
Explore our interactive map to find the perfect beach for your visit to St. Croix.
Beaches in St. Croix
Beaches in St. Croix are renowned for their diverse landscapes. Some, like Shoys Beach, have a tranquil atmosphere. In contrast, Rainbow Beach has more activities and a vibrant vibe. Many beaches on the north side have crystal-clear waters and coral reefs—perfect for snorkeling and diving. In contrast, some expansive sandy beaches like Sandy Point are vital nesting sites for sea turtles.
The beaches on the beautiful island’s west side are generally near the cruise pier in Frederiksted. The beaches on the north side begin at Monks Bath Beach and continue until Christiansted. All beaches east of the capital, Christiansted, are considered to be on the east side, whether they are on the northern or southern coasts.
How to Choose the Best Beaches in St. Croix
Choosing the best beach to enjoy at St. Croix depends on several factors. If you arrive on a cruise, you may only have a few hours to spend. Therefore, travel time, facilities, and accessibility are crucial considerations. If you plan to spend an extended vacation, you have more flexibility in choosing the perfect beach.
Here are some factors to help you choose the best white sandy beach for your day.
Beach amenities and facilities: Consider the amenities and facilities each beach offers. Some beaches, like Rainbow Beach, have beach bars, restrooms, and equipment rentals. Others, like Sandy Point National Wildlife Refuge, have limited facilities but offer a more natural and undisturbed environment.
Safety: Safety is a crucial factor when choosing a beach. Beaches on St. Croix don’t have lifeguards, so you should select beaches wisely if you are with children or not a strong swimmer. Look for beaches with calm, clear, shallow waters. Always check safety warnings about currents.
Accessibility: A beach choice depends on your transport. Beaches close to Frederiksted, like Rainbow Beach, LaGrange Beach, and Dorsch Beach, are within walking distance of the cruise terminal. If you hire a taxi or rent a car, you can easily reach beaches on the east end or near Christiansted.
Characteristics: Each beach has unique factors to consider. For instance, Shoys Beach offers a tranquil, secluded environment. On the other hand, Cane Bay Beach and Turtle Beach are known for their snorkeling or diving spots and vibrant marine life.
Arriving at St. Croix
You arrive at St. Croix either at the Henry E. Rohlsen Airport or the cruise ship pier in Frederiksted. Taxis or shuttle buses are ready to take you to your accommodation from the airport. The Frederiksted Cruise Terminal is in the center of the town and within walking distance of the pier.
Most beaches in St. Croix are within a 30-minute drive from the airport or cruise pier. Therefore, the entry points to the island offer convenient gateways to explor St. Croix and its beautiful beaches.
Getting to Beaches in St. Croix
St. Croix has excellent transport links throughout the island. You can choose between taxis with fixed rates, rental cars, and safari taxis from the airport or cruise terminal. Walking or riding a bicycle is the best option if you plan to explore Frederiksted on a cruise. It’s good to note that public buses are somewhat unreliable.
The Best Beaches Near the Cruise Port in St. Croix (West Side)
The calmest beaches in St. Croix are on the island’s west end, near the cruise port. The seas are sheltered from the Atlantic Ocean, and the picturesque beaches have powdery white sand and calm, shallow waters.
Here is my guide to the beaches on St. Croix’s west side.
Frederiksted Beach
Frederiksted Beach is a popular beach and a convenient and picturesque relaxing spot. Also called Fort Frederik Beach, it’s known for its calm, clear waters and soft sandy shore. It is close to the cruise port, making it ideal for cruise ship passengers wanting to enjoy a beach day without traveling far.
The clear, gentle waters are perfect for swimming and snorkeling, especially near the pier. Its amenities include restrooms, showers, and picnic areas—ideal for families and groups to spend an entire day here. Additionally, its proximity to downtown Frederiksted means plenty of restaurants and food vendors are close.
The beach’s well-maintained environment and amenities make it a favorite spot for relaxation and recreational activities. It also has a lively, vibrant atmosphere and is popular with locals. Its calm waters make it ideal for paddleboarding, kayaking, and swimming with kids.
However, there are a few things to remember about Frederiksted Beach:
- The beach can get busy when cruise ships are in port
- You cannot snorkel or dive at the pier on cruise days
- Distance from Frederiksted Cruise Port: 0.2 miles (0.3 km), or a five-minute walk
- Facilities: Restrooms, showers, picnic areas, beach chairs, umbrellas, beachfront bars, nearby restaurants, and food vendors
- Who this beach is for: Cruise ship passengers, families, relaxing, swimming and snorkeling
Rainbow Beach
Rainbow Beach is one of St. Croix’s most lively and popular beaches, renowned for its vibrant atmosphere. Located 1 mile (1.6 km) north of Frederiksted, this beach has soft, white sand, and the clear, calm waters provide excellent conditions for swimming. Lively beach bars ensure a tremendous Caribbean vibe with music, delicious cocktails, and local cuisine.
In addition to its lively atmosphere, Rainbow Beach is well-equipped with excellent facilities and amenities. There are restrooms, showers, and picnic areas, as well as rental options for water sports equipment. The beach is ideal for swimming, paddleboarding, jet skiing, and kayaking.
Rainbow Beach’s lively environment and easy accessibility make it a favorite for families, groups of friends, and solo travelers. Also, it rarely gets crowded, even on cruise days.
- Distance from Frederiksted Cruise Port: 1 mile (1.6 km)
- Facilities: Restrooms, showers, picnic areas, beach bar, beach chair rentals, water sports rentals
- Who this beach is for: Families, couples, and solo travelers wanting a lively beach experience and water sports options
Sandy Point Beach
Sandy Point Beach is one of St. Croix’s most pristine and unspoiled beaches. It’s located at the island’s southwestern tip and is part of the Sandy Point National Wildlife Refuge. Sandy Point Beach is the largest beach in the U.S. Virgin Islands and features soft, white sand. Its crystal-clear turquoise waters make it an idyllic spot for sunbathing and swimming.
Its protected status means amenities are minimal, and it’s only open to the public on weekends. The 2-mile (3.2 km) stretch of sand is a nesting ground for endangered leatherback sea turtles.
Sandy Point Beach is one of the best places to spend a tranquil beach day in St. Croix. Its unspoiled, expansive sandy shoreline provides ample room for nature enthusiasts and anyone seeking solitude.
If you decide to visit Sandy Point Beach, bring supplies with you. Remember, no restrooms, showers, beach chairs, or umbrellas are available. Also, you cannot stake umbrellas into the sand because of its protected status as a turtle nesting site.
- Distance from Frederiksted Cruise Port: 4.4 miles (7 km)
- Facilities: None—bring your own supplies
- Who this beach is for: Nature lovers, wildlife enthusiasts, sunbathing, and swimming
Dorsch Beach
Dorsch Beach is a tranquil and scenic stretch of shoreline ideal for relaxation. It’s one of the prettiest beaches near the cruise port, featuring soft, golden sands and calm, clear turquoise waters. Palm trees and seagrape trees along the shore provide ample shade, creating a serene, peaceful environment.
Dorsch Beach lacks amenities. However, Sand Castle is a beach resort and part of Dorsch Beach. You can purchase a day pass to use the beach lounge chairs, umbrellas, restrooms, bar, and restaurant. Also, downtown Frederiksted is only a short walk from the beach.
- Distance from Frederiksted Cruise Port: 1 mile (1.6 km)
- Facilities: None unless you use the beach resort’s facilities
- Who this beach is for: Relaxation, swimming, and sunbathing close to Frederiksted
La Grange Beach
Located between Frederiksted and Rainbow Beach, La Grange is a popular beach for cruise passengers. The beach is a mix of white sand and rocky outcrops, with seagrape trees providing shade along the shore. Its calm waters and rocky sea bottom make it ideal for swimming and snorkeling.
All the facilities at La Grange Beach are located in Frederiksted; therefore, take what you need to spend a relaxing day on the beach.
- Distance from Frederiksted Cruise Port: 0.6 miles (1 km)
- Facilities: None
- Who this beach is for: Sunbathing, swimming, snorkeling, chilling in the shade of palm trees
Sprat Hall Beach
Sprat Hall Beach is a beautiful, quiet stretch of beach just north of Frederiksted. This sandy shoreline is characterized by its golden sand, calm, clear, shallow turquoise waters, and gentle slope into the water. The lush greenery and palm trees surrounding the beach add to its tropical charm and offer some shaded areas for picnics.
Sprat Hall Beach is a good snorkeling spot on St. Croix’s west side. The rocky waters and seagrass attract various tropical fish species. Also, its calm, shallow waters make it relatively safe for kids to swim in. However, you must bring your own chair and umbrellas as the beach lacks facilities.
- Distance from Frederiksted Cruise Port: 2 miles (3.2 km)
- Facilities: Restrooms, picnic areas
- Who this beach is for: Families, groups, and those looking for swimming, sunbathing, and picnicking
Butler Bay Beach
Butler Bay Beach is a secluded gem located on St. Croix’s northwest coast. It is stunning and ruggedly beautiful, with a mix of golden sand, rocky outcrops, some trees for shade, and turquoise water. The clear, blue waters create an ideal snorkeling and diving experience, with several nearby underwater wrecks attracting marine life.
The beach’s remote location offers a peaceful and quiet retreat away from crowds of tourists. It’s good to note that facilities at Butler Bay Beach are minimal, so you should bring your own supplies. Also, water shoes are a good idea as the rocky parts of the beach can be sharp.
Its secluded nature makes Butler Bay Beach an excellent spot for a quiet day of relaxation and exploration. Take note that there can be strong currents; therefore, take care when swimming.
- Distance from Frederiksted Cruise Port: 3 miles (4.8 km)
- Facilities: None
- Who this beach is for: Snorkeling, diving, and anyone seeking solitude and natural beauty
Turtle Beach at Buck Island
Buck Island is home to Turtle Beach, one of the prettiest beaches in the U.S. Virgin Islands. This pristine, white sandy beach is located on the western end of the Buck Island Reef National Monument. The paradise beach features crystal-clear turquoise waters, providing a glorious setting for relaxation and water activities.
Getting to Turtle Beach requires a boat trip from Christiansted. Excursions typically include transportation, snorkeling equipment, food, and drinks.
Turtle Beach is one of the best beaches in St. Croix for snorkeling. The island and its surrounding waters are part of a protected marine reserve. Therefore, the vibrant coral reefs are home to diverse marine life. The clarity and calmness of the waters make it accessible for snorkelers of all skill levels—from beginners to seasoned enthusiasts.
A highlight of snorkeling at Turtle Beach is the underwater trail. This first-of-its-kind display features informative plaques about the coral formations and sea creatures you might encounter. Look for colorful tropical fish, sea turtles, rays, and exotic corals.
- Distance from Frederiksted Cruise Port: Accessible via a 7-mile (11 km) boat ride from Christiansted
- Facilities: No onsite facilities; tours provide necessary amenities
- Who this beach is for: Snorkeling, connecting with nature, enjoying a pristine, secluded beach experience, exploring vibrant marine life
Beautiful Beaches in St. Croix (North Side)
St. Croix’s North Side is home to some of the island’s most stunning and picturesque beaches. The beaches on St. Croix’s north coast offer an idyllic haven for beach lovers and water sports enthusiasts.
Cane Bay Beach
Cane Bay Beach is the most popular beach on St. Croix’s north coast. The stunning beach is a long stretch of golden sand lined by palm trees and calm, clear waters. Close to shore, the blue water is shallow and perfect for swimming. Cane Bay Beach is popular with divers and snorkelers.
Amenities at Cane Beach include restrooms, picnic areas, nearby restaurants, and dive shops. Therefore, it’s convenient for enjoying a day full of activities. The beach gets busy on weekends with live music, beach bars, and restaurants offering specials.
Cane Bay is one of the Caribbean’s best diving spots. Guided tours take you 200+ yards (about 183 meters) from the shore to the stunning Cane Bay Wall. Here, you can dive the famous Wall—a steep underwater cliff that drops from 30 to over 10,000 feet (9 to 3,048 meters) in places. Marine life you may encounter includes fish, turtles, squid, lobster, crabs, and reef sharks.
- Distance from Frederiksted Cruise Port: 11 miles (17.7 km)
- Facilities: Restrooms, picnic areas, nearby restaurants, and dive shops
- Who this beach is for: Divers, snorkelers, swimmers, and those looking for a scenic, well-equipped beach with excellent underwater adventures
Davis Bay Beach
Davis Bay Beach is a pristine beach located in the Carambola Beach Resort on St. Croix’s north shore. The romantic beach is famous for its soft, white sand and exotic palm trees and is backed by lush, green, rolling hills. The waters are clear and ideal for swimming and snorkeling.
Access to Davis Bay Beach is only through the Carambola Resort. This provides access to various facilities such as restrooms, showers, beach lounge chairs, umbrellas, and dining options.
It’s good to note that the currents can be strong, and the surf gets rough. It also has a rocky bottom in places. However, in ideal conditions, it’s a beautiful beach for snorkeling and swimming.
- Distance from Frederiksted Cruise Port: 11 miles (17.7 km)
- Facilities: Restrooms, showers, beach chairs, umbrellas, snorkel equipment rentals, and restaurant
- Who this beach is for: Swimming, snorkeling, and a romantic getaway
Protestant Cay near Christiansted
Protestant Cay is a small, picturesque island with a resort located off the coast of Christiansted. The beach on the cay has stunning ivory-white sand and crystalline shallow waters with a sandy bottom, making it an ideal spot for swimming and sunbathing.
Access to the Protestant Cay is via a short 2-minute ferry ride from Christiansted. Amenities on the island are from the hotel, which provides beach lounge chair rentals, cabanas, restrooms, and showers.
- Distance from Frederiksted Cruise Port: 15 miles (24 km)
- Facilities: Restrooms, showers, beach chair rentals, private cabanas, beachfront restaurant and bar
- Who this beach is for: Swimming, sunbathing, snorkeling, and relaxing at a quiet, pristine beach
Columbus Landing Beach
Columbus Landing Beach is steeped in rich history, making it the most historic beach in St. Croix. The small, secluded beach is where Columbus set foot on the island in 1493. The beach features a mix of soft sand and rocky areas, offering a unique blend of natural beauty and historical significance.
The beach is relatively undeveloped, providing a peaceful and quiet atmosphere. The calm waters are perfect for swimming, and a reef near the shore is perfect for snorkeling.
Nature trails at the beach take you to a visitors center and the site of an old fort. You can also enjoy stunning views of the Salt River Bay National Historical Park and Ecological Preserve.
- Distance from Frederiksted Cruise Port: 13 miles (21 km)
- Facilities: None
- Who this beach is for: History enthusiasts, nature lovers, swimming, snorkeling, and anyone wanting a tranquil beach experience
Salt River Beach
Salt River Beach is on the same stretch of shoreline as Christopher Columbus Landing Beach. The beach is popular because its marina offers various boat tours and water activities. The most popular activity is kayaking to paddle through the stunning natural landscape and mangroves of the Salt River Bay National Historical Park and Ecological Preserve.
- Distance from Frederiksted Cruise Port: 13 miles (21 km)
- Facilities: Parking, water sports rentals, scuba diving excursions, bars, and restaurants
- Who this beach is for: Anyone interested in exploring an ecologically rich and historically significant area
Pelican Cove Beach
Pelican Cove Beach is a hidden gem situated near Christiansted. This attractive beach is a tranquil spot known for its wide stretch of soft, golden sand and gently swaying palm trees. The beach has a steep incline into the water in some areas, and it gets deep quickly. Therefore, exercising care is essential when swimming or snorkeling.
Amenities at Pelican Cove Beach are from nearby resorts. There are restrooms, showers, and a beachfront bar and restaurant. You can also rent beach chairs and umbrellas to enjoy your time in the sun.
- Distance from Frederiksted Cruise Port: 13.5 miles (21.7 km)
- Facilities: Restrooms, showers, beachfront restaurant and bar, beach chair and umbrella rentals
- Who this beach is for: A relaxing beach day with resort amenities
Gentle Winds Beach
Gentle Winds Beach is a serene, secluded beach that is part of the private Gentle Winds Condominiums. The beach feels like a tropical paradise with soft, white sand, calm azure waters, palm trees, palapas, and hammocks. It is an ideal spot for swimming and snorkeling, and you can enjoy the resort facilities if you are a guest.
Amenities at the condominiums include restrooms, showers, and a beach bar. There are also picnic areas, tennis courts, and a private swimming pool.
- Distance from Frederiksted Cruise Port: 13 miles (21 km)
- Facilities: Restrooms, showers, beach bar, picnic areas, sports facilities
- Who this beach is for: Families, swimmers, snorkelers, and those seeking a tranquil beach with ample amenities
North Star Beach
North Star Beach in Cane Bay is a tranquil and relatively undiscovered gem on the island’s north shore. This secluded beach is a long stretch of golden sand lined with densely growing seagrapes. Despite lacking amenities, the beach is busy with divers and snorkelers on weekends.
The beach’s main attraction is its stunning reef 200 yards (182 m) from the shore. Here, the ocean floor drops from 30 to over 10,000 feet (10 m to 3 km), making it a diver’s paradise. If you want a relaxing beach experience with more facilities, you are better off spending the day at the nearby Cane Bay Beach.
- Distance from Frederiksted Cruise Port: 10.6 miles (17 km)
- Facilities: None; bring your own supplies
- Who this beach is for: Swimmers, snorkelers, and visitors seeking a quiet, secluded beach experience
Annaly Bay Beach and Tide Pools
Annaly Bay Beach is a remote and rugged beach located on the northwest coast of St. Croix. This part of the coastline is known for its dramatic scenery and natural beauty. The beach is rough and consists of stones and pebbles. The rough waters make it a picturesque spot for experienced swimmers and adventurers.
Annaly Bay Beach is one of the most secluded beaches on St. Croix. It’s accessible by a 5-mile (8 km) hike through rainforests along dirt tracks.
The highlight of the beach trip is the enchanting tide pools, where you can cool off after your strenuous hike. However, use your judgment as the water can get rough, and its remoteness means getting emergency medical assistance is challenging.
However, getting to the beach is an adventurous journey to enjoy a stunning, unspoiled landscape and explore St. Croix’s wilder side.
- Distance from Frederiksted Cruise Port: 6.7 miles (10.7 km)
- Facilities: No facilities
- Who this beach is for: Adventurers, experienced swimmers, and nature enthusiasts looking for a remote and rugged beach experience
Northside Valley Beach and Monk’s Bath Tidal Pools
Northside Valley Beach is a hidden treasure located on the northwestern end of St. Croix. The beach features a rugged landscape with rough, rocky outcrops and patches of golden sand. The attractions of this secluded, often deserted spot are its tidal pools and snorkeling opportunities. It offers a tranquil escape on a vacation or cruise day.
Northside Valley Beach is only for the adventurous. It’s vital to wear water shoes when entering the water as the rocks are jagged, and sea urchins live in the crevices. However, the tidal pools are more accessible than the ones at Annaly Beach.
- Distance from Frederiksted Cruise Port: 3 miles (4.8 km)
- Facilities: No facilities
- Who this beach is for: Nature enthusiasts and anyone wanting to swim in natural tidal pools
Stunning Beaches in St. Croix (East End of the Island)
St. Croix’s East End is home to some of the most stunning beaches on the island. From secluded coves to rocky shores, these beaches offer a unique and breathtaking natural beauty worth exploring.
Isaac’s Bay Beach
Isaac’s Bay Beach is a pristine and secluded beach on the eastern tip of St. Croix. The magnificent beach is beautiful for its untouched natural beauty, tranquil atmosphere, and rugged cliffs at the bay’s edge. The clear, blue waters are relatively deep and perfect for snorkeling and swimming. It’s a serene and undisturbed environment in which to enjoy a relaxing beach day.
Isaac’s Bay Beach’s unspoiled beauty is due to its remoteness. Access is only by a short hike along a nature trail through lush vegetation, adding to its natural beauty. After your trip to the beach, take some time to visit Point Udall—the easternmost point in the United States.
If you’re feeling adventurous, take the trail at the western point of Isaac Bay and hike a few miles to continue to Jack Beach in the neighboring bay.
- Distance from Frederiksted Cruise Port: 26 miles (41 km)
- Facilities: None
- Who this beach is for: Getting close to nature, relaxing in a tranquil setting, hiking along nature trails, and snorkeling
Jack’s Bay Beach
Jack’s Bay Beach is a hidden paradise beach located on St. Croix’s southeastern coast. Like the nearby Isaac Beach, the beautiful bay has a shoreline of pristine white sand and crystal-clear waters. The stunning coral reef is teeming with marine life, and the crescent-shaped bay keeps the deep waters calm.
Access to Jack’s Bay Beach requires a moderate hike, adding to its seclusion and picturesque tranquility. You can get to Jack’s Bay from Isaac Bay or a short hike from Grapetree Beach. If you enjoy hiking, you can take the trail from Jack’s Bay Beach to the summit of Goat Mountain.
- Distance from Frederiksted Cruise Port: 27 miles (43 km)
- Facilities: None
- Who this beach is for: Adventurers, nature enthusiasts, snorkelers, and anyone looking for a secluded beach experience
Chenay Bay Beach
Chenay Bay Beach is a charming and family-friendly beach on St. Croix’s northeastern shore. Chenay Beach features a gentle crescent of soft, golden sand and peaceful, shallow waters. The beautiful bay is ideal for kids swimming or paddleboarding and kayaking. The surrounding area is lush with greenery, adding to the beach’s tropical, relaxing ambiance.
The nearby resort at Chenay Beach provides access to restrooms, showers, a beachfront restaurant, and a bar. A day pass also allows access to kayaks and snorkeling gear rental services. You can also go birdwatching and hiking in mangrove forests at the nearby Southgate Pond.
- Distance from Frederiksted Cruise Port: 19 miles (30.5 km)
- Facilities: Resort facilities include restrooms, showers, a beachfront restaurant and bar, kayak and snorkeling gear rentals
- Who this beach is for: Families, swimmers, snorkelers, and vacationers looking for a relaxing beach day with convenient amenities
Tamarind Reef Beach
Tamarind Reef Beach is a stunning, well-kept stretch of golden sand in front of Green Bay Marina. It boasts soft sand and calm waters, perfect for swimming and snorkeling. Lush palm trees add to its tropical vibe, and the beach has all the amenities you need to spend an entire day relaxing in the Caribbean sun.
Tamarind Beach is near the ruins of the Old Sugar Mill and close to the famous Shoys Beach.
- Distance from Frederiksted Cruise Port: 19 miles (30.5 km)
- Facilities: Restrooms, showers, beachfront restaurant and bar, snorkeling gear, kayak rentals, and a marina
- Who this beach is for: Families, snorkelers, swimmers, and spending an active day on the beach
Shoys Beach
If you’re looking for a secret hideaway, Shoys Beach is the ideal location. Located on the island’s northeastern shore, the beach offers a perfect blend of tranquility and natural beauty. You’ll enjoy the beach’s soft, golden sand framed by lush palm trees and seagrape bushes. The calm, clear waters are ideal for a refreshing swim or leisurely snorkeling.
Snorkeling at the east end of the bay lets you marvel at tropical fish, rays, conch, lobster, and the occasional trumpet fish. Although access is through a gated neighborhood, all of St. Croix’s beaches are accessible to the public through the nearby Buccaneer Resort. No facilities are available at the beach for non-guests, so bring plenty of water and reef-friendly sunscreen.
- Distance from Frederiksted Cruise Port: 18 miles (30 km)
- Facilities: Minimal facilities; nearby amenities at Buccaneer Resort
- Who this beach is for: Swimmers, snorkelers, and enjoying a quiet time on a Caribbean beach
Coakley Bay Beach
The beach at Coakley Bay is a serene and relatively untouched stretch of sand on St. Croix’s east end. Coakley Beach features a long sandy stretch with some rocks and calm waters. This beach is ideal if you’re looking for a quiet retreat away from crowds of tourists.
- Distance from Frederiksted Cruise Port: 21 miles (33.7 km)
- Facilities: None
- Who this beach is for: Swimming, beach relaxation, and chilling out under palm trees
Buccaneer Beach Resort
The Buccaneer Hotel provides public access to three spectacular beaches:
Mermaid Beach: This crescent-shaped stretch of soft white sand features a beach shack to rent snorkel gear, floats, and beach chairs. Its serene and calm waters and palm trees make you feel like you are in paradise.
Grotto Beach: This nice beach is a hidden gem with calm, shallow waters and excellent snorkeling close to the shore.
Whistle Beach: This secluded and pristine beach offers a tranquil oasis to relax and unwind. The beach is rarely crowded and ideal for spending a romantic time in the Caribbean.
Cramer’s Park Beach
Cramer’s Park Beach is a wide stretch of sandy beach with calm, shallow waters on St. Croix’s east side. This family-friendly, secluded beach is perfect for swimming and picnicking. It has on-site restrooms, covered pavilions, picnic tables, and ADA-accessible facilities, ensuring accessibility for individuals with disabilities.
- Distance from Frederiksted Cruise Port: 26 miles (42 km)
- Facilities: Picnic tables, shaded areas, restrooms, showers
- Who this beach is for: Families, picnickers, and swimmers looking for a spacious and well-equipped beach
Teague Bay
Are you looking for a quiet beach to unwind on your vacation or cruise day? Teague Bay might just be your perfect getaway. Nestled on the east end of St. Croix, this beach offers a serene escape with soft sands and calm, shallow waters. Private cabanas, hammocks, and palm trees make you feel like you are on a paradise island.
The shallow water is ideal for kids to swim safely and for snorkeling. Several open-air beach bars also serve delicious seafood dishes and Caribbean cocktails.
- Distance from Frederiksted Cruise Port: 24 miles (38 km)
- Facilities: Beach loungers, shade, bars, and restaurants
- Who this beach is for: Family-friendly swimming, snorkeling, and relaxation on a serene beach
Beaches on St. Croix South Side
Ha’Penny Beach
Also called Halfpenny Beach, Ha’Penny Beach is one of the few beaches on the island’s central southern coast. This mile-long stretch of golden sand is bordered by clear, turquoise waters. The long beach is popular with locals and can get crowded, especially on weekends.
The unspoiled Ha’Penny Beach is less developed than other beaches on St. Croix. However, its stunning natural beauty is what attracts many beach-goers.
- Distance from Frederiksted Cruise Port: 9 miles (14.5 km)
- Facilities: No facilities; bring your own supplies
- Who this beach is for: Those seeking solitude, swimmers, and beachcombers looking for a peaceful, natural setting
St. Croix Beaches: FAQs
What is the nicest part of St. Croix?
The most beautiful part of St. Croix depends on what you’re looking for. Christiansted and Frederiksted offer charming historic architecture and vibrant cultural scenes. The island’s northeastern shores have stunning beaches and a perfect peaceful getaway. For nature lovers, the east coast near Point Udall provides breathtaking landscapes and panoramic views, making it a must-visit destination.
Which are the best beaches in St. Croix for sunsets?
Frederiksted beaches on the west side are renowned for their spectacular sunsets. Beaches like Rainbow Beach, Dorsch Beach, and Frederiksted Beach are the best spots to watch the sun dip into the Caribbean Sea.
Which of the U.S. Virgin Islands has the clearest water?
St. Croix’s Buck Island Reef National Monument offers some of the clearest waters, particularly around the underwater snorkeling trail. However, you can find incredibly clear waters around all the U.S. Virgin Islands.
Which is the best beach in St. Croix for a romantic getaway?
Couples love Shoys Beach for romantic encounters. This secluded, serene beach has soft golden sands and calm, clear waters. They provide a perfect backdrop for a romantic day or evening by the sea.
Are all St. Croix beaches public?
All beaches in St. Croix are accessible to the public, even if you have to go through a private resort. However, facilities at the beach may be restricted to resort guests or visitors who have purchased day passes. Therefore, you should check for designated public access points to avoid trespassing on private land.
What currency is used in St. Croix?
Like all islands in the U.S. Virgin Islands, the United States Dollar (USD) is the official currency.
What language is spoken in St. Croix?
English is the official language of St. Croix, making it easy for English-speaking visitors to communicate. However, you may also hear Spanish and Crucian spoken.
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